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Mora S, Manna M. Saffman-Taylor instability of viscoelastic fluids: from viscous fingering to elastic fractures. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2010; 81:026305. [PMID: 20365649 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.81.026305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2009] [Revised: 11/30/2009] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We study the linear stability of an air front pushing on a viscoelastic upper convected Mawxell fluid inside a Hele-Shaw cell. Both theory and experiments involving several viscoelastic fluids prove that a unique dimensionless time parameter lambda[over] controls all elastic effects. For small values of lambda[over], Newtonian behavior dominates, while for higher values of lambda[over] viscoelastic effects appear. We show that the linear growth rate of a small initial perturbation diverges for a critical value lambda[over]=lambda(c)[over] approximately 10. Experiments prove that this divergence is associated to a fracturelike pattern instability of the interface. We conclude that the observed fractures come from the Saffman-Taylor instability and that they directly emerge from the linear regime of it.
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Dati E, Baroncelli GI, Mora S, Russo G, Baldinotti F, Parrini D, Erba P, Simi P, Bertelloni S. Body composition and metabolic profile in women with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome. Sex Dev 2010; 3:188-93. [PMID: 19752598 DOI: 10.1159/000228719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2009] [Accepted: 04/27/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and experimental data suggest that androgen receptor (AR) signaling plays a role on body composition, glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism. The effect of AR disruption on such parameters was not extensively investigated in human people. A group of young to middle-age adult women with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS, n = 18, age 32.2 +/- 9.3 years; women with testes removed n = 14) was investigated for body mass index (BMI), body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry), serum glucose levels, insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR) and lipid profile. Mean BMI (24.2 +/- 7.4 kg/m(2)) was not significantly increased (T-score 1.0 +/- 2.5, p = NS vs Italian female reference values), but prevalence of obesity was higher in women with CAIS than that reported in age-related Italian females (16.7% vs 3.6%, respectively). The majority of obese individuals with CAIS was in the subgroup with intact testes (3/4). DXA assessment (n = 15) demonstrated values of total free fat mass similar to that of 46,XX female controls. Increased body fat was found in CAIS women in comparison with both female and male controls. Abnormal values of cholesterol (total and LDL) and HOMA-IR were present in a large subset of patients. Our data suggest that in women with CAIS disruption of AR signaling may increase body fat and affect some metabolic parameters. Assessment of body composition, metabolic profile and, likely, cardiovascular risk seems to be advisable with ageing in these individuals.
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Guerrieri-Gonzaga A, Botteri E, Lazzeroni M, Lazzeroni M, Bonanni B, Rotmensz N, Goldhirsch A, Varricchio C, Serrano D, Cazzaniga M, Luini A, Viale G, Viale G, Mora S, Bollani G, Albertazzi E, Decensi A, Decensi A. Low-Dose Tamoxifen for the Treatment of Breast Ductal Intraepithelial Neoplasia: Results of a Large Observational Study. Cancer Res 2009. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.sabcs-09-2113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: The cost-benefit ratio of tamoxifen for breast ductal intraepithelial neoplasia (DIN) is unclear. Since low-dose tamoxifen showed a favorable safety profile and modulation of breast cancer biomarkers in phase II trials, we analyzed a large mono-institutional cohort of women with DIN treated with low-dose tamoxifen or no systemic treatment.Material and Methods: A total of 309 patients with ER positive DIN received either tamoxifen 5 mg/day or 20 mg/week, as part of clinical trials or institutional guidelines and were compared with 371 patients who received no systemic treatment after surgery with or without radiotherapy due to personal preference, allocation to placebo or contraindication to tamoxifen.Results: The 5-year cumulative incidence of recurrence was 14.5% (95% CI, 11.9-17.5), with a negative trend according to age. Women with ER/PgR >50% DIN who were untreated had a higher incidence of breast events than women on tamoxifen (HR 1.76; 95% CI, 1.00-3.12) or women with ER/PgR<50% DIN (HR 1.72; 95% CI, 1.14-2.58). Among untreated patients with ER>50% DIN, recurrence was higher in PgR ≥50% DIN than in PgR <50% DIN, whereas it was similar among low PgR (<50%) DIN against which tamoxifen had no effect. No difference in endometrial cancer incidence was noted.Discussion: High ER and especially high PgR expression is a significant adverse prognostic indicator of DIN against which low-dose tamoxifen appears to be a safe and active treatment. Conversely, women with low expression ER or PgR DIN do not seem to benefit from tamoxifen. A definitive clinical trial is warranted.
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 2113.
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Mora S, Manna M. Saffman-Taylor instability for generalized Newtonian fluids. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2009; 80:016308. [PMID: 19658807 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.80.016308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Revised: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We study theoretically the linear Saffman-Taylor instability for non-Newtonian fluids in a Hele-Shaw cell. After introducing the notion of generalized Newtonian fluid we calculate the associated Darcy's law. We derive the relation governing the growth rate of normal modes for a large class of non-Newtonian flows. For shear-thinning fluids at high shear rate our theory provides Darcy's laws free of the nonphysical divergences appearing in the classical approaches. We characterize fluids which develop instabilities faster than Newtonian fluids under the same hydrodynamical conditions. Another primary result that this paper provides is that for some shear-thickening fluids, all normal modes are stable.
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Mora S. Abstract: 1470 SHOULD APOB OR LDL PARTICLE CONCENTRATION REPLACE STANDARD LIPIDS FOR PRIMARY PREVENTION OF CVD? ATHEROSCLEROSIS SUPP 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1567-5688(09)70189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Tabuteau H, Mora S, Porte G, Abkarian M, Ligoure C. Microscopic mechanisms of the brittleness of viscoelastic fluids. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2009; 102:155501. [PMID: 19518646 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.102.155501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We show that a large class of viscoelastic fluids, i.e., transient networks, are brittle according to the Griffith's theory of solid fracture. However, contrary to solids, cracks are intrinsic to the material arising from the equilibrium nature of the fluid microstructure. The brittleness of these fluids comes from thermal fluctuations of bonds distribution. In this approach, the rupture stress is predicted to be on the order of the Young modulus, in very good agreement with experimental values.
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Lazzeroni M, Macis D, Decensi A, Gandini S, Sandri MT, Serrano D, Guerrieri-Gonzaga A, Johansson H, Mora S, Daldoss C, Omodei U, Bonanni B. The effect of transdermal estradiol or oral conjugated oestrogen and fenretinide versus placebo on haemostasis and cardiovascular risk biomarkers in a randomised breast cancer chemoprevention trial. Ecancermedicalscience 2009; 2:67. [PMID: 22275964 PMCID: PMC3234057 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2008.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2008] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: We have previously reported the favourable effect of transdermal estradiol (E2), relative to oral conjugated equine oestrogen (CEE), on ultrasensitive C-reactive protein after 12 months of treatment in a retinoid-placebo controlled two-by-two randomized breast cancer prevention trial (Decensi A et al (2002) Circulation106 10 1224–8). Here, we investigate the changes in lipids and clotting profile in patients of the same trial. Methods and results: Recent post-menopausal women were randomised to either oral CEE 0.625 mg/day and placebo (n = 55), CEE and fenretinide 200 mg/day (n = 56), transdermal E2 50 mg/day and placebo (n = 59) or E2 and fenretinide 200 mg/day (n = 56). Sequential medroxyprogesterone acetate 10 mg/day was given in each group. After 12 months, there was a statistically significant effect of the route of administration of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on fibrinogen levels; the median percentage change being −5.7% with CEE and −1.1% with E2 (p = 0.012). Total cholesterol decreased in all arms (p < 0.0001). HDL-C decreased significantly with transdermal E2 (p = 0.006) compared to oral CEE and with fenretinide relative to placebo (p<0.001). Triglycerides exhibited an opposite modulation in the HRT route, with a 21.4% median increase with oral CEE and an 8.6% reduction with transdermal E2 (p < 0.0001). Antithrombin-III showed a 4% borderline significant reduction in the fenretinide arm relative to placebo, irrespective of the HRT administration route (p = 0.055). Conclusions: Our data indicate that transdermal E2 may be preferable to oral CEE based on its safer cardiovascular risk profile. Fenretinide modified some cardiovascular risk biomarkers and confirmed a safer profile compared to other retinoids.
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Opazo MC, Gianini A, Pancetti F, Azkcona G, Alarcón L, Lizana R, Noches V, Gonzalez PA, Marassi MP, Mora S, Rosenthal D, Eugenin E, Naranjo D, Bueno SM, Kalergis AM, Riedel CA. Maternal hypothyroxinemia impairs spatial learning and synaptic nature and function in the offspring. Endocrinology 2008; 149:5097-106. [PMID: 18566112 PMCID: PMC5398426 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurological deficits in the offspring caused by human maternal hypothyroxinemia are thought to be irreversible. To understand the mechanism responsible for these neurological alterations, we induced maternal hypothyroxinemia in pregnant rats. Behavior and synapse function were evaluated in the offspring of thyroid hormone-deficient rats. Our data indicate that, when compared with controls, hypothyroxinemic mothers bear litters that, in adulthood, show prolonged latencies during the learning process in the water maze test. Impaired learning capacity caused by hypothyroxinemia was consistent with cellular and molecular alterations, including: 1) lack of increase of phosphorylated c-fos on the second day of the water maze test; 2) impaired induction of long-term potentiation in response to theta-burst stimulation to the Schaffer collateral pathway in the area 1 of the hippocampus Ammon's horn stratum radiatum, despite normal responses for input/output experiments; 3) increase of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor subunit 1, and tyrosine receptor kinase B levels in brain extracts; and 4) significant increase of PSD-95 at the PSDs and failure of this molecule to colocalize with N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor subunit 1, as it was shown by control rats. Our findings suggest that maternal hypothyroxinemia is a harmful condition for the offspring that can affect key molecular components for synaptic function and spatial learning.
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Díaz-Véliz G, Paris I, Mora S, Raisman-Vozari R, Segura-Aguilar J. Copper Neurotoxicity in Rat Substantia Nigra and Striatum Is Dependent on DT-Diaphorase Inhibition. Chem Res Toxicol 2008; 21:1180-5. [DOI: 10.1021/tx8001143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Hellión-Ibarrola MC, Ibarrola DA, Montalbetti Y, Kennedy ML, Heinichen O, Campuzano M, Ferro EA, Alvarenga N, Tortoriello J, De Lima TCM, Mora S. The antidepressant-like effects of Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) Moldenke (Verbenaceae) in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 15:478-483. [PMID: 18222666 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2007] [Revised: 10/02/2007] [Accepted: 11/26/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present work is to evaluate the putative antidepressant-like effects of a hydro-ethanolic extract (CEAp) and their fractions from the aerial parts of Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) Moldenke (Verbenaceae) on the performance of male mice in the forced swimming test (FST). A single dose (100.0mg/kgp.o.) of CEAp, in male mice provoked a significant reduction of the immobility time (p<0.01). Such effect was also observed with short-term treatment (7 days) with single doses of 1.0 (p<0.01), 10.0 (p<0.05) and 100.0 (p<0.05)mg/kg/day of CEAp. Additionally, in a different set of experiments, repeated administration in a 24-h period (24, 18 and 1h before swimming test) with doses of 1.0 (p<0.05) and 10.0 (p<0.05)mg/kg p.o., of CEAp and 10.0mg/kgp.o., (p<0.05) of ethyl acetate fraction, provoked significant reduction of the immobility time of male mice in the FST. Moreover, it was noted important differences in the onset of the antidepressant-like effect in the FST, depending on the modality of treatment with CEAp (acute, short-term or repeated). Both, efficacy and potency were higher when repeated administration of CEAp was used, and surprisingly the dose of 10mg/kg (24, 18 and 1h before swimming test) was more effective than imipramine. In the same way, the short term administration (7 days) improved significantly efficacy and potency of the CEAp in comparison to a single dose treatment. The ethyl acetate fraction submitted to TLC demonstrated that main and minor components are phenolics and terpenes, respectively. In addition, this fraction gives a negative Shinoda's test for flavonoids. These results indicate an antidepressant-like profile of action for the hydro-ethanolic extract and the component(s) of the ethyl acetate fraction obtained from A. polystachya, which deserve further investigation.
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Puech N, Mora S, Testard V, Porte G, Ligoure C, Grillo I, Phou T, Oberdisse J. Structure and rheological properties of model microemulsion networks filled with nanoparticles. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. E, SOFT MATTER 2008; 26:13-24. [PMID: 18418546 DOI: 10.1140/epje/i2007-10275-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 01/23/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Model microemulsion networks of oil droplets stabilized by non-ionic surfactant and telechelic polymer C18 -PEO(10k)- C18 have been studied for two droplet-to-polymer size ratios. The rheological properties of the networks have been measured as a function of network connectivity and can be described in terms of simple percolation laws. The network structure has been characterised by Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS). A Reverse Monte Carlo (RMC) approach is used to demonstrate the interplay of attraction and repulsion induced by the copolymer. These model networks are then used as matrix for the incorporation of silica nanoparticles (R = 10 nm), individual dispersion being checked by scattering. A strong impact on the rheological properties is found for silica volume fractions up to 9%. q(A-1).
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Conen D, Ridker PM, Mora S, Buring JE, Glynn RJ. Risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in those with hypertension: reply. Eur Heart J 2008. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehn058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Gianni ML, Mora S, Roggero P, Mosca F. Quantitative ultrasound and dual-energy x ray absorptiometry in bone status assessment of ex-preterm infants. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2008; 93:F146-7. [PMID: 17573411 DOI: 10.1136/adc.2007.117945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Preterm infants are at increased risk of low bone mass. Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) is a non-invasive method for assessment of bone status. The application of QUS in a cohort of ex-preterm infants was investigated. This study suggests that QUS cannot be used as a surrogate for dual-energy x ray absorptiometry.
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Viganò A, Zuccotti GV, Martelli L, Giacomet V, Cafarelli L, Borgonovo S, Beretta S, Rombolà G, Mora S. Renal safety of tenofovir in HIV-infected children: a prospective, 96-week longitudinal study. Clin Drug Investig 2007; 27:573-81. [PMID: 17638398 DOI: 10.2165/00044011-200727080-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The renal safety of tenofovir in HIV-infected children has not been well studied. In paediatrics, prediction of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is usually obtained by the Schwartz equation; the Cockcroft-Gault equation is considered more appropriate in children aged >12 years, but can be misleading in younger children. The aims of this study were to assess renal safety and GFR changes as estimated by the Schwartz and Cockcroft-Gault equations in HIV-infected children treated with tenofovir for 96 weeks. METHODS Several parameters of glomerular and tubular function were prospectively assessed (at baseline and at weeks 24, 48, 72 and 96) in 27 HIV-infected children (aged 4.9-18.0 years) receiving a tenofovir-containing antiretroviral regimen. GFR was estimated using Schwartz and Cockcroft-Gault equations in children younger and older than 12 years, respectively. RESULTS No child experienced a grade 1 (> or =44 micromol/L) or higher increase in serum creatinine or a grade 1 (< or =0.71 mmol/L) or higher hypophosphataemia. Serum bicarbonate values were in the normal range for age at baseline. Mean serum creatinine, serum phosphorus and serum bicarbonate values remained unchanged. No child showed proteinuria, microalbuminuria or glycosuria at baseline or during the study period. The mean urinary protein/creatinine, albumin/creatinine, alpha(1)-microglobulin/creatinine and maximal tubular phosphate reabsorption (TmPO(4)/GFR) ratios remained unchanged. Up to week 96, no patient experienced a significant decrease in GFR, as estimated by the more appropriate formula for age. CONCLUSION Through 96 weeks, we found no evidence of impaired glomerular or tubular renal function in tenofovir-treated HIV-infected children.
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Herrera-Ruiz M, García-Beltrán Y, Mora S, Díaz-Véliz G, Viana GSB, Tortoriello J, Ramírez G. Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of hydroalcoholic extract from Salvia elegans. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 107:53-8. [PMID: 16530995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2006.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2005] [Revised: 01/16/2006] [Accepted: 02/02/2006] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Salvia elegans Vahl (Lamiaceae), popularly known as "mirto", is a shrub that has been widely used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of different central nervous system (CNS) diseases, principally, anxiety. Nevertheless, the available scientific information about this species is scarce and there are no reports related to its possible effect on the CNS. In this work, the antidepressant and anxiolytic like effects of hydroalcoholic (60%) extract of Salvia elegans (leaves and flowers) were evaluated in mice. The extract, administered orally, was able to increase the percentage of time spent and the percentage of arm entries in the open arms of the elevated plus-maze, as well as to increase the time spent by mice in the illuminated side of the light-dark test, and to decrease the immobility time of mice subjected to the forced swimming test. The same extract was not able to modify the spontaneous locomotor activity measured in the open field test. These results provide support for the potential antidepressant and anxiolytic activity of Salvia elegans.
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Mora S, Millán R, Lungenstrass H, Díaz-Véliz G, Morán JA, Herrera-Ruiz M, Tortoriello J. The hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia elegans induces anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 106:76-81. [PMID: 16413718 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2005.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2005] [Revised: 11/25/2005] [Accepted: 12/02/2005] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral effects of a hydroalcoholic (60% ethanol) extract from the leaves of Salvia elegans Vahl (Lamiaceae) were studied in male Sprague-Dawley rats. The extract was administered intraperitoneally and its effects on spontaneous motor activity (total motility, locomotion, rearing and grooming behavior) were monitored. Putative anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of Salvia elegans were studied in the elevated plus-maze test (EPM) and in the forced swimming test (FST), respectively. Deleterious effects of Salvia elegans on learning and memory were also studied by using active and passive avoidance paradigms. The results revealed that all doses (3.12, 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg) of the extract caused a significant decrease in total motility, locomotion, rearing and grooming behavior. Only the dose of 12.5 mg/kg increased the exploration of the EPM open arms in a similar way to that of diazepam (1 mg/kg). In the FST, all doses of the extract induced a reduction of immobility, in a similar way to that of fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) and imipramine (12.5 mg/kg), along with a significant increase in the time spent in swimming behavior. Acquisition of active avoidance responses was disrupted by pre-treatment with the extract, but retention of a passive avoidance response was not significantly modified. These results suggest that some of the components of the hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia elegans have psychotropic properties, which deserve further investigation.
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Hellión-Ibarrola MC, Ibarrola DA, Montalbetti Y, Kennedy ML, Heinichen O, Campuzano M, Tortoriello J, Fernández S, Wasowski C, Marder M, De Lima TCM, Mora S. The anxiolytic-like effects of Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) Moldenke (Verbenaceae) in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 105:400-8. [PMID: 16386395 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2005.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2005] [Revised: 09/16/2005] [Accepted: 11/18/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present work is to demonstrate the putative sedative and anxiolytic-like effects of a hydro-ethanolic extract obtained from the aerial parts of Aloysia polystachya (Verbenaceae) in male mice using several behavioural assays. Groups of male mice orally treated with doses of 1.0, 10.0 and 100.0 mg/kg of the extract did not show any significant alteration of their locomotor activity, body temperature or motor coordination. The same treatment increased the duration of the sleeping time induced by 30.0 mg/kg i.p. of sodium pentobarbital. However, the sleeping time induced by ethyl ether was not modified by the oral administration of the extract, not confirming the putative sedative effect of the plant. The ethanolic extract also significantly increased the percentage of both entries (1.0 and 100.0 mg/kg) and the time spent (10.0 and 100.0 mg/kg) into the open arms of the elevated plus maze (EPM). Nevertheless, the binding of (3)H-flunitrazepam ((3)H-FNZ) to the benzodiazepine binding site (BDZ-bs), in washed crude synaptosomal membranes from rat cerebral cortex, was not affected by the semi-purified components from Aloysia polystachya. These results indicate an anxiolytic-like profile of action for the extract of Aloysia polystachya without sedative side effect, being this activity probably mediated by other mechanism than BDZ-bs modulation at the GABA(A) receptors.
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Dagnino-Subiabre A, Zepeda-Carreño R, Díaz-Véliz G, Mora S, Aboitiz F. Chronic stress induces upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and integrin alpha5 expression in the rat pineal gland. Brain Res 2006; 1086:27-34. [PMID: 16626638 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.02.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2005] [Revised: 01/25/2006] [Accepted: 02/26/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress affects brain areas involved in learning and emotional responses. These alterations have been related with the development of cognitive deficits in major depression. Moreover, stress induces deleterious actions on the epithalamic pineal organ, a gland involved in a wide range of physiological functions. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the stress effects on the pineal gland are related with changes in the expression of neurotrophic factors and cell adhesion molecules. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot, we analyzed the effect of chronic immobilization stress on the BDNF mRNA and integrin alpha5 expression in the rat pineal gland. We found that BDNF is produced in situ in the pineal gland. Chronic immobilization stress induced upregulation of BDNF mRNA and integrin alpha5 expression in the rat pineal gland but did not produce changes in beta-actin mRNA or in GAPDH expression. Stressed animals also evidenced an increase in anxiety-like behavior and acute gastric lesions. These results suggest that BDNF and integrin alpha5 may have a counteracting effect to the deleterious actions of immobilization stress on functionally stimulated pinealocytes. Furthermore, this study proposes that the pineal gland may be a target of glucocorticoid damage during stress.
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Bazzigaluppi E, Roggero P, Parma B, Brambillasca MF, Meroni F, Mora S, Bosi E, Barera G. Antibodies to recombinant human tissue-transglutaminase in coeliac disease: diagnostic effectiveness and decline pattern after gluten-free diet. Dig Liver Dis 2006; 38:98-102. [PMID: 16386476 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2005.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2005] [Revised: 10/17/2005] [Accepted: 10/19/2005] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To assess the sensitivity and specificity of IgA and IgG tissue-transglutaminase antibodies assay, the pattern of antibody decline after gluten withdrawal and their modifications with reference to dietary compliance. SUBJECTS We studied sera from 143 untreated coeliac children and adolescents (8.8+/-6.1 years), 212 sera from 97 of those patients after gluten withdrawal, and 64 control subjects with non-coeliac intestinal disorders (6.8+/-4.8 years). METHODS Samples were tested for IgA and IgG class tissue-transglutaminase antibodies by radiobinding assay, using human-derived tissue-transglutaminase, and for IgA anti-endomysium antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence on monkey oesophagus. RESULTS Untreated coeliac patients had significantly higher titres of IgA and IgG tissue-transglutaminase antibodies than controls (p<0.00001); the diagnostic sensitivity was 95.8% and 99.3%, respectively, and the specificity was 95.3%. Three patients with selective IgA deficiency were positive for IgG tissue-transglutaminase antibodies. The concordance rate between IgA tissue-transglutaminase antibodies and anti-endomysium antibodies was 98.1%. Patients on gluten-free diet showed a significant decrease in IgA and IgG tissue-transglutaminase antibodies with respect to untreated patients (p<0.0001). Tissue-transglutaminase was more sensible than anti-endomysium antibodies to detect small amounts of gluten intake when the compliance was poor. CONCLUSIONS The recombinant human tissue-transglutaminase antibodies assay is a highly sensitive and specific test for diagnosis of coeliac disease, and it is useful in monitoring the compliance to gluten-free diet.
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Mora S, Díaz-Véliz G, Millán R, Lungenstrass H, Quirós S, Coto-Morales T, Hellión-Ibarrola MC. Anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of the hydroalcoholic extract from Aloysia polystachya in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2005; 82:373-8. [PMID: 16278011 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2005.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2005] [Revised: 09/02/2005] [Accepted: 09/12/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral effects of a hydroalcoholic extract from leaves of Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) Moldenke (Verbenaceae) were studied in female Sprague-Dawley rats. The extract was administered intraperitoneally and its effects on spontaneous motor activity (total motility, locomotion, rearing and grooming behavior) were monitored. Anxiolytic-like properties were studied in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) test and the possible antidepressant-like actions were evaluated in the forced swimming test (FST). The results revealed that high doses of the extract (25 and 50 mg/kg, i.p.) caused a significant decrease in total motility, locomotion, rearing and grooming behavior. All doses injected (from 1.56 to 50 mg/kg) increased the exploration of the EPM open arms in a similar way to that of diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.). In the FST, the extract (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg) was as effective as fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and imipramine (12.5 mg/kg, i.p.) in reducing immobility, along with a significant increase in swimming and climbing, respectively. These results suggest that some of the components of the hydroalcoholic extract of A. polystachya, such as thujone and carvone among others, may have sedative, anxiolytic and antidepressant-like properties which deserve further investigation.
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Dagnino-Subiabre A, Terreros G, Carmona-Fontaine C, Zepeda R, Orellana JA, Díaz-Véliz G, Mora S, Aboitiz F. Chronic stress impairs acoustic conditioning more than visual conditioning in rats: morphological and behavioural evidence. Neuroscience 2005; 135:1067-74. [PMID: 16165300 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2005] [Revised: 07/15/2005] [Accepted: 07/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress affects brain areas involved in learning and emotional responses. These alterations have been related with the development of cognitive deficits in major depression. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of chronic immobilization stress on the auditory and visual mesencephalic regions in the rat brain. We analyzed in Golgi preparations whether stress impairs the neuronal morphology of the inferior (auditory processing) and superior colliculi (visual processing). Afterward, we examined the effect of stress on acoustic and visual conditioning using an avoidance conditioning test. We found that stress induced dendritic atrophy in inferior colliculus neurons and did not affect neuronal morphology in the superior colliculus. Furthermore, stressed rats showed a stronger impairment in acoustic conditioning than in visual conditioning. Fifteen days post-stress the inferior colliculus neurons completely restored their dendritic structure, showing a high level of neural plasticity that is correlated with an improvement in acoustic learning. These results suggest that chronic stress has more deleterious effects in the subcortical auditory system than in the visual system and may affect the aversive system and fear-like behaviors. Our study opens a new approach to understand the pathophysiology of stress and stress-related disorders such as major depression.
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Vialard-Miguel J, Mazère J, Mora S, Georges A, Ducassou D, Corcuff JB. [I131 in blood samples: management in the laboratory]. Ann Biol Clin (Paris) 2005; 63:561-5. [PMID: 16230298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2005] [Accepted: 07/06/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Patients treated by (131)I may require blood sampling in the days following its administration. We investigated the safety of such samples in terms of radioactivity and the possible disturbance of the analyses by these "131I-spiked" samples. METHOD 1) The radioactivity of blood samples from 131I-treated patients was measured (dose rate, surface activity, total activity) ; 2) The risk for the personnel was subsequently evaluated and ; 3) The interference of this 131I-generated radioactivity on the results of routine automated and IRMA assays was investigated. RESULTS 1) All RA measures but two were found below the European limits ; 2) Irradiation of personnel was negligible ; 3) The faint radioactivity did not disturb any analyses. CONCLUSION These data demonstrate the safety that results from the negligible radioactivity in these blood samples.
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Charitat T, Daillant J, Bellet-Amalric E, Braslau A, Fragneto G, Graner F, Mora S, Rieutord F, Stidder B. Fluctuations of a single floating lipid bilayer: a specular and off-specular reflectivity study. Acta Crystallogr A 2005. [DOI: 10.1107/s0108767305095231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Mora S, Talini L, Allain C. Structuring sedimentation in a shear-thinning fluid. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2005; 95:088301. [PMID: 16196906 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.95.088301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
We study the sedimentation of suspensions of monodisperse non-Brownian particles in a shear-thinning polymeric fluid. We observe the formation of particle-rich structures and show that they are associated with a well-defined flow pattern. The results suggest that the observed structuring is a consequence of particle aggregation that amplifies concentration heterogeneities, the flow pattern being further driven by a gravitational instability.
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Daillant J, Bellet-Amalric E, Braslau A, Charitat T, Fragneto G, Graner F, Mora S, Rieutord F, Stidder B. Structure and fluctuations of a single floating lipid bilayer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2005; 102:11639-44. [PMID: 16087874 PMCID: PMC1183447 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0504588102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A single lipid molecular bilayer of 17 or 18 carbon chain phosphocholines, floating in water near a flat wall, is prepared in the bilayer gel phase and then heated to the fluid phase. Its structure (electron density profile) and height fluctuations are determined by using x-ray reflectivity and non-specular scattering. By fitting the off-specular signal to that calculated for a two-dimensional membrane using a Helfrich Hamiltonian, we determine the three main physical quantities that govern the bilayer height fluctuations: The wall attraction potential is unexpectedly low; the surface tension, roughly independent on chain length and temperature, is moderate (approximately 5 x 10(-4) J.m(-2)) but large enough to dominate the intermediate range of the fluctuation spectrum; and the bending modulus abruptly decreases by an order-of-magnitude from 10(-18) J to 10(-19) J at the bilayer gel-to-fluid transition.
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