A Self-Healing System for Polydicyclopentadiene Thermosets

Self-healing offers promise for addressing structural failures, increasing lifespan, and improving durability in polymeric materials. Implementing self-healing in thermoset polymers faces significant manufacturing challenges, especially due to the elevated temperature requirements of thermoset processing. To introduce self-healing into structural thermosets, the self-healing system must be thermally stable and compatible with the thermoset chemistry. This article demonstrates a self-healing microcapsule-based system stable to frontal polymerization (FP), a rapid and energy-efficient manufacturing process with a self-propagating exothermic reaction (≈200 °C). A thermally latent Grubbs-type complex bearing two N-heterocyclic carbene ligands addresses limitations in conventional G2-based self-healing approaches. Under FP's elevated temperatures, the catalyst remains dormant until activated by a Cu(I) co-reagent, ensuring efficient polymerization of the dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) upon damage to the polyDCPD matrix. The two-part microcapsule system consists of one capsule containing the thermally latent Grubbs-type catalyst dissolved in the solvent, and another capsule containing a Cu(I) coagent blended with liquid DCPD monomer. Using the same chemistry for both matrix fabrication and healing results in strong interfaces as demonstrated by lap-shear tests. In an optimized system, the self-healing system restores the mechanical properties of the tough polyDCPD thermoset. Self-healing efficiencies greater than 90% via tapered double cantilever beam tests are observed.

Sorption of hazardous industrial organic liquids with environmentally friendly functionalized cellulosic sorbents

The performances of five cellulosic polymers with different functional groups (cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose phosphate, chitosan, and chitin) as sorbents of seven frequently used hazardous polar organic liquids (acrolein, butanone peroxide, epichlorohydrin, formaldehyde, furfuryl alcohol, propylene oxide, and vinyl acetate) are investigated in this study. Amongst the cellulosic sorbents, cellulose phosphate exhibited enhanced sorption properties (as high as 3.09–7.03 g/g) against all seven polar organic liquids investigated, and chitosan and chitin also demonstrated comparable sorption efficiencies (2.28–7.72 g/g and 2.55–5.86 g/g, respectively) to those of cellulose phosphate. According to our investigation, the enhanced sorption efficiency could be achieved due to low powder density of cellulose phosphate, which is caused by the weak intramolecular interaction amongst the polymer chains. In addition, cellulose phosphate, chitosan, and chitin also showed enhanced absorbed solvent recovery percents (71.4, 60.6, and 61.1%, respectively, in average) compared with that of pristine cellulose (43.8%). With excellent sorption efficiency, enhanced solvent recovery rate, and reusability after drying, these functionalized cellulosic sorbents can be excellent candidates to replace the conventional carbon and vermiculites-based sorbents, especially for liquid polar organic spill sorption.

P1603 Changes of cardiac function in cirrhotic patients after liver transplantation

Funding Acknowledgements

This study was supported by the grant of CJ healthcare 2016 research fund.

Background

Liver cirrhosis (LC) has been known to affect cardiovascular performance. Limited study have evaluated the alteration of myocardial function in patients with LC after liver transplantation (LT).

Purpose

The aim of study was to evaluate changes of cardiac function in patients with cirrhosis following LT using conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) of cardiac magnetic resonance (MR).

Methods

Thirty-five patients with cirrhosis (mean age, 57.1 ± 9.0; male, 75%) who were listed for LT were prospectively enrolled. Patients underwent conventional, speckle-tracking echocardiography, and cardiac MR imaging with LGE. Echocardiography and cardiac MR were performed at pre and 1 year after LT. Cirrhotic patients were compared with normal control (n = 20, mean age, 65.0 ± 14.8; men, 11(55%)) and echocardiographic and cardiac MR data were compared pre and post LT.

Results

Conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography and Cardiac MR imaging demonstrated hyperdynamic left ventricular (LV) function in patients with cirrhosis (LV ejection fraction (EF) with cardiac MR 67.8 ± 7.0% in LC vs. 63.4 ± 6.4% in control, P = 0.028; global longitudinal strain (GLS) -24.3 ± 2.6% in LC vs. -18.6 ± 2.2% in control, P < 0.001). There were no LGE in patients with cirrhosis and no significant differences in LV size, LV wall thickness, LV mass index, and diastolic function between cirrhotic patients and control group (all P > 0.1). Corrected QT interval (QTc) in electrocardiogram was prolonged in LC patients (P < 0.001). One-year after LT, LV end-diastolic diameter and LV end-diastolic volume significantly decreased (P = 0.016 and 0.022, respectively). Although LVEF showed no significant changes 1 year post-LT (P = 0.362), LV-GLS (from -24.7 ± 1.8% to -20.8 ± 3.4%, P < 0.001) significantly decreased. QTc interval also decreased 1 year after LT (from 470.4 ± 29.6msec to 428.2 ± 31.6msec, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that cirrhotic patients showed hyperdynamic circulation and prolonged QTc interval compared with normal controls. After 1 year LT, LV size reduced and augmented LV function was normalized. Given that no LGE in cardiac MR and normalized GLS and QTc after LT, cardiac dysfunction in LC patients could be reversed by LT.

Prognosis of surgical hernia repair in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites

BACKGROUND

Abdominal wall hernias are common in patients with ascites. Elective surgical repair is recommended for the treatment of abdominal wall hernias. However, surgical hernia repair in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites is controversial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the outcomes of elective surgical hernia repair in patients with liver cirrhosis with and without refractory ascites.

METHOD

From January 2005 to June 2018, we retrospectively reviewed the records of consecutive patients with liver cirrhosis who underwent a surgical hernia repair.

RESULTS

This study included 107 patients; 31 patients (29.0%) had refractory ascites. Preoperatively, cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites had a higher median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score (13.0 vs 11.0, P = 0.001) than those without refractory ascites. The 30-day mortality rate (3.2% vs 0%, P = 0.64) and the risk of recurrence (hazard ratio 0.410; 95% CI 0.050-3.220; P = 0.39) did not differ significantly between cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites and cirrhotic patients without refractory ascites. Among cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites, albumin (P = 0.23), bilirubin (P = 0.37), creatinine (P = 0.97), and sodium levels (P = 0.35) did not change significantly after surgery.

CONCLUSION

In advanced liver cirrhosis patients with refractory ascites, hernias can be safely treated with elective surgical repair. Mortality rate within 30 days did not differ by the presence or absence of refractory ascites. Elective hernia repair might be beneficial for treatment of abdominal wall hernia in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites.

Abstract P5-21-16: Preclinical studies of RX-5902, a beta-catenin modulator in triple negative breast cancer

Background: RX-5902 (Supinoxin) is a novel anti-cancer compound that targets phosphorylated p68 RNA helicase, a member of the DEAD box family of helicases, affecting upstream and downstream molecules in the Wnt canonical pathway. As a single agent, RX-5902 exhibits strong growth inhibition in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Specifically, RX-5902 enhances survival and tumor growth inhibition in numerous xenograft models, including ovarian, renal and breast. We have previously shown RX-5902 inhibits cell growth in a dose-dependent fashion in the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) xenograft MDA-MB231. In the current study, we have expanded our investigation of the therapeutic potential of RX-5902 against TNBC using both in vitro and in vivo preclinical models.

Methods: RX-5902 was provided by Rexahn, Inc. (Rockville, MD). Cell proliferation was measured using the Cell-Titer Glo luminescent cell viability assay (Promega). Apoptosis was assessed using Incucyte Caspase 3/7 Green apoptosis assay (Essenbioscience). Immunoblots of MDA-MB-231 cell line were probed for ß-catenin (Cell Signaling). Syngeneic 4T1 murine TNBC mice were obtained from Sippr-BK Laboratory Animal Co (Shanghai, China) and tumor volumes were measured twice a week. When the mean tumor volumes reached ˜90 mm3, mice were randomized and treated with vehicle or RX-5902 PO daily alone or in combination with anti-CTLA4 or anti-PD-1 BIW for 3 weeks. Tumor growth inhibition (TGI) was calculated at Day 25.

Results: A panel of 18 TNBC cell lines were treated with RX-5902 and effects on cell proliferation were measured by the Cell Titer-Glo assay. Using 100nM as a cutoff, 14 sensitive lines and 4 resistant lines were identified, with an average IC50 of 56 nM in the sensitive lines. Of these, we chose 2 sensitive lines (MDA-MB-231, HCC1806) and 2 resistant lines (MDA-MB-436 and CAL-120) and assessed induction of apoptosis by the Incucyte caspase activity assay. Robust induction of apoptosis was observed in both sensitive lines (N=3). These lines were then subjected to cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry, which revealed a pronounced G2/M cell cycle arrest and aneuploidy following exposure to RX-5902. Western blot analysis of the MDA-MB-231 cell line showed decreases in the Wnt pathway-related protein nuclear ß-catenin in doses ranging from 20 nM to 200 nM. Finally, the therapeutic efficacy of RX-5902 was assessed as a single agent and in combination with two immune-oncology agents in the treatment of the TNBC 4T1 animal model. RX-5902 as a single agent showed dose dependency in the 4T1 model, and when given in combination with either anti-CTLA4 or anti-PD1 showed an additive effect (p<0.001). All the treatments were well-tolerated and no severe body weight loss was observed in this study.

Conclusions: RX-5902 showed efficacy against several in vitro and in vivo preclinical models of TNBC. RX-5902 resulted in G2/M arrest and induced apoptosis in sensitive TNBC cell lines and decreases in nuclear beta-catenin. In vivo, RX-5902 demonstrated additive anti-tumor effects when combined with either anti-CTLA4 or anti-PD1 immunotherapies. Together, these finding indicate that RX-5902 may have important clinical implications for the treatment of TNBC. A phase 2a clinical study in metastatic TNBC is ongoing..training_cert

Citation Format: Tentler JJ, Frank JG, Kim DJ, George C, Lee YB, Ely B, Tan AC, Kim J, Pitts TM, Capasso A, Dailey KL, Eckhardt G, Diamond JR. Preclinical studies of RX-5902, a beta-catenin modulator in triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-21-16.

Roll-to-Roll Production of Layer-Controlled Molybdenum Disulfide: A Platform for 2D Semiconductor-Based Industrial Applications

A facile methodology for the large-scale production of layer-controlled MoS₂ layers on an inexpensive substrate involving a simple coating of single source precursor with subsequent roll-to-roll-based thermal decomposition is developed. The resulting 50 cm long MoS₂ layers synthesized on Ni foils possess excellent long-range uniformity and optimum stoichiometry. Moreover, this methodology is promising because it enables simple control of the number of MoS₂ layers by simply adjusting the concentration of (NH₄ )₂ MoS₄ . Additionally, the capability of the MoS₂ for practical applications in electronic/optoelectronic devices and catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction is verified. The MoS₂ -based field effect transistors exhibit unipolar n-channel transistor behavior with electron mobility of 0.6 cm² V^-1 s^-1 and an on-off ratio of ≈10³. The MoS₂ -based visible-light photodetectors are fabricated in order to evaluate their photoelectrical properties, obtaining an 100% yield for active devices with significant photocurrents and extracted photoresponsivity of ≈22 mA W^-1 . Moreover, the MoS₂ layers on Ni foils exhibit applicable catalytic activity with observed overpotential of ≈165 mV and a Tafel slope of 133 mV dec^-1 . Based on these results, it is envisaged that the cost-effective methodology will trigger actual industrial applications, as well as novel research related to 2D semiconductor-based multifaceted applications.

Rifaximin treatment is associated with reduced risk of cirrhotic complications and prolonged overall survival in patients experiencing hepatic encephalopathy

BACKGROUND

Rifaximin might decrease the risk of portal hypertension-related complications by controlling small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

AIM

To evaluate whether rifaximin was associated with the risk of death and cirrhotic complications.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study that included 1042 patients experiencing hepatic encephalopathy (HE): 421 patients without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; the non-HCC cohort) and 621 patients with HCC (the HCC cohort). The primary endpoint was overall survival and secondary endpoints were recurrence of HE and the development of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) and variceal bleeding.

RESULTS

In the non-HCC cohort, 145 patients received rifaximin plus lactulose (the rifaximin group) and 276 patients received lactulose alone (the control group). The multivariate analysis revealed that rifaximin was significantly associated with lower risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.697; P = .024) and reduced the risk of recurrent HE (aHR, 0.452; P < .001), SBP (aHR, 0.210; P < .001) and variceal bleeding (aHR, 0.425; P = .011) but not HRS (aHR, 0.598; P = .08). In the HCC cohort, 173 patients received rifaximin plus lactulose and 448 patients received lactulose. Rifaximin was not associated with the risk of death (aHR, 1.177; P = .121). Rifaximin was associated with lower risk of SBP (aHR, 0.323; P < .001) but not with variceal bleeding (aHR, 0.660; P = .104) or recurrent HE (aHR, 0.689; P = .057). The risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea was not different between the groups (aHR, 0.028; P = .338).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients without HCC, rifaximin treatment was significantly associated with prolonged overall survival and reduced risks of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, variceal bleeding and recurrent hepatic encephalopathy.

Incidence, prevalence, and mortality of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease in Korea: a nationwide, population-based study (2006-2015)

BACKGROUND

The epidemiology of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease varies among ethnic populations worldwide. Trends in the incidence of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease have not been investigated based on the Korean National Health Insurance database.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the incidence and mortality of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease by age using nationwide population data in Korea.

METHODS

A nationwide population-based cohort study was performed using the Korean National Health Insurance Claims Database from 2006 to 2015. The incidence of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease was calculated by age, sex, calendar year and habitat. And comorbid metabolic diseases were also analysed in patients with Adamantiades-Behçet's disease.

RESULTS

The annual incidence of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease per 100 000 person-years was 3.976 (2.587 for males and 5.373 for females) from 2006 to 2015. The incidence of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease peaked among people in their 40s (6.561 per 100 000 person-years). Incidence was significantly higher in subjects with comorbid metabolic conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension and dyslipidemia. The mortality rate per 1000 person-years increased with age in patients with Adamantiades-Behçet's disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the incidence, prevalence and mortality of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease. Metabolic conditions increased the risk of Adamantiades-Behçet's disease among Koreans.

Atopic dermatitis is inversely associated with hepatitis B antigen positivity: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

No clear association between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and atopic dermatitis (AD) has been established. Some studies have reported that subjects with HBV had an increased risk of atopy; other studies reported an inverse association between HBV seropositivity and allergic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the association between AD and hepatitis B antigen (HBsAg) positivity using Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data.

METHODS

In total, 14 776 participants aged >19 years were included in the analysis. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the odds ratio of HBsAg positivity in association with AD and asthma.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HBsAg positivity was lower in individuals with AD than in those without AD (mean [SE], 0.7% [0.4] vs. 3.7% [0.2]; P < 0.001). However, HBsAg positivity was not significantly associated with asthma (3.7% [0.2] vs. 2.8% [0.8]; P < 0.001). HBsAg positivity decreased the risk of AD significantly (OR = 0.223; 95% CI = 0.069-0.72).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates an inverse association between AD and HBsAg positivity using a nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional health examination and survey.

Dimensional-Hybrid Structures of 2D Materials with ZnO Nanostructures via pH-Mediated Hydrothermal Growth for Flexible UV Photodetectors

Complementary combination of heterostructures is a crucial factor for the development of 2D materials-based optoelectronic devices. Herein, an appropriate solution for fabricating complementary dimensional-hybrid nanostructures comprising structurally tailored ZnO nanostructures and 2D materials such as graphene and MoS₂ is suggested. Structural features of ZnO nanostructures hydrothermally grown on graphene and MoS₂ are deliberately manipulated by adjusting the pH value of the growing solution, which will result in the formation of ZnO nanowires, nanostars, and nanoflowers. The detailed growth mechanism is further explored for the structurally tailored ZnO nanostructures on the 2D materials. Furthermore, a UV photodetector based on the dimensional-hybrid nanostructures is fabricated, which demonstrates their excellent photocurrent and mechanical durability. This can be understood by the existence of oxygen vacancies and oxygen-vacancies-induced band narrowing in the ZnO nanostructures, which is a decisive factor for determining their photoelectrical properties in the hybrid system.

Mandibular step osteotomy using CAD/CAM-derived surgical splint: case report

Mandibular step osteotomy is a useful technique for large mandibular setbacks. We report a case of a patient who had a mandibular step osteotomy using a CAD/CAM-derived wafer for mandibular setback with reduction of the arch.

Toward Arbitrary-Direction Energy Harvesting through Flexible Piezoelectric Nanogenerators Using Perovskite PbTiO3 Nanotube Arrays

New fiber-type piezoelectric nanogenerator devices consisting of radially aligned perovskite PbTiO₃ nanotubes are designed for energy harvesting from arbitrary mechanical motion. The free-standing fiber-type nanogenerators generate constant amount of electric power by bending or wind motion regardless of direction, thus, extending the possibility of their practical applications.

Wafer-Scale, Homogeneous MoS2 Layers on Plastic Substrates for Flexible Visible-Light Photodetectors

An appropriate solution is suggested for synthesizing wafer-scale, continuous, and stoichiometric MoS2 layers with spatial homogeneity at the low temperature of 450 °C. It is also demonstrated that the MoS2 -based visible-light photodetector arrays are both fabricated on 4 inch SiO2 /Si wafer and polyimide films, revealing 100% active devices with a narrow photocurrent distribution and excellent mechanical durability.

A graphene-based electrochemical device with thermoresponsive microneedles for diabetes monitoring and therapy

Owing to its high carrier mobility, conductivity, flexibility and optical transparency, graphene is a versatile material in micro- and macroelectronics. However, the low density of electrochemically active defects in graphene synthesized by chemical vapour deposition limits its application in biosensing. Here, we show that graphene doped with gold and combined with a gold mesh has improved electrochemical activity over bare graphene, sufficient to form a wearable patch for sweat-based diabetes monitoring and feedback therapy. The stretchable device features a serpentine bilayer of gold mesh and gold-doped graphene that forms an efficient electrochemical interface for the stable transfer of electrical signals. The patch consists of a heater, temperature, humidity, glucose and pH sensors and polymeric microneedles that can be thermally activated to deliver drugs transcutaneously. We show that the patch can be thermally actuated to deliver Metformin and reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic mice.

Abstract P5-03-13: The anticancer effects of Supinoxin® (RX-5902) in triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 through phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593

Several studies have indicated that the DEAD box RNA helicase DDX5/p68 plays several important roles in cancer (1, 2). In particular, p68 that is phosphorylated on Tyr593 has been shown to be associated with cell transformaton, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell migration (3). Therefore, phosphorylated p68 may be a promising target for novel anti-cancer therapeutics. We previously reported that 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-4-[(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinoxalin-3-yl) aminocarbonyl] piperazine (RX-5902, Supinoxin®) inhibits the growth of cancer cells at low nanomolar concentrations by interacting with phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593, interfering with the phosphorylated p68-β-catenin signaling pathway (4). In this study, we sought to determine whether phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593 plays a key role in RX-5902's ability to inhibit cancer cell growth by knocking down p68. p68-siRNA efficiently down-regulated the expression of phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593 as well as p68 in the triple-negative (TN) breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. Exposure of p68-siRNA-transfected cells to the IC50 concentration of RX-5902 protected MDA-MB-231 cells from the cytotoxic effects of RX-5902, indicating the phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593 is a key molecule for RX-5902 cytotoxic effects. We also examined the tumor growth inhibition (TGI) of RX-5902 in the human TN-breast tumor (MDA-MB-231) xenograft mouse model. Not only did RX-5902 demonstrate potent efficacy in this model but also oral administration with RX-5902 resulted in dose-dependent TGI and extended the overall survival of these animals. Oral administration of 160, 320 and 600 mg/kg of RX-5902 showed 54.4%, 84.4% and 100% TGI, respectively whereas 5 mg/kg of Abraxane (iv) showed only 48.2% TGI at day 29. Further studies demonstrated the inhibitory effects of RX-5902 on cellular motility in MDA-MB-231 in wound healing assays, suggesting the potential function of phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593 in cell migration (5). These data support the potential therapeutic activity of RX-5902 in triple negative breast cancers. A Phase 1 study of RX-5902 on relapse/refractory solid tumors is ongoing.

References

1. Fuller-Pace, FV, RNA Biology 10, 121–132 (2013)

2. Dai et al. Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research, 33, 64-71 (2014

3. Yang et al., Cell, 127, 139–155 (2006)

4. Kost et al., Journal of Cellular Biochemistry ;online: 3 FEB 2015 05:14PM EST | DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25113) (2015).

5. Remenyi et al, presented at 2015 AACR (2015).

Citation Format: Kim DJ, Yang MY, Lee YB, Remenyi J, Fuller-Pace F. The anticancer effects of Supinoxin® (RX-5902) in triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 through phosphorylated p68 on Tyr593. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-03-13.

Isolation and characterization of human intestinal Enterococcus avium EFEL009 converting rutin to quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonol believed to have beneficial effects on human health. Rutin, found in many plants, fruits and vegetables, is metabolized by human intestinal bacteria and converted to quercetin, where it is absorbed through the intestinal epithelium. This study aimed to isolate and characterize human intestinal bacteria capable of converting rutin to quercetin. A bacterium that can metabolize rutin was isolated from human faecal samples and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The whole-cell enzymatic activities on flavonoid glycoside and the conversion profiles of the isolate were also analysed. The bacterium was identified as Enterococcus avium EFEL009 and was shown to convert rutin to isoquercetin and then to quercetin under anaerobic conditions. Microscopic analysis revealed short chains of cocci with diameters of approx. 1 μm. β-Glucosidase was shown to be constitutively expressed in Ent. avium, while α-rhamnosidase was expressed following induction by rutin. Both enzymes were mainly localized to the cell surface. This study is the first report on the isolation of a quercetin-producing Ent. avium FEEL009, which could be a potential industrial starter bacterium.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Quercetin is a member of the flavonoids family reported to have better cytoprotective abilities, stronger inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production, and better chemoprevention than rutin. This is the first report on the isolation and characterization of Enterococcus avium EFEL009 from the human intestine which is capable of converting rutin to quercetin.

Stretchable Heater Using Ligand-Exchanged Silver Nanowire Nanocomposite for Wearable Articular Thermotherapy

Thermal therapy is one of the most popular physiotherapies and it is particularly useful for treating joint injuries. Conventional devices adapted for thermal therapy including heat packs and wraps have often caused discomfort to their wearers because of their rigidity and heavy weight. In our study, we developed a soft, thin, and stretchable heater by using a nanocomposite of silver nanowires and a thermoplastic elastomer. A ligand exchange reaction enabled the formation of a highly conductive and homogeneous nanocomposite. By patterning the nanocomposite with serpentine-mesh structures, conformal lamination of devices on curvilinear joints and effective heat transfer even during motion were achieved. The combination of homogeneous conductive elastomer, stretchable design, and a custom-designed electronic band created a novel wearable system for long-term, continuous articular thermotherapy.

Use of permanent marker to deposit a protection layer against FIB damage in TEM specimen preparation

Permanent marker deposition (PMD), which creates permanent writing on an object with a permanent marker, was investigated as a method to deposit a protection layer against focused ion beam damage. PMD is a simple, fast and cheap process. Further, PMD is excellent in filling in narrow and deep trenches, enabling damage-free observation of high aspect ratio structures with atomic resolution in transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The microstructure, composition, gap filling ability and planarization of the PMD layer were studied using dual beam focused ion beam, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy. It was found that a PMD layer is basically an amorphous carbon structure, and that such a layer should be at least 65 nm thick to protect a surface against 30 keV focused ion beam damage. We suggest that such a PMD layer can be an excellent protection layer to maintain a pristine sample structure against focused ion beam damage during transmission electron microscopy specimen preparation.

Relationship between polymorphisms near the IL28B gene and spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Polymorphisms near the interleukin (IL) 28B gene have been proposed to be associated with spontaneous clearance of the hepatitis C virus. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between IL28B polymorphisms and the rate of spontaneous hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance by means of meta-analysis. MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE were utilized to identify relevant studies. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were analysed together to assess the strength of the association. Subgroup analyses were mainly performed according to ethnicity. A total of 4028 cases with persistent chronic hepatitis B and 2327 spontaneously recovered controls were included from 11 studies. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs12979860, had no significant association with HBsAg seroclearance (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.84-1.14 in the dominant model; OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.68-1.46 in the recessive model; and OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.82-1.09 in the allelic model). The SNP, rs12980275, had no significant association either (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.84-1.26 in the dominant model; OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.46-2.96 in the recessive model; and OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.86-1.26 in the allelic model), nor did the SNP, rs8099917 (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.77-1.15 in the dominant model; OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.34-1.62 in the recessive model; and OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.77-1.13 in the allelic model). Similarly, the results of subgroup analyses by ethnicity also showed no association in either the Asian group or non-Asian group. We concluded that there was no significant association between common IL28B polymorphisms and the rate of spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance.

Effects of transition metal substitutions on the incommensurability and spin fluctuations in BaFe2As2 by elastic and inelastic neutron scattering

The spin fluctuation spectra from nonsuperconducting Cu-substituted, and superconducting Co-substituted, BaFe(2)As(2) are compared quantitatively by inelastic neutron scattering measurements and are found to be indistinguishable. Whereas diffraction studies show the appearance of incommensurate spin-density wave order in Co and Ni substituted samples, the magnetic phase diagram for Cu substitution does not display incommensurate order, demonstrating that simple electron counting based on rigid-band concepts is invalid. These results, supported by theoretical calculations, suggest that substitutional impurity effects in the Fe plane play a significant role in controlling magnetism and the appearance of superconductivity, with Cu distinguished by enhanced impurity scattering and split-band behavior.

Synthesis of sea urchin-like carbon nanotubes on nano-diamond powder

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have unique atomic structure and properties, such as a high aspect ratio and high mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. On the other hand, the agglomeration and entanglement of CNTs restrict their applications. Sea urchin-like multiwalled carbon nanotubes, which have a small aspect ratio, can minimize the problem of dispersion. The high hardness, thermal conductivity and chemical inertness of the nano-diamond powder make it suitable for a wide range of applications in the mechanical and electronic fields. CNTs were synthesized on nano-diamond powder by thermal CVD to fabricate a filler with suitable mechanical properties and chemical stability. This paper reports the growth of CNTs with a sea urchin-like structure on the surface of the nano-diamond powder. Nano-diamond powders were dispersed in an attritional milling system using zirconia beads in ethanol. After the milling process, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APS) was added as a linker. Silanization was performed between the nano-diamond particles and the metal catalyst. Iron chloride was used as a catalyst for the fabrication of the CNTs. After drying, catalyst-attached nano-diamond powders could be achieved. The growth of the carbon nanotubes was carried out by CVD. The CNT morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The mean diameter and length of the CNTs were 201 nm and 3.25 microm, respectively.

Interleukin-13/-4-induced oxidative stress contributes to death of hippocampal neurons in aβ1-42-treated hippocampus in vivo

AIMS

The present study examined whether Aβ(1-42) can induce endogenous expression of interleukin-13 (IL-13) or (IL-4) within activated microglia in the rat hippocampus in vivo. We further investigated whether these cytokines mediate ROS/RNS generation through activation of NADPH oxidase and/or inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and thus contribute to the degeneration of hippocampal neurons in vivo.

RESULTS

Here, we show that IL-13 and IL-4, endogenously expressed in Aβ(1-42)-activated microglia in hippocampus in vivo, contribute to degeneration of hippocampal neurons in vivo. Neutralization of IL-13 and IL-4 protected hippocampal neurons in vivo against neurotoxicity by inhibiting activation of microglial NADPH oxidase and iNOS, resulting in attenuation of ROS generation and oxidative damage of protein, lipid and DNA.

INNOVATION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the possible involvement of endogenously expressed IL-13 and/or IL-4 in activated microglia after Aβ(1-42) injection in the degeneration of hippocampal neurons in vivo. The current findings suggest that the deleterious effects of microglia-derived endogenous IL-13 and/or IL-4 are involved in oxidative stress-mediated neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD.

CONCLUSION

We carefully hypothesize that IL-13 and IL-4, well-known as anti-inflammatory cytokines might serve as neurotoxic mediators by enhancing microglia-derived oxidative stress in Aβ(1-42)-treated hippocampus in vivo.

Incommensurate spin-density wave order in electron-doped BaFe2 As2 superconductors

Neutron diffraction studies of Ba(Fe(1-x)Co(x))(2)As)(2) reveal that commensurate antiferromagnetic order gives way to incommensurate magnetic order for Co compositions between 0.056 < x < 0.06. The incommensurability has the form of a small transverse splitting (0, ± ε, 0) from the commensurate antiferromagnetic propagation vector Q(AFM) = (1,0,1) (in orthorhombic notation) where ε ≈ 0.02-0.03 and is composition dependent. The results are consistent with the formation of a spin-density wave driven by Fermi surface nesting of electron and hole pockets and confirm the itinerant nature of magnetism in the iron arsenide superconductors.

Influence of ABCB1 genetic polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics of levosulpiride in healthy subjects

The purposes of this study were to clarify the involvement of P-glycoprotein in the absorption of levosulpiride in knockout mice that lack the Abcb1a/ 1b gene, and to evaluate the relationship between genetic polymorphisms in ABCB1 (exon 12, 21 and 26) and levosulpiride disposition in healthy subjects. The plasma and brain samples were obtained after oral administration (10 microg/g) of levosulpiride to abcb1a/1b(-/-) and wild-type mice (n=3 approximately 6 at each time point). The average brain-to-plasma concentration ratio and blood-brain barrier partitioning of levosulpiride were 2.3- and 2.0-fold higher in Abcb1a/1b(-/-) mice than in wild-type mice, respectively. A total of 58 healthy Korean volunteers receiving a single oral dose of 25 mg levosulpiride participated in this study. The subjects were evaluated for polymorphisms of the ABCB1 exon 12 C1236T, exon 21 G2677A/T (Ala893Ser/Thr) and exon 26 C3435T using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism. The PK parameters (AUC(0-4h), AUC(0-infinity) and C(max.)) of ABCB1 2677TT and 3435TT subjects were significantly higher than those of subjects with at least one wild-type allele (P<0.05). The results indicate that levosulpiride is a P-glycoprotein substrate in vivo, which is supported by the effects of SNPs 2677G>A/T in exon 21 and 3435C>T in exon 26 of ABCB1 on levosulpiride disposition.

Wearable EDA sensor gloves using conducting fabric and embedded system

We developed wearable EDA sensor gloves using conducting fabric and embedded system. EDA(Electro-dermal Activity) signal is an electric response on the skin of the human body. There are SCL(Skin Conductance Level) and SCR(Skin Conductance Response) in EDA. Mostly, SCL consists of DC elements. On the other hand, SCR consists of AC elements. We use the relationship between the drowsiness condition and EDA signal We made EDA sensors using conducting fabric instead of Agcl electrode for a more suitable wearable device. And we used an embedded system for EDA signal acquisition and processing instead of a personal computer, which is connected to the EDA sensor gloves through conducting fabric lines. Also, the embedded system is linked to a Notebook PC that shows the results of EDA signal processing analysis and gives proper feedback to the user. This system, for example, can be used in detecting and preventing drowsiness driving accidents for automobile drivers.

Hsp70 suppresses apoptosis in sympathetic neurones by preventing the activation of c-Jun

The anti-apoptotic effects of heat-shock protein (Hsp70) were assessed in SCG neurones following nerve growth factor (NGF) withdrawal. The results showed that the virally mediated expression of Hsp70 mirrored the effects of the c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) binding domain (JBD) of JNK interacting protein (an inhibitor of JNK and c-Jun activation) and suppressed the phosphorylation of c-Jun. Preventing c-Jun transcriptional activity subsequently led to reduced cytochrome c release and prevented caspase activation as indicated by a decrease in poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP) cleavage. Together, these results show that Hsp70 is a highly effective inhibitor of apoptosis in sympathetic neurones and that it mediates this effect primarily by suppressing c-Jun transcriptional signalling.

Role of Ge in bridging ferromagnetism in the giant magnetocaloric Gd5(Ge1-xSix)4 alloys

X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements and density functional theory (DFT) are used to study the electronic conduction states in Gd5(Ge(1-x)Si(x))4 materials through the first-order bond-breaking magnetostructural transition responsible for their giant magnetocaloric effect. Spin-dependent hybridization between Ge 4p and Gd 5d conduction states, which XMCD senses through the induced magnetic polarization in Ge ions, enables long-range Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida ferromagnetic interactions between Gd 4f moments in adjacent Gd slabs connected by Ge(Si) bonds. These interactions are strong below but weaken above the Ge(Si) bond-breaking transition that destroys 3D ferromagnetic order.

Influence of soil pH and application rate on the oxidation of calcium sulfite derived from flue gas desulfurization

Calcium sulfite hemihydrate (CaSO(3).0.5H2O), a common byproduct of coal-fired utilities, is fairly insoluble and can decompose to release toxic SO2 under highly acidic soil conditions; however, it can also oxidize to form gypsum. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of application rate and soil pH on the oxidation of calcium sulfite under laboratory conditions. Oxidation rates measured by release of SO4-S to solution decreased with increasing application rate. Leachate SO4-S from soils amended with 1.0 to 3.0 g kg-1 CaSO3 increased over a 21 to 28 d period before reaching a plateau. At 4 g kg-1, maximum SO4-S release was delayed until Week 7. Oxidation and release of SO4-S from soil amended with 3.0 g kg-1 calcium sulfite increased markedly with decreasing soil pH. After only 3 d incubation, the concentrations of SO4-S in aqueous leachates were 77, 122, 170, 220, and 229 mg L-1 for initial soil pH values of 7.8, 6.5, 5.5, 5.1, and 4.0, respectively. At an initial soil pH value of 4.0, oxidation/dissolution did not increase much after 3 d. At higher pH values, oxidation was maximized after 21 d. These results suggest that autumn surface applications of calcium sulfite in no-till systems should permit ample time for oxidation/dissolution reactions to occur without introducing biocidal effects related to oxygen scavenging. Soil and annual crops can thus benefit from additions of soluble Ca and SO4 if calcium sulfite is applied in advance of spring planting.

Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence evaluation of two gabapentin preparations after a single oral dose in healthy Korean volunteers

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the bioequivalence of a single oral 400 mg dose of 2 gabapentin preparations in healthy male Korean volunteers.

SUBJECTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted as a randomized, 2-period crossover design in 26 healthy male Korean volunteers who received a single oral dose of 400 mg gabapentin capsule in each study period. There was a 7-day washout period between the doses. Serum concentrations of gabapentin up to 24 hours after the administration were determined using a validated HPLC method with fluorescence detection. In addition, in vitro dissolution profiles of both preparations were examined. The pharmacokinetic parameters such as AUC(0.t) (the area under the curve from zero to the time), AUC(0-infinity) (the area under the curve from zero to infinity), C(max) (maximum serum concentration), t(max) (time to reach C(max)) and t1/2 (terminal half-life) were analyzed by noncompartmental analysis, and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out using logarithmically transformed AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and C(max) and untransformed t(max).

RESULTS

In vitro dissolution profiles were very similar at all media. There were no significant differences between the two preparations in AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and C(max). The point estimates (90% confidence intervals) for AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and C(max) were 1.0319 (0.9142 - 1.1647), 1.0127 (0.8458 - 1.2127) and 0.9796 (0.8670 - 1.1069), respectively, satisfying the bioequivalence criteria of 0.80 - 1.25 as proposed by the US FDA and the Korean legislation. No statistically significant difference was found for tmax and t1/2 values.

CONCLUSION

From the results of the present study, it is indicated that the two preparations of gabapentin are bioequivalent and it can be assumed that they are therapeutically equivalent and exchangeable in clinical practice.

Neural substrates, experimental evidences and functional hypothesis of acupuncture mechanisms

OBJECTIVES

Although acupuncture therapy has demonstrated itself to be effective in several clinical areas, the underlying mechanisms of acupuncture in general and the analgesic effect in particular are, however, still not clearly delineated. We, therefore, have studied acupuncture analgesic effect through fMRI and proposed a hypothesis, based on the obtained result, which will enlighten the central role of the brain in acupuncture therapy.

METHODS

The proposed model, termed as a broad sense hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (BS-HPA) axis, was based on our observed neuroimaging results. The model incorporates the stress-induced HPA axis model together with neuro-immune interaction including the cholinergic anti-inflammatory model.

RESULTS

The obtained results coupled with accumulating evidence suggest that the central nervous system is essential for the processing of these effects via its modulation of the autonomic nervous system, neuroimmune system and hormonal regulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our fMRI study, it appears that understanding the effects of acupuncture within a neuroscience-based framework is vital. Further, we have proposed the broad sense-HPA axis hypothesis which incorporates the experimental results.

The mitochondrial genome of the Korean hairstreak, Coreana raphaelis (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)

We determined the complete nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the Korean hairstreak, Coreana raphaelis (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). The entire mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecule was 15,314 bp long. The C. raphaelis genes were in the same order and orientation as the completely sequenced mitogenomes of other lepidopteran species, except for the presence of an extra copy of tRNA(Ser)(AGN). High similarity in primary sequence and secondary structure between the two tandemly located copies of the tRNA(Ser)(AGN) suggest a recent duplication of an original single tRNA(Ser)(AGN). The DHU arm of the two copies of tRNA(Ser)(AGN) formed a simple loop as seen in many other metazoan mt tRNA(Ser)(AGN). The putative initiation codon for the C. raphaelis COI gene appears to be a tetranucleotide, TTAG, found commonly in the sequenced lepidopterans. ATPase8, ATPase6, ND4L and ND6 genes, which are next to another protein-coding gene at their 3' end all had the sequences potential to form a hairpin structure, suggesting the importance of such a structure for precise cleavage of the mature protein-coding genes.

Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence evaluation of 2 levosulpiride preparations after a single oral dose in healthy male Korean volunteers

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the bioequivalence of a single oral 25 mg dose of 2 levosulpiride preparations in healthy male Korean volunteers.

SUBJECTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted as a randomized, 2-period crossover design in 28 healthy male Korean volunteers who received a single oral dose of 25 mg levosulpiride tablet in each study period. There was a 6-day washout period between the doses. Serum concentrations of levosulpiride up to 36 hours after the administration were determined using a validated HPLC method with fluorescence detection. In addition, in vitro dissolution profiles of both preparations were examined. The pharmacokinetic parameters such as AUC(0-t) (the area under the curve from zero to the time), AUC(0-infinity) (the area under the curve from zero to infinity), Cmax (maximum serum concentration), tmax (time to reach Cmax) and t1/2 (terminal half-life) were analyzed by non-compartmental analysis, and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out using logarithmically transformed AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and Cmax, and untransformed Tmax.

RESULTS

In vitro dissolution profiles were similar by calculating similarity factor (f2 = 67.73). There were no significant differences between the 2 preparations in AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and Cmax. The point estimates (90% confidence intervals) for AUC(0-t), AUC(0-infinity) and Cmax were 1.085 (1.003-1.173), 1.069 (0.991-1.153) and 1.075 (0.954 to 1.210), respectively, satisfying the bioequivalence criteria of 0.80-1.25 as proposed by the US FDA and the Korean legislation. No statistically significant difference was found for tmax and t1/2 values.

CONCLUSION

From the results of the present study, it is indicated that the 2 preparations of levosulpiride are bioequivalent and it can be assumed that they are therapeutically equivalent and exchangeable in clinical practice.

Chronological changes of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and excitatory amino acid carrier 1 immunoreactivities in CA1 area and subiculum after transient forebrain ischemia

We investigated changes of immunoreactivities of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NR) and of excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC-1), the neuronal glutamate transporter, in the vulnerable CA1 area and the less vulnerable subiculum of the gerbil hippocampus at various times following transient forebrain ischemia. At 30 min after ischemia-reperfusion, the intensity of NR immunoreactivity increased markedly in neurons of CA1 and subiculum, particularly NR2A/B, while EAAC-1 immunoreactivity was reduced in CA1. At 3 hr after reperfusion, the density of NR1 immunoreactivity markedly decreased in CA1. In contrast EAAC-1 immunoreactivity increased in CA1 and in the subiculum. At 12 hr after reperfusion, the decrease of NR1 immunoreactivity was not detected whereas EAAC-1 immunoreactivities in the CA1 area were intensified. In the subiculum, both NR subunits immunoreactivities decreased significantly, in contrast to the maintenance of EAAC-1 immunoreactivity. At 24 hr after reperfusion, both NR2A/B and EAAC-1 immunoreactivities decreased markedly in CA1 and subiculum. We tentatively suggest that the increase of NR immunoreactivity in CA1 at early times after ischemia-reperfusion may increase the delayed neuronal death, and that the increase or maintenance of EAAC-1 immunoreactivity at early times after ischemia-reperfusion may be an important factor in survival of neurons.

Depletion of mitochondrial DNA alters glucose metabolism in SK-Hep1 cells

Maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been suggested to be a genetic factor for diabetes. Reports have shown a decrease of mtDNA content in tissues of diabetic patients. We investigated the effects of mtDNA depletion on glucose metabolism by use of rho(0) SK-Hep1 human hepatoma cells, whose mtDNA was depleted by long-term exposure to ethidium bromide. The rho(0) cells failed to hyperpolarize mitochondrial membrane potential in response to glucose stimulation. Intracellular ATP content, glucose-stimulated ATP production, glucose uptake, steady-state mRNA and protein levels of glucose transporters, and cellular activities of glucose-metabolizing enzymes were decreased in rho(0) cells compared with parental rho(+) cells. Our results suggest that the quantitative reduction of mtDNA may suppress the expression of nuclear DNA-encoded glucose transporters and enzymes of glucose metabolism. Thus this may lead to diabetic status, such as decreased ATP production and glucose utilization.

Effects of neurotoxin 6-aminonicotinamide on levels of enzyme activities and metabolites in quail plasma

Effects of 6-aminonicotinamide (6-AN) on the levels of proteins, metabolites and enzyme activities in the plasma of Japanese quail were investigated. The concentrations of soluble proteins in the pectoral and hindlimb muscle of the 6-AN treated and the pair-fed groups were significantly reduced compared to the control group. In the plasma, the levels of total proteins and albumin were not affected, but the levels of globulin were significantly lower than those of the control and pair-fed groups. In contrast, the levels of glucose and creatine were significantly elevated. Cellulose acetate gel electrophoresis showed that 6-AN induced a new synthesis of prealbumin and also increased the levels of beta-globulin relative to the control and pair-fed groups. In contrast, the levels of gamma-globulin were markedly lower than those of the control group, whereas the levels of alpha-globulin were not affected. The specific activity of alkaline phosphatase of the 6-AN group was significantly lower than that of the control and pair-fed groups and that of aspartate aminotransferase only lower than that of the control group but not the pair-fed group. The specific activities of creatine phosphokinase and lactate dehydrogenase of the 6-AN group were the greatest among the three groups, whereas those of the pair-fed group were greater than those of the control group. The results suggest that 6-AN may interfere with the proper maintenance of energy charges and the immune system function.

The effects of famciclovir and epidural block in the treatment of herpes zoster

In our previous study, we concluded that an epidural blockade combined with intravenous acyclovir is very effective in treating the acute pain in herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia. We evaluated the efficacy of oral famciclovir and epidural blockade on the pain of herpes zoster, compared to acyclovir administered intravenously and epidural blockade. For this purpose, we examined a new group treated with famciclovir and epidural blockade to compare with the group treated with acyclovir and epidural blockade in our previously study. The changes in the intensity of pain, the number of days required for relief of pain, and the total duration of pain were checked. We compared the days required for relief of pain (DRP) and the total duration of pain (TDP) of this group with those of the previous studied group treated with acyclovir and epidural blockade. DRP was significantly less, but TDP was similar. DRP and TDP were significantly lower, if the patients were treated within 7 days of symptom onset. The patients had a shorter DRP regardless of pain type than the previously studied group treated with acycolvir and epidural blockade. For the severe and moderate pain grades, there was a shorter DRP from 100 to 10. TDP was not significantly different for the groups regardless of pain type or grade. We believe that famciclovir and epidural blockade are very effective in treating the pain of herpes zoster, with a view to shortening the period of acute pain, providing similar effects on the prevention of postherpetic neuralgia, and being convenient to administer, compared to intravenous acyclovir and epidural blockade in our previous study.

2-Azabicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes. 2. Substitutent effects on the bromine-mediated rearrangement of 2-azabicyclo[2.2.0]hex-5-enes

Methyl- and phenyl-substituted N-(ethoxycarbonyl)-2-azabicyclo[2.2.0]hex-5-enes 6 have been prepared by photoirradiation of appropriately substituted 1,2-dihydropyridines. Torquoselectivity is observed in the synthesis of the 3-endo-methyl- and 3-endo-phenyl-2-azabicyclo[2.2.0]hexenes 6c-e from 2-methyl- and 2-phenyl-1,2-dihydropyridines 5c-e. Products formed upon addition of bromine to 3-endo-, 4-, and 5-methyl- and 3-endo-phenyl-substituted N-(ethoxycarbonyl)-2-azabicyclo[2.2.0]hex-5-enes 6a-f were substituent dependent. For 6a,b, which lack substituents at C(3) or C(5), mixtures of unrearranged dibromides 8a,b and rearranged dibromides 9a,b were obtained. With the 3-endo-substituents in 6c-e, only rearranged dibromides 9c-e were formed; 5-methyl substitution afforded mainly unrearranged dibromide 8f and some allylic bromide 10. Both unrearranged 5-endo,6-exo-dibromo-2-azabicyclo[2.2.0]hexanes 8 and rearranged 5-anti-6-anti-dibromo-2-azabicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes 9 are formed stereoselectively. The dibromoazabicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes 9 have been reductively debrominated to afford the first reported 2-azabicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes 11 with alkyl or aryl substituents at C-3.

GT1b ganglioside induces death of dopaminergic neurons in rat mesencephalic cultures

We examined neurotoxicity of GT1b against dopaminergic neurons in vitro. Cultures of mesencephalic cells deprived of serum underwent the loss of 19% of tyrosine hydroxylase immunopositive (TH-ip) neurons. In cultures deprived of serum, treatment with 10-30 microg/ml GT1b attenuated the number of TH-ip neurons by 26-69%, respectively, compared to non-treated cultures. Intriguingly, cultures deprived of serum were more vulnerable to GT1b-induced neurotoxicity. Application of 60 microg/ml GT1b to cultures grown in serum containing media resulted in the loss of 26% of TH-ip neurons, similar to that (28%) observed in serum-deprived cultures treated with 10 microg/ml GT1b. Moreover, in our cultures, absence of nitric oxide (NO) production after GT1b treatment was obvious. The present results strongly suggest direct neurotoxic actions of GT1b against dopaminergic neurons regardless of NO.

Effect of adding non-volatile oil as a core material for the floating microspheres prepared by emulsion solvent diffusion method

Eudragit microspheres, to float in the gastrointestinal tract, were prepared to prolong a gastrointestinal transit time. To enhance their buoyancy, non-volatile oil was added to the dispersed phase. When an oil component was not miscible with water, over 90% was entrapped within the microspheres and prolonged the floating time of the microspheres. Depending on the solvent ratio, the morphologies of the microspheres were different and the best result was obtained when the ratio of dichloromethane:ethanol:isopropanol was 5:6:4. As the isopropanol portion increased, the time to form microspheres was delayed and the amount of fibre-like substance produced was decreased, due to the slow diffusion rate of the solvent. Compared with microspheres prepared without non-volatile oil, the release rate of the drug from microspheres was faster in all cases tested, except the microspheres containing mineral oil. The solubility of the drug in the non-volatile oil affected the release profiles of the drugs. The non-volatile oil tends to decrease the glass transition temperature of prepared microspheres and change the release profile. The internal morphology of the microspheres was slightly different depending on the entrapped oil phase used. Tiny spherical objects were present at the inner surface of microspheres and the inside of the shell.

Effect of dietary linoleate/alpha-linolenate balance on the brain lipid composition, reproductive outcome and behavior of rats during their prenatal and postnatal development

The effect of the dietary linoleate (LA)/alpha-linolenate (LNA) balance during development on the brain lipid composition, reproductive outcome and behavior of rats was studied. Female rats were fed on experimental diets during pregnancy and the resulting pups for 16 weeks. The dietary LA/LNA ratios were 1.07 (LA1), 2.64 (LA2), 4.45 (LA3), 7.68 (LA4) and 10.35 (LA5). The relative content of docosahexaenoate (DHA) in the brain of pups tended to increase with decreasing LA/LNA ratio at 0 and 3 weeks, while the level of DHA was maintained constant at 16 weeks regardless of the dietary LA/LNA ratio. The learning ability was measured at 12 weeks of age, and there was no difference among the groups. In an open field test, the exploratory index was significantly lower in the LA1 group than in the LA2 group. The LA1 group had a smaller litter size and lower survival rate than the other groups. We conclude that if the diet contained appropriate amounts and balance of LA and LNA, it was possible for rats to synthesize an appropriate amount of DHA and have normal behavioral activity without DHA supplementation.

Role of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in neuronal and glial apoptosis after spinal cord injury

We investigated the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in the onset of neuronal and glial apoptosis after traumatic spinal cord crush injury in rats. A few TUNEL-positive cells were first observed within and surrounding the lesion area 4 h after injury, with the largest number observed 24-48 h after injury. Double-labeling of cells using cell type-specific markers revealed that TUNEL-positive cells were either neurons or oligodendrocytes. One hour after injury, an intense immunoreactivity to TNF-alpha was observed in neurons and glial cells in the lesion area, but also seen in cells several mm from the lesion site rostrally and caudally. The level of nitric oxide (NO) also significantly increased in the spinal cord 4 h after injury. The injection of a neutralizing antibody against TNF-alpha into the lesion site several min after injury significantly reduced both the level of NO observed 4 h thereafter as well as the number of apoptotic cells observed 24 h after spinal cord trauma. An inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine acetate (l-NMMA), also reduced the number of apoptotic cells. This reduction of apoptotic cells was associated with a decrease in DNA laddering on agarose gel electrophoresis. These results suggest that: (i) TNF-alpha may function as an external signal initiating apoptosis in neurons and oligodendrocytes after spinal cord injury; and (ii) TNF-alpha-initiated apoptosis may be mediated in part by NO as produced by a NOS expressed in response to TNF-alpha.

Increases in intraocular pressure during hemodialysis in eyes during early postvitrectomy period

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To identify risk factors for intraocular pressure (IOP) increases during hemodialysis (HD) in the early postoperative period following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Comparisons of 36 vitrectomized eyes of 22 diabetics undergoing maintenance HD with those of 138 eyes of 69 nonoperated patients. Serial IOPs were measured before PPV, after PPV/before dialysis, and during dialysis. Serum osmolarity and blood pressure were also recorded.

RESULTS

In 20 of 36 operated eyes (55.6%) and 18 of 138 nonoperated eyes (13.0%) IOP was increased (> or =4 mm Hg) during HD. In the operated group, marked increases (> or =7 mm Hg) were noted in 9 eyes and ocular pain in 5 eyes. Eyes with pre-existing outflow obstruction and/or acute postoperative outflow compromise carried high risks. No correlation with changes in serum osmolarity or blood pressure was found.

CONCLUSION

Monitoring of IOP during HD seems warranted when diabetics with pre-existing outflow obstruction and/or postoperative outflow compromise, undergo HD following PPV.

Effect of S-adenosylmethionine on hepatic injury from sequential cold and warm ischemia

We investigated whether S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) treatment improved ischemic injury using perfused rat liver after sequential periods of 24 h cold and 20 min re-warming ischemia. SAM (100 micromol/L) was added to University of Wisconsin (UW) solution and Ringers lactate solution. After cold and sequential warm ischemia, releases of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) markedly increased during reperfusion. The increase in PNP was significantly reduced by SAM treatment. While the concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) in ischemic livers significantly decreased, the concentration of glutathione disulfide (GSSG) increased. This decrease in GSH and increase in GSSG were suppressed by SAM treatment. Lipid peroxidation was elevated in cold and warm ischemic and reperfused livers, but this elevation was also prevented by SAM treatment. Hepatic ATP levels were decreased in the ischemic and reperfused livers to 42% of the control levels. However, treatment with SAM resulted in significantly higher ATP levels and preserved the concentration of AMP in ischemic livers. Our findings suggest that SAM prevents oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation and helps preserve hepatic energy metabolism.

p38 map kinase regulates TNF-alpha production in human astrocytes and microglia by multiple mechanisms

In the vertebrate central nervous system (CNS), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is produced by astrocytes and microglia and mediates cell injury in nerve cells and oligodendrocytes. In the present study, we have used a specific inhibitor of p38 MAP kinase, SB203580 to examine the role of p38 MAP kinase in regulation of TNF-alpha production in human astrocytes and microglia in terms of levels of mRNA and secreted protein. A reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis showed that increased levels of TNF-alpha mRNA were induced in astrocytes by IL-1beta treatment, and in microglia by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In microglia, treatment with SB203580 reduced the level of TNF-alpha mRNA, but in astrocytes it did not. However, the secretion of TNF-alpha by both astrocytes and microglia was markedly inhibited by SB203580 at a low concentration. TNF-alpha secretion was reduced approximately 80% in astrocytes and 85% in microglia. The results demonstrate a key role played by p38 MAP kinase in upregulation of TNF-alpha mRNA levels in LPS-activated human microglia, whereas p38 MAP kinase is involved in post-transcriptional regulation of TNF-alpha production at translational level in IL-1beta-activated human astrocytes.