A combination of sorafenib and nilotinib reduces the growth of castrate-resistant prostate cancer

Castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remains incurable due to the lack of effective therapies. Several tyrosine kinases have been implicated in the development and growth of CRPC, as such targeting these kinases may offer an alternative therapeutic strategy. We established the combination of two tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), sorafenib and nilotinib, as the most cytotoxic. In addtion, to improve their bioavailability and reduce their metabolism, we encapsulated sorafenib and nilotinib into styrene-co-maleic acid micelles. The micelles' charge, size, and release rate were characterized. We assessed the effect of the combination on the cytotoxicity, cell cycle, apoptosis, protein expression, tumor spheroid integrity, migration, and invasion. The micelles exhibited a mean diameter of 100 nm, a neutral charge, and appeared highly stable. The micellar TKIs promoted greater cytotoxicity, decreased cell proliferation, and increased apoptosis relative to the free TKIs. In addition, the combination reduced the expression and activity of several tyrosine kinases and reduced tumor spheroid integrity and metastatic potential of CRPC cell lines more efficiently than the single treatments. The combination increased the therapeutic potential and demonstrated the relevance of a targeted combination therapy for the treatment of CRPC. In addition, the efficacy of the encapsulated drugs provides the basis for an in vivo preclinical testing.

Antitumor activity and systemic effects of PVM/MA-shelled selol nanocapsules in lung adenocarcinoma-bearing mice

Selol is a semi-synthetic compound containing selenite that is effective against cancerous cells and safer for clinical applications in comparison with other inorganic forms of selenite. Recently, we have developed a formulation of poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride)-shelled selol nanocapsules (SPN), which reduced the proliferative activity of lung adenocarcinoma cells and presented little deleterious effects on normal cells in in vitro studies. In this study, we report on the antitumor activity and systemic effects induced by this formulation in chemically induced lung adenocarcinoma-bearing mice. The in vivo antitumor activity of the SPN was verified by macroscopic quantification, immunohistochemistry and morphological analyses. Toxicity analyses were performed by evaluations of the kidney, liver, and spleen; analyses of hemogram and plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, urea, and creatinine; and DNA fragmentation and cell cycle activity of the bone marrow cells. Furthermore, we investigated the potential of the SPN formulation to cause hemolysis, activate the complement system, provoke an inflammatory response and change the conformation of the plasma proteins. Our results showed that the SPN reduced the area of the surface tumor nodules but not the total number of tumor nodules. The biochemical and hematological findings were suggestive of the low systemic toxicity of the SPN formulation. The surface properties of the selol nanocapsules point to characteristics that are consistent with the treatment of the tumors in vivo: low hemolytic activity, weak inflammatory reaction with no activation of the complement system, and mild or absent conformational changes of the plasma proteins. In conclusion, this report suggests that the SPN formulation investigated herein exhibits anti-tumoral effects against lung adenocarcinoma in vivo and is associated with low systemic toxicity and high biocompatibility.

Glutathione depletion and acute exercise increase O-GlcNAc protein modification in rat skeletal muscle

Post-translational modification of intracellular proteins with O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) profoundly affects protein structure, function, and metabolism. Although many skeletal muscle proteins are O-GlcNAcylated, the modification has not been extensively studied in this tissue, especially in the context of exercise. This study investigated the effects of glutathione depletion and acute exercise on O-GlcNAc protein modification in rat skeletal muscle. Diethyl maleate (DEM) was used to deplete intracellular glutathione and rats were subjected to a treadmill run. White gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were analyzed for glutathione status, O-GlcNAc and O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) protein levels, and mRNA expression of OGT, O-GlcNAcase and glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase. DEM and exercise both reduced intracellular glutathione and increased O-GlcNAc. DEM upregulated OGT protein expression. The effects of the interventions were significant 4 h after exercise (P < 0.05). The changes in the mRNA levels of O-GlcNAc enzymes were different in the two muscles, potentially resulting from different rates of oxidative stress and metabolic demands between the muscle types. These findings indicate that oxidative environment promotes O-GlcNAcylation in skeletal muscle and suggest an interrelationship between cellular redox state and O-GlcNAc protein modification. This could represent one mechanism underlying cellular adaptation to oxidative stress and health benefits of exercise.

Multi-targeted inhibition of tumor growth and lung metastasis by redox-sensitive shell crosslinked micelles loading disulfiram

Metastasis, the main cause of cancer related deaths, remains the greatest challenge in cancer treatment. Disulfiram (DSF), which has multi-targeted anti-tumor activity, was encapsulated into redox-sensitive shell crosslinked micelles to achieve intracellular targeted delivery and finally inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. The crosslinked micelles demonstrated good stability in circulation and specifically released DSF under a reductive environment that mimicked the intracellular conditions of tumor cells. As a result, the DSF-loaded redox-sensitive shell crosslinked micelles (DCMs) dramatically inhibited cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis and suppressed cell invasion, as well as impairing tube formation of HMEC-1 cells. In addition, the DCMs could accumulate in tumor tissue and stay there for a long time, thereby causing significant inhibition of 4T1 tumor growth and marked prevention in lung metastasis of 4T1 tumors. These results suggested that DCMs could be a promising delivery system in inhibiting the growth and metastasis of breast cancer.

Poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-based pH-sensitive liposomes mediate cytosolic delivery of drugs for enhanced cancer chemotherapy

pH-responsive polymers render liposomes pH-sensitive and facilitate the intracellular release of encapsulated payload by fusing with endovascular membranes under mildly acidic conditions found inside cellular endosomes. The present study reports the use of high-molecular weight poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (SMA), which exhibits conformational transition from a charged extended structure to an uncharged globule below its pK(1) value, to confer pH-sensitive property to liposomes. The changes in the co-polymer chain conformation resulted in destabilization of the liposomes at mildly acidic pH due to vesicle fusion and/or channel formation within the membrane bilayer, and ultimately led to the release of the encapsulated cargo. The vesicles preserved their pH-sensitivity and stability in serum unlike other polymer-based liposomes and exhibited no hemolytic activity at physiological pH. The lysis of RBCs at endosomal pH due to SMA-based liposome-induced alterations in the bilayer organization leading to spherocyte formation indicated the potential of these vesicles to mediate cytosolic delivery of bio-active molecules through endosome destabilization. The SMA-loaded liposomes exhibiting excellent cytocompatibility, efficiently delivered chemotherapeutic agent 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) within colon cancer cells HT-29 in comparison to neat liposomes. This caused increased cellular-availability of the drug, which resulted in enhanced apoptosis and highlighted the clinical potential of SMA-based vesicles.

In vitro remineralization associated with a bioerodible fluoridated resin and a fluoride varnish

PURPOSE

To examine the remineralization effects of a bioerodible fluoridated resin.

METHODS

36 extracted permanent molars were suspended into an artificial caries solution to create an artificial caries-like lesion. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally to obtain 100 microm sections containing the artificial caries-like lesion, then photographed with polarized light microscopy in an imbibition media of water, representing a minimum of 5% pore volume. An acid-resistant varnish was applied to the surfaces of the sections, leaving only the natural external tooth surface and caries-like lesion exposed. The external tooth surface of 12 samples had 5% sodium fluoride varnish applied, 12 samples had 5% sodium fluoride bioerodible resin applied, and the remaining samples acted as controls. The sections were returned to the tooth, placed in an artificial saliva solution and brushed daily for 30 days. The sections were removed and photographed under polarized light as before. Using a computerized imaging system, the area of the body of the lesion was measured, comparing the same section before and after the 30-day experimental period to evaluate the remineralization process.

RESULTS

The mean percent area remineralization (+/-SD) was: bioerodible fluoridated resin 44.1 +/- 12.1; fluoride varnish 19.1 +/- 9.2; control 2.4 +/- 3.4. ANOVA indicated a significant variance among groups (P < 0.001). Tukey's multiple comparison test demonstrated the fluoridated resin to enhance remineralization significantly greater (P < 0.001) than the fluoride varnish and control and the fluoride varnish to enhance remineralization significantly greater (P < 0.002) than the control.

Gantrez® AN nanoparticles as an adjuvant for oral immunotherapy with allergens

The aim of this study was to investigate the adjuvant properties of oral-administered Gantrez AN nanoparticles with ovalbumin (as allergen model) and, in some cases, lipopolysaccharide of Brucella ovis as immunomodulator. For this purpose, BALB/c mice were administered by oral gavage with OVA nanoparticles and both Th1 and Th2 markers (IgG2a and IgG1, respectively) were enhanced. On the other hand, these carriers administered by oral route were able to protect a model of sensitized mice to ovalbumin from anaphylactic shock. These results are highly suggestive for the valuable use of Gantrez nanoparticles in oral immunotherapy with allergens.

Poly(2-hydroxy-3-phenoxypropylacrylate, 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate, dibutyl maleate) membrane controlled clonidine zero-order release

Poly(2-hydroxy-3-phenoxypropylacrylate, 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate, dibutyl maleate) membrane was synthesized by UV curing method in our laboratory for the first time. When above-mentioned monomers were in the weight ratio of 4:4:2, the membrane not only had perfect permeation property but also had excellent plasticity, so the membrane made from monomers in the ratio of 4:4:2 was chosen as an optimized membrane. The optimized membrane provided perfect linear permeation properties in clonidine transdermal drug delivery system. The permeation rate decreased in proportion to the thickness of membrane. When the concentrations of clonidine were in the range of 0.5-7.0mg/ml, the permeation rate was proportional to the square root of clonidine concentrations. The optimized membrane was characterized by FTIR, DSC and SEM.

Comparative toxicity of fumigants and a phosphine synergist using a novel containment chamber for the safe generation of concentrated phosphine gas

Background

With the phasing out of ozone-depleting substances in accordance with the United Nations Montreal Protocol, phosphine remains as the only economically viable fumigant for widespread use. However the development of high-level resistance in several pest insects threatens the future usage of phosphine; yet research into phosphine resistance mechanisms has been limited due to the potential for human poisoning in enclosed laboratory environments.

Principal Findings

Here we describe a custom-designed chamber for safely containing phosphine gas generated from aluminium phosphide tablets. In an improvement on previous generation systems, this chamber can be completely sealed to control the escape of phosphine. The device has been utilised in a screening program with C. elegans that has identified a phosphine synergist, and quantified the efficacy of a new fumigant against that of phosphine. The phosphine-induced mortality at 20°C has been determined with an LC₅₀ of 732 ppm. This result was contrasted with the efficacy of a potential new botanical pesticide dimethyl disulphide, which for a 24 hour exposure at 20°C is 600 times more potent than phosphine (LC₅₀ 1.24 ppm). We also found that co-administration of the glutathione depletor diethyl maleate (DEM) with a sublethal dose of phosphine (70 ppm, <LC₅), results in a doubling of mortality in C. elegans relative to DEM alone.

Conclusions

The prohibitive danger associated with the generation, containment, and use of phosphine in a laboratory environment has now been substantially reduced by the implementation of our novel gas generation chamber. We have also identified a novel phosphine synergist, the glutathione depletor DEM, suggesting an effective pathway to be targeted in future synergist research; as well as quantifying the efficacy of a potential alternative to phosphine, dimethyl disulphide.

In-vivo effects of fluoridated antiplaque dentifrice and bonding material on enamel demineralization adjacent to orthodontic appliances

INTRODUCTION

The effect of a fluoridated antiplaque dentifrice on the development of caries lesions adjacent to dental appliances bonded with ionomeric material is unknown.

METHODS

Fourteen orthodontic patients were randomly divided into 2 groups of 7. One group brushed 3 times a day with a fluoridated dentifrice, and the other used an experimental antiplaque fluoridated formulation. Bracket bases were randomly bonded with either resin-modified glass ionomer cement or composite resin to the buccal surfaces of either the maxillary left or right premolars in each subject. The teeth were banded, leaving a space on the buccal surface to allow dental plaque accumulation. After 28 days of dentifrice use, the teeth were extracted, and mineral loss in the enamel adjacent to the bonded material was assessed by cross-sectional microhardness.

RESULTS

Mineral loss in the enamel surrounding the bond with the resin-modified glass ionomer cement was lower (P <.05) than around the composite bond. Enamel demineralization was lower (P <.05) in subjects who used the experimental antiplaque fluoridated formulation than in those who used the fluoridated one.

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest that an antiplaque fluoridated dentifrice is superior to one that is only fluoridated for reducing enamel demineralization adjacent to dental material bonded with composite, but the effect seems irrelevant when bonding is done with the ionomeric material.

Chitosan and poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) microparticles as nasal sustained delivery systems

An original dosage form for nasal delivery based on the encapsulation of hydrophilic drug in chitosan-poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) (CH-PVM/MA) microparticles prepared by spray-drying technique was developed. Microparticles were characterized in terms of morphology, size, swelling properties, encapsulation efficiency and drug release. The physical state of the drug and the polymer was determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and infrared spectroscopy (IR). Propranolol hydrochloride (PH) was a beta-blocker, used for the treatment of hypertension and was chosen as a model of hydrophilic drug. SEM studies showed spherical particles with smooth surfaces for chitosan hydrochloride (CH-HCl), whereas rather gross surface defects resulted from the incorporation of poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) (PVM/MA). In vitro release studies revealed a sustained release of propranolol HCl from microparticles and in particular chitosan hydrochloride provided the lowest release of drug.

RISUG (reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance)--an antimicrobial as male vas deferens implant for HIV free semen

HIV transmission from the male to the female is a major health problem. A hypothesis proposing an intra vas deferens implant of an antimicrobial compound to prevent the infection spread is presented. Mechanisms of action for the inhibition could include inactivating HIV in sperms passing through the vas deferens; drug release from the implant to destroy HIV entering into semen from genital structures distal to the vas deferens; and sperm acrosome released hyaluronidase mediated reabsorption of HIV. A subcomponent of the implant flowing along sperm pathway may have a role in reducing the entry of HIV from a positive female into penile tissue. A new drug RISUG (reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance) presently undergoing clinical trials for its contraceptive effect in the male (because it disrupts the sperm acrosome by an electrical charge and pH lowering effects) has also antimicrobial action. The drug being a combination of styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on being injected into the lumen of the vas deferens produces styrene maleic acid thereby lowering pH; induces electrochemical action leading to a stable electrical charge generation; releases mandelic acid; and induces acrosome reaction in sperms with consequent release of hyaluronidase and sperm inactivation. Moreover, one time administration into the lumen of the vas gives long term action. All these phenomena very well match with the needs for HIV clearance of semen and hence RISUG is here proposed as a possible candidate material for the HIV inhibiting vas deferens implant when delivered in below contraceptive threshold dosage. For experimental validation, after obtaining data on the semen HIV load under control conditions in the HIV positive males inducted into the study, 30 mg of SMA in 120 microl of DMSO (contraceptive dose being 60 mg SMA+120 microl DMSO) is to be injected into vasa deferens bilaterally. Thereafter at intervals of one month the viral load needs to be determined in semen obtained either by masturbation or in lubricant free condom at intercourse - the method of collection remaining the same throughout for a particular subject. A significant reduction in the semen viral load following RISUG administration will validate the hypothesis. Speculated reduced female to male HIV transmission is more difficult to test. Nonspecific indications will come from a population study of the incidence of RISUG treated men becoming HIV positive as compared to that in the general population.

Pegylated nanoparticles based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride): preparation and evaluation of their bioadhesive properties

Pegylated nanoparticles based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) (PVM/MA) were prepared by simple solvent displacement method, in the absence of catalysts or specific chemical conditions. Pegylation efficiency increased with the increasing of molecular weight and bulk concentration of poly(ethylene glycols) (PEGs) investigated. In fact, the use of PEG with molecular weight less than 1000 Da did not lead to its attachment. 1H NMR spectroscopy was performed in order to estimate the conformation state of PEG-chains and to predict the nanoparticle structure. Pegylation with PEG 2000 gave surface modified nanoparticles ("brush" conformation), while the chains of PEG 1000 were distributed either in the core or physically adsorbed on the nanoparticle surface. The capacity of nanoparticles to adsorb mucin at pH 7.4 was significantly higher for PEG 1000-NP than for PEG 2000-NP. The "brush" layer seemed to decrease the interaction between PEG 2000-NP and mucin, which facilitated their penetration through the mucus gel. As a consequence, PEG 2000-NP displayed higher capacity to develop adhesive interactions with rat intestinal mucosa in vivo. Independent on the weaker bioadhesive potential of PEG 1000-NP, both types of pegylated nanoparticles demonstrated very high affinity to the intestinal mucosa rather than to the stomach wall, which could be established for drug targeting to the small intestine.

Safety evaluation of long-term vas occlusion with styrene maleic anhydride and its non-invasive reversal on accessory reproductive organs in langurs

AIM

To evaluate the safety of the long term vas occlusion with styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and its non-invasive reversal at the level of accessory reproductive glands ARGs in langurs.

METHODS

The morphology of seminal vesicle and ventral prostate was evaluated by light as well as transmission electron microscopy. Serum clinical chemistry and urine albumin were evaluated in an autoanalyzer using reagent kits. Fructose, acid phosphatase and zinc in the seminal plasma were evaluated spectrophotometrically according to the WHO manual. Serum testosterone, prostate specific antigen and sperm antibodies were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using reagent kits and hematology was estimated according to standard procedures.

RESULTS

The morphological features and secretory activity of the seminal vesicle and prostate were normal as evidenced by the presence of well-developed mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi bodies, secretory granules and normal nuclear characteristics throughout the course of investigation. Serum testosterone and prostate specific antigen remained unaltered and serum antisperm antibodies level presented negative titres. Urine albumin was nil. Total red blood corpuscles (RBC), white blood corpuscles (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell indices, serum protein, glucose, cholesterol, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK), serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bilirubin, urea, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) did not show appreciable changes following vas occlusion and after its non-invasive reversal. Although fructose, acid phosphatase (ACP) and zinc in the seminal plasma showed a significant reduction following vas occlusion, it could not be related to the morphology of seminal vesicle and prostate.

CONCLUSION

SMA vas occlusion and its non-invasive reversal do not damage the accessory reproductive organs.

Bioadhesive properties of Gantrez nanoparticles

Bioadhesive nanoparticles have been proposed as carriers for the oral delivery of poorly available drugs and facilitate the use of this route. This work summarises some experiments describing the bioadhesive potential of Gantrez nanoparticles fluorescently labeled with rhodamine B isothiocyanate. The adhesive potential of Gantrez was found to be stronger when folded as nanoparticles than in the solubilised form. Conventional nanoparticles displayed a tropism for the upper areas of the gastrointestinal tract, with a maximum of adhesion 30 min post-administration and a decrease in the adhered fraction along the time depending on the given dose. The cross-linkage of nanoparticles with increasing amounts of 1,3-diaminopropane stabilised the resulting carriers and prolonged their half-life in an aqueous environment; although, the adhesive capacity of nanoparticles, the intensity and the relative duration of the adhesive interactions within the gut as a function of the cross-linking degree. Finally, nanoparticles were coated with either gelatin or albumin. In the first case, the presence of gelatin dramatically decreased the initial capacity of these carriers to interact with the gut mucosa and the intensity of these phenomenons. In the latter, bovine serum albumin coated nanoparticles (BSA-NP) showed an important tropism for the stomach mucosa without further significant distribution to other parts of the gut mucosa.

Decreased Tissue Accumulation of 6-Deoxy-6-[18F]fluoro-L-ascorbic Acid in Glutathione-Deficient Rats Induced by Administration of Diethyl Maleate

The relationship between in vivo biodistribution of 6-deoxy-6-[18F]fluoro-L-ascorbic acid (18F-DFA) and the content of tissue glutathione (GSH) was investigated in Wistar male rats. Following intravenous administration of 18F-DFA, the accumulation of radioactivity in most tissues, including the adrenal glands, liver and brain, was significantly reduced together with a decrease in the content of GSH by preloading of diethyl maleate (DEM) which depletes cellular GSH. Similar decreased uptake was also observed in the distribution of L-[1-14C]ascorbic acid (14C-AA) after DEM treatment. The possible biological mechanisms, including competition with endogenous AA and ascorbate recycling, that modulate the uptake and accumulation into tissues of 18F-DFA and 14C-AA in GSH-deficient rats are discussed.

Copoly(styrene-maleic acid)−Pirarubicin Micelles: High Tumor-Targeting Efficiency with Little Toxicity1

The copolymer of styrene-maleic acid (SMA) was used to construct micelles containing pirarubicin (4'-O-tetrahydropyranyladriamycin, or THP) as a new anticancer drug formulation. The procedure for the preparation of the micelles was simple, the component consisting of only SMA and pirarubicin in a noncovalent association, possibly by hydrophobic interaction between the styrene portion of SMA and pirarubicin chromophore. This method ensures more than 80% recovery of pirarubicin by weight, and 60% of drug loading (by weight) was achieved. The micelles obtained (SMA-THP) showed high solubility in water and a constant pirarubicin release rate of about 3-4%/day in vitro. SMA-THP micelles had an average molecular size of about 34 kDa according to gel chromatography; this size is a marked increase from the 627.6 Da of free THP, which suggests the formation of a micellar structure. When albumin was added, the molecular size of the micelles increased to about 94 kDa, which indicates binding to albumin, a unique characteristic of SMA. SMA-THP micelle preparation had a cytotoxic effect (93-101%) on MCF-7 breast cancer cells and SW480 human colon cancer cells in vitro that was comparable to that of free THP. An in vivo assay of SMA-THP at doses of 20 mg/kg in ddY mice bearing S-180 tumor revealed complete tumor eradication in 100% of tested animals. Mice survived for more than 1 year after treatment with micellar drug doses as high as 100 mg/kg pirarubicin equivalent. This marked antitumor activity can be attributed to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect of macromolecular drugs seen in solid tumors, which enables selective delivery of drugs to tumor and thus much fewer side effects. Complete blood counts, liver function test, and cardiac histology showed no sign of adverse effects for intravenous doses of the micellar preparation. These data thus suggest that intravenous administration of the SMA-THP micellar formulation can enhance the therapeutic effect of pirarubicin more than 50-fold.

Crosslinked poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) as topical vehicles for hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs

Poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) crosslinked with ethylene glycol (GZ-ET), 1,4-butanediol (GZ-BUT), 1,6-exandiol (GZ-EX), 1,8-octanediol (GZ-OCT), 1,10-decanediol (GZ-DEC) or 1,12-dodecanediol (GZ-DOD) was prepared and employed as a supporting material for aqueous topical gels containing pyridoxine hydrochloride (PYCL) chosen as a hydrophilic model molecule or for O/A emulsion containing beta-carotene chosen as a hydrophobic model molecule. We analyzed the effect of the nature of the crosslinker on the permeation of hydrophilic and lipophilic vitamins through porcine skin by in vitro permeation studies. The vehicles formed by crosslinked poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) showed enhanced vitamins permeation with respect to the same vehicles formed by noncrosslinked poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) (GZ). The decrease in the crosslinker acyl chain length provides vehicles accelerating the drug permeability through the skin.

[The correlation of tolerance to cerebral ischemia and body temperature with glutathione concentration]

Methodic approaches for the purposeful changes of glutathione concentration in the brain and liver by administration of glutathione depletors and prodrugs have been modified. Two different depletors (diethylmaleate and buthionine sulfoximine) cause considerable increase of tolerance to the complete global cerebral ischemia and hypothermia development which correlate closely with the decrease of GSH concentration. Five GSH prodrugs (GSH esters and oxothiazolidine carboxilate) and GSH itself usually decrease slightly body temperature but do not influence tolerance to ischemia in the most of series. The increase of tolerance to the complete global cerebral ischemia is connected not with GSH accumulation, but with its decrease. Evidently one of the two opposite GSH effects, sensitizing or protecting one, can predominate in different forms of cerebral ischemia.

Effect of a new injectable male contraceptive on the seminal plasma amino acids studied by proton NMR spectroscopy

Effect of RISUG, a newly developed male contraceptive, on various amino acids of seminal plasma ejaculates was studied by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 400 MHz. Levels of amino acids were compared with the seminal plasma of obstructive azoospermia and controls. Glutamic acid, glutamine, and arginine were found to be high in concentration in human seminal plasma. The concentration of aromatic amino acids such as tyrosine, histidine, and phenylalanine in RISUG-injected subjects showed no significant difference compared to controls (p > 0.1); however, there was a statistically significant decrease in the concentration of these amino acids in obstructive azoospermia. The concentration of some prominent amino acids that showed overlapping resonances, such as isoleucine+leucine+valine (p < 0.01), alanine+isoleucine+lysine (p < 0.01), arginine+lysine+leucine (p < 0.01), and glutamic acid+glutamine (p < 0.01), showed a statistically significant decrease in RISUG-injected subjects compared to controls. Overlap of these amino acid resonances were noticed even at 600 MHz. In general, the total amino acids concentration in RISUG-injected subjects was found to be higher than in azoospermic subjects, confirming the occurrence of 'partial' obstructive azoospermia in subjects injected with this contraceptive.

Hepatic xenobiotic metabolism of cylindrospermopsin in vivo in the mouse

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is a hepatotoxin isolated from the blue-green alga Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii. The role of both glutathione (GSH) and the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (P450) in the mechanism of toxicity of CYN has been previously investigated in in vitro systems. We have investigated the role of GSH and P450 in vivo in mice. Mice pre-treated with buthionine sulphoximine and diethyl maleate to deplete hepatic GSH prior to dosing with 0.2mg/kg CYN showed a seven-day survival rate of 5/13 while the control group rate was 9/14. Dosing mice with 0.2mg/kg CYN produced a small decrease in hepatic GSH with a characteristic rebound effect at 24h. The magnitude of this effect is however small and combined with the non-significant difference in survival rates after GSH depletion suggest depletion of GSH by CYN could not be a primary mechanism for CYN toxicity. Conversely, pre-treatment with piperonyl butoxide, a P450 inhibitor, protected mice against CYN toxicity giving a survival rate of 10/10 compared with 4/10 in the control group (p < 0.05 Chi squared) and was protective at doses up to 0.8 mg/kg, suggesting activation of CYN by P450 is of primary importance in the mechanism of action.

A proton NMR study of the effect of a new intravasal injectable male contraceptive RISUG on seminal plasma metabolites

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used to quantify citrate, glucose, lactate, glycerophosphorylcholine and choline in seminal plasma from subjects injected with a new male contraceptive RISUG, a copolymer of styrene maleic anhydride dissolved in dimethyl sulphoxide, and in seminal plasma from normal ejaculates. No significant difference in the concentration of citrate was observed between the groups, indicating that the prostate is not affected by the contraceptive. The concentrations of glucose, lactate, glycerophosphorylcholine and choline were significantly lower (P < 0.01) in subjects injected with RISUG compared with controls. In addition, metabolite ratios such as choline:citrate, citrate:lactate, choline:lactate and glycerophosphorylcholine:choline were calculated. Citrate:lactate and glycerophosphorylcholine:choline ratios were significantly lower in RISUG-injected subjects than in controls (P < 0.01), thereby indicating the occurrence of partial obstructive azoospermia. The most important finding of the present study was that the intervention of RISUG in the vas deferens even for a period as long as 8 years is absolutely safe and does not lead to prostatic diseases.

Effect of antimicrobial agents on the micromorphology of primary dentin

The use of disinfectants on the dentin surface contributes to superficial cleaning and removal of remaining microorganisms of the carious process. However, the effect of these agents on the adhesion of resin materials to the dentin surface of primary teeth has not been established. This study evaluated the dentin micromorphological effects due to the use of antimicrobial agents in the different depths of dentin. Twenty-five buccal surfaces of primary molars were prepared from the sectioned teeth, ground flat and polished with silicon carbide paper of different grits. The surfaces were treated with 32% phosphoric acid with benzalkonium chloride (Bisco), 35% phosphoric acid gel (3 M), 3% benzalkonium chloride solution by itself or 10% maleic acid. All agents were applied for 15 seconds on the dentin surface. The samples were washed with distilled water, dried and coated with gold for observation of the dentin surface with the scanning electron microscope. The samples were subdivided according to the dentin depth in upper, middle and lower areas. The following was observed: presence of smear layer, opening of the dentin tubules, and inter and intratubular dentin morphology. The effects of the antimicrobial agents were compared in the different depths of the dentin. The results demonstrated that the surface conditioned with 3% benzalkonium chloride solution presented few disclosed dentin tubules. The use of the 32% phosphoric acid with benzalkonium chloride completely removed the smear layer and increased the diameter of the dentin tubule openings. The 35% phosphoric acid totally exposed the tubules in the upper area of the analyzed surface but partially exposed them in the middle and lower areas. The 10% maleic acid totally removed the smear layer, left all the tubules opened and conditioned the intertubular dentin. It was concluded that in the different depths of the dentin surface, conditioning with 10% maleic acid in primary teeth showed the most consistent micromorphological characteristics compared to the other agents used in this study.

Effect of primers containing N-methylolacrylamide or N-methylolmethacrylamide on dentin bond durability of a resin composite after 5 years

OBJECTIVES

The effect of experimental dentin primers containing N-methylolacrylamide (MEAA) or N-methylolmethacrylamide (MEMA) on bond durability of a resin composite (Photo Clearfil A) with a bonding agent (Clearfil Photo Bond) to bovine dentin was investigated.

METHODS

The etching agents were 10% maleic acid (10% MA), 10% phosphoric acid (10% PA) and 10% citric acid-3% ferric chloride (10-3 solution). Water solutions of 35% hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 50% MEAA or 30% MEMA were used as dentin primers. The etched dentin was pre-treated with the dentin primers for 30s. The resin composite systems were applied in a Teflon tube positioned onto pre-treated dentin surfaces. After water immersion for 1 day and 5 years, the shear bond strengths were measured. The amounts of calcium dissolved with etching agents were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. The thicknesses of hybrid layers at the dentin-resin interfaces treated with 6 mol/l HCl and 1% NaOCl were measured using scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The bond strengths of the specimens (Controls) without primers to dentin etched with 10% MA and 10-3 solution significantly decreased after immersion in water for 5 years (p<0.05) while other bond strengths did not decrease. The bond strengths of the composites to MEMA- and MEAA-primed dentin were significantly higher than that of the control after 1 day, regardless of the types of etching agents (p<0.05). The 5 year bond strengths of the composites to HEMA-, MEMA- and MEAA-primed dentin were significantly higher than that of the control, regardless of the types of etching agents (p<0.05). The 1 day and 5 year bond strengths of the composite to MEAA-primed dentin were significantly higher than those of the composites to HEMA-primed dentin, regardless of the types of etching agents (p<0.05). The highest amount (182.3+/-8.0 microg/cm(2)) of dissolved calcium was determined for the pre-treatment with 10% PA, followed by that (152.0+/-6.9 microg/cm(2)) with 10% MA and that (140.1+/-2.8 microg/cm(2)) with 10-3 solution (p<0.05). The hybrid layer thicknesses (approximately 1 microm) for 10-3 solution were thinner than those (approximately 2 microm) for others after HCl immersion. For the controls, the hybrid layers after NaOCl immersion become narrower or disappeared. The main fracture pattern of specimens was a mixture of resin-dentin interface failure and dentin cohesive fracture after the bond test.

CONCLUSIONS

MEAA solution was more effective in improving the bond strength of the controls to etched dentin than was HEMA after 1 day and 5 years. Clearfil Photo Bond created good hybrid dentin layers which could resist NaOCl-attack and showed good dentin bond durability when dentin primers were used, regardless of the type of etching agent.

Synergism of tebufenozide in resistant and susceptible strains of obliquebanded leafroller (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and resistance to new insecticides

Cross-resistance of the obliquebanded leafroller, Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris), to tebufenozide was reported from laboratory studies before it had been used in commercial orchards in New York State. Bioassays with obliquebanded leafroller larvae from tebufenozide and organophosphate susceptible and resistant colonies were conducted with chlorfenapyr, emamectin benzoate, fenoxycarb, fipronil, spinosad, and tebufenozide to determine if cross-resistance was present before these new insecticides were introduced into commercial orchards. Resistance ratios ranged from 1.1 to 3.2 for all insecticides except tebufenozide (12.8). Significant differences between susceptible and resistant colonies were found with emamectin benzoate, fenoxycarb, and fipronil. The effect of the metabolic synergists piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and diethyl maleate (DEM) on tebufenozide toxicity was examined to determine mechanisms for obliquebanded leafroller resistance to tebufenozide and potential mechanisms for other new insecticides. At a concentration of 20 ppm, PBO and DEM significantly synergized the toxicity of tebufenozide in resistant and susceptible colonies (three- to fourfold). Obliquebanded leafrollers may be resistant to new insecticides with distinct modes of action even if these compounds have not been previously used in commercial orchards.

Hepatic vascular side effects of styrene maleic acid neocarzinostatin in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Styrene-maleic acid neocarzinostatin (SMANCS) sometimes causes hepatic vascular side effects, including arterial stricture, obstruction, and arterio-portal shunt. A total of 128 intra-arterial SMANCS injection treatments, performed for 89 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, were analyzed to determine the relationship between angiographic findings and subsequent hepatic vascular injuries. After SMANCS therapy, hepatic arterial stricture or obstruction occurred in 5 patients (5/128; 3.9%), arterio-portal shunting in 12 (12/128; 9.4%), liver shrinkage in 4 (4/128; 3.1%), and cholangitis or biloma in 2 (2/128; 1.6%). Among 23 patients whose plain abdominal X-ray films just after SMANCS injection showed Lipiodol retention in the hepatic artery, 5 patients developed arterial obstruction, 10 developed arterio-portal shunt, and 2, cholangitis or biloma. Among 26 patients with Lipiodol retention in the portal vein, 4 developed hepatic lobe atrophy with aggravation of liver function. Among 3 patients with Lipiodol retention in both the hepatic artery and the portal vein, 1 developed arterio-portal shunt. In 76 treatments without excessive Lipiodol retention, only 1 of the patients developed arterio-portal shunt. Excessive retention of Lipiodol in hepatic vascular beds just after SMANCS therapy was significantly associated with future vascular side effects (22/52 vs 1/76; P < 0.0001). Lipiodol retention in arteries just after SMANCS injection was closely associated with subsequent arterial obstruction or arterio-portal shunt, and Lipiodol retention in the portal vein was related to subsequent hepatic lobe atrophy.

Effects of a nonrinse conditioner and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on the etch pattern of intact human permanent enamel

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2 new acid-etching solutions, nonrinse conditioner (NRC) and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), on enamel surface morphology, and to compare the new solutions with traditional 37% phosphoric acid. The effect of prolonged etching time was also investigated. The buccal surfaces of 80 extracted third molars were etched with one of the 3 acids for 15, 30, or 60 seconds. The central regions of the specimens were examined with a scanning electron microscope. Shorter etching time with phosphoric acid resulted in a relatively smooth enamel surface compared with longer treatments. Irrespective of treatment time, NRC produced an aprismatic etch pattern, which suggested a potentially retentive morphological character. EDTA treatment had the least effect of all etchants tested.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacological effect of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor conjugated to poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) in rats

A new derivative of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) has been synthesized by conjugating rhG-CSF to poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-rhG-CSF) to try to avoid glomerular filtration and thus potentiate the neutrophil-proliferating activity of rhG-CSF. Poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-rhG-CSF was highly bound to bovine serum albumin (BSA) and the molecular weight of the poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-rhG-CSF-BSA complex was estimated to be about 90000 by gel filtration. Intravenous administration of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-rhG-CSF to normal rats resulted in a dose-dependent increase in neutrophil count. The neutrophil-proliferating activity of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-rhG-CSF was about 10 times greater than that of rhG-CSF. After intravenous injection at a dose of 5 microg protein kg(-1) the total clearance of rhG-CSF fell from 71.0 to 32.1 mLh(-1) kg(-1) following poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) modification. An isolated perfusion study in rat kidney showed that the filtered fraction of rhG-CSF was reduced by conjugation with poly(styrene-co-maleic acid). These results suggest that poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-conjugation can potentiate the neutrophil-proliferating activity of rhG-CSF by reducing, at least in part, its renal clearance.

Combinations of etchants, composite resins, and bracket systems: an important choice in orthodontic bonding procedures

The objectives of this investigation were: (1) to compare the shear bond strengths (SBS) of metal, ceramic, and plastic brackets using different concentrations of maleic and phosphoric acid gels and aqueous solutions, and (2) to determine if a relationship exists between the type of acid etchant and the location of resin after debonding. A sample of 210 bovine incisors was divided among three different bracket groups (Victory series metal, Transcend 6000 ceramic, Spirit MB plastic). Prior to bonding, enamel was acid-etched using 37% phosphoric acid (H3PO4) gel and aqueous solution, 10% maleic acid gel and aqueous solution, 10% H3PO4 gel and aqueous solution, or 2% H3PO4 aqueous solution. SBS testing and the adhesive remnant index (ARI) score provided insight into the effects of the bonding process on enamel. Resin tags associated with each etchant type were inspected under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical analyses (level of significance, p = 0.05) of the data showed significant differences among groups. It was concluded that specific acid-composite-bracket combinations are recommended for use in clinical orthodontic practice in order to achieve efficient bonding.

Maleic acid and succinic acid in fermented alcoholic beverages are the stimulants of gastric acid secretion

Alcoholic beverages produced by fermentation (e.g., beer and wine) are powerful stimulants of gastric acid output and gastrin release in humans. The aim of this study was to separate and specify the gastric acid stimulatory ingredients in alcoholic beverages produced by fermentation. Yeast-fermented glucose was used as a simple model of fermented alcoholic beverages; it was stepwise separated by different methods of liquid chromatography, and each separated solution was tested in human volunteers for its stimulatory action on gastric acid output and gastrin release. Five substances were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography and were analyzed by mass spectrometry and 1H-13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. At the end of the separation process of the five identified substances, only the two dicarboxylic acids, maleic acid and succinic acid, had a significant (P < 0.05) stimulatory action on gastric acid output (76% and 70% of fermented glucose, respectively), but not on gastrin release. When given together, they increased gastric acid output by 100% of fermented glucose and by 95% of maximal acid output. We therefore conclude that maleic acid and succinic acid are the powerful stimulants of gastric acid output in fermented glucose and alcoholic beverages produced by fermentation, and that gastrin is not their mediator of action.

Retention of fluoride/triclosan in plaque following different modes of administration

The aim of the present investigation was to compare: (i) de novo plaque formation, and (ii) fluoride and triclosan concentration in approximal plaque, when a NaF/triclosan/Gantrez-containing dentifrice slurry or a mouthrinse were administrated during a 2-week period of no mechanical plaque control. 10 subjects rinsed for 60 s, 2x daily, for a 14-day period with one of the following 3 test products: (A) a dentifrice slurry including 1 ml of a NaF/triclosan/Gantrez dentifrice mixed with 10 ml of tap water, (B) 10 ml of a NaF/triclosan/ Gantrez mouthrinse, or (C) 10 ml of a NaF mouthrinse. De novo plaque formation was assessed on days 4, 7 and 14 using the Turesky's modification of the Quigley and Hein index system. Samples of approximal plaque were obtained immediately after clinical examination on day 14. The samples were analyzed with respect to concentration of fluoride and triclosan using an ion-specific electrode and a HPLC system, respectively. The 14-day period was repeated using another test product until all 10 subjects had used all 3 test products in a randomized order. The results showed that: (i) significantly more fluoride was retained in the approximal plaque following periods A and B than period C, and (ii) less plaque was formed during period B than periods A and C.

Roles of acid/base nature and molecular weight in drug release from matrices of gelfoam and monoisopropyl ester of poly(vinyl methyl ether-maleic anhydride)

Ophthalmic drug inserts are usually placed in the conjunctival sac. Being in contact with the conjunctiva, they may provide means to deliver large and hydrophilic molecules, such as peptides and oligonucleotides into the eye. We evaluated Gelfoam and monoisopropyl ester of poly(vinyl methyl ether/maleic anhydride) (PVM/MA) as potential polymers for ocular inserts. Matrices were solvent cast with model drugs that had different pKa, molecular weight and hydrophilicity. Drug release from the matrices as well as charge and swelling of Gelfoam(R)-matrix were studied. The release of drugs from PVM/MA-matrices was by erosion of the polymer matrix. The molecular weight and other variants of the releasing compound did not affect their release. In Gelfoam(R)-matrices the release was diffusion controlled and it was affected by the pH of the external solution as well as the charge and molecular weight of the studied compound.

[The effect of cholisorb on liver exocrine function]

The effect of cholisorb and its salt (Na and K) forms on the external secretion of the liver was studied. The cholagogic effect of the H-form of cholisorb and its salt forms was demonstrated in dog experiments. The effect of the H-form proved to be stronger. This effect was associated with decreased absorption of bile acids and cholesterol in the intestine and disturbed hepato-intestinal biliary cycle as a result of which adaptation mechanisms directed at restoration of this cycle are apparently switched on.

Antihepatotoxic activity of monomethyl fumarate isolated from Fumaria indica

Monomethyl fumarate, isolated for the first time from the methanolic extract of the whole plant of Fumaria indica, was characterised and screened for its antihepatotoxic activity in albino rats. The compound showed significant (P < 0.01) antihepatotoxic activity against thioacetamide in vitro, and against hepatotoxicities induced by carbon tetrachloride, paracetamol and rifampicin in vivo to an extent almost similar to that of silymarin, a known antihepatotoxic agent.

The relationship between bond strength and orthodontic bracket base surface area with conventional and microetched foil-mesh bases

The aim of this study was to test the effects on the shear bond strength by sandblasting bracket base surfaces, reducing base surface area, and etching enamel with various acid types. Four different base sizes, used as either standard (untreated), sandblasted or microetched were bonded with Phase II resin (Reliance Orthodontic Products, Inc.) in four groups of 12 bovine enamel specimens after enamel etching with phosphoric acid gel (37%), 37% phosphoric acid aqueous solution, 10% maleic acid gel, or 10% maleic acid aqueous solution. Storage of samples was for 7 days in distilled water at room temperature before shear bond testing with an Instron universal testing machine with a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Statistical analyses included the analysis of variance, the Student t test, and the Chi-square test at p < 0.05. An increase in shear bond strength was associated with sandblasting and microetching of foil-mesh bases for all base sizes (p < 0.05). No statistically significant difference in shear bond strength existed between the three larger base sizes, which indicated that shear bond strength is independent of surface area between 6.82 and 12.35 mm2. A reduction in bond strength was associated with the reduction of base surface area from 6.82 to 2.38 mm2 (p < 0.05). There appears to be no need to increase base surface area beyond 6.82 mm2. Aqueous maleic acid (10%) etching of the enamel was associated with the highest shear bond strength, with no statistically significant difference between the other three acids used.

Mapping of tubule and intertubule surface areas available for bonding in Class V and Class II preparations

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the morphology of dentine in Class V and the Class II preparation walls in terms of tubule orientation, density and increase in surface area after conditioning. Six circular V-shaped preparations were cut at the cementum-enamel junction (CEJ) of anterior teeth and six Class II cavities with the cervical margin 1 mm below the CEJ were prepared in posterior teeth. The preparations were conditioned with 10% maleic acid. The samples were directly studied by SEM. The observations were organized according to location in the preparation, tubule density was counted and the increase in area available for bonding after acid etching was calculated.

RESULTS

Dentine morphology of Class V and Class II preparation walls was mostly regular according to predictable patterns. Between the tubules, along the walls of the cavity, the etched dentine surface exhibited a porous network of collagen fibers. More than 50% of Class V and Class II cavity surface presented oblique or parallel tubule orientation with respect to the cut surface. Because of the presence of a structureless cementum layer. the morphology of the cervical area turned out to be less predictable. The tubule density varied considerably in different regions of the preparations. The intertubular dentine surface area increased after conditioning in Class V preparations from 20.9% to 50.3% on the walls where tubules were cut parallel to their long axis, and from 5.8% to 47.8% where tubules were cut perpendicularly. These same values for Class II preparations ranged from 0.6% to 46.4% on the walls where tubules were cut parallel to their long axis, and 29.8% of the tubules were cut perpendicularly.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this morphological investigation, the increase in intertubular dentine surface area might very well be responsible for the enhanced bond strength after acid etching of dentine, but not all areas exhibited equal responses to etching. In particular, the bonding substrate at the gingival margins may contribute little in terms of micromechanical retention.

Adaptation and radiographic evaluation of four adhesive systems

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare microleakage, gap formation, thickness of the adhesive layer and its radiographic appearance associated with four adhesive restorative procedures for class I cavities.

METHODS

Adhesive systems with easy handling characteristics were selected for the restoration of class I cavities in extracted third molars. Bitewing radiographs were taken of each tooth and four observers were asked to assess the presence of the adhesive layer. Microleakage, gap width and the thickness of the adhesive layer of each restoration were measured upon sectioning of the teeth.

RESULTS

Microleakage in the experimental restorations was minimal. The thickness of the adhesive layers and gap formation varied among different adhesive systems. The adhesive system with self-etching primer produced the highest percentage gap-free restorations. Thick adhesive layers could be detected on the radiograph. ROC analysis of the results validates the diagnosis from the radiograph.

CONCLUSIONS

The four restorative systems performed well in the prevention of microleakage. The use of a resin modified glass-ionomer cement base did not prevent gap formation compared with the all-etch bonding systems used in this study. The presence of an adhesive layer contributed to the prevention of gap formation, independently of the bonding system used. Thick adhesive layers could be detected on the radiograph.

The effect of ACE inhibitors on atheroma formation is potentiated by association with a calcium channel blocker. A biochemical and ultrastructural study

The effect of two angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, enalapril maleate and captopril, on the progression of atherosclerosis was investigated. Golden Syrian hamsters were divided into five groups: controls (C), fed a standard chow diet; hypercholesterolemic animals (HH) induced by supplementing the diet with 3% cholesterol and 15% butter; HH treated with enalapril (20 mg/kg/day); HH treated with captopril (60 mg/kg/day) and HH treated simultaneously with enalapril and a calcium channel blocker, diltiazem (45 mg/kg/day). The drugs were administered for one month, concomitantly with the atherogenic diet. As compared to controls, in HH group a significant increase in serum cholesterol (approximately 5 fold) and ACE activity (approximately 3 fold) was found. In HH-treated animals, both drugs maintained the serum ACE activity within the normal values. However, the effect upon serum cholesterol was different: enalapril and its combination with diltiazem had a significant hypocholesterolemic effect (128.8 +/- 25 mg/dl), whereas captopril had no effect on the cholesterol values (326.6 +/- 41.48 mg/dl). Electron microscopical examination of the coronary arteries and aortic valve in all experimental groups indicated a good correlation between the high levels of cholesterol, ACE activity and the development of the atherosclerotic lesions. Captopril treatment inhibits the early phases of atherosclerosis at level of the coronary artery but has no influence upon the lesion development in the aortic valve. By comparison, enalapril and enalapril-diltiazem co-administration impede the development of fatty streaks by decreasing the accumulation of lipids and calcium deposits in the lesion-prone areas examined. These data indicate that: 1) captopril does not have a hypocholesterolemic potential and cannot prevent atheroma formation in heart valves; 2) enalapril, especially combined with diltiazem, has a hypocholesterolemic effect and impedes the development of atheromatous plaque; 3) the anti-atherosclerosis therapy may benefit from the co-administration of an ACE-inhibitor with a calcium antagonist.

Microleakage of cervical restorations etched with a weak organic acid

This in-vitro study evaluated the microleakage of Class V restorations prepared using 10 per cent maleic acid and a composite resin. Thirty human premolar teeth were evenly distributed and randomly assigned to three groups. Conventional retentive preparations, etched with 10 per cent maleic acid for either 15, 30, or 60 seconds, were cut in the enamel on the facial surface of each tooth to a 1.5 mm depth (dentin). All teeth were restored with Z-100, a small particle composite resin. The teeth were then stored in deionized water for seven days, thermocycled, stained with methylene blue dye, invested, and sectioned vertically through the centre of the restoration. Leakage was established along each wall of the sectioned restoration. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests indicate that the restored teeth in Group 1 (15-second etch) had significantly greater microleakage (p < 0.05) on the enamel wall than the restored teeth in Group 2 (30-second etch) or Group 3 (60-second etch). In addition, Group 1 restorations had significantly greater overall microleakage (p < 0.05) than Group 2 or Group 3 restorations. Although the results were not statistically significant, it would appear that etching with 10 per cent maleic acid for 30 seconds could be clinically significant. Since a 30-second etch time was found to produce the least amount of microleakage (not statistically significant), it can be assumed that this etch time would also be optimal for etching enamel and dentin. Similarly, since Group 1 revealed the most overall microleakage, it can be assumed that a 15-second etch would be inadequate for etching enamel and dentin. Restorations in Groups 2 and 3 displayed statistically significant lower overall microleakage results.

Biochemical studies on the toxicity of 1, 1'-dimethyl-4, 4'-bipyridylium dichloride in the rat

The effect of intraperitoneal administration of lethal dose (50 mg/kg) of paraquat on the microsomal cysteine levels in the plasma, liver and lung of adult male Wistar rats has been investigated using Rank Chromaspek amino acid analyzer. The microsomal alanine levels were also determined to help in assessing the extent of paraquat interference with cellular protein. DL-Buthionine-[S,R]-Sulfoximine (BSO) and Diethyl maleate (DEM) were used to potentiate the toxic effect of the bipyridyl. The microsomal cysteine levels were significantly (P < or = 0.05) depressed in the plasma, liver and lung of the paraquat-treated rats compared with the saline-injected group but the alanine levels were not similarly affected. Probably, paraquat poisoning interferes specifically with the cellular cysteine content in the rat. These findings could provide a valuable information on the biochemical mechanism of paraquat intoxication.

A comparison of three resin bonding agents to primary tooth dentin

This study determined the shear bond strength of resin composites to primary dentin using three dentin adhesives and the presence or absence of a hybrid zone. The buccal and lingual surfaces of 40 recently extracted noncarious primary teeth were ground flat with SiC paper ending with the 600 grit. The teeth were divided at randomly into eight groups of five teeth (10 surfaces) each: 1) Unetched dentin, dry dentin, All-Bond 2/Bis-Fil P; 2) Unetched dentin, moist dentin, All-Bond 2/Bis-Fil P; 3) Dentin etched for 15 sec with 10% phosphoric acid, dry dentin, All-Bond 2/Bis-Fil P; 4) Dentin etched for 15 sec with 10% phosphoric acid, moist dentin, All-Bond 2/Bis-Fil P; 5) Dentin etched with 10% maleic acid for 15 sec, dry dentin, Scotchbond Multi-Purpose/Z100; 6) Dentin etched with 10% maleic acid for 15 sec, moist dentin, Scotchbond Multi-Purpose/Z100; 7) Dentin etched with 10 citric acid/3% ferric chloride, dry dentin, Amalgambond Plus/Z100; 8) Dentin etched with 10 citric acid/3% ferric chloride, moist dentin, Amalgambond Plus/Z100. All teeth were thermocycled 1000x (5 and 55 degrees C, 30-sec dwell time), and shear bond strength testing was conducted using an Instron (crosshead speed 0.5 mm/min). Failure sites after debonding were examined with the SEM. For each group, one additional tooth was used to prepare two class V cavities (one facial and one lingual) restored according to the specification in each group, sectioned buccolingually and examined with the SEM. The results, in MPa, were: 1) 12.55 +/- 5.97; 2) 10.41 +/- 6.16; 3) 9.94 +/- 7.26; 4) 12.25 +/- 4.70; 5) 13.02 +/- 8.01; 6) 16.51 +/- 8.62; 7) 12.51 +/- 8.95; 8) 17.93 +/- 6.44. ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls tests showed no statistically significant differences. SEM evaluation showed that the smear layer was removed in all groups exposing primary dentin tubules infiltrated by resin. A resin-reinforced hybrid layer was readily seen in all specimens.

A short- and long-term shear bond strength study using acids of varying dilutions on bovine dentine

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-(24 h) and long-(180 day) term shear bond strengths of resin to bovine dentine etched with varying dilutions of aqueous solutions of phosphoric and maleic acids.

METHODS

Bovine dentine surfaces were prepared using water irrigated #600 grit SiC paper. The dentine surfaces were etched in groups of 10 teeth using various dilutions of phosphoric or maleic acid. Using the Scotchbond Multipurpose System (SBMP; 3M Co., MN, USA) and a wet technique the etched surfaces were primed and unfilled bonding resin (UBR) was applied to the dentine surface within the confines of a gelatin cylinder. A cylinder of filled resin (Z 100; 3M Co., MN, USA) was then photocured and the specimens were then stored in water for 24 h or 180 days prior to shear bond testing to failure.

RESULTS

The results showed that high bond strengths were recorded using acids which were more dilute than those commercially available. There were also indications that phosphoric acid is not the etching acid of choice for the SBMP system.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that high bond strengths can be achieved in dentine using etching acids which are more dilute than those commercially available. Maleic acid appears to be the etchant of choice for the SBMP system.

Comparison of in vivo and in vitro demineralized dentin with phosphoric and maleic acid

This article evaluated possible differences between dentin conditioned in vivo and in vitro with 10 percent maleic acid or with 36 percent phosphoric acid. Semispherical Class V cavities were prepared in vivo and in vitro at the cementum-enamel junction and were divided into four groups. After etching procedures, the in vivo samples were extracted and fixated in 10 percent buffered formaldehyde. Both the in vivo and in vitro samples were then fractured in two parts along their long axis, critical-point dried, and subsequently examined with SEM. Both the acids removed completely the smear layer and demineralized the dentin, leaving a layer of collagenous network. No morphological differences were found between in vivo and in vitro dentin samples.

Characterization of metallothionein-I-transgenic mice

A metallothionein-I-transgenic mouse strain (MT-TG) was characterized to determine whether they would be suitable to study the functions of this protein. MT-TG mice were visually indistinguishable from nontransgenic littermate controls, but had 10- to 20-fold higher basal levels of MT protein in pancreas, liver, and stomach, as well as 2- to 6-fold higher MT protein levels in other organs (kidney, intestine, uterus, testes, spleen, heart, and lung) than control mice, as determined by the Cd/hemoglobin assay. The MT-TG mice had 50% more Zn in liver and 300% more Zn in pancreas than control mice. Interestingly, female MT-TG mice have 4- to 5-fold higher MT levels in liver than those of males. To determine whether MT can be further increased by well-known MT inducers, control and MT-TG mice were given Zn (200 mumol/kg), Cd (20 mumol/kg), or diethyl maleate (DEM, 5 mmol/kg), and tissue MT concentrations were measured 24 hr later. MT-TG mice responded to MT inducers in a manner similar to control mice. The hepatic antioxidant components (glutathione (GSH), GSH-peroxidase, GSH-reductase, GSH S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, DT-diaphorase, and catalase) of MT-TG mice were not different from those of controls. The cytochrome P450 enzymes (total P450, b5, NADPH cytochrome c reductase) were normal in these MT-TG mice. The activities of CYP1A, CYP2B, and CYP2E enzymes in MT-TG mice were also similar to those of controls, as determined by ethoxy- and pentoxyresorufin O-dealkylation and chlorzoxazone 6-hydroxylation. Thus, MT-TG mice appear to be a good model for studying functions of MT.

Influence of concentration and application time of maleic acid on dentin permeability

OBJECTIVES

Since dentin permeability ultimately affects bond strength, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different concentrations of maleic acid, and different exposure times on dentin permeability.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty freshly extracted human non-carious third molars were used. Hydraulic conductance was determined after various treatments. The teeth were divided into five groups. In the first group, the smear layer was untreated. In three other groups, 0.10, 0.25, or 0.5 M aqueous solution of maleic acid was applied on dentin slices for 15, 30, or 60 s. In the last group, the Scotchbond Multi-Purpose dental adhesive system (3M Dental Products) conditioner was applied for 15, 30, or 60 s.

RESULTS

After a 60 s exposure time, the Scotchbond Multi-Purpose dentin conditioner or the 0.1 M solution of maleic acid was as effective at increasing dentin permeability as the 0.25 M and 0.5 M maleic acid solutions. The maximum dentin permeability was reached after 15 s with 0.25 M and 0.5 M solutions of maleic acid, after 30 s with Scotchbond Multi-Purpose and after 60 s with the 0.1 M solution of maleic acid. During the first 30 s, the 0.1 M solution of malic acid did not increase dentin permeability and did not completely remove the smear layer; a SEM examination of the dentin slices corroborated the functional results.

SIGNIFICANCE

The manufacturer's recommendation of 15 s of etching using Scotchbond Multi-Purpose conditioning gel produced a moderate amount of etching which increases dentin permeability to about one-half its maximum value.

Shear bond strength of a resin composite to enamel etched with maleic or phosphoric acid

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 10 per cent maleic and 37 per cent phosphoric acid on the shear bond strength of Z100 composite resin with Scotchbond Multi-Purpose adhesive to primary and permanent tooth enamel. Four groups of 20 teeth each were established: 1, permanent teeth, 10 per cent maleic acid etched for 15 seconds; 2, permanent teeth, 10 per cent maleic acid etched for 30 seconds; 3, permanent teeth, 37 per cent phosphoric acid etched for 15 seconds; 4, primary teeth, 10 per cent maleic acid etched for 15 seconds. Five teeth from each group were randomly assigned for SEM examination of the etched enamel surface. Scotchbond Multi-Purpose primer and adhesive were applied to the etched enamel surface of the remaining 15 teeth and cured following the manufacturer's instructions. Z100 composite resin was placed in a nylon cylinder and cured for two 40 second intervals. Following thermocycling, the specimens were sheared on an universal testing machine and debonded areas were examined visually with a stereo microscope and with SEM. The mean shear bond strengths in MPa were: 1, 17.00; 2, 14.58; 3, 14.66; 4, 11.18. ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls analyses revealed no statistically significant difference among the groups. SEM examination showed the majority of specimens fractured at the adhesive-resin interface.

The effect of dentifrices containing Triclosan on the development of gingivitis in a 21-day experimental gingivitis study

The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of Triclosan dentifrices to delay the development of gingivitis during a 21-day period without toothbrushing. Test pastes contained 0.3 per cent Triclosan; seven also contained 0.75 per cent zinc citrate; one other contained 2 per cent Gantrez. Plaque and gingivitis increased significantly (p < 0.001) between day 0 and day 21 in the control group. there was no evidence to reject the assumption of similar efficacy across the seven Triclosan/zinc citrate variants. For the combined Triclosan/zinc citrate groups, statistically significant reductions in plaque formation and in gingivitis relative to the control were recorded. Reductions in plaque and gingival bleeding compared to control for the Triclosan/Gantrez group were not statistically significant, although reductions in gingival indices were. The greater reduction in the Gingival Index of the Triclosan/zinc citrate group was also statistically significantly different from that of the Triclosan/Gantrez group, suggesting that a dentifrice containing the former would have a greater antigingivitis potential than a dentifrice containing the latter.