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Women with breast cancer who underwent taxane-based chemotherapy demonstrate diminished postural stability. However, the data concerning dynamic postural stability among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy remains insufficient. To investigate postural stability among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy. Fifteen women with breast cancer participated in this study. Postural stabilities were assessed at five intervals during the course of chemotherapy treatment. Static postural stability was measured during single leg with eyes open (SEO) and eyes closed (SEC) conditions, while dynamic postural stability was measured during performance of the limit of stability test (LOS). Postural stability was described using 95% confidence ellipse area (EA), center of pressure (COP) path length (PL), and COP average velocity (AV). For static postural stability assessment, SEO condition was found to have significant increases in EA, PL, and AV (p =.001, p <.001, and p =.02, respectively). For dynamic postural stability assessment, a significant difference in EA was observed in the forward, backward, right, and left directions (p =.02, p =.02, p <.001, and p =.01, respectively). In addition, a significant difference in PL was found while performing in a backward direction (p =.02). The findings showed that women with breast cancer may have experienced decreased static and dynamic postural stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the accuracy of an accelerometer-based smartphone application for predicting the risk of falls in older adults. Eighty community-dwelling older adults (70.05 ± 4.5 years) were assessed using an accelerometer-based smartphone application for balance assessment at baseline, which included 1) the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (MCTSIB), 2) a single-leg stance (SLST), and 3) limit of stability (LOS) test. The fall incidence during a 6-month follow-up was recorded. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to determine accuracy. The accuracy in predicting falls of all assessments was high (AUC = 0.78–0.99). The MCTSIB had the highest AUC (0.99) compared with the SLST (0.86) and the LOS test (0.78). The MCTSIB had a cutoff score of 8.04, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 98%. The accelerometer-based smartphone application could predict falls in older adults with excellent accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postural instability is a risk factor for falls in older adults. It is possible to detect postural stability using an integrated accelerometer (ACC) sensor in a smartphone. Therefore, a novel ACC-based smartphone application running on the Android operating system called BalanceLab was created and tested. This study aimed to determine the validity and reliability of a novel ACC-based Android smartphone application for assessing balance in older adults. Using BalanceLab, 20 older adults completed three balance assessments: the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (MCTSIB), a single-leg stance test (SLST), and a limit of stability test (LOS). The validity of this mobile application was investigated using a three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis system and the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) scale. The test-retest reliability of this mobile application was determined on two separate occasions within one day, at least two hours apart. The two static balance assessments (the MCTSIB and SLST) demonstrated moderate to excellent correlation with the 3D motion analysis system (r = 0.70–0.91) and the FAB scale (r = 0.67–0.80). However, the majority of the dynamic balance tests (the LOS tests) did not demonstrate any correlation with the 3D motion analysis system or the FAB scale. This novel ACC-based application demonstrated good to excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.76–0.91). A static, but not dynamic, balance assessment tool that uses a novel ACC-based application for Android can be used to measure balance in older adults. This application has moderate to excellent validity and test-retest reliability. • A new accelerometer-based app was examined for its reliability and validity. • A balance app demonstrated high test-retest reliability. • An app showed a high level of validity in static but not in dynamic balance tests. • An older adult's static balance can be evaluated with a new balance app. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sitting ability is critical for daily activities in individuals who have experienced a stroke. A combination of seated balance training on an unstable surface and real-time visual feedback via a simple mobile inclinometer application may improve trunk control in stroke survivors. Objective: This randomized controlled trial aimed to determine the effects of home-based exercise utilizing a balance disc with input from a smartphone inclinometer application on sitting balance and activities of daily living in stroke survivors. Methods: This trial enrolled 32 stroke survivors aged 30 to 75 years. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: intervention or control. Both groups underwent four weeks of traditional therapy. Additionally, the intervention group received four weeks of multidirectional lean training utilizing a balance disc and a smartphone application with an inclinometer. The Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS), the Function in Sitting Test (FIST), and the Barthel Index (BI) were used to assess the results. To compare between group effects, an ANCOVA analysis was performed using a baseline as a covariate. Results: The PASS changing posture and BI were considerably greater in the intervention group compared to the control group. Other metrics revealed no statistically significant differences between the groups. Conclusion: Home-based training with balance discs and input from a smartphone inclinometer application may improve postural control and daily activity in stroke patients. Trial registration: Clinical trials registry number: TCTR20210617004. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the falling incidence density and examine the potential risk factors associated with falling among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy. Methods: One hundred and twenty-three women with breast cancer participated in this study. The fall incidence density, taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN) symptoms, and physical performance tests were evaluated at five time points throughout chemotherapy treatment. A fall diary was used to record fall incidence during treatment. The fall incidence density was calculated by dividing the number of first fall occurrences by person-time at risk. The risk factors associated with time to first fall were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. The Kaplan-Meier curve illustrated the probability of survival from a fall during chemotherapy treatment. Results: Over the course of treatment, 29 (23.58%) participants reported falls. The fall incidence density was 3 per 1000 person-day. This study discovered a significant link between age (adjusted HR (HRadj) = 1.07; 95% CI: 1.02–1.13) and BMI (HRadj = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.02–1.21) and falling. Conclusions: Women with breast cancer could fall for the first time at any time after starting chemotherapy until the end of the follow-up period. Furthermore, time to first fall was associated with age and BMI. Early detection of falling in women with breast cancer, particularly among older persons and those with a high BMI, may be essential to preventing falls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to determine the incidence density of taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN) and its risk factors among women with breast cancer. One hundred and forty-one women with breast cancer participated in this cohort study. TIPN symptoms were evaluated with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer CIPN specific self-report questionnaire (EORTC QOL-CIPN20) at five-time points throughout chemotherapy treatment. Over three months, 125 (89%) and 59 (44.03%) women with breast cancer were identified with sensory and motor neuropathy, respectively. The sensory neuropathy incidence density was 21 per 1000 person-days. The motor neuropathy incidence density was 6 per 1000 person-days. This study discovered a significant link between age and the incidence density of sensory neuropathy (HR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.05) as well as motor neuropathy (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.08). These findings imply that screening may be necessary to detect early TIPN symptoms and provide appropriate rehabilitation programs, particularly for elderly persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effects of textured insole socks on balance, gait parameters, and fall risk in older adults at risk of falling. Thirty older adults at risk of falls participated and were randomly allocated equally to the intervention (texture insole socks) or control (unmodified socks) groups. Both groups were asked to walk on a 10-meter walkway for 2000 steps/day, 3 days/week for 4 weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems test, the modified 30-second chair stand test, and Gait Analyzer application. Textured insole socks increased balance and decreased the risk of falls in older adults to the same extent as unmodified socks. The beneficial effect on balance lasted at least for 2 weeks. No significant changes were observed in gait parameters for either group. These interventions may be viewed as low-cost instruments for improving balance and lowering the risk of falls in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke frequently leads to motor impairments, with almost half of the affected individuals experiencing diminished sensation, impacting their overall quality of life and autonomy. Rehabilitation efforts, however, often overlook somatosensory functions of the lower limbs. While plantar sensory stimulation activates receptors in the foot sole, its precise impact on the motor functions and gait of individuals with stroke is yet to be ascertained. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects of sensory interventions on gait and lower limb motor function in individuals with stroke. Methods: We searched eight databases from inception to December 2023 for randomized controlled trials that investigated sensory interventions targeting gait or lower limb motor function in stroke patients. The primary outcomes included changes in gait and motor function, reported as standardized mean differences (SMD) and assessed heterogeneity (I2). Results: A total of [number] studies were included, covering different sensory modalities such as textured insoles, plantar vibration, and cognitive sensorimotor exercises. The interventions showed varying effectiveness, with plantar vibration therapy exhibiting a large effect size (SMD = 2.03 [1.13, 2.94]) for improving lower limb motor function, while textured insoles showed moderate effectiveness (SMD = 0.58 [0.24, 0.92]) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). For gait, significant enhancement was seen with plantar vibration (SMD = 3.17 [2.05, 4.29]) and cognitive sensorimotor training (SMD = 2.85 [1.69, 4.02]). However, overall heterogeneity was moderate to high (I2 = 65% for motor function, 85% for gait), indicating variability across different studies and intervention types. Conclusion: The findings of this review and meta-analysis suggest that plantar somatosensory stimulation has the potential to improve lower limb motor function and gait in people with stroke. However, to firmly establish its efficacy as a rehabilitative tool, larger-scale and high-quality studies are requisite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Balance training using unstable support surfaces is widely used in clinics and research and can reduce the risk of falls in older people. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an exercise programme using a foam bead bag on older adults' ability to balance and the strength of their lower extremities and compare the effect with no exercise and foam pad exercise using the same programme. Methods: A total of 24 older adults were allocated into one of three groups: control (n=8), foam pad exercise (n=8) and foam bead bag exercise (n=8). The foam pad exercise and foam bead bag exercise groups carried out a programme consisting of 30 minutes of exercise performed twice a week for 5 weeks. The control group did not participate in an exercise programme. Participants' balance abilities were measured using the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale, the Timed Up and Go Test and the Single-Leg Stance Test. The strength of their lower extremities was measured using the 30-second sit-to-stand test. Results: The Fullerton Advanced Balance scale and 30-second sit-to-stand scores significantly improved in the foam pad exercise and foam bead bag exercise groups. Both of these groups also demonstrated significant improvements in Timed Up and Go tests. The amount of time that participants were able to stand on one leg while unassisted significantly increased in the foam bead bag group only. No significant differences were found in balance ability or lower extremity strength in the control group. Conclusions: A foam bead bag is a suitable alternative to a foam pad when performing exercises to improve balance and strength of the lower extremities in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To establish the proper smartphone placement between two positions (thoracic vs. lumbar) for balance assessment using an accelerometer (ACC)-based application. Methods: Eighteen young adults were recruited. The smartphone was attached at either of the T3-5 and L3-5 vertebra levels. Acceleration data were recorded using an ACC application for the Android operating system. Each participant was asked to perform: static balance (the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (MCTSIB) and a single-leg stance (SL) test) and dynamic balance (a limit of stability (LOS) test). Three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis was also recorded. Results: The thoracic level had a higher correlation between smartphone ACC and 3D motion analysis during the MCTSIB and SL tests than the lumbar level. Conversely, the lumbar level had a higher correlation than the thoracic level for the LOS test. The test–retest reliabilities showed a high to excellent reliability, except the lumbar level during the MCTSIB had moderate reliability. Conclusions: For the static balance tests using the smartphone ACC, thoracic placement appears to be better than lumbar placement. In contrast, for the dynamic balance test, lumbar placement is more appropriate than thoracic placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An ability to maintain balance during sit-to-stand represents the ability of active daily living. • Age-related deterioration in sensory reweighting may lead to postural instability. • The modified 30s-CST with sensory perturbations challenged the postural control. • The m30CSTs improve the accuracy in predicting falls in older adults as compared with the 30s-CST. Postural stability during sit-to-stand (STS) movements depends on visual and somatosensory information. A modification of the 30-sec chair-stand test (30s-CST) with visual and somatosensory alteration (m30CST) may improve the ability to identify fall status. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of the m30CST in predicting falls in older adults. This prospective cohort study recruited a convenience sample of 73 individuals from Kao Kilo community, Chonburi, Thailand. Eligibility criteria were age ≥ 65 years and independent STS ability. All participants performed the 30s-CST and m30CSTs (i.e., eyes closed and a foam surface and eyes closed and a foam surface). The fall incidence during a 6-month follow-up was recorded. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated. Twenty participants were designated for reliability and validity analyses using the 30s-CST and the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) Scale, estimating intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). We included 37 fallers and 36 non-fallers. All tests showed excellent accuracy in classifying fallers (AUC = 0.77–0.91). The m30CST with eyes closed and a foam surface had the highest AUC (0.91), with a cutoff score of 9.25 repetitions, sensitivity 92%, and specificity 81%. The m30CSTs presented excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.93–0.96) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.90–0.96), good to excellent correlation with the 30s-CST (r = 0.90–0.98), and moderate to good correlation with the FAB Scale (r = 0.64–0.73). The m30CST could be used as an alternative evaluation for predicting the risk of falls in community-dwelling older adults, with excellent accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is the leading cause of female mortality worldwide. Although there are several modern treatments for breast cancer, there is a high rate of recurrence for the majority of treatments; therefore, the search for effective anticancer agents continues. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-breast cancer potential of frullanolide, a compound which is isolated and purified from the Grangea maderaspatana plant, for selected human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231). The MTT assay was used to assess cytotoxic activity in breast cancer cell lines of treatment with frullanolide at 1.25, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 µg/ml. Additionally, the apoptotic induction ability of frullanolide at various concentrations [0.5×, 1× and 2× half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50)] was investigated by flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Frullanolide exhibited strong anti-breast cancer activity against MDA-MB-468 (IC50, 8.04±2.69 µg/ml) and weak cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 (IC50, 10.74±0.86 µg/ml) and MDA-MB-231 (IC50, 12.36±0.31 µg/ml) cell lines. The IC50 of frullanolide was high in the human normal epithelial breast cell line (MCF-12A) and mouse fibroblast cell line (L-929). Density plot diagrams revealed that frullanolide induced apoptosis in MCF-7, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Notably, a plausible anticancer mechanism was elucidated via cellular apoptosis by p53-independence in the treated MCF-7 cell line and p53-dependence in the treated MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that frullanolide may exert anticancer activity on breast cancer cell lines by inducing apoptosis. Frullanolide offers a possible novel approach to breast cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Iron-oxo species in tetrahedral geometry is major component found on Fe2+-HZSM-5 and Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalysts. • Mixture of the iron-oxo and iron-dioxo species are major component observed on the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst. • Highly improved performace of phenol hydroxylation by the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst is revealed. Iron-containing HZSM-5 zeolite (Fen+-HZSM-5) are performed by ion exchange method with varying iron precursors of Fe2+, Fe3+ and equivalent molar of Fe2+/Fe3+. The Fen+-HZSM-5 materials are used as catalysts for phenol hydroxylation in the presence of H 2 O 2. Bulk-iron oxides of α-Fe 2 O 3 and α-FeOOH are synthesized via hydrothermal method for catalytic comparison to Fen+-HZSM-5. The iron structures on the Fen+-HZSM-5 catalysts are determined using UV–vis DRS and EXAFS techniques. The iron species found in the Fe2+-HZSM-5 and Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalysts is an isolated Fe3+ ion in tetrahedral geometry. Iron-oxo bonds with oxygen in zeolite framework (Fe-O F) are identified on both catalysts. On the other hand, Fe-O bond distances and coordination number on Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 exhibit the mixture of iron-oxo and iron-dioxo species (F O-Fe-O F) in octahedral geometry. The present iron species in the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst show a significant improvement of the turnover number (TON) for phenol hydroxylation in comparison to the bulk α-Fe 2 O 3 and α-FeOOH catalysts. Moreover, the existent iron-dioxo species on the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst enhances catalytic selectivity to catechol product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background and purpose: Previous studies suggested that limits of stability (LOS) training with visual feedback using commercial equipment could be used to improve balance ability in individuals with stroke. However, this system is expensive. In this study, we created a new tool from inexpensive elements based on LOS training using visual feedback. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of training using a new multidirectional reach tool on balance in individuals with stroke. Methods: A single‐blind randomized control trial was conducted. Individuals with stroke (n = 16; age range 38–72 years) were recruited. Participants in the experimental group were trained with the multidirectional reach training for 30 min and conventional physical therapy for 30 min per day, 3 days a week for 4 weeks. Participants in the control group received conventional physical therapy for 30 min per day, 3 days a week for 4 weeks. The outcomes were LOS, weight‐bearing squat, and Fullerton Advanced Balance scale. All of the outcome measures were measured at pretraining, post‐training, and 1 month follow‐up. Results: At post‐training and 1‐month follow‐up, the participants in the experimental group had an improvement of dynamic balance than the control group. Furthermore, the activity assessment by Fullerton Advanced Balance scale was more improved at 1 month follow‐up in the experimental group than control group. Conclusion: The results of this study provide evidence that training using a new multidirectional reach tool is effective for improving balance in individuals with stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a new composite between β -tricalcium phosphate (a bioceramic material) and barium zirconium titanate (a ferroelectric material) were fabricated. Beta-tricalcium phosphate ( β -TCP) powder was synthesized from egg shells while barium zirconium titanate powder was synthesized from metal oxide powders. The composites were fabricated by a solid-state reaction method. Effects of barium zirconium titanate on many properties of the composites were investigated. Barium zirconium titanate additive improves the electrical properties of the composites such as dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties. Furthermore, the mechanical properties, such as hardness are improved by the additive. In-vitro bioactivity test suggests that β -tricalcium phosphate has a higher apatite forming ability as compared to the BZT. The obtained results indicate that the composites are a promising biomaterial candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with flatfoot have impaired proprioception owing to ligament laxity and impaired tendons, which can result in poor balance. Foot orthoses (FOs) have been reported to stimulate plantar mechanical receptors and are used to manage foot overpronation in individuals with flatfoot. However, the results of the use of FOs to improve balance are inconsistent. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to identify and investigate the effects of FOs on balance in individuals with flatfoot. Electronic databases were searched for articles published before March 2023. Peer-reviewed journal studies that included adult participants with flexible flatfoot and reported the effects of FOs on balance were included and classified based on the study design: randomized control trials (RCT) and non-RCTs. Four RCT studies were retained, and their methodological quality was assessed (mean, 63.2%; range 47.3%–73.1%: high), as were three non-RCT studies (mean, 54.1%; range, 42.1%–68.4%: high). Meta-analysis was performed by calculating the effect size using the standardized mean differences between the control and FO conditions. Transverse-arch insoles immediately improved static balance after use. However, no immediate significant effect was found for medial archsupport FOs, cuboid-posting FOs, or University of California Berkeley Laboratory FOs during the study period (2–5 weeks) when compared with the controls. The transverse-arch insole is the most effective FO feature for improving static balance. However, the high heterogeneity between study protocols contributes to the lack of evidence for the effects of FO on balance in people with flatfoot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise using a mung bean bag (MB) for balance ability. Thirty-nine healthy female young adults (aged 18–25 years with normal body mass index) were randomly assigned into three groups (nfor each group = 13): control group, firm surface (FS) exercise group, and MB exercise group. The FS and MB groups were trained with static and dynamic balance exercises (20 minutes × 3 times/week × 6 weeks). Participants’ balance abilities were measured using a Balance Master 4 times: at pre-training (baseline) and at the second, fourth, and sixth weeks post-training. Three tests were assessed: unilateral stance test, modified clinical test for sensory integrations on balance (mCTSIB), and limits of stability (LOS) test. The MB group significantly improved unilateral stance balance in both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions, whereas the FS group improved only in the eyes-closed condition. No significant difference was found across groups in the mCTSIB parameters. Only the FS group significantly improved LOS parameters. These results suggest the MB exercise could be used to improve unilateral stance balance, but not the LOS or mCTSIB, in healthy young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Immobilized Spirulina mat was co-cultured with Pacific white shrimp ( Penaeus vannamei) postlarvae for water quality control in a closed re-circulating system. During the culture period, the experimental Spirulina mat system showed total ammonia nitrogen and nitrate accumulation rates lower by 32.92 and 32.26 %, respectively, compared with the system without the mat. The water exchange rate in the system with the mat was comparatively reduced by 40 %. Moreover, survival rate, growth rate, and size (length) of the co-cultured shrimp larvae were greater than those of the control ( P < 0.05): 72.3 ± 5.2 versus 61.3 ± 4.4 %; 0.55 versus 0.44 mm day; and 9.8 ± 0.5 versus 8.7 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. The most frequently observed microbes by PCR-DGGE, either with or without Spirulina mats, were species related to classes γ-, α-, and β- of Proteobacteria (95-98 % similarity), i.e., Nitrosomonas marina, Pseudomonas sp. ITRI66, Fusobacterium ulcerans, and Exiguobacterium arabatum, and species related to Bacteriodetes, i.e., uncultured Flavobacteriale s (with a similarity of 96 %). However, species related to Nitrobacter winogradskyi and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia were present only when the mats were applied, suggesting a mutualistic role in the aquaculture system. These bacterial communities, in cooperation with Spirulina sp., could enhance the shrimp response against disease, as well as growth and survival rates, and also improve the shrimp culturing water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Visual perception plays a role in balance control while performing a sit-to-stand movement (STS). The dynamic virtual environment could reduce effective neuromuscular regulation and instability. Nevertheless, virtual reality (VR) on the STS movement was not explored in any research.Objectives: This study's aim was to investigate the effect of the VR of an optokinetic drum on the STS movement by using optokinetic drum VR scenes.Methods: This study used a repeated measurement research design. Ninety healthy subjects aged 18-23 years with no experience in virtual reality were recruited. Each participant was asked to stand as quickly as possible from a height-adjustable chair three times under five conditions: with eyes-open (EO), eyes-closed (EC), and three VR scenes: a limited field view of an optokinetic scene, a black and white striped scene, moving in horizontal direction (VRhori), vertical direction (VRvert), and roll (VRroll). VR scenes were generated using a mobile phone in a head-mounted display. The rising index (the upward force produced by the legs as a proportion of body weight), sway velocity, and weight transfer time were measured using a NeuroCom Balance Master.Results: Only VRvert condition significantly reduced weight transfer time as compared to EO and the other two VR conditions. All three VR scenes significantly reduced the rising index as compared to EO. VRvert condition significantly increased sway velocity as compared to all conditions.Conclusion: These findings suggest that optokinetic environment scenes in virtual reality could be used as an alternative method to increase the challenge of maintaining the balance during STS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in the clinic occur at the lower cervical levels, resulting in both white and gray matter disruption. In contrast, most experimental models of SCI in rodents induce damage in the thoracic cord, resulting primarily in white matter disruption. To address this disparity, experimental cervical SCI models have been developed. Thus, we used a recently characterized model of cervical hemicontusion SCI in adult male rats to assess the potential therapeutic effect of post-SCI administration of 17β-estradiol. Rats received a hemicontusion at the level of the fifth cervical vertebra (C5) followed by administration of 17β-estradiol via a slow release pellet (0.5 or 5.0 mg/pellet) beginning at 30 minutes post-SCI. Behavioral evaluation of skilled and unskilled forelimb function and locomotor function were conducted for 7 weeks after SCI. Upon conclusion of the behavioral assessments, spinal cords were collected and histochemistry and stereology were conducted to evaluate the effect of treatment on the lesion characteristics. We found that post-SCI administration of 17β-estradiol decreased neuronal loss in the ventral horn, decreased reactive astrogliosis, decreased the immune response, and increased white mater sparing at the lesion epicenter. Additionally, post-SCI administration of 17β-estradiol improved skilled forelimb function and locomotor function. Taken together, these data suggest that post-SCI administration of 17β-estradiol protected both the gray and white matter in cervical SCI. Moreover, this treatment improved function on skilled motor tasks that involve both gray and white matter components, suggesting that this is likely a highly clinically relevant protective strategy. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2630-2646, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schwann cell (SC) transplantation is a promising repair strategy after spinal cord injury (SCI); however, a large number of SCs do not survive following transplantation. Previous studies have shown that 17b-estradiol (E2) protects several cell types against cytotoxicity. Thus, this study evaluated the protective potential of E2 on SCs in vitro and investigated the effect of E2 on transplanted SC survival in a rat model of SCI. Primary SC cultures were found to robustly express estrogen receptors (ER) and incubation with E2 protected SCs against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death. This protection was not inhibited by the ER antagonist ICI 182,780, suggesting that genomic signaling is not necessary for protection. In a subsequent experiment, cervical hemicontusion SCI was induced in male rats followed by sustained administration of E2 or placebo. Eight days after SCI, SCs were transplanted into the injury epicenter. E2 treatment significantly increased the number of surviving labeled transplanted SCs evaluated 7 days after transplantation. These data demonstrate that E2 protects SCs against oxidative stress and improves transplanted SC survival, which suggests that E2 administration may be an intervention of choice for enhancing survival of transplanted SCs after SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMost experimental models of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rodents induce damage in the thoracic cord and subsequently examine hindlimb function as an indicator of recovery. In these models, functional recovery is most attributable to white-matter preservation and is less influenced by grey-matter sparing. In contrast, most clinical cases of SCI occur at the lower cervical levels, a region in which both grey-matter and white-matter sparing contribute to functional motor recovery. Thus experimental cervical SCI models are beginning to be developed and used to assess protective and pharmacological interventions following SCI. The objective of this study was to characterize a model of graded cervical hemicontusion SCI with regard to several histological and behavioral outcome measures, including novel forelimb behavioral tasks. Using a commercially available rodent spinal cord impactor, adult male rats received hemicontusion SCI at vertebral level C5 at 100, 200, or 300 kdyn force, to produce mild, moderate, or severe injury severities. Tests of skilled and unskilled forelimb and locomotor function were employed to assess functional recovery, and spinal cord tissue was collected to assess lesion severity. Deficits in skilled and unskilled forelimb function and locomotion relating to injury severity were observed, as well as decreases in neuronal numbers, white-matter area, and white-matter gliosis. Significant correlations were observed between behavioral and histological data. Taken together, these data suggest that the forelimb functional and locomotor assessments employed here are sensitive enough to measure functional changes, and that this hemicontusion model can be used to evaluate potential protective and regenerative therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype characterized by the absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expression. TNBC cells respond poorly to targeted chemotherapies currently in use and the mortality rate of TNBC remains high. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new chemotherapeutic agents for TNBC. In this study, the anti-cancer effects of 7-α-hydroxyfrullanolide (7HF), derived from Grangea maderaspatana, on MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells were assessed using MTT assay. The mode of action of 7HF in TNBC cells treated with 6, 12 and 24 µM of 7HF was determined by flow cytometry and propidium iodide (PI) staining for cell cycle analysis and annexin V/fluorescein isothiocyanate + PI staining for detecting apoptosis. The molecular mechanism of action of 7HF in TNBC cells was investigated by evaluating protein expression using proteomic techniques and western blotting. Subsequently, 7HF exhibited the strongest anti-TNBC activity toward MDA-MB-468 cells and a concomitantly weak toxicity toward normal breast cells. The molecular mechanism of action of low-dose 7HF in TNBC cells primarily involved G2/M-phase arrest through upregulation of the expression of Bub3, cyclin B1, phosphorylated Cdk1 (Tyr 15) and p53-independent p21. Contrastingly, the upregulation of PP2A-A subunit expression may have modulated the suppression of various cell survival proteins such as p-Akt (Ser 473), FoxO3a and β-catenin. The concurrent apoptotic effect of 7HF on the treated cells was mediated via both intrinsic and extrinsic modes through the upregulation of Bax and active cleaved caspase-7–9 expression and downregulation of Bcl-2 and full-length caspase-7–9 expression. Notably, the proteomic approach revealed the upregulation of the expression of pivotal protein clusters associated with G1/S-phase arrest, G2/M-phase transition and apoptosis. Thus, 7HF exhibits promising anti-TNBC activity and at a low dose, it modulates signal transduction associated with G2/M-phase arrest and apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essential oil constituents of theKaempferiaspecies, specificallyK. angustiflora,K. marginataand the three varieties ofK. galanga, i.e.,K. galanga1,K. galanga2 andK. galanga3 from Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, were studied using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Monoterpene hydrocarbons and cinnamate derivatives were identified as the phytochemical markers of theseKaempferiaspecies. The chemical variation of these oils was investigated using Principle Component Analysis (PCA). Cinnamate derivatives were found to be the main components in the three varieties ofK. galanga,whereasK. marginataandK. angustifloraconsisted of monoterpene hydrocarbons. Comparing the chemical variation betweenKaempferiaspecies in this research and other areas in previous reports revealed similar constituents in different quantities. Additionally, the three varieties ofK. galangashowed significant larvicidal activity, with LC50values ranging from 49.03 to 53.48 μg/ml. Based on partial least squares (PLS) regression, δ-3-carene, E-ethyl cinnamate, ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate, γ-cadinene and n-pentadecane are the dominant compounds and contributed positively to the larvicidal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

• Trehalose (200 mM) is effective reducing chilling injury in 'Kim Ju' guava fruit. • Applying trehalose maintains the membrane integrity during cold storage. • Trehalose treatment improves the energy status under chilling conditions. • Soluble sugar metabolism is modulated by exogenous trehalose. • Increased sucrose and energy levels are associated with chilling tolerance. Changes in soluble sugars contribute to energy metabolism and membrane stability involved in cold acclimation of postharvest fruit. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of exogenous trehalose on soluble sugar and energy metabolisms in response to membrane stability and chilling injury (CI) of 'Kim Ju' guava fruit. Mature guava fruits were treated with 0 (control), 50, 100, 200 and 400 mM trehalose and stored at 8 °C for 14 d, followed by 4 d of shelf storage at 25 °C. Trehalose at 200 mM was the most effective in lowering CI while the fruit quality is still high. The trehalose-treated fruit exhibited a higher index of membrane stability and energy level accompanied by a rise in endogenous trehalose, sucrose, glucose 6-phosphate and fructose 6-phosphate levels but glucose and fructose levels were depressed. Moreover, trehalose treatment promoted the activities of sucrose synthetic enzyme including, sucrose phosphate synthase and sucrose synthase (synthesis) as well as trehalose hydrolytic enzyme such as trehalase and glycolytic enzymes including, hexokinase, fructokinase, phosphoglucoisomerase and pyruvate kinase. On the other hand, trehalose treatment reduced the activities of sucrose hydrolytic enzymes such as sucrose synthase (cleavage) and invertase. The increase in enzyme activities and soluble sugar levels by trehalose treatment improved the energy status and membrane stability during cold storage which inhibited CI development of guava fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a lethal cancer with rapid progression and poor survival. Novel and more effective therapies than those currently available are, therefore, urgently needed. Our research group previously reported the combination of gemcitabine and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to be more effective than single-agent treatment for the elimination of CCA cells. However, gemcitabine treatment of CCA cells upregulates the expression of an immune checkpoint protein (programmed death-ligand 1 [PD-L1]) that consequently inhibits the cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes. To overcome this challenge and take advantage of PD-L1 upregulation upon gemcitabine treatment, we generated recombinant PD-L1xCD3 bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) to simultaneously block PD-1/PD-L1 signaling and recruit T lymphocytes to eliminate CCA cells. Two recombinant PD-L1xCD3 BiTEs (mBiTE and sBiTE contain anti-PD-L1 scFv region from atezolizumab and from a published sequence, respectively) were able to specifically bind to both CD3 on T lymphocytes, and to PD-L1 overexpressed after gemcitabine treatment on CCA (KKU213A, KKU055, and KKU100) cells. mBiTE and sBiTE significantly enhanced T lymphocyte cytotoxicity against CCA cells, especially after gemcitabine treatment, and their magnitudes of cytotoxicity were positively associated with the levels of PD-L1 expression. Our findings suggest combination gemcitabine and PD-L1xCD3 BiTE as a potential alternative therapy for CCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• SnRK1 plays a role in cellular energy sensing and regulator in response to chilling. • Trehalose treatment alleviates chilling injury of guava by elevating sucrose level. • Increase in sucrose level acts as sugar signaling to activate SnRK1. Sucrose non-fermenting-1-related protein kinases-1 (SnRK1) plays a crucial role in response to energy homeostasis for plant survival during exposure to environmental stresses. Trehalose has been reported as chilling injury alleviating agent of postharvest guava (Psidium guajava cv. Kim Ju), but the mechanism related to energy homeostasis have not been elucidated. This research is focusing on the influence of exogenous trehalose on SnRK1 activation associated with energy homeostasis and chilling injury incidence of 'Kim Ju' guava fruit during low temperature storage. The fruits were treated with 0 and 200 mM of trehalose for 30 min and kept at 8 °C for 14 d. It was demonstrated that PgSnRK1 expression and SnRK1 activity increased after trehalose treatment, reaching maximum within 1–2 d. Trehalose treatment upregulated the expression of energy producing related genes including adenosine triphosphate synthase subunit β and adenosine diphosphate/adenosine triphosphate carrier and increased the enzyme activities of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome c oxidase. These events were accompanied by higher energy charge and lower chilling injury throughout storage. The increase in SnRK1 activity by exogenous trehalose was closely associated with an increase in sucrose level during the first 2 d of storage. The SnRK1 activation was induced apparently by 50–200 mM exogenous sucrose within 3–12 h after treatment while exogenous trehalose treatment induced SnRK1 activation slightly and slowly within 2 d. Moreover, validamycin A combined with exogenous trehalose enhanced the cellular trehalose accumulation while sucrose level remained constant which lowered PgSnRK1 expression. Our results suggested that exogenous trehalose induces a transient rise in sucrose content at the early storage for providing the sugar signaling to SnRK1 activation which is required for maintaining energy homeostasis accompanied by retarding chilling injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue virus (DENV) infection has become a critically important globally prevalent infectious disease, especially in tropical and subtropical countries. Since neither currently exists, there is an urgent need for an effective vaccine to prevent, and a specific drug to treat DENV infection. Therapeutic peptides represent an attractive alternative for development into anti-DENV drugs due to their safety and their diverse biological and chemical properties. We recently reported novel bioactive peptides extracted from the Asian medicinal plant Acacia catechu that efficiently inhibited all four DENV serotypes. In this study, we investigated the anti-DENV activity of a synthetic bioactive peptide derived from this plant. The most effective peptide (designated Pep-RTYM) inhibited DENV infection with a half-maximal inhibition concentration value of 7.9 μM. Time-of-addition study demonstrated that Pep-RTYM interacted with DENV particles and inhibited cellular entry. Pep-RTYM at 50 μM significantly reduced DENV production in Vero-kidney epithelial cells about 1000-fold, but it could decrease the virus production in Huh7 hepatocyte cells approximately 40-fold. Binding of Pep-RTYM to DENV particles may prevent virus interaction with cellular receptor and subsequent virus entry. This finding suggests a potential role of Pep-RTYM in the development of a novel anti-DENV drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]