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Various factors may contribute to the emergence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Genetic factors are particularly prominent in the etiology of ASD, and genetic syndromes may frequently accompany the disorder. Coffin-Siris syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by mental retardation, coarse facial appearance, hirsutism/hypertrichosis or skin with sparse hair, distal phalanx aplasia or hypoplasia, and fifth-finger and nail abnormalities. This genetic syndrome is accompanied by numerous different cardiac, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, ophthalmological, and craniofacial systemic abnormalities. ARID1B gene mutation is thought to be involved both in Coffin-Siris syndrome and in the etiology of autism. Although common genetic factors are involved in the etiologies of both diseases, our review of the literature revealed only one case report demonstrating an association between Coffin-Siris syndrome and ASD. This report describes a male patient aged 2 years and 10 months with ARID1B mutation showing Coffin-Siris syndrome and ASD comorbidity. It may be beneficial for clinicians to remember the coexistence of genetic syndromes in patients diagnosed with ASD and to request consultations from relevant departments for early diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to establish the prevalence of epilepsy in patients with coeliac disease (CD) or gluten sensitivity (GS) and vice versa and to characterise the phenomenology of the epileptic syndromes that these patients present with. Methodology: A systematic computer-based literature search was conducted on the PubMed database. Information regarding prevalence, demographics and epilepsy phenomenology was extracted. Results: Epilepsy is 1.8 times more prevalent in patients with CD, compared to the general population. CD is over 2 times more prevalent in patients with epilepsy compared to the general population. Further studies are necessary to assess the prevalence of GS in epilepsy. The data indicate that the prevalence of CD or GS is higher amongst particular epileptic presentations including in childhood partial epilepsy with occipital paroxysms, in adult patients with fixation off sensitivity (FOS) and in those with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) with hippocampal sclerosis. A particularly interesting presentation of epilepsy in the context of gluten-related disorders is a syndrome of coeliac disease, epilepsy and cerebral calcification (CEC syndrome) which is frequently described in the literature. Gluten-free diet (GFD) is effective in the management of epilepsy in 53% of cases, either reducing seizure frequency, enabling reduced doses of antiepileptic drugs or even stopping antiepileptic drugs. Conclusion: Patients with epilepsy of unknown aetiology should be investigated for serological markers of gluten sensitivity as such patients may benefit from a GFD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica–β-cyclodextrin matrices were prepared by the sol–gel technique using tetraethoxysilane as precursor and different concentrations (0.5–4.0%) of the organic component, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Hybrid matrices were activated with glutaraldehyde to introduce functional groups for the attachment of Burkholderia cepacia lipase, used here as a model enzyme. The goal was to produce biocatalysts with high activity and satisfactory properties for transesterification reactions. The biocatalysts exhibited similar hydrolytic activities, coupling yields, and kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax), but differed in terms of thermal stability and transesterification activity. The best biocatalyst, prepared using 2.0% β-CD, was used to study the influence of oil/alcohol molar ratio on ester yield, viscosity, and residual monoacylglycerol (MG) and diacylglycerol (DG) contents. The molar ratio of palm kernel oil to ethanol had a considerable effect on the formation of ethyl esters and the best performance was achieved with an oil/alcohol molar ratio of 1:6. Under this condition, a high ethyl ester yield, a low residual MG content (<0.5%), and undetectable DG levels were obtained. Kinematic viscosity measurements (40 °C) confirmed the high transesterification yield, as the viscosity of palm kernel oil decreased from 30.13 mm2s−1 to <4 mm2s−1. Highlights: Silica–β-cyclodextrin matrices were prepared by the sol–gel technique using different ratios of inorganic/organic compounds. The matrices showed similar properties although affect the biocatalyst performance. The best set of parameters was achieved on lipase immobilized on matrix prepared with 2.0% β-CD. The most active biocatalyst was successful applied in the transesterification of palm kernel oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New advances in polymer science and their possible applications have increased in recent years highlighting their important and desired properties. Regarding cyclodextrin and chitosan polymers, they are used in many fields such as agriculture, pharmaceutical, food industry, medicine and in electrochemical sensors. Carefully designed studies are therefore required in order to understand the toxicology, the ways of interaction, biodegradation rate and other parameters of these compounds before using them. This review presents the finding of studies of these polymers applications mainly on drug delivery system and pollutants removal. In addition, modifications are made to enhance their properties and enable some reactions, here it is discussed the most used modification techniques and how they change chitosan and cyclodextrin structure. Although there has been an increase in the number of studies in these areas, further progress is needed to improve understanding of the interaction between the polymers and the compounds of interest, besides their mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new family of amphiphilic cyclodextrins produced from oleic acid derivatives and maleic anhydride is described. These amphiphilic cyclodextrins are synthesized in two steps. The first step is the alkenylation of maleic anhydride by oleic acid derivatives to produce the oleic succinic anhydrides. The second step is the grafting of the oleic succinic anhydrides on various cyclodextrins. A self‐inclusion of the alkyl chain or an inclusion of one alkyl chain in the cavity of another CD is showed by NMR experiments. The twelve amphiphilic cyclodextrins described possess high solubility in water (50–500 g/L at 20 °C) and low critical aggregation concentration (16–360 mg/L). A new family of amphiphilic cyclodextrins produced from methyl oleate or oleic acid and maleic anhydride is described. A self‐inclusion of the alkyl chain or an inclusion of an alkyl chain in another CD cavity is evidenced. These oleic succinyl‐CDs possess a high solubility in water, a low surface tension, and a low critical aggregation concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drugs that target the endocannabinoid system are of interest as pharmacological options to combat cancer and to improve the life quality of cancer patients. From this perspective, cannabinoid compounds have been successfully tested as a systemic therapeutic option in a number of preclinical models over the past decades. As a result of these efforts, a large body of data suggests that the anticancer effects of cannabinoids are exerted at multiple levels of tumour progression via different signal transduction mechanisms. Accordingly, there is considerable evidence for cannabinoid-mediated inhibition of tumour cell proliferation, tumour invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis and chemoresistance, as well as induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Further studies showed that cannabinoids could be potential combination partners for established chemotherapeutic agents or other therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment. Research in recent years has yielded several compounds that exert promising effects on tumour cells and tissues in addition to the psychoactive Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol, such as the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential of cannabinoids as inhibitors of tumour growth and spread as demonstrated in preclinical studies., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Amphiphilic cyclodextrins were synthesized from permethylated βCD with the aim of forming nanoparticles (NPs) that would encapsulate specific molecules (e.g. drugs) which could enhance their otherwise poor bioavailability. By grafting different fatty acids, four amphiphilic CDs were obtained. The self-assembling properties of three of these compounds were evaluated demonstrating micromolar critical aggregation concentration (CAC). Additionally, the stability of these nanoparticles was studied revealing that the compounds with C18 chains could be stored at 4 °C for prolonged periods without any issue. Finally, reliable characterization of NPs made of di-oleoyl-glycerolipidyl-β-cyclodextrin (DOCD) was performed by combining DLS, cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. This revealed that DOCD nano-assemblies are roughly nano-scaled, spherical objects (diameter ca. 120 nm) without internal organization or aqueous compartments. Finally, atazanavir, used as a model drug, was entrapped in NPs whilst MD simulations were used to investigate molecule entrapment. This revealed that atazanavir interacts with DOCD to form a drug-loaded NP which does not fit with the 2 : 1 stoichiometry encapsulation classically observed in the cyclodextrin cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailor-made, linear, and “comb-like” poly(ε-caprolactone)-based copolymers were synthesized by employing a combination of controlled polymerization techniques. Poly(dimethylsiloxane-block-ε-caprolactone) copolymers (SCL#) were synthesized by a combination of anionic and ring-opening polymerization (ROP), whereas “comb-like” poly(hydroxyethylmethacrylate-co-(hydroxyethylmethacrylate-graft-ε-caprolactone)-block-ε-caprolactone) (HEMACL#) were synthesized through simultaneous ROP and reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Copolymers were characterized by hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. All polymers exhibited narrow molar masses distributions (Mw/Mn<1.54), and their thermal properties were analyzed by isothermal crystallization kinetics (Avrami’s theory, by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)) and by employing modulated thermogravimetric analysis (MTGA). The macromolecular structure exerts a noticeable effect on the PCL block behavior when compared to the PCL homopolymer, at least for the temperature range studied (16–24°C): less differences in thermal properties were observed for linear block copolymers, whereas for “comb-like” graft copolymers their final crystallization capacity strongly depends on the presence of branches. For both sets of copolymers, the decrease in the resulting melting temperatures and the increase in the half-life crystallization time values might be useful processing parameters, particularly if these copolymers are planned for using as an alternative source of 3D printing or electrospinning materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-therapy through biotin modified nanoparticles (NPs) of gefitinib (Gnb) and naringenin (Nar) was investigated for its therapeutic and synergistic potential against lung cancer. The biotin-conjugated polymeric NPs (bty-Nar/Gnb) were developed using oil in water emulsion technique and optimized using central composite design. The formulations were subjected to various in vitro (A549 cell lines) and in vivo evaluations in urethane-induced lung cancer. Co-administration of Gnb and Nar NPs displayed a significant reduction in tumour volume while restoring the biochemical parameters and serum metabolites to normal levels. Significant down-regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins (P-16, MMP-9 and Bcl-2) and up-regulation of pro-apoptotic proteins (caspase-9 and BAX) was displayed with co-therapy. This investigation demonstrated the superiority of co-therapy over individual therapy for improved therapeutic efficacy and is favourable for developing a safe, effective and targeted delivery for lung carcinoma therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the approval of imatinib in 2001, kinase inhibitors have revolutionized cancer therapies. Inside this family of phosphotransferases, casein kinase 2 (CK2) is of great interest and numerous scaffolds have been investigated to design CK2 inhibitors. Recently, functionalized indeno[1,2-b]indoles have been revealed to have high potency against human cancer cell lines such as MCF-7 breast carcinoma and A-427 lung carcinoma. 4-Methoxy-5-isopropyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroindeno[1,2-b]indole-9,10-dione (THN7), identified as a potent inhibitor of CK2 (IC50 = 71 nM), was selected for an encapsulation study in order to evaluate its antiproliferative activity as THN7-loaded cyclodextrin nanoparticles. Four α-cyclodextrins (α-CDs) were selected to encapsulate THN7 and all experiments indicated that the nanoencapsulation of this CK2 inhibitor in α-CDs was successful. No additional surface-active agent was used during the nanoformulation process. Nanoparticles formed between THN7 and α-C6H13 amphiphilic derivative gave the best results in terms of encapsulation rate (% of associated drug = 35%), with a stability constant (K11) of 298 mol.L-1 and a size of 132 nm. Hemolytic activity of the four α-CDs was determined before the in cellulo evaluation and the α-C6H13 derivative gave the lowest value of hemolytic potency (HC50 = 1.93 mol.L-1). Only the THN7-loaded cyclodextrin nanoparticles showing less toxicity on human erythrocytes (α-C6H13, α-C8H17 and α-C4H9) were tested against A-427 cells. All drug-loaded nanoparticles caused more cytotoxicity against A-427 cells than THN7 alone. Based on these results, the use of amphiphilic CD nanoparticles could be considered as a drug delivery system for indeno[1,2-b]indoles, allowing an optimized bioavailability and offering perspectives for the in vivo development of CK2 inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphiphilic cyclodextrins are biocompatible oligosaccharides that can be used for drug delivery especially for the delivery of drugs with solubility problems thanks to their unique molecular structures. In this paper, Paclitaxel was used as a model anticancer drug to determine the inclusion complex properties of amphiphilic cyclodextrins with different surface charge. Paclitaxel-loaded cyclodextrin nanoparticles were characterized in terms of mean particle diameter, zeta potential, encapsulation efficacy, drug release profile and cell culture studies. It was determined that the nanoparticles prepared from the inclusion complex according to characterization studies have a longer release profile than the conventionally prepared nanoparticles. In order to mimic the tumor microenvironment, breast cancer cells and healthy fibroblast cells were used in 3-dimensional (3D) cell culture studies. It was determined that the activities of nanoparticles prepared by conventional methods behave differently in 2-dimensional (2D) and 3D cell cultures. In addition, it was observed that the nanoparticles prepared from the inclusion complex have a stronger anti-tumoral activity in the 3D multicellular tumor model than the drug solution. Furthermore, polycationic amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles can diffuse and penetrate through multilayer cells in a 3D tumor model, which is crucial for an eventual antitumor effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apart the linden trees are important as source of wood and have medicinal and ornamental uses, they are also important from the melliferous point of view, being a good source of food for melliferous insects as well as an important honey source for beekeepers. Among the different linden species, the silver linden is appreciated to have a good melliferous potential. Taking into account these aspects, the aim of this study was to investigate the melliferous potential of the silver linden trees (Tilia tomentosa Moench.) growing in the forests from South Romania. In this respect, a study was carried out in the years 2009, 2010 and 2011 in two forests located in South Romania. The following parameters were analyzed: 1) the average sugar yield of the silver linden flowers, which is given by the quantity of nectar secreted by the flowers and the nectar concentration in sugar; 2) the number of flowers per silver linden tree and per hectare; 3) the lifespan of the silver linden flowers. Our study performed in the two forests from South Romania showed the good melliferous potential of the silver linden trees, which was in average of 318 kg.ha-1 of honey, respectively 0.76 kg of honey per linden tree. However, it must be taken into account the influence on this good melliferous potential of the silver linden trees determined by the climatic conditions of the year and the number of flowers the linden trees can produce in the respectively year, as well as the number of linden trees from the forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer treatment is challenging due to the tumour heterogeneity that makes personalized medicine a suitable technique for providing better cancer treatment. Personalized medicine analyses patient-related factors like genetic make-up and lifestyle and designs treatments that offer the benefits of reduced side effects and efficient drug delivery. Personalized medicine aims to provide a holistic way for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The customization desired in personalized medicine is produced accurately by 3D printing which is an established technique known for its precision. Different 3D printing techniques exhibit their capability in producing cancer-specific medications for breast, liver, thyroid and kidney tumours. Three-dimensional printing displays major influence on cancer modelling and studies using cancer models in treatment and diagnosis. Three-dimensional printed personalized tumour models like physical 3D models, bioprinted models and tumour-on-chip models demonstrate better in vitro and in vivo correlation in drug screening, cancer metastasis and prognosis studies. Three-dimensional printing helps in cancer modelling; moreover, it has also changed the facet of cancer treatment. Improved treatment via custom-made 3D printed devices, implants and dosage forms ensures the delivery of anticancer agents efficiently. This review covers recent applications of 3D printed personalized medicine in various cancer types and comments on the possible future directions like application of 4D printing and regularization of 3D printed personalized medicine in healthcare., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists.)

Cancer is one of the major fatal diseases. Chemotherapy is a typical treatment method that uses a combination of drugs to either destroy cancer cells or slow down the growth of cancer cells. However, most of the cytotoxic chemotherapeutic drugs are water insoluble resulting in formulation difficulty. One promising strategy is to use cyclodextrins (CDs) which have been widely employed to enhance the solubility, bioavailability, stability and safety of drug molecules by forming non covalent inclusion complexes. The objective of this review is to explain the use of CDs in the different approaches for cancer treatment. Of specific interest is that CDs are shown to have anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo. The use of CDs as anticancer agent and the possible mechanism to inhibit cancer cell growth are discussed. CDs/anti-neoplastic-drug complexes with improved solubility, increased stability and enhanced anti-cancer activity are described and possible future applications are discussed. Use and their advantages of CDs in the different drug delivery systems like liposomes, conjugates, nanoparticles and siRNA carriers for cancer treatment are detailed in this review. These CDs modified delivery system for anticancer drugs are shown to provide improved encapsulation, prolonged release, increased therapeutic efficacy and reduced toxicity. Furthermore, there is a prerequisite to exploit the utility of CDs and CDs-based carriers using in vivo tumor models for pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicity studies to validate their safety and efficacy. In future, we believe that CDs and CDs-based delivery system for anticancer drugs have great potential to serve as an alternative for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have shown great potential in improving drug delivery of poorly water soluble (BCS class II, IV) and poorly permeable (BCS class III, IV) drugs, as well as facilitating successful delivery of unstable compounds. The nanoparticle technology would allow improved treatment by reducing adverse reactions of currently approved drugs and possibly reintroducing previously discarded compounds from the drug development pipeline. This study aims to highlight important aspects in mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) ink formulation development for digital inkjet printing technology and to advice on choosing a method (2D/3D) for nanoparticle print deposit characterization. The results show that both unfunctionalized and polyethyeleneimine (PEI) surface functionalized MSNs, as well as drug-free and drug-loaded MSN-PEI suspensions, can be successfully inkjet-printed. Furthermore, the model BCS class IV drug remained incorporated in the MSNs and the suspension remained physically stable during the processing time and steps. This proof-of-concept study suggests that inkjet printing technology would be a flexible deposition method of pharmaceutical MSN suspensions to generate patterns according to predefined designs. The concept could be utilized as a versatile drug screening platform in the future due to the possibility of accurately depositing controlled volumes of MSN suspensions on various materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac disease (CD) can be considered a complex multi-organ disorder with highly variable extra-intestinal, including neurological, involvement. Cerebellar ataxia, peripheral neuropathy, seizures, headache, cognitive impairment, and neuropsychiatric diseases are complications frequently reported. These manifestations may be present at the onset of the typical disease or become clinically evident during its course. However, CD subjects with subclinical neurological involvement have also been described, as well as patients with clear central and/or peripheral nervous system and intestinal histopathological disease features in the absence of typical CD manifestations. Based on these considerations, a sensitive and specific diagnostic method that is able to detect early disease process, progression, and complications is desirable. In this context, neurophysiological techniques play a crucial role in the non-invasive assessment of central nervous system(CNS) excitability and conductivity.Moreover, some of these tools are known for their valuable role in early diagnosis and follow-up of several neurological diseases or systemic disorders, such as CD with nervous systeminvolvement, even at the subclinical level. This review provides an up-to-date summary of the neurophysiological basis of CD using electroencephalography (EEG), multimodal evoked potentials, and transcranialmagnetic stimulation (TMS). The evidence examined here seems to converge on an overall profile of "hyperexcitable celiac brain," which partially recovers after institution of a gluten-free diet (GFD). The main translational correlate is that in case of subclinical neurological involvement or overt unexplained symptoms, neurophysiology could contribute to the diagnosis, assessment, and monitoring of a potentially underlying CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out by the Turkish Republic Ministry of Health to determine the prevalence of consanguineous marriage and its correlates with socio-demographic and obstetric risk factors in women in Turkey. The cross-sectional, national-level study was carried out from October to December 2013. The study population was composed of women between the ages of 15 and 65 years living in Turkey. The sample size was calculated as 9290 houses within Turkey's 81 provinces so as to improve the Turkish rural-urban expectations by means of systematic stack sampling according to the Turkish Statistical Institute's address-based vital statistics system. The target sample size was 6364, but only eligible 4913 women, who had been married, were included in the study. The consanguineous marriage frequency in the sample was found to be 18.5%, and of these 57.8% were first cousin marriages. Women living in an extended family and whose education level and first marriage ages were low, and whose perceived economic status was poor, had higher frequencies of consanguineous marriage (p<0.001). Consanguineous marriage frequencies were higher (p<0.001) for women who had spontaneous abortions and stillbirths or who had given birth to infants with a congenital abnormality. In this context, it is important to develop national policies and strategies to prevent consanguineous marriages in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Epilepsi: Journal of the Turkish Epilepsi Society is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Dusunen Adam: Journal of Psychiatry & Neurological Sciences is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Closely related species have often evolved dramatic differences in body size. Takifugu rubripes (fugu) is a large marine pufferfish whose genome has been sequenced, whereas T. niphobles is the smallest species among Takifugu. We show that, unsurprisingly, the juvenile growth rate of T. rubripes is higher than that of T. niphobles in a laboratory setting. We produced F2 progenies of their F1 hybrids and found one quantitative trait locus (QTL) significantly associated with variation in juvenile body size. This QTL region (3.5 Mb) contains no known genes directly related to growth phenotype (such as IGFs) except Fgf21, which inhibits growth hormone signaling in mouse. The QTL in Takifugu spp. is distinct from the region previously known to control body size variations in stickleback or tilapia. Our results suggest that in the fish tested herein, genomic regions underlying body size evolution might have different genetic origins. They also suggest that many diverse traits in Takifugu spp. are amenable to genetic mapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrates are abundant biomolecules, with a strong tendency to form supramolecular networks. A host of carbohydrate-based nanomaterials have been exploited for biomedical applications. These structures are based on simple mono- or disaccharides, as well as on complex, polymeric systems. Chemical modifications serve to tune the shapes and properties of these materials. In particular, carbohydrate-based nanoparticles and nanogels were used for drug delivery, imaging, and tissue engineering applications. Due to the reversible nature of the assembly, often based on a combination of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, carbohydrate-based materials are valuable substrates for the creations of responsive systems. Herein, we review the current research on carbohydrate-based nanomaterials, with a particular focus on carbohydrate assembly. We will discuss how these systems are formed and how their properties are tuned. Particular emphasis will be placed on the use of carbohydrates for biomedical applications. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Spinal seeding of primary malignant intracranial tumors via CSF is common. However, this is rare in low-grade glial tumors. Cranial leptomeningeal metastasis of primary spinal cord low-grade gliomas at diagnosis or relapse is extremely rare. Leptomeningeal metastasis of spinal cord low-grade tumors may mimic tuberculous meningitis in children. A patient with primary spinal cord low-grade neoplasm mimicked tuberculous meningitis is presented. The patient successfully treated with chemoradiotherapy. At the end of 19-month follow-up, diffuse leptomeningeal infiltration and a dural mass compatible with relapse developed. Chemoradiotherapy was started. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmaceutical industry has been challenged by the increasing number of poorly soluble drug candidates, resulting in significant issues with obtaining sufficient absorption and bioavailability, risk of exposure variability, and difficulties in achieving a safe therapeutic index. Additionally, the rapid and precise dispensing of specific drug dosages is an important aspect that can enable personalized medicines for the patient. Herein, we report on the development of inkjet printing as a method for delivering precise quantities of poorly soluble drug molecules using commercially available equipment. Despite challenges due to low solubility making it difficult to prepare liquid solutions, stable suspensions of drug nanoparticles with the appropriate viscosity were successfully printed and dispensed onto a thin film suitable for delivery. The drug nanoparticles remained intact and could be reconstituted after printing, demonstrating that they remained stable and retained their advantageous particle size. This demonstrates that inkjet printing can be a practical and convenient approach for dispensing poorly soluble drug molecules when formulated as nanosuspensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cationic organic pollutants (dyes and pesticides) are mainly hydrosoluble and easily contaminate water and create a serious problem for biotic and abiotic species. The elimination of these dangerous contaminants from water was accomplished by adsorption using cyclodextrin nanosponges. These nanosponges were elaborated by the cross-linking between 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid and β-cyclodextrin in the presence of poly(vinyl alcohol). Their physicochemical characteristics were characterized by gravimetry, acid-base titration, TGA, 13C NMR, ATR-FTIR, Raman, X-ray diffraction, and Stereomicroscopy. The BP5 nanosponges displayed 68.4% yield, 3.31 mmol/g COOH groups, 0.16 mmol/g β-CD content, 54.2% swelling, 97.0% PQ removal, 96.7% SO removal, and 98.3% MG removal for 25 mg/L of initial concentration. The pseudo-second-order model was suitable for kinetics using 180 min of contact time. Langmuir isotherm was suitable for isotherm with the maximum adsorption of 120.5, 92.6, and 64.9 mg/g for paraquat (PQ), safranin (SO), and malachite green (MG) adsorption, respectively. Finally, the reusability performance after five regeneration times reached 94.1%, 91.6%, and 94.6% for PQ, SO, and MG adsorption, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder with unclear etiology and pathogenesis characterized by abnormal clonal proliferation and accumulation of antigen presenting Langerhans' cells at various tissues and organs. Almost all organs or systems may be involved, and the prognosis depends on the involved sites and the presence of organ dysfunction. Thyroid tissue is a rarely affected site in children, and without histopathological evaluation it may be difficult to distinguish from other thyroid disorders because of the similar physical examination, laboratory and imaging findings. Here we report on two patients with histopathologically proven thyroid involvement of LCH. Additionally, the differential diagnosis of diffusely enlarged or multinodular thyroid glands in children is discussed, and a review of the literature of thyroid involvement in LCH is given. In the differential diagnosis of enlarged thyroid glands, especially in the presence of other endocrinological manifestations, LCH must be taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjective??The aims of this study are to evaluate the patients with astrocytomas and to investigate survival rates and prognosis.Patients and methods??Five hundred fourteen patients diagnosed with brain tumor between 1972 and 2003 were retrospectively analyzed. Three different chemotherapy regimens were used according to years. CCNU-based protocols were used in the early years; COPP (cyclophosphamide, oncovin, procarbazine, prednisolone) and CDDP+VP16 (cisplatinum + etoposide) were the other protocols used in the following years. Radiotherapy was used after 3?years of age according to protocols.Results??Ninety-eight (19%) out of 514 patients have astrocytic histopathology. The histopathologic distribution was as follows: low grade, 55 patients; high grade, 43 patients. COPP regimen was given to 24 patients, CCNU-based regimen to 13, and CDDP+VP16 to 10 patients. We did not use any chemotherapy in 51 patients. Overall survival (OS) and event free-survival rates were 59.2 and 45.7% in whole group. OS rates were 93.3 and 22.4% for low-grade and high-grade histopathology, respectively (p=0.0001). OS for CCNU, CDDP+VP16, and COPP were 35.9, 22.8, and 30.4%, respectively.Conclusion??Low-grade astrocytomas are highly responsive to the surgery, and they do not need any further treatment unless the patient has relapse or recurrence. Still, the treatment of the high-grade tumors is a problem, and it needs new treatment approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A six-country meta-analysis of the validity of tests of general mental ability (GMA) and cognitive ability for employee selection was carried out. Across each country (France, Germany, the Low Countries [Belgium plus The Netherlands], Spain, and the UK) two criterion measures are considered—job performance and training success. Comprehensive literature searches resulted in 128 primary studies against job performance (total N = 12,128) and 122 studies for training success (total N = 22,987), all of which are included in this meta-analysis. Results indicate strong support for the validity of GMA measures in personnel selection against both criteria. In this study, operational validities ranging from 0.6 to 0.7 were found for the EC countries included and these operational validities generalized across occupations within each country. Implications for personnel selection in the EC, future research of both primary validity studies and metaanalyses, and the use of GMA measures and tests of cognitive ability are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are a good alternative to reduce or enhance different biomolecule characteristics and have demonstrated great results in food science. However, CDs present intrinsic limitations that can be solved by derivative synthesis. This review represents a survey of the state of the art of CD-based materials and their uses in food science. A deep review of the structure is carried out and different groups for ordination are suggested. After that, different applications such as cholesterol complexation or its use as sensors are reviewed. The derivatives show novel and promising activities for the industry. A critical perspective of the materials suggests that they might not present toxicity, although more studies are required. These points suggest that the research in this field will be increased in the following years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain cancers, mainly high-grade gliomas/glioblastoma, are characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and recurrence with an extremely poor prognosis. Despite various conventional treatment strategies, viz., resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the outcomes are still inefficient against glioblastoma. The blood–brain barrier is one of the major issues that affect the effective delivery of drugs to the brain for glioblastoma therapy. Various studies have been undergone in order to find novel therapeutic strategies for effective glioblastoma treatment. The advent of nanodiagnostics, i.e., imaging combined with therapies termed as nanotheranostics, can improve the therapeutic efficacy by determining the extent of tumour distribution prior to surgery as well as the response to a treatment regimen after surgery. Polymer nanoparticles gain tremendous attention due to their versatile nature for modification that allows precise targeting, diagnosis, and drug delivery to the brain with minimal adverse side effects. This review addresses the advancements of polymer nanoparticles in drug delivery, diagnosis, and therapy against brain cancer. The mechanisms of drug delivery to the brain of these systems and their future directions are also briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination of hydrosoluble pesticides in water could generate a serious problem for biotic and abiotic components. The removal of a hazardous agrochemical (paraquat) from water was achieved by adsorption processes using poly(vinyl alcohol)-cyclodextrin nanosponges, which were prepared with various formulations via the crosslinking between citric acid and β-cyclodextrin in the presence of poly(vinyl alcohol). The physicochemical properties of nanosponges were also characterized by different techniques, such as gravimetry, thermogravimetry, microscopy (SEM and Stereo), spectroscopy (UV-visible, NMR, ATR-FTIR, and Raman), acid-base titration, BET surface area analysis, X-ray diffraction, and ion exchange capacity. The C10D-P2 nanosponges displayed 60.2% yield, 3.14 mmol/g COOH groups, 0.335 mmol/g β-CD content, 96.4% swelling, 94.5% paraquat removal, 0.1766 m2 g−1 specific surface area, and 5.2 × 10−4 cm3 g−1 pore volume. The presence of particular peaks referring to specific functional groups on spectroscopic spectra confirmed the successful polycondensation on the reticulated nanosponges. The pseudo second-order model (with R2 = 0.9998) and Langmuir isotherm (with R2 = 0.9979) was suitable for kinetics and isotherm using 180 min of contact time and a pH of 6.5. The maximum adsorption capacity was calculated at 112.2 mg/g. Finally, the recyclability of these nanosponges was 90.3% of paraquat removal after five regeneration times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has been a major health issue with increasing morbidity and mortality due to macrovascular and microvascular complications. The urgent need for improved methods to control hyperglycemic complications reiterates the development of innovative preventive and therapeutic treatment strategies. In this perspective, xanthone compounds in the pericarp of the mangosteen fruit, especially α-mangostin (MGN), have been recognized to restore damaged pancreatic β-cells for optimal insulin release. Therefore, taking advantage of the robust use of nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery, we herein report the preparation of MGN loaded nanosponges for anti-diabetic therapeutic applications. The nanosponges were prepared by quasi-emulsion solvent evaporation method. Physico-chemical characterization of formulated nanosponges with satisfactory outcomes was performed with Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Zeta potential, hydrodynamic diameter, entrapment efficiency, drug release properties, and stability studies at stress conditions were also tested. Molecular docking analysis revealed significant interactions of α-glucosidase and MGN in a protein-ligand complex. The maximum inhibition by nanosponges against α-glucosidase was observed to be 0.9352 ± 0.0856 µM, 3.11-fold higher than acarbose. In vivo studies were conducted on diabetic rats and plasma glucose levels were estimated by HPLC. Collectively, our findings suggest that MGN-loaded nanosponges may be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes since they prolong the antidiabetic response in plasma and improve patient compliance by slowly releasing MGN and requiring less frequent doses, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a data-driven approach to unveil the pharmaceutical technologies of cyclodextrins (CDs) by analyzing a dataset of CD pharmaceutical patents. First, we implemented network science techniques to represent CD patents as a single structure and provide a framework for unsupervised detection of keywords in the patent dataset. Guided by those keywords, we further mined the dataset to examine the patenting trends according to CD-based dosage forms. CD patents formed complex networks, evidencing the supremacy of CDs for solubility enhancement and how this has triggered cutting-edge applications based on or beyond the solubility improvement. The networks exposed the significance of CDs to formulate aqueous solutions, tablets, and powders. Additionally, they highlighted the role of CDs in formulations of anti-inflammatory drugs, cancer therapies, and antiviral strategies. Text-mining showed that the trends in CDs for aqueous solutions, tablets, and powders are going upward. Gels seem to be promising, while patches and fibers are emerging. Cyclodextrins' potential in suspensions and emulsions is yet to be recognized and can become an opportunity area. This is the first unsupervised/supervised data-mining approach aimed at depicting a landscape of CDs to identify trending and emerging technologies and uncover opportunity areas in CD pharmaceutical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional coatings based on the assembly of submicrometric or nanoparticles are found in many applications in the biomedical field. However, these nanoparticle-based coatings are particularly fragile since they could be exposed to cells that are able to internalize nanoparticles. Here, we studied the efficiency of RAW 264.7 murine macrophages to internalize physisorbed silica nanoparticles as a function of time and particle size. This cell internalization efficiency was evaluated from the damages induced by the cells in the nanoparticle-based monolayer on the basis of scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy observations. The internalization efficiency in terms of the percentage of nanoparticles cleared from the substrate is characterized by two size-dependent regimes. Additionally, we highlighted that a delay before internalization occurs, which increases with decreasing adsorbed nanoparticle size. This internalization is characterized by a minimal threshold that corresponds to 35 nm nanoparticles that are not internalized during the 12-h incubation considered in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since cancer is a multifactorial disease with a high mortality rate, the study of new therapeutic strategies is one of the main objectives in modern research. Numerous chemotherapeutic agents, although widely used, have the disadvantage of being not very soluble in water or selective towards cancerous cells, with consequent side effects. Therefore, in recent years, a greater interest has emerged in innovative drug delivery systems (DDSs) such as calixarene, a third-generation supramolecular compound. Calixarene and its water-soluble derivatives show good biocompatibility and have low cytotoxicity. Thanks to their chemical–physical characteristics, calixarenes can be easily functionalized, and by itself can encapsulate host molecules forming nanostructures capable of releasing drugs in a controlled way. The encapsulation of anticancer drugs in a calixarene derivate improves their bioavailability and efficacy. Thus, the use of calixarenes as carriers of anticancer drugs could reduce their side effects and increase their affinity towards the target. This review summarizes the numerous research advances regarding the development of calixarene nanoparticles capable of encapsulating various anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to achieve the successful encapsulation of a therapeutic agent to achieve antifouling functionality regarding biomedical applications. Considering nanotechnology, drug-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL)-based nanoparticles were prepared using a nano-precipitation technique by optimizing various process parameters. The resultant nano-formulations were investigated for in vitro drug release and antifouling applications. The prepared particles were characterized in terms of surface morphology and surface properties. Optimized blank and drug-loaded nanoparticles had an average size of 200 nm and 216 nm, respectively, with associated charges of −16.8 mV and −11.2 mV. Studies of the in vitro release of drug were carried out, which showed sustained release at two different pH, 5.5 and 7.4 Antifouling activity was observed against two bacterial strains, Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. The zone of inhibition of the optimized polymeric drug-loaded nanoparticle F-25 against both strains were compared with the pure drug. The gradual pH-responsive release of antibiotics from the biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles could significantly increase the efficiency and pharmacokinetics of the drug as compared to the pure drug. The acquired data significantly noted that the resultant nano-encapsulation of antifouling functionality could be a promising candidate for topical drug delivery systems and skin applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveys 200 Malaysian students at a US midwestern university to investigate attitudes towards corporate social responsibility. Refers to previous studies exploring the link between corporate social responsibility and financial performance but asserts that there is little empirical evidence on corporate social responsibility and employee attitudes – hence this study. Describes how the survey was carried out (a questionnaire measured on a four-point Likert scale). Uses t-tests to evaluate the data. Aims particularly to establish whether or not individuals who value corporate social responsibility exhibit less tolerance of 17 identified counter productive behaviours (such as using organizational services for personal use, padding expense accounts and pilfering organizational supplies). Finds support for the notion that individuals who value corporate social responsibility rate the 17 behaviours as more unethical than individuals who do not especially value corporate social responsibility. Indicates, therefore, that these (more ethical) individuals are less likely to indulge in counter productive behaviour. Recommends ways to back up and extend this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vagina has been considered a potential drug administration route for centuries. Most of the currently marketed and investigated vaginal formulations are composed with the use of natural or synthetic polymers having different functions in the product. The vaginal route is usually investigated as an administration site for topically acting active ingredients; however, the anatomical and physiological features of the vagina make it suitable also for drug systemic absorption. In this review, the most important natural and synthetic polymers used in vaginal products are summarized and described, with special attention paid to the properties important in terms of vaginal application. Moreover, the current knowledge on the commonly applied and innovative dosage forms designed for vaginal administration was presented. The aim of this work was to highlight the most recent research directions and indicate challenges related to vaginal drug administrations. As revealed in the literature overview, intravaginal products still gain enormous scientific attention, and novel polymers and formulations are still explored. However, there are research areas that require more extensive studies in order to provide the safety of novel vaginal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the research is to analyze regional gaps in terms of renewable energy generation across Poland. For this purpose, four types of regions were outlined based on two indicators: the existing renewable energy generation capacity and the current regional energy demand revealed through the number of residents. This classification allowed to reveal regions in Poland that have distinct features of energy gaps and peripherality, while also more successful regions with renewable energy surpluses and distinct sustainable energy potential. For each of the region type key potential systemic problems in terms of renewable energy generation development were given. To understand how peripheral regions and regions with energy gaps could be supported in their development of renewable energy generation the regional innovation systems, social networks, knowledge and technology transfer and diffusion were substantiated. Results of the research can serve as an aid in development of national and regional energy policies, helping to understand peculiarities of local renewable energy generation and the influence of enabling environment peculiar to the specific region, including the regional innovation systems and intensity of knowledge transfer and diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environment management is one of the key aspects of hydropower development in acquiring sustainable energy. However, there has been limited research demonstrating the overall aspects of environment management of hydropower development with support of sound empirical evidence. In present study, the status of environment management in hydropower development was comprehensively investigated by conducting a case study based on the data collected from a field survey. The results show that, as environment management is largely subject to legal requirements, the environment management system needs to be established by integrating the legal requirements and needs of project implementation. This could potentially reduce the influence of legal restrictions on hydropower development. The main hydropower project environment management processes include identifying key environmental factors, implementation, monitoring, and performance measurement, which deal with environmental issues such as terrestrial and aquatic ecology protection, wastewater treatment, solid waste disposal, and acoustic-environment protection. Project participants should establish partnering relationships to cooperatively deal with environmental impacts of hydropower project development, in which public participation and sufficient resources input into environmental protection are essential for project success. The results of this study provide a sound basis for participants to deal with the key issues of environmental protection such as meeting legal requirements, training for improving environment management process, cost control, and cooperative environment management. The results of this study could help practitioners to tackle the interactions among project delivery, environmental protection, and engagement of local communities in an optimized way with the aim of maximizing effectiveness of the resources of all participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in nanotechnology have favored the development of novel colloidal formulations able to modulate the pharmacological and biopharmaceutical properties of drugs. The peculiar physico-chemical and technological properties of nanomaterial-based therapeutics have allowed for several successful applications in the treatment of cancer. The size, shape, charge and patterning of nanoscale therapeutic molecules are parameters that need to be investigated and modulated in order to promote and optimize cell and tissue interaction. In this review, the use of polymeric nanoparticles as drug delivery systems of anticancer compounds, their physico-chemical properties and their ability to be efficiently localized in specific tumor tissues have been described. The nanoencapsulation of antitumor active compounds in polymeric systems is a promising approach to improve the efficacy of various tumor treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]