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Journal of Oleo Science 2020The physicochemical and sunscreen properties of marl as a function of particle size were investigated. The research findings established that the marl under...
The physicochemical and sunscreen properties of marl as a function of particle size were investigated. The research findings established that the marl under investigation consisted of more than 95% calcium carbonate (CaCO). The particles of marl inspected under a scanning electron microscope were calcite, which is the stable polymorph of CaCO, with a rhombohedral structure. The particle size classification by the sieving method showed that grinding using a ball mill could downsize the marl particles by 2 to 3 times, reaching below 15 µm on average. Marl particles showed a tendency to reflect ultraviolet A (UVA) rays rather than UVB rays and a possibility to steadily absorb both UVAII and UVAI. Finer particles obtained after a longer grinding process demonstrated higher efficacy regarding UV reflection and absorption properties. The 3 wt.% marl displayed a sun protection factor (SPF) value of 1 to 2. However, marl demonstrated a good ability to protect against radiation over a broad spectrum range with a critical wavelength above 370 nm. The addition of marl in the formulation containing avobenzone and octinoxate had a positive synergistic effect because the marl was able to increase the UV absorbance efficacy (based on the area under the curve (AUC) value) and SPF value of the cream. Furthermore, it was also discovered that the added marl powder could slow the decrease in UV protection efficacy of the products in terms of the AUC calculated from the absorbance profile after exposure to simulated UV rays with an amplitude range of 10 J/cm to 40 J/cm for 30 min, which was similar to the results obtained from octocrylene and bemotrizinol.
Topics: Calcium Carbonate; Chemical Phenomena; Particle Size; Sunscreening Agents
PubMed: 31902898
DOI: 10.5650/jos.ess19232 -
Arquivos de Gastroenterologia Aug 2019Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal diseases. GERD generates significant impairment in patients' quality of life and it... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal diseases. GERD generates significant impairment in patients' quality of life and it is associated to relevant medical resources utilization. A better understanding of GERD pathophysiology in the past five decades has favored the evolution of therapeutic strategies from non-drug interventions and antacids to more efficacious and safer alternatives.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize data about the historical evolution of GERD management in Brazil, focusing on medical therapy and addressing evidence on efficacy and safety of drug classes currently recommended.
METHODS
A narrative review was conducted by systematizing information about discoveries on GERD pathophysiology. We also addressed efficacy and safety of medications currently used to reduce symptoms and improve endoscopic healing of esophageal lesions. A structured search on Pubmed was performed to identify systematic reviews and meta-analysis investigating GERD outcomes positively impacted by proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), the first choice of pharmacotherapy for the disease.
RESULTS
The chronological development of therapeutic measures for GERD in Brazil evolved from lifestyle interventions with relative poor effect on symptoms related to esophageal acid exposure, particularly heartburn, to effective and safe pharmacological interventions such as histamine H2-receptor antagonists and PPIs. In the present days, some drug classes play a minor role in disease management, namely prokinetics and antacids, due to their reduced efficacy and relevant safety concerns (particularly with prokinetics). The main challenge for prescribers and researchers seems to be finding long-acting acid suppressants strategies able to ameliorate patients' symptoms and quality of life, thereafter, reducing medical resource consumption. The dual delayed-release PPI dexlansoprazole seems to respond for some of the limitations other PPIs have.
CONCLUSION
Recognizing the historical evolution of GERD management can help care providers to better understand therapeutic options for their patients, as well as focus on unmet needs that deserve further attention. PPIs are still the first choice therapy, with good evidence in favor of their efficacy, despite some safety concerns. However, as with any medical intervention, it is recommended to prescribe PPIs for patients with clear indication, using adequate dosing and monitoring for adverse events.
Topics: Antacids; Antiemetics; Behavior Therapy; Evidence-Based Medicine; Gastroesophageal Reflux; Histamine H2 Antagonists; Humans; Life Style; Proton Pump Inhibitors
PubMed: 31460587
DOI: 10.1590/S0004-2803.201900000-41 -
Drug Delivery and Translational Research Sep 2023Diabetic wounds are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) that can lead to persistent infection, amputation, and even death. Prolonged oxidative stress has...
Diabetic wounds are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) that can lead to persistent infection, amputation, and even death. Prolonged oxidative stress has been widely recognized as a major instigator in the development of diabetic wounds; therefore, oxidative stress is considered a promising therapeutic target. In the present study, Keap1/Nrf2 signaling was confirmed to be activated in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice and methylglyoxal (MGO)-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Knockdown of Keap1 by siRNA reversed the increase in Keap1 levels, promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, and increased the expression of HO-1, an antioxidant protein. To explore therapeutic delivery strategies, milk-derived exosomes (mEXOs) were developed as a novel, efficient, and non-toxic siRNA carrier. SiRNA-Keap1 (siKeap1) was loaded into mEXOs by sonication, and the obtained mEXOs-siKeap1 were found to promote HUVEC proliferation and migration while relieving oxidative stress in MGO-treated HUVECs. Meanwhile, in a mouse model of diabetic wounds, injection of mEXOs-siKeap1 significantly accelerated diabetic wound healing with enhanced collagen formation and neovascularization. Taken together, these data support the development of Keap1 knockdown as a potential therapeutic strategy for diabetic wounds and demonstrated the feasibility of mEXOs as a scalable, biocompatible, and cost-effective siRNA delivery system. The therapeutic effect of siKeap1-loaded mEXOs on diabetic wound healing was assessed. First, we found that the expression of Keap1 was upregulated in the wounds of diabetic mice and in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) pretreated with methylglyoxal (MGO). Next, we extracted exosomes from raw milk by differential centrifugation and loaded siKeap1 into milk-derived exosomes by sonication. The in vitro application of the synthetic complex (mEXOs-siKeap1) was found to increase the nuclear localization of Nrf2 and the expression of the antioxidant protein HO-1, thus reversing oxidative stress. Furthermore, in vivo mEXOs-siKeap1 administration significantly accelerated the healing rate of diabetic wounds (Scheme 1). Scheme 1 Schematic diagram. A Synthesis of mEXOs-siKeap1 complex. B Mechanism of mEXOs-siKeap1 in vitro. C The treatment effect of mEXOs-siKeap1 on an in vivo mouse model of diabetic wounds.
Topics: Mice; Humans; Animals; Antioxidants; Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; RNA, Small Interfering; Milk; Exosomes; NF-E2-Related Factor 2; Magnesium Oxide; Pyruvaldehyde; Wound Healing; Oxidative Stress; Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
PubMed: 36749479
DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01306-x -
Scientific Reports Aug 2022Studies on the effects of global marine plastic pollution have largely focused on physiological responses of few organism groups (e.g., corals, fishes). Here, we report...
Studies on the effects of global marine plastic pollution have largely focused on physiological responses of few organism groups (e.g., corals, fishes). Here, we report the first observation of polymer nanoparticles being incorporated into the calcite skeleton of a large benthic foraminifera (LBF), a significant contributor to global carbonate production. While previous work on LBF has documented selectivity in feeding behaviour and a high degree of specialization regarding skeletal formation, in this study, abundant cases of nanoplastic encrustation into the calcite tests were observed. Nanoplastic incorporation was associated with formation of new chambers, in conjunction with rapid nanoplastic ingestion and subsequent incomplete egestion. Microalgae presence in nanoplastic treatments significantly increased the initial feeding response after 1 day, but regardless of microalgae presence, nanoplastic ingestion was similar after 6 weeks of chronic exposure. While ~ 40% of ingesting LBF expelled all nanoplastics from their cytoplasm, nanoplastics were still attached to the test surface and subsequently encrusted by calcite. These findings highlight the need for further investigation regarding plastic pollution impacts on calcifying organisms, e.g., the function of LBF as potential plastic sinks and alterations in structural integrity of LBF tests that will likely have larger ecosystem-level impacts on sediment production.
Topics: Calcium Carbonate; Ecosystem; Foraminifera; Microalgae; Microplastics; Plastics; Skeleton; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 36042226
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18547-4 -
HIV Medicine May 2022Comorbidities are associated with a high burden of disease in people living with HIV (PLWH). The objective was to investigate the prevalence of chronic comorbidities and...
OBJECTIVES
Comorbidities are associated with a high burden of disease in people living with HIV (PLWH). The objective was to investigate the prevalence of chronic comorbidities and use of co-medications in PLWH in Japan.
METHODS
This study retrospectively analysed clinical information from PLWH receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) between April 2009 and March 2019. Demographic characteristics, numbers and types of chronic comorbidities, and numbers and types of non-ART co-medications, were described by age groups. The source of data was the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan (NDB).
RESULTS
Overall, 28 089 PLWH (male 91.9%) who used ART were identified. Out of 28 089 PLWH, 81.5% had at least one chronic comorbidity. The numbers of AIDS-defining cancers and non-AIDS-defining cancers in this Japanese cohort were 2432 (8.7%) and 2485 (8.8%), respectively. The cumulative burden of comorbidities including non-AIDS-defining cancer increased with age. Changes in trend between 2009 and 2019 were observed, including a higher proportion of PLWH diagnosed at ≥ 70 years old [2019 (4.7%) vs. 2009 (2.4%)] and a decreasing percentage of patients with AIDS-defining cancers (down from 6.3% to 4.8% between 2009 and 2019). The most common co-medications during the most recent 3-month period were lipid-regulating/anti-atheroma preparations (11.3%), antacids, antiflatulents and anti-ulcerants (9.6%), and agents acting on the renin-angiotensin system (8.1%). The three most common therapeutic categories of co-medications during the study period were antacids, antiflatulents and anti-ulcerants (35.0%), systemic antihistamines (33.7%) and psycholeptics (27.1%). More than 30% of PLWH aged > 40 years used at least one co-medication in a 3-month period, while more than half of PLWH aged > 30 years had at least one co-medication prescribed concomitantly for a total of ≥ 90 days during the study period, and the numbers of co-medications used were greater in the older age groups.
CONCLUSIONS
The burden of chronic comorbidities and co-medication were found to be greater in older, as compared to younger patients, among 28 089 PLWH in a nationwide study in Japan. This finding suggests the need to identify elderly PLWH and to appropriately manage their HIV and comorbidities.
Topics: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Aged; Antacids; Antifoaming Agents; Cohort Studies; Comorbidity; HIV Infections; Humans; Japan; Male; Neoplasms; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 34821006
DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13206 -
Digestion 2024The prevalence of constipation in Japan is estimated to be 2-5%. Constipation is a disease found in older adults. In particular, Japan is an aging society, with 65% of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The prevalence of constipation in Japan is estimated to be 2-5%. Constipation is a disease found in older adults. In particular, Japan is an aging society, with 65% of men and 80.5% of women aged 65 years or older accounting for the majority of its population. Chronic constipation may be associated with survival, cardiovascular events, decreased quality of life, and death. This study summarizes the recent findings regarding constipation treatment practice in Japan.
SUMMARY
Until recently, the diagnosis of constipation was mainly based on medical interviews; however, with the recent development of handheld ultrasound devices, both physicians and nurses can easily and objectively diagnose fecal retention. Magnesium oxide and stimulant laxatives have been the mainstay treatments; however, since 2012, more than five new drugs for treating constipation have become available in Japan.
KEY MESSAGES
Magnesium oxide is less effective in patients who use acid-secretion inhibitors and patients who have undergone total gastrectomy and should be cared for hypermagnesemia. In addition, regular use of stimulant laxatives may lead to colonic inertia and decreased bowel movements; therefore, they should be used only occasionally. The following is an overview of the different uses of conventional and newer laxatives for treating constipation.
Topics: Male; Humans; Female; Aged; Laxatives; Magnesium Oxide; Japan; Quality of Life; Constipation
PubMed: 37696258
DOI: 10.1159/000533548 -
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta.... Aug 2022The immune system plays an essential role in protecting the body against pathogens. Immune cells are activated during infections, resulting in a metabolic shift from... (Review)
Review
The immune system plays an essential role in protecting the body against pathogens. Immune cells are activated during infections, resulting in a metabolic shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. During glycolysis, methylglyoxal (MGO) can be formed as a by-product. As a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound, MGO can rapidly react with proteins to form advanced glycation end products (AGEs). MGO and MGO-derived AGEs have been implicated in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and its complications and several other age-related inflammatory diseases. MGO has been found in adipose tissue, atherosclerosis plaques and inflamed livers. Aside from the potential harmful role of MGO, there are studies showing beneficial effects of MGO as a defense mechanism during infections and diseases. In this review, we summarize anti-microbial effects of MGO and the link between MGO and immune cell activation, as potential mediator during host defense.
Topics: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Humans; Immunity; Insulin Resistance; Magnesium Oxide; Pyruvaldehyde
PubMed: 35500827
DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166425 -
Experimental Animals Aug 2022We previously showed that a diet containing calcium carbonate causes impairments in spatial and recognition memory in mice. In this study, we investigated the effects of...
We previously showed that a diet containing calcium carbonate causes impairments in spatial and recognition memory in mice. In this study, we investigated the effects of calcium carbonate supplementation on motor function. Motor function was determined using different tests that have been used to analyze different aspects of Parkinsonism. A catalepsy test for akinesia; a muscular strength assessment, pole test, beam-walking test, and gait analysis for motor coordination and balance assessment; and an open-field test for locomotor activity assessment were performed. The mice were fed diets containing 0.6% or 1.0% calcium carbonate for eight weeks, after which they were evaluated for motor functions. The diets containing calcium carbonate caused significant motor dysfunction, as revealed by the different tests, although the spontaneous locomotor activity did not change. Calcium carbonate supplementation decreased the dopamine content in the basal ganglia, including the striatum and substantia nigra, and the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons in the substantia nigra. In addition, administration of L-dopa led to at least a partial recovery of motor dysfunction, suggesting that calcium carbonate supplementation causes motor dysfunction by decreasing the dopamine content in the basal ganglia. These results suggest that mice with calcium carbonate-induced motor dysfunction may be useful as a new animal model for Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease.
Topics: Animals; Calcium Carbonate; Dietary Supplements; Disease Models, Animal; Dopamine; Mice; Motor Disorders; Parkinson Disease; Substantia Nigra; Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase
PubMed: 35584940
DOI: 10.1538/expanim.22-0011 -
Seminars in Nuclear Medicine Mar 2020The recent development of Ac-PSMA617 for therapy of prostate cancer has strikingly demonstrated the clinical potential of targeted alpha therapy. Further promising... (Review)
Review
The recent development of Ac-PSMA617 for therapy of prostate cancer has strikingly demonstrated the clinical potential of targeted alpha therapy. Further promising applications of the alpha emitters Actinium and its daughter nuclide Bismuth include the therapy of brain tumors, bladder cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, and leukemia. This paper will provide a brief overview on the current status of the clinical development of compounds labelled with Ac or Bi and describe the various production routes that are in place or are under development to meet the increasing demand for these radionuclides.
Topics: Actinium; Bismuth; Humans; Isotope Labeling; Male; Prostatic Neoplasms; Radioisotopes
PubMed: 32172796
DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2020.02.003 -
Scientific Reports Aug 2022Trace-fossil assemblages reflect the response of the benthos to sets of paleoenvironmental conditions during and immediately after sedimentation. Trace fossils have been...
Trace-fossil assemblages reflect the response of the benthos to sets of paleoenvironmental conditions during and immediately after sedimentation. Trace fossils have been widely studied in pelagic shelf and deep-sea chalk deposits from around the globe but never documented from ancient lagoonal chalk successions. Here we report the first detailed ichnologic analysis of a lagoonal chalk unit, using as an example the Upper Cretaceous Buda Formation from the Texas Gulf Coast Basin. In this unit, variable interconnection with the open ocean, accompanied by marked fluctuations in physicochemical parameters inherent to lagoonal circulation (e.g., salinity, hydrodynamic energy, bottom-water oxygenation), highly influenced the resultant trace-fossil content of the chalk. These lagoonal chalk deposits contain twenty ichnotaxa, displaying a clear dominance of Thalassinoides isp. and Chondrites isp., which are present in most of the bioturbated strata. The dominance of Thalassinoides isp., both in softgrounds as an element of the Cruziana Ichnofacies and in firmgrounds as a component of the Glossifungites Ichnofacies, highlights similarities with trace-fossil assemblages from shallow-water shelf-sea chalks. In contrast to both (open) shallow-water shelf-sea chalks and deep-sea chalks, the Buda Formation chalk exhibits more diverse assemblages and sharp fluctuations in ichnodiversity and ichnodisparity during relatively short periods of time. The increased ichnodiversity and ichnodisparity in this lagoonal chalk (in comparison with its open ocean counterparts) may reflect a complex interplay of taphonomic (i.e., incomplete bioturbation allowing preservation of shallow-tier trace fossils and ecologic (i.e., increased spatial environmental heterogeneity in the carbonate lagoonal setting) factors.
Topics: Animals; Calcium Carbonate; Carbonates; Fossils; Texas; Water
PubMed: 35999264
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18713-8