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Abstract Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are mainly used for dental and orthopedic applications due to their excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, their intrinsic bioinertness often quotes as a common complaint for biomedical applications. Herein, we produced nanopattern Ti surfaces with 10 nm nanopores in 120 nm dimples by electrochemical nanopattern formation (ENF), and evaluated the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on the nanopattern Ti surfaces. The ENF surfaces were obtained by removing the TiO 2 nanotube (NT) layers prepared by an anodization process. To determine the in vitro effects of the ENF surface, cell proliferation assay, alkaline phosphatase activity assay, alizarin red staining, western blotting, and immunocytochemistry were performed. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analysis show that the ENF surface has an ultrafine surface roughness with highly aligned nanoporous morphology. hMSCs on ENF surfaces exhibit increased proliferation and enhanced osteogenic differentiation as compared to the ordered TiO 2 nanotubular and compact TiO 2 surfaces. Surface modification with the ENF process is a promising technique for fabricating osteointegrative implant materials with a highly bioactive, rigid and purified nano surfaces. Highlights • Ultrafine nano-roughened structure is formed by ENF process. • ENF process leads to the formation of multi-nanoscale structures on Ti sheets. • ENF surfaces can simultaneously promote proliferation and osteodifferentiation. • ENF process is a promising technique for fabricating medical implant devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of three dimensional (3D) scaffolds for promoting and stimulating cell growth is one of the greatest concerns in biomedical and tissue engineering. In the present study, novel biomimetic 3D scaffolds composed of polyurethane (PU) foam and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were designed, and their potential as 3D scaffolds for skeletal tissue regeneration was explored. The GO-coated PU foams (GO-PU foams) were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. It was revealed that the 3D GO-PU foams consisted of an interconnected foam-like network structure with an approximate 300 μm pore size, and the GO was uniformly distributed in the PU foams. On the other hand, the myogenic stimulatory effects of GO on skeletal myoblasts were also investigated. Moreover, the cellular behaviors of the skeletal myoblasts within the 3D GO-PU foams were evaluated by immunofluorescence analysis. Our findings showed that GO can significantly promote spontaneous myogenic differentiation without any myogenic factors, and the 3D GO-PU foams can provide a suitable 3D microenvironment for cell growth. Furthermore, the 3D GO-PU foams stimulated spontaneous myogenic differentiation via the myogenic stimulatory effects of GO. Therefore, this study suggests that the 3D GO-PU foams are beneficial to myogenesis, and can be used as biomimetic 3D scaffolds for skeletal tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeletal muscle injuries are extremely common because skeletal muscle is quite frequently used in the human body, and these injuries can cause serious health implications. Currently, grafting and pharmacological therapies are the most common therapeutic methods for treating and repairing the skeletal muscle damages, but both therapeutic methods have significant limitations. Therefore, in recent years, the tissue engineering approaches have attracted much attention in biomedical and bioengineering fields. In particular, up-to-date studies have focused on the novel strategies aimed at promoting and enhancing the regeneration of skeletal muscle tissue by using tissue engineering scaffolds. Although the tissue engineering scaffolds can be readily fabricated with conventional biocompatible materials, such as polymer, ceramic, or metallic materials, the carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) are the most fascinating candidates as a scaffold material due to their favorable biocompatibility and extraordinary physicochemical, electronic, mechanical, and thermal properties. The aim of this review is to summarize some of the recent reports concerning the nanocomposite scaffolds functionalized with CNMs and to highlight promising perspective for the applications of CNMs as skeletal tissue engineering scaffolds. In addition, it is also discussed how the spectroscopic analysis can be employed for analyzing CNMs and nanocomposite scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoprogenitor cells, known as preosteoblasts, that arise from mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow are types of cells that work in the growth or repair of bones. These cells possess the prominent potential to differentiate toward the osteogenic lineage, and therefore offer promising opportunities for bone tissue engineering and regenerative therapy. However, to fully exploit the application of osteoprogenitor cells in bone regeneration, it is critical to develop biochemical, physical or pharmaceutical factors that can precisely control their osteogenic differentiation. In this study, we hypothesized that reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and hydroxyapatite (HAp) composites could synergistically enhance the osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblasts. Without interference with the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts, rGO/HAp composites synergistically enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of the preosteoblasts, which had been confirmed by determining alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization of calcium and phosphate as early and late stage markers of osteogenic differentiation. This osteogenic activity mediated by rGO/HAp composites was further accelerated under osteogenic culture conditions. It is suggested that rGO/HAp hybrid composites can serve as biocompatible, transferable, and implantable scaffolds for bone regeneration because these graphene-based composite materials have the potential to promote spontaneous osteogenesis in the absence of any osteogenic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a capacitance sensor with parallel plate geometry to measure epithermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression levels on cell membrane in real-time. We first proved correlations between capacitance changes and cell numbers settled down between electrodes, and then observed capacitance changes elicited by interactions between EGFR on membrane and EGF proteins in real time. Consequently, we confirmed that the EGFR expression levels of varied typed cells were successfully quantified. This approach can effectively distinguish differences of EGFR levels of cancer cells and normal cells in real-time. Also, up to 600% sensitivity enhancements and around 2.2 h on average sensing time saving were achieved by using the capacitance sensor over a conventional immunoassay technique. Such a capacitance biosensor can be extended to broad fields where the receptor–antibody reactions, the receptor–virus reactions or DNA hybridizations are involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study concentrates on the potential application of conjugated polyelectrolytes ( CPEs) to cell imaging and DNA delivery. Four different types of polyfluorene copolymers, namely, PAHFP- Br, PAEFP- Br, PAHFb T- Br, and PSBFP- Na, which have the same π-conjugated backbone but different side chains, were synthesized. For cytotoxicity testing, L-929 fibroblastic cells were treated with increasing concentrations (0-50 µM) of each CPE and then cell viability was determined by WST-8 assay. Cellular uptake of CPEs into cultured L-929 cells was observed by fluorescence microscopy. To examine DNA delivery by CPEs, the cells were incubated for 1 H with PAHFP- Br/fluorescein ( Fl)-labeled single-stranded DNA (ss DNA- Fl) complex and then visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Cytotoxicity of CPEs was increased in a dose-dependent manner but at lower than 10 µM, PAHFP- Br, PAEFP- Br, and PSBFP- Na did not show any cytotoxic effects on the cells. When added to cell cultures at 1 µM, PAHFP- Br/ss DNA- Fl complex was delivered and then dissociated into PAHFP- Br and ss DNA- Fl within the cells. This result implies that PAHFP- Br can enable cell imaging and DNA delivery into fibroblastic cells. Therefore, it is suggested that PAHFP- Br with various advantages such as low cytotoxicity and high fluorescence efficiency can be extensively used as a potential agent for cell imaging and gene delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The morphology of graphene synthesized via atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCVD) process was investigated with respect to the hydrogen introduction in each process step. A pristine monolayer graphene was obtained in the condition where hydrogen was excluded in all the steps. The study of growth mechanism of this hydrogen-excluded APCVD process suggests that hydrogen plays a critical role in determining the rate-limiting step, which further determines whether or not a monolayer graphene can be achieved, irrespective to the roughness of the surface. Particularly, the dominant kinetic regime changed, depending on the introduction of hydrogen in the growth step. Finally, electric properties of the graphene via the hydrogen-excluded APCVD process were characterized and compared with the one via the low pressure CVD process, along with the characterization of etch pits in a graphene-passivated etch test. The resulted better performance of the former graphene in both cases suggests that this method can be considered as an alternative but easier route for the synthesis of monolayer graphene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Here, we report a pathomimetic Leaky Gut Chip that recapitulates increased epithelial permeability and intestinal inflammation to assess probiotic intervention as live biotherapeutics. We leveraged a mechanodynamic human gut-on-a-chip (Gut Chip) that recreates three-dimensional epithelial layers in a controlled oxygen gradient and biomechanical cues, where the addition of a cocktail of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β, reproducibly induced impaired epithelial barrier followed by intestinal inflammation. This inflamed leaky epithelium was not recovered for up to 3 days, although the cytokine treatment ceased. However, when probiotic bacteria, either Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or a multi-species mixture (VSL#3), were respectively administered on the leaky epithelium, bacterial cells colonized mucosal surface and significantly improved barrier function, enhanced the localization of tight junction proteins such as ZO-1 and occludin, and elevated mucus production. In addition, inflammatory markers, including p65, pSTAT3, and MYD88, that were highly expressed in the germ-free control were significantly reduced when probiotic bacteria were co-cultured in a Leaky Gut Chip. Probiotic treatment also significantly reduced the production of secretory pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hence, our pathomimetic Leaky Gut Chip may offer a translational strategy to dissect the therapeutic mechanism of live biotherapeutic products and validate their clinical potential by incorporating patient-derived organoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Schottky-type diode switch consisting of a Pt/(In,Sn)2O3/TiO2/Pt stack was fabricated for applications to cross-bar type resistive-switching memory arrays. The high (0.55 eV) and low potential barrier at the TiO2/Pt and TiO2/(In,Sn)2O3 junctions, respectively, constitute the rectifying properties of the stacked structure. The forward/reverse current ratio was as high as ∼1.6×104 at an applied voltage of ∼1 V. When Pt/TiO2/Pt memory was connected to this diode in series, there was an insignificant interference on the memory function from the diode under the forward bias and virtually no resistive switching under a reverse bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regeneration of the mucosal interface of the human intestine is critical in the host–gut microbiome crosstalk associated with gastrointestinal diseases. The biopsy-derived intestinal organoids provide genetic information of patients with physiological cytodifferentiation. However, the enclosed lumen and static culture condition substantially limit the utility of patient-derived organoids for microbiome-associated disease modeling. Here, we report a patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) physiodynamic mucosal interface-on-a-chip (PMI Chip) that provides a microphysiological intestinal milieu under defined biomechanics. The real-time imaging and computational simulation of the PMI Chip verified the recapitulation of non-linear luminal and microvascular flow that simulates the hydrodynamics in a living human gut. The multiaxial deformations in a convoluted microchannel not only induced dynamic cell strains but also enhanced particle mixing in the lumen microchannel. Under this physiodynamic condition, an organoid-derived epithelium obtained from the patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or colorectal cancer independently formed 3D epithelial layers with disease-specific differentiations. Moreover, co-culture with the human fecal microbiome in an anoxic–oxic interface resulted in the formation of stochastic microcolonies without a loss of epithelial barrier function. We envision that the patient-specific PMI Chip that conveys genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors of individual patients will potentially demonstrate the pathophysiological dynamics and complex host–microbiome crosstalk to target a patient-specific disease modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black phosphorus (BP) is a monolayer/multilayer two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial, which has recently emerged as one of the most attractive 2D nanomaterials due to its fascinating physicochemical and optoelectronical properties. Layered BP may have promising applications in biomedical fields, such as drug delivery, photodynamic/photothermal therapy and bioimaging, although its intrinsic toxicity has not been fully elucidated yet. In the present study, the cytotoxicological effects of layered BP on both cell metabolic activity and membrane integrity were investigated. Layered BPs were prepared using a modified ultrasonication-assisted solution method, and their physicochemical properties were characterized. The dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity of layered BP was assessed against L-929 fibroblasts. Our findings indicate that the cytotoxicity of BPs is proportionally dependent on their concentration and exposure time, which is affected by the oxidative stress-mediated enzyme activity reduction and membrane disruption. On the other hand, layered BPs did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity at concentrations lower than 4 μg/mL. Therefore, it is suggested that layered BPs can be effectively utilized as therapeutic delivery carriers and imaging agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the significance and shortcomings of the consecutive convexo-concave shaped shear reinforcement (CCSR) developed as an alternative for transverse crossties in basement walls. Three wall specimens prepared under a full scale were tested under constant axial load and out-of-plane lateral load. In the tests, the CCSR was classified into two types including S-type for the S-curve bending and B-type for approximately 90° bending. To investigate the shear transfer capacity of the CCSR, a mechanism model was driven on the basis of the upper-bound theorem of concrete plasticity. Test results revealed that the CCSR is more favorable to restrict the opening of the inclined cracks and enhancing the shear capacity of the basement wall when compared with the conventional crossties. Wall S (with S-type of CCSR) and Wall B (with B-type of CCSR) possessed 1.21 times and 1.12 times higher shear capacity, respectively, than wall C (with the conventional crossties). The wall S exhibited least rapid descending branch after the peak load, maintaining 80% of the peak load until the wall drift ratio reached 5.4%. The American Concrete Institute (ACI) 318-14 equations extremely underestimate the shear capacity of the basement wall, whereas the predictions obtained from the proposed mechanical model are in better agreement with the test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, bone tissue engineering (BTE) has made significant progress in promoting the direct and functional connection between bone and graft, including osseointegration and osteoconduction, to facilitate the healing of damaged bone tissues. Herein, we introduce a new, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective method for synthesizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and hydroxyapatite (HAp). The method uses epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) as a reducing agent to synthesize rGO (E-rGO), and HAp powder is obtained from Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus). The physicochemical analysis indicated that the E-rGO/HAp composites had exceptional properties for use as BTE scaffolds, as well as high purity. Moreover, we discovered that E-rGO/HAp composites facilitated not only the proliferation, but also early and late osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Our work suggests that E-rGO/HAp composites may play a significant role in promoting the spontaneous osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs, and we envision that E-rGO/HAp composites could serve as promising candidates for BTE scaffolds, stem-cell differentiation stimulators, and implantable device components because of their biocompatible and bioactive properties. Overall, we suggest a new approach for developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly E-rGO/HAp composite materials for BTE application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors and a leading cause of cancer-related death in the worldwide. Various anticancer drugs, such as cisplatin and pemetrexed, have been developed for lung cancer treatment but due their drug resistance and side effects, novel treatments need to be developed. In this study, the efficacy of the natural drug JI017, which is known to have few side effects, was tested in lung cancer cells. JI017 inhibited A549, H460, and H1299 cell proliferation. JI017 induced apoptosis, regulated apoptotic molecules, and inhibited colony formation. Additionally, JI017 increased intracellular ROS generation. JI017 downregulated PI3K, AKT, and mTOR expression. JI017 increased the cytosolic accumulation of LC3. We found that JI017 promoted apoptosis through ROS-induced autophagy. Additionally, the xenograft tumor size was smaller in JI017-treated mice. We found that JI017 treatment increased MDA concentrations, decreased Ki-67 protein levels, and increased cleaved caspase-3 and LC3 levels in vivo. JI017 decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis by inducing autophagy signaling in H460 and H1299 lung cancer cells. Targeting JI017 and autophagy signaling could be useful in lung cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Flow field was dominated by repulsion of the tensioned membrane. • Excessively high reciprocating speed adversely affects shear stress. • Accelerating and decelerating speeds determine fluid and shear stress behaviors. • To induce high shear stress on the membrane, low membrane slack is recommended. In this study, fluid–structure interaction simulations of a reciprocating membrane bioreactor were performed under various conditions. The reactor and membrane module were configured in a reactor-scale. The shear stress on the tensioned membrane is governed by the fluids it repels. With reciprocating speeds of 10, 20, and 30 cm/s, the maximum shear stresses within one cycle were 3.03, 3.74, and 1.14 N/m2, respectively. Excessively high speed prevented the fluid from accelerating and dispersing, resulting in a low shear stress. For triangle, sine, and square motions, the maximum shear stresses were 0.92, 3.74 and 4.36 N/m2, respectively. This suggests that both acceleration and deceleration in motion are critical for generating high shear stress. When the slack increased from 0 to 0.5 and 1%, the maximum shear stress decreased from 3.74 to 2.11 and 1.2 N/m2, respectively, owing to the decrease in membrane tension. The results of this study should be considered when attempting to increase fouling removal effects reciprocating membrane bioreactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, numerous studies have focused on the development of scaffolds for skeletal tissue engineering and regeneration with various structures. Among various structures,in situforming hydrogels have attracted considerable attention because they can provide 3D microenvironments for cells, and their stiffness and elasticity can be easily controlled by physical or chemical means. Over the last decade, graphene oxide (GO) has been widely explored as a potential candidate for biomaterials because of its excellent physicochemical properties and outstanding biocompatibility. In this study, horseradish peroxide-reactive gelatin polymer (GH) hydrogels incorporated with GO were prepared and their physicochemical and biomechanical properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, ther-mogravimetric analysis, and rheological study. The cellular behaviors of the C2C12 myoblasts within the GO-incorporated GH (GH/GO) hydrogels were examined by a cell counting kit-8 assay and immunocytochemistry. GO was uniformly distributed inside the GH hydrogels without affecting their physicochemical and biomechanical properties. GH/GO hydrogels facilitated the myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells without hindering their proliferation. These results suggest that GH/GO hydrogels can be exploited to craft a range of strategies for the development of promising scaffolds to accelerate skeletal tissue regeneration because of their potential to stimulate myogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although reciprocating membrane bioreactors (rMBRs) have been developed as energy-efficient wastewater treatment technologies, fouling removal mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. This study conducted simulations of fluid-structure interaction and experiments using particle image velocimetry to investigate the behavior of shear stress on the membrane surface in rMBRs. Simulations were performed on the three-dimensional model, varying parameters such as average reciprocating velocity (ARV), moving distance (MD), and membrane slack ratio (MSR). The results found that fluid advection can hinder foulant adhesion to the membranes. Increasing the ARV from 4 to 12 cm/s under shear stress resulted in higher fluid resistance and inertial forces, leading to elevated shear stress. The effect of MD on shear stress was negligible within the range of 4–12 cm. An intermediate level of MSR from 0 to 3% promoted turbulence around the membrane, thereby increasing shear stress. The response surface suggested that it may be desirable to simultaneously increase the ARV and MSR to maximize shear stress. However, this increase can also lead to stability failure by increasing the principal stress in the membrane potting area. This study provides insights into fouling removal mechanisms to improve the efficiency of rMBRs. [Display omitted] • Advection by membrane repulsion can prevent foulants from attachment to membranes. • Skin friction due to fluid resistance was a major factor in shear stress behaviors. • Shear stress can be maximized by increasing ARV and MD simultaneously. • Increases in ARV and MSR or decreases in MD can increase stress in the potting area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading global cause of cancer-related death, and metastasis is a great challenge in LC therapy. Additionally, solid cancer, including lung, prostate, and colon cancer, are characterized by hypoxia. A low-oxygen state is facilitated by the oncogene pathway, which correlates with a poor cancer prognosis. Thus, we need to understand the related mechanisms in solid tumors to improve and develop new anticancer strategies. The experiments herein describe an anticancer mechanism in which heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) stabilizes HIF-1α, a master transcription factor of oxygen homeostasis that has been implicated in the survival, proliferation and malignant progression of cancers. We demonstrate the efficacy of 6-gingerol and the molecular mechanism by which 6-gingerol inhibits LC metastasis in different oxygen environments. Our results showed that cell proliferation was inhibited after 6-gingerol treatment. Additionally, HIF-1α, a transcriptional regulator, was found to be recruited to the hypoxia response element (HRE) of target genes to induce the transcription of a series of target genes, including MMP-9, vimentin and snail. Interestingly, we found that 6-gingerol treatment suppressed activation of the transcription factor HIF-1α by downregulating HSP90 under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, an experiment in an in vivo xenograft model revealed decreased tumor growth after 6-gingerol treatment. Both in vitro and in vivo analyses showed the inhibition of metastasis through HIF-1α/HSP90 after 6-gingerol treatment. In summary, our study demonstrates that 6-gingerol suppresses proliferation and blocks the nuclear translocation of HIF-1α and activation of the EMT pathway. These data suggest that 6-gingerol is a candidate antimetastatic treatment for LC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Membrane reciprocation paired with quorum quenching (QQ) combats fouling. • Service time is boosted six-fold through membrane reciprocation and QQ methods. • Synergy reduces physically reversible resistance, enhancing membrane performance. • QQ curbs biofouling, degrading signal molecules but maintaining microbial community. • The combined approach saves > 80 % of energy and minimizes membrane fouling. Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) play a crucial role in wastewater treatment, but they face considerable challenges due to fouling. To tackle this issue, innovative strategies are needed. This study investigated the effectiveness of membrane reciprocation and quorum quenching (QQ) to control fouling in MBRs. The study compared MBRs using membrane reciprocation (30 rpm) and QQ (injecting media containing 100 or 200 mg/L BH4) with conventional MBRs employing different air-scouring intensities. The results demonstrated that combining membrane reciprocation (30 rpm) with QQ (200 mg/L BH4) significantly extended the service time of MBRs, making it approximately six times longer than conventional methods. Moreover, this approach reduced physically reversible resistance. The reduction in signal molecules related to biofouling due to QQ showcased its critical role in controlling biofouling, even under high shear caused by membrane reciprocation. However, the impact of QQ on microbial community structure appeared relatively insignificant when compared to factors such as operation time, aeration intensity, and membrane reciprocation. By combining membrane reciprocation and QQ, the study achieved a remarkable 81 % energy saving compared to extensive aeration (103 s−1 in velocity gradient), in addition to the extended service time. Importantly, this combined antifouling approach did not negatively affect microbial characteristics and wastewater treatment, emphasizing its effectiveness in MBRs. Overall, the findings of this study offer valuable insights for developing synergistic fouling control strategies in MBRs, significantly improving the energy efficiency of the wastewater treatment process. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Eleutherococcus senticosus (Araliaceae) is immunological modulator which has been successfully used for anti-inflammatory effectors on anti-rheumatic diseases in oriental medicine. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Akt modulate the transcription of many genes involved in the inflammatory process. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus on the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-activated macrophages. Finally, we studied the involvement of MAPKs and Akt signaling in the protective effect of Eleutherococcus senticosus in LPS-activated macrophages. Eleutherococcus senticosus significantly attenuated LPS-induced iNOS expression but not COX-2 expression. In using the standard inhibitors (MAPKs and Akt), our results show that Eleutherococcus senticosus downregulates inflammatory iNOS expression by blocking JNK and Akt activation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Integrative medicine has become a vital component of patient care. It provides patient-centered care that is focused on prevention and overall well-being. As there has been a growing number of patients favoring a blend of conventional, complementary and alternative approaches, integrative medicine has exceeded beyond the evaluation of complementary therapies. However, it is noteworthy that there has been a dilemma of providing substantial evidence supporting the efficacy of some complementary and alternative therapies. This study's goals were to analyze publication trends, most productive journals, most productive funding agencies, most productive authors, most relevant keywords, and countries in the field of integrative medicine research. Additionally, science mapping included country collaboration analysis and thematic evolution analysis. The findings from this study showed a constant rise in annual growth of publications from 2000 to 2019; the United States was dominant in various analysis categories. In conclusion, a comprehensive review of the evolution of research of integrative medicine will help healthcare providers understand an overview of the present status while encouraging more evidence-based research for the betterment of integrative patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Cervus nippon var. mantchuricus water extract treated with digestive enzymes (CE) on the promotion of M1 macrophage polarization in murine macrophages. Macrophages polarize either to one phenotype after stimulation with LPS or IFN-γ or to an alternatively activated phenotype that is induced by IL-4 or IL-13. Cell viability of RAW264.7 cells was determined by WST-1 assay. NO production was measured by Griess assay. IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, and iNOS mRNA levels were measured by RT-PCR. IL-6, IL-12, and IL-10 cytokine levels were determined by ELISA. TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling in RAW264.7 cells was evaluated by western blotting. The level of NF-κB was determined by immunoblotting. CE induced the differentiation of M1 macrophages. CE promoted M1 macrophages to elevate NO production and cytokine levels. CE-stimulated M1 macrophages had enhanced IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α. CE promoted M1 macrophages to activate TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB phosphorylation. M2 markers were downregulated, while M1 markers were upregulated in murine macrophages by CE. Consequently, CE has immunomodulatory activity and can be used to promote M1 macrophage polarization through the TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Cervus nippon var. mantchuricus water extract treated with digestive enzymes (CE) on the promotion of M1 macrophage polarization in murine macrophages. Macrophages polarize either to one phenotype after stimulation with LPS or IFN-γ or to an alternatively activated phenotype that is induced by IL-4 or IL-13. Cell viability of RAW264.7 cells was determined by WST-1 assay. NO production was measured by Griess assay. IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, and iNOS mRNA levels were measured by RT-PCR. IL-6, IL-12, and IL-10 cytokine levels were determined by ELISA. TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling in RAW264.7 cells was evaluated by western blotting. The level of NF-κB was determined by immunoblotting. CE induced the differentiation of M1 macrophages. CE promoted M1 macrophages to elevate NO production and cytokine levels. CE-stimulated M1 macrophages had enhanced IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α. CE promoted M1 macrophages to activate TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB phosphorylation. M2 markers were downregulated, while M1 markers were upregulated in murine macrophages by CE. Consequently, CE has immunomodulatory activity and can be used to promote M1 macrophage polarization through the TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The filamentary resistance switching mechanism of a Pt/40 nm TiO2/Pt capacitor structure in voltage sweep mode was investigated. It was unambiguously found that the conducting filaments propagate from the cathode interface and that the resistance switching is induced by the rupture and recovery of the filaments in the localized region (3–10 nm thick) near the anode. The electrical conduction behavior in the high resistance state was well explained by the space charge limited current (SCLC) mechanism that occurs in the filament-free region. The various parameters extracted from the SCLC fitting supported the localized rupture and formation of filaments near the anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In vitro and in vivo antioxidant effects of Phyto-Au NZs are shown to deter frailty. • Phyto-Au NZs showed enhanced catalytic activity. • Cytoprotective effects against serial passage and H 2 O 2 -induced senescence were shown. • Phyto-Au NZs caused a decrease in epidermal thickness and an increase in SOD activity. From senescence and frailty that may result from various biological, mechanical, nutritional, and metabolic processes, the human body has its own antioxidant defense enzymes to remove by-products of oxygen metabolism, and if unregulated, can cause several types of cell damage. Herein, an antioxidant, artificial nanoscale enzyme, called nanozyme (NZs), is introduced that is composed of Au nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized with a mixture of two representative phytochemicals, namely, gallic acid (GA) and isoflavone (IF), referred to as GI-Au NZs. Their unique antioxidant and anti-aging effects are monitored using Cell Counting Kit-8 and senescence-associated β-galactosidase assays on neonatal human dermal fibroblasts (nHDFs). Furthermore, alterations in epidermal thickness and SOD activity are measured under ultraviolet light to investigate the effects of the topical application of NZs on the histological structure and antioxidant activity in hairless mice skin. Then, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in the hairless mice are monitored. It is concluded that the NZs can effectively prevent serial passage-induced senescence in nHDFs, as well as oxidative stress in mice skin, suggesting a range of strategies to further develop novel therapeutics for acute frailty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Smoking is associated with many preventable diseases and deaths. Globally, more than 6 million deaths per year are related to smoking. This study aimed to evaluate the pragmatic effectiveness of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) interventions for the smoking cessation treatment and to calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of these interventions. Methods: The study design was a pragmatic, open-label randomized trial. The hypothesis of this trial was that the smoking cessation success rate increases with the addition of T&CM methods. The intervention group was provided T&CM interventions in addition to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and counseling, whereas the control group was treated with only NRT and counseling. Individuals received treatment for 4 weeks, then follow-up care for 20 weeks. Results: Forty-one participants were enrolled and assigned to either an intervention group or a control group at a ratio of 1:1. The odds ratio values at 4 weeks were 1.96 (0.51–8.51) in intention-to-treat analysis and 3.27 (0.75–17.75) in per-protocol analysis. The amount of smoking (cigarettes) decreased in both groups: from 17.2 ± 10.31 (baseline) to 1.7 ± 3.02 (4 weeks) in the intervention group and from 12.9 ± 5.47 (baseline) to 3.3 ± 5.96 (4 weeks) in the control group. The total medical costs per patient were $212.20 USD in the intervention group and $170.80 in the control group. The adjusted ICER of T&CM interventions was $13,355. Conclusions: This pilot study evaluated the clinical feasibility of T&CM used in conjunction with NRT and counseling for the smoking cessation treatment. However, there was no statistically significant effectiveness of T&CM interventions to raise cessation success rate. This study demonstrates the necessity for further studies based on large-scale randomized controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Anorexia occurs in about half of cancer patients and is associated with high mortality rate. However, safe and long-term use of anorexia treatment is still an unmet need. Objective. The purpose of the present study was to examine the feasibility of Sipjeondaebo-tang (Juzen-taiho-to, Shi-Quan-Da-Bu-Tang) for cancer-related anorexia. Methods. A total of 32 participants with cancer anorexia were randomized to either Sipjeondaebo-tang group or placebo group. Participants were given 3 g of Sipjeondaebo-tang or placebo 3 times a day for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was a change in the Anorexia/Cachexia Subscale of Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT). The secondary outcomes included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of anorexia, FAACT scale, and laboratory tests. Results. Anorexia and quality of life measured by FAACT and VAS were improved after 4 weeks of Sipjeondaebo-tang treatment. However, there was no significant difference between changes of Sipjeondaebo-tang group and placebo group. Conclusions. Sipjeondaebo-tang appears to have potential benefit for anorexia management in patients with cancer. Further large-scale studies are needed to ensure the efficacy. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02468141. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapeutics are often used to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. However, they can also harm healthy cells and cause side effects such as immunosuppression. Especially traditional oriental medicines long used in Asia, may be beneficial candidates for the alleviation of immune diseases. Cervus nippon mantchuricus extract (NGE) is currently sold in the market as coffee and health drinks. However, NGE was not widely investigated and efficacy remain unclear and essentially nothing is known about their potential immune-regulatory properties. As a result, NGE induced the differentiation of RAW264.7 macrophage cells. NGE-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells elevated cytokines levels and NO production. NGE-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells activated MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways. NGE encouraged the immuno-enhancing effects in immunosuppressed short-term treated with NGE mice model. NGE or Red ginseng encouraged the immuno-enhancing effects in immunosuppressed long-term treated with NGE mice model. Our data clearly show that NGE contains immune-enhancing activity and can be used to treat immunodeficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. This survey aimed to investigate the characteristics of users and nonusers of herbal medicine and the adverse events experienced due to herbal medicines in South Korea. Methods. The questionnaire consisted of safety, using experience, using type, usage and nonusage reason, purchase location, and adverse events of herbal medicine. The survey was administered by online. Results. Of the total 1,134 respondents, 726 (64.0%) considered herbal medicine safe, and 693 (61.1%) answered that they have taken herbal medicines within the past year. Most common place to purchase them was “TKM hospital or clinic” (63.6%), and most participants (72.2%) took a decoction from a TKM institution. The biggest reason for taking them was for “health improvement” (57.3%), and the reasons for not using them was “medication not necessary” (63.7%). Among those who took herbal medicines, 46 experienced adverse events, and the most frequently reported symptoms were digestive disorders (52.2%). Of the 46 participants who experienced adverse events, 20 (43.5%) were treated by TKM doctors. Conclusions. This study suggests that regulation of herbal medicines is needed in order to resolve problems related to the safety of herbal medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a technique where a barrier membrane is placed over the bone defect to prevent cell growth from the connective tissue and epithelium. Titanium (Ti) has excellent mechanical properties and is one of the most frequently used materials in implant dentistry. This study examined how graphene oxide (GO)-coated Ti (GO-Ti) membranes can enhance the osteogenesis of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts and promote new bone formation for potential applications to GBR. The physicochemical properties of GO-Ti membranes were characterized by atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and contact angle measurements. The cellular behaviors of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts on GO-Ti membranes were examined by cell counting kit-8 and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assays. The effects of GO-Ti membranes on bone regeneration were evaluated by implanting them into rat calvarial defects. GO was coated uniformly on Ti substrates, which allowed a decrease in surface roughness and contact. GO-Ti membranes stimulated significantly ALP activity without interfering with their proliferation. Furthermore, GO-Ti membranes enhanced new bone formation significantly in full-thickness calvarial defects without inflammatory responses. Therefore, this suggests that GO-Ti membranes can be applied effectively to GBR because these graphene-coated Ti membranes have potent effects on stimulating osteogenic differentiation and exhibit superior bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of herbal medicines in the management of metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods. On December 9, 2015, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, AMED, CNKI, KoreaMed, KMBASE, OASIS, and J-STAGE with no restriction on language or published year. We selected randomized controlled trials that involved patients with metabolic syndrome being treated with herbal medicines as intervention. The main keywords were “Chinese herbal medicines”, “metabolic syndrome”, and “randomized controlled trials”. Herbal substances which were not based on East Asian medical theory, combination therapy with western medicines, and concurrent diseases other than metabolic syndrome were excluded. The risk of bias was assessed by Cochrane’s “Risk of Bias” tool. The protocol or review was registered in PROSPERO (an international prospective register of systematic reviews) (CRD42014006842). Results. From 1,098 articles, 12 RCTs were included in this review: five trials studied herbal medicines versus a placebo or no treatment, and seven trials studied herbal medicines versus western medicines. Herbal medicines were effective on decreasing waist circumference, blood glucose, blood lipids, and blood pressure. Conclusion. This study suggests the possibility that herbal medicines can be complementary and alternative medicines for metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical doping of graphene represents a powerful means of tailoring its electronic properties. Synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy offers an effective route to investigate the surface electronic and chemical states of functionalizing dopants. In this work, a suite of X-ray techniques is used, including near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, and photoemission threshold measurements, to systematically study plasma-based chlorinated graphene on different substrates, with special focus on its dopant concentration, surface binding energy, bonding configuration, and work function shift. Detailed spectroscopic evidence of C-Cl bond formation at the surface of single layer graphene and correlation of the magnitude of p-type doping with the surface coverage of adsorbed chlorine is demonstrated for the first time. It is shown that the chlorination process is a highly nonintrusive doping technology, which can effectively produce strongly p-doped graphene with the 2D nature and long-range periodicity of the electronic structure of graphene intact. The measurements also reveal that the interaction between graphene and chlorine atoms shows strong substrate effects in terms of both surface coverage and work function shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials havegenerated great interest inthe past few years as a new toolbox for electronics. This family ofmaterials includes, among others, metallic graphene, semiconductingtransition metal dichalcogenides (such as MoS2), and insulatingboron nitride. These materials and their heterostructures offer excellentmechanical flexibility, optical transparency, and favorable transportproperties for realizing electronic, sensing, and optical systemson arbitrary surfaces. In this paper, we demonstrate a novel technologyfor constructing large-scale electronic systems based on graphene/molybdenumdisulfide (MoS2) heterostructures grown by chemical vapordeposition. We have fabricated high-performance devices and circuitsbased on this heterostructure, where MoS2is used as thetransistor channel and graphene as contact electrodes and circuitinterconnects. We provide a systematic comparison of the graphene/MoS2heterojunction contact to more traditional MoS2-metal junctions, as well as a theoretical investigation, using densityfunctional theory, of the origin of the Schottky barrier height. Thetunability of the graphene work function with electrostatic dopingsignificantly improves the ohmic contact to MoS2. Thesehigh-performance large-scale devices and circuits based on this 2Dheterostructure pave the way for practical flexible transparent electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore the photoresponse of anambipolar graphene infraredthermocouple at photon energies close to or below monolayer graphene’soptical phonon energy and electrostatically accessible Fermi energylevels. The ambipolar graphene infrared thermocouple consists of monolayergraphene supported by an infrared absorbing material, controlled bytwo independent electrostatic gates embedded below the absorber. Usinga scanning infrared laser microscope, we characterize these devicesas a function of carrier type and carrier density difference controlledat the junction between the two electrostatic gates. On the basisof these measurements, conducted at both mid- and near-infrared wavelengths,the primary detection mechanism can be modeled as a thermoelectricresponse. By studying the effect of different infrared absorbers,we determine that the optical absorption and thermal conduction ofthe substrate play the dominant role in the measured photoresponseof our devices. These experiments indicate a path toward hybrid graphenethermal detectors for sensing applications such as thermography andchemical spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Silibinin is the major active molecule of silymarin, the mixture of flavonolignans extracted from Cirsium japonicum. It has been used for the treatment of hepatitis and inflammation-related diseases. In the present study, the effects of silibinin on allergic inflammation and its signaling were investigated in the induced human mast cells. Methods: Cell growth inhibition induced by silibinin was measured by MTS assay. Histamine release was measured by enzyme immunoassay. The tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) secreted protein levels and mRNA levels were measured by the ELISA assay and RT-PCR, respectively. The NF-κB promoter activity was examined by a luciferase assay. Results: Silibinin suppressed the growth of HMC-1 cells and also reduced the production and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8. Moreover, silibinin inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB through inhibition of the phosphorylation of IκBα and suppressed NF-κB transcriptional activity in stimulated HMC-1 cells. Conclusions: Taken together, these results indicate that silibinin inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines through inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway in HMC-1 human mast cells, suggesting that silibinin could be used for the treatment of mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP, also known as NPPA) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP, also known as NPPB) have been determined as genetic factors for several diseases, including stroke and myocardial infarction, in human and rat models. To investigate the potential association between polymorphisms of the NPPA gene and stroke in a Korean population, nine single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of NPPA and NPPB genes were genotyped in a total of 941 Korean subjects, including 674 stroke patients (109 hemorrhagic and 565 ischemic) and 267 unaffected controls. Genotype comparisons of the targeted alleles revealed that there were no significant associations between stroke patients and control subjects, or among hemorrhagic, ischemic, and control groups. However, in logistic analysis for Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification of ischemic stroke, nonsynonymous rs5065 (STOP152Arg) and rs5067 in 3′UTR of NPPA, which were in complete linkage disequilibrium, showed significant associations with cardioembolic stroke. These two SNPs showed higher frequencies in cardioembolic stroke patients than those in controls and ischemic patients with small-vessel occlusion ( p=0.002, adjusted p=0.02). It was also found that NPPA rs5065C allele in all of the Korean subjects existed as heterozygous compared with Caucasian and African populations. Although further replications in larger cardioembolic stroke subjects are required, our preliminary findings suggest that the nonsynonymous rs5065C of the NPPA gene, which could produce a new or dysfunctional transcript, is possibly associated with cardioembolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Rhus verniciflua Stokes (RVS), which has valuable medicinal properties, has for many years been prescribed for inflammation in east Asian medicine. Recent studies suggest that RVS has potent antioxidative, antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of RVS in vitro and in vivo were investigated. The ethanol extract from RVS was partitioned with different solvents in order of increasing polarity. Key findings Among the various extracts, the n-butanol extract displayed the most potent activity against nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species. The n-butanol extract also significantly regulates expression of nitric oxide synthase, which inhibits nitric oxide production at the transcriptional level in activated macrophages. Immunoblot analysis also showed that n-butanol extract suppresses the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt, suggesting that nitric oxide synthase suppression might be mediated via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt signaling pathways. This study also investigated whether n-butanol exerts an anti-inflammatory effect in an animal model. n-butanol extract significantly reduces carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema at 5 h. Conclusions These results suggest that RVS could be a promising candidate agent for inflammation prevention and combination therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhus verniciflua Stokes (RVS) is a plant with a long history of medicinal use in Eastern Asia. RVS has been widely used to treat gastritis, stomach cancer and atherosclerosis. The cytotoxic effects of different solvent fractions from an RVS ethanol extract were measured in 11 human cancer cell lines. The study showed that the ethyl-acetate (EtOAC) fraction was the most cytotoxic. This fraction contains a number of phenolic compounds, and this phenolic-rich EtOAC fraction was particularly effective against gastric and breast cancer cells. A purified phenolic-rich EtOAC fraction (PPEF) had a stronger apoptotic effect on these cells. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis showed that the PPEF contained gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, fisetin, sulfuretin, butein and 8 unknown compounds. There were only small amounts of flavonoids: fisetin, sulfuretin and butein. The results showed that PPEF induces apoptosis only in gastric and breast cancer cell lines, but not in lung, colon or liver cancer cell lines. Therefore, PPEF may have a significant potential as an organ-specific anti-cancer agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The dried roots of Sophora flavescens Aiton (SFA) has been used in traditional medicine for treatment of inflammation, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, diarrhea, and asthma. In the present study, we investigated the effect of SFA on the inflammatory allergic reaction using human mast cell-1 (HMC-1). SFA (200mg/kg) inhibited the mast cell-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction in vivo and the release of histamine from rat peritoneal mast cells by compound 48/80. In addition, the expression levels of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 were also decreased by SFA treatment. In molecular mechanism level, this study showed that SFA inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor (NF) κB through inhibition of the phosphorylation and degradation of IκB-α, which is an inhibitor of NF κB. Moreover, SFA suppressed PMA plus A23187-induced phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 and c-jun N-terminal kinase. The inhibited induction of NF κB promoter by SFA was determined using luciferase activity. These results suggest that SFA could be used as a treatment for mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, black phosphorus (BP) has garnered great attention as one of newly emerging two-dimensional nanomaterials. Especially, the degraded platelets of BP in the physiological environment were shown to be nontoxic phosphate anions, which are a component of bone tissue and can be used for mineralization. Here, our study presents the potential of BP as biofunctional and biocompatible nanomaterials for the application to bone tissue engineering and regeneration. An ultrathin layer of BP nanodots (BPNDs) was created on a glass substrate by using a flow-enabled self-assembly process, which yielded a highly uniform deposition of BPNDs in a unique confined geometry. The BPND-coated substrates represented unprecedented favorable topographical microenvironments and supportive matrices suitable for the growth and survival of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts. The prepared substrates promoted the spontaneous osteodifferentiation of preosteoblasts, which had been confirmed by determining alkaline phosphatase activity and extracellular calcium deposition as early- and late-stage markers of osteogenic differentiation, respectively. Furthermore, the BPND-coated substrates upregulated the expression of some specific genes (i.e., RUNX2, OCN, OPN, and Vinculin) and proteins, which are closely related to osteogenesis. Conclusively, our BPND-coating strategy suggests that a biologically inert surface can be readily activated as a cell-favorable nanoplatform enabled with excellent biocompatibility and osteogenic ability. [Display omitted] • An ultrathin layer of BP nanodots (BPNDs) is created on a glass substrate by using a flow-enabled self-assembly process. • The BPND-coated substrates provide unprecedented favorable topographical microenvironments suitable for preosteoblasts. • The BPND-coated substrates promote the spontaneous osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblasts. • This BPND-based cell-favorable surface allows a broad strategy for surface functionalization of dental and orthopedic implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rhus verniciflua Stokes (RVS) has been used in traditional Eastern Asia medicine for the treatment of gastritis and stomach cancer, although the mechanism for its biological activity remains to be elucidated. We previously established that an ethanol extract of RVS-induced G1-cell cycle arrest via accumulation of p27Kip1 controlled by Skp2 reduction and apoptosis in AGS human gastric cancer cells. Here, we showed that an ethanol extract of RVS-induced apoptosis via caspase-9 activation (mitochondrial death pathway) is mediated by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, Δψ m) and the release of cytochrome C from the mitochondrial intermembrane space. In addition, an ethanol extract of RVS inactivated PI3K-Akt/PKB kinase in a time-dependent manner. Moreover, combined treatment of an ethanol extract of RVS and LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) markedly increased apoptosis compared to treatment with an ethanol extract of RVS alone. The role of PI3K-Akt/PKB in this process was confirmed by constitutive expression of inactive mutants of this kinase in AGS cells. Finally, siRNA-mediated knockdown of Akt/PKB expression resulted in a significant reduction in AGS cell proliferation. Taken together, these results suggest that an ethanol extract of RVS induces apoptosis via a mitochondrial death pathway in human gastric cancer cells, but not in normal cells, and inhibition of the PI3K-Akt/PKB pathway enhanced the mitochondrial death pathway. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Owing to the astonishing properties of non-harmful viruses, tissue regeneration using virus-based biomimetic materials has been an emerging trend recently. The selective peptide expression and enrichment of the desired peptide on the surface, monodispersion, self-assembly, and ease of genetic and chemical modification properties have allowed viruses to take a long stride in biomedical applications. Researchers have published many reviews so far describing unusual properties of virus-based nanoparticles, phage display, modification, and possible biomedical applications, including biosensors, bioimaging, tissue regeneration, and drug delivery, however the integration of the virus into different biomaterials for the application of tissue regeneration is not yet discussed in detail. This review will focus on various morphologies of virus-incorporated biomimetic nanocomposites in tissue regeneration and highlight the progress, challenges, and future directions in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lower potency of low dose of carboplatin often requires combination with other drugs to improve its efficacy. Newer and more potent carboplatin-based combination therapies are investigated for treatment. We investigated whether paclitaxel, carboplatin, and Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) affect viability of H460 cells by MTT assay. Western blot analysis was used to measure the expression of various modulators, such as p-Stat3, p-Akt, and p-Erk. Paclitaxel, carboplatin, and AGN affected the viability of H460 cells. Paclitaxel, carboplatin, and AGN suppressed p-Akt, p-Erk, and p-Stat3 expression. AGN combined with carboplatin significantly decreased c-Jun, HIF-1α, and VEGF levels. AGN combined with carboplatin significantly increased p21 and p27 levels and suppressed cyclin D1 and cyclin E levels. AGN combined with carboplatin-induced apoptosis by increasing Bax and cleavage of caspase and Parp level and by suppressing Bcl-2 level. Our results clearly demonstrate that AGN combined with carboplatin could be a useful compound for treating lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cucurbitacins are triterpenoids commonly found in Cucurbitaceae and Cruciferae and have long been used in traditional medicine. Cucurbitacins demonstrate anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. We investigated whether cucurbitacin D affects viability in breast cancer cells and its mechanism of action. An MTT assay was used to measure the viability of breast cancer cells. Western blot analysis was used to measure the expression of various modulators, such as p-p53, p-Stat3, p-Akt, and p-NF-κB. Doxorubicin and cucurbitacin D affected the viability of MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3 cells. Cucurbitacin D and doxorubicin increased p-p53 expression in MCF7, SKBR3, and MDA-MB-231 cells. Cucurbitacin D suppressed p-Akt, p-NF-κB, and p-Stat3 expression in MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3 cells. Doxorubicin alone did not decrease p-Akt and p-Stat3 levels. Cucurbitacin D decreased p-NF-κB and p-Stat3 levels. Doxorubicin in combination with cucurbitacin D increased p-p53 levels and suppressed Akt, NF-κB, Stat3, and Bcl-2 expression more than cucurbitacin D alone. Our results clearly demonstrate that cucurbitacin D could be a useful compound for treating human breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]