Comparison of UVA vs UVB Photoaging Rat Models in Short-term Exposure.

Background: Prolonged exposure to sunlight is known to induce photoaging of the skin, leading to various skin changes and disorders, such as dryness, wrinkles, irregular pigmentation, and even cancer. Ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation are particularly responsible for causing photoaging. Objective: This study aims to identify and compare photoaging rat models exposed to UVA and UVB. Methods: This research method compared macroscopic (scoring degree of wrinkling) and microscopic (histology) signs and symptoms on skin samples of rat exposed to UVA and UVB for 4 weeks at a radiation dose of 840mJ/cm2. Results: The results of this study indicated that the degree of wrinkling was highest in rat skin exposed to UVB rays by 51% (p<0.05). UVB histological results showed that the epidermis layer (40 µm, p<0.05) was thickened and the dermis layer (283 µm, p<0.05) was thinned in the skin of mice exposed to UVB light. The UVB group, showed the density of collagen in the dermis with a mean value of 55% (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our results suggest that short-term exposure to UVB radiation (in the acute, subacute or subchronic phase) induces more rapid and pronounced damage to rat skin when compared to UVA radiation exposure.

Modification of the height of a weight drop traumatic brain injury model that causes the formation of glial scar and cognitive impairment in rats.

OBJECTIVE: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a chronic, progressive condition associated with permanent disabilities, particularly cognitive impairments. Glial scar formation following TBI is considered a contributing factor to these persistent disabilities. Currently, limited research exists on pharmacological interventions targeting glial scar prevention that require a standard weight drop TBI model for glial scar formation. Since there is no established standard TBI model for glial scar formation, this study aims to validate and modify the height of the weight drop model to identify glial scar formation and cognitive impairments. METHODS: Fifteen male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham, WD1, and WD2 groups. The weight drop model with a 10 g load was applied to the right exposed brain of the rats from a height of 5 cm (WD1) and 10 cm (WD2) using a modified Feeney's weight drop device. Cognitive impairments were confirmed using the novel object recognition (NOR) test with ethovision software on day 15. Subsequently, the rats were decapitated on day 16, and GFAP immunohistochemical staining was performed to confirm the presence of glial scarring. RESULTS: The WD1 and WD2 groups exhibited a significant increase in glial scar formation compared to the sham group, with the WD2 group resulting in even more pronounced glial scar formation. Only the WD2 model caused statistically significant cognitive damage. The negative correlation coefficient indicates that an increase in GFAP + cells will decrease the cognitive function. CONCLUSION: Modification of the height of the weight drop model, by dropping a weight of 10 g from a height of 10 cm (WD2 group) onto the right brain exposed of the rat has been proven to induce the formation of a glial scar and cognitive impairment.

Asiatic acid increased locomotor and head width by inducing brain-derived neurotrophic factor in intrauterine hypoxia-exposed zebrafish.

Background: Hypoxia ischemia leads to abnormal behavior and growth. Prenatal hypoxia also decreases brain adaptive potential, which can cause fatal effects such as cell death. Asiatic acid (AA) in Centella asiatica is a neuroprotector through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Aim: This study aimed to analyze the effect of AA as a neuroprotector against hypoxia during intrauterine development on locomotor activity, head width, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. Methods: The true experimental laboratory research used a posttest control-only design. Zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio) aged 0-2 dpf (days postfertilization) were exposed to hypoxia with oxygen levels reaching 1.5 mg/l. Then, AA was administered at successive concentrations, namely, 0.36, 0.72, and 1.45 µg/ml, at 2 hpf (hours postfertilization), 3, 6, and 9 dpf. Head width, velocity activity, and BDNF expression were observed. Results: Intrauterine hypoxia significantly decreased head width, velocity rate, and BDNF expression (<0.001). Administration of AA at all concentrations and age 9 dpf to zebrafish larvae with intrauterine hypoxia exposure increased head width ( p < 0.0001), velocity (p < 0.05), and relative mRNA expression of BDNF (p < 0.05). Conclusion: AA is potentially neuroprotective to the brain in zebrafish larvae exposed to hypoxia during intrauterine development.

Asiatic acid in Centella asiatica extract towards morphological development in an intermittent hypoxia intrauterine embryo model and molecular prediction pathway of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor signalling.

Background: Hypoxia during pregnancy generates oxidative stress that alters the growth and development of the human fetus. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) receptors are essential for normal fetal growth. Asiatic acid in Centella asiatica (CA) has antioxidant properties to prevent growth impairment in hypoxia. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effect of asiatic acid on the morphological development of an intermittent hypoxia (IH) zebrafish embryo model and analyze molecular docking prediction in IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) signaling. Methods: Embryos of zebrafish at 2 hours postfertilization (hpf) were assigned to control negative (C), IH, and combination IH and CA extract groups consisting of 1.25 (IHCA1), 2.5 (IHCA2), and 5 (IHCA3) µg/ml. Hypoxia treatment (conducted 4 hours/day) and CA extract were administered for 3 days (2-72 hpf). The parameters of body length and head length were evaluated at 3, 6, and 9 days postfertilization (dpf). The data were analyzed by a two-way analysis of variance (p < 0.05). Molecular docking was performed to explore the binding affinity of asiatic acid to IGF-1R by Molegro Virtual Docker ver.5 software. Results: The body length and head length of embryos in the IH and treatment groups (IHCA) were shorter than those in the control group at 3 dpf (p < 0.05). However, the body length was more prolonged in the IHCA1 group, but the head length was longer in the IHCA2 group than in the IH group at 6 and 9 dpf. Molecular docking showed the reliable interaction of asiatic acid with IGF-1R signaling in an IH animal model. Conclusion: The administration of CA extract benefits IH through the development and growth of zebrafish embryos at a dose of 2.5-5 µg/ml. Asiatic acid has a binding affinity for IGF-1R signaling.

The Effects of Holothurin and Caspofungin on the Vaginal Cell Inflammation Parameters of the Rattus norvegicus Strain Post Induction of Candida albicans.

Purpose: Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a fungus that causes superficial and invasive candidiasis in its host. Caspofungin, has been widely used as a synthetic antifungal, whereas holothurin has been shown to have potential as a natural antifungal. The purpose of this study was to see how holothurin and caspofungin affected the number of C. albicans's colonies, LDH levels, and the number of inflammatory cells in vagina of Rattus norvegicus. Patients and Methods: Design of this research is using posttest only with control group design with 48 Rattus norvegicus Wistar strains used in this study were divided into six treatment groups. Each group was divided into three-time intervals of 12, 24, and 48 hours. LDH markers were tested using ELISA, inflammatory cells were counted manually, and the number of colonies was calculated using colonymetry before being diluted with NaCl 0.9% and planted in sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). Results: According to the findings, inflammatory cells in the treatment of holothurin (48-hours) had an OR of 1.68 CI (-0.79-4.16) P = 0.09 and caspofungin had an OR of 4.18 CI (1.26-9.63) P = 0.09. Meanwhile, LDH in the holothurin (48-hour) treatment obtained OR 348, CI (286-410), P=0.03, and Caspofungin OR 393, CI (277-508), P=0.03. Colonies were obtained with zero numbers in the holothurin treatment (48 hours) and with Caspofungin OR 393, CI (273-508) P=0.00. Conclusion: Holothurin and caspofungin administration reduced the number of C. albicans colonies and the number of inflammatory cells (P 0.05), implying that holothurin and caspofungin could prevent C. albicans infection.

Periodontal Comparison on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients and Healthy Subjects: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze periodontal comparison between Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) subject and healthy control. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 122 subjects, 61 SLE patients and 61 healthy subjects who visited the Rheumatology Department, Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang, during 2017-2018. Clinical examination of SLE was using Mexican SLE Disease Activity Index and oral cavity conditions were assessed using the periodontal index, gingival index, calculus index, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment loss and mobility teeth. Results: The age of SLE patients ranged from 18-55 years old with the mean age of 29.50 ± 9.57 years old. Periodontitis was higher in SLE patients (88.5%) than healthy subjects (22.95%). In addition, periodontitis occurrence in SLE (2.66 ± 1.02) was significantly different (p<0.001) compared to healthy subjects (0.51 ± 0.81). Conclusion: This study found higher rates of periodontitis, gingivitis, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment loss, and mobility tooth among SLE patients compared to healthy subjects. Periodontitis was also found to be higher along with more severe SLE group.

Role of Lymphocytes CD4/CD8 Ratio and Immunoglobulin G Cytomegalovirus as Potential Markers for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Periodontal Disease.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between periodontitis severity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with CD4/CD8 lymphocytes ratio and cytomegalovirus gamma immunoglobulin (IgG CMV) level. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a descriptive study using a cross-sectional approach that included 93 subjects who were diagnosed with SLE in Rheumatology Department, Saiful Anwar Hospital, during 2017 to 2019. Periodontitis severity was assessed by periodontal Index (PI). CD4/CD8 lymphocyte ratio was determined using flow cytometry and IgG CMV levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The differences among the three groups were analyzed using analysis of variance. Correlation among the groups was calculated using Spearman/Pearson correlation coefficient test, while regression analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. RESULTS: The mean of periodontitis severity and standard deviation in SLE was 2.66 ± 1.02. There were negative correlation between CD4/CD8 lymphocyte ratio with periodontal index (r = -0.971) and positive correlation between IgG CMV level with periodontal index (r = 0.977). CONCLUSIONS: Inverted CD4/CD8 ratio and IgG CMV were found associated with periodontitis severity in SLE patient. Further research was recomended that CD4/CD8 lymphocytes ratio and IgG CMV can be used as a potensial marker of periodontitis severity in SLE patients.

Oral Hygiene and Dental Caries Status on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the oral hygiene and dental caries status on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients, also it's with SLE disease activity. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach. The study was conducted on 93 SLE patients from 2017 to 2019 on Saiful Anwar Hospital Indonesia. All SLE patients had clinical examination using DMF-T, Personal Hygiene Performance-Modified (PHP-M), Calculus Index (CI), Debris Index (DI), Plaque Index (PI) and Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S). Clinical examination and laboratory tests are conducted to assess the activity of SLE measured using. The data were analyzed by One Way ANOVA test. Results: A total of 74% of subjects with SLE had dental caries. PHP-M with SLE severity was found significant (p<0.001) and a strong positive correlation (r=0.982). Plaque with SLE severity was found significant (p=0.001) and a strong positive correlation (r=0.938). OHI-S with SLE severity was found significant (p<0.001) and a strong positive correlation (r=0.953). DMF-T levels with SLE severity was found significant (p=0.001) and a strong positive correlation (r=0.974). It showed that the severity of disease activity was related to poor oral hygiene and a high incidence of dental caries. Conclusion: There is a correlation between oral hygiene, dental caries and SLE severity.

Periodontal Tissue Condition on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients: A Clinical Study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate periodontal tissue condition on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and its characteristics. Material and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study involved 61 SLE patients. Clinical examination of the oral cavity was performed using periodontal index (PI), gingival index (GI), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and number of loose teeth. Also, we evaluated SLE duration, treatment duration, ethnics, marital status, educational background, family income, and occupation. Results: In the evaluation of periodontal tissue, 93.4% had bleeding on probing, 80.3% clinical attachment loss, and 16.3% loose teeth. A total of 54 patients (88.5%) with SLE had periodontitis. Seven subjects had no periodontitis, 11 mild periodontitis, 29 moderate periodontitis and 14 severe periodontitis. Mean Periodontal Index score, Gingival Index, Clinical Attachment Loss (mm), and the number of mobility teeth, Plaque Index and Calculus Index respectively were 2.66 ± 1.20, 1.95 ± 1.02, 0.75 ± 0.59 mm, 1,49 ± 1.77. There was a significant difference in periodontal index score, shown periodontitis between employment and unemployment subjects (p=0.004) and a moderate correlation between periodontitis and occupation. Conclusion: Periodontitis found as manifestations SLE patients, followed by bleeding on probing and loose teeth. Its characteristics is playing a role in periodontitis in SLE patients.

What is the Best Degree of Hyaluronic Acid Crosslinking in Increasing Growth Factors Level of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Lysate?

Introduction: Various therapeutic materials such as hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich fibrin lysate (PRF-L) have been represented to improve chronic fibroblast ulcers and premature aging. HA crosslinking is the most popular dermal filler presently in the therapy of aging skin. With the PRF-L properties that are rich in growth factors (GF), the combination of these materials is expected to produce synergistic and potentiation effects. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of various degrees of HA crosslinking on GF levels in PRF-L. Materials and Methods: PRF-L was obtained from PRF of healthy adult venous blood with 72 hours of incubation. HA was taken from preparations with 3 crosslinking degrees of 3%, 4%, and 10%. Measurement of GF levels was performed using sandwich ELISA method. Results: The GF levels released in PRF-L increased with the addition of HA crosslinking. The lower HA crosslinking degree (3%) triggered greater release of GF by PRF-L compared to higher HA crosslinking degree (4% & 10%). Conclusion: Low degree HA crosslinking elevated all measured GF levels in PRF-L. The lower HA crosslinking degree provoked higher release of GF.

Low Degree Hyaluronic Acid Crosslinking Inducing the Release of TGF-Β1 in Conditioned Medium of Wharton's Jelly-Derived Stem Cells.

BACKGROUND: Presently, the application of stem cells and their paracrine effect for anti-ageing therapy has commenced. Wharton's jelly-derived stem cell conditioned medium (WJSCs-CM) is renowned for increasing proliferation, migrate ageing skin fibroblasts and increase consumption of extracellular transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß). With more than 85% of frequently used dermal filler procedures are hyaluronic acid fillers (HA), a mixture of both with optimal HA crosslinking degree has not yet been identified. AIM: This study aimed to determine the discrepancies in the results of various HA crosslinking degree in WJSCs-CM concerning various levels of growth factors (GF). METHODS: Conditioned medium was obtained from mesenchymal stem cells Wharton's jelly of the newborn umbilical cord with caesarean section procedure, fabricated with hypoxia method (HCM). HA was obtained from preparations on the market with crosslinking degrees of 3%, 4%, and 10%. GF levels were measured using sandwich ELISA method based on the protocol provided by anti-TGF-ß1, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) antibody producers (Cloud-Clone Corp®, Texas, USA). RESULTS: Low degree HA crosslinking (3% and 4%) elevated TGF-ß1 release in WJSCs-CM. HA crosslinking did not provoke increased levels of PDGF and bFGF in WJSCs-CM, both at low and higher degrees. CONCLUSION: Low degree HA crosslinking induced the increase of TGF-ß1 release in WJSCs-CM.

Periodontitis is associated with disease severity and anti-double stranded DNA antibody and interferon-gamma levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse the correlation between periodontitis severity and disease activity, anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibody, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). METHODS: We selected 61 patients with SLE (age 18-55 years) selected from a hospital in Malang, Indonesia. Clinical examination and laboratory tests were performed to assess disease activity. The severity of SLE was measured using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), while periodontitis severity was measured according to the Periodontal Index (PI) criteria. Levels of anti-dsDNA and IFN-γ were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Optical density at 450 nm was measured using an automated plate reader. RESULTS: The mean age of the subjects with SLE was 29 years, and mean disease duration was 2.8 years. Fifty-four of 61 (88.53%) subjects with SLE had periodontitis according to the PI. SLE subjects exhibited other clinical manifestations such as lupus nephritis, vasculitis, arthritis, mucocutaneous manifestation, fatigue, fever, and/or leukopenia. SLE severity was assessed according to the average SLEDAI score (17.70 ± 12.70), and average anti-dsDNA (122.6 ± 81.01 U/mL), and IFN-γ (14.64 ± 11.17 pg/mL) levels. There was a significantly positive correlation between periodontitis score and SLEDAI score (r = 0.927; p ≤ 0.0001), anti-dsDNA antibody (r = 0.948; p ≤ 0.0001), and IFN-γ (r = 0.951; p ≤ 0.0001) levels. CONCLUSION: Results of the present study demonstrated that periodontitis was associated with SLE disease activity, and was a biomarker of immune aging. Furthermore, this biomarker could be a reliable predictor of periodontal condition and prognosis of periodontitis and can also help in selecting the most appropriate treatment strategy for periodontitis in patients with SLE.

Relationship Between Glycemic Control and Coated Tongue in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Xerostomia

Abstract Objective: To examine the relationship between the level of glycemic control and coated tongue in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with xerostomia. Material and Methods: This study was an analytical survey and involved 64 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, aged between 17 to 65 years old with 34 males and 30 females. Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus was determined from the patient's medical records. The level of glycemic control was obtained from the patient's last blood sugar examination. Xerostomia was diagnosed with a questionnaire, while coated tongue diagnosis based on clinical features and the severity of coated tongue was assessed using the Kojima index Results: There was a significant relationship between the level of glycemic control and coated tongue (p=0.0026) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with xerostomia. Moreover, there was a significant relationship between the level of glycemic control and the severity of the coated tongue (p=0.001). Specifically, poor glycemic control was associated with a higher occurrence of the coated tongue as well as more severe tongue coating Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between the level of glycemic control in and coated tongue in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with xerostomia. Therefore, diabetes mellitus patients should control their level of glycemic control to prevent the oral complication of the disease.

Effects of Theobroma cacao on heat shock protein 90 and asymmetric dimethylarginine of endothelial cells under the influence of plasma of pre-eclamptic patients.

OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to investigate the modulatory role of an ethanol extract of Theobroma cacao beans on heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels of endothelial cells under the influence of plasma of pre-eclamptic patients. METHODS: The endothelial cells were obtained from a human umbilicus. In the confluent phase, the cells were subdivided into groups: the control group (no treatment), the endothelial cell group that was exposed to 2% pre-eclamptic patients' plasma, and the endothelial cell group that was exposed to 2% pre-eclamptic patients' plasma and treated with the ethanol extract of T. cacao at various doses (25, 50, or 100 ppm). Analysis of HSP90 levels was carried out by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Quantification of ADMA was conducted by immunocytochemistry. RESULTS: There was a decreased HSP90 level in the group exposed to the pre-eclamptic patients' plasma. This decrease was significantly attenuated by the extract of T. cacao at the doses of 50 and 100 ppm. The pre-eclamptic patients' plasma significantly increased ADMA level as compared with the control group. This increase was significantly attenuated by the administration of the T. cacao extract at the two highest doses. CONCLUSIONS: The extract of T. cacao beans protected the endothelial cells that were exposed to pre-eclamptic patients' plasma by increasing HSP90 levels and reducing ADMA levels.

Effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Supplementation on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Hypovitamin D Which Were Given Vitamin D3 towards Disease Activity (SLEDAI), IL-6, and TGF-ß1 Serum.

BACKGROUND: Curcumin contained in Curcuma xanthorrhiza is an immunomodulator that has similar biological effect as vitamin D. Combination of curcumin and vitamin D3 is expected to work synergistically. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza supplementation on vitamin D3 administration to SLEDAI, IL-6, and TGF-ß1 serum in SLE patients with hypovitamin D. METHODS: This was a double-blind RCT conducted in Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang, in January 2016-March 2017. Subjects were SLE active (SLEDAI > 3) with levels of 25(OH)D3 ≤ 30 ng/ml and divided into two groups: those receiving cholecalciferol 3 × 400 IU and placebo 3 × 1 tablets (group I) and those receiving 3 × 400 IU cholecalciferol and Curcuma xanthorrhiza 3 × 20 mg for 3 months (group II). SLEDAI, levels of vitamin D, IL-6, and TGF-ß1 in serum were evaluated before and after the treatment. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in SLEDAI reduction, decreased serum levels of IL-6, and increased levels of TGF-ß1 serum among groups after the treatment. Decreased levels of serum IL-6 have a positive correlation with SLEDAI reduction. Conclusion. Curcuma xanthorrhiza supplementation on vitamin D3 had no effects on SLEDAI and serum levels of IL-6 and TGF-ß1. This clinical trial is registered with NCT03155477.

Effects of time course ferrous sulphate supplementation on iron regulation in pregnant rats.

OBJECTIVES: Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of ferrous sulphate supplementation on iron regulation and homeostasis in pregnant rats. METHODS: Twenty-four pregnant rats were divided into four groups; including the control (untreated) pregnant group and the pregnant groups that received ferrous sulphate starting at the 1st trimester (1st day of pregnancy), 2nd trimester (8th day of pregnancy), and 3rd trimester (15th day of pregnancy). Ferrous sulphate was administered orally with an oral gavage until birth. Serum iron and total iron binding capacity were measured by a colorimetric method. Hepcidin levels were measured using an immunoassay method. RESULTS: The serum iron, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin levels were significantly increased in the group given iron sulphate in the 3rd trimester compared with the 2nd or 1st trimesters and in the 3rd trimester compared with the 2nd trimester (p < 0.05). The total iron binding capacity levels were significantly decreased in the group that received iron sulphate in the 1st trimester compared with the 2nd or 3rd trimesters (p < 0.05). The total iron binding capacity levels were also significantly decreased in the group that received iron sulphate in the 2nd trimester compared with the 3rd trimester (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Early administration of ferrous sulphate in pregnancy leads to higher levels of serum iron, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin.

Theobroma cacao increases cells viability and reduces IL-6 and sVCAM-1 level in endothelial cells induced by plasma from preeclamptic patients.

This study aims to investigate whether an ethanolic extract of Theobroma cacao bean is able to increase cell viability and decrease IL-6 and sVCAM-1 in endothelial cells induced by plasma from preeclamptic patients. Endothelial cells were obtained from human umbilical vascular endothelial cells. At confluency, endothelial cells were divided into six groups, which included control (untreated), endothelial cells exposed to plasma from normal pregnancy, endothelial cells exposed to 2% plasma from preeclamptic patients (PP), endothelial cells exposed to PP in the presence of ethanolic extract of T. cacao (PP+TC) at the following three doses: 25, 50, and 100 ppm. The analysis was performed in silico using the Hex 8.0, LigPlus and LigandScout 3.1 software. Analysis on IL-6 and sVCAM-1 levels were done by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found that seven of them could bind to the protein NFκB (catechin, leucoanthocyanidin, niacin, phenylethylamine, theobromine, theophylline, and thiamin). This increase in IL-6 was significantly (P<0.05) attenuated by both the 50 and 100 ppm treatments of T. cacao extract. Plasma from PP significantly increased sVCAM-1 levels compared to untreated cells. This increase in sVCAM-1 was significantly attenuated by all doses of the extract. In conclusion, T. cacao extract prohibits the increase in IL-6 and sVCAM-1 in endothelial cells induced by plasma from preeclamptic patients. Therefore this may provide a herbal therapy for attenuating the endothelial dysfunction found in preeclampsia.

Binding Energy Calculation of Patchouli Alcohol Isomer Cyclooxygenase Complexes Suggested as COX-1/COX-2 Selective Inhibitor.

To understand the structural features that dictate the selectivity of the two isoforms of the prostaglandin H2 synthase (PGHS/COX), the three-dimensional (3D) structure of COX-1/COX-2 was assessed by means of binding energy calculation of virtual molecular dynamic with using ligand alpha-Patchouli alcohol isomers. Molecular interaction studies with COX-1 and COX-2 were done using the molecular docking tools by Hex 8.0. Interactions were further visualized by using Discovery Studio Client 3.5 software tool. The binding energy of molecular interaction was calculated by AMBER12 and Virtual Molecular Dynamic 1.9.1 software. The analysis of the alpha-Patchouli alcohol isomer compounds showed that all alpha-Patchouli alcohol isomers were suggested as inhibitor of COX-1 and COX-2. Collectively, the scoring binding energy calculation (with PBSA Model Solvent) of alpha-Patchouli alcohol isomer compounds (CID442384, CID6432585, CID3080622, CID10955174, and CID56928117) was suggested as candidate for a selective COX-1 inhibitor and CID521903 as nonselective COX-1/COX-2.

Subchronic inhalation of coal dust particulate matter 10 induces bronchoalveolar hyperplasia and decreases MUC5AC expression in male Wistar rats.

Coal dust is a pollutant found in coal mines that are capable of inducing oxidative stress and inflammation, but the effects on lung metaplasia as an early step of carcinogenesis remain unknown. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of PM10 coal dust on lung histology, MUC5AC expression, epidermal growth factor (EGF) expression, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. An experimental study was done on male Wistar rats, which were divided into the following groups: control groups exposed to coal dust for 14 days (at doses of 6.25 mg/m(3), 12.5 mg/m(3), and 25 mg/m(3)), and the groups exposed to coal dust for 28 days (at doses of 6.25 mg/m(3), 12.5 mg/m(3), and 25 mg/m(3)). EGF expressions in rat lungs were measured by ELISA. EGFR and MUC5AC were measured by a confocal laser scanning microscope. The bronchoalveolar epithelial image of the group exposed to coal dust for 14 and 28 days showed a epithelial rearrangement, hyperplastic (metaplastic) goblet cells, and scattered massive inflammatory cells. The pulmonary parenchymal image of the group of exposed to coal dust for 14 and 28 days showed scattered inflammatory cells filling up the pulmonary alveolar networks, leading to an appearance of thickened parenchymal alveoli until emphysema-like structure. There was no significant difference in MUC5AC, EGF, and EGFR expressions for 14-d exposure (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in EGF and EGFR expressions for 28-d exposure (p>0.05), but there was a significant difference in MUC5AC expression (p<0.05). We concluded that subchronic inhalation of coal dust particulate matter 10 induces bronchoalveolar reactive hyperplasia and rearrangement of epithelial cells which accompanied by decrease expression MUC5AC in male rats.

The effect of curcumin and cotrimoxazole in salmonella typhimurium infection in vivo.

Typhoid fever is a disease caused by Salmonella Typhi and commonly treated by an antimicrobial agent such as cotrimoxazole. On the other hand, herbal usage has risen as an adjunctive therapy to treat many diseases. Curcuma (Curcuma domestica) is a commonly used herb which consists of curcumin as its major active compound. Curcumin has been known for its antimicrobial effect, but there is no proof regarding the usage of curcumin and cotrimoxazole together. This research was conducted by using typhoid fever model in mice infected by Salmonella Typhimurium. Each animal was treated with curcumin, cotrimoxazole, or both. Ileum, spleen, and liver of each animal were isolated and cultured. We found that curcumin-cotrimoxazole combination therapy lowered the antimicrobial effectivity of cotrimoxazole in both intraintestinal and extraintestinal organs. We conclude that curcumin-cotrimoxazole combination therapy in typhoid fever has to be reconsidered.