The effectiveness of atorvastatin for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy : A randomised controlled trial: open label.

BACKGROUND: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication in cancer. Although thromboprophylaxis in cancer patients is recommended by the guidelines, clinicians' use of thromboprophylaxis remains limited due to cost, bleeding complications, and reluctance to give injectable anticoagulants. Inflammation plays essential roles in the pathogenesis of cancer-associated thrombosis. Owing to its ability to decrease proinflammatory cytokines, statins have anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, statins can be possibly utilized as thromboprophylaxis therapy in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of atorvastatin and rivaroxaban for DVT prevention in high-risk thrombosis patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS: Double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving cancer patients with high-risk of thrombosis undergoing chemotherapy. We randomly assigned patients without deep-vein thrombosis at screening to receive atorvastatin 20 mg or rivaroxaban 10 mg daily for up to 90 days. Doppler ultrasonography was performed 90 days following chemotherapy to diagnose DVT. Average cost-effectiveness analysis was performed to analyze the cost of atorvastatin compared to rivaroxaban. RESULTS: Of the eighty six patients who underwent randomization, primary efficacy end point was observed in 1 of 42 patients (2.3%) in the atorvastatin group and in 1 of 44 (2.2%) in the rivaroxaban group (Odds Ratio [OR], 0.953; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.240 to 3.971; p = 1.000). There was a significant difference in the incidence of major bleeding, 2 of 42 patients (4.8%) in the atorvastatin group and 12 of 44 (27.3%) in the rivaroxaban group (OR, 0.257; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.94; p = 0.007). The average cost-effectiveness ratio of using atorvastatin was lower than that of rivaroxaban. CONCLUSION: Atorvastatin did not differ significantly from rivaroxaban in reducing the incidence of DVT, lower bleeding risk, and cost-effectiveness for thromboprophylaxis in high-risk thrombosis patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. The presence of limited statistical power and wide confidence intervals in this study needs further study to strengthen the efficacy of atorvastatin as DVT prophylaxis in cancer patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN71891829, Registration Date: 17/12/2020.

Risk Factors for Declined Functional Status within 30 days After Elective Surgeries in Elderly Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Older adults are at risk of decreasing functional status due to their condition and many factors. Although many studies have been conducted about declining in functional status, based on the author's knowledge, only this study that has conducted about functional status changes in the elderly involving the frailty status which undergoing surgery in Indonesia. There are many factor was postulated, some of that was checked routine and applicable in clinical practice. Furthermore, identification of these risk factors can be used a basis for decision making to perform surgeries in older adults because poor functional status causes declining quality of life in the elderly patients. The aim of this research was to determine the risk factors for declined functional status within 30 days after elective surgeries in elderly patients. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study from July 2021 to December 2021 at Dr. Kariadi Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia. We included patients aged 60 or older who underwent elective surgery under general anesthesia. We excluded those who underwent emergency surgery, day care surgery, or were unwillingness to participate. The functional status were assessed using the ADL (Activity of Daily Living) Barthel index. To identify risk factors of  declined ADL scores, a logistic regression analysis was performed on the age variable, gender, body mass index, frailty status, postoperative complications, as well as haemoglobin, and albumin levels. RESULTS: This study included 191 participants, with 97 women (50.79%) and 94 men (42.21%). Declined in functional status within 30-days after surgery occurred in 54 participants (28.2%). There was a significant changed of functional status before and after surgery. Multivariate analysis showed that independently significant variables for declined functional status were male sex (OR 4.48, p value < 0.001), hypoalbuminemia (OR 2.59, p value 0.02), preoperative functional status (OR 2.37; p value 0.05), and postoperative complications (OR 24.885; p value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Risk factors for declined functional status within 30 days after elective surgery in older patients are postoperative complications, preoperative functional status, hypoalbuminemia, and male gender.

Curcumin as adjuvant therapy to improve remission in myeloma patients: A pilot randomized clinical trial.

Background: The treatment for ineligible transplant multiple myeloma is melphalan prednisone. Curcumin has an anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenesis in cancer-directed to nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) pathway. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were also involved in the pathogenesis of myeloma. No clinical study has evaluated the efficacy of curcumin in myeloma patients. To evaluate the efficacy of curcumin as adjuvant into melphalan prednisone in myeloma patients. Methods: 33 myeloma patients at Dr. Kariadi General Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia during 2016-2017 were randomly assigned single-blindedly into MPC (n=17) and control group (n=16). The MPC group was treated with melphalan 4 mg/m2, prednisone 40 mg/m2 for 7 days, and curcumin 8 gram daily for 28 days. The MP control group was treated with melphalan, prednisone, and placebo. The primary endpoint was the overall remission. Pre- and post-treatment was examined for NF-κB, VEGF, TNF-α, IL-6, LDH, and CRP levels All data analyses were per protocol. Results: There was a significant difference in overall remission between the MPC and MP control groups [75%vs 33.3%, x2=6.89, P=0.009]. A significant decrease of NF-κB, VEGF, TNF-α levels were shown in the MPC group compared with the MP control group. There was a significant decrease in IL-6 levels in a subgroup analysis of the MPC group. TNF-α levels had a significant correlation with remission [OR=1.35; (95%CI=1.03-1.76); P=0.03]. Conclusion: Curcumin has an efficacy in improving overall remission and decreasing NF-κB, VEGF, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in myeloma patients.

The Role of Beetroot Extract in Overcoming Chemoresistance of Neoadjuvant Adriamycin Cyclophosphamide Regimen by Targeting Immune Response in Tumor Microenvironment: A Preclinical Study in Mammary Adenocarcinoma Rats.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the role of beetroot extract in overcoming the chemoresistance of Neoadjuvant Adriamycin Cyclophosphamide (NAC) regimens with a target immune response in the tumour microenvironment at the pre-clinical stage. METHODS: This study was conducted on rats with 7,12-Dimethyl Benz (α) Anthracene (DMBA) induced mammary adenocarcinoma. Adriamycin Cyclophosphamide was given in 4 cycles, whereas beetroot extract was administered three times each cycle. Observations of CD8 T cells and Myeloid Derivative Suppressive Cells (MDSC) expression levels and pathological responses were carried out on tumour tissue taken at the end of the observation. RESULTS: Supplementation of beetroot extract to NAC could significantly increase CD8 T cells and decrease MDSC in the tumour microenvironment. The addition of beetroot extract gave a better pathological response. CONCLUSION: Beetroot extract enhances the immune response in the tumor microenvironment so that it has the potential to overcome chemoresistance in NAC.
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Invisible incarcerated umbilical hernia: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Umbilical hernia usually manifests as a bulging of umbilicus. Invisible incarcerated umbilical hernia has never been reported. CASE PRESENTATION: A 53-years-old obese woman admitted to hospital with abdominal pain and vomitus one day after discharged from other hospital, was managed conservatively as an adhesion small bowel obstruction (ASBO) for seven days. There was history of caesarean section 20 years ago. Abdomen was bloated, there was transverse scar wound in hypogastric region and no signs of external abdominal hernia. Plain abdominal x-ray showed dilated small bowel located in the central part of the abdomen. Abdominal CT scan was done to determine the other cause besides adhesion, it showed incarcerated umbilical hernia and gallbladder stone. Herniorrhaphy and laparoscopic cholecystectomy were performed. During surgery, there was a loop of vital small bowel, trapped in the umbilical defect. Mayo method was performed to close the defect. DISCUSSION: The other causes of small bowel obstruction should be determined besides adhesion, infectious disease and trauma. Umbilical hernia should be considered in obese women even without bulging in the umbilicus. Abdominal CT scan with oral water-soluble contrast is preferred as diagnostic tool to identify the cause of small bowel obstruction. CONCLUSION: Invisible incarcerated umbilical hernia is possible in obese patients. Routine palpation on potential sites of developing hernia and abdominal CT Scan are necessary to be done in obese patients with small bowel obstruction.

Giant duodenal diverticulum with mucinous carcinoma of distal bile duct, mimmicking Lemmel syndrome: A rare case report.

INTRODUCTION: Giant duodenal diverticulum is a very rare case. There are only few cases reported. We reported a case of giant duodenal diverticulum with biliary obstruction caused by mucinous carcinoma of distal common bile duct (CBD), that mimicking Lemmel syndrome. CASE PRESENTATION: A 68-years-old man admitted to hospital with recurrent epigastric pain, jaundice and fever. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed dilated intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary tree, dilated gallbladder and cystic mass in pancreatic head that pushed the pancreatic duct ventrally. Emergency laparotomy was performed. Distended edematous gallbladder with necrotic spot, dilated of CBD and compressible bulging of the pancreatic head were found. Duodenotomy in 2nd-3rd part was made and found a giant duodenal diverticulum filled with food and mucus. Tight adhesion to the ampula of Vater, common bile duct, and pancreas due to fibrosis, met difficulties in dissection with a lot of bleeding, hence the diverticulum was not removed. Gastrojejunostomy, cholecystectomy and choledocho-duodenostomy were also done. Pathologic examination of CBD mucus was accordance with mucinous carcinoma. DISCUSSION: Periampullary duodenal diverticulum can cause obstructive jaundice, known as Lemmel syndrome. This case was different as the giant duodenal diverticulum located in the 3rd part filled with food and mucin that compressed both distal CBD and pancreatic duct. The cause of obstructive jaundice could be fibrotic tissue in distal CBD and mucinous carcinoma. CONCLUSION: Giant duodenal diverticulum with bile obstruction is very rare and challenging in diagnosis and treatment. The other cause of obstruction should be considered such as mucinous carcinoma of distal CBD.

Anti-angiogenic effect of the combination of low-dose sorafenib and EGCG in HCC-induced Wistar rats.

Background:  Sorafenib is an expensive standard drug used for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Its combination with epigallo-3-catechin gallate leads to a reduced cost but equally effective anti-angiogenic effect. Therefore, this study aims to assess the anti-angiogenic effect of standard-dose Sorafenib compared to the combination of low-dose Sorafenib and epigallo-3-catechin gallate. Methods:  A total of 25 male Wistar rats (7-weeks-old) were randomly divided into 4 groups, namely Sham (K), Control (O), combination of low-dose Sorafenib and epigallo-3-catechin gallate group (X1), and standard-dose Sorafenib group (X2). All groups were injected with N-Nitrosodiethylamine 70 mg/kg bodyweight (BW) intraperitoneally for 10 weeks, except the Sham group. After the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, X1 and X2 were treated for 2 weeks. Subsequently, the level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and expression of microvascular density was examined using liver tissues. Results: There was a significant difference (p=0.007) in the level of VEGF between the group X1 (106,682 ± 41,024) and X2 (214,5162 ± 67,71652). However, the differences in VEGF level of group X1 and X2 compared to group O (318,101 ± 55,078) were significantly lower, with values p=0.000136 and p=0.019, respectively. The expression of microvascular density between groups X1 (36 ± 4,416) and X2 (26,2 ± 4,55) was not significantly different. Meanwhile, a significant difference (p<0.05) was discovered when both groups were compared with group O (176 ± 19). Conclusion: The combination of low-dose Sorafenib with epigallo-3-catechin gallate is superior in reducing the level of VEGF compared to standard-dose Sorafenib and is better than the control. Standard-dose Sorafenib as well as the combination of low-dose Sorafenib and epigallo-3-catechin gallate have similar effectivity to reduce the expression of microvascular density.

The Effects of Phyllanthus niruri Linn on Infiltrating Dendritic Cell and Ratio of Neutrophile/Lymphocytes in Chemotherapy of Sprague-Dawley Rats with Colorectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy as part of colorectal cancer management can cause death to immunologically active tumor cell, but also it has immune suppressive effect. Phyllanthus niruri Linn is known to has immunomodulatory effect. This study was intended to prove P. niruri Linn effect on infiltrating dendritic cells and Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios (NLRs) in Sprague-Dawley rats with colorectal cancer which were given capecitabine chemotherapy. METHODS: The study was randomized post-test only control group design. The samples were 39 Sprague-Dawley male rats, with body weight around 170-220 grams, induced by 1,2-dimetylhydrazine (DMH) 30 mg/kgBW once per week subcutaneously. On 9th,11th and 13th week, there were four induced rats sacrificed each week to detect colorectal cancer (CRC) development. On the 13th week, all of the 4 sacrificed rats developed colon cancer, so the induction had to be stopped. The rest of 27 induced rats were randomly divided into three groups: control-group (K) were left untreated (9 rats), group P1 (9 rats) were given Capecitabine and group P2 (9 rats) were given Capecitabine with combination of P. niruri Linn extract 13.5 mg/kgBW orally. After 17th week, all rats were terminated and tumor lesion of colon were processed to be paraffin blocks and were stained with HE for evaluating the NLRs, and immunohistochemistry (S100) for evaluating infiltrating dendritic cells. Data was analyzed by using Oneway-Anova-test and post-Hoc LSD-test. Considered significant if p was <0.05. RESULTS: The mean±standard deviation of infiltrating dendritic cells showed increasing value in group P2 (62.11±31.35) compared to group P1 (52.78±29.24) though not statistically significant. The mean of NLRs also showed statistically significant elevation of value in group P2 (0.13±0.05) compared to group P1 (0.04±0.01). CONCLUSION: Extract of Phyllanthus niruri Linn increasing immunologic status through elevation of infiltrating dendritic cells and NLRs in animal model colorectal cancer with Capecitabine chemotherapy.

The extent of distal intramural spread of colorectal cancer cell study of it's relationship with histological grading, stage of disease and CEA level.

BACKGROUND: The free margin of distal resection is an attempt to prevent local recurrence of the tumor and prolong survival. The recommended length of distal resection margin are varied among the researchers. This study was done to know the correlation between extents of distal intramural spread (DIS) and histology grading, stage and CEA levels of colorectal cancer. METHODS: The design of the study was a cross sectional. Sample was patients diagnosed with colon or rectal adenocarcinoma in the period of September 2017-March 2018 and underwent resection at Dr.Kariadi Hospital. Resected fresh tissue tumors were directly measured for the distal resection margin and histopathologic examination done by anatomical pathologists. This study has been approved by the ethics committee of Dr.Kariadi Hospital/Faculty of Medicine Diponegoro University. The relationship between DIS length to histology grading, tumor stage and CEA level were analyzed using Spearman's correlation test. RESULTS: The subjects of this study were 26 patients with colorectal cancer consisted of 15 men and 11 women. The average age of the patients was 53,04 years. The locations of the tumor were 17 in the rectum and 9 in the colon. The length DIS were between 1,07 and 11,49 mm. The longer DIS were occurred when the grading histology worsens, the tumor stage increases and the higher CEA levels with correlation coefficient were r = 0,77 (p < 0,001); r = 0,66 (p < 0,001) and r = 0,44 (p = 0,024) respectively. For the rectal location, the DIS length range were 0,28-10,36 mm. The longer DIS when grading histology worsens r = 0,59 (p = 0,012) and an increased tumor stage r = 0,73 (p = 0,001). The DIS length of the rectum was not proven to correlate with elevated CEA levels r = 0,14 (p = 0,588). CONCLUSION: Histological grading, tumor stage and CEA levels can be predictors of distal intramural spread (DIS) colorectal cancer. The strongest correlation were between DIS and histologic grading. Thus, in mid and lower third of the rectal cancer, the histologic grade examination is strongly recommended. Based on this study, it is recommended that in rectal cancer undergoing sphincter preserving surgery distal resection sould be more than 2 cm from the tumor margin.

Typhonium flagelliforme extract induce apoptosis in breast cancer stem cells by suppressing survivin.

CONTEXT: Breast cancer stem cells (bCSCs) are a small population of cancer-initiating cells within breast cancer, characterized as CD44+ CD24-/low. bCSCs develop apoptosis resistance by expressing survivin and suppressing caspase-9 and caspase-3 expression. Typhonium flagelliforme tuber extract (TFTe) can induce apoptosis in several types of cancer cells; however, the effects of TFTe to induce the bCSCs remain unclear. AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the effects of TFTe on apoptosis induction in bCSCs through the suppression of survivin and the exhibition of caspase-9 and caspase-3. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This study employed a posttest only, control group design. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: To analyze the apoptotic index, TFTe, at concentrations of 25 (Tf1d), 50.89 (Tf2d), and 100 µg/mL (Tf3d) were used to treat bCSCs for 24 h, in a humidified incubator containing 5% CO2, at 37°C. The control group was exposed to dimethyl sulfoxide. Apoptosis was measured by propidium iodide and acridine orange double-staining, and the expression levels of survivin, caspase-9, and caspase-3 were assessed by immunocytochemistry. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Differences were analyzed by the independent Student's t-test, to compare two groups, and the Kruskal-Wallis test, to compare more than two groups. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: TFTe inhibited bCSC proliferation, with an IC50 value of 50.89 µg/mL, and significantly induced apoptosis in bCSCs (P < 0.001). TFTe also significantly decreased the expression levels of survivin in bCSCs (P < 0.001) and increased the expression levels of caspase-9 and caspase-3 (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: TFTe can induce apoptosis in bCSCs by decreasing survivin expression levels and increasing the levels of caspase-9 and caspase-3.

Terapia psicoeducativa para familias de pacientes con esquizofrenia paranoide / Psychoeducational therapy with families of paranoid schizophrenia patients

OBJETIVO: El objetivo del estudio fue medir la efectividad de la terapia psicoeducativa en la carga familiar de los pacientes con esquizofrenia paranoide. MÉTODOS: En este estudio se utilizó un diseño de investigación experimental con un grupo de control equivalente que utilizó 84 muestras de asignación aleatoria en un hospital psiquiátrico en Semarang. El instrumento del estudio fue la versión indonesia de la escala de carga del cuidador (CBS). Se utilizó la prueba Mann-Whitney para analizar los datos. RESULTADOS: Los hallazgos obtenidos muestran la efectividad de la terapia psicoeducativa sobre la carga familiar en el grupo experimental en comparación con la terapia estándar en el grupo control (antes: Z=−1,27; p = 0,092; después: Z=−3,47; p = 0,002). CONCLUSIÓN: Concluimos que la terapia psicoeducativa de la familia, como la aplicada en el grupo experimental, puede disminuir la carga familiar en las familias de pacientes con esquizofrenia paranoide. La aplicación de una terapia psicoeducativa familiar puede servir de guía a la enfermera psiquiátrica en la reducción de la carga familiar en el cuidado de pacientes con esquizofrenia paranoide

AIM: The study aimed to measure the effectiveness of psychoeducational therapy on the burden of families of paranoid schizophrenia patients. METHODS: An experimental research design was used in this study with an equivalent control group using 84 random allocation samples at a mental hospital in Semarang. The study instrument was the Indonesian version of the care burden scale (CBS). The Mann-Whitney test was used for the data analysis. RESULTS: The findings obtained show the effectiveness of psychoeducational therapy on family burden in the experimental group as opposed to standard therapy in the control group (before: Z=−1.27; P=.092, and after: Z=−3.47; P=.002). CONCLUSION: We conclude that family psychoeducational therapy, as given to the experiment group, can decrease the family burden for the family of a paranoid schizophrenia patient. The application of family psychoeducational therapy can serve as guidance for the psychiatric nurse in reducing the family burden in the care of patients with paranoid schizophrenia

Screening of Indonesian peat soil bacteria producing antimicrobial compounds.

The development and world-wide spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria have a high concern in the medicine, especially the extended-spectrum of beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). There are currently very limited effective antibiotics to treat infections caused by MDR bacteria. Peat-soil is a unique environment in which bacteria have to compete each other to survive, for instance, by producing antimicrobial substances. This study aimed to isolate bacteria from peat soils from South Kalimantan Indonesia, which capable of inhibiting the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Isolates from peat soil were grown and identified phenotypically. The cell-free supernatant was obtained from broth culture by centrifugation and was tested by agar well-diffusion technique against non ESBL-producing E. coli ATCC 25922, ESBL-producing E. coli ATCC 35218, methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) ATCC 29,213 and MRSA ATCC 43300. Putative antimicrobial compounds were separated using SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and purified using electroelution method. Antimicrobial properties of the purified compounds were confirmed by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). In total 28 isolated colonies were recovered; three (25PS, 26PS, and 27PS) isolates produced proteins with strong antimicrobial activities against both reference strains. The substance of proteins from three isolates exerted strong antimicrobial activity against ESBL-producing E. coli ATCC 35,218 (MIC = 2,80 µg/mL (25PS), 3,76 µg/mL (26PS), and 2,41 µg/mL (27PS), and MRSA ATCC 43,300 (MIC = 4,20 µg/mL (25PS), 5,65 µg/mL (26PS), and 3,62 µg/mL (27PS), and also had the ability bactericidal properties against the reference strains. There were isolates from Indonesian peat which were potentials sources of new antimicrobials.

Circulating level of 25(OH)D3 with risk factors of asymptomatic adenoma and proximal non-adenoma colorectal polyps / Níveis circulantes de 25(OH)D3 com fatores de risco de adenoma assintomático e pólipos colorretais proximais sem adenoma

ABSTRACT Background: An inverse association between circulating vitamin D and adenoma risk hasbeen reported, but less is known about proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic polyps.Purpose: To investigate circulating 25(OH)D3and risk factors of proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic and adenoma colorectal polyps.Methods: From January 2017 to June 2019, consecutive asymptomatic average-risk partic-ipants undergoing initial screening colonoscopy. Questionnaires provided information oncolorectal polyp risk factors, and plasma samples were assayed for 25-Hydroxyvitamin-D ­25(OH)D3. The colorectal polyps were assessed, and medical history and demographic datawere obtained from each patient.Results: Of the 220 asymptomatic subjects, the prevalence of proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic polyps and adenoma polyps were 16.8%; 18.1% and 22.2%, respectively.Multivariate analysis revealed that low vitamin D (25(OH)D3< 18 ng/mL, OR = 3.94; 95%CI: 1.81­9.51) and current/former smoking (OR = 6.85; 95% CI: 2.98­15.70), high bodymass index (BMI > 24, OR = 5.32, 95% CI: 2.62­4.71) were independent predictors forproximal inflammatory-hyperplastic colorectal polyps (non-adenoma). Low vitamin D(25(OH)D3< 18 ng/mL, OR = 7.75; 95% CI: 3.19­18.80) and current/former smoking (OR = 3.75;95% CI: 1.30­10.81), age over 60 years old (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.02­5.57), were independentpredictors for adenoma colorectal polyps.Conclusion: Low vitamin D and smoking are common risk factors for both adenomatous andproximal inflammatory hyperplastic polyps. Old age and BMI are additional risk factors forthe development of adenomatous and non-adenomatous colorectal polyps.

RESUMO Background: An inverse association between circulating vitamin D and adenoma risk hasbeen reported, but less is known about proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic polyps.Purpose: To investigate circulating 25(OH)D3and risk factors of proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic and adenoma colorectal polyps.Methods: From January 2017 to June 2019, consecutive asymptomatic average-risk partic-ipants undergoing initial screening colonoscopy. Questionnaires provided information oncolorectal polyp risk factors, and plasma samples were assayed for 25-Hydroxyvitamin-D ­25(OH)D3. The colorectal polyps were assessed, and medical history and demographic datawere obtained from each patient.Results: Of the 220 asymptomatic subjects, the prevalence of proximal inflammatory-hyperplastic polyps and adenoma polyps were 16.8%; 18.1% and 22.2%, respectively.Multivariate analysis revealed that low vitamin D (25(OH)D3< 18 ng/mL, OR = 3.94; 95%CI: 1.81­9.51) and current/former smoking (OR = 6.85; 95% CI: 2.98­15.70), high bodymass index (BMI > 24, OR = 5.32, 95% CI: 2.62­4.71) were independent predictors forproximal inflammatory-hyperplastic colorectal polyps (non-adenoma). Low vitamin D(25(OH)D3< 18 ng/mL, OR = 7.75; 95% CI: 3.19­18.80) and current/former smoking (OR = 3.75;95% CI: 1.30­10.81), age over 60 years old (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.02­5.57), were independentpredictors for adenoma colorectal polyps.Conclusion: Low vitamin D and smoking are common risk factors for both adenomatous andproximal inflammatory hyperplastic polyps. Old age and BMI are additional risk factors forthe development of adenomatous and non-adenomatous colorectal polyps.

Role of micronize purified flavonoid fraction and ethanol Graptophyllum pictum extract on experimental anal ulcer healing. Study on Wistar rat / Papel da fração flavonoica purificada micronizada e do extrato etanólico de Graptophyllum Pictum em experimento de cicatrização de úlcera anal. Estudo com ratos Wistar

ABSTRACT Aim of the study To evaluate the role of micronized purified flavanoid fraction and ethanol Graptophyllum pictum extract in the treatment of anal ulcer. Method Twenty-eight Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups. Groups 2, 3 and 4 the anus were induced with croton oil, but was not induced on group 1. Groups 1 and 2 were treated with normal saline, while groups 3 and 4 were treated with micronized purified flavanoid fraction, and ethanol G. pictum extract, respectively. On 9th days blood sample were taken from the retro-orbital region, and Wistar was killed by cervical dislocation under ether anesthesia. The anal canal was resected up 2 cm from anal opening, weighted, photographically taken to measure the percentage of residual ulcer, and then prepared for microscopic examination. Elisa methods were done for superoxide dismutase and malondialdedhyde. The total leukocyte in the anal specimen was counted under 400 magnification power. superoxide dismutase, anal coefficient, and total leukocyte for statistical analysis were using ANOVA and LSD, while malondialdedhyde and percentage of ulcers were using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney. Result Treatment with ethanol G. pictum extract dose of 100 mg/kg BW significantly reduces the percentage of anal ulcer, the edema, leukocyte infiltration, and malondialdedhyde, and increase the superoxide dismutase in comparison without treatment. Treatment with micronized purified flavanoid fraction did not reduce the leukocyte, anal coefficient, and percentage of anal ulcer, only increase malondialdedhyde and decrease superoxide dismutase significantly.

RESUMO Objetivo do estudo Avaliar o papel da Fração Flavonoica Purificada Micronizada e do Extrato Etanólico de Graptophyllum pictum no tratamento de úlcera anal. Método Vinte e oito ratos Wistar foram randomicamente alocados em quatro grupos. Nos grupos 2, 3 e 4, indução com óleo de cróton foi realizada no ânus, excetuando-se o Grupo 1. Os grupos 1 e 2 foram tratados com solução salina normal, enquanto os grupos 3 e 4 foram tratados com fração flavonoica purificada micronizada e extrato etanólico de Graptophyllum pictum, respectivamente. No nono dia, amostras de sangue foram colhidas da região retroorbital, e o rato Wistar sofreu eutanásia por deslocamento cervical sob anestesia com éter. O canal anal foi ressecado até 2 cm da abertura anal, ponderado e fotografado para medir a porcentagem de úlcera residual e, em seguida, preparado para exame microscópico. Os métodos superoxide dismutase e malondialdedhyde do ensaio Elisa foram realizados. A contagem total de leucócitos foi realizada na amostra anal com ampliação de 400 vezes. ANOVA e LSD foram utilizados para a análise estatística de superoxide dismutase, coeficiente anal e número total de leucócitos, enquanto os testes de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney foram utilizados para a análise de malondialdedhyde e porcentagem de úlceras. Resultado O tratamento com o extrato etanólico de Graptophyllum pictum (100 mg/kg de peso corporal) reduz de modo significativo a porcentagem de úlceras anais, o edema, a infiltração de leucócitos e o malondialdedhyde e aumenta a superoxide dismutase, comparado ao não tratamento. O tratamento com a fração flavonoica purificada micronizada não reduziu os leucócitos, o coeficiente anal e a porcentagem de úlceras anais, apenas aumentou o malondialdedhyde e diminuiu significativamente a superoxide dismutase.

Psychoeducational therapy with families of paranoid schizophrenia patients. / Terapia psicoeducativa para familias de pacientes con esquizofrenia paranoide.

AIM: The study aimed to measure the effectiveness of psychoeducational therapy on the burden of families of paranoid schizophrenia patients. METHODS: An experimental research design was used in this study with an equivalent control group using 84 random allocation samples at a mental hospital in Semarang. The study instrument was the Indonesian version of the care burden scale (CBS). The Mann-Whitney test was used for the data analysis. RESULTS: The findings obtained show the effectiveness of psychoeducational therapy on family burden in the experimental group as opposed to standard therapy in the control group (before: Z=-1.27; P=.092, and after: Z=-3.47; P=.002). CONCLUSION: We conclude that family psychoeducational therapy, as given to the experiment group, can decrease the family burden for the family of a paranoid schizophrenia patient. The application of family psychoeducational therapy can serve as guidance for the psychiatric nurse in reducing the family burden in the care of patients with paranoid schizophrenia.

Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on Ki-67 and VEGF Expression Levels and Clinical Outcomes of Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Neoadjuvant CAF Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial Report

Background: Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with an ability to regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis through interaction with inflammatory mediators. The potential additional beneficial effects of Omega-3 on chemotherapy patients with breast cancer is not yet completely revealed. Methods: A double-blind randomized control trial (RCT) involving a total of 48 locally advanced breast cancer patients was conducted. Ki-67 and VEGF expressions, as well as overall survival of patients receiving neoadjuvant cyclophosphamide-doxorubicin-5'fluorouracyl (CAF) chemotherapy plus Omega-3 (intervention group) or placebo (control group), were compared. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox-regression tests were used to assess conditional disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two groups. Results: Decreased Ki-67 expression was observed in the intervention group compared to control (42.4±4.8 versus 39.2±5.3; T-test p=0.032). Decreased Ki-67 expression was observed in intervention compared to control group (42.4±4.8 versus 39.2±5.3; T-test p=0.032). Decreased VEGF expression was also seen in the intervention group compared to control (32.7±5.2 versus 29.5±5.4; T-test p=0.041). VEGF expression positively correlated with Ki-67 expression (Spearman's test p<0.001, R2=0.541). Overall survival in the intervention group was significantly longer in comparison to the control group (mean survival: 30.9 ± 3.71 versus 25.9 ± 3.6 weeks, Mantel-Cox test p=0.048; HR=0.411, 95%CI: 0.201-0.840). Disease-free survival was significantly longer in the intervention group compared to the control group (mean survival: 28.5 ± 3.3 versus 23.7 ± 3.6, respectively; Mantel-Cox test p=0.044, HR= 0.439, 95%CI: 0.222-0.869). Conclusion: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation improved overall survival and progression-free survival of locally advanced breast cancer treated with CAF neoadjuvant chemotherapy and mastectomy.

Effect of phaleria macrocarpa supplementation on apoptosis and tumor growth of C3H mice with breast cancer under treatment with adriamycin-cyclophosphamide.

The objective of this study was to know the response of supplementation of Phaleria macrocarpa (PM) to adriamycin-cyclophosphamide (AC) in the treatment of C3H mice with breast cancer. Twenty-four C3H mice, who were successfully inoculated with breast cancer cells, were randomly allocated into 4 groups: without treatment, treated with AC, treated with AC + PM 0.07 mg/d, and treated with AC + PM 0.14 mg/d. The tumor size was measured using millimeter calipers before and 12 weeks after treatment. The tumor, liver, and kidneys were removed and prepared for pathologic examination using imunohistochemistry staining, and the apoptotic index was counted using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling method. AC reduce the tumor growth significantly (P < 0.001), whereas supplementation of PM, which significantly reduced the tumor growth compared with AC only, was at the 0.14 mg/d dose (P = 0.007). AC increase the apoptotic index significantly (P < 0.001), and supplementation with PM showed that the higher dose increased the apoptotic index. The correlation between the apoptotic index and the diameter of tumor was significantly negative (r = -0.884; P = 0.020). The apoptotic index of the liver and kidney increased significantly in the AC group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively); supplementation with PM decreased significantly the high apoptotic index caused by AC. We conclude that PM supplementation has a synergic effect to AC treatment in reducing the tumor growth, by increasing apoptosis, and protects the liver and kidney from damage caused by AC.