Understanding the Roles of Selenium on Thyroid Hormone-Induced Thermogenesis in Adipose Tissue

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT) are known to regulate lipid metabolism. A lower amount of BAT compared to WAT, along with adipose tissue dysfunction, can result in obesity. Studies have shown that selenium supplementation protects against adipocyte dysfunction, decreases WAT triglycerides, and increases BAT triiodothyronine (T3). In this review, we discuss the relationship between selenium and lipid metabolism regulation through selenoprotein deiodinases and the role of deiodinases and thyroid hormones in the induction of adipose tissue thermogenesis. Upon 22 studies included in our review, we found that studies investigating the relationship between selenium and deiodinases demonstrated that selenium supplementation affects the iodothyronine deiodinase 2 (DIO2) protein and the expression of its associated gene, DIO2, proportionally. However, its effect on DIO1 is inconsistent while its effect on DIO3 activity is not detected. Studies have shown that the activity of deiodinases especially DIO2 protein and DIO2 gene expression is increased along with other browning markers upon white adipose tissue browning induction. Studies showed that thermogenesis is stimulated by the thyroid hormone T3 as its activity is correlated to the expression of other thermogenesis markers. A proposed mechanism of thermogenesis induction in selenium supplementation is by autophagy control. However, more studies are needed to establish the role of T3 and autophagy in adipose tissue thermogenesis, especially, since some studies have shown that thermogenesis can function even when T3 activity is lacking and studies related to autophagy in adipose tissue thermogenesis have contradictory results.

Alliaxylines A-E: five new mexicanolides from the stem barks of Dysoxylum alliaceum (Blume) Blume ex A.Juss

A total of five new mexicanolides (1-5), namely alliaxylines A-E, together with two known limonoids 6 and 7, were isolated and identified from Dysoxylum alliaceum (Blume) Blume ex. A.Juss. (Meliaceae). The structures of these compounds were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic analyses, including HR-ESI-MS, UV, IR, 1D, and 2D NMR, as well as theoretical stimulation of NMR shifts with the DP4 + algorithm. Consequently, this study aimed to examine cytotoxic activities of these compounds against MCF-7 and A549 cell lines. The results implied that compound 2 was the most potent against the two tested cells, with IC50 values of 34.95 ± 0.21 and 44.39 ± 1.03 µM.

Effect of Low Protein Diet on Bone Structure of Young Wistar Mice

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Malnutrition and stunting are major unresolved problems in Indonesia. Protein deficiency can cause stunted growth, as well as make physical and cognitive abilities cannot reach their maximum potential. During childhood the need for protein must be fulfilled so that the peak of bone formation during adolescence can be perfect. In malnourished children, a low protein diet will lead to thinning of the bone cortex. Due to the high rate of stunting and malnutrition in children due to protein deficiency, a study was conducted on the effects of feeding low protein diet on rat bones. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Male Wistar rats (n = 10) at 6-8 weeks old (body weight around 250 g), control groups were fed a normal chow diet and low protein diet groups were given low protein chow diet (protein 5%) for 18 weeks, then the rats were sacrificed and the femoral bones were isolated. Body weight, femur weight, femur length were checked and bone density was examined using X-ray. <b>Results:</b> The body proportions of the low protein group rats were smaller and thinner than those of the control group. This difference is supported by the significant weight loss starting from the sixth week after low protein feeding. There are significant differences in body weight and femur weight between the control and low protein diet groups. Bone density decreases significantly in low protein diet group. Macroscopically, the femur length of the low protein group was shorter than the control group, however the femur length did not show significant differences statistically between the two groups. <b>Conclusion:</b> A low protein diet decreased the body weight of the rats, also causing impaired bone growth characterized by decreasing femur weight. The low protein diet also caused osteoporosis in the bones.

Carotenoids in red fruit (Pandanus conoideus Lam.) have a potential role as an anti‑pigmentation agent (Review)

Melasma is a persistent condition characterized by excessive melanin production in the skin. The management of melasma necessitates a protracted treatment duration, which is associated with diminished levels of patient satisfaction. One effective strategy for mitigating occurrence of melasma is consumption of nutricosmetics with depigmentation properties. The present review aimed to investigate the potential of red fruit as a depigmentation agent. Carotenoids serve a crucial role in human nutrition as a precursor to vitamin A. Carotenoids serve as scavengers of reactive oxygen species generated by ultraviolet radiation. Carotenoids promote skin health. Red fruit, a fruit originating from Papua (Indonesia) has anti-pigmentation properties associated with its ability to block melanogenesis through various protein pathways such as PKA, ERK, and AKT signaling pathways. The consumption of food rich in carotenoids, such as red fruit, has advantageous properties to reduce hyperpigmentation and skin brightening.

Translocator Protein 18 kDa (TSPO): A Promising Molecular Target for Image-Guided Surgery of Solid Cancers

The translocator protein 18-kDa (TSPO) is a mitochondrial membrane protein that is previously identified as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR). Furthermore, it plays a significant role in a diverse range of biochemical processes, including steroidogenesis, mitochondrial cholesterol transport, cell survival and death, cell proliferation, and carcinogenesis. Several investigations also reported its roles in various types of cancers, including colorectal, brain, breast, prostate, and lung cancers, as well as melanoma. According to a previous study, the expression of TSPO was upregulated in cancer cells, which corresponds to an aggressive phenotype and/or poor prognosis. Consequently, the potential for crafting diagnostic and prognostic tools with a focus on TSPO holds great potential. In this context, several radioligands designed to target this protein have been identified, and some of the candidates have advanced to clinical trials. In recent years, the use of hybrid probes with radioactive and fluorescence molecules for image-guided surgery has exhibited promising results in animal and human studies. This indicates that the approach can serve as a valuable surgical navigator during cancer surgery. The current hybrid probes are built from various molecular platforms, including small molecules, nanoparticles, and antibodies. Although several TSPO-targeted imaging probes have been developed, their development for image-guided surgery of cancers is still limited. Therefore, this review aims to highlight recent findings on the involvement of TSPO in carcinogenesis, as well as provide a new perspective on the potential application of TSPO-targeted hybrid probes for image-guided surgery.

Pharmacological Activity of Chemical Compounds of Potato Peel Waste (Solanum tuberosum L.) in vitro: A Scoping Review

Introduction

The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a short-lived tuber plant with a round to oval shape and varying colors, depending on the variety. It is known that only the inside of the potato is used, while the peel is generally discarded. However, recent studies have shown that potato peels contain many health-beneficial compounds.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the compounds present in potato peels and their in vitro activities.

Methods

A scoping review following the PRISMA guidelines was conducted. The selection process involved identifying articles of in vitro research published within the last 10 years (2012-2022). Electronic searches were conducted using the portals Scopus, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, and Portal Garuda by using the keywords "potato" or "Solanum tuberosum" and "peel" or "skin". The search was limited to articles in English with full text availability.

Results

The screening process resulted in a total of 4773 articles from the four search engines; 14 articles were obtained that met the requirements for the review, most of which use extract preparations in their research. Extracts of flavonoids, phenols, and glycoalkaloids are the most frequently studied compounds, and their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity have undergone extensive research.

Conclusion

The potential compounds contained in potato peels, including flavonoids, phenols, and glycoalkaloids, are highly abundant and offer numerous benefits. Provides opportunities for further research to prove the potential pathway activity of the compound. These compounds have been the subject of extensive research, suggesting their significance in the context of health and nutrition.

Refining macrostomia correction: Case series applying square flap technique and Z/W-plasty skin closure for enhanced aesthetic and functional outcome

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Macrostomia is a congenital deformity found in Tessier no. 7 facial clefts defined as an enlargement of the mouth at the oral commissure. Several techniques are described in literature to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic results, with varying results and surgeon preferences. In this case series we report surgical repair of macrostomia with a vermillion square flap method for the oral commissure combined with either Z-plasty or W-plasty closure for the skin.

CASES PRESENTATION

A retrospective case analysis of 12 patients with macrostomia operated over the past 7 years at our plastic surgery division was performed (by two different operators; 11 cases by A.S. and 1 case by R.S.). Clinical features of the patients were analyzed through photography documentation, and patient description such as age of operation, operation technique, and complications were obtained through patient records. Macrostomia was corrected with a vermillion square flap method for commissure, overlapping muscle closure, along with either Z-plasty or W-plasty closure for the skin. Quality of lip commissure position, symmetry, thickness of vermillion, and scar result were recorded.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

In all twelve patients repaired with the overlapping muscle closure and square flap, the lip commissures were formed with satisfactory shape, position, and thickness with no commissure contracture during the follow up period. The Z-plasty was a simpler method compared to the W-plasty, and resulted in comparable scars. One patient (adult with hemifacial macrostomia and W-plasty skin closure) underwent revision surgery for more accurate symmetry and position of the oral commissure.

CONCLUSION

There are many varieties of surgical repair for macrostomia, and each method should be adjusted and combined according to each patient. Overall, macrostomia repair with this technique combination produced satisfactory aesthetic and functional results in all twelve patients. Z-plasty for skin closure after muscle and vermillion closure was a simpler technique and resulted in comparable scars than W-pasty closure in this case series.

The predictive value of infrared thermal imaging (IRT) for peripheral artery disease: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Medical infrared thermal imaging (IRT) has been applied to research blood flow, breast cancer detection, and human body muscle performance. The benefits of IRT include the fact that it is noninvasive, quick, dependable, non-contact, capable of creating several recordings in a short period of time, and secure for both patients and medical professionals. We aimed to determine the predictive value of IRT for identifying and evaluating any interventional procedure in patients affected by peripheral artery disease (PAD) of any severity.

METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PubMed on the topic of IRT and PAD until January 20,2023. We excluded gray literature as it is lacking credibility for not undergoing a peer-reviewed process. The search strategy includes the medical topic headings for "infrared thermal imaging" and "peripheral vascular disorders." The primary outcome of this systematic review was the variation in tissue perfusion in PAD patients. Each technique's technical characteristics and therapeutic use within PAD must be described in each included study.

RESULTS

This systematic review included 2 case reports and 3 observational studies. By comparing the temperatures of PAD patients hands, legs, and feet, IRT might prove to be an unduly valuable tool for treating vascular illnesses, especially in light of the knowledge gained from the temperature distribution maps.

CONCLUSION

This noninvasive method demonstrated encouraging results in the detection of various areas of foot perfusion and the screening of PAD, and it gave good findings in gauging the effects of any type of intervention.

Research Trends in Molecular Biological Studies on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Bibliometric Analysis

Background: Since the discovery of PCR and ELISA, in vitro research in the realm of molecular biology pertaining to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has witnessed significant expansion. Objective: to provide a comprehensive overview of molecular biology research on OSCC through visual mapping techniques. Methods: We conducted an analysis of publications within the "oral squamous cell carcinoma" category from Scopus' core collection. On 20 January 2023, we screened these publications using an advanced search employing the keywords "oral squamous cell cancer" and "cell line." Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and VOSviewer, facilitating the examination of author contributions, journal productivity, institutional affiliations, and contributions by nations. VOSviewer was further utilized for co-occurrence and reference analysis of keywords. Results: A total of 781 papers spanning from 1992 to 2023 were collected. Notably, Japan, China, and the United States emerged as significant contributors in this field. The Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry (Japan) ranked first with 21 publications. Chae J-I of Chonbuk National University (South Korea) emerged as the most prolific author, with 14 publications. The International Journal of Oncology and the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine were identified as the two most prolific journals. The central themes that emerged were epidermal growth factor receptor, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis. Conclusion: The rate of publications focused on the molecular biology of OSCC has seen a remarkable increase. Research priorities have shifted from topics such as "radiation, RANKL, cyclin D1, RNA interference, and matrix metalloproteinase" to encompass areas such as "chemoresistance due to cisplatin, other therapeutic agents (metformin and monoclonal antibody), autophagy, inflammation, microRNA, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and STAT3 (with roles in cell migration and tumorigenesis)." These seven significant future research areas hold promise in identifying reliable biological markers for oral cancer detection and treatment, thereby improving clinical outcomes.

New hybrid radio-fluorescent probes [131I]-BPF-01 and [131I]-BPF-02 for visualisation of cancer cells: Synthesis and preliminary in vitro and ex vivo evaluations

We synthesised and biologically evaluated two new hybrid probes [131I]BPF-01 and [131I]BPF-02 which were built from three structural entities: benzothiazole-phenyl, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), and iodine-131. These probes were designed for potential applications in assisting surgical procedures of solid cancers. The cytotoxicity study demonstrated that fluorescent probes BPF-01 (31.23 μg/mL) and BPF-02 (250 μg/mL) were relatively not toxic to normal immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells, as indicated by the percentage of cell survival above 50 %. Furthermore, both probes displayed low to moderate anticancer activity against the breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and prostate cancer cells (LNCaP and DU-145). The probe BPF-01 apparently showed an accumulation in the tumour tissues, as suggested by ex vivo fluorescence examinations. In addition, the cellular uptake study suggests that hybrid probe [131I]-BPF-01 was potentially accumulated in the MCF-7 cell line with the highest uptake of 16.11 ± 1.52 % after 2 h of incubation, approximately 50-fold higher than the accumulation of iodine-131 (control). The magnetic bead assay suggests that [131I]-BPF-02 and [131I]-BPF-02 showed a promising capability to interact with translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO). Moreover, the computational data showed that the binding scores for ligands 7-8, BPF-01 and BPF-02, and [131I]-BPF-01 and [131I]-BPF-02 in the TSPO were considerably high. Accordingly, fluorescent probes BPF-01 and BPF-02, and hybrid probes [131I]BPF-01 and [131I]BPF-02 can be further developed for targeting cancer cells during intraoperative tumour surgery.

The pathology of oxidative stress-induced autophagy in a chronic rotator cuff enthesis tear

Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs) are often found in daily orthopedic practice, with most of the tears occurring in middle-aged patients. An anaerobic process and imbalanced oxygenation have been observed in PTRCTs, resulting in oxidative stress. Studies have shown the roles of oxidative stress in autophagy and the potential of unregulated mechanisms causing disturbance in soft tissue healing. This article aims to review literature works and summarize the potential pathology of oxidative stress and unregulated autophagy in the rotator cuff enthesis correlated with chronicity. We collected and reviewed the literature using appropriate keywords, in addition to the manually retrieved literature. Autophagy is a normal mechanism of tissue repair or conversion to energy needed for the repair of rotator cuff tears. However, excessive mechanisms will degenerate the tendon, resulting in an abnormal state. Chronic overloading of the enthesis in PTRCTs and the hypovascular nature of the proximal tendon insertion will lead to hypoxia. The hypoxia state results in oxidative stress. An autophagy mechanism is induced in hypoxia via hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) 1/Bcl-2 adenovirus E1B 19-kDa interacting protein (BNIP) 3, releasing beclin-1, which results in autophagy induction. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation would induce autophagy as the regulator of cell oxidation. Oxidative stress will also remove the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) from the induction complex, causing phosphorylation and initiating autophagy. Hypoxia and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress would initiate unfolded protein response (UPR) through protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) and activate transcription factor 4, which induces autophagy. Oxidative stress occurring in the hypovascularized chronic rotator cuff tear due to hypoxia and ROS accumulation would result in unregulated autophagy directly or autophagy mediated by HIF-1, mTOR, and UPR. These mechanisms would disrupt enthesis healing.

Chitosan/Alginate Polymeric Nanoparticle-Loaded α-Mangostin: Characterization, Cytotoxicity, and In Vivo Evaluation against Breast Cancer Cells

α-mangostin (Amg), a compound isolated from the mangosteen rind (Garcinia mangostana, L.), has demonstrated promising anticancer activity. However, its low solubility and selectivity against cancer cells limit its efficacy. To address this issue, researchers have developed chitosan/alginate polymeric nanoparticles (NANO-AMCAL) to enhance the effectiveness of Amg. In vitro studies have demonstrated that NANO-AMCAL is highly active against breast cancer cells. Therefore, an in vivo study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of NANO-AMCAL in treating breast cancer in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) and determine the effective dose. The rats were divided into seven treatment groups, including positive control, negative control, pure Amg, and NANO-AMCAL 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. The rats were injected subcutaneously with a carcinogenic agent, 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and were evaluated for weight and tumor volume every three days during treatment. Surgery was performed on day 14, and histopathological studies were carried out on breast and lung cancer tissues. The results showed that NANO-AMCAL significantly enhanced the anticancer activity of Amg in treating breast cancer in Wistar rats. NANO-AMCAL containing 0.33 mg of Amg had a healing effect three times better than 20 mg pure Amg and was comparable to tamoxifen. The effective dose of NANO-AMCAL for anti-breast cancer treatment in Wistar rats was found to be 20 mg, which exhibited a good healing response, and the tumor volume continued to decrease up to 17.43% on the 14th day. Furthermore, histopathological tests showed tissue repair and no metastases. These findings suggest that NANO-AMCAL may be a promising therapeutic option for breast cancer treatment.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New Fluorescent Probe BPN-01: A Model Molecule for Fluorescence Image-guided Surgery

Fluorescence image-guided surgery (FIGS) can serve as a tool to achieve successful resection of tumour tissues during surgery, serving as a surgical navigator for surgeons. FIGS relies on the use of fluorescent molecules that can specifically interact with cancer cells. In this work, we developed a new model of fluorescent probe based on benzothiazole-phenylamide moiety featuring the visible fluorophore nitrobenzoxadiazole (NBD), namely BPN-01. This compound was designed and synthesised for potential applications in the tissue biopsy examination and ex-vivo imaging during FIGS of solid cancers. The probe BPN-01 exhibited favourable spectroscopic properties, particularly in nonpolar and alkaline solvents. Moreover, in vitro fluorescence imaging revealed that the probe appeared to recognise and be internalised in the prostate (DU-145) and melanoma (B16-F10) cancer cells, but not in the normal cells (myoblast C2C12). The cytotoxicity studies revealed that probe BPN-01 was not toxic to the B16 cells, suggesting excellent biocompatibility. Furthermore, the computational analysis showed that the calculated binding affinity of the probe to both translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was considerably high. Hence, probe BPN-01 displays promising properties and may be valuable for visualising cancer cells in vitro. Furthermore, ligand 5 can potentially be labelled with NIR fluorophore and radionuclide, and serves as a dual imaging agent for in vivo applications.

Exercise intensities modulate ACE2/MasR/eNOS pathway in male Wistar rat's lung

Specific exercise intensities could improve lung vascular function by increasing nitric oxide (NO). The ACE2/MasR/eNOS axis is one of the pathways facilitating NO synthesis. This study examines the effect of different intensities of aerobic training on the ACE2/MasR/eNOS axis and histology of lung muscular arteries. Male Wistar rats were used in this study and randomized into control and exercise groups receiving low-, moderate-, and high-intensity training. The training was conducted for 30 min daily, five times a week, for 8 weeks. We observed that different exercise intensities affect the ACE2/MasR/eNOS pathway differently. Compared to control, high-intensity aerobic exercise significantly increased ACE2, Mas receptor (MasR), and eNOS mRNA expressions (p < 0.01). Moderate-intensity exercise significantly increased MasR and eNOS mRNA expressions compared to the control (p < 0.05), and this intensity also increased ACE2 mRNA but not significantly. Low-intensity exercise increased ACE2, MasR, and eNOS mRNA expressions but not significantly. Low-, moderate-, or high-intensity exercises reduced the medial wall thickness of the lung muscular arteries but not significantly. In conclusion, high-intensity exercise may induce NO synthesis in the lung by increasing mRNA expression of ACE2, MasR, and eNOS without decreasing the medial wall thickness of the muscular artery. Thus, high-intensity exercise may be the optimal intensity to improve NO synthesis and vascular function in the lung.

V-ATPase subunit C 1 and IKBIP as tandem prospective biomarkers for diabetic nephropathy

AIMS

The appearance of low-molecular-weight (LMW) protein in the urine indicates any disruption in the structural integrity of the glomerular capillary wall; therefore, the presence of LMW protein may be a potential predictive marker for DN.

METHODS

The urine proteomic profiling of T2DM patients (n = 94) and control group (n = 32) was compared by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and the untargeted LMW protein was identified by Progenesis Q1 For Proteomics v4.2.

RESULTS

A total of 73 LMW proteins were identified and quantified, of which, 32 proteins were found to be altered significantly (p < 0.05). Further analysis with heat maps identified two potential proteins with the highest folding alterations in urine. V-ATPase subunit C 1 abundance was significantly inversely correlated with microalbumin and significantly decreased in urine, whereas increased IKBIP was positively correlated with microalbumin. The level of those proteins was significantly different among the control, T2DM, and DN groups, implying an association with the progression of DN.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings of our study indicate that the decreasing V-ATPase subunit C 1 together with increasing IKBIP in urine, were found to be closely associated with DN complications and signifying their value as biomarkers for predicting the risk of DN at initial diagnosis.

Propolis-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for α-Mangostin Delivery: Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity Evaluation

α-Mangostin (a xanthone derivative found in the pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L.) and propolis extract (which is rich in flavonoids and phenols) are known for their antioxidant properties, making them potential supplements for the treatment of oxidative stress-related conditions. However, these two potential substances have the same primary drawback, which is low solubility in water. The low water solubility of α-mangostin and propolis can be overcome by utilizing nanotechnology approaches. In this study, a propolis-based nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) system was formulated to enhance the delivery of α-mangostin. The aim of this study was to characterize the formulation and investigate its influence on the antioxidant activity of α-mangostin. The results showed that both unloaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P) and α-mangostin-loaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P-α-M) had nanoscale particle sizes (72.7 ± 1.082 nm and 80.3 ± 1.015 nm, respectively), neutral surface zeta potential (ranging between +10 mV and -10 mV), and good particle size distribution (indicated by a polydispersity index of <0.3). The NLC-P-α-M exhibited good entrapment efficiency of 87.972 ± 0.246%. Dissolution testing indicated a ~13-fold increase in the solubility of α-mangostin compared to α-mangostin powder alone. The incorporation into the propolis-based NLC system correlated well with the enhanced antioxidant activity of α-mangostin (p < 0.01) compared to NLC-P and α-mangostin alone. Therefore, the modification of the delivery system by incorporating α-mangostin into the propolis-based NLC overcomes the physicochemical challenges of α-mangostin while enhancing its antioxidant effectiveness.

Effects of SGLT2 inhibitor administration on blood glucose level and body weight in type 1 diabetes rat model

The prevalence of diabetes worldwide is increasing and 629 million people are projected to have diabetes by 2045, and the most significant burden of the disease being concentrated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Type 2 diabetes is mainly treated with insulin adjunctive therapies such as metformin to improve insulin sensitivity and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors to lower blood glucose levels. However, there was limited study on the application of SGLT2 inhibitors on type 1 diabetes, particularly empagliflozin. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on blood glucose levels and body weights in a rat model of type 1 diabetes. To mimic type 1 diabetes, the rats were injected with streptozotocin 60 mg intra-peritoneally. Twenty-four rat models were randomly divided into four groups: normal rat group (negative control), untreated diabetic rat group (positive control), type 1 diabetic rats treated with metformin, and type 1 diabetic rats treated with empagliflozin. Blood glucose levels and body weight were recorded before and after induced with streptozotocin and on weeks 4, 6, 8 and 10 of the treatment with anti-diabetic drugs. This study found that the blood glucose levels before and after treatment significantly decreased in all groups (p<0.05), except in the negative control group. Similar results were observed in body weight of the rats, which all groups experienced weight loss, except the negative control. These results suggested that apart from being used in type 2 diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors may also be used as a treatment for type 1 diabetes.

Detection of Human Herpesviruses in Sera and Saliva of Asymptomatic HIV-Infected Individuals Using Multiplex RT-PCR DNA Microarray

Human herpesviruses (HHVs) are frequently linked to an increased risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and vice versa. This study aimed to detect human herpesvirus (HHV) members in the sera and saliva of asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals. Paired saliva and serum samples were obtained from 30 asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals. HHVs were detected with a multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) DNA microarray Clart®Entherpex kit. A total of 30 subjects were enrolled: 23 (76.67%) men and 7 (23.33%) women. The present study showed that at least one or more HHV members were detected in the saliva and sera of all (100%) of the subjects. In the saliva, we detected herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) 6.67%, herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) 6.67%, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) 86.67%, cytomegalovirus (CMV) 63.33%, HHV-6 (40%), and HHV-7 (83.33%). In the sera, HSV-2 (20%), EBV (30%), CMV (40%), HHV-6 (0%), and HHV-7 (76.67%) were found, but not HSV-1. VZV and HHV-8 were not detected in either the saliva or sera. EBV and HHV6 were significantly more prevalent in the saliva than they were in the sera of asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found in the prevalence of HSV-1, EBV, CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 in the saliva and sera of asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the multiplex RT-PCR DNA microarray can serve as a valuable diagnostic tool that can be used as a screening tool or a first-line test for HHVs infections.

Aerobic Exercise versus Electronic Cigarette in Vascular Aging Process: First Histological Insight

Smoking is related to vascular aging. However, the hazardous effect of e-cigarette is often debatable, with limited studies available. In contrast, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is well known to decrease aortic stiffness. We provide novel research to determine the effect of e-cigarette and aerobic moderate-intensity exercise on the aortic structure of Wistar rats. A total of 26 male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) 8 weeks aged, 200-250 g b.w., were randomly divided into 4 groups, namely, K0 (normal rats), K1 (rats were given moderate-intensity aerobic exercise by animal treadmill 20 m/30 min), K2 (rats were given e-cigarette with 6 mg nicotine, 40% propylene glycol, and 60% vegetable glycerine 30 min for 5 days/week), and K3 (rats were given e-cigarette and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise). After exposure for 6 weeks, all animals were sacrificed to isolate the aorta for histopathological analysis with hematoxylin-eosin stain to evaluate the elastic fiber layer and intimal-medial thickness. The Verhoeff-Van Gieson staining was done for quantification elastic lamina fragmentation. Our study found that the e-cigarette group had the highest elastic lamina fragmentation among groups (8.14 ± 2.85). The exercise only group showed the lowest elastic lamina fragmentation (2.50 ± 1.87). Fragmentation in the e-cigarette and exercise group was higher than in the exercise only group (5.83 ± 0.753 vs. 2.50 ± 1.87, p = 0.002). There is a significant difference of NO serum between four groups. The result of post hoc analysis using LSD showed that there is a significant difference of NO serum between K0 and K2, K0 and K3, K1 and K2, and K1 and K3. Therefore, our research demonstrated that the most injury of aorta elastic lamina was in the group that was exposed to e-cigarette that leads to vascular aging while exercise is not yet proven to reverse this effect.

Ulvan/Silver nanoparticle hydrogel films for burn wound dressing

Ulvan is a polysaccharide from green algae that shows good hydrogel film dressing characteristics. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) can be incorporated into the hydrogel film to improve antibacterial properties and provide a potential burn treatment. In this study, we developed a novel hydrogel film wound dressing composed of ulvan and silver nanoparticles. Two concentrations (0.5 mM and 1 mM) of silver nitrate were used to produce ulvan-silver nanoparticles hydrogel film (UHF-AgNP0.5 and UHF-AgNP1), respectively. The physicochemical characteristics of the hydrogel films were evaluated, including particle size, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). Furthermore, the in vitro antimicrobial activity, and second-degree burn wound healing test were evaluated. The UHF-AgNP0.5 showed the highest antimicrobial activity compared to UHF-AgNP1 and UHF film. Meanwhile, an in vivo study using Wistar rats induced second-degree burns showed that UHF-AgNP0.5 significantly accelerated the healing process by regulating the inflammatory process, increasing re-epithelialization, and improving the vascularization process. Ulvan-silver nanoparticle hydrogel films have the ability to accelerate the healing of second-degree burns and are potential candidates for wound dressings.

Comparison impact of cigarettes and e-cigs as lung cancer risk inductor: a narrative review

Smoking cigarettes contributes to lung cancer progression and the development of other respiratory diseases. E-cigs are increasingly being offered to mitigate the harmful effects of traditional cigarettes and eventually for smoke cessation. Because e-cigs do not burn tobacco, it stands to reason that vaping e-liquid is less harmful than inhaling cigarette smoke. This study critically assessed the underlying biological effects of cigarettes and e-Cigs. We searched PubMed databases to elucidate the fundamental, potentially carcinogenic, molecular pathways and the possible effects of cigarettes and e-cigs products on lung cancer progression. Cigarette smoke leads to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while e-cigs have contributed to lung injury. Cigarette smoke and e-cigs increase proinflammatory cytokine expression in cells and affect protein regulation, leading to an increased lung cancer risk. E-cigs are quickly gaining popularity among consumers. Vaping-related diseases and deaths have attracted attention on a global scale. Excessive nicotine levels in e-liquid have the potential to cause severe toxicity, which can lead to neurological and brain damage and respiratory failure, as well as death. Thus, the toxic effects of e-cigs aerosol exposure are essentially identical to that caused by combustible cigarette smoking.

Potential molecular mechanism underlying cardiac fibrosis in diabetes mellitus: a narrative review

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is among the most common risk factors for cardiovascular disease in the world with prevalence of more than 500 million population in 2021. Cardiac fibrosis with its complex process has been hypothesized as one of the mechanisms explaining development of heart failure in diabetic patients. Recently, the biomolecular mechanism of cardiac fibrosis in the hyperglycemia setting has been focusing around transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFβ-1) as a major factor. However, there is interplay role of several factors including microRNAs (miRNAs) which acts as a potential regulator of cardiac fibrosis connected with TGFβ-1. In this review, we explored interplay role of several factors including microRNAs which acts as a potential regulator of cardiac fibrosis connected with TGFβ-1 in diabetes mellitus. This narrative review included articles from the PubMed and Science Direct databases published in the last 10 years (2012-2022).

MAIN TEXT

In diabetic patients, excessive activation of myofibroblasts occurs and triggers pro-collagen to convert into mature collagen to fill the cardiac interstitial space resulting in a pathological process of extracellular matrix remodeling. The balance between matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and its inhibitor (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase, TIMP) is crucial in degradation of the extracellular matrix. Diabetes-related cardiac fibrosis is modulated by increasing level of TGF-β1 mediated by cellular components, including cardiomyocyte and non-cardiomyocyte cells involving fibroblasts, vascular pericytes smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, mast cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Several miRNAs such as miR-21, miR-9, miR-29, miR-30d, miR-144, miR-34a, miR-150, miR-320, and miR-378 are upregulated in diabetic cardiomyopathy. TGF-β1, together with inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, combined sma and the mothers against decapentaplegic (smad) protein, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and microRNAs, is interconnectedly involved in extracellular matrix production and fibrotic response. In this review, we explored interplay role of several factors including microRNAs which acts as a potential regulator of cardiac fibrosis connected with TGFβ-1 in diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term hyperglycemia activates cardiac fibroblast via complex processes involving TGF-β1, miRNA, inflammatory chemokines, oxidative stress, smad, or MAPK pathways. There is increasing evidence of miRNA's roles lately in modulating cardiac fibrosis.

Cleft lip and palate surgery during COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia: a 36-month experience at the Bandung Cleft Lip and Palate Center

BACKGROUND

In Indonesia, the prevalence of cleft lip and palate increased from 0.08% to 0.12% between 2013 and 2018. Children with cleft deformities typically undergo staged surgery. However, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had negative impacts on the healthcare sector, including the suspension of elective procedures; this has raised concerns about the safety of performing surgery and the functional consequences of delaying treatment, the latter of which is associated with poor prognosis. The purpose of this study was to report the characteristics of clefts treated by the Bandung Cleft Lip and Palate Center team during the pandemic period.

METHODS

This brief comparative study based on a chart review was conducted at the Bandung Cleft Lip and Palate Center. We statistically evaluated data from all patients treated between September 2018 and August 2021. Frequency analysis was performed to analyze the average number of each procedure by age before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS

Data from 18-month periods before (n = 460) and during (n = 423) the pandemic were compared. Cheiloplasty procedures were examined (pre-pandemic, n = 230; pandemic, n = 248); before the pandemic, 86.1% were performed according to the treatment protocol (patient < 1 year old), and this proportion non-significantly dropped to 80.6% during the pandemic (p = 0.904). Palatoplasty procedures were also compared (pre-pandemic, n = 160; pandemic, n = 139); the treatment protocol (patient 0.5-2 years old) was followed for 65.5% of procedures before the pandemic and 75.5% during the pandemic (p = 0.509). Additionally, 70 (mean age, 7.94 years) revision and other procedures were performed before the pandemic and 36 (mean age, 8.52 years) during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The cleft procedures performed at the Bandung Cleft Lip and Palate Center did not significantly change during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Exercise-Induced Autophagy Ameliorates Motor Symptoms Progressivity in Parkinson's Disease Through Alpha-Synuclein Degradation: A Review

This study reviews the molecular mechanism of exercise-induced autophagy/mitophagy and its possible mechanism in delaying motor symptoms progressivity in Parkinson's disease (PD). Relevant articles obtained from PubMed and EBSCOhost were reviewed. After analyzing the articles, it was found that autophagy can be induced by exercise and can possibly be activated through the AMPK-ULK1 pathway. Mitophagy can also be induced by exercise and can possibly be activated through PINK1/Parkin pathway and AMPK-dependent pathway. Moreover, exercise-induced autophagy can decrease the accumulation of toxic α-synuclein aggregates in PD and therefore can delay motor symptoms progressivity.

Selenium Organic Content Prediction in Jengkol (Archidendron pauciflorum) and Its Molecular Interaction with Cardioprotection Receptors PPAR-γ, NF-κB, and PI3K

Selenium (Se) is a trace mineral found in plants with a distinct sulfuric odor that is cardioprotective and reported to have low toxicity. West Java, Indonesia, has a variety of plants with a distinct odor that are consumed raw, such as jengkol (Archidendron pauciflorum). This study is conducted to determine the Se content of jengkol using the fluorometric method, where the jengkol extract is separated, and the Se content is detected using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), combined with fluorometry. Two fractions with the highest Se concentration (A and B) are found and characterized using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry to predict the organic Se content by comparing the results with those in the external literature. The Se content of fraction (A) is found to be selenomethionine (m/z 198), gamma glutamyl-methyl-selenocysteine-(GluMetSeCys; m/z 313), and the Se-sulfur (S) conjugate of cysteine-selenoglutathione (m/z 475). Furthermore, these compounds are docked on receptors involved in cardioprotection. The receptors are peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT). The interaction of receptor and ligan that has the lowest binding energy of the docking simulation is measured with molecular dynamic simulation. MD is performed to observe bond stability and conformation based on root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation, radius gyration, and MM-PBSA parameters. The results of the MD simulation show that the stability of the complex organic Se compounds tested with the receptors is lower than that of the native ligand, while the binding energy is lower than that of the native ligand based on the MM-PSBA parameter. This indicates that the predicted organic Se in jengkol, i.e., gamma-GluMetSeCys to PPAR-γ, gamma-GluMetSeCys AKT/PI3K, and Se-S conjugate of cysteine-selenoglutathione to NF-κB, has the best interaction results and provides a cardioprotection effect, compared to the molecular interaction of the test ligands with the receptors.

Modulation of Autophagy and Mitochondrial Dynamics Gene Expression by Turmeric and Mangosteen Peel Extract

High fat diet (HFD) induces oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction which culminates in fatty liver disease. Autophagy and mitochondrial dynamics are affected by HFD. Turmeric and mangosteen have potential roles as antioxidants and regulators of mitochondrial function in the liver. The study aims to examine the effect of turmeric and mangosteen peel extract on autophagy and mitochondrial dynamics in the liver after HFD induction. Five groups of animals (n=5) as used: negative control, positive control (HFD), turmeric (HFD + 270 mg/kg BW turmeric extract), mangosteen (HFD + mangosteen 270 mg/kg BW peel extract), and fenofibrate (HFD + 15 mg/kg BW fenofibrate). HFD was given for 7 weeks, continued by another 7 weeks plus treatment. Liver sections were extracted to conduct semi-quantitative PCR. Autophagy (LC3, p62), mitophagy (Pink1, Parkin, Bnip3), mitochondrial fission (Drp1, Fis1), and mitochondrial fusion (Opa1, Mfn1, Mfn2) gene expression were measured. LC3 (p=0.048), p62 (p=0.043), Pink1 (p=0.012), Bnip3 (p=0.010), Mfn1 (p=0.015), and Mfn2 (p=0.035) gene expressions were differed significantly, while Parkin (p=0.098) Drp1 (p=0.962), Fis1 (p=0.570), and Opa1 (p=0.055) gene expressions did not differ between groups. Both turmeric and mangosteen peel extract have positive effects by activating autophagy, mitophagy, and mitochondrial fusion in rat liver induced by HFD.

Physiological Roles of Hippo Signaling Pathway and Autophagy in Dementia

BACKGROUND

Dementia is a neurocognitive disorder associated with the aging brain and mainly affects the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. The Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy proteins have been found to be perturbed in the brain affected by dementia processes.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aims to elaborate on the involvement of the Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy in modulating the progression and severity of dementia in aging.

METHODS

Searches were conducted on MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.

RESULTS

The Hippo signaling pathway is dependent upon the transcriptional co-activator YAP/TAZ, which forms complexes with TEAD in the nucleus in order to maintain cell homeostasis. When the expression YAP/TAZ is reduced, transcriptional repression-induced atypical cell death, ballooning cell death, and necrosis will consequently occur in the neurons. Moreover, the autophagic proteins, such as LC3, ATG proteins, and Beclin, are reduced, resulting in the disruption of autophagosome formation and accumulation and the spread of misfolded proteins in the brain suffering from dementia.

CONCLUSION

The impairment of the Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy in the dementia process in aging should be considered since it might predict the severity, treatment, and prevention of dementia. PROSPERO registration number CRD42022337445.

Limonoids from the fruits of Chisocheton lasiocarpus (Meliaceae)

Two new azadirone-type limonoids, namely lasiocarpine A (1) and lasiocarpine B (2) were isolated from the fruit of Chisocheton lasiocarpus along with three known limonoids (3-5). UV, IR, one- and two- dimensional NMR, and mass spectrometry were used to determine the chemical structure of the isolated compounds. Furthermore, their cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cell line MCF-7 was evaluated using PrestoBlue reagent. From these compounds, lasiocarpine A (1) showed the strongest activity with an IC₅₀ value of 43.38 μM.

Nutmeg Extract Alters Mitochondrial Genes Regulation of Skeletal Muscle Fibers in Aging Rats

Nutmeg as one of Indonesia native plants has already been used widely in herbal treatment. It has been demonstrated that nutmeg presents activities related to mitochondria functions. Nutmeg potentially has the effect of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors Υ (PPAR Υ) which contributes to myogenesis, and may alters mitochondrial homeostasis in respiration and biogenesis. In this study, how nutmeg extract alters oxidative process in skeletal muscle of aging rats was explored. Twenty aging Wistar male rats aged 80 weeks old were divided into two groups (control and nutmeg treatment). Nutmeg extract was administered for 12 weeks using a gavage. After that, the soleus muscles were collected, weighted, frozen, and stored at -800C until used. Nutmeg was observed to increase the COX1 (1.9 folds, p<0.01), COX2 (1.6 folds, p<0.05), and COXIV (2.8 folds, p<0.01) gene expressions, in parallel with increased protein carbonyl levels (1.5 folds, p<0,01). Nutmeg treatment also significantly increased the expressions of antioxidant endogen COQ7 (2 folds, p<0,01) and PDSS2 (2 folds, p<0,01) in the soleus muscle. Taken together, nutmeg extract may improve mitochondrial respiratory oxidative activities in type I aging skeletal muscle.

The Chemoprotective Role of Vitamin D in Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Research in mice showed that vitamin D receptor deficiency was correlated with an increased rate of non-melanoma skin cancer. Therapeutic supplemental vitamin D has also been reported to reduce cell growth in both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. This paper aims to describe the existing research studies that discuss the potential and role of vitamin D in the management of skin cancer.

Methods

Articles were searched from three databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus) and manual search. 18 articles were included. These were further divided into in vivo and in vitro studies. The literature search was based on the following Patients, Intervention, Control, and Outcome (PICO) criteria: Patients with any types of skin cancer; Vitamin D and their derivates as the intervention; placebo or standard regimen as control, and survival rate or response rate as primary outcome.

Results

From the three databases, we obtained 802 studies. Prior to screening of the literature obtained, several studies were excluded. In the eligibility assessment, seven studies were excluded due to their outcomes being not eligible for analysis, and two studies were excluded due to inaccessible full texts. The remaining 18 studies were included. Five studies had a clinical research design (randomized controlled trial or interventional study), which use vitamin D3 as vitamin D derivatives and the results showed that the administration of vitamin D3 reduces the proliferation of skin cancer cells. Similar results were also reported in studies with pre-clinical research designs, either in vivo or in vitro, where six were in vivo studies and nine studies were in vitro studies.

Conclusion

Our literature review revealed that that vitamin D derivatives, such as 1,25(OH)2D3 or 20(OH)D3 can effectively reduce the proliferation of skin cancer cells by contributing in the inhibition of cell growth and development, highlighting vitamin D's role as good prognostic factor.

The Role of Exercise-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Hormesis in Aging: Friend or Foe

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxygen derivatives that arise intrinsically from the oxidative phosphorylation process and extrinsically as a response to xenobiotics and pollution. ROS is involved in various conditions such as exercise, aging, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. In the aging process, increased cellular senescence and decreased endogenous antioxidants also occur. Meanwhile, physical activity, specifically exercise, can modulate ROS. The impact of exercise on ROS varies from harmful to beneficial and depends on the type of exercise as they induce different types of ROS. Long-term exercise regulates signaling pathways that enhance antioxidant defense systems and control ROS production. This review will discuss studies on how exercise can regulate ROS and which type of exercise has a role in delaying the aging process. This review also exposes the impact of nutraceutical antioxidant agents that likely enhance the benefit of exercise. The nutraceutical antioxidants agents that likely enhance the benefit of exercise are creatine, whey, and ascorbic acid. Exercise is rewarding for the aging population concerning increasing their quality of life. Special consideration to exercise needs to be given to the type of exercise, and the exercise must be done continuously.

Recent Update on the Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Propolis

In recent years, research has demonstrated the efficacy propolis as a potential raw material for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. There is limited report detailing the mechanisms of action of propolis and its bioactive compounds in relation to their anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, the aim of the present review is to examine the latest experimental evidence (2017-2022) regarding the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis. A systematic scoping review methodology was implemented. After applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 166 research publications were identified and retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Pubmed. Several key themes related to the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis were subsequently identified, namely in relation to cancers, oral health, metabolic syndrome, organ toxicity and inflammation, immune system, wound healing, and pathogenic infections. Based on the latest experimental evidence, propolis is demonstrated to possess various mechanisms of action in modulating inflammation towards the regulatory balance and anti-inflammatory environment. In general, we summarize that propolis acts as an anti-inflammatory substance by inhibiting and downregulating TLR4, MyD88, IRAK4, TRIF, NLRP inflammasomes, NF-κB, and their associated pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Propolis also reduces the migration of immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils, possibly by downregulating the chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10.

MitoTEMPOL modulates mitophagy and histopathology of Wistar rat liver after streptozotocin injection

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to explore the effect of mitoTEMPOL on histopathology, lipid droplet, and mitophagy gene expression of Wistar rat's liver after injection of streptozotocin (STZ).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: Control (n=5); 100 mg/kg BW/day mitoTEMPOL orally (n=5); 50 mg/kg BW STZ intraperitoneal injection (n=5); and mitoTEMPOL+STZ (n=5). STZ was given a single dose, while mitoTEMPOL was given for 5 weeks after 1 week of STZ injection. Histopathological appearance, lipid droplets, mitophagy, and autophagy gene expression were examined after the mitoTEMPOL treatment.

RESULTS

We found metabolic zone shifting that might be correlated with the liver activity of fatty acid oxidation in the STZ group, a decrease of lipid droplets in mitoTEMPOL and mitoTEMPOL + STZ compared with Control and STZ groups were found in this study. We also found significant changes in PINK1, Parkin, BNIP3, Mfn1, and LC3 gene expression, but no difference in Opa1, Fis1, Drp1, and p62 gene expression, suggesting a change of mitochondrial fusion rather than mitochondrial fission correlated with mitophagy.

CONCLUSION

All this concluded that mitoTEMPOL could act as a modulator of mitophagy and metabolic function of the liver, thus amplifying its crucial role in preventing mitochondrial damage in the liver in the early onset of diabetes mellitus.

Effects of Vitamin D on Satellite Cells: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Studies

The non-classical role of vitamin D has been investigated in recent decades. One of which is related to its role in skeletal muscle. Satellite cells are skeletal muscle stem cells that play a pivotal role in skeletal muscle growth and regeneration. This systematic review aims to investigate the effect of vitamin D on satellite cells. A systematic search was performed in Scopus, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. In vivo studies assessing the effect of vitamin D on satellite cells, published in English in the last ten years were included. Thirteen in vivo studies were analyzed in this review. Vitamin D increases the proliferation of satellite cells in the early life period. In acute muscle injury, vitamin D deficiency reduces satellite cells differentiation. However, administering high doses of vitamin D impairs skeletal muscle regeneration. Vitamin D may maintain satellite cell quiescence and prevent spontaneous differentiation in aging. Supplementation of vitamin D ameliorates decreased satellite cells' function in chronic disease. Overall, evidence suggests that vitamin D affects satellite cells' function in maintaining skeletal muscle homeostasis. Further research is needed to determine the most appropriate dose of vitamin D supplementation in a specific condition for the optimum satellite cells' function.

Student Self-Medication Behavior in Stress Handling

Changing learning patterns from senior high school student to college student status is difficult, and each individual's response varies, some of which cause stress. Factors that cause stress are internal and external, and external factors consist of physical, conflict, emotional, and behavioral conditions. In comparison, the external factors consist of the physical environment, work environment, community environment, family environment, economic and legal problems. The burden of life stress is heavy and impacts the physical, such as feeling dizzy, nauseous, ulcers, and difficulty sleeping. Sometimes causes a person to take self-medication to overcome these uncomfortable symptoms. This study aims to determine the characteristics of early-level students and the stress level of early-level students at one of the State Universities of East Kalimantan Province. This study used a qualitative descriptive design on 121 students. Using a questionnaire through a cross-sectional approach with a purposive sampling technique. The results showed that the stress level of students showed mild stress as much as 30.58%, moderate stress at 56.20%, and severe stress as much as 13.22%. The number of students who did self-medication was more than those who did not provide treatment for the symptoms, 79.34%.

A study of molecular docking of l-tryptophan ligand as a compound in pineapples and bananas binding with the human serotonin transporter (SERT)

Introduction: Low mood condition is related to a low level of brain serotonin. An early sign of depression with low mood symptoms is generally treated with psychotropic drugs that work as selective serotonin reuptake and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (one of which is sertraline), to increase serotonin levels in the brain. There are some concerns regarding side effects available medication like serotonin syndrome, suicidality and aggressive behavior. Thus, development of alternative herbal products made from a combination of pineapple and banana extract with less side effect and its potential affinity with serotonin regulation is important. Aim of the study: To determine potential herbal rich (banana and pineapple) of L-tryptophan and potential active compounds interaction with the human serotonin transporter. Method: In the present study, using in silico molecular docking techniques, the active compound of banana and pineapple and its potential interaction with human serotonin transporter were assed. Docking study explored the bioactive compounds interactions with specific target like catechin, dopamine, epigallocatechin, gallic acid, L-tryptophan, malvidin, norepinephrine, pelargonidin, peonidin, and serotonin. Molecular docking simulations were performed using AutoDock 4.2 software. The docking method was validated first by re-docking sertraline (nature ligand) in a complex with PDB ID: 6AWO against the target receptor (SERT). Result: The molecular docking results had showed that L-tryptophan, peonidin, and catechin could bind to esential amino acid residues in the binding pocket, with binding affinity -5.69,  -8.63, -8.24 kcal/mol respectively. Conclusion: L-tryptophan, peonidin, and catechin are the most promising compounds that have good potency as anti-depressant agents through SERT inhibitory activity. This compounds in bananas and pineapples have the potential to affect serotonin transporter receptors that play a role in mood and behavior.

Effects of Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise to FSTL-1 Regulation in Atherosclerosis: A Systematic Review

Moderate intensity exercise is considered as a primary step to prevent coronary artery diseases (CADs) by stimulated FSTL-1 secretion as a novel myokines to improve endothelial cell function, prevent arterial stiffness, or vascular inflammation. This review aims to provide the current evident role of FSTL-1 as a novel myokine secreted during exercise to prevent atherosclerosis progression. A systematic review using databases from (PubMed), ScienceDirect, and The Cochrane Library, was conducted up to October 2021 to identify all the eligible experimental and observational studies that assess how moderate intensity exercises stimulate FSTL-1 secretion to prevent atherosclerosis. Results were described through narrative synthesis of the evidence. From 84 retrieved references, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The overall results suggest that exercise or physical activity can stimulate myokines secretion, especially in FSTL-1. FSTL-1 is a myokine or adipokine that plays a potential role in preventing atherosclerosis by various mechanisms such as via improvement of endothelial functions, suppression of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) proliferation, and reduction of arterial thickening. FSTL-1 is a relatively new and less known myokine, but probably holds a key role in assessing how moderate intensity aerobic exercise prevents atherosclerosis progression by preventing endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, or vascular inflammation.

MitoTEMPOL Inhibits ROS-Induced Retinal Vascularization Pattern by Modulating Autophagy and Apoptosis in Rat-Injected Streptozotocin Model

Diabetic retinopathy leads to retinal malfunction, blindness, and reduced quality of life in adult diabetes patients. The involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulation stimulated by high blood glucose levels opens the opportunity for ROS modulator agents such as MitoTEMPOL. This study aims to explore the effect of MitoTEMPOL on ROS balance that may be correlated with retinal vascularization pattern, autophagy, and apoptosis in a streptozotocin-induced rat model. Four groups of male Wistar rats (i.e., control, TEMPOL (100 mg/kg body weight [BW]), diabetic (streptozotocin, 50 mg/kg BW single dose), and diabetic + TEMPOL; n = 5 for each group) were used in the study. MitoTEMPOL was given for 5 weeks, followed by funduscopy, and gene and protein expression were explored from the rat’s retina. Streptozotocin injection decreased bodyweight and increased food and water intake, as well as fasting blood glucose. The results showed that MitoTEMPOL reduced retinal vascularization pattern and decreased superoxide dismutase gene expression and protein carbonyl, caspase 3, and caspase 9 protein levels. A modulation of autophagy in diabetes that was reversed in the diabetic + TEMPOL group was found. In conclusion, MitoTEMPOL modulation on autophagy and apoptosis contributes to its role as a potent antioxidant to prevent diabetic retinopathy by inhibiting ROS-induced retinal vascularization patterns.

Cytotoxicity, Apoptosis, Migration Inhibition, and Autophagy-Induced by Crude Ricin from Ricinus communis Seeds in A549 Lung Cancer Cell Lines

Background

Ricin protein derived from Ricinus communis seeds is known to have a high toxicity to humans and animals. Several studies revealed that ricin, belonging to ribosome inactivating protein-I, has cytotoxic properties against various types of cancer cell lines.

Material/Methods

Crude ricin (CR) from the seeds of R. communis was investigated for its cytotoxicity on the A549 cancer cell lines using the MTS assay, and the cell death mechanism was explored using flow cytometry and Western blot methods. The cell migration was measured using a scratch/wound-healing method and the autophagy activity was explored using Western blotting.

Results

CR showed cytotoxicity against A549 cancer cell lines, with an IC₅₀ of 40.94 ppm. CR induced apoptosis and necrosis, but apoptosis occurred more frequently than necrosis. Apoptosis induced by CR was mediated by the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. CR inhibited cell migration in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, with the highest effect occurred at the concentration of 1.0 ppm. The autophagic experiment showed that CR inhibited autophagy in A549 lung cancer cells by decreasing Beclin-1 levels while increasing Atg5 levels in a concentration-dependent manner and CR decreased LC3-II level while increasing p62 level. Cisplatin treatment also inhibited autophagy as it exhibited the same effect on those autophagic proteins as CR.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that CR might be a potential candidate for anticancer drugs, but further study is needed to verify its anticancer properties.

The Suitability of Propolis as a Bioactive Component of Biomaterials

Propolis is a resinous product collected by bees from plant exudates to protect and maintain hive homeostasis. Propolis has been used therapeutically for centuries as folk medicine. Modern research investigating the diversity of the chemical composition and plant sources, biological activity, extraction processes, analytical methods, and therapeutic properties in clinical settings have been carried out extensively since the 1980s. Due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immuno-modulator properties, propolis appears to be a suitable bioactive component to be incorporated into biomaterials. This review article attempts to analyze the potential application of propolis as a biomaterial component from the available experimental evidence. The efficacy and compabitility of propolis depend upon factors, such as types of extracts and types of biomaterials. Generally, propolis appears to be compatible with hydroxyapatite/calcium phosphate-based biomaterials. Propolis enhances the antimicrobial properties of the resulting composite materials while improving the physicochemical properties. Furthermore, propolis is also compatible with wound/skin dressing biomaterials. Propolis improves the wound healing properties of the biomaterials with no negative effects on the physicochemical properties of the composite biomaterials. However, the effect of propolis on the glass-based biomaterials cannot be generalized. Depending on the concentration, types of extract, and geographical sources of the propolis, the effect on the glass biomaterials can either be an improvement or detrimental in terms of mechanical properties such as compressive strength and shear bond strength. In conclusion, two of the more consistent impacts of propolis across these different types of biomaterials are the enhancement of the antimicrobial and the immune-modulator/anti-inflammatory properties resulting from the combination of propolis and the biomaterials.

Ultrasound-Guided Suprascapular Nerve Block at Spinoglenoid Notch and Glenohumeral Joint Hydrodilation

Hydrodilation of the glenohumeral joint is commonly employed as a nonsurgical intervention for the frozen shoulder. Accuracy and pain during the procedure can be regarded as difficulties in performing this procedure. Ultrasonography (USG) guided injection and suprascapular nerve block can improve the accuracy and can decrease pain during the hydrodilation procedure. We present the step-by-step method for performing USG-guided injections for suprascapular nerve block and hydrodilation.

Calcitriol Inhibits Proliferation and Potentially Induces Apoptosis in B16-F10 Cells

Background

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and it has shown a remarkable surge in incidence during the last 50 years. Melanoma has been projected to be continuously rising in the future. Therapy for advanced-type melanoma is still a challenge due to the low response rate and poor 10-year survival. Interestingly, several epidemiological and preclinical studies had reported that vitamin D deficiency was associated with disease progression in several cancer types. In vivo and in vitro studies revealed anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, apoptosis, and differentiation induction effects of calcitriol in various cancers. However, information on the effects of calcitriol (1,25(OH)₂D₃) on melanoma is still limited, and its mechanism remains unclear.

Material/Methods

In the present study, by utilizing B16–F10 cells, which is a melanoma cell line, we explored the anti-proliferative effect of calcitriol using cell viability assay, near-infrared imaging, expression of apoptosis-related genes using real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCR), and the expression of apoptosis proteins levels using western blot. In addition, we also assessed calcitriol uptake by B16–F10 cells using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results

We found that calcitriol inhibits melanoma cell proliferation with an IC₅₀ of 93.88 ppm (0.24 μM), as shown by cell viability assay. Additionally, we showed that B16–F10 cells are capable of calcitriol uptake, with a peak uptake time at 60 min after administration. Calcitriol was also able to induce apoptosis-related proteins such as caspase-3, caspase 8, and caspase-9. These effects of calcitriol reflect its potential utility as a potent adjuvant therapy for melanoma.

Conclusions

Calcitriol inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in B16–F10 cells.

Moderate-intensity exercise decreases the circulating level of betatrophin and its correlation among markers of obesity in women

OBJECTIVES

Positive energy homeostasis due to overnutrition and a sedentary lifestyle triggers obesity. Obesity has a close relationship with elevated levels of betatrophin and may increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Therefore, lifestyle modification through a nonpharmacological approach based on physical exercise is the right strategy in lowering betatrophin levels. This study aimed to analyze the effect of moderate-intensity interval and continuous exercises on decreased betatrophin levels and the association between betatrophin levels and obesity markers in women.

METHODS

A total of 30 women aged 20-24 years old were randomly divided into three groups. Measurement of betatrophin levels using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Data analysis techniques used were one-way ANOVA and parametric linear correlation.

RESULTS

The results showed that the average levels of betatrophin pre-exercise were 200.40 ± 11.03 pg/mL at CON, 203.07 ± 42.48 pg/mL at MIE, 196.62 ± 21.29 pg/mL at MCE, and p=0.978. Average levels of betatrophin post-exercise were 226.65 ± 18.96 pg/mL at CON, 109.31 ± 11.23 pg/mL at MIE, 52.38 ± 8.18 pg/mL at MCE, and p=0.000. Pre-exercise betatrophin levels were positively correlated with age, BMI, FM, WHR, FBG, and PBF (p≤0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that betatrophin levels are decreased by 10 min post-MIE and post-MCE. However, moderate-intensity continuous exercise is more effective in lowering betatrophin levels than moderate-intensity interval exercise. In addition, pre-exercise betatrophin levels also have a positive correlation with obesity markers.

The AKT Pathway and Satellite Cell Activation in Skeletal Muscle Mass Regulation

Highlight:AKT or protein kinase B increase protein synthesis and control the degradation of proteins. Satellite cells was provided remarkable ability to regenerate skeletal muscle.Stimulation of protein synthesis is effective therapy to maintain muscle mass, prevent muscle wasting to reduce risk sarcopenia and improve quality of life in the elderly.Abstract:Muscles have an important role as a regulator of glucose and triglyceride metabolism. Some researches show the correlation between skeletal muscle mass and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes. Skeletal muscle mass decrease occurs due to chronic illness or physiological process of aging, thus increasing the risk of metabolic diseases as well as motion difficulty in the elderly. Skeletal muscle mass depends on balanced protein synthesis and degradation, controlled through a variety of signal transduction pathways including the AKT. AKT or protein kinase B increases protein synthesis through the mTOR and GSK3β and controls the degradation of proteins through FoxO transcription factors. Another factor that has an alleged role in the regulation of skeletal muscle is the satellite cells which provide remarkable ability to regenerate skeletal muscle. A comprehensive understanding of the biomolecular mechanism of muscle mass regulation is important to develop effective treatment or prevention of muscle atrophy in many cases, either caused by pathological conditions, such as chronic diseases, or the process of aging.

Effect of different intensities aerobic exercise to cardiac angiogenesis regulation on Wistar rats

The adaptation response of myocardium angiogenesis stimulated by specific exercise intensities remains unclear. The aims of this study is to explore the effect of different intensities aerobic exercise to cardiac angiogenesis regulation via HIF-1α, PGC-1α, VEGF, and CD34+ in Wistar rats. Wistar rats were divided into control and exercise groups. Exercise groups were trained on a treadmill for 12 weeks, 30 min/day for 5 days with low, moderate, and high-intensity groups. The rats were sacrificed, and the myocardium was collected and preserved at -80°C until used. Cardiac protein samples were extracted and run for Western blotting using the specific antibodies: hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34+). Results showed that protein expression of HIF-1α, PGC-1α, VEGF, and CD34+ was increased significantly by different intensities in the exercise group compared to the control. A correlation statistics test showed that there was a strong correlation effect of HIF-1α on VEGF protein expression in low (p=0.047) and high intensity exercise groups (p=0.009), but no effect was found in the moderate groups. In addition, there was a significant strong effect of PGC-1α on VEGF protein expression in the moderate groups (p=0.037), but no effect was found in other groups. In conclusion, different exercise intensities induce a different modulation pattern of proteins which might be responsible for cardiac adaptation, especially angiogenesis.

Type, Intensity, and Duration of Exercise as Regulator of Gut Microbiome Profile

ABSTRACT

Gut microbiome profile is related to individual health. In metabolic syndrome, there is a change in the gut microbiome profile, indicated by an increase in the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Many studies have been conducted to determine the effect of exercise on modifying the gut microbiome profile. The effectiveness of exercise is influenced by its type, intensity, and duration. Aerobic training decreases splanchnic blood flow and shortens intestinal transit time. High-intensity exercise improves mitochondrial function and increases the essential bacteria in lactate metabolism and urease production. Meanwhile, exercise duration affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. All of these mechanisms are related to each other in producing the effect of exercise on the gut microbiome profile.

DMBA-induced Modulate Estrogen Receptors α and β Breast Cancer’s Animal Model

The high incidence of breast cancer cases in the world requires the use of applicative methods. The 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced breast cancer animal model is a widely used chemical-induced animal models for research on breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanism related to DMBA induction remains unclear. Good understanding on DMBA-induced animal models is crucial for studies related to future breast cancer treatments as animal models will provide a deeper understanding of anticancer medication, specifically those aimed for treating breast cancer. The aim of this study was to develop an DMBA-induced animal model for breast cancer. This study used female Wistar rats injected subcutaneously with DMBA as a carcinogen-induced agent (20 mg/kg) to induce tumor. Rat tumors were then evaluated and breast appearance was observed weekly, starting from day 28th after DMBA injection. Breast cancer tissue was then sampled and stored at -80°C until it was used for western blot and histological study. This study indicated that DMBA induced cancer in female Wistar rat’s breasts, and cytoplastic cells and lung metastatic was identified macroscopically and histopathologically. The metabolic sign was observed in the lung and breast sections. Interestingly, the DMBA induction in this study does not only induce organ cancers but also induces estrogen receptors and stimulates signaling of estrogen receptors α (ERα), ERβ, and Akt.

Importance of gut microbiome regulation for the prevention and recovery process after SARS‑CoV‑2 respiratory viral infection (Review)

Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been reported to affect organs other than the lungs, including the liver, brain, kidneys and intestine, and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, have also been reported. Thus, SARS-CoV-2 could potentially directly or indirectly regulate the gut microbiome profile and its homeostasis. The abundance of Coprobacillus, Clostridium ramosum and Clostridium are associated with the severity of COVID-19, and Firmicutes, Bacteriodetes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria are also related to COVID-19 infection. The four phyla are correlated with the severity of COVID-19 infection in patients. The modulation of factors that control the physiological growth of the gut microbiome will determine the proportionate ratio of microbiome types (profile). Taken together, gut microbiome profile alterations in COVID-19 patients may have a cross effect with the modulation of cytokine levels in COVID-19 infection. With these findings, several factors that regulate gut microbiome homeostasis may support the degree of the clinical symptoms and hasten the recovery process after COVID-19 infection.