Managing gastrointestinal symptoms after cancer treatment: a practical approach for gastroenterologists

PubMed Central

Muls, Ann C; Watson, Lorraine; Shaw, Clare; Andreyev, H Jervoise N

2013-01-01

The percentage of the population living with a diagnosis of cancer is rising. By 2030, there will be 4 million cancer survivors in the UK. One quarter of cancer survivors are left with physical symptoms, which affect their quality of life. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are the most common of all chronic physical side-effects of cancer treatment and have the greatest impact on daily activity. Cancer therapies induce long-term changes in bowel function due to alterations to specific GI physiological functions. In addition, the psychological effect of a cancer diagnosis, new GI disease or pre-existing underlying conditions, may also contribute to new symptoms. Twenty-three upper GI symptoms have been identified as occurring after pelvic radiotherapy. After upper GI cancer treatment, the most troublesome symptoms include reflux, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhoea and fatigue. Often, several symptoms are present simultaneously and women experience more symptoms than men. The symptoms which patients rate as most difficult are urgency, wind, diarrhoea, incontinence, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. Recent UK Guidance on managing GI symptoms suggests that these symptoms can be treated especially if gastroenterological advice is combined with dietetic and nursing input to optimise investigations and management. However, as different pathological processes can result in identical symptoms; a systematic, ‘algorithmic’ approach to assess and treat these symptoms is required. This paper aims to illustrate the value of such an approach to investigate and treat the most common GI symptoms that trouble patients. The algorithm allows clinicians to institute a comprehensive medical management plan. PMID:28839701

Recent considerations in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug gastropathy.

PubMed

Singh, G

1998-07-27

Conservative calculations estimate that approximately 107,000 patients are hospitalized annually for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related gastrointestinal (GI) complications and at least 16,500 NSAID-related deaths occur each year among arthritis patients alone. The figures for all NSAID users would be overwhelming, yet the scope of this problem is generally under-appreciated. The Arthritis, Rheumatism, and Aging Medical Information System (ARAMIS) Post-Marketing Surveillance Program (PMS) has prospectively followed patient status and outcomes, drug side effects, and the economic impact of illness for >11,000 arthritis patients at 8 participating institutions in the United States and Canada. Analysis of these data indicates that: (1) osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients are 2.5-5.5 times more likely than the general population to be hospitalized for NSAID-related GI events; (2) the absolute risk for serious NSAID-related GI toxicity remains constant and the cumulative risk increases over time; (3) there are no reliable warning signals- >80% of patients with serious GI complications had no prior GI symptoms; (4) independent risk factors for serious GI events were age, prednisone use, NSAID dose, disability level, and previous NSAID-induced GI symptoms; and (5) antacids and H2 antagonists do not prevent NSAID-induced gastric ulcers, and high-risk NSAID users who take gastro-protective drugs are more likely to have serious GI complications than patients not taking such medications. Currently, limiting NSAID use is the only way to decrease the risk of NSAID-related GI events. Ongoing ARAMIS research is aimed at developing a simple point-score system for estimating individual risks of developing serious NSAID-related GI complications.

Investigation of body image as a mediator of the effects of bowel and GI symptoms on psychological distress in female survivors of rectal and anal cancer.

PubMed

Benedict, Catherine; Rodriguez, Vivian M; Carter, Jeanne; Temple, Larissa; Nelson, Christian; DuHamel, Katherine

2016-04-01

Treatment for rectal and anal cancer (RACa) can result in persistent bowel and gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction. Body image problems may develop over time and exacerbate symptom-related distress. RACa survivors are an understudied group, however, and factors contributing to post-treatment well-being are not well understood. This study examined whether poorer body image explained the relation between symptom severity and psychological distress. Participants (N = 70) completed the baseline assessment of a sexual health intervention study. Bootstrap methods tested body image as a mediator between bowel and GI symptom severity and two indicators of psychological distress (depressive and anxiety symptoms), controlling for relevant covariates. Measures included the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ-CR38) Diarrhea, GI Symptoms, and Body Image subscales and Brief Symptom Index Depression and Anxiety subscales. Women averaged 55 years old (SD = 11.6), White (79 %), and were 4 years post-treatment. Greater Depression was related to poorer Body Image (r = -.61) and worse Diarrhea (r = .35) and GI Symptoms (r = .48). Greater Anxiety was related to poorer Body Image (r = -.42) and worse GI Symptoms (r = .45), but not Diarrhea (r = .20). Body Image mediated the effects of bowel and GI symptoms on Depression, but not on Anxiety. Long-term bowel and GI dysfunction are distressing and affect how women perceive and relate to their bodies, exacerbating survivorship difficulties. Interventions to improve adjustment post-treatment should address treatment side effects, but also target body image problems to alleviate depressive symptoms. Reducing anxiety may require other strategies. Body image may be a key modifiable factor to improve well-being in this understudied population. Longitudinal research is needed to confirm findings.

Satiety following intake of potatoes and other carbohydrate test meals.

PubMed

Geliebter, Allan; Lee, Michelle I-Ching; Abdillahi, Mariane; Jones, James

2013-01-01

The study investigated satiation and satiety following intake of starch-rich side dishes representing a range of glycemic indices (GIs). Twelve normal-weight (BMI = 22.4 ± SD 2.0) participants (6 male, 6 female, 22-30 years) received one of four side dishes or white bread (GI reference) in randomized order on five mornings, followed by an ad libitum lunch. Blood draws prior to test meal and during the 2 h before lunch measured plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. GI was calculated from glucose incremental area under the curve (AUC). Hunger, fullness, desire to eat and prospective consumption were rated just before blood draws. No significant difference was found in hunger or fullness AUCs between test meals. Both potato meals yielded lower desire to eat compared to pasta throughout the 2-hour period (p = 0.002). Total lunch energy intake did not differ. No significant correlations were found between test meal GI and ratings of hunger, fullness or energy intake at lunch meal. GI of energy-equivalent test meals did not predict satiety or lunch meal intake. There was evidence of reduced appetite following both potato meals relative to the other carbohydrate side dishes but no differences in subsequent intake. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Enhanced Auditory Brainstem Response and Parental Bonding Style in Children with Gastrointestinal Symptoms

PubMed Central

Seino, Shizuka; Watanabe, Satoshi; Ito, Namiko; Sasaki, Konosuke; Shoji, Kaori; Miura, Shoko; Kozawa, Kanoko; Nakai, Kunihiko; Sato, Hiroshi; Kanazawa, Motoyori; Fukudo, Shin

2012-01-01

Background The electrophysiological properties of the brain and influence of parental bonding in childhood irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are unclear. We hypothesized that children with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like IBS may show exaggerated brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) responses and receive more inadequate parental bonding. Methodology/Principal Findings Children aged seven and their mothers (141 pairs) participated. BAEP was measured by summation of 1,000 waves of the electroencephalogram triggered by 75 dB click sounds. The mothers completed their Children's Somatization Inventory (CSI) and Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). CSI results revealed 66 (42%) children without GI symptoms (controls) and 75 (58%) children with one or more GI symptoms (GI group). The III wave in the GI group (median 4.10 interquartile range [3.95–4.24] ms right, 4.04 [3.90–4.18] ms left) had a significantly shorter peak latency than controls (4.18 [4.06–4.34] ms right, p = 0.032, 4.13 [4.02–4.24] ms left, p = 0.018). The female GI group showed a significantly shorter peak latency of the III wave (4.00 [3.90–4.18] ms) than controls (4.18 [3.97–4.31] ms, p = 0.034) in the right side. BAEP in the male GI group did not significantly differ from that in controls. GI scores showed a significant correlation with the peak latency of the III wave in the left side (rho = −0.192, p = 0.025). The maternal care PBI scores in the GI group (29 [26]–[33]) were significantly lower than controls (31 [28.5–33], p = 0.010), while the maternal over-protection PBI scores were significantly higher in the GI group (16 [12]–[17]) than controls (13 [10.5–16], p = 0.024). Multiple regression analysis in females also supported these findings. Conclusions It is suggested that children with chronic GI symptoms have exaggerated brainstem responses to environmental stimuli and inadequate parental behaviors aggravate these symptoms. PMID:22470430

Impact of duloxetine and dexamethasone for improving postoperative pain after laparoscopic gynecological surgeries: A randomized clinical trial

PubMed Central

Kassim, Dina Y.; Esmat, Ibrahim M.; Elgendy, Mohammed A.

2018-01-01

Background: Patients’ surgical experiences are influenced by their perception of pain management. Duloxetine (Dulox) and dexamethasone (Dex) are used in multimodal analgesia to reduce opioid use and side effects. Dulox is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and has efficacy in chronic pain conditions. Dex enhances postoperative (PO) analgesia and reduces PO nausea and vomiting (PONV). Methods: Seventy-five female patients were randomly allocated into one of three equal groups. GI received Dulox 60 mg orally and 100 ml 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline [NS]) intravenous infusion (IVI) over 15 min, GII: received as GI except Dex 0.1 mg/kg was mixed with NS and GIII received identical placebo for Dulox capsule and Dex IVI, 2 h preoperatively. Patients’ vitals, visual analog scale (VAS), and sedation score were assessed at 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 6 h, and 12 h postoperatively. Total pethidine requirements, plasma cortisol, PONV, and patients satisfaction were recorded. Results: PO time for 1st rescue analgesic was significantly high in GI and GII compared to GIII and in GII compared to GI. There was a significant less VAS score, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and a high sedation score in GI and GII compared to GIII at 30 min, 1, 2, and 6 h postoperatively. Total pethidine requirements were significantly less in GI and GII compared to GIII 12 h postoperatively. There was a significant reduction in the 2 h PO serum cortisol (μg/dl) and a significant increase in the PO patients satisfaction score in GI and GII compared to GIII. PONV was decreased significantly in GII compared to GI and GIII. Conclusion: The use of oral Dulox 60 mg combined with Dex 0.1 mg/kg IVI is more effective than oral Dulox 60 mg alone, 2 h preoperatively, for improving PO pain by reducing the requirements for rescue analgesia and PONV. PMID:29416464

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with depression receiving selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy.

PubMed

Kumar, Deepak; Saaraswat, Tanuj; Sengupta, S N; Mehrotra, Saurabh

2009-02-01

Serotonin plays an important role in the normal clotting phenomenon and is released by platelets. Platelets are dependent on a serotonin transporter for the uptake of serotonin, as they cannot synthesize it themselves. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) block the uptake of serotonin into platelets and can cause problems with clotting leading to bleeding. This case report highlights the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in the index case on initiating SSRI therapy for depression and the prompt resolution of the same on its discontinuation on two separate occasions. SSRIs may cause upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Physicians should be aware of the same and should try to rule out previous episodes of upper GI bleed or the presence of other risk factors which might predispose to it before prescribing SSRIs; they should also warn the patients about this potential side effect. Also, the presence of thalassemia trait in the index patient deserves special attention and needs to be explored to see if it might in any way contribute in potentiating this side effect of SSRIs.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Neopeltolide and Analogs

PubMed Central

Cui, Yubo; Balachandran, Raghavan

2012-01-01

The synthesis of neopeltolide analogs that contain variations in the oxazole-containing side chain and in the macrolide core are reported along with the GI50 values for these compounds against MCF7, HCT-116, and p53 knockout HCT-116 cell lines. Although biological activity is sensitive to changes in the macrocycle and the side chain, several analogs displayed GI50 values of <25 nM. Neopeltolide and several of the more potent analogs were significantly less potent against p53 knockout cells, suggesting that p53 plays an auxiliary role in the activity of these compounds. PMID:22329423

Effects of 3-Day Serial Sodium Bicarbonate Loading on Performance and Physiological Parameters During a Simulated Basketball Test in Female University Players.

PubMed

Delextrat, Anne; MacKessy, Sinead; Arceo-Rendon, Luis; Scanlan, Aaron; Ramsbottom, Roger; Calleja-González, Julio

2018-01-18

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 3-day serial sodium bicarbonate ingestion on repeated sprint and jump performance. Fifteen female university basketball players (23.3±3.4 years; 173.1±5.8 cm; 65.8±6.3 kg; 23.6±4.9% body fat) ingested 0.4 g·kg -1 of body mass of sodium bicarbonate or placebo for 3 days (split in 3 equal daily doses), before completing a simulated basketball exercise. Sprint and circuit times, jump heights, performance decrements and gastrointestinal (GI) side effects were recorded during the test and blood lactate concentration was measured pre- and post-test. Sodium bicarbonate supplementation led to significant decreases in mean sprint times (1.34±0.23 vs. 1.70±0.41 s, p=0.008, 95% CI: -0.54 to -0.10 s) and mean circuit times (30.6±2.0 vs. 31.3±2.0 s, p=0.044) and significantly greater mean jump height (26.8 (range 25.2-34.2) vs. 26.0 (range 25.6-33.6) cm, p=0.013) compared to placebo. Performance decrement was significantly less for sprints with sodium bicarbonate compared to placebo (9.9 (range 3.4-37.0) vs. 24.7 (range 4.1-61.3) %, p=0.013), but not different for jumps (13.1±4.5 vs. 12.5±.3.1%, p=0.321) between conditions. No differences in GI side effects were noted between conditions. Significantly greater post-exercise blood lactate concentrations were measured in the sodium bicarbonate condition compared to the placebo condition (8.2±2.8 vs. 6.6±2.4 mmol.L -1 , p=0.010). This study is the first to show that serial loading of sodium bicarbonate is effective for basketball players to improve repeated sprint and jump performance during competition, or withstand greater training load during practice sessions without any GI side effects.

Expression of pleiotrophin, an important regulator of cell migration, is inhibited in intestinal epithelial cells by treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most widely used drugs for the suppression of inflammation and pain. However, the analgesic properties of NSAIDs are also associated with significant negative side effects, most notably in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Increasingly, evi...

The effects of potatoes and other carbohydrate side dishes consumed with meat on food intake, glycemia and satiety response in children

PubMed Central

Akilen, R; Deljoomanesh, N; Hunschede, S; Smith, C E; Arshad, M U; Kubant, R; Anderson, G H

2016-01-01

Background: The effect of carbohydrate (CHO) foods on blood glucose (BG) is ranked by their glycemic index (GI). Boiled and mashed potatoes (BMPs) are ranked as high GI foods, whereas pasta and rice have moderate GI rankings. The objective of this study was to compare ad libitum consumption of common CHO dishes consumed with meat on meal-time food intake and post-meal satiety, BG, insulin and gut hormones in 11- to 13-year-old normal weight children. Methods: Two randomized crossover studies were conducted. At weekly intervals, children (experiment 1: 12 males (M), 8 females (F); experiment 2: 6M, 6 F) received in random order 1 of 5 CHO side dishes of rice, pasta, BMP, fried French fries (FFF) or baked French fries (BFF) eaten freely together with a fixed amount of lean beef (100 g). In experiment-1, food intake over 30 min and subjective appetite were measured for 120 min. In experiment-2, the same outcomes were measured along with BG, plasma insulin and gut hormones. Results: The results for boys and girls were pooled as sex was not a factor. In both experiments, children consumed 30–40% less calories at meals with BMP (P<0.0001) compared with all other treatments, which were similar. BMP increased satiety, expressed as a change in appetite per kilocalorie, more than all other treatments (P<0.0001). FFF resulted in the lowest (P<0.0001) glucose and insulin at meal end and post-meal and peptide YY (PYY) post-meal. Blood measures were similar among all other treatments. Conclusions: The physiological functions of CHO foods consumed ad libitum at meal time on food intake, appetite, BG, insulin and gut hormone responses in children is not predicted by the GI. PMID:26878318

The effects of potatoes and other carbohydrate side dishes consumed with meat on food intake, glycemia and satiety response in children.

PubMed

Akilen, R; Deljoomanesh, N; Hunschede, S; Smith, C E; Arshad, M U; Kubant, R; Anderson, G H

2016-02-15

The effect of carbohydrate (CHO) foods on blood glucose (BG) is ranked by their glycemic index (GI). Boiled and mashed potatoes (BMPs) are ranked as high GI foods, whereas pasta and rice have moderate GI rankings. The objective of this study was to compare ad libitum consumption of common CHO dishes consumed with meat on meal-time food intake and post-meal satiety, BG, insulin and gut hormones in 11- to 13-year-old normal weight children. Two randomized crossover studies were conducted. At weekly intervals, children (experiment 1: 12 males (M), 8 females (F); experiment 2: 6M, 6 F) received in random order 1 of 5 CHO side dishes of rice, pasta, BMP, fried French fries (FFF) or baked French fries (BFF) eaten freely together with a fixed amount of lean beef (100 g). In experiment-1, food intake over 30 min and subjective appetite were measured for 120 min. In experiment-2, the same outcomes were measured along with BG, plasma insulin and gut hormones. The results for boys and girls were pooled as sex was not a factor. In both experiments, children consumed 30-40% less calories at meals with BMP (P<0.0001) compared with all other treatments, which were similar. BMP increased satiety, expressed as a change in appetite per kilocalorie, more than all other treatments (P<0.0001). FFF resulted in the lowest (P<0.0001) glucose and insulin at meal end and post-meal and peptide YY (PYY) post-meal. Blood measures were similar among all other treatments. The physiological functions of CHO foods consumed ad libitum at meal time on food intake, appetite, BG, insulin and gut hormone responses in children is not predicted by the GI.

The effectiveness of empirical anti-parasitic treatment in returning travellers with persistent abdominal symptoms.

PubMed

Nissan, Batel; Lachish, Tamar; Schwartz, Eli

2018-01-01

Persistent abdominal symptoms (PAS) are common among returning-travellers. In the absence of sensitive tests to identify intestinal parasites, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms often remain a diagnostic challenge. In this study we examined the effectiveness of empirical anti-parasitic treatment in returning-travellers with PAS despite no positive stool-test. A retrospective study among returning travellers who approached the clinic between the years 2014 and 2016 with GI complaints without a positive stool-test. The empirical treatment included broad-spectrum anti-parasitic agents-oral Tinidazole and Albendazole. A follow-up questionnaire was performed at least 6 months post-treatment. A total of 102 patients responded the questionnaire-50% women; average age 31.14 (±12.20) years. The average duration of complaints before treatment was 16.52 (±30.06) months. Common GI symptoms included abdominal pain (83.3%) and diarrhoea (78.4%); 67.6% of the patients complained of extreme fatigue. Overall, 69% of the patients reported an improvement in GI symptoms, 37% of them reported full recovery within a few weeks post-treatment. Furthermore, there was an improvement in the energy level and general well-being in 68% and 70% of the patients, respectively. Only 33% of the patients reported minor side effects related to the treatment. The improvement in GI symptoms, energy level and general well-being shortly after anti-parasitic treatment justifies this empirical approach in returning-travellers with PAS despite negative stool-tests. The association between fatigue and PAS post-travel and the improvement in both as a response to treatment defines fatigue as part of a new syndrome-'Post-travel fatigue and abdominal symptoms'. © International Society of Travel Medicine, 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Some Novel Mannich Bases of 5-(3,4-Dichlorophenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2(3H)-one and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity.

PubMed

Koksal, Meric; Ozkan-Dagliyan, Irem; Ozyazici, Tugce; Kadioglu, Beril; Sipahi, Hande; Bozkurt, Ayhan; Bilge, Suleyman S

2017-09-01

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are widely used for the treatment of rheumatic arthritis, pain, and many different types of inflammatory disorders, cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. The free carboxylic acid group existing on their chemical structure is correlated with GI toxicity related with all routine NSAIDs. Replacing this functional group with the 1,3,4-oxadiazole bioisostere is a generally used strategy to obtain an anti-inflammatory agent devoid of GI side effects. In the present work, a novel group of 5-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2(3H)-one Mannich bases were synthesized and characterized on the basis of IR, 1 H NMR, and elemental analysis results. The target compounds were first tested for cytotoxicity to determine a non-toxic concentration for anti-inflammatory screening. Anti-inflammatory effects of the compounds were evaluated by in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NO production and in vivo carrageenan footpad edema with ulcerogenic profile. In LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, most of the compounds showed inhibitory activity on nitrite production while compounds 5a, 5h, and 5j exhibited the best profiles by suppressing the NO production. To evaluate the in vivo anti-inflammatory potency of the compounds, the inflammatory response was quantified by increment in paw size in the carrageenan footpad edema assay. The anti-inflammatory data scoring showed that compounds 5a-d, 5g, and 5j, at the dose of 100 mg/kg, exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, which for compound 5g was comparable to that of the reference drug indomethacin with 53.9% and 55.5% inhibition in 60 and 120 min, respectively. © 2017 Deutsche Pharmazeutische Gesellschaft.

Indomethacin-5-fluorouracil-methyl ester dry emulsion: a potential oral delivery system for 5-fluorouracil.

PubMed

Wang, Jing; Hu, Yanchen; Li, Ling; Jiang, Tongying; Wang, Siling; Mo, Fengkui

2010-06-01

To produce a combined effect of indomethacin (IDM) and 5-fluorouracil (5FU) for cancer therapy, the side effects of IDM on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract were reduced and the oral adsorption of 5FU was improved. Indomethacin-5-fluorouracil-methyl ester (IFM) dry emulsion was prepared and evaluated as a potential oral delivery system for 5FU. IFM was synthesized by formation of an ester between IDM and 5FU intermediate and then characterized by structure, melting point, solubility, apparent partition coefficient, and incubation with GI tract contents and plasma. Gum acacia and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na) were applied as the adsorbent and solid carrier to prepare IFM dry emulsion. IFM dry emulsion was then characterized by reconstitution in water and in situ intestinal perfusion experiment. Physicochemical properties of the new synthesized compound confirmed the formation of IFM. Incubation of IFM in the contents of the GI tract and plasma revealed that IFM was not relatively stable in GI contents during the time period of transit through the GI tract, whereas it was very unstable in plasma and released 5FU rapidly. The IFM dry emulsion could be easily reconstituted in water, and the mean particle size was 2.416 microm. The absorption rate constant (K) for IFM with concentration of 2, 5, and 10 microg/mL in the in situ perfusion experiment were 0.473, 0.423, and 0.433/h, respectively, demonstrating passive diffusion of IFM across the biological membranes. This study indicates that the IFM dry emulsion may represent a potentially useful oral delivery system for 5FU.

Piroxicam-β-Cyclodextrin: A GI Safer Piroxicam

PubMed Central

Scarpignato, C

2013-01-01

Although NSAIDs are very effective drugs, their use is associated with a broad spectrum of adverse reactions in the liver, kidney, cardiovascular (CV) system, skin and gut. Gastrointestinal (GI) side effects are the most common and constitute a wide clinical spectrum ranging from dyspepsia, heartburn and abdominal discomfort to more serious events such as peptic ulcer with life-threatening complications of bleeding and perforation. The appreciation that CV risk is also increased further complicates the choices of physicians prescribing anti-inflammatory therapy. Despite prevention strategies should be implemented in patients at risk, gastroprotection is often underused and adherence to treatment is generally poor. A more appealing approach would be therefore to develop drugs that are devoid of or have reduced GI toxicity. Gastro-duodenal mucosa possesses many defensive mechanisms and NSAIDs have a deleterious effect on most of them. This results in a mucosa less able to cope with even a reduced acid load. NSAIDs cause gastro-duodenal damage, by two main mechanisms: a physiochemical disruption of the gastric mucosal barrier and systemic inhibition of gastric mucosal protection, through inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX, PG endoperoxide G/H synthase) activity of the GI mucosa. However, against a background of COX inhibition by anti-inflammatory doses of NSAIDs, their physicochemical properties, in particular their acidity, underlie the topical effect leading to short-term damage. It has been shown that esterification of acidic NSAIDs suppresses their gastrotoxicity without adversely affecting anti-inflammatory activity. Another way to develop NSAIDs with better GI tolerability is to complex these molecules with cyclodextrins (CDs), giving rise to so-called “inclusion complexes” that can have physical, chemical and biological properties very different from either those of the drug or the cyclodextrin. Complexation of NSAIDs with β-cyclodextrin potentially leads to a more rapid onset of action after oral administration and improved GI tolerability because of minimization of the drug gastric effects. One such drug, piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin (PBC), has been used in Europe for 25 years. Preclinical and clinical pharmacology of PBC do show that the β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex of piroxicam is better tolerated from the upper GI tract than free piroxicam, while retaining all the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of the parent compound. In addition, the drug is endowed with a quick absorption rate, which translates into a faster onset of analgesic activity, an effect confirmed in several clinical studies. An analysis of the available trials show that PBC has a GI safety profile, which is better than that displayed by uncomplexed piroxicam. Being an inclusion complex of piroxicam, whose CV safety has been pointed out by several observational studies, PBC should be viewed as a CV safe anti-inflmmatory compound and a GI safer alternative to piroxicam. As a consequence, it should be considered as a useful addition to our therapeutic armamentarium. PMID:23394552

Nightguard vital bleaching: side effects and patient satisfaction 10 to 17 years post-treatment.

PubMed

Boushell, Lee W; Ritter, André V; Garland, Glenn E; Tiwana, Karen K; Smith, Lynn R; Broome, Angela; Leonard, Ralph H

2012-06-01

  The long-term patient satisfaction and safety of nightguard vital bleaching (NGVB) requires further evaluation.   The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients' satisfaction and identify side effects of NGVB up to 17 years post-treatment.   Thirty-one participants who had completed previous NGVB studies using 10% carbamide peroxide were contacted at least 10 years post-treatment (range 10-17 years, average 12.3 years). Participants reported shade satisfaction (very satisfied [VS], partially satisfied [PS], or not satisfied [NS]) as well as potential complications. Participants had teeth # 6 to 11 examined for tooth vitality, gingival inflammation (Löe's Gingival Index [GI]), and radiographically for external cervical resorption (ECR).   All of the participants had successful lightening of their teeth. Sixty-one percent (19) had not retreated their teeth. Of those who had not retreated their teeth and who responded to the question of whitening satisfaction, 31% (4/13) were VS, 54% (7/13) were PS, and 15% (2/13) were NS with their current shade. Of those who had retreated their teeth, all were VS or PS. Ninety-one percent of the examined teeth had GI = 0 (normal), 7% had GI = 1 (mild inflammation), and 2% had GI = 2 (moderate inflammation). Sixty-nine percent of teeth tested responded to a cold stimulus. Radiographs did not detect ECR or apical lesions. No participant reported having a gingival biopsy post-treatment, and 87% would whiten again.   Patient satisfaction with NGVB may last as long as 12.3 years in average (range 10-17 years) post-treatment. GI and ECR findings were considered within the normal expectations for the sample studied, suggesting minimal clinical post-NGVB side effects up to 17 years. Nightguard vital bleaching provides patient satisfaction with minimal side effects up to 17 years post-treatment. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Aspirin and proton pump inhibitor combination therapy for prevention of cardiovascular disease and Barrett's esophagus.

PubMed

Peura, David A; Wilcox, C Mel

2014-01-01

Aspirin, used at low doses (75-325 mg daily), prevents aggregation of platelets and is prescribed for patients as pharmacologic prevention of cardiovascular disease. Despite the well-documented beneficial effects of aspirin, prolonged use is associated with damage to the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa in the upper and lower GI tract. Patient risk of hemorrhage and peptic ulcer formation is increased with older age, previous ulcer history, Helicobacter pylori infection, and concomitant use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, or antithrombotic agents. As termination of aspirin therapy can precipitate a cardiovascular event, patients at risk need co-therapy with gastroprotective agents, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), to reduce the GI side effects of aspirin treatment. Fixed-dose combinations of low-dose aspirin and gastroprotective agents have been designed to increase medication compliance, improve clinical outcomes, and reduce the overall cost of therapy. Prolonged use of PPIs may, however, lead to serious adverse effects or, in some cases, reduce the cardioprotective effects of aspirin. Hence, physicians need to carefully consider the benefits and risks associated with the condition of each patient to optimize clinical outcomes of combination therapy. A growing body of clinical evidence indicates that aspirin may decrease the risk of colorectal and other GI cancers, as well as reduce progression from Barrett's esophagus (BE) to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, PPIs have recently been shown to reduce neoplastic transformation in patients with BE. Thus, the use of a fixed-dose aspirin/PPI combination could potentially provide chemopreventive benefit to patients with BE, and, at the same time, treat the underlying gastroesophageal reflux responsible for the condition.

The effect of novel rhenium compounds on lymphosarcoma, PC-3 prostate and myeloid leukemia cancer cell lines and an investigation on the DNA binding properties of one of these compounds through electronic spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Parson, Carl; Smith, Valerie; Krauss, Christopher; Banerjee, Hirendra N.; Reilly, Christopher; Krause, Jeanette A.; Wachira, James M.; Giri, Dipak; Winstead, Angela; Mandal, Santosh K.

2014-01-01

Despite the tremendous success of cisplatin and other platinum-based anticancer drugs, severe toxicity and resistance to tumors limit their applications. It is believed that the coordination (formation of covalent bond) of the metal (platinum) to the nitrogen bases of DNA cause the ruptures of the cancer as well as normal cells. A search for anticancer drugs with different modes of action resulted in the synthesis of variety of novel compounds. Many of them are in clinical trials now. Recently we synthesized a series of novel rhenium pentylcarbonato compounds (PC1–PC6). The rhenium atom in each compound is coordinated (bonded) to a planar polypyridyl aromatic ligand, thereby forcing each compound to intercalate between the DNA bases. We have investigated the DNA binding properties of one of the PC-series of compounds (PC6) using electronic spectroscopy. The UV absorption titration of PC6 with DNA shows hypochromic effect with concomitant bathochromic shift of the charge transfer band at 290 nm. These results suggest that the compound PC6 binds to DNA through intercalation. It is therefore likely that the other PC-series of compounds will behave in a similar manner. Thus it is expected that these compounds will exhibit negligible or no side effect. We have observed that the PC-series of compounds are strong cytotoxic agents against lymphosarcoma (average GI50 ≈ 2±2.6 µM), PC-3 prostate (average GI50 ≈ 3±2.8 µM) and myeloid leukemia (average GI50 ≈ 3±2.8 µM) cancer cell lines. The average GI50 values of the PC-series of compounds are 2–3 less than the corresponding GI50 values of cisplatin. Also each of the PC-series of compounds exhibits less toxicity than cisplatin in the glomerular mesangial cells. PMID:25221731

[Adverse effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A prevalence study in Austria].

PubMed

Kolarz, Gernot; Mayrhofer, Franz; Neumann, Kurt; Singer, Franz

2003-01-31

Gastrointestinal side effects are the limiting factor in the prescription of non-steroidal antirheumatic drugs (NSAID). However, there are no recent data from Austria. The aim of this prevalence study was therefore to assess the gastrointestinal risk from NSAID in Austria. A total of 1347 patients were observed in an outpatient setting between March 2000 and February 2001. Side effects from NSAID were documented by questionnaire at two time points with a mean interval of 31 days. Documented data were analysed descriptively using an explorative strategy. The prevalence of side effects was compared to data from literature. Side effects were reported by 18.1% of the patients, severe gastro-intestinal complications (ulcer, bleeding, perforation) were diagnosed in 0.7%. Prescription of effective GI-protection (proton pump inhibitors, misoprostole, famotidin in high dose) was seen in only one third of the patients at risk. The prevalence of severe gastrointestinal side effects by NSAIDs assessed in our study was clearly lower than the prevalence reported in the Anglo-American literature. This may be due to a different prescription behaviour: about 75% of the patients took Diclofenac, lbuprofen or Meloxicam, drugs which have a very low potential of gastrointestinal complications. However, more information for general practitioners is needed yet to sufficiently protect patients at gastrointestinal risk from NSAID.

Ginger and Its Constituents: Role in Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancer

PubMed Central

Prasad, Sahdeo; Tyagi, Amit K.

2015-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, a cancer of different organs of the digestive system, is one of the most common cancers around the world. The incidence and death rate of some of these cancers are very high. Although a large variety of chemotherapeutic agents have been introduced since the last few decades to combat GI cancer, most of them are very expensive and have side effects. Therefore, the compounds derived from natural sources, which are considered to be safe and cost effective, are needed. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is one of the most widely used natural products consumed as a spice and medicine for treating nausea, dysentery, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea, loss of appetite, infections, cough, and bronchitis. Experimental studies showed that ginger and its active components including 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol exert anticancer activities against GI cancer. The anticancer activity of ginger is attributed to its ability to modulate several signaling molecules like NF-κB, STAT3, MAPK, PI3K, ERK1/2, Akt, TNF-α, COX-2, cyclin D1, cdk, MMP-9, survivin, cIAP-1, XIAP, Bcl-2, caspases, and other cell growth regulatory proteins. In this review, the evidences for the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic potential of ginger extract and its active components using in vitro, animal models, and patients have been described. PMID:25838819

Suppression of Calpain Expression by NSAIDs is Associated with Inhibition of Cell Migration in Rat Duodenum

PubMed Central

Silver, Kristopher; Littlejohn, A.; Thomas, Laurel; Bawa, Bhupinder; Lillich, James D.

2017-01-01

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for the alleviation of pain and inflammation, but these drugs are also associated with a suite of negative side effects. Gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity is particularly concerning since it affects an estimated 70% of individuals taking NSAIDs routinely, and evidence suggests the majority of toxicity is occurring in the small intestine. Traditionally, NSAID-induced GI toxicity has been associated with indiscriminate inhibition of cyclooxygenase isoforms, but other mechanisms, including inhibition of cell migration, intestinal restitution, and wound healing, are likely to contribute to toxicity. Previous efforts demonstrated that treatment of cultured intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) with NSAIDs inhibits expression and activity of calpain proteases, but the effects of specific inhibition of calpain expression in vitro or the effects of NSAIDs on intestinal cell migration in vivo remain to be determined. Accordingly, we examined the effect of suppression of calpain protease expression with siRNA on cell migration in cultured IECs and evaluated the effects of NSAID treatment on epithelial cell migration and calpain protease expression in rat duodenum. Our results show that calpain siRNA inhibits protease expression and slows migration in cultured IECs. Additionally, NSAID treatment of rats slowed migration up the villus axis and suppressed calpain expression in duodenal epithelial cells. Our results are supportive of the hypothesis that suppression of calpain expression leading to slowing of cell migration is a potential mechanism through which NSAIDs cause GI toxicity. PMID:28342779

Novel intervention with acupuncture for anorexia and cachexia in patients with gastrointestinal tract cancers: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Yoon, Saunjoo L; Grundmann, Oliver; Williams, Joseph J; Carriere, Gwen

2015-03-01

To investigate the feasibility of using acupuncture as a complementary intervention to existing treatments and to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in improving appetite and slowing weight loss with patients with gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers. 
 One-group pre- and postintervention feasibility study. 
 Outpatient clinic for patients with cancer and a community setting, both in Florida. 
 A convenience sample of seven adults with GI cancer.
 Eight acupuncture sessions were provided during eight weeks. Data were collected using the visual analog scale (VAS) for appetite, Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire (SNAQ), Karnofsky Performance Status, and bioelectrical impedance analysis. 
 Appetite, weight, attrition rate.
 Seven patients with a mean age of 61 years completed the intervention. Acupuncture was well accepted, feasible, and safe without any reported side effects. Appetite showed improvement, with an average score of 3.04 on the VAS and 4.14 on SNAQ compared to the preintervention scores. The average weight loss was 1.32% compared to the baseline during an eight-week period. 
 The acupuncture intervention was feasible and indicated positive outcomes. Because of the small sample size and lack of a control group, statistical significance of effectiveness was not determined. Acupuncture seemed to improve appetite and slow weight loss in patients with GI cancers, so additional studies with a larger sample size and a variety of cancers are warranted. 
 Oncology nurses are uniquely able to equip patients with information about complementary therapy modalities, such as acupuncture, which is a promising way to improve appetite and slow weight loss in patients with GI cancers.


Structure–based discovery of opioid analgesics with reduced side effects

PubMed Central

Manglik, Aashish; Lin, Henry; Aryal, Dipendra K.; McCorvy, John D.; Dengler, Daniela; Corder, Gregory; Levit, Anat; Kling, Ralf C.; Bernat, Viachaslau; Hübner, Harald; Huang, Xi-Ping; Sassano, Maria F.; Giguère, Patrick M.; Löber, Stefan; Duan, Da; Scherrer, Grégory; Kobilka, Brian K.; Gmeiner, Peter; Roth, Bryan L.; Shoichet, Brian K.

2016-01-01

Morphine is an alkaloid from the opium poppy used to treat pain. The potentially lethal side effects of morphine and related opioids—which include fatal respiratory depression—are thought to be mediated by μ-opioid-receptor (μOR) signalling through the β-arrestin pathway or by actions at other receptors. Conversely, G-protein μOR signalling is thought to confer analgesia. Here we computationally dock over 3 million molecules against the μOR structure and identify new scaffolds unrelated to known opioids. Structure-based optimization yields PZM21—a potent Gi activator with exceptional selectivity for μOR and minimal β-arrestin-2 recruitment. Unlike morphine, PZM21 is more efficacious for the affective component of analgesia versus the reflexive component and is devoid of both respiratory depression and morphine-like reinforcing activity in mice at equi-analgesic doses. PZM21 thus serves as both a probe to disentangle μOR signalling and a therapeutic lead that is devoid of many of the side effects of current opioids. PMID:27533032

A Simple, Inexpensive Model to Demonstrate How Contraction of GI Longitudinal Smooth Muscle Promotes Propulsion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lujan, Heidi L.; DiCarlo, Stephen E.

2015-01-01

Peristalis is a propulsive activity that involves both circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the esophagus, distal stomach, and small and large intestines. During peristalsis, the circular smooth muscle contracts behind (on the orad side) the bolus and relaxes in front (on the aborad side) of the bolus. At the same time, the longitudinal…

Nanomedicine in GI

PubMed Central

Laroui, Hamed; Wilson, David S.; Dalmasso, Guillaume; Salaita, Khalid; Murthy, Niren; Sitaraman, Shanthi V.

2011-01-01

Recent advances in nanotechnology offer new hope for disease detection, prevention, and treatment. Nanomedicine is a rapidly evolving field wherein targeted therapeutic approaches using nanotechnology based on the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal diseases are being developed. Nanoparticle vectors capable of delivering drugs specifically and exclusively to regions of the gastrointestinal tract affected by disease for a prolonged period of time are likely to significantly reduce the side effects of existing otherwise effective treatments. This review aims at integrating various applications of the most recently developed nanomaterials that have tremendous potential for the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. PMID:21148398

Synergy between Prkdc and Trp53 regulates stem cell proliferation and GI-ARS after irradiation.

PubMed

Gurley, Kay E; Ashley, Amanda K; Moser, Russell D; Kemp, Christopher J

2017-11-01

Ionizing radiation (IR) is one of the most widely used treatments for cancer. However, acute damage to the gastrointestinal tract or gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS) is a major dose-limiting side effect, and the mechanisms that underlie this remain unclear. Here we use mouse models to explore the relative roles of DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in radiation response. IR induces DNA double strand breaks and DNA-PK mutant Prkdc scid/scid mice are sensitive to GI-ARS due to an inability to repair these breaks. IR also activates the tumor suppressor p53 to trigger apoptotic cell death within intestinal crypt cells and p53 deficient mice are resistant to apoptosis. To determine if DNA-PK and p53 interact to govern radiosensitivity, we compared the response of single and compound mutant mice to 8 Gy IR. Compound mutant Prkdc scid/scid /Trp53 -/- mice died earliest due to severe GI-ARS. While both Prkdc scid/scid and Prkdc scid/scid /Trp53 -/- mutant mice had higher levels of IR-induced DNA damage, particularly within the stem cell compartment of the intestinal crypt, in Prkdc scid/scid /Trp53 -/- mice these damaged cells abnormally progressed through the cell cycle resulting in mitotic cell death. This led to a loss of Paneth cells and a failure to regenerate the differentiated epithelial cells required for intestinal function. IR-induced apoptosis did not correlate with radiosensitivity. Overall, these data reveal that DNA repair, mediated by DNA-PK, and cell cycle arrest, mediated by p53, cooperate to protect the stem cell niche after DNA damage, suggesting combination approaches to modulate both pathways may be beneficial to reduce GI-ARS. As many cancers harbor p53 mutations, this also suggests targeting DNA-PK may be effective to enhance sensitivity of p53 mutant tumors to radiation.

Suppression of calpain expression by NSAIDs is associated with inhibition of cell migration in rat duodenum.

PubMed

Silver, Kristopher; Littlejohn, A; Thomas, Laurel; Bawa, Bhupinder; Lillich, James D

2017-05-15

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for the alleviation of pain and inflammation, but these drugs are also associated with a suite of negative side effects. Gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity is particularly concerning since it affects an estimated 70% of individuals taking NSAIDs routinely, and evidence suggests the majority of toxicity is occurring in the small intestine. Traditionally, NSAID-induced GI toxicity has been associated with indiscriminate inhibition of cyclooxygenase isoforms, but other mechanisms, including inhibition of cell migration, intestinal restitution, and wound healing, are likely to contribute to toxicity. Previous efforts demonstrated that treatment of cultured intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) with NSAIDs inhibits expression and activity of calpain proteases, but the effects of specific inhibition of calpain expression in vitro or the effects of NSAIDs on intestinal cell migration in vivo remain to be determined. Accordingly, we examined the effect of suppression of calpain protease expression with siRNA on cell migration in cultured IECs and evaluated the effects of NSAID treatment on epithelial cell migration and calpain protease expression in rat duodenum. Our results show that calpain siRNA inhibits protease expression and slows migration in cultured IECs. Additionally, NSAID treatment of rats slowed migration up the villus axis and suppressed calpain expression in duodenal epithelial cells. Our results are supportive of the hypothesis that suppression of calpain expression leading to slowing of cell migration is a potential mechanism through which NSAIDs cause GI toxicity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Randomised clinical trial: the safety and tolerability of Trichuris suis ova in patients with Crohn's disease.

PubMed

Sandborn, W J; Elliott, D E; Weinstock, J; Summers, R W; Landry-Wheeler, A; Silver, N; Harnett, M D; Hanauer, S B

2013-08-01

Recent evidence suggests that embryonated eggs of the porcine whipworm Trichuris suis ova (TSO) may be an effective treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To assess the safety and tolerability of TSO following a single dose in patients with Crohn's disease. This was a sequential dose-escalation (500, 2500 and 7500 viable embryonated TSO), randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety of a single dose of oral suspension TSO in patients with Crohn's disease. Twelve patients were randomised into each of three cohorts. Patients were assessed 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 14 days following dosing (via a telephone call and diary symptom collection through 14 days postdose) for adverse events, changes to concomitant medications and gastrointestinal (GI) signs and symptoms. Patients were again assessed at Months 1, 2 and 6. Eighteen males and 18 females were enrolled, ages 20 to 54 years. All patients were dosed and completed the initial 2-month follow-up period (five patients did not attend their 6-month study visit). GI disorders were reported with the highest frequency; 7 (25.9%) TSO-treated patients and 3 (33.3%) placebo-treated patients. No dose-dependent relationship was observed, with 3 (33.3%) placebo, 4 (44.4%) TSO 500, 0 (0.0%) TSO 2500 and 3 (33.3%) TSO 7500 patients experiencing at least one GI event, and no clinically meaningful changes in GI signs and symptoms. A single dose of Trichuris suis ova up to 7500 ova was well tolerated and did not result in short- or long-term treatment-related side effects. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01576461. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Green Infrastructure Increases Biogeochemical Responsiveness, Vegetation Growth and Decreases Runoff in a Semi-Arid City, Tucson, AZ, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meixner, T.; Papuga, S. A.; Luketich, A. M.; Rockhill, T.; Gallo, E. L.; Anderson, J.; Salgado, L.; Pope, K.; Gupta, N.; Korgaonkar, Y.; Guertin, D. P.

2017-12-01

Green Infrastructure (GI) is often viewed as a mechanism to minimize the effects of urbanization on hydrology, water quality, and other ecosystem services (including the urban heat island). Quantifying the effects of GI requires field measurements of the dimensions of biogeochemical, ecosystem, and hydrologic function that we expect GI to impact. Here we investigated the effect of GI features in Tucson, Arizona which has a low intensity winter precipitation regime and a high intensity summer regime. We focused on understanding the effect of GI on soil hydraulic and biogeochemical properties as well as the effect on vegetation and canopy temperature. Our results demonstrate profound changes in biogeochemical and hydrologic properties and vegetation growth between GI systems and nearby control sites. In terms of hydrologic properties GI soils had increased water holding capacity and hydraulic conductivity. GI soils also have higher total carbon, total nitrogen, and organic matter in general than control soils. Furthermore, we tested the sampled soils (control and GI) for differences in biogeochemical response upon wetting. GI soils had larger respiration responses indicating greater biogeochemical activity overall. Long-term Lidar surveys were used to investigate the differential canopy growth of GI systems versus control sites. The results of this analysis indicate that while a significant amount of time is needed to observe differences in canopy growth GI features due increase tree size and thus likely impact street scale ambient temperatures. Additionally monitoring of transpiration, soil moisture, and canopy temperature demonstrates that GI features increase vegetation growth and transpiration and reduce canopy temperatures. These biogeochemical and ecohydrologic results indicate that GI can increase the biogeochemical processing of soils and increase tree growth and thus reduce urban ambient temperatures.

Mandibular Denture Base Deformation with Locator and Ball Attachments of Implant-Retained Overdentures.

PubMed

ELsyad, Moustafa Abdou; Errabti, Hatem Mokhtar; Mustafa, Aisha Zakaria

2016-12-01

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare mandibular denture base deformation between ball and Locator attachments of implant-retained overdentures. An experimental acrylic model covered with resilient silicone mucosal simulation was constructed. Two laboratory implants were placed in the canine areas of the model. Two duplicate experimental overdentures were constructed and connected to the implants with either ball (GI) or Locator (GII) attachments. To measure overdenture strain around the attachments, 3 strain gauges were attached to the lingual polished surface of the overdentures opposite to the right implant (loading side) 2 mm above the attachment level (Ch1), at the attachment level (Ch2), and 2 mm below the attachment level (Ch3). Another 3 gauges were bonded opposite to the left implant (non-loading side) in the same manner (Ch6, Ch7, and Ch8). To measure strain at the midline of the overdentures, two strain gauges were attached in the midline at 5 mm intervals (Ch4 and Ch5). A universal testing device was used to deliver vertical static load of 50 N unilaterally and bilaterally to the first molar area to measure strain using a multi-channel digital strain meter. During bilateral load application, GII recorded higher compressive strains than GI at the majority of channels. During unilateral load application, GI recorded higher tensile strains at Ch1, Ch2, and Ch3, and GII recorded higher strains than GI at Ch6, Ch7, and Ch8. During bilateral loading the highest strain was concentrated at Ch5 for both groups. During unilateral loading, the highest strain was concentrated at Ch2 for GI, and at Ch5 for GII. Ball attachments for implant-retained overdentures were associated with significant mandibular denture base deformation over the implants compared to Locator attachments. Therefore, denture base reinforcement may be recommended with ball attachmentz to increase fracture resistance of the base. © 2015 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Motility changes induced by intraluminal FeSO4 in guinea pig jejunum.

PubMed

Wang, K; Bertrand, R L; Senadheera, S; Polglaze, K E; Murphy, T V; Sandow, S L; Liu, L; Bornstein, J C; Bertrand, P P

2014-03-01

Dietary iron supplementation is associated with gastrointestinal (GI) side effects including vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Although inorganic iron in high concentrations may be damaging to the intestinal mucosa, we hypothesize that there are physiological effects on the GI tract that occur at concentrations achieved by supplementation. Thus, our aim was to investigate the effect of intraluminal ferrous sulfate (FeSO4 ) on jejunal motility. Segments of guinea pig jejunum were cannulated and the intraluminal pressure recorded with a transducer, while movements were recorded with a video camera. Peristaltic threshold was the oral pressure that evoked four consecutive propulsive contractions. The nutrients decanoic acid (1 mM), l-phenylalanine (50 mM), or the micronutrient FeSO4 (1 mM) were infused intraluminally. We also tested the effect of FeSO4 on electrochemically detected serotonin (5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptamine) released from in vitro tissues, both at rest and following mechanical stimulation. The jejuna peristaltic threshold was significantly decreased by all three nutrients: FeSO4 : 31 ± 2-23 ± 3 mmH2 O; decanoic acid: 27 ± 2-14 ± 2 mmH2 O; and l-phenylalanine: 30 ± 3-14 ± 3mmH2 O. Of the three, only decanoic acid induced segmentation, while FeSO4 inhibited decanoic acid-induced segmentation. Resting 5-HT release was increased by FeSO4 (128% of control), but mechanically evoked 5-HT release was reduced (70% of control). These data suggest that some luminal effects of inorganic iron on jejunal motility could be mediated through a pathway involving altered release of 5-HT. A better understanding of the interaction between luminal iron and 5-HT containing enterochromaffin cells could improve iron supplementation strategies, thus reducing side effects. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Recurrent hemorrhaging from stomal ulcers following a side to side longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy for chronic pancreatitis: report of a case.

PubMed

Isa, T; Muto, Y; Kurashita, K; Kusano, T; Matsumoto, M; Tomita, S

2000-12-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhaging secondary to stomal ulcers following a pancreaticojejunostomy for chronic pancreatitis is a rare postoperative condition that has not hitherto been reported in the literature. A 25-yr-old Japanese female was referred to Ryukyu University Hospital with GI hemorrhaging of unknown origin. She had undergone a modified Puestow procedure (Partington procedure) for chronic pancreatitis with pancreatolithiasis and an associated dilatation of the main pancreatic duct at 19 yr of age. A technetium-99m blood-flow scan demonstrated the pooling of radionuclides in the area of the jejunal loop, which was highly suggestive of bleeding into the jejunum. Over the next day, she demonstrated persistent melena. At exploratory laparotomy, the anastomotic jejunal loop was filled with clotted blood. Operative endoscopy through an incision of the jejunal loop in close proximity to the anastomosis showed oozing blood from the anastomotic jejunal mucosa. Following a resection of the affected anastomotic segment of the jejunum, a side to side longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy was again performed on this patient. The resected jejunum showed pathologically pseudopolyp-like edema, congestion, and an ulceration of the stomal mucosa. The patient showed a good postoperative course and has been doing well for the past 8 yr since reoperation.

Single dose regorafenib-induced hypertensive crisis.

PubMed

Yilmaz, B; Kemal, Y; Teker, F; Kut, E; Demirag, G; Yucel, I

2014-06-01

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are uncommon tumors of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Regorafenib is a new multikinase inhibitor and is approved for the treatment of GISTs in patients who develop resistance to imatinib and sunitinib. The most common drug-related adverse events with regorafenib are hypertension, hand-foot skin reactions, and diarrhea. Grade IV hypertensive side effect has never been reported after a single dose. In this report, we present a case of Grade IV hypertensive side effect (hypertensive crisis and seizure) after a single dose of regorafenib. A 54-year-old male normotensive GIST patient was admitted to the emergency department with seizure and encephalopathy after the first dosage of regorafenib. His blood pressure was 240/140 mmHg upon admission. After intensive treatment with nitrate and nitroprusside, his blood pressure returned to normal levels in five days. Regorafenib was discontinued, and he did not experience hypertension again. This paper reports the first case of Grade IV hypertension after the first dosage of regorafenib. We can suggest that hypertension is an idiosyncratic side effect unrelated to the dosage.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use in chronic pain conditions with special emphasis on the elderly and patients with relevant comorbidities: management and mitigation of risks and adverse effects.

PubMed

Wehling, Martin

2014-10-01

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most frequently used drugs, and this widespread use is complicated by safety issues. A Literature review was conducted. NSAIDs are a leading cause of drug-related morbidity, especially in the elderly and patients with comorbidities. Most adverse effects are related to generalized inhibition of the major targets of NSAIDs: cyclooxygenases I and II. These enzymes are not only involved in pain and inflammation pathogenesis but are also required in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract for mucosal protection and gut motility, and in the kidneys for functional integrity. Thus, the mechanisms of NSAID toxicity are well understood, but the consequences are largely uncontrolled in clinical practice. GI ulcers, including bleeding ulcers, may occur in several percent of all chronic unprotected, high-dose NSAID users. Renal side effects may precipitate renal failure, resulting in acute dialysis and chronic retention. This includes sodium retention, resulting in arterial hypertension, heart failure, and atherosclerotic events. Cardiovascular risk may be tripled by chronic high-dose NSAID use in long-term clinical trials though "real-life studies" indicate lower risk ratios. Off-target side effects include allergic reactions, drug-induced liver injury, and central nervous system effects. Management of pain and inflammation must consider those risks and find alternative drugs or approaches to limit the negative impact of NSAIDs on mortality and morbidity. Alternative drugs, low-dose/short-term use, but especially non-pharmacologic approaches, such as physiotherapy, exercise, neurophysiologic measures, and local therapies, need to be further utilized. The appalling equation "less pain-more deaths/morbidity" ultimately necessitates treatment optimization in the individual patient.

Treatment regimens by pediatric nephrologists in children with congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: A MWPNC study
.

PubMed

D'Alessandri-Silva, Cynthia; Carpenter, Melinda; Mahan, John D

2018-05-01

Congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a rare genetic disorder affecting urinary concentration. Clinicians have varied medication regimens as well as nutritional plan approaches for these children. An electronic survey was distributed to member pediatric nephrologists of the Midwest Pediatric Nephrology Consortium via email (n = 179). Questions included types of drugs prescribed, factors contributing to drug choice, common drug combinations given, and dietary/failure to thrive interventions used. We analyzed results from 72 respondents (42% overall response rate). 72% treated only 1 - 3 patients with NDI per year, 12% treated 4 or more, and 17% had no NDI patients. Of providers treating NDI patients, almost all prescribed thiazides (93%), 62% prescribed amiloride, and 55% reported prescribing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as part of their drug regimen. gastrointestinal (GI) and renal side effects (43%) were given as reasons for not prescribing indomethacin. For 70%, drug choice was determined by severity of failure to thrive (FTT). Physicians were asked to define the most common drug combinations they prescribed. 48% reported prescribing indomethacin with hydrochlorothiazide. 84% of respondents have a renal dietitian on staff, and half included appointments with a dietitian as part of FTT therapy. The most common intervention for FFT was gastrostomy tube placement (78%). Our results suggest consensus on the use of thiazides, while the use of indomethacin is limited by GI and renal side effect profile. Our results revealed that multiple drug combinations are frequently used without one specific preferred regimen.
.

Barriers to the implementation of practice guidelines in managing patients with nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: A qualitative approach

PubMed Central

Hayes, Sean M; Murray, Suzanne; Dupuis, Martin; Dawes, Martin; Hawes, Ian A; Barkun, Alan N

2010-01-01

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Guidelines for the management of patients with nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) are inconsistently applied by health care providers, potentially resulting in suboptimal care and patient outcomes. A needs assessment was performed to assess health care providers’ barriers to the implementation of these guidelines in Canada. METHODS: Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted by trained research personnel with 22 selectively sampled health care professionals actively treating and managing NVUGIB patients, including emergency room physicians (ER), intensivists (ICU), gastroenterologists (GI), gastroenterology nurses and hospital administrators. Participants were chosen from a representative sample of six Canadian community- and academic-based hospitals that participated in a national Canadian audit on the management of NVUGIB. RESULTS: Participants reported substantive gaps in the implementation of NVUGIB guidelines that included the following: lack of knowledge of the specifics of the NVUGIB guidelines (ER, ICU, nurses); limited belief in the value of guidelines, especially in areas where evidence is lacking (ER, ICU); limited belief in the value of available tools to support implementation of guidelines (GI); lack of knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of health care professions and disciplines, and lack of effective collaboration skills (ER, ICU and GI); variability of knowledge and skills of health care professionals within professions (eg, variability of nurses’ knowledge and skills in endoscopic procedures); and perceived overuse of intravenous proton pump inhibitor treatment, with limited concern regarding cost or side effect implications (all participants). CONCLUSIONS: In the present study population, ER, ICU and nurses did not adhere to NVUGIB guidelines because they were neither aware of nor familiar with them, whereas the GI lack of adherence to NVUGIB guidelines was influenced more by attitudinal and contextual barriers. These findings can guide the design of multifaceted educational and behavioural interventions when attempting to effectively disseminate existing guidelines, and for guideline implementation into practice. PMID:20485702

Testing the Effectiveness of the North Shore - LIJ Health System’s Bioterrorism Response Program to Identified Surveillance Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

Enteritis GI 008.5 ENTERITIS, BACTERIAL NOS Enteritis GI 008.6 ENTERITIS D/T SPECIFIED V Enteritis GI 008.61 ENTERITIS D/T ROTAVIRUS Enteritis GI...008.61 ENTERITIS D/T ROTAVIRUS Enteritis GI 008.62 ENTERITIS D/T ADENOVIRUS Enteritis GI 008.63 ENTERITIS D/T NORWALK VIR Enteritis GI 008.64

RITA Mimics: Synthesis and Mechanistic Evaluation of Asymmetric Linked Trithiazoles.

PubMed

Pietkiewicz, Adrian L; Zhang, Yuqi; Rahimi, Marwa N; Stramandinoli, Michael; Teusner, Matthew; McAlpine, Shelli R

2017-04-13

The established cytotoxic agent RITA contains a thiophene-furan-thiophene backbone and two terminal alcohol groups. Herein we investigate the effect of using thiazoles as the backbone in RITA-like molecules and modifying the terminal groups of these trithiazoles, thereby generating 41 unique structures. Incorporating side chains with varied steric bulk allowed us to investigate how size and a stereocenter impacted biological activity. Subjecting compounds to growth inhibition assays on HCT-116 cells showed that the most potent compounds 7d , 7e , and 7h had GI 50 values of 4.4, 4.4, and 3.4 μM, respectively, versus RITA (GI 50 of 800 nM). Analysis of these compounds in apoptosis assays proved that 7d , 7e , and 7h were as effective as RITA at inducing apoptosis. Evaluating the impact of 7h on proteins targeted by RITA (p53, c-Myc, and Mcl-1) indicated that it acts via a different mechanism of action to that of RITA. RITA suppressed Mcl-1 protein via p53, whereas compound 7h suppressed Mcl-1 expression via an alternative mechanism independent of p53.

Colitis induced by sodium polystyrene sulfonate in sorbitol: A report of six cases.

PubMed

Jacob, Sheba S K; Parameswaran, Ashok; Parameswaran, Sarojini Ashok; Dhus, Ubal

2016-03-01

Drug-related injury has been noted in virtually all organ systems, and recognition of the patterns of injury associated with medication enables modification of treatment and reduces the morbidity associated with the side effects of drugs. With the large number of new drugs being developed, documentation of the morphology of the changes seen as an adverse effect becomes important to characterize the pattern of injury. The pathologist is often the first to identify these abnormalities and correlate them with a particular drug. Kayexalate or sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS), a linear polymer derived from polystyrene containing sulfonic acid and sulfonate functional groups is used to treat hyperkalemia. It is usually administered with an osmotic laxative sorbitol orally or as retention enema. This combination has been implicated in causing damage to different parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract especially the colon and causes an established pattern of injury, recognizable by the presence of characteristic crystals, is presented to create a greater awareness of the Kayexalate colitis. This entity should be included in the differential diagnosis of lower GI mucosal injury in a setting of uremia and hyperkalemia.

Effects of Lowering Glycemic Index of Dietary Carbohydrate on Plasma Uric Acid: The OmniCarb Randomized Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Juraschek, Stephen P; McAdams-Demarco, Mara; Gelber, Allan C; Sacks, Frank M.; Appel, Lawrence J; White, Karen; Miller, Edgar R

2017-01-01

Objective The effects of carbohydrates on plasma uric acid levels are controversial. We determined the individual and combined effects of carbohydrate quality (glycemic index, GI) and quantity (proportion of total daily energy, %carb) on uric acid. Methods We conducted a randomized, crossover feeding trial in overweight or obese adults without cardiovascular disease (N=163). Participants were fed each of four diets over 5-week periods separated by 2-week washout periods. Body weight was kept constant. The four diets were: high GI (GI ≥65) with high %carb (58% kcal), low GI (GI ≤45) with low %carb (40% kcal), low GI with high %carb; and high GI with low %carb. Plasma uric acid was measured at baseline and after each feeding period for comparison between the 4 diets. Results Study participants were 52% women and 50% non-Hispanic black with a mean age of 52.6 years and a mean uric acid of 4.7 (SD, 1.2) mg/dL. Reducing GI lowered uric acid when the %carb was low (−0.24 mg/dL; P <0.001) or high (−0.17 mg/dL; P <0.001). Reducing the %carb marginally increased uric acid only when GI was high (P = 0.05). The combined effect of lowering GI and increasing the %carb was −0.27 mg/dL (P <0.001). This effect was observed even after adjustment for concurrent changes in kidney function, insulin sensitivity, and products of glycolysis. Conclusions Reducing GI lowers uric acid. Future studies should examine whether reducing GI can prevent gout onset or flares. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier: NCT00608049 PMID:26636424

A phase III study evaluating oral glutamine and transforming growth factor-beta 2 on chemotherapy-induced toxicity in patients with digestive neoplasm.

PubMed

Khemissa, Faïza; Mineur, Laurent; Amsellem, Caroline; Assenat, Eric; Ramdani, Mohamed; Bachmann, Patrick; Janiszewski, Chloé; Cristiani, Isabelle; Collin, Fideline; Courraud, Julie; de Forges, Hélène; Dechelotte, Pierre; Senesse, Pierre

2016-03-01

Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer are exposed to cachexia, which is highly correlated with chemotherapy-induced side effects. Research suggests that specific immunonutrients could prevent such toxicities. The primary objective of this phase III study was to evaluate the efficacy of glutamine and transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) in the prevention of grade 3-4 non-hematological toxicities induced by chemotherapy in patients with GI cancer. We designed a double-blind, randomized, controlled and multicenter trial stratified according to center, type of chemotherapy, presence of cachexia, and age. Patients were randomized to receive either Clinutren Protect(®) (CP) or a control isocaloric diet (without TGF-β2 or glutamine). Between November 2007 and October 2011, 210 patients were enrolled in the study, of which 201 were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Grade 3-4 non-hematological toxicities were not significantly different between the CP and control groups when evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses. Likewise, no difference was observed regarding grade 3-4 hematological toxicities or reasons for treatment interruption. This randomized study does not support the hypothesis that oral glutamine and TGF-β2 supplementation is effective to reduce grade 3 or 4 non-hematological toxicities induced by chemotherapy in patients with GI neoplasm. Copyright © 2015 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analgesic Prodrugs for Combating their Side-Effects: Rational Approach.

PubMed

Ruchita; Sucheta; Nanda, Sanju; Pathak, Dharampal

2017-01-01

Analgesics are the drugs which bring insensibility to pain without loosing consciousness. Treatment strategy is generally based on the type of pain. Most of the analgesics are associated with serious side effects, such as NSAIDS can cause severe GI disturbance and opioids can cause addiction. There are various ways to reduce their side effects The analgesic prodrug approach is one of the several strategies used to attain the required pharmacological response with a considerable decrease in side effects. The aim of this paper is to introduce in depth the rational behind the use of the analgesic prodrug approach from past to present. Data is collected from online as well as from extensive literature survey which have appeared on this subject during the last decades. This review will map the origins and development of the most important of the analgesic prodrugs to date. This review indicates that, designing analgesic prodrugs represent successful strategy to gain the required pharmacological activity with a considerable decrease in side effects. However thorough knowledge of diverse biological phenomena is needed which enables scientists to invent and design superior, nontoxic and better-targeted prodrugs. The newly synthesized chemical entity or prodrugs may or may not have intrinsic pharmacological activity and also synthesizing novel molecules consume a lot of time and money than developing prodrugs of existing clinically used analgesic drugs which is surely an attractive and promising area of research now a days. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Targeting Taxanes to Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Cells by Nanobubbles and Extracorporeal Shock Waves.

PubMed

Marano, Francesca; Rinella, Letizia; Argenziano, Monica; Cavalli, Roberta; Sassi, Francesca; D'Amelio, Patrizia; Battaglia, Antonino; Gontero, Paolo; Bosco, Ornella; Peluso, Rossella; Fortunati, Nicoletta; Frairia, Roberto; Catalano, Maria Graziella

2016-01-01

To target taxanes to castration-resistant prostate cancer cells, glycol-chitosan nanobubbles loaded with paclitaxel and docetaxel were constructed. The loaded nanobubbles were then combined with Extracorporeal Shock Waves, acoustic waves widely used in urology and orthopedics, with no side effects. Nanobubbles, with an average diameter of 353.3 ± 15.5 nm, entered two different castration-resistant prostate cancer cells (PC3 and DU145) as demonstrated by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. The shock waves applied increased the amount of intracellular nanobubbles. Loading nanobubbles with paclitaxel and docetaxel and combining them with shock waves generated the highest cytotoxic effects, resulting in a paclitaxel GI50 reduction of about 55% and in a docetaxel GI50 reduction of about 45% respectively. Combined treatment also affected cell migration. Paclitaxel-loaded nanobubbles and shock waves reduced cell migration by more than 85% with respect to paclitaxel alone; whereas docetaxel-loaded nanobubbles and shock waves reduced cell migration by more than 82% with respect to docetaxel alone. The present data suggest that nanobubbles can act as a stable taxane reservoir in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells and shock waves can further increase drug release from nanobubbles leading to higher cytotoxic and anti-migration effect.

Effects of long-term intervention with low- and high-glycaemic-index breakfasts on food intake in children aged 8-11 years.

PubMed

Henry, C Jeya K; Lightowler, Helen J; Strik, Caroline M

2007-09-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of long-term intervention of low-glycaemic-index (GI) v. high-GI breakfasts on energy and macronutrient intakes in children aged 8-11 years. Preadolescent children were assigned to one of two groups in a random cross-over design. Each group was given low-GI and high-GI breakfasts on two non-consecutive days per week for 10 weeks per breakfast type. Each breakfast provided approximately 1273 kJ (300 kcal) and was closely matched for macronutrient and dietary fibre content. Subsequent food intake at an ad libitum buffet lunch was recorded and daily energy and macronutrient intakes were measured by 24 h recall and 3 d food diaries. There was a tendency towards a reduced energy intake at lunch following the low-GI breakfast compared with the high-GI breakfast, although the mean difference of 75 kJ (18 kcal) was not significant (P = 0.406). In particular, there was a trend towards a reduced energy intake in the low-GI arm compared with the high-GI arm among boys. In addition, data from the 3 d food diaries showed that there was a tendency towards a reduced energy intake during the low-GI compared with the high-GI study period. In conclusion, although the difference in energy intake following the low-GI and high-GI breakfasts was not statistically significant, the reduced energy intake following the low-GI breakfast is encouraging. Both dietary fibre and carbohydrate type may affect GI, thus their potential and relative modulating effect on appetite requires further investigation.

Effect of Glycemic Index of Breakfast on Energy Intake at Subsequent Meal among Healthy People: A Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Sun, Feng-Hua; Li, Chunxiao; Zhang, Yan-Jie; Wong, Stephen Heung-Sang; Wang, Lin

2016-01-01

Meals with low glycemic index (GI) may suppress short-term appetite and reduce subsequent food intake compared with high-GI meals. However, no meta-analysis has been conducted to synthesize the evidence. This meta-analytic study was conducted to assess the effect of high- and low-GI breakfast on subsequent short-term food intake. Trials were identified through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials, and manual searches of bibliographies until May 2015. Randomized controlled and cross-over trials comparing the effect of low- with high-GI breakfast on subsequent energy intake among healthy people were included. Nine studies consisting of 11 trials met the inclusion criteria. Only one trial was classified with high methodological quality. A total of 183 participants were involved in the trials. The meta-analytic results revealed no difference in breakfast GI (high-GI vs. low-GI) on subsequent short-term energy intake. In conclusion, it seems that breakfast GI has no effect on short-term energy intake among healthy people. However, high quality studies are still warranted to provide more concrete evidence. PMID:26742058

Low glycemic index breakfasts and reduced food intake in preadolescent children.

PubMed

Warren, Janet M; Henry, C Jeya K; Simonite, Vanessa

2003-11-01

Recent reports have suggested that a low glycemic index (GI) diet may have a role in the management of obesity through its ability to increase the satiety value of food and modulate appetite. To date, no long-term clinical trials have examined the effect of dietary GI on body weight regulation. The majority of evidence comes from single-day studies, most of which have been conducted in adults. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 3 test breakfasts-low-GI, low-GI with 10% added sucrose, and high-GI-on ad libitum lunch intake, appetite, and satiety and to compare these with baseline values when habitual breakfast was consumed. A 3-way crossover study using block randomization of breakfast type was conducted in a school that already ran a breakfast club. A total of 37 children aged 9 to 12 years (15 boys and 22 girls) completed the study. The proportion of nonoverweight to overweight/obese children was 70:30. Children were divided into 5 groups, and a rolling program was devised whereby, week by week, each group would randomly receive 1 of 3 test breakfasts for 3 consecutive days, with a minimum of 5 weeks between the test breakfasts. Participants acted as their own control. The 3 test breakfasts were devised to match the energy and nutritional content of an individual's habitual breakfast as far as possible. All test breakfasts were composed of fruit juice, cereal, and milk with/without bread and margarine; foods with an appropriate GI value were selected. After each test breakfast, children were instructed not to eat or drink anything until lunchtime, except water and a small serving of fruit supplying approximately 10 g of carbohydrate, which was provided. Breakfast palatability, satiation after breakfast, and satiety before lunch were measured using rating scales based on previously used tools. Lunch was a buffet-style meal, and children were allowed free access to a range of foods. Lunch was served in the school hall where the rest of the schoolchildren were eating. Food intake at lunch was unobtrusively observed and recorded. Leftovers and food swapping were recorded, and plate waste was estimated. Lunch intakes were analyzed using a multilevel regression model for repeated measures data. The likelihood ratio statistic was used to determine whether the type of breakfast eaten had a significant effect on lunch intake after allowing for sex and weight status. The type of breakfast eaten had a statistically significant effect on mean energy intake at lunchtime: lunch intake was lower after low-GI and low-GI with added sucrose breakfasts compared with lunch intake after high-GI and habitual breakfasts (which were high-GI). Overweight and sex did not have a significant effect on lunch intake. Pairwise comparisons among the 3 types of test breakfasts and between each test breakfast and habitual breakfast were made. Lunch intake after the high-GI breakfast was significantly higher than after the low-GI breakfast and low-GI breakfast with added sucrose. The details of the pairwise comparisons were as follows: high-GI versus low-GI = 145 +/- 54 kcal; high-GI versus low-GI plus sucrose = 119 +/- 53 kcal; low-GI plus sucrose versus low-GI = 27 +/- 54 kcal. Lunch intake after the low-GI breakfast and the low-GI breakfast with added sucrose was significantly lower than after the habitual breakfast. The details of the pairwise comparisons were as follows: low-GI versus habitual = -109 +/- 75 kcal; low-GI plus sucrose versus habitual = -83 +/- 75 kcal; high-GI versus habitual = 36 +/- 75 kcal. There were no significant differences between the test breakfasts in immediate satiation. The high-GI breakfasts were rated to be more palatable than the low-GI breakfasts. At lunchtime, hunger ratings were greater after the high-GI breakfast compared with the other 2 test breakfasts on 2 of the 3 experimental days. Prelunch satiety scales were inversely related to subsequent food intake. These results suggest that low-GI foods eaten at breakfast have a significant impact on food intake at lunch. This is the first study to observe such an effect in a group of normal and overweight children and adds to the growing body of evidence that low-GI foods may have an important role in weight control and obesity management. The potentially confounding effect of differences in the macronutrient and dietary fiber content of the test breakfasts warrants additional study. In addition, the impact of GI on food intake and body weight regulation in the long term needs to be investigated.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of leflunomide and methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Alfaro-Lara, Roberto; Espinosa-Ortega, Hector Fabricio; Arce-Salinas, César Alejandro

2017-08-31

To assess the efficacy and side effects of methotrexate and leflunomide in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as the first disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies that included patients who took methotrexate, leflunomide, placebo or another DMARD for RA treatment. A systematic review yielded 1971 articles from databases; once completely reviewed, 73 trials that completed inclusion criteria were selected. In structured workshops for discussion and assessment of each article, 6 could be meta-analyzed for the primary and secondary outcomes: achievement of American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 and its core set components; and change of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-Di), liver enzyme aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase ratio, new gastrointestinal (GI) side effects and infections. A total of 1984 patients were included: 986 took leflunomide and 998 methotrexate. The probability of achieving ACR 20 had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74, 1.06) with a trend toward favoring methotrexate; reduction of the swollen joint count was greater for methotrexate: mean difference=0.82 (95%CI 0.24, 1.39); tender joint count, physician global assessment, HAQ-Di, and serum CRP levels revealed no significant difference between groups. Increased liver enzymes were more frequent in the leflunomide group, OR=0.38 (95%CI 0.27, 0.53), and new GI complaints were more common with methotrexate (OR=1.44; 95%CI 1.17, 1.79). There was no difference in the incidence of non-severe infections. Leflunomide used as the first DMARD in RA seemed to be as efficacious as methotrexate; only the reduction of swollen joint count was more marked for methotrexate. Leflunomide was linked to a greater increase in liver enzymes, but there were fewer GI complaints. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Effects of added PGX®, a novel functional fibre, on the glycaemic index of starchy foods.

PubMed

Brand-Miller, Jennie C; Atkinson, Fiona S; Gahler, Roland J; Kacinik, Veronica; Lyon, Michael R; Wood, Simon

2012-07-01

The development of lower-glycaemic index (GI) foods requires simple, palatable and healthy strategies. The objective of the present study was to determine the most effective dose of a novel viscous fibre supplement (PGX®) to be added to starchy foods to reduce their GI. Healthy subjects (n 10) consumed glucose sugar (50 g in water × 3) and six starchy foods with a range of GI values (52-72) along with 0 (inert fibre), 2.5 or 5 g granular PGX® dissolved in 250 ml water. GI testing according to ISO Standard 26,642-2010 was used to determine the reduction in GI. PGX® significantly reduced the GI of all six foods (P < 0.001), with an average reduction of 19 % for the 2.5 g dose and 30 % for the 5 g dose, equivalent to a reducing the GI by 7 and 15 units, respectively. Consuming small quantities of the novel functional fibre PGX®, mixed with water at the start of a meal, is an effective strategy to reduce the GI of common foods.

Interactions between rewarding lateral hypothalamic and aversive nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis stimulation.

PubMed

Diotte, M; Miguelez, M; Miliaressis, E; Bielajew, C

2000-12-05

The interaction between rewarding and aversive consequences of brain stimulation were assessed in two studies. In the first, the frequency threshold for 300 ms trains of combined lateral hypothalamic (LH) and nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis (Gi) stimulation, in which each LH pulse was followed 2 ms later by the Gi one, was determined for one month. Compared to the threshold for trains of single LH pulses, combined LH-Gi stimulation initially increased the frequency threshold; however, this effect reversed within one session and was subsequently maintained for the duration of the study. The aversion produced by Gi stimulation, as measured by latency to escape, was abolished following a single session of LH-Gi pairs. In the second study, a subset of animals received both presentations of combined pulses, LH followed by Gi, and the reverse; the interval between pulses was varied from 0.2 to 6.4 ms. The effectiveness of combined stimulation, determined by the ratio of LH frequency thresholds to that of the LH-Gi ranged from 0 to 50% across animals but the individual effectiveness functions within animals did not vary with different intervals. In addition, the order of presentation of pulses was of no consequence. Thus, not only did exposure to LH stimulation appear to obliterate Gi aversion, but the combination of LH and Gi pulses added to the rewarding effect produced by LH stimulation alone.

Cost effectiveness of surveillance for GI cancers.

PubMed

Omidvari, Amir-Houshang; Meester, Reinier G S; Lansdorp-Vogelaar, Iris

2016-12-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are among the leading causes of death in the world. To reduce the burden of GI diseases, surveillance is recommended for some diseases, including for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, Barrett's oesophagus, precancerous gastric lesions, colorectal adenoma, and pancreatic neoplasms. This review aims to provide an overview of the evidence on cost-effectiveness of surveillance of individuals with GI conditions predisposing them to cancer, specifically focussing on the aforementioned conditions. We searched the literature and reviewed 21 studies. Despite heterogeneity of studies in terms of settings, study populations, surveillance strategies and outcomes, most reviewed studies suggested at least some surveillance of patients with these GI conditions to be cost-effective. For some high-risk conditions frequent surveillance with 3-month intervals was warranted, while for other conditions, surveillance may only be cost-effective every 10 years. Further studies based on more robust effectiveness evidence are needed to inform and optimise surveillance programmes for GI cancers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The glycaemic index: importance of dietary fibre and other food properties.

PubMed

Björck, Inger; Elmståhl, Helena Liljeberg

2003-02-01

An increasing body of evidence suggests that a low-glycaemic-index (GI) diet has a therapeutic as well as a preventive potential in relation to the insulin resistance syndrome. The implementation of a low-GI diet, however, will require an extended list of low-GI foods to be available on the market. The tailoring of low-GI bread products offers a particular challenge due to their generally high GI and abundance in the diet. Low-GI bread products can be tailored by, for example,enclosure of cereal kernels, sour dough fermentation and/or addition of organic acids, or use of cereal genotypes with elevated contents of amylose or f-glucans. Low-GI cereal foods appear to vary in effect on 'second-meal' glucose tolerance in healthy subjects. In addition to the slow-release properties of such foods, the content of dietary fibre appears to play a role. The low glycaemia to starch in a pasta breakfast (GI 54) promoted a higher glucose tolerance and lowered triacylglycerol levels at a standardized lunch ingested 4 h later, compared with a white-wheat-bread breakfast (GI 100). The metabolic benefits of the low GI properties per se have been demonstrated also in the longer term. Thus, a reduction in dietary GI improved glucose and lipid metabolism and normalized fibrinolytic activity in type 2 diabetics, while maintaining a similar amount and composition of dietary fibre. However, the higher dietary fibre content frequently associated with low-GI foods may add to the metabolic merits of a low-GI diet. Consequently, a low-GI barley meal rich in dietary fibre (GI 53) improved glucose tolerance from evening meal to breakfast, whereas an evening meal with pasta had no effect (GI 54). The exchange of common high-GI bread for low-GI high-fibre bread, as the only dietary modification, improved insulin economy in women at risk of type 2 diabetes. These results are in accordance with epidemiological evidence of a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes with a low-GI diet rich in cereal fibre. It is concluded that low-GI cereal foods developed should preferably be rich in dietary fibre.

Effect of Gastrointestinal Malformations on the Outcomes of Patients With Congenital Heart Disease.

PubMed

Mery, Carlos M; De León, Luis E; Rodriguez, J Rubén; Nieto, R Michael; Zhang, Wei; Adachi, Iki; Heinle, Jeffrey S; Kane, Lauren C; McKenzie, E Dean; Fraser, Charles D

2017-11-01

The goal of this study was to assess the effect of associated gastrointestinal malformations (GI) on the outcomes of patients undergoing congenital heart operations. Neonates and infants with thoracic (esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula) and abdominal (duodenal stenosis/atresia, imperforate anus, Hirschsprung disease) GI malformations undergoing congenital heart operations between 1995 and 2015 were included. Two control groups were created, one for each group. Patients were matched by diagnosis, procedure, history of prematurity, presence of genetic syndrome, and a propensity score including weight and year of operation. The cohort included 383 patients: 52 (14%) with thoracic GI malformations and 98 (25%) thoracic GI controls, 80 (21%) with abdominal GI malformations and 153 (40%) abdominal GI controls. Median follow-up was 6 years (range, 16 days to 20 years). Patients with thoracic GI malformations had longer length of stay (p < 0.001), longer intubation times (p = 0.002), and higher perioperative death (p = 0.015) than controls. There was a tendency for worse overall survival than controls, mainly explained by the higher risk of early death (p = 0.06). No difference was found in outcomes between patients with abdominal GI malformations and controls. Patients with thoracic GI malformations have worse perioperative outcomes than controls, but their long-term survival does not seem to be significantly different. Abdominal GI malformations do not have a significant effect on outcomes. The presence of GI malformations should likely not preclude patients from undergoing congenital heart operations, but careful family counseling is necessary, especially for thoracic GI malformations. Copyright © 2017 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human Nanog pseudogene8 promotes the proliferation of gastrointestinal cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Uchino, Keita, E-mail: uchino13@intmed1.med.kyushu-u.ac.jp; Hirano, Gen; Hirahashi, Minako

2012-09-10

There is emerging evidence that human solid tumor cells originate from cancer stem cells (CSCs). In cancer cell lines, tumor-initiating CSCs are mainly found in the side population (SP) that has the capacity to extrude dyes such as Hoechst 33342. We found that Nanog is expressed specifically in SP cells of human gastrointestinal (GI) cancer cells. Nucleotide sequencing revealed that NanogP8 but not Nanog was expressed in GI cancer cells. Transfection of NanogP8 into GI cancer cell lines promoted cell proliferation, while its inhibition by anti-Nanog siRNA suppressed the proliferation. Immunohistochemical staining of primary GI cancer tissues revealed NanogP8 proteinmore » to be strongly expressed in 3 out of 60 cases. In these cases, NanogP8 was found especially in an infiltrative part of the tumor, in proliferating cells with Ki67 expression. These data suggest that NanogP8 is involved in GI cancer development in a fraction of patients, in whom it presumably acts by supporting CSC proliferation. -- Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanog maintains pluripotency by regulating embryonic stem cells differentiation. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanog is expressed in cancer stem cells of human gastrointestinal cancer cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nucleotide sequencing revealed that Nanog pseudogene8 but not Nanog was expressed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanog pseudogene8 promotes cancer stem cells proliferation. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanog pseudogene8 is involved in gastrointestinal cancer development.« less

The glycemic index: methodological aspects related to the interpretation of health effects and to regulatory labeling.

PubMed

Aziz, Alfred

2009-01-01

The glycemic index (GI) is an experimental system that classifies carbohydrates (CHO) and CHO-containing foods according to their blood glucose-raising potential. It is based on the glycemic response following the ingestion of a test food containing a defined amount of available CHO relative to that of an equi-carbohydrate portion of either white bread or glucose. The concept has been extended to mixed meals and whole diets where the GI of the meal/diet is expressed as the weighted average of the GI of each food, based on the percentage of the total mealldiet CHO provided by each food. Over the last few decades, a substantial number of epidemiological and interventional studies have reported beneficial associationsleffects of lower GI diets across a wide spectrum of pathophysiological conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and certain forms of cancer. This has prompted proponents of the GI to recommend its use for dietary planning and labeling purposes. However, the currently recommended GI methodology is not well standardized and has several flaws, which brings into question the strength of evidence attributed to the health effects of low-GI diets. This review focuses exclusively on the methodological aspects of the GI, how they might impact the interpretation of data related to the purported health benefits of low GI diets, and the considerations for the use of the GI in food labeling. In addition, alternative systems for classifying the glycemic effects of CHO-containing foods are briefly discussed.

WWII GI Bill and Its Effect on Low Education Levels: Did the World War II GI Bill Have an Effect on High School Completion, Poverty, and Employment?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Megan D.

2017-01-01

Did the World War II (WWII) GI Bill increase the probability of completing high school and further affect the probability of poverty and employment for the cohorts for whom it benefited? This paper studies whether the GI Bill, one of the largest public financial aid policies for education, affected low education levels in addition to its…

[Experimental research on the effective mechanism of jianweiling].

PubMed

Li, Y Y

1992-01-01

The purpose of this study is to find out the effective mechanism of Jianweiling (JWL) in treating some gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. The functions of GI movement, bile and pancreatic secretion and intestinal absorption were measured after giving JWL to the experimental rats. The results showed that JWL could adjust GI movement once it was in abnormal conditions. When the gastrointestine was in paralysis under the influence of abdominal operation, JWL could make GI myoelectric activity return to normal; and JWL could relax it when the gastrointestine was in a cramp state resulted from Neostigmini Methylsulfurici injection. In addition, the pancreatic secretion, the amylase activity in pancreatic juice and the intestinal absorption for D-xylose in JWL group were obviously better than those of the control groups. These results suggested that the effective mechanism of JWL on some GI diseases can be realized by adjusting and promoting GI functions in various ways.

Integrated assessments of green infrastructure for flood mitigation to support robust decision-making for sponge city construction in an urbanized watershed.

PubMed

Mei, Chao; Liu, Jiahong; Wang, Hao; Yang, Zhiyong; Ding, Xiangyi; Shao, Weiwei

2018-10-15

Green Infrastructure (GI) has become increasingly important in urban stormwater management because of the effects of climate change and urbanization. To mitigate severe urban water-related problems, China is implementing GI at the national scale under its Sponge City Program (SCP). The SCP is currently in a pilot period, however, little attention has been paid to the cost-effectiveness of GI implementation in China. In this study, an evaluation framework based on the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) was applied to undertake integrated assessments of the development of GI for flood mitigation, to support robust decision making regarding sponge city construction in urbanized watersheds. A baseline scenario and 15 GI scenarios under six design rainfall events with recurrence intervals ranging from 2-100 years were simulated and assessed. Model simulation results confirmed the effectiveness of GI for flood mitigation. Nevertheless, even under the most beneficial scenario, the results showed the hydrological performance of GI was incapable of eliminating flooding. Analysis indicated the bioretention cell (BC) plus vegetated swale (VS) scenario was the most cost-effective GI option for unit investment under all rainfall events. However, regarding the maximum potential of the implementation areas of all GI scenarios, the porous pavement plus BC + VS strategy was considered most reasonable for the study area. Although the optimal combinations are influenced by uncertainties in both the model and the GI parameters, the main trends and key insights derived remain unaffected; therefore, the conclusions are relevant regarding sponge city construction within the study area. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hydrogen-water ameliorates radiation-induced gastrointestinal toxicity via MyD88’s effects on the gut microbiota

PubMed Central

Xiao, Hui-wen; Li, Yuan; Luo, Dan; Dong, Jia-li; Zhou, Li-xin; Zhao, Shu-yi; Zheng, Qi-sheng; Wang, Hai-chao; Cui, Ming; Fan, Sai-jun

2018-01-01

Although radiation therapy is a cornerstone of modern management of malignancies, various side effects are inevitably linked to abdominal and pelvic cancer after radiotherapy. Radiation-mediated gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity impairs the life quality of cancer survivors and even shortens their lifespan. Hydrogen has been shown to protect against tissue injuries caused by oxidative stress and excessive inflammation, but its effect on radiation-induced intestinal injury was previously unknown. In the present study, we found that oral gavage with hydrogen-water increased the survival rate and body weight of mice exposed to total abdominal irradiation (TAI); oral gavage with hydrogen-water was also associated with an improvement in GI tract function and the epithelial integrity of the small intestine. Mechanistically, microarray analysis revealed that hydrogen-water administration upregulated miR-1968-5p levels, thus resulting in parallel downregulation of MyD88 expression in the small intestine after TAI exposure. Additionally, high-throughput sequencing showed that hydrogen-water oral gavage resulted in retention of the TAI-shifted intestinal bacterial composition in mice. Collectively, our findings suggested that hydrogen-water might be used as a potential therapeutic to alleviate intestinal injury induced by radiotherapy for abdominal and pelvic cancer in preclinical settings. PMID:29371696

Targeting Taxanes to Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Cells by Nanobubbles and Extracorporeal Shock Waves

PubMed Central

Argenziano, Monica; Cavalli, Roberta; Sassi, Francesca; D’Amelio, Patrizia; Battaglia, Antonino; Gontero, Paolo; Bosco, Ornella; Peluso, Rossella; Fortunati, Nicoletta; Frairia, Roberto; Catalano, Maria Graziella

2016-01-01

To target taxanes to castration-resistant prostate cancer cells, glycol-chitosan nanobubbles loaded with paclitaxel and docetaxel were constructed. The loaded nanobubbles were then combined with Extracorporeal Shock Waves, acoustic waves widely used in urology and orthopedics, with no side effects. Nanobubbles, with an average diameter of 353.3 ± 15.5 nm, entered two different castration-resistant prostate cancer cells (PC3 and DU145) as demonstrated by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. The shock waves applied increased the amount of intracellular nanobubbles. Loading nanobubbles with paclitaxel and docetaxel and combining them with shock waves generated the highest cytotoxic effects, resulting in a paclitaxel GI50 reduction of about 55% and in a docetaxel GI50 reduction of about 45% respectively. Combined treatment also affected cell migration. Paclitaxel-loaded nanobubbles and shock waves reduced cell migration by more than 85% with respect to paclitaxel alone; whereas docetaxel-loaded nanobubbles and shock waves reduced cell migration by more than 82% with respect to docetaxel alone. The present data suggest that nanobubbles can act as a stable taxane reservoir in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells and shock waves can further increase drug release from nanobubbles leading to higher cytotoxic and anti-migration effect. PMID:28002459

Effects comparison between low glycemic index diets and high glycemic index diets on HbA1c and fructosamine for patients with diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Wang, Qiong; Xia, Wei; Zhao, Zhigang; Zhang, Huifeng

2015-10-01

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of low glycemic index (GI) through the comparison of low-GI foods group and high-GI foods group on glycemic control (the measurements were HbA1c and fructosamine) for patients with diabetes. The studies were retrieved from databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Springer, Elsevier Science Direct, Cochrane Library and Google scholar from their inception to August 2014. Review Manager 5.1 and STATA package v.11.0 software were applied for the meta-analysis. Standard mean difference (SWD) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for HbA1c and fructosamine of patients with diabetes were collected and calculated in a fixed or random effects model when appropriate. Subgroup analysis stratified by study design, geographic area of participants and types of diabetes were also conducted. There were significant differences of overall effects on HbA1c between low-GI foods group and high-GI foods group (SWD=-0.42, 95%CI=-0.69 to -0.16, P<0.01) in patients with diabetes, and the subgroup analysis indicated that significant differences of HbA1c were also found between the two groups in crossover study, in Australian population and American population, as well as in type 2 diabetes. The overall fructosamine was also significantly different in patients with diabetes between low-GI foods and high-GI foods group (SMD=-0.44, 95%CI=-0.82 to -0.06, P=0.02). Our results suggest that low-GI diets achieve a more beneficial effect on glycemic control than that of high-GI foods diets. Copyright © 2014 Primary Care Diabetes Europe. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Clinicopathological features colon polyps from African-Americans

PubMed Central

Nouraie, Mehdi; Hosseinkhah, Fatemeh; Zamanifekri, Behrouz; Hamond, Issa W.; Ashktorab, Hassan

2013-01-01

Background & Aims Among the ethnic groups age standardized incidence rate of colorectal cancer (CRC) is highest among African-Americans. The majority of CRC arise from preexisting adenoma. It is shown that 30% of the US adult population has adenomas. The potential risk of malignant transformation in adenomas differs by specific pathologic and clinical characteristics that we aimed to study in AAs. Material and Methods All pathologic reports (150,000) in Howard University Hospital from 1959 to 2006 were reviewed manually. Those pathology reports compatible with the colorectal polyps were carefully reviewed and selected by a GI pathologist. All cases with cancer then excluded from the list. Data then were entered into excel and checked for missing data and duplications. Differences in right side and left side polyps for sex, histology, clinical symptoms were assessed by chi-2 test. Results A total number of 5013 colorectal polyps were diagnosed in this period that include 47% male, with mean age (SD) of 63 (12). Half of cases were diagnosed in 2001–2006. Tubular adenoma was the most frequent pathology (73%). The highest frequency of right sided polyps was observed in 1990’s (56%). Left sided polyps were younger (P<0.000), more hyperplasic (23% vs. 5%; P<0.000) and more frequent in female (56% vs. 52%; P=0.02) compared to right sided. The frequency of right sided adenoma significantly increases from 18% in 60’s to 51% in the period of 2001–2006 (P<0.000). The most frequent symptom in both sides was GI bleeding (21%). Conclusion There was a ratio of 9:1 for neoplastic to hyperplastic polyps in our study which is more than what has been reported in Caucasians (7:1). Our data shows a shift in polyps from the left side to the right side of the colon in recent years. This data is consistent with the lack of a reduction in the incidence of colon cancer in African Americans. Screening is thus very important in AA to reduce the incidence of colon cancer. PMID:20225129

Review of the gastrointestinal tract: from macro to micro.

PubMed

Reed, Kathleen K; Wickham, Rita

2009-02-01

To review the normal anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the malignant transformations in GI cancers, and the rationale for targeted therapy for these cancers. Published articles, book chapters and web sources. Oncology nurses require an understanding of normal GI anatomy and physiology, along with an understanding of malignant transformations at the cellular and molecular level, to effectively educate and care for the patient with a diagnosis of a GI cancer. Challenges for the oncology nurse include continuing education related to GI cancer, the development of effective patient education skills, ensuring safe administration of oral agents and remaining current regarding GI clinical trial opportunities. Education of nursing colleagues, development of an area of expertise through specialization, and development of leadership skills are opportunities associated with practicing in the dynamic environment of oncology nursing.

Incorporating Green Infrastructure into Water Resources Management Plans to Address Water Quality Impairments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piscopo, A. N.; Detenbeck, N. E.

2017-12-01

Managers of urban watersheds with excessive nutrient loads are more frequently turning to green infrastructure (GI) to manage their water quality impairments. The effectiveness of GI is dependent on a number of factors, including (1) the type and placement of GI within the watershed, (2) the specific nutrients to be treated, and (3) the uncertainty in future climates. Although many studies have investigated the effectiveness of individual GI units for different types of nutrients, relatively few have considered the effectiveness of GI on a watershed scale, the scale most relevant to management plans. At the watershed scale, endless combinations of GI type and location are possible, each with different effectiveness in reducing nutrient loads, minimizing costs, and maximizing co-benefits such as reducing runoff. To efficiently generate management plan options that balance the tradeoffs between these objectives, we simulate candidate options using EPA's Stormwater Management Model for multiple future climates and determine the Pareto optimal set of solution options using a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm. Our approach is demonstrated for an urban watershed in Rockville, Maryland.

INSIGHT INTO NSAID-INDUCED MEMBRANE ALTERATIONS, PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPEUTICS: CHARACTERIZATION OF INTERACTION OF NSAIDS WITH PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE

PubMed Central

Lichtenberger, Lenard M.; Zhou, Yong; Jayaraman, Vasanthi; Doyen, Janice R.; O’Neil, Roger G.; Dial, Elizabeth J.; Volk, David E.; Gorenstein, David G.; Boggara, Mohan Babu; Krishnamoorti, Ramanan

2012-01-01

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most widely consumed pharmaceuticals, yet both the mechanisms involved in their therapeutic actions and side-effects, notably gastrointestinal (GI) ulceration/bleeding, have not been clearly defined. In this study, we have used a number of biochemical, structural, computational and biological systems including; Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR). Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, and cell culture using a specific fluorescent membrane probe, to demonstrate that NSAIDs have a strong affinity to form ionic and hydrophobic associations with zwitterionic phospholipids, and specifically phosphatidylcholine (PC), that are reversible and non-covalent in nature. We propose that the pH-dependent partition of these potent anti-inflammatory drugs into the phospholipid bilayer, and possibly extracellular mono/multilayers present on the luminal interface of the mucus gel layer, may result in profound changes in the hydrophobicity, fluidity, permeability, biomechanical properties and stability of these membranes and barriers. These changes may not only provide an explanation of how NSAIDs induce surface injury to the GI mucosa as a component in the pathogenic mechanism leading to peptic ulceration and bleeding, but potentially an explanation for a number of (COX-independent) biological actions of this family of pharmaceuticals. This insight also has proven useful in the design and development of a novel class of PC-associated NSAIDs that have reduced GI toxicity while maintaining their essential therapeutic efficacy to inhibit pain and inflammation. PMID:22521764

Methyl-orvinol-Dual activity opioid receptor ligand inhibits gastrointestinal transit and alleviates abdominal pain in the mouse models mimicking diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.

PubMed

Zielińska, Marta; Jarmuż, Agata; Wasilewski, Andrzej; Cami-Kobeci, Gerta; Husbands, Stephen; Fichna, Jakub

2017-04-01

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The major IBS-D symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort. High density of opioid receptors (ORs) in the GI tract and their participation in the maintenance of GI homeostasis make ORs ligands an attractive option for developing new anti-IBS-D treatments. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect of methyl-orvinol on the GI motility and secretion and in mouse models mimicking symptoms of IBS-D. In vitro, the effects of methyl-orvinol on electrical field stimulated smooth muscle contractility and epithelial ion transport were characterized in the mouse colon. In vivo, the following tests were used to determine methyl-orvinol effect on mouse GI motility: colonic bead expulsion, whole GI transit and fecal pellet output. An antinociceptive action of methyl-orvinol was assessed in the mouse model of visceral pain induced by mustard oil. Methyl-orvinol (10 -10 to 10 -6 M) inhibited colonic smooth muscle contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect was reversed by naloxone (non-selective opioid antagonist) and β-funaltrexamine (selective MOP antagonist). Experiments with a selective KOP receptor agonist, U50488 revealed that methyl-orvinol is a KOP receptor antagonist in the GI tract. Methyl-orvinol enhanced epithelial ion transport. In vivo, methyl-orvinol inhibited colonic bead expulsion and prolonged GI transit. Methyl-orvinol improved hypermotility and reduced abdominal pain in the mouse models mimicking IBS-D symptoms. Methyl-orvinol could become a promising drug candidate in chronic therapy of functional GI diseases such as IBS-D. Copyright © 2016 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

A comprehensive typology for mainstreaming urban green infrastructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Robert; Zanders, Julie; Lieberknecht, Katherine; Fassman-Beck, Elizabeth

2014-11-01

During a National Science Foundation (US) funded "International Greening of Cities Workshop" in Auckland, New Zealand, participants agreed an effective urban green infrastructure (GI) typology should identify cities' present stage of GI development and map next steps to mainstream GI as a component of urban infrastructure. Our review reveals current GI typologies do not systematically identify such opportunities. We address this knowledge gap by developing a new typology incorporating political, economic, and ecological forces shaping GI implementation. Applying this information allows symmetrical, place-based exploration of the social and ecological elements driving a city's GI systems. We use this information to distinguish current levels of GI development and clarify intervention opportunities to advance GI into the mainstream of metropolitan infrastructure. We employ three case studies (San Antonio, Texas; Auckland, New Zealand; and New York, New York) to test and refine our typology.

Green Infrastructure Design Based on Spatial Conservation Prioritization and Modeling of Biodiversity Features and Ecosystem Services.

PubMed

Snäll, Tord; Lehtomäki, Joona; Arponen, Anni; Elith, Jane; Moilanen, Atte

2016-02-01

There is high-level political support for the use of green infrastructure (GI) across Europe, to maintain viable populations and to provide ecosystem services (ES). Even though GI is inherently a spatial concept, the modern tools for spatial planning have not been recognized, such as in the recent European Environment Agency (EEA) report. We outline a toolbox of methods useful for GI design that explicitly accounts for biodiversity and ES. Data on species occurrence, habitats, and environmental variables are increasingly available via open-access internet platforms. Such data can be synthesized by statistical species distribution modeling, producing maps of biodiversity features. These, together with maps of ES, can form the basis for GI design. We argue that spatial conservation prioritization (SCP) methods are effective tools for GI design, as the overall SCP goal is cost-effective allocation of conservation efforts. Corridors are currently promoted by the EEA as the means for implementing GI design, but they typically target the needs of only a subset of the regional species pool. SCP methods would help to ensure that GI provides a balanced solution for the requirements of many biodiversity features (e.g., species, habitat types) and ES simultaneously in a cost-effective manner. Such tools are necessary to make GI into an operational concept for combating biodiversity loss and promoting ES.

Green Infrastructure Design Based on Spatial Conservation Prioritization and Modeling of Biodiversity Features and Ecosystem Services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snäll, Tord; Lehtomäki, Joona; Arponen, Anni; Elith, Jane; Moilanen, Atte

2016-02-01

There is high-level political support for the use of green infrastructure (GI) across Europe, to maintain viable populations and to provide ecosystem services (ES). Even though GI is inherently a spatial concept, the modern tools for spatial planning have not been recognized, such as in the recent European Environment Agency (EEA) report. We outline a toolbox of methods useful for GI design that explicitly accounts for biodiversity and ES. Data on species occurrence, habitats, and environmental variables are increasingly available via open-access internet platforms. Such data can be synthesized by statistical species distribution modeling, producing maps of biodiversity features. These, together with maps of ES, can form the basis for GI design. We argue that spatial conservation prioritization (SCP) methods are effective tools for GI design, as the overall SCP goal is cost-effective allocation of conservation efforts. Corridors are currently promoted by the EEA as the means for implementing GI design, but they typically target the needs of only a subset of the regional species pool. SCP methods would help to ensure that GI provides a balanced solution for the requirements of many biodiversity features (e.g., species, habitat types) and ES simultaneously in a cost-effective manner. Such tools are necessary to make GI into an operational concept for combating biodiversity loss and promoting ES.

Reactive oxygen species formation and bystander effects in gradient irradiation on human breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Zhang, Dongqing; Zhou, Tingyang; He, Feng; Rong, Yi; Lee, Shin Hee; Wu, Shiyong; Zuo, Li

2016-07-05

Ionizing radiation (IR) in cancer radiotherapy can induce damage to neighboring cells via non-targeted effects by irradiated cells. These so-called bystander effects remain an area of interest as it may provide enhanced efficacy in killing carcinomas with minimal radiation. It is well known that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are ubiquitous among most biological activities. However, the role of ROS in bystander effects has not been thoroughly elucidated. We hypothesized that gradient irradiation (GI) has enhanced therapeutic effects via the ROS-mediated bystander pathways as compared to uniform irradiation (UI). We evaluated ROS generation, viability, and apoptosis in breast cancer cells (MCF-7) exposed to UI (5 Gy) or GI (8-2 Gy) in radiation fields at 2, 24 and 48 h after IR. We found that extracellular ROS release induced by GI was higher than that by UI at both 24 h (p < 0.001) and 48 h (p < 0.001). More apoptosis and less viability were observed in GI when compared to UI at either 24 h or 48 h after irradiation. The mean effective doses (ED) of GI were ~130% (24 h) and ~48% (48 h) higher than that of UI, respectively. Our results suggest that GI is superior to UI regarding redox mechanisms, ED, and toxic dosage to surrounding tissues.

Gi Proteins Regulate Adenylyl Cyclase Activity Independent of Receptor Activation

PubMed Central

Melsom, Caroline Bull; Ørstavik, Øivind; Osnes, Jan-Bjørn; Skomedal, Tor; Levy, Finn Olav; Krobert, Kurt Allen

2014-01-01

Background and purpose Despite the view that only β2- as opposed to β1-adrenoceptors (βARs) couple to Gi, some data indicate that the β1AR-evoked inotropic response is also influenced by the inhibition of Gi. Therefore, we wanted to determine if Gi exerts tonic receptor-independent inhibition upon basal adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity in cardiomyocytes. Experimental approach We used the Gs-selective (R,R)- and the Gs- and Gi-activating (R,S)-fenoterol to selectively activate β2ARs (β1AR blockade present) in combination with Gi inactivation with pertussis toxin (PTX). We also determined the effect of PTX upon basal and forskolin-mediated responses. Contractility was measured ex vivo in left ventricular strips and cAMP accumulation was measured in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from adult Wistar rats. Key results PTX amplified both the (R,R)- and (R,S)-fenoterol-evoked maximal inotropic response and concentration-dependent increases in cAMP accumulation. The EC50 values of fenoterol matched published binding affinities. The PTX enhancement of the Gs-selective (R,R)-fenoterol-mediated responses suggests that Gi regulates AC activity independent of receptor coupling to Gi protein. Consistent with this hypothesis, forskolin-evoked cAMP accumulation was increased and inotropic responses to forskolin were potentiated by PTX treatment. In non-PTX-treated tissue, phosphodiesterase (PDE) 3 and 4 inhibition or removal of either constitutive muscarinic receptor activation of Gi with atropine or removal of constitutive adenosine receptor activation with CGS 15943 had no effect upon contractility. However, in PTX-treated tissue, PDE3 and 4 inhibition alone increased basal levels of cAMP and accordingly evoked a large inotropic response. Conclusions and implications Together, these data indicate that Gi exerts intrinsic receptor-independent inhibitory activity upon AC. We propose that PTX treatment shifts the balance of intrinsic Gi and Gs activity upon AC towards Gs, enhancing the effect of all cAMP-mediated inotropic agents. PMID:25203113

Coping Skills Are Associated With Gastrointestinal Symptom Severity and Somatization in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

PubMed

Wilpart, Katarina; Törnblom, Hans; Svedlund, Jan; Tack, Jan F; Simrén, Magnus; Van Oudenhove, Lukas

2017-10-01

Coping resources and processes are altered in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We investigated the relationship between coping resources and gastrointestinal (GI) and extraintestinal symptom severity in patients with IBS and potential mediators of this relationship. We performed a cross-sectional study of 216 patients with IBS attending a secondary/tertiary care specialized outpatient center in Sweden from 2003 through 2007. We collected data on coping resources, levels of anxiety (general and GI specific), depressive symptoms, levels of GI symptoms, and extraintestinal somatic symptoms (somatization) by administering validated self-report questionnaires. General Linear Models were used to assess associations and mediation. GI symptoms: low levels of physical coping resources (practice of activities that are beneficial for health; P = .0016), high levels of general anxiety symptoms (P = .033), and GI-specific anxiety symptoms (P < .0001), but not depressive symptoms (P = .89), were independently associated with GI symptom levels (R 2  = 0.31). Anxiety and GI-specific anxiety partially mediated the effect of physical coping. Somatization: low levels of physical coping resources (P = .003), high levels of anxiety (P = .0147), depressive (P = .0005), and GI-specific anxiety symptoms (P = .06) were associated with somatization levels (R 2  = 0.35). Levels of general and GI-specific anxiety and depressive symptoms partially mediated this physical coping effect. The effect of psychological coping resources (including optimism, social support, and accepting/expressing emotions) on somatization levels was not significant (P = .98), but was fully mediated by levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, and partially by levels of GI-specific anxiety symptoms. In a cross-sectional study of patients with IBS in Sweden, we found associations of levels of coping resources with GI and extraintestinal symptom severity; these associations were mediated by levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. Although confirmation in longitudinal studies is needed, this identifies coping as a potential psychological treatment target in IBS. Copyright © 2017 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemotherapeutic Potential of G1 Cell Cycle Inhibitor Indole-3-Carbinol and Its More Potent N-Alkoxy Derivatives in Human Breast Cancer Xenografts in Mice

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-08-01

Results a. Indole-3-Carbinol treatment selectively downregulates ER- a levels in MCF 7 cells. It has been demonstrated that 13C treatment causes a marked...of ER a• is not a side effect of Gi1 cell cycle arrest in these cells, and that I3C can cause a decrease in ER a levels induced by tamoxifen. c. I3C... a levels and increases functional ER P3 levels as assessed by binding to a consensus ERE in vitro: As a step towards evaluating functional

Evaluation of efficacy of photodynamic therapy as an adjunct to nonsurgical periodontal therapy in treatment of chronic periodontitis patients: A clinico-microbiological study.

PubMed

Raj, K Ravi; Musalaiah, Svvs; Nagasri, M; Kumar, P Aravind; Reddy, P Indeevar; Greeshma, M

2016-01-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a local noninvasive treatment modality without side effects caused by antibiotics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive use of PDT with scaling and root planing as compared with SRP alone in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. Twenty participants with chronic periodontitis having probing pocket depths (PDs) of ≥5 mm were selected for the study. Patients were randomly divided into control group and test group with ten patients in each group. Full-mouth SRP was performed in both the groups, followed by PDT in test group. Assessment of plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), PD, and clinical attachment level (CAL) was done at baseline and after 3 months. Microbiological assessment of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at baseline and 3 months after the therapy. There was a significant reduction in PI, GI, PD, CAL, and microbiologic parameters in test group, following SRP and PDT, when compared with SRP alone in control group. PDT in conjunction with SRP has shown additional improvement in periodontal parameters when compared to SRP alone and has a beneficial effect in chronic periodontitis patients.

Clinical Uses of Probiotics.

PubMed

Islam, Saif Ul

2016-02-01

Probiotics are live nonpathogenic microorganisms. Many of these microorganisms are part of the normal human gut flora, where they live in a symbiotic relationship. Probiotics have been used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) and non-GI medical conditions. However, the data supporting their use are often conflicting, especially for non-GI-associated illnesses. The strongest evidence supporting the use of probiotics is related to the treatment of acute diarrhea and pouchitis. Atopic eczema in children and genitourinary infections are the only non-GI-related medical conditions where probiotics may have some beneficial effects. Product selection and dosing are not the same in all conditions, and the beneficial effects of each probiotic strain cannot be generalized.The purpose of this article is to provide most recent information about probiotics and its uses. In contrast with previously published reviews on probiotics, we also discuss the composition of various products (Table 1), indications for their use (Table 2), product selection, and dosing of probiotics.Probiotics are safe and appear to exert some beneficial effects in GI-related illnesses. The use of probiotics in non-GI illnesses is not sufficiently supported by current data.

Clinical Uses of Probiotics

PubMed Central

Islam, Saif Ul

2016-01-01

Abstract Probiotics are live nonpathogenic microorganisms. Many of these microorganisms are part of the normal human gut flora, where they live in a symbiotic relationship. Probiotics have been used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) and non-GI medical conditions. However, the data supporting their use are often conflicting, especially for non-GI-associated illnesses. The strongest evidence supporting the use of probiotics is related to the treatment of acute diarrhea and pouchitis. Atopic eczema in children and genitourinary infections are the only non-GI-related medical conditions where probiotics may have some beneficial effects. Product selection and dosing are not the same in all conditions, and the beneficial effects of each probiotic strain cannot be generalized. The purpose of this article is to provide most recent information about probiotics and its uses. In contrast with previously published reviews on probiotics, we also discuss the composition of various products (Table 1), indications for their use (Table 2), product selection, and dosing of probiotics. Probiotics are safe and appear to exert some beneficial effects in GI-related illnesses. The use of probiotics in non-GI illnesses is not sufficiently supported by current data. PMID:26844491

Review of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling and safety of proton pump inhibitors and aspirin.

PubMed

Gesheff, Martin G; Franzese, Christopher J; Bliden, Kevin P; Contino, Chase J; Rafeedheen, Rahil; Tantry, Udaya S; Gurbel, Paul A

2014-09-01

The efficacy of aspirin in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases has been convincingly demonstrated. Gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects with aspirin may lead to poor adherence and/or discontinuation of treatment. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been used for more than 20 years as the first choice for treating peptic ulcers and their bleeding complications, gastroesophageal reflux disease, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced GI lesions and dyspepsia. Adherence becomes a major concern when aspirin is co-prescribed with PPIs to prevent GI adverse effects. Combining aspirin and PPIs into one tablet is an effective approach to address aspirin-related GI adverse effects and increase adherence to aspirin therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Reduction of gastrointestinal symptoms in Parkinson's disease after a switch from oral therapy to rotigotine transdermal patch: a non-interventional prospective multicenter trial.

PubMed

Woitalla, Dirk; Kassubek, Jan; Timmermann, Lars; Lauterbach, Thomas; Berkels, Reinhard; Grieger, Frank; Müller, Thomas

2015-03-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common among patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), due to both the disease itself and anti-PD drugs. We hypothesized that transdermal drug administration may result in fewer GI problems. This prospective observational study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01159691) investigated effect of switching to rotigotine transdermal patch from oral anti-PD medications in patients with PD and existing GI symptoms. Patients were enrolled if their physician was planning to switch them to rotigotine because of GI symptoms experienced while receiving oral anti-PD medications. Effectiveness assessments included a visual analog scale (VAS) measuring intensity of GI symptoms from 0 (no disorder) to 100 mm (extremely severe disorder), a questionnaire on the frequency and intensity of six individual GI complaints (heartburn, bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea), each rated 0-12 for a sum score of 0-72, and patient satisfaction regarding GI symptoms over approximately 6 weeks after switching. Of 75 patients who received rotigotine, 58 had follow-up data available for final analysis. Intensity of GI complaints improved numerically on both the VAS (47.5 ± 24.4 mm [n = 65] at baseline, 19.7 ± 23.3 mm [n = 58] after around 6 weeks) and the sum score of GI complaints (11.2 ± 9.0 at baseline, 2.1 ± 4.4 [n = 58] after around 6 weeks). Fifty of 58 patients were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" regarding GI symptoms over around 6 weeks following switch to the patch. This study suggests that a switch from oral anti-PD medications to rotigotine transdermal patch may improve existing GI symptoms among patients with PD. Additional controlled studies are needed to confirm this finding. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of genetically modified T2A-1 rice on the GI health of rats after 90-day supplement

PubMed Central

Yuan, Yanfang; Xu, Wentao; He, Xiaoyun; Liu, Haiyan; Cao, Sishuo; Qi, Xiaozhe; Huang, Kunlun; Luo, Yunbo

2013-01-01

Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal toxin (Bt) rice will be commercialized as a main food source. Traditional safety assessments on genetically modified products pay little attention on gastrointestinal (GI) health. More data about GI health of Bt rice must be provided to dispel public' doubts about the potential effects on human health. We constructed an improved safety assessment animal model using a basic subchronic toxicity experiment, measuring a range of parameters including microflora composition, intestinal permeability, epithelial structure, fecal enzymes, bacterial activity, and intestinal immunity. Significant differences were found between rice-fed groups and AIN93G-fed control groups in several parameters, whereas no differences were observed between genetically modified and non-genetically modified groups. No adverse effects were found on GI health resulting from genetically modified T2A-1 rice. In conclusion, this study may offer a systematic safety assessment model for GM material with respect to the effects on GI health. PMID:23752350

Effect of structural modification on the gastrointestinal stability and hepatic metabolism of α-aminoxy peptides.

PubMed

Ma, Bin; Yin, Chun; Yang, Dan; Lin, Ge

2012-11-01

α-Aminoxy peptide AxyP1 has been reported to form synthetic chloride channel in living cells, thus it may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of diseases associated with chloride channel dysfunction. However, this study revealed significant gastrointestinal (GI) instability and extensive hepatic metabolism of AxyP1. To improve its GI and metabolic stability, structural modifications were conducted by replacing the isobutyl side chains of AxyP1 with methyl group (AxyP2), hydroxymethyl group (AxyP3), 4-aminobutyl group (AxyP4) and 3-carboxyl propyl group (AxyP5). Compared with AxyP1 (41 and 47 % degradation), GI stability of the modified peptides was significantly improved by 8-fold (AxyP2), 9-fold (AxyP3) and 12-fold (AxyP5) with no degradation for AxyP4 in simulated gastric fluid within 1 h, and by 12-fold (AxyP2) and 9-fold (AxyP3) with no degradation for AxyP4 and AxyP5 in simulated intestinal fluid within 3 h, respectively. The hepatic metabolic stability of the four modified peptides within 30 min in rat liver S9 preparation was also improved significantly with no metabolism of AxyP5 and threefold (AxyP2 and AxyP4) and eightfold (AxyP3) less metabolism compared with AxyP1 (39 % metabolism). Unlike hydrolysis as the major metabolism of peptides of natural α-amino acids, oxidation mediated by the cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP3A subfamily, to form the corresponding mono-hydroxyl metabolites was the predominant hepatic metabolism of the five α-aminoxy peptides tested. The present findings demonstrate that structural modification can significantly improve the GI and metabolic stability of α-aminoxy peptides and thus increase their potential for therapeutic use in the treatment of chloride channel related diseases.

Case Study: Utilizing a Low FODMAP Diet to Combat Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Symptoms.

PubMed

Lis, Dana; Ahuja, Kiran D K; Stellingwerff, Trent; Kitic, Cecilia M; Fell, James

2016-10-01

Athletes employ various dietary strategies in attempts to attenuate exercise-induced gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms to ensure optimal performance. This case-study outlines one of these GI-targeted approaches via the implementation of a short-term low FODMAP (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols) diet, with the aim to attenuate persistent running specific GI symptoms in a recreationally competitive multisport athlete (male, 86 kg, 57.9 ml·kg·min -1 V0 2max , 10-15 hr/week training, with no diagnosed GI disorder). Using a single-blinded approach a habitual diet was compared with a 6-day low FODMAP intervention diet (81 ± 5g vs 7.2 ± 5.7g FODMAP s/day) for their effect on GI symptoms and perceptual wellbeing. Training was similar during the habitual and dietary intervention periods. Postexercise (During) GI symptom ratings were recorded immediately following training. Daily GI symptoms and the Daily Analysis of Life Demands for Athletes (DALDA) were recorded at the end of each day. Daily and During GI symptom scores (scale 0-9) ranged from 0-4 during the habitual dietary period while during the low FODMAP dietary period all scores were 0 (no symptoms at all). DALDA scores for worse than normal ranged from 3-10 vs 0-8 in the habitual and low FODMAP dietary periods, respectively, indicating improvement. This intervention was effective for this GI symptom prone athlete; however, randomized-controlled trials are required to assess the suitability of low FODMAP diets for reducing GI distress in other symptomatic athletes.

Gastrointestinal Physiology and Function.

PubMed

Greenwood-Van Meerveld, Beverley; Johnson, Anthony C; Grundy, David

2017-01-01

The gastrointestinal (GI) system is responsible for the digestion and absorption of ingested food and liquids. Due to the complexity of the GI tract and the substantial volume of material that could be covered under the scope of GI physiology, this chapter briefly reviews the overall function of the GI tract, and discusses the major factors affecting GI physiology and function, including the intestinal microbiota, chronic stress, inflammation, and aging with a focus on the neural regulation of the GI tract and an emphasis on basic brain-gut interactions that serve to modulate the GI tract. GI diseases refer to diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum. The major symptoms of common GI disorders include recurrent abdominal pain and bloating, heartburn, indigestion/dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. GI disorders rank among the most prevalent disorders, with the most common including esophageal and swallowing disorders, gastric and peptic ulcer disease, gastroparesis or delayed gastric emptying, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many GI disorders are difficult to diagnose and their symptoms are not effectively managed. Thus, basic research is required to drive the development of novel therapeutics which are urgently needed. One approach is to enhance our understanding of gut physiology and pathophysiology especially as it relates to gut-brain communications since they have clinical relevance to a number of GI complaints and represent a therapeutic target for the treatment of conditions including inflammatory diseases of the GI tract such as IBD and functional gut disorders such as IBS.

Gi proteins regulate adenylyl cyclase activity independent of receptor activation.

PubMed

Melsom, Caroline Bull; Ørstavik, Øivind; Osnes, Jan-Bjørn; Skomedal, Tor; Levy, Finn Olav; Krobert, Kurt Allen

2014-01-01

Despite the view that only β2- as opposed to β1-adrenoceptors (βARs) couple to G(i), some data indicate that the β1AR-evoked inotropic response is also influenced by the inhibition of Gi. Therefore, we wanted to determine if Gi exerts tonic receptor-independent inhibition upon basal adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity in cardiomyocytes. We used the Gs-selective (R,R)- and the Gs- and G(i)-activating (R,S)-fenoterol to selectively activate β2ARs (β1AR blockade present) in combination with Gi inactivation with pertussis toxin (PTX). We also determined the effect of PTX upon basal and forskolin-mediated responses. Contractility was measured ex vivo in left ventricular strips and cAMP accumulation was measured in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from adult Wistar rats. PTX amplified both the (R,R)- and (R,S)-fenoterol-evoked maximal inotropic response and concentration-dependent increases in cAMP accumulation. The EC50 values of fenoterol matched published binding affinities. The PTX enhancement of the Gs-selective (R,R)-fenoterol-mediated responses suggests that Gi regulates AC activity independent of receptor coupling to Gi protein. Consistent with this hypothesis, forskolin-evoked cAMP accumulation was increased and inotropic responses to forskolin were potentiated by PTX treatment. In non-PTX-treated tissue, phosphodiesterase (PDE) 3 and 4 inhibition or removal of either constitutive muscarinic receptor activation of Gi with atropine or removal of constitutive adenosine receptor activation with CGS 15943 had no effect upon contractility. However, in PTX-treated tissue, PDE3 and 4 inhibition alone increased basal levels of cAMP and accordingly evoked a large inotropic response. Together, these data indicate that Gi exerts intrinsic receptor-independent inhibitory activity upon AC. We propose that PTX treatment shifts the balance of intrinsic G(i) and Gs activity upon AC towards Gs, enhancing the effect of all cAMP-mediated inotropic agents.

Lowering the glycemic index of white bread using a white bean extract

PubMed Central

Udani, Jay K; Singh, Betsy B; Barrett, Marilyn L; Preuss, Harry G

2009-01-01

Background Phase 2® is a dietary supplement derived from the common white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Phase 2 has been shown to inhibit alpha-amylase, the complex carbohydrate digesting enzyme, in vitro. The inhibition of alpha-amylase may result in the lowering of the effective Glycemic Index (GI) of certain foods. The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of Phase 2 would lower the GI of a commercially available high glycemic food (white bread). Methods An open-label 6-arm crossover study was conducted with 13 randomized subjects. Standardized GI testing was performed on white bread with and without the addition of Phase 2 in capsule and powder form, each in dosages of 1500 mg, 2000 mg, and 3000 mg. Statistical analysis was performed by one-way ANOVA of all seven treatment groups using unadjusted multiple comparisons (t tests) to the white bread control. Results For the capsule formulation, the 1500 mg dose had no effect on the GI and the 2000 mg and 3000 mg capsule doses caused insignificant reductions in GI. For the powder, the 1500 mg and 2000 mg doses caused insignificant reductions in the GI, and the 3000 mg dose had a significant effect (-20.23 or 34.11%, p = 0.023) Conclusion Phase 2 white bean extract appears to be a novel and potentially effective method for reducing the GI of existing foods without modifying their ingredient profile. Trial Registration Trial Registration: ISRCTN50347345 PMID:19860922

Lowering the glycemic index of white bread using a white bean extract.

PubMed

Udani, Jay K; Singh, Betsy B; Barrett, Marilyn L; Preuss, Harry G

2009-10-28

Phase 2((R)) is a dietary supplement derived from the common white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Phase 2 has been shown to inhibit alpha-amylase, the complex carbohydrate digesting enzyme, in vitro. The inhibition of alpha-amylase may result in the lowering of the effective Glycemic Index (GI) of certain foods. The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of Phase 2 would lower the GI of a commercially available high glycemic food (white bread). An open-label 6-arm crossover study was conducted with 13 randomized subjects. Standardized GI testing was performed on white bread with and without the addition of Phase 2 in capsule and powder form, each in dosages of 1500 mg, 2000 mg, and 3000 mg. Statistical analysis was performed by one-way ANOVA of all seven treatment groups using unadjusted multiple comparisons (t tests) to the white bread control. For the capsule formulation, the 1500 mg dose had no effect on the GI and the 2000 mg and 3000 mg capsule doses caused insignificant reductions in GI. For the powder, the 1500 mg and 2000 mg doses caused insignificant reductions in the GI, and the 3000 mg dose had a significant effect (-20.23 or 34.11%, p = 0.023) Phase 2 white bean extract appears to be a novel and potentially effective method for reducing the GI of existing foods without modifying their ingredient profile. Trial Registration: ISRCTN50347345.

Insight into NSAID-induced membrane alterations, pathogenesis and therapeutics: characterization of interaction of NSAIDs with phosphatidylcholine.

PubMed

Lichtenberger, Lenard M; Zhou, Yong; Jayaraman, Vasanthi; Doyen, Janice R; O'Neil, Roger G; Dial, Elizabeth J; Volk, David E; Gorenstein, David G; Boggara, Mohan Babu; Krishnamoorti, Ramanan

2012-07-01

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most widely consumed pharmaceuticals, yet both the mechanisms involved in their therapeutic actions and side-effects, notably gastrointestinal (GI) ulceration/bleeding, have not been clearly defined. In this study, we have used a number of biochemical, structural, computational and biological systems including; Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR). Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, and cell culture using a specific fluorescent membrane probe, to demonstrate that NSAIDs have a strong affinity to form ionic and hydrophobic associations with zwitterionic phospholipids, and specifically phosphatidylcholine (PC), that are reversible and non-covalent in nature. We propose that the pH-dependent partition of these potent anti-inflammatory drugs into the phospholipid bilayer, and possibly extracellular mono/multilayers present on the luminal interface of the mucus gel layer, may result in profound changes in the hydrophobicity, fluidity, permeability, biomechanical properties and stability of these membranes and barriers. These changes may not only provide an explanation of how NSAIDs induce surface injury to the GI mucosa as a component in the pathogenic mechanism leading to peptic ulceration and bleeding, but potentially an explanation for a number of (COX-independent) biological actions of this family of pharmaceuticals. This insight also has proven useful in the design and development of a novel class of PC-associated NSAIDs that have reduced GI toxicity while maintaining their essential therapeutic efficacy to inhibit pain and inflammation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Veterans Going to College: Evaluating the Impact of the Post-9/11 GI Bill on College Enrollment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Liang

2018-01-01

In this study, I used American Community Survey (ACS) 2005-2015 data to examine the enrollment effect of the Post-9/11 GI Bill; the analysis resulted in three main findings: First, although the New GI Bill has increased overall college enrollment by about 3 percentage points on average, the effect was much larger immediately after the bill's…

Assessing Cost-effectiveness of Green Infrastructures in response to Large Storm Events at Household Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chui, T. F. M.; Liu, X.; Zhan, W.

2015-12-01

Green infrastructures (GI) are becoming more important for urban stormwater control worldwide. However, relatively few studies focus on researching the specific designs of GI at household scale. This study assesses the hydrological performance and cost-effectiveness of different GI designs, namely green roofs, bioretention systems and porous pavements. It aims to generate generic insights by comparing the optimal designs of each GI in 2-year and 50-year storms of Hong Kong, China and Seattle, US. EPA SWMM is first used to simulate the hydrologic performance, in particular, the peak runoff reduction of thousands of GI designs. Then, life cycle costs of the designs are computed and their effectiveness, in terms of peak runoff reduction percentage per thousand dollars, is compared. The peak runoff reduction increases almost linearly with costs for green roofs. However, for bioretention systems and porous pavements, peak runoff reduction only increases significantly with costs in the mid values. For achieving the same peak runoff reduction percentage, the optimal soil depth of green roofs increases with the design storm, while surface area does not change significantly. On the other hand, for bioretention systems and porous pavements, the optimal surface area increases with the design storm, while thickness does not change significantly. In general, the cost effectiveness of porous pavements is highest, followed by bioretention systems and then green roofs. The cost effectiveness is higher for a smaller storm, and is thus higher for 2-year storm than 50-year storm, and is also higher for Seattle when compared to Hong Kong. This study allows us to better understand the hydrological performance and cost-effectiveness of different GI designs. It facilitates the implementation of optimal choice and design of each specific GI for stormwater mitigation.

Measuring sporadic gastrointestinal illness associated with drinking water - an overview of methodologies.

PubMed

Bylund, John; Toljander, Jonas; Lysén, Maria; Rasti, Niloofar; Engqvist, Jannes; Simonsson, Magnus

2017-06-01

There is an increasing awareness that drinking water contributes to sporadic gastrointestinal illness (GI) in high income countries of the northern hemisphere. A literature search was conducted in order to review: (1) methods used for investigating the effects of public drinking water on GI; (2) evidence of possible dose-response relationship between sporadic GI and drinking water consumption; and (3) association between sporadic GI and factors affecting drinking water quality. Seventy-four articles were selected, key findings and information gaps were identified. In-home intervention studies have only been conducted in areas using surface water sources and intervention studies in communities supplied by ground water are therefore needed. Community-wide intervention studies may constitute a cost-effective alternative to in-home intervention studies. Proxy data that correlate with GI in the community can be used for detecting changes in the incidence of GI. Proxy data can, however, not be used for measuring the prevalence of illness. Local conditions affecting water safety may vary greatly, making direct comparisons between studies difficult unless sufficient knowledge about these conditions is acquired. Drinking water in high-income countries contributes to endemic levels of GI and there are public health benefits for further improvements of drinking water safety.

Effects of spatial configuration of imperviousness and green infrastructure networks on hydrologic response in a residential sewershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Theodore C.; Welty, Claire

2017-09-01

Green infrastructure (GI) is an approach to stormwater management that promotes natural processes of infiltration and evapotranspiration, reducing surface runoff to conventional stormwater drainage infrastructure. As more urban areas incorporate GI into their stormwater management plans, greater understanding is needed on the effects of spatial configuration of GI networks on hydrological performance, especially in the context of potential subsurface and lateral interactions between distributed facilities. In this research, we apply a three-dimensional, coupled surface-subsurface, land-atmosphere model, ParFlow.CLM, to a residential urban sewershed in Washington DC that was retrofitted with a network of GI installations between 2009 and 2015. The model was used to test nine additional GI and imperviousness spatial network configurations for the site and was compared with monitored pipe-flow data. Results from the simulations show that GI located in higher flow-accumulation areas of the site intercepted more surface runoff, even during wetter and multiday events. However, a comparison of the differences between scenarios and levels of variation and noise in monitored data suggests that the differences would only be detectable between the most and least optimal GI/imperviousness configurations.

A prospective clinical pilot-trial comparing the effect of an optimized mixed diet versus a flexible low-glycemic index diet on nutrient intake and HbA(1c) levels in children with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Marquard, Jan; Stahl, Anna; Lerch, Christian; Wolters, Mareen; Grotzke-Leweling, Maike; Mayatepek, Ertan; Meissner, Thomas

2011-01-01

Low-glycemic index (GI) diet vs. high-GI diet improves glycemic control, but it is not clear whether a low-GI diet is superior to an optimized mixed diet (OMD). This was a 12-week parallel-group pilot-trial including 17 children with type 1 diabetes. A separate dietary education into the allocated diet (OMD vs. low-GI) was performed. Nutrition was recorded by means of a three-day dietary record. The primary objective was to determine the macro- and micronutrient composition of the different diets, the secondary objective was to determine the short-term effect on HbA(1c) levels. In the low-GI group carbohydrate intake decreased, fat intake increased by trend. In the OMD group fat and energy intake decreased. No changes of HbA(1c) levels between the groups were observed. OMD could have positive effects in overweight and obese diabetic children, since a reduction in fat and energy intake can be achieved. The findings of this pilot-trial suggest that OMD could be superior to a low-GI diet.

Efficacy of hypnosis/guided imagery in fibromyalgia syndrome - a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Recent systematic reviews on psychological therapies of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) did not consider hypnosis/guided imagery (H/GI). Therefore we performed a systematic review with meta-analysis of the efficacy of H/GI in FMS. Methods We screened http://ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and SCOPUS (through December 2010). (Quasi-) randomized controlled trials (CTs) comparing H/GI with controls were analyzed. Outcomes were pain, sleep, fatigue, depressed mood and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Effects were summarized using standardized mean differences (SMD). Results Six CTs with 239 subjects with a median of 9 (range 7-12) H/GI-sessions were analysed. The median number of patients in the H/GI groups was 20 (range 8-26). Three studies performed follow-ups. H/GI reduced pain compared to controls at final treatment (SMD -1.17 [95% CI -2.21, -0.13]; p = 0.03). H/GI did not reduce limitations of HRQOL at final treatment (SMD -0.90 [95% CI -2.55, 0.76]; p = 0.29) compared to controls. Effect sizes on fatigue, sleep and depressed mood at final treatment and follow-up and on pain and HRQOL at follow-up were not calculated because of limited data available. The significant effect on pain at final treatment was associated with low methodological and low treatment quality. Conclusion Further studies with better treatment quality and adequate methodological quality assessing all key domains of FMS are necessary to clarify the efficacy of H/GI in FMS. PMID:21676255

Gastroprotective strategies in chronic NSAID users: a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing single-tablet formulations with individual components.

PubMed

de Groot, N L; Spiegel, B M R; van Haalen, H G M; de Wit, N J; Siersema, P D; van Oijen, M G H

2013-01-01

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of competing gastroprotective strategies, including single-tablet formulations, in the prevention of gastrointestinal (GI) complications in patients with chronic arthritis taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). We performed a cost-utility analysis to compare eight gastroprotective strategies including NSAIDs, cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine-2 receptor antagonists, misoprostol, and single-tablet formulations. We derived estimates for outcomes and costs from medical literature. The primary outcome was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained. We performed sensitivity analyses to assess the effect of GI complications, compliance rates, and drug costs. For average-risk patients, NSAID + PPI cotherapy was most cost-effective. The NSAID/PPI single-tablet formulation became cost-effective only when its price decreased from €0.78 to €0.56 per tablet, or when PPI compliance fell below 51% in the NSAID + PPI strategy. All other strategies were more costly and less effective. The model was highly sensitive to the GI complication risk, costs of PPI and NSAID/PPI single-tablet formulation, and compliance to PPI. In patients with a threefold higher risk of GI complications, both NSAID + PPI cotherapy and single-tablet formulation were cost-effective. NSAID + PPI cotherapy is the most cost-effective strategy in all patients with chronic arthritis irrespective of their risk for GI complications. For patients with increased GI risk, the NSAID/PPI single-tablet formulation is also cost-effective. Copyright © 2013 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of exogenous growth hormone administration on dexamethasone-induced growth impairment in adolescent male rats

PubMed Central

Kim, Myung-Gyou; Oh, Jeong-Seok; Kim, Hye Kyung; Leem, Kang-Hyun

2017-01-01

Growth impairment (GI) is one of the adverse effects of dexamethasone (DXM), and growth hormone (GH) has been used clinically to improve GI. The present study aimed to evaluate the manner in which DXM disturbs the growth rate of longitudinal bones, and the recovery effects of GH on DXM-induced GI in the longitudinal bones of adolescent male rats. In the first experiment, DXM (0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 5 mg/kg) was administered subcutaneously to identify a potential dose-dependent activity and calculate the median effective dose (ED50) of DXM-induced GI. The ED50 was identified to be 1.15 mg/kg. In the second experiment, GH (0, 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) with 1.15 mg/kg DXM was injected subcutaneously to assess the recovery effects of GH on DXM-induced GI. The growth rates of the longitudinal bones, total height of the growth plate, local mRNA expressions of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), GH receptor (GHR) and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), and local protein expression of IGF-1 were measured to evaluate the recovery effects of GH on DXM-induced GI. The local expressions of IGF-1, GHR and IGF-1R mRNA, and IGF-1 protein were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction following laser microdissection and antigen-specific immunohistochemistry, respectively. GH administration partially recovered DXM-induced GI in the longitudinal bones and growth plate. GH significantly increased the levels of IGF-1, GHR and IGF-1R mRNA in the proliferative zone of the control group (P<0.05), whereas it failed to increase them in the proliferative zone of the DXM-treated group. Furthermore, GH increased the levels of IGF-1, GHR and IGF-1R mRNA in the hypertrophic zone of both the vehicle and DXM-treated groups (P<0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis of IGF-1 protein expression revealed a similar pattern to that of IGF-1 mRNA. These results suggest that increased GH insensitivity in the proliferative zone of the growth plate, induced by DXM, leads to GI in longitudinal bones. Thus, combined administration of GH with GH insensitivity-alleviating medications may be more effective in the treatment of DXM-induced GI. PMID:29042933

Incorporating green infrastructure into water resources management plans to address water quality impairments

EPA Science Inventory

Managers of urban watersheds with excessive nutrient loads are more frequently turning to green infrastructure (GI) to manage their water quality impairments. The effectiveness of GI is dependent on a number of factors, including (1) the type and placement of GI within the waters...

Effect of sourdough addition and storage time on in vitro starch digestibility and estimated glycemic index of tef bread.

PubMed

Shumoy, Habtu; Van Bockstaele, Filip; Devecioglu, Dilara; Raes, Katleen

2018-10-30

The effect of sourdough amount and storage time on starch digestibility and estimated glycemic index (eGI) of tef bread was investigated. The rapidly digestible starch (RDS), slowly digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) of 0-30% sourdough fresh tef breads ranged from 49 to 58, 16 to 29 and 20 to 26 g/100 g starch, respectively. Storage of tef breads up to 5 days decreased the RDS by more than 2-fold while SDS and RS increased by 2 and 3 fold, respectively. The eGI for fresh and stored breads ranged from 39 to 89. Addition of sourdough increased the eGI of fresh breads while no uniform pattern was seen in the stored breads. As the storage time increased, all the breads showed a decrease in eGI. In vivo study is necessary to further investigate the effect of sourdough on GI of tef bread. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Focus on ulcerative colitis: stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157.

PubMed

Sikiric, P; Seiwerth, S; Rucman, R; Turkovic, B; Rokotov, D S; Brcic, L; Sever, M; Klicek, R; Radic, B; Drmic, D; Ilic, S; Kolenc, D; Stambolija, V; Zoricic, Z; Vrcic, H; Sebecic, B

2012-01-01

Stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 (GEPPPGKPADDAGLV, M.W. 1419) may be the new drug stable in human gastric juice, effective both in the upper and lower GI tract, and free of side effects. BPC 157, in addition to an antiulcer effect efficient in therapy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (PL 14736) so far only tested in clinical phase II, has a very safe profile, and exhibited a particular wound healing effect. It also has shown to interact with the NO-system, providing endothelium protection and angiogenic effect, even in severely impaired conditions (i.e., it stimulated expression of early growth response 1 gene responsible for cytokine and growth factor generation and early extracellular matrix (collagen) formation (but also its repressor nerve growth factor 1-A binding protein-2)), important to counteract severe complications of advanced and poorly controlled IBD. Hopefully, the lessons from animal studies, particularly advanced intestinal anastomosis healing, reversed short bowel syndrome and fistula healing indicate BPC 157's high significance in further IBD therapy. Also, this supportive evidence (i.e., no toxic effect, limit test negative, LD1 not achieved, no side effect in trials) may counteract the problems commonly exercised in the use of peptidergic agents, particularly those used on a long-term basis.

Effects of Genetically Modified Milk Containing Human Beta-Defensin-3 on Gastrointestinal Health of Mice

PubMed Central

Yang, Yange; Shi, Zhaopeng; Gao, Ming-Qing; Zhang, Yong

2016-01-01

This study was performed to investigate the effects of genetically modified (GM) milk containing human beta-defensin-3 (HBD3) on mice by a 90-day feeding study. The examined parameters included the digestibility of GM milk, general physical examination, gastric emptying function, intestinal permeability, intestinal microflora composition of mice, and the possibility of horizontal gene transfer (HGT). The emphasis was placed on the effects on gastrointestinal (GI) tract due to the fact that GI tract was the first site contacting with food and played crucial roles in metabolic reactions, nutrition absorption and immunity regulation in the host. However, the traditional methods for analyzing the potential toxicological risk of GM product pay little attention on GI health. In this study, the results showed GM milk was easy to be digested in simulated gastric fluid, and it did not have adverse effects on general and GI health compared to conventional milk. And there is little possibility of HGT. This study may enrich the safety assessment of GM product on GI health. PMID:27438026

A flexible framework for process-based hydraulic and water ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Background Models that allow for design considerations of green infrastructure (GI) practices to control stormwater runoff and associated contaminants have received considerable attention in recent years. While popular, generally, the GI models are relatively simplistic. However, GI model predictions are being relied upon by many municipalities and State/Local agencies to make decisions about grey vs. green infrastructure improvement planning. Adding complexity to GI modeling frameworks may preclude their use in simpler urban planning situations. Therefore, the goal here was to develop a sophisticated, yet flexible tool that could be used by design engineers and researchers to capture and explore the effect of design factors and properties of the media used in the performance of GI systems at a relatively small scale. We deemed it essential to have a flexible GI modeling tool that is capable of simulating GI system components and specific biophysical processes affecting contaminants such as reactions, and particle-associated transport accurately while maintaining a high degree of flexibly to account for the myriad of GI alternatives. The mathematical framework for a stand-alone GI performance assessment tool has been developed and will be demonstrated.Framework Features The process-based model framework developed here can be used to model a diverse range of GI practices such as green roof, retention pond, bioretention, infiltration trench, permeable pavement and

The effect of low-dose aspirin on the decreased risk of development of dyspepsia and gastrointestinal ulcers associated to cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors.

PubMed

Benito-Garcia, Elizabeth; Michaud, Kaleb; Wolfe, Frederick

2007-08-01

To evaluate the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and ulcers associated to the use of low-dose aspirin (ASA) among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) treated with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) drugs, to clarify the controversy in the literature. Using a longitudinal databank, a prospective study using Cox proportional hazards models was performed in patients receiving COX-2 therapy for RA or OA to examine the effect of ASA on GI events. In 4 separate analyses patients reported dyspeptic symptoms and GI ulcers at semiannual intervals for up to 3 years. Ulcers were validated by review of medical records. Among 4240 patients taking COX-2-specific inhibitors, with no ulcer at study start, the age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios for the effect of ASA on the development of epigastric pain, heartburn, nausea, and ulcers, without these previous events, were 1.11 (95% CI 0.97-1.29), 1.00 (95% CI 0.88-1.15), 1.32 (95% CI 1.13-1.54), and 1.27 (95% CI 0.78-2.05). The use of a propensity score to account for the risk of ASA prescription showed an even lower effect of ASA among all GI variables. This risk occurs within the setting of no prior GI symptoms or GI events, and independently of the use of proton pump inhibitors, other GI drugs, other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, prednisone, or methotrexate. In actual practice, the use of low-dose ASA has a small effect on the risk of developing dyspeptic symptoms in a group of patients with rheumatic disease.

Proton pump inhibitors in prevention of low-dose aspirin-associated upper gastrointestinal injuries.

PubMed

Mo, Chen; Sun, Gang; Lu, Ming-Liang; Zhang, Li; Wang, Yan-Zhi; Sun, Xi; Yang, Yun-Sheng

2015-05-07

To determine the preventive effect and safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in low-dose aspirin (LDA)-associated gastrointestinal (GI) ulcers and bleeding. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register from inception to December 2013, and checked conference abstracts of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of PPIs in reducing adverse GI events (hemorrhage, ulcer, perforation, or obstruction) in patients taking LDA. The preventive effects of PPIs were compared with the control group [taking placebo, a cytoprotective agent, or an H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA)] in LDA-associated upper GI injuries. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1 software. We evaluated 8780 participants in 10 RCTs. The meta-analysis showed that PPIs decreased the risk of LDA-associated upper GI ulcers (OR = 0.16; 95%CI: 0.12-0.23) and bleeding (OR = 0.27; 95%CI: 0.16-0.43) compared with control. For patients treated with dual anti-platelet therapy of LDA and clopidogrel, PPIs were able to prevent the LDA-associated GI bleeding (OR = 0.36; 95%CI: 0.15-0.87) without increasing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (OR = 1.00; 95%CI: 0.76-1.31). PPIs were superior to H2RA in prevention of LDA-associated GI ulcers (OR = 0.12; 95%CI: 0.02-0.65) and bleeding (OR = 0.32; 95%CI: 0.13-0.79). PPIs are effective in preventing LDA-associated upper GI ulcers and bleeding. Concomitant use of PPI, LDA and clopidogrel did not increase the risk of MACE.

PPIs Prevent Aspirin-Induced Gastrointestinal Bleeding Better than H2RAs. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Szabó, Imre L; Mátics, Robert; Hegyi, Peter; Garami, Andras; Illés, Anita; Sarlós, Patricia; Bajor, Judit; Szűcs, Akos; Mosztbacher, Dora; Márta, Katalin; Szemes, Kata; Csekő, Kata; Kővári, Balint; Rumbus, Zoltan; Vincze, Áron

2017-12-01

Aspirin is one of the most widely used medication for its analgesic and anti-platelet properties and thus a major cause for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. This study compared the preventive effect of histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) against chronic low-dose aspirin (LDA)-related GI bleeding and ulcer formation. Electronic databases of Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for human observations (randomised controlled trials and observational studies) comparing the long term effects of PPIs and H2RAs treatment in the prevention of GI bleeding or ulcer formation in patients on chronic LDA treatment listed up till September 30, 2016. Two independent authors searched databases using PICO questions (aspirin, H2RA, PPI, GI bleeding or ulcer), and reviewed abstracts and articles for comprehensive studies keeping adequate study quality. Data of weighted odds ratios were statistically evaluated using Comprehensive Metaanalysis (Biostat, Inc., Engelwood, MJ, USA), potential bias was checked. Nine studies for GI bleeding and eight studies for ulcer formation were found meeting inclusion criteria, altogether 1,879 patients were included into review. The H2RAs prevented less effectively LDA-related GI bleeding (OR= 2.102, 95% CI: 1.008-4.385, p<0.048) and ulcer formation (OR= 2.257, 95% CI: 1.277-3.989, p<0.005) than PPIs. The meta-analysis showed that H2RAs were less effective in the prevention of LDA-related GI bleeding and ulcer formation suggesting the preferable usage of PPIs in case of tolerance.

Promoting healthy weight among elementary school children via a health report card approach.

PubMed

Chomitz, Virginia R; Collins, Jessica; Kim, Juhee; Kramer, Ellen; McGowan, Robert

2003-08-01

As overweight continues to rise among children, schools seek effective and sensitive ways to engage parents in promoting healthy weight. To evaluate a school-based health report card on the family awareness of and concern about the child weight status, plans for weight control, and preventive behaviors. Quasi-experimental field trial with a personalized weight and fitness health report card intervention (PI), a general-information intervention (GI), and a control group (CG). Outcomes were assessed using a postintervention telephone survey, including process and outcome measures. The intervention included 1396 ethnically diverse students at 4 elementary schools in an urban area. Telephone surveys were completed by 399 families from an evaluation sample of 793. Intervention Families were randomly assigned to the PI, GI, or CG and mailed intervention materials. The CG was mailed GI materials after the survey. Parent awareness of child weight status, concerns, weight-control plans, and preventive behaviors. Group effects were significantly different by the child's weight status, so results were stratified. Among overweight students, intervention parents were more likely to know their child's weight status (PI, 44%; GI, 41%; CG, 23%) (P =.02). The PI parents planned medical help (PI, 25%; GI, 7%; CG, 9%) (P =.004), dieting activities (PI, 19%; GI and CG, <5 cases) (P =.02) and physical activities (PI, 42%; GI, 27%; CG, 13%) (P<.001) for their overweight children. No group effect on concern or preventive behaviors was detected. Most parents of overweight children who read materials requested annual weight and health information on their child (PI, 91%; GI, 67%). Among overweight children, the PI was associated with increased parental awareness of their child's weight status. Although parents wanted PI for their children, more research is needed to test this approach on children's self-esteem and plans for weight control.

The effects of green infrastructure on exceedance of critical shear stress in Blunn Creek watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shannak, Sa'd.

2017-10-01

Green infrastructure (GI) has attracted city planners and watershed management professional as a new approach to control urban stormwater runoff. Several regulatory enforcements of GI implementation created an urgent need for quantitative information on GI practice effectiveness, namely for sediment and stream erosion. This study aims at investigating the capability and performance of GI in reducing stream bank erosion in the Blackland Prairie ecosystem. To achieve the goal of this study, we developed a methodology to represent two types of GI (bioretention and permeable pavement) into the Soil Water Assessment Tool, we also evaluated the shear stress and excess shear stress for stream flows in conjunction with different levels of adoption of GI, and estimated potential stream bank erosion for different median soil particle sizes using real and design storms. The results provided various configurations of GI schemes in reducing the negative impact of urban stormwater runoff on stream banks. Results showed that combining permeable pavement and bioretention resulted in the greatest reduction in runoff volumes, peak flows, and excess shear stress under both real and design storms. Bioretention as a stand-alone resulted in the second greatest reduction, while the installation of detention pond only had the least reduction percentages. Lastly, results showed that the soil particle with median diameter equals to 64 mm (small cobbles) had the least excess shear stress across all design storms, while 0.5 mm (medium sand) soil particle size had the largest magnitude of excess shear stress. The current study provides several insights into a watershed scale for GI planning and watershed management to effectively reduce the negative impact of urban stormwater runoff and control streambank erosion.

Peer influence on gender identity development in adolescence.

PubMed

Kornienko, Olga; Santos, Carlos E; Martin, Carol Lynn; Granger, Kristen L

2016-10-01

During adolescence, gender identity (GI) develops through a dialectic process of personal reflection and with input from the social environment. Peers play an important role in the socialization of gendered behavior, but no studies to-date have assessed peer influences on GI. Thus, the goal of the present study was to examine peer influences on four aspects of adolescents' GI in racially and ethnically diverse 7th- and 8th-grade students (N = 670; 49.5% boys, M age = 12.64) using a longitudinal social network modeling approach. We hypothesized stronger peer influence effects on between-gender dimensions of GI (intergroup bias and felt pressure for gender conformity) than on within-gender dimensions of GI (typicality and contentedness). Consistent with expectations, we found significant peer influence on between-gender components of GI-intergroup bias among 7th and 8th graders as well as felt pressure for gender conformity among 8th graders. In contrast, within-gender components of GI showed no evidence of peer influence. Importantly, these peer socialization effects were evident even when controlling for tendencies to select friends who were similar on gender, gender typicality, and contentedness (8th graders only). Employing longitudinal social network analyses provides insights into and clarity about the roles of peers in gender development. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Indicators for Assessing Climate Change Resilience Resulting from Emplacement of Green Infrastructure Projects Across an Urban Landscape

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parish, E. S.; Omitaomu, O.; Sylvester, L.; Nugent, P.

2015-12-01

Many U.S. cities are exploring the potential of using green infrastructure (e.g., porous pavements, green roofs, street planters) to reduce urban storm water runoff, which can be both be a nuisance and costly to treat. While tools exist to measure local runoff changes resulting from individual green infrastructure (GI) projects, most municipalities currently have no method of analyzing the collective impact of GI projects on urban stormwater systems under future rainfall scenarios and impervious surface distribution patterns. Using the mid-sized city of Knoxville, Tennessee as a case study, we propose a set of indicators that can be used to monitor and analyze the collective effects of GI emplacement on urban storm water runoff volumes as well as to quantify potential co-benefits of GI projects (e.g., urban heat island reduction, reduced stream scouring) under different climate projection ensembles and population growth scenarios. These indicators are intended to help the city prioritize GI projects as opportunities arise, as well as to track the effectiveness of GI implementation over time. We explore the aggregation of these indicators across different spatial scales (e.g., plot, neighborhood, watershed, city) in order to assess potential changes in climate change resilience resulting from the collective implementation of GI projects across an urban landscape.

Strategy for introduction of rainwater management facility considering rainfall event applied on new apartment complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

KIM, H.; Lee, D. K.; Yoo, S.

2014-12-01

As regional torrential rains become frequent due to climate change, urban flooding happens very often. That is why it is necessary to prepare for integrated measures against a wide range of rainfall. This study proposes introduction of effective rainwater management facilities to maximize the rainwater runoff reductions and recover natural water circulation for unpredictable extreme rainfall in apartment complex scale. The study site is new apartment complex in Hanam located in east of Seoul, Korea. It has an area of 7.28ha and is analysed using the EPA-SWMM and STORM model. First, it is analyzed that green infrastructure(GI) had efficiency of flood reduction at the various rainfall events and soil characteristics, and then the most effective value of variables are derived. In case of rainfall event, Last 10 years data of 15 minutes were used for analysis. A comparison between A(686mm rainfall during 22days) and B(661mm/4days) knew that soil infiltration of A is 17.08% and B is 5.48% of the rainfall. Reduction of runoff after introduction of the GI of A is 24.76% and B is 6.56%. These results mean that GI is effective to small rainfall intensity, and artificial rainwater retarding reservoir is needed at extreme rainfall. Second, set of target year is conducted for the recovery of hydrological cycle at the predevelopment. And an amount of infiltration, evaporation, surface runoff of the target year and now is analysed on the basis of land coverage, and an arrangement of LID facilities. Third, rainwater management scenarios are established and simulated by the SWMM-LID. Rainwater management facilities include GI(green roof, porous pavement, vegetative swale, ecological pond, and raingarden), and artificial rainwater. Design scenarios are categorized five type: 1)no GI, 2)conventional GI design(current design), 3)intensive GI design, 4)GI design+rainwater retarding reservoir 5)maximized rainwater retarding reservoir. Intensive GI design is to have attribute value to obtain the maximum efficiency for each GI facility with in-depth experts interviews. Climate change scenario is also used to set the capacity of the rainwater management facilities considering the extreme precipitation. These all scenarios are not only simulated for calculating the hydrological balance but analysed the cost for each scenarios effect.

Modulation of the Gastrointestinal Microbiome with Nondigestible Fermentable Carbohydrates To Improve Human Health.

PubMed

Deehan, Edward C; Duar, Rebbeca M; Armet, Anissa M; Perez-Muñoz, Maria Elisa; Jin, Mingliang; Walter, Jens

2017-09-01

There is a clear association between the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome and the development of chronic noncommunicable diseases, providing a rationale for the development of strategies that target the GI microbiota to improve human health. In this article, we discuss the potential of supplementing the human diet with nondigestible fermentable carbohydrates (NDFCs) to modulate the composition, structure, diversity, and metabolic potential of the GI microbiome in an attempt to prevent or treat human disease. The current concepts by which NDFCs can be administered to humans, including prebiotics, fermentable dietary fibers, and microbiota-accessible carbohydrates, as well as the mechanisms by which these carbohydrates exert their health benefits, are discussed. Epidemiological research presents compelling evidence for the health effects of NDFCs, with clinical studies providing further support for some of these benefits. However, rigorously designed human intervention studies with well-established clinical markers and microbial endpoints are still essential to establish (i) the clinical efficiency of specific NDFCs, (ii) the causal role of the GI microbiota in these effects, (iii) the underlying mechanisms involved, and (iv) the degree by which inter-individual differences between GI microbiomes influence these effects. Such studies would provide the mechanistic understanding needed for a systematic application of NDFCs to improve human health via GI microbiota modulation while also allowing the personalization of these dietary strategies.

Favorable therapeutic response of osteoporosis patients to treatment with intravenous zoledronate compared with oral alendronate

PubMed Central

Al-Bogami, Mohammed M.; Alkhorayef, Mohammed A.; Bystrom, Jonas; Akanle, Olufunso A.; Al-Adhoubi, Nasra K.; Jawad, Ali S.; Mageed, Rizgar A.

2015-01-01

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of orally-administered alendronate compared with intravenously-administered zoledronate. Methods: This prospective study was carried out at Barts Health HNS Trust between April 2010 and March 2012. This study compares changes in bone mineral density (BMD) in 234 patients treated with 2 bisphosphonates: alendronate taken orally, and zoledronate administered intravenously. One hundred and eighteen patients received alendronate at 70 mg/week, while 116 patients received zoledronate once annually. Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry was used to measure BMD of the left hip and anterior-posterior spine (lumbar L1-L4) skeletal sites at baseline, and at one-, and 2-years post-treatment. Results: This study provides evidence that lumbar spine BMD increased by 3.6% in patients receiving alendronate, and 5.7% in patients receiving zoledronate after 2 years compared with baseline values (p=0.0001 for both). Total hip BMD decreased in patients treated with alendronate by 0.4% but increased in patients receiving zoledronate by 0.8% (p=0.0001). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that zoledronate is more effective than alendronate in treating patients with osteoporosis and with no gastrointestinal (GI) serious side effects. Furthermore, zoledronate appears to have the added advantage of a better safety profile in patients suffering from GI intolerance of oral bisphosphonates. PMID:26593163

Effect of glycemic index and carbohydrate intake on kidney function in healthy adults.

PubMed

Juraschek, Stephen P; Chang, Alex R; Appel, Lawrence J; Anderson, Cheryl A M; Crews, Deidra C; Thomas, Letitia; Charleston, Jeanne; Miller, Edgar R

2016-07-08

Replacing carbohydrate with protein acutely increases glomerular filtration rate (GFR) but is associated with faster, long-term kidney disease progression. The effects of carbohydrate type (i.e. glycemic index, GI) on kidney function are unknown. We conducted an ancillary study of a randomized, crossover feeding trial in overweight/obese adults without diabetes or kidney disease (N = 163). Participants were fed each of four healthy, DASH-like diets for 5 weeks, separated by 2-week washout periods. Weight was kept constant. The four diets were: high GI (GI ≥65) with high %carb (58 % kcal) (reference diet), low GI (≤45) with low %carb (40 % kcal), low GI with high %carb; and high GI with low %carb. Plasma was collected at baseline and after each feeding period. Study outcomes were cystatin C, β2-microglobulin (β2M), and estimated GFR based on cystatin C (eGFRcys). Mean (SD) age was 52 (11) years; 52 % were women; 50 % were black. At baseline, mean (SD) cystatin C, β2M, and eGFRcys were 0.8 (0.1) mg/L, 1.9 (0.4) mg/L, and 104 (16) mL/min/1.73 m(2). Compared to the high GI/high %carb diet, reducing GI, %carb, or both increased eGFRcys by 1.9 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (95 % CI: 1.1, 2.7; P < 0.001), 3.0 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (1.9, 4.0; P < 0.001), and 4.5 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (3.5, 5.4; P < 0.001), respectively. Increases in eGFRcys from reducing GI were significantly associated with increases in eGFRcys from reducing %carb (P < 0.001). Results for cystatin C and β2M reflected eGFRcys. Reducing GI increased GFR. Reducing %carb by increasing calories from protein and fat, also increased GFR. Future studies on GI should examine the long-term effects of this increase in GFR on kidney injury markers and clinical outcomes. Clinical Trials.gov, number: NCT00608049 (first registered January 23, 2008).

Effect of Diet on Metabolism of Laboratory Rats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, P. C.; Riskowski, G. L.; McKee, J. S.

1996-01-01

In previous studies when rats were fed a processed, semipurified, extruded rodent food bar (RFB) developed for space science research, we noted a difference in the appearance of gastrointestinal tissue (GI); therefore the following study evaluated GI characteristics and growth and metabolic rates of rats fed chow (C) or RFB. Two hundred and twenty-four rats (78 g mean body weight) were randomly assigned to 28 cages and provided C or RFB. Each cage was considered the experimental unit and a 95 percent level of significance, indicated by ANOVA, was used for inference. After each 30-, 60-, and 90-day period, eight cages were shifted from the C to RFB diet and housing density was reduced by two rats per cage. The two rats removed from each cage were sacrificed and used for GI evaluation. Metabolic rates of the rats in each cage were determined by indirect calorimetry. No differences in body weight were detected at 0, 30, 60 or 90 days between C and RFB. Heat production (kcal/hr/kg), CO2 production (L/hr/kg) and O2 consumption (L/hr/kg) were different by light:dark and age with no effect of diet. Respiratory quotient was different by age with no effect of light:dark or diet. Rats on the C diet ate less food and drank more water than those on RFB. C rats produced more fecal and waste materials than the RFB. GI lengths increased with age but were less in RFB than C. GI full and empty weights increased with age but weighed less in RFB than C. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) numbers increased with age with no effect of diet. No differences in ileum-associated GALT area were detected between C and RFB. Switching C to RFB decreased GI length, GI full and empty weights, with no changes in GALT number or area. We concluded RFB decreased GI mass without affecting metabolic rate or general body growth.

Efficacy of an inhibitor of adhesion molecule expression (GI270384X) in the treatment of experimental colitis.

PubMed

Panés, Julián; Aceituno, Montserrat; Gil, Fèlix; Miquel, Rosa; Piqué, Josep M; Salas, Azucena; McLean, Peter

2007-10-01

Modulation of adhesion molecule expression or function is regarded as a promising therapy for inflammatory conditions. This study evaluates the effects of an inhibitor of adhesion molecule expression (GI270384X) in two experimental models of colitis. Colitis of different severity was induced in C57BL/6J mice by administering 1, 2, or 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). GI270384X (3, 10, or 25 mg.kg(-1).day(-1)) was administered as pretreatment or started 3 days after colitis induction. In IL-10-deficient mice, the highest dose was given for 2 wk. The clinical course of colitis, pathological changes, serum inflammatory biomarkers, expression of adhesion molecules, and leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions in colonic venules were measured in mice treated with vehicle or with active drug. In the most severe forms of colitis (2% and 3% DSS and IL-10-deficient mice), the magnitude of colonic inflammation was not modified by treatment with GI270384X. In a less severe form of colitis (1% DSS), GI270384X treatment dose dependently ameliorated the clinical signs of colitis, colonic pathological changes, and serum levels of biomarkers (IL-6 and serum amyloid A). Administration of 25 mg.kg(-1).day(-1) GI270384X abrogated upregulation of ICAM-1 in the inflamed colon but had no effect on VCAM-1 or E-selectin expression. This was associated with a significant reduction in number of rolling and firmly adherent leukocytes in colonic venules. These results indicate that GI270384X is effective in the treatment of experimental colitis of moderate severity. Reduced adhesion molecule expression and leukocyte recruitment to the inflamed intestine contribute to this beneficial effect.

Optimal design of green and grey stormwater infrastructure for small urban catchment based on life-cycle cost-effectiveness analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Y.; Chui, T. F. M.

2016-12-01

Green infrastructure (GI) is identified as sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to the conventional grey stormwater infrastructure. Commonly used GI (e.g. green roof, bioretention, porous pavement) can provide multifunctional benefits, e.g. mitigation of urban heat island effects, improvements in air quality. Therefore, to optimize the design of GI and grey drainage infrastructure, it is essential to account for their benefits together with the costs. In this study, a comprehensive simulation-optimization modelling framework that considers the economic and hydro-environmental aspects of GI and grey infrastructure for small urban catchment applications is developed. Several modelling tools (i.e., EPA SWMM model, the WERF BMP and LID Whole Life Cycle Cost Modelling Tools) and optimization solvers are coupled together to assess the life-cycle cost-effectiveness of GI and grey infrastructure, and to further develop optimal stormwater drainage solutions. A typical residential lot in New York City is examined as a case study. The life-cycle cost-effectiveness of various GI and grey infrastructure are first examined at different investment levels. The results together with the catchment parameters are then provided to the optimization solvers, to derive the optimal investment and contributing area of each type of the stormwater controls. The relationship between the investment and optimized environmental benefit is found to be nonlinear. The optimized drainage solutions demonstrate that grey infrastructure is preferred at low total investments while more GI should be adopted at high investments. The sensitivity of the optimized solutions to the prices the stormwater controls is evaluated and is found to be highly associated with their utilizations in the base optimization case. The overall simulation-optimization framework can be easily applied to other sites world-wide, and to be further developed into powerful decision support systems.

Proton pump inhibitors in prevention of low-dose aspirin-associated upper gastrointestinal injuries

PubMed Central

Mo, Chen; Sun, Gang; Lu, Ming-Liang; Zhang, Li; Wang, Yan-Zhi; Sun, Xi; Yang, Yun-Sheng

2015-01-01

AIM: To determine the preventive effect and safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in low-dose aspirin (LDA)-associated gastrointestinal (GI) ulcers and bleeding. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register from inception to December 2013, and checked conference abstracts of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of PPIs in reducing adverse GI events (hemorrhage, ulcer, perforation, or obstruction) in patients taking LDA. The preventive effects of PPIs were compared with the control group [taking placebo, a cytoprotective agent, or an H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA)] in LDA-associated upper GI injuries. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1 software. RESULTS: We evaluated 8780 participants in 10 RCTs. The meta-analysis showed that PPIs decreased the risk of LDA-associated upper GI ulcers (OR = 0.16; 95%CI: 0.12-0.23) and bleeding (OR = 0.27; 95%CI: 0.16-0.43) compared with control. For patients treated with dual anti-platelet therapy of LDA and clopidogrel, PPIs were able to prevent the LDA-associated GI bleeding (OR = 0.36; 95%CI: 0.15-0.87) without increasing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (OR = 1.00; 95%CI: 0.76-1.31). PPIs were superior to H2RA in prevention of LDA-associated GI ulcers (OR = 0.12; 95%CI: 0.02-0.65) and bleeding (OR = 0.32; 95%CI: 0.13-0.79). CONCLUSION: PPIs are effective in preventing LDA-associated upper GI ulcers and bleeding. Concomitant use of PPI, LDA and clopidogrel did not increase the risk of MACE. PMID:25954113

Postprandial gastrointestinal blood flow, oxygen consumption and heart rate in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

PubMed

Eliason, Erika J; Higgs, David A; Farrell, Anthony P

2008-04-01

The present study is the first to simultaneously and continuously measure oxygen consumption (MO(2)) and gastrointestinal blood flow (q(gi)) in fish. In addition, while it is the first to compare the effects of three isoenergetic diets on q(gi) in fish, no significant differences among diets were found for postprandial MO(2), q(gi) or heart rate (f(H)) in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Postprandial q(gi), f(H) and MO(2) were significantly elevated above baseline levels by 4 h. Postprandial q(gi) peaked at 136% above baseline after 11 h, f(H) peaked at 110% above baseline after 14 h and MO(2) peaked at 96% above baseline after 27 h. Moreover, postprandial MO(2) remained significantly elevated above baseline longer than q(gi) (for 41 h and 30 h, respectively), perhaps because most of the increase in MO(2) associated with feeding is due to protein handling, a process that continues following the absorption of nutrients which is thought to be the primary reason for the elevation of q(gi). In addition to the positive relationships found between postprandial MO(2) and q(gi) and between postprandial MO(2) and f(H), we discovered a novel relationship between postprandial q(gi) and f(H).

The effect of chronic progressive-dose sodium bicarbonate ingestion on CrossFit-like performance: A double-blind, randomized cross-over trial.

PubMed

Durkalec-Michalski, Krzysztof; Zawieja, Emilia E; Podgórski, Tomasz; Łoniewski, Igor; Zawieja, Bogna E; Warzybok, Marta; Jeszka, Jan

2018-01-01

Sodium bicarbonate (SB) has been proposed as an ergogenic aid, as it improves high-intensity and resistance exercise performance. However, no studies have yet investigated SB application in CrossFit. This study examined the effects of chronic, progressive-dose SB ingestion on CrossFit-like performance and aerobic capacity. In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial, 21 CrossFit-trained participants were randomly allocated to 2 groups and underwent 2 trials separated by a 14-day washout period. Participants ingested either up to 150 mg∙kg-1 of SB in a progressive-dose regimen or placebo for 10 days. Before and after each trial, Fight Gone Bad (FGB) and incremental cycling (ICT) tests were performed. In order to examine biochemical responses, blood samples were obtained prior to and 3 min after completing each exercise test. No gastrointestinal (GI) side effects were reported during the entire protocol. The overall FGB performance improved under SB by ~6.1% (p<0.001) and it was ~3.1% higher compared to post placebo (PLApost) (p = 0.040). The number of repetitions completed in each round also improved under SB (mean from baseline: +5.8% to +6.4%). Moreover, in ICT, the time to ventilatory threshold (VT) (~8:25 min SBpost vs. ~8:00 min PLApost, p = 0.020), workload at VT (~218 W SBpost vs. ~208 W PLApost, p = 0.037) and heart rate at VT (~165 bpm SBpost vs. ~161 bpm PLApost, p = 0.030) showed higher SBpost than PLApost. Furthermore, the maximum carbon dioxide production increased under SB by ~4.8% (from ~3604 mL∙min-1 to ~3776 mL∙min-1, p = 0.049). Pyruvate concentration and creatine kinase activity before ICT showed higher SBpost than PLApost (~0.32 mmol∙L-1 vs. ~0.26 mmol∙L-1, p = 0.001; ~275 U∙L-1 vs. ~250 U∙L-1, p = 0.010, respectively). However, the small sample size limits the wide-application of our results. Progressive-dose SB ingestion regimen eliminated GI side effects and improved CrossFit-like performance, as well as delayed ventilatory threshold occurrence.

The therapeutic value of targeting inflammation in gastrointestinal cancers

PubMed Central

Sun, Beicheng; Karin, Michael

2014-01-01

Inflammation has been implicated in the initiation and progression of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Inflammation also plays important roles in subverting immune tolerance, escape from immune surveillance, and conferring resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Targeting key regulators and mediators of inflammation represents an attractive strategy for GI cancer prevention and treatment. However, the targeting of inflammation in GI cancer is not straight-forward and sometimes inflammation may contribute to tumor regression. We discuss the origins and effects of inflammation in GI cancer and how to target it successfully. PMID:24881011

High and Dry: Trading Water Vapor, Fuel and Observing Time for SOFIA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frank, Jeremy; Kurklu, Elif

2005-01-01

The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is NASA's next generation airborne astronomical observatory. The facility consists of a 747-SP modified to accommodate a 2.5 meter telescope. SOFIA is expected to fly an average of 140 science flights per year over it's 20 year lifetime, and will commence operations in early 2005. The SOFIA telescope is mounted aft of the wings on the port side of the aircraft and is articulated through a range of 20 deg to 60 deg of elevation. A significant problem in future SOFIA operations is that of scheduling Facility Instrument (E) flights in support of the SOFIA General Investigator (GI) program. GIs are expected to propose small numbers of observations, and many observations must be grouped together to make up single flights. Approximately 70 GI flight per year are expected, with 5-15 observations per flight.

Carbohydrate-rich foods: glycaemic indices and the effect of constituent macronutrients.

PubMed

Widanagamage, Rahal D; Ekanayake, Sagarika; Welihinda, Jayantha

2009-01-01

The glycaemic index (GI) ranks foods according to their acute glycaemic impact and is used in planning meals for patients invoking glycaemic control through diet. Kurakkan (Eleusine coracana) flour roti, rice flour roti, atta flour roti, boiled breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis/Artocarpus communis) and boiled legumes (mungbean, cowpea and chickpea) were categorized as low-GI foods (relative to white bread; Prima Crust Top), and the corresponding GI (+/- standard error of the mean) values were 70+/-8, 69+/-7, 67+/-9, 64+/-7, 57+/-6, 49+/-8 and 29+/-5, respectively. Kurakkan flour pittu and wheat flour roti were classified as medium-GI foods with GI values of 85+/-6 and 72+/-6. Hoppers, rice flour pittu, wheat flour pittu and Olu-milk rice (seeds of Nymphaea lotus) were categorized as high-GI foods, and the corresponding GI (+/- standard error of the mean) values were 120+/-8, 103+/-7, 101+/-8 and 91+/-8, respectively. The GI values significantly (P<0.01) and negatively correlated with the insoluble dietary fibre (rho = - 0.780), soluble dietary fibre (rho = - 0.712) and protein (rho = - 0.738) contents in grams per 100 g digestible starch containing foods.

Effect of 6-gingerol on physicochemical properties of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) surimi fortified with perilla oil during refrigerated storage.

PubMed

Mi, Hongbo; Zhao, Bo; Wang, Cong; Yi, Shumin; Xu, Yongxia; Li, Jianrong

2017-11-01

Surimi is produced from deboned fish muscle through washing to remove blood, lipids, sarcoplasmic proteins and other impurities. There is an increasing interest in the fortification of surimi with ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids because of their health benefits. However, lipid oxidation should be considered as an important factor during storage. Hence, in this study, the quality properties and oxidative stability of surimi fortified with 30 g kg -1 perilla oil (PO), or 5 g kg -1 6-gingerol (GI) or their combination (PO+GI) was investigated. Perilla oil significantly improved whiteness of surimi gel, but negatively influenced its gel strength, water holding capacity (WHC) and texture. However, there was no significant difference in texture properties among GI, PO+GI and control groups. During the whole storage period, GI and PO+GI groups had higher gel strength and WHC than control and PO groups. Moreover, lower thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), carbonyl content and total plate count (TPC) were observed in GI group compared with other groups. Perilla oil and 6-gingerol could be applied together to effectively fortify surimi qualities. Additionally, 6-gingerol could prevent lipid and protein oxidation and microbial growth of surimi during refrigerated storage. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Number and type of guideline implementation tools varies by guideline, clinical condition, country of origin, and type of developer organization: content analysis of guidelines.

PubMed

Liang, Laurel; Abi Safi, Jhoni; Gagliardi, Anna R

2017-11-15

Guideline implementation tools (GI tools) can improve clinician behavior and patient outcomes. Analyses of guidelines published before 2010 found that many did not offer GI tools. Since 2010 standards, frameworks and instructions for GI tools have emerged. This study analyzed the number and types of GI tools offered by guidelines published in 2010 or later. Content analysis and a published GI tool framework were used to categorize GI tools by condition, country, and type of organization. English-language guidelines on arthritis, asthma, colorectal cancer, depression, diabetes, heart failure, and stroke management were identified in the National Guideline Clearinghouse. Screening and data extraction were in triplicate. Findings were reported with summary statistics. Eighty-five (67.5%) of 126 eligible guidelines published between 2010 and 2017 offered one or more of a total of 464 GI tools. The mean number of GI tools per guideline was 5.5 (median 4.0, range 1 to 28) and increased over time. The majority of GI tools were for clinicians (239, 51.5%), few were for patients (113, 24.4%), and fewer still were to support implementation (66, 14.3%) or evaluation (46, 9.9%). Most clinician GI tools were guideline summaries (116, 48.5%), and most patient GI tools were condition-specific information (92, 81.4%). Government agencies (patient 23.5%, clinician 28.9%, implementation 24.1%, evaluation 23.5%) and developers in the UK (patient 18.5%, clinician 25.2%, implementation 27.2%, evaluation 29.1%) were more likely to generate guidelines that offered all four types of GI tools. Professional societies were more likely to generate guidelines that included clinician GI tools. Many guidelines do not include any GI tools, or a variety of GI tools for different stakeholders that may be more likely to prompt guideline uptake (point-of-care forms or checklists for clinicians, decision-making or self-management tools for patients, implementation and evaluation tools for managers and policy-makers). While this may vary by country and type of organization, and suggests that developers could improve the range of GI tools they develop, further research is needed to identify determinants and potential solutions. Research is also needed to examine the cost-effectiveness of various types of GI tools so that developers know where to direct their efforts and scarce resources.

Glycemic index and glycemic load of carbohydrates in the diabetes diet.

PubMed

Marsh, Kate; Barclay, Alan; Colagiuri, Stephen; Brand-Miller, Jennie

2011-04-01

Medical nutrition therapy is the first line of treatment for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes and plays an essential part in the management of type 1 diabetes. Although traditionally advice was focused on carbohydrate quantification, it is now clear that both the amount and type of carbohydrate are important in predicting an individual's glycemic response to a meal. Diets based on carbohydrate foods that are more slowly digested, absorbed, and metabolized (i.e., low glycemic index [GI] diets) have been associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, whereas intervention studies have shown improvements in insulin sensitivity and glycated hemoglobin concentrations in people with diabetes following a low GI diet. Research also suggests that low GI diets may assist with weight management through effects on satiety and fuel partitioning. These findings, together with the fact that there are no demonstrated negative effects of a low GI diet, suggest that the GI should be an important consideration in the dietary management and prevention of diabetes.

Effects of Dietary Yogurt on the Healthy Human Gastrointestinal (GI) Microbiome

PubMed Central

Lisko, Daniel J.; Johnston, G. Patricia; Johnston, Carl G.

2017-01-01

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract performs key functions that regulate the relationship between the host and the microbiota. Research has shown numerous benefits of probiotic intake in the modulation of immune responses and human metabolic processes. However, unfavorable attention has been paid to temporal changes of the microbial composition and diversity of the GI tract. This study aimed to investigate the effects of yogurt consumption on the GI microbiome bacteria community composition, structure and diversity during and after a short-term period (42 days). We used a multi-approach combining classical fingerprinting techniques (T-RFLPs), Sanger analyses and Illumina MiSeq 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to elucidate bacterial communities and Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria populations within healthy adults that consume high doses of yogurt daily. Results indicated that overall GI microbial community and diversity was method-dependent, yet we found individual specific changes in bacterial composition and structure in healthy subjects that consumed high doses of yogurt throughout the study. PMID:28212267

Interventional Management of Gastrointestinal Fistulas

PubMed Central

Kwon, Se Hwan; Kim, Hyoung Jung; Park, Sun Jin; Park, Ho Chul

2008-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) fistulas are frequently very serious complications that are associated with high morbidity and mortality. GI fistulas can cause a wide array of pathophysiological effects by allowing abnormal diversion of the GI contents, including digestive fluid, water, electrolytes, and nutrients, from either one intestine to another or from the intestine to the skin. As an alternative to surgery, recent technical advances in interventional radiology and percutaneous techniques have been shown as advantageous to lower the morbidity and mortality rate, and allow for superior accessibility to the fistulous tracts via the use of fistulography. In addition, new interventional management techniques continue to emerge. We describe the clinical and imaging features of GI fistulas and outline the interventional management of GI fistulas. PMID:19039271

Gastrointestinal symptoms in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients treated with pirfenidone and herbal medicine.

PubMed

Shimizu, Y; Shimoyama, Y; Kawada, A; Kusano, M; Hosomi, Y; Sekiguchi, M; Kawata, T; Horie, T; Ishii, Y; Yamada, M; Dobashi, K; Takise, A

2014-01-01

Pirfenidone is an antifibrotic agent for patients with pulmonary fibrosis, but this drug has adverse gastrointestinal (GI) effects. The first aim of this study was to assess GI symptoms due to pirfenidone by using a new questionnaire for reflux symptoms and dismotility symptoms. Whether adding herbal medicine of rikkunshi-to improved GI symptoms due to pirfenidone therapy was also investigated. This was a randomized controlled trial performed on 17 IPF patients. The patients were assigned to two groups, and the study period was 8 weeks. The pirfenidone group received pirfenidone therapy for 8 weeks with add-on rikkunshi-to from 4 weeks, while the control group did not receive either of these agents. To assess the effects of RK, plasma levels of acyl-ghrelin and des-acyl-ghrelin, serum KL-6 and surfactant protein-D, and pulmonary function tests were monitored. GI symptoms were most severe during the initial 2 weeks of pirfenidone therapy at a dose of 600 mg/day. Both reflux symptoms and dismotility symptoms deteriorated. Rikkunshi-to improved GI symptoms to the level prior to pirfenidone therapy. Plasma levels of des-acyl-ghrelin and acyl-/des-acyl-ghrelin ratio changed significantly at 8 weeks compared to 2 weeks. GI adverse events due to PFD were most severe in the first 2 weeks of treatment at a dose of 600 mg/day, and both reflux and dismotility symptoms deteriorated, but the drug was well tolerated at 1200 mg/day. Rikkunshi-to contributed to improvement of GI symptoms, but plasma ghrelin levels did not reflect the improvement of GI symptoms.

The Effect of Dietary Glycaemic Index on Glycaemia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PubMed

Ojo, Omorogieva; Ojo, Osarhumwese Osaretin; Adebowale, Fajemisin; Wang, Xiao-Hua

2018-03-19

The increasing prevalence of diabetes in the United Kingdom and worldwide calls for new approaches to its management, and diets with low glycaemic index have been proposed as a useful means for managing glucose response. However, there are conflicting reports and differences in the results of studies in terms of their effectiveness. Furthermore, the impact of low-glycaemic index diets and their long-term use in patients with type 2 diabetes remains unclear. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of low-glycaemic index diets in patients with type 2 diabetes. Search methods: Randomised controlled studies were selected from a number of databases (EBSCOHost with links to Health Research databases, PubMed, and grey literature) based on the Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes and Study designs (PICOS) framework. The search terms included synonyms and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and involved the use of Boolean operators (AND/OR) which allowed the combination of words and search terms. As per the selection criteria, the following types of articles were selected: studies on randomised controlled trials, with year of publication between 2008 and 2018, including patients with type 2 diabetes. Thus, studies involving patients with gestational and type 1 diabetes were excluded, as were observational studies. Nine articles which met the inclusion criteria were selected for the systematic review, whereas only six articles which met the criteria were included in the meta-analysis. Studies were evaluated for quality and risk of bias. In addition, heterogeneity, meta-analysis, and sensitivity tests of the extracted data were carried out using Review Manager 5.3 (Review Manager, 2014). The findings of the systematic review showed that the low-glycaemic index (low-GI) diet resulted in a significant improvement (<0.05) in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in two studies: low-GI diet Δ = -0.5% (95% CI, -0.61% to -0.39%) vs. high-cereal fibre diet Δ = -0.18% (95% CI, -0.29% to -0.07%); and low-GI legume diet Δ = -0.5% (95%, -0.6% to -0.4%) vs. high-wheat fibre diet Δ = -0.3% (95% Cl, -0.4 to -0.2%). There was a slight improvement in one study (low glycaemic response = 6.5% (6.3-7.1) vs. control = 6.6% (6.3-7.0) and no significant difference ( p > 0.05) in four studies compared with the control diet. Four studies showed improvements in fasting blood glucose in low-GI diets compared to higher-GI diets or control: low-GI diet = 150.8 ± 8.7 vs. higher-GI diet = 157.8 ± 10.4 mg/dL, mean ± SD p = 0.43; low-GI diet = 127.7 vs. high-cereal fibre diet = 136.8 mg/dL, p = 0.02; low-GI diet = 6.5 (5.6-8.4) vs. standard diabetic diet = 6.7 (6.1-7.5) mmol/L, median and interquartile range p > 0.05; and low-GI diet = 7.3 ± 0.3 vs. conventional carbohydrate exchange diet = 7.7 ± 0.4 mmol/L, mean ± SEM (Standard Error of Mean) p < 0.05. The results of the meta-analysis and sensitivity tests demonstrated significant differences ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) between the low-GI diet and the higher-GI diet or control diet in relation to glycated haemoglobin. Differences between the low-GI diet and higher-GI diet or control were significant ( p < 0.05) with respect to the fasting blood glucose following meta-analysis. The low-GI diet is more effective in controlling glycated haemoglobin and fasting blood glucose compared with a higher-GI diet or control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Citrullus colocynthis as the Cause of Acute Rectorrhagia

PubMed Central

Javadzadeh, Hamid Reza; Davoudi, Farnoush; Valizadegan, Ghasem; Goodarzi, Hasan; Mahmoodi, Sadrollah; Ghane, Mohammad Reza; Faraji, Mehrdad

2013-01-01

Introduction. Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. is a commonly used medicinal plant especially as a hypoglycemic agent. Case Presentation. Four patients with colocynth intoxication are presented. The main clinical feature was acute rectorrhagia preceeded by mucosal diarrhea with tenesmus, which gradually progressed to bloody diarrhea and overt rectorrhagia within 3 to 4 hours. The only colonoscopic observation was mucosal erosion which was completely resolved in follow-up colonoscopy after 14 days. Conclusion. The membranolytic activity of some C. colocynthis ingredients is responsible for the intestinal damage. Patients and herbalists should be acquainted with the proper use and side effects of the herb. Clinicians should also be aware of C. colocynthis as a probable cause of lower GI bleeding in patients with no other suggestive history, especially diabetics. PMID:23819072

White Grape Juice Elicits a Lower Breath Hydrogen Response Compared with Apple Juice in Healthy Human Subjects: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Erickson, Jennifer; Wang, Qi; Slavin, Joanne

2017-06-01

Diets low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPS) are used to manage symptoms in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome. Although effective at reducing symptoms, the diet can be complex and restrictive. In addition, there are still large gaps in the literature and many foods with unclear effects in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, like fruit juice. Although many fruits are allowable on a low-FODMAP diet, consumption of all fruit juice is generally cautioned due to the large fructose load contained in juice, regardless of the glucose concentration. Very little research exists regarding the importance of limiting fructose load during a low-FODMAP diet; therefore, individuals following a low-FODMAP diet may be unnecessarily restricting their diets. To determine whether there is a difference in GI tolerance between juice from a high-FODMAP fruit (apple juice) and juice from a low-FODMAP fruit (white grape juice) in healthy human subjects. The goal is to provide insight into the role of juice in a low-FODMAP diet. A double-blind, randomized, controlled crossover study was conducted with 40 healthy adults. Fasted subjects consumed 12 oz of either apple juice or white grape juice. Breath hydrogen measures were taken at baseline, 1, 2, and 3 hours. Subjective GI tolerance surveys were completed at the same time intervals and at 12 and 24 hours. Breath hydrogen and GI symptoms were assessed with area under the curve analysis. Significance was determined with a two-sided t test with a P value <0.05. Consumption of apple juice resulted in a greater mean breath hydrogen area under the curve at 23.3 ppm/hour (95% CI 13.0 to 33.6) compared with white grape juice at 5.8 ppm/hour (95% CI -4.6 to 16.1) (P<0.001). No differences in reported GI symptoms were seen between treatments. Both juices were well tolerated and neither produced any severe symptoms in healthy adults. White grape juice consumption resulted in only a small rise in breath hydrogen, which may suggest excluding foods only because of the high fructose load could be unnecessarily restrictive. The results of this study suggest that the fructose-to-glucose ratio is likely more important than the total fructose load of the food when considering the acceptability of a food on a low-FODMAP diet. More research is needed in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome to determine whether white grape juice and other juices from low-FODMAP fruits could be additional beverage options for individuals following a low-FODMAP diet. Copyright © 2017 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Radiation induced genome instability: multiscale modelling and data analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreev, Sergey; Eidelman, Yuri

2012-07-01

Genome instability (GI) is thought to be an important step in cancer induction and progression. Radiation induced GI is usually defined as genome alterations in the progeny of irradiated cells. The aim of this report is to demonstrate an opportunity for integrative analysis of radiation induced GI on the basis of multiscale modelling. Integrative, systems level modelling is necessary to assess different pathways resulting in GI in which a variety of genetic and epigenetic processes are involved. The multilevel modelling includes the Monte Carlo based simulation of several key processes involved in GI: DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) generation in cells initially irradiated as well as in descendants of irradiated cells, damage transmission through mitosis. Taking the cell-cycle-dependent generation of DNA/chromosome breakage into account ensures an advantage in estimating the contribution of different DNA damage response pathways to GI, as to nonhomologous vs homologous recombination repair mechanisms, the role of DSBs at telomeres or interstitial chromosomal sites, etc. The preliminary estimates show that both telomeric and non-telomeric DSB interactions are involved in delayed effects of radiation although differentially for different cell types. The computational experiments provide the data on the wide spectrum of GI endpoints (dicentrics, micronuclei, nonclonal translocations, chromatid exchanges, chromosome fragments) similar to those obtained experimentally for various cell lines under various experimental conditions. The modelling based analysis of experimental data demonstrates that radiation induced GI may be viewed as processes of delayed DSB induction/interaction/transmission being a key for quantification of GI. On the other hand, this conclusion is not sufficient to understand GI as a whole because factors of DNA non-damaging origin can also induce GI. Additionally, new data on induced pluripotent stem cells reveal that GI is acquired in normal mature cells during genome reprogramming by the oncogene c-myc and three additional transcription factors. These and other data reveal the need for generalisation of current model of GI. One can expect that different early events of both DNA damaging and non-damaging origins merge in a single late pathway. To search for a deeper view we propose to redefine GI as genome destabilisation manifested in erosion of genome states and altered transitions between states. This changing view on GI may help to integrate the inducing factors of various origins in the single basic model of GI.

GOAL: multicenter, open-label, post-marketing study of flavocoxid, a novel dual pathway inhibitor anti-inflammatory agent of botanical origin.

PubMed

Pillai, Lakshmi; Burnett, Bruce P; Levy, Robert M

2010-05-01

GOAL (Gauging Osteoarthritis [OA] with Limbrel*), an open-label, post-marketing study was performed to determine the overall efficacy and gastrointestinal (GI) tolerability of flavocoxid, a novel, plant-based, anti-inflammatory medication, in a 'real world' clinical practice setting. To this end, the study enrolled several unique patient types including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) naïve patients, those who had used NSAIDs in the past, regardless of outcome (positive or negative), and those who had previously taken a gastroprotective medication to improve GI tolerability or continued to take it as a precautionary measure to prevent NSAID-associated GI damage. A total of 1067 individuals at 41 rheumatology practices were enrolled and prescribed flavocoxid, 500 mg b.i.d., for 60 days. The Physician Global Assessment of Disease (PGAD) visual analog scale (VAS) was used as a global measure to assess the signs and symptoms of OA, including joint discomfort, functional stiffness, functional mobility and quality of life. In addition, overall tolerability and upper GI tolerability were assessed by individual questions scored on a 5-part Likert scale. The physicians also monitored any interruption in, or cessation of use of flavocoxid due to a GI issue as well as changes in the use of gastroprotective medications. Adverse event (AE) monitoring was also conducted. Of the 1005 patients who completed all follow-up visits, physicians recorded an average improvement in VAS scores from 60.1 +/- 18.8 at baseline to 42.5 +/- 21.9 at 8 weeks (p < 0.001) in 65.8% of patients. The PGAD VAS noted the most significant improvement in those patients with moderate to severe OA (baseline VAS [0 = least severe, 100 = most severe]: 0-25 mm, -3.5 +/- 6.9; 26-50 mm, -10.1 +/- 17.0; 51-75 mm, -19.3 +/- 19.5; 76-100 mm, -29.6 +/- 23.6; p < 0.001) and in those patients who were historically non-responders to NSAIDs (40.3 +/- 21.1 vs. 66.3 +/- 17.7 at baseline; p < 0.001). Patients who had previously responded well to NSAIDs had VAS scores of 42.6 +/- 19.8 vs. 58.0 +/- 18.0 (p < 0.001) and NSAID naïve subjects showed improvement in VAS scores from 60.5 +/- 18.0 at baseline to 46.3 +/- 23.7 (p < 0.001). The study recorded a low incidence ( approximately 10%) of AEs reported to physicians and good overall tolerability to flavocoxid. Flavocoxid showed improved upper GI tolerability in almost 50% of previous NSAID users (p < 0.001) and reduced therapy interruption in approximately 90% of previous NSAID users with a history of GI-related therapy interruptions (p < 0.0001). Finally, the use of flavocoxid resulted in a >30% reduction in or cessation of the use of gastroprotective medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPI) or histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2s) in subjects (p < 0.001). Within a 'real world' clinical rheumatology practice setting, flavocoxid demonstrated significant efficacy in the management of OA in multiple patient types and displayed significant potential for reducing the possibility of adverse GI side-effects and use of gastroprotective agents associated with more traditional OA medications. A limitation of this study was that it was open-label and not rigorously controlled. The large population may compensate for this lack of control.

Field effect transistor with HfO2/Parylene-C bilayer hybrid gate insulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Neeraj; Kito, Ai; Inoue, Isao

2015-03-01

We have investigated the electric field control of the carrier density and the mobility at the surface of SrTiO3, a well known transition-metal oxide, in a field effect transistor (FET) geometry. We have used a Parylene-C (8 nm)/HfO2 (20 nm) double-layer gate insulator (GI), which can be a potential candidate for a solid state GI for the future Mott FETs. So far, only examples of the Mott FET used liquid electrolyte or ferroelectric oxides for the GI. However, possible electrochemical reaction at the interface causes damage to the surface of the Mott insulator. Thus, an alternative GI has been highly desired. We observed that even an ultra thin Parylene-C layer is effective for keeping the channel surface clean and free from oxygen vacancies. The 8 nm Parylene-C film has a relatively low resistance and consequentially its capacitance does not dominate the total capacitance of the Parylene-C/HfO2 GI. The breakdown gate voltage at 300 K is usually more than 10 V (~ 3.4 MV/cm). At gate voltage of 3 V the carrier density measured by the Hall effect is about 3 ×1013 cm-2, competent to cause the Mott transition. Moreover, the field effect mobility reaches in the range of 10 cm2/Vs indicating the Parylene-C passivated surface is actually very clean.

Differential effects of lysophosphatidylcholine and ACh on muscarinic K(+),non-selective cation and Ca(2+) currents in guinea-pig atrial cells.

PubMed

Li, Libing; Matsuoka, Isao; Sakamoto, Kazuho; Kimura, Junko

2016-06-08

We compared the effects of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and acetylcholine (ACh) on IK(ACh), ICa and a non-selective cation current (INSC) in guinea-pig atrial myocytes to clarify whether LPC and ACh activate similar Gi/o-coupled effector systems.　IK(ACh), ICa and INSC were analyzed in single atrial myocytes by the whole cell patch-clamp.　LPC induced INSC in a concentration-dependent manner in atrial cells.　ACh activated IK(ACh), but failed to evoke INSC.　LPC also activated IK(ACh) but with significantly less potency than ACh.　The effects of both ligands on IK(ACh) were inhibited by intracellular loading of pre-activated PTX.　This treatment also inhibited LPC-induced INSC, indicating that IK(ACh) and INSC induced by LPC are both mediated by Gi/o.　LPC and ACh had similar potencies in inhibiting ICa, which was pre-augmented by forskolin, indicating that LPC and ACh activate similar amounts of α-subunits of Gi/o.　The different effects of LPC and ACh on IK(ACh) and INSC may suggest that LPC and ACh activate Gi/o having different types of βγ subunits, and that LPC-induced INSC may be mediated by βγ subunits of Gi/o, which are less effective in inducing IK(ACh).

Effect of Daily Supine LBNP Exercise on Gastrointestinal Motility During Antiorthostatic Bedrest in Normal Subjects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Putcha, Lakshmi; DeKerlegand, D.; Hargens, Alan R. (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

Space flight alters gastrointestinal (GI) function in general, and GI motility, in particular. This can decrease appetite, affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients, fluids and electrolytes, and contribute to a negative energy balance. Antiorthostatic bed rest (ABR) has been used to simulate microgravity-induced physiological changes in human subjects. The objective of this investigation is to determine if daily supine lower body negative pressure (LBNP) exercise will maintain GI motility at near normal levels during ABR. Eight subjects participated in the study protocol consisting of an ambulatory phase scheduled before bedrest periods and two 14 day bed rest (6 deg head-down tilt) periods, once with and another time without exercise. Supine treadmill running in an LBNP chamber was used for exercise. Mouth-to-cecum transit time (MCTT) of lactulose was measured indirectly using the rise in breath hydrogen level after oral administration of lactulose (20 g) following a standard low-fiber breakfast. GI motility during ambulatory and ABR periods was assessed using MCTT data. Results of this Study indicate that GI motility during ABR without exercise decreased by 45% [MCTT +/- S.E.M. 56.2 +/- 6.0 (Ambulatory); 87.3 +/- 8.3 (ABR)]. Supine LBNP exercise did not significantly alter this reduction in GI motility during ABR [MCTT +/- S.E.M. 81.3 +/- 4.2 (Exercise); 87.3 +/- 8.3 (No Exercise)]. These results suggest that supine LBNP exercise may not be an effective countermeasure for microgravity-induced decrements in GI motility and function.

Development and validation of a LC-MS/MS assay for quantitation of plasma citrulline for application to animal models of the acute radiation syndrome across multiple species.

PubMed

Jones, Jace W; Tudor, Gregory; Bennett, Alexander; Farese, Ann M; Moroni, Maria; Booth, Catherine; MacVittie, Thomas J; Kane, Maureen A

2014-07-01

The potential risk of a radiological catastrophe highlights the need for identifying and validating potential biomarkers that accurately predict radiation-induced organ damage. A key target organ that is acutely sensitive to the effects of irradiation is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, referred to as the GI acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). Recently, citrulline has been identified as a potential circulating biomarker for radiation-induced GI damage. Prior to biologically validating citrulline as a biomarker for radiation-induced GI injury, there is the important task of developing and validating a quantitation assay for citrulline detection within the radiation animal models used for biomarker validation. Herein, we describe the analytical development and validation of citrulline detection using a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry assay that incorporates stable-label isotope internal standards. Analytical validation for specificity, linearity, lower limit of quantitation, accuracy, intra- and interday precision, extraction recovery, matrix effects, and stability was performed under sample collection and storage conditions according to the Guidance for Industry, Bioanalytical Methods Validation issued by the US Food and Drug Administration. In addition, the method was biologically validated using plasma from well-characterized mouse, minipig, and nonhuman primate GI-ARS models. The results demonstrated that circulating citrulline can be confidently quantified from plasma. Additionally, circulating citrulline displayed a time-dependent response for radiological doses covering GI-ARS across multiple species.

A flexible tool for hydraulic and water quality performance analysis of green infrastructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Massoudieh, A.; Alikhani, J.

2017-12-01

Models that allow for design considerations of green infrastructure (GI) practices to control stormwater runoff and associated contaminants have received considerable attention in recent years. To be used to evaluate the effect design configurations on the long-term performance of GIs, models should be able to consider processes within GIs with good fidelity. In this presentation, a sophisticated, yet flexible tool for hydraulic and water quality assessment of GIs will be introduced. The tool can be used by design engineers and researchers to capture and explore the effect of design factors and properties of the media employed in the performance of GI systems at a relatively small scale. We deemed it essential to have a flexible GI modeling tool that is capable of simulating GI system components and specific biogeochemical processes affecting contaminants such as evapotranspiration, plant uptake, reactions, and particle-associated transport accurately while maintaining a high degree of flexibility to account for the myriad of GI alternatives. The mathematical framework for a stand-alone GI performance assessment tool has been developed and will be demonstrated. The process-based model framework developed here can be used to model a diverse range of GI practices such as stormwater ponds, green roofs, retention ponds, bioretention systems, infiltration trench, permeable pavement and other custom-designed combinatory systems. An example of the application of the system to evaluate the performance of a rain-garden system will be demonstrated.

Managing pain and fatigue in people with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial feasibility study examining the efficacy of massage therapy.

PubMed

Lovas, J; Tran, Y; Middleton, J; Bartrop, R; Moore, N; Craig, A

2017-02-01

A randomized controlled trial (RCT). To determine the efficacy of massage therapy (MT) as a treatment that could be implemented to reduce pain and fatigue in people with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). Laboratory setting in Sydney, Australia. Participants included 40 people with SCI living in the community who were randomly assigned into one of two RCT arms: MT (Swedish massage to upper body) or an active concurrent control (guided imagery (GI) relaxation). All participants received 30 min once a week of either massage or GI over 5 consecutive weeks. In addition to sociodemographic and injury factors, assessments and reliable measures including the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire and Chalder's Fatigue Scale were validated. Chronic pain and fatigue were significantly reduced in the massage group when assessed at the end of 5 weeks (P<0.05), with large effect sizes. Interestingly, GI was as effective as MT in reducing pain and fatigue. Pain scores were reduced significantly over time in both MT and GI groups (P=0.049 and P=0.032, respectively). Total fatigue scores were also reduced in both MT and GI groups (P=0004 and P=0.037, respectively.)Conclusions:Massage and GI are both active treatments that provide potential clinical benefits for adults with SCI. Future research should clarify the role of massage and GI in managing pain and fatigue in SCI and assess outcomes into the longer-term.

Ecotoxicoparasitology of the gastrointestinal tracts of pinnipeds: the effect of parasites on the potential bioavailability of total mercury (THg).

PubMed

McGrew, Ashley K; O'Hara, Todd M; Stricker, Craig A; Salman, Mo D; Van Bonn, William; Gulland, Frances M D; Whiting, Alex; Ballweber, Lora R

2018-08-01

Acanthocephalans, cestodes, and some species of nematodes acquire nutrients from the lumen contents in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of their definitive host. These parasites are exposed to toxicants, such as mercury (Hg), through passive or active feeding mechanisms; therefore, the focus of this study was to determine if there is an effect of parasites on the dietary availability of total mercury (THg) within piscivorous pinniped hosts. THg concentrations ([THg]) in selected host tissues, parasites, and GI lumen contents from 22 California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), 15 ringed seals (Phoca hispida), and 4 spotted seals (Phoca largha) were determined. Among all pinnipeds, [THg] in acanthocephalans of the large intestine were significantly higher than concentrations in other samples (host lumen contents, other parasites and host intestinal wall), irrespective of location within the host GI tract. δ 15 N values of parasites depended both on parasite group and location within the GI tract. δ 15 N values were consistently higher in parasites inhabiting the large intestine, compared to elsewhere in the GI tract, for both sea lions and seals. δ 13 C values in parasites did not differ significantly from host GI tissues. Based on both [THg] and stable isotope values, parasites are likely affecting the Hg bioavailability within the GI lumen contents and host tissues, and toxicant-parasite interactions appear to depend on both parasitic taxon as well as their location within the host intestine. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A Quantitative Review and Meta-Models of the Variability and Factors Affecting Oral Drug Absorption-Part I: Gastrointestinal pH.

PubMed

Abuhelwa, Ahmad Y; Foster, David J R; Upton, Richard N

2016-09-01

This study aimed to conduct a quantitative meta-analysis for the values of, and variability in, gastrointestinal (GI) pH in the different GI segments; characterize the effect of food on the values and variability in these parameters; and present quantitative meta-models of distributions of GI pH to help inform models of oral drug absorption. The literature was systemically reviewed for the values of, and the variability in, GI pH under fed and fasted conditions. The GI tract was categorized into the following 10 distinct regions: stomach (proximal, mid-distal), duodenum (proximal, mid-distal), jejunum and ileum (proximal, mid, and distal small intestine), and colon (ascending, transverse, and descending colon). Meta-analysis used the "metafor" package of the R language. The time course of postprandial stomach pH was modeled using NONMEM. Food significantly influenced the estimated meta-mean stomach and duodenal pH but had no significant influence on small intestinal and colonic pH. The time course of postprandial pH was described using an exponential model. Increased meal caloric content increased the extent and duration of postprandial gastric pH buffering. The different parts of the small intestine had significantly different pH. Colonic pH was significantly different for descending but not for ascending and transverse colon. Knowledge of GI pH is important for the formulation design of the pH-dependent dosage forms and in understanding the dissolution and absorption of orally administered drugs. The meta-models of GI pH may also be used as part of semi-physiological pharmacokinetic models to characterize the effect of GI pH on the in vivo drug release and pharmacokinetics.

Acute effects of glossopharyngeal insufflation in people with cervical spinal cord injury.

PubMed

Nygren-Bonnier, Malin; Schiffer, Tomas A; Lindholm, Peter

2018-01-01

To evaluate acute effects of glossopharyngeal insufflation (GI) on lung function, airway pressure (P aw ), blood pressure and heart rate (HR) in people with cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI). Case-control design. Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. Ten participants with CSCI suffering from lesions between C4 and C8, and ASIA classification of A or B were recruited. Ten healthy particpants familiar with GI were recruited as a reference group. Spirometry, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), P aw, and HR were measured in a sitting and a supine position before, during, and after GI. GI in the study group in a sitting position increased total lung capacity (TLC) by 712 ml: P < 0.001, vital capacity (VC) by 587 ml: P < 0.0001, P aw by 13 cm H 2 O: P < 0.01, and HR by 10 beats/min: P < 0.001. MAP decreased by 25 mmHg, P < 0.0001. Significant differences were observed between groups comparing baseline with GI. The reference group had a higher increase in; TLC (P < 0.01), VC (P < 0.001), P aw (P < 0.001) and HR (P < 0.05) and a higher decrease in MAP (P < 0.001). With GI in a sitting compared to a supine position, TLC, MAP, HR, P aw remained unchanged in the study group, while residual volume decreased in the supine position (P < 0.01). There was a difference between the groups in the increase in TLC; VC; P aw, HR and in the decrease in MAP with GI, however MAP, HR and P aw responded in similar way in both groups in a sitting as well as a supine position. If performed correctly, the risks of GI resulting in clinically significant hemodynamic changes is low, although syncope may still occur.

Association Between Circular Stapler Diameter and Stricture Rates Following Gastrointestinal Anastomosis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Allen, W; Wells, C I; Greenslade, M; Bissett, I P; O'Grady, G

2018-04-09

Stricture is a common complication of gastrointestinal (GI) anastomoses, associated with impaired quality of life, risk of malnutrition, and further interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the association between circular stapler diameter and anastomotic stricture rates throughout the GI tract. A systematic literature search of EMBASE, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library was performed. The primary outcome was the rate of radiologically or endoscopically confirmed anastomotic stricture. Pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated using random-effects models to determine the effect of circular stapler diameter on stricture rates in different regions of the GI tract. Twenty-one studies were identified: seven oesophageal, twelve gastric, and three lower GI. Smaller stapler sizes were strongly associated with higher anastomotic stricture rates throughout the GI tract. The oesophageal anastomosis studies showed; 21 versus 25 mm circular stapler: OR 4.39 ([95% CI 2.12, 9.07]; P < 0.0001); 25 versus 28/29 mm circular stapler: OR 1.71 ([95% CI 1.15, 2.53]; P < 0.008). Gastric studies showed; 21 versus 25 mm circular stapler: OR 3.12 ([95% CI 2.23, 4.36]; P < 0.00001); 25 versus 28/29 mm circular stapler: OR 7.67 ([95% CI 1.86, 31.57]; P < 0.005). Few lower GI studies were identified, though a similar trend was found: 25 versus 28/29 mm circular stapler: pooled OR 2.61 ([95% CI 0.82, 8.29]; P = 0.100). The use of larger circular stapler sizes is strongly associated with reduced risk of anastomotic stricture in the upper GI tract, though data from lower GI joins are limited.

Selection of target mutation in rat gastrointestinal tract E. coli by minute dosage of enrofloxacin.

PubMed

Lin, Dachuan; Chen, Kaichao; Li, Ruichao; Liu, Lizhang; Guo, Jiubiao; Yao, Wen; Chen, Sheng

2014-01-01

It has been suggested that bacterial resistance is selected within a mutation selection window of antibiotics. More recent studies showed that even extremely low concentration of antibiotic could select resistant bacteria in vitro. Yet little is known about the exact antibiotic concentration range that can effectively select for resistant organisms in animal gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In this study, the effect of different dosages of enrofloxacin on resistance and mutation development in rat GI tract E. coli was investigated by determining the number of resistant E. coli recoverable from rat fecal samples. Our data showed that high dose antibiotic treatment could effectively eliminate E. coli with single gyrA mutation in the early course of treatment, yet the eradication effects diminished upon prolonged treatment. Therapeutic and sub-therapeutic dose (1/10 and 1/100 of therapeutic doses) of enrofloxacin could effectively select for mutation in GI tract E. coli at the later course of enrofloxacin treatment and during the cessation periods. Surprisingly, very low dose of enrofloxacin (1/1000 therapeutic dose) could also select for mutation in GI tract E. coli at the later course of enrofloxacin treatment, only with slightly lower efficiency. No enrofloxacin-resistant E. coli could be selected at all test levels of enrofloxacin during long term treatment and the strength of antibiotic treatment does not alter the overall level of E. coli in rat GI tract. This study demonstrated that long term antibiotic treatment seems to be the major trigger for the development of target mutations in GI tract E. coli, which provided insight into the rational use of antibiotics in animal husbandry.

Flooding and emergency room visits for gastrointestinal illness in Massachusetts: a case-crossover study.

PubMed

Wade, Timothy J; Lin, Cynthia J; Jagai, Jyotsna S; Hilborn, Elizabeth D

2014-01-01

Floods and other severe weather events are anticipated to increase as a result of global climate change. Floods can lead to outbreaks of gastroenteritis and other infectious diseases due to disruption of sewage and water infrastructure and impacts on sanitation and hygiene. Floods have also been indirectly associated with outbreaks through population displacement and crowding. We conducted a case-crossover study to investigate the association between flooding and emergency room visits for gastrointestinal illness (ER-GI) in Massachusetts for the years 2003 through 2007. We obtained ER-GI visits from the State of Massachusetts and records of floods from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's Storm Events Database. ER-GI visits were considered exposed if a flood occurred in the town of residence within three hazard periods of the visit: 0-4 days; 5-9 days; and 10-14 days. A time-stratified bi-directional design was used for control selection, matching on day of the week with two weeks lead or lag time from the ER-GI visit. Fixed effect logistic regression models were used to estimate the risk of ER-GI visits following the flood. A total of 270,457 ER-GI visits and 129 floods occurred in Massachusetts over the study period. Across all counties, flooding was associated with an increased risk for ER-GI in the 0-4 day period after flooding (Odds Ratio: 1.08; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.03-1.12); but not the 5-9 days (Odds Ratio: 0.995; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.955-1.04) or the 10-14 days after (Odds Ratio: 0.966, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.927-1.01). Similar results were observed for different definitions of ER-GI. The effect differed across counties, suggesting local differences in the risk and impact of flooding. Statewide, across the study period, an estimated 7% of ER-GI visits in the 0-4 days after a flood event were attributable to flooding.

Relationship between socioeconomic status and gastrointestinal infections in developed countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Adams, Natalie L; Rose, Tanith C; Hawker, Jeremy; Violato, Mara; O'Brien, Sarah J; Barr, Benjamin; Howard, Victoria J K; Whitehead, Margaret; Harris, Ross; Taylor-Robinson, David C

2018-01-01

The association between socioeconomic status (SES) and health is well-documented; however limited evidence on the relationship between SES and gastrointestinal (GI) infections exists, with published studies producing conflicting results. This systematic review aimed to assess the association between SES and GI infection risk, and explore possible sources of heterogeneity in effect estimates reported in the literature. MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and grey literature were searched from 1980 to October 2015 for studies reporting an association between GI infections and SES in a representative population sample from a member-country of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Harvest plots and meta-regression were used to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity such as age; level of SES variable; GI infection measurement; and predominant mode of transmission. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO: CRD42015027231. In total, 6021 studies were identified; 102 met the inclusion criteria. Age was identified as the only statistically significant potential effect modifier of the association between SES and GI infection risk. For children, GI infection risk was higher for those of lower SES versus high (RR 1.51, 95% CI;1.26-1.83), but there was no association for adults (RR 0.79, 95% CI;0.58-1.06). In univariate analysis, the increased risk comparing low and high SES groups was significantly higher for pathogens spread by person-to-person transmission, but lower for environmental pathogens, as compared to foodborne pathogens. Disadvantaged children, but not adults, have greater risk of GI infection compared to their more advantaged counterparts. There was high heterogeneity and many studies were of low quality. More high quality studies are needed to investigate the association between SES and GI infection risk, and future research should stratify analyses by age and pathogen type. Gaining further insight into this relationship will help inform policies to reduce inequalities in GI illness in children.

Effect of a Mediterranean Diet Intervention on Dietary Glycemic Load and Dietary Glycemic Index: The PREDIMED Study.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Rejón, Ana Isabel; Castro-Quezada, Itandehui; Ruano-Rodríguez, Cristina; Ruiz-López, María Dolores; Sánchez-Villegas, Almudena; Toledo, Estefanía; Artacho, Reyes; Estruch, Ramón; Salas-Salvadó, Jordi; Covas, María Isabel; Corella, Dolores; Gómez-Gracia, Enrique; Lapetra, José; Pintó, Xavier; Arós, Fernando; Fiol, Miquel; Lamuela-Raventós, Rosa María; Ruiz-Gutierrez, Valentina; Schröder, Helmut; Ros, Emilio; Martínez-González, Miguel Ángel; Serra-Majem, Lluis

2014-01-01

Objective. To compare the one year effect of two dietary interventions with MeDiet on GL and GI in the PREDIMED trial. Methods. Participants were older subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease. This analysis included 2866 nondiabetic subjects. Diet was assessed with a validated 137-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The GI of each FFQ item was assigned by a 5-step methodology using the International Tables of GI and GL Values. Generalized linear models were fitted to assess the relationship between the intervention group and dietary GL and GI at one year of follow-up, using control group as reference. Results. Multivariate-adjusted models showed an inverse association between GL and MeDiet + extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) group: β = -8.52 (95% CI: -10.83 to -6.20) and MeDiet + Nuts group: β = -10.34 (95% CI: -12.69 to -8.00), when comparing with control group. Regarding GI, β = -0.93 (95% CI: -1.38 to -0.49) for MeDiet + EVOO, β = -1.06 (95% CI: -1.51 to -0.62) for MeDiet + Nuts when comparing with control group. Conclusion. Dietary intervention with MeDiet supplemented with EVOO or nuts lowers dietary GL and GI.

76 FR 8730 - Desert Southwest Customer Service Region-Rate Order No. WAPA-151

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-15

..., DSW- GI1, PD-NTS3, and INT-NTS3 would go into effect on October 1, 2011, and would remain in effect... Schedule DSW-GI1, would go into effect and coincide with the other ancillary service rates in this rate...-based rates would, if adopted, go into effect October 1, 2011, and remain in effect through September 30...

Gut vagal sensory signaling regulates hippocampus function through multi-order pathways.

PubMed

Suarez, Andrea N; Hsu, Ted M; Liu, Clarissa M; Noble, Emily E; Cortella, Alyssa M; Nakamoto, Emily M; Hahn, Joel D; de Lartigue, Guillaume; Kanoski, Scott E

2018-06-05

The vagus nerve is the primary means of neural communication between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the brain. Vagally mediated GI signals activate the hippocampus (HPC), a brain region classically linked with memory function. However, the endogenous relevance of GI-derived vagal HPC communication is unknown. Here we utilize a saporin (SAP)-based lesioning procedure to reveal that selective GI vagal sensory/afferent ablation in rats impairs HPC-dependent episodic and spatial memory, effects associated with reduced HPC neurotrophic and neurogenesis markers. To determine the neural pathways connecting the gut to the HPC, we utilize monosynaptic and multisynaptic virus-based tracing methods to identify the medial septum as a relay connecting the medial nucleus tractus solitarius (where GI vagal afferents synapse) to dorsal HPC glutamatergic neurons. We conclude that endogenous GI-derived vagal sensory signaling promotes HPC-dependent memory function via a multi-order brainstem-septal pathway, thereby identifying a previously unknown role for the gut-brain axis in memory control.

Iatrogenic effects of COX-2 inhibitors in the US population: findings from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey.

PubMed

Vaithianathan, Rhema; Hockey, Peter M; Moore, Thomas J; Bates, David W

2009-01-01

Selective cyclo-oxygenase 2 inhibitors ('coxibs') have been demonstrated to increase cardiovascular risk, but the cumulative burden of adverse effects in the US population is uncertain. To quantify cardiovascular and gastrointestinal (GI) haemorrhage disease burden from coxibs and traditional 'non-selective' non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (t-NSAIDs) in the US population. Adult respondents from the 1999-2003 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a representative sample of the US population which first became available in December 2006, were included. Respondents were followed for 2 years. Exposure was defined by two or more prescriptions of rofecoxib, celecoxib or a t-NSAID in the first year. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke and/or GI haemorrhage in the year following exposure. Exposure to rofecoxib was associated with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.30 for AMI (95% CI 1.41, 7.68; p=0.01) and 4.28 for GI haemorrhage (95% CI 1.33, 13.71; p=0.02). Celecoxib was not associated with a statistically significant effect on AMI (OR 1.44; 95% CI 0.57, 3.69; p=0.44), but there was an OR of 2.43 for stroke (95% CI 1.05, 5.58; p=0.04) and 4.98 for GI haemorrhage (95% CI 2.22, 11.17; p<0.001). The group of t-NSAIDs was not associated with a significant adverse effect on AMI (OR 1.47; 95% CI 0.76, 2.84; p=0.25) or stroke (OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.42, 3.81; p=0.68), and was associated with an OR of 2.38 for GI haemorrhage (CI 1.04, 5.46; p=0.04). In the 1999-2004 period rofecoxib was associated with 46 783 AMIs and 31 188 GI haemorrhages; celecoxib with 21 832 strokes and 69 654 GI haemorrhages; resulting in an estimated 26 603 deaths from both coxibs. The t-NSAID group was associated with an excess of 87 327 GI haemorrhages and 9606 deaths in the same period. Iatrogenic effects of coxibs in the US population were substantial, posing an important public health risk. Drugs that were rapidly accepted for assumed safety advantages proved instead to have caused substantial injury and death.

Effect of the glycemic index of the diet on weight loss, modulation of satiety, inflammation, and other metabolic risk factors: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Juanola-Falgarona, Martí; Salas-Salvadó, Jordi; Ibarrola-Jurado, Núria; Rabassa-Soler, Antoni; Díaz-López, Andrés; Guasch-Ferré, Marta; Hernández-Alonso, Pablo; Balanza, Rafael; Bulló, Mònica

2014-07-01

Low-glycemic index (GI) diets have been proven to have beneficial effects in such chronic conditions as type 2 diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and some types of cancer, but the effect of low-GI diets on weight loss, satiety, and inflammation is still controversial. We assessed the efficacy of 2 moderate-carbohydrate diets and a low-fat diet with different GIs on weight loss and the modulation of satiety, inflammation, and other metabolic risk markers. The GLYNDIET study is a 6-mo randomized, parallel, controlled clinical trial conducted in 122 overweight and obese adults. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the following 3 isocaloric energy-restricted diets for 6 mo: 1) a moderate-carbohydrate and high-GI diet (HGI), 2) a moderate-carbohydrate and low-GI diet (LGI), and 3) a low-fat and high-GI diet (LF). At weeks 16 and 20 and the end of the intervention, changes in body mass index (BMI; in kg/m(2)) differed significantly between intervention groups. Reductions in BMI were greater in the LGI group than in the LF group, whereas in the HGI group, reductions in BMI did not differ significantly from those in the other 2 groups (LGI: -2.45 ± 0.27; HGI: -2.30 ± 0.27; LF: -1.43 ± 0.27; F = 4.616, P = 0.012; pairwise comparisons: LGI compared with HGI, P = 1.000; LGI compared with LF, P = 0.016; HGI compared with LF, P = 0.061). The decrease in fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, and homeostatic model assessment of β cell function was also significantly greater in the LGI group than in the LF group (P < 0.05). Despite this tendency for a greater improvement with a low-GI diet, the 3 intervention groups were not observed to have different effects on hunger, satiety, lipid profiles, or other inflammatory and metabolic risk markers. A low-GI and energy-restricted diet containing moderate amounts of carbohydrates may be more effective than a high-GI and low-fat diet at reducing body weight and controlling glucose and insulin metabolism. This trial was registered at Current Controlled Trials (www.controlled-trials.com) as ISRCTN54971867. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

Postprandial effects of breakfast glycaemic index on cognitive performance among young, healthy adults: A crossover clinical trial.

PubMed

Sanchez-Aguadero, Natalia; Recio-Rodriguez, Jose I; Patino-Alonso, Maria C; Mora-Simon, Sara; Alonso-Dominguez, Rosario; Sanchez-Salgado, Benigna; Gomez-Marcos, Manuel A; Garcia-Ortiz, Luis

2018-04-12

To evaluate the postprandial effects of high and low glycaemic index (GI) breakfasts on cognitive performance in young, healthy adults. A crossover clinical trial including 40 young, healthy adults (aged 20-40 years, 50% females) recruited from primary healthcare centres in Salamanca, Spain. Verbal memory, phonological fluency, attention, and executive functions were examined 0, 60, and 120 minutes after consuming a low GI (LGI), high GI (HGI), or water breakfast. Every subject tried each breakfast variant, in a randomized order, separated by a washout period of 7 days, for a total of 3 weeks. A significant interaction between the type of breakfast consumed and immediate verbal memory was identified (P<.05). We observed a trend towards better performance in verbal memory (delayed and immediate), attention, and phonological fluency following an LGI breakfast. Cognitive performance during the postprandial phase in young, healthy adults was minimally affected by the GI of breakfast. The potential for breakfast's GI modulation to improve short- and long-term cognitive functioning requires further research.

Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patient and Parental Characteristics Differ by Care Management Type.

PubMed

Hollier, John M; Czyzewski, Danita I; Self, Mariella M; Weidler, Erica M; Smith, E O'Brian; Shulman, Robert J

2017-03-01

This study evaluates whether certain patient or parental characteristics are associated with gastroenterology (GI) referral versus primary pediatrics care for pediatric irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A retrospective clinical trial sample of patients meeting pediatric Rome III IBS criteria was assembled from a single metropolitan health care system. Baseline socioeconomic status (SES) and clinical symptom measures were gathered. Various instruments measured participant and parental psychosocial traits. Study outcomes were stratified by GI referral versus primary pediatrics care. Two separate analyses of SES measures and GI clinical symptoms and psychosocial measures identified key factors by univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. For each analysis, identified factors were placed in unadjusted and adjusted multivariate logistic regression models to assess their impact in predicting GI referral. Of the 239 participants, 152 were referred to pediatric GI, and 87 were managed in primary pediatrics care. Of the SES and clinical symptom factors, child self-assessment of abdominal pain duration and lower percentage of people living in poverty were the strongest predictors of GI referral. Among the psychosocial measures, parental assessment of their child's functional disability was the sole predictor of GI referral. In multivariate logistic regression models, all selected factors continued to predict GI referral in each model. Socioeconomic environment, clinical symptoms, and functional disability are associated with GI referral. Future interventions designed to ameliorate the effect of these identified factors could reduce unnecessary specialty consultations and health care overutilization for IBS.

Intravenous immunogobulin therapy for severe gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Clark, Kristina E N; Etomi, Oseme; Denton, Christopher P; Ong, Voon H; Murray, Charles D

2015-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is one of the major causes of morbidity in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The most common manifestation of GI disease is oesophageal involvement affecting 70-90% of patients. Severe GI disease is uncommon, but results in symptoms such as early satiety, pseudo-obstruction, weight loss and malnutrition. The pathogenesis is relatively poorly understood, and management focuses on symptomatic control rather than immunomodulation. We describe two cases of patients with SSc myositis overlap syndrome with severe GI involvement who demonstrated improvements in swallowing, early satiety and diarrhoea following the administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Clinical data related to the two cases were collected by review of medical records. GI complications range from mild symptoms to debilitating and life threatening. We propose that IVIg may have an immunomodulatory effect in a subset of patients with SSc myositis overlap syndrome.

Implementing the Post-9/11 GI Bill: Lessons Learned and Emerging Issues. Policy Matters: A Higher Education Policy Brief

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McBain, Lesley

2009-01-01

On August 1, 2009, the most generous veterans education benefit program since the original post-World War II GI Bill went into effect. The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act, popularly known as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, pays for up to 100 percent of a veteran's tuition/required fees at a state college/university depending on the veteran's…

War and Marriage: Assortative Mating and the World War II GI Bill.

PubMed

Larsen, Matthew F; McCarthy, T J; Moulton, Jeremy G; Page, Marianne E; Patel, Ankur J

2015-10-01

World War II and its subsequent GI Bill have been widely credited with playing a transformative role in American society, but there have been few quantitative analyses of these historical events' broad social effects. We exploit between-cohort variation in the probability of military service to investigate how WWII and the GI Bill altered the structure of marriage, and find that it had important spillover effects beyond its direct effect on men's educational attainment. Our results suggest that the additional education received by returning veterans caused them to "sort" into wives with significantly higher levels of education. This suggests an important mechanism by which socioeconomic status may be passed on to the next generation.

A Flexible framework for forward and inverse modeling of stormwater control measures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aflaki, S.; Massoudieh, A.

2016-12-01

Models that allow for design considerations of green infrastructure (GI) practices to control stormwater runoff and associated contaminants have received considerable attention in recent years. While popular, generally, the GI models are relatively simplistic. However, GI model predictions are being relied upon by many municipalities and State/Local agencies to make decisions about grey vs. green infrastructure improvement planning. Adding complexity to GI modeling frameworks may preclude their use in simpler urban planning situations. Therefore, the goal here was to develop a sophisticated, yet flexible tool that could be used by design engineers and researchers to capture and explore the effect of design factors and properties of the media used in the performance of GI systems at a relatively small scale. We deemed it essential to have a flexible GI modeling tool that is capable of simulating GI system components and specific biophysical processes affecting contaminants such as reactions, and particle-associated transport accurately while maintaining a high degree of flexibly to account for the myriad of GI alternatives. The mathematical framework for a stand-alone GI performance assessment tool has been developed and will be demonstrated. The process-based model framework developed here can be used to model a diverse range of GI practices such as green roof, retention pond, bioretention, infiltration trench, permeable pavement and other custom-designed combinatory systems. Four demonstration applications covering a diverse range of systems will be presented. The example applications include a evaluating hydraulic performance of a complex bioretention system, hydraulic analysis of porous pavement system, flow colloid-facilitated transport, reactive transport and groundwater recharge underneath an infiltration pond and finally reactive transport and bed-sediment interactions in a wetland system will be presented.

Effect of blood sampling schedule and method of calculating the area under the curve on validity and precision of glycaemic index values.

PubMed

Wolever, Thomas M S

2004-02-01

To evaluate the suitability for glycaemic index (GI) calculations of using blood sampling schedules and methods of calculating area under the curve (AUC) different from those recommended, the GI values of five foods were determined by recommended methods (capillary blood glucose measured seven times over 2.0 h) in forty-seven normal subjects and different calculations performed on the same data set. The AUC was calculated in four ways: incremental AUC (iAUC; recommended method), iAUC above the minimum blood glucose value (AUCmin), net AUC (netAUC) and iAUC including area only before the glycaemic response curve cuts the baseline (AUCcut). In addition, iAUC was calculated using four different sets of less than seven blood samples. GI values were derived using each AUC calculation. The mean GI values of the foods varied significantly according to the method of calculating GI. The standard deviation of GI values calculating using iAUC (20.4), was lower than six of the seven other methods, and significantly less (P<0.05) than that using netAUC (24.0). To be a valid index of food glycaemic response independent of subject characteristics, GI values in subjects should not be related to their AUC after oral glucose. However, calculating GI using AUCmin or less than seven blood samples resulted in significant (P<0.05) relationships between GI and mean AUC. It is concluded that, in subjects without diabetes, the recommended blood sampling schedule and method of AUC calculation yields more valid and/or more precise GI values than the seven other methods tested here. The only method whose results agreed reasonably well with the recommended method (ie. within +/-5 %) was AUCcut.

Improvement of dietary quality with the aid of a low glycemic index diet in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Barakatun Nisak, Mohd Yusof; Ruzita, Abd Talib; Norimah, A Karim; Gilbertson, Heather; Nor Azmi, Kamaruddin

2010-06-01

This randomized controlled study was conducted to determine the effect of low glycemic index (GI) dietary advice on eating patterns and dietary quality in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Asian patients with T2DM (N  =  104) were randomized into 2 groups that received either low GI or conventional carbohydrate exchange (CCE) dietary advice for 12 weeks. Nutritional prescriptions were based on the medical nutrition therapy for T2DM, with the difference being in the GI component of the carbohydrates. Dietary intake and food choices were assessed with the use of a 3-day food record. At week 12, both groups achieved the recommendations for carbohydrate (52 ± 4% and 54 ± 4% of energy) and fat (30 ± 4% and 28 ± 5% of energy) intake. There were no significant differences in the reported macronutrient intake in both groups. With the low GI diet, crude fiber and dietary calcium intake increased, while the dietary GI reduced. Subjects in the lowest dietary glycemic index/glycemic load (GI/GL) quartile consumed more parboiled/basmati rice, pasta, milk/dairy products, fruits, and dough, which are foods from the low GI category. There was a significant reduction in the hemoglobin A(1c) level at week 12 for patients in the lowest GI/GL quartile (Δ  =  -0.7 ± 0.1%) compared with those in the highest GI/GL quartile (Δ  =  -0.1 ± 0.2%). These results demonstrate the ability of low GI dietary advice to improve the dietary quality of Asian patients with T2DM.

Effect of macronutrients and fiber on postprandial glycemic responses and meal glycemic index and glycemic load value determinations

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Introduction: Meal or dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) values from dietary questionnaires are calculated using GI values of individual foods and for GL after adjusting for serving size. Partially unaddressed is the potential confounding effect of different amounts and proportions o...

Inhalational exposure to particulate matter air pollution alters the composition of the gut microbiome.

PubMed

Mutlu, Ece A; Comba, Işın Y; Cho, Takugo; Engen, Phillip A; Yazıcı, Cemal; Soberanes, Saul; Hamanaka, Robert B; Niğdelioğlu, Recep; Meliton, Angelo Y; Ghio, Andrew J; Budinger, G R Scott; Mutlu, Gökhan M

2018-05-18

Recent studies suggest an association between particulate matter (PM) air pollution and gastrointestinal (GI) disease. In addition to direct deposition, PM can be indirectly deposited in oropharynx via mucociliary clearance and upon swallowing of saliva and mucus. Within the GI tract, PM may alter the GI epithelium and gut microbiome. Our goal was to determine the effect of PM on gut microbiota in a murine model of PM exposure via inhalation. C57BL/6 mice were exposed via inhalation to either concentrated ambient particles or filtered air for 8-h per day, 5-days a week, for a total of 3-weeks. At exposure's end, GI tract tissues and feces were harvested, and gut microbiota was analyzed. Alpha-diversity was modestly altered with increased richness in PM-exposed mice compared to air-exposed mice in some parts of the GI tract. Most importantly, PM-induced alterations in the microbiota were very apparent in beta-diversity comparisons throughout the GI tract and appeared to increase from the proximal to distal parts. Changes in some genera suggest that distinct bacteria may have the capacity to bloom with PM exposure. Exposure to PM alters the microbiota throughout the GI tract which maybe a potential mechanism that explains PM induced inflammation in the GI tract. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evidence-based Value of Prophylactic Drainage in Gastrointestinal Surgery

PubMed Central

Petrowsky, Henrik; Demartines, Nicolas; Rousson, Valentin; Clavien, Pierre-Alain

2004-01-01

Objective: To determine the evidence-based value of prophylactic drainage in gastrointestinal (GI) surgery. Methods: An electronic search of the Medline database from 1966 to 2004 was performed to identify articles comparing prophylactic drainage with no drainage in GI surgery. The studies were reviewed and classified according to their quality of evidence using the grading system proposed by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine. Seventeen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were found for hepato-pancreatico-biliary surgery, none for upper GI tract, and 13 for lower GI tract surgery. If sufficient RCTs were identified, we performed a meta-analysis to characterize the drain effect using the random-effects model. Results: There is evidence of level 1a that drains do not reduce complications after hepatic, colonic, or rectal resection with primary anastomosis and appendectomy for any stage of appendicitis. Drains were even harmful after hepatic resection in chronic liver disease and appendectomy. In the absence of RCTs, there is a consensus (evidence level 5) about the necessity of prophylactic drainage after esophageal resection and total gastrectomy due to the potential fatal outcome in case of anastomotic and gastric leakage. Conclusion: Many GI operations can be performed safely without prophylactic drainage. Drains should be omitted after hepatic, colonic, or rectal resection with primary anastomosis and appendectomy for any stage of appendicitis (recommendation grade A), whereas prophylactic drainage remains indicated after esophageal resection and total gastrectomy (recommendation grade D). For many other GI procedures, especially involving the upper GI tract, there is a further demand for well-designed RCTs to clarify the value of prophylactic drainage. PMID:15570212

Relationship between general intelligence, emotional intelligence, stress levels and stress reactivity.

PubMed

Singh, Yogesh; Sharma, Ratna

2012-07-01

Stressful life events and daily life stresses have both deleterious and cumulative effects on human body. In several studies, stress has been shown to affect various parameter of higher mental function like attention, concentration, learning and memory. Present study was designed to explore the relationship among GI level, EI level, psychological stress levels and acute stress reactivity in young normal healthy subjects. The study was conducted on thirty four healthy male student volunteers to study a) acute stress reactivity in subjects with varying levels of General Intelligence (GI) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) and b) correlation between GI, EI, acute stress and perceived stress. Baseline GI and EI and acute stress and perceived stress scores were measured by standard assessment scales. Using median value of GI and EI scores as cutoff values, subjects were categorized into four groups. Among different GI-EI groups, acute stress reactivity was similar but salivary Cortisol (especially post stressor level) and perceived stress level was a differentiating factor. High level of EI was associated inversely with acute and chronic perceived stress level. Significant correlation was found between acute and chronic perceived stress levels. Level of general intelligence showed no relation to acute or chronic stress levels as well as acute stress reactivity. The differences in various groups of GI and EI had no effect on the baseline and post stress performance on Sternberg memory test and all the three conditions of Stroop test. In conclusion emotional intelligence as an attribute is better suited to handle day to day acute stress and chronic perceived stress.

In vitro activity of almond skin polyphenols for scavenging free radicals and inducing quinone reductase.

PubMed

Chen, C-Y Oliver; Blumberg, Jeffrey B

2008-06-25

Observational studies and clinical trials suggest nut intake, including almonds, is associated with an enhancement in antioxidant defense and a reduction in the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Almond skins are rich in polyphenols (ASP) that may contribute to these putative benefits. To assess their potential mechanisms of action, we tested the in vitro effect of ASP extracted with methanol (M) or a gastrointestinal juice mimic (GI) alone or in combination with vitamins C (VC) or E (VE) (1-10 micromol/L) on scavenging free radicals and inducing quinone reductase (QR). Flavonoid profiles from ASP-M and -GI extracts were different from one another. ASP-GI was more potent in scavenging HOCl and ONOO (-) radicals than ASP-M. In contrast, ASP-M increased and ASP-GI decreased QR activity in Hepa1c1c7 cells. Adding VC or VE to ASP produced a combination- and dose-dependent action on radical scavenging and QR induction. In comparison to their independent actions, ASP-M plus VC were less potent in scavenging DPPH, HOCl, ONOO (-), and O 2 (-) (*). However, the interaction between ASP-GI plus VC promoted their radical scavenging activity. Combining ASP-M plus VC resulted in a synergistic interaction, inducing QR activity, but ASP-GI plus VC had an antagonistic effect. On the basis of their total phenolic content, the measures of total antioxidant activity of ASP-M and -GI were comparable. Thus, in vitro, ASP act as antioxidants and induce QR activity, but these actions are dependent upon their dose, method of extraction, and interaction with antioxidant vitamins.

Effect of macronutrients and fiber on postprandial glycemic responses and meal glycemic index and glycemic load value determinations.

PubMed

Meng, Huicui; Matthan, Nirupa R; Ausman, Lynne M; Lichtenstein, Alice H

2017-04-01

Background: The potential confounding effect of different amounts and proportions of macronutrients across eating patterns on meal or dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) value determinations has remained partially unaddressed. Objective: The study aimed to determine the effects of different amounts of macronutrients and fiber on measured meal GI and GL values. Design: Four studies were conducted during which participants [ n = 20-22; women: 50%; age: 50-80 y; body mass index (in kg/m 2 ): 25-30)] received food challenges containing different amounts of the variable nutrient in a random order. Added to the standard 50 g available carbohydrate from white bread was 12.5, 25, or 50 g carbohydrate; 12.5, 25, or 50 g protein; and 5.6, 11.1, or 22.2 g fat from rice cereal, tuna, and unsalted butter, respectively, and 4.8 or 9.6 g fiber from oat cereal. Arterialized venous blood was sampled for 2 h, and measured meal GI and GL and insulin index (II) values were calculated by using the incremental area under the curve (AUC i ) method. Results: Adding carbohydrate to the standard white-bread challenge increased glucose AUC i ( P < 0.0001), measured meal GI ( P = 0.0066), and mean GL ( P < 0.0001). Adding protein (50 g only) decreased glucose AUC i ( P = 0.0026), measured meal GI ( P = 0.0139), and meal GL ( P = 0.0140). Adding fat or fiber had no significant effect on these variables. Adding carbohydrate (50 g), protein (50 g), and fat (11.1 g) increased the insulin AUC i or II; fiber had no effect. Conclusions: These data indicate that uncertainty in the determination of meal GI and GL values is introduced when carbohydrate-containing foods are consumed concurrently with protein (equal amount of carbohydrate challenge) but not with carbohydrate-, fat-, or fiber-containing foods. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether this uncertainty also influences the prediction of average dietary GI and GL values for eating patterns. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01023646. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Effect of macronutrients and fiber on postprandial glycemic responses and meal glycemic index and glycemic load value determinations123

PubMed Central

Meng, Huicui; Matthan, Nirupa R; Ausman, Lynne M; Lichtenstein, Alice H

2017-01-01

Background: The potential confounding effect of different amounts and proportions of macronutrients across eating patterns on meal or dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) value determinations has remained partially unaddressed. Objective: The study aimed to determine the effects of different amounts of macronutrients and fiber on measured meal GI and GL values. Design: Four studies were conducted during which participants [n = 20–22; women: 50%; age: 50–80 y; body mass index (in kg/m2): 25–30)] received food challenges containing different amounts of the variable nutrient in a random order. Added to the standard 50 g available carbohydrate from white bread was 12.5, 25, or 50 g carbohydrate; 12.5, 25, or 50 g protein; and 5.6, 11.1, or 22.2 g fat from rice cereal, tuna, and unsalted butter, respectively, and 4.8 or 9.6 g fiber from oat cereal. Arterialized venous blood was sampled for 2 h, and measured meal GI and GL and insulin index (II) values were calculated by using the incremental area under the curve (AUCi) method. Results: Adding carbohydrate to the standard white-bread challenge increased glucose AUCi (P < 0.0001), measured meal GI (P = 0.0066), and mean GL (P < 0.0001). Adding protein (50 g only) decreased glucose AUCi (P = 0.0026), measured meal GI (P = 0.0139), and meal GL (P = 0.0140). Adding fat or fiber had no significant effect on these variables. Adding carbohydrate (50 g), protein (50 g), and fat (11.1 g) increased the insulin AUCi or II; fiber had no effect. Conclusions: These data indicate that uncertainty in the determination of meal GI and GL values is introduced when carbohydrate-containing foods are consumed concurrently with protein (equal amount of carbohydrate challenge) but not with carbohydrate-, fat-, or fiber-containing foods. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether this uncertainty also influences the prediction of average dietary GI and GL values for eating patterns. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01023646. PMID:28202475

GI Symptoms in Infants Are a Potential Target for Fermented Infant Milk Formulae: A Review

PubMed Central

van de Heijning, Bert J. M.; Berton, Amelie; Bouritius, Hetty; Goulet, Olivier

2014-01-01

Besides pre- and pro-biotic-containing infant formulae, fermented infant formulae are commonly used to relieve or prevent symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort in young infants. During the fermentation process in cow’s milk-based formulae, the beneficial bacteria modulate the product by forming several beneficial compounds, which contribute to the alleviation of the symptoms observed. This review summarizes the clinical evidence on the impact of fermented infant formulae on common pediatric GI-symptoms. The potential mechanisms involved are discussed: i.e., the lactose and protein (in-) digestibility, effects on gastric emptying and gut transit and modulation of the colonic microbiota. Although initial evidence indicates a beneficial effect of fermented formulae on GI discomfort in newborns, validation and confirmation of the clinical proof obtained so far is warranted, as well as further research to (more fully) understand the mode of action. PMID:25255831

Determination of glycaemic index; some methodological aspects related to the analysis of carbohydrate load and characteristics of the previous evening meal.

PubMed

Granfeldt, Y; Wu, X; Björck, I

2006-01-01

To determine the possible differences in glycaemic index (GI) depending on (1) the analytical method used to calculate the 'available carbohydrate' load, that is, using carbohydrates by difference (total carbohydrate by difference, minus dietary fibre (DF)) as available carbohydrates vs available starch basis (total starch minus resistant starch (RS)) of a food rich in intrinsic RS and (2) the effect of GI characteristics and/or the content of indigestible carbohydrates (RS and DF) of the evening meal prior to GI testing the following morning. Blood glucose and serum insulin responses were studied after subjects consuming (1) two levels of barley kernels rich in intrinsic RS (15.2%, total starch basis) and (2) after a standard breakfast following three different evening meals varying in GI and/or indigestible carbohydrates: pasta, barley kernels and white wheat bread, respectively. Healthy adults with normal body mass index. (1) Increasing the portion size of barley kernels from 79.6 g (50 g 'available carbohydrates') to 93.9 g (50 g available starch) to adjust for its RS content did not significantly affect the GI or insulin index (11). (2) The low GI barley evening meal, as opposed to white wheat bread and pasta evening meals, reduced the postprandial glycaemic and insulinaemic (23 and 29%, respectively, P < 0.05) areas under the curve at a standardized white bread breakfast fed the following morning. (1) Increasing portion size to compensate for the considerable portion of RS in a low GI barley product had no significant impact on GI or II. However, for GI testing, it is recommended to base carbohydrate load on specific analyses of the available carbohydrate content. (2) A low GI barley evening meal containing high levels of indigestible carbohydrates (RS and DF) substantially reduced the GI and II of white wheat bread determined at a subsequent breakfast meal.

Associations of Glycemic Index and Load With Coronary Heart Disease Events: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohorts

PubMed Central

Mirrahimi, Arash; de Souza, Russell J.; Chiavaroli, Laura; Sievenpiper, John L.; Beyene, Joseph; Hanley, Anthony J.; Augustin, Livia S. A.; Kendall, Cyril W. C.; Jenkins, David J. A.

2012-01-01

Background Glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) have been associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk in some but not all cohort studies. We therefore assessed the association of GI and GL with CHD risk in prospective cohorts. Methods and Results We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL (through April 5, 2012) and identified all prospective cohorts assessing associations of GI and GL with incidence of CHD. Meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE) methodologies were used. Relative measures of risk, comparing the group with the highest exposure (mean GI of cohorts=84.4 GI units, range 79.9 to 91; mean GL of cohorts=224.8, range 166 to 270) to the reference group (mean GI=72.3 GI units, range 68.1 to 77; mean GL=135.4, range 83 to 176), were pooled using random-effects models, expressed as relative risk (RR) with heterogeneity assessed by χ2 and quantified by I2. Subgroups included sex and duration of follow-up. Ten studies (n=240 936) were eligible. Pooled analyses showed an increase in CHD risk for the highest GI quantile compared with the lowest, with RR=1.11 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99 to 1.24) and for GL, RR=1.27 (95% CI 1.09 to 1.49), both with evidence of heterogeneity (I2>42%, P<0.07). Subgroup analyses revealed only a significant modification by sex, with the female cohorts showing significance for GI RR=1.26 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.41) and for GL RR=1.55 (95% CI 1.18 to 2.03). Conclusions High GI and GL diets were significantly associated with CHD events in women but not in men. Further studies are required to determine the relationship between GI and GL with CHD in men. PMID:23316283

Effect of a Mediterranean Diet Intervention on Dietary Glycemic Load and Dietary Glycemic Index: The PREDIMED Study

PubMed Central

Rodríguez-Rejón, Ana Isabel; Ruano-Rodríguez, Cristina; Ruiz-López, María Dolores; Sánchez-Villegas, Almudena; Toledo, Estefanía; Estruch, Ramón; Covas, María Isabel; Corella, Dolores; Gómez-Gracia, Enrique; Lapetra, José; Pintó, Xavier; Arós, Fernando; Fiol, Miquel; Lamuela-Raventós, Rosa María; Ruiz-Gutierrez, Valentina; Schröder, Helmut; Ros, Emilio; Martínez-González, Miguel Ángel; Serra-Majem, Lluis

2014-01-01

Objective. To compare the one year effect of two dietary interventions with MeDiet on GL and GI in the PREDIMED trial. Methods. Participants were older subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease. This analysis included 2866 nondiabetic subjects. Diet was assessed with a validated 137-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The GI of each FFQ item was assigned by a 5-step methodology using the International Tables of GI and GL Values. Generalized linear models were fitted to assess the relationship between the intervention group and dietary GL and GI at one year of follow-up, using control group as reference. Results. Multivariate-adjusted models showed an inverse association between GL and MeDiet + extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) group: β = −8.52 (95% CI: −10.83 to −6.20) and MeDiet + Nuts group: β = −10.34 (95% CI: −12.69 to −8.00), when comparing with control group. Regarding GI, β = −0.93 (95% CI: −1.38 to −0.49) for MeDiet + EVOO, β = −1.06 (95% CI: −1.51 to −0.62) for MeDiet + Nuts when comparing with control group. Conclusion. Dietary intervention with MeDiet supplemented with EVOO or nuts lowers dietary GL and GI. PMID:25295183

Effect of pasta in the context of low-glycaemic index dietary patterns on body weight and markers of adiposity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in adults

PubMed Central

Chiavaroli, Laura; Kendall, Cyril W C; Braunstein, Catherine R; Blanco Mejia, Sonia; Leiter, Lawrence A; Jenkins, David J A; Sievenpiper, John L

2018-01-01

Objective Carbohydrate staples such as pasta have been implicated in the obesity epidemic. It is unclear whether pasta contributes to weight gain or like other low-glycaemic index (GI) foods contributes to weight loss. We synthesised the evidence of the effect of pasta on measures of adiposity. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Data sources MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library were searched through 7 February 2017. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies We included randomised controlled trials ≥3 weeks assessing the effect of pasta alone or in the context of low-GI dietary patterns on measures of global (body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat) and regional (waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD)) adiposity in adults. Data extraction and synthesis Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Data were pooled using the generic inverse-variance method and expressed as mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was assessed (Cochran Q statistic) and quantified (I2 statistic). GRADE assessed the certainty of the evidence. Results We identified no trial comparisons of the effect of pasta alone and 32 trial comparisons (n=2448 participants) of the effect of pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns. Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns significantly reduced body weight (MD=−0.63 kg; 95% CI −0.84 to –0.42 kg) and BMI (MD=−0.26 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.36 to –0.16 kg/m2) compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. There was no effect on other measures of adiposity. The certainty of the evidence was graded as moderate for body weight, BMI, WHR and SAD and low for WC and body fat. Conclusions Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns does not adversely affect adiposity and even reduces body weight and BMI compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. Future trials should assess the effect of pasta in the context of other ‘healthy’ dietary patterns. Trial registration number NCT02961088; Results. PMID:29615407

Effect of pasta in the context of low-glycaemic index dietary patterns on body weight and markers of adiposity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in adults.

PubMed

Chiavaroli, Laura; Kendall, Cyril W C; Braunstein, Catherine R; Blanco Mejia, Sonia; Leiter, Lawrence A; Jenkins, David J A; Sievenpiper, John L

2018-04-02

Carbohydrate staples such as pasta have been implicated in the obesity epidemic. It is unclear whether pasta contributes to weight gain or like other low-glycaemic index (GI) foods contributes to weight loss. We synthesised the evidence of the effect of pasta on measures of adiposity. Systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library were searched through 7 February 2017. We included randomised controlled trials ≥3 weeks assessing the effect of pasta alone or in the context of low-GI dietary patterns on measures of global (body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat) and regional (waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD)) adiposity in adults. Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Data were pooled using the generic inverse-variance method and expressed as mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was assessed (Cochran Q statistic) and quantified (I 2 statistic). GRADE assessed the certainty of the evidence. We identified no trial comparisons of the effect of pasta alone and 32 trial comparisons (n=2448 participants) of the effect of pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns. Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns significantly reduced body weight (MD=-0.63 kg; 95% CI -0.84 to -0.42 kg) and BMI (MD=-0.26 kg/m 2 ; 95% CI -0.36 to -0.16 kg/m 2 ) compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. There was no effect on other measures of adiposity. The certainty of the evidence was graded as moderate for body weight, BMI, WHR and SAD and low for WC and body fat. Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns does not adversely affect adiposity and even reduces body weight and BMI compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. Future trials should assess the effect of pasta in the context of other 'healthy' dietary patterns. NCT02961088; Results. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Investigating the Microbial Degradation Potential in Oil Sands Fluid Fine Tailings Using Gamma Irradiation: A Metagenomic Perspective.

PubMed

VanMensel, Danielle; Chaganti, Subba Rao; Boudens, Ryan; Reid, Thomas; Ciborowski, Jan; Weisener, Christopher

2017-08-01

Open-pit mining of the Athabasca oil sands has generated large volumes of waste termed fluid fine tailings (FFT), stored in tailings ponds. Accumulation of toxic organic substances in the tailings ponds is one of the biggest concerns. Gamma irradiation (GI) treatment could accelerate the biodegradation of toxic organic substances. Hence, this research investigates the response of the microbial consortia in GI-treated FFT materials with an emphasis on changes in diversity and organism-related stimuli. FFT materials from aged and fresh ponds were used in the study under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Variations in the microbial diversity in GI-treated FFT materials were monitored for 52 weeks and significant stimuli (p < 0.05) were observed. Chemoorganotrophic organisms dominated in fresh and aged ponds and showed increased relative abundance resulting from GI treatment. GI-treated anaerobic FFT aged reported stimulus of organisms with biodegradation potential (e.g., Pseudomonas, Enterobacter) and methylotrophic capabilities (e.g., Syntrophus, Smithella). In comparison, GI-treated anaerobic FFT fresh stimulated Desulfuromonas as the principle genus at 52 weeks. Under aerobic conditions, GI-treated FFT aged showed stimulation of organisms capable of sulfur and iron cycling (e.g., Geobacter). However, GI-treated aerobic FFT fresh showed no stimulus at 52 weeks. This research provides an enhanced understanding of oil sands tailings biogeochemistry and the impacts of GI treatment on microorganisms as an effect for targeting toxic organics. The outcomes of this study highlight the potential for this approach to accelerate stabilization and reclamation end points. Graphical Abstract.

The Clinical Significance of Occult Gastrointestinal Primary Tumours in Metastatic Cancer: A Population Retrospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Hannouf, Malek B; Winquist, Eric; Mahmud, Salaheddin M; Brackstone, Muriel; Sarma, Sisira; Rodrigues, George; Rogan, Peter K; Hoch, Jeffrey S; Zaric, Gregory S

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence of occult gastrointestinal (GI) primary tumours in patients with metastatic cancer of uncertain primary origin and evaluate their influence on treatments and overall survival (OS). We used population heath data from Manitoba, Canada to identify all patients initially diagnosed with metastatic cancer between 2002 and 2011. We defined patients to have "occult" primary tumour if the primary was found at least 6 months after initial diagnosis. Otherwise, we considered primary tumours as "obvious." We used propensity-score methods to match each patient with occult GI tumour to four patients with obvious GI tumour on all known clinicopathologic features. We compared treatments and 2-year survival data between the two patient groups and assessed treatment effect on OS using Cox regression adjustment. Eighty-three patients had occult GI primary tumours, accounting for 17.6% of men and 14% of women with metastatic cancer of uncertain primary. A 1:4 matching created a matched group of 332 patients with obvious GI primary tumour. Occult cases compared to the matched group were less likely to receive surgical interventions and targeted biological therapy, and more likely to receive cytotoxic empiric chemotherapeutic agents. Having an occult GI tumour was associated with reduced OS and appeared to be a nonsignificant independent predictor of OS when adjusting for treatment differences. GI tumours are the most common occult primary tumours in men and the second most common in women. Patients with occult GI primary tumours are potentially being undertreated with available GI site-specific and targeted therapies.

Galilean invariant resummation schemes of cosmological perturbations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Peloso, Marco; Pietroni, Massimo, E-mail: peloso@physics.umn.edu, E-mail: massimo.pietroni@unipr.it

2017-01-01

Many of the methods proposed so far to go beyond Standard Perturbation Theory break invariance under time-dependent boosts (denoted here as extended Galilean Invariance, or GI). This gives rise to spurious large scale effects which spoil the small scale predictions of these approximation schemes. By using consistency relations we derive fully non-perturbative constraints that GI imposes on correlation functions. We then introduce a method to quantify the amount of GI breaking of a given scheme, and to correct it by properly tailored counterterms. Finally, we formulate resummation schemes which are manifestly GI, discuss their general features, and implement them inmore » the so called Time-Flow, or TRG, equations.« less

National Dam Inspection Program. Freethy Dam (NDI ID Number PA-00171, DER ID Number 64-160), Delaware River Basin, Carley Brook, Wayne County, Pennsylvania. Phase I Inspection Report,

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-01

Rignt; End of Damn. P. sp LI Tway Stah. "’nt.. - -JZIL E. e efz Abutment. of’ Damn. 74". I I~ 1t 1 1 of Darnm Downstream Side. ~ 4L Gi Ex ir End~ of...susceptible to slope failure; however, the presence of well-developed bedding and Joint planes will result in some rockfall from vertical and high

Using Bayesian modelling to investigate factors governing antibiotic-induced Candida albicans colonization of the GI tract

PubMed Central

Shankar, Jyoti; Solis, Norma V.; Mounaud, Stephanie; Szpakowski, Sebastian; Liu, Hong; Losada, Liliana; Nierman, William C.; Filler, Scott G.

2015-01-01

Receipt of broad-spectrum antibiotics enhances Candida albicans colonization of the GI tract, a risk factor for haematogenously-disseminated candidiasis. To understand how antibiotics influence C. albicans colonization, we treated mice orally with vancomycin or a combination of penicillin, streptomycin, and gentamicin (PSG) and then inoculated them with C. albicans by gavage. Only PSG treatment resulted in sustained, high-level GI colonization with C. albicans. Furthermore, PSG reduced bacterial diversity in the colon much more than vancomycin. Both antibiotic regimens significantly reduced IL-17A, IL-21, IL-22 and IFN-γ mRNA levels in the terminal ileum but had limited effect on the GI fungal microbiome. Through a series of models that employed Bayesian model averaging, we investigated the associations between antibiotic treatment, GI microbiota, and host immune response and their collective impact on C. albicans colonization. Our analysis revealed that bacterial genera were typically associated with either C. albicans colonization or altered cytokine expression but not with both. The only exception was Veillonella, which was associated with both increased C. albicans colonization and reduced IL-21 expression. Overall, antibiotic-induced changes in the bacterial microbiome were much more consistent determinants of C. albicans colonization than either the GI fungal microbiota or the GI immune response. PMID:25644850

Flooding and Emergency Room Visits for Gastrointestinal Illness in Massachusetts: A Case-Crossover Study

PubMed Central

Wade, Timothy J.; Lin, Cynthia J.; Jagai, Jyotsna S.; Hilborn, Elizabeth D.

2014-01-01

Introduction Floods and other severe weather events are anticipated to increase as a result of global climate change. Floods can lead to outbreaks of gastroenteritis and other infectious diseases due to disruption of sewage and water infrastructure and impacts on sanitation and hygiene. Floods have also been indirectly associated with outbreaks through population displacement and crowding. Methods We conducted a case-crossover study to investigate the association between flooding and emergency room visits for gastrointestinal illness (ER-GI) in Massachusetts for the years 2003 through 2007. We obtained ER-GI visits from the State of Massachusetts and records of floods from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association’s Storm Events Database. ER-GI visits were considered exposed if a flood occurred in the town of residence within three hazard periods of the visit: 0–4 days; 5–9 days; and 10–14 days. A time-stratified bi-directional design was used for control selection, matching on day of the week with two weeks lead or lag time from the ER-GI visit. Fixed effect logistic regression models were used to estimate the risk of ER-GI visits following the flood. Results and Conclusions A total of 270,457 ER-GI visits and 129 floods occurred in Massachusetts over the study period. Across all counties, flooding was associated with an increased risk for ER-GI in the 0–4 day period after flooding (Odds Ratio: 1.08; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.03–1.12); but not the 5–9 days (Odds Ratio: 0.995; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.955–1.04) or the 10–14 days after (Odds Ratio: 0.966, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.927–1.01). Similar results were observed for different definitions of ER-GI. The effect differed across counties, suggesting local differences in the risk and impact of flooding. Statewide, across the study period, an estimated 7% of ER-GI visits in the 0–4 days after a flood event were attributable to flooding. PMID:25329916

Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating the Effects of a Low-Glycemic Index Diet on Pregnancy Outcomes in Women at High Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: The GI Baby 3 Study.

PubMed

Markovic, Tania P; Muirhead, Ros; Overs, Shannon; Ross, Glynis P; Louie, Jimmy Chun Yu; Kizirian, Nathalie; Denyer, Gareth; Petocz, Peter; Hyett, Jon; Brand-Miller, Jennie C

2016-01-01

Dietary interventions can improve pregnancy outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We compared the effect of a low-glycemic index (GI) versus a conventional high-fiber (HF) diet on pregnancy outcomes, birth weight z score, and maternal metabolic profile in women at high risk of GDM. One hundred thirty-nine women [mean (SD) age 34.7 (0.4) years and prepregnancy BMI 25.2 (0.5) kg/m(2)] were randomly assigned to a low-GI (LGI) diet (n = 72; target GI ∼50) or a high-fiber, moderate-GI (HF) diet (n = 67; target GI ∼60) at 14-20 weeks' gestation. Diet was assessed by 3-day food records and infant body composition by air-displacement plethysmography, and pregnancy outcomes were assessed from medical records. The LGI group achieved a lower GI than the HF group [mean (SD) 50 (5) vs. 58 (5); P < 0.001]. There were no differences in glycosylated hemoglobin, fructosamine, or lipids at 36 weeks or differences in birth weight [LGI 3.4 (0.4) kg vs. HF 3.4 (0.5) kg; P = 0.514], birth weight z score [LGI 0.31 (0.90) vs. HF 0.24 (1.07); P = 0.697], ponderal index [LGI 2.71 (0.22) vs. HF 2.69 (0.23) kg/m(3); P = 0.672], birth weight centile [LGI 46.2 (25.4) vs. HF 41.8 (25.6); P = 0.330], % fat mass [LGI 10 (4) vs. HF 10 (4); P = 0.789], or incidence of GDM. In intensively monitored women at risk for GDM, a low-GI diet and a healthy diet produce similar pregnancy outcomes. © 2016 by the American Diabetes Association. Readers may use this article as long as the work is properly cited, the use is educational and not for profit, and the work is not altered.

Sri Lankan rice mixed meals: effect on glycaemic index and contribution to daily dietary fibre requirement.

PubMed

Hettiaratchi, U P K; Ekanayake, S; Welihinda, J

2011-04-01

The glycaemic index (GI) concept ranks starchy foods according to the blood glucose responses following ingestion. When considering commonly consumed Sri Lankan meals, only a few can be categorised as low GI. However, a significant negative correlation between the GI of Sri Lankan meals and fibre content has been observed indicating the potential to reduce the GI of meals by incorporating naturally occurring sources of fibre. Thus, the objective of this study was to study the effect of increased edible quantities of fibre on the GI of rice meals consumed in Sri Lanka. Meal 1 consisted of rice with several meal accompaniments (lentil curry, boiled egg, coconut gravy and Centella asiatica (gotukola) leaves salad). Meal 2 contained similar constituents as meal 1 and a Lasia spinosa (kohila) rhizome salad. The composition of meal 3 was similar to meal 2 but contained Trichosanthes cucumerina (snake gourd) salad instead of Lasia spinosa salad. Meal 3 contained similar fibre contents as meal 1 and similar meal size as meal 2. The glycaemic indices of the three meals were determined with healthy individuals (n=10, age=20-30 yrs, BMI=24 +/- 3 kg/m2) using bread as the standard. Meals 1 and 3 contained total dietary fibre (TDF) contents of 15.2g. Meal 2 contained 16.3g TDF. The GI values of the three meals were 63 +/- 5, 57 +/- 5, 61 +/- 5 respectively and were not significantly different from one another (p>0.05). The GI of the rice mixed meal 2 was reduced by 9% when total edible dietary fibre content of the actual meal was increased by 7.2%. The study results show that the GI of rice mixed meals may be reduced by including naturally occurring sources of fibre with starchy staples while fulfilling daily dietary fibre requirement of an adult at low cost.

PillCam(TradeMark), a Noninvasive Endoscopic Device for the Measurement of Gastrointestinal Motility Changes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaksman, Zahman; Crady, Camille; Raju, G. S.; Putcha, Lakshmi

2007-01-01

Introduction: Bioavailability and effectiveness of drugs given by mouth are governed in part by gastrointestinal (GI) motility and function. Microgravity has been shown to decrease GI motility as indicated by a 3 fold increase in gastrointestinal transit time (GITT). The PillCam(TradeMark), an endoscopic camera embedded in a capsule, is a novel noninvasive and unobtrusive device that is used for the diagnosis of GI pathology. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of PillCam(TradeMark) as an alternative to the Lactulose Breath Hydrogen Test (LBHT) for estimating GI motility. The sensitivity and applicability of this device for detection and estimation of the effect of promethazine, a deterrent, and caffeine, a prokinetic, on GI motility were also examined. Method: In this semi-randomized cross-over design study, six male and six female subjects were administered the following 4 treatments: PillCam(TradeMark) alone, PillCam(TradeMark)+Lactulose (10g), PillCam(TradeMark)+caffeine (200mg), and PillCam(TradeMark)+Promethazine (50mg). Results: GITT ranged between 1:24 and 7:52 hr:min. Lactulose did not alter GITT. A significant increase in GITT was noticed after administration of PMZ when compared to values from PillCam(TradeMark) treatment alone or PillCam(TradeMark)+Lactulose treatment. No difference in GITT after caffeine treatment was noticed. While there were no gender related differences in GITT after administration of PillCam(TradeMark) or with lactulose, a significant difference (p<.05) between genders was observed after promethazine administration with mean GITT higher in males (5:50 hr:min) than females (4:15 hr:min). Conclusion: The PillCam(TradeMark) capsule is applicable for the determination of GITT using time stamped GI images. It can be successfully used for the assessment of drug induced changes in GI motility and therefore, may be applicable for microgravity and analog environment studies on GI motility and function.

Emergency transcatheter arterial embolization for massive gastrointestinal arterial hemorrhage.

PubMed

Shi, Zhong Xing; Yang, Jing; Liang, Hong Wei; Cai, Zhen Hua; Bai, Bin

2017-12-01

To evaluate the different arteriographic manifestations of acute arterial massive hemorrhage of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the efficacy of emergency transcatheter arterial embolization (ETAE).A total of 88 patients with acute massive GI bleeding who experienced failure of initial endoscopy and/or conservative treatment were referred to our interventional department for acute GI arteriography from January 2007 to June 2015. After locating the source of bleeding, appropriate embolic agents, such as spring coil, hydroxyl methyl acrylic acid gelatin microspheres, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles, etc., were used to embolize the targeted vessels. The angiographic manifestations and the effects of embolization of acute arterial massive hemorrhage of the GI tract were retrospectively analyzed.Of the 88 patients, 54 were diagnosed with arterial hemorrhage of the upper GI tract and 34 with arterial hemorrhage of the lower GI tract. Eighty cases were associated with positive angiography, which showed the following: contrast extravasation (only); gastroduodenal artery stenosis; pseudoaneurysm (only); pseudoaneurysm rupture with contrast extravasation; pseudoaneurysms merged with intestinal artery stenosis; GI angiodysplasia; and tumor vascular bleeding. Eight cases were diagnosed with negative angiography. Seven-two patients underwent successful hemostasis, and a total of 81 arteries were embolized. The technical and clinical success rates (no rebleeding within 30 days) in performing transcatheter embolization on patients with active bleeding were 100% and 84.71%, respectively (72 of 85). Within 30 days, the postoperative rebleeding rate was 15.29% (13/85). Of these rebleeding cases, 2 patients were formerly treated with "blind embolization," 7 underwent interventional embolic retreatment, and 3 had surgical operations. All cases were followed-up for 1 month, and 3 patients died from multiple organ failure. No serious complications such as bowel ischemia necrosis were observed.ETAE is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment; because of the diversified arteriographic manifestations of acute GI hemorrhage, the proper selection of embolic agents and the choice of reasonable embolization method are essential for successful hemostasis. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hypofractionated Proton Boost Combined with External Beam Radiotherapy for Treatment of Localized Prostate Cancer

PubMed Central

Johansson, Silvia; Åström, Lennart; Sandin, Fredrik; Isacsson, Ulf; Montelius, Anders; Turesson, Ingela

2012-01-01

Proton boost of 20 Gy in daily 5 Gy fractions followed by external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) of 50 Gy in daily 2 Gy fractions were given to 278 patients with prostate cancer with T1b to T4N0M0 disease. Fifty-three percent of the patients received neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (N-ADT). The medium followup was 57 months. The 5-year PSA progression-free survival was 100%, 95%, and 74% for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk patients, respectively. The toxicity evaluation was supported by a patient-reported questionnaire before every consultant visit. Cumulative probability and actuarial prevalence of genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities are presented according to the RTOG classification. N-ADT did not influence curability. Mild pretreatment GU-symptoms were found to be a strong predictive factor for GU-toxicity attributable to treatment. The actuarial prevalence declined over 3 to 5 years for both GU and GI toxicities, indicating slow resolution of epithelial damage to the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract. Bladder toxicities rather than gastrointestinal toxicities seem to be dose limiting. More than 5-year followup is necessary to reveal any sign of true progressive late side effects of the given treatment. Hypofractionated proton-boost combined with EBRT is associated with excellent curability of localized PC and acceptable frequencies of treatment toxicity. PMID:22848840

Estimation of glycaemic index of peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) cooked fruits and chips, and pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) pulp.

PubMed

Jiménez, Gin; Gómez, Georgina; Pérez, Ana M; Blanco-Metzler, Adriana

2012-09-01

The glycaemic index (GI) is a physiological measure of a food's potential to increase postprandial blood glucose, as compared to the effect produced by food taken as reference, such as glucose or white bread. Currently researchers and consumers are interested in low GI foods, since their consumption is associated with better weight control and reduced risk of incidence of chronic diseases, like diabetes. In the present study, the GI value for peach palm cooked fruit, peach palm chips and pitahaya pulp was estimated. The methodology established by the FAO/WHO for determining the GI of food was used. A total of 12 healthy, non-smoking volunteers were selected and they ingested the fore mentioned foods on different occasions, in 25 g portions of available carbohydrates, after 12-14 h overnight fast. Blood glucose levels were measured in 30 min intervals up to 120 min after ingestion. Average GI value was 48 +/- 11 for the pitahaya pulp and 35 +/- 6 for the peach palm cooked fruit, which may be classified as low glyceamic index foods. The GI of peach palm chips was 60 +/- 7, corresponding to a food with a moderate GI. The processing for producing the chips caused an increase in the GI value when compared to the cooked fruit, probably because the stages of miIling, moulding and baking promote availability of starch during hydrolysis by the digestive enzymes.

The glycaemic index values of foods containing fructose are affected by metabolic differences between subjects.

PubMed

Wolever, T M S; Jenkins, A L; Vuksan, V; Campbell, J

2009-09-01

Glycaemic responses are influenced by carbohydrate absorption rate, type of monosaccharide absorbed and the presence of fat; the effect of some of these factors may be modulated by metabolic differences between subjects. We hypothesized that glycaemic index (GI) values are affected by the metabolic differences between subjects for foods containing fructose or fat, but not for starchy foods. The GI values of white bread (WB), fruit leather (FL) and chocolate-chip cookies (CCC) (representing starch, fructose and fat, respectively) were determined in subjects (n=77) recruited to represent all 16 possible combinations of age (< or =40, >40 years), sex (male, female), ethnicity (Caucasian, non-Caucasian) and body mass index (BMI) (< or =25, >25 kg/m2) using glucose as the reference. At screening, fasting insulin, lipids, c-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate transaminase (AST) and waist circumference (WC) were measured. There were no significant main effects of age, sex, BMI or ethnicity on GI, but there were several food x subject-factor interactions. Different factors affected each food's area under the curve (AUC) and GI. The AUC after oral glucose was related to ethnicity, age and triglycerides (r 2=0.27); after WB to ethnicity, age, triglycerides, sex and CRP (r 2=0.43); after CCC to age and weight (r 2=0.18); and after FL to age and CRP (r 2=0.12). GI of WB was related to ethnicity (r 2=0.12) and of FL to AST, insulin and WC (r 2=0.23); but there were no significant correlations for CCC. The GI values of foods containing fructose might be influenced by metabolic differences between -subjects, whereas the GI of starchy foods might be affected by ethnicity. However, the proportion of variation explained by subject factors is small.

The serotonin receptor mediates changes in autonomic neurotransmission and gastrointestinal transit induced by heat-killed Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803.

PubMed

Horii, Y; Nakakita, Y; Misonou, Y; Nakamura, T; Nagai, K

2015-01-01

Lactobacilli exhibit several health benefits in mammals, including humans. Our previous reports established that heat-killed Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803 (SBC8803) increased both efferent gastric vagal nerve activity and afferent intestinal vagal nerve activity in rats. We speculated that this strain could be useful for the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In this study, we examined the effects of SBC8803 on peristalsis and the activity of the efferent celiac vagal nerve innervating the intestine in rats. First, we examined the effects of intraduodenal (ID) administration of SBC8803 on efferent celiac vagal nerve activity (efferent CVNA) in urethane-anesthetised rats using electrophysiological studies. The effects of intravenous injection of the serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist granisetron on changes in efferent CVNA due to ID administration of SBC8803 were also investigated. Finally, the effects of oral gavage of SBC8803 on GI transit were analysed using the charcoal propulsion method in conscious rats treated with or without granisetron. ID administration of SBC8803 increased efferent CVNA. Pretreatment with granisetron eliminated SBC8803-dependent changes in efferent CVNA. Furthermore, oral gavage of SBC8803 significantly accelerated GI transit, while pretreatment with granisetron inhibited GI transit. Our findings suggested that SBC8803 increased efferent CVNA and GI transit of charcoal meal via 5-HT3 receptors. Moreover, SBC8803 enhanced the activity of efferent vagal nerve innervating the intestine and promoted peristalsis via 5-HT3 receptors.

The effect of chronic progressive-dose sodium bicarbonate ingestion on CrossFit-like performance: A double-blind, randomized cross-over trial

PubMed Central

Zawieja, Emilia E.; Podgórski, Tomasz; Łoniewski, Igor; Zawieja, Bogna E.

2018-01-01

Background Sodium bicarbonate (SB) has been proposed as an ergogenic aid, as it improves high-intensity and resistance exercise performance. However, no studies have yet investigated SB application in CrossFit. This study examined the effects of chronic, progressive-dose SB ingestion on CrossFit-like performance and aerobic capacity. Methods In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial, 21 CrossFit-trained participants were randomly allocated to 2 groups and underwent 2 trials separated by a 14-day washout period. Participants ingested either up to 150 mg∙kg-1 of SB in a progressive-dose regimen or placebo for 10 days. Before and after each trial, Fight Gone Bad (FGB) and incremental cycling (ICT) tests were performed. In order to examine biochemical responses, blood samples were obtained prior to and 3 min after completing each exercise test. Results No gastrointestinal (GI) side effects were reported during the entire protocol. The overall FGB performance improved under SB by ~6.1% (p<0.001) and it was ~3.1% higher compared to post placebo (PLApost) (p = 0.040). The number of repetitions completed in each round also improved under SB (mean from baseline: +5.8% to +6.4%). Moreover, in ICT, the time to ventilatory threshold (VT) (~8:25 min SBpost vs. ~8:00 min PLApost, p = 0.020), workload at VT (~218 W SBpost vs. ~208 W PLApost, p = 0.037) and heart rate at VT (~165 bpm SBpost vs. ~161 bpm PLApost, p = 0.030) showed higher SBpost than PLApost. Furthermore, the maximum carbon dioxide production increased under SB by ~4.8% (from ~3604 mL∙min-1 to ~3776 mL∙min-1, p = 0.049). Pyruvate concentration and creatine kinase activity before ICT showed higher SBpost than PLApost (~0.32 mmol∙L-1 vs. ~0.26 mmol∙L-1, p = 0.001; ~275 U∙L-1 vs. ~250 U∙L-1, p = 0.010, respectively). However, the small sample size limits the wide-application of our results. Conclusions Progressive-dose SB ingestion regimen eliminated GI side effects and improved CrossFit-like performance, as well as delayed ventilatory threshold occurrence. PMID:29771966

Effects of barley β-glucan-enriched flour fractions on the glycaemic index of bread.

PubMed

Finocchiaro, Franca; Ferrari, Barbara; Gianinetti, Alberto; Scazzina, Francesca; Pellegrini, Nicoletta; Caramanico, Rosita; Salati, Claudia; Shirvanian, Vigen; Stanca, Antonio Michele

2012-02-01

The aim of this research was to evaluate β-glucan-enriched flours, obtained from barleys with either normal or waxy starch, for their effects on the glycaemic index (GI) and the quality of bread. Rheological results confirmed that when barley flour was included in the dough the overall quality of bread slightly worsened. However, positive consequences on glycaemia were obtained with the normal starch barley: the GI of all-wheat bread (82.8 ± 7.2) was significantly reduced (57.2 ± 7.9) when 40% of wheat flour was substituted with β-glucan-enriched barley flour (6.0% ± 0.1 β-glucan in the final flour blend). In contrast, this positive effect was significantly reduced (GI: 70.1 ± 9.1) when 40% of wheat flour was substituted with the β-glucan-enriched flour of a waxy barley (CDC Alamo; 6.6 ± 0.2 β-glucan in the final flour blend), suggesting that the ability of β-glucans to lower the GI was affected by the barley starch-type.

Are There Spillover Effects from the GI Bill? The Mental Health of Wives of Korean War Veterans.

PubMed

Vable, Anusha M; Kawachi, Ichiro; Canning, David; Glymour, M Maria; Jimenez, Marcia P; Subramanian, S V

2016-01-01

The Korean War GI Bill provided economic benefits for veterans, thereby potentially improving their health outcomes. However potential spillover effects on veteran wives have not been evaluated. Data from wives of veterans eligible for the Korean War GI Bill (N = 128) and wives of non-veterans (N = 224) from the Health and Retirement Study were matched on race and coarsened birth year and childhood health using coarsened exact matching. Number of depressive symptoms in 2010 (average age = 78) were assessed using a modified, validated Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale. Regression analyses were stratified into low (mother < 8 years schooling / missing data, N = 95) or high (mother ≥ 8 years schooling, N = 257) childhood socio-economic status (cSES) groups, and were adjusted for birth year and childhood health, as well as respondent's educational attainment in a subset of analyses. Husband's Korean War GI Bill eligibility did not predict depressive symptoms among veteran wives in pooled analysis or cSES stratified analyses; analyses in the low cSES subgroup were underpowered (N = 95, β = -0.50, 95% Confidence Interval: (-1.35, 0.35), p = 0.248, power = 0.28). We found no evidence of a relationship between husband's Korean War GI Bill eligibility and wives' mental health in these data, however there may be a true effect that our analysis was underpowered to detect.

Current state of knowledge: the canine gastrointestinal microbiome.

PubMed

Hooda, Seema; Minamoto, Yasushi; Suchodolski, Jan S; Swanson, Kelly S

2012-06-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) microbes have important roles in the nutritional, immunological, and physiologic processes of the host. Traditional cultivation techniques have revealed bacterial density ranges from 10(4) to 10(5) colony forming units (CFU)/g in the stomach, from 10(5) to 10(7) CFU/g in the small intestine, and from 10(9) to 10(11) CFU/g in the colon of healthy dogs. As a small number of bacterial species can be grown and studied in culture, however, progress was limited until the recent emergence of DNA-based techniques. In recent years, DNA sequencing technology and bioinformatics have allowed for better phylogenetic and functional/metabolic characterization of the canine gut microbiome. Predominant phyla include Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. Studies using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene pyrosequencing have demonstrated spatial differences along the GI tract and among microbes adhered to the GI mucosa compared to those in intestinal contents or feces. Similar to humans, GI microbiome dysbiosis is common in canine GI diseases such as chronic diarrhea and inflammatory bowel diseases. DNA-based assays have also identified key pathogens contributing to such conditions, including various Clostridium, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Escherichia spp. Moreover, nutritionists have applied DNA-based techniques to study the effects of dietary interventions such as dietary fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics on the canine GI microbiome and associated health indices. Despite recent advances in the field, the canine GI microbiome is far from being fully characterized and a deeper characterization of the phylogenetic and functional/metabolic capacity of the GI microbiome in health and disease is needed. This paper provides an overview of recent studies performed to characterize the canine GI microbiome.

Variation in Care of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Patients in Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America Partners: Role of Gastroenterologist Practice Setting in Disease Outcomes and Quality Process Measures.

PubMed

Weaver, Kimberly N; Kappelman, Michael D; Sandler, Robert S; Martin, Christopher F; Chen, Wenli; Anton, Kristen; Long, Millie D

2016-11-01

As variation in care has previously been linked to quality, we aimed to describe variations in inflammatory bowel diseases care by gastroenterology (GI) practice setting. We performed a cross-sectional study within the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America Partners and used bivariate analyses to compare patient characteristics by GI practice setting (GI-academic [GIA], GI-private, or GI-other). Regression models were used to describe the effects of provider type on steroid use, disease activity, and the quality of life. The study included 12,083 patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (7576 with Crohn's disease [CD] and 4507 with ulcerative colitis [UC]). Nearly 95% reported visiting a GI provider annually. Also, CD patients seen by GIA were younger, better educated, used less 5-aminosalicylate agents, and had higher biologic and immunomodulator use (P < 0.001 for all). On multivariate analysis of CD patients, GIA used less steroids when compared with GI-private (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.67-1.06) or GI-other (odds ratio, 0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.49-0.89). GIA patients were more likely to be in remission, have flu vaccine, and have better quality of life. UC patients seen by GIA were younger, had more hospitalizations, and previous surgery (P < 0.001 for all). No differences existed for steroid use, remission, flu vaccine, or quality of life for UC care on bivariate or multivariate analyses. Significant variations in care patterns and quality measures exist for CD across GI provider types, without similar variation in UC care. Interventions to reduce variations in care could improve the quality of care in CD.

Effects of High Power Lasers, No. 6 March - October 1975

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-11-12

FZh GiA GiK IAN Arm IAN Az 1 I Avtomatika i tclemekhanika Acta physica polonica Akadcmiya nauk Armyanskoy SSR. Doklady Akademiya nauk...matematika i mckhanika Physica status solidl Pribory i sistemy upravlcniya Pribory i tekhnika ekspcrimenta Radiotekhnika Radiotekhnika i

NRG Oncology Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 0822: A Phase 2 Study of Preoperative Chemoradiation Therapy Using Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy in Combination With Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin for Patients With Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hong, Theodore S., E-mail: tshong1@mgh.harvard.edu; Moughan, Jennifer; Garofalo, Michael C.

Purpose: To evaluate the rate of gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity of neoadjuvant chemoradiation with capecitabine, oxaliplatin, and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in cT3-4 rectal cancer. Methods and Materials: Patients with localized, nonmetastatic T3 or T4 rectal cancer <12 cm from the anal verge were enrolled in a prospective, multi-institutional, single-arm study of preoperative chemoradiation. Patients received 45 Gy with IMRT in 25 fractions, followed by a 3-dimensional conformal boost of 5.4 Gy in 3 fractions with concurrent capecitabine/oxaliplatin (CAPOX). Surgery was performed 4 to 8 weeks after the completion of therapy. Patients were recommended to receive FOLFOX chemotherapy after surgery. The primary endpoint ofmore » the study was acute grade 2 to 5 GI toxicity. Seventy-one patients provided 80% probability to detect at least a 12% reduction in the specified GI toxicity with the treatment of CAPOX and IMRT, at a significance level of .10 (1-sided). Results: Seventy-nine patients were accrued, of whom 68 were evaluable. Sixty-one patients (89.7%) had cT3 disease, and 37 (54.4%) had cN (+) disease. Postoperative chemotherapy was given to 42 of 68 patients. Fifty-eight patients had target contours drawn per protocol, 5 patients with acceptable variation, and 5 patients with unacceptable variations. Thirty-five patients (51.5%) experienced grade ≥2 GI toxicity, 12 patients (17.6%) experienced grade 3 or 4 diarrhea, and pCR was achieved in 10 patients (14.7%). With a median follow-up time of 3.98 years, the 4-year rate of locoregional failure was 7.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0%-13.7%). The 4-year rates of OS and DFS were 82.9% (95% CI: 70.1%-90.6%) and 60.6% (95% CI: 47.5%-71.4%), respectively. Conclusion: The use of IMRT in neoadjuvant chemoradiation for rectal cancer did not reduce the rate of GI toxicity.« less

The effect of protein and glycemic index on children's body composition: the DiOGenes randomized study.

PubMed

Papadaki, Angeliki; Linardakis, Manolis; Larsen, Thomas M; van Baak, Marleen A; Lindroos, Anna Karin; Pfeiffer, Andreas F H; Martinez, J Alfredo; Handjieva-Darlenska, Teodora; Kunesová, Marie; Holst, Claus; Astrup, Arne; Saris, Wim H M; Kafatos, Anthony

2010-11-01

To investigate the effect of protein and glycemic index (GI) on body composition among European children in the randomized, 6-month dietary intervention DiOGenes (diet, obesity, and genes) family-based study. In the study, 827 children (381 boys and 446 girls), aged 5 to 18 years, completed baseline examinations. Families with parents who lost ≥ 8% of their weight during an 8-week run-in low-calorie diet period were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 ad libitum diets: low protein (LP)/low glycemic index (LGI); LP/high GI (HGI); high protein (HP)/LGI; HP/HGI; and control diet. The target difference was 15 GI U between the LGI/HGI groups and 13 protein percentage points between the LP/HP groups. There were 658 children examined after 4 weeks. Advice on food-choice modification was provided at 6 visits during this period. No advice on weight loss was provided because the focus of the study was the ability of the diets to affect outcomes through appetite regulation. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 26. In the study, 465 children (58.1%) completed all assessments. The achieved differences between the GI and protein groups were 2.3 GI U and 4.9 protein percentage points, respectively. The LP/HGI group increased body fat percentage significantly more than the other groups (P = .040; partial η(2) = 0.039), and the percentage of overweight/obese children in the HP/LGI group decreased significantly during the intervention (P = .031). Neither GI nor protein had an isolated effect on body composition. However, the LP/HGI combination increased body fat, whereas the HP/LGI combination was protective against obesity in this sample of children.

The effects of probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic diets containing Bacillus coagulans and inulin on rat intestinal microbiota

PubMed Central

Abhari, Kh; Shekarforoush, S. S; Sajedianfard, J; Hosseinzadeh, S; Nazifi, S

2015-01-01

An in vivo experiment was conducted to study the effects of probiotic Bacillus coagulans spores, with and without prebiotic, inulin, on gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota of healthy rats and its potentiality to survive in the GI tract. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=12) and fed as follows: standard diet (control), standard diet supplied with 5% w/w long chain inulin (prebiotic), standard diet with 109/day spores of B. coagulans by orogastric gavage (probiotic), and standard diet with 5% w/w long chain inulin and 109 spores/day of B. coagulans by orogastric gavage (synbiotic). Rats were fed the diets for 30 days. At day 10, 20 and 30 of experiment, 24 h post administration, four rats from each group were randomly selected and after faecal collection were sacrificed. Small intestine, cecum, and colon were excised from each rat and used for microbial analysis. Administration of synbiotic and probiotic diets led to a significant (P<0.05) increment in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), total aerobic and total anaerobic population compared the prebiotic and control diets. A significant decrease in Enterobacteriaceae counts of various segments of GI tract (except small intestine) in synbiotic, probiotic and prebiotic fed groups were also seen. The obvious decline in spores count through passing GI tract and high surviving spore counts in faecal samples showed that spores are not a normal resident of GI microbiota and affect intestinal microbiota by temporary proliferation. In conclusion, the present study clearly showed probiotic B. coagulans was efficient in beneficially modulating GI microbiota and considering transitional characteristics of B. coagulans, daily consumption of probiotic products is necessary for any long-term effect. PMID:27175187

The effects of probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic diets containing Bacillus coagulans and inulin on rat intestinal microbiota.

PubMed

Abhari, Kh; Shekarforoush, S S; Sajedianfard, J; Hosseinzadeh, S; Nazifi, S

2015-01-01

An in vivo experiment was conducted to study the effects of probiotic Bacillus coagulans spores, with and without prebiotic, inulin, on gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota of healthy rats and its potentiality to survive in the GI tract. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=12) and fed as follows: standard diet (control), standard diet supplied with 5% w/w long chain inulin (prebiotic), standard diet with 10(9)/day spores of B. coagulans by orogastric gavage (probiotic), and standard diet with 5% w/w long chain inulin and 10(9) spores/day of B. coagulans by orogastric gavage (synbiotic). Rats were fed the diets for 30 days. At day 10, 20 and 30 of experiment, 24 h post administration, four rats from each group were randomly selected and after faecal collection were sacrificed. Small intestine, cecum, and colon were excised from each rat and used for microbial analysis. Administration of synbiotic and probiotic diets led to a significant (P<0.05) increment in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), total aerobic and total anaerobic population compared the prebiotic and control diets. A significant decrease in Enterobacteriaceae counts of various segments of GI tract (except small intestine) in synbiotic, probiotic and prebiotic fed groups were also seen. The obvious decline in spores count through passing GI tract and high surviving spore counts in faecal samples showed that spores are not a normal resident of GI microbiota and affect intestinal microbiota by temporary proliferation. In conclusion, the present study clearly showed probiotic B. coagulans was efficient in beneficially modulating GI microbiota and considering transitional characteristics of B. coagulans, daily consumption of probiotic products is necessary for any long-term effect.

YH12852, a potent and highly selective 5-HT4 receptor agonist, significantly improves both upper and lower gastrointestinal motility in a guinea pig model of postoperative ileus.

PubMed

Hussain, Z; Lee, Y J; Yang, H; Jeong, E J; Sim, J Y; Park, H

2017-10-01

Postoperative ileus (POI) is a transient gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility that commonly develops after abdominal surgery. YH12852, a novel, potent and highly selective 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 (5-HT 4 ) receptor agonist, has been shown to improve both upper and lower GI motility in various animal studies and may have applications for the treatment of POI. Here, we investigated the effects and mechanism of action of YH12852 in a guinea pig model of POI to explore its therapeutic potential. The guinea pig model of POI was created by laparotomy, evisceration, and gentle manipulation of the cecum for 60 seconds, followed by closure with sutures under anesthesia. Group 1 received an oral administration of vehicle or YH12852 (1, 3, 10 or 30 mg/kg) only, while POI Group 2 was intraperitoneally pretreated with vehicle or 5-HT 4 receptor antagonist GR113808 (10 mg/kg) prior to oral dosing of vehicle or YH12852 (3 or 10 mg/kg). Upper GI transit was evaluated by assessing the migration of a charcoal mixture in the small intestine, while lower GI transit was assessed via measurement of fecal pellet output (FPO). YH12852 significantly accelerated upper and lower GI transit at the doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg and reached its maximal effect at 10 mg/kg. These effects were significantly blocked by pretreatment of GR113808 10 mg/kg. Oral administration of YH12852 significantly accelerates and restores delayed upper and lower GI transit in a guinea pig model of POI. This drug may serve as a useful candidate for the treatment of postoperative ileus. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

TU-H-CAMPUS-TeP2-02: FLASH Irradiation Improves the Therapeutic Index Following GI Tract Irradiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schueler, E; Trovati, S; King, G

Purpose: To investigate and characterize the radiobiological effectiveness of very high dose rate radiotherapy (FLASH) compared to conventional irradiation in an in vivo model. Methods: The gastrointestinal (GI) tract of C57BL/6 mice were irradiated with doses ranging between 10 and 18 Gy using a custom stereotactic jig. A Varian Clinac 21EX was modified to allow dose rates ranging from 0.05 to 240 Gy/s at the position of the mirror. With the gantry at 180 degrees, the jig holding the individual animals was placed above the mirror to take advantage of the reduced source to target distance. Mice were irradiated withmore » 20MeV electrons. Following irradiation, the mice were monitored twice daily for morbidity and daily for weight changes. Results: Mice irradiated with FLASH irradiation had lower weight loss compared to the mice receiving conventional irradiation. Following FLASH irradiation, a maximum weight loss of ∼20% was observed at day 6 with subsequent recovery, while following conventional irradiation, higher weight losses was observed with fewer instances of recovery. Concerning survival, all mice in the conventionally irradiated groups had a 100% mortality in the range of 15.5–18 Gy, while the mice irradiated with FLASH irradiation had a 100% survival in the same range. Conclusion: These results have demonstrated proof of principle that FLASH irradiations have a dramatic impact on the overall survival of mice following GI tract irradiations. If the increase in the therapeutic window can be validated and understood, this would revolutionize the field of radiation oncology and lead to increased cure rates with reduced side effects following treatment, resulting in increased quality of life for cancer survivors. Funding: DoD, Award#:W81XWH-14-1-0014, Weston Havens Foundation, Bio-X (Stanford University), the Office of the Dean of the Medical School, the Office of the Provost (Stanford University), and the Swedish Childhood Cancer Foundation; BL and PM are founders of TibaRay,Inc.; BL and PM have received research grants from Varian and RaySearch Laboratory.« less

Efficacy of rivastigmine tartrate, transdermal system, in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Nieto, Rachel A; Deardorff, William James; Grossberg, George T

2016-01-01

As the most common major neurocognitive disorder, Alzheimer's disease (AD) will play an increasingly important role both socially and financially as the population ages. Approved treatments for AD are symptomatic in nature and show modest improvements in cognition and global functioning among patients with AD. This article focuses on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and safety of the transdermal patch form of the cholinesterase inhibitor rivastigmine. The rivastigmine transdermal system is approved for the treatment of patients with mild, moderate, and severe AD. Three randomized trials have shown the rivastigmine patch to be efficacious and tolerable across all stages of AD. The rivastigmine patch offers several advantages over the capsule form, including decreased peak to trough plasma fluctuations, reduced rates of nausea and vomiting, better treatment adherence, higher probability of reaching the target dose, ease of administration, and greater satisfaction among caregivers. These factors may be especially important in patients with severe AD, in which patients are more vulnerable to adverse side effects from higher doses. While the patch is more expensive than generic therapies, patient populations that may benefit from the patch include those that are particularly sensitive to GI side effects, have chronic gastrointestinal problems, have difficulty swallowing medications, or have failed to respond with high doses of other generic options.

Overcoming the exacerbating effects of ranitidine on NSAID-induced small intestinal toxicity with quercetin: Providing a complete GI solution.

PubMed

Singh, Devendra Pratap; Borse, Swapnil P; Nivsarkar, Manish

2017-06-25

There is a need to find/discover novel leads to treat complex and/or multi-factorial-pathogenic disease(s) like Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)-induced gastroenteropathy or gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity as it has emerged as an important medical and socioeconomic problem. There is no approved therapeutic strategy to prevent NSAID-induced enteropathic damage and highly effective gastro-protective drugs such as ranitidine hydrochloride (RAN) exacerbate it. In this purview, the multi target drug discovery approach (MTDD), combination approach and hit to lead strategies based on the foundation of ethnopharmacology and/or reverse pharmacology holds strong potential. Hence, the primary objectives of the current study were to explore the mechanism behind the preventative/curative effects of quercetin (QCT) on RAN exacerbated diclofenac sodium (DIC)-induced enteropathic damage and to assess the effects of co-administration of QCT and RAN on DIC-induced gastropathic damage in rats. Rats were treated twice daily with QCT (35, 50 and 100 mg kg -1 PO) and/or RAN (15 mg kg -1 PO) or vehicle for a total of 10 days. In some experiments, DIC (9 mg kg -1 ) was administered orally twice daily for the final 5 days of RAN/QCT + RAN/vehicle administration. Rats in all the groups were fasted after the last dose on 9th day (free access to water). 12 h after the last dose on 10th day, rats were euthanized and their GI tracts were assessed for haemorrhagic damage, alteration in xanthine oxidase (XO) activity, lipid peroxidation, intestinal permeability and GI luminal pH alterations along with haematological and biochemical estimations. The macroscopic, haematological, biochemical and histological evidences suggested that, though, RAN prevented the DIC-induced gastric injury, it exacerbated enteropathic damage. However, QCT not only significantly attenuated the RAN-induced exacerbation of enteropathic damage caused by DIC at the doses of 50 and 100 mg kg -1 , but, this combination provided complete GI safety against the toxic effects of DIC too. The mechanisms behind the gastro-enteroprotective ability of QCT may be related to its ability to inhibit XO activity thus, preventing enhanced oxidative stress on GI tissues, prevent lipid peroxidation, IP alteration and alteration in GI luminal pH. The preventative effects of QCT on NSAID-induced gastroenteropathy were ably supported by the QCT induced prevention of GI blood loss and serum protein loss. These pharmaco-mechanistic results of QCT are aligning to combination based MTDD approach and hence we propose it as a promising lead to treat NSAID-gastroenteropahty and related complications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Long-term Coexposure to Hexavalent Chromium and B[a]P Causes Tissue-Specific Differential Biological Effects in Liver and Gastrointestinal Tract of Mice

PubMed Central

Sánchez-Martín, Francisco Javier; Fan, Yunxia; Carreira, Vinicius; Ovesen, Jerald L.; Vonhandorf, Andrew; Xia, Ying; Puga, Alvaro

2015-01-01

Complex mixtures of environmental agents often cause mixture-specific health effects that cannot be accounted for by a single mechanism. To study the biological effects of exposure to a mixture of chromium-VI and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), often found together in the environment, we exposed mice for 60 days to 0, 55, 550, or 5500 ppb Cr(VI) in drinking water followed by 90 days of coexposure to B[a]P at 0, 1.25, 12.5, or 125 mg/kg/day and examined liver and gastrointestinal (GI) tract for exposure effects. In the liver, the mixture caused more significant histopathology than expected from the sum of effects of the individual components, while in the GI tract, Cr(VI) alone caused significant enterocyte hypertrophy and increases in cell proliferation and DNA damage that were also observed in mice coexposed to B[a]P. Expression of genes involved in drug metabolism, tumor suppression, oxidative stress, and inflammation was altered in mixed exposures relative to control and to singly exposed mice. Drug metabolism and oxidative stress genes were upregulated and tumor suppressor and inflammation genes downregulated in the proximal GI tract, whereas most markers were upregulated in the distal GI tract and downregulated in the liver. Oral exposure to Cr(VI) and B[a]P mixtures appears to have tissue-specific differential consequences in liver and GI tract that cannot be predicted from the effects of each individual toxicant. Tissue specificity may be particularly critical in cases of extended exposure to mixtures of these agents, as may happen in the occupational setting or in areas where drinking water contains elevated levels of Cr(VI). PMID:25820237

Effects of High Power Lasers, Number 4

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-10-31

KhMM FMiM FTP FTT FZh GiA GiK IAN Arm IAN Az Avtomatika i tclctnukhanika Acta physica polonica Akadcmiya na,uk Armyanskoy SSR. Doklady...obraztsy, tovarnyye znaki Postepy firyki Physics abstracts Prikladnaya mekhanikö Prikladnaya matcmatika i mckhanika Physica status solidi Pribory i

Application of Pyridostigmine in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders: A Case Series.

PubMed

Manini, Mhd Louai; Camilleri, Michael; Grothe, Rayna; Di Lorenzo, Carlo

2018-04-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders are common in children. Treatment is challenging with limited medical and surgical options. Pyridostigmine, an acetyl cholinesterase inhibitor, increases acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction promoting intestinal contractions. Little is known about the role and dosing of pyridostigmine in pediatric GI motility disorders. We present a case series of children with GI dysmotility managed with oral pyridostigmine. Patients' diagnoses include chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, gastroparesis with delayed small bowel transit, chronic constipation with failure to thrive, and prolonged ileus after pelvic surgery with chronic opioid use. Pyridostigmine was effective and safe in all cases. Pyridostigmine decreased abdominal distention, increased bowel movement frequency, and improved enteral feeding tolerance. Effective dosing ranged between 0.25-2.0 mg/kg/day. One patient experienced cramping abdominal pain while on pyridostigmine, but pain resolved after medication was discontinued. We found oral pyridostigmine to be helpful in children with different GI motility problems. Pyridostigmine should be considered in such patients when other treatment interventions have not been beneficial.

The use of H2 antagonists in treating and preventing NSAID-induced mucosal damage.

PubMed

Tuskey, Anne; Peura, David

2013-01-01

Pain affects the quality of life for millions of individuals and is a major reason for healthcare utilization. As populations age, medical personnel will need to manage more and more patients suffering from pain associated with degenerative and inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are an effective treatment for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain; however, their use is associated with potentially significant gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity. Guidelines suggest various strategies to prevent problems in those at risk for NSAID-associated GI complications. In this article, we review the data supporting one such strategy - the use of histamine type-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) - for the prevention of GI adverse events in NSAID users. Older studies suggest that high-dose H2RAs are effective in preventing upper GI ulcers and dyspepsia. This suggestion was recently confirmed during clinical trials with a new ibuprofen/famotidine combination that reduced the risk of ulcers by 50% compared with ibuprofen alone.

Epigenetic Effects of Ethanol on the Liver and Gastrointestinal System

PubMed Central

Shukla, Shivendra D.; Lim, Robert W.

2013-01-01

The widening web of epigenetic regulatory mechanisms also encompasses ethanol-induced changes in the gastrointestinal (GI)–hepatic system. In the past few years, increasing evidence has firmly established that alcohol modifies several epigenetic parameters in the GI tract and liver. The major pathways affected include DNA methylation, different site-specific modifications in histone proteins, and microRNAs. Ethanol metabolism, cell-signaling cascades, and oxidative stress have been implicated in these responses. Furthermore, ethanol-induced fatty liver (i.e., steatohepatitis) and progression of liver cancer (i.e., hepatic carcinoma) may be consequences of the altered epigenetics. Modification of gene and/or protein expression via epigenetic changes also may contribute to the cross-talk among the GI tract and the liver as well as to systemic changes involving other organs. Thus, epigenetic effects of ethanol may have a central role in the various pathophysiological responses induced by ethanol in multiple organs and mediated via the liver–GI axis. PMID:24313164

The use of H2 antagonists in treating and preventing NSAID-induced mucosal damage

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Pain affects the quality of life for millions of individuals and is a major reason for healthcare utilization. As populations age, medical personnel will need to manage more and more patients suffering from pain associated with degenerative and inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are an effective treatment for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain; however, their use is associated with potentially significant gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity. Guidelines suggest various strategies to prevent problems in those at risk for NSAID-associated GI complications. In this article, we review the data supporting one such strategy - the use of histamine type-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) - for the prevention of GI adverse events in NSAID users. Older studies suggest that high-dose H2RAs are effective in preventing upper GI ulcers and dyspepsia. This suggestion was recently confirmed during clinical trials with a new ibuprofen/famotidine combination that reduced the risk of ulcers by 50% compared with ibuprofen alone. PMID:24267478

Modeling the Frequency and Costs Associated with Postsurgical Gastrointestinal Adverse Events for Tapentadol IR versus Oxycodone IR

PubMed Central

Paris, Andrew; Kozma, Chris M.; Chow, Wing; Patel, Anisha M.; Mody, Samir H.; Kim, Myoung S.

2013-01-01

Background Few studies have estimated the economic effect of using an opioid that is associated with lower rates of gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events (AEs) than another opioid for postsurgical pain. Objective To estimate the number of postsurgical GI events and incremental hospital costs, including potential savings, associated with lower GI AE rates, for tapentadol immediate release (IR) versus oxycodone IR, using a literature-based calculator. Methods An electronic spreadsheet–based cost calculator was developed to estimate the total number of GI AEs (ie, nausea, vomiting, or constipation) and incremental costs to a hospital when using tapentadol IR 100 mg versus oxycodone IR 15 mg, in a hypothetical cohort of 1500 hospitalized patients requiring short-acting opioids for postsurgical pain. Data inputs were chosen from recently published, well-designed studies, including GI AE rates from a previously published phase 3 clinical trial of postsurgical patients who received these 2 opioids; GI event–related incremental length of stay from a large US hospital database; drug costs using wholesale acquisition costs in 2011 US dollars; and average hospitalization cost from the 2009 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database. The base case assumed that 5% (chosen as a conservative estimate) of patients admitted to the hospital would shift from oxycodone IR to tapentadol IR. Results In this hypothetical cohort of 1500 hospitalized patients, replacing 5% of oxycodone IR 15-mg use with tapentadol IR 100-mg use predicted reductions in the total number of GI events from 1095 to 1085, and in the total cost of GI AEs from $2,978,400 to $2,949,840. This cost reduction translates to a net savings of $22,922 after factoring in drug cost. For individual GI events, the net savings were $26,491 for nausea; $12,212 for vomiting; and $7187 for constipation. Conclusion Using tapentadol IR in place of a traditional μ-opioid shows the potential for reduced GI events and subsequent cost-savings in the postsurgical hospital setting. In the absence of sufficient real-world data, this literature-based cost calculator may assist hospital Pharmacy & Therapeutics committees in their evaluation of the costs of opioid-related GI events. PMID:24991383

The influence of monovalent cations on trimeric G protein G(i)1α activity in HEK293 cells stably expressing DOR-G(i)1α (Cys(351)-Ile(351)) fusion protein.

PubMed

Vošahlíková, M; Svoboda, P

2011-01-01

The effect of monovalent cations on trimeric G protein G(i)1α was measured at equimolar concentration of chloride anion in pertussis-toxin (PTX)-treated HEK293 cells stably expressing PTX-insensitive DOR- G(i)1α (Cys(351)-Ile(351)) fusion protein by high-affinity [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding assay. The high basal level of binding was detected in absence of DOR agonist and monovalent ions and this high level was inhibited with the order of: Na(+) > K(+) > Li(+). The first significant inhibition was detected at 1 mM NaCl. The inhibition by monovalent ions was reversed by increasing concentrations of DOR agonist DADLE. The maximum DADLE response was also highest for sodium and decreased in the order of: Na(+) > K(+) ~ Li(+). Our data indicate i) an inherently high activity of trimeric G protein G(i)1α when expressed within DOR- G(i)1α fusion protein and determined in the absence of monovalent cations, ii) preferential sensitivity of DOR- G(i)1alpha to sodium as far as maximum of agonist response is involved.

Development of the rectal dosage form with silver-coated glass beads for local-action applications in lower sections of the gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Siczek, Krzysztof; Fichna, Jakub; Zatorski, Hubert; Karolewicz, Bożena; Klimek, Leszek; Owczarek, Artur

2018-03-01

Recent findings indicating the anti-inflammatory action of silver preparations through modulation of the gut microbiota and apoptosis of inflammatory cells predestine silver use in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of our study was to validate the possibility of effective silver release from silver-coated glass beads for anti-inflammatory local application in the lower sections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Silver-coated glass beads were prepared using magnetron method. Release of silver from the silver-coated glass bead surface was carried out in BIO-DIS reciprocating cylinder apparatus. Erosion of silver coating and indirect estimation of the silver release dynamics was assessed using scanning electron microscope. Rectal suppositories containing silver-coated glass beads were prepared using five different methods (M1-M5) and X-ray scanned for their composition. The XR microanalysis and the chemical composition analysis evidenced for a rapid (within 30 min) release of nearly 50% of silver from the coating of the glass beads, which remained stable up to 24 h of incubation. The most homogeneous distribution of beads in the entire volume of the suppository was obtained for formulation M5, where the molten base was poured into mold placed in an ice bath, and the beads were added after 10 s. Our study is the first to present the concept of enclosing silver-coated glass beads in the lipophilic suppository base to attenuate inflammation in the lower GI tract and promises efficient treatment with reduced side effects.

Macronutrient Composition and Food Form Affect Glucose and Insulin Responses in Humans

PubMed Central

Shafaeizadeh, Shila; Muhardi, Leilani; van de Heijning, Bert J. M.; van der Beek, Eline M.

2018-01-01

Glycaemic index (GI) is used as an indicator to guide consumers in making healthier food choices. We compared the GI, insulin index (II), and the area under the curve for blood glucose and insulin as glucose (GR) and insulin responses (IR) of a newly developed liquid nutritional formula with one commercially available liquid product with different types of carbohydrates. We then evaluated the glucose and insulin responses of two test foods with comparable energy density and protein percentage but presented in different food forms (liquid vs. solid). Fourteen healthy women participated in the study. GI, II, GR, and IR were assessed after (independent) consumption of two liquid products and a solid breakfast meal. The two liquid foods showed comparable GI, whilst the liquid form appeared to produce lower median GI (25 vs. 54), and II (52 vs. 98) values compared to the solid breakfast (p < 0.02). The median GR and IR for solid breakfast were respectively 44% and 45% higher compared to the liquid product (p < 0.02). Liquid formulas with different carbohydrate qualities produced comparable glucose responses, while foods with comparable energy density and protein percentage but different food form elicited differential effects on GI, II, GR, and IR. Nutrient quality and food form need to be taken into consideration when developing low GI products to manage glycaemic responses. PMID:29419785

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) blunt the response of Neuropeptide Y/Agouti-related peptide (NPY/AgRP) glucose inhibited (GI) neurons to decreased glucose

PubMed Central

Hao, Lihong; Sheng, Zhenyu; Potian, Joseph; Deak, Adam; Rohowsky-Kochan, Christine; Routh, Vanessa H.

2016-01-01

A population of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurons which co-express Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) are inhibited at physiological levels of brain glucose and activated when glucose levels decline (e.g. glucose-inhibited or GI neurons). Fasting enhances the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by low glucose. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhibits the enhanced activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by low glucose following a fast. Mice which express green fluorescent protein (GFP) on their NPY promoter were used to identify NPY/AgRP neurons. Fasting for 24 hours and LPS injection decreased blood glucose levels. As we have found previously, fasting increased c-fos expression in NPY/AgRP neurons and increased the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by decreased glucose. As we predicted, LPS blunted these effects of fasting at the 24 hour time point. Moreover, the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) blocked the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by decreased glucose. These data suggest that LPS and TNFα may alter glucose and energy homeostasis, in part, due to changes in the glucose sensitivity of NPY/AgRP neurons. Interestingly, our findings also suggest that NPY/AgRP-GI neurons use a distinct mechanism to sense changes in extracellular glucose as compared to our previous studies of GI neurons in the adjacent ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. PMID:27473896

Experimental gastritis leads to anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in female but not male rats

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Human and animals studies support the idea that there is a gender-related co-morbidity of pain-related and inflammatory gastrointestinal (GI) diseases with psychological disorders. This co-morbidity is the evidence for the existence of GI-brain axis which consists of immune (cytokines), neural (vagus nerve) and neuroendocrine (HPA axis) pathways. Psychological stress causes disturbances in GI physiology, such as altered GI barrier function, changes in motility and secretion, development of visceral hypersensitivity, and dysfunction of inflammatory responses. Whether GI inflammation would exert impact on psychological behavior is not well established. We examined the effect of experimental gastritis on anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in male and female Sprague–Dawley rats, and evaluated potential mechanisms of action. Gastritis was induced by adding 0.1% (w/v) iodoacetamide (IAA) to the sterile drinking water for 7 days. Sucrose preference test assessed the depression-like behavior, open field test and elevated plus maze evaluated the anxiety-like behavior. IAA treatment induced gastric inflammation in rats of either gender. No behavioral abnormality or dysfunction of GI-brain axis was observed in male rats with IAA-induced gastritis. Anxiety- and depression-like behaviors were apparent and the HPA axis was hyperactive in female rats with IAA-induced gastritis. Our results show that gastric inflammation leads to anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in female but not male rats via the neuroendocrine (HPA axis) pathway, suggesting that the GI inflammation can impair normal brain function and induce changes in psychological behavior in a gender-related manner through the GI-to-brain signaling. PMID:24345032

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) blunt the response of Neuropeptide Y/Agouti-related peptide (NPY/AgRP) glucose inhibited (GI) neurons to decreased glucose.

PubMed

Hao, Lihong; Sheng, Zhenyu; Potian, Joseph; Deak, Adam; Rohowsky-Kochan, Christine; Routh, Vanessa H

2016-10-01

A population of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurons which co-express Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) are inhibited at physiological levels of brain glucose and activated when glucose levels decline (e.g. glucose-inhibited or GI neurons). Fasting enhances the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by low glucose. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhibits the enhanced activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by low glucose following a fast. Mice which express green fluorescent protein (GFP) on their NPY promoter were used to identify NPY/AgRP neurons. Fasting for 24h and LPS injection decreased blood glucose levels. As we have found previously, fasting increased c-fos expression in NPY/AgRP neurons and increased the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by decreased glucose. As we predicted, LPS blunted these effects of fasting at the 24h time point. Moreover, the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) blocked the activation of NPY/AgRP-GI neurons by decreased glucose. These data suggest that LPS and TNFα may alter glucose and energy homeostasis, in part, due to changes in the glucose sensitivity of NPY/AgRP neurons. Interestingly, our findings also suggest that NPY/AgRP-GI neurons use a distinct mechanism to sense changes in extracellular glucose as compared to our previous studies of GI neurons in the adjacent ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Trends in Acute Nonvariceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Dialysis Patients

PubMed Central

Yang, Ju-Yeh; Lee, Tsung-Chun; Montez-Rath, Maria E.; Paik, Jane; Chertow, Glenn M.; Desai, Manisha

2012-01-01

Impaired kidney function is a risk factor for upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, an event associated with poor outcomes. The burden of upper GI bleeding and its effect on patients with ESRD are not well described. Using data from the US Renal Data System, we quantified the rates of occurrence of and associated 30-day mortality from acute, nonvariceal upper GI bleeding in patients undergoing dialysis; we used medical claims and previously validated algorithms where available. Overall, 948,345 patients contributed 2,296,323 patient-years for study. The occurrence rates for upper GI bleeding were 57 and 328 episodes per 1000 person-years according to stringent and lenient definitions of acute, nonvariceal upper GI bleeding, respectively. Unadjusted occurrence rates remained flat (stringent) or increased (lenient) from 1997 to 2008; after adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics and comorbid conditions, however, we found a significant decline for both definitions (linear approximation, 2.7% and 1.5% per year, respectively; P<0.001). In more recent years, patients had higher hematocrit levels before upper GI bleeding episodes and were more likely to receive blood transfusions during an episode. Overall 30-day mortality was 11.8%, which declined significantly over time (relative declines of 2.3% or 2.8% per year for the stringent and lenient definitions, respectively). In summary, despite declining trends worldwide, crude rates of acute, nonvariceal upper GI bleeding among patients undergoing dialysis have not decreased in the past 10 years. Although 30-day mortality related to upper GI bleeding declined, perhaps reflecting improvements in medical care, the burden on the ESRD population remains substantial. PMID:22266666

Impact of gastrointestinal disease states on oral drug absorption - implications for formulation design - a PEARRL review.

PubMed

Effinger, Angela; O'Driscoll, Caitriona M; McAllister, Mark; Fotaki, Nikoletta

2018-05-16

Drug product performance in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) diseases can be altered compared to healthy subjects due to pathophysiological changes. In this review, relevant differences in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, coeliac disease, irritable bowel syndrome and short bowel syndrome are discussed and possible in vitro and in silico tools to predict drug product performance in this patient population are assessed. Drug product performance was altered in patients with GI diseases compared to healthy subjects, as assessed in a limited number of studies for some drugs. Underlying causes can be observed pathophysiological alterations such as the differences in GI transit time, the composition of the GI fluids and GI permeability. Additionally, alterations in the abundance of metabolising enzymes and transporter systems were observed. The effect of the GI diseases on each parameter is not always evident as it may depend on the location and the state of the disease. The impact of the pathophysiological change on drug bioavailability depends on the physicochemical characteristics of the drug, the pharmaceutical formulation and drug metabolism. In vitro and in silico methods to predict drug product performance in patients with GI diseases are currently limited but could be a useful tool to improve drug therapy. Development of suitable in vitro dissolution and in silico models for patients with GI diseases can improve their drug therapy. The likeliness of the models to provide accurate predictions depends on the knowledge of pathophysiological alterations, and thus, further assessment of physiological differences is essential. © 2018 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Considerations for the implementation and operation of stormwater control measure (SCM) performance monitoring systems

EPA Science Inventory

Green infrastructure (GI) studies are needed to make informed decisions about whether or not to select GI technologies over traditional urban drainage control methods and to assist in the timing of effective maintenance. Two permeable pavement infiltration stormwater control meas...

Do we need a geoelectric index?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holzworth, R.; Volland, H.

1986-01-01

The need for a geoelectric index (GI) measuring the global level of atmospheric electrical activity for a given time is assessed, and methods for defining a GI are compared. Current problems in atmospheric and space electrodynamics (the global circuit, solar-terrestrial coupling, lightning effects on the ionosphere/magnetosphere, and mesospheric generators), atmospheric chemistry (the stratospheric ozone cycle and atmospheric gravity waves), and meteorology (fog forecasting) are reviewed to illustrate the usefullness of a GI. Derivations of a GI from in situ electrical measurements and from ground or satellite remote sensing of source properties are described, and a system based on ground measurement of the intensity of the Schumann resonance lines (as proposed by Polk, 1982) is found to be the most practical, requiring as few as three (automatically operated) stations for global coverage.

GDP Release Preferentially Occurs on the Phosphate Side in Heterotrimeric G-proteins

PubMed Central

Louet, Maxime; Martinez, Jean; Floquet, Nicolas

2012-01-01

After extra-cellular stimulation of G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs), GDP/GTP exchange appears as the key, rate limiting step of the intracellular activation cycle of heterotrimeric G-proteins. Despite the availability of a large number of X-ray structures, the mechanism of GDP release out of heterotrimeric G-proteins still remains unknown at the molecular level. Starting from the available X-ray structure, extensive unconstrained/constrained molecular dynamics simulations were performed on the complete membrane-anchored Gi heterotrimer complexed to GDP, for a total simulation time overcoming 500 ns. By combining Targeted Molecular Dynamics (TMD) and free energy profiles reconstruction by umbrella sampling, our data suggest that the release of GDP was much more favored on its phosphate side. Interestingly, upon the forced extraction of GDP on this side, the whole protein encountered large, collective motions in perfect agreement with those we described previously including a domain to domain motion between the two ras-like and helical sub-domains of Gα. PMID:22829757

Electrical stimulation of gut motility guided by an in silico model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barth, Bradley B.; Henriquez, Craig S.; Grill, Warren M.; Shen, Xiling

2017-12-01

Objective. Neuromodulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems is becoming increasingly important for treating a diverse set of diseases—ranging from Parkinson’s Disease and epilepsy to chronic pain. However, neuromodulation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract has achieved relatively limited success in treating functional GI disorders, which affect a significant population, because the effects of stimulation on the enteric nervous system (ENS) and gut motility are not well understood. Here we develop an integrated neuromechanical model of the ENS and assess neurostimulation strategies for enhancing gut motility, validated by in vivo experiments. Approach. The computational model included a network of enteric neurons, smooth muscle fibers, and interstitial cells of Cajal, which regulated propulsion of a virtual pellet in a model of gut motility. Main results. Simulated extracellular stimulation of ENS-mediated motility revealed that sinusoidal current at 0.5 Hz was more effective at increasing intrinsic peristalsis and reducing colon transit time than conventional higher frequency rectangular current pulses, as commonly used for neuromodulation therapy. Further analysis of the model revealed that the 0.5 Hz sinusoidal currents were more effective at modulating the pacemaker frequency of interstitial cells of Cajal. To test the predictions of the model, we conducted in vivo electrical stimulation of the distal colon while measuring bead propulsion in awake rats. Experimental results confirmed that 0.5 Hz sinusoidal currents were more effective than higher frequency pulses at enhancing gut motility. Significance. This work demonstrates an in silico GI neuromuscular model to enable GI neuromodulation parameter optimization and suggests that low frequency sinusoidal currents may improve the efficacy of GI pacing.

The effect of high- and low-glycemic index energy restricted diets on plasma lipid and glucose profiles in type 2 diabetic subjects with varying glycemic control.

PubMed

Heilbronn, Leonie K; Noakes, Manny; Clifton, Peter M

2002-04-01

To determine whether glycemic index (GI) differentially affects improved glucose and lipid profiles observed during weight loss in overweight subjects previously diagnosed with type 2 diabetes with variable glucose tolerance. Twenty-three female and twenty-two male overweight subjects participated in 12 weeks of energy restriction (average BMI 33.2 kg/m2, age 56.7 years, glycated hemoglobin (GHb) 6.7%). After a four-week run-in on a high saturated fat (SFA) diet (1540 kcal/day, 17% SFA), the free-living subjects were randomly assigned to either a high- (75 GI units) or low- (43 GI units) GI diet (1440 kcal/day, 60% carbohydrate, 5% SFA) for eight weeks. Weight, serum lipids, plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin were measured every four weeks. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was also performed at baseline, weeks 4 and 12. From the baseline OGTT results subjects were divided into three groups of low, median and high glucose tolerance. At baseline, BMI, age and glycated hemoglobin concentrations were not different between subjects allocated to the high- or low-GI diets. After four weeks, weight loss was 3.6+/-0.3 kg. Fasting glucose (-5.6%), glycated hemoglobin (-2.8%), area under the glucose curve (-13.0%) and triglyceride (-13.8%) concentrations were reduced (p < 0.02). Between weeks 4 and 12 reductions were observed in weight (-4.9%), fasting glucose (-4.6%), area under glucose curve (-10.1%), glycated hemoglobin (-7.2%), triglyceride (-7.5%) and LDL-C (-13.2%) concentrations. Weight loss was not different between low and high-GI diets. However, glycated hemoglobin was reduced twofold more in subjects consuming a low-GI diet as compared to subjects consuming a high-GI diet, but this was not statistically significant. LDL concentrations were also reduced more in subjects with low glucose tolerance on the low-GI diet (p = 0.02). Weight loss produces substantial improvements in glycemic control and lipoprotein metabolism. Lowering the glycemic index of high carbohydrate, low fat diets increases the fall in LDL cholesterol in subjects with type 2 diabetes with low glucose tolerance, but has little effect on glycemic control.

In silico predictions of gastrointestinal drug absorption in pharmaceutical product development: application of the mechanistic absorption model GI-Sim.

PubMed

Sjögren, Erik; Westergren, Jan; Grant, Iain; Hanisch, Gunilla; Lindfors, Lennart; Lennernäs, Hans; Abrahamsson, Bertil; Tannergren, Christer

2013-07-16

Oral drug delivery is the predominant administration route for a major part of the pharmaceutical products used worldwide. Further understanding and improvement of gastrointestinal drug absorption predictions is currently a highly prioritized area of research within the pharmaceutical industry. The fraction absorbed (fabs) of an oral dose after administration of a solid dosage form is a key parameter in the estimation of the in vivo performance of an orally administrated drug formulation. This study discloses an evaluation of the predictive performance of the mechanistic physiologically based absorption model GI-Sim. GI-Sim deploys a compartmental gastrointestinal absorption and transit model as well as algorithms describing permeability, dissolution rate, salt effects, partitioning into micelles, particle and micelle drifting in the aqueous boundary layer, particle growth and amorphous or crystalline precipitation. Twelve APIs with reported or expected absorption limitations in humans, due to permeability, dissolution and/or solubility, were investigated. Predictions of the intestinal absorption for different doses and formulations were performed based on physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties, such as solubility in buffer and simulated intestinal fluid, molecular weight, pK(a), diffusivity and molecule density, measured or estimated human effective permeability and particle size distribution. The performance of GI-Sim was evaluated by comparing predicted plasma concentration-time profiles along with oral pharmacokinetic parameters originating from clinical studies in healthy individuals. The capability of GI-Sim to correctly predict impact of dose and particle size as well as the in vivo performance of nanoformulations was also investigated. The overall predictive performance of GI-Sim was good as >95% of the predicted pharmacokinetic parameters (C(max) and AUC) were within a 2-fold deviation from the clinical observations and the predicted plasma AUC was within one standard deviation of the observed mean plasma AUC in 74% of the simulations. GI-Sim was also able to correctly capture the trends in dose- and particle size dependent absorption for the study drugs with solubility and dissolution limited absorption, respectively. In addition, GI-Sim was also shown to be able to predict the increase in absorption and plasma exposure achieved with nanoformulations. Based on the results, the performance of GI-Sim was shown to be suitable for early risk assessment as well as to guide decision making in pharmaceutical formulation development. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bonding effectiveness and interfacial characterization of a nano-filled resin-modified glass-ionomer.

PubMed

Coutinho, E; Cardoso, M V; De Munck, J; Neves, A A; Van Landuyt, K L; Poitevin, A; Peumans, M; Lambrechts, P; Van Meerbeek, B

2009-11-01

Glass-ionomers (GIs) exhibit excellent clinical bonding effectiveness, but still have shortcomings such as polishability and general aesthetics. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the micro-tensile bond strength (microTBS) to enamel and dentin of a nano-filled resin-modified GI (nano-RMGI; Ketac N100, 3M-ESPE), and (2) to characterize its interfacial interaction with enamel and dentin using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nano-RMGI was used both with and without its primer, while a conventional RMGI restorative material (conv-RMGI; Fuji II LC, GC) and a packable conventional GI cement (conv-GI; Fuji IX GP, GC) were used as controls. After bonding to freshly extracted human third molars, microspecimens of the interfaces were machined into a cylindrical hourglass shape and tested to failure in tension. Non-demineralized TEM sections were prepared and examined from additional teeth. The microTBS to both enamel and dentin of nano-RMGI and conv-GI were not statistically different; the microTBS of non-primed nano-RMGI was significantly lower, while that of conv-RMGI was significantly higher than that of all other groups. TEM of nano-RMGI disclosed a tight interface at enamel and dentin without surface demineralization and hybrid-layer formation. A thin filler-free zone (<1 microm) was formed at dentin. A high filler loading and effective filler distribution were also evident, with localized areas exhibiting nano-filler clustering. The nano-RMGI bonded as effectively to enamel and dentin as conv-GI, but bonded less effectively than conv-RMGI. Its bonding mechanism should be attributed to micro-mechanical interlocking provided by the surface roughness, most likely combined with chemical interaction through its acrylic/itaconic acid copolymers.

Opposite Effect of Opuntia ficus-indica L. Juice Depending on Fruit Maturity Stage on Gastrointestinal Physiological Parameters in Rat.

PubMed

Rtibi, Kais; Selmi, Slimen; Grami, Dhekra; Amri, Mohamed; Sebai, Hichem; Marzouki, Lamjed

2018-06-01

The phytochemical composition and the effect of the green and ripe Opuntia ficus-indica juice on some gastrointestinal (GI) physiological parameters such as stomach emptying and small-intestinal motility and permeability were determined in rats administered multiple concentrations of the prickly pear juice (5, 10, and 20 mL kg -1 , b.w., p.o.). Other separate groups of rats were received, respectively; sodium chloride (0.9%, b.w., p.o.), clonidine (α- 2 -adrenergic agonist, 1 mg kg -1 , b.w., i.p.), yohimbine (α- 2 -adrenergic antagonist, 2 mg kg -1 , b.w., i.p.), and loperamide (5 mg kg -1 , b.w., p.o.). In vivo reverse effect of juice on GI physiological parameters was investigated using a charcoal meal test, phenol-red colorimetric method, loperamide-induced acute constipation, and castor oil-caused small-bowel hypersecretion. However, the opposite in vitro influence of juice on intestinal permeability homeostasis was assessed by the Ussing chamber system. Mature prickly pear juice administration stimulated significantly and dose dependently the GI transit (GIT; 8-26%) and gastric emptying (0.9-11%) in a rat model. Conversely, the immature prickly pear juice reduced gastric emptying (7-23%), GIT (10-28%), and diarrhea (59-88%). Moreover, the standard drugs have produced their antagonistic effects on GI physiological functions. The permeability of the isolated perfused rat small-intestine has a paradoxical response flowing prickly pear juices administration at diverse doses and maturity grade. Most importantly, the quantitative phytochemical analyses of both juices showed a different composition depending on the degree of maturity. In conclusion, the prickly pear juice at two distinct phases of maturity has different phytochemical characteristics and opposite effects on GI physiological actions in rat.

The Effect of DA-9701 in Opioid-induced Bowel Dysfunction of Guinea Pig.

PubMed

Hussain, Zahid; Rhee, Kwang Won; Lee, Young Ju; Park, Hyojin

2016-07-30

Opioid induced bowel dysfunction (OIBD) is associated with decreased gastrointestinal (GI) propulsive activity due to intake of opioid analgesics. DA-9701, a novel prokinetic agent formulated with Pharbitis Semen and Corydalis Tuber has promising effects on GI motor function. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the prokinetic effects of DA-9701 in an OIBD model of guinea pig. The ileal and distal colon muscle contraction in presence of different doses of DA-9701, morphine, and combination (morphine + DA-9701) was measured by tissue bath study. The prokinetic effect of DA-9701 was assessed by charcoal transit and fecal pellet output assay in an OIBD model of guinea pig. DA-9701 significantly increased the amplitude and area under the curve of ileal muscle contraction, while there was insignificant effect on the distal colon compared to the control. The maximal amplitude of ileal muscle contraction was acquired at a concentration of 10 μg/mL of DA-9701. In contrast, morphine significantly decreased the amplitude of ileal and distal colon muscle contraction compared to the control. Morphine delayed both upper (P < 0.01) and lower (P < 0.05) GI transit, and delayed GI transit was restored by the administration of DA-9701. Morphine induced reduction of contractility was significantly ameliorated by addition of DA-9701 in both ileal and distal colon muscles. DA-9701 significantly increased the amplitude of contraction of the ileal muscle, however the distal colon muscle contraction was insignificant. Additionally, it restored delayed upper and lower GI transit in an OIBD model of guinea pig, and it might prove to be a useful candidate drug in a clinical trial for OIBD.

Peptide YY, neuropeptide Y and corticotrophin-releasing factor modulate gastrointestinal motility and food intake during acute stress.

PubMed

Forbes, Sarah C; Cox, Helen M

2014-11-01

Peripheral neuropeptide Y (NPY) provides protection against the endocrine, feeding and gastrointestinal (GI) responses to stress; however, it is not yet established how it interacts with corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) to mediate these effects. Peptide YY (PYY) also has significant roles in GI motility and food intake but little is known about its role in stress responses. Upper GI transit, fecal pellet output (FPO) and feeding responses, and the role of CRF1 receptors, during restraint or a novel environment stress, were ascertained in PYY-/-, NPY-/- and wild type (WT) mice, with CRF and the CRF1 antagonist, antalarmin, injected intraperitoneally. Upper GI transit and FPO were significantly increased in PYY-/- mice during restraint stress. Exogenous CRF increased defecation during placement in a novel environment in WT mice through CRF1 , while CRF1 blockade reduced defecation in WT and NPY-/- mice but had no effect in PYY-/- mice. In addition, CRF1 blockade had no effect on upper GI transit in WT mice, or on food intake in PYY-/- or NPY-/- mice, but it significantly increased food intake in WT mice. Endogenous NPY appears to inhibit the colonic motor response induced by CRF1 activation, unlike PYY, while both peptides are required for CRF1 modulation of feeding behavior during stress. Overall, these results provide new insights into the mechanism by which PYY and NPY affect stress responses. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Are There Spillover Effects from the GI Bill? The Mental Health of Wives of Korean War Veterans

PubMed Central

Vable, Anusha M.; Kawachi, Ichiro; Canning, David; Glymour, M. Maria; Jimenez, Marcia P.; Subramanian, S. V.

2016-01-01

Background The Korean War GI Bill provided economic benefits for veterans, thereby potentially improving their health outcomes. However potential spillover effects on veteran wives have not been evaluated. Methods Data from wives of veterans eligible for the Korean War GI Bill (N = 128) and wives of non-veterans (N = 224) from the Health and Retirement Study were matched on race and coarsened birth year and childhood health using coarsened exact matching. Number of depressive symptoms in 2010 (average age = 78) were assessed using a modified, validated Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale. Regression analyses were stratified into low (mother < 8 years schooling / missing data, N = 95) or high (mother ≥ 8 years schooling, N = 257) childhood socio-economic status (cSES) groups, and were adjusted for birth year and childhood health, as well as respondent’s educational attainment in a subset of analyses. Results Husband’s Korean War GI Bill eligibility did not predict depressive symptoms among veteran wives in pooled analysis or cSES stratified analyses; analyses in the low cSES subgroup were underpowered (N = 95, β = -0.50, 95% Confidence Interval: (-1.35, 0.35), p = 0.248, power = 0.28). Conclusions We found no evidence of a relationship between husband’s Korean War GI Bill eligibility and wives’ mental health in these data, however there may be a true effect that our analysis was underpowered to detect. PMID:27186983

Effect of probiotics and prebiotics on food animal immunity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest interface between an animal’s internal milieu and its exterior environment. As such, it forms a physical barrier between both environments. However, the function of the GI tract in the well-being of an animal is more complex than this passive role. Th...

Soviet Material on Internal Wave Effects, No. 4, September 1975

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-09-01

UzbSSR DBAN EOM FAiO FGiV FiKhOM F-KhMM FMiM FTP FTT FZh GiA GiK IAN Arm IAN Az Avtomatika i telemekhanika Acta physica polonica ...promyshlennyye obraztsy, tovarnyye znaki Postepy fizyki Physics abstracts Prikladnaya mekhanika Prikladnaya matematika i mekhanika Physica status

Effect of coffee and tea on the glycaemic index of foods: no effect on mean but reduced variability.

PubMed

Aldughpassi, Ahmed; Wolever, Thomas M S

2009-05-01

Coffee and tea may influence glycaemic responses but it is not clear whether they affect the glycaemic index (GI) value of foods. Therefore, to see if coffee and tea affected the mean and SEM of GI values, the GI of fruit leather (FL) and cheese puffs (CP) were determined twice in ten subjects using the FAO/WHO protocol with white bread as the reference food. In one series subjects chose to drink 250 ml of either coffee or tea with all test meals, while in the other series they drank 250 ml water. The tests for both series were conducted as a single experiment with the order of all tests being randomised. Coffee and tea increased the overall mean peak blood glucose increment compared with water by 0.25 (SEM 0.09) mmol/l (P=0.02), but did not significantly affect the incremental area under the glucose response curve. Mean GI values were not affected by coffee or tea but the SEM was reduced by about 30% (FL: 31 (SEM 4) v. 35 (SEM 7) and CP: 76 (SEM 6) v. 75 (SEM 8) for coffee or tea v. water, respectively). The error mean square term from the ANOVA of the GI values was significantly smaller for coffee or tea v. water (F(18, 18) = 2.31; P=0.04). We conclude that drinking coffee or tea with test meals does not affect the mean GI value obtained, but may reduce variability and, hence, improve precision.

Effect of surface chemistry on nanoparticle interaction with gastrointestinal mucus and distribution in the gastrointestinal tract following oral and rectal administration in the mouse.

PubMed

Maisel, Katharina; Ensign, Laura; Reddy, Mihika; Cone, Richard; Hanes, Justin

2015-01-10

It is believed that mucoadhesive surface properties on particles delivered to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract improve oral absorption or local targeting of various difficult-to-deliver drug classes. To test the effect of nanoparticle mucoadhesion on distribution of nanoparticles in the GI tract, we orally and rectally administered nano- and microparticles that we confirmed possessed surfaces that were either strongly mucoadhesive or non-mucoadhesive. We found that mucoadhesive particles (MAP) aggregated in mucus in the center of the GI lumen, far away from the absorptive epithelium, both in healthy mice and in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis (UC). In striking contrast, water absorption by the GI tract rapidly and uniformly transported non-mucoadhesive mucus-penetrating particles (MPP) to epithelial surfaces, including reaching the surfaces between villi in the small intestine. When using high gavage fluid volumes or injection into ligated intestinal loops, common methods for assessing oral drug and nanoparticle absorption, we found that both MAP and MPP became well-distributed throughout the intestine, indicating that the barrier properties of GI mucus were compromised. In the mouse colorectum, MPP penetrated into mucus in the deeply in-folded surfaces to evenly coat the entire epithelial surface. Moreover, in a mouse model of UC, MPP were transported preferentially into the disrupted, ulcerated tissue. Our results suggest that delivering drugs in non-mucoadhesive MPP is likely to provide enhanced particle distribution, and thus drug delivery, in the GI tract, including to ulcerated tissues. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synergistic effect of green tea, cinnamon and ginger combination on enhancing postprandial blood glucose.

PubMed

Azzeh, Firas Sultan

2013-01-15

This study was maintained to determine the immediate effect of green tea, cinnamon, ginger and combination of them on postprandial glucose levels. The Glycemic Index (GI) for previous treatments was measured as an indicator for postprandial glucose pattern. Twenty-two healthy volunteers from both genders were enrolled in this study. Mean age was 21.3 years and mean BMI was 24.6 kg m(-2). For each herb and combination treatment, a concentration of 2.5% aqueous tea extract was prepared. The GI of green tea, cinnamon and ginger were 79, 63 and 72 respectively. Herbs combination exerted GI of 60, which was the lowest. Combination of these herbs showed the best lowering effect on postprandial glucose levels as compared with each herb alone. A potential synergism from the active ingredients of blended herbs was determined.

Randomized trial on the effects of a 7-d low-glycemic diet and exercise intervention on insulin resistance in older obese humans123

PubMed Central

Solomon, Thomas PJ; Haus, Jacob M; Kelly, Karen R; Cook, Marc D; Riccardi, Michelle; Rocco, Michael; Kashyap, Sangeeta R; Barkoukis, Hope

2009-01-01

Background: The optimal combination of diet and exercise that produces the greatest reversal of obesity-related insulin resistance is unknown. Objectives: We examined the effects of a combined 7-d low–glycemic index (low-GI) diet and exercise training intervention on insulin sensitivity in older obese humans. Design: Participants [n = 32; mean (±SEM) age: 66 ± 1 y; body mass index (in kg/m2): 33.8 ± 0.7] were randomly assigned to a parallel, double-blind, controlled-feeding trial and underwent supervised aerobic exercise (EX; 60 min/d at 80–85% maximum heart rate) in combination with either a low-GI (LoGI + EX: 41.1 ± 0.4) or a high-GI (HiGI + EX: 80.9 ± 0.6) diet. All meals were provided and were isocaloric to individual energy requirements. Insulin sensitivity and hepatic glucose production were assessed with a 40–mU ⋅ m−2 · min−1 hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp combined with a [6,6-2H2]-glucose infusion. Results: After the intervention, small decreases were observed in body weight (−1.6 ± 0.2 kg; P < 0.0001) and fat mass (−1.7 ± 0.9%; P = 0.004) in both groups. Maximal aerobic capacity (V̇O2max) also improved slightly (0.06 ± 0.02 L/min; P = 0.004). Resting systolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and cholesterol all decreased after the study (all P < 0.05). Larger changes in systolic blood pressure and V̇O2max were seen in the LoGI + EX group. Insulin-stimulated glucose disposal (P < 0.001), insulin suppression of hepatic glucose production (P = 0.004), and postabsorptive fat oxidation (P = 0.03) improved equally in both groups after the intervention. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the metabolic improvements after short-term exercise training in older obese individuals are dependent on increased physical activity and are not influenced by a low-GI diet. However, a low-GI diet has added benefit in alleviating hypertension, thus reducing the risk of diabetic and vascular complications. PMID:19793849

A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of the opioid receptor antagonist alvimopan in reducing hospital length of stay and time to GI recovery in patients enrolled in a standardized accelerated recovery program after abdominal surgery.

PubMed

Vaughan-Shaw, P G; Fecher, I C; Harris, S; Knight, J S

2012-05-01

Despite accelerated recovery programs and the widespread uptake of laparoscopic surgery, postoperative ileus remains a significant factor affecting length of stay after abdominal surgery. Alvimopan, an opioid-receptor antagonist, may reduce the incidence of postoperative ileus and expedite hospital discharge. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to determine the role of alvimopan in accelerating GI recovery and hospital discharge after laparoscopic and open abdominal surgery performed within an accelerated recovery program. Cochrane (1999-2010), Embase (1980-2010), MEDLINE (1980-2010), and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-2010) were searched for relevant double-blinded, randomized controlled trials. Twelve milligrams of alvimopan and placebo were given to patients enrolled in an accelerated recovery program after abdominal surgery. The primary outcomes measured were the length of stay as defined by the writing of the hospital discharge order and GI-3 and GI-2 GI tract recovery. : Three trials were included that reported on a pooled modified intention-to-treat population of 1388 patients; 685 (49%) patients received alvimopan. On meta-analysis, alvimopan reduced time to the hospital discharge order (HR 1.37 (1.21, 1.62), p < 0.0001), GI-3 recovery (HR 1.42 (1.25, 1.62), p < 0.001), and GI-2 recovery (HR 1.49 (1.32, 1.68), p < 0.0001). The search criteria identified only a small number of trials of alvimopan after abdominal surgery with no randomized trials of alvimopan after laparoscopic surgery. In addition, the use of length of hospital stay as the primary outcome measure may be inappropriate, because it is open to many confounding factors. Finally, adverse events, in particular, adverse cardiovascular events, were not considered. Alvimopan 12 mg can further reduce time to GI recovery and hospital discharge in patients undergoing abdominal surgery within an accelerated recovery program. Investigation into the effect of alvimopan following laparoscopic surgery and additional cost-benefit analyses are required to further define the role of this intervention.

Incidence of Gastrointestinal Bleeding After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Single Center Experience.

PubMed

Aziz, Fahad

2014-02-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a hemorrhagic complication after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The purpose of the study is to determine predictors of GI bleeding and impact of GI bleeding on the patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. GI bleeding occurred in 6 (7.1%) of 84 patients with STEMI/NSETMI (ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction/Non ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Univariate analysis demonstrates that patients with GI bleeding had a significantly higher previous GI bleeding (16.66% vs. 8.6%, P < 0.001). Higher Killip classification at presentation was associated with higher incidence of GI bleeding (61% vs. 18%, P < 0.01). The use of proton pump inhibitors did not reduce the risk of GI bleeding. The GI bleeding in these patients was associated with higher mortality and morbidity in the post percutaneous coronary intervention period. Although, GI bleeding in patients with MI significantly increases mortality and morbidity, previous GI bleeding and higher Killip class are associated with higher incidence of GI bleeding. High-risk patients for GI bleeding can be identified at presentation.

Altering source or amount of dietary carbohydrate has acute and chronic effects on postprandial glucose and triglycerides in type 2 diabetes: Canadian trial of Carbohydrates in Diabetes (CCD).

PubMed

Wolever, T M S; Gibbs, A L; Chiasson, J-L; Connelly, P W; Josse, R G; Leiter, L A; Maheux, P; Rabasa-Lhoret, R; Rodger, N W; Ryan, E A

2013-03-01

Nutrition recommendations for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are partly guided by the postprandial responses elicited by diets varying in carbohydrate (CHO). We aimed to explore whether long-term changes in postprandial responses on low-glycemic-index (GI) or low-CHO diets were due to acute or chronic effects in T2DM. Subjects with diet-alone-treated T2DM were randomly assigned to high-CHO/high-GI (H), high-CHO/low-GI (L), or low-CHO/high-monounsaturated-fat (M) diets for 12-months. At week-0 (Baseline) postprandial responses after H-meals (55% CHO, GI = 61) were measured from 0800 h to 1600 h. After 12 mo subjects were randomly assigned to H-meals or study diet meals (L, 57% CHO, GI = 50; M, 44% CHO, GI = 61). This yielded 5 groups: H diet with H-meals (HH, n = 34); L diet with H- (LH, n = 17) or L-meals (LL, n = 16); and M diet with H- (MH, n = 18) or M meals (MM, n = 19). Postprandial glucose fluctuations were lower in LL than all other groups (p < 0.001). Changes in postprandial-triglycerides differed among groups (p < 0.001). After 12 mo in HH and MM both fasting- and postprandial-triglycerides were similar to Baseline while in MH postprandial-triglycerides were significantly higher than at Baseline (p = 0.028). In LH, triglycerides were consistently (0.18-0.34 mmol/L) higher than Baseline throughout the day, while in LL the difference from Baseline varied across the day from 0.04 to 0.36 mmol/L (p < 0.001). Low-GI and low-CHO diets have both acute and chronic effects on postprandial glucose and triglycerides in T2DM subjects. Thus, the composition of the acute test-meal and the habitual diet should be considered when interpreting the nutritional implications of different postprandial responses. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Differential immune responses and microbiota profiles in children with autism spectrum disorders and co-morbid gastrointestinal symptoms.

PubMed

Rose, Destanie R; Yang, Houa; Serena, Gloria; Sturgeon, Craig; Ma, Bing; Careaga, Milo; Hughes, Heather K; Angkustsiri, Kathy; Rose, Melissa; Hertz-Picciotto, Irva; Van de Water, Judy; Hansen, Robin L; Ravel, Jacques; Fasano, Alessio; Ashwood, Paul

2018-05-01

Many studies have reported the increased presence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Altered microbiome profiles, pro-inflammatory responses and impaired intestinal permeability have been observed in children with ASD and co-morbid GI symptoms, yet few studies have compared these findings to ASD children without GI issues or similarly aged typical developing children. The aim of this study was to determine whether there are biological signatures in terms of immune dysfunction and microbiota composition in children with ASD with GI symptoms. Children were enrolled in one of four groups: ASD and GI symptoms of irregular bowel habits (ASD GI ), children with ASD but without current or previous GI symptoms (ASD NoGI ), typically developing children with GI symptoms (TD GI ) and typically developing children without current or previous GI symptoms (TD NoGI ). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from the blood, stimulated and assessed for cytokine production, while stool samples were analyzed for microbial composition. Following Toll-Like receptor (TLR)-4 stimulation, the ASD GI group produced increased levels of mucosa-relevant cytokines including IL-5, IL-15 and IL-17 compared to ASD NoGI . The production of the regulatory cytokine TGFβ1 was decreased in the ASD GI group compared with both the ASD NoGI and TD NoGI groups. Analysis of the microbiome at the family level revealed differences in microbiome composition between ASD and TD children with GI symptoms; furthermore, a predictive metagenome functional content analysis revealed that pathways were differentially represented between ASD and TD subjects, independently of the presence of GI symptoms. The ASD GI also showed an over-representation of the gene encoding zonulin, a molecule regulating gut permeability, compared to the other groups. Overall our findings suggest that children with ASD who experience GI symptoms have an imbalance in their immune response, possibly influenced by or influencing metagenomic changes, and may have a propensity to impaired gut barrier function which may contribute to their symptoms and clinical outcome. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Radiation on the Microbiota and Intestinal Inflammatory Disease

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

completion of initial experiments investigating the effect of whole body and focal (GI tract) irradiation of mice on the bacterial and fungal microbiota. We...acute symptoms, will develop long-term consequences of irradiation including permanent changes to bowel function and intestinal fibrosis, which can...exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) or focal radiation to the GI tract. Timeline Status Site 1 (Stephen Shiao, MD, PhD) Site 2

In vivo and in situ measurement and modelling of intra-body effective complex permittivity

PubMed Central

Blanes-Vidal, Victoria; Harslund, Jakob L.F.; Ramezani, Mohammad H.; Kjeldsen, Jens; Johansen, Per Michael; Thiel, David; Tarokh, Vahid

2015-01-01

Radio frequency tracking of medical micro-robots in minimally invasive medicine is usually investigated upon the assumption that the human body is a homogeneous propagation medium. In this Letter, the authors conducted various trial programs to measure and model the effective complex permittivity ε in terms of refraction ε′, absorption ε″ and their variations in gastrointestinal (GI) tract organs (i.e. oesophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine) and the porcine abdominal wall under in vivo and in situ conditions. They further investigated the effects of irregular and unsynchronised contractions and simulated peristaltic movements of the GI tract organs inside the abdominal cavity and in the presence of the abdominal wall on the measurements and variations of ε′ and ε′′. They advanced the previous models of effective complex permittivity of a multilayer inhomogeneous medium, by estimating an analytical model that accounts for reflections between the layers and calculates the attenuation that the wave encounters as it traverses the GI tract and the abdominal wall. They observed that deviation from the specified nominal layer thicknesses due to non-geometric boundaries of GI tract morphometric variables has an impact on the performance of the authors’ model. Therefore, they derived statistical-based models for ε′ and ε′′ using their experimental measurements. PMID:26713157

In vivo and in situ measurement and modelling of intra-body effective complex permittivity.

PubMed

Nadimi, Esmaeil S; Blanes-Vidal, Victoria; Harslund, Jakob L F; Ramezani, Mohammad H; Kjeldsen, Jens; Johansen, Per Michael; Thiel, David; Tarokh, Vahid

2015-12-01

Radio frequency tracking of medical micro-robots in minimally invasive medicine is usually investigated upon the assumption that the human body is a homogeneous propagation medium. In this Letter, the authors conducted various trial programs to measure and model the effective complex permittivity ε in terms of refraction ε', absorption ε″ and their variations in gastrointestinal (GI) tract organs (i.e. oesophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine) and the porcine abdominal wall under in vivo and in situ conditions. They further investigated the effects of irregular and unsynchronised contractions and simulated peristaltic movements of the GI tract organs inside the abdominal cavity and in the presence of the abdominal wall on the measurements and variations of ε' and ε''. They advanced the previous models of effective complex permittivity of a multilayer inhomogeneous medium, by estimating an analytical model that accounts for reflections between the layers and calculates the attenuation that the wave encounters as it traverses the GI tract and the abdominal wall. They observed that deviation from the specified nominal layer thicknesses due to non-geometric boundaries of GI tract morphometric variables has an impact on the performance of the authors' model. Therefore, they derived statistical-based models for ε' and ε'' using their experimental measurements.

Differential effects of Glycyrrhiza species on genotoxic estrogen metabolism: licochalcone A downregulates P450 1B1 whereas isoliquiritigenin stimulates

PubMed Central

Dunlap, Tareisha L.; Wang, Shuai; Simmler, Charlotte; Chen, Shao-Nong; Pauli, Guido F.; Dietz, Birgit M.; Bolton, Judy L.

2015-01-01

Estrogen chemical carcinogenesis involves 4-hydroxylation of estrone/estradiol (E1/E2) by P450 1B1, generating catechol and quinone genotoxic metabolites that cause DNA mutations and initiate/promote breast cancer. Inflammation enhances this effect by up-regulating P450 1B1. The present study tested the three authenticated medicinal species of licorice, [Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG), G. uralensis (GU), and G. inflata (GI)], used by women as dietary supplements, for their anti-inflammatory activities and their ability to modulate estrogen metabolism. The pure compounds, liquiritigenin (LigF), its chalcone isomer isoliquiritigenin (LigC), and the GI specific licochalcone A (LicA) were also tested. The licorice extracts and compounds were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity by measuring inhibition of iNOS activity in macrophage cells: GI > GG > GU and LigC ≅ LicA > LigF. The Michael acceptor chalcone LicA, is likely responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity of GI. A sensitive LC-MS/MS assay was employed to quantify estrogen metabolism by measuring 2-MeOE1 as non-toxic and 4-MeOE1 as genotoxic biomarkers in the non-tumorigenic human mammary epithelial cell line, MCF-10A. GG, GU, and LigC increased 4-MeOE1, whereas GI and LicA inhibited 2- and 4-MeOE1 levels. GG, GU (5 μg/mL), and LigC (1 μM) also enhanced P450 1B1 expression and activities, which was further increased by inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IFN-γ). LicA (1 μM, 10 μM) decreased cytokine- and TCDD-induced, P450 1B1 gene expression and TCDD-induced xenobiotic response element luciferase reporter (IC50=12.3 μM), suggesting an antagonistic effect on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which regulates P450 1B1. Similarly, GI (5 μg/mL) reduced cytokine- and TCDD-induced P450 1B1 gene expression. Collectively, these data suggest that of the three licorice species that are used in botanical supplements, GI represents the most promising chemopreventive licorice extract for women’s health. Additionally, the differential effects of the Glycyrrhiza species on estrogen metabolism emphasize the importance of standardization of botanical supplements to species-specific bioactive compounds. PMID:26134484

Mechanistic investigations of Se(VI) treatment in anoxic groundwater using granular iron and organic carbon: an EXAFS study.

PubMed

Gibson, Blair D; Blowes, David W; Lindsay, Matthew B J; Ptacek, Carol J

2012-11-30

The removal of aqueous Se(VI) from a simulated groundwater by granular iron (GI), organic carbon (OC), and a mixture of these reactive materials (GI-OC) was evaluated in laboratory batch experiments. The experiments were performed under anoxic conditions to simulate subsurface treatment. A total reaction time of 120 h (5 d) was chosen to investigate the rapid changes in speciation occurring over reaction times that are reasonable for permeable reactive barrier (PRB) systems. After 120 h, concentrations of Se decreased by >90% in the GI system, 15% in the OC system and 35% in the GI-OC mixture. Analysis of the materials after contact with Se using synchrotron-radiation based X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) indicated the presence of Se(IV) and Se(0) on the margins of GI grains after 6h with evidence of SeO and SeSe bonding, whereas Se(VI) was not observed. After 72 h, Se(0) was the only form of Se present in the GI experiments. In the OC batches, the XAS analysis indicated binding consistent with sorption of aqueous Se(VI) onto the OC with only minor reduction to Se(IV) and Se(0) after 120 h. Selenium XAS spectra collected for the GI-OC mixture were consistent with spectra for Se(IV) and Se(0) on both the margins of GI grains and OC particles, suggesting that the presence of dissolved Fe may have mediated the reduction of sorbed Se(VI). The results suggest that the application of granular Fe is effective at inducing aqueous Se removal in anoxic conditions through reductive precipitation processes. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of Treefoil Peptide Genes in Iron-Ion or X-Irradiated Human Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balcer-Kubiczek, E. K.; Harrison, G. H.; Xu, J. F.; Zhou, X. F.

1999-01-01

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is especially sensitive to ionizing radiation, probably because of its high rate of cell turn over. Most of the data in the literature concerns the histological/anatomical description of damage rather than functional studies. In fact, previous reports in humans have shown that, at doses of 2 Gy or more, functional abnormalities appear indicating that in radiation sensitive tissues the effects of radiation are not limited to cell death. GI functions are controlled in particular by GI peptides. One hypothesis is that ionizing radiation may modulate the synthesis and release of these peptides and consequently may contribute largely to abnormalities in GI function. However, no previous studies have been concerned with GI-specific gene expression in irradiated GI tissues. The family of human trefoil peptides comprises three members thus far, all of which are expressed in specific regions of the GI tract. In addition, two trefoil peptides, pS2 (TFFI) and HITF (TFF2) are expressed in breast tissue. Their exact function in GI and breast tissues is unclear but mucosal integrity, repair, mucin secretion and responsiveness to hormones have been shown. We recently isolated and characterized pS2 as a novel p53- and estrogen receptor-independent gene whose MRNA expression in several cells lines was found to be delayed 4 to 7 days after irradiation with X-rays, fission neutrons or 1 GeV/n Fe-ions. The aim of the present study was to determine whether pS2 and HITF have a similar induction kinetics in irradiated gastric and breast cell lines, and whether they have the phorbol ester (TPA) responsive element (TRE).

Decreases in dietary glycemic index are related to weight loss among individuals following therapeutic diets for type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Turner-McGrievy, Gabrielle M; Jenkins, David J A; Barnard, Neal D; Cohen, Joshua; Gloede, Lise; Green, Amber A

2011-08-01

This study assessed the effect of changes in glycemic index (GI) and load (GL) on weight loss and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) among individuals with type 2 diabetes beginning a vegan diet or diet following the 2003 American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommendations. The study was a 22-wk, randomized trial of 99 participants with type 2 diabetes who were counseled to follow 1 of 2 diet treatments. GI and GL changes were assessed based on 3-d dietary records. The relationships between GI/GL and changes in weight and HbA1C were calculated. In an intention-to-treat analysis (n = 99), the vegan group reduced GI to a greater extent than the ADA group (P < 0.05), but GL was reduced further in the ADA than the vegan group (P < 0.001). GI predicted changes in weight (P = 0.001), adjusting for changes in fiber, carbohydrate, fat, alcohol, energy intake, steps per day, group, and demographics, such that for every point decrease in GI, participants lost ~0.2 kg (0.44 lb). GI was not a predictor for changes in HbA1C after controlling for weight loss (P = 0.33). Weight loss was a predictor of changes in HbA1C (P = 0.047). GL was not related to weight loss or changes in HbA1C. A low-GI diet appears to be one of the determinants of success of a vegan or ADA diet in reducing body weight among people with type 2 diabetes. The reduction of body weight, in turn, was predictive of decreasing HbA1C.

Effect of dietary curries on the glycaemic index.

PubMed

Pirasath, S; Thayaananthan, K; Balakumar, S; Arasaratnam, V

2010-12-01

Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) of different basic foods in combination with different curries. METHODS; Healthy volunteers (n = 20) of 21.05 (+/- 0.92) years old, 53.90 (+/- 9.36) kg in body weight, 153.92 (+/- 9.15) cm in height and 20.55 (+/- 2.22) kgm(-2) of body mass index were included. After overnight fasting, 75g of glucose and each test food containing 75g of digestible carbohydrate were administered and blood glucose level measured half hourly for two hours. The GI was calculated and analysed by randomised complete block design using SAS analytical package. The mean GI values of parboiled rice ('Mottaikarupan') either with green leaf curry (Amaranthus) or gravy (soya meat) or green leaf curry and gravy were 47.47 (+/- 11.21), 56.30 (+/- 9.31) and 54.67 (+/- 10.03) % respectively. The mean GI of 'kurakkan pittu' (Eleucine coracana) with the above curries were 57.51 (+/- 5.52), 63.25 (+/- 8.86) and 59.25 (+/- 5.49) % respectively. The mean GI of 'atta pittu' (whole wheat grain flour) with the above curries were 44.40 (+/-14.27), 50.80 (+/- 9.35) and 46.29 (+/- 8.90) % respectively. The GI of parboiled rice or 'kurakkan pittu' or 'atta pittu' with green leaf curry differed significantly (p < 0.05) from other combined foods. The GI of parboiled rice or 'kurakkan pittu' or 'atta pittu' with gravy or green leaf curry and gravy did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) among them. 'Kurakkan pittu' is inferior to 'atta pittu' and parboiled rice. Including curries to basic foods altered the GI. Therefore, when dietary advice is given to diabetic patients, not only the basic foods, but also the curries to be consumed have to be considered.

Green infrastructure as a climate change adaptation policy intervention: muddying the waters or clearing a path to a more secure future?

PubMed

Sussams, L W; Sheate, W R; Eales, R P

2015-01-01

As dangerous climate change looms, decision-makers are increasingly realising that societies will need to adapt to this threat as well as mitigate against it. Green infrastructure (GI) is increasingly seen as an ideal climate change adaptation policy response. However, with this research the authors identify a number of crucial knowledge gaps within GI and, consequently, call for caution and for a concerted effort to understand the concept and what it can really deliver. GI has risen to prominence in a range of policy areas in large part due to its perceived ability to produce multiple benefits simultaneously, termed 'multifunctionality'. This characteristic strengthens the political appeal of the policy in question at a time when environmental issues have slipped down political agendas. Multifunctionality, however, brings its own set of new challenges that should be evaluated fully before the policy is implemented. This research takes important first steps to developing a critical understanding of what is achievable within GI's capacity. It focuses on one of GI's single objectives, namely climate change adaptation, to focus the analysis of how current obstacles in applying GI's multifunctionality could lead to the ineffective delivery of its objective. By drawing on expert opinion from government officials and representatives from the private, non-government organisation (NGO) and academic sectors, this research questions GI's ability to be effectively 'multifunctional' with an inconsistent definition at its core, deficiencies in its understanding and conflicts within its governance. In light of these observations, the authors then reflect on the judiciousness of applying GI to achieve the other objectives it has also been charged with delivering. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lower education predicts poor response to dietary intervention in pregnancy, regardless of neighbourhood affluence: secondary analysis from the ROLO randomised control trial.

PubMed

O'Brien, Eileen C; Alberdi, Goiuri; Geraghty, Aisling A; McAuliffe, Fionnuala M

2017-11-01

To determine if response to a low glycaemic index (GI) dietary intervention, measured by changes in dietary intake and gestational weight gain, differed across women of varying socio-economic status (SES). Secondary data analysis of the ROLO randomised control trial. The intervention consisted of a two-hour low-GI dietary education session in early pregnancy. Change in GI was measured using 3 d food diaries pre- and post-intervention. Gestational weight gain was categorised as per the 2009 Institute of Medicine guidelines. SES was measured using education and neighbourhood deprivation. The National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. Women (n 625) recruited to the ROLO randomised control trial. The intervention significantly reduced GI and excess gestational weight gain (EGWG) among women with third level education residing in both disadvantaged (GI, mean (sd), intervention v. control: -3·30 (5·15) v. -0·32 (4·22), P=0·024; EGWG, n (%), intervention v. control: 7 (33·6) v. 22 (67·9); P=0·022) and advantaged areas (GI: -1·13 (3·88) v. 0·06 (3·75), P=0·020; EGWG: 41 (34·1) v. 58 (52·6); P=0·006). Neither GI nor gestational weight gain differed between the intervention and control group among women with less than third level education, regardless of neighbourhood deprivation. A single dietary education session was not effective in reducing GI or gestational weight gain among less educated women. Multifaceted, appropriate and practical approaches are required in pregnancy interventions to improve pregnancy outcomes for less educated women.

Decreases in Dietary Glycemic Index Are Related to Weight Loss among Individuals following Therapeutic Diets for Type 2 Diabetes1234

PubMed Central

Turner-McGrievy, Gabrielle M.; Jenkins, David J. A.; Barnard, Neal D.; Cohen, Joshua; Gloede, Lise; Green, Amber A.

2011-01-01

This study assessed the effect of changes in glycemic index (GI) and load (GL) on weight loss and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) among individuals with type 2 diabetes beginning a vegan diet or diet following the 2003 American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommendations. The study was a 22-wk, randomized trial of 99 participants with type 2 diabetes who were counseled to follow 1 of 2 diet treatments. GI and GL changes were assessed based on 3-d dietary records. The relationships between GI/GL and changes in weight and HbA1C were calculated. In an intention-to-treat analysis (n = 99), the vegan group reduced GI to a greater extent than the ADA group (P < 0.05), but GL was reduced further in the ADA than the vegan group (P < 0.001). GI predicted changes in weight (P = 0.001), adjusting for changes in fiber, carbohydrate, fat, alcohol, energy intake, steps per day, group, and demographics, such that for every point decrease in GI, participants lost ~0.2 kg (0.44 lb). GI was not a predictor for changes in HbA1C after controlling for weight loss (P = 0.33). Weight loss was a predictor of changes in HbA1C (P = 0.047). GL was not related to weight loss or changes in HbA1C. A low-GI diet appears to be one of the determinants of success of a vegan or ADA diet in reducing body weight among people with type 2 diabetes. The reduction of body weight, in turn, was predictive of decreasing HbA1C. PMID:21653575

Establishment of a novel and highly permissive cell line for the efficient replication of cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV-2).

PubMed

Ma, Jie; Jiang, Nan; LaPatra, Scott E; Jin, Ling; Xu, Jin; Fan, Yuding; Zhou, Yong; Zeng, Lingbing

2015-06-12

Haematopoietic necrosis of gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) is caused by cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV-2) and has caused huge economic losses in aquaculture worldwide. Currently the isolation and propagation of CyHV-2 in vitro is very difficult due to the lack of permissive cell lines. Studies on the pathogenesis of CyHV-2 have been hampered because the virus has not been extensively characterized. In this study, a novel cell line from the brain of gibel carp, denoted GiCB, has been established and characterized. Sustainable propagation of CyHV-2 in the GiCB cell line has been confirmed by virus infection and titration, PCR, transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence assay and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The GiCB cells showed typical cytopathic effect by day 6 post-infection with CyHV-2 including cell shrinkage, rounding, and cell fusion with cytoplasmic vacuolization. The virus titer reached 10(7.5 ± 0.37)TCID₅₀/ml and has been successfully passaged over 50 times in the GiCB cell line. Electron microscopy analysis revealed the complete replication of CyHV-2 in GiCB cells. CyHV-2-infected GiCB cells reacted strongly with polyclonal antibodies against CyHV-2 and CyHV-2 RNA in cells hybridized specifically with the virus RNA probes. Additionally, an experimental infection demonstrated that CyHV-2 produced in GiCB cells caused 100% mortality in gibel carp. All the results provide solid evidence that the GiCB cell line is highly permissive for the isolation and propagation of CyHV-2. This is a significant advancement that will promote additional research on CyHV-2 infection in fish in the future. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Clinical Relevance of Gastrointestinal Microbiota During Pregnancy: A Primer for Nurses.

PubMed

Chung, Seon-Yoon; Ravel, Jacques; Regan, Mary

2018-01-01

Emerging evidence about the human microbiome, a collective term for all the microorganisms living in and on the human body, consistently demonstrates the critical influence it has on host physiology and disease risk. The microbiota in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract has the most significant and far-reaching effect on human physiology. The maternal GI microbiota can decrease the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes by modulating energy extraction, glucose metabolism, vitamin production, and host immunity essential for optimal maternal and neonatal health. Moreover, the maternal GI microbiota is thought to influence colonization of the fetus and neonate that may predispose them to different health trajectories. This article provides a basic understanding about the influence of the structure of the maternal GI microbiota, the fundamental role it plays during pregnancy, and the factors that influence the structure, and subsequently function, of the GI microbiota in the general and pregnant population. While only a small number of studies have examined this topic during pregnancy, the preponderance of the evidence supports the need to clarify baseline structure and function of GI microbiota and its associations with pregnancy outcomes. In addition, the results from the studies conducted in the general population can be extrapolated to pregnancy in many cases. This knowledge is essential for clinicians who need to understand the implications of the microbiota for disease and wellness in order to address the care factors that may adversely influence the GI microbiota during pregnancy.

Immunotherapy for Gastrointestinal Malignancies

PubMed Central

Toomey, Paul G.; Vohra, Nasreen A.; Ghansah, Tomar; Sarnaik, Amod A.; Pilon-Thomas, Shari A.

2016-01-01

Background Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are the most common human tumors encountered worldwide. The majority of GI cancers are unresectable at the time of diagnosis, and in the subset of patients undergoing resection, few are cured. There is only a modest improvement in survival with the addition of modalities such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Due to an increasing global cancer burden, it is imperative to integrate alternative strategies to improve outcomes. It is well known that cancers possess diverse strategies to evade immune detection and destruction. This has led to the incorporation of various immunotherapeutic strategies, which enable reprogramming of the immune system to allow effective recognition and killing of GI tumors. Methods A review was conducted of the results of published clinical trials employing immunotherapy for esophageal, gastroesophageal, gastric, hepatocellular, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. Results Monoclonal antibody therapy has come to the forefront in the past decade for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Immunotherapeutic successes in solid cancers such as melanoma and prostate cancer have led to the active investigation of immunotherapy for GI malignancies, with some promising results. Conclusions To date, monoclonal antibody therapy is the only immunotherapy approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for GI cancers. Initial trials validating new immunotherapeutic approaches, including vaccination-based and adoptive cell therapy strategies, for GI malignancies have demonstrated safety and the induction of antitumor immune responses. Therefore, immunotherapy is at the forefront of neoadjuvant as well as adjuvant therapies for the treatment and eradication of GI malignancies. PMID:23302905

Effect of legumes as part of a low glycemic index diet on glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Jenkins, David J A; Kendall, Cyril W C; Augustin, Livia S A; Mitchell, Sandra; Sahye-Pudaruth, Sandhya; Blanco Mejia, Sonia; Chiavaroli, Laura; Mirrahimi, Arash; Ireland, Christopher; Bashyam, Balachandran; Vidgen, Edward; de Souza, Russell J; Sievenpiper, John L; Coveney, Judy; Leiter, Lawrence A; Josse, Robert G

2012-11-26

Legumes, including beans, chickpeas, and lentils, are among the lowest glycemic index (GI) foods and have been recommended in national diabetes mellitus (DM) guidelines. Yet, to our knowledge, they have never been used specifically to lower the GI of the diet. We have therefore undertaken a study of low-GI foods in type 2 DM with a focus on legumes in the intervention. A total of 121 participants with type 2 DM were randomized to either a low-GI legume diet that encouraged participants to increase legume intake by at least 1 cup per day, or to increase insoluble fiber by consumption of whole wheat products, for 3 months. The primary outcome was change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values with calculated coronary heart disease (CHD) risk score as a secondary outcome. The low-GI legume diet reduced HbA1c values by -0.5% (95% CI, -0.6% to -0.4%) and the high wheat fiber diet reduced HbA1c values by -0.3% (95% CI, -0.4% to -0.2%). The relative reduction in HbA1c values after the low-GI legume diet was greater than after the high wheat fiber diet by -0.2% (95% CI, -0.3% to -0.1%; P < .001). The respective CHD risk reduction on the low-GI legume diet was -0.8% (95% CI, -1.4% to -0.3%; P = .003), largely owing to a greater relative reduction in systolic blood pressure on the low-GI legume diet compared with the high wheat fiber diet (-4.5 mm Hg; 95% CI, -7.0 to -2.1 mm Hg; P < .001). Incorporation of legumes as part of a low-GI diet improved both glycemic control and reduced calculated CHD risk score in type 2 DM.

The effect of a low-glycemic diet vs a standard diet on blood glucose levels and macronutrient intake in children with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Rovner, Alisha J; Nansel, Tonja R; Gellar, Lauren

2009-02-01

A low-glycemic index (GI) diet may lower postprandial hyperglycemia and decrease the risk for postabsorptive hypoglycemia in people with type 1 diabetes. However, insufficient evidence exists on the efficacy of a low-GI diet to support practice recommendations. The goal of this study was to examine the blood glucose response to and the macronutrient composition of low-GI meals vs usual meals consumed ad libitum at home in children with type 1 diabetes. A within-subject, crossover design was employed. Twenty-three participants were recruited between June and August 2006. Participants wore a continuous blood glucose monitoring system and completed diet diaries on 2 days. On 1 day, participants consumed their usual meal; on another day, participants consumed low-GI meals ad libidum. Order of the 2 days was counterbalanced. The mean GI was 34+/-6 for the low-GI day and 57+/-6 for the usual meal day (P<0.0001). During the low-GI day, mean daytime blood glucose values (125+/-28 mg/dL [6.9+/-1.5 nmol/L] vs 185+/-58 mg/dL [10.3+/-3.2 nmol/L], P<0.001), blood glucose area above 180 mg/dL (4,486+/-6,138 vs 26,707+/-25,038, P<0.006), and high blood glucose index (5.1+/-5.1 vs 13.6+/-7.6, P<0.001) were lower compared to the usual mean day. During the low-GI day, subjects consumed more fiber (24.5+/-12.3 g vs 14.5+/-6.1 g, P<0.007) and less fat (45.7+/-12.2 g vs 76.8+/-32.4 g, P<0.005); however, there were no differences in energy, carbohydrate, or protein intake. In this pilot study, a low-GI diet was associated with improved diet quality and a reduction in hyperglycemia.

In vitro and in vivo MR evaluation of internal gradient to assess trabecular bone density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Santis, S.; Rebuzzi, M.; Di Pietro, G.; Fasano, F.; Maraviglia, B.; Capuani, S.

2010-10-01

Here we propose a new magnetic resonance (MR) strategy based on the evaluation of internal gradient (Gi) to assess the trabecular bone (TB) density in spongy bone. Spongy bone is a porous system characterized by a solid trabecular network immersed in bone marrow and characterized by a different relative percentage of water and fats. Using a 9.4 T MR micro-imaging system, we first evaluated the relative water and fat Gi as extracted from the Spin-Echo decay function in vitro of femoral head samples from calves. Indeed, the differential effects of fat and water diffusion result in different types of Gi behavior. Using a clinical MR 3T scanner, we then investigated in vivo the calcanei of individuals characterized by different known TB densities. We demonstrate, on these samples, that water is more prevalent in the boundary zone, while fats are rearranged primarily in the central zone of each pore. In vitro experiments showed that water Gi magnitude from the samples was directly proportional to their TB density. Similar behavior was also observed in the clinical measures. Conversely, fat Gi did not provide any information on spongy-bone density. Our results suggest that water Gi may be a reliable marker to assess the status of spongy bone.

Effect of a low glycemic index compared with a conventional healthy diet on polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Marsh, Kate A; Steinbeck, Katharine S; Atkinson, Fiona S; Petocz, Peter; Brand-Miller, Jennie C

2010-07-01

Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are intrinsically insulin resistant and have a high risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss improves risk factors, but the optimal diet composition is unknown. Low-glycemic index (low-GI) diets are recommended without evidence of their clinical effectiveness. We compared changes in insulin sensitivity and clinical outcomes after similar weight losses after consumption of a low-GI diet compared with a conventional healthy diet in women with PCOS. We assigned overweight and obese premenopausal women with PCOS (n = 96) to consume either an ad libitum low-GI diet or a macronutrient-matched healthy diet and followed the women for 12 mo or until they achieved a 7% weight loss. We compared changes in whole-body insulin sensitivity, which we assessed using the insulin sensitivity index derived from the oral-glucose-tolerance test (ISI(OGTT)); glucose tolerance; body composition; plasma lipids; reproductive hormones; health-related quality of life; and menstrual cycle regularity. The attrition rate was high in both groups (49%). Among completers, ISI(OGTT) improved more with the low-GI diet than with the conventional healthy diet (mean +/- SEM: 2.2 +/- 0.7 compared with 0.7 +/- 0.6, respectively; P = 0.03). There was a significant diet-metformin interaction (P = 0.048), with greater improvement in ISI(OGTT) among women prescribed both metformin and the low-GI diet. Compared with women who consumed the conventional healthy diet, more women who consumed the low-GI diet showed improved menstrual cyclicity (95% compared with 63%, respectively; P = 0.03). Among the biochemical measures, only serum fibrinogen concentrations showed significant differences between diets (P < 0.05). To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first objective evidence to justify the use of low-GI diets in the management of PCOS.

Tannic Acid-Dependent Modulation of Selected Lactobacillus plantarum Traits Linked to Gastrointestinal Survival

PubMed Central

Reverón, Inés; Rodríguez, Héctor; Campos, Gema; Curiel, José Antonio; Ascaso, Carmen; Carrascosa, Alfonso V.; Prieto, Alicia; de las Rivas, Blanca; Muñoz, Rosario; de Felipe, Félix López

2013-01-01

Background Owing to its antimicrobial properties dietary tannins may alter the functional efficacy of probiotic lactobacilli in the gastrointestinal (GI)-tract influencing their growth, viability and molecular adaptation to the intestinal environment. Methods and Findings The effects of tannic acid on Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1 were studied by in vitro growth monitoring and visualizing the morphological alteration on the cell wall using transmission electron microscopy. Growth upon tannic acid was characterized by dose-dependent reductions of initial viable counts and extended lag phases. Lag phase-cells growing upon 0.5 mM tannic acid were abnormally shaped and experienced disturbance on the cell wall such as roughness, occasional leakage and release of cell debris, but resumed growth later at tannic acid concentrations high as 2.5 mM. To gain insight on how the response to tannic acid influenced the molecular adaptation of L. plantarum to the GI-tract conditions, gene expression of selected biomarkers for GI-survival was assessed by RT-qPCR on cDNA templates synthetized from mRNA samples obtained from cells treated with 0.5 or 2 mM tannic acid. Tannic acid-dependent gene induction was confirmed for selected genes highly expressed in the gut or with confirmed roles in GI-survival. No differential expression was observed for the pbp2A gene, a biomarker negatively related with GI-survival. However PBP2A was not labeled by Bocillin FL, a fluorescent dye-labeled penicillin V derivative, in the presence of tannic acid which suggests for enhanced GI-survival reportedly associated with the inactivation of this function. Conclusions Probiotic L. plantarum WCFS1 is able to overcome the toxic effects of tannic acid. This dietary constituent modulates molecular traits linked to the adaptation to intestinal environment in ways previously shown to enhance GI-survival. PMID:23776675

A randomized controlled trial to investigate the impact of a low glycemic index (GI) diet on body mass index in obese adolescents

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The role of a low glycemic index (GI) diet in the management of adolescent obesity remains controversial. In this study, we aim to evaluate the impact of low GI diet versus a conventional Chinese diet on the body mass index (BMI) and other obesity indices of obese adolescents. Methods Obese adolescents aged 15–18 years were identified from population-recruited, territory-wide surveys. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥95th percentile of Hong Kong local age- and sex-specific references. Eligible subjects were randomized to either an intervention with low GI diet (consisting of 45-50% carbohydrate, 30-35% fat and 15-20% protein) or conventional Chinese diet as control (consisting of 55-60% carbohydrate, 25-30% fat and 10-15% protein). We used random intercept mixed effects model to compare the differential changes across the time points from baseline to month 6 between the 2 groups. Results 104 obese adolescents were recruited (52 in low GI group and 52 in control group; 43.3% boys). Mean age was 16.7 ± 1.0 years and 16.8 ±1.0 years in low GI and control group respectively. 58.7% subjects completed the study at 6 months (65.4% in low GI group and 51.9% in control group). After adjustment for age and sex, subjects in the low GI group had a significantly greater reduction in obesity indices including BMI, body weight and waist circumference (WC) compared to subjects in the control group (all p <0.05). After further adjustment for physical activity levels, WC was found to be significantly lower in the low GI group compared to the conventional group (p = 0.018). Conclusion Low GI diet in the context of a comprehensive lifestyle modification program may be an alternative to conventional diet in the management of obese adolescents. Trial registration number ClinicalTrials.gov Ref. No: NCT01278563 PMID:24552366

Doxorubicin-Loaded Nanobubbles Combined with Extracorporeal Shock Waves: Basis for a New Drug Delivery Tool in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer.

PubMed

Marano, Francesca; Argenziano, Monica; Frairia, Roberto; Adamini, Aloe; Bosco, Ornella; Rinella, Letizia; Fortunati, Nicoletta; Cavalli, Roberta; Catalano, Maria Graziella

2016-05-01

No standard chemotherapy is available for anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Drug-loaded nanobubbles (NBs) are a promising innovative anticancer drug formulation, and combining them with an externally applied trigger may further control drug release at the target region. Extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) are acoustic waves widely used in urology and orthopedics, with no side effects. The aim of the present work was to combine ESWs and new doxorubicin-loaded glycol chitosan NBs in order to target doxorubicin and enhance its antitumor effect in ATC cell lines. CAL-62 and 8305C cells were treated with empty NBs, fluorescent NBs, free doxorubicin, and doxorubicin-loaded NBs in the presence or in the absence of ESWs. NB entrance was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytofluorimetry. Cell viability was assessed by Trypan Blue exclusion and WST-1 proliferation assays. Doxorubicin intracellular content was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Treatment with empty NBs and ESWs, even in combination, was safe, as cell viability and growth were not affected. Loading NBs with doxorubicin and combining them with ESWs generated the highest cytotoxic effect, resulting in drug GI50 reduction of about 40%. Mechanistically, ESWs triggered intracellular drug release from NBs, resulting in the highest nuclear drug content. Combined treatment with doxorubicin-loaded NBs and ESWs is a promising drug delivery tool for ATC treatment with the possibility of using lower doxorubicin doses and thus limiting its systemic side effects.

Incidence and mitigation of gastrointestinal events in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis receiving delayed-release dimethyl fumarate: a German phase IV study (TOLERATE).

PubMed

Gold, Ralf; Schlegel, Eugen; Elias-Hamp, Birte; Albert, Christian; Schmidt, Stephan; Tackenberg, Björn; Xiao, James; Schaak, Tom; Salmen, Hans Christian

2018-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) events are common adverse events (AEs) associated with delayed-release dimethyl fumarate (DMF), an approved treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The objective of the TOLERATE study was to evaluate GI tolerability and GI mitigation via symptomatic therapies in patients initiating DMF in a real-world clinical setting in Germany. TOLERATE was a multicentre, open-label, single-arm study performed at 25 German sites. Endpoints were frequency, severity, duration (all primary) and mitigation of GI-related events (secondary). Patients were instructed to take DMF according to the prescribing information for up to 12 weeks and to document GI events and intake of GI-symptomatic therapy on numerical rating scales, using eDiaries. A total of 211 patients were included in the safety population (71% female; mean age 40 ± 11 years). Of these, 185 patients (87.7%) reported GI-related events, out of which nearly half received GI-symptomatic therapy (84/185; 45.4%). The most frequently reported GI events were upper abdominal pain, flatulence and nausea. GI-related events peaked during the first 3 weeks of therapy and rapidly decreased thereafter. The severity of GI events over 12 weeks according to the Modified Overall Gastrointestinal Symptom Scale were mild to moderate in the majority of patients reporting GI-related events and taking symptomatic GI medication (53.6%). Only 10% of all patients discontinued study treatment due to AEs in general, while 6.6% discontinued due to GI-related events. The severity of GI-related events decreased over time in patients who received symptomatic treatment with one or more medications (e.g. acid secretion blockers, antidiarrhoeals or antiemetics). Gastrointestinal events associated with delayed-release DMF were mainly mild to moderate in severity. Prevalence of GI events peaked during the first 3 weeks of therapy and rapidly faded thereafter. Although 44.9% of patients experiencing GI events used common GI symptomatic therapies, only 6.6% of patients discontinued DMF because of GI events, suggesting that GI events could be managed well with common symptomatic therapy.

Community-Based Soil Quality Assessment As a Tool for Designing an Urban Green Infrastructure Network to Manage Runoff.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klimas, C.; Montgomery, J.

2014-12-01

Green infrastructure (GI) may be the most practical approach for reducing contaminated runoff, providing ecosystem services, mitigating food deserts and creating community open spaces in urban areas. This project was funded by the USEPA's People-Prosperity-Planet (P3) program and was a partnership between a team of DePaul University undergraduates (the P3 team) and high school interns (Green Teens) and staff from the Gary Comer Youth Center (GCYC). GCYC is located in a low-income African-American community on Chicago's south side characterized by high crime, abandoned buildings, lack of green space and a food desert. The overaching project goal was to develop a network of Green Teens qualified to conduct soil quality assessment using USDA-NRCS protocols in order to let them develop GI plans to minimize storm water runoff and contaminant loadings, improve community and environmental health, and provide more equitable access to green space. Working with a USDA-ARS soil scientist from Washington State University, the P3 team conducted soil quality assessment on 116 soil samples collected among four abandoned residential lots owned by GCYC. Analytes included infiltration, bulk density, texture, pH, conductivity, aggregate stability, available nutrients, and total and bioavailable (PBET) lead. Soil pH on all lots is greater than 8.0, are low in organic matter, have little microbial respiration activity, are enriched in available phosphorus, and have average total lead values ranging from 24-2,700 mg/kg. PBET lead was less than 40% on most lots. Regardless, these soils will need to be remediated by adding carbon-rich materials such as biosolids prior to GI installation. Students enrolled in a landscape design course at DePaul developed 3-D models representing potential GI designs for one of the vacant lots that include strategies for immobilizing heavy metals, reducing runoff, and which are tied into an educational module for neighborhood school children.

Gastrointestinal cancer risk in patients with a family history of gastrointestinal cancer.

PubMed

Chung, Joo Won; Park, Jae Jun; Lim, Yun Jeong; Lee, Jun; Kim, Sun Moon; Han, Joung Ho; Jeon, Seong Ran; Lee, Hong Sub; Kim, Yong Sung; Song, Si Young

2018-06-25

This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between family history of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers and incidence of any GI cancer in the Korean population. Between January 2015 and July 2016, 711 GI cancer patients and 849 controls in 16 hospitals in Korea were enrolled. Personal medical histories, life styles, and family history of GI cancers were collected via questionnaire. There was a significant difference in the incidence of family history of GI cancer between GI cancer patients and controls (p=0.002). Patients with family history of GI cancer tended to be diagnosed as GI cancer at younger age than those without family history (p=0.016). The family members of GI cancer patients who were diagnosed before 50 years of age were more frequently diagnosed as GI cancer before the age of 50 years (p=0.017). After adjusting for major confounding factors, age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.065, 95% confidence interval [CI]; 1.053-1.076), male gender (AOR 2.270, 95% CI; 1.618-3.184), smoking (AOR 1.570, 95% CI; 1.130-2.182), and sibling's history of GI cancer (AOR 1.973, 95% CI; 1.246-3.126) remained independently associated with GI cancers. GI cancer patients tended to have a first relative with a history of concordant GI cancer. Personal factors (old age and male) and lifestyle (smoking) contribute to the development of GI cancer, independently. Individuals with high risk for GI cancers may be advised to undergo screening at an earlier age.

'Touchpoints' by nurses: impact on maternal representations, child development, quality of mother-infant interaction, and mothers' perception of the quality of relationships with nurses.

PubMed

Soares, Hélia

2016-05-09

To investigate the effect of implementing the Touchpoints methodology by nurses in the following variables: quality of mother-infant interaction; infant development; maternal representations of child temperament and mothers' perception of the quality of relationship with nurses. Quasi-experimental longitudinal study, including 86 child-mother dyads distributed equally for: Group with Intervention (GI) (n=43), Group without Intervention (GWI) (n=43). These groups belonged to paired samples according to the following criteria: maternal age; socio-economic class; family structure; child health; parents' physical or psychological health; twins; family's nationality; risk during pregnancy; baby APGAR. Paired samples with the same routine visits allowed comparing the impact of Touchpoints intervention on the above mentioned variables. The monitoring of the two groups took place in a period of between 11 and 24 months of children's life (four moments of assessment), being held two Touchpoints sessions in the GI at 12 and 18 months. Two Touchpoints interventions sessions were applied in the GI as follows: the first time, at 12 months; the second time, at 24 months, child age. The instruments used for data collection were: Schedule of Growing Skills II (SGS II); CARE-Index; Temperament Scale; Parent-Caregiver Relationship Scale - parents' version. Infant Locomotor development (p=.036) and maternal representations about the child and motherhood (Z=5.737; p=.019) improved in the GI. No significant results were found for mother-infant interaction in this direct comparison. Nevertheless, findings indicate that maternal sensitivity and infant cooperative behaviour increased from 12 to 24 months in the GI [t(41)=4.513; p<.001], whereas it decreased in the GWI (from 8.62 at 12 months to 8.40 at 24 months). The means of mothers' perceptions of Trust/Caring towards nurses in the GI were higher than in GWI after six months of the Touchpoints intervention [t(84)=2.146; p<.001; M_GI=34.07, SD=3.71; M_GWI=31.79], Collaboration/Partnership [t(84)=2.817; p<.001; M_GI=62.79, SD=4.809; M_GWI=59.89, SD=6.538] and Relational/Emotional [t(84)= 2.334; p<.001; M_GI=60.53, SD=3.838; M_GWI=58.30, SD=5.638]. Children at risk for developmental problems in the GI and GWI improved their development in Speech and Language (Z=4.772; p<.05; M_GI at risk =13.64 SD=.30 vs. M_GWI at risk=13.00, SD=.29), Hearing and Language (Z=4.341; p<.05; M_GI at risk=15.08, SD=.37 vs M_GWI at risk=14.0, SD=.36) and in Self-care Social (Z=4.0; p<.05 vs M_GI at risk=11.96, SD=.35; M_GWI at risk=11.46, SD=.34) after the intervention with Touchpoints. Also, maternal sensitivity and infant cooperative behaviour increased after Touchpoints intervention in dyads of 'children at risk' for developmental problems when compared to the dyads of 'children at risk without' these problems. The intervention using Touchpoints methodology by nurses had a positive effect on the following dimensions: infant development; maternal representations about the child and motherhood; maternal sensitivity and infant cooperative behaviour; perceptions of Trust/Caring towards nurses. This was particularly significant among children who were identified as having potential development risks. Further research is needed to better explain these findings.

Differential susceptibilities to azithromycin treatment of chlamydial infection in the gastrointestinal tract and cervix

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Evidence from animal studies suggests that chlamydiae may persist in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and be a reservoir for reinfection of the genital tract. We hypothesize that there may be a differential susceptibility of organisms in the GI and genital tracts. To determine the effect of azithromy...

MELATONIN-INDUCED SUPPRESSION OF PC12 CELL GROWTH IS MEDIATED BY ITS GI COUPLED TRANSMEMBRANE RECEPTORS. (R826248)

EPA Science Inventory

The effects of pertussis toxin, an uncoupler of Gi protein from adenylate cyclase, and luzindole, a competitive inhibitor of melatonin receptor binding, were examined for their ability to inhibit melatonin-induced suppression of PC12 cell growth. Both agents inhibited the mela...

The effects of pre- and probiotics on the host immune response

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest interface between an animal’s internal milieu and its exterior environment. As such, it forms a physical barrier between both environments. However, the function of the GI tract in the well-being of an animal is more complex than this passive role. T...

Effect of low glycemic index food and postprandial exercise on blood glucose level, oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity.

PubMed

Kasuya, Noriaki; Ohta, Shoichiro; Takanami, Yoshikazu; Kawai, Yukari; Inoue, Yutaka; Murata, Isamu; Kanamoto, Ikuo

2015-04-01

Low glycemic index (GI) food and postprandial exercise are non-drug therapies for improving postprandial hyperglycemia. The present randomized, crossover study investigated the effect of low GI food combined with postprandial exercise on postprandial blood glucose level, oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity. A total of 13 healthy subjects were each used in four experiments: i) rice only (control), ii) salad prior to rice (LGI), iii) exercise following rice (EX) and iv) salad prior to rice and exercise following rice (MIX). The blood glucose level, oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity were then measured. At 60 min after the meal, the blood glucose level was observed to be increased in the MIX group compared with that in the LGI group. Furthermore, at 180 min, the antioxidant capacity was found to be reduced in the MIX group compared with those of the LGI and EX groups. These findings suggest that low GI food combined with postprandial exercise does not improve postprandial hyperglycemia. It may be necessary to establish optimal timing and intensity when combining low GI food with postprandial exercise to improve postprandial hyperglycemia.

Incorporation of dietary fibre-rich oyster mushroom (Pleurotus sajor-caju) powder improves postprandial glycaemic response by interfering with starch granule structure and starch digestibility of biscuit.

PubMed

Ng, Sze Han; Robert, Sathyasurya Daniel; Wan Ahmad, Wan Amir Nizam; Wan Ishak, Wan Rosli

2017-07-15

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Pleurotus sajor-caju (PSC) powder addition at 0, 4, 8 and 12% levels on the nutritional values, pasting properties, thermal characteristics, microstructure, in vitro starch digestibility, in vivo glycaemic index (GI) and sensorial properties of biscuits. Elevated incorporation levels of PSC powder increased the dietary fibre (DF) content and reduced the pasting viscosities and starch gelatinisation enthalpy value of biscuits. The addition of DF-rich PSC powder also interfered with the integrity of the starch granules by reducing the sizes and inducing the uneven spherical shapes of the starch granules, which, in turn, resulted in reduced starch susceptibility to digestive enzymes. The restriction starch hydrolysis rate markedly reduced the GI of biscuits. The incorporation of 8% PSC powder in biscuits (GI=49) could be an effective way of developing a nutritious and low-GI biscuit without jeopardizing its desirable sensorial properties. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of dry Jerusalem artichoke as a functional nutrient in developing extruded food with low glycaemic index.

PubMed

Radovanovic, Ana; Stojceska, Valentina; Plunkett, Andrew; Jankovic, Slobodan; Milovanovic, Dragan; Cupara, Snezana

2015-06-15

This study considers the use of dry Jerusalem artichoke (JA) as a functional nutrient in developing food products with enhanced nutritional characteristics and low glycaemic index (GI). Three different formulations based on buckwheat and JA were developed and processed using extrusion technology. Nutritional properties including the levels of total dietary fibre (TDF), protein, inulin, total carbohydrates and lipids were analysed. A clinical study was performed on ten healthy volunteers (aged between 21 and 56) to determine the level of GI and glycaemic load (GL). The results revealed that JA significantly (P<0.05) increased the levels of TDF and inulin whilst decreasing carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. The resulting products had a significant (P<0.05) effect on IAUC between reference food and extruded products, GI and GL. Samples containing 80% of Jerusalem artichoke were considered as a low GI food whilst samples containing 30% and 60% of Jerusalem artichoke as a medium GI food. A similar trend was seen in terms of GL. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Effect of pregnancy on gingival inflammation in systemically healthy women: a systematic review.

PubMed

Figuero, Elena; Carrillo-de-Albornoz, Ana; Martín, Conchita; Tobías, Aurelio; Herrera, David

2013-05-01

To obtain an overall quantitative estimate of the association between pregnancy and gingival inflammation. Medline and EMBASE databases were searched through August 2011. Prospective cohort or cross-sectional studies assessing the effect of pregnancy on gingival inflammation evaluated by the gingival index (GI) and/or bleeding on probing were included. Meta-analyses were performed if possible. Forty-four articles representing 33 studies (14 cohort and 19 cross-sectional) were included. Meta-analyses, performed whenever possible, revealed (1) a significantly lower GI in pregnant women in the first term compared with those in their second or third term of pregnancy; (2) a lower mean GI score in post-partum women compared with women in their second [WMD = 0.143; 95% CI (0.031; 0.255); p = 0.012] or third term [WMD = 0.256; 95% CI (0.151; 0.360); p < 0.001] of pregnancy, when considering cohort studies; (3) Non-pregnant women had lower mean GI values than women in their second or third term of pregnancy. Small changes in plaque levels were reported. Despite the limited number of studies included in the meta-analyses, the present systematic review confirms the existence of a significant increase in GI throughout pregnancy and between pregnant versus post-partum or non-pregnant women, without a concomitant increase in plaque levels. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of virtual-reality simulator training in acquisition of competency in colonoscopy.

PubMed

Cohen, Jonathan; Cohen, Seth A; Vora, Kinjal C; Xue, Xiaonan; Burdick, J Steven; Bank, Simmy; Bini, Edmund J; Bodenheimer, Henry; Cerulli, Maurice; Gerdes, Hans; Greenwald, David; Gress, Frank; Grosman, Irwin; Hawes, Robert; Mullin, Gerard; Mullen, Gerard; Schnoll-Sussman, Felice; Starpoli, Anthony; Stevens, Peter; Tenner, Scott; Villanueva, Gerald

2006-09-01

The GI Mentor is a virtual reality simulator that uses force feedback technology to create a realistic training experience. To define the benefit of training on the GI Mentor on competency acquisition in colonoscopy. Randomized, controlled, blinded, multicenter trial. Academic medical centers with accredited gastroenterology training programs. First-year GI fellows. Subjects were randomized to receive 10 hours of unsupervised training on the GI Mentor or no simulator experience during the first 8 weeks of fellowship. After this period, both groups began performing real colonoscopies. The first 200 colonoscopies performed by each fellow were graded by proctors to measure technical and cognitive success, and patient comfort level during the procedure. A mixed-effects model comparison between the 2 groups of objective and subjective competency scores and patient discomfort in the performance of real colonoscopies over time. Forty-five fellows were randomized from 16 hospitals over 2 years. Fellows in the simulator group had significantly higher objective competency rates during the first 100 cases. A mixed-effects model demonstrated a higher objective competence overall in the simulator group (P < .0001), with the difference between groups being significantly greater during the first 80 cases performed. The median number of cases needed to reach 90% competency was 160 in both groups. The patient comfort level was similar. Fellows who underwent GI Mentor training performed significantly better during the early phase of real colonoscopy training.

Outcomes studies of the gastrointestinal safety of cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors.

PubMed

Scheiman, James M

2002-01-01

Short-term endoscopic studies of the highly selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors (coxibs) rofecoxib and celecoxib have shown that these agents are well tolerated and have efficacy equivalent to nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with fewer adverse effects on the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These studies are limited, however, as the detection of endoscopic lesions is not well correlated with symptomatic ulcers and ulcer complications. Outcomes studies of the GI safety are, therefore, essential to understanding how coxibs are likely to perform in a clinical practice setting. Four large outcomes studies (Vioxx Gastrointestinal Outcomes Research, VIGOR; Assessment of Difference Between Vioxx and Naproxen to Ascertain Gastrointestinal Tolerability and Effectiveness trial, ADVANTAGE; Celecoxib Long-term Arthritis Safety Study, CLASS; and the Successive Celecoxib Efficacy and Safety Studies, SUCCESS) examined the GI safety of rofecoxib and celecoxib in over 39,000 patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Results of these studies showed that patients taking a supratherapeutic dose of rofecoxib or celecoxib had significantly lower rates of GI-related adverse events than those taking a nonselective NSAID (naproxen, ibuprofen, or diclofenac). Reduced risk of upper GI events was seen in patients with multiple risk factors and in patients using low-dose aspirin and corticosteroids concomitantly with a coxib. Results of large outcomes studies provide support for the COX-2 hypothesis and demonstrate the long-term safety and tolerability of coxibs.

The effect of cool water ingestion on gastrointestinal pill temperature.

PubMed

Wilkinson, David M; Carter, James M; Richmond, Victoria L; Blacker, Sam D; Rayson, Mark P

2008-03-01

Telemetric gastrointestinal (GI) temperature pills are now commonly used to measure core body temperature and could minimize the risk of heat illness while maximizing operational effectiveness in workers subject to high levels of thermal strain. To quantify the effect of repeated cool water ingestion on the accuracy of GI pill temperature. Ten operational firefighters ingested a pill to measure GI temperature (T1int) before overnight sleep. Two hours following breakfast and 11.5 h after ingesting T1int, the firefighters ingested a second pill (T2int) before performing 8.5 h of intermittent activity (repetitive cycles of 30 min of seated rest followed by 30 min of general firefighter duties). During the first 2 min of each 30-min rest period, the firefighters consumed 250 mL of chilled water (5-8 degrees C). Water ingestion had a highly variable effect both within and between subjects in transiently (32 +/- 10 min) reducing the temperature of T2int in comparison with T1int. In general, this transient reduction in T2int became progressively smaller as time following ingestion increased. In some firefighters, the difference between T1int and T2int became negligible (+/- 0.1 degrees C) after 3 h, whereas in two others, large differences (peaking at 2.0 degrees C and 6.3 degrees C) were still observed when water was consumed 8 h after pill ingestion. These results show that a GI pill ingested immediately prior to physical activity cannot be used to measure core body temperature accurately in all individuals during the following 8 h when cool fluids are regularly ingested. This makes GI temperature measurement unsuitable for workers who respond to emergency deployments when regular fluid consumption is recommended operational practice.

Hypofractionated IMRT of the Prostate Bed After Radical Prostatectomy: Acute Toxicity in the PRIAMOS-1 Trial

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Katayama, Sonja, E-mail: sonja.katayama@med.uni-heidelberg.de; Striecker, Thorbjoern; Kessel, Kerstin

Purpose: Hypofractionated radiation therapy as primary treatment for prostate cancer is currently being investigated in large phase 3 trials. However, there are few data on postoperative hypofractionation. The Radiation therapy for the Prostate Bed With or Without the Pelvic Lymph Nodes (PRIAMOS 1) trial was initiated as a prospective phase 2 trial to assess treatment safety and toxicity of a hypofractionated intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) of the prostate bed. Methods and Materials: From February to September 2012, 40 patients with indications for adjuvant or salvage radiation therapy were enrolled. One patient dropped out before treatment. Patients received 54 Gy inmore » 18 fractions to the prostate bed with IMRT and daily image guidance. Gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicities (according to National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 4.0) were recorded weekly during treatment and 10 weeks after radiation therapy. Results: Overall acute toxicity was favorable, with no recorded adverse events grade ≥3. Acute GI toxicity rates were 56.4% (grade 1) and 17.9% (grade 2). Acute GU toxicity was recorded in 35.9% of patients (maximum grade 1). Urinary stress incontinence was not influenced by radiation therapy. The incidence of grade 1 urinary urge incontinence increased from 2.6% before to 23.1% 10 weeks after therapy, but grade 2 urge incontinence remained unchanged. Conclusions: Postoperative hypofractionated IMRT of the prostate bed is tolerated well, with no severe acute side effects.« less

Meal context and food preferences in cancer patients: results from a French self-report survey.

PubMed

Guerdoux-Ninot, Estelle; Kilgour, Robert D; Janiszewski, Chloé; Jarlier, Marta; Meuric, Jocelyne; Poirée, Brigitte; Buzzo, Solange; Ninot, Grégory; Courraud, Julie; Wismer, Wendy; Thezenas, Simon; Senesse, Pierre

2016-01-01

The present study examined patient self-reports of descriptions, experiences and consequences of meal disturbances and food preferences within a cultural context (i.e., French meal traditions) in various treated cancer patients along their disease trajectory. Over 800 questionnaires were sent to 20 cancer treatment centres in France. During a 9-month period, 255 questionnaires were received from five centres. Inclusion criteria included those French patients over 18 years of age, could read and understand French, had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score between 0 and 2, experienced treatment-induced nutrition changes and/or had decreased oral intake. Dietetic staff assessed clinical characteristics while patients completed a 17-item questionnaire. The majority of patients were diagnosed with breast, gastro-intestinal (GI) tract and head and neck cancers (62 %). Half of the patients (49 %) experienced weight loss >5 %. The main treatment-induced side effects were fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, hypersensitivity to odors and GI tract transit disorders. These discomforts affected eating and drinking in 83 % of patients, inducing appetite loss and selected food aversion. Food preference appeared heterogeneous. Food taste, odor and finally appearance stimulated appetite. Finally, dietary behaviors and satisfaction were driven by the extent to which food was enjoyed. During oncologic treatments, eating and drinking were affected in more than three-quarters of patients. As recommended by practice guidelines, nutritional assessment and follow-up are required. Personalized nutritional counseling should include the role of the family, patient's meal traditions, and food habits.

Probiotics, prebiotics and child health: where are we going?

PubMed

Salvini, F; Granieri, L; Gemmellaro, L; Giovannini, M

2004-01-01

Changes in gastrointestinal (GI) bacteria caused by diet, antibiotics or other factors could alter enteric and systemic immune functions; changing the gut microflora composition by diet supplementation with specific live microbiota (probiotics) may be beneficial. The 'natural' target of ingested probiotics is the intestine, its microflora and associated immune system. Most published data concern use of probiotics to prevent and treat GI infections. Evidence for possible beneficial effects on mucosal barrier dysfunctions, including food allergy, inflammatory bowel disease, and respiratory and urinary tract infections, is emerging. The role of prebiotics (non-digestible oligosaccharides that reduce the growth or virulence of pathogens and induce systemic effects) is being investigated. Preliminary studies indicate that prebiotics may be useful dietary adjuncts for managing GI infections. Prebiotic and probiotic use in infants is attempting to modify a complex microbial ecosystem. Better understanding of the long-term effects of these interventions on infant gut microflora is an important goal.

Mucus-penetrating nanoparticles for drug and gene delivery to mucosal tissues

PubMed Central

Lai, Samuel K.; Wang, Ying-Ying; Hanes, Justin

2009-01-01

Mucus is a viscoelastic and adhesive gel that protects the lung airways, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, vagina, eye and other mucosal surfaces. Most foreign particulates, including conventional particle-based drug delivery systems, are efficiently trapped in human mucus layers by steric obstruction and/or adhesion. Trapped particles are typically removed from the mucosal tissue within seconds to a few hours depending on anatomical location, thereby strongly limiting the duration of sustained drug delivery locally. A number of debilitating diseases could be treated more effectively and with fewer side effects if drugs and genes could be more efficiently delivered to the underlying mucosal tissues in a controlled manner. This review first describes the tenacious mucus barrier properties that have precluded the efficient penetration of therapeutic particles. It then reviews the design and development of new mucus-penetrating particles that may avoid rapid mucus clearance mechanisms, and thereby provide targeted or sustained drug delivery for localized therapies in mucosal tissues. PMID:19133304

The challenges in diagnosis and gender assignment in disorders of sex development presenting to a pediatric surgical unit in a developing country: the role of laparoscopy and simple tests for gender identity.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Tanvir K; Kabir, Mahfuzul; Chowdhury, Md Zonaid; Hutson, John M; Banu, Tahmina

2014-12-01

We aimed to assess how the diagnosis and determination of gender identity of disorders of sex development (DSD) is different in a developing country from Western medicine, and whether a pediatric surgery department can determine the underlying diagnosis and use simple tools to determine the likely gender identity (GI). We reviewed the records of DSD patients admitted to the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Chittagong Medical College & Hospital (CMCH), Chittagong, Bangladesh, from January 2006 to December 2012 and performed a cross-sectional study on GI and gender-related behavior in these patients during the year 2012. DSD boys and girls answered a GI interview and had their gender role behavior assessed by observations of structural toy play and analyzed for differences in scores. This cohort of DSD patients presented in mid-childhood (6 months-16 years, mean 6.9 years) rather than infancy, and 30% came from consanguineous unions. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) constituted only 11 of 50 (22%) of the DSD cohort, and not all families had access to steroid hormone replacement. A simple assessment of GI and gender-related behavior allowed effective gender assignment, as there was significant difference between DSD boys and girls in GI and gender-related behavior score. DSD management in Bangladesh provides some unique challenges because of limited resources. A national reference laboratory for biochemical and genetic testing and development of a quaternary referral center for DSD patients will be helpful. Continued use of the GI interview and gender-related behavior study will enable effective interim decisions about diagnosis and management. Copyright © 2014 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Green leafy porridges: how good are they in controlling glycaemic response?

PubMed

Anuruddhika Subhashinie Senadheera, Senadheera Pathirannehelage; Ekanayake, Sagarika

2013-03-01

Green leafy porridges made with leaf water extracts, rice and coconut milk are common Sri Lankan dietary remedies for diabetes. Though water and ethanolic extracts of most leaves elicit hypoglycaemic effects, data are not available on the efficacy when leaf extracts are incorporated into porridges. Thus, an effort was made to evaluate the proximate compositions and glycaemic index (GI) of some commonly consumed green leafy porridges. The GI of rice porridge and coconut milk porridge were measured to evaluate the effect of other ingredients other than the leaf extracts. Rice was the main contributor to carbohydrate (56-68% on dry weight) and water was the main component in porridges (89-93%). Fat and total dietary fibre contents ranged between 2.5-27% and 5-10%, respectively. The GI of all porridges was low (GI ≤ 55), except Cassia auriculata which had a high GI of 77 ± 12. The GIs of coconut milk, Aerva lanata, Hemidesmus indicus, Scoparia dulcis, Asparagus racemosus, Cephalandra indica, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Murraya koenigii and Aegle marmelos were 31 ± 5, 32 ± 5, 40 ± 8, 39 ± 8, 37 ± 4, 49 ± 8, 46 ± 8, 44 ± 8 and 50 ± 8, respectively. All porridges had a low or medium glycaemic loads ( ≤ 19). However, peak blood glucose reductions of ≥ 25% were observed in all leafy and coconut milk porridges, except in C. auriculata and Atlantia zeylanica, when compared with the glucose control. Therefore, green leafy porridges, except Cassia, can be recommended as breakfast meals for diabetics due to their low GI, peak blood glucose reduction and presence of other nutrients in green leaves.

Effects of Rebamipide on Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Park, Sejeong; Park, So Young; Kim, Yu Jin; Hong, Soo Min; Chon, Suk; Oh, Seungjoon; Woo, Jeong Taek; Kim, Sung Woon; Kim, Young Seol; Rhee, Sang Youl

2016-06-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Rebamipide is an effective gastric cytoprotective agent, but there are few data on its usefulness in T2DM. The aim of this study is to evaluate the improvement of GI symptoms after rebamipide treatment in patients with T2DM. Patients with T2DM and atypical GI symptoms were enrolled. They took rebamipide (100 mg thrice daily) for 12 weeks and filled out the diabetes bowel symptom questionnaire (DBSQ) before and after rebamipide treatment. The DBSQ consisted of 10 questions assessing the severity of GI symptoms by a 1 to 6 scoring system. Changes in the DBSQ scores before and after rebamipide treatment were analyzed to evaluate any improvements of GI symptoms. A total of 107 patients were enrolled, and 84 patients completed the study. The mean age was 65.0±7.8, 26 patients were male (24.8%), the mean duration of T2DM was 14.71±9.12 years, and the mean glycosylated hemoglobin level was 6.97%±0.82%. The total DBSQ score was reduced significantly from 24.9±8.0 to 20.4±7.3 before and after rebamipide treatment (P<0.001). The DBSQ scores associated with reflux symptoms, indigestion, nausea or vomiting, abdominal bloating or distension, peptic ulcer, abdominal pain, and constipation were improved after rebamipide treatment (P<0.05). However, there were no significant changes in symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and anal incontinence. No severe adverse events were reported throughout the study. Rebamipide treatment for 12 weeks improved atypical GI symptoms in patients with T2DM.

Mind the gaps in research on the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of farmed ruminants and pigs.

PubMed

Charlier, J; Thamsborg, S M; Bartley, D J; Skuce, P J; Kenyon, F; Geurden, T; Hoste, H; Williams, A R; Sotiraki, S; Höglund, J; Chartier, C; Geldhof, P; van Dijk, J; Rinaldi, L; Morgan, E R; von Samson-Himmelstjerna, G; Vercruysse, J; Claerebout, E

2018-05-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode control has an important role to play in increasing livestock production from a limited natural resource base and to improve animal health and welfare. In this synthetic review, we identify key research priorities for GI nematode control in farmed ruminants and pigs, to support the development of roadmaps and strategic research agendas by governments, industry and policymakers. These priorities were derived from the DISCONTOOLS gap analysis for nematodes and follow-up discussions within the recently formed Livestock Helminth Research Alliance (LiHRA). In the face of ongoing spread of anthelmintic resistance (AR), we are increasingly faced with a failure of existing control methods against GI nematodes. Effective vaccines against GI nematodes are generally not available, and anthelmintic treatment will therefore remain a cornerstone for their effective control. At the same time, consumers and producers are increasingly concerned with environmental issues associated with chemical parasite control. To address current challenges in GI nematode control, it is crucial to deepen our insights into diverse aspects of epidemiology, AR, host immune mechanisms and the socio-psychological aspects of nematode control. This will enhance the development, and subsequent uptake, of the new diagnostics, vaccines, pharma-/nutraceuticals, control methods and decision support tools required to respond to the spread of AR and the shifting epidemiology of GI nematodes in response to climatic, land-use and farm husbandry changes. More emphasis needs to be placed on the upfront evaluation of the economic value of these innovations as well as the socio-psychological aspects to prioritize research and facilitate uptake of innovations in practice. Finally, targeted regulatory guidance is needed to create an innovation-supportive environment for industries and to accelerate the access to market of new control tools. © 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Fructose and lactose intolerance and malabsorption testing: the relationship with symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

PubMed

Wilder-Smith, C H; Materna, A; Wermelinger, C; Schuler, J

2013-06-01

The association of fructose and lactose intolerance and malabsorption with the symptoms of different functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) remains unclear. To investigate the prevalence of fructose and lactose intolerance (symptom induction) and malabsorption and their association with clinical gastrointestinal (GI) as well as non-GI symptoms in FGID and the outcome of dietary intervention. Fructose and lactose intolerance (defined by positive symptom index) and malabsorption (defined by increased hydrogen/methane) were determined in 1372 FGID patients in a single centre using breath testing. Results were correlated with clinical symptoms in different FGID Rome III subgroups. The effectiveness of a targeted saccharide-reduced diet was assessed after 6-8 weeks. Intolerance prevalence across all FGIDs was 60% to fructose, 51% to lactose and 33% to both. Malabsorption occurred in 45%, 32% and 16% respectively. There were no differences in intolerance or malabsorption prevalence between FGID subgroups. FGID symptoms correlated with symptoms evoked during testing (r = 0.35-0.61. P < 0.0001), but not with malabsorption. Non-GI symptoms occurred more commonly in patients with intolerances. Methane breath levels were not associated with constipation using several cut-off thresholds. Adequate symptom relief was achieved in >80% of intolerant patients, irrespective of malabsorption. Fructose and lactose intolerances are common in FGID and associated with increased non-GI symptoms, but not with specific FGID subtypes. Symptoms experienced during breath testing, but not malabsorption, correlate with FGID symptoms. Effective symptom relief with dietary adaptation is not associated with malabsorption. Mechanisms relating to the generation of GI and non-GI symptoms due to lactose and fructose in FGID need to be explored further. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Fructose and lactose intolerance and malabsorption testing: the relationship with symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders

PubMed Central

Wilder-Smith, C H; Materna, A; Wermelinger, C; Schuler, J

2013-01-01

Background The association of fructose and lactose intolerance and malabsorption with the symptoms of different functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) remains unclear. Aim To investigate the prevalence of fructose and lactose intolerance (symptom induction) and malabsorption and their association with clinical gastrointestinal (GI) as well as non-GI symptoms in FGID and the outcome of dietary intervention. Methods Fructose and lactose intolerance (defined by positive symptom index) and malabsorption (defined by increased hydrogen/methane) were determined in 1372 FGID patients in a single centre using breath testing. Results were correlated with clinical symptoms in different FGID Rome III subgroups. The effectiveness of a targeted saccharide-reduced diet was assessed after 6–8 weeks. Results Intolerance prevalence across all FGIDs was 60% to fructose, 51% to lactose and 33% to both. Malabsorption occurred in 45%, 32% and 16% respectively. There were no differences in intolerance or malabsorption prevalence between FGID subgroups. FGID symptoms correlated with symptoms evoked during testing (r = 0.35–0.61. P < 0.0001), but not with malabsorption. Non-GI symptoms occurred more commonly in patients with intolerances. Methane breath levels were not associated with constipation using several cut-off thresholds. Adequate symptom relief was achieved in >80% of intolerant patients, irrespective of malabsorption. Conclusions Fructose and lactose intolerances are common in FGID and associated with increased non-GI symptoms, but not with specific FGID subtypes. Symptoms experienced during breath testing, but not malabsorption, correlate with FGID symptoms. Effective symptom relief with dietary adaptation is not associated with malabsorption. Mechanisms relating to the generation of GI and non-GI symptoms due to lactose and fructose in FGID need to be explored further. PMID:23574302

Perioperative Administration of Traditional Japanese Herbal Medicine Daikenchuto Relieves Postoperative Ileus in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Ishizuka, Mitsuru; Shibuya, Norisuke; Nagata, Hitoshi; Takagi, Kazutoshi; Iwasaki, Yoshimi; Hachiya, Hiroyuki; Aoki, Taku; Kubota, Keiichi

2017-11-01

Although it has been widely demonstrated that administration of Daikenchuto (DKT), a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, improves gastrointestinal (GI) motility in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, few studies have investigated the efficacy of perioperative DKT administration for relief of postoperative ileus (PI) in patients undergoing surgery for GI cancer. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether perioperative administration of DKT relieves PI in patients with GI cancer. We performed a comprehensive electronic search of the literature (Cochrane Library, PubMed, the Web of Science and ICHUSHI) up to December 2016 to identify studies that had shown the efficacy of perioperative DKT administration for relief of PI in patients with GI cancer. To integrate the individual effect of DKT, a meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models to calculate the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI), and heterogeneity was analyzed using I 2 statistics. Seven studies involving a total of 1,134 patients who had undergone GI cancer surgery were included in this meta-analysis. Among 588 patients who received DKT perioperatively, 67 (11.4%) had PI, whereas among 546 patients who did not receive DKT perioperatively, 87 (15.9%) had PI. Perioperative administration of DKT significantly reduced the occurrence of PI (RR=0.58, 95% CI=0.35-0.97, p=0.04, I 2 =48%) in comparison to patients who did not receive DKT or received placebo. The result of this meta-analysis suggests that perioperative administration of DKT relieves PI in patients undergoing surgery for GI cancer. Copyright© 2017, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

Novel Holistic Approaches for Overcoming Therapy Resistance in Pancreatic and Colon Cancers.

PubMed

Sarkar, Fazlul H

2016-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, such as of the colon and pancreas, are highly resistant to both standard and targeted therapeutics. Therapy-resistant and heterogeneous GI cancers harbor highly complex signaling networks (the resistome) that resist apoptotic programming. Commonly used gemcitabine or platinum-based regimens fail to induce meaningful (i.e. disease-reversing) perturbations in the resistome, resulting in high rates of treatment failure. The GI cancer resistance networks are, in part, due to interactions between parallel signaling and aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) that collectively promote the development and survival of drug-resistant cancer stem cells with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics. The lack of understanding of the resistance networks associated with this subpopulation of cells as well as reductionist, single protein-/pathway-targeted approaches have made 'effective drug design' a difficult task. We propose that the successful design of novel therapeutic regimens to target drug-resistant GI tumors is only possible if network-based drug avenues and agents, in particular 'natural agents' with no known toxicity, are correctly identified. Natural agents (dietary agents or their synthetic derivatives) can individually alter miRNA profiles, suppress EMT pathways and eliminate cancer stem-like cells that derive from pancreatic cancer and colon cancer, by partially targeting multiple yet meaningful networks within the GI cancer resistome. However, the efficacy of these agents as combinations (e.g. consumed in the diet) against this resistome has never been studied. This short review article provides an overview of the different challenges involved in the understanding of the GI resistome, and how novel computational biology can help in the design of effective therapies to overcome resistance. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial studying the effects of Saccharomyces boulardii on the gastrointestinal tolerability, safety, and pharmacokinetics of miglustat.

PubMed

Remenova, Tatiana; Morand, Olivier; Amato, Dominick; Chadha-Boreham, Harbajan; Tsurutani, Scott; Marquardt, Thorsten

2015-06-19

Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances such as diarrhea and flatulence are the most frequent adverse effects associated with miglustat therapy in type 1 Gaucher disease (GD1) and Niemann-Pick disease type C (NP-C), and the most common recorded reason for stopping treatment during clinical trials and in clinical practice settings. Miglustat-related GI disturbances are thought to arise from the inhibition of intestinal disaccharidases, mainly sucrase isomaltase. We report the effects of a co-administered dietary probiotic, S. boulardii, on the GI tolerability of miglustat in healthy adult subjects. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-period, two-treatment cross-over trial, healthy adult male and female subjects were randomly allocated to treatment sequences, A-B and B-A (treatment A - miglustat 100 mg t.i.d. + placebo; treatment B - miglustat 100 mg t.i.d. + S. boulardii [500 mg, b.i.d.]). GI tolerability data were collected in patient diaries. The primary endpoint was the total number of 'diarrhea days' (≥3 loose stools within a 24-h period meeting Bristol Stool Scores [BSS] 6-7) based on WHO criteria. Secondary endpoints comprised numerous other diarrhea and GI tolerability indices. Twenty-one subjects received randomized therapy in each treatment sequence (total N = 42), and overall, 37 (88 %) subjects completed the study. The total number of diarrhea days was <1.5 for both treatment sequences, and approximately 60 % of subjects did not experience diarrhea during either treatment period. The mean (SD) number of diarrhea days was lower with miglustat + S. boulardii (0.8 [2.4] days) than with miglustat + placebo (1.3 [2.4] days), but the paired treatment difference was not statistically significant (-0.5 [2.4] days; p = 0.159). However, a significant treatment difference (-0.7 [1.9]; p < 0.05) was identified after post hoc exclusion of a clear outlier who had a very high number of diarrhea days (n = 13) and inconsistent GI tolerability reporting. The incidence of the GI AEs was higher with miglustat + placebo (82 %) than with miglustat + S. boulardii (73 %). There were no between-treatment differences in miglustat pharmacokinetics. Although the primary endpoint was not met, the results of the post-hoc analysis suggest that co-administration of miglustat with S. boulardii might improve GI tolerability.

Computer Simulation of the Virulome of Bacillus anthracis Using Proteomics

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-31

hypothetical protein gi|47526566 spermidine /putrescine ABC transporter, spermidine /putrescine-binding protein gi|47526625 oligoendopeptidase F, putative gi...glutamyl-trna(gln) amidotransferase, a subunit x gi|50196927 aspartate aminotransferase x gi|50196970 spermidine synthase x

Antioxidant effects of proanthocyanidin-rich natural extracts from grape seed and cupuassu on gastrointestinal mucosa.

PubMed

Pinent, Montserrat; Castell-Auví, Anna; Genovese, Maria Inés; Serrano, Joan; Casanova, Angela; Blay, Mayte; Ardévol, Anna

2016-01-15

The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is constantly exposed to reactive species released by the GI tract itself, and those present in food and beverages. Phenolic compounds may help in protecting the GI tract against damage produced by the reactive species. In this paper we have analyzed the effects of a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in two different intestinal cell types: the absorptive cell line Caco-2 and the enteroendocrine cell line STC-1. We show that GSPE prevents tert-butylhydroperoxide-induced oxidative stress in both cell lines, and that the effects are dose and time dependent. We have also analyzed whether GSPE has any in vivo effect, and found that 25 mg kg(-1) body weight cannot counteract the increase in intestinal ROS induced by the cafeteria diet. However, an acute (1 h) treatment of 1 g GSPE kg(-1) body weight reduced ROS in fasted animals and also decreased ROS induction by food. These effects were found only after a short-term treatment. Furthermore, we have compared the in vitro GSPE effects with those of another proanthocyanidin-rich extract from cupuassu seeds, though it has compounds with different structures. Cupuassu extract also shows antioxidant effects in both cell types, which suggests different mechanisms from those of GSPE. Natural proanthocyanidin-rich extracts have an antioxidant effect in the GI tract, acting on absorptive cells and enterohormone-secreting cells, although the effects depend on the dose and period of treatment. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Association between carbohydrate quality and inflammatory markers: systematic review of observational and interventional studies.

PubMed

Buyken, Anette E; Goletzke, Janina; Joslowski, Gesa; Felbick, Anna; Cheng, Guo; Herder, Christian; Brand-Miller, Jennie C

2014-04-01

Chronic low-grade inflammation is a likely intermediary between quality of carbohydrate and chronic disease risk. We conducted a systematic literature search to evaluate the relevance of carbohydrate quality on inflammatory markers in observational and intervention studies. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies on associations between glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), dietary fiber or fiber supplements or whole grain intake, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) or interleukin 6 (IL-6). Included studies had to be conducted on adults (healthy, overweight, with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome features, but without inflammatory disease) with ≥20 participants and a 3-wk duration. In total, 22 of the 60 studies that met our inclusion criteria examined GI/GL: 5 of 9 observational studies reported lower concentrations of hsCRP or IL-6 among persons with a lower dietary GI/GL; 3 of 13 intervention studies showed significant antiinflammatory effects of a low-GI/GL diet, and 4 further studies suggested beneficial effects (trends or effects in a subgroup). For fiber intake, 13 of 16 observational studies reported an inverse relation with hsCRP or IL-6, but only 1 of 11 intervention studies showed a significant antiinflammatory effect of fiber intake, and a further trial reported a beneficial trend. For whole-grain intake, 6 of 7 observational studies observed an inverse association with inflammatory markers, but only 1 of 7 intervention studies reported significant antiinflammatory effects, 1 further study was suggestive (in a subgroup) of such, and another study found an adverse effect (trend only). Evidence from intervention studies for antiinflammatory benefits is less consistent for higher-fiber or whole-grain diets than for low-GI/GL diets. Benefits of higher fiber and whole-grain intakes suggested by observational studies may reflect confounding.

Present status of endoscopy, therapeutic endoscopy and the endoscopy training system in Indonesia.

PubMed

Makmun, Dadang

2014-04-01

Recently, Indonesia was ranked as the fourth most populous country in the world. Based on 2012 data, 85000 general practitioners and 25000 specialists are in service around the country. Gastrointestinal (GI) disease remains the most common finding in daily practise, in both outpatient and inpatient settings, and ranks fifth in causing mortality in Indonesia. Management of patients with GI disease involves all health-care levels with the main portion in primary health care. Some are managed by specialists in secondary health care or are referred to tertiary health care. GI endoscopy is one of the main diagnostic and therapeutic modalities in the management of GI disease. Development of GI endoscopy in Indonesia started before World War II and, today, many GI endoscopy procedures are conducted in Indonesia, both diagnostic and therapeutic. Based on August 2013 data, there are 515 GI endoscopists in Indonesia. Most GI endoscopists are competent in carrying out basic endoscopy procedures, whereas only a few carry out advanced endoscopy procedures, including therapeutic endoscopy. Recently, the GI endoscopy training system in Indonesia consists of basic GI endoscopy training of 3-6 months held at 10 GI endoscopy training centers. GI endoscopy training is also eligible as part of a fellowship program of consultant gastroenterologists held at six accredited fellowship centers in Indonesia. Indonesian Society for Digestive Endoscopy in collaboration with GI endoscopy training centers in Indonesia and overseas has been working to increase quality and number of GI endoscopists, covering both basic and advanced GI endoscopy procedures. © 2014 The Author. Digestive Endoscopy © 2014 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.

Biomagnetic techniques for evaluating gastric emptying, peristaltic contraction and transit time

PubMed Central

la Roca-Chiapas, Jose María De; Cordova-Fraga, Teodoro

2011-01-01

Biomagnetic techniques were used to measure motility in various parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly a new technique for detecting magnetic markers and tracers. A coil was used to enhance the signal from a magnetic tracer in the GI tract and the signal was detected using a fluxgate magnetometer or a magnetoresistor in an unshielded room. Estimates of esophageal transit time were affected by the position of the subject. The reproducibility of estimates derived using the new biomagnetic technique was greater than 85% and it yielded estimates similar to those obtained using scintigraphy. This technique is suitable for studying the effect of emotional state on GI physiology and for measuring GI transit time. The biomagnetic technique can be used to evaluate digesta transit time in the esophagus, stomach and colon, peristaltic frequency and gastric emptying and is easy to use in the hospital setting. PMID:22025978

Biomagnetic techniques for evaluating gastric emptying, peristaltic contraction and transit time.

PubMed

la Roca-Chiapas, Jose María De; Cordova-Fraga, Teodoro

2011-10-15

Biomagnetic techniques were used to measure motility in various parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly a new technique for detecting magnetic markers and tracers. A coil was used to enhance the signal from a magnetic tracer in the GI tract and the signal was detected using a fluxgate magnetometer or a magnetoresistor in an unshielded room. Estimates of esophageal transit time were affected by the position of the subject. The reproducibility of estimates derived using the new biomagnetic technique was greater than 85% and it yielded estimates similar to those obtained using scintigraphy. This technique is suitable for studying the effect of emotional state on GI physiology and for measuring GI transit time. The biomagnetic technique can be used to evaluate digesta transit time in the esophagus, stomach and colon, peristaltic frequency and gastric emptying and is easy to use in the hospital setting.

Effect of radiation on metabolism of selected minerals in cattle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sasser, L.B.; Wade, L. Jr.; Bell, M.C.

1974-01-01

Zinc, Cu, Ca, Mg, and Fe contents of plasma and/or erythrocytes of steers were studied following exposure of the steers to either whole-body gamma irradiation, BETA irradiation of the gastrointestinal tract, BETA irradiation of the skin, or all combinations of the above. Gastrointestinal (GI) irradiation reduced plasma Zn concentrations 1, 2, and 3 weeks after irradiation, but no detectable change occurred in the erythrocyte concentration of stable Zn. The uptake of /sup 65/Zn by erythrocytes from control steers averaged about 5%; whereas the uptakes of the GI- and skin-irradiated steers exceeded l0%. Hypoferremia and hypercupremia accompanied the injury and infectionmore » produced by GI and skin irradiation. The decline of plasma Ca and Mg levels following GI irradiation appeared to be the result of radiation-induced anorexia, as control animals with a restricted feed intake had a similar reduction in plasma Ca and Mg. (auth)« less

Guided imagery, anxiety, heart rate, and heart rate variability during centrifuge training.

PubMed

Jing, Xiaolu; Wu, Ping; Liu, Fang; Wu, Bin; Miao, Danmin

2011-02-01

Centrifuge training is an important method of improving the hypergravity tolerance of pilots, cosmonauts, and Chinese astronauts. However, the concomitants of tension or anxiety often impede training. Guided imagery (GI), a mind-body relaxation technique, provides a behavioral and cognitive means whereby individuals are able to exert control over the focus of attention. This study aims to investigate the immediate effects of GI for reducing stress in centrifuge training. There were 12 healthy young men who were randomly assigned to a GI group or music group. We measured changes in heart rate during centrifuge training, in heart rate variability before and after centrifuge training, and also evaluated relaxation and anxiety in three phases: before intervention, after intervention, and following centrifuge training. The change in the pattern of anxiety was different in the two groups over the three phases. Anxiety (measured by State Anxiety Inventory) in the GI group changed from 31.7 +/- 5.9 to 26.8 +/- 2.6 and 27.8 +/- 4.1, whereas for the music group this changed from 32.2 +/- 7.6 to 31.2 +/- 8.3 and 26.8 +/- 6.8. During centrifuge training, the maximal HR for the GI group (101.2 +/- 8.8) was lower than that of the music group (123.0 +/- 19.1). In addition GI showed a decrease in low frequency (LF, 0.04-0.15 Hz) components and an increase in high frequency (HF, 0.15-0.4 Hz) components before and after centrifuge training. GI was capable of decreasing tension, anxiety, and sympathetic nervous system activity pre- or post-centrifugation.

Design of a multicentre randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a tailored clinical support intervention to enhance return to work for gastrointestinal cancer patients.

PubMed

Zaman, AnneClaire G N M; Tytgat, Kristien M A J; Klinkenbijl, Jean H G; Frings-Dresen, Monique H W; de Boer, Angela G E M

2016-05-10

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is frequently diagnosed in people of working age, and many GI cancer patients experience work-related problems. Although these patients often experience difficulties returning to work, supportive work-related interventions are lacking. We have therefore developed a tailored work-related support intervention for GI cancer patients, and we aim to evaluate its cost-effectiveness compared with the usual care provided. If this intervention proves effective, it can be implemented in practice to support GI cancer patients after diagnosis and to help them return to work. We designed a multicentre randomized controlled trial with a follow-up of twelve months. The study population (N = 310) will include individuals aged 18-63 years diagnosed with a primary GI cancer and employed at the time of diagnosis. The participants will be randomized to the intervention or to usual care. 'Usual care' is defined as psychosocial care in which work-related issues are not discussed. The intervention group will receive tailored work-related support consisting of three face-to-face meetings of approximately 30 min each. Based on the severity of their work-related problems, the intervention group will be divided into groups receiving three types of support (A, B or C). A different supportive healthcare professional will be available for each group: an oncological nurse (A), an oncological occupational physician (B) and a multidisciplinary team (C) that includes an oncological nurse, oncological occupational physician and treating oncologist/physician. The primary outcome measure is return to work (RTW), defined as the time to a partial or full RTW. The secondary outcomes are work ability, work limitations, quality of life, and direct and indirect costs. The hypothesis is that tailored work-related support for GI cancer patients is more effective than usual care in terms of the RTW. The intervention is innovative in that it combines oncological and occupational care in a clinical setting, early in the cancer treatment process. METC protocol number NL51444.018.14/Netherlands Trial Register number NTR5022 . Registered 6 March 2015.

Effects of High Power Lasers, Number 5, September 1974 - February 1975

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-05-01

EOM J AiO FG1V FiKhOM F-KhMM FMiM FTP FTT FZh GiA GiK IAN Arm D\\.N Az SOURCE AB13Ri:viATIONS Avtomatika i tclcmekhanika Acta physica ... polonica Akadcniya nauk Armyanskoy SSR. Doklady Akadcrniya nauk Azerbaydzhanskoy SSR. Doklady Akadcrniya nauk Belorusskoy SSR. Doklady Ak

Systematic review of the effect of radiation dose on tumor control and morbidity in the treatment of prostate cancer by 3D-CRT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tol-Geerdink, Julia J. van; Stalmeier, Peep F.M.; Department of Medical Technology Assessment, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen

Purpose: A higher radiation dose is believed to result in a larger probability of tumor control and a higher risk of side effects. To make an evidence-based choice of dose, the relation between dose and outcome needs to be known. This study focuses on the dose-response relation for prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: A systematic review was carried out on the literature from 1990 to 2003. From the selected studies, the radiation dose, the associated 5-year survival, 5-year bNED (biochemical no evidence of disease), acute and late gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) morbidity Grade 2 or more, and sexual dysfunctionmore » were extracted. With logistic regression models, the relation between dose and outcome was described. Results: Thirty-eight studies met our criteria, describing 87 subgroups and involving up to 3000 patients per outcome measure. Between the (equivalent) dose of 70 and 80 Gy, various models estimated an increase in 5-year survival (ranging from 10% to 11%), 5-year bNED for low-risk patients (5-7%), late GI complications (12-16%), late GU complications (8-10%), and erectile dysfunction (19-24%). Only for the overall 5-year bNED, results were inconclusive (range, 0-18%). Conclusions: The data suggest a relationship between dose and outcome measures, including survival. However, the strength of these conclusions is limited by the sometimes small number of studies, the incompleteness of the data, and above all, the correlational nature of the data. Unambiguous proof for the dose-response relationships can, therefore, only be obtained by conducting randomized trials.« less

Review: pharmacotherapeutic agents in the treatment of portal hypertension.

PubMed

Lebrec, D

1997-02-01

Certain vasoactive substances reduce portal pressure in patients or animals with portal hypertension by either inducing splanchnic vasoconstriction or reducing hepatic vascular resistance. Studies have shown that propranolol or nadolol significantly reduce the risk of a first episode of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and increase the survival rate in patients with cirrhosis and oesophageal varices. Isosorbide-5-mononitrate is also effective in the prevention of bleeding. The combination of beta-blockers and nitrates may be more effective than one drug alone. These results show that beta-adrenoceptor antagonists must be used to prevent the first episode of GI bleeding. Beta-blocker administration also significantly reduces the risk of recurrent GI bleeding and increases the survival rate in patients with cirrhosis. Studies have shown that propranolol is as effective as endoscopic sclerotherapy. The combination of a beta-blocker with endoscopic sclerotherapy may be more effective than pharmacological or endoscopic treatment alone for the prevention of rebleeding. Finally, new experimental and clinical studies are needed to improve the pharmacological treatment of portal hypertension.

Current overview of extrinsic and intrinsic factors in etiology and progression of inflammatory bowel diseases.

PubMed

Sobczak, Marta; Fabisiak, Adam; Murawska, Natalia; Wesołowska, Ewelina; Wierzbicka, Paulina; Wlazłowski, Marcin; Wójcikowska, Marta; Zatorski, Hubert; Zwolińska, Marta; Fichna, Jakub

2014-10-01

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic, relapsing disorders affecting gastrointestinal (GI) tract and associated with intestinal mucosa damage and inflammation. The principal therapeutic goals in IBD include control of the intestinal inflammation and treatment of the major symptoms, mainly abdominal pain and diarrhea. Current therapeutic strategies for IBD rely on the use of non-specific anti-inflammatory agents and immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. aminosalicylates, monoclonal antibodies, and antibiotics), which cause severe side effects, and - in a significant number of patients - do not induce long-term benefits. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology and the most important risk factors of IBD, including genetic, immunological and environmental. Our main focus is to discuss pharmacological targets for current and future treatments of IBD. Copyright © 2014 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

Empirically Supported Use of Psychiatric Medications in Adolescents and Adults with IBD.

PubMed

Thorkelson, Gregory; Bielefeldt, Klaus; Szigethy, Eva

2016-06-01

The use of psychotropic medications, particularly antidepressants, is common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in spite of a lack of their robust efficacy in this population. This review provides an overview of the use trends of different classes of antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication and their effects on mood, nervous system function, gastrointestinal physiology and immunity drawing from the literature available in the general population, other medical conditions, and when available, patients with IBD. It also covers the evidence base for the actions, efficacy, and potential complications of antidepressants organized by different classes. We conducted a PubMed search of articles relating the different drug classes probed to the terms above in different populations of interest. All types of articles were accepted including case reports and series, open and randomized trials, reviews, and expert opinion. We also examined the reference lists of the publications found. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are the most commonly prescribed agents for anxiety and depression in patients with IBD, though their efficacy for these conditions in the general population are mild to moderate at best. SSRIs are generally well tolerated, though at higher doses, they, like most antidepressant classes, can be associated with activation, serotonergic syndrome, and increased suicidal ideation. TCAs have many more serious side effects but have some shown efficacy for functional GI symptoms. A newer class, the serotonin noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can be effective for refractory depression, anxiety and chronic pain syndromes with a side effect profile similar to both SSRIs and more mild manifestations of TCAs. Mirtazapine has moderate efficacy for depression if sedation and weight gain side effects are tolerated and some small support for use in nausea and vomiting. Bupropion targets dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake and has moderate efficacy for depression, and some small support for use in fatigue and smoking cessation. Buspirone has an indication for generalized anxiety disorder though studies show only a minimal benefit. It has some growing evidence for use in functional dyspepsia. Most of these agents have physiological effects on the brain, immune system, and gastrointestinal tract (with the exception of bupropion) hence their therapeutic and side effects manifested in these systems. Antidepressant medications are frequently prescribed for depression, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain syndromes, but overall support for their efficacy is modest at best. Psychological interventions have growing support for having much more robust effects without the side effects of antidepressants and should be considered first-line treatment or at least an adjunct to psychotropic medications for these conditions.

Genotype I of Japanese Encephalitis Virus Virus-like Particles Elicit Sterilizing Immunity against Genotype I and III Viral Challenge in Swine.

PubMed

Fan, Yi-Chin; Chen, Jo-Mei; Lin, Jen-Wei; Chen, Yi-Ying; Wu, Guan-Hong; Su, Kuan-Hsuan; Chiou, Ming-Tang; Wu, Shang-Rung; Yin, Ji-Hang; Liao, Jiunn-Wang; Chang, Gwong-Jen J; Chiou, Shyan-Song

2018-05-10

Swine are a critical amplifying host involved in human Japanese encephalitis (JE) outbreaks. Cross-genotypic immunogenicity and sterile protection are important for the current genotype III (GIII) virus-derived vaccines in swine, especially now that emerging genotype I (GI) JE virus (JEV) has replaced GIII virus as the dominant strain. Herein, we aimed to develop a system to generate GI JEV virus-like particles (VLPs) and evaluate the immunogenicity and protection of the GI vaccine candidate in mice and specific pathogen-free swine. A CHO-heparan sulfate-deficient (CHO-HS(-)) cell clone, named 51-10 clone, stably expressing GI-JEV VLP was selected and continually secreted GI VLPs without signs of cell fusion. 51-10 VLPs formed a homogeneously empty-particle morphology and exhibited similar antigenic activity as GI virus. GI VLP-immunized mice showed balanced cross-neutralizing antibody titers against GI to GIV viruses (50% focus-reduction micro-neutralization assay titers 71 to 240) as well as potent protection against GI or GIII virus infection. GI VLP-immunized swine challenged with GI or GIII viruses showed no fever, viremia, or viral RNA in tonsils, lymph nodes, and brains as compared with phosphate buffered saline-immunized swine. We thus conclude GI VLPs can provide sterile protection against GI and GIII viruses in swine.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarker(s) for prognosis and diagnosis of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.

PubMed

Macha, Muzafar A; Seshacharyulu, Parthasarathy; Krishn, Shiv Ram; Pai, Priya; Rachagani, Satyanarayana; Jain, Maneesh; Batra, Surinder K

2014-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers remain one of the most common malignancies and are the second common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The limited effectiveness of therapy for patients with advanced stage and recurrent disease is a reflection of an incomplete understanding of the molecular basis of GI carcinogenesis. Major advancements have improved our understanding of pathology and pathogenesis of GI cancers, but high mortality rates, unfavorable prognosis and lack of clinical predictive biomarkers provide an impetus to investigate new sensitive and specific diagnostic and prognostic markers for GI cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short (19-24 nucleotides) noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level thus playing an important role in modulating various biological processes including, but not limited to developmental processes, proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism, differentiation, epithelial-mechenchymal transition and are involved in the initiation and progression of various human cancers. Unique miRNA expression profiles have been observed in various cancer types at different stages, suggesting their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Due to their tumor-specific and tissue-specific expression profiles, stability, robust clinical assays for detection in serum as well as in formalin-fixed tissue samples, miRNAs have emerged as attractive candidates for diagnostic and prognostic applications. This review summarizes recent research supporting the utility of miRNAs as novel diagnostic and prognostic tools for GI cancers.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as Biomarker(s) for Prognosis and Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers

PubMed Central

Macha, Muzafar A.; Seshacharyulu, Parthasarathy; Krishn, Shiv Ram; Pai, Priya; Rachagani, Satyanarayana; Jain, Maneesh; Batra, Surinder K.

2014-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers remain one of the most common malignancies and are the second common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The limited effectiveness of therapy for patients with advanced stage and recurrent disease is a reflection of an incomplete understanding of the molecular basis of GI carcinogenesis. Major advancements have improved our understanding of pathology and pathogenesis of GI cancers, but high mortality rates, unfavorable prognosis and lack of clinical predictive biomarkers provide an impetus to investigate new sensitive and specific diagnostic and prognostic markers for GI cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short (19–24 nucleotides) noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level thus playing an important role in modulating various biological processes including, but not limited, to developmental processes, proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism, differentiation, epithelial-mechenchymal transition and are involved in the initiation and progression of various human cancers. Unique miRNA expression profiles have been observed in various cancer types at different stages, suggesting their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Due to their tumor-specific and tissue-specific expression profiles, stability, robust clinical assays for detection in serum as well as in formalin-fixed tissue samples, miRNAs have emerged as attractive candidates for diagnostic and prognostic applications. This review summarizes recent research supporting the utility of miRNAs as novel diagnostic and prognostic tools for GI cancers. PMID:24479799

Prescription Pattern of NSAIDs and the Prevalence of NSAID-induced Gastrointestinal Risk Factors of Orthopaedic Patients in Clinical Practice in Korea

PubMed Central

Lee, Sung-Hun; Han, Chang-Dong; Yang, Ick-Hwan

2011-01-01

This is a cross-sectional observational study undertaken to explore the current prescription pattern of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the prevalence of NSAID-induced gastrointestinal (GI) risk factors of orthopaedic patients in real clinical practice in Korea. Study cohort included 3,140 orthopaedic outpatients at 131 hospitals and clinics between January 2008 and August 2008. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by each patient and physician. A simplified risk scoring scale (the Standardized Calculator of Risk for Events; SCORE) was used to measure patients' risk for GI complications. The pattern of NSAIDs prescription was identified from medical recordings. Forty-five percents of the patients belonged to high risk or very high risk groups for GI complications. The cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme (COX-2) selective NSAID showed a propensity to be prescribed more commonly for high/very high GI risk groups, but the rate was still as low as 51%. In conclusion, physician's considerate prescription of NSAIDs with well-understanding of each patient's GI risk factors is strongly encouraged in order to maximize cost effectiveness and to prevent serious GI complications in Korea. Other strategic efforts such as medical association-led education programs and application of Korean electronic SCORE system to hospital order communication system (OCS) should also be accompanied in a way to promote physician's attention. PMID:21468265

The gastrointestinal tract – a central organ of cannabinoid signaling in health and disease

PubMed Central

Hasenoehrl, Carina; Taschler, Ulrike; Storr, Martin; Schicho, Rudolf

2016-01-01

Background and Purpose In ancient medicine, extracts of the marijuana plant Cannabis sativa were used against diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Today, our knowledge of the ingredients of the Cannabis plant has remarkably advanced enabling us to use a variety of herbal and synthetic cannabinoid compounds to study the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a physiologic entity that controls tissue homeostasis with the help of endogenously produced cannabinoids and their receptors. After many anecdotal reports suggested beneficial effects of Cannabis in GI disorders, it was not surprising to discover that the GI tract accommodates and expresses all the components of the ECS. Cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands, the endocannabinoids, participate in the regulation of GI motility, secretion, and the maintenance of the epithelial barrier integrity. In addition, other receptors, such as the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and the G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), are important participants in the actions of cannabinoids in the gut and critically determine the course of bowel inflammation and colon cancer. The following review summarizes important and recent findings on the role of cannabinoid receptors and their ligands in the GI tract with emphasis on GI disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. PMID:27561826

Clinicopathological and Prognostic Analysis of Primary Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Presenting with Gastrointestinal Bleeding: a 10-Year Retrospective Study.

PubMed

Yin, Zhijie; Gao, Jinbo; Liu, Weizhen; Huang, Cheng; Shuai, Xiaoming; Wang, Guobin; Tao, Kaixiong; Zhang, Peng

2017-05-01

The objectives of this paper were to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic factors of GI-bleeding GIST patients and explore whether GI bleeding is a risk factor for GIST relapse. Primary GIST patients with initial symptoms of GI bleeding or no GI bleeding were retrospectively studied. Up to 178 GI-bleeding GIST patients including 108 (60.7%) males and 70 (39.3%) females were evaluated for the clinicopathological characteristics. The stomach, small bowel, and colorectum were the tumor sites in 82 (46.1%), 85 (47.8%), and 11 (6.2%) patients. Of the 178 patients, 163 GI-bleeding patients had follow-up while another 363 patients from the total population presented without GI bleeding were followed up. Up to 526 patients who received postoperative follow-up were included in the survival analysis. Compared with the 363 non-GI-bleeding patients, GI-bleeding patients developed smaller tumors (P = 0.015) and had a longer relapse-free survival (RFS; P = 0.014). For the 163 GI-bleeding patients, a Cox regression analysis showed that the mitotic count and the platelet-lymphocyte ratio before surgery were independent prognostic predictors for poor outcome regarding RFS. For all 526 patients, a Cox regression analysis indicated that tumor location, mitotic index, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, and GI bleeding were independent prognosis predictors. Compared to non-GI-bleeding GIST patients, patients with GI bleeding were more likely to be male and to have more small intestine GISTs, smaller tumors, and a longer RFS. For GI-bleeding patients, mitotic count and platelet-lymphocyte ratio were independent prognostic indicators. GI bleeding served as a surrogate for smaller GIST and was a protective factor for GIST recurrence.

Evaluating compliance to a low glycaemic index (GI) diet in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

PubMed

Egan, Nicola; Read, Anna; Riley, Paddy; Atiomo, William

2011-03-08

A low Glycaemic Index (GI) diet may decrease some long-term health risks in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) such as endometrial cancer. This study was performed to assess compliance to a low GI diet in women with PCOS. Food diaries prospectively collected over 6 months from women on a low GI diet or healthy eating diet were analysed retrospectively. The women were recruited for a pilot randomised control trial investigating whether a low GI diet decreased the risk of Endometrial Cancer. Nine women with PCOS completed 33 food diaries (17 from women on a low GI diet and 16 from women on a healthy eating diet) recording 3023 food items (low GI group:n = 1457; healthy eating group:n = 1566). Data was analysed using Foster-Powell international values inserted into an SPSS database as no scientifically valid established nutrition software was found. The main outcome measures were mean item GI and Glyacemic Load (GL), mean meal GL, percentage high GI foods and mean weight loss. Women allocated the low GI diet had a statistically significant lower GI of food items (33.67 vs 36.91, p < 0.05), lower percentage of high GI foods (4.3% vs 12.1%, p < 0.05) and lower GL of food items and meals. Women with PCOS on a low GI diet consumed food items with a significantly lower mean GI and GL compared to the healthy eating diet group. Longer term compliance needs evaluation in subsequent studies to ascertain that this translates to reduced long term health risks. ISRCTN: ISRCTN86420258.

Effects of a low-glycemic index diet during pregnancy on offspring growth, body composition, and vascular health: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Kizirian, Nathalie V; Kong, Yang; Muirhead, Roslyn; Brodie, Shannon; Garnett, Sarah P; Petocz, Peter; Sim, Kyra A; Celermajer, David S; Louie, Jimmy C Y; Markovic, Tania P; Ross, Glynis P; Ward, Leigh C; Brand-Miller, Jennie C; Skilton, Michael R

2016-04-01

Elevated maternal blood glucose concentrations may contribute to macrosomia, adiposity, and poorer vascular health in the offspring. The aim was to explore the effect of a low-glycemic index (low-GI) diet during pregnancy on offspring growth, adiposity, and arterial wall thickness during infancy. This was a longitudinal follow-up study in a self-selected subgroup of mother-infant pairs (n= 59) participating in a larger randomized trial comparing the effects on perinatal outcomes of a low-GI diet and a conventional high-fiber (HF) diet during pregnancy. Infant anthropometric measurements were taken every month for 6 mo and then at 9 and 12 mo of age. Adiposity was assessed at birth and at 3 mo by air-displacement plethysmography by using the Pea Pod system (Cosmed) and at 6 and 12 mo by bioimpedance analysis (Bodystat). Aortic intima-media thickness was assessed at 12 mo by high-resolution ultrasound (Philips). Maternal dietary GI was lower in the low-GI group than in the HF group (51 ± 1 compared with 57 ± 1;P< 0.001). No differences in neonatal outcomes were observed in the main trial. In the self-selected subsample, birth weight and length z scores were lower in the low-GI group than in the HF group (birth weight z score: 0.2 ± 0.2 compared with 0.7 ± 0.2, respectively;P= 0.04; birth length z score: 0.3 ± 0.2 compared with 0.9 ± 0.2, respectively;P= 0.04), but adiposity from birth to 12 mo of age and growth trajectories from 1 to 12 mo of age were similar. Aortic intima-media thickness was lower in the low-GI group than in the HF group (657 ±12 compared with 696 ± 12 μm, respectively;P= 0.02), which was partly mediated by differences in birth weight. In women at risk of gestational diabetes mellitus, a low-GI diet influences offspring birth weight, birth length, and arterial wall thickness in early childhood, but not adiposity or growth trajectory during the first year of life. This trial was registered at anzctr.org.au as ACTRN12610000681055. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Future Treatment of Constipation-associated Disorders: Role of Relamorelin and Other Ghrelin Receptor Agonists

PubMed Central

Mosińska, Paula; Zatorski, Hubert; Storr, Martin; Fichna, Jakub

2017-01-01

There is an unmet need for effective pharmacological therapies for constipation, a symptom that significantly deteriorates patients’ quality of life and impacts health care. Ghrelin is an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor and has been shown to exert prokinetic effects on gastrointestinal (GI) motility via the vagus and pelvic nerves. The pharmacological potential of ghrelin is hampered by its short half-life. Ghrelin receptor (GRLN-R) agonists with enhanced pharmacokinetics were thus developed. Centrally penetrant GRLN-R agonists stimulate defecation and improve impaired lower GI transit in animals and humans. This review summarizes the current knowledge on relamorelin, a potent ghrelin mimetic, and other GRLN-R analogs which are in preclinical or clinical stages of development for the management of disorders with underlying GI hypomotility, like constipation. PMID:28238253

A SOA broker solution for standard discovery and access services: the GI-cat framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boldrini, Enrico

2010-05-01

GI-cat ideal users are data providers or service providers within the geoscience community. The former have their data already available through an access service (e.g. an OGC Web Service) and would have it published through a standard catalog service, in a seamless way. The latter would develop a catalog broker and let users query and access different geospatial resources through one or more standard interfaces and Application Profiles (AP) (e.g. OGC CSW ISO AP, CSW ebRIM/EO AP, etc.). GI-cat actually implements a broker components (i.e. a middleware service) which carries out distribution and mediation functionalities among "well-adopted" catalog interfaces and data access protocols. GI-cat also publishes different discovery interfaces: the OGC CSW ISO and ebRIM Application Profiles (the latter coming with support for the EO and CIM extension packages) and two different OpenSearch interfaces developed in order to explore Web 2.0 possibilities. An extended interface is also available to exploit all available GI-cat features, such as interruptible incremental queries and queries feedback. Interoperability tests performed in the context of different projects have also pointed out the importance to enforce compatibility with existing and wide-spread tools of the open source community (e.g. GeoNetwork and Deegree catalogs), which was then achieved. Based on a service-oriented framework of modular components, GI-cat can effectively be customized and tailored to support different deployment scenarios. In addition to the distribution functionality an harvesting approach has been lately experimented, allowing the user to switch between a distributed and a local search giving thus more possibilities to support different deployment scenarios. A configurator tool is available in order to enable an effective high level configuration of the broker service. A specific geobrowser was also naturally developed, for demonstrating the advanced GI-cat functionalities. This client, called GI-go, is an example of the possible applications which may be built on top of the GI-cat broker component. GI-go allows discovering and browsing of the available datasets, retrieving and evaluating their description and performing distributed queries according to any combination of the following criteria: geographic area, temporal interval, topic of interest (free-text and/or keyword selection are allowed) and data source (i.e. where, when, what, who). The results set of a query (e.g. datasets metadata) are then displayed in an incremental way leveraging the asynchronous interactions approach implemented by GI-cat. This feature allows the user to access the intermediate query results. Query interruption and feedback features are also provided to the user. Alternatively, user may perform a browsing task by selecting a catalog resource from the current configuration and navigate through its aggregated and/or leaf datasets. In both cases datasets metadata, expressed according to ISO 19139 (and also Dublin Core and ebRIM if available), are displayed for download, along with a resource portrayal and actual data access (when this is meaningful and possible). The GI-cat distributed catalog service has been successfully deployed and experimented in the framework of different projects and initiative, including the SeaDataNet FP6 project, GEOSS IP3 (Interoperability Process Pilot Project), GEOSS AIP-2 (Architectural Implementation Project - Phase 2), FP7 GENESI-DR, CNR GIIDA, FP7 EUROGEOSS and ESA HMA project.

Characterization of the effects of opiorphin and sialorphin and their analogs substituted in position 1 with pyroglutamic acid on motility in the mouse ileum.

PubMed

Kamysz, Elżbieta; Sałaga, Maciej; Sobczak, Marta; Kamysz, Wojciech; Fichna, Jakub

2013-03-01

Opiorphin and sialorphin are two recently discovered endogenous enkephalin-degrading enzyme inhibitors. Our aim was to characterize their effect on the mouse ileum motility and to investigate the role of glutamine in position 1. Opiorphin, sialorphin, and their analogs substituted in position 1 with pyroglutamic acid (pGlu) were synthesized by the solid-phase method using Fmoc chemistry. The effect of peptides on gastrointestinal (GI) motility was characterized using in vitro assays and in mouse model of upper GI transit. Opiorphin and sialorphin, but not their analogs, significantly increased electrical field-stimulated contractions in the mouse ileum in a δ-opioid receptor-dependent manner. Opiorphin, sialorphin, and their analogs did not influence the effect of [Met(5)]enkephalin on smooth muscle contractility in the mouse ileum in vitro. [Met(5)]enkephalin and sialorphin, but not opiorphin injected intravenously (1 mg/kg), significantly inhibited the upper GI transit. The intraperitoneal administration of peptides (3 mg/kg) did not change the mouse upper GI transit. In conclusion, this is the first study investigating the effect of opiorphin and sialorphin on the mouse ileum motility and demonstrating that glutamine in position 1 is crucial for their pharmacological action. Our results may be important for further structure-activity relationship studies on opiorphin and sialorphin and future development of potent clinical therapeutics aiming at the enkephalinergic system. Copyright © 2013 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Comparable postprandial glucose reductions with viscous fiber blend enriched biscuits in healthy subjects and patients with diabetes mellitus: acute randomized controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Jenkins, Alexandra L; Jenkins, David J A; Wolever, Thomas M S; Rogovik, Alexander L; Jovanovski, Elena; Bozikov, Velimir; Rahelić, Dario; Vuksan, Vladimir

2008-12-01

To compare the blood glucose-lowering effect of a highly viscous fiber blend (VFB) added to a starchy snack on postprandial glycemia between healthy participants and participants with diabetes mellitus. Ten healthy participants (4 men and 6 women, aged 28+/-2.6 years, body mass index [BMI], 24.3+/-0.8 kg/m(2)) and 9 participants with diabetes mellitus type 2 (3 men and 6 women, aged 68+/-3.8 years, BMI 28.8+/-1.2 kg/m(2)) on four separate occasions took either 50 g available carbohydrates as control biscuits, biscuits with 10 g of highly viscous fiber blend, white bread with 12 g of margarine, or white bread alone. Postprandial blood glucose response, glycemic index (GI), and palatability were determined. Mean (95% confidence interval) GI values of the viscous fiber blend biscuits were 26 (16-36) and 37 (27-47) GI units for healthy participants and participants with diabetes mellitus, respectively. These values were significantly lower than those of white bread, white bread with 12 g of margarine, and control biscuits (P<0.001, paired t test) both in healthy participants (GI 100, 108 [57-159], and 101 [44-158], respectively) and participants with diabetes mellitus (GI 100, 103 [79-127], and 94 [78-110], respectively). Viscous fiber blend significantly reduced the glycemic index by 74% (7.4 GI units/g of fiber) in healthy participants and by 63% (6.3 GI units/g of fiber) in participants with diabetes. The GI did not differ between control meals in both healthy participants and participants with diabetes. There were no significant differences in palatability among the types of meals, although participants with diabetes found the viscous fiber blend biscuits more palatable (P=0.002, t test). Viscous fiber blend is a very potent and palatable soluble fiber addition to a starchy snack, which is able to reduce the glycemic response to a similar extent in both healthy participants and individuals with diabetes mellitus. Biscuits with low GI, and possibly other viscous fiber blend fortified starchy foods, may potentially be a useful replacement of high GI snack foods in the diet.

COX-derived prostanoid pathways in gastrointestinal cancer development and progression: novel targets for prevention and intervention.

PubMed

Cathcart, Mary-Clare; O'Byrne, Kenneth J; Reynolds, John V; O'Sullivan, Jacintha; Pidgeon, Graham P

2012-01-01

Arachidonic acid metabolism through cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways leads to the generation of biologically active eicosanoids. Eicosanoid expression levels vary during development and progression of gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. COX-2 is the major COX-isoform responsible for G.I. cancer development/progression. COX-2 expression increases during progression from a normal to cancerous state. Evidence from observational studies has demonstrated that chronic NSAID use reduces the risk of cancer development, while both incidence and risk of death due to G.I. cancers were significantly reduced by daily aspirin intake. A number of randomized controlled trials (APC trial, Prevention of Sporadic Adenomatous Polyps trial, APPROVe trial) have also shown a significant protective effect in patients receiving selective COX-2 inhibitors. However, chronic use of selective COX-2 inhibitors at high doses was associated with increased cardiovascular risk, while NSAIDs have also been associated with increased risk. More recently, downstream effectors of COX-signaling have been investigated in cancer development/progression. PGE(2), which binds to both EP and PPAR receptors, is the major prostanoid implicated in the carcinogenesis of G.I. cancers. The role of TXA(2) in G.I. cancers has also been examined, although further studies are required to uncover its role in carcinogenesis. Other prostanoids investigated include PGD(2) and its metabolite 15d-PGJ2, PGF(1α) and PGI(2). Targeting these prostanoids in G.I. cancers has the promise of avoiding cardiovascular toxicity associated with chronic selective COX-2 inhibition, while maintaining anti-tumor reactivity. A progressive sequence from normal to pre-malignant to a malignant state has been identified in G.I. cancers. In this review, we will discuss the role of the COX-derived prostanoids in G.I. cancer development and progression. Targeting these downstream prostanoids for chemoprevention and/or treatment of G.I. cancers will also be discussed. Finally, we will highlight the latest pre-clinical technologies as well as avenues for future investigation in this highly topical research field. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The herbal medicine, Dai-Kenchu-to, accelerates delayed gastrointestinal transit after the operation in rats.

PubMed

Fukuda, Hiroyuki; Chen, Cindy; Mantyh, Christopher; Ludwig, Kirk; Pappas, Theodore N; Takahashi, Toku

2006-04-01

Post-operative ileus (POI) is a transient bowel dysmotility after operation. We have previously shown that laparotomy alone significantly delayed gastrointestinal (GI) transit, compared to anesthesia alone. The GI transit was further delayed after laparotomy plus intestinal manipulation. Dai-Kenchu-to (DKT), an herbal medicine, has been used for treating adhesive bowel obstruction in Japan. We studied whether DKT improves delayed GI transit after the operation, with or without morphine administration in rats. Under isoflurane anesthesia, POI was induced by laparotomy with intestinal manipulation. Immediately after the operation, the rats received 51Cr by gavage. Three hours after the operation, the rats were sacrificed and GI transit was estimated by calculating the geometric center (GC). DKT (120, 360, and 1,200 mg/kg) were administered by gavage after the operation, with or without morphine administration (1 mg/kg s.c.). A muscarinic receptor antagonist (atropine; 50 mug/kg), a 5HT3 receptor antagonist (ondansetron; 1 mg/kg) and a 5HT4 receptor antagonist (GR113,808; 3 mg/kg) were administered before the operation. Truncal vagotomy was performed preceding the operation. Laparotomy with intestinal manipulation produced a significant delay in GI transit (GC = 2.93 +/- 0.16), compared to that of anesthesia alone (9.51 +/- 0.45). DKT at the dose of 360 mg/kg (GC = 3.77 +/- 0.10, P < 0.01) and 1,200 mg/kg (GC = 3.77 +/- 0.20, P < 0.01) significantly accelerated delayed GI transit induced by operation. Ondansetron, GR113,808, atropine, and truncal vagotomy abolished the stimulatory effect of DKT (360 mg/kg). When morphine was administered, GI transit was further reduced (GC = 1.97 +/- 0.10). DKT at the dose of 360 mg/kg (GC = 2.81 +/- 0.22, P < 0.05) and 1,200 mg/kg (GC = 2.87 +/- 0.23, P < 0.05) significantly improved delayed GI transit in morphine treated rats. DKT accelerates delayed GI transit induced by intestinal manipulation with and without concomitant morphine administration. DKT treatment may be useful for the patients with POI.

Alterations in the Colonic Microbiota in Response to Osmotic Diarrhea

PubMed Central

Trajanoski, Slave; Lackner, Stefan; Stocker, Gernot; Hinterleitner, Thomas; Gülly, Christian; Högenauer, Christoph

2013-01-01

Background & Aims Diseases of the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract are often accompanied by diarrhea with profound alterations in the GI microbiota termed dysbiosis. Whether dysbiosis is due to the disease itself or to the accompanying diarrhea remains elusive. With this study we characterized the net effects of osmotic diarrhea on the composition of the GI microbiota in the absence of disease. Methods We induced osmotic diarrhea in four healthy adults by oral administration of polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG). Stool as well as mucosa specimens were collected before, during and after diarrhea and 16S rDNA-based microbial community profiling was used to assess the microbial community structure. Results Stool and mucosal microbiotas were strikingly different, with Firmicutes dominating the mucosa and Bacteroidetes the stools. Osmotic diarrhea decreased phylotype richness and showed a strong tendency to equalize the otherwise individualized microbiotas on the mucosa. Moreover, diarrhea led to significant relative shifts in the phyla Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes and to a relative increase in the abundance of Proteobacteria on the mucosa, a phenomenon also noted in several inflammatory and diarrheal GI diseases. Conclusions Changes in microbial community structure induced by osmotic diarrhea are profound and show similarities to changes observed in other GI diseases including IBD. These effects so must be considered when specimens from diarrheal diseases (i.e. obtained by stratification of samples according to diarrheal status) or conditions wherein bowel preparations like PEG (i.e. specimens obtained during endoscopy) are used. PMID:23409050

Sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances in autism spectrum disorder in children.

PubMed

Klukowski, Mark; Wasilewska, Jolanta; Lebensztejn, Dariusz

2015-01-01

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder with a prevalence of 1 in 68 children, commonly presents with comorbid conditions which include sleep disorders. Sleep disorders reported in ASD include, among others, increased bedtime resistance, insomnia, parasomnia, sleep disordered breathing, morning rise problems, and daytime sleepiness. Polysomnography studies show that children with ASD have altered sleep architecture including shorter total sleep time and longer sleep latency than typically developing peers. Sleep-related problems have been shown to affect overall autism scores, social skills decits, stereotypic behavior, and cognitive performance. Additionally, problematic sleep in children with ASD has been associated with higher levels of parental stress. Underlying causes specically related to sleep disorders are not fully known. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are commonly associated with sleep problems in these patients. Children with ASD and GI symptoms have been found to have a higher prevalence of sleep disturbances compared with typically developing peers who do not have GI symptoms. Treatment approaches to children with sleep disorders are varied and range from lifestyle modications and behavioral interventions to drug therapies and surgical interventions. Physicians should take into account GI disorders as possible underlying causes of sleep-related problems in children with ASD. Therapeutic interventions should begin with less invasive methods before progressing to more invasive options such as pharmacotherapy and should be based on medical indications in order to provide effective care while minimizing potential adverse health effects. Evidence-based studies concerning GI and sleep disorders in children with ASD are limited and further studies are warranted.

Novel orally available salvinorin A analog PR-38 inhibits gastrointestinal motility and reduces abdominal pain in mouse models mimicking irritable bowel syndrome.

PubMed

Sałaga, M; Polepally, P R; Sobczak, M; Grzywacz, D; Kamysz, W; Sibaev, A; Storr, M; Do Rego, J C; Zjawiony, J K; Fichna, J

2014-07-01

The opioid and cannabinoid systems play a crucial role in multiple physiological processes in the central nervous system and in the periphery. Selective opioid as well as cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonists exert a potent inhibitory action on gastrointestinal (GI) motility and pain. In this study, we examined (in vitro and in vivo) whether PR-38 (2-O-cinnamoylsalvinorin B), a novel analog of salvinorin A, can interact with both systems and demonstrate therapeutic effects. We used mouse models of hypermotility, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. We also assessed the influence of PR-38 on the central nervous system by measurement of motoric parameters and exploratory behaviors in mice. Subsequently, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of PR-38 in mouse blood samples after intraperitoneal and oral administration. PR-38 significantly inhibited mouse colonic motility in vitro and in vivo. Administration of PR-38 significantly prolonged the whole GI transit time, and this effect was mediated by µ- and κ-opioid receptors and the CB1 receptor. PR-38 reversed hypermotility and reduced pain in mouse models mimicking functional GI disorders. These data expand our understanding of the interactions between opioid and cannabinoid systems and their functions in the GI tract. We also provide a novel framework for the development of future potential treatments of functional GI disorders. Copyright © 2014 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

Barium enema

MedlinePlus

Lower gastrointestinal series; Lower GI series; Colorectal cancer - lower GI series; Colorectal cancer - barium enema; Crohn disease - lower GI series; Crohn disease - barium enema; Intestinal blockage - lower GI series; Intestinal ...

Gastrointestinal bleeding after intracerebral hemorrhage: a retrospective review of 808 cases.

PubMed

Yang, Tie-Cheng; Li, Jian-Guo; Shi, Hong-Mei; Yu, Dong-Ming; Shan, Kai; Li, Li-Xia; Dong, Xiao-Yan; Ren, Tian-Hua

2013-10-01

This study examined the incidence and risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The available medical records of patients with ICH admitted from June 2008 to December 2009 for any episode of GI bleeding, possible precipitating factors and administration of ulcer prophylaxis were reviewed. The prevalence of GI bleeding was 26.7%, including 3 cases of severe GI bleeding (0.35%). Patients with GI bleeding had significantly longer hospital stay and higher in-hospital mortality compared with patients without GI bleeding. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that age, Glasgow Coma Scale scores, sepsis and ICH volume were independent predictors of GI bleeding. About 63.4% of patients with ICH received stress ulcer prophylaxis. GI bleeding occurred frequently after ICH, but severe events were rare. Age, Glasgow Coma Scale score, sepsis and ICH volume were independent predictors of GI bleeding occurring after ICH.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced gastrointestinal and hepatic injury: pathologists' perspective.

PubMed

Karamchandani, Dipti M; Chetty, Runjan

2018-04-27

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) are a relatively new class of 'miracle' dugs that have revolutionised the treatment and prognosis of some advanced-stage malignancies, and have increased the survival rates significantly. This class of drugs includes cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 inhibitors such as ipilimumab; programmed cell death protein-1 inhibitors such as nivolumab, pembrolizumab and avelumab; and programmed cell death protein ligand-1 inhibitors such as atezolizumab. These drugs stimulate the immune system by blocking the coinhibitory receptors on the T cells and lead to antitumoural response. However, a flip side of these novel drugs is immune-related adverse events (irAEs), secondary to immune-mediated process due to disrupted self-tolerance. The irAEs in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract/liver may result in diarrhoea, colitis or hepatitis. An accurate diagnosis of CPI-induced colitis and/or hepatitis is essential for optimal patient management. As we anticipate greater use of these drugs in the future given the significant clinical response, pathologists need to be aware of the spectrum of histological findings that may be encountered in GI and/or liver biopsies received from these patients, as well as differentiate them from its histopathological mimics. This present review discusses the clinical features, detailed histopathological features, management and the differential diagnosis of the luminal GI and hepatic irAEs that may be encountered secondary to CPI therapy. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Breakfast staple types affect brain gray matter volume and cognitive function in healthy children.

PubMed

Taki, Yasuyuki; Hashizume, Hiroshi; Sassa, Yuko; Takeuchi, Hikaru; Asano, Michiko; Asano, Kohei; Kawashima, Ryuta

2010-12-08

Childhood diet is important for brain development. Furthermore, the quality of breakfast is thought to affect the cognitive functioning of well-nourished children. To analyze the relationship among breakfast staple type, gray matter volume, and intelligence quotient (IQ) in 290 healthy children, we used magnetic resonance images and applied voxel-based morphometry. We divided subjects into rice, bread, and both groups according to their breakfast staple. We showed that the rice group had a significantly larger gray matter ratio (gray matter volume percentage divided by intracranial volume) and significantly larger regional gray matter volumes of several regions, including the left superior temporal gyrus. The bread group had significantly larger regional gray and white matter volumes of several regions, including the right frontoparietal region. The perceptual organization index (POI; IQ subcomponent) of the rice group was significantly higher than that of the bread group. All analyses were adjusted for age, gender, intracranial volume, socioeconomic status, average weekly frequency of having breakfast, and number of side dishes eaten for breakfast. Although several factors may have affected the results, one possible mechanism underlying the difference between the bread and the rice groups may be the difference in the glycemic index (GI) of these two substances; foods with a low GI are associated with less blood-glucose fluctuation than are those with a high GI. Our study suggests that breakfast staple type affects brain gray and white matter volumes and cognitive function in healthy children; therefore, a diet of optimal nutrition is important for brain maturation during childhood and adolescence.

Mechanisms Involved in the Mitigation of Urban Heat Islands through Vegetation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montalto, F. A.; Smalls-Mantey, L.

2016-12-01

Urban heat islands are one of many challenges presented by today's unprecedented patterns of urbanization. At higher densities, urban populations are more vulnerable to the increased temperatures that accompany urban landscape change. Though in the US it is funded principally as a means of stormwater management, urban green infrastructure (GI) actually alters hydrologic, energetic, and thermal budgets of urban environments, with a suite of potential co-benefits related to the health of people and ecosystems. Recent research has underscored the roles that vegetation plays in such processes, for example by facilitating evapotranspiration, and regulating air temperature and water availability. While the magnitude of these and other impacts is determined in part by the size, type, location, and configuration of GI facilities, few studies have attempted to characterize and to quantify how various vegetation-mediated processes in GI systems impact the energy and thermal properties of their surroundings. Using data collected at rooftop and ground level GI facilities including green roofs and bioretention areas monitored by Drexel University, this research illustrates the role that processes such as evapotranspiration play in the individual GI site cooling potential, reducing neighborhood vulnerability to the urban heat island effect.

Identifying strategic sites for Green-Infrastructures (GI) to manage stormwater in a miscellaneous use urban African watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selker, J. S.; Kahsai, S. K.

2017-12-01

Green Infrastructure (GI) or Low impact development (LID), is a land use planning and design approach with the objective of mitigating land development impacts to the environment, and is ever more looked to as a way to lessen runoff and pollutant loading to receiving water bodies. Broad-scale approaches for siting GI/LID have been developed for agricultural watersheds, but are rare for urban watersheds, largely due to greater land use complexity. And it is even more challenging when it comes to Urban Africa due to the combination of poor data quality, rapid and unplanned development, and civic institutions unable to reliably carry out regular maintenance. We present a spacio-temporal simulation-based approach to identify an optimal prioritization of sites for GI/LID based on DEM, land use and land cover. Optimization used is a multi-objective optimization tool along with an urban storm water management model (SWMM) to identify the most cost-effective combination of LID/GI. This was applied to an urban watershed in NW Kampala, Lubigi Catchment (notorious for being heavily flooded every year), with a miscellaneous use watershed in Uganda, as a case-study to demonstrate the approach.

Acute high-intensity interval running increases markers of gastrointestinal damage and permeability but not gastrointestinal symptoms.

PubMed

Pugh, Jamie N; Impey, Samuel G; Doran, Dominic A; Fleming, Simon C; Morton, James P; Close, Graeme L

2017-09-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval running on markers of gastrointestinal (GI) damage and permeability alongside subjective symptoms of GI discomfort. Eleven male runners completed an acute bout of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (eighteen 400-m runs at 120% maximal oxygen uptake) where markers of GI permeability, intestinal damage, and GI discomfort symptoms were assessed and compared with resting conditions. Compared with rest, HIIT significantly increased serum lactulose/rhamnose ratio (0.051 ± 0.016 vs. 0.031 ± 0.021, p = 0.0047; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.006 to 0.036) and sucrose concentrations (0.388 ± 0.217 vs. 0.137 ± 0.148 mg·L -1 ; p < 0.001; 95% CI = 0.152 to 0.350). In contrast, urinary lactulose/rhamnose (0.032 ± 0.005 vs. 0.030 ± 0.005; p = 0.3; 95% CI = -0.012 to 0.009) or sucrose concentrations (0.169% ± 0.168% vs. 0.123% ± 0.120%; p = 0.54; 95% CI = -0.199 to 0.108) did not differ between HIIT and resting conditions. Plasma intestinal-fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) was significantly increased (p < 0.001) during and in the recovery period from HIIT whereas no changes were observed during rest. Mild symptoms of GI discomfort were reported immediately and at 24 h post-HIIT, although these symptoms did not correlate to GI permeability or I-FABP. In conclusion, acute HIIT increased GI permeability and intestinal I-FABP release, although these do not correlate with symptoms of GI discomfort. Furthermore, by using serum sampling, we provide data showing that it is possible to detect changes in intestinal permeability that is not observed using urinary sampling over a shorter time-period.

Alteration in G Proteins and Prolactin Levels in Pituitary After Ethanol and Estrogen Treatment

PubMed Central

Chaturvedi, Kirti; Sarkar, Dipak K.

2010-01-01

Background Chronic administration of ethanol increases plasma prolactin levels and enhances estradiol’s mitogenic action on the lactotropes of the pituitary gland. The present study was conducted to determine the changes in the pituitary levels of G proteins during the tumor development following alcohol and ethanol treatments. Methods Using ovariectomized Fischer-344 female rats, we have determined ethanol and estradiol actions at 2 and 4 weeks on pituitary weight and pituitary cell contents of prolactin, Gs. Gq11, Gi1, Gi2, and Gi3 proteins. Western blots were employed to measure protein contents. Results Ethanol increased basal and estradiol-enhanced wet weight and the prolactin content in the pituitary in a time-dependent manner. Chronic exposure of estradiol increased the levels of Gs protein in the pituitary. Unlike estradiol, ethanol exposure did not show significant effect on the basal level of Gs protein, but moderately increased the estradiol-induced levels of this protein. Estradiol exposure enhanced Gq11 protein levels in the pituitary after 2 and 4 weeks, while ethanol treatment failed to alter these protein levels in the pituitary in control-treated or estradioltreated ovariectomized rats. In the case of Gi1, estradiol but not ethanol increased the level of this protein at 4 weeks of treatment. However, estradiol and ethanol alone reduced the levels of both Gi2 and Gi3 proteins at 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. Ethanol also significantly reduced the estradiol-induced Gi2 levels at 4 weeks and Gi3 level at 2 and 4 weeks. Conclusions These results confirm ethanol’s and estradiol’s growth-promoting and prolactin stimulating actions on lactotropes of the pituitary and further provide evidence that ethanol and estradiol may control lactotropic cell functions by altering expression of specific group of G proteins in the pituitary. PMID:18336630

Update on the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Report 09-12

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angeli, Mallory

2009-01-01

The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, or Post-9/11 GI Bill, becomes effective August 1, 2009. The bill covers in-state graduate and undergraduate fees and vocational and technical training for veterans who served after September 10, 2001. Benefits are available for up to 36 months--equivalent to four academic years--and…

Towards a hierarchical optimization modeling framework for the evaluation and construction of spatially targeted incentive policies to promote green infrastructure (GI) amidst budgetary, compliance and GI-effectiveness uncertainties

EPA Science Inventory

Background:Bilevel optimization has been recognized as a 2-player Stackelberg game where players are represented as leaders and followers and each pursue their own set of objectives. Hierarchical optimization problems, which are a generalization of bilevel, are especially difficu...

Effect of protective coating on microhardness of a new glass ionomer cement: Nanofilled coating versus unfilled resin.

PubMed

Faraji, Foad; Heshmat, Haleh; Banava, Sepideh

2017-01-01

EQUIA TM is a new gastrointestinal (GI) system with high compressive strength, surface microhardness (MH), and fluoride release potential. This in vitro study aimed to assess the effect of aging and type of protective coating on the MH of EQUIA TM GI cement. A total of 30 disc-shaped specimens measuring 9 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness were fabricated of EQUIA TM GI and divided into three groups of G-Coat nanofilled coating (a), no coating (b) and margin bond (c). The Vickers MH value of specimens was measured before (baseline) and at 3 and 6 months after water storage. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Group B had significantly higher MH than the other two groups at baseline. Both G-Coat and margin bond increased the surface MH of GI at 3 and 6 months. The MH values of G-Coat and margin bond groups did not significantly increase or decrease between 3 and 6 months. The increase in MH was greater in the G-Coat compared to the margin bond group in the long-term. Clinically, margin bond may be a suitable alternative when G-Coat is not available.

Synthesis and antitumoral activity of novel 3-(2-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl) and 3-(5-substituted-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl) beta-carboline derivatives.

PubMed

Formagio, Anelise S Nazari; Tonin, Lilian T Düsman; Foglio, Mary Ann; Madjarof, Christiana; de Carvalho, João Ernesto; da Costa, Willian Ferreira; Cardoso, Flávia P; Sarragiotto, Maria Helena

2008-11-15

Several novel 1-substituted-phenyl beta-carbolines bearing the 2-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl and 5-substituted-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl groups at C-3 were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity. The assay results pointed thirteen compounds with growth inhibition effect (GI(50)<100 microM) for all eight different types of human cancer cell lines tested. The beta-carbolines 7a and 7h, bearing the 3-(2-metylthio-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl) group, displayed high selectivity and potent anticancer activity against ovarian cell line with GI(50) values lying in the nanomolar concentration range (GI(50)=10 nM for both compounds). The 1-(N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(5-thioxo-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl) beta-carboline (8g) was the most active compound, showing particular effectiveness on lung (GI(50)=0.06 microM), ovarian and renal cell lines. The potent anticancer activity presented for synthesized compounds 7a, 7h, and 8g, together with their easiness of synthesis, makes these compounds promising anticancer agents.

Effect of bread gluten content on gastrointestinal function: a crossover MRI study on healthy humans.

PubMed

Coletta, Marina; Gates, Fred K; Marciani, Luca; Shiwani, Henna; Major, Giles; Hoad, Caroline L; Chaddock, Gemma; Gowland, Penny A; Spiller, Robin C

2016-01-14

Gluten is a crucial functional component of bread, but the effect of increasing gluten content on gastrointestinal (GI) function remains uncertain. Our aim was to investigate the effect of increasing gluten content on GI function and symptoms in healthy participants using the unique capabilities of MRI. A total of twelve healthy participants completed this randomised, mechanistic, open-label, three-way crossover study. On days 1 and 2 they consumed either gluten-free bread (GFB), or normal gluten content bread (NGCB) or added gluten content bread (AGCB). The same bread was consumed on day 3, and MRI scans were performed every 60 min from fasting baseline up to 360 min after eating. The appearance of the gastric chime in the images was assessed using a visual heterogeneity score. Gastric volumes, the small bowel water content (SBWC), colonic volumes and colonic gas content and GI symptoms were measured. Fasting transverse colonic volume after the 2-d preload was significantly higher after GFB compared with NGCB and AGCB with a dose-dependent response (289 (SEM 96) v. 212 (SEM 74) v. 179 (SEM 87) ml, respectively; P=0·02). The intragastric chyme heterogeneity score was higher for the bread with increased gluten (AGCB 6 (interquartile range (IQR) 0·5) compared with GFB 3 (IQR 0·5); P=0·003). However, gastric half-emptying time was not different between breads nor were study day GI symptoms, postprandial SBWC, colonic volume and gas content. This MRI study showed novel mechanistic insights in the GI responses to different breads, which are poorly understood notwithstanding the importance of this staple food.

Reducing Dental Plaque and Gingivitis With 0.6% Cortex Ilicis Rotundae Toothpaste: A Randomized, Double-Masked Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Liu, Hongchun; Yin, Wei

2016-03-01

Cortex Ilicis Rotundae has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Few studies have evaluated the effects of toothpastes containing Cortex Ilicis Rotundae. This study evaluates the antiplaque and antigingivitis effects of a test toothpaste containing 0.6% Cortex Ilicis Rotundae extract in a calcium carbonate base compared with a control toothpaste without any active ingredient. One hundred adults with a mean plaque index (PI) ≥ 1.5 and a mean gingival index (GI) ≥ 1.0 were enrolled in this randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical trial. They were assigned randomly to use a test toothpaste or a control toothpaste. At baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, they received examinations of oral hard and soft tissues, using Löe-Silness GI for gingivitis and the Turesky modification of the Quigley-Hein PI for PI. Adverse events were monitored. When the study was completed, the test group reported lower mean GI than the control group (1.13 ± 0.22 versus 1.30 ± 0.23; P = 0.001) and lower mean PI than the control group (2.53 ± 0.5 versus 2.93 ± 0.44; P < 0.001). Compared to the baseline, the test group had reductions in GI and PI of 14.39% and 17.86%, respectively (both P < 0.001); the control group had reductions in GI and PI of 3.7% and 3.93%, respectively (both P < 0.001). No adverse events were reported during the course of the study. The toothpaste containing 0.6% Cortex Ilicis Rotundae was effective in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis after 12 weeks of use compared with a negative control toothpaste.

Effect of In Vitro Digestion on the Total Antioxidant Capacity and Phenolic Content of 3 Species of Oregano (Hedeoma patens, Lippia graveolens, Lippia palmeri).

PubMed

Gutiérrez-Grijalva, Erick Paul; Angulo-Escalante, Miguel Angel; León-Félix, Josefina; Heredia, J Basilio

2017-12-01

Oregano phenolic compounds have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, after ingestion, the gastrointestinal environment can affect their antioxidant stability and thus their bioactive properties. To evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion on the phenolic compounds of 3 species of oregano (Hedeoma patens, Lippia graveolens, and Lippia palmeri), the total reducing capacity, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated before and after in vitro GI digestion. In addition, the phenolic compounds of the 3 oregano species were identified and quantified by UPLC-PDA before and after in vitro GI digestion. It was shown that the reducing capacity, flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity were affected by the GI digestion process. Moreover, the phenolic compounds identified were apigenin-7-glucoside, scutellarein, luteolin, luteolin-7-glucoside, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid, and their levels were affected by the in vitro GI process. Our results showed that the phenolic compounds from these 3 species of oregano are affected by the in vitro digestion process, and this effect is largely attributable to pH changes. These changes can modify the bioavailability and further anti-inflammatory activity of oregano phenolics, and thus, further research is needed. Oregano is a rich source of polyphenols that have shown bioactive properties like anti-inflammatory potential. However, little is known of the gastrointestinal fate of oregano polyphenols which is imperative to fully understand its bioaccessibility. Our results are important to develop new administration strategies which could help protect the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential and bioaccessibility of such compounds. © 2017 Institute of Food Technologists®.

Effects of Low versus High Glycemic Index Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Postprandial Vasodilatation and Inactivity-Induced Impairment of Glucose Metabolism in Healthy Men

PubMed Central

Keller, Judith; Kahlhöfer, Julia; Peter, Andreas; Bosy-Westphal, Anja

2016-01-01

Intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) may contribute to cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to investigate whether functional sugars with low compared to high glycemic index (GI) have beneficial effects on arterial stiffness during a period of low-physical activity. In a controlled cross-over dietary intervention (55% CHO, 30% fat, 15% protein), 13 healthy men (age: 23.7 ± 2.2 years, body mass index: 23.6 ± 1.9 kg/m2) completed 2 × 1 week of low physical activity following 1 week of normal physical activity (2363 ± 900 vs. 11,375 ± 3124 steps/day). During inactive phases participants consumed either low-GI (isomaltulose) or high-GI SSB (maltodextrin-sucrose), providing 20% of energy requirements. Postprandial vasodilatation (augmentation index, AIx), insulin sensitivity (IS) and Glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) responses were measured during a meal test before and after SSB-intervention. Compared to maltodextrin-sucrose-SSB, postprandial vasodilatation was prolonged (AIx after 120 min: 9.9% ± 4.3% vs. 11.4% ± 3.7%, p < 0.05) and GLP-1 secretion was higher with isomaltulose-SSB (total area under the GLP-1 curve (tAUCGLP)-1: 8.0 ± 4.4 vs. 5.4 ± 3.4 pM × 3 h; p < 0.05). One week of low-physical activity led to impaired IS that was attenuated with low-GI SSB consumption, but did not affect arterial stiffness (p > 0.05). Higher postprandial GLP-1 secretion after intake of low compared to high-GI beverages may contribute to improved postprandial vasodilatation. Although one week of low-physical activity led to marked impairment in IS, it had no effect on arterial stiffness in healthy men. PMID:27973411

Effects of Low versus High Glycemic Index Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Postprandial Vasodilatation and Inactivity-Induced Impairment of Glucose Metabolism in Healthy Men.

PubMed

Keller, Judith; Kahlhöfer, Julia; Peter, Andreas; Bosy-Westphal, Anja

2016-12-10

Intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) may contribute to cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to investigate whether functional sugars with low compared to high glycemic index (GI) have beneficial effects on arterial stiffness during a period of low-physical activity. In a controlled cross-over dietary intervention (55% CHO, 30% fat, 15% protein), 13 healthy men (age: 23.7 ± 2.2 years, body mass index: 23.6 ± 1.9 kg/m²) completed 2 × 1 week of low physical activity following 1 week of normal physical activity (2363 ± 900 vs. 11,375 ± 3124 steps/day). During inactive phases participants consumed either low-GI (isomaltulose) or high-GI SSB (maltodextrin-sucrose), providing 20% of energy requirements. Postprandial vasodilatation (augmentation index, AIx), insulin sensitivity (IS) and Glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) responses were measured during a meal test before and after SSB-intervention. Compared to maltodextrin-sucrose-SSB, postprandial vasodilatation was prolonged (AIx after 120 min: 9.9% ± 4.3% vs. 11.4% ± 3.7%, p < 0.05) and GLP-1 secretion was higher with isomaltulose-SSB (total area under the GLP-1 curve (tAUC GLP )-1: 8.0 ± 4.4 vs. 5.4 ± 3.4 pM × 3 h; p < 0.05). One week of low-physical activity led to impaired IS that was attenuated with low-GI SSB consumption, but did not affect arterial stiffness ( p > 0.05). Higher postprandial GLP-1 secretion after intake of low compared to high-GI beverages may contribute to improved postprandial vasodilatation. Although one week of low-physical activity led to marked impairment in IS, it had no effect on arterial stiffness in healthy men.

Regional gastrointestinal transit and pH studied in 215 healthy volunteers using the wireless motility capsule: influence of age, gender, study country and testing protocol.

PubMed

Wang, Y T; Mohammed, S D; Farmer, A D; Wang, D; Zarate, N; Hobson, A R; Hellström, P M; Semler, J R; Kuo, B; Rao, S S; Hasler, W L; Camilleri, M; Scott, S M

2015-09-01

The wireless motility capsule (WMC) offers the ability to investigate luminal gastrointestinal (GI) physiology in a minimally invasive manner. To investigate the effect of testing protocol, gender, age and study country on regional GI transit times and associated pH values using the WMC. Regional GI transit times and pH values were determined in 215 healthy volunteers from USA and Sweden studied using the WMC over a 6.5-year period. The effects of test protocol, gender, age and study country were examined. For GI transit times, testing protocol was associated with differences in gastric emptying time (GET; shorter with protocol 2 (motility capsule ingested immediately after meal) vs. protocol 1 (motility capsule immediately before): median difference: 52 min, P = 0.0063) and colonic transit time (CTT; longer with protocol 2: median 140 min, P = 0.0189), but had no overall effect on whole gut transit time. Females had longer GET (by median 17 min, P = 0.0307), and also longer CTT by (104 min, P = 0.0285) and whole gut transit time by (263 min, P = 0.0077). Increasing age was associated with shorter small bowel transit time (P = 0.002), and study country also influenced small bowel and CTTs. Whole gut and CTTs showed clustering of data at values separated by 24 h, suggesting that describing these measures as continuous variables is invalid. Testing protocol, gender and study country also significantly influenced pH values. Regional GI transit times and pH values, delineated using the wireless motility capsule (WMC), vary based on testing protocol, gender, age and country. Standardisation of testing is crucial for cross-referencing in clinical practice and future research. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Expression and characterization of duck enteritis virus gI gene

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background At present, alphaherpesviruses gI gene and its encoding protein have been extensively studied. It is likely that gI protein and its homolog play similar roles in virions direct cell-to-cell spread of alphaherpesviruses. But, little is known about the characteristics of DEV gI gene. In this study, we expressed and presented the basic properties of the DEV gI protein. Results The special 1221-bp fragment containing complete open reading frame(ORF) of duck enteritis virus(DEV) gI gene was extracted from plasmid pMD18-T-gI, and then cloned into prokaryotic expression vector pET-32a(+), resulting in pET-32a(+)-gI. After being confirmed by PCR, restriction endonuclease digestion and sequencing, pET-32a(+)-gI was transformed into E.coli BL21(DE3) competent cells for overexpression. DEV gI gene was successfully expressed by the addition of isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside(IPTG). SDS-PAGE showed that the recombinant protein His6-tagged gI molecular weight was about 61 kDa. Subsequently, the expressed product was applied to generate specific antibody against gI protein. The specificity of the rabbit immuneserum was confirmed by its ability to react with the recombinant protein His6-tagged gI. In addition, real time-PCR was used to determine the the levels of the mRNA transcripts of gI gene, the results showed that the DEV gI gene was transcribed most abundantly during the late phase of infection. Furthermore, indirect immunofluorescence(IIF) was established to study the gI protein expression and localization in DEV-infected duck embryo fibroblasts (DEFs), the results confirmed that the protein was expressed and located in the cytoplasm of the infected cells, intensively. Conclusions The recombinant prokaryotic expression vector of DEV gI gene was constructed successfully. The gI protein was successfully expressed by E.coli BL21(DE3) and maintained its antigenicity very well. The basic information of the transcription and intracellular localization of gI gene were presented, that would be helpful to assess the possible role of DEV gI gene. The research will provide useful clues for further functional analysis of DEV gI gene. PMID:21595918

National Program for Inspection of Non-Federal Dams. Winsor Dam (MA 00588), Quabbin Spillway (MA 00589), Goodnough Dike (MA 00590), Connecticut River Basin, Ware, Massachusetts. Phase I Inspection Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-09-01

at the en- trance to the channel. Another rockfall occurs along the right side of the channel, about 280 ft. downstream from the channel entrance. The...new level survey on seven settlement observation points at Goodnough Dike, in particular to check the 1973 data at * 27 ,nn lnmnnnm u u ~ l I • lI gI ...Spillway weir masonry to maintain the structure in good condition. 3. Periodically remove brush, saplings and rockfalls from the I spiliway discharge

Impacts of Green Infrastructure on the Water Budget and Other Ecosystem Services in Subhumid Urban Areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Y.; Burian, S. J.; Pardyjak, E.; Pomeroy, C. A.

2014-12-01

Green infrastructure (GI) measures have been well established as part of low-impact development approaches for stormwater (SW) management. The origin of the concepts, practices and the preponderance of research have taken place in humid climates. Recent work has begun to explore and adapt GI to subhumid and semi-arid climates, which experience warmer and drier periods. But much remains unknown about effects of GI on the water cycle and how to effectively implement to maximize ecosystem benefits. This research synthesizes observation and modeling to address questions related to changes in evapotranspiration (ET), SW runoff volume, and other water cycle processes from GI introduction in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. First, the water budget of green roofs is being studied via weighing lysimeter systems on two rooftop gardens on the University of Utah campus. ET, outflow, and soil moisture have been measured for approximately one year. Up to this early summer, average ET rates for lysimeters of pure medium, Sedums, and Bluegrass are 1.85±1.01, 1.97±0.94, and 2.31±0.91 mm/d respectively; the maximum ET rate could reach 6.11 mm/d from Sedums. Over 2/3 of total rainfall and irrigation were slowly consumed via ET from green roof. Second, the observation studies are leading to new ET modeling techniques that are being incorporated into the U.S. EPA Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). The modified SWMM has been used to simulate ET, SW runoff volume, and overall water budget changes from GI implementation. Preliminary result shows that ET could account for 10% of the total inflows into bioretentions, and 25% of the inflows into landscapes; potential ET rates could vary up to 0.95 mm/hr across 53 subcatchments in the 29 acres catchment. The influence of various design factors for GI on SW runoff reduction and the water budget is also to be estimated. The application of the research is to analyze the water budget of the Red Butte Creek Watershed in Salt Lake City and to explore the necessary GI elements to approach pre-development water budget conditions.

Late Side Effects After Image Guided Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy Compared to 3D-Conformal Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Results From 2 Prospective Cohorts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wortel, Ruud C.; Incrocci, Luca; Pos, Floris J.

Purpose: Technical developments in the field of external beam radiation therapy (RT) enabled the clinical introduction of image guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT), which improved target conformity and allowed reduction of safety margins. Whether this had an impact on late toxicity levels compared to previously applied three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) is currently unknown. We analyzed late side effects after treatment with IG-IMRT or 3D-CRT, evaluating 2 prospective cohorts of men treated for localized prostate cancer to investigate the hypothesized reductions in toxicity. Methods and Materials: Patients treated with 3D-CRT (n=189) or IG-IMRT (n=242) to 78 Gy in 39 fractionsmore » were recruited from 2 Dutch randomized trials with identical toxicity scoring protocols. Late toxicity (>90 days after treatment) was derived from self-assessment questionnaires and case report forms, according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (RTOG-EORTC) scoring criteria. Grade ≥2 endpoints included gastrointestinal (GI) rectal bleeding, increased stool frequency, discomfort, rectal incontinence, proctitis, and genitourinary (GU) obstruction, increased urinary frequency, nocturia, urinary incontinence, and dysuria. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to compare grade ≥2 toxicities between both techniques, adjusting for other modifying factors. Results: The 5-year cumulative incidence of grade ≥2 GI toxicity was 24.9% for IG-IMRT and 37.6% following 3D-CRT (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 0.59, P=.005), with significant reductions in proctitis (HR: 0.37, P=.047) and increased stool frequency (HR: 0.23, P<.001). GU grade ≥2 toxicity levels at 5 years were comparable with 46.2% and 36.4% following IG-IMRT and 3D-CRT, respectively (adjusted HR: 1.19, P=.33). Other strong predictors (P<.01) of grade ≥2 late toxicity were baseline complaints, acute toxicity, and age. Conclusions: Treatment with IG-IMRT reduced the risk of late grade ≥2 complications, whereas GU toxicities remained comparable. This clinically relevant observation demonstrates that IMRT and image-guidance should therefore be the preferred treatment option, provided that margin reduction is implemented with caution.« less

Impairment of fat oxidation under high- vs. low-glycemic index diet occurs before the development of an obese phenotype.

PubMed

Isken, F; Klaus, S; Petzke, K J; Loddenkemper, C; Pfeiffer, A F H; Weickert, M O

2010-02-01

Exposure to high vs. low glycemic index (GI) diets increases fat mass and insulin resistance in obesity-prone C57BL/6J mice. However, the longer-term effects and potentially involved mechanisms are largely unknown. We exposed four groups of male C57BL/6J mice (n = 10 per group) to long-term (20 wk) or short-term (6 wk) isoenergetic and macronutrient matched diets only differing in starch type and as such GI. Body composition, liver fat, molecular factors of lipid metabolism, and markers of insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility were investigated in all four groups of mice. Mice fed the high GI diet showed a rapid-onset (from week 5) marked increase in body fat mass and liver fat, a gene expression profile in liver consistent with elevated lipogenesis, and, after long-term exposure, significantly reduced glucose clearance following a glucose load. The long-term high-GI diet also led to a delayed switch to both carbohydrate and fat oxidation in the postprandial state, indicating reduced metabolic flexibility. In contrast, no difference in carbohydrate oxidation was observed after short-term high- vs. low-GI exposure. However, fatty acid oxidation was significantly blunted as early as 3 wk after beginning of the high-GI intervention, at a time where most measured phenotypic markers including body fat mass were comparable between groups. Thus long-term high-GI feeding resulted in an obese, insulin-resistant, and metabolically inflexible phenotype in obesity-prone C57BL/6J mice. Early onset and significantly impaired fatty acid oxidation preceded these changes, thereby indicating a potentially causal involvement.

Development of Representative Rainfall Periods for Green Infrastructure Design: Connecting the Dots Between Climate, Urban Hydrology and Resilience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albright, C. M.; Traver, R.; Wadzuk, B.

2017-12-01

Analysis of local-to-regional climate data is critical in understanding how changing patterns in rainfall and other atmospheric conditions can affect urban hydrology. Urbanization has caused hydrologic and ecologic modifications to our land surfaces, and altered the dynamics of urban water cycle in complex ways. Green infrastructure (GI) systems, in their simplest form, reduce runoff and flooding, prevent combined sewer overflows and improve quality of receiving waters. However, when viewed through a more holistic lens, GI systems sit at the nexus of hydrology, climate and energy, yet are rarely designed to account for the impacts of these intersections. We must assess urban hydrologic systems beyond their response to a single event or design storm, incorporating multiple temporal scales and all hydrologic processes. This is of utmost importance to design and characterization of urban GI systems because the resilience of these systems will be dictated by their ability to adapt to future behavior of extreme weather patterns and climate. In this study, we characterize long-term hydrologic conditions in Philadelphia to identify periods of record that are most representative of regional climate characteristics, including a representative rainfall year and longer representative periods. Utility of these datasets will be demonstrated by showing that GI systems are able to sustain effective performance for most expected annual precipitation events. Connections between atmospheric (precipitation and temperature) patterns, GI systems and potential removal mechanisms in the urban hydrologic cycle will be presented for Philadelphia and cities with similar climate characteristics. Establishing such connections is critically needed to not only validate what is already known about urban GI, but more importantly, to advance theory and practice by linking the hydrologic benefits of urban GI to broader concepts such as risk, mitigation of extreme events and sustainable communities.

The natural history of occult or angiodysplastic gastrointestinal bleeding in von Willebrand disease.

PubMed

Makris, M; Federici, A B; Mannucci, P M; Bolton-Maggs, P H B; Yee, T T; Abshire, T; Berntorp, E

2015-05-01

Recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most challenging complications encountered in the management of patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD). The commonest cause is angiodysplasia, but often no cause is identified due to the difficulty in making the diagnosis. The optimal treatment to prevent recurrences remains unknown. We performed a retrospective study of VWD patients with occult or angiodysplastic bleeding within the setting of the von Willebrand Disease Prophylaxis Network (VWD PN) to describe diagnostic and treatment strategies. Centres participating in the VWD PN recruited subjects under their care with a history of congenital VWD and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding due to angiodysplasia, or cases in which the cause was not identified despite investigation. Patients with acquired von Willebrand syndrome or those for whom the GI bleeding was due to another cause were excluded. Forty-eight patients from 18 centres in 10 countries were recruited. Seven individuals had a family history of GI bleeding and all VWD types except 2N were represented. Angiodysplasia was confirmed in 38%, with video capsule endoscopy and GI tract endoscopies being the most common methods of making the diagnosis. Recurrent GI bleeding in VWD is associated with significant morbidity and required hospital admission on up to 30 occasions. Patients were treated with multiple pharmacological agents with prophylactic von Willebrand factor concentrate being the most efficient in preventing recurrence of the GI bleeding. The diagnosis and treatment of recurrent GI bleeding in congenital VWD remains challenging and is associated with significant morbidity. Prophylactic treatment with von Willebrand factor concentrate was the most effective method of preventing recurrent bleeding but its efficacy remains to be confirmed in a prospective study. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding: Role of 64-row computed tomographic angiography in diagnosis and therapeutic planning

PubMed Central

Ren, Jian-Zhuang; Zhang, Meng-Fan; Rong, Ai-Mei; Fang, Xiang-Jie; Zhang, Kai; Huang, Guo-Hao; Chen, Peng-Fei; Wang, Zhao-Yang; Duan, Xu-Hua; Han, Xin-Wei; Liu, Yan-Jie

2015-01-01

AIM: To determine the value of computed tomographic angiography (CTA) for diagnosis and therapeutic planning in lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. METHODS: Sixty-three consecutive patients with acute lower GI bleeding underwent CTA before endovascular or surgical treatment. CTA was used to determine whether the lower GI bleeding was suitable for endovascular treatment, surgical resection, or conservative treatment in each patient. Treatment planning with CTA was compared with actual treatment decisions or endovascular or surgical treatment that had been carried out in each patient based on CTA findings. RESULTS: 64-row CTA detected active extravasation of contrast material in 57 patients and six patients had no demonstrable active bleeding, resulting in an accuracy of 90.5% in the detection of acute GI bleeding (57 of 63). In three of the six patients with no demonstrable active bleeding, active lower GI bleeding recurred within one week after CTA, and angiography revealed acute bleeding. The overall location-based accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for the detection of GI bleeding by 64-row CTA were 98.8% (249 of 252), 95.0% (57 of 60), 100% (192 of 192), 100% (57 of 57), and 98.5% (192 of 195), respectively. Treatment planning was correctly established on the basis of 64-row CTA with an accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 98.4% (248 of 252), 93.3% (56 of 60), 100% (192 of 192), 100% (56 of 56), and 97.5% (192 of 196), respectively, in a location-based evaluation. CONCLUSION: 64-row CTA is safe and effective in making decisions regarding treatment, without performing digital subtraction angiography or surgery, in the majority of patients with lower GI bleeding. PMID:25852291

Prokinetic effects of large-dose lubiprostone on gastrointestinal transit in dogs and its mechanisms.

PubMed

Song, Jun; Yin, Jieyun; Xu, Xiaohong; Chen, Jiande

2015-01-01

To systemically explore effects of large dose of lubiprostone on gastrointestinal (GI) transit and contractions and its safety in dogs. 12 healthy dogs were studied. 6 dogs were operated to receive duodenal cannula and colon cannula and the other 6 dogs received gastric cannula. Lubiprostone was orally administrated at a dose of 24 µg or 48 µg 1 hr prior to the experiments. Gastric emptying (GE) of solids and small bowel transit were evaluated by collecting the effluents from the duodenal cannula and from the colon cannula. Gastric accommodation was measured by barostat. Gastric and intestinal contractions were by manometry. Colon transit was by X-ray pictures. 1) Lubiprostone 48 µg not 24 µg accelerated GE. Atropine could block the effect; 2) Average motility index (MI) of gastric antrum in lubiprostone 48 µg session was significantly higher in both fasting state (P = 0.01) and fed state (P = 0.03). Gastric accommodation was not significantly different; 3) Lubiprostone 48 µg accelerated small bowel and colon transit. Atropine could block the effect on small bowel transit; 4) Lubiprostone 48 µg increased postprandial small bowel MI (P = 0.0008) and colon MI (P = 0.002). 5) No other adverse effects except for diarrhea were observed. Acute administration of lubiprostone at a dose of 48 µg accelerates GI motility and enhances GI contractions in the postprandial state. The findings suggest that lubiprostone may have an indirect prokinetic effects on the GI tract and vagal activity may be involved. Lubiprostone may be safely used.

Prokinetic effects of large-dose lubiprostone on gastrointestinal transit in dogs and its mechanisms

PubMed Central

Song, Jun; Yin, Jieyun; Xu, Xiaohong; Chen, Jiande

2015-01-01

Objective: To systemically explore effects of large dose of lubiprostone on gastrointestinal (GI) transit and contractions and its safety in dogs. Methods: 12 healthy dogs were studied. 6 dogs were operated to receive duodenal cannula and colon cannula and the other 6 dogs received gastric cannula. Lubiprostone was orally administrated at a dose of 24 µg or 48 µg 1 hr prior to the experiments. Gastric emptying (GE) of solids and small bowel transit were evaluated by collecting the effluents from the duodenal cannula and from the colon cannula. Gastric accommodation was measured by barostat. Gastric and intestinal contractions were by manometry. Colon transit was by X-ray pictures. Results: 1) Lubiprostone 48 µg not 24 µg accelerated GE. Atropine could block the effect; 2) Average motility index (MI) of gastric antrum in lubiprostone 48 µg session was significantly higher in both fasting state (P = 0.01) and fed state (P = 0.03). Gastric accommodation was not significantly different; 3) Lubiprostone 48 µg accelerated small bowel and colon transit. Atropine could block the effect on small bowel transit; 4) Lubiprostone 48 µg increased postprandial small bowel MI (P = 0.0008) and colon MI (P = 0.002). 5) No other adverse effects except for diarrhea were observed. Conclusion: Acute administration of lubiprostone at a dose of 48 µg accelerates GI motility and enhances GI contractions in the postprandial state. The findings suggest that lubiprostone may have an indirect prokinetic effects on the GI tract and vagal activity may be involved. Lubiprostone may be safely used. PMID:26045891

The effect of dietary glycemic index and glycemic load on inflammatory biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

PubMed

Milajerdi, Alireza; Saneei, Parvane; Larijani, Bagher; Esmaillzadeh, Ahmad

2018-04-01

To our knowledge, there is no study available that summarizes earlier findings on the effect of dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) on inflammatory biomarkers. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to systematically review the available clinical trials that examined the effects of low-GI (LGI) and low-GL (LGL) diets on several inflammatory biomarkers in adults. We searched for relevant articles published up to June 2017 through PubMed, Medline, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Google Scholar with the use of relevant keywords. Clinical trials that examined the effect of dietary GI and GL on inflammation in adults were included. Overall, 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 2961 participants (59% women, 41% men) were included in this meta-analysis. By combining findings from 14 studies on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) concentrations, we found no significant effect of LGI or LGL diets on serum hs-CRP concentrations compared with the control diet [weighted mean difference (WMD) for dietary GI: -0.05 mg/L (95% CI: -0.21, 0.10 mg/L); and WMD for dietary GL: 0.08 mg/L (95% CI: -0.26, 0.42 mg/L), respectively]. After combining effect sizes from 5 studies, we did not find significant changes in serum tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) concentrations comparing control diets with LGI (WMD: -0.18 mg/L; 95% CI: -0.43, 0.06 mg/L) or LGL (WMD: -0.20 mg/L; 95% CI: -0.33, 0.07 mg/L) diets. Significant changes were also not seen in leptin and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations after the consumption of LGI or LGL diets. We did not find any significant effect of dietary GI or GL on serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, including hs-CRP, leptin, IL-6, and TNF-α in adults. Additional RCTs-in particular, feeding trials-are required to shed light on this issue.

Enhancement of arachidonic acid signaling pathway by nicotinic acid receptor HM74A

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tang, Yuting; Zhou, Lubing; Gunnet, Joseph W.

2006-06-23

HM74A is a G protein-coupled receptor for nicotinic acid (niacin), which has been used clinically to treat dyslipidemia for decades. The molecular mechanisms whereby niacin exerts its pleiotropic effects on lipid metabolism remain largely unknown. In addition, the most common side effect in niacin therapy is skin flushing that is caused by prostaglandin release, suggesting that the phospholipase A{sub 2} (PLA{sub 2})/arachidonic acid (AA) pathway is involved. Various eicosanoids have been shown to activate peroxisome-proliferator activated receptors (PPAR) that play a diverse array of roles in lipid metabolism. To further elucidate the potential roles of HM74A in mediating the therapeuticmore » effects and/or side effects of niacin, we sought to explore the signaling events upon HM74A activation. Here we demonstrated that HM74A synergistically enhanced UTP- and bradykinin-mediated AA release in a pertussis toxin-sensitive manner in A431 cells. Activation of HM74A also led to Ca{sup 2+}-mobilization and enhanced bradykinin-promoted Ca{sup 2+}-mobilization through Gi protein. While HM74A increased ERK1/2 activation by the bradykinin receptor, it had no effects on UTP-promoted ERK1/2 activation.Furthermore, UTP- and bradykinin-mediated AA release was significantly decreased in the presence of both MAPK kinase inhibitor PD 098059 and PKC inhibitor GF 109203X. However, the synergistic effects of HM74A were not dramatically affected by co-treatment with both inhibitors, indicating the cross-talk occurred at the receptor level. Finally, stimulation of A431 cells transiently transfected with PPRE-luciferase with AA significantly induced luciferase activity, mimicking the effects of PPAR{gamma} agonist rosiglitazone, suggesting that alteration of AA signaling pathway can regulate gene expression via endogenous PPARs.« less

National estimates of hospital utilization by children with gastrointestinal disorders: analysis of the 1997 kids' inpatient database.

PubMed

Guthery, Stephen L; Hutchings, Caroline; Dean, J Michael; Hoff, Charles

2004-05-01

To identify and to generate national estimates of the principal gastrointestinal (GI) diagnoses associated with hospital utilization and to describe national hospital utilization patterns associated with pediatric GI disorders. We analyzed a nationwide and stratified probability sample of 1.9 million hospital discharges from 1997 of children 18 years and younger, weighted to 6.7 million discharges nationally. Principal GI diagnoses were identified through the use of the Clinical Classification Software and Major Diagnostic Categories. In 1997 in the United States, there were 329,825 pediatric discharges associated with a principal GI diagnosis, accounting for more than 2.6 billion US dollars in hospital charges and more than 1.1 million hospital days. Appendicitis, intestinal infection, noninfectious gastroenteritis, abdominal pain, esophageal disorders, and digestive congenital anomalies combined accounted for 75.1% of GI discharge diagnoses, 64.2% of GI hospital charges, and 68.0% of GI hospital days. Excluding normal newborn infants and conditions related to pregnancy, GI disorders were the third leading cause of hospitalization. GI disorders are a leading cause of hospitalization of children. A minority of GI conditions account for the majority of measures of utilization. Children are hospitalized for GI conditions and at institutions that are distinct from adults.

Adding glycaemic index and glycaemic load functionality to DietPLUS, a Malaysian food composition database and diet intake calculator.

PubMed

Shyam, Sangeetha; Wai, Tony Ng Kock; Arshad, Fatimah

2012-01-01

This paper outlines the methodology to add glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) functionality to food DietPLUS, a Microsoft Excel-based Malaysian food composition database and diet intake calculator. Locally determined GI values and published international GI databases were used as the source of GI values. Previously published methodology for GI value assignment was modified to add GI and GL calculators to the database. Two popular local low GI foods were added to the DietPLUS database, bringing up the total number of foods in the database to 838 foods. Overall, in relation to the 539 major carbohydrate foods in the Malaysian Food Composition Database, 243 (45%) food items had local Malaysian values or were directly matched to International GI database and another 180 (33%) of the foods were linked to closely-related foods in the GI databases used. The mean ± SD dietary GI and GL of the dietary intake of 63 women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus, calculated using DietPLUS version3 were, 62 ± 6 and 142 ± 45, respectively. These values were comparable to those reported from other local studies. DietPLUS version3, a simple Microsoft Excel-based programme aids calculation of diet GI and GL for Malaysian diets based on food records.

HIV-Associated Gastrointestinal Cancer.

PubMed

Jensen, Björn E-O; Oette, Mark; Haes, Johannes; Häussinger, Dieter

2017-01-01

People living nowadays with HIV and AIDS may be treated effectively regarding virus replication and immunology. However, non-AIDS-defining cancer is of growing relevance due to high incidence and unfavorable outcome. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge on gastrointestinal (GI) carcinoma. Although literature on GI cancer is rare, an increased incidence of esophageal, gastric, pancreatic, hepatocellular, and colorectal carcinoma has been demonstrated. However, there are only few reports on therapy strategies and outcome, so that, despite increased occurrence of many GI carcinomas, only little is known about individualized treatment options and outcome in HIV-positive patients. More efforts have to be undertaken to close this gap. © 2017 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg.

76 FR 54001 - Agency Information Collection (Election To Apply Selected Reserve Services to either Montgomery...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-30

... To Apply Selected Reserve Services to either Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty or to the Montgomery GI... Selected Reserve Services to Either Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty or to the Montgomery GI Bill-Selected.... Abstract: Reservist who participant in the Montgomery GI Bill-- Active Duty and served on active duty for...

The behavioural importance of dynamically activated descending inhibition from the nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis pars alpha.

PubMed

Azami, J; Green, D L; Roberts, M H; Monhemius, R

2001-05-01

We have recently demonstrated (J Physiol 506 (1998) 459) that the dynamic activation of descending inhibition of the nociceptive response of spinal multireceptive cells occurs in the nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis pars alpha (GiA). In the same paper we have shown that Lamina I dorsal horn cells are responsible for activating this inhibition via a pathway which runs in the contralateral dorsolateral funiculus. The effects of dynamically activating this system by noxious stimulation on behavioural responses to noxious stimuli have not been established. Here we demonstrate the effects of GiA on the behavioural response during application of standardized noxious stimuli. As this system is activated in response to noxious stimulation (J Physiol 506 (1998) 459), it is possible that chronic pain states may also activate GiA. We have therefore investigated this possibility in animals following partial sciatic nerve ligation (an animal model of chronic pain; Pain 43 (1990) 205). Male Wistar rats (280-310 g) were anaesthetized with halothane (0.5-2% in O(2)). Guide cannulae for microinjections were stereotaxically placed above GiA. In one group of animals the sciatic nerve was partially ligated. Animals were allowed to recover for 4-6 days. The responses of each animal during the formalin test (Pain 4 (1977) 161) and the tail flick test (Pain 12 (1982) 229) were recorded on different days. Microinjections (0.5 microl) of either gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA, 200 mM), D-L homocysteic acid (DLH, 25 mM) or 0.9% saline (as control) into GiA were performed during these tests in a randomized, blind manner. In animals without sciatic nerve ligation, microinjection of GABA to GiA did not significantly affect the animal's response during the tail flick test. However microinjection of DLH significantly increased the latency of tail flick from 6.2 +/- 0.8 to 8.4 +/- 0.5 s for up to 15 min (n = 7, P < 0.01, Mann-Whitney U-test). Microinjection of GABA to GiA increased the behavioural response to formalin between 10 and 20 min post-injection, while microinjection of DLH reduced this response at all time points except 10 min post-injection (n = 8, P < 0.05, Mann-Whitney U-test). In animals with sciatic nerve ligation, microinjections (0.5 microl) of either GABA (200 mM), or saline (as control) into GiA contralateral to the partial sciatic ligation were performed during these tests in a randomized, blind manner. Partial sciatic ligation significantly reduced the behavioural response to contralaterally applied formalin from 15 min post-injection onwards, compared to controls without sciatic nerve ligation. Microinjection of GABA to GiA significantly increased the behavioural response to formalin from 20 to 50 min post-injection. The inactivation of GiA only causes behavioural effects in nociceptive tests of a long enough duration to activate the system (i.e. the formalin test but not the tail flick test). Chemical activation of the system affects both tests. These data strongly support the concept of an important analgesic system which is activated in response to noxious stimulation, and subsequently acts to reduce behavioural responses to noxious stimuli.

Natural History of Age-Related Retinal Lesions That Precede AMD in Mice Fed High or Low Glycemic Index Diets

PubMed Central

Weikel, Karen A.; FitzGerald, Paul; Shang, Fu; Caceres, M. Andrea; Bian, Qingning; Handa, James T.; Stitt, Alan W.

2012-01-01

Purpose. Epidemiologic data indicate that people who consume low glycemic index (GI) diets are at reduced risk for the onset and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The authors sought corroboration of this observation in an animal model. Methods. Five- and 16-month-old C57BL/6 mice were fed high or low GI diets until they were 17 and 23.5 months of age, respectively. Retinal lesions were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results. Retinal lesions including basal laminar deposits, loss of basal infoldings, and vacuoles in the retinal pigment epithelium were more prevalent in the 23.5- than in the 17-month-old mice. Within each age group, consumption of a high GI diet increased the risk for lesions and the risk for photoreceptor abnormalities and accumulation of AGEs. Conclusions. Consuming high GI diets accelerates the appearance of age-related retinal lesions that precede AMD in mice, perhaps by increasing the deposition of toxic AGEs in the retina. The data support the hypothesis that consuming lower GI diets, or simulation of their effects with nutraceuticals or drugs, may protect against AMD. The high GI-fed C57BL/6 mouse is a new model of age-related retinal lesions that precede AMD and mimic the early stages of disease and may be useful for drug discovery. PMID:22205601

Gastrointestinal cancer and brain metastasis: a rare and ominous sign.

PubMed

Go, Pauline H; Klaassen, Zachary; Meadows, Michael C; Chamberlain, Ronald S

2011-08-15

Metastatic brain tumors represent 20% to 40% of all intracranial neoplasms and are found most frequently in association with lung cancer (50%) and breast cancer (12%). Although brain metastases occur in <4% of all tumors of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the incidence of GI brain metastasis is rising in part due to more effective systemic treatments and prolonged survival of patients with GI cancer. Data were collected from 25 studies (11 colorectal, 7 esophageal, 2 gastric, 1 pancreatic, 1 intestinal, 3 all-inclusive GI tract cancer) and 13 case reports (4 pancreatic, 4 gallbladder, and 5 small bowel cancer). Brain metastases are found in 1% of colorectal cancer, 1.2% of esophageal cancer, 0.62% of gastric cancer, and 0.33% of pancreatic cancer cases. Surgical resection with whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) has been associated with the longest median survival (38.4-262 weeks) compared with surgery alone (16.4-70.8 weeks), stereotactic radiosurgery (20-38 weeks), WBRT alone (7.2-16 weeks), or steroids (4-7 weeks). Survival in patients with brain metastasis from GI cancer was found to be diminished compared with metastases arising from the breast, lung, or kidney. Prolonged survival and improvement in clinical symptoms has been found to be best achieved with surgical resection and WBRT. Although early treatment has been linked to prolonged survival and improved quality of life, brain metastases represent a late manifestation of GI cancers and remain an ominous sign. Copyright © 2011 American Cancer Society.

Acute effects of carprofen and meloxicam on canine gastrointestinal permeability and mucosal absorptive capacity.

PubMed

Craven, Melanie; Chandler, Marge L; Steiner, Jörg M; Farhadi, Ashkan; Welsh, Elizabeth; Pratschke, Kathryn; Shaw, Darren J; Williams, David A

2007-01-01

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are frequently prescribed to dogs for their analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Their beneficial actions can be offset by gastrointestinal (GI) toxicosis. Endoscopy has traditionally been employed to detect GI lesions, but alterations in GI permeability precede the development of mucosal damage. Carprofen and meloxicam alter GI permeability and mucosal absorptive capacity of dogs. Twenty adult dogs treated with an NSAID for >7 days were evaluated by permeability tests while receiving either carprofen (10 dogs) or meloxicam (10 dogs). Prospective, longitudinal observational study. A 6-sugar permeability test (sucrose, lactulose, rhamnose, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose, D-xylose, and sucralose) was performed on the day before NSAID treatment, and after 3 and 8 days of treatment. There were no significant differences in the urinary recovery ratios of lactulose: rhamnose, D-xylose: 3-O-methyl-D-glucose, or sucralose recovery within either group at any time during the study. Sucrose permeability in the meloxicam group did not alter significantly over time. However, sucrose permeability in the carprofen group decreased significantly by day 3 (P = .049) and increased again by day 8 (P = .049), to a level that was not significantly different to permeability before treatment (P = .695). The absence of increased GI permeability and diminished mucosal absorptive capacity in this group of dogs does not support the development of acute GI toxicosis during treatment with either meloxicam or carprofen.

Outcomes of a pilot hand hygiene randomized cluster trial to reduce communicable infections among US office-based employees.

PubMed

Stedman-Smith, Maggie; DuBois, Cathy L Z; Grey, Scott F; Kingsbury, Diana M; Shakya, Sunita; Scofield, Jennifer; Slenkovich, Ken

2015-04-01

To determine the effectiveness of an office-based multimodal hand hygiene improvement intervention in reducing self-reported communicable infections and work-related absence. A randomized cluster trial including an electronic training video, hand sanitizer, and educational posters (n = 131, intervention; n = 193, control). Primary outcomes include (1) self-reported acute respiratory infections (ARIs)/influenza-like illness (ILI) and/or gastrointestinal (GI) infections during the prior 30 days; and (2) related lost work days. Incidence rate ratios calculated using generalized linear mixed models with a Poisson distribution, adjusted for confounders and random cluster effects. A 31% relative reduction in self-reported combined ARI-ILI/GI infections (incidence rate ratio: 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.49 to 0.98). A 21% nonsignificant relative reduction in lost work days. An office-based multimodal hand hygiene improvement intervention demonstrated a substantive reduction in self-reported combined ARI-ILI/GI infections.

Upper GI Bleeding in Children

MedlinePlus

Upper GI Bleeding in Children What is upper GI Bleeding? Irritation and ulcers of the lining of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum can result in upper GI bleeding. When this occurs the child may vomit ...

The GABAergic System and the Gastrointestinal Physiopathology.

PubMed

Auteri, Michelangelo; Zizzo, Maria Grazia; Serio, Rosa

2015-01-01

Since the first report about the presence of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, accumulating evidence strongly supports the widespread representation of the GABAergic system in the enteric milieu, underlining its potential multifunctional role in the regulation of GI functions in health and disease. GABA and GABA receptors are widely distributed throughout the GI tract, constituting a complex network likely regulating the diverse GI behaviour patterns, cooperating with other major neurotransmitters and mediators for maintaining GI homeostasis in physiologic and pathologic conditions. GABA is involved in the circuitry of the enteric nervous system, controlling GI secretion and motility, as well as in the GI endocrine system, possibly acting as a autocrine/paracrine or hormonal agent. Furthermore, a series of investigations addresses the GABAergic system as a potential powerful modulator of GI visceral pain processing, enteric immune system and carcinogenesis. Although overall such actions may imply the consideration of the GABAergic system as a novel therapeutic target in different GI pathologic states, including GI motor and secretory diseases and different enteric inflammatory- and pain-related pathologies, current clinical applications of GABAergic drugs are scarce. Thus, in an attempt to propel novel scientific efforts addressing the detailed characterization of the GABAergic signaling in the GI tract, and consequently the development of novel strategies for the treatment of different GI disorders, we reviewed and discussed the current evidence about GABA actions in the enteric environment, with a particular focus on their possible therapeutic implications.

Educational Benefits Analysis. An Examination of the Effects of G.I. Bill Educational Benefits on Service Accessions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenman, Richard L.; And Others

A study was done to (1) examine the impact of terminating the G.I. Bill in respect to the number, quality, and representativeness of Service accessions (supply of volunteers for military services), and (2) provide a means for measuring the relative costs and benefits of alternative educational programs which might be needed to sustain military…

Understanding the Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load and Their Practical Applications

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lazarim, Fernanda Lorenzi; Stancanelli, Mirtes; Brenzikofer, Rene; de Macedo, Denise Vaz

2009-01-01

We have introduced the study of synthesis pathways using two experiments: 1--the determination of the glycemic index (GI) of some foods and the effects of fiber and fat on the GI; 2--the determination of blood glucose levels after the ingestion of meals with high and low glycemic loads (GL). After a practice assembly, when the foods and meals that…

A Historical Analysis of the G.I. Bill and Its Relationship to Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olson, Keith W.

A study of the G.I. Bill's genesis and reception reveals the narrow interests it was originally intended to serve. Designed as a reward to servicemen and as a device to lessen the economic effects of demobilization, the Bill made a great impact upon American higher education. (1) It provided equality of opportunity unparalleled in the nation's…

Effects of Radiation on the Microbiota and Intestinal Inflammatory Disease

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

focal (GI tract) irradiation of mice on the bacterial and fungal microbiota. We have identified substantial changes in intestinal microbial...minimal acute symptoms, will develop long-term consequences of irradiation including permanent changes to bowel function and intestinal fibrosis, which...mice exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) or focal radiation to the GI tract. Timeline Status Site 1 (Stephen Shiao, MD, PhD) Site 2

Modulation of gastrointestinal vagal neurocircuits by hyperglycemia

PubMed Central

Browning, Kirsteen N.

2013-01-01

Glucose sensing within autonomic neurocircuits is critical for the effective integration and regulation of a variety of physiological homeostatic functions including the co-ordination of vagally-mediated reflexes regulating gastrointestinal (GI) functions. Glucose regulates GI functions via actions at multiple sites of action, from modulating the activity of enteric neurons, endocrine cells, and glucose transporters within the intestine, to regulating the activity and responsiveness of the peripheral terminals, cell bodies and central terminals of vagal sensory neurons, to modifying both the activity and synaptic responsiveness of central brainstem neurons. Unsurprisingly, significant impairment in GI functions occurs in pathophysiological states where glucose levels are dysregulated, such as diabetes. A substantial obstacle to the development of new therapies to modify the disease, rather than treat the symptoms, are the gaps in our understanding of the mechanisms by which glucose modulates GI functions, particularly vagally-mediated responses and a more complete understanding of disease-related plasticity within these neurocircuits may open new avenues and targets for research. PMID:24324393

New therapies for vascular anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Fox, Victor L

2018-06-01

Vascular anomalies are a morphologically and biologically diverse group of vascular channel abnormalities that are often congenital but may evolve or change over time in the developing child. Classification is based on a combination of physical and biological properties and clinical behavior that differentiate primarily between tumors and malformations and includes a few provisionally unclassified lesions. Anomalies of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract may present clinically with GI bleeding, abdominal pain, high-output cardiac failure, and malabsorption. This review focuses on new therapies for the treatment of GI bleeding. Important new pharmacological therapies include treatment of hemangioma with non-selective and selective beta-antagonist agents, propranolol and atenolol, and treatment of blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome and cutaneo-visceral angiomatosis with thrombocytopenia (also known as multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia) with sirolimus, an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin. Therapeutic endoscopy may offer an effective alternative to bowel resection for colonic varices and other focal vascular anomalies of the GI tract that fail to respond to pharmacological therapy.

Burden of Acute Gastrointestinal Illness in Gálvez, Argentina, 2007

PubMed Central

Perez, Enrique; Majowicz, Shannon E.; Reid-Smith, Richard; Albil, Silvia; Monteverde, Marcos; McEwen, Scott A.

2010-01-01

This study evaluated the magnitude and distribution of acute gastrointestinal illness (GI) in Gálvez, Argentina, and assessed the outcome of a seven-day versus 30-day recall period in survey methodology. A cross-sectional population survey, with either a seven-day or a 30-day retrospective recall period, was conducted through door-to-door visits to randomly-selected residents during the ‘high’ and the ‘low’ seasons of GI in the community. Comparisons were made between the annual incidence rates obtained using the seven-day and the 30-day recall period. Using the 30-day recall period, the mean annual incidence rates was 0.43 (low season of GI) and 0.49 (high season of GI) episodes per person-year. Using the seven-day recall period, the mean annual incidence rate was 0.76 (low season of GI) and 2.66 (high season of GI) episodes per person-year. This study highlights the significant burden of GI in a South American community and confirms the importance of seasonality when investigating GI in the population. The findings suggest that a longer recall period may underestimate the burden of GI in retrospective population surveys of GI. PMID:20411678

Evaluation of a telemetric gastrointestinal pill for continuous monitoring of gastrointestinal temperature in horses at rest and during exercise.

PubMed

Verdegaal, Elisabeth-Lidwien J M M; Delesalle, Catherine; Caraguel, Charles G B; Folwell, Louise E; McWhorter, Todd J; Howarth, Gordon S; Franklin, Samantha H

2017-07-01

OBJECTIVE To evaluate use of a telemetric gastrointestinal (GI) pill to continuously monitor GI temperature in horses at rest and during exercise and to compare time profiles of GI temperature and rectal temperature. ANIMALS 8 Standardbred horses. PROCEDURES Accuracy and precision of the GI pill and a rectal probe were determined in vitro by comparing temperature measurements with values obtained by a certified resistance temperature detector (RTD) in water baths at various temperatures (37°, 39°, and 41°C). Subsequently, both GI and rectal temperature were recorded in vivo in 8 horses over 3 consecutive days. The GI temperature was recorded continuously, and rectal temperature was recorded for 3.5 hours daily. Comparisons were made between GI temperature and rectal temperature for horses at rest, during exercise, and after exercise. RESULTS Water bath evaluation revealed good agreement between the rectal probe and RTD. However, the GI pill systematically underestimated temperature by 0.14°C. In vivo, GI temperature data were captured with minimal difficulties. Most data loss occurred during the first 16 hours, after which the mean ± SD data loss was 8.6 ± 3.7%. The GI temperature was consistently and significantly higher than rectal temperature with an overall mean temperature difference across time of 0.27°C (range, 0.22° to 0.32°C). Mean measurement cessation point for the GI pill was 5.1 ± 1.0 days after administration. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study revealed that the telemetric GI pill was a reliable and practical method for real-time monitoring of GI temperature in horses.

Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Neonates with Gastrointestinal Conditions: developing a candidate definition for mucosal barrier injury bloodstream infections

PubMed Central

Coffin, Susan E.; Klieger, Sarah B.; Duggan, Christopher; Huskins, W. Charles; Milstone, Aaron M.; Potter-Bynoe, Gail; Raphael, Bram; Sandora, Thomas J.; Song, Xiaoyan; Zerr, Danielle M.; Lee, Grace M.

2015-01-01

Objectives To develop a candidate definition for central line-associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) in neonates with presumed mucosal barrier injury due to gastrointestinal (MBI-GI) conditions; to evaluate epidemiology and microbiology of MBI-GI CLABSI in infants. Design Multicenter retrospective cohort study Setting Neonatal intensive care units (NICU) from 14 U.S. children’s hospitals and pediatric facilities Methods A multidisciplinary focus group developed a candidate MBI-GI CLABSI definition based on presence of a MBI-GI condition, parenteral nutrition (PN) exposure, and an eligible enteric organism. CLABSI surveillance data from participating hospitals were supplemented by chart review to identify MBI-GI conditions and PN exposure. Results During 2009–12, 410 CLABSI occurred in 376 infants. MBI-GI conditions and PN exposure occurred in 149 (40%) and 324 (86%) of these 376 neonates, respectively. The distribution of pathogens was similar among neonates with versus without MBI-GI conditions and PN exposure. Fifty-nine (16%) of the 376 initial CLABSI episodes met the candidate MBI-GI CLABSI definition. Subsequent versus initial CLABSI were more likely to be caused by an enteric organism (22 of 34, 65% vs. 151 of 376, 40%; p = 0.009) and to meet the candidate MBI-GI CLABSI definition (19 of 34, 56% vs. 59 of 376, 16%; p < 0.01). Conclusions While MBI-GI conditions and PN exposure were common, only 16% of initial CLABSI met the candidate definition of MBI-GI CLABSI. The high proportion of MBI-GI CLABSI among subsequent infections suggests infants with MBI-GI CLABSI should be a population targeted for further surveillance and interventional research. PMID:25333434

Marked Genomic Diversity of Norovirus Genogroup I Strains in a Waterborne Outbreak

PubMed Central

Hannoun, Charles; Larsson, Charlotte U.; Bergström, Tomas

2012-01-01

Marked norovirus (NoV) diversity was detected in patient samples from a large community outbreak of gastroenteritis with waterborne epidemiology affecting approximately 2,400 people. NoV was detected in 33 of 50 patient samples examined by group-specific real-time reverse transcription-PCR. NoV genotype I (GI) strains predominated in 31 patients, with mixed GI infections occurring in 5 of these patients. Sequence analysis of RNA-dependent polymerase-N/S capsid-coding regions (∼900 nucleotides in length) confirmed the dominance of the GI strains (n = 36). Strains of NoV GI.4 (n = 21) and GI.7 (n = 9) were identified, but six strains required full capsid amino acid analyses (530 to 550 amino acids) based on control sequencing of cloned amplicons before the virus genotype could be determined. Three strains were assigned to a new NoV GI genotype, proposed as GI.9, based on capsid amino acid analyses showing 26% dissimilarity from the established genotypes GI.1 to GI.8. Three other strains grouped in a sub-branch of GI.3 with 13 to 15% amino acid dissimilarity to GI.3 GenBank reference strains. Phylogenetic analysis (2.1 kb) of 10 representative strains confirmed these genotype clusters. Strains of NoV GII.4 (n = 1), NoV GII.6 (n = 2), sapovirus GII.2 (n = 1), rotavirus (n = 3), adenovirus (n = 1), and Campylobacter spp. (n = 2) were detected as single infections or as mixtures with NoV GI. Marked NoV GI diversity detected in patients was consistent with epidemiologic evidence of waterborne NoV infections, suggesting human fecal contamination of the water supply. Recognition of NoV diversity in a cluster of patients provided a useful warning marker of waterborne contamination in the Lilla Edet outbreak. PMID:22247153

GeoNetwork powered GI-cat: a geoportal hybrid solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldini, Alessio; Boldrini, Enrico; Santoro, Mattia; Mazzetti, Paolo

2010-05-01

To the aim of setting up a Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDI) the creation of a system for the metadata management and discovery plays a fundamental role. An effective solution is the use of a geoportal (e.g. FAO/ESA geoportal), that has the important benefit of being accessible from a web browser. With this work we present a solution based integrating two of the available frameworks: GeoNetwork and GI-cat. GeoNetwork is an opensource software designed to improve accessibility of a wide variety of data together with the associated ancillary information (metadata), at different scale and from multidisciplinary sources; data are organized and documented in a standard and consistent way. GeoNetwork implements both the Portal and Catalog components of a Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) defined in the OGC Reference Architecture. It provides tools for managing and publishing metadata on spatial data and related services. GeoNetwork allows harvesting of various types of web data sources e.g. OGC Web Services (e.g. CSW, WCS, WMS). GI-cat is a distributed catalog based on a service-oriented framework of modular components and can be customized and tailored to support different deployment scenarios. It can federate a multiplicity of catalogs services, as well as inventory and access services in order to discover and access heterogeneous ESS resources. The federated resources are exposed by GI-cat through several standard catalog interfaces (e.g. OGC CSW AP ISO, OpenSearch, etc.) and by the GI-cat extended interface. Specific components implement mediation services for interfacing heterogeneous service providers, each of which exposes a specific standard specification; such components are called Accessors. These mediating components solve providers data modelmultiplicity by mapping them onto the GI-cat internal data model which implements the ISO 19115 Core profile. Accessors also implement the query protocol mapping; first they translate the query requests expressed according to the interface protocols exposed by GI-cat into the multiple query dialects spoken by the resource service providers. Currently, a number of well-accepted catalog and inventory services are supported, including several OGC Web Services, THREDDS Data Server, SeaDataNet Common Data Index, GBIF and OpenSearch engines. A GeoNetwork powered GI-cat has been developed in order to exploit the best of the two frameworks. The new system uses a modified version of GeoNetwork web interface in order to add the capability of querying also the specified GI-cat catalog and not only the GeoNetwork internal database. The resulting system consists in a geoportal in which GI-cat plays the role of the search engine. This new system allows to distribute the query on the different types of data sources linked to a GI-cat. The metadata results of the query are then visualized by the Geonetwork web interface. This configuration was experimented in the framework of GIIDA, a project of the Italian National Research Council (CNR) focused on data accessibility and interoperability. A second advantage of this solution is achieved setting up a GeoNetwork catalog amongst the accessors of the GI-cat instance. Such a configuration will allow in turn GI-cat to run the query against the internal GeoNetwork database. This allows to have both the harvesting and the metadata editor functionalities provided by GeoNetwork and the distributed search functionality of GI-cat available in a consistent way through the same web interface.

Preclinical development of a non-toxic oral formulation of monoethanolamine, a lipid precursor, for prostate cancer treatment

PubMed Central

Saxena, Roopali; Yang, Chunhua; Rao, Mukkavilli; Turaga, Ravi Chakra; Garlapati, Chakravarthy; Gundala, Sushma Reddy; Myers, Kimberly; Ghareeb, Ahmed; Bhattarai, Shristi; Kamilinia, Golnaz; Bristi, Sangina; Su, Dan; Gadda, Giovanni; Rida, Padmashree C. G.; Cantuaria, Guilherme H.; Aneja, Ritu

2018-01-01

Purpose Most currently-available chemotherapeutic agents target rampant cell division in cancer cells, thereby affecting rapidly-dividing normal cells resulting in toxic side-effects. This non-specificity necessitates identification of novel cellular pathways that are reprogrammed selectively in cancer cells and can be exploited to develop pharmacologically superior and less-toxic therapeutics. Despite growing awareness on dysregulation of lipid metabolism in cancer cells, targeting lipid biosynthesis is still largely uncharted territory. Herein, we report development of a novel non-toxic orally-deliverable anticancer formulation of monoethanolamine (Etn), for prostate cancer by targeting the Kennedy pathway of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) lipid biosynthesis. Experimental Design We first evaluated GI-tract stability, drug-drug interaction liability, pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic properties of Etn to evaluate its suitability as a non-toxic orally-deliverable agent. We next performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate efficacy and mechanism of action. Results Our data demonstrate that Etn exhibits excellent bioavailability, GI-tract stability, and no drug-drug interaction liability. Remarkably, orally-fed Etn inhibited tumor growth in four weeks by ~67% in mice bearing human prostate cancer PC-3 xenografts without any apparent toxicity. Mechanistically, Etn exploits selective overexpression of choline kinase in cancer cells, resulting in accumulation of phosphoethanolamine (PhosE), accompanied by downregulation of HIF-1α that induces metabolic stress culminating into cell death. Conclusions Our study provides first evidence for the superior anticancer activity of Etn, a simple lipid precursor formulation, whose non-toxicity conforms to FDA-approved standards, compelling its clinical development for prostate cancer management. PMID:28167510

Molecular insights into microbial β-glucuronidase inhibition to abrogate CPT-11 toxicity.

PubMed

Roberts, Adam B; Wallace, Bret D; Venkatesh, Madhu Kumar; Mani, Sridhar; Redinbo, Matthew R

2013-08-01

Bacterial β-glucuronidases expressed by the symbiotic intestinal microbiota appear to play important roles in drug-induced epithelial cell toxicity in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. For the anticancer drug CPT-11 (irinotecan) and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac, it has been shown that removal of the glucuronide moieties from drug metabolites by bacterial β-glucuronidases in the GI lumen can significantly damage the intestinal epithelium. Furthermore, selective disruption of bacterial β-glucuronidases by small molecule inhibitors alleviates these side effects, which, for CPT-11 {7-ethyl-10-[4-(1-piperidino)-1-piperidino]}, can be dose limiting. Here we characterize novel microbial β-glucuronidase inhibitors that inhibit Escherichia coli β-glucuronidase in vitro with Ki values between 180 nM and 2 μM, and disrupt the enzyme in E. coli cells, with EC50 values as low as 300 nM. All compounds are selective for E. coli β-glucuronidase without inhibiting purified mammalian β-glucuronidase, and they do not impact the survival of either bacterial or mammalian cells. The 2.8 Å resolution crystal structure of one inhibitor bound to E. coli β-glucuronidase demonstrates that it contacts and orders only a portion of the "bacterial loop" present in microbial, but not mammalian, β-glucuronidases. The most potent compound examined in this group was found to protect mice against CPT-11-induced diarrhea. Taken together, these data advance our understanding of the chemical and structural basis of selective microbial β-glucuronidase inhibition, which may improve human drug efficacy and toxicity.

Molecular Insights into Microbial β-Glucuronidase Inhibition to Abrogate CPT-11 Toxicity

PubMed Central

Roberts, Adam B.; Wallace, Bret D.; Venkatesh, Madhu Kumar; Mani, Sridhar

2013-01-01

Bacterial β-glucuronidases expressed by the symbiotic intestinal microbiota appear to play important roles in drug-induced epithelial cell toxicity in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. For the anticancer drug CPT-11 (irinotecan) and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac, it has been shown that removal of the glucuronide moieties from drug metabolites by bacterial β-glucuronidases in the GI lumen can significantly damage the intestinal epithelium. Furthermore, selective disruption of bacterial β-glucuronidases by small molecule inhibitors alleviates these side effects, which, for CPT-11 {7-ethyl-10-[4-(1-piperidino)-1-piperidino]}, can be dose limiting. Here we characterize novel microbial β-glucuronidase inhibitors that inhibit Escherichia coli β-glucuronidase in vitro with Ki values between 180 nM and 2 μM, and disrupt the enzyme in E. coli cells, with EC50 values as low as 300 nM. All compounds are selective for E. coli β-glucuronidase without inhibiting purified mammalian β-glucuronidase, and they do not impact the survival of either bacterial or mammalian cells. The 2.8 Å resolution crystal structure of one inhibitor bound to E. coli β-glucuronidase demonstrates that it contacts and orders only a portion of the “bacterial loop” present in microbial, but not mammalian, β-glucuronidases. The most potent compound examined in this group was found to protect mice against CPT-11–induced diarrhea. Taken together, these data advance our understanding of the chemical and structural basis of selective microbial β-glucuronidase inhibition, which may improve human drug efficacy and toxicity. PMID:23690068

Efficacy, acceptability and safety of guided imagery/hypnosis in fibromyalgia - A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Zech, N; Hansen, E; Bernardy, K; Häuser, W

2017-02-01

This systematic review aimed at evaluating the efficacy, acceptability and safety of guided imagery/hypnosis (GI/H) in fibromyalgia. Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and SCOPUS were screened through February 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing GI/H with controls were analysed. Primary outcomes were ≥50% pain relief, ≥20% improvement of health-related quality of life, psychological distress, disability, acceptability and safety at end of therapy and 3-month follow-up. Effects were summarized by a random effects model using risk differences (RD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).Seven RCTs with 387 subjects were included into a comparison of GI/H versus controls. There was a clinically relevant benefit of GI/H compared to controls on ≥50% pain relief [RD 0.18 (95% CI 0.02, 0.35)] and psychological distress [SMD -0.40 (95% CI -0.70, -0.11)] at the end of therapy. Acceptability at the end of treatment for GI/H was not significantly different to the control. Two RCTs with 95 subjects were included in the comparison of hypnosis combined with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) versus CBT alone. Combined therapy was superior to CBT alone in reducing psychological distress at the end of therapy [SMD -0.50 (95% CI -0.91, -0.09)]. There were no statistically significant differences between combined therapy and CBT alone in other primary outcomes at the end of treatment and follow-up. No study reported on safety. GI/H hold promise in a multicomponent management of fibromyalgia. We provide a systematic review with meta-analysis on guided imagery and hypnosis for fibromyalgia. Current analyses endorse the efficacy and tolerability of guided imagery/hypnosis and of the combination of hypnosis with cognitive-behavioural therapy in reducing key symptoms of fibromyalgia. © 2016 European Pain Federation - EFIC®.

CB1 receptor mediated analgesia from the Nucleus Reticularis Gigantocellularis pars alpha is activated in an animal model of neuropathic pain.

PubMed

Monhemius, R; Azami, J; Green, D L; Roberts, M H

2001-07-20

Cannabinoids are known to suppress responses to noxious stimulation in animals and man. Recent research has suggested a role for endogenous cannabinoids in the descending inhibition of dorsal horn cells via a supraspinal site of action. We have recently demonstrated [J. Physiol. 506(2) (1998) 459] that the nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis pars alpha (GiA) is a major source of such descending modulation, and importantly, that this system is activated in response to noxious stimulation. We have therefore investigated the role of CB1 receptor activation in mediating the antinociceptive effects of activation of GiA in models of acute and chronic pain. Microinjections (0.5 microl 60% DMSO) of either WIN 55,212-2 (5 microg, selective CB1 agonist), SR141716A (50 microg, competitive CB1 antagonist), both compounds together, or vehicle alone into GiA were performed prior to these tests in a randomised, blind manner. In control animals, WIN 55,212-2 markedly increased withdrawal latencies in the tail flick test and reduced responses to subcutaneous formalin. These effects were blocked by co-administration of SR141716A. These data suggest that activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptor subtypes in GiA leads to behavioural analgesia. In animals with partial sciatic nerve ligation, microinjection of drugs and injection of formalin were performed contralaterally to the site of ligation. Partial sciatic nerve ligation significantly reduced behavioural responses to contralaterally applied formalin. Microinjection of SR141716A to GiA reversed this inhibition of responses to formalin in animals with partial sciatic nerve ligation. These data provide evidence that endogenous CB1 receptor ligands are involved in GiA mediated antinociception, and that this system is important for the modulation of nociceptive transmission in an animal model of chronic neuropathic pain.

The influence of the utilization time of brush heads from different types of power toothbrushes on oral hygiene assessed over a 6-month observation period: A randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Schmickler, Jan; Wurbs, Sabine; Wurbs, Susanne; Kramer, Katharina; Rinke, Sven; Hornecker, Else; Mausberg, Rainer F; Ziebolz, Dirk

2016-12-01

This randomized clinical trial investigated the influence of the utilization time of brush heads from different types of power toothbrushes [oscillating rotating (OR) and sonic action (SA)93; on oral hygiene (plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation) over a 6-month observation period. 49 participants were randomly allocated into two groups: use of the same brush head over 6 months (NR: non-replacement) or replacement of brush head every 4 weeks over 6 months (R: replacement). Each group was subdivided into two subgroups according to kind of toothbrush (TB) used (OR and SA). Modified Quigley-Hein plaque index (QHI), papilla bleeding index (PBI), and gingival index (GI) were recorded at baseline and 2, 8, 12, 16, and 24 weeks after baseline. After 24 weeks, participants of both groups (R and NR) received a new brush head. At week 26, final QHI, PBI, and GI were recorded. QHI decreased between baseline and follow-up visits in R groups (P< 0.05), with the exception of week 12 (P= 0.26). In NR groups, no significant decrease was detected (P> 0.05). There was no significant effect of time on PBI or GI in any of R subgroups (P> 0.05). In NR oscillating/rotating TB: significant increase in PBI and GI was detected 24 weeks after baseline (PBI: P= 0.02, GI: P= 0.03); sonic action TBs showed significant decrease in PBI at every follow-up visit (P< 0.05), except at 24 weeks after baseline (P= 0.73). GI was significantly decreased at 2 weeks after baseline only (P< 0.01). Six-month use of the same brush head reduced effectiveness in removing plaque, and gingival inflammation appeared to increase after a utilization time of over 4 months. Replacing brush heads is advised after 4 months.

Partial agonist clonidine mediates alpha(2)-AR subtypes specific regulation of cAMP accumulation in adenylyl cyclase II transfected DDT1-MF2 cells.

PubMed

Limon-Boulez, I; Bouet-Alard, R; Gettys, T W; Lanier, S M; Maltier, J P; Legrand, C

2001-02-01

alpha2-Adrenergic receptor (alpha(2)-AR) activation in the pregnant rat myometrium at midterm potentiates beta(2)-AR stimulation of adenylyl cyclase (AC) via Gbetagamma regulation of the type II isoform of adenylyl cyclase. However, at term, alpha(2)-AR activation inhibits beta(2)-AR stimulation of AC. This phenomenon is associated with changes in alpha(2)-AR subtype expression (midterm alpha(2A/D)-AR > alpha(2B)-AR; term alpha(2B) >or =alpha(2A/D)-AR), without any change in ACII mRNA, suggesting that alpha(2A/D)- and alpha(2B)-AR differentially regulate beta(2)-cAMP production. To address this issue, we have stably expressed the same density of alpha(2A/D)- or alpha(2B)-AR with AC II in DDT1-MF2 cells. Clonidine (partial agonist) increased beta(2)-AR-stimulated cAMP production in alpha(2A/D)-AR-ACII transfectants but inhibited it in alpha(2B)-AR-ACII transfectants. In contrast, epinephrine (full agonist) enhanced beta(2)-stimulated ACII in both alpha(2A)- and alpha(2B)-ACII clonal cell lines. 4-Azidoanilido-[alpha-(32)P]GTP-labeling of activated G proteins indicated that, in alpha(2B)-AR transfectants, clonidine activated only Gi(2), whereas epinephrine, the full agonist, effectively coupled to Gi(2) and Gi(3). Thus, partial and full agonists selectively activate G proteins that lead to drug specific effects on effectors. Moreover, these data indicate that Gi(3) activation is required for potentiation of beta(2)-AR stimulation of AC by alpha(2A/D) and alpha(2B)-AR in DDT1-MF2 cells. This may reflect an issue of the amount of Gbetagamma released upon receptor activation and/or betagamma composition of Gi(3) versus Gi(2).

Parasite-mediated selection drives an immunogenetic trade-off in plains zebras (Equus quagga)

PubMed Central

Kamath, Pauline L.; Turner, Wendy C.; Küsters, Martina; Getz, Wayne M.

2014-01-01

Pathogen evasion of the host immune system is a key force driving extreme polymorphism in genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Although this gene family is well characterized in structure and function, there is still much debate surrounding the mechanisms by which MHC diversity is selectively maintained. Many studies have investigated relationships between MHC variation and specific pathogens, and have found mixed support for and against the hypotheses of heterozygote advantage, frequency-dependent or fluctuating selection. Few, however, have focused on the selective effects of multiple parasite types on host immunogenetic patterns. Here, we examined relationships between variation in the equine MHC gene, ELA-DRA, and both gastrointestinal (GI) and ectoparasitism in plains zebras (Equus quagga). Specific alleles present at opposing population frequencies had antagonistic effects, with rare alleles associated with increased GI parasitism and common alleles with increased tick burdens. These results support a frequency-dependent mechanism, but are also consistent with fluctuating selection. Maladaptive GI parasite ‘susceptibility alleles’ were reduced in frequency, suggesting that these parasites may play a greater selective role at this locus. Heterozygote advantage, in terms of allele mutational divergence, also predicted decreased GI parasite burden in genotypes with a common allele. We conclude that an immunogenetic trade-off affects resistance/susceptibility to parasites in this system. Because GI and ectoparasites do not directly interact within hosts, our results uniquely show that antagonistic parasite interactions can be indirectly modulated through the host immune system. This study highlights the importance of investigating the role of multiple parasites in shaping patterns of host immunogenetic variation. PMID:24718761

A randomized controlled trial evaluating antioxidant-essential oil gel as a treatment for gingivitis in orthodontic patients.

PubMed

Martin, Benjamin J; Campbell, Phillip M; Rees, Terry D; Buschang, Peter H

2016-05-01

To evaluate the treatment effect of an antioxidant-essential oil gel on orthodontic patients with generalized gingivitis. The gel contains the essential oils menthol and thymol and the antioxidants ferulic acid and phloretin. Thirty patients from the university's orthodontic clinic were screened for gingivitis and randomly allocated into treatment and placebo-control groups. Each patient was evaluated at three orthodontic treatment visits (T1, T2, and T3). A periodontal examination, including probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI) was performed at each visit. Between T1 and T2, patients were instructed to apply a topical gel (active or placebo) to their gingiva twice daily after brushing. From T2 to T3, patients were instructed to discontinue use of the gel. The treatment group showed statistically significant (P < .05) reductions of BOP (-13.6 percentage points) and GI (-0.14) between T1 and T2, and significant increases in BOP (13.3 percentage points) and GI (0.14) between T2 and T3. Except for an increase in the GI between T2 and T3, the control group showed no significant changes in BOP or GI over time. The only other significant changes that occurred pertained to the treatment group, which showed significant increases in PD (0.08 mm) and PI (0.18) between T2 and T3. Application of a topical antioxidant-essential oil gel is an effective means of reducing inflammation in orthodontic patients with gingivitis.

Parasite-mediated selection drives an immunogenetic tradeoff in plains zebra (Equus quagga)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kamath, Pauline L.; Turner, Wendy C.; Küsters, Martina; Getz, Wayne M.

2014-01-01

Pathogen evasion of the host immune system is a key force driving extreme polymorphism in genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Although this gene family is well characterized in structure and function, there is still much debate surrounding the mechanisms by which MHC diversity is selectively maintained. Many studies have investigated relationships between MHC variation and specific pathogens, and have found mixed support for and against the hypotheses of heterozygote advantage, frequency-dependent or fluctuating selection. Few, however, have focused on the selective effects of multiple parasite types on host immunogenetic patterns. Here, we examined relationships between variation in the equine MHC gene, ELA-DRA, and both gastrointestinal (GI) and ectoparasitism in plains zebras (Equus quagga). Specific alleles present at opposing population frequencies had antagonistic effects, with rare alleles associated with increased GI parasitism and common alleles with increased tick burdens. These results support a frequency-dependent mechanism, but are also consistent with fluctuating selection. Maladaptive GI parasite ‘susceptibility alleles’ were reduced in frequency, suggesting that these parasites may play a greater selective role at this locus. Heterozygote advantage, in terms of allele mutational divergence, also predicted decreased GI parasite burden in genotypes with a common allele. We conclude that an immunogenetic trade-off affects resistance/susceptibility to parasites in this system. Because GI and ectoparasites do not directly interact within hosts, our results uniquely show that antagonistic parasite interactions can be indirectly modulated through the host immune system. This study highlights the importance of investigating the role of multiple parasites in shaping patterns of host immunogenetic variation.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Treated With Rivaroxaban or Warfarin: ROCKET AF Trial.

PubMed

Sherwood, Matthew W; Nessel, Christopher C; Hellkamp, Anne S; Mahaffey, Kenneth W; Piccini, Jonathan P; Suh, Eun-Young; Becker, Richard C; Singer, Daniel E; Halperin, Jonathan L; Hankey, Graeme J; Berkowitz, Scott D; Fox, Keith A A; Patel, Manesh R

2015-12-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common complication of oral anticoagulation. This study evaluated GI bleeding in patients who received at least 1 dose of the study drug in the on-treatment arm of the ROCKET AF (Rivaroxaban Once-daily Oral Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared with Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation) trial. The primary outcome was adjudicated GI bleeding reported from first to last drug dose + 2 days. Multivariable modeling was performed with pre-specified candidate predictors. Of 14,236 patients, 684 experienced GI bleeding during follow-up. These patients were older (median age 75 years vs. 73 years) and less often female. GI bleeding events occurred in the upper GI tract (48%), lower GI tract (23%), and rectum (29%) without differences between treatment arms. There was a significantly higher rate of major or nonmajor clinical GI bleeding in rivaroxaban- versus warfarin-treated patients (3.61 events/100 patient-years vs. 2.60 events/100 patient-years; hazard ratio: 1.42; 95% confidence interval: 1.22 to 1.66). Severe GI bleeding rates were similar between treatment arms (0.47 events/100 patient-years vs. 0.41 events/100 patient-years; p = 0.39; 0.01 events/100 patient-years vs. 0.04 events/100 patient-years; p = 0.15, respectively), and fatal GI bleeding events were rare (0.01 events/100 patient-years vs. 0.04 events/100 patient-years; 1 fatal events vs. 5 fatal events total). Independent clinical factors most strongly associated with GI bleeding were baseline anemia, history of GI bleeding, and long-term aspirin use. In the ROCKET AF trial, rivaroxaban increased GI bleeding compared with warfarin. The absolute fatality rate from GI bleeding was low and similar in both treatment arms. Our results further illustrate the need for minimizing modifiable risk factors for GI bleeding in patients on oral anticoagulation. Copyright © 2015 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of 2-(Alkyl-, Alkaryl-, Aryl-, Hetaryl-)-[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]quinazolines

PubMed Central

Kovalenko, Sergiy I.; Antypenko, Lyudmyla M.; Bilyi, Andriy K.; Kholodnyak, Sergiy V.; Karpenko, Olexandr V.; Antypenko, Olexii M.; Mykhaylova, Natalya S.; Los, Tetyana I.; Kolomoets, Olexandra S.

2013-01-01

The combinatorial library of novel potential anticancer agents, namely, 2-(alkyl-, alkaryl-, aryl-, hetaryl-)[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]quinazolines, was synthesized by the heterocyclization of the alkyl-, alkaryl-, aryl-, hetarylcarboxylic acid (3H-quinazoline-4-ylidene)hydrazides by oxidative heterocyclization of the 4-(arylidenehydrazino)quinazolines using bromine, and by the heterocyclization of N-(2-cyanophenyl)formimidic acid ethyl ester. The optimal method for synthesis of the s-triazolo[1,5-c]quinazolines appeared to be cyclocondensation of the corresponding carboxylic acid (3H-quinazoline-4-ylidene)hydrazides. The compounds’ structures were established by 1H, 13C NMR, LC- and EI-MS analysis. The in vitro screening of anticancer activity determined the most active compound to be 3,4,5-trimethoxy-N′-[quinazolin-4(3H)-ylidene]benzohydrazide (3.20) in micromolar concentrations with the GI50 level (MG_MID, GI50 is 2.29). Thus, the cancer cell lines whose growth is greatly inhibited by compound 3.20 are: non-small cell lung cancer (NCI-H522, GI50=0.34), CNS (SF-295, GI50=0.95), ovarian (OVCAR-3, GI50=0.33), prostate (PC-3, GI50=0.56), and breast cancer (MCF7, GI50=0.52), leukemia (K-562, GI50=0.41; SR, GI50=0.29), and melanoma (MDA-MB-435, GI50=0.31; SK-MEL-5, GI50=0.74; UACC-62, GI50=0.32). SAR-analysis is also discussed. PMID:23833709

Gastrointestinal bleeding with dabigatran, a comparative study with warfarin: a multicenter experience.

PubMed

Sherid, Muhammed; Sifuentes, Humberto; Sulaiman, Samian; Samo, Salih; Husein, Husein; Tupper, Ruth; Spurr, Charles; Sridhar, Subbaramiah

2015-04-01

The risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding with dabigatran when compared to warfarin has been controversial in the literature. The aim of our study was to assess this risk with the use of dabigatran. We examined the medical records of patients who were started on dabigatran or warfarin from October 2010 to October 2012. The study was conducted in two hospitals. A total of 417 patients were included (208 dabigatran vs. 209 warfarin). GI bleeding occurred in 10 patients (4.8%) in the dabigatran group compared to 21 patients (10.1%) in the warfarin group (p=0.0375). Multivariate analysis showed that patients who were on dabigatran for ≤ 100 days had a higher incidence of GI bleeding than those who were on it for >100 days (p=0.0007). The odds of GI bleeding in patients who were on dabigatran for ≤ 100 days was 8.2 times higher compared to those who were on the drug for >100 days. The incidence of GI bleeding in patients >65 years old was higher than in those <65 years old (p=0.0453, OR=3). History of previous GI bleeding was another risk factor for GI bleeding in the dabigatran group (p=0.036, OR=6.3). The lower GI tract was the most common site for GI bleeding in the dabigatran group (80.0% vs. 38.1%, p=0.014). The risk of GI bleeding was lower with dabigatran. The risk factors for GI bleeding with dabigatran were the first 100 days, age >65 years, and a history of previous GI bleeding.

Suppression of IAPP fibrillation at anionic lipid membranes via IAPP-derived amyloid inhibitors and insulin.

PubMed

Sellin, Daniel; Yan, Li-Mei; Kapurniotu, Aphrodite; Winter, Roland

2010-08-01

Aggregation of human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) into cytotoxic beta-sheet oligomers and amyloid plaques is considered a key event in pancreatic beta-cell degeneration in type 2 diabetes (T2D). hIAPP is synthesized in the pancreatic beta-cells and it is stored, co-processed in the secretory granules, and co-secreted to the extracellular matrix together with insulin. In vivo, hIAPP aggregation may start and proceed at the water-cell membrane interface and anionic lipid membranes strongly enhance the process of hIAPP fibrillization which is causally linked to membrane disintegration and cell degeneration. In this study we explored the amyloidogenic propensity and conformational properties of hIAPP in the presence of negatively charged membrane (DOPC/DOPG phospholipid bilayers) surfaces upon addition of two recently designed potent hIAPP-derived inhibitors of hIAPP amyloidogenesis, the hexapeptide NF(N-Me)GA(N-Me)IL (NFGAIL-GI) and the 37-residue non-amyloidogenic hIAPP analog [(N-Me)G24, (N-Me)I26]-IAPP (IAPP-GI). For comparison, the effects of insulin, which is a natively occurring hIAPP aggregation inhibitor, rat IAPP (rIAPP), which is a natively non-amyloidogenic hIAPP analog, and the hIAPP amyloid core peptide hIAPP(22-27) or NFGAIL were also studied. The aim of our study was to test whether and how the above peptides which have been shown to completely block or suppress hIAPP amyloidogenesis in bulk solution in vitro would also affect these processes in the presence of lipid membranes. To this end, attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was applied. We find that IAPP-GI, NFGAIL-GI, insulin, and rIAPP are potent inhibitors of hIAPP fibrillization. Importantly, our data also suggest that the hetero-complexes of IAPP-GI, rIAPP, and insulin with hIAPP although non-amyloidogenic per se are still able to adsorb at the lipid membrane. By contrast, in the presence of NFGAIL-GI, interaction of hIAPP with the lipid membrane is completely abolished, consistent with NFGAIL-GI mediated sequestration of hIAPP via hetero-complexation in the aqueous phase mainly accounting for the observed strong effect of NFGAIL-GI on hIAPP fibrillogenesis at the lipid membrane interface. Finally, our studies show that once hIAPP is fibrillized at the water-lipid membrane interface with fibrils being attached to the lipid membrane, it cannot be disaggregated by all above peptides.

Overall glycemic index and glycemic load of vegan diets in relation to plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols.

PubMed

Waldmann, Annika; Ströhle, Alexander; Koschizke, Jochen W; Leitzmann, Claus; Hahn, Andreas

2007-01-01

To investigate the overall glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and intake of dietary fiber, and to examine the associations between these factors and plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols in adult vegans in the German Vegan Study (GVS). Cross-sectional study, Germany. Healthy men (n = 67) and women (n = 87), who fulfilled the study criteria (vegan diet for >or=1 year prior to study start; minimum age of 18 years; no pregnancy/childbirth during the last 12 months) and who participated in all study segments. The average dietary GL of the GVS population was 144, and the average GI was 51.4. The adjusted geometric mean total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol concentrations decreased across the increasing quartiles of GL, carbohydrate and dietary fiber intake. The associations between total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and GL density and GI were inconsistent. Also, associations between GI, GL, the intake of carbohydrates, and triacylglycerol concentration were not observed. Fiber-rich vegan diets are characterized by a low GI and a low to moderate GL. The data do not support the hypothesis that a carbohydrate-rich diet per se is associated with unfavorable effects on triaclyglycerols that would be predicted to increase the risk of coronary heart disease. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Maternal-fetal disease information as a source of exercise motivation during pregnancy.

PubMed

Gaston, Anca; Prapavessis, Harry

2009-11-01

A Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) framework was used to examine whether information about the role of exercise in preventing maternal-fetal disease served as a meaningful source of exercise motivation. Pregnant women (n = 208) were randomly assigned into one of three conditions: PMT, attention control, and noncontact control. Women in the PMT group read a brochure about the benefits of exercise during pregnancy incorporating the major components of PMT; perceived vulnerability (PV), perceived severity (PS), response efficacy (RE), and self-efficacy (SE). Participants in the attention-control condition read a brochure about diet. Following treatment, all participants completed measures of their beliefs toward maternal-fetal disease and exercise, goal intention (GI), and implementation intention (IMI). One week later, a measure of self-reported exercise behavior was collected. Main outcome measures were PMT variables (PV, PS, RE, and SE), GI, IMI, and follow-up physical activity. Participants assigned to the PMT-present group reported significantly higher PS, RE, SE, GI, and increased exercise behavior. PS, RE, and SE predicted GI, GI predicted IMI, and IMI predicted exercise behavior. Information grounded in PMT is effective in influencing pregnant women's beliefs and intentions as well as changing their initial behavior. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved.

In vitro starch digestion and cake quality: impact of the ratio of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber.

PubMed

Oh, Im Kyung; Bae, In Young; Lee, Hyeon Gyu

2014-02-01

The influence of the ratio of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) on the in vitro starch digestion, predicted glycemic index (pGI), and the physicochemical properties of fiber-enriched cakes were evaluated. The hydration and pasting properties were affected by the ratio of SDF and IDF. According to the increase of IDF ratio (SDF ratio reduction) in 3 g fiber-enriched cakes, slowly digestible starch (SDS) contents increased, while the rapidly digestible starch (RDS) contents decreased. The pGI values were significantly different with control in 3 g fiber-enriched cake containing more than 50% IDF contents (p<0.05). But the pGI values of 6g fiber-enriched cake samples were not significantly different by SDF and IDF ratio. With the exception of the SDF 100% cake, volume index, hardness, and color values of the fiber-enriched cakes increased according to reductions in the SDF ratio. The cakes containing 3 g of total dietary fiber (the same ratio of SDF and IDF) per serving were shown to have low pGI and acceptable quality attributes. Specially, total dietary fiber amount and IDF ratio are more effective than SDF ratio to lower the pGI value. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Maternal Nutrition and Glycaemic Index during Pregnancy Impacts on Offspring Adiposity at 6 Months of Age--Analysis from the ROLO Randomised Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Horan, Mary K; McGowan, Ciara A; Gibney, Eileen R; Byrne, Jacinta; Donnelly, Jean M; McAuliffe, Fionnuala M

2016-01-04

Childhood obesity is associated with increased risk of adult obesity and metabolic disease. Diet and lifestyle in pregnancy influence fetal programming; however the influence of specific dietary components, including low glycaemic index (GI), remains complex. We examined the effect of a maternal low GI dietary intervention on offspring adiposity at 6 months and explored the association between diet and lifestyle factors in pregnancy and infant body composition at 6 months. 280 6-month old infant and mother pairs from the control (n = 142) and intervention group (n = 138), who received low GI dietary advice in pregnancy, in the ROLO study were analysed. Questionnaires (food diaries and lifestyle) were completed during pregnancy, followed by maternal lifestyle and infant feeding questionnaires at 6 months postpartum. Maternal anthropometry was measured throughout pregnancy and at 6 months post-delivery, along with infant anthropometry. No difference was found in 6 months infant adiposity between control and intervention groups. Maternal trimester three GI, trimester two saturated fats and trimester one and three sodium intake were positively associated with offspring adiposity, while trimester two and three vitamin C intake was negatively associated. In conclusion associations were observed between maternal dietary intake and GI during pregnancy and offspring adiposity at 6 months of age.

Maternal Nutrition and Glycaemic Index during Pregnancy Impacts on Offspring Adiposity at 6 Months of Age—Analysis from the ROLO Randomised Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Horan, Mary K.; McGowan, Ciara A.; Gibney, Eileen R.; Byrne, Jacinta; Donnelly, Jean M.; McAuliffe, Fionnuala M.

2016-01-01

Childhood obesity is associated with increased risk of adult obesity and metabolic disease. Diet and lifestyle in pregnancy influence fetal programming; however the influence of specific dietary components, including low glycaemic index (GI), remains complex. We examined the effect of a maternal low GI dietary intervention on offspring adiposity at 6 months and explored the association between diet and lifestyle factors in pregnancy and infant body composition at 6 months. 280 6-month old infant and mother pairs from the control (n = 142) and intervention group (n = 138), who received low GI dietary advice in pregnancy, in the ROLO study were analysed. Questionnaires (food diaries and lifestyle) were completed during pregnancy, followed by maternal lifestyle and infant feeding questionnaires at 6 months postpartum. Maternal anthropometry was measured throughout pregnancy and at 6 months post-delivery, along with infant anthropometry. No difference was found in 6 months infant adiposity between control and intervention groups. Maternal trimester three GI, trimester two saturated fats and trimester one and three sodium intake were positively associated with offspring adiposity, while trimester two and three vitamin C intake was negatively associated. In conclusion associations were observed between maternal dietary intake and GI during pregnancy and offspring adiposity at 6 months of age. PMID:26742066

Up-regulation of 5-lipoxygenase by inhibition of cathepsin G enhances TRAIL-induced apoptosis through down-regulation of survivin

PubMed Central

Woo, Seon Min; Min, Kyoung-Jin; Seo, Seung Un; Kim, Shin; Park, Jong-Wook; Song, Dae Kyu; Lee, Hyun-Shik; Kim, Sang Hyun; Kwon, Taeg Kyu

2017-01-01

Cathepsin G is a serine protease secreted from activated neutrophils, it has important roles in inflammation and immune response. Moreover, cathepsin G promotes tumor cell-cell adhesion and migration in cancer cells. In this study, we investigated whether inhibition of cathepsin G could sensitize TRAIL-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells. An inhibitor of cathepsin G [Cathepsin G inhibitor I (Cat GI); CAS 429676-93-7] markedly induced TRAIL-mediated apoptosis in human renal carcinoma (Caki, ACHN, and A498), lung cancer (A549) and cervical cancer (Hela) cells. In contrast, combined treatment with Cat GI and TRAIL had no effect on apoptosis in normal cells [mesangial cell (MC) and human skin fibroblast (HSF)]. Cat GI induced down-regulation of survivin expression at the post-translational level, and overexpression of survivin markedly blocked apoptosis induced by combined treatment with Cat GI plus TRAIL. Interestingly, Cat GI induced down-regulation of survivin via 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX)-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Inhibition of 5-LOX by gene silencing (siRNA) or a pharmacological inhibitor of 5-LOX (zileuton) markedly attenuated combined treatment-induced apoptosis. Taken together, our results indicate that inhibition of cathepsin G sensitizes TRAIL-induced apoptosis through 5-LOX-mediated down-regulation of survivin expression. PMID:29290980

GI-conf: A configuration tool for the GI-cat distributed catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papeschi, F.; Boldrini, E.; Bigagli, L.; Mazzetti, P.

2009-04-01

In this work we present a configuration tool for the GI-cat. In an Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) framework, GI-cat implements a distributed catalog service providing advanced capabilities, such as: caching, brokering and mediation functionalities. GI-cat applies a distributed approach, being able to distribute queries to the remote service providers of interest in an asynchronous style, and notifies the status of the queries to the caller implementing an incremental feedback mechanism. Today, GI-cat functionalities are made available through two standard catalog interfaces: the OGC CSW ISO and CSW Core Application Profiles. However, two other interfaces are under testing: the CIM and the EO Extension Packages of the CSW ebRIM Application Profile. GI-cat is able to interface a multiplicity of discovery and access services serving heterogeneous Earth and Space Sciences resources. They include international standards like the OGC Web Services -i.e. OGC CSW, WCS, WFS and WMS, as well as interoperability arrangements (i.e. community standards) such as: UNIDATA THREDDS/OPeNDAP, SeaDataNet CDI (Common Data Index), GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) services, and SibESS-C infrastructure services. GI-conf implements user-friendly configuration tool for GI-cat. This is a GUI application that employs a visual and very simple approach to configure both the GI-cat publishing and distribution capabilities, in a dynamic way. The tool allows to set one or more GI-cat configurations. Each configuration consists of: a) the catalog standards interfaces published by GI-cat; b) the resources (i.e. services/servers) to be accessed and mediated -i.e. federated. Simple icons are used for interfaces and resources, implementing a user-friendly visual approach. The main GI-conf functionalities are: • Interfaces and federated resources management: user can set which interfaces must be published; besides, she/he can add a new resource, update or remove an already federated resource. • Multiple configuration management: multiple GI-cat configurations can be defined; every configuration identifies a set of published interfaces and a set of federated resources. Configurations can be edited, added, removed, exported, and even imported. • HTML report creation: an HTML report can be created, showing the current active GI-cat configuration, including the resources that are being federated and the published interface endpoints. The configuration tool is shipped with GI-cat and can be used to configure the service after its installation is completed.

Effect of protective coating on microhardness of a new glass ionomer cement: Nanofilled coating versus unfilled resin

PubMed Central

Faraji, Foad; Heshmat, Haleh; Banava, Sepideh

2017-01-01

Background and Objectives: EQUIATM is a new gastrointestinal (GI) system with high compressive strength, surface microhardness (MH), and fluoride release potential. This in vitro study aimed to assess the effect of aging and type of protective coating on the MH of EQUIATM GI cement. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 disc-shaped specimens measuring 9 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness were fabricated of EQUIATM GI and divided into three groups of G-Coat nanofilled coating (a), no coating (b) and margin bond (c). The Vickers MH value of specimens was measured before (baseline) and at 3 and 6 months after water storage. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Group B had significantly higher MH than the other two groups at baseline. Both G-Coat and margin bond increased the surface MH of GI at 3 and 6 months. The MH values of G-Coat and margin bond groups did not significantly increase or decrease between 3 and 6 months. Conclusion: The increase in MH was greater in the G-Coat compared to the margin bond group in the long-term. Clinically, margin bond may be a suitable alternative when G-Coat is not available. PMID:29259364

Structural analysis of determinants of histo-blood group antigen binding specificity in genogroup I noroviruses.

PubMed

Shanker, Sreejesh; Czako, Rita; Sankaran, Banumathi; Atmar, Robert L; Estes, Mary K; Prasad, B V Venkataram

2014-06-01

Human noroviruses (NoVs) cause acute epidemic gastroenteritis. Susceptibility to the majority of NoV infections is determined by genetically controlled secretor-dependent expression of histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs), which are also critical for NoV attachment to host cells. Human NoVs are classified into two major genogroups (genogroup I [GI] and GII), with each genogroup further divided into several genotypes. GII NoVs are more prevalent and exhibit periodic emergence of new variants, suggested to be driven by altered HBGA binding specificities and antigenic drift. Recent epidemiological studies show increased activity among GI NoVs, with some members showing the ability to bind nonsecretor HBGAs. NoVs bind HBGAs through the protruding (P) domain of the major capsid protein VP1. GI NoVs, similar to GII, exhibit significant sequence variations in the P domain; it is unclear how these variations affect HBGA binding specificities. To understand the determinants of possible strain-specific HBGA binding among GI NoVs, we determined the structure of the P domain of a GI.7 clinical isolate and compared it to the previously determined P domain structures of GI.1 and GI.2 strains. Our crystallographic studies revealed significant structural differences, particularly in the loop regions of the GI.7 P domain, altering its surface topography and electrostatic landscape and potentially indicating antigenic variation. The GI.7 strain bound to H- and A-type, Lewis secretor, and Lewis nonsecretor families of HBGAs, allowing us to further elucidate the structural determinants of nonsecretor HBGA binding among GI NoVs and to infer several contrasting and generalizable features of HBGA binding in the GI NoVs. Human noroviruses (NoVs) cause acute epidemic gastroenteritis. Recent epidemiological studies have shown increased prevalence of genogroup I (GI) NoVs. Although secretor-positive status is strongly correlated with NoV infection, cases of NoV infection associated with secretor-negative individuals are reported. Biochemical studies have shown that GI NoVs exhibit genotype-dependent binding to nonsecretor histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs). From our crystallographic studies of a GI.7 NoV, in comparison with previous studies on GI.1 and GI.2 NoVs, we show that genotypic differences translate to extensive structural changes in the loop regions that significantly alter the surface topography and electrostatic landscape of the P domain; these features may be indicative of antigenic variations contributing to serotypic differentiation in GI NoVs and also differential modulation of the HBGA binding characteristics. A significant finding is that the threshold length and the structure of one of the loops are critical determinants in the binding of GI NoVs to nonsecretor HBGAs.

Metabolic responses to prolonged consumption of glucose- and fructose-sweetened beverages are not associated with postprandial or 24-h glucose and insulin excursions123

PubMed Central

Stanhope, Kimber L; Griffen, Steven C; Bremer, Andrew A; Vink, Roel G; Schaefer, Ernst J; Nakajima, Katsuyuki; Schwarz, Jean-Marc; Beysen, Carine; Berglund, Lars; Keim, Nancy L; Havel, Peter J

2011-01-01

Background: Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages has been shown to be associated with dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, fatty liver, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. It has been proposed that adverse metabolic effects of chronic consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages are a consequence of increased circulating glucose and insulin excursions, ie, dietary glycemic index (GI). Objective: We determined whether the greater adverse effects of fructose than of glucose consumption were associated with glucose and insulin exposures. Design: The subjects were studied in a metabolic facility and consumed energy-balanced diets containing 55% of energy as complex carbohydrate for 2 wk (GI = 64). The subjects then consumed 25% of energy requirements as fructose- or glucose-sweetened beverages along with their usual ad libitum diets for 8 wk at home and then as part of energy-balanced diets for 2 wk at the metabolic facility (fructose GI = 38, glucose GI = 83). The 24-h glucose and insulin profiles and fasting plasma glycated albumin and fructosamine concentrations were measured 0, 2, 8, and 10 wk after beverage consumption. Results: Consumption of fructose-sweetened beverages lowered glucose and insulin postmeal peaks and the 23-h area under the curve compared with the baseline diet and with the consumption of glucose-sweetened beverages (all P < 0.001, effect of sugar). Plasma glycated albumin concentrations were lower 10 wk after fructose than after glucose consumption (P < 0.01, effect of sugar), whereas fructosamine concentrations did not differ between groups. Conclusion: The results suggest that the specific effects of fructose, but not of glucose and insulin excursions, contribute to the adverse effects of consuming sugar-sweetened beverages on lipids and insulin sensitivity. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01165853. PMID:21613559

GIGANTEA directly activates Flowering Locus T in Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Sawa, Mariko; Kay, Steve A

2011-07-12

Plants perceive environmental signals such as day length and temperature to determine optimal timing for the transition from vegetative to floral stages. Arabidopsis flowers under long-day conditions through the CONSTANS (CO)-FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) regulatory module. It is thought that the environmental cues for photoperiodic control of flowering are initially perceived in the leaves. We have previously shown that GIGANTEA (GI) regulates the timing of CO expression, together with FLAVIN-BINDING, KELCH REPEAT, F BOX protein 1. Normally, CO and FT are expressed exclusively in vascular bundles, whereas GI is expressed in various tissues. To better elucidate the role of tissue-specific expression of GI in the flowering pathway, we established transgenic lines in which GI is expressed exclusively in mesophyll, vascular bundles, epidermis, shoot apical meristem, or root. We found that GI expressed in either mesophyll or vascular bundles rescues the late-flowering phenotype of the gi-2 loss-of-function mutant under both short-day and long-day conditions. Interestingly, GI expressed in mesophyll or vascular tissues increases FT expression without up-regulating CO expression under short-day conditions. Furthermore, we examined the interaction between GI and FT repressors in mesophyll. We found that GI can bind to three FT repressors: SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP), TEMPRANILLO (TEM)1, and TEM2. Finally, our chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that GI binds to FT promoter regions that are near the SVP binding sites. Taken together, our data further elucidate the multiple roles of GI in the regulation of flowering time.

Selection of Brain Metastasis-Initiating Breast Cancer Cells Determined by Growth on Hard Agar

PubMed Central

Guo, Lixia; Fan, Dominic; Zhang, Fahao; Price, Janet E.; Lee, Ju-Seog; Marchetti, Dario; Fidler, Isaiah J.; Langley, Robert R.

2011-01-01

An approach that facilitates rapid isolation and characterization of tumor cells with enhanced metastatic potential is highly desirable. Here, we demonstrate that plating GI-101A human breast cancer cells on hard (0.9%) agar selects for the subpopulation of metastasis-initiating cells. The agar-selected cells, designated GI-AGR, were homogeneous for CD44+ and CD133+ and five times more invasive than the parental GI-101A cells. Moreover, mice injected with GI-AGR cells had significantly more experimental brain metastases and shorter overall survival than did mice injected with GI-101A cells. Comparative gene expression analysis revealed that GI-AGR cells were markedly distinct from the parental cells but shared an overlapping pattern of gene expression with the GI-101A subline GI-BRN, which was generated by repeated in vivo recycling of GI-101A cells in an experimental brain metastasis model. Data mining on 216 genes shared between GI-AGR and GI-BRN breast cancer cells suggested that the molecular phenotype of these cells is consistent with that of cancer stem cells and the aggressive basal subtype of breast cancer. Collectively, these results demonstrate that analysis of cell growth in a hard agar assay is a powerful tool for selecting metastasis-initiating cells in a heterogeneous population of breast cancer cells, and that such selected cells have properties similar to those of tumor cells that are selected based on their potential to form metastases in mice. PMID:21514446

Optional Sub-study to Intraoperative Imaging With ICG Registry

ClinicalTrials.gov

2016-07-19

Lung, Prostate, Breast, Colon, Pancreatic, Renal, Bladder,Thyroid, Ovarian, Head and Neck,GI (Foregut - Esophagus),GI (Midgut) Cancer; Cancer of the Ovarian, Head and Neck,GI (Foregut - Esophagus),GI (Midgut), Sarcoma Cancer; Cancer of Neuro-onc, Parathyroid, Desmoid Tumors, Melanoma Cancer

A prospective evaluation of undiagnosed joint hypermobility syndrome in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.

PubMed

Fikree, Asma; Grahame, Rodney; Aktar, Rubina; Farmer, Adam D; Hakim, Alan J; Morris, Joan K; Knowles, Charles H; Aziz, Qasim

2014-10-01

The Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) is a common connective tissue disorder characterized by joint hyperflexibility, dysautonomia, and chronic pain. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are reported in JHS patients attending rheumatology clinics, but the prevalence and symptom pattern of previously undiagnosed JHS in GI clinics are unknown. By using validated questionnaires, a prospective cross-sectional study in secondary care GI clinics estimated the prevalence of JHS in new consecutively referred patients, compared GI symptoms in patients with and without JHS, and by using multiple regression determined whether the burden of GI symptoms in JHS patients was dependent on chronic pain, autonomic, psychological, and medication related factors. A positive control group consisted of JHS patients referred from rheumatology clinics with GI symptoms (JHS-Rh). From 552 patients recruited, 180 (33%) had JHS (JHS-G) and 372 did not (non-JHS-G). Forty-four JHS-Rh patients were included. JHS-G patients were more likely to be younger, female with poorer quality of life (P = .02) than non-JHS-G patients. After age and sex matching, heartburn (odds ratio [OR], 1.66; confidence interval [CI], 1.1-2.5; P = .01), water brash (OR, 2.02; CI, 1.3-3.1; P = .001), and postprandial fullness (OR, 1.74; CI, 1.2-2.6; P = .006) were more common in JHS-G vs non-JHS-G. Many upper and lower GI symptoms increased with increasing severity of JHS phenotype. Upper GI symptoms were dependent on autonomic and chronic pain factors. JHS is common in GI clinics, with increased burden of upper GI and extraintestinal symptoms and poorer quality of life. Recognition of JHS will facilitate multidisciplinary management of GI and extra-GI manifestations. Copyright © 2014 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Contributors to dietary glycaemic index and glycaemic load in the Netherlands: the role of beer.

PubMed

Sluik, Diewertje; Atkinson, Fiona S; Brand-Miller, Jennie C; Fogelholm, Mikael; Raben, Anne; Feskens, Edith J M

2016-04-14

Diets high in glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) have been associated with a higher diabetes risk. Beer explained a large proportion of variation in GI in a Finnish and an American study. However, few beers have been tested according to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) methodology. We tested the GI of beer and estimated its contribution to dietary GI and GL in the Netherlands. GI testing of pilsner beer (Pilsner Urquell) was conducted at The University of Sydney according to ISO international standards with glucose as the reference food. Subsequently, GI and GL values were assigned to 2556 food items in the 2011 Dutch food composition table using a six-step methodology and consulting four databases. This table was linked to dietary data from 2106 adults in the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey 2007-2010. Stepwise linear regression identified contribution to inter-individual variation in dietary GI and GL. The GI of pilsner beer was 89 (SD 5). Beer consumption contributed to 9·6 and 5·3% inter-individual variation in GI and GL, respectively. Other foods that contributed to the inter-individual variation in GI and GL included potatoes, bread, soft drinks, sugar, candy, wine, coffee and tea. The results were more pronounced in men than in women. In conclusion, beer is a high-GI food. Despite its relatively low carbohydrate content (approximately 4-5 g/100 ml), it still made a contribution to dietary GL, especially in men. Next to potatoes, bread, sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages, beer captured a considerable proportion of between-person variability in GI and GL in the Dutch diet.

An isocaloric low glycemic index diet improves insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Barr, Suzanne; Reeves, Sue; Sharp, Kay; Jeanes, Yvonne M

2013-11-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting 5% to 10% of women worldwide. Approximately half of women with PCOS are lean, yet may still present with central obesity and metabolic disturbances. Low-glycemic index (GI) dietary intervention studies have demonstrated improvements in insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant populations; however, there is little evidence of this effect in women with PCOS. This research aimed to determine the efficacy of an isocaloric low-GI dietary intervention on insulin sensitivity, independent of weight change, in women with PCOS. A nonrandomized 12-week low-GI dietary intervention, preceded by a 12-week habitual diet control phase and proceeded by a 12-week follow-up phase was conducted. Dietary intake, body composition, and metabolic risk markers were determined at baseline, after completion of the habitual diet control phase, and after the low-GI dietary intervention. Twenty-six participants were recruited at baseline, 22 commenced and 21 participants completed the low-GI dietary intervention phase. The primary outcome was change in insulin sensitivity. Secondary outcomes included assessment of changes to lipids, body composition, and estimated macronutrient intake. Repeated measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction were used to detect changes to outcomes across study timepoints. Twenty-one women with PCOS with mean (± standard deviation) age of 32.1±6.7 years completed the 12-week low-GI dietary intervention. As expected, no significant changes occurred during the 12-week habitual diet control phase. However, during the dietary intervention phase, dietary GI decreased from 54.5±3.5 to 48.6±5.1 (P<0.001) with a concurrent small reduction in saturated fat intake (12.4%±3% to 11.7%±3% contribution from energy, P=0.03), despite no specific recommendations to modify fat intake. Measures of insulin sensitivity and nonesterified fatty acid improved after intervention (P=0.03 and P=0.01, respectively). This is the first study to implement an isocaloric low-GI diet in women with PCOS and findings may contribute to the limited research in this area. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human papillomavirus and gastrointestinal cancer in Iranian population: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Omrani-Navai, Versa; Alizadeh-Navaei, Reza; Yahyapour, Yousef; Hedayatizadeh-Omran, Akbar; Abediankenari, Saeid; Janbabaei, Ghasem; Toghani, Fatima

2017-01-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are the most common cancers and account for nearly half of all cancer-related deaths in Iran. There was a strong association between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and urogenital cancers, in particular the cervix. However, there is no clear causal relationship in all types of cancers, including gastrointestinal cancers. Therefore, the present study as a systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to evaluate the prevalence and relation of HPV in GI cancers. This systematic review and meta-analysis study assess the prevalence of human papillomavirus in GI cancers in Iran. Data were collected by searching electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, SID and Iranmedex by English and Persian key words up to August 2016. Key words included: Human Papillomavirus, HPV, Cancer, Neoplasm, Carcinoma, Esophageal, colorectal, Gastrointestinal and Iran articles were entered in the EndNote software and duplicate papers were excluded. Data were extracted and analyzed by comprehensive meta-analysis software, Version 2 (CMA.V2) and random effects model. Finally, we included 17 studies in this meta-analysis. The prevalence of HPV in Iranian patients with GI cancers was 16.4% (CI95%: 10.4-24.9). Considering all HPV types, the odds ratio of GI cancers in positive patients was 3.03 (CI95%: 1.42-6.45) while in patients with HPV-16 was 3.62 (CI: 1.43-4.82). The results show a strong relationship between HPV infection especially high-risk HPV type 16 and GI cancers in Iranian population.

Gastrointestinal events in at-risk patients starting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for rheumatic diseases: the EVIDENCE study of European routine practice.

PubMed

Lanas, Angel; Boers, Maarten; Nuevo, Javier

2015-04-01

Data concerning rates of gastrointestinal (GI) events in non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) users derive mainly from clinical trials. The EVIDENCE study quantified the incidence of symptomatic uncomplicated and/or complicated GI events in at-risk European patients treated with NSAIDs in real-life practice. This non-interventional study assessed 4144 adults with at least one GI risk factor who recently initiated NSAID therapy for osteoarthritis (85%), rheumatoid arthritis (11%), ankylosing spondylitis (3%) or a combination (1%). Patient characteristics and medical history were collected from medical records. GI events (upper and lower) were recorded at in-clinic visits during 6 months' follow-up. Mean time on index NSAID at enrolment was 33 days. The incidence (per 100 person-years) was 18.5 per 100 person-years for uncomplicated GI events and 0.7 per 100 person-years for complicated GI events. Upper GI events were far more common (12%) than lower GI events (1%) during study follow-up (median 182 days (range 61-320)). Other reported rates for cardiovascular, anaemia or non-GI events were much less frequent. A minority (28%) of patients had ongoing proton pump inhibitor use at enrolment, with strong variation by practice and country. EVIDENCE is the largest prospective study of the real-life management of European patients treated with NSAIDs for rheumatic diseases and at increased GI risk. It shows that GI events from the upper GI tract are far more common than those from the lower GI tract. It also shows adherence to guidelines for gastroprotection is generally low. NCT01176682. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Microleakage in different primary tooth restorations.

PubMed

Shih, Wen-Yu

2016-04-01

Microleakage may cause tooth sensitivity, secondary caries, discoloration and even failure of the restoration. In order to overcome these potential problems, materials that are able to bind to the tooth structure have been developed, such as composite resin and glass ionomer cement. The purpose of the study was to compare microleakage arising from amalgam (Am), composite resin (CR), glass ionomer (GI), Ketac-Silver (KS), and GI filling with banding (GI+B) when these materials are used for class II restoration of a primary molar. Fifty primary molars were collected and class II cavities were prepared on each tooth. The teeth were randomly divided into five groups (Am, CR, GI, KS, and GI+B), each of which received a different material as part of the restoration. The restored teeth then underwent 100 cycles of thermocycling that consisted of 55°C for 30 seconds, 19°C for 20 seconds, and 5°C for 30 seconds. The teeth were then immersed in 0.5% basic fuchsin solution for 24 hours. Afterwards, the teeth were embedded and sectioned mesiodistally through the center of each restoration. Dye penetration associated with the occlusal and cervical margins of each restoration was then assessed. Cervical leakage was greater than occlusal leakage in the CR, GI and KS groups (p < 0.05). When leakage on occlusal margin was examined, however, the Am group showed greater leakage than the CR, GI, and GI+B groups (p < 0.05). When leakage on the cervical margin was examined, the Am group showed greater leakage than the GI and GI+B groups, while the KS group showed greater leakage than the GI+B group (p < 0.05). Restorations using GI and GI+B indicated that these materials performed better than the other materials in this study overall. However, none of the materials were entirely devoid of leakage. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.

Subsurface structure around Omi basin using borehole database

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitada, N.; Ito, H.; Takemura, K.; Mitamura, M.

2015-12-01

Kansai Geo-informatics Network (KG-NET) is organized as a new system of management of GI-base in 2005. This organization collects the geotechnical and geological information of borehole data more than 60,000 data. GI-base is the database system of the KG-NET and platform to use these borehole data. Kansai Geo-informatics Research Committee (KG-R) is tried to explain the geotechnical properties and geological environment using borehole database in Kansai area. In 2014, KG-R established the 'Shin-Kansai Jiban Omi plain', and explain the subsurface geology and characteristics of geotechnical properties. In this study we introduce this result and consider the sedimental environment and characteristics in this area. Omi Basin is located in the central part of Shiga Prefecture which includes the largest lake in Japan called Lake Biwa. About 15,000 borehole data are corrected to consider the subsurface properties. The outline of topographical and geological characteristics of the basin is divided into west side and east side. The west side area is typical reverse fault called Biwako-Seigan fault zone along the lakefront. From Biwako-Seigan fault, the Omi basin is tilting down from east to west. Otherwise, the east areas distribute lowland and hilly area comparatively. The sedimentary facies are also complicate and difficult to be generally evaluated. So the discussion has been focused about mainly the eastern and western part of Lake Biwa. The widely dispersed volcanic ash named Aira-Tn (AT) deposited before 26,000-29,000 years ago (Machida and Arai, 2003), is sometimes interbedded the humic layers in the low level ground area. However, because most of the sediments are comprised by thick sand and gravels whose deposit age could not be investigated, it is difficult to widely identify the boundary of strata. Three types of basement rocks are distributed mainly (granite, sediment rock, rhyolite), and characteristics of deposit are difference of each backland basement rock. Therefore, we considered the characteristics of area deposit as each riverine system. Otherwise, lakeside area are distributes many humic layers and sandy beach ridge. The results of each distinctive trend are useful to estimate of seismic properties and zonation.

Anti-inflammatory drugs in the 21st century.

PubMed

Rainsford, K D

2007-01-01

Historically, anti-inflammatory drugs had their origins in the serendipitous discovery of certain plants and their extracts being applied for the relief of pain, fever and inflammation. When salicylates were discovered in the mid-19th century to be the active components of Willow Spp., this enabled these compounds to be synthesized and from this, acetyl-salicylic acid or Aspirin was developed. Likewise, the chemical advances of the 19th-20th centuries lead to development of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), most of which were initially organic acids, but later non-acidic compounds were discovered. There were two periods of NSAID drug discovery post-World War 2, the period up to the 1970's which was the pre-prostaglandin period and thereafter up to the latter part of the last century in which their effects on prostaglandin production formed part of the screening in the drug-discovery process. Those drugs developed up to the 1980-late 90's were largely discovered empirically following screening for anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities in laboratory animal models. Some were successfully developed that showed low incidence of gastro-intestinal (GI) side effects (the principal adverse reaction seen with NSAIDs) than seen with their predecessors (e.g. aspirin, indomethacin, phenylbutazone); the GI reactions being detected and screened out in animal assays. In the 1990's an important discovery was made from elegant molecular and cellular biological studies that there are two cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzyme systems controlling the production of prostanoids [prostaglandins (PGs) and thromboxane (TxA2)]; COX-1 that produces PGs and TxA2 that regulate gastrointestinal, renal, vascular and other physiological functions, and COX-2 that regulates production of PGs involved in inflammation, pain and fever. The stage was set in the 1990's for the discovery and development of drugs to selectively control COX-2 and spare the COX-1 that is central to physiological processes whose inhibition was considered a major factor in development of adverse reactions, including those in the GI tract. At the turn of this century, there was enormous commercial development following the introduction of two new highly selective COX-2 inhibitors, known as coxibs (celecoxib and rofecoxib) which were claimed to have low GI side effects. While found to have fulfilled these aims in part, an alarming turn of events took place in the late 2004 period when rofecoxib was withdrawn worldwide because of serious cardiovascular events and other coxibs were subsequently suspected to have this adverse reaction, although to a varying degree. Major efforts are currently underway to discover why cardiovascular reactions took place with coxibs, identify safer coxibs, as well as elucidate the roles of COX-2 and COX-1 in cardiovascular diseases and stroke in the hope that there may be some basis for developing newer agents (e.g. nitric oxide-donating NSAIDs) to control these conditions. The discovery of the COX isoforms led to establishing their importance in many non-arthritic or non-pain states where there is an inflammatory component to pathogenesis, including cancer, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. The applications of NSAIDs and the coxibs in the prevention and treatment of these conditions as well as aspirin and other analogues in the prevention of thrombo-embolic diseases now constitute one of the major therapeutic developments of the this century. Moreover, new anti-inflammatory drugs are being discovered and developed based on their effects on signal transduction and as anti-cytokine agents and these drugs are now being heralded as the new therapies to control those diseases where cytokines and other nonprostaglandin components of chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases are manifest. To a lesser extent safer application of corticosteroids and the applications of novel drug delivery systems for use with these drugs as well as with NSAIDs also represent newer technological developments of the 21st century. What started out as drugs to control inflammation, pain and fever in the last two centuries now has exploded to reveal an enormous range and type of anti-inflammatory agents and discovery of new therapeutic targets to treat a whole range of conditions that were never hitherto envisaged.

Gastro-intestinal parasite infections of Ankole cattle in an unhealthy landscape: An assessment of ecological predictors.

PubMed

Sun, Ping; Wronski, Torsten; Bariyanga, Jean D; Apio, Ann

2018-03-15

The distribution of gastro-intestinal (GI) parasites across landscapes is closely related to the spatial distribution of hosts. In GI parasites with environmental life stages, the vitality of parasites is also affected by ecological and landscape-related components of the environment. This is particularly relevant for domestic livestock species that are often kept across habitats with varying degrees of degradation, exposing them to a wide range of environmentally robust parasite species. In our study, we examined the effect of environmental and anthropogenic factors on the prevalence and intensity of GI parasites across a free-ranging stock of Ankole cattle in the Mutara rangelands of northeastern Rwanda. Prevalence and intensity of each parasite type (i.e., strongyle-type nematodes, Strongyloides spp., Moniezia spp., and Eimeria spp.) were used as dependent variables. Two fixed factors related to season and conservation-political history, together with three principal components (condensed from nine ecological variables) were used as independent covariates in a univariate General Linear Model (GLM). Major effects on the prevalence and intensity of strongyle-type nematodes and on the intensity of Eimeria spp. were found in that vegetation-related effects such as above-ground grass biomass in conjunction with a high degree of soil compaction had a negative relationship with these parasite types. These unexpected findings suggest that strongyle-type and coccidian infections increase with increasing rangeland degradation. Strongyle-type nematode prevalence and intensity were also negatively related to goat/sheep density, indicating a 'dilution effect' of GI infections between domestic livestock species. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modulation of Gastrointestinal Barrier and Nutrient Transport Function in Farm Animals by Natural Plant Bioactive Compounds - A Comprehensive Review.

PubMed

Patra, Amlan Kumar; Amasheh, Salah; Aschenbach, Jörg Rudolf

2018-06-11

The use of antibiotics in diets has been restricted in several countries as a precautionary measure to avoid development of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic microorganisms. This regulation promoted the exploration of natural plant bioactive compounds (PBCs) as feed additives to improve productivity, welfare and health of livestock and poultry. Along with several beneficial attributes of PBCs, including antimicrobial, antioxidant and various pharmacological effects, they also improve barrier function and nutrient transport in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This comprehensive review discusses the effects of different PBCs on the integrity, nutrient transport and permeability of GI epithelia and their mechanism of actions. Dietary PBCs influence the maintenance and enhancement of GI integrity via a number of mechanisms including altered signaling pathways and expression of several tight junction proteins (claudins, occludin, and zonula occludens proteins), altered expression of various cytokines, chemokines, complement components and their transcription factors, goblet cell abundance and mucin gene expression, and the modulation of the cellular immune system. They also affect nutrient transporter gene expression and active absorption of nutrients, minerals and ammonia. One intriguing perspective is to select an effective dose at which a specific PBC could improve GI barrier function and nutrient absorption. The effective doses and clear-cut molecular mechanisms for PBCs are yet to be elucidated to understand discrepant observations among different studies and to improve the targeted biotechnological and pharmaceutical uses of PBCs in farm animals. The latter will also enable a more successful use of such PBCs in humans.

Gastrointestinal dysfunction in idiopathic Parkinsonism: A narrative review

PubMed Central

Salari, Mehri; Fayyazi, Emad; Mirmosayyeb, Omid

2016-01-01

Currently, gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunctions in Parkinson's disease (PD) are well-recognized problems and are known to be the initial symptoms in the pathological process that eventually results in PD. Many types of PD-associated GI dysfunctions have been identified, including weight loss, nausea, hypersalivation, dysphagia, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, constipation, defecatory dysfunction, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. These symptoms can influence on other PD symptoms and are the second most significant predictor of the quality of life of these patients. Recognition of GI symptoms requires vigilance on the part of clinicians. Health-care providers should routinely ask direct questions about GI symptoms during office visits so that efforts can be directed at appropriate management of these distressing manifestations. Multiple system atrophy (MSA) and progressive supranuclear palsy are two forms of neurodegenerative Parkinsonism. Symptoms of autonomic dysfunctions such as GI dysfunction are common in patients with parkinsonian disorders. Despite recent progress in the recognition of GI dysfunctions, there are a few reviews on the management of GI dysfunction and GI symptoms in idiopathic Parkinsonism. In this review, the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and treatment of each GI symptom in PD, MSA, and prostate-specific antigen will be discussed. PMID:28331512

Comparison of a low-glycemic index vs standard diabetic diet.

PubMed

Visek, Jakub; Lacigova, Silvie; Cechurova, Daniela; Rusavy, Zdenek

2014-01-01

There is insufficient evidence for the efficacy of a low-glycemic index (GI) diet in the management of diabetes. The goal of this study was to measure the effect of a low GI versus a standard diabetic diet in adults with diabetes type 2. This was an open label, randomized, crossover study. Twenty persons with type 2 diabetes were randomized to two groups. Each group followed a standard diabetic diet or a low glycemic index diet for 3 months. The effectiveness of the two diets was evaluated using a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp with endogenous glucose production measurement, indirect calorimetry and bioimpedance analysis. Outcome measures were body mass, BMI, body fat, glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, lipid profile, insulin sensitivity and hepatic glucose production. Body mass after 3 months following the diabetic diet was 93 kg (83-104) vs. low glycemic index diet 92 kg (85-104) P<0.05, BMI 31.3 kg/m(2) (27.5-35.9) vs. 30.7 kg/m(2) (27-35.3) P<0.05, body fat 28% (25.5-43) vs. 27% (23-43) P<0.05 (median and interquartile range). There was no statistically significant difference between diets for glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, lipid profile, insulin sensitivity or hepatic glucose production. The results are comparable with other studies showing a modest effect of a low GI diet in the management of diabetes. We found a modestly greater weight loss, body fat and BMI reduction on the low GI diet.

Localization of magnetic pills

PubMed Central

Laulicht, Bryan; Gidmark, Nicholas J.; Tripathi, Anubhav; Mathiowitz, Edith

2011-01-01

Numerous therapeutics demonstrate optimal absorption or activity at specific sites in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Yet, safe, effective pill retention within a desired region of the GI remains an elusive goal. We report a safe, effective method for localizing magnetic pills. To ensure safety and efficacy, we monitor and regulate attractive forces between a magnetic pill and an external magnet, while visualizing internal dose motion in real time using biplanar videofluoroscopy. Real-time monitoring yields direct visual confirmation of localization completely noninvasively, providing a platform for investigating the therapeutic benefits imparted by localized oral delivery of new and existing drugs. Additionally, we report the in vitro measurements and calculations that enabled prediction of successful magnetic localization in the rat small intestines for 12 h. The designed system for predicting and achieving successful magnetic localization can readily be applied to any area of the GI tract within any species, including humans. The described system represents a significant step forward in the ability to localize magnetic pills safely and effectively anywhere within the GI tract. What our magnetic pill localization strategy adds to the state of the art, if used as an oral drug delivery system, is the ability to monitor the force exerted by the pill on the tissue and to locate the magnetic pill within the test subject all in real time. This advance ensures both safety and efficacy of magnetic localization during the potential oral administration of any magnetic pill-based delivery system. PMID:21257903

Distribution, function and physiological role of melatonin in the lower gut

PubMed Central

Chen, Chun-Qiu; Fichna, Jakub; Bashashati, Mohammad; Li, Yong-Yu; Storr, Martin

2011-01-01

Melatonin is a hormone with endocrine, paracrine and autocrine actions. It is involved in the regulation of multiple functions, including the control of the gastrointestinal (GI) system under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Since the gut contains at least 400 times more melatonin than the pineal gland, a review of the functional importance of melatonin in the gut seems useful, especially in the context of recent clinical trials. Melatonin exerts its physiological effects through specific membrane receptors, named melatonin-1 receptor (MT1), MT2 and MT3. These receptors can be found in the gut and their involvement in the regulation of GI motility, inflammation and pain has been reported in numerous basic and clinical studies. Stable levels of melatonin in the lower gut that are unchanged following a pinealectomy suggest local synthesis and, furthermore, implicate physiological importance of endogenous melatonin in the GI tract. Presently, only a small number of human studies report possible beneficial and also possible harmful effects of melatonin in case reports and clinical trials. These human studies include patients with lower GI diseases, especially patients with irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. In this review, we summarize the presently available information on melatonin effects in the lower gut and discuss available in vitro and in vivo data. We furthermore aim to evaluate whether melatonin may be useful in future treatment of symptoms or diseases involving the lower gut. PMID:22025877

Gastrointestinal Fistulas in Acute Pancreatitis With Infected Pancreatic or Peripancreatic Necrosis

PubMed Central

Jiang, Wei; Tong, Zhihui; Yang, Dongliang; Ke, Lu; Shen, Xiao; Zhou, Jing; Li, Gang; Li, Weiqin; Li, Jieshou

2016-01-01

Abstract Gastrointestinal (GI) fistula is a well-recognized complication of acute pancreatitis (AP). However, it has been reported in limited literature. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and outcome of GI fistulas in AP patients complicated with infected pancreatic or peripancreatic necrosis (IPN). Between 2010 and 2013 AP patients with IPN who diagnosed with GI fistula in our center were analyzed in this retrospective study. And we also conducted a comparison between patients with and without GI fistula regarding the baseline characteristics and outcomes. Over 4 years, a total of 928 AP patients were admitted into our center, of whom 119 patients with IPN were diagnosed with GI fistula and they developed 160 GI fistulas in total. Colonic fistula found in 72 patients was the most common form of GI fistula followed with duodenal fistula. All duodenal fistulas were managed by nonsurgical management. Ileostomy or colostomy was performed for 44 (61.1%) of 72 colonic fistulas. Twenty-one (29.2%) colonic fistulas were successfully treated by percutaneous drainage or continuous negative pressure irrigation. Mortality of patients with GI fistula did not differ significantly from those without GI fistula (28.6% vs 21.9%, P = 0.22). However, a significantly higher mortality (34.7%) was observed in those with colonic fistula. GI fistula is a common finding in patients of AP with IPN. Most of these fistulas can be successfully managed with different procedures depending on their sites of origin. Colonic fistula is related with higher mortality than those without GI fistula. PMID:27057908

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Data Collection Update: U.S. Government Takes Steps to Promote Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Data Collection Through Meaningful Use Guidelines.

PubMed

Cahill, Sean; Makadon, Harvey J

2014-09-01

Collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity (SO/GI) in healthcare settings and in electronic health records (EHRs) is essential to understanding, addressing, and reducing LGBT health disparities. The federal government took two key steps in early 2014 in support of asking SO/GI questions in clinical settings as part of the meaningful use of EHRs. First, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology issued proposed 2015 Edition Certified EHR Technology (CEHRT) Criteria, which suggest Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED) code sets for SO/GI data collection in 2017. To facilitate the effective and accurate collection of SO/GI data, 153 LGBT and HIV groups recommended that the national coordinator request that the National Library of Medicine develop new codes to reflect SO/GI data. Second, the Health Information Technology Policy Committee submitted recommendations to the national coordinator, including the recommendation that "CEHRT [certified EHR technology] provides the functionality to capture … sexual orientation, gender identity." If the national coordinator accepts this recommendation, it will be put up for public comment in fall 2014 along with other Stage 3 proposed rules. Also, the 2017 Edition CEHRT Notice of Proposed Rule Making Criteria will be up for comment in fall 2014. Final Stage 3 Meaningful Use Guidelines will be published in summer 2015, and other key steps will take place into 2017. A critical parallel step is the training of clinical staff on LGBT health disparities and how to use SO/GI data and manage them in ways that meet the clinical needs of LGBT patients and protect confidentiality and privacy. We must also educate LGBT community members about why offering this information is important for their health and how collecting SO/GI data in EHRs is an important step to understanding LGBT health, reducing disparities, and improving outcomes.

Different rectal toxicity tolerance with and without simultaneous conventionally-fractionated pelvic lymph node treatment in patients receiving hypofractionated prostate radiotherapy.

PubMed

McDonald, Andrew M; Baker, Christopher B; Popple, Richard A; Shekar, Kiran; Yang, Eddy S; Jacob, Rojymon; Cardan, Rex; Kim, Robert Y; Fiveash, John B

2014-06-03

To investigate added morbidity associated with the addition of pelvic elective nodal irradiation (ENI) to hypofractionated radiotherapy to the prostate. Two-hundred twelve patients, treated with hypofractionated radiotherapy to the prostate between 2004 and 2011, met the inclusion criteria for the analysis. All patients received 70 Gy to the prostate delivered over 28 fractions and 103 (49%) received ENI consisting of 50.4 Gy to the pelvic lymphatics delivered simultaneously in 1.8 Gy fractions. The mean dose-volume histograms were compared between the two subgroups defined by use of ENI, and various dose-volume parameters were analyzed for effect on late lower gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicity. Acute grade 2 lower GI toxicity occurred in 38 (37%) patients receiving ENI versus 19 (17%) in those who did not (p = 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier estimate of grade ≥ 2 lower GI toxicity at 3 years was 15.3% for patients receiving ENI versus 5.3% for those who did not (p = 0.026). Each rectal isodose volume was increased for patients receiving ENI up to 50 Gy (p ≤ 0.021 for each 5 Gy increment). Across all patients, the absolute V70 of the rectum was the only predictor of late GI toxicity. When subgroups, defined by the use of ENI, were analyzed separately, rectal V70 was only predictive of late GI toxicity for patients who received ENI. For patients receiving ENI, V70 > 3 cc was associated with an increased risk of late GI events. Elective nodal irradiation increases the rates of acute and late GI toxicity when delivered simultaneously with hypofractioanted prostate radiotherapy. The use of ENI appears to sensitize the rectum to hot spots, therefore we recommend added caution to minimize the volume of rectum receiving 100% of the prescription dose in these patients.

Different rectal toxicity tolerance with and without simultaneous conventionally-fractionated pelvic lymph node treatment in patients receiving hypofractionated prostate radiotherapy

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Purpose To investigate added morbidity associated with the addition of pelvic elective nodal irradiation (ENI) to hypofractionated radiotherapy to the prostate. Methods and materials Two-hundred twelve patients, treated with hypofractionated radiotherapy to the prostate between 2004 and 2011, met the inclusion criteria for the analysis. All patients received 70 Gy to the prostate delivered over 28 fractions and 103 (49%) received ENI consisting of 50.4 Gy to the pelvic lymphatics delivered simultaneously in 1.8 Gy fractions. The mean dose-volume histograms were compared between the two subgroups defined by use of ENI, and various dose-volume parameters were analyzed for effect on late lower gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicity. Results Acute grade 2 lower GI toxicity occurred in 38 (37%) patients receiving ENI versus 19 (17%) in those who did not (p = 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier estimate of grade ≥ 2 lower GI toxicity at 3 years was 15.3% for patients receiving ENI versus 5.3% for those who did not (p = 0.026). Each rectal isodose volume was increased for patients receiving ENI up to 50 Gy (p ≤ 0.021 for each 5 Gy increment). Across all patients, the absolute V70 of the rectum was the only predictor of late GI toxicity. When subgroups, defined by the use of ENI, were analyzed separately, rectal V70 was only predictive of late GI toxicity for patients who received ENI. For patients receiving ENI, V70 > 3 cc was associated with an increased risk of late GI events. Conclusions Elective nodal irradiation increases the rates of acute and late GI toxicity when delivered simultaneously with hypofractioanted prostate radiotherapy. The use of ENI appears to sensitize the rectum to hot spots, therefore we recommend added caution to minimize the volume of rectum receiving 100% of the prescription dose in these patients. PMID:24893842

After the Post-9/11 GI Bill: A Profile of Military Service Members and Veterans Enrolled in Undergraduate and Graduate Education. Stats in Brief. NCES 2016-435

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Radford, Alexandria Walton; Bentz, Alexander; Dekker, Remmert; Paslov, Jonathan

2016-01-01

The Post-9/11 GI Bill took effect on August 1, 2009, increasing the education benefits available to military service members who served after September 10, 2001. A previous National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) study used national data collected in 2007-08 to profile military undergraduate and graduate students who received benefits…

VRA Extension and Increases in the GI Bill Rates. Hearing before the Subcommittee on Education, Training and Employment of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, House of Representatives, Ninety-Eighth Congress, First Session.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

These Congressional hearings contain testimony pertaining to the extension and modification of two federal programs for veterans, the Veterans' Readjustment Appointment Act (VRA) and the GI Bill. During the testimony, witnesses reviewed the effectiveness of VRA appointments. (A VRA is a noncompetitive appointment to a federal civilian job that…

Gastrointestinal Nutrient Infusion Site and Eating Behavior: Evidence for A Proximal to Distal Gradient within the Small Intestine?

PubMed

Alleleyn, Annick M E; van Avesaat, Mark; Troost, Freddy J; Masclee, Adrian A M

2016-02-26

The rapidly increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity demands new strategies focusing on prevention and treatment of this significant health care problem. In the search for new and effective therapeutic modalities for overweight subjects, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is increasingly considered as an attractive target for medical and food-based strategies. The entry of nutrients into the small intestine activates so-called intestinal "brakes", negative feedback mechanisms that influence not only functions of more proximal parts of the GI tract but also satiety and food intake. Recent evidence suggests that all three macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbohydrates) are able to activate the intestinal brake, although to a different extent and by different mechanisms of action. This review provides a detailed overview of the current evidence for intestinal brake activation of the three macronutrients and their effects on GI function, satiety, and food intake. In addition, these effects appear to depend on region and length of infusion in the small intestine. A recommendation for a therapeutic approach is provided, based on the observed differences between intestinal brake activation.

Community health worker training for infant hearing health: effectiveness of distance learning.

PubMed

Araújo, Eliene Silva; de Freitas Alvarenga, Kátia; Urnau, Daniele; Pagnossin, Débora Frizzo; Wen, Chao Lung

2013-09-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a distance training program in infant hearing health to community health workers (CHWs). Pre- and post- tests were administered to two groups of subjects following the use of an interactive CD-ROM for tele-educational training. Two groups of subjects were used: Group I (GI) consisted of 43 CHWs who had previously participated in at least one training activity involving hearing health, and Group II (GII) were 47 CHWs who had received no prior training in hearing health. CHWs retained a significant amount of training content. There was not significant correlation between the global post-training questionnaire score and performance on the simulation activity (GI: r = 0.11, p = 0.698 and GII: r = 0.29, p = 0.074), and the simulation activity performance was significantly better among GI CHWs (p = 0.05). The CHWs' training in infant hearing health using an interactive tele-educational tool was effective, as the CHW demonstrated significant short-term information retention and applied such data in hypothetical situations representative of their daily activities.

Exploiting significance of physical exercise in prevention of gastrointestinal disorders.

PubMed

Bilski, Jan; Mazur-Bialy, Agnieszka; Magierowski, Marcin; Kwiecien, Slawomir; Wojcik, Dagmara; Ptak-Belowska, Agata; Surmiak, Marcin; Targosz, Aneta; Magierowska, Katarzyna; Brzozowski, Tomasz

2018-05-21

Physical activity can be involved in the prevention of gastrointestinal (GI)-tract diseases, however, the results regarding the volume and the intensity of exercise considered as beneficial for protection of gastrointestinal organs are conflicting. The main objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive and updated overview on the beneficial and harmful effects of physical activity on the gastrointestinal tract. We attempted to discuss recent evidence regarding the association between different modes and intensity levels of exercise and physiological functions of the gut and gut pathology. The regular, moderate exercise can exert a beneficial effect on GI-tract disorders such as reflux esophagitis, peptic ulcers, cholelithiasis, constipation and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) leading to the attenuation of the symptoms. This voluntary exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. On the other hand, there is considerable evidence that the high-intensity training or prolonged endurance training can exert a negative influence on GI-tract resulting in the exacerbation of symptoms. Physical activity can exhibit a beneficial effect on a variety of gastrointestinal diseases, however, this effect depends upon the exercise mode, duration and intensity. The accumulated evidence indicate that management of gastrointestinal problems and their relief by the exercise seems to be complicated and require adjustments of physical activity training, dietary measures and medical monitoring of symptoms. More experimental and clinical studies on the effects of physical activity on GI-tract disorders are warranted. Especially, the association between the exercise intensity and data addressing the underlying mechanism(s) of the exercise as the complementary therapy in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, require further determination in animal models and humans. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Dietary hyperglycemia, glycemic index and age-related metabolic retinal diseases

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The glycemic index (GI) indicates how fast blood glucose is raised after consuming a carbohydrate-containing food. Human metabolic studies indicate that GI is related to patho-physiological responses after meals. Compared with a low-GI meal, a high-GI meal is characterized with hyperglycemia during ...

Food, gastrointestinal pH, and models of oral drug absorption.

PubMed

Abuhelwa, Ahmad Y; Williams, Desmond B; Upton, Richard N; Foster, David J R

2017-03-01

This article reviews the major physiological and physicochemical principles of the effect of food and gastrointestinal (GI) pH on the absorption and bioavailability of oral drugs, and the various absorption models that are used to describe/predict oral drug absorption. The rate and extent of oral drug absorption is determined by a complex interaction between a drug's physicochemical properties, GI physiologic factors, and the nature of the formulation administered. GI pH is an important factor that can markedly affect oral drug absorption and bioavailability as it may have significant influence on drug dissolution & solubility, drug release, drug stability, and intestinal permeability. Different regions of the GI tract have different drug absorptive properties. Thus, the transit time in each GI region and its variability between subjects may contribute to the variability in the rate and/or extent of drug absorption. Food-drug interactions can result in delayed, decreased, increased, and sometimes un-altered drug absorption. Food effects on oral absorption can be achieved by direct and indirect mechanisms. Various models have been proposed to describe oral absorption ranging from empirical models to the more sophisticated "mechanism-based" models. Through understanding of the physicochemical and physiological rate-limiting factors affecting oral absorption, modellers can implement simplified population-based modelling approaches that are less complex than whole-body physiologically-based models but still capture the essential elements in a physiological way and hence will be more suited for population modelling of large clinical data sets. It will also help formulation scientists to better predict formulation performance and to develop formulations that maximize oral bioavailability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, Carbohydrates, and Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Greenwood, Darren C.; Threapleton, Diane E.; Evans, Charlotte E.L.; Cleghorn, Christine L.; Nykjaer, Camilla; Woodhead, Charlotte; Burley, Victoria J.

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE Diets with high glycemic index (GI), with high glycemic load (GL), or high in all carbohydrates may predispose to higher blood glucose and insulin concentrations, glucose intolerance, and risk of type 2 diabetes. We aimed to conduct a systematic literature review and dose–response meta-analysis of evidence from prospective cohorts. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We searched the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, MEDLINE in-process, Embase, CAB Abstracts, ISI Web of Science, and BIOSIS for prospective studies of GI, GL, and total carbohydrates in relation to risk of type 2 diabetes up to 17 July 2012. Data were extracted from 24 publications on 21 cohort studies. Studies using different exposure categories were combined on the same scale using linear and nonlinear dose–response trends. Summary relative risks (RRs) were estimated using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS The summary RR was 1.08 per 5 GI units (95% CI 1.02–1.15; P = 0.01), 1.03 per 20 GL units (95% CI 1.00–1.05; P = 0.02), and 0.97 per 50 g/day of carbohydrate (95% CI 0.90–1.06; P = 0.5). Dose–response trends were linear for GI and GL but more complex for total carbohydrate intake. Heterogeneity was high for all exposures (I2 >50%), partly accounted for by different covariate adjustment and length of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Included studies were observational and should be interpreted cautiously. However, our findings are consistent with protective effects of low dietary GI and GL, quantifying the range of intakes associated with lower risk. Future research could focus on the type of sugars and other carbohydrates associated with greatest risk. PMID:24265366

Potentiation by cholinesterase inhibitors of cholinergic activity in rat isolated stomach and colon.

PubMed

Jarvie, Emma M; Cellek, Selim; Sanger, Gareth J

2008-01-01

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors stimulate gastrointestinal (GI) motility and are potential treatments of conditions associated with inadequate GI motility. The ability of itopride to facilitate neuronally (predominantly cholinergic) mediated contractions of rat isolated stomach, evoked by electrical field stimulation (EFS), has been compared with other cholinesterase inhibitors and with tegaserod, a clinically effective prokinetic and non-selective 5-HT(4) receptor agonist which also facilitates GI cholinergic function. Neostigmine greatly increased EFS-evoked contractions over a narrow concentration range (0.01-1 microM; 754+/-337% facilitation at 1 microM); higher concentrations (1, 3 microM) also increased muscle tension. Donepezil increased EFS-evoked contractions gradually over the full range of concentrations (0.01-10 microM; maximum increase 516+/-20% at 10 microM). Itopride increased the contractions even more gradually, rising to 188+/-84% at 10 microM. The butyrylcholinesterase inhibitor iso-OMPA 0.01-10 microM also increased EFS-evoked contractions, to a maximum of 36+/-5.0% at 10 microM, similar to that caused by tegaserod (35+/-5.2% increase at 1 microM). The effects of tegaserod, but not itopride were inhibited by the 5-HT(4) receptor antagonist SB-204070A 0.3 microM. In rat isolated colon, neostigmine was again the most efficacious, causing a defined maximum increase in EFS-evoked contractions (343+/-82% at 10 microM), without changing muscle tension. Maximum increases caused by donepezil and itopride were, respectively, 57.6+/-20 and 43+/-15% at 10 microM. These data indicate that the abilities of different AChE inhibitors to increase GI cholinergic activity differ markedly. Understanding the reasons is essential if AChE inhibitors are to be optimally developed as GI prokinetics.

Effect of glycemic index and fructose content in lunch on substrate utilization during subsequent brisk walking.

PubMed

Sun, Feng-Hua; Wong, Stephen Heung-Sang; Chen, Ya-Jun; Huang, Ya-Jun; Hsieh, Sandy Shen-Yu

2011-12-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of glycemic index (GI) and fructose content in lunch on substrate utilization during subsequent brisk walking. Ten healthy young males completed 3 main trials in a counterbalanced crossover design. They completed 60 min of brisk walking at approximately 50% maximal oxygen consumption after consuming a standard breakfast and 1 of 3 lunch meals, i.e., a low GI meal without fructose (LGI), a low GI meal that included fructose beverage (LGIF), or a high GI meal (HGI). The 3 lunch meals were isocaloric and provided 1.0 g·kg⁻¹ carbohydrate. Substrate utilization was measured using indirect respiratory calorimetry method. Blood samples were collected at certain time points. During the 2-h postprandial period after lunch, the incremental area under the blood response curve values of glucose and insulin were higher (p < 0.05) in the HGI trial than those in the LGI and LGIF trials (HGI vs. LGI and LGIF: glucose, 223.5 ± 24.4 vs. 92.5 ± 10.4 and 128.0 ± 17.7 mmol·min·L⁻¹; insulin, 3603 ± 593 vs. 1425 ± 289 and 1888 ± 114 mU·min·L⁻¹). During brisk walking, decreased carbohydrate oxidation was observed (p < 0.05) in the LGI trial than in the LGIF and HGI trials (LGI vs. LGIF and HGI: 60.8 ± 4.0 vs. 68.1 ± 6.0 and 74.4 ± 4.7 g). No difference was found in fat oxidation among the 3 trials (LGI vs. LGIF vs. HGI: 21.6 ± 2.3 vs. 19.2 ± 2.3 vs. 16.4 ± 2.2 g). It appeared that fructose content was an important influencing factor when considering the effect of different GI lunch meals on substrate utilization during subsequent moderate intensity exercise.

Short-term effects of β2-AR blocker ICI 118,551 on sarcoplasmic reticulum SERCA2a and cardiac function of rats with heart failure.

PubMed

Gong, Haibin; Li, Yanfei; Wang, Lei; Lv, Qian; Wang, Xiuli

2016-09-01

The study was conducted to examine the effects of ICI 118,551 on the systolic function of cardiac muscle cells of rats in heart failure and determine the molecular mechanism of selective β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) antagonist on these cells. The chronic heart failure model for rats was prepared through abdominal aortic constriction and separate cardiac muscle cells using the collagenase digestion method. The rats were then divided into Sham, HF and HF+ICI 50 nM goups and cultivated for 48 h. β2-AR, Gi/Gs and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ -ATPase (SERCA2a) protein expression levels in the cardiac muscle cells were evaluated by western blotting and changes in the systolic function of cardiac muscle cells based on the boundary detection system of contraction dynamics for individual cells was measured. The results showed that compared with the Sham group, the survival rate, percentage of basic contraction and maximum contraction amplitude percentage of cardiac muscle cells with heart failure decreased, Gi protein expression increased while Gs and SERCA2a protein expression decreased. Compared with the HF group, the maximum contraction amplitude percentage of cardiac muscle cells in group HF+ICI 50 nM decreased, the Gi protein expression level increased while the SERCA2a protein expression level decreased. Following the stimulation of Ca 2+ and ISO, the maximum contraction amplitude percentage of cardiac muscle cells in the HF+ICI 50 nM group was lower than that in group HF. This indicated that ICI 118,551 has negative inotropic effects on cardiac muscle cells with heart failure, which may be related to Gi protein. Systolic function of cardiac muscle cells with heart failure can therefore be reduced by increasing Gi protein expression and lowering SERCA2a protein expression.

The Influence of Glycemic Index on Cognitive Functioning: A Systematic Review of the Evidence1

PubMed Central

Philippou, Elena; Constantinou, Marios

2014-01-01

The impact of the rate of carbohydrate absorption, as measured by the carbohydrate’s glycemic index (GI) on cognitive performance, is not clear. The aim of this review was to systematically assess the relevant research studies. A systematic review of English-language articles using Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES (up to July 2012) using the search terms “glyc(a)emic index” or “glycaemic load” combined with “cognitive function” or “cognition” or “memory” was carried out. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were prespecified. Eligibility of the identified studies was assessed independently by the 2 reviewers. Independent extraction of data was carried out by the 2 authors using predefined data fields. The primary outcome measure was the effect on cognitive function (CF) after the consumption of meals varying in GI. Eleven eligible studies were identified. The age range of the participants varied from 6 to 82 y old. Overall, the findings were inconsistent, with some studies showing benefits toward either the high-GI or the low-GI meal, others not finding any differences between the 2 meals, and other studies showing a positive or negative effect on performance on only some cognitive domain or domains after consumption of 1 of the 2 meals. A number of methodologic and confounding factors were identified that could explain these inconsistencies. These include the study design, the selected sample (size, age, blood glucose regulation), the timing of testing, the cognitive domain being examined, the number and type of cognitive tests used, the meals provided (composition, size), the timing of blood samples collected, as well as the possibility of bias because participants and investigators were not blinded to randomization. A low-GI meal may favor CF in adults, but the findings at present are inconclusive. On the basis of this review, it is suggested that future studies address the identified methodologic issues and some recommendations are proposed to this effect. PMID:24618754

Short-term effects of a low glycemic index carob-containing snack on energy intake, satiety, and glycemic response in normal-weight, healthy adults: Results from two randomized trials.

PubMed

Papakonstantinou, Emilia; Orfanakos, Nickolaos; Farajian, Paul; Kapetanakou, Anastasia E; Makariti, Ifigenia P; Grivokostopoulos, Nikolaos; Ha, Marie-Ann; Skandamis, Panagiotis N

2017-10-01

The potential positive health effects of carob-containing snacks are largely unknown. Therefore, the aims of these studies were to determine the glycemic index (GI) of a carob snack compared with chocolate cookie containing equal amounts of available carbohydrates and to compare the effects of a carob versus chocolate cookie preload consumed as snack before a meal on (a) short-term satiety response measured by subsequent ad libitum meal intake, (b) subjective satiety as assessed by visual analog scales and (c) postprandial glycemic response. Ten healthy, normal-weight volunteers participated in GI investigation. Then, 50 healthy, normal-weight individuals consumed, crossover, in random order, the preloads as snack, with 1-wk washout period. Ad libitum meal (lunch and dessert) was offered. Capillary blood glucose samples were collected at baseline, 2 h after breakfast, just before preload consumption, 2 h after preload, 3 h after preload, just before meal (lunch and dessert), 1 h after meal, and 2 h after meal consumption. The carob snack was a low GI food, whereas the chocolate cookie was a high GI food (40 versus 78, respectively, on glucose scale). Consumption of the carob preload decreased the glycemic response to a following meal and to the individual's feelings of hunger, desire to eat, preoccupation with food, and thirst between snack and meal, as assessed with the use of visual analog scales. Subsequently, participants consumed less amounts of food (g) and had lower total energy intake at mealtimes. The carob snack led to increased satiety, lower energy intake at meal, and decreased postmeal glycemic response possibly due to its low GI value. Identifying foods that promote satiety and decrease glycemic response without increasing the overall energy intake may offer advantages to body weight and glycemic control. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dietary hyperglycemia, glycemic index and metabolic retinal diseases.

PubMed

Chiu, Chung-Jung; Taylor, Allen

2011-01-01

The glycemic index (GI) indicates how fast blood glucose is raised after consuming a carbohydrate-containing food. Human metabolic studies indicate that GI is related to patho-physiological responses after meals. Compared with a low-GI meal, a high-GI meal is characterized with hyperglycemia during the early postprandial stage (0-2h) and a compensatory hyperlipidemia associated with counter-regulatory hormone responses during late postprandial stage (4-6h). Over the past three decades, several human health disorders have been related to GI. The strongest relationship suggests that consuming low-GI foods prevents diabetic complications. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes. In this aspect, GI appears to be useful as a practical guideline to help diabetic people choose foods. Abundant epidemiological evidence also indicates positive associations between GI and risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more recently, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in people without diabetes. Although data from randomized controlled intervention trials are scanty, these observations are strongly supported by evolving molecular mechanisms which explain the pathogenesis of hyperglycemia. This wide range of evidence implies that dietary hyperglycemia is etiologically related to human aging and diseases, including DR and AMD. In this context, these diseases can be considered as metabolic retinal diseases. Molecular theories that explain hyperglycemic pathogenesis involve a mitochondria-associated pathway and four glycolysis-associated pathways, including advanced glycation end products formation, protein kinase C activation, polyol pathway, and hexosamine pathway. While the four glycolysis-associated pathways appear to be universal for both normoxic and hypoxic conditions, the mitochondria-associated mechanism appears to be most relevant to the hyperglycemic, normoxic pathogenesis. For diseases that affect tissues with highly active metabolism and that frequently face challenge from low oxygen tension, such as retina in which metabolism is determined by both glucose and oxygen homeostases, these theories appear to be insufficient. Several lines of evidence indicate that the retina is particularly vulnerable when hypoxia coincides with hyperglycemia. We propose a novel hyperglycemic, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway, to complement the current theories regarding hyperglycemic pathogenesis. HIF is a transcription complex that responds to decrease oxygen in the cellular environment. In addition to playing a significant role in the regulation of glucose metabolism, under hyperglycemia HIF has been shown to increase the expression of HIF-inducible genes, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) leading to angiogenesis. To this extent, we suggest that HIF can also be described as a hyperglycemia-inducible factor. In summary, while management of dietary GI appears to be an effective intervention for the prevention of metabolic diseases, specifically AMD and DR, more interventional data is needed to evaluate the efficacy of GI management. There is an urgent need to develop reliable biomarkers of exposure, surrogate endpoints, as well as susceptibility for GI. These insights would also be helpful in deciphering the detailed hyperglycemia-related biochemical mechanisms for the development of new therapeutic agents. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The acute transcriptional response of the coral Acropora millepora to immune challenge: expression of GiMAP/IAN genes links the innate immune responses of corals with those of mammals and plants.

PubMed

Weiss, Yvonne; Forêt, Sylvain; Hayward, David C; Ainsworth, Tracy; King, Rob; Ball, Eldon E; Miller, David J

2013-06-14

As a step towards understanding coral immunity we present the first whole transcriptome analysis of the acute responses of Acropora millepora to challenge with the bacterial cell wall derivative MDP and the viral mimic poly I:C, defined immunogens provoking distinct but well characterised responses in higher animals. These experiments reveal similarities with the responses both of arthropods and mammals, as well as coral-specific effects. The most surprising finding was that MDP specifically induced three members of the GiMAP gene family, which has been implicated in immunity in mammals but is absent from Drosophila and Caenorhabditis. Like their mammalian homologs, GiMAP genes are arranged in a tandem cluster in the coral genome. A phylogenomic survey of this gene family implies ancient origins, multiple independent losses and lineage-specific expansions during animal evolution. Whilst functional convergence cannot be ruled out, GiMAP expression in corals may reflect an ancestral role in immunity, perhaps in phagolysosomal processing.

Late gastrointestinal effects of pelvic radiation: a nurse-led service.

PubMed

Ludlow, Helen; Green, John; Turner, Jeff

2017-02-23

There are currently at least 2 million people in the UK living with and following a cancer diagnosis. Typically four out of every ten people with cancer will receive radiotherapy, but a large proportion of people who have pelvic radiotherapy may go on to develop gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. This includes rectal bleeding and faecal incontinence, which can have a huge impact on quality of life. These problems often go under-reported by patients and are also under-recognised or under-treated by health professionals. Cancer survivorship is a growing topic that is likely to have a major impact on the NHS, with increasing numbers of patients presenting. A late GI effects of pelvic radiotherapy clinic was set up to address these growing needs of patients with GI symptoms following radiotherapy. This article also shares insights from a doctoral study that is underway looking at people's experiences of living with symptoms following their treatment, in order to improve awareness of the major impact that this can have.

Outcomes of a Pilot Hand Hygiene Randomized Cluster Trial to Reduce Communicable Infections Among US Office-Based Employees

PubMed Central

DuBois, Cathy L.Z.; Grey, Scott F.; Kingsbury, Diana M.; Shakya, Sunita; Scofield, Jennifer; Slenkovich, Ken

2015-01-01

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of an office-based multimodal hand hygiene improvement intervention in reducing self-reported communicable infections and work-related absence. Methods: A randomized cluster trial including an electronic training video, hand sanitizer, and educational posters (n = 131, intervention; n = 193, control). Primary outcomes include (1) self-reported acute respiratory infections (ARIs)/influenza-like illness (ILI) and/or gastrointestinal (GI) infections during the prior 30 days; and (2) related lost work days. Incidence rate ratios calculated using generalized linear mixed models with a Poisson distribution, adjusted for confounders and random cluster effects. Results: A 31% relative reduction in self-reported combined ARI-ILI/GI infections (incidence rate ratio: 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.49 to 0.98). A 21% nonsignificant relative reduction in lost work days. Conclusions: An office-based multimodal hand hygiene improvement intervention demonstrated a substantive reduction in self-reported combined ARI-ILI/GI infections. PMID:25719534

Claimed effects, outcome variables and methods of measurement for health claims on foods related to the gastrointestinal tract proposed under regulation (EC) 1924/2006.

PubMed

Biasini, Beatrice; Marchi, Laura; Angelino, Donato; Bedogni, Giorgio; Zavaroni, Ivana; Pruneti, Carlo; Galli, Daniela; Mirandola, Prisco; Vitale, Marco; Dei Cas, Alessandra; Bonadonna, Riccardo C; Passeri, Giovanni; Ventura, Marco; Del Rio, Daniele; Martini, Daniela

2018-01-29

Most of the requests of authorisation to the use of health claims pursuant to Regulation EC 1924/2006 related to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract have received a negative opinion by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), mainly because of an insufficient substantiation of the claimed effect (CE). The present manuscript refers to the collection, collation and critical analysis of outcome variables (OVs) and methods of measurement (MMs) related to the GI tract compliant with Regulation 1924/2006. The critical evaluation of OVs and MMs was based on the literature review, with the final aim of defining their appropriateness in the context of a specific CE. The results obtained are relevant for the choice of the best OVs and MMs to be used in randomised controlled trials aimed to substantiate the claims on the GI tract. Moreover, the results can be used by EFSA for updating the guidance for the scientific requirements of such health claims.

Weighing the evidence of low glycemic index dietary intervention for the management of gestational diabetes mellitus: an Asian perspective.

PubMed

Mohd Yusof, Barakatun-Nisak; Firouzi, Somayyeh; Mohd Shariff, Zalilah; Mustafa, Norlaila; Mohamed Ismail, Nor Azlin; Kamaruddin, Nor Azmi

2014-03-01

This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of low glycemic index (GI) dietary intervention for the treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), specifically from the Asian perspective. A systematic review of the literature using multiple databases without time restriction was conducted. Three studies were retrieved based upon a priori inclusion criteria. While there was a trend towards improvement, no significant differences were observed in overall glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes in GDM women. However, a tendency for lower birth weight and birth centile if the intervention began earlier was noted. Low GI diets were well accepted and had identical macro-micronutrient compositions as the control diets. However, due to genetic, environment and especially food pattern discrepancies between Western countries and Asians, these results may not be contributed to Asian context. Clearly, there are limited studies focusing on the effect of low GI dietary intervention in women with GDM, particularly in Asia.

Glycemic index of cereals and tubers produced in China

PubMed Central

Yang, Yue-Xin; Wang, Hong-Wei; Cui, Hong-Mei; Wang, Yan; Yu, Lian-Da; Xiang, Shi-Xue; Zhou, Shui-Ying

2006-01-01

AIM: To determine the GI of some cereals and tubers produced in China in an effort to establish the database of glycemic index (GI) of Chinese food. METHODS: Food containing 50 g carbohydrate was consumed by 8-12 healthy adults after they have been fasted for 10 h and blood glucose was monitored for 2 h. Glucose was used as reference food. GI of food was calculated according to a standard method. RESULTS: GI of 9 types of sugar and 60 kinds of food were determined. CONCLUSION: Food GI is mainly determined by nature of carbohydrate and procession. Most of cereals and tubers produced in China have similar GI with their counterparts produced in other countries. PMID:16733864

Correlation between polymer architecture, mesoscale structure and photovoltaic performance in side-chain-modified PAE-PAV:fullerene bulk-heterojunction solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rathgeber, S.; Kuehnlenz, F.; Hoppe, H.; Egbe, D. A. M.; Tuerk, S.; Perlich, J.; Gehrke, R.

2012-02-01

A poly(arylene-ethynylene)-alt-poly(arylene-vinylene) statistical copolymer carrying linear and branched alkoxy side chains along the conjugated backbone in a random manner, yields, compared to its regular substituted counterparts, an improved performance in polymer:fullerene bulk-heterojunction solar cells. Results obtained from GiWAXS experiments show that the improved performance of the statistical copolymer may be attributed to the following structural characteristics: 1) Well, ordered stacked domains that promote backbone planarization and thus improve the ππ-overlap. 2) Partly face-on alignment of domains relative to the electrodes for an improved active layer electrode charge transfer. Branched side chains seem to promote face-on domain orientation. Most likely they can minimize their unfavorable contact with the interface by just bringing the CH3 groups of the branches into direct contact with the surface so that favorable phenylene-substrate interaction can promote face-on orientation. 3) A more isotropic domain orientation throughout the active layer to ensure that the backbone alignment direction has components perpendicular and parallel to the electrodes in order to compromise between light absorption and efficient intra-chain charge transport.

Role of environmental pollution in irritable bowel syndrome.

PubMed

Marynowski, Mateusz; Likońska, Aleksandra; Zatorski, Hubert; Fichna, Jakub

2015-10-28

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with the prevalence of 10%-20 % of the population has become an emerging problem worldwide. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits. The etiology of IBS contains genetic, psychological, and immunological factors, and has not been fully elucidated; of note, recent studies also point at environmental pollution and its role in the development of functional GI diseases. In this review we focus on several environmental factors, such as bacterial contamination, air pollution, radiation and even stress as potential triggers of IBS. We discuss associated disturbances in homeostasis, such as changes in intestinal microbiome and related pathophysiological mechanisms. Based on the effect of environmental factors on the GI tract, we also propose novel targets in IBS treatment.

Role of environmental pollution in irritable bowel syndrome

PubMed Central

Marynowski, Mateusz; Likońska, Aleksandra; Zatorski, Hubert; Fichna, Jakub

2015-01-01

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with the prevalence of 10%-20 % of the population has become an emerging problem worldwide. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits. The etiology of IBS contains genetic, psychological, and immunological factors, and has not been fully elucidated; of note, recent studies also point at environmental pollution and its role in the development of functional GI diseases. In this review we focus on several environmental factors, such as bacterial contamination, air pollution, radiation and even stress as potential triggers of IBS. We discuss associated disturbances in homeostasis, such as changes in intestinal microbiome and related pathophysiological mechanisms. Based on the effect of environmental factors on the GI tract, we also propose novel targets in IBS treatment. PMID:26523104

Effects of landscape-based green infrastructure on stormwater ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The development of impervious surfaces in urban and suburban catchments affects their hydrological behavior by decreasing infiltration, increasing peak hydrograph response following rainfall events, and ultimately increasing the total volume of water and mass of pollutants reaching streams. These changes have deleterious effects on downstream surface waters. Consequently, strategies to mitigate these impacts are now components of contemporary urban development and stormwater management. This study evaluates the effectiveness of landscape green infrastructure (GI) in reducing stormwater runoff volumes and controlling peak flows in four subdivision-scale suburban catchments (1.88 – 12.97 acres) in Montgomery County, MD, USA. Stormwater flow rates during runoff events were measured in five minute intervals at each catchment outlet. One catchment was built with GI vegetated swales on all parcels with the goal of intercepting, conveying, and infiltrating stormwater before it enters the sewer network. The remaining catchments were constructed with traditional gray infrastructure and “end-of-pipe” best management practices (BMPs) that treat stormwater before entering streams. This study compared characteristics of rainfall-runoff events at the green and gray infrastructure sites to understand their effects on suburban hydrology. The landscape GI strategy generally reduced rainfall-runoff ratios compared to gray infrastructure because of increased infiltration, ul

Periodontal disease status during pregnancy and 3 months post-partum, in a rural population of Sri-Lankan women.

PubMed

Tilakaratne, A; Soory, M; Ranasinghe, A W; Corea, S M; Ekanayake, S L; de Silva, M

2000-10-01

The aim of this investigation was to study the effects of pregnancy on the periodontium, in a rural population of Sri-Lankan women. The study group consisted of 47 pregnant women and 47 non-pregnant women who served as matched controls. All subjects were examined for plaque (plaque index: PLI), gingival condition (gingival index: GI) and loss of periodontal attachment (LA) levels, 4 x during the study, at 3-monthly intervals. Despite similar scores for plaque levels in both pregnant and non-pregnant women, the GI of pregnant women was significantly increased, during the 1st and 2nd trimesters compared to the controls (p<0.01, 2-way ANOVA). During the 3rd trimester, GI was further increased (p<0.001), but dropped at 3 months post-partum. Values for LA did not show significant differences from that of controls, during any of the stages of pregnancy. The results of this study show that pregnancy had an effect only on the gingivae and not on periodontal attachment levels. The effects of oestrogen and progesterone could give rise to a more florid response to the irritant effects of plaque, resulting in severe gingivitis.

Glycemic index of American-grown jasmine rice classified as high.

PubMed

Truong, Teresa H; Yuet, Wei Cheng; Hall, Micki D

2014-06-01

The primary objective was to determine the glycemic index (GI) of jasmine rice grown in the United States (US). Secondary objective was to compare the GI of US grown jasmine rice to those grown in Thailand. Twelve healthy subjects were served all four brands of jasmine rice and a reference food (glucose), each containing 50 g of available carbohydrate. Fingerstick blood glucose was measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after consumption following a fasting state. The GI was calculated using the standard equation. The GI values for test foods ranged from 96 to 116 and were all classified as high GI foods. No difference in GI was found between American-grown and Thailand-grown jasmine rice. Although not statistically significant, observations show glycemic response among Asian American participants may be different. GI should be considered when planning meals with jasmine rice as the main source carbohydrate.

Enteric Micromotor Can Selectively Position and Spontaneously Propel in the Gastrointestinal Tract.

PubMed

Li, Jinxing; Thamphiwatana, Soracha; Liu, Wenjuan; Esteban-Fernández de Ávila, Berta; Angsantikul, Pavimol; Sandraz, Elodie; Wang, Jianxing; Xu, Tailin; Soto, Fernando; Ramez, Valentin; Wang, Xiaolei; Gao, Weiwei; Zhang, Liangfang; Wang, Joseph

2016-09-22

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which hosts hundreds of bacteria species, becomes the most exciting organ for the emerging microbiome research. Some of these GI microbes are hostile and cause a variety of diseases. These bacteria colonize in different segments of the GI tract dependent on the local physicochemical and biological factors. Therefore, selectively locating therapeutic or imaging agents to specific GI segments is of significant importance for studying gut microbiome and treating various GI-related diseases. Herein, we demonstrate an enteric micromotor system capable of precise positioning and controllable retention in desired segments of the GI tract. These motors, consisting of magnesium-based tubular micromotors coated with an enteric polymer layer, act as a robust nanobiotechnology tool for site-specific GI delivery. The micromotors can deliver payload to a particular location via dissolution of their enteric coating to activate their propulsion at the target site toward localized tissue penetration and retention.

Exploring the Effects of Geographical Origin on the Chemical Composition and Quality Grading of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Chardonnay Grapes.

PubMed

Gambetta, Joanna M; Cozzolino, Daniel; Bastian, Susan E P; Jeffery, David W

2017-01-31

The relationship between berry chemical composition, region of origin and quality grade was investigated for Chardonnay grapes sourced from vineyards located in seven South Australian Geographical Indications (GI). Measurements of basic chemical parameters, amino acids, elements, and free and bound volatiles were conducted for grapes collected during 2015 and 2016. Multiple factor analysis (MFA) was used to determine the sets of data that best discriminated each GI and quality grade. Important components for the discrimination of grapes based on GI were 2-phenylethanol, benzyl alcohol and C6 compounds, as well as Cu, Zn, and Mg, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), and pH. Discriminant analysis (DA) based on MFA results correctly classified 100% of the samples into GI in 2015 and 2016. Classification according to grade was achieved based on the results for elements such as Cu, Na, Fe, volatiles including C6 and aryl alcohols, hydrolytically-released volatiles such as (Z)-linalool oxide and vitispirane, pH, TSS, alanine and proline. Correct classification through DA according to grade was 100% for both vintages. Significant correlations were observed between climate, GI, grade, and berry composition. Climate influenced the synthesis of free and bound volatiles as well as amino acids, sugars, and acids, as a result of higher temperatures and precipitation.

Anti-ceramide antibody prevents the radiation gastrointestinal syndrome in mice

PubMed Central

Rotolo, Jimmy; Stancevic, Branka; Zhang, Jianjun; Hua, Guoqiang; Fuller, John; Yin, Xianglei; Haimovitz-Friedman, Adriana; Kim, Kisu; Qian, Ming; Cardó-Vila, Marina; Fuks, Zvi; Pasqualini, Renata; Arap, Wadih; Kolesnick, Richard

2012-01-01

Radiation gastrointestinal (GI) syndrome is a major lethal toxicity that may occur after a radiation/nuclear incident. Currently, there are no prophylactic countermeasures against radiation GI syndrome lethality for first responders, military personnel, or remediation workers entering a contaminated area. The pathophysiology of this syndrome requires depletion of stem cell clonogens (SCCs) within the crypts of Lieberkühn, which are a subset of cells necessary for postinjury regeneration of gut epithelium. Recent evidence indicates that SCC depletion is not exclusively a result of DNA damage but is critically coupled to ceramide-induced endothelial cell apoptosis within the mucosal microvascular network. Here we show that ceramide generated on the surface of endothelium coalesces to form ceramide-rich platforms that transmit an apoptotic signal. Moreover, we report the generation of 2A2, an anti-ceramide monoclonal antibody that binds to ceramide to prevent platform formation on the surface of irradiated endothelial cells of the murine GI tract. Consequently, we found that 2A2 protected against endothelial apoptosis in the small intestinal lamina propria and facilitated recovery of crypt SCCs, preventing the death of mice from radiation GI syndrome after high radiation doses. As such, we suggest that 2A2 represents a prototype of a new class of anti-ceramide therapeutics and an effective countermeasure against radiation GI syndrome mortality. PMID:22466649

Naproxen-PC: a GI safe and highly effective anti-inflammatory.

PubMed

Lichtenberger, L M; Romero, J J; Dial, E J; Moore, J E

2009-02-01

We have been developing a family of phosphatidylcholine (PC)-associated NSAIDs, which appear to have improved GI safety and therapeutic efficacy in both rodent model systems and pilot clinical trials. As naproxen has been demonstrated to be associated with the lowest cardiovascular adverse events in comparison with both COX-2 selective inhibitors and conventional NSAIDs, we have been developing a Naproxen-PC formulation for evaluation in animal models and clinical trials. We have determined that an oil-based formulation of naproxen and triple strength soy lecithin provides excellent GI protection in both: 1) an acute NSAID-induced intestinal bleeding model in rats pretreated with L-NAME that are intragastrically administered a single dose of naproxen (at a dose of 50 mg/kg) vs the equivalent dose of Naproxen-PC; and 2) a more chronic model (at a naproxen dose of 25 mg/kg BID) in rats that have pre-existing hindpaw inflammation (induced with a intradermal injection of Complete Freund's Adjuvant/CFA). Both models demonstrate the superior GI safety of Naproxen-PC vs naproxen while this novel formulation had significant anti-inflammatory efficacy to reduce hindpaw edema and the generation of PGE(2) in the collected joint synovial fluid. Naproxen-PC appears to induce significantly less GI injury and bleeding in two rodent model systems while maintaining anti-inflammatory and COX-inhibitory activity.

Virulence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus Genotypes I and III, Taiwan

PubMed Central

Fan, Yi-Chin; Lin, Jen-Wei; Liao, Shu-Ying; Chen, Jo-Mei; Chen, Yi-Ying; Chiu, Hsien-Chung; Shih, Chen-Chang; Chen, Chi-Ming; Chang, Ruey-Yi; King, Chwan-Chuen; Chen, Wei-June; Ko, Yi-Ting; Chang, Chao-Chin

2017-01-01

The virulence of genotype I (GI) Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is under debate. We investigated differences in the virulence of GI and GIII JEV by calculating asymptomatic ratios based on serologic studies during GI- and GIII-JEV endemic periods. The results suggested equal virulence of GI and GIII JEV among humans. PMID:29048288

The Galactic Isotropic γ-ray Background and Implications for Dark Matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, Sheldon S.; Kwa, Anna; Kaplinghat, Manoj

2018-06-01

We present an analysis of the radial angular profile of the galacto-isotropic (GI) γ-ray flux-the statistically uniform flux in angular annuli centred on the Galactic centre. Two different approaches are used to measure the GI flux profile in 85 months of Fermi-LAT data: the BDS statistical method which identifies spatial correlations, and a new Poisson ordered-pixel method which identifies non-Poisson contributions. Both methods produce similar GI flux profiles. The GI flux profile is well-described by an existing model of bremsstrahlung, π0 production, inverse Compton scattering, and the isotropic background. Discrepancies with data in our full-sky model are not present in the GI component, and are therefore due to mis-modelling of the non-GI emission. Dark matter annihilation constraints based solely on the observed GI profile are close to the thermal WIMP cross section below 100 GeV, for fixed models of the dark matter density profile and astrophysical γ-ray foregrounds. Refined measurements of the GI profile are expected to improve these constraints by a factor of a few.

Chemoprevention of Gastrointestinal Cancer: The Reality and the Dream

PubMed Central

Chun, Kyung-Soo; Kim, Eun-Hee; Lee, Sooyeon

2013-01-01

Despite substantial progress in screening, early diagnosis, and the development of noninvasive technology, gastrointestinal (GI) cancer remains a major cause of cancer-associated mortality. Chemoprevention is thought to be a realistic approach for reducing the global burden of GI cancer, and efforts have been made to search for chemopreventive agents that suppress acid reflux, GI inflammation and the eradication of Helicobacter pylori. Thus, proton pump inhibitors, statins, monoclonal antibodies targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents have been investigated for their potential to prevent GI cancer. Besides the development of these synthetic agents, a wide variety of the natural products present in a plant-based diet, which are commonly called phytoceuticals, have also sparked hope for the chemoprevention of GI cancer. To perform successful searches of chemopreventive agents for GI cancer, it is of the utmost importance to understand the factors contributing to GI carcinogenesis. Emerging evidence has highlighted the role of chronic inflammation in inducing genomic instability and telomere shortening and affecting polyamine metabolism and DNA repair, which may help in the search for new chemopreventive agents for GI cancer. PMID:23560148

Teaching a changing paradigm in physiology: a historical perspective on gut interstitial cells.

PubMed

Drumm, Bernard T; Baker, Salah A

2017-03-01

The study and teaching of gastrointestinal (GI) physiology necessitates an understanding of the cellular basis of contractile and electrical coupling behaviors in the muscle layers that comprise the gut wall. Our knowledge of the cellular origin of GI motility has drastically changed over the last 100 yr. While the pacing and coordination of GI contraction was once thought to be solely attributable to smooth muscle cells, it is now widely accepted that the motility patterns observed in the GI tract exist as a result of a multicellular system, consisting of not only smooth muscle cells but also enteric neurons and distinct populations of specialized interstitial cells that all work in concert to ensure proper GI functions. In this historical perspective, we focus on the emerging role of interstitial cells in GI motility and examine the key discoveries and experiments that led to a major shift in a paradigm of GI physiology regarding the role of interstitial cells in modulating GI contractile patterns. A review of these now classic experiments and papers will enable students and educators to fully appreciate the complex, multicellular nature of GI muscles as well as impart lessons on how shifting paradigms in physiology are fueled by new technologies that lead to new emerging discoveries. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Disordered eating practices in gastrointestinal disorders.

PubMed

Satherley, R; Howard, R; Higgs, S

2015-01-01

To systematically review evidence concerning disordered eating practices in dietary-controlled gastrointestinal conditions. Three key questions were examined: a) are disordered eating practices a feature of GI disorders?; b) what abnormal eating practices are present in those with GI disorders?; and c) what factors are associated with the presence of disordered eating in those with GI disorders? By exploring these questions, we aim to develop a conceptual model of disordered eating development in GI disease. Five key databases, Web of Science with Conference Proceedings (1900-2014) and MEDLINE (1950-2014), PubMed, PsycINFO (1967-2014) and Google Scholar, were searched for papers relating to disordered eating practices in those with GI disorders. All papers were quality assessed before being included in the review. Nine papers were included in the review. The majority of papers reported that the prevalence of disordered eating behaviours is greater in populations with GI disorders than in populations of healthy controls. Disordered eating patterns in dietary-controlled GI disorders may be associated with both anxiety and GI symptoms. Evidence concerning the correlates of disordered eating was limited. The presence of disordered eating behaviours is greater in populations with GI disorders than in populations of healthy controls, but the direction of the relationship is not clear. Implications for further research are discussed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

GI-SVM: A sensitive method for predicting genomic islands based on unannotated sequence of a single genome.

PubMed

Lu, Bingxin; Leong, Hon Wai

2016-02-01

Genomic islands (GIs) are clusters of functionally related genes acquired by lateral genetic transfer (LGT), and they are present in many bacterial genomes. GIs are extremely important for bacterial research, because they not only promote genome evolution but also contain genes that enhance adaption and enable antibiotic resistance. Many methods have been proposed to predict GI. But most of them rely on either annotations or comparisons with other closely related genomes. Hence these methods cannot be easily applied to new genomes. As the number of newly sequenced bacterial genomes rapidly increases, there is a need for methods to detect GI based solely on sequences of a single genome. In this paper, we propose a novel method, GI-SVM, to predict GIs given only the unannotated genome sequence. GI-SVM is based on one-class support vector machine (SVM), utilizing composition bias in terms of k-mer content. From our evaluations on three real genomes, GI-SVM can achieve higher recall compared with current methods, without much loss of precision. Besides, GI-SVM allows flexible parameter tuning to get optimal results for each genome. In short, GI-SVM provides a more sensitive method for researchers interested in a first-pass detection of GI in newly sequenced genomes.

The association of gastrointestinal symptoms with weight, diet, and exercise in weight-loss program participants.

PubMed

Levy, Rona L; Linde, Jennifer A; Feld, Kayla A; Crowell, Michael D; Jeffery, Robert W

2005-10-01

Studies on the relationship between gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and obesity are limited. Research on the relationship between GI symptoms (including irritable bowel syndrome [IBS]), weight, and weight-related behaviors are rare. This study assessed rates of GI symptoms in a sample of obese patients in a weight-loss program and explored relationships among GI symptoms and obesity, binge eating, dieting (fat and fruit/fiber consumption), and physical activity. A total of 983 participants (70% women) had a mean body mass index (BMI) of 33.2+/-5.7 kg/m2 (range, 25.1-60.8 kg/m2) and a mean age of 52.7+/-12.4 years (range, 20.4-89.8 y). Participants completed a questionnaire about diet and physical activity and a standardized self-report Rome II questionnaire assessing IBS status and GI symptoms. In bivariate analyses BMI was associated positively with abdominal pain and diarrhea whereas healthier diet (lower fat and higher fruit/fiber intake) and higher physical activity were associated with fewer GI symptoms. In multivariate models BMI was not associated with GI symptoms; physical activity remained a protective factor. Although physiologic mechanisms still need to be explored, associations between GI symptoms and diet and exercise behaviors may have implications for the treatment of both obesity and GI symptoms.

Outcomes Associated With 3 Treatment Schedules of High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy Monotherapy for Favorable-Risk Prostate Cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jawad, Maha Saada; Dilworth, Joshua T.; Gustafson, Gary S.

Purpose: We report the outcomes associated with 3 high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy regimens used as monotherapy for favorable-risk prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: Four hundred ninety-four patients with stage ≤T2b prostate cancer, Gleason score ≤7, and prostate-specific antigen levels ≤15 ng/mL underwent HDR brachytherapy as monotherapy. Of those, 319 received 38 Gy in 4 fractions, 79 received 24 Gy in 2 fractions, and 96 received 27 Gy in 2 fractions. Acute and chronic genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities were defined as side effects occurring ≤6 and >6 months, respectively, after radiation therapy (RT) and were graded according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0.more » The time to toxicity was calculated from the date of RT completion. Variables were analyzed with χ{sup 2} test. P values <.05 were considered significant. Results: The median overall follow-up time was 4 years (range, 5.5, 3.5, and 2.5 years for 38 Gy, 24 Gy, and 27 Gy, respectively, P<.001). Acute and chronic grade ≥2 GU and GI toxicity profiles were similar among groups. Acceptable rates of grade 2 GU toxicities were seen with overall acute/chronic frequency/urgency, dysuria, retention, incontinence, and hematuria rates of 14%/20%, 6%/7%, 7%/4%, 1.5%/2%, and 1.5%/7%, respectively. Minimal grade 3 and no grade 4 or 5 toxicities were seen. Grade 1, 2, and 3 chronic urethral stricture rates were 0.3%, 2%, and 1%, respectively. All GI toxicities were similar between groups, with overall rates of acute/chronic grade 2 diarrhea, rectal pain/tenesmus, rectal bleeding, and proctitis of 1%/1%, <1%/0.5%, 0%/2%, and <1%/1%, respectively. No grade 3, 4, or 5 toxicities were seen. All comparisons were similar for hormone-naïve patients. The median time to maximal GU/GI toxicity was similar between groups, ranging from 1 to 1.6 to 0.9 to 1.2 years, respectively. There were no differences in clinical outcomes between the 3 groups at 5 years. Conclusions: The acute and chronic toxicity profiles associated with these 3 HDR brachytherapy schedules were similar and were well tolerated. Acceptable grade 2, minimal grade 3, and no grade 4 or 5 toxicities were seen. This, combined with the fact that the clinical outcomes were similar, leads to the conclusion that all 3 regimens may be acceptable options for the management of low-risk to intermediate-risk prostate cancer.« less

Outcome Following a Negative CT Angiogram for Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chan, Victoria, E-mail: drvictoriac@gmail.com; Tse, Donald, E-mail: donald.tse@gmail.com; Dixon, Shaheen, E-mail: shaheen7noorani@gmail.com

2015-04-15

ObjectiveThis study was designed to evaluate the role of a negative computed tomography angiogram (CTA) in patients who present with gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage.MethodsA review of all patients who had CTAs for GI hemorrhage over an 8-year period from January 2005 to December 2012 was performed. Data for patient demographics, location of hemorrhage, hemodynamic stability, and details of angiograms and/or the embolization procedure were obtained from the CRIS/PACS database, interventional radiology database, secure electronic medical records, and patient’s clinical notes.ResultsA total of 180 patients had 202 CTAs during the 8-year period: 87 CTAs were performed for upper GI hemorrhage (18 positivemore » for active bleeding, 69 negative) and 115 for lower GI hemorrhage (37 positive for active bleeding, 78 negative); 58.7 % (37/63) of patients with upper GI bleed and 77.4 % (48/62) of patients with lower GI bleed who had an initial negative CTA did not rebleed without the need for radiological or surgical intervention. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.04). The relative risk of rebleeding, following a negative CTA, in lower GI bleeding versus upper GI bleeding patients is 0.55 (95 % confidence interval 0.32–0.95).ConclusionsPatients with upper GI bleed who had negative CTAs usually require further intervention to stop the bleeding. In contrast, most patients presenting with lower GI hemorrhage who had a negative first CTA were less likely to rebleed.« less

Yogurt Is a Low-Glycemic Index Food.

PubMed

Wolever, Thomas Ms

2017-07-01

High yogurt intake is associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Although several mechanisms could explain this association, this paper addresses the glycemic and insulinemic impact of yogurt. There is evidence that low-glycemic index (GI) and low-glycemic load (GL) diets are associated with a reduced risk of T2DM. The 93 GI values for yogurt in the University of Sydney's GI database have a mean ± SD of 34 ± 13, and 92% of the yogurts are low-GI (≤55). The 43 plain yogurts in the database have a lower GI than the 50 sweetened yogurts, 27 ± 11 compared with 41 ± 11 ( P < 0.0001). This difference is not explained by sugar, per se, but rather by the higher protein-to-carbohydrate ratio in plain yogurt. Although yogurt has a low GI, its insulinemic index (II) is higher than its GI. High insulin responses may be deleterious because hyperinsulinemia is associated with an increased risk of T2DM. Nevertheless, this may not be a concern for yogurt because, although its II is higher than its GI, the II of yogurt is within the range of II values for nondairy low-GI foods. In addition, mixed meals containing dairy protein elicit insulin responses similar to those elicited by mixed meals of similar composition containing nondairy protein. Because the GI of yogurt is lower than that of most other carbohydrate foods, exchanging yogurt for other protein and carbohydrate sources can reduce the GI and GL of the diet, and is in line with recommended dietary patterns, which include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, fish, vegetable oils, and yogurt. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature.

PubMed

Di Minno, Matteo Nicola Dario; Ambrosino, Pasquale; Di Minno, Alessandro; Tremoli, Elena; Di Minno, Giovanni

2017-06-01

Evidence on the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding associated with dabigatran etexilate (DE) is contrasting. We performed a meta-analysis of literature to address this issue. Studies on GI bleeding risk in patients receiving DE or vitamin-K antagonists (VKA) were systematically searched. Twenty-three studies (26 datasets) showed no difference in the GI bleeding risk between the 250,871 patients treated with DE and the 460,386 receiving VKA (OR: 1.052, 95% CI: 0.815, 1.359). Similar results were obtained when pooling together adjusted ORs/HRs, obtained by means of multivariate analysis (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.914, 1.222). Compared with VKA, DE use was associated with a significantly lower risk of upper GI (OR: 0.742, 95% CI: 0.569, 0.968), but not of lower GI bleedings (OR: 1.208, 95% CI: 0.902, 1.619). Furthermore, no significant difference in the GI bleeding risk was found when data on DE 110 mg and DE 150 mg twice-daily were separately compared with VKA. No difference in GI bleeding risk was found between DE and VKA. These results were confirmed for both dosages of DE and when specifically analyzing lower GI bleeding. In contrast, the risk of upper GI bleeding was lower with DE than with VKA. KEY MESSAGES No difference in the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding can be found between dabigatran etexilate (DE) and vitamin K-antagonists (VKA). These results are confirmed for both dosages of DE. The risk of upper GI bleeding is lower with DE than with VKA.

Novel targets for Huntington’s disease in an mTOR-independent autophagy pathway

PubMed Central

Williams, Andrea; Sarkar, Sovan; Cuddon, Paul; Ttofi, Evangelia K.; Saiki, Shinji; Siddiqi, Farah H.; Jahreiss, Luca; Fleming, Angeleen; Pask, Dean; Goldsmith, Paul; O’Kane, Cahir J.; Floto, R. Andres; Rubinsztein, David C.

2009-01-01

Autophagy is a major clearance route for intracellular aggregate-prone proteins causing diseases like Huntington’s disease. Autophagy induction with the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, accelerates clearance of these toxic substrates. As rapamycin has non-trivial side effects, we screened FDA-approved drugs to identify novel autophagy-inducing pathways. We found that L-type Ca2+ channel antagonists, the K+ATP channel opener minoxidil, and the Gi signaling activator clonidine, induce autophagy. These drugs revealed a cyclical mTOR-independent pathway regulating autophagy, where cAMP regulates IP3 levels, influencing calpain activity, which completes the cycle by cleaving and activating Gsα, which regulates cAMP levels. This pathway has numerous potential points where autophagy can be induced and we provide proof-of-principle for therapeutic relevance in Huntington’s disease using mammalian cell, fly and zebrafish models. Our data also suggest that insults that elevate intracytosolic Ca2+, like excitotoxicity, will inhibit autophagy, thus retarding clearance of aggregate-prone proteins. PMID:18391949

Abdominal symptoms during physical exercise and the role of gastrointestinal ischaemia: a study in 12 symptomatic athletes.

PubMed

ter Steege, Rinze W F; Geelkerken, Robert H; Huisman, Ad B; Kolkman, Jeroen J

2012-10-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during exercise may be caused by GI ischaemia. The authors report their experience with the diagnostic protocol and management of athletes with symptomatic exercise-induced GI ischaemia. The value of prolonged exercise tonometry in the diagnostic protocol of these patients was evaluated. Patients referred for GI symptoms during physical exercise underwent a standardised diagnostic protocol, including prolonged exercise tonometry. Indicators of GI ischaemia, as measured by tonometry, were related to the presence of symptoms during the exercise test (S+ and S- tests) and exercise intensity. 12 athletes were specifically referred for GI symptoms during exercise (five males and seven females; median age 29 years (range 15-46 years)). Type of sport was cycling, long-distance running and triathlon. Median duration of symptoms was 32 months (range 7-240 months). Splanchnic artery stenosis was found in one athlete. GI ischaemia was found in six athletes during submaximal exercise. All athletes had gastric and jejunal ischaemia during maximum intensity exercise. No significant difference was found in gastric and jejunal Pco(2) or gradients between S+ and S- tests during any phase of the exercise protocol. In S+ tests, but not in S- tests, a significant correlation between lactate and gastric gradient was found. In S+ tests, the regression coefficients of gradients were higher than those in S- tests. Treatment advice aimed at limiting GI ischaemia were successful in reducing complaints in the majority of the athletes. GI ischaemia was present in all athletes during maximum intensity exercise and in 50% during submaximal exercise. Athletes with GI symptoms had higher gastric gradients per mmol/l increase in lactate, suggesting an increased susceptibility for the development of ischaemia during exercise. Treatment advice aimed at limiting GI ischaemia helped the majority of the referred athletes to reduce their complaints. Our results suggest an important role for GI ischaemia in the pathophysiology of their complaints.

Clinical features and outcomes of systemic amyloidosis with gastrointestinal involvement: a single-center experience

PubMed Central

Lim, A Young; Lee, Ji Hyeon; Jung, Ki Sun; Gwag, Hye Bin; Kim, Do Hee; Kim, Seok Jin; Lee, Ga Yeon; Kim, Jung Sun; Kim, Hee-Jin; Lee, Soo-Youn; Lee, Jung Eun; Jeon, Eun-Seok

2015-01-01

Background/Aims The gastrointestinal (GI) tract often becomes involved in patients with systemic amyloidosis. As few GI amyloidosis data have been reported, we describe the clinical features and outcomes of patients with pathologically proven GI amyloidosis. Methods We identified 155 patients diagnosed with systemic amyloidosis between April 1995 and April 2013. Twenty-four patients (15.5%) were diagnosed with GI amyloidosis using associated symptoms, and the diagnoses were confirmed by direct biopsy. Results Among the 24 patients, 20 (83.3%) had amyloidosis light chain (AL), three (12.5%) had amyloid A, and one (4.2%) had transthyretin-related type amyloidosis. Their median age was 57 years (range, 37 to 72), and 10 patients were female (41.7%). The most common symptoms of GI amyloidosis were diarrhea (11 patients, 45.8%), followed by anorexia (nine patients, 37.5%), weight loss, and nausea and/or vomiting (seven patients, 29.2%). The histologically confirmed GI tract site in AL amyloidosis was the stomach in 11 patients (55.0%), the colon in nine (45.0%), the rectum in seven (35.0%), and the small bowel in one (5.0%). Patients with GI involvement had a greater frequency of organ involvement (p = 0.014). Median overall survival (OS) in patients with GI involvement was shorter (7.95 months; range, 0.3 to 40.54) than in those without GI involvement (15.84 months; range, 0.0 to 114.53; p = 0.069) in a univariate analysis. A multivariate analysis of prognostic factors for AL amyloidosis revealed that GI involvement was not a significant predictor of OS (p = 0.447). Conclusions The prognosis of patients with AL amyloidosis and GI involvement was poorer than those without GI involvement, and they presented with more organ involvement and more advanced disease than those without organ involvement. PMID:26161016

Lowering dietary glycaemic index through nutrition education among Malaysian women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Sangeetha-Shyam; Fatimah, A; Rohana, A G; Norasyikin, A W; Karuthan, C; Nik, Shanita S; Mohd, Yusof B N; Nor, Azmi K

2013-04-01

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases risks for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Low glycaemic index (GI) diets improve cardio-metabolic outcomes in insulin-resistant individuals. We examined the feasibility of lowering GI through GI-based-education among Asian post-GDM women. A 3-month investigation was carried out on 60 Malaysian women with a mean age of 31.0 +/- 4.5 years and a history of GDM. Subjects were randomised into two groups: LGIE and CHDR. The CHDR group received conventional healthy dietary recommendations only. The LGIE group received GI based-education in addition to conventional healthy dietary recommendations. At baseline and after 3-months, dietary intake of energy and macronutrient intakes including GI diet and glycaemic load was assessed using 3-day food records. Diabetes-Diet and GI-concept scores and physical activity levels were assessed using a questionnaire. Adherence to dietary instructions was measured at the end of 3 months. At the end of 3 months, the LGIE group had significant reductions in energy intake (241.7 +/- 522.4Kcal, P = 0.037, ES=0.463), total carbohydrate (48.7 +/- 83.5g, P = 0.010, ES = 0.583), GI (3.9 +/- 7.1, P = 0.017, ES = 0.549) and GL (39.0 +/- 55.3, P = 0.003, ES = 0.705) and significant increases in protein (3.7 +/- 5.4g, 0.003, ES = 0.685) and diet fibre (4.6 +/- 7.3g, P = 0.06). The CHDR group had a significant reduction in fat only (5.7 +/- 9.4g, P = 0.006, ES = 0.606). There was a 30% increase in GI-concept scores in the LGIE group (p < 0.001). Changes in GI-concept scores correlated significantly to the reduction in dietary GI (r = -0.642, P = 0.045). Dietary adherence was comparable in both groups. GI-education improves GI-concept knowledge and helps lower dietary glycaemic index among women with a history of GDM.

Is It Okay To Ask: Transgender Patient Perspectives on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Collection in Healthcare.

PubMed

Maragh-Bass, Allysha C; Torain, Maya; Adler, Rachel; Ranjit, Anju; Schneider, Eric; Shields, Ryan Y; Kodadek, Lisa M; Snyder, Claire F; German, Danielle; Peterson, Susan; Schuur, Jeremiah; Lau, Brandyn D; Haider, Adil H

2017-06-01

The National Academy of Medicine and Joint Commission recommend routine documentation of sexual orientation (SO) and gender identity (GI) in healthcare to address lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) health disparities. We explored transgender patient-reported views on the importance on SO/GI collection, their willingness to disclose, and their perceived facilitators of SO/GI collection in primary care and emergency department (ED) settings. We recruited a national sample of self-identified transgender patients. Participants completed demographic questions, survey questions, and free-response comments regarding their views on SO/GI collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; inductive content analysis was conducted with open-ended responses. Patients mostly self-identified as male gender (54.5%), white (58.4%), and SO other than heterosexual or LGB (33.7%; N = 101). Patients felt that it was more important for primary care providers to know their GI than SO (89.1% vs. 57%; p < 0.001); there was no difference among reported importance for ED providers to know the patients' SO versus GI. Females were more likely than males to report medical relevance to chief complaint as a facilitator to SO disclosure (89.1% vs. 80%; p = 0.02) and less likely to identify routine collection from all patients as a facilitator to GI disclosure (67.4% vs. 78.2%; p = 0.09). Qualitatively, many patients reported that medical relevance to chief complaint and an LGBT-friendly environment would increase willingness to disclose their SO/GI. Patients also reported need for educating providers in LGBT health prior to implementing routine SO/GI collection. Patients see the importance of providing GI more than SO to providers; nonetheless they are willing to disclose SO/GI in general.. Findings also suggest that gender differences may exist in facilitators of SO/GI disclosure. Given the underrepresentation of transgender patients in healthcare, it is crucial for providers to address their concerns with SO/GI disclosure, which include LGBT education for medical staff and provision of a safe environment. © 2017 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Glycaemic index of four commercially available breads in Malaysia.

PubMed

Yusof, Barakatun Nisak Mohd; Abd Talib, Ruzita; Karim, Norimah A; Kamarudin, Nor Azmi; Arshad, Fatimah

2009-09-01

This study was carried out to determine the blood glucose response and glycaemic index (GI) values of four types of commercially available breads in Malaysia. Twelve healthy volunteers (six men, six women; body mass index, 21.9±1.6 kg/m(2); age, 22.9±1.7 years) participated in this study. The breads tested were multi-grains bread (M-Grains), wholemeal bread (WM), wholemeal bread with oatmeal (WM-Oat) and white bread (WB). The subjects were studied on seven different occasions (four tests for the tested breads and three repeated tests of the reference food) after an overnight fast. Capillary blood samples were taken immediately before (0 min) and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after consumption of the test foods. The blood glucose response was obtained by calculating the incremental area under the curve. The GI values were determined according to the standardized methodology. Our results showed that the M-Grains and WM-Oat could be categorized as intermediate GI while the WM and WB breads were high GI foods, respectively. The GI of M-Grains (56±6.2) and WM-Oat (67±6.9) were significantly lower than the reference food (glucose; GI = 100) (P < 0.05). No significant difference in GI value was seen between the reference food and the GI of WM (85±5.9) and WB (82±6.5) (P > 0.05). Among the tested breads, the GI values of M-Grains and WM-Oat were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than those of WM and WB. There was no relationship between the dietary fibre content of the bread with the incremental area under the curve (r = 0.15, P = 0.15) or their GI values (r = 0.17, P = 0.12), indicating that the GI value of the test breads were unaffected by the fibre content of the breads. The result of this study will provide useful nutritional information for dieticians and the public alike who may prefer low-GI over high-GI foods.

Does the ingestion of a 24 hour low glycaemic index Asian mixed meal diet improve glycaemic response and promote fat oxidation? A controlled, randomized cross-over study.

PubMed

Camps, Stefan Gerardus; Kaur, Bhupinder; Quek, Rina Yu Chin; Henry, Christiani Jeyakumar

2017-07-12

The health benefits of consuming a low glycaemic index (GI) diet to reduce the risk of type 2 Diabetes are well recognized. In recent years the GI values of various foods have been determined. Their efficacy in constructing and consuming a low GI diet over 24 h in modulating glycaemic response has not been fully documented. The translation of using single-point GI values of foods to develop a 24 h mixed meal diet can provide valuable information to consumers, researchers and dietitians to optimize food choice for glycaemic control. By using GI values of foods to develop mixed meals, our study is the first to determine how both blood glucose and substrate oxidation may be modulated over 24 h. The study included 11 Asian men with a BMI between 17-24 kg/m 2 who followed both a 1-day low GI and 1-day high GI diet in a randomized, controlled cross-over design. Test meals included breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner. Glycaemic response was measured continuously for over 24 h and postprandial substrate oxidation for 10 h inside a whole body calorimeter. The low GI diet resulted in lower 24 h glucose iAUC (860 ± 440 vs 1329 ± 614 mmol/L.min; p = 0.014) with lower postprandial glucose iAUC after breakfast (p < 0.001), lunch (p = 0.009), snack (p = 0.012) and dinner (p = 0.003). Moreover, 24 h mean amplitude of glycaemic excursion was lower during the low GI vs high GI diet (1.44 ± 0.63 vs 2.33 ± 0.82 mmol/L; p < 0.001). Simultaneously, decrease in 10 h fat oxidation was less during the low vs high GI diet (-0.033 ± 0.021 vs -0.050 ± 0.017 g/min; p < 0.001), specifically after breakfast (p < 0.001) and lunch (p < 0.001). Our study corroborates that using low GI local foods to construct a 24 h low GI diet, is able to reduce glycaemic response and variability as recorded by continuous glucose monitoring. Our observations also confirm that a low GI diet promotes fat oxidation over carbohydrate oxidation when compared to a high GI diet. These observations provide public health support for the encouragement of healthier nutrition choices by consuming low GI foods. NCT 02631083 (Clinicaltrials.gov).

Reliability and feasibility of gait initiation centre-of-pressure excursions using a Wii® Balance Board in older adults at risk of falling.

PubMed

Lee, James; Webb, Graham; Shortland, Adam P; Edwards, Rebecca; Wilce, Charlotte; Jones, Gareth D

2018-04-17

Impairments in dynamic balance have a detrimental effect in older adults at risk of falls (OARF). Gait initiation (GI) is a challenging transitional movement. Centre of pressure (COP) excursions using force plates have been used to measure GI performance. The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) offers an alternative to a standard force plate for the measurement of CoP excursion. To determine the reliability of COP excursions using the WBB, and its feasibility within a 4-week strength and balance intervention (SBI) treating OARF. Ten OARF subjects attending SBI and ten young healthy adults, each performed three GI trials after 10 s of quiet stance from a standardised foot position (shoulder width) before walking forward 3 m to pick up an object. Averaged COP mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) excursions (distance) and path-length time (GI-onset to first toe-off) were analysed. WBB ML (0.866) and AP COP excursion (0.895) reliability (ICC 3,1 ) was excellent, and COP path-length reliability was fair (0.517). Compared to OARF, healthy subjects presented with larger COP excursion in both directions and shorter COP path length. OARF subjects meaningfully improved their timed-up-and-go and ML COP excursion between weeks 1-4, while AP COP excursions, path length, and confidence-in-balance remained stable. COP path length and excursion directions probably measure different GI postural control attributes. Limitations in WBB accuracy and precision in transition tasks needs to be established before it can be used clinically to measure postural aspects of GI viably. The WBB could provide valuable clinical evaluation of balance function in OARF.

GTP analogues promote release of the alpha subunit of the guanine nucleotide binding protein, Gi2, from membranes of rat glioma C6 BU1 cells.

PubMed Central

Milligan, G; Mullaney, I; Unson, C G; Marshall, L; Spiegel, A M; McArdle, H

1988-01-01

The major pertussis-toxin-sensitive guanine nucleotide-binding protein of rat glioma C6 BU1 cells corresponded immunologically to Gi2. Antibodies which recognize the alpha subunit of this protein indicated that it has an apparent molecular mass of 40 kDa and a pI of 5.7. Incubation of membranes of these cells with guanosine 5'-[beta gamma-imido]triphosphate, or other analogues of GTP, caused release of this polypeptide from the membrane in a time-dependent manner. Analogues of GDP or of ATP did not mimic this effect. The GTP analogues similarly caused release of the alpha subunit of Gi2 from membranes of C6 cells in which this G-protein had been inactivated by pretreatment with pertussis toxin. The beta subunit was not released from the membrane under any of these conditions, indicating that the release process was a specific response to the dissociation of the G-protein after binding of the GTP analogue. Similar nucleotide profiles for release of the alpha subunits of forms of Gi were noted for membranes of both the neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cell line NG108-15 and of human platelets. These data provide evidence that: (1) pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-proteins, in native membranes, do indeed dissociate into alpha and beta gamma subunits upon activation; (2) the alpha subunit of 'Gi-like' proteins need not always remain in intimate association with the plasma membrane; and (3) the alpha subunit of Gi2 can still dissociate from the beta/gamma subunits after pertussis-toxin-catalysed ADP-ribosylation. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. Fig. 6. Fig. 7. Fig. 8. PMID:3140801

CoGI: Towards Compressing Genomes as an Image.

PubMed

Xie, Xiaojing; Zhou, Shuigeng; Guan, Jihong

2015-01-01

Genomic science is now facing an explosive increase of data thanks to the fast development of sequencing technology. This situation poses serious challenges to genomic data storage and transferring. It is desirable to compress data to reduce storage and transferring cost, and thus to boost data distribution and utilization efficiency. Up to now, a number of algorithms / tools have been developed for compressing genomic sequences. Unlike the existing algorithms, most of which treat genomes as one-dimensional text strings and compress them based on dictionaries or probability models, this paper proposes a novel approach called CoGI (the abbreviation of Compressing Genomes as an Image) for genome compression, which transforms the genomic sequences to a two-dimensional binary image (or bitmap), then applies a rectangular partition coding algorithm to compress the binary image. CoGI can be used as either a reference-based compressor or a reference-free compressor. For the former, we develop two entropy-based algorithms to select a proper reference genome. Performance evaluation is conducted on various genomes. Experimental results show that the reference-based CoGI significantly outperforms two state-of-the-art reference-based genome compressors GReEn and RLZ-opt in both compression ratio and compression efficiency. It also achieves comparable compression ratio but two orders of magnitude higher compression efficiency in comparison with XM--one state-of-the-art reference-free genome compressor. Furthermore, our approach performs much better than Gzip--a general-purpose and widely-used compressor, in both compression speed and compression ratio. So, CoGI can serve as an effective and practical genome compressor. The source code and other related documents of CoGI are available at: http://admis.fudan.edu.cn/projects/cogi.htm.

Effect of different milling methods on glycaemic response of foods made with finger millet (Eucenea coracana) flour.

PubMed

Jayasinghe, M A; Ekanayake, S; Nugegoda, D B

2013-12-01

Compare glycaemic response of foods prepared with finger millet flour, using traditional stone grinding and industrial milling. Crossover study. Healthy volunteers (n=11) consisting of five males and six females), aged between 20 and 30 years, with a body mass index of 18.5-23.5 Kgm-2. Blood glucose concentration was measured at fasting and 30, 45, 60, 90, 120 minutes after ingestion of roti and pittu made with stone ground or industrially milled finger millet flour, containing 50 g of available carbohydrates. Glycaemic Index (GI) values were expressed as the average value of the 11 subjects. Significant differences (p<0.05) in GI between similar food types made of flour milled using different methods were observed. GI for roti made of stone ground flour was 44±5 and that of roti made of industrially milled flour was 59±7. Pittu made of stone ground flour had a GI of 67±5 and GI of pittu made of industrially milled flour was 79±5. Microscopic analysis of flour samples and a sieving process using different sieve sizes showed larger particle size distribution in stone ground flour compared to industrially milled flour. Larger particle sizes in the stone ground flour compared with industrially milled flour was established as the only factor affecting the difference in GI of same type of food prepared with flour milled using different methods. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in proximate compositions of the different foods or raw flours. Foods prepared with finger millet (kurakkan) flour with a larger particle size distribution resulted in a lower glycaemic response.

[Effectiveness of implementing the reiki method to reduce the weaning failure. A clinical trial].

PubMed

Saiz-Vinuesa, M D; Rodríguez-Moreno, E; Carrilero-López, C; García Vitoria, J; Garrido-Moya, D; Claramonte-Monedero, R; Piqueras-Carrión, A M

2016-01-01

Admission to intensive care unit (ICU) is a difficult and stressful time for the patient, with the application of different techniques, such as intubation and ventilation support withdrawal or "weaning", which may fail due to anxiety. To determine whether Reiki is useful in reducing weaning failure, as well as reducing the number of days of mechanical ventilation (MV), length of stay in ICU, amount of sedatives, amines, and antipsychotics. Randomized clinical trial. ICU of a Level III University Hospital. ICU patients connected to Mechanical Ventilation for more than 48hours, with a signed informed consent. Patients in a terminal condition or potential organ donors were excluded. 256 patients divided into two groups: intervention group (GI) and placebo (GP). The intervention involves the application of Reiki, and a simulated technique within the placebo group. An analysis was made of the absolute and relative frequencies, with a significance level of P<.05, 95% CI RESULTS: The percentage of failures at weaning was 9% in GI and 9.5% in GP (P=.42). The mean number of days on MV was 8.85 days for GI and 9.66 for the GP (P=.53). The mean dose of sedatives: GI 1078mg and 1491mg GP. The dose of Haloperidol was lower in the GI (5.30mg vs 16.81mg GP) (P=.03, 95% CI; -21.9 to -1.13). Reiki reduces the agitation of patients. A decrease was objectively observed in the number of days of Mechanical Ventilation, length of stay, lower doses of sedatives, and a slight decrease in the weaning failure in the GI. No statistically significant difference was found in the main variable. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEEIUC. All rights reserved.

In Vivo Predictive Dissolution (IPD) and Biopharmaceutical Modeling and Simulation: Future Use of Modern Approaches and Methodologies in a Regulatory Context.

PubMed

Lennernäs, H; Lindahl, A; Van Peer, A; Ollier, C; Flanagan, T; Lionberger, R; Nordmark, A; Yamashita, S; Yu, L; Amidon, G L; Fischer, V; Sjögren, E; Zane, P; McAllister, M; Abrahamsson, B

2017-04-03

The overall objective of OrBiTo, a project within Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), is to streamline and optimize the development of orally administered drug products through the creation and efficient application of biopharmaceutics tools. This toolkit will include both experimental and computational models developed on improved understanding of the highly dynamic gastrointestinal (GI) physiology relevant to the GI absorption of drug products in both fasted and fed states. A part of the annual OrBiTo meeting in 2015 was dedicated to the presentation of the most recent progress in the development of the regulatory use of PBPK in silico modeling, in vivo predictive dissolution (IPD) tests, and their application to biowaivers. There are still several areas for improvement of in vitro dissolution testing by means of generating results relevant for the intraluminal conditions in the GI tract. The major opportunity is probably in combining IPD testing and physiologically based in silico models where the in vitro data provide input to the absorption predictions. The OrBiTo project and other current research projects include definition of test media representative for the more distal parts of the GI tract, models capturing supersaturation and precipitation phenomena, and influence of motility waves on shear and other forces of hydrodynamic origin, addressing the interindividual variability in composition and characteristics of GI fluids, food effects, definition of biorelevant buffer systems, and intestinal water volumes. In conclusion, there is currently a mismatch between the extensive industrial usage of modern in vivo predictive tools and very limited inclusion of such data in regulatory files. However, there is a great interest among all stakeholders to introduce recent progresses in prediction of in vivo GI drug absorption into regulatory context.

Pelvic floor muscle training in the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Lúcio, Adélia Correia; Campos, Renata Martins; Perissinotto, Maria Carolina; Miyaoka, Ricardo; Damasceno, Benito Pereira; D'ancona, Carlos Arturo Levi

2010-11-01

Evaluate the role of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. In this randomized controlled trial, twenty seven female patients with a diagnosis of MS and LUTD complaints were randomized, in two groups: Treatment group (GI) (N = 13) and Sham group (GII) (N = 14). Evaluation included urodynamic study, 24-hr Pad testing, three day voiding diary and pelvic floor evaluation according to PERFECT scheme. Intervention was performed twice a week for 12 weeks in both groups. GI intervention consisted of PFMT with assistance of a vaginal perineometer. GII received a sham treatment consisted on the introduction of a perineometer inside the vagina with no contraction required. At the end of the treatment GI was complaining less about storage and voiding symptoms than GII. Furthermore, differences found between groups were: reduction of pad weight (P = 0.00) (Mean: 87,51 grams initial and 6,03 grams final in GI. 69,46 grams initial and 75,88 grams final in GII), number of pads (P = 0.01) (Mean: 3,61 initial and 2,15 final in GI. 3,42 initial and 3,28 final in GII) and nocturia events (P < 0.00) (Mean: 2,38 initial and 0,46 final in GI. 2,55 initial and 2,47 final in GII) and improvements of muscle power (P = 0.00), endurance (P < 0.00), resistance (P < 0.00) and fast contractions (P < 0.00), domains of PERFECT scheme. PFMT is an effective approach to treat LUTD in female with MS. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Women’s Health Training in Gastroenterology Fellowship: A National Survey of Fellows and Program Directors

PubMed Central

Roberson, Erica; Richie, Kelly; Lindstrom, Mary J.; Esposti, Silvia Degli; Wald, Arnold

2013-01-01

Background and Aims The Gastroenterology Core Curriculum requires training in women’s digestive disorders; however, requirements do not necessarily produce knowledge and competence. Our study goals were: (1) to compare perceptions of education, fellow-reported levels of competence, and attitudes towards training in women’s gastrointestinal (GI) health issues during fellowship between gastroenterology fellows and program directors, and (2) to determine the barriers for meeting training requirements. Methods A national survey assessing four domains of training was conducted. All GI program directors in the United States (n = 153) and a random sample of gastroenterology fellows (n = 769) were mailed surveys. Mixed effects linear modeling was used to estimate all mean scores and to assess differences between the groups. Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess the consistency of the measures which make up the means. Results Responses were received from 61% of program directors and 31% of fellows. Mean scores in perceived didactic education, clinical experiences, and competence in women’s GI health were low and significantly differed between the groups (P < 0.0001). Fellows’ attitudes towards women’s GI health issues were more positive compared to program directors’ (P = 0.004). Barriers to training were: continuity clinic at a Veteran’s Administration hospital, low number of pregnant patients treated, low number of referrals from obstetrics and gynecology, and lack of faculty interest in women’s health. Conclusions (1) Fellows more so than program directors perceive training in women’s GI health issues to be low. (2) Program directors more so than fellows rate fellows to be competent in women’s GI health. (3) Multiple barriers to women’s health training exist. PMID:21267780

Differences in Hypnotic Capacity: Patients Referred to a Psychiatric Consultation Liaison Clinic vs. Patients Referred to a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-04

Studies concerning hypnosis and GI disorders indicate that hypnotherapy can be effective in the treatment of certain types of GI disorders (e.g...Experimental Hypnosis, 24, 195-201. 24 Collison, D.A. (1975) . Which asthmatic patients should be treated by hypnotherapy ? Medical Journal of Australia...Watkins, J.G. (1949). Hypnotherapy of war neuroses . A clinical psychological handbook. New York : W. I . Ronald Press. weitzenhoffer, A. M

Glaciohydrologic and Glaciohydraulic Effects on Runoff and Sediment Yield in Glacierized Basins

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-11-01

3 (17) wateron ice layers(Colbeck 1979). These complex- ities can be somewhat simplified by considering where (x = a constant = p, gi ...debris is reworked and modified ited on the ice by mass movements- rockfalls , by weathering, especially freeze-thaw, and by avalanches, slushflows (e.g...hydrological and glaciological studies have been supported by Grande Dixence over the last 40 where gi is the viscosity of water. As stated in an years at

Bibliography of Soviet Developments in Superconductivity, January 1975 - June 1976

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-08-31

superconductors. Acta physica pclonica, A 47, no. 3, 1975, 339-346. 182. Trifan, A. T. Effects of pressure and paramagnetic impurity on...FTT FZh GiA GiK IAN Arm IAN Az Avtomatika i telemekha-iika Acta physic a polonica Akademiya nauk Armyanskoy SSR. Doklady Akademiya nauk...thickness of thin cylindrical superconducting In films near T . Acta physlca polonlca, A47, ID. 3, 1975, 323-327. c I I I I I t t I

Reduction of vitamin A deficiency and anemia in pregnancy after implementing proposed prenatal nutritional assistance.

PubMed

Barbosa Chagas, C; Ramalho, A; de Carvalho Padilha, P; Delia Libera, B; Saunders, C

2011-01-01

Micronutrient deficiency is an unquestionable public health problem, specially anemia and vitamin A deficiency (VAD). This is due to the collective dimension of these carencies, which reflects on morbimortality rates in the maternal and infant group. to evaluate the impact of a proposal for prenatal nutritional assistance, comparing the prevalence of anemia and VAD, in pre-intervention (GI) and intervention (GII) groups. this is a prospective intervention study in a cohort of pregnant women. The GI group was made up of 225 the GII group of 208 pregnant adults and their respective newborns, attended a Public Maternity Ward in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Concentration of hemoglobin was used to diagnose anemia and a standardized interview to diagnose night blindness (XN). after adjusting for confounding variables, through logistic regression, the protective effect of intervention at the onset of anemia (OR = 0.420; IC 95% = 0.251-0.702), with a significant reduction in prevalence, of 28.4% in the GI to 16.8% in the GII, also observed at the onset of XN (OR = 0.377; IC95% = 0.187- 0.759), with a reduction in prevalence of 18.7 % in the GI to 6.2% in the GII. Nutritional intervention has a beneficial effect on maternal health, reducing nutritional deficiencies most prevalent during pregnancy and the impact of these on the obstetric ailment.

Gastrointestinal nematode infection in small ruminants in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Asmare, Kassahun; Sheferaw, Desie; Aragaw, Kassaye; Abera, Mesele; Sibhat, Berhanu; Haile, Aynalem; Kiara, Henry; Szonyi, Barbara; Skjerve, Eystein; Wieland, Barbara

2016-08-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infections are a major health challenge affecting productive and reproductive performance of sheep and goats in Ethiopia. However, there is no comprehensive summary on the occurrence and distribution of the infection at national level. This systematic review provides pooled prevalence estimates and assesses potential predictors of the nematode infections in small ruminants, i.e. helpful in planning interventions or control strategies. The review used 50 animal level datasets retrieved from 24 manuscripts. The studies used data collected from 9407 sheep and 3478 goats. A meta-analytical approach was employed to analyze Effect size (ES). The reported GI nematodes represented eleven genera affecting sheep and goats including: Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Teladorsagia/Ostertagia, Strongyloides, Bunostomum, Nematodirus, Chabertia, Trichuris, Cooperia, Skrjabinema and Oesophagostomum. The GI nematodes pooled prevalence estimate in the random effect model was 75.8% (95% CI: 69.6, 80.8). The subgroup analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) differences in the prevalence between different regions and type of diagnostic methods used. 'Postmortem technique' and 'eastern part of the country' were associated with higher GI nematode prevalence and accounted for 68.1% of the between studies heterogeneity. In light of the high parasitic prevalence in all agro-ecologies, the need for strategic intervention is recommended. Meanwhile, data need to be generated for some of the regions where dependable survey reports are lacking. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anti-allergic effects of a nonameric peptide isolated from the intestine gastrointestinal digests of abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) in activated HMC-1 human mast cells.

PubMed

Ko, Seok-Chun; Lee, Dae-Sung; Park, Won Sun; Yoo, Jong Su; Yim, Mi-Jin; Qian, Zhong-Ji; Lee, Chang-Min; Oh, Junghwan; Jung, Won-Kyo; Choi, Il-Whan

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to examine whether the intestine gastrointestinal (GI) digests of abalone [Haliotis discus hannai (H. discus hannai)] modulate inflammatory responses and to elucidate the mechanisms involved. The GI digests of the abalone intestines were fractionated into fractions I (>10 kDa), II (5-10 kDa) and Ⅲ (<5 kDa). Of the abalone intestine GI digests (AIGIDs), fraction Ⅲ inhibited the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in mice. Subsequently, a bioactive peptide [abalone intestine GI digest peptide (AIGIDP)] isolated from fraction Ⅲ was determined to be 1175.2 Da, and the amino acid sequence was found to be PFNQGTFAS. We noted that the purified nonameric peptide (AIGIDP) attenuated the phorbol‑12‑myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-induced histamine release and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in human mast cells (HMC-1 cells). In addition, we also noted that AIGIDP inhibited the PMACI‑induced activation of nuclear factor‑κB (NF-κB) by suppressing IκBα phosphorylation and that it suppressed the production of cytokines by decreasing the phosphorylation of JNK. The findings of our study indicate that AIGIDP exerts a modulatory, anti-allergic effect on mast cell-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Effect of carbohydrate restriction in patients with hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

PubMed

Botros, Nadia; Rijnaarts, Iris; Brandts, Hans; Bleumink, Gysele; Janssen, Ignace; de Boer, Hans

2014-11-01

Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is a rare complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Meals with a high carbohydrate (carb) content and high glycemic index (GI) may provoke these hypoglycemic attacks. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of reducing meal carb content and GI on glycemic responses in patients with post-RYGB hypoglycemia. Fourteen patients with post-RYGB hypoglycemia underwent two meal tests: a mixed meal test (MMT) with a carb content of 30 g and a meal test with the low GI supplement, Glucerna SR 1.5® (Glucerna meal test (GMT)). Plasma glucose and serum insulin levels were measured for a period of 6 h. Peak glucose levels were reached at T 30 during GMT and at T 60 during MMT, and they were 1.5 ± 0.3 mmol/L lower during GMT than during MMT (7.5 ± 0.4 vs 9.0 ± 0.4 mmol/L, P < 0.005). GMT induced the most rapid rise in plasma insulin: at T 30 plasma, insulin was 30.7 ± 8.5 mU/L higher during GMT than during MMT (P < 0.005). None of the carb-restricted meals induced post-prandial hypoglycemia. A 30-g carb-restricted meal may help to prevent post-prandial hypoglycemia in patients with post-RYGB hypoglycemia. The use of a liquid, low GI, supplement offers no additional advantage.

Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Probiotic, Herbal and Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on Gingival Health: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Dodamani, Arun Suresh; Karibasappa, Gundabaktha; Khairnar, Mahesh Ravindra; Naik, Rahul Gaybarao; Jadhav, Harish Chaitram

2017-01-01

Introduction Due to inherent limitations of Chlorhexidine (CHX), search for an effective and potentially safe anti-plaque agent has led to emergence of alternative products. Aim The present study evaluated the comparative efficacy of probiotic, herbal and CHX mouthwashes on gingival health of healthy individuals. Materials and Methods The present study was randomized parallel group controlled trial. A group of 45 healthy subjects in the age group of 18-21 years received complete supragingival scaling at baseline and study variables viz., Oral Hygiene Index – Simplified (OHI-S), Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) were recorded. Subjects were then randomly divided into three groups (15 in each group) and were randomly intervened with three different mouthwashes i.e., HiOra mouthwash, CHX mouthwash and Probiotic mouthwash. Variables were again recorded on the seventh and 14th day after use of mouthwashes and data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. Results There was no significant difference in the efficacy of CHX, HiOra regular and probiotic mouthwashes on plaque accumulation, gingival health and oral hygiene status. Conclusion Herbal and probiotic mouthwashes can prove to be effective alternatives to CHX with minimal side effects. PMID:28511500

A Low Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Diet Decreases Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 among Adults with Moderate and Severe Acne: A Short-Duration, 2-Week Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Burris, Jennifer; Shikany, James M; Rietkerk, William; Woolf, Kathleen

2018-04-21

A high glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) diet may stimulate acne proliferative pathways by influencing biochemical factors associated with acne. However, few randomized controlled trials have examined this relationship, and this process is not completely understood. This study examined changes in biochemical factors associated with acne among adults with moderate to severe acne after following a low GI and GL diet or usual eating plan for 2 weeks. This study utilized a parallel randomized controlled design to compare the effect of a low GI and GL diet to usual diet on biochemical factors associated with acne (glucose, insulin, insulin-like growth factor [IGF]-1, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein [IGFBP]-3) and insulin resistance after 2 weeks. Sixty-six participants were randomly allocated to the low GI and GL diet (n=34) or usual eating plan (n=32) and included in the analyses. The primary outcomes were biochemical factors of acne and insulin resistance with dietary intake as a secondary outcome. Independent sample t tests assessed changes in biochemical factors associated with acne, dietary intake, and body composition pre- and postintervention, comparing the two dietary interventions. IGF-1 concentrations decreased significantly among participants randomized to a low GI and GL diet between pre- and postintervention time points (preintervention=267.3±85.6 mg/mL, postintervention=244.5±78.7 ng/mL) (P=0.049). There were no differences in changes in glucose, insulin, or IGFBP-3 concentrations or insulin resistance between treatment groups after 2 weeks. Carbohydrate (P=0.019), available carbohydrate (P<0.001), percent energy from carbohydrate (P<0.001), GI (P<0.001), and GL (P<0.001) decreased significantly among participants following a low GI/GL diet between the pre- and postintervention time points. There were no differences in changes in body composition comparing groups. In this study, a low GI and GL diet decreased IGF-1 concentrations, a well-established factor in acne pathogenesis. Further research of a longer duration should examine whether a low GI and GL diet would result in a clinically meaningful difference in IGF-1 concentrations leading to a reduction in acne. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02913001. Copyright © 2018 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

77 FR 22068 - Proposed Information Collection (Post-9/11 GI Bill Education Longitudinal Study Survey) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-12

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-New (Post-9/11 GI Bill Longitudinal Study Survey)] Proposed Information Collection (Post-9/11 GI Bill Education Longitudinal Study Survey) Activity... information needed to determine the long-term outcomes of Veterans participating in VBA's Post-9/11GI Bill...

77 FR 39344 - Agency Information (Post-9/11 GI Bill Education Longitudinal Study Survey) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-02

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-New (Post-9/11 GI Bill Longitudinal Study Survey)] Agency Information (Post-9/11 GI Bill Education Longitudinal Study Survey) Activity Under OMB...-9/11 GI Bill Longitudinal Study Survey) in any correspondence For Further Information or a Copy of...

Pulse-compression ghost imaging lidar via coherent detection.

PubMed

Deng, Chenjin; Gong, Wenlin; Han, Shensheng

2016-11-14

Ghost imaging (GI) lidar, as a novel remote sensing technique, has been receiving increasing interest in recent years. By combining pulse-compression technique and coherent detection with GI, we propose a new lidar system called pulse-compression GI lidar. Our analytical results, which are backed up by numerical simulations, demonstrate that pulse-compression GI lidar can obtain the target's spatial intensity distribution, range and moving velocity. Compared with conventional pulsed GI lidar system, pulse-compression GI lidar, without decreasing the range resolution, is easy to obtain high single pulse energy with the use of a long pulse, and the mechanism of coherent detection can eliminate the influence of the stray light, which is helpful to improve the detection sensitivity and detection range.

A novel core-shell lipid nanoparticle for improving oral administration of water soluble chemotherapeutic agents: inhibited intestinal hydrolysis and enhanced lymphatic absorption.

PubMed

Wang, Tao; Shen, Liao; Zhang, Zhen; Li, Haiyan; Huang, Ri; Zhang, Yadan; Quan, Dongqin

2017-11-01

The oral administration of water-soluble chemotherapeutical agents is limited by their serious gastrointestinal side effects, instability at intestinal pH, and poor absorption. Aiming to solve these problems, we chose topotecan (TPT) as a model drug and developed a novel lipid formulation containing core-shell lipid nanoparticle (CLN) that makes the water-soluble drug to 'dissolve' in oil. TPT molecules can be encapsulated into nanoparticles surrounded by oil barrier while avoiding the direct contact with intestinal environment, thus easing the intestinal hydrolytic degradation and gastrointestinal (GI) irritation. Microstructure and mean particle size of TPT-CLN were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), respectively. The average size of nanoparticles was approximately 60 nm with a homogeneous distribution in shapes of spheres or ellipsoid. According to in vitro stability studies, more initial form of TPT was observed in presence of lipid nanoparticle compared with free topotecan solution in artificial intestinal juice (pH 6.5). After oral administration of TPT-CLN in rats, AUC and C max of TPT were all increased compared with free TPT, indicating significant enhancement of oral absorption. Intestinal lymphatic transport was confirmed as the major way for CLN to enhance oral absorption of TPT by the treatment of blocking chylomicron flow. Lower GI irritation of TPT-CLN was observed in the gastrointestinal damage studies. The in vivo antitumor activity of TPT-CLN showed an improved antitumor efficacy by oral treatment of TPT-CLN compared to free TPT. From the obtained data, the systems appear an attractive progress in oral administration of topotecan.

The anthelmintic efficacy of plant-derived cysteine proteinases against the rodent gastrointestinal nematode, Heligmosomoides polygyrus, in vivo.

PubMed

Stepek, G; Lowe, A E; Buttle, D J; Duce, I R; Behnke, J M

2007-09-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes are important disease-causing organisms, controlled primarily through treatment with synthetic drugs, but the efficacy of these drugs has declined due to widespread resistance, and hence new drugs, with different modes of action, are required. Some medicinal plants, used traditionally for the treatment of worm infections, contain cysteine proteinases known to damage worms irreversibly in vitro. Here we (i) confirm that papaya latex has marked efficacy in vivo against the rodent gastrointestinal nematode, Heligmosomoides polygyrus, (ii) demonstrate the dose-dependent nature of the activity (>90% reduction in egg output and 80% reduction in worm burden at the highest active enzyme concentration of 133 nmol), (iii) establish unequivocally that it is the cysteine proteinases that are the active principles in vivo (complete inhibition of enzyme activity when pre-incubated with the cysteine proteinase-specific inhibitor, E-64) and (iv) show that activity is confined to worms that are in the intestinal lumen. The mechanism of action was distinct from all current synthetic anthelmintics, and was the same as that in vitro, with the enzymes attacking and digesting the protective cuticle. Treatment had no detectable side-effects on immune cell numbers in the mucosa (there was no difference in the numbers of mast cells and goblet cells between the treated groups) and mucosal architecture (length of intestinal villi). Only the infected and untreated mice had much shorter villi than the other 3 groups, which was a consequence of infection and not treatment. Plant-derived cysteine proteinases are therefore prime candidates for development as novel drugs for the treatment of GI nematode infections.

FABP4 blocker attenuates colonic hypomotility and modulates white adipose tissue-derived hormone levels in mouse models mimicking constipation-predominant IBS.

PubMed

Mosińska, P; Jacenik, D; Sałaga, M; Wasilewski, A; Cygankiewicz, A; Sibaev, A; Mokrowiecka, A; Małecka-Panas, E; Pintelon, I; Storr, M; Timmermans, J P; Krajewska, W M; Fichna, J

2018-05-01

The role of fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) in lower gastrointestinal (GI) motility is unknown. We aimed to verify the effect of inhibition of FABP4 on GI transit in vivo, and to determine the expression of FABP4 in mouse and human tissues. Fatty acid binding protein 4 inhibitor, BMS309403, was administered acutely or chronically for 6 and 13 consecutive days and its effect on GI transit was assessed in physiological conditions and in loperamide-induced constipation. Intracellular recordings were made to examine the effects of BMS309403 on colonic excitatory and inhibitory junction potentials. Abdominal pain was evaluated using behavioral pain response. Localization and expression of selected adipokines were determined in the mouse colon and serum using immunohistochemistry and Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay respectively. mRNA expression of FABP4 and selected adipokines in colonic and serum samples from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients and control group were assessed. Acute injection of BMS309403 significantly increased GI motility and reversed inhibitory effect of loperamide. BMS309403 did not change colonic membrane potentials. Chronic treatment with BMS309403 increased the number of pain-induced behaviors. In the mouse serum, level of resistin was significantly decreased after acute administration; no changes in adiponectin level were detected. In the human serum, level of adiponectin and resistin, but not of FABP4, were significantly elevated in patients with constipation-IBS (IBS-C). FABP4 mRNA expression was significantly downregulated in the human colon in IBS-C. Fatty acid binding protein 4 may be involved in IBS pathogenesis and become a novel target in the treatment of constipation-related diseases. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.