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Rima Abdul Razzak, Ghada Al Kafaji, Mohammad Nadir Khan, Amar Muhsin Marwani and Yahya M. Naguib
This paper aims to evaluate the effect of consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) rich with total saturated fats on adiposity and serum levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to evaluate the effect of consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) rich with total saturated fats on adiposity and serum levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM-1), a biomarker of endothelial inflammation/dysfunction. Another aim is to evaluate whether supplementation of a phytosomal formulation of curcumin would reduce adiposity measures and sVCAM-1 levels in HFD rats.
Design/methodology/approach
The study was conducted on 17 male rats which were allocated to one of three feeding regimen groups: normal diet (ND); HFD, or HFD with dietary phytosomal curcumin (HFD-C). Anthropometric measures were recorded weekly up to 20 weeks of feeding intervention, at the end of which, sVCAM-1 levels were also compared with one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc analysis.
Findings
The HFD group had the greatest values for raw anthropometric data, and there was a group difference in anthropometric measures, however there was no significant difference between HFD and HFD-C for any measure. The gain at 20 weeks from initial values did reveal significant differences in weight and abdominal circumference between HFD and HFD-C groups. There were significant group differences in sVCAM-1 levels, with only HFD-C displaying significant lower levels than HFD group.
Originality/value
This is the first study that shows the capacity of a phytosomal formulation of curcumin in reducing adiposity and sVCAM-1 levels during daily intake of saturated fats above the recommended level. The results are promising in that this formulation can protect against endothelial inflammation/dysfunction, and can be used as complimentary therapy to suppress dyslipidemia/obesity-related cardiovascular complications.
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Xudong He, GuangYi Yang, E. Yang, Moli Zhang, Dan Luo, Jingjian Liu, Chongnan Zhao, Qinhua Chen and Fengying Ran
Based on DNase I and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-magnetic silicon microspheres (MNPS), a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for the detection of PD-L1 was developed.
Abstract
Purpose
Based on DNase I and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-magnetic silicon microspheres (MNPS), a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for the detection of PD-L1 was developed.
Design/methodology/approach
Here °C we present a feasibility of biosensor to detection of PD-L1 in lung tumors plasma. In the absence of PD-L1°C the PD-L1 aptamer is absorbed on the surface of graphene oxide modified magnetic nanoparticles °8rGO-MNPS°9 and leading to effective fluorescence quenching. Upon adding PD-L1°C the aptamer sequences could be specifically recognized by PD-L1 and the aptamer/PD-L1 complex is formed°C resulting in the recovery of quenched fluorescence.
Findings
This sensor can detect PD-L1 with a linear range from 100 pg mL−1 to 100 ng mL−1, and a detection limit of 10 pg•m−1 was achieved.
Originality/value
This method provides an easy and sensitive method for the detection of PD-L1 and will be beneficial to the early diagnosis and prognosis of tumors.
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Nisita Jirawutkornkul, Chanthawat Patikorn and Puree Anantachoti
This study explored health insurance coverage of genetic testing and potential factors associated with precision medicine (PM) reimbursement in Thailand.
Abstract
Purpose
This study explored health insurance coverage of genetic testing and potential factors associated with precision medicine (PM) reimbursement in Thailand.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed a targeted review method. Thirteen PMs were selected to represent four PM categories: targeted cancer therapy candidate, prediction of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), dose adjustment and cancer risk prediction. Content analysis was performed to compare access to PMs among three health insurance schemes in Thailand. The primary outcome of the study was evaluating PM test reimbursement status. Secondary outcomes included clinical practice guidelines, PMs statement in FDA-approved leaflet and economic evaluation.
Findings
Civil Servant Medical Benefits Scheme (CSMBS) provided more generous access to PM than Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) and Social Security Scheme (SSS). Evidence of economic evaluations likely impacted the reimbursement decisions of SSS and UCS, while the information provided in FDA-approved leaflets seemed to impact the reimbursement decisions of CSMBS. Three health insurance schemes provided adequate access to PM tests for some cancer-targeted therapies, while gaps existed for access to PM tests for serious ADRs prevention, dose adjustment and cancer risk prediction.
Originality/value
This was the first study to explore the situation of access to PMs in Thailand. The evidence alerts public health insurance schemes to reconsider access to PMs. Development of health technology assessment guidelines for PM test reimbursement decisions should be prioritized.
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Jan Pringle, Ruth Jepson, Alison Dawson, Louise McCabe and Alison Bowes
One limitation of research that assesses the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for people with dementia is that most do not describe the intervention in sufficient…
Abstract
Purpose
One limitation of research that assesses the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for people with dementia is that most do not describe the intervention in sufficient detail to ascertain a theoretical basis or mechanism of action that determines the effective components. This paper aims to identify studies which evaluate the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia, to further inform effective intervention development.
Design/methodology/approach
Papers were screened for evidence of evaluation of specific forms of physical activity, using pre-defined inclusion criteria. Analysis was conducted to ascertain if mechanisms of action were corroborated by data within and between studies.
Findings
The authors identified 26 studies with a measured mechanism of action; these related to the effects of physical activity on either neurological structure or endocrinal markers, including hormones. Physical activity had potential to reduce hippocampal atrophy, increase neural recruitment, activate the noradrenergic system and improve anti-inflammatory responses. While individual studies were hampered by small sample sizes, the body of evidence indicated that physical activity may have potential to delay cognitive decline.
Practical implications
Mechanisms of action in relation to dementia and physical activity are likely to be multifaceted, and physical activity may be protective against progression in the early stages of cognitive decline. Physical activity may be of greatest benefit if incorporated into on-going lifestyle, rather than engaged in for short periods, and combined with social interaction.
Originality/value
This paper is unique in its focus on the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia.
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