Targeting curcumin to specific tumour cell environments: the influence of ancillary ligands.

Tumour-activation of prodrugs has the potential to improve the efficacy of anticancer agents while minimising systemic toxicity. Cobalt complexes are of interest in this respect as chaperones to deliver and release anticancer agents in the low oxygen, reducing environment of solid tumours. In addition to being able to release a cytotoxic ligand under the conditions of the tumour microenvironment, it is fundamental that the chaperone complex must also be able to penetrate through multiple cell layers to deliver the cytotoxin to all regions of the tumour. Herein, we report an investigation of the distribution and metabolism of two chaperone complexes of the anticancer agent curcumin within monolayer tumour cells and multicellular tumour spheroids. Using a combination of X-ray fluorescence microscopy, confocal fluorescence microscopy, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy, we demonstrate how the nature of the chaperone complex can profoundly influence the cellular uptake, distribution, and release mechanism of curcumin, providing key insights into the design of this class of prodrug.

AIDS knowledge and attitudes of primary grade teachers and students.

This study was conducted to assess knowledge of and attitudes toward AIDS in primary grade teachers and students before the implementation of a mandated AIDS curriculum. Teachers and children completed questionnaires. Although both the teachers and the children were knowledgeable about some aspects of AIDS, both groups revealed misconceptions and misinformation. A high percentage of the children reported a fear of getting AIDS even though they constitute a very low-risk group. Deficiencies in knowledge and fear of AIDS underscore the importance of the provision of accurate information to both teachers and elementary school children. Implications for school nurses and other health care providers are discussed.

Influences on children's attitudes toward alcohol consumption.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: To determine whether children's attitudes toward alcohol consumption changed as they grew older and to what extent peers might influence the decision to drink alcoholic beverages. METHOD: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 500 children ages 8-15 years was performed using a questionnaire. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and contingency analysis. RESULTS: Age was the only variable significantly related to decision making. Attitudes toward alcohol were more favorable in older children. Peer influence did not appear to affect drinking behavior. CONCLUSION: Older children (ages 14-15) are more favorably disposed to drinking than younger children. Children may be more influenced by parents than is realized. Parental guidance just prior to age 14 may be an effective intervention.