28th Day Research Articles

Remineralization of Enamel Using Topical Agents among Patients with Orthodontic Brackets: In Vivo and In Vitro Randomized Control Trial.

To evaluate the in vivo and in vitro effects of three topical agents in reducing enamel demineralization around orthodontic brackets. Postorthodontic enamel demineralization persists to be undesirable and common complication. Twenty patients, who consented, were included into three experimental and a control group, following screening for inclusion, exclusion, and randomization. The experimental group was intervened with either GC Tooth Mousse Plus®, Clinpro® Tooth Cream, or Amflor® toothpaste. The baseline values were recorded using DIAGNOdent® following oral prophylaxis and brackets were bonded. The intervention group received the respective topical application of agents. Posttreatment values were recorded after 90 seconds of intervention and 20th day postintervention. Extraction of respective tooth was done on the 21st day to evaluate the microhardness using the Vickers hardness test. The results show the effectiveness of GC Tooth Mousse Plus® over Amflor® toothpaste followed by Clinpro® Tooth Cream for remineralization among patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and microhardness was highest for GC Tooth Mousse Plus®. Topical agents can be used effectively as remineralizing agents in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Advanced diagnostic tools like the DIAGNOdent Pen® and remineralizing agents contribute to a comprehensive and proactive approach to dental care, particularly in populations with specific risk factors like children with high sucrose consumption. Sain S, Hegde SK, Bhat SS, et al. Remineralization of Enamel Using Topical Agents among Patients with Orthodontic Brackets: In Vivo and In Vitro Randomized Control Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(10):1093-1098.

Strength properties of concrete containing palm bunch ash–calcined anthill clay

AbstractThis study evaluated the strength properties of concrete produced with palm bunch ash–calcined anthill clay (PBA-CAC) as pozzolans. Two groups of palm bunch ashes were produced: ashes generated by burning only palm bunches (PBA) and ashes obtained by blending palm bunches and anthill clay at elevated temperatures (PBA-CAC). The PBA and PBA-CAC satisfied the requirements of Class C pozzolans. The concrete constituents were batched by mass, and the cement–fine aggregate–coarse aggregate ratio was 1:2:4. The cement content was partially substituted with PBA and PBA-CAC at 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%, with the 0% specimen serving as the control. The concrete cubes were cured for 7, 14, 28, 56, and 90 days, whereas the concrete cylinders and beams were cured for 7, 28, 56, and 90 days. The 28th day strength values of the control specimens exceeded those of the PBA and PBA-CAC concrete specimens. By the 90th day of curing, the strength values of the specimens produced with 5% PBA and 5% PBA-CAC exceeded those of the control specimen. The PBA-CAC specimens generally had higher values of compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength than PBA specimens containing the same amount of pozzolan.

Antiosteoporotic activity of lupeol on postmenopausal symptoms through promoting estrogenic activity and bone markers in ovariectomized rats

BackgroundMenopause is caused by age-related follicular degeneration and is marked by menstrual cycle cessation with insufficiency of an ovarian hormone, particularly estrogen. Estrogen insufficiency causes vasomotor and urogenital symptoms, as well as an increased risk of osteoporosis. Lupeol (LP) is a triterpene compound found in aloe leaves, carrot root, mango pulp, melon seeds, cucumber, soybean, and other plants. The present study aims to assess the effect of LP on estrogen insufficiency in ovariectomy-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis in rats. Female rats were ovariectomized bilaterally and placed into five groups (n = 8) as ovariectomy control (OVX), standard (17β-Estradiol 50 µg/kg) group, and LP (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) groups. Two additional groups Normal Control (NC) and Sham Control (SC) rats went through a sham operation procedure. The rats were given an oral dose for 90 days. The tail skin temperature (TST) was recorded every day, and vaginal cornification was assessed every fourth day. Serum hormones, biochemical parameters, bone physical, radiographic, and histological markers were measured on the 90th day of treatment.ResultsIn LP-treated rats, there was a decrease in TST, induction of vaginal cornification, improved serum hormonal and lipid profile, improved bone physical properties, increased bone density, and enhanced cytological and histological alterations.ConclusionsThese findings imply that LP exhibited an antiosteoporotic activity against postmenopausal symptoms in ovariectomized rats, suggesting that it could be used therapeutically to treat menopausal problems.

Safety evaluation of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine as a novel food

To evaluate the safety of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (α-GPC) as a novel food, the study of acute oral toxicity, subchronic toxicity, teratogenic toxicity and genotoxicity were conducted. In acute oral toxicity, no toxic effects were observed in rats of both genders administrated 10.0 g/kg BW α-GPC. In 90-day oral toxicity, female high-dose group (2,000 mg/kg) had lower body weight, body weight gain, empty stomach body weight, total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and higher alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in contrast to control group. In teratogenic toxicity, the body weights of pregnant rats on the 9th day (d9), the 12th day (d12), the 15th day (d15), and the 20th day (d20), body weight gains, and net body weight gains in high-dose group (2,000 mg/kg) decreased, the other parameters had no difference compared to control group. In genotoxicity tests (Mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus, Chromosome aberration and Ames test), all dose groups didn't display significant change compared with negative control group. Based on above results, α-GPC is actually low hazard novel food, has a NOAEL of 1,000 mg/kg BW for female rats and 2,000 mg/kg BW for male rats following 13-week oral exposure, has a NOAEL of 1,000 mg/kg BW for pregnant rats and 2,000 mg/kg BW for fetal rats in teratogenic toxicity, has no genotoxicity in vitro or in vivo.

Extension of Shelf Life of Roasted Duck by combination of Vacuum Packaging and Low Temperature Storage

A study was conducted to assess the shelf life of roasted duck under aerobic and vacuum packaging and in refrigerator (4±1° C) and freezer (-18±1° C) storage. The samples were analyzed for moisture content, pH, Thiobarbituric Acid (TBA) Value, Tyrosine value, Total Plate Count (TPC), Total Psychrophilic Count (TPSC), Yeast and Mould Count (YMC), colour, flavour and tenderness. The products showed an increasing trend in pH, TBA value, tyrosine value, TPC, TPSC and YMC during the storage period in refrigerated and freezer temperatures irrespective of the packaging methods i.e. aerobic and vacuum, whereas, the moisture content, colour, flavor and tenderness of the product followed a declining trend during storage. Though the sensory parameter scores declined during storage, but these changes were less in the vacuum packed and frozen products. The study showed that the aerobically packed roasted duck was acceptable upto 7th day and vacuum packed roasted duck was acceptable upto 14th day in the refrigerated storage. The freezer storage extended the shelf life of the roasted duck till 40th day in aerobic packaging while the combination of freezer storage and vacuum packaging extended the shelf life of the roasted duck till 60th day. These findings have significant implications for the food industry, enabling the development of strategies to extend the shelf life of roasted duck and reduce food waste.

Efficient hairy root induction system of Astragalus membranaceus and significant enhancement of astragalosides via overexpressing AmUGT15.

Astragalus membranaceus hairy roots induced by direct injection of Rhizobium rhizogenes with AmUGT15 overexpressing genes into the stem explants demonstrate enhanced astragaloside biosynthesis Astragalus membranaceus is a widely used medicinal plant, which has important economic, ecological, medicinal, and ornamental values for accumulating various triterpene saponins named astragalosides in roots. Although the hairy root culture technique has been established in A. membranaceus, the molecular regulation of metabolic pathways for improving astragaloside contents was not reported. In this study, an efficient hairy root induction method was established in A.membranaceus by directly injecting Rhizobium rhizogenes into the stem, with an induction rate of up to 80.1%. We improved the production of astragaloside in hairy roots by overexpressing AmUGT15, a 3-O-glucosyltransferase catalyzed xylosylation at C3-OH. The fluorescence microscopy observation revealed that the AmUGT15 fused with DsRed report gene constructed in T-DNA region was overexpressed in hairy roots, and the maximum biomass of hairy roots was measured on the 28th day of cultivation. HPLC analysis confirmed the total amount of astragalosides produced by AmUGT15 overexpressing hairy roots is 4.2 times higher than the non-transgenic control group. Our study proposed an effective method for astragalosides production in A. membranaceus hairy roots via metabolic engineering.

CHANGES IN THE INDICATORS OF THROMBUS FORMATION AND FIBRINOLYSIS IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF CEPHALOHEMATOMA IN NEWBORNS

Background. Long-term resorption of cephalohematoma may be accompanied by the formation of surgical complications. The rate of resorption of cephalohematoma has uncertain dynamics and may depend on the characteristics of hemostasis in newborns.Aim. To define the level of thrombus formation and fibrinolysis in venous blood plasma in newborns with cephalohematomas.Methods. There were 90 newborns under observation, 30 – with medium and large-sized cephalohematomas (the cephalohematoma was punctured), 30 – with small-sized cephalohematomas (the cephalohematoma was not punctured). The control group – 30 healthy newborns. The level of thrombosis and fibrinolysis indicators was determined by flow cytometry on a Cytoflex LX device using multiplex analysis kits. Results. On the 10th day, the level of prothrombin in newborns of the first group was 1,33 times higher than in the control group, and 1,47 times higher than in the second group of the study. On the 10th day, the concentration of antithrombin III in the first and second groups exceeded the control group by 5.28 and 8,82 times, and on the 28th day of the study by 6,9 and 7,.28 times. The concentration of type 1 plasminogen activation inhibitor in the first and second groups was higher than in the control group by 3,11 and 5,25 times on the 10th day, and on the 28th day of the study by 2,88 and 3,93 times. The level of D-dimer on the 10th day in the first and second groups was 1,43 and 1,71 times higher, and on the 28th day in both groups it was 1,6 times higher than the control group.Conclusion. Reparation for cephalohematomas is associated with mechanisms of resorption of subperiosteal hemorrhage and depends on the fibrinolytic activity of the hemostatic system. It is likely that the isolation of the cephalohematoma from the systemic circulation under conditions of inhibition of plasminogen activity may be the cause of long-term persistence of subperiosteal hemorrhage.

Effects of jogi, Micropogonias undulatus, addition on the production of volatile compounds in baechu-kimchi.

Baechu-kimchi is a traditional vegetable fermented food using kimchi cabbage (Brassica rapa) as the main ingredient. A wide variety of ingredients can be used in kimchi depending on the specific region and even household. Although there have been a lot of studies examining various aspects of kimchi, there has been limited research on kimchi with added fish as a minor ingredient. Therefore, in the present work we aimed to assess changes in the volatile compounds of baechu-kimchi with the addition of seafood used as minor ingredients of kimchi. Sulfur compounds were the most commonly detected volatile compounds; 9 categories of volatile components were detected in total. Altogether, 30 sulfur compounds were detected, and among them, five sulfur compounds: (E)-1-(methyltrisulfanyl)prop-1-ene, 1-(methyldisulfanyl)-1-methylsulfanylpropane, (methyltetrasulfanyl)methane, 1-(methyldisulfanyl)-1-[(E)-prop-1-enyl]sulfanylpropane, and 1,1-bis(methyldisulfanyl)propane, were found only in jogi-added kimchi, thus confirming the influence of jogi addition. Principal component analysis revealed clear distinctions in the volatile compounds as a result of jogi addition as fermentation progressed. Moreover, when confirming the correlation with microbial populations, it was evident that the differentiation in volatile compounds was more attributable to jogi addition than microbial impact. In conclusion, the addition of jogi to baechu-kimchi led to an abundance of volatile compounds by the 20th day of fermentation.

The effects of nitrogen on rose-scented pelargonium as a potted ornamental plant; growth and development, quality and biochemical characteristics

This study presents a novel approach to the production dynamics of rose-scented pelargonium for pot cultivation as an ornamental plant. It investigates how nitrogen supply affects plant growth, development, quality attributes, and biochemical properties to provide insights for enhanced commercial viability. Nitrogen concentrations (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg l−1) were applied weekly for 3 months. Results show that increased nitrogen levels raised nitrogen concentrations in shoots (1.32%–2.57%) and roots (0.39%–1.27%). Periodic morphological evaluations indicated that the effects of nitrogen doses on growth started to appear after the second month of the experiment. By the end of the experiment (90th day), it was determined that increased nitrogen application resulted in reduced plant height, stem length, internode length, total phenolic compound (TPC) antioxidant capacity (DPPH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). In contrast, increases were observed in the number and length of lateral branches, stem thickness, leaf count, shoot biomass, chlorophyll (Clfs) levels and total carotenoid. MDA, TPC, and Clfs can be considered important biochemical indicators of nitrogen deficiency stress, defense mechanism, and plant quality in rose-scented pelargonium, respectively. It was determined that a minimum nitrogen concentration of 100 mg l−1 is required to obtain healthy, high-quality plants with strong visual appeal for the presentation of rose-scented pelargonium as potted ornamental plants. Higher concentrations may offer an advantage for more compact plant formation. To enhance the market value of rose-scented pelargonium as potted ornamental plants, future studies could include different pot sizes and pinching practices alongside nitrogen fertilization.

Influence of different plant growth retardants in Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) for reducing the mowing frequency and better visual qualities

Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) is a perennial mat-forming species suited for the landscaping industry due to its versatile adaptability. The pleasing appearance of the lawn grasses can be achieved through mowing at regular intervals to avoid a shabby appearance, which requires skilled persons and ends up with expensive operation. Under these circumstances, the experiment was intended with the commonly available growth regulators for their efficiency in the reduction of the mowing cycle without losing or hampering their visual quality attributes. The application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced a mean grass leaf length of 2.00 cm, which was remarkably lower than that of control (T9), i.e., 4.87 cm. The same pattern of growth was exhibited during the 45th and 90th days after spraying. The mean turf shoot length (7.80 cm) and root length (13.40 cm) were observed in the control plots, while the application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced 3.83 cm and 7.94 cm, respectively, determining its ability to hamper the growth of turf grass. The Z. matrella grass failed to produce flower heads by the application of 1.0% mepiquat chloride (T2), 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3), 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4), 0.5% maleic hydrazide (T7) and 1.0% maleic hydrazide (T8). The control plots devoid of growth regulators initiate flower heads after 70 days. From the study, the application of 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3) and 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) exerted a low level of thatch accumulation and no flower head formation was observed with maximal visual scoring, leading to the commercial expeditions for the turf industry.

Preclinical safety and efficacy evaluation of the intrathecal transplantation of GMP-grade human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells for ischemic stroke.

Intrathecal administration of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells may be a promising approach for the treatment of stroke, but its safety, effectiveness, and mechanism remain to be elucidated. In this study, good manufacturing practice-grade human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (5 × 105 and 1 × 106 cells) and saline were administered by cerebellomedullary cistern injection 72 hours after stroke induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. The results showed (1) no significant difference in mortality or general conditions among the three groups. There was no abnormal differentiation or tumor formation in various organs of rats in any group. (2) Compared with saline-treated animals, those treated with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells showed significant functional recovery and reduced infarct volume, with no significant differences between different human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell doses. (3) Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were found in the ischemic brain after 14 and 28 days of follow-up, and the number of positive cells significantly decreased over time. (4) Neuronal nuclei expression in the human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell group was greater than that in the saline group, while glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 expression levels decreased. (5) Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell treatment increased the number of CD31+ microvessels and doublecortin-positive cells after ischemic stroke. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells also upregulated the expression of CD31+/Ki67+. (6) At 14 days after intrathecal administration, brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the peri-infarct area and the concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the cerebrospinal fluid in both human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell groups were significantly greater than those in the saline group and persisted until the 28th day. Taken together, these results indicate that the intrathecal administration of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells via cerebellomedullary cistern injection is safe and effective for the treatment of ischemic stroke in rats. The mechanisms may include alleviating the local inflammatory response in the peri-infarct region, promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis, and enhancing the production of neurotrophic factors.

Treatment of Infection Caused by Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci in Extremely Preterm Neonate

Background: Enterococci are facultative anaerobic microorganisms and opportunistic pathogens. Risk factors for enterococcal infection in neonates are prematurity, low birth weight, long-term hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit, immaturity of the innate and adaptive immune response, mechanical ventilation and other invasive procedures. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci has increased significantly over the last two decades as important cause of nosocomial infections. Case description: The preterm male neonate was born by vaginal delivery at 255/7 weeks of gestation with birth weight of 900 g and Apgar score of 2 in the first minute after birth. After initial stabilization in Maternity Hospital, the neonate was admitted to the Institute of Neonatology on the 3rd day of life in severe condition. On the 28th day of life, the neonate developed signs of systemic infection. Complete blood count showed leukocytes of 6300/mm3 and increased concentration of C-reactive protein (90.2 mg/L). Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained by lumbar and ventricular puncture showed pleocytosis, hyperproteinorachia and hypoglycorrhachia. We received a positive result of the tracheal aspirate for Enterococcus faecalis with sensitivity only on linezolid. Because of that, we added linezolid in the therapy. However, Enterococcus faecium grew in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. In accordance to the antibiogram, the antibiotic therapy was replaced to chloramphenicol. Head ultrasound showed posthemorrhagic ventricular dilatation, increased thickness, irregularity and echogenicity of the ependyma, the presence of intraventricular debris and stranding and fibrin sept formation in left lateral ventricle. During treatment by chloramphenicol the neonate had a mild gray skin color, but count of blood cells, and function of liver and kidneys were normal. After the completion of treatment of neonatal sepsis complicated by meningitis and ventriculitis, ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation was performed. Conclusion: There is a need for implementation of strategies for control of colonization by vancomycin-resistant Enterococci in pregnant women, as wells as preventive measures in daily work and rational use of antibiotics in the neonatal intensive care unit. Chloramphenicol could be used as a new treatment option for neonatal sepsis caused by vancomycin-resistant Enterococci, especially associated with infection of central nervous system with monitoring complete blood count, liver and kidney function of the neonate.

In silico and in vivo evaluations of fisetin and fisetin-loaded nanosuspension on monoamine oxidase inhibition in Aβ(25–35) induced dementia in mice model

BackgroundAmyloid beta (Aβ) plaques on the extracellular matrix and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles comprise the key indicative pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Fisetin, an antioxidant bioactive compound having pharmacotherapeutic effects is applied by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) such as Toxicodendron vernicifum (Chinese lacquer tree), Cotinus coggygria Scop, Gan Shuang granulates and formula of Acacia catechu-Scutellariae Radix. Nevertheless, fisetin has constraints such as low oral bioavailability, insignificant aqueous solubility and high hepatic metabolisms. ObjectiveThis investigation aimed to envisage the effects of fisetin and its optimised nanoformulation on Aβ(25–35) desirous neurotoxicity in mice through deciphering inhibitory actions against monoamine oxidase A and B (MAO-A and B) enzymes following molecular docking. MethodsMolecular docking with MAO-A and B enzymes were accomplished by AMDock's integrated AutoDock Tools (ADT) scripts. For in vivo studies, fisetin nanosuspension was prepared by nanoprecipitation method and evaluated for standard characterization. 10 and 20 mg/kg of fisetin and 10 mg/kg of fisetin nanosuspension were given once daily to mice for 21 days. On the 15th day, the mice were challenged with Aβ(25–35) by intracerebroventricular injection (ICV) and behavioural tests (open field and elevated plus maze) were performed on the 20th day. Biochemical and histology were examined in brain tissues. ResultsFisetin docked to the catalytic positions of MAO-A and B, unveiling good binding scores and molecular interactions with amino acid residues for inhibition activities. Fisetin nanosuspension has average particle size (225.4 ± 2.95 nm) with low polydispersity index (0.19) and standard zeta potential (-19.13 ± 1.17 mV). Findings showed that fisetin increased locomotor activity and reduced anxiety-like behaviour. Fisetin and its nanosuspension significantly reduced the concentration of MAO-A (P < 0.01) and MAO-B enzymes suggesting a potential neuroprotection effect in Aβ peptide-induced amnesia in mice. ConclusionFisetin with optimized bioavailability, effectively exhibits neuroprotection through molecular interactions of MAO enzymes. Further investigations affidavits the neuroprotection through bidirectional pathways related to biogenic amines and their deamination on Aβ stress conditions.

Morphological characteristics of wound healing with aloe extract, hydrogel, and their combination: experimental research

BACKGROUND: Currently, there remains a high incidence of skin damage due to trauma, chronic diseases, burns, so it is important to study the issues of regeneration and treatment of skin wounds. AIM: To conduct a morphological analysis of wound healing using aloe extract, hydrogel, and their combination in the experiment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved 40 sexually mature guinea pigs, which were divided into a control group and 4 experimental groups (independent wound healing, application of aloe extract, hydrosorb gel, layer-by-layer application of drugs). Histological skin preparations were prepared on days 3, 7, 14, and 28 of the experiment. In each microslide, in 10 fields of view of the microscope at a magnification of ×50, morphometric parameters were measured in micrometers (µm): the thickness of the purulent-necrotic scab, inflammatory (leukocyte) infiltrate, granulation tissue, the length of the newly formed epithelium on days 3, 7, 14; the thickness of the epithelium, its length and the thickness of the connective tissue in the central part of the regenerate on the 28th day. All data were subjected to statistical processing. RESULTS: The medications led to a decrease in the inflammatory reaction, acceleration of the formation of granulation tissue, and partial wound epithelization by day 7 of the experiment; however, more pronounced signs of wound healing were observed with layer-by-layer application of aloe extract and hydrogel. By day 14, regardless of the application method, the use of medications demonstrated signs of enhanced wound healing. Thus, the length of the epithelium increased by 1.2–1.6 times, the depth of granulation tissue increased by 1.0–1.2 times compared to the control group. By the end of the experiment, all animals had complete closure of the wound with scar formation, while in the experimental groups showed signs of skin remodeling with appendages. CONCLUSION: Morphological analysis showed that aloe extract, hydrosorb gel, and their combination accelerated the wound healing processes of full-thickness skin wounds in the experiment.

Soil zinc dynamics over time on applied organics, bacterial inoculant and zinc fertilizers in calcareous soil of southern India

Bioavailability of zinc was impacted by soil properties, externally applied sources, time, and various fractions of zinc. An experiment was conducted to investigate the bioavailable and other zinc fractions in calcareous soil and the efficiency of organic and inorganic sources on bioavailability with the presence and absence of zinc solubilizing bacteria (ZSB). The sequential extraction procedure followed at every interval of the incubation period for all forms of zinc was studied. Externally added inorganic sources significantly affected all fractions of zinc compared to untreated soils. Among them, ZnSO4 influences all forms of zinc, mainly Ws+Ex (water soluble+exchangeable) and carbonate-bound zinc, whereas Zn-EDTA maintains a high status of bioavailable zinc throughout the experimental period. On the 60th day of incubation, Zn-EDTA and ZnSO4 applied to soil maintained bioavailable zinc content of 3.71 and 2.94 times higher than that of control. Irrespective of sources, the available zinc of Zn fertilizers applied to soils was reduced with an increase in incubation days. Organic and microbial addition effects solely or combined increase the soil zinc content significantly in both fertilized and unfertilized soils. Among two different organic sources, the zinc solubility performance of farmyard manure was higher than that of vermicompost. In untreated soil, residual and carbonate-bound fractions contribute a major portion towards total zinc based on quantity. The bioavailable fraction mainly the Ws+Ex and organically bound fractions were markedly influenced in all treatments.

Social isolation induces addictive behavior and increases release of dopamine in the &lt;i&gt;nucleus accumbens&lt;/i&gt; in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcing zone

The study of the role of social isolation in the pathogenesis of addictive behavior disorders is an important medical and biological problem. Of particular importance are the limitations of social experience in ontogenesis. This work makes an attempt to find a connection between social isolation in ontogenesis and impulsive-compulsive behavior, as an indicator of the premorbid background for gaming and other forms of behavioral addictions. The mechanisms of addictive behavior in rats reared in isolation (IS) were investigated by analyzing the extracellular release of dopamine in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcing zone. Before the experiments, male rats were kept in individual cages from the 21st day of birth to the 90th day. To study elements of addictive behavior, a variant of the Iowa Gambling Task in a 3-arm maze and a method of developing compulsive overeating using intermittent consumption of high-calorie foods were used. To study compulsive behavior, a marble test was used against the background of withdrawal from a high-calorie diet. Surgeries were performed to implant electrodes into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens in rats exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the 3-arm maze. These animals were then trained to respond to VTA self-stimulation. Dopamine release was recorded telemetrically in freely moving rats in response to electrical stimulation of the VTA self-stimulation zone. Fast scan cyclic voltammetry was used to determine changes in dopamine levels in the extracellular environment of the nucleus accumbens. IS entered less into the arm with a high degree of probability but with a low reward, and entered more in the arm with a low degree of probability, but with a high reward, which is associated with the appearance of impulsivity in behavior. In the model of compulsive overeating, the number of approaches to the feeder in IS increased, and against the background of withdrawal of high-calorie food, IS were more active in the marble test. In IS exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the 3-arm maze, the content of extracellular dopamine in response to electrical stimulation of the VTA self-stimulation zones did not reveal any differences compared to the control group of rats with addictive behavior in the maze. At the same time, IS exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the maze showed a more pronounced dopamine response to a complex stimulus: a conditioned signal used during maze learning light + VTA stimulation. Thus, rearing in the IS causes an increase in dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcement area associated with addictive behaviors: impulsivity and compulsivity. A conclusion is drawn about the prospects of studying the extracellular release of dopamine and assesses addictive behavior disorders caused by limited social contacts in ontogenesis.

Impact on Ant Communities by Chemical Pesticides Applied in Controlling the Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren) in the Field.

The red imported fire ant (RIFA, Solenopsis invicta Buren) represents a significant invasive pest in China, exerting extensive negative impacts on ecosystems. The invasion of RIFA not only poses a severe threat to biodiversity within the environment; inappropriate controlling measures can also adversely affect community dynamics. Therefore, while implementing effective management strategies to control the proliferation of RIFA populations, it is imperative to evaluate the potential effects of these measures on the structure of local biological communities to safeguard native biodiversity. This study employs a "two-step method" using dust and bait formulations, respectively, to control RIFA while conducting ecological monitoring to further assess the impact of RIFA population decline on ant communities. The results of RIFA management showed that after post-treatment periods of 28 days, 35 days, and 60 days, the worker ant reduction rates for the three insecticides-0.5% beta-cypermethrin dust, 1.0% hydramethylnon bait, and 0.1% indoxacarb bait-reached approximately 72%, with their efficacy ranked as follows: 1.0% hydramethylnon bait > 0.1% indoxacarb bait > 0.5% beta-cypermethrin dust. By the 60th day of the experiment, the ant nest reduction rates reached their highest values-66.84% for 0.5% beta-cypermethrin dust, 77.89% for 1.0% hydramethylnon bait, and 87.52% for 0.1% indoxacarb bait-with the latter performing the best. Meanwhile, the occurrence level of RIFAs in all three pesticide treatment areas decreased from level III to level I 60 days post-treatment. Following the application of these three insecticides, the RIFA population significantly decreased, leading to an increase in species richness within the ant community. The reduction in RIFA numbers had a positive impact on the restoration of ant community diversity, as evidenced by significant improvements in both diversity and evenness indices. Notably, 0.1% indoxacarb bait was particularly effective in enhancing the ant community diversity and species richness, while 1.0% hydramethylnon bait was more effective in improving community evenness. These findings indicate that the controlling strategy used in this study not only effectively manages RIFA populations but also promotes recovery and contributes to the ecological balance of local ant communities, providing an important reference for future biodiversity conservation efforts.

Early Outcomes Of Living Donor Liver Transplant Recipients In A University Teaching Hospital Of Nepal

Introduction: The burden of chronic liver disease (CLD) is on the rise and liver transplantation remains the best treatment modality for the end stage liver disease (ESLD). Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital has started doing living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and we aim to report our experience and early postoperative outcomes of the first 10 living donor liver transplants performed in our institute. Methods: This is a retrospective review and included all patients who were operated for LDLT from the year 2019 to 2023 for various indications. Demographic data, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, Child score, etiology of CLD, liver graft type, graft-to-recipient weight ratio, operative time, blood transfusion and complications were analysed. Results: From 2019 to 2023, in total, 10 patients underwent LDLT, including one paediatric transplant. The most common etiology was alcohol (50%) and right lobe was the preferred graft. The average operative time was 7.9 ± 2.56 hours. There were no re exploration or re transplantation. The mean duration of hospital stay was around 21.37 ± 6.43 days. All patients were followed for one to five years. Four recipients had Clavien Dindo Grade II and above complications, including bile leak and post-operative bleeding. One mortality occurred on 27th post-operative day due to covid infection. Conclusions: Living donor liver transplantation is a feasible option for patients with end stage liver disease and is safe to be performed in low volume centre with the help of expertise and good team work.

Effects of a Novel Tripyrasulfone Herbicide on Key Soil Enzyme Activities in Paddy Rice Soil.

Weeds significantly impact paddy yields, and herbicides offer a cost-effective, rapid, and efficient solution compared to manual weeding, ensuring agricultural productivity. Tripyrasulfone, a novel 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) inhibitor developed by Qingdao Kingagroot Chemicals Co., Ltd., has demonstrated high efficacy when applied post-emergence, causing characteristic foliar bleaching in susceptible weed species, distinct from conventional acetolactate synthase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and synthetic auxin herbicides. This study investigates the impact of tripyrasulfone on the activity of key soil enzymes (urease (UE), acid phosphatase (ACP), sucrase (SC), catalase (CAT), and dehydrogenase (DHA)) in paddy soils from Jilin Province and Shandong Province. Different doses of tripyrasulfone (0.1, 1.0, and 2.5 mg kg-1) were applied, and the enzymatic activities were measured. Results indicated that tripyrasulfone initially inhibited UE and ACP activities before activating them. On the 20th day after treatment, UE activity had returned to control levels, whereas ACP activity remained significantly higher, showing long-lasting activation. SC and CAT activities were inhibited but gradually recovered to control levels. Furthermore, DHA activity was activated with a sustained effect, remaining significantly higher than the control group even 20 days after treatment. Overall, the impact of tripyrasulfone on soil enzyme activities diminished over time, suggesting that tripyrasulfone posed minimal long-term ecological risk to soil health.

Metabolic syndrome promotes resistance to aspirin in mitigating bone loss in murine periodontal disease

AimsThis study aimed to investigate the protective effects of aspirin (ASA) on alveolar bone loss in a mouse model with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and concurrent periodontal disease (PD). Specifically, the study sought to determine whether ASA could mitigate bone loss in MetS and non-MetS animals with PD and explore the correlation between gingival nitric oxide (NO) levels and bone resorption. Main methodsNewborn female Swiss mice were administered monosodium glutamate (MSG) (4 mg/g) during the initial 5 days of life to induce MetS (MetS group), while the control group (SAL) was administered saline. On the 60th day, PD was induced in both groups. Half of the animals were treated daily with ASA (40 mg/kg). MetS was characterized by the Lee index, blood glucose, and cardiovascular parameters. Maxillae were evaluated by microtomography and histopathology, showing significant bone loss after PD induction. Key findingsAnimals with MetS exhibited higher alveolar bone loss than controls. SAL animals treated with ASA had less bone loss than their MetS counterparts. Gingival NO levels were elevated in animals with PD, and a strong correlation was found between NO levels and bone resorption. ASA reduced NO in non-MetS animals, but MetS animals were resistant to this effect. SignificanceThese findings suggest a protective mechanism of ASA against bone loss in non-MetS animals with PD, an effect that was not observed in MetS animals. Consequently, this study provides novel insights into the intricate relationship between MetS and PD in mice.