Restoration Of Architecture Research Articles

Collagen fibrillar structures in vocal fold scarring and repair using stem cell therapy: a detailed histological, immunohistochemical and atomic force microscopy study.

Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of cicatricial lesions of the vocal folds. Here, we present a thorough morphological study, with the focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, dedicated to the effects of stem cells on the vocal folds repair after cicatricial lesions. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, which was surgically excised with a simultaneous implantation of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into the defect. The restoration of the vocal folds was studied 3 months postimplantation of stem cells and 6 months after the first surgery. The collagen structure assessment included histology, immunohistochemistry and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies. According to the data of optical microscopy and AFM, as well as to immunohistochemical analysis, MSC implantation into the vocal fold defect leads not only to the general reduction of scarring, normal ratio of collagens type I and type III, but also to a more complete restoration of architecture and ultrastructure of collagen fibres in the mucosa, as compared to the control. The collagen structures in the scar tissue in the vocal folds with implanted MSC are more similar to those in the normal mucosa of the vocal folds than to those of the untreated scars. AFM has proven to be an instrumental technique in the assessment of the ultrastructure restoration in such studies. LAY DESCRIPTION: Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of the vocal fold scars. Because collagen is a main component in the vocal fold mucosa responsible for the scar formation and repair, we focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, using a thorough morphological study based on histology and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Atomic force microscopy is a scanning microscopic technique which allows revealing the internal structure of a tissue with a resolution up to nanometres. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, surgically excised and treated with a mesenchymal stem cells transplant. Our morphological study, primarily AFM, explicitly shows that the collagen structures in the scarred vocal folds almost completely restore after the stem cell treatment. Thus, the modern microscopic methods, and especially AFM are instrumental tools for monitoring the repair of the vocal folds scars.

Ameliorative Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Pulp on Alloxan Induced Kidney Toxicity in Male Adult Wistar Rats

Nephropathy is a common complication of diabetes, managed with both orthodox and herbal remedies. Cucumis sativus is a creeping plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Its edible fruits possess diverse pharmacological activities. This study investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of cucumis sativus pulp (EECSP) on alloxan induced renotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. Thirty adult male Wistar rats weighing between 170-190g were purchased and acclimatized for 2 weeks and afterwards grouped into 6 groups (A-F) of 5 rats each. Group A (Control) received distilled water and rat feed ad libitum . Diabetes was induced in Groups B, C, D, and E with consequent renotoxicity using a single intraperitoneal injection of 150mg/kg of Alloxan after an overnight fast. Group C, D and E were afterwards treated with 100, 250 and 500mg/kg of ethanolic extract of cucumis sativus pulp respectively. Group F received 500mg/kg of EECSP. Extract administration was oral and once daily for 28days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected via ocular puncture and sera separated for kidney function test. The animals were sacrificed and their kidneys collected, and prepared for light microscopy. Results showed that treatment with EECSP caused a dose dependent restoration of kidney architecture and renal functions when compared with untreated alloxan group that showed severe distortions in renal architecture and higher than normal serum urea and creatinine levels. Ethanolic extract of cucumis sativus pulp thus caused a dose dependent ameliorative effect on alloxan induced diabetic nephropathy in adult male Wistar rats. Keywords : Nephropathy, diabetes, Cucumis sativus , alloxan DOI : 10.7176/JNSR/9-4-02

Effect of crocin on biochemical parameters, oxidative/antioxidative profiles, sperm characteristics and testicular histopathology in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Chronic hyperglycemia and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are strong predictors of the development of reproductive complications of diabetes. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of crocin on biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, and sperm characteristics as well as testes histopathology in diabetic rats. Twenty-four rats were divided into the four groups as follows: control, untreated diabetic and two crocin (40 and 60 mg/kg/day)-treated diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced by injection of a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ, 60 mg/kg). Administration of crocin (intraperitoneally) was started three days after STZ injection and was continued until the 28th day. At the end of the experiment, rats were anesthetized after weighing. Blood samples and epididymal sperm were subsequently collected to measure biochemical parameters (glucose and lipid profile), total oxidant and antioxidant status (TOS and TAS, respectively), oxidative stress index (OSI), and sperm characteristics (count, motility, and viability); also, testes were dissected out for histopathology examination. Our result indicated that blood glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol levels, as well as TOS, and OSI decreased, but body weight, sperm counts, motility and viability, as well as TAS and HDL levels increased significantly in the crocin-treated diabetic rats (P˂0.05). In testis sections from diabetic rats treated with crocin (40 and 60 mg/kg), seminiferous tubules exhibited normal shape and restoration of testis architecture was observed. Administration of crocin in the present study, ameliorated blood glucose, lipid abnormalities, oxidative stress, sperm characteristics and testis damage in STZ-diabetic rats.

The protective effect of Zataria multiflora Boiss. hydroalcoholic extract on TNF-α production, oxidative stress, and insulin level in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Oxidative stress leads to reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, which causes tissue injury in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Zataria multiflora extract on TNF-α, oxidative stress products, and insulin levels as well as lipid profile in diabetic rats. Rats were randomly divided into 6 groups of 10 animals. Diabetes was induced by a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Control and diabetic control rats orally received 1 mL/day of normal saline, whereas the other three groups received 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day of Z. multiflora extract, and one non-diabetic group orally received 1000 mg/kg/day Z. multiflora extract, for 28 days. At the end of the treatment course, rats were anesthetized and their serum samples were analyzed for TNF-α, malondialdehyde (MDA), super oxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid profile, total plasma protein, blood glucose, insulin, and liver enzymes levels. Our results showed that cholesterol, LDL, TG, MDA and TNF-α levels decreased, but HDL, SOD, TAC, and total protein increased significantly in the diabetic group receiving 1000 mg/kg Z. multiflora compared to the diabetic control group (P<0.05). Moreover, blood glucose level was significantly reduced following administration of different concentrations of Z. multiflora. Liver sections of diabetic rats treated with Z. multiflora 1000 mg/kg showed normal hepatocytes and restoration of liver architecture. Z. multiflora extract ameliorated oxidative stress, TNF-α serum level, lipid abnormality, blood glucose, and liver damage in rats with diabetes mellitus.

Ibo Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago. An Architectural Heritage Within a Natural Heritage

This paper presents the method adopted in the study of Ibo, a small island of the Quirimbas Archipelago in northern Mozambique. Ibo is part of a larger study, begun in 2004 which is still ongoing. In the first phase, the author's attention was focused on the restoration of the historic architecture built with coral limestone. But very soon it became evident that it was necessary to study the context in which these coral architectures were built. After a few years of careful observation, it was apparent that coral stone architecture is strongly conditioned by the knowledge and conservation of the natural environment in which it is built. And in the case of Ibo, the beauty of its heritage and its conservation lies in the delicate balance between architecture and nature.

Mechanisms for the Resolution of Organ Fibrosis.

Fibrosis is a dynamic process with the potential for reversibility and restoration of near-normal tissue architecture and organ function. Herein, we review mechanisms for resolution of organ fibrosis, in particular that involving the lung, with an emphasis on the critical roles of myofibroblast apoptosis and clearance of deposited matrix.

Pilot experimental study on amniotic epithelial mesenchymal cell transplantation in natural occurring tendinopathy in horses. Ultrasonographic and histological comparison

amnion-derived stem cells are considered a promising alternative source for tendon tissue regeneration. aims of this paper were to illustrate the ultrasound and histological outcomes following the treatment of acute and chronic superficial digital flexor tendon spontaneous lesions in horses with ovine amniotic epithelial cells xenotransplantation. six adult horses suffering from unilateral acute (4 cases) and chronic (2 cases) tendinopathy (clinical and ultrasound diagnosis) were enrolled. At baseline, ovine amniotic epithelial cells were grafted, in sterile conditions and under ultra-sound control, into the most damaged area. Ultra-sound controls were performed at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 days after cells implantation; after horse euthanasia (180 days) tendon samples were collected and submitted to histological examination (cellularity, extracellular matrix fiber organization, blood vessels). at baseline, in the acute cases, the ultra-sound exam showed a focal, dis-homogeneous, hypo-echoic area into the superficial digital flexor tendon, with loss of the normal fibrillar pattern, while in the chronic cases the damaged tendon area appeared thickened and completely hyper-echoic. At the final follow-up tendon echotexture was more regular, the cross-sectional area similar to the contra-lateral limb, and the collagen fibers were oriented in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tendon both in the acute and chronic cases, suggesting a positive healing response. These findings were supported by the histological analyses which showed an almost complete restoration of normal tendon architecture with an optimal alignment of tendon fibers. the present pilot study supports the hypothesis that amniotic epithelial cells are provided of an excellent healing potential and shows a very good correlation between the ultrasound findings and the histologic features.

Vitrectomy with Inverted Internal Limiting Membrane Flap Technique for Treatment of a Traumatic Macular Hole

Background: Macular hole is a round full-thickness opening in foveal center which is an important cause of central vision loss. In most cases it is idiopathic, i.e., due to abnormal vitreo-foveal traction without any apparent predisposing conditions. Other causes include 1) High myopia. 2) Blunt ocular trauma. Aim: to evaluate the anatomical closure rates and visual outcomes in patients with traumatic macular holes treated by vitrectomy with inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique. Patients and Methods: a prospective interventional study was conducted on 10 eyes of 10 patients with traumatic macular holes not spontaneously closed for more than 3 months after trauma and treated by vitrectomy with inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique at I-vision private center, Cairo and Alforsan eye private center, Assiut between September 2015 and December 2018. After surgery, both closure rate and visual outcome were re-evaluated monthly during the follow up period up to 6 months. Results: the main best-corrected visual acuity improved after PPV with inverted ILM flap technique from 0.87 ± 0.09 logMAR at baseline to 0.73 ± 0.11 logMAR at 1st month, to 0.49 ± 0.13 logMAR at 3rd month and reached to the maximum improvement 0.29 ± 0.10 logMAR by the end of 6th month (P < 0.001). The macular holes were successfully closed in all cases (100%). Conclusion: vitrectomy with inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique is associated with complete closure of the macular hole with restoration of the normal architecture and also a significant improvement of vision.

Magnolol exerts anti-asthmatic effects by regulating Janus kinase-signal transduction and activation of transcription and Notch signaling pathways and modulating Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokines in ovalbumin-sensitized asthmatic mice.

Allergic asthma, is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airway presenting with airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodelling. T helper cells-derived cytokines are critically associated with asthma pathogenesis. Janus kinase-signal transduction and activation of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling is found to be involved in asthma. Magnolol is a plant-derived bioactive compound with several pharmacological effects. The study aimed to assess the effects of magnolol in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic model. BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with OVA. Magnolol (12.5, 25, or 50 mg/kg body weight) was administered to separate groups of animals. Dexamethasone was used as the positive control. Cellular infiltration into the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were reduced on magnolol treatment. The levels of Th2 and Th17 cytokines were reduced with noticeably raised levels of interferon gamma. Lung function was improved effectively along with restoration of bronchial tissue architecture. OVA-specific immunoglobulin E levels in serum and BALF were decreased by magnolol. Magnolol reduced Th17 cell population and effectively modulated the JAK-STAT and Notch 1 signaling. The results suggest the promising use of magnolol in therapy for allergic asthma.

Evaluation of lipotropic effect of herbal formulation on hepatic fat accumulation in rats fed with methionine-choline deficient diet

Background: Choline is an essential lipotropic nutrient for regulating fatty acid synthesis and hepatic lipid mobilization. Deficiency of choline causes fatty liver leading to dysregulated liver function. Objective: To investigate the lipotropic activity of the proprietary herbal formulation (PHF) containing Acacia nilotica and Curcuma longa. Materials and Methods: Fatty liver disease was induced in Wistar rats by feeding methionine/choline-deficient (MCD) diet for 4 weeks. Animals were concurrently treated with PHF (at 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg rat body weight/day) for 4 weeks. Methionine/choline-sufficient (MCS) diet-fed rats were used as control. Serum biochemistry and liver parameters were determined at the end of experimental period. Further, anti-lipogenic and lipolytic activity of PHF extract was studied in HepG2 cells. Results: Rats fed with MCD diet, showed significant increase in liver lipids, triglycerides, cholesterol, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and decreased serum triglyceride level compared to MCS diet-fed rats indicating significant fat accumulation and liver damage. PHF treatment significantly decreased the liver lipids, triglyceride and serum ALT compared to MCD diet-fed rat. Histological evaluation revealed the restoration of hepatic architecture after PHF treatment. In in vitro studies, the PHF extract decreased the oleic acid induced fat accumulation in HepG2 cells. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the lipotropic effect of PHF evident from decreased fat accumulation and antilipogenic activity. These data suggests that PHF could be a potential supplement for preventing fatty liver.

ECONOMIC POLICY OF THE CHUVASH AUTHORITIES TO REVIVE THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH IN THE LATE 1980s – EARLY 2000s

Introduction. The turn of the 1980s-1990s in the history of our country is characterized by the liberalization of the social system, which changed, in particular, the relations between the state and the Orthdox church. One of the crucial issues in this area is the consideration of state support for the revival of the Church, which allows to determine the place and role of the Orthodox confession in the life of post-Soviet Russia. The article analyzes the features of the historical development of the economic policy of regional authorities aimed at restoring the position of the local eparchy, which was implemented in the late 1980s – early first decade of the 2000s.The purpose of the research is to reveal a comprehensive chronological framework of the historical aspects of economic policy carried out in relation to the Orthodox confession of Chuvashia. Materials and Methods. To achieve this goal, both unpublished archival documents and published sources were used. The main source for the article was the materials from the funds of the state historical archive of the Chuvash Republic and the state archive of modern history of the Chuvash Republic (documents of official records management of public authorities and religious organizations), which are first introduced into scientific use. The study is based on the principle of historicism, comparative-historical and descriptive methods, which revealed the content of the research. Results. According to the results of the study of economic policy of the Chuvash authorities to revive The Cheboksary-Chuvash eparchy in the late 1980s–early 2000s, the author gives a comprehensive description of the considered historical processes. In particular, two stages concerning the transformation of state support for Orthodoxy are proposed and described. The first phase covers 1987–1993 and it is connected with the origin and formation of the practice of returning the monuments of Orthodox Church culture to the Cheboksary-Chuvash eparchy, periodic financial assistance for their repair and restoration work. The second stage (1993–2003) is the time of approval and implementation of the conceptual bases of restoration of the property confiscated from the Russian Orthodox Church during the Soviet period of history, fixed in the regional legislation. It is also established that the main directions of economic policy of the Chuvash authorities in relation to the Russian Orthodox Church were the return of the Church from the state jurisdiction of the property confiscated from it during the Soviet era, as well as the allocation of funds and construction materials for the repair of destroyed and the construction of new churches. Discussion and Conclusion. The consideration of the amount of economic assistance provided by the leadership of the Chuvash Republic to the local Orthodox Church testify to their important role in the full revival of Orthodoxy to the beginning of the first decade of the 2000s, which began in the Chuvash Republic in 1987. The process of state revival of the Church until 1993 was not systematic and was carried out as the need for ongoing democratic reforms. Only in 1994–1997 the decrees of the President of the Chuvash Republic were adopted, accelerating not only the free transfer of buildings-monuments of Orthodox architecture to the ownership of the Cheboksary-Chuvash eparchy, but providing significant financial support for its revival. Undoubtedly, by assisting The Cheboksary-Chuvash eparchy in the restoration of Orthodox architecture, the local authorities fulfilled their moral duty to make amends for the crimes committed by the Soviet state against the Orthodox Church in the Republic. Keywords: denominations, Russian Orthodox Church, Chuvash ASSR Orthodoxy, Chuvash Republic, Cheboksary-Chuvash diocese.

The Effects of Tamarindus Indica Seed Extract On Mice Kidney, Liver and Skin Following Envenomation with Daboai Russelli And Naja Kaouthia

Introduction: Tamarindus indica seed extract (TSE) has anti-snake-venom properties. This study examined the histological changes of kidney, liver and skin of mice envenomed with either Daboai russelli and Naja kaouthia and treated with TSE. Materials and Methods: ICR mice were used. Group 1 mice (n=8) were given subcutaneous (SC) venom only of either species. Group 2 (n=8) envenomed mice were treated with SC TSE 30mg/20g at the same site 30 minutes after envenomation with either species. Tissue samples were harvested at 24 hours and 1 week. Transversely cut kidney, biggest liver lobe, and skin sample from the venom injection site were fixed in 10% formal-saline and stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin for light-microscopy analysis. Results: Group 1 mice exposed to D.russelli venom, all died within 48hours. Hence, no comparison was made between Groups 1 and 2 at 1 week. However histological comparison was made within Group 2 at 24 hours and 1 week. Kidney histological changes of envenomed mice showed mild nephropathy; liver showed inflammation and mild liver injury. Skin samples showed disruption of the skin architecture. These changes, worsened after 1 week. However, changes in the skin were unaltered after 1 week for N.kaouthia. When TSE 30mg/20g was administered, there was restoration of tissue architecture in mice envenomed with either species. Conclusion: When mice were exposed to LD100 of either snake venoms, histological changes took place within 24 hours. This study showed that TSE 30mg/20g was able to restore tissue architecture within 24 hours.

Architecture as Synthetic Agency: Narrative‐Augmented Design in Practice

LanD Studio is a Nanjing‐based think‐tank for place‐making that carries out design research in real conditions. Guest‐Editor Andong Lu, who co‐founded the studio with fellow former Cambridge University researcher and Guest‐Editor Pingping Dou, introduces its form of working through recent installations and interventions that embrace architectural renovation, exhibitions, participatory performance and mass‐media activities. Architecture here becomes a meaningful experience that connects people to each other and to their environment.

Advanced damage detection techniques in historical buildings using digital photogrammetry and 3D surface anlysis

Abstract In the last twenty years, advances in technology led to a progressive digitalization in photography and photogrammetry and to the development of a considerable number of image processing software. In several fields, Digital Image Processing techniques began to spread. For example, in Civil Engineering there are many methodologies for the monitoring of reinforced concrete structures or road pavements. In most cases they involve the application of mathematical and morphological filters to two-dimensional images, to obtain quantitative information about the decay of the analyzed structures. Instead in Architectural Restoration there are still few researches focused on these methodologies, because of the great complexity and uniqueness of historical buildings. Furthermore, until now architectural photogrammetry mainly concerned geometric survey and it was not widely used to diagnose the presence of alterations on buildings, despite the great potential of a non-invasive, contactless survey technique. Therefore, the aim of this research is to create an analysis approach, to detect damages on three-dimensional models, richer in information about depth and volume. The analysis can be carried out through a specific set of spatial and morphological filters for advanced surface analysis, adopting software tools mostly used for three-dimensional metrology and surface topography. A sequence of operations can be executed, allowing to obtain quantitative information about some kinds of alterations (cracks or features induced by material loss) from three-dimensional models like point clouds or polygonal meshes. The procedure was tested and validated on a case study (Palazzo Palmieri, Monopoli – Italy). The result of the research is a low interaction approach, through which it is possible to identify and quantify damages on the surfaces.

Urinary angiotensinogen predicts progressive chronic kidney disease after an episode of experimental acute kidney injury.

One of the major obstacles to prevent AKI-CKD transition is the lack of effective methods to follow and predict the ongoing kidney injury after an AKI episode. In the present study, we test the utility of urinary angiotensinogen (UAGT) for dynamically evaluating renal structural changes and predicting AKI-CKD progression by using both mild and severe bilateral renal ischemia/reperfusion injury mice. UAGT returns to pre-ischemic levels 14 days after mild AKI followed by kidney architecture restoration, whereas sustained increase in UAGT accompanies by ongoing renal fibrosis after severe AKI. UAGT at day 14-42 correlates with renal fibrosis 84 days after AKI. For predicting fibrosis at day 84, the area under receiver operating characteristics curve of UAGT at day 14 is 0.81. Persistent elevation in UAGT correlates with sustained activation of intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) during AKI-CKD transition. Abrogating RAS activation post AKI markedly reduced renal fibrosis, with early RAS intervention (from 14 days after IRI) more beneficial than late intervention (from 42 days after IRI) in alleviating fibrosis. Importantly, UAGT decreases after RAS intervention, and its level at day 14-28 correlates with the extent of renal fibrosis at day 42 post RAS blockade. A pilot study conducted in patients with acute tubular necrosis finds that compared with those recovered, patients with AKI-CKD progression exhibits elevated UAGT during the 3-month follow-up after biopsy. Our study suggests that UAGT enables the dynamical monitoring of renal structural recovery after an AKI episode and may serve as an early predictor for AKI-CKD progression and treatment response.

Ancient restorations at Hierapolis of Phrygia (Denizli, Turkey): Interdisciplinary research on materials and technologies

The restoration of architectural monuments constituted a common practice in the ancient Mediterranean world and the use of artificial binders in repairing blocks is attested both by literary sources and archaeological evidence. However, the knowledge on the use of these ancient binders and their components is limited, due to the shortness and indefiniteness of the ancient recipes and the difficulty of obtaining and analyzing samples from blocks that have remained exposed to atmospheric agents and have undergone degradation.The paper focuses on the exceptional context of Hierapolis of Phrygia (Denizli, Turkey), where many ancient binders used in the restoration of Roman Imperial-era buildings (Sanctuary of Apollo, Theatre, North Agora and Ploutonion) have been identified. Thanks to the good state of conservation of these materials, the paper offers the unique opportunity for studying the role of organic additives used in the ancient bonding mortars and understanding the technologies adopted in the architectural restoration. Several analytical methodologies (Pyrolosis and Gas chromatography coupled with Mass Spectroscopy; X-ray diffractometry and Optical Microscopy) were applied to identify the organic and inorganic components.The mortars sampled in Hierapolis showed the presence of casein, animal glue, beeswax and Pinaceae resin, in agreement with the survived ancient recipes on bonding mortars. However, the archaeometric data revealed the use of complex mixtures, which are also attested by the literary sources. In particular, the use of calcite together with various organic additives appeared to be a common practice. Criteria of selection and use of the different mixtures have been discussed.

The 2001–2017 Façade Renovations of Jongno Roadside Commercial Buildings Built in the 1950s–60s: Sustainability of Ordinary Architecture within Regionality

This paper examines 41 roadside commercial buildings of the Jongno region built in the 1950s–60s that received façade renovations between 2001 and 2017. The aim is to show the relations between the forms of renovation and the regionality of the commercial areas, which have been historically formed in the original city center of Seoul, as well as the relation of these connections to the sustainability of ordinary architecture. Because Jongno has been the city center for the 600 years following the Joseon dynasty, the region is still a center for politics, administration, economics, and culture. Specialized commercial areas exist in each region within Jongno, and each of these reflect their own regionality. Within such regionality, the roadside commercial buildings are adapting and changing to fit the times, and regionality is sustained through façade renovation of ordinary architecture. The façade renovations of roadside commercial buildings that reflect such regionality and sustainability do not involve redevelopment through overall demolition, which represents a loss of regionality and history and is conducted undemocratically; rather, the practice should be acknowledged for adding value as past heritage and the simultaneous incorporation of present and future values.

An unusual case report of primary vitreoretinal lymphoma

BackgroundPrimary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL) is a rare ocular condition and its diagnosis remains a challenge. The clinical presentation is variable and it can masquerade as chronic intermediate or posterior uveitis. We report an unusual case of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) presenting as migrating retinal lesions with unique shapes. The diagnostic challenges are described and the clinical features of intraocular lymphoma are reviewed.Case presentationA 53 year-old gentleman presented with unilateral visual disturbance and a wide area of retinal whitening with sharp borders temporal to the macula, corresponding to hyper-reflective subretinal changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT). The lesion resolved spontaneously after 6 weeks but was replaced by multiple punctate sub-retinal and sub-retinal pigment epithelial lesions. The second eye was involved 4 months later and there were new areas of hyper-reflective changes in both eyes, which migrated nasally within a week, with no evidence of scarring in the previous sites. The diagnosis of diffuse B-cell lymphoma was made on brain biopsy when the patient subsequently presented with acute confusion and magnetic resonance imaging brain scan showed a frontal lesion. Following systemic chemotherapy, the sub-retinal changes resolved with complete restoration of retinal architecture and improvement in visual acuity.ConclusionWe report an unusual case of PVRL presenting as migrating retinal lesions with unique shapes. PVRL is a great imitator and a high index of clinical suspicion is required in unexplained ocular lesions to prevent a delay in diagnosis.

Use of a 3D model to improve the performance of laser-based railway track inspection

In recent decades, 3D reconstruction techniques have been applied in an increasing number of areas such as virtual reality, robot navigation, medical imaging and architectural restoration of cultural relics. Most of the inspection techniques used in railway systems are, however, still implemented on a 2D basis. This is particularly true of track inspection due to its linear nature. Benefiting from the development of sensor technology and constantly improving processors, higher quality 3D model reconstructions are becoming possible which push the technology into more challenging areas. One such advancement is the use of 3D perceptual techniques in railway systems. This paper presents a novel 3D perceptual system, based on a low-cost 2D laser sensor, which has been developed for the detection and characterisation of physical surface defects in railway tracks. An innovative prototype system has been developed to capture and correlate the laser scan data; dedicated 3D data processing procedures have then been developed in the form of three specific defect-detection algorithms (depth gradient, face normal and face-normal gradient) which are applied to the 3D model. The system has been tested with rail samples in the laboratory and at the Long Marston Railway Test Track. The 3D models developed represent the external surface of the samples both laterally (2D slices) and longitudinally (3D model), and common surface defects can be detected and represented in 3D. The results demonstrate the feasibility of applying 3D reconstruction-based inspection techniques to railway systems.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of berberine attenuate hepatic fibrosis induced by thioacetamide injection in rats

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the roots, rhizomes and stems of coptis. Liver fibrosis is a worldwide health problem with no established therapy until now. The aim of our study is to investigate the efficacy of BBR on hepatic fibrosis induced in rats and to uncover other mechanisms. Rats were injected with thioacetamide (TAA) (200 mg/kg, i.p) twice per week for 6 weeks to induce fibrosis. Treated groups were gavaged with BBR (50 mg/kg/day, p.o) simultaneously with TAA injection. Hepatic antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD, GPx) were assessed in hepatic homogenate. Their activities were attenuated by TAA injection and elevated by BBR administration. Additionally, serum IL-6 and mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and IFN-γ were evaluated as inflammatory markers. Our results showed that BBR suppressed the inflammation induced by TAA injection. Tissue expression of α-SMA (marker of activated HSCs), TGF-β1 and fibronectin were measured by immunohistochemistry as well as mRNA expressions of TGF-β1 and fibronectin were quantified as fibrotic markers. The collagen deposition in hepatic tissues was assessed by Masson's trichome staining. BBR significantly alleviated TGF-β1 production, decreased collagen and fibronectin deposition and consequently attenuated hepatic fibrogenesis. Akt pathway controls cell survival, proliferation, migration and adhesion. The relative phosphorylation of Akt was determined in hepatic homogenates that was increased with TAA injection and decreased by BBR treatment. Inhibition of Akt pathway has been linked to the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Caspase-3, caspase-9, Bcl-2 and Bax were quantified as apoptotic markers using qPCR and also caspase-3 by immunohistochemistry. BBR-treated rats showed an increase in the expression of apoptotic markers. Moreover, BBR-treated rats showed restoration of normal liver lobular architecture as shown by H&E staining. In conclusion, BBR is a potential therapeutic candidate for liver fibrosis owing to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.