DL Group Research Articles

N-3 Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids improve the sperm, egg, and offspring quality of Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii)

Two diets with the same docosahexaenoic acid:eicosapentaenoic acid ratio (1.8:1), but with different n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 LC-PUFA) contents [29.5g/kg (DH) and 17.9g/kg (DL)], were designed and fed to two groups of 46 female and 30 male Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) broodstock for 11months. Sperm and egg quality and reproductive performance indices were recorded during cross-breeding. Larval offspring resulting from cross-matings were divided into the following four groups for a 30-d feeding trial: D1 (DH♀×DH♂), D2 (DH♀×DL♂), D3 (DL♀×DH♂), and D4 (DL♀×DL♂). The results showed that egg size of the DH group was significantly larger than that of the DL group. With respect to sperm quality, there were no significant differences in wobble, amplitude of lateral head displacement, beat/cross frequency, and mean angular displacement between the two dietary groups; however, a high n-3 LC-PUFA diet increased sperm curvilinear, straight-line, and average path velocities in the DH group. The DH group had significantly lower levels of serum triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and malonaldehyde, but higher superoxide dismutase level, and total antioxidant capacity compared with the DL group. At 7 and 32days post hatching, the survival of larvae in groups D1 and D2 was significantly higher than that in groups D3 and D4. The specific growth rate of larvae in group D4 was the lowest among the four groups. The results suggest that n-3 LC-PUFA can improve the reproductive performance of male and female broodstock of Siberian sturgeon and the quality of their offspring, but that n-3 LC-PUFA enrichment of the diet is more critical for female broodstock than for males.

Alveolar ridge preservation with an open-healing approach using single-layer or double-layer coverage with collagen membranes.

PurposeThe aim of this prospective pilot study was to compare alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) procedures with open-healing approach using a single-layer and a double-layer coverage with collagen membranes using radiographic and clinical analyses.MethodsEleven molars from 9 healthy patients requiring extraction of the maxillary or mandibular posterior teeth were included and allocated into 2 groups. After tooth extraction, deproteinized bovine bone mineral mixed with 10% collagen was grafted into the socket and covered either with a double-layer of resorbable non-cross-linked collagen membranes (DL group, n=6) or with a single-layer (SL group, n=5). Primary closure was not obtained. Cone-beam computed tomography images were taken immediately after the ARP procedure and after a healing period of 4 months before implant placement. Radiographic measurements were made of the width and height changes of the alveolar ridge.ResultsAll sites healed without any complications, and dental implants were placed at all operated sites with acceptable initial stability. The measurements showed that the reductions in width at the level 1 mm apical from the alveolar crest (including the bone graft) were −1.7±0.5 mm in the SL group and −1.8±0.4 mm in the DL group, and the horizontal changes in the other areas were also similar in the DL and SL groups. The reductions in height were also comparable between groups.ConclusionsWithin the limitations of this study, single-layer and double-layer coverage with collagen membranes after ARP failed to show substantial differences in the preservation of horizontal or vertical dimensions or in clinical healing. Thus, both approaches seem to be suitable for open-healing ridge preservation procedures.

Dexmedetomidine Added to Local Anesthetic Mixture of Lidocaine and Ropivacaine Enhances Onset and Prolongs Duration of a Popliteal Approach to Sciatic Nerve Blockade

PurposeA literature review of multiple clinical studies on mixing additives to improve pharmacologic limitation of local anesthetics during peripheral nerve blockade revealed inconsistency in success rates and various adverse effects. Animal research on dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant on the other hand has promising results, with evidence of minimum unwanted results. This randomized, double-blinded, contrastable observational study examined the efficacy of adding dexmedetomidine to a mixture of lidocaine plus ropivacaine during popliteal sciatic nerve blockade (PSNB). MethodsSixty patients undergoing varicose saphenous vein resection using ultrasonography-guided PSNB along with femoral and obturator nerve blocks as surgical anesthesia were enrolled. All received standardized femoral and obturator nerve blocks, and the PSNB group was randomized to receive either 0.5 mL (50 µg) of dexmedetomidine (DL group) or 0.5 mL of saline (SL group) together with 2% lidocaine (9.5 mL) plus 0.75% ropovacaine (10 mL). Sensory onset and duration of lateral sural cutaneous nerve, sural nerve, superficial peroneal nerve, deep peroneal nerve, lateral plantar nerve, and medial plantar nerve were recorded. Motor onset and duration of tibial nerve and common peroneal nerve were also examined. FindingsSensory onset of sural nerve, superficial peroneal nerve, lateral plantar nerve, and medial plantar nerve was significantly quicker in the DL group than in the SL group (P < 0.05). Sensory onset of lateral sural cutaneous nerve and deep peroneal nerve was not statistically different between the groups (P > 0.05). Motor onset of tibial nerve and common peroneal nerve was faster in the DL group than in in the SL group (P < 0.05). Duration of both sensory and motor blockade was significantly longer in the DL group than in the SL group (P < 0.05). ImplicationsPerineural dexmedetomidine added to lidocaine and ropivacaine enhanced efficacy of popliteal approach to sciatic nerve blockade with faster onset and longer duration.

Effects of diode laser irradiation and fibroblast growth factor on periodontal healing of replanted teeth after extended extra-oral dry time.

The search for effective protocols to reduce the incidence of root resorption and allow periodontal ligament repair is still challenging, given the unpredictable outcome of late tooth replantation. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of both high-power diode laser irradiation (DL) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF) on the periodontal healing of replanted teeth after extended extra-oral dry time. Maxillary incisors of 50 male rats were extracted and assigned to three experimental and two control groups (n = 10). DL: root surfaces treated with DL (810 nm, continuous mode, 1.0 W, 30 s), FGF: topical application of FGF gel to the root surface and in the alveolar wound, DL + FGF: DL and topical application of FGF gel, C+: no treatment after extraction and immediate replantation and C-: no treatment after extraction and replantation after 60 min. In the experimental groups, the specimens were kept dry for 60 min, the pulps were removed and the canals were filled with calcium hydroxide paste prior to tooth replantation. The animals were euthanized after 60 days. The specimens were processed for radiographic, histological and immunohistochemical analyses. The radiographic analysis showed fewer resorptive areas in DL + FGF (P < 0.05). The histological and immunohistochemical analyses showed that the DL group had lower mean values of ankylosis, replacement and inflammatory resorption when compared to C-, not differing statistically from C+. DL + FGF produced significantly more collagen fibers (type I and type III) than C-, not differing from C+ in the case of type I fibers (P < 0.05). DL, with or without FGF, reduced the occurrence of external root resorption and ankylosis. Periodontal healing was favored and some fiber reinsertion occurred only when FGF was used.

Pharmacodynamic action and mechanism of Du Liang soft capsule, a traditional Chinese medicine capsule, on treating nitroglycerin-induced migraine

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDu Liang soft capsule (DL) is a traditional Chinese medicine for treating migraines; it is made from two Chinese herbs, including LigusticumstriatumDC., root; Angelica dahurica (Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook.f. ex Franch. & Sav., root. Aim of the studyIn the present study, we aimed to elucidate the pharmacodynamic action of DL and its mechanism in an animal model of migraines induced by glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). Materials and methodsSixty rats were randomly divided into six groups, including a normal control group, model control group, positive group (Sumatriptan 0.006gkg−1), and three DL groups (0.44, 1.31 and 3.93gkg−1). All rats were intragastrically treated with the corresponding treatment for 7 consecutive days, and they were subcutaneously injected with GTN (10mgkg−1) 30min after the last treatment, except in the normal control group. After model establishment, the behaviors of all rats, including head scratching, cage climbing, and the development of red ears were observed continuously by digital camera every 30min for 3h. Four hours after GTN treatment, all rats were anaesthetized and the blood and tissue samples were collected. Plasma calcitonin gene related to peptide (CGRP) and endothelin (ET) levels were measured using the radioimmunoassay method, and serum NO was determined by the colorimetric method. Afterwards, the brainstem tissues were dissected and washed with physiological saline, and divided evenly into two parts. One part was used to test the monoamine levels, including levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA), by the fluorometric method, and the other part was used to determine the nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) p65, nuclear c-fos, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-1β (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) levels by Western blot analysis. ResultsIn the pharmacodynamic action assay, DL (1.31 and 3.93gkg−1) greatly improved the abnormal behaviors of migraine rats, including head scratching and cage climbing, and the development of red ears. In the mechanism assay, compared with the control group, the plasma CGRP and serum NO levels and the brainstem 5-HT, NE and DA levels in the DL administration groups were significantly decreased; and the plasma ET levels were remarkably increased. Moreover, down-regulation of NF-κB p65, c-fos and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including iNOS, IL-1β and COX-2 in the brainstem in the DL administration groups were observed by Western blot analysis. ConclusionsThe above results suggested that DL has a therapeutic effect on migraines, and its mechanism may be related to adjusting the level of neurotransmitters and vasoactive substances, consequently relieving neurogenic inflammation.

PS 01-21] RENAL DENERVATION PROTECTS RENAL FUNCTION BY SUPPRESSING NAD(P)H OXIDASE ACTIVITY IN DAHL SALT-SENSITIVE RATS

Objective: Sympathetic activity is increased in CKD patients and plays an important and distinct role in renal disease-associated hypertension. Indeed, sympathetic activation is of crucial importance for both the raised blood pressure and the high morbidity and mortality of end-stage renal disease. So we investigated whether renal denervation protects renal function through an anti-oxidative effect. Design and Method: Dahl salt sensitive rats in two groups had the right kidney removed (uninephrectomy; Nx) and those in the other two groups had sham surgery (DL group or DH group). Two weeks later, half of the Nx group underwent left renal denervation (Nx-RDNx group; n = 10) and the other half had sham surgery (Nx-Sham; n = 10). The DL group received a 0.3% salt diet and the DH, Nx-RDNx, and Nx-Sham groups received an 8% salt diet after renal denervation or sham operation. After a further 6 weeks, kidney function and the renal tissue were assessed. Results: Blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, kidney weight and urinary sodium excretion did not differ between Nx-RDNx and Nx-Sham group. Creatinine clearance and urinary albumin excretion were significantly lower in the Nx-RDNx group than in the Nx-Sham group. Desmin staining was lower in Nx-RDNx compared with Nx-Sham. Fluorescent staining for reactive oxygen species in isolated glomeruli was significantly weaker in the Nx-RDNx group. A lucigenin assay of NAD(P)H oxidase activity in isolated glomeruli indicated that renal denervation may have caused the reduction in reactive oxygen species through suppression of the activity of NAD(P)H oxidase. Plasma renin activity was significant increased in the Nx-Sham group compared with DH, and renal denervation suppressed this activity. Conclusions: Renal sympathetic denervation helps protect against glomerular sclerosis, possibly by suppressing NAD(P)H oxidase activity, thereby decreasing glomerular reactive oxygen species.

Role of PI3K-Akt-HIF-1α signaling pathway in dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of damage to unventilated lung during one-lung ventilation in rats

Objective To evaluate the role of PI3K-Akt-HIF-1α signaling pathway in dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of damage to the unventilated lung during one-lung ventilation (OLV) in rats. Methods Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 250-350 g, were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10 each) using a random number table: two-lung ventilation (TLV) group, OLV + normal saline group (group OLV), OLV + dexmedetomidine group (group D), and OLV + dexmedetomidine + LY294002 group (group DL). Bilateral lungs were ventilated for 2.5 h in group TLV, and the right lung was ventilated for 2 h followed by 0.5 h TLV in the other groups.The rats were sacrificed, the left lung was removed for determination of wet to dry lung weight ratio (W/D ratio), and expression of phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) (by Western blot). Results Compared with group TLV, W/D ratio was significantly increased, the expression of p-Akt was down-regulated, and the expression of HIF-1α was up-regulated in the other three groups (P<0.05). Compared with group OLV, W/D ratio was significantly decreased, and the expression of p-Akt and HIF-1α was up-regulated in D and DL groups (P<0.05). Compared with group DL, W/D ratio was significantly decreased, and the expression of p-Akt and HIF-1α was up-regulated in group D (P<0.05). Conclusion PI3K-Akt-HIF-1α signaling pathway is involved in dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of damage to the unventilated lung during OLV in rats. Key words: 1-Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; Protein-serine-threonine kinases; Hypoxia-indu-cible factor 1, alpha subunit; Dexmedetomidine; Respiration, artificial; Respiratory distress syndrome, adult

Effect of implant insertion and loading protocol on long-term stability and crestal bone loss: A comparative study

Statement of problemDifferent insertion and loading protocols have been used to implement implant therapy; the consequences of these methods are unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the long-term outcomes of different implant insertion and loading protocols on crestal bone loss. Material and methodsThis was a nonrandomized retrospective study investigating data of patients in a private practice. Data were collected by an independent Tel Aviv University group from the patient records of a general practitioner's private practice. A total of 1688 implants were inserted in 343 patients whose records met the inclusion criteria, that is, 1317 immediately placed implants (IP group), 310 early placed implants (EP group) placed 6 to 8 weeks after implant placement, and 61 delayed placement implants (DP group) placed 4 to 6 months after extraction. The groups were also divided by implant loading method, giving 1203 immediately loaded implants (IL group), 273 early loaded implants (EL group) loaded within 4 to 10 weeks after implant placement, and 212 delayed loading implants (DL group) loaded within 3 to 6 months. Mixed model analysis was used to account for the different number of implants for each patient. ResultsThe average follow-up time was 107 months, with a cumulative implant survival rate of 95.6% and an average crestal bone loss of 2.03 mm. No statistical differences (P>.05) were found among the insertion or loading protocols. However, additional statistical analysis showed the influence of implant type on marginal bone loss (P<.05). ConclusionsThe 3-implant insertion and loading protocols exhibited minimal crestal bone loss and a high survival rate.

Role of JNK signaling pathway in dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of spinal neurotoxicity induced by lidocaine in rats

Objective To evaluate the role of C-Jun N-Terminal kinase(JNK)signaling pathway in dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of spinal neurotoxicity induced by lidocaine in rats. Methods Seventy-two adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 280–320 g, in which intrathecal catheters were successfully implanted without complications, were randomly divided into 6 groups(n=12 each)using a random number table: control group(group C); SP600125(JNK signaling pathway blocker)group(group SP); dexmedetomidine group(group D); lidocaine group(group L); dexmedetomidine+ lidocaine group(group DL); SP600125+ lidocaine group(group SPL). Dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO)20 μl was injected intrathecally in group C. SP600125 30 μg and 10% lidocaine 20 μl were injected intrathecally in SP and L groups, respectively.At 20 min after intrathecal injection of 10% lidocaine, dexmedetomidine 75 μg/kg was injected intraperitoneally in group DL, and SP600125 30 μg was injected intrathecally in group SPL.Dexmedetomidine 75 μg/kg was injected intraperitoneally in group D. The mechanical paw withdrawal threshold(MWT)and thermal paw withdrawal latency(TWL)were measured before intrathecal catheters were implanted(T0), before intrathecal administration(T1), and at 4, 8 and 12 h and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 days after intrathecal administration(T2-10). At 24 h after intrathecal administration, 6 rats randomly selected from each group were sacrificed.The lumbar segment(L4-5)of the spinal cord was removed for detection of cell apoptosis(by TUNEL)and phosphorylated JNK(p-JNK)expression(by Western blot). The apoptotic index was calculated. Results Compared with group C, no significant change was found in the MWT, TWL, apoptotic index and expression of p-JNK in SP and D groups(P>0.05), the MWT at T2-8 in group L, at T2-6 in group DL and at T2-5 in group SPL were significantly increased, the TWL at T2-8 in group L, at T2-5 in group DL and at T2-4 in group SPL were prolonged, and the apoptotic index and expression of p-JNK were increased in DL, SPL and L groups(P<0.05). Compared with group L, the MWT was significantly decreased, and the TWL was shortened at T2-8, and the apoptotic index and expression of p-JNK were decreased in DL and SPL groups(P<0.05). Conclusion The mechanism by which dexmedetomidine mitigates spinal neurotoxicity induced by lidocaine is related to inhibited activation of JNK signaling pathway in rats . Key words: JNK mitogen-activated prorein kinaese; Lidocaine; Dexmedetomidine; Spinal cord; Drug toxicity

The ant trap: rebuilding the foundations of the social sciences

INTRODUCTION PART ONE DL FOUNDATIONS, OLD AND NEW 1 Individualism: a recipe for warding off 2 Getting to the consensus view 3 Seeds of doubt 4 Another puzzle: a competing consensus 5 Tools and terminology 6 Grounding and anchoring 7 Case study: laws as frame principles 8 Two kinds of individualism 9 Against conjunctivism PART TWO DL GROUPS AND THE FAILURE OF INDIVIDUALISM 10 Groups and constitution 11 Simple facts about groups 12 The identity of groups 13 Kinds of groups 14 Group attitudes: patterns of grounding 15 Group action: more than member action 16 Group intention 17 Other theories I: social integrate models 18 Other theories II: status models LOOKING AHEAD Acknowledgements Bibliography Index

Effect of gallium aluminium arsenide diode laser therapy on Porphyromonas gingivalis in chronic periodontitis: a randomized controlled trial

The aim of this randomized, controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of 685-nm gallium aluminium arsenide (GaAlAs) diode laser therapy (1.6Jcm-2 ) as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. Thirty-two patients aged 35-60years old who had chronic periodontitis met the eligibility criteria. They were randomly assigned to two equal groups: scaling and root planing were performed in the SRP group, while scaling, root planing and laser irradiation of periodontal pockets were performed in the SRP + DL group. Subgingival plaque samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect P.gingivalis-colonized sites, and common clinical indices were evaluated before and 2months after treatment. Clinical examination included gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and gingival bleeding index (GBI), all of which were recorded. Data from 30 patients [19 women and 11 men; mean age, 48.4 (5.4) years old] were analysed. There were statistically significant improvements in GI, PD, CAL and GBI for the SRP + DL group compared to SRP group but no significant difference in PI between the groups. Additionally, the percentage of P.gingivalis-positive sites in the SRP + DL group decreased from 80% (12/15) to 20% (3/15) after laser irradiation (P<0.05). No significant changes were noted in the SRP group. GaAlAs diode laser irradiation of diseased periodontal pockets at 685nm and 1.6Jcm-2 seemed to be an effective adjuvant to mechanical instrumentation to treat chronic periodontitis.

A Comparison of the Effects of Different Types of Laryngoscope on the Cervical Motions: Randomized Clinical Trial

The rate of cervical injury among all trauma patients is 3.1%. The most important point during intubation of those patients is not to increase the cervical injury. In this study, we hypothesize that there will be a minimal cervical extension during a laryngoscopy with the use of optical view laryngoscopes. Prospective, randomized clinical trial. One hundred and fifty adult patients with ASA physical status I to III were enrolled in our study. After routine anesthesia induction, we randomly assigned the patients into three groups according to the type of laryngoscope. Macintosh type, Truview EVO2(®) type and Airtraq® type laryngoscopes were used in Group DL (n=50), Group TW (n=50) and Group ATQ (n=50), respectively. After applying general anesthesia induction and mask ventilation, all of the patients were positioned in the neutral position. An inclinometer was placed on the forehead of the patients. Then, the extension angle during intubation and the Cormack-Lehane Score were measured and the time to intubation was recorded. One of the 50 patients in the DL Group, 2 of the 50 patients in the TW Group, and 4 of the 50 patients in the ATQ Group were excluded from the study because of the failure of intubation at defined times. The angle of cervical extension during laryngoscopy was found to be 27.24±6.71, 18.08±7.53, and 14.54±4.09 degrees in the Groups DL, TV and ATQ, respectively; these differences also had statistical significance (p=0.000). The duration of intubation was found to be 13.59±5.49, 23.60±15.23, and 29.80±13.82 seconds in Groups DL, TV and ATQ, respectively (p=0.000). A minimal cervical motion was obtained during tracheal intubation with the use of Truview EVO2® and Airtraq® types of laryngoscope compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02191904).

Leucine minimizes denervation-induced skeletal muscle atrophy of rats through akt/mtor signaling pathways.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of leucine treatment (0.30 mM) on muscle weight and signaling of myoproteins related to synthesis and degradation pathways of soleus muscle following seven days of complete sciatic nerve lesion. Wistar rats (n = 24) of 3–4 months of age (192 ± 23 g) were used. The animals were randomly distributed into four experimental groups (n = 6/group): control, treated with leucine (L), denervated (D) and denervated treated with leucine (DL). Dependent measures were proteins levels of AKT, AMPK, mTOR, and ACC performed by Western blot. Leucine induced a reduction in the phosphorylation of AMPK (p < 0.05) by 16% in the L and by 68% in the DL groups as compared with control group. Denervation increased AMPK by 24% in the D group as compared with the control group (p < 0.05). AKT was also modulated by denervation and leucine treatment, highlighted by the elevation of AKT phosphorylation in the D (65%), L (98%) and DL (146%) groups as compared with the control group (p < 0.05). AKT phosphorylation was 49% higher in the D group as compared with the DL group. Furthermore, denervation decreased mTOR phosphorylation by 29% in the D group as compared with the control group. However, leucine treatment induced an increase of 49% in the phosphorylation of mTOR in the L group as compared with the control group, and an increase of 154% in the DL as compared with the D group (p < 0.05). ACC phosphorylation was 20% greater in the D group than the control group. Furthermore, ACC in the soleus was 22% lower in the in the L group and 50% lower in the DL group than the respective control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, leucine treatment minimized the deleterious effects of denervation on rat soleus muscle by increasing anabolic (AKT and mTOR) and decreasing catabolic (AMPK) pathways. These results may be interesting for muscle recovery following acute denervation, which may contribute to musculoskeletal rehabilitation after denervation.

Dexamethasone added to local lidocaine for infiltration along the spinal-epidural needle pathway decreases incidence and severity of backache after gynecological surgery.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dexamethasone added to local lidocaine infiltration on incidence and severity of backache after combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for gynecological surgery.Material/MethodsWe randomly allocated 160 patients to receive either local lidocaine infiltration along the pathway of the spinal-epidural needle (Group L) or local dexamethasone and lidocaine infiltration (Group DL). The incidence and scores for back pain were evaluated on the first, second, and third day (acute lumbago) and first, second, and sixth month (chronic lumbago) after surgery. Fentanyl consumption for management of back pain was recorded.ResultsThe incidence of acute, subacute, and chronic back pain was significantly lower in the DL group than the L group (P<0.05 for all comparisons). The VAS score for back pain on the first and second day and first and second month, were significantly lower in the DL group than the L group (P=0.0028, P=0.017; P<0.001, both), but there were no significant differences on the third day and sixth month. Fentanyl consumption in the first 3 postoperative days was significantly lower in the DL group than in the L group (P<0.001). The incidence of back pain during the first, second, and sixth month in patients who did not have preoperative lumbago were significantly lower in the DL group than in the L group (P<0.001, both).ConclusionsAddition of dexamethasone to local lidocaine infiltration effectively decreases the incidence and severity of back pain after combined spinal-epidural anesthesia implemented for gynecological surgery.

Docetaxel inhibits urethral stricture formation, an initial study in rabbit model.

IntroductionUrethral stricture, a frequent source of lower urinary tract disorders in men, is still a difficult problem for urologists. Based the anti-restenosis effect of paclitaxel on coronary artery, the role of docetaxel, a semi-synthetic analogue of paclitaxel, in limiting urethral stricture formation was studied.MethodsForty adult New Zealand male rabbits were involved in this study, which were randomly assigned into 3 groups, namely a high dose docetaxel (DH, 0.1 mg/d), a low dose docetaxel (DL, 0.01 mg/d) and a control (C) group, with 16, 16, 8 rabbits in each group, respectively. All animals underwent a 10 mm-long circumferential electrocoagulation of the bulbar urethra with a 13Fr pediatric resectoscope. Drugs were given by urethral irrigation daily and continuous for 28 days. Stricture formation was assessed by retrograde urethrography and videourethroscopy. Urethra pathology was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining and Sirius red staining.ResultsAt the end of this study, 15, 14 and 7 rabbits remained for evaluation in DH, DL and C group, respectively. Urethral diameters in DH, DL and C group were (7.17±1.63) mm, (6.55±0.62) mm, (3.23±1.36) mm, with a normal urethral diameter of (9.08±1.29) mm. Lumen reduction in DH, DL and C group were (36.93±11.58)%, (48.03±7.89)% and (84.66±14.95)%, respectively. Statistically difference could be found between every two groups (p<0.05) both in urethral diameters and in lumen reduction, except for compare of urethral diameters between DH and DL group. Histological examination confirmed mass fibrous tissue and collagen content at the stricture sit in C group, whereas less in docetaxel treated rabbits.ConclusionsDocetaxel could limit urethral stricture formation, which may be due to inhibition of fibrous tissue and collagen expression. Docetaxel may become a new choice in the prevention of urethral stricture formation.

Effect of distillers dried grains with solubles diet supplemented with rumen‐protected lysine and methionine on milk production and milk amino acids in the lactating cow

This study was to quantify the milk protein and amino acids (AA) in response to rumen‐protected lysine (Lys) and methionine (Met) supplementation in dairy cows fed distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) diet. Forty cows were divided into five dietary treatments: soybean meal diet (SM), DDGS diet and DDGS diets with 40 g/day Lys (DL), 20 g/ day Met dry matter (DM) and 20 g/ day Met plus 40 g/ day Lys (DLM), separately. Compared with SM, DL and DM groups, DLM group increased milk yield, 4% fat‐corrected milk, energy‐corrected milk yield and protein in milk. DDGS treatments increased total AA and the essential AA in milk. Results indicated that dietary DDGS increased intestinal supplies of Lys and Met.

Visceral Fat Accumulation and Postdexamethasone Serum Cortisol Levels in Patients With Adrenal Incidentaloma

Visceral fat is a significant cardiovascular risk factor. Because visceral fat has not been measured systematically in patients with adrenal incidentalomas, we have tested the hypothesis that visceral fat volume may be associated with cutoffs for serum cortisol levels post dexamethasone. This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study. The study was conducted at the Endocrine Investigation Unit, University Teaching Hospital. Seventy-three women and 52 men diagnosed with adrenal incidentalomas and 9 patients with overt Cushing's syndrome participated in this study. The following was measured for serum cortisol level after dexamethasone suppression and visceral fat ratios: visceral-subcutaneous (V:S) and visceral-total volume (V:TV) measured by computed tomography. Sixty-eight patients with a postdexamethasone serum cortisol greater than 1.8 μg/dL (50 nmol/L) showed a significantly higher mean V:S and V:TV fat ratio compared with those whose serum cortisol was less than 1.8 μg/dL: women, lnV:S, -0.45 vs -0.69 [mean difference 0.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08-0.41); P = .004] and V:TV, 0.39 vs 0.34 [mean difference 0.05 (95% CI 0.02-0.09); P = .004]; men, lnV:S, 0.64 vs 0.29 [mean difference 0.35 95% CI 0.08-0.63); P = .01] and V:TV, 0.65 vs 0.57 [mean difference 0.08 (95% CI 0.02-0.14); P = .02]. By ANOVA and post hoc analysis (Fisher's least significant differences), there was no difference in fat ratios between the postdexamethasone serum cortisol groups [1.8-2.9 μg/dL (50-82 nmol/L), 3.0-5.0 μg/dL (83-137 nmol/L), > 5.0 μg/dL (>138 nmol/L) and Cushing's syndrome (mean V:TV: 0.38, 0.40, 0.40, 0.41, respectively)], but they all differed significantly from the less than the 1.8-μg/dL group (V:TV: 0.34, P = .03). Visceral fat is increased in patients with adrenal incidentalomas and a postdexamethasone serum cortisol of greater than 1.8 μg/dL and is similar to that found in patients with overt Cushing's syndrome.

The effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on expression of IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in normal and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages.

Differentiated macrophages (MØ) are the resident tissue phagocytes and sentinel cells of the innate immune response. These cells are major constituents of periapical granulomas. Current studies indicate these activated cells as the source of bone-resorbing cytokines in the periapical granuloma. Periapical inflammation can be mediated by proinflammatory cytokines like interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), IL-6, and IL-8. Reducing the production of these cytokines may be beneficial for the treatment of periapical lesions. Oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been linked with anti-resorptive and bone-protective effects. The purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of DHA on the expression of these cytokines by normal and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated MØ. We hypothesized that pretreatment of MØ with DHA decreases the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by LPS-treated MØ. THP-1 monocytes were cultured and differentiated into MØ. DHA was added to MØ in a dose-dependent manner. MØ samples were added to the following groups: Group 1, ethanol alone as a solvent control; Group 2, 10 µg/ml of DHA (D1); Group 3, 20 µg/ml of DHA (D2); Group 4, 10 µg/ml of DHA + LPS (DL1); Group 5, 20 µg/ml of DHA + LPS (DL2); Group 6, LPS alone. Reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) followed by ImageJ analysis was used to measure cytokine expression. The results show that IL-1ß and TNF-α levels for DL and DHA (basal) were significantly lower than the levels in LPS alone. IL-6 was increased in the DL groups. There was no significant change for IL-8. DHA at higher concentrations may selectively decrease proinflammatory cytokine production of IL-1ß and TNF-α. More studies are needed to verify the anti-inflammatory therapeutic action of agents like DHA omega-3 fatty acids.

Effects of constant light during perinatal periods on the behavioral and neuronal development of mice with or without dietary lutein

Constant light conditions (LL) carry a risk of disrupting the biological clock of developing animals. Our purpose in this study was to investigate what disorders occur in animals receiving an LL stress during the late embryonic and suckling periods as compared with animals housed in dark-light (14 h-10 h) conditions (DL). In addition, we examined ameliorating effects against the disorder by the oral administration of lutein as an antioxidant. LL caused hypertrophy of the spleen and induced a higher expression of serotonin transporter (5HTT) in the corpus striatum and hippocampus in 15-day-old pups. In 9-week-old offspring, LL caused abnormal behavior in the elevated plus-maze test. The expression levels of 5HTT in the brain of the LL group changed to lower than those in DL group. The oral administration of lutein lessened the abnormality in behavior and 5HTT expression in the hippocampus to a certain degree although the expression levels of 5HTT in the corpus striatum were not altered by lutein diet. LL also induced disorders in the maternal brain with lower expression levels of 5HTT and neuregulin 1. These results indicate that LL during the perinatal periods may induce some neuronal abnormalities in both offspring and mothers that may be partially ameliorated by dietary lutein as an antioxidant.

Influence of low concentration acid treatment on lithium disilicate core/veneer ceramic bond strength

Objective: This study evaluated the influence of low concentration acid treatment on the shear bond strength between lithium disilicate (LD) infrastructure and veneering porcelain. The surface morphology characteristic after this acid treatment was also examined. Study Design: LD reinforced ceramic cylinders (n=10) (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar-Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) were treated (LD-treated) with a low concentration acid solution (Invex Liquid – Ivoclar-Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) or not treated with the acid solution (LD-untreated). They were veneered with a glass ceramic (IPS e.max Ceram, Ivoclar-Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein). A metal ceramic group (CoCr) was tested as control. Shear bond strength (SBS) was conducted using a universal testing machine at 0.5 mm/min. Surface morphology characteristics after acid treatment were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Results: The acid treatment at low concentrations did not influence the SBS of the LD/veneering porcelain interface. The CoCr group showed the significant higher SBS value (35.59 ± 5.97 MPa), followed by LD-untreated group (27.76 ± 3.59 MPa) and LD-treated (27.02 ± 4.79 MPa). The fracture modes were predominantly adhesive for CoCr group and cohesive within the infrastructure for DL groups. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis showed no morphological differences between treated and untreated LD surfaces. Conclusions: Low concentration acid treatment did not improved SBS of veneering ceramic to LD and did not cause morphological changes on the LD surface. Key words:Lithium disilicate, glass ceramics, acid etching, shear bond strength, scanning electron microscopy.