Granular Layer Research Articles

Pathological Study of Demyelination with Cellular Reactions in the Cerebellum of Dogs Infected with Canine Distemper Virus

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between demyelination and cellular reactions in the cerebellum of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)-infected dogs. We subdivided the disease staging by adding the degree of demyelination determined by Luxol Fast Blue staining to the previously reported disease staging from the acute stage to the chronic stage, and investigated the relationship between demyelination in the cerebellum and the number and histological changes in astroglia, microglia, and Purkinje cells in each stage. Reactions of astrocytes and microglia were observed at an early stage when demyelination was not evident. Changes progressed with demyelination. Demyelination initially began in the medulla adjoining the fourth ventricle and gradually spread to the entire cerebellum, including the lobes. CDV immune-positive granules were seen from the early stage, and inclusion bodies also appeared at the same time. CDV immune-positive reaction and inclusion bodies were observed in astrocytes, microglia, neurons, ependymal cells, and even leptomeningeal mononuclear cells. On the other hand, infiltration of CDV-immunoreactive particles from the pia mater to the gray matter and further into the white matter through the granular layer was observed from an early stage. Purkinje cells decreased from the intermediate stage, and a decrease in cells in the granular layer was also observed. There was no clear association between age and each stage, and the stages did not progress with age.

Fatigue cracking prediction of cobblestone interlayer pavement using non-destructive testing and mechanistic-empirical analyses

Several non-destructive testing (NTD) methods have been used to measure surface deflection, which makes to determine the elastic moduli of pavement layers through the back-calculation process and assess the structural capacity of asphalt pavements. In this study was evaluated the back-calculated moduli of the cobblestone interlayer pavements and the load capacity of this type of pavement related to the fatigue cracking criterion based on a mechanistic-empirical analysis. The employed methodology included the performance of on-site trials using non-destructive testing with the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) devices on 84 test points in granular and cobblestone interlayer pavements, determination of deflection basin parameters (DBP), back-calculation layers’ moduli, and estimate of the fatigue cracking performance of the pavements by mechanistic-empirical analyses in MeDiNa software. The pavements with a cobblestone base layer displayed greater deflection measurements on the load application point compared to those measured on pavements with a granular base layer, indicating that conventional pavement displayed more stiffness. Cobblestone interlayer pavement displayed greater amounts of cracked area compared to granular base layer pavements showing lower load capacity based on the fatigue criterion. The DBP-based method by FWD test was able to identify the structural differences between the layers of pavements evaluated and identify the cracking evolution.

Effect of Experimental Litter Reduction on Cerebellum Development in Suckling Rats.

We studied morphological features of the cerebellum in 14-day-old Wistar rats from reduced litters (the number of pups was reduced from 10-12 to 6 on the next day after birth). The control group comprised 14-day-old animals from litters of medium size (10-12 rat pups). Rats from reduced litters had greater body weight and brain weight. The weight of the cerebellum, together with the weight of the adjacent part of the brain stem and the thickness of cerebellar cortex also significantly exceeded the corresponding parameters in control animals. The thickness of the molecular layer of the cerebellar cortex and the numerical density of Purkinje cells in these rats did not differ significantly from the control. The thickness of the external granular (neurogenic) layer of the cerebellar cortex in rats from reduced litters was smaller. This can indicate accelerated reduction of this layer that persists in rats until days 20-22 of age. Numerical density of cells in the external granular layer of control and experimental animals was similar. Numerical density Ki-67+ cells in this layer, as well as GFAP+ glial cells in the granular layer of the cerebellar cortex in rats from reduced litters significantly exceeded the corresponding parameters in control animals. The cerebellum of rats from litters reduced 1 day after birth had a number of differences in important indicators reflecting the rate of its development during the neonatal and suckling periods of ontogeny.

A Flexible Smart Healthcare Platform Conjugated with Artificial Epidermis Assembled by Three-Dimensionally Conductive MOF Network for Gas and Pressure Sensing

The rising flexible and intelligent electronics greatly facilitate the noninvasive and timely tracking of physiological information in telemedicine healthcare. Meticulously building bionic-sensitive moieties is vital for designing efficient electronic skin with advanced cognitive functionalities to pluralistically capture external stimuli. However, realistic mimesis, both in the skin’s three-dimensional interlocked hierarchical structures and synchronous encoding multistimuli information capacities, remains a challenging yet vital need for simplifying the design of flexible logic circuits. Herein, we construct an artificial epidermal device by in situ growing Cu3(HHTP)2 particles onto the hollow spherical Ti3C2Tx surface, aiming to concurrently emulate the spinous and granular layers of the skin’s epidermis. The bionic Ti3C2Tx@Cu3(HHTP)2 exhibits independent NO2 and pressure response, as well as novel functionalities such as acoustic signature perception and Morse code-encrypted message communication. Ultimately, a wearable alarming system with a mobile application terminal is self-developed by integrating the bimodular senor into flexible printed circuits. This system can assess risk factors related with asthmatic, such as stimulation of external NO2 gas, abnormal expiratory behavior and exertion degrees of fingers, achieving a recognition accuracy of 97.6% as assisted by a machine learning algorithm. Our work provides a feasible routine to develop intelligent multifunctional healthcare equipment for burgeoning transformative telemedicine diagnosis.

Neuronal SLC39A8 deficiency impairs cerebellar development by altering manganese homeostasis.

Solute carrier family 39, member 8 (SLC39A8), is a transmembrane transporter that mediates the cellular uptake of zinc, iron, and manganese (Mn). Human genetic studies document the involvement of SLC39A8 in Mn homeostasis, brain development, and function. However, the role and pathophysiological mechanisms of SLC39A8 in the central nervous system remain elusive. We generated Slc39a8 neuron-specific knockout (Slc39a8-NSKO) mice to study SLC39A8 function in neurons. The Slc39a8-NSKO mice displayed markedly decreased Mn levels in the whole brain and brain regions, especially the cerebellum. Radiotracer studies using 54Mn revealed that Slc39a8-NSKO mice had impaired brain uptake of Mn. Slc39a8-NSKO cerebellums exhibited morphological defects and abnormal dendritic arborization of Purkinje cells. Reduced neurogenesis and increased apoptotic cell death occurred in the cerebellar external granular layer of Slc39a8-NSKO mice. Brain Mn deficiency in Slc39a8-NSKO mice was associated with motor dysfunction. Unbiased RNA-Seq analysis revealed downregulation of key pathways relevant to neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity, including cAMP signaling pathway genes. We further demonstrated that Slc39a8 was required for the optimal transcriptional response to the cAMP-mediated signaling pathway. In summary, our study highlighted the essential roles of SLC39A8 in brain Mn uptake and cerebellum development and functions.

MAVS signaling shapes microglia responses to neurotropic virus infection

Viral encephalitis is characterized by a series of immunological reactions that can control virus infection in the brain, but dysregulated responses may cause excessive inflammation and brain damage. Microglia are brain-resident myeloid cells that are specialized in surveilling the local CNS environment and in case of viral brain infection they contribute to the control of the infection and to restriction of viral dissemination. Here, we report that after exposure to neurotropic vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), murine in vitro microglia cultures showed rapid upregulation of a broad range of pro-inflammatory and antiviral genes, which were stably expressed over the entire 8 h infection period. Additionally, a set of immunomodulatory genes was upregulated between 6 and 8 h post infection. In microglia cultures, the induction of several immune response pathways including cytokine responses was dependent on mitochondrial antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS). Consequently, in Mavs-deficient microglia the control of virus propagation failed as indicated by augmented virus titers and the accumulation of viral transcripts. Thus, in the analyzed in vitro system, MAVS signaling is critically required to achieve full microglia activation and to mediate profound antiviral effects. In Mavs-deficient mice, intranasal VSV instillation caused higher disease severity than in WT mice and virus dissemination was noticed beyond the olfactory bulb. Virus spread to inner regions of the olfactory bulb, i.e., the granular cell layer, correlated with the recruitment of highly inflammatory non-microglia myeloid cells into the olfactory bulb in Mavs−/− mice. Furthermore, increased cytokine levels were detected in the nasal cavity, the olfactory bulb and in other brain regions. Thus, microglial MAVS signaling is critically needed for virus sensing, full microglia activation, and for orchestration of protective immunity in the virus-infected CNS.

A case of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with epidermization showing a unique morphology.

An 80-year-old woman with a history of endoscopic balloon dilation for esophageal stricture caused by accidental ingestion of caustic soda during infancy presented with dysphagia. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a 10-cm-long, highly white, elevated lesion with a feathered appearance. This lesion was determined to be the cause of dysphagia and was completely resected via endoscopic submucosal dissection. Histopathological examination revealed a thick keratin layer on the surface of the stratified squamous epithelium, with a prominent granular layer underneath and some areas showing nuclear atypia. The lesion was diagnosed as a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, pT1a-LPM, derived from epidermoid metaplasia. Cancer genome analysis revealed mutations in TP53 as well as amplification of MYC, FGFR1, chromosome 7, and chromosome 20q. This case suggests that epidermoid metaplasia caused by chronic irritation from an esophageal stricture may have been exacerbated by the dilation procedure.

ONYCHOMATRICOMA, A RARE NAIL TUMOR

Abstract Introduction/Objective Nail apparatus tumors are rare and can pose diagnostic challenges. Onychomatricoma (also called onychomatrixoma) is a rare tumor first described in 1992. It is a benign biphasic fibroepithelial tumor of the nail. It has been reported in Caucasians, often in females with a peak incidence in the fifth decade of life. Rare cases are also reported in children. The common location is in the fingernail (75%), presenting with yellowing of the nail plate (xanthonychia) and thick longitudinal band. Cutaneous horn, melanonychia, nail bleeding, and nail deformity with or without bony extension can also be seen. Histologic findings show increased nail thickness surrounded by a layer of Malpighian epithelium. The fibroepithelial tumor shows hyperplasia of two components including onychogenic epithelium and mesenchymal stroma. Methods/Case Report A 65-year-old Vietnamese female presented with longstanding dark yellowish ridging discoloration, thickening and nail plate deformity of the left fourth fingernail with appearance of onychomycosis. However, KOH mount and fungal cultures of the nail plate were negative for fungal microorganisms. There was no history of pain, trauma, or prior treatment. Microscopic analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the nail shows a biphasic neoplasm that penetrates the nail plate with multiple digitations. There was deep finger-like epithelial cell strands that form anastomosis as well as invaginations into the dermis. Characteristic filiform projections are lined by onychogenic epithelium composed mostly of basal and supra-basal cells that lack granular and corneum layers. The stroma was hypercellular and fibrillary with spindle-shaped fibroblastic cells, and a deep layer with dense collagen. Immunohistochemical stains of the lesion show diffuse expression for CD10 and CD34 in the stroma and negativity for Periodic Acid Schiff staining. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) N/A Conclusion While most of the literature on onychomatricoma has been reported in Caucasian population, little is known about this tumor in non-Caucasians. This case report of onychomatricoma in a Vietnamese woman contributes to the emerging literature of this rare nail apparatus tumor in non-Caucasian population. Clinical and histopathologic correlation is important to achieve prompt and correct diagnosis since delay would result in nail dystrophy and deformity.

Attenuation of seismic waves using resonant metasurfaces: A field study on an array of rubber oscillators

Resonant metasurfaces (RMS) have garnered increasing attention as a type of seismic metamaterial for attenuating seismic waves. To date, most research has been limited to numerical simulations with few experimental studies. Here, we first used Comsol Multiphysics to simulate and identify an RMS structure, which is a periodic array of rubber column oscillators, and then conducted a field experiment on a granular layer. The results indicate that our RMS can effectively attenuate seismic waves in both horizontal and vertical directions across an ultra-wide bandgap. Additionally, the RMS demonstrates greater efficiency in attenuating Love waves compared to Rayleigh waves. This observation is well-accounted for by the resonator model we developed. This work demonstrates that even a simple and cost-effective ground-based RMS is capable of mitigating seismic wave-induced vibrations.

Temperature Effects on Traffic Load-Induced Accumulating Strains in Flexible Pavement Structures

AbstractRutting is a major distress mode in flexible pavements, results from the repetitive loading caused by traffic movement. Pavement deformation consists of both recoverable (elastic) and unrecoverable (plastic) components. The continuous movement of vehicles contributes to the overall deformation in the flexible pavement system, involving all pavement components. In regions with hot climates or in the hot summer season, rutting tends to be more prominent due to the substantial reduction in the viscosity of the asphalt binder. This decrease in viscosity, which is inversely linked to rutting, occurs as temperatures rise, leading to a heightened susceptibility of the Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) blend to rut formation. However, according to studies, a significant amount of permanent deformation takes place in the unbound layers beneath the asphalt course, it is therefore essential to prioritize attention on these layers. Temperature exerts besides viscosity a substantial impact on asphalt stiffness, leading to the transfer of higher vertical deviatoric stresses to the unbound layers beneath the asphalt course (base, subbase, subgrade). This research presents a study integrating the High Cycle Accumulation (HCA) model into a laminar model to determine permanent deformations in the unbound granular layer of flexible pavements and taking into account the temperature dependent stiffness of asphalt. Rutting depths at the end of the design lifetime were computed, accounting for seasonal stiffness variations. It was shown that the softer asphalt behavior significantly increases the development of ruts in the underlaying soil layers. The findings were compared with results obtained from mean annual temperature and the typical equivalent asphalt stiffness utilized in fatigue tests. Additionally, an analysis was conducted to assess whether the timing of road implementation influences settlements throughout the design lifetime. The results suggest that the sequence of seasons is most relevant during the first year of service, showing a distinct effect at that time. However, with a higher number of axle passes, the initial differences fade away, and the curves start to merge.

Cross-species single-cell spatial transcriptomic atlases of the cerebellar cortex.

The molecular and cellular organization of the primate cerebellum remains poorly characterized. We obtained single-cell spatial transcriptomic atlases of macaque, marmoset, and mouse cerebella and identified primate-specific cell subtypes, including Purkinje cells and molecular-layer interneurons, that show different expression of the glutamate ionotropic receptor Delta type subunit 2 (GRID2) gene. Distinct gene expression profiles were found in anterior, posterior, and vestibular regions in all species, whereas region-selective gene expression was predominantly observed in the granular layer of primates and in the Purkinje layer of mice. Gene expression gradients in the cerebellar cortex matched well with functional connectivity gradients revealed with awake functional magnetic resonance imaging, with more lobule-specific differences between primates and mice than between two primate species. These comprehensive atlases and comparative analyses provide the basis for understanding cerebellar evolution and function.

To study the effect of high blood bilirubin concentrations on the epidermis and dermis in seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic alopecia

BACKGROUND: Seborrhea is a common problem affecting about 25% of the population. Seborrheic alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients, reducing their self-esteem and social activity. However, the mechanisms underlying these diseases remain poorly understood to this day, which makes it difficult to develop effective treatments for these conditions. AIM: To study the effect of high concentrations of blood bilirubin on the epidermis and dermis in seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic alopecia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp was registered in 61 patients, seborrheic alopecia ― in 23. After determining the concentration of bilirubin in the blood (total and direct), formed a group of 16 patients with seborrheic dermatitis (10 people with reference values of total and direct bilirubin and 6 people with hyperbilirubinemia), as well 23 patients as with seborrheic alopecia (9 people with reference values of total and direct bilirubin and 14 people with hyperbilirubinemia) were formed, who A histological examination of the biopsy of the skin of the affected area of the scalp was performed. RESULTS: The formation of a thinner epidermis in seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic alopecia at high concentrations of bilirubin is associated with the presence of a thinner spiny layer. In conditions of hyperbilirubinemia, pathological changes in the dermis are more associated with the presence of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates and the development of sclerotic changes, especially in seborrheic alopecia. CONCLUSION: Seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic alopecia against the background of hyperbilirubinemia is a tendency to decrease the thickness of the spiny layer, which affects the thickness of the entire epidermis. The decrease in the thickness of the stratum corneum with an increase in the granular layer, observed in seborrheic dermatitis, is a feature that is not observed in seborrheic alopecia. Manifestations of seborrheic alopecia are manifested by the presence of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates and sclerosis.

Distribution of calbindin-positive neurons across areas and layers of the marmoset cerebral cortex.

The diversity of the mammalian cerebral cortex demands technical approaches to map the spatial distribution of neurons with different biochemical identities. This issue is magnified in the case of the primate cortex, characterized by a large number of areas with distinctive cytoarchitectures. To date, no full map of the distribution of cells expressing a specific protein has been reported for the cortex of any primate. Here we have charted the 3-dimensional distribution of neurons expressing the calcium-binding protein calbindin (CB+ neurons) across the entire marmoset cortex, using a combination of immunohistochemistry, automated cell identification, computerized reconstruction, and cytoarchitecture-aware registration. CB+ neurons formed a heterogeneous population, which together corresponded to 10-20% of the cortical neurons. They occurred in higher proportions in areas corresponding to low hierarchical levels of processing, such as sensory cortices. Although CB+ neurons were concentrated in the supragranular and granular layers, there were clear global trends in their laminar distribution. For example, their relative density in infragranular layers increased with hierarchical level along sensorimotor processing streams, and their density in layer 4 was lower in areas involved in sensorimotor integration, action planning and motor control. These results reveal new quantitative aspects of the cytoarchitectural organization of the primate cortex, and demonstrate an approach to mapping the full distribution of neurochemically distinct cells throughout the brain which is readily applicable to most other mammalian species.

Stereological study of cerebellar morphology in feline fetuses: Insights from the final gestational stage

This study aimed to conduct a morphoquantitative and stereological evaluation, analyzing the cerebellum of domestic cat fetuses in the latter third of the gestational period. Fetal samples were obtained from a neutering campaign conducted in the municipality of Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil. The procedures and protocols used in this work adhere to the guidelines established by the ethics committee of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science at the University of São Paulo (FMVZ/USP), under the number CEUA 1935251121. The five selected fetuses were fixed in 4 % formaldehyde, and their gestational age was determined by Crown Rump (CR) measurements, followed by an assessment of external characteristics. The cerebella were subjected to the evaluation of morphometric parameters and histological processing using stereology techniques. The obtained means for the cerebellar parameters were as follows: length: 1.0-centimeter, width: 0.54 centimeters, thickness: 0.44 centimeters, and weight: 0.84 g. Using stereology, the following parameters were determined: cerebellar volume, averaging 0.847 cm³; volume density of the cortex: 0.496 or 49 % (molecular layer), 0.0314 or 3.14 % (Purkinje cell layer), 0.232 or 23 % (granular layer), and 0.234 or 23 % (medullary white center). Consequently, the average total volume of the cerebellar cortex is 0.419 cm³ for the molecular layer, 0.026 cm³ for the Purkinje cell layer, 0.196 cm³ for the granular layer, and 0.196 cm³ for the medullary white center. The findings presented here have contributed to an in-depth discussion of the neuro-motor development and cerebellum of domestic cats.

GFAP expression in the brain during human postnatal development

AbstractGlial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunohistochemistry was investigated in the developing human brain using two measures; the number of GFAP‐positive cells (density, GFAP+/mm2), and a reactivity score (R‐score), which we recently introduced to indicate astrogliosis, with scores ≥120 indicative of pathological processes. The primary aim was to report on GFAP expression and cell soma size in 26 microscopically defined regions of the amygdala, basal ganglia, cerebellum, hippocampus and medulla, and to determine whether they are affected by postconceptional age (PCA) from 40 to 83 weeks. The secondary aim was to determine if GFAP expression differs according to the classification of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) as opposed to infant deaths of known causes, or for the presence of major SIDS risk factors of male sex, cigarette smoke exposure, upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), bed‐sharing and prone sleeping. The cerebellar molecular layer was void of GFAP+ cells, while the internal granular layer (IGL) had the highest density, with >60% of infants having an R‐Score >120. GFAP expression decreased with increasing PCA in the entorhinal and temporal cortex, subiculum and regions of the cerebellum and medulla. GFAP cell soma size corresponded with astrogliosis score and no effect of PCA was evident. Various region‐dependent GFAP expressional differences were seen according to SIDS classification and the risk factors studied. The findings indicate that the density of GFAP decreases in specific regions of the brain within the first year of postnatal development, and that reactive astrocytes are common, particularly within the early postnatal months.

Examining the role of density-driven transport on chlorinated vapor intrusion

This study investigates the influence of density-driven transport on chlorinated vapor intrusion through modeling and experiments. Density-driven transport involves downward vapor advection, potentially reducing vapor intrusion into buildings. A 1-D steady-state numerical model was developed using COMSOL Multiphysics, considering upward diffusion and downward density-driven advection in the subsoil and in the granular fill layer beneath building's foundations. Source vapor concentration and granular fill layer permeability emerged as the key factors affecting density-driven transport. Regardless of building characteristics, for permeabilities in the granular fill layer exceeding 10−7 m2, density-driven transport is expected to become relevant at vapor concentrations of 1 mg m−3, while for lower soil permeabilities (10−8-10−10 m2), density-driven transport impact is expected for vapor concentrations exceeding 1 g m−3. The results of laboratory column trichloroethylene (TCE) diffusion tests through sand and gravel supported these findings, showing a vertical stratification of TCE vapor concentrations consistent with the model. The trends expected by modeling also align with the findings of different field studies, where the source to building attenuation factors (AF) were found to decrease with increasing source vapor concentration. These outcomes highlight that the common approach adopted for vapor intrusion screening from soil gas data based on default AF values independent of source vapor concentration, may potentially lead to an overestimation of indoor concentrations in the presence of high vapor concentrations and highly permeable soils. Given the use of permeable granular fill layers in building construction, this study underscores the importance of accounting for density-driven transport to improve the accuracy of vapor intrusion risk assessment.

Free amino acid pool in the rat skin and the skin morphological structure in acute allergic contact dermatitis

The concentration of free amino acids in the skin of rats in experimental acute allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) was studied. Free AAs were determined by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Acute ACD was simulated using 2.4-dinitrochlorobenzene. The levels of asparagic and glutamic acids, valine, leucine, phenylalanine, lysine, and taurine increased and methionine, tyrosine, tryptophan, α-aminobutyric acid and anserine decreased in the rat skin during acute ACD development. An imbalance of amino acid metabolism was expressed in an increase in the ratio of aromatic amino acids/branched-chain amino acids by a decrease in the sum of aromatic amino acids. An increase in the Phe/Tyr ratio may indicate a decrease in the activity of the hydroxylase pathway of phenylalanine metabolism in the rat skin. Only in the skin of rats with acute ACD, the levels of valine, isoleucine and lysine were negatively correlated with the level of blood TNF-1α, which confirms their anti-inflammatory effect.Histological examination revealed an inflammatory reaction expressed by lymphocytic infiltration of various skin layers (ectoderm, subepidermal layer). Perivascular proliferation of fibroblasts and formation of subepidermal fibrosis were observed in subepithelial sections. The upper layer of the thorny layer was necrotic, the granular layer with necrosis and pronounced karyopiknosis of nuclei was observed. The epidermis thickness increased, infiltration of lymphocytes and segmented neutrophils into epidermis was noted up to the cells of the thorny layer (exocytosis).The data obtained indicate a significant metabolic imbalance of amino acids in the skin of rats in acute ACD, manifested by depletion of the amino acid pool of aromatic and sulfur-containing amino acids, impaired metabolism of phenylalanine, as well as increased levels of immunogenic amino acids that play a functional role in the regulation of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant system and proliferative activity of immune system cells on the background of a significant inflammatory process.

Evaluation of the ameliorative potency of spirulina platensis against cerebellar damage induced by methotrexate in male rats: histopathological, ultrastructural, molecular, and biochemical studies

BackgroundMethotrexate (MTX), a drug utilized in cancer and rheumatoid arthritis treatment, is associated with acute and chronic neurodegenerative alterations. Spirulina platensis (SP) has several important phytochemical substances that act as free radical scavengers or natural antioxidants. The current study investigated the possible effects of the blue-green alga Spirulina platensis on cerebellar damage in male rats exposed to methotrexate. Forty (40) adult male albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 10) and treated for one week: GI, the control group; GII was orally given 1000 mg SP/kg/daily, GIII was given a single intraperitoneal injection of MTX 75 mg/kg at the first day, and continued under the normal condition without other treatment till the end of the experiment, and GIV received both SP and MTX together with the same previous doses and duration. Neurobehavioral, histopathological, histochemical, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, molecular, and biochemical data were recorded.ResultsMTX caused severe cerebellar degeneration in 3 cortical layers, especially the Purkinje layer. The Purkinje layer displayed a disrupted monolayer arrangement with pyknotic nuclei, a significant decrease in cell number, and shrunken cells surrounded by empty spaces. The molecular and granular layers are degenerated with elevated immunoreactions and gene expression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba-1), and neurofilament light chain antibody (NFL). Moreover, MTX significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) while decreasing the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), serotonin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), acetylcholinesterase (ACHE), norepinephrine, and dopamine. These insults were noticeably mitigated by concomitant treatment with spirulina.ConclusionSpirulina improves neurological function by modulating the cerebellar damage elicited by MTX. This improvement may be attributed to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of spirulina.

352. A RARE CASE OF ESOPHAGEAL EPIDERMOID METAPLASIA: A POTENTIAL PRECURSOR TO ESOPHAGEAL MALIGNANCY

Abstract A 62-year-old woman with medical history of fibromyalgia and depression was referred to the gastroenterology consultation due to dysphagia for solids for the past 3 months. She had previously performed an upper endoscopy which revealed an esophageal lesion, interpreted as a papillomatous lesion. Upper endoscopy was repeated, showing a whitish, irregular, semi-elevated and hemi-circumferential lesion between 16 and 19cm from the incisors (Figure A and B). Biopsies were performed. Histology revealed a stratified squamous epithelium with mild inflammation, with spongiosis, hyperorthokeratosis and a prominent granular cell layer. This was consistent with esophageal epidermoid metaplasia (Figures C and D). No dysplasia or carcinoma was noted. Esophageal epidermoid metaplasia is a rare condition described only in case reports and small series. It is thought that may be sporadically associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Endoscopically, this entity might have different appearances such as white plaques, altered texture, keratotic patches, sloughing, granularity, nodularity, furrows, decreased vascularity, and lacy appearance. We report this case to raise awareness for this entity and its association with dysplasia and esophageal cancer. Therefore, in the case of esophageal epidermoid metaplasia lesions a close follow-up or endoscopic treatment may be warranted. Patient is currently on endoscopic surveillance every one year to screen for early dysplasia.

Compactability of granular materials increasing the durability of operated railway track structure and subgrade

The progressive degradation of the railway track structure increases the impact of the rolling stock transferred to the track and subgrade, which requires ensuring appropriate track support through the selection of material, grain size and density of granular layers. The study presents research and analysis of increased loads transferred to the ballast. By using protective layers of the track substructure made of appropriate materials, proper conditions of cooperation between the track and subgrade are achieved, ensuring the elastic operation of the surface and minimizing its permanent deformation. Currently used methods and solutions for strengthening and stabilizing granular materials are described. Particular analysis was carried out to ensure proper support of the track grid by providing appropriate granular material and its compaction (including ballast obtained from recycled – unsorted stone).