Histopathological Studies Research Articles

Hepatoprotective Effect of Cannabidiol on the Progression of Experimental Hepatic Cirrhosis in Rats.

Introduction: Liver cirrhosis is a condition characterized by the gradual replacement of normal liver tissue with scar tissue, ultimately leading to liver failure. This slow and progressive disease begins with a chronic inflammatory process induced by a noxious agent. In its advanced stages, the disease lacks effective therapies. Research has demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the pathogenesis of this disease. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of cannabidiol (CBD) in the progression of experimental hepatic cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) in rats. Methods: A randomized experimental design was employed using Holtzman rats. Hepatic cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal administration of TAA at a dose of 150 mg/kg for 6 weeks, with treatment initiated additionally. The groups were as follows: Group 1: TAA + vehicle; Group 2: TAA + CBD 2 mg/kg; Group 3: TAA + CBD 9 mg/kg; Group 4: TAA + CBD 18 mg/kg; Group 5: TAA + silymarin 50 mg/kg; and Group 6: Healthy control. Serum biochemical analysis (total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and albumin) and hepatic histopathological study were performed. The Knodell histological activity index (HAI) was determined, considering periportal necrosis, intralobular degeneration, portal inflammation, fibrosis, and focal necrosis. Results: All groups receiving TAA exhibited an elevation in AST levels; however, only those treated with CBD at doses of 2 mg/kg and 18 mg/kg did not experience significant changes compared to their baseline values (152.8 and 135.7 IU/L, respectively). Moreover, ALT levels in animals treated with CBD showed no significant variation compared to baseline. The HAI of hepatic tissue was notably lower in animals treated with CBD at doses of 9 and 18 mg/kg, scoring 3.0 and 3.25, respectively, in contrast to the TAA + vehicle group, which recorded a score of 7.00. Animals treated with CBD at 18 mg/kg showed a reduced degree of fibrosis and necrosis compared to those receiving TAA alone (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that cannabidiol exerts a hepatoprotective effect in the development of experimental hepatic cirrhosis induced in rats.

Gastric rupture caused by intragastric perforation of splenic artery aneurysm: a case report and literature review

BackgroundThe rupture of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm (SAP) is life-threatening disease, often caused by trauma and pancreatitis. SAPs often rupture into the abdominal cavity and rarely into the stomach.Case presentationA 70-year-old male with no previous medical history was transported to our emergency center with transient loss of consciousness and tarry stools. After admission, the patient become hemodynamically unstable and his upper abdomen became markedly distended. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography performed on admission showed the presence of a splenic artery aneurysm (SAP) at the bottom of a gastric ulcer. Based on the clinical picture and evidence on explorative tests, we established a preliminary diagnosis of ruptured SAP bleeding into the stomach and performed emergency laparotomy. Intraoperative findings revealed the presence of a large intra-abdominal hematoma that had ruptured into the stomach. When we performed gastrotomy at the anterior wall of the stomach from the ruptured area, we found pulsatile bleeding from the exposed SAP; therefore, the SAP was ligated from inside of the stomach, with gauze packing into the ulcer. We temporarily closed the stomach wall and performed open abdomen management, as a damage control surgery (DCS) approach. On the third day of admission, total gastrectomy and splenectomy were performed, and reconstruction surgery was performed the next day. Histopathological studies of the stomach samples indicated the presence of moderately differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma. Since no malignant cells were found at the rupture site, we concluded that the gastric rupture was caused by increased internal pressure due to the intra-abdominal hematoma.ConclusionsWe successfully treated a patient with intragastric rupture of the SAP that was caused by gastric cancer invasion, accompanied by gastric rupture, by performing DCS. When treating gastric bleeding, such rare causes must be considered and appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies should be designed according to the cause of bleeding.

Phloroglucinol ameliorated methylglyoxal induced harmful effects in rats.

Glycation is among the underlying mechanisms attributed to ageing and associated morbidities. There is no drug available to combat this deleterious phenomenon. The present study aimed to explore phloroglucinol (PHL) for its anti-glycation potential at preclinical level. The rats were treated with methylglyoxal (MGO, 17.25 mg/kg, i.p. for 14 days) to induce glvcative stress. The treatment groups received additional administration of test drug (PHL; 0.25mg/kg, 0.5mg/kg, and 1mg/kg) or standard aminoguanidine (AG, 50 mg/kg) or saline (control, 5ml/kg). During 14 days, the weight and food intake was noted. Afterwards, the cognitive function was evaluated using Morris Water Maze (MWM) while hepatic and renal functions were assessed through liver function test (bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, SGPT, and SGOT) and creatinine respectively, using chemical analyzer. The carboxymethyllysine (CML) levels were quantified in the blood using ELISA technique. Histopathological study was performed on the brain, liver, and kidney using H&E staining. Additionally, the qPCR was used to quantify the expression of TNF-α, RAGE and BACE-1 (brain), RAGE, TNF-α, and glyoxalase-I (liver) and RAGE, TNF-α, and VEGF (kidney), while glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was used as a reference housekeeping gene. The data regarding weight and food intake did not reveal significant alterations. In MWM, the MGO treatment caused significant increase in the time to reach target quadrant, while decrease in the time spent in target quadrant and number of crossings through platform position. All these effects were inhibited by both AG and PHL. The navigation maps also exhibit that the retention of spatial memory. Additionally, the MGO-induced alteration in hepatic and renal function indicators was ameliorated by both AG and PHL treatments. The plasma CML levels were found to be elevated following MGO treatment, while the concomitant administration of AG and PHL has resisted this raise. Histopathological assessment revealed no specific pathology in liver kidney and brain tissues. The qPCR data revealed enhanced expression of all genes, especially TNF-α and BACE, which were found to be reduced following both AG and PHL treatments. PHL prevented the brain, hepatic, and renal impairments caused by MGO induced glycative stress. Hence, the PHL, a clinically used anti-spasmodic drug, presents itself as a potential candidate to be repurposed as anti-glycation drug.

Histopathological Changes in a Rat Model of Diabetic Neuropathy

This study was done to investigate the histopathological Changes in a Rat Model of Diabetic Neuropathy. The 24 male rats used in this investigation were split into two groups of 12 animals. The first group (G1), which consisted of healthy individuals, was given standard saline. Normal saline was administered after G2 (STZ group) received STZ at a dosage of 60 mg/kg. After rats were starved overnight, a single intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg of freshly produced STZ was given to induce diabetes. (0.1 M, pH 4.5) Sodium Citrate Buffer was used to dissolve STZ. On the third day after the injection of STZ, a digital glucometer was used to measure the blood glucose levels of 12-hour fasting rats; hyperglycemia was defined as values greater than 250 mg/dl. In order to assess neuropathic pain, cold allodynia was calculated by counting the number of times the foot withdrew in response to cold stimuli applied to the back of the hand. The sciatic nerve was carefully removed after the sacrifice (after 2 months) and preserved in 10% formalin for histopathological study. Normal blood glucose levels were maintained in the control rats throughout the study. However, G2 exhibited much greater FBG levels than healthy animals. In the 2-month study, the G2 maintained FBG levels above 250 mg/dl. The score for severity of STZ on sciatic nerves showed a significant difference between treated group as compared with G1. No paw reactions were seen when intact animals were subjected to plantar surface acetone. The experimental groups did not show any notable reactions to acetone on the tenth day after the diagnosis of diabetes. On days 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 after diabetes confirmation, there were significant differences in paw withdrawal frequency between the G1 and G2 (p<0.001). Within the control group, nerve fibres were found to be regularly arranged and there was no evidence of axonal swelling. However, in the G2 group, nerve fibres were found to be significantly disorganised, and there was a notable increase in the number of Schwann cells in the sciatic nerves, suggesting damage, in comparison to the control group. In conclusion, potentially via antinociceptive, antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, and neuro-regeneration boosting pathways in STZ-induced diabetic peripheral disease.

DETERMINATION OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF HIPPOPHAE RHAMNOIDES L. GROWING IN TURKEY AND INVESTIGATION OF ITS EFFECTS ON THE LIVER TOXICITY IN RATS

Objective: The goal of the present work was to investigate the antioxidant properties of the extracts of Hippophae rhamnoides L. and to determine their effects on liver toxicity in rats. Material and Method: Metal chelation, reducing power and DPPH radical scavenging methods were used in the antioxidant activity analysis of extracts. The total phenolic content was determined using the folin-ciocalteu reagent. Plant extracts were administered orally to the rats at doses of 500 µg/kg for 2 days. Each animal group was composed of six female Albino Wistar rats with an average weight of 250 g. Microscopic examination was carried out to observe any pathological changes in the rat livers. Result and Discussion: Water extract showed the highest radical scavenging activity (48.65%), reducing power (0.291 absorbance at 700 nm) and metal chelating (35.40%) at 1 mg/ml concentration. Histopathological studies showed that especially water extract reduced the severity of CCl4-induced intoxication. Hippophae rhamnoides L. extracts were found to have antioxidant activity, and also Hippophae rhamnoides L. water extract was shown to be particularly effective in preventing liver damage.

Ewing Sarcoma of Kidney: A Rare Entity

AbstractPrimary renal origin of Ewing sarcoma/PNET (primitive neuroectodermal tumor) is a rare entity in the adult population and has an aggressive outcome. The entity was first coined by Arthur Purdy stout in 1918 and recognized under family of small round cell tumor. Radiologically it is difficult to distinguish from primary clear cell carcinoma of kidney from Ewing/PNET. Diagnosis of this requires histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and cytogenetics studies.A 40-year-old female presented with hematuria and radiology found a mass lower pole of left kidney with extension into renal hilum. Nephrectomy was done for the case and the histopathology diagnosis of small round cell tumor of left kidney was given. Followed by IHC, diagnosis of malignant round cell tumor was suggestive of Ewing sarcoma.Microscopy showed cells with small, round, hyperchromatic nuclei, scant cytoplasm, and inconspicuous nucleoli. Increased mitosis was noted (15/10 high power field). Multiple foci of pseudorosettes, areas of hemorrhage, and necrosis lymphovascular emboli were seen.IHC done outside showed NKX 2-2, synaptophysin positivity, CD99 diffuse membranous positivity, cytokeratin perinuclear dot like positivity, and negative for CD20, CD3, desmin, CD34, S100, and Pax8. Impression of malignant round cell tumor was suggestive of Ewing sarcoma.Ewing sarcoma is one of the rare yet highly aggressive tumors. This should be kept as differential diagnosis in young adults with renal mass, as on radiologically it cannot be differentiated from renal cell carcinoma. Diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma is done using histopathology, IHC, and cytogenetic study. Early diagnosis helps in initiation of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy and helps in increasing the survival rate.

5-Phenyl valeric acid attenuates α-synuclein aggregation and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rotenone-induced Parkinson’s disease rats: A molecular mechanistic study

The abnormal accumulation of fibrillar α-synuclein in the substantia nigra contributes to Parkinson’s disease (PD). Chemical chaperones like 4-phenyl butyric acid (4PBA) show neuroprotective potential, but high doses are required. A derivative, 5-phenyl valeric acid (5PVA), has reported therapeutic potential for PD by reducing Pael-R expression. This study assessed 5PVA’s efficacy in PD animals and its molecular mechanism. In vitro studies revealed 5PVA’s anti-aggregation ability against alpha-synuclein and neuroprotective effects on SHSY5Y neuroblastoma cells exposed to rotenone. PD-like symptoms were induced in SD rats with rotenone, followed by 5PVA treatment at 100 mg/kg and 130 mg/kg. Behavioral analysis showed significant improvement in memory and motor activity with 5PVA administration. Histopathological studies demonstrated normal neuronal histoarchitecture in mid-brain tissue sections of 5PVA-treated animals compared to the PD group. mRNA studies revealed significant suppression in the expression of various protein folding and heat-shock protein markers in the 5PVA-treated group. In conclusion, 5PVA, with its anti-aggregation ability against alpha-synuclein, acts as a chemical chaperone, showing potential as a therapeutic candidate for PD treatment.

Amlodipine Attenuates Carrageenan-induced Oxidative Stress Targeting Transsynaptic Neuronal Damage by Promoting Survival of Retinal Ganglion Cells in Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Transsynaptic degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) likely plays a role in progressive loss of vision in glaucoma. Carrageenan (Carr), obtained from seaweed (Rhodophyceae), a sulphated polysaccharide extracted from a species of red algae (Chondrus crispus), is a reversible gel mostly used in eye-drop preparation due to its hydrocolloid nature. But Carr-induced inflammation causing oxidative stress in animals has not yet been evaluated. It was reported that amlodipine (AML) can inhibit inflammatory cytokines by lowering intracellular calcium concentration and increasing antioxidant defences. In this study, we examined the impact of AML administration on Carr-induced oxidative stress, causing free radial-mediated neurodegeneration and behavioural alteration in zebrafish. We aimed to evaluate the behavioural alteration in zebrafish using the novel tank diving test (NTDT) and the light-dark preference test (LDPT) as invaluable tools for analysing visual functions. To understand the role of the antioxidant defence system, oxidative stress biomarkers such as lipid peroxidation and CAT activity were analysed. RGCs of the retina of the eye and neurons of the optical tectum (TeO) in the brain were investigated by histopathological studies. Carr-treated groups swam in random patterns and showed an increased number of transitions and spent more time in alter zones, whereas controls prefer perceived motion. AML significantly attenuates the increased lipid peroxidation level and decreased CAT activity with Carr administration. Histopathological analysis showed an increase in the percentage of pyknotic cell counts after Carr treatment, whereas AML supplementation significantly reduced the pyknotic RGC cell count in the retina and TeO of the brain. Findings showed the effectiveness of AML as an antioxidant and neuroprotective agent by reducing pyckonsis in developmental RGCs and possible repair mechanisms against Carr-induced oxidative stress. This study may be useful to know the underlying mechanisms of weakening and eliminating central neurons for synaptic connections in the visual system of zebrafish.

Effect of Local Simvastatin on the Healing of Surgically Created Critical-Sized Bone Defects: An experimental Study on sheep.

Background and objective: the role of simvastatin in lowering serum cholesterol levels is well described. However, recent findings suggest they have a role in bone formation as well. The study aims to determine the effect of local simvastatin application on bone defect healing and compare the amount of new bone produced by a simvastatin-treated defect with that produced by a bone graft (biphasic calcium phosphate) and non-treated defects (left empty) histologically. Methods: Forty-five critical-size defects were created (8mm in diameter and depth) in the iliac bone of 6 sheep. For the first three sheep (5 defects/ilium), the five defects on the right ilium were left empty as a Control group, while the five defects on the left ilium were filled with biphasic calcium phosphate as Test 1 group. For the other three sheep, 5 defects were created on the right ilium, the defects were filled with 10mg crushed simvastatin tablet with gelfoam (as a carrier) as Test 2 group. The animals were sacrificed over periods of 1, 2, and 3 months. Histopathological studies were done for all the samples. SPSS version 28 was used to analyze the results. The numerical variables were checked for normality using Smirnov – Kolmogorov test, then analyzed using ANOVA and unpaired t-test (p–values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant). Results: All 6 adult male sheep passed the scheduled periods uneventfully. During the wound healing period, there was no complication such as infection, excessive hematoma, or wound dehiscence. All 45 standardized iliac bone defects were included in the final analysis (n= 45). The histologic results showed that Test 2 group (defect filled with simvastatin) in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months had significantly higher bone formation at the surface and depth of the defects than Test 1 and Control group with P values (<0.0001) at all period intervals. Conclusion: Simvastatin enhances bone formation and accelerates the healing process of the bony defect. Keywords: Bone formation, Bone graft, Bone healing, Simvastatin, Statin.

Sensitivity and specificity of transoperative histopathological study compared to definitive histopathological report in patients with thyroid nodule TIRADS 4 and 5

Sensitivity and specificity of transoperative histopathological study compared to definitive histopathological report in patients with thyroid nodule TIRADS 4 and 5

Novel Antiarrhythmic and Cardioprotective Effects of Brilliant Blue G

In this study, we investigated the effects of the purinergic P2X7 receptor antagonist brilliant blue G (BBG) on cardiac arrhythmia and myocardial injury induced by intravenously (i.v.) administered epinephrine in anesthetized rats. We also examined the possible involvement of beta-adrenergic receptors or cholinergic mechanisms in the effects of BBG. Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with epinephrine (10 μg/kg, i.v.). Brilliant blue G (100 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered thirty minutes prior to i.v. epinephrine. The effects of pretreatment with propranolol (2 mg/kg, i.p.) or atropine (2 mg/kg, i.v.) given prior to BBG and epinephrine were examined. The control group received saline. Moreover, the effects of only BBG on electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters were investigated. Results showed that compared with the saline control, BBG caused significant bradycardia (from 405.8 ± 1.18 to 239.4 ± 6.69 beats/min), increased RR interval (from 0.149 ± 0.002 to 0.254± 0.007 sec) and PR interval (from 0.051 ± 0.0008 to 0.059 ± 0.0004 sec), increased R wave amplitude (from 0.238 ± 0.019 to 0.548 ± 0.009 mv), and shortened QTc interval (from 0.169 ± 0.006 to 0.141 ± 0.003 sec) over 15 minutes after of BBG administration. BBG did not cause cardiac arrhythmia. Meanwhile, epinephrine produced significant bradycardia (209.8 ± 28.78 vs. 405.8 ± 1.18 beats/min), increased PR interval, prolonged the QRS complex, shortened QTc interval, decreased R wave amplitude and induced ventricular tachycardia. Brilliant blue G given prior to epinephrine increased heart rate and completely suppressed the epinephrine-induced ventricular arrhythmia. The inhibitory effect of BBG on the arrhythmia caused by epinephrine was prevented by atropine. In contrast the epinephrine induced arrhythmia was completely suppressed with propranolol and BBG. The histopathological study showed that epinephrine caused necrosis and apoptosis of cardiac muscle cells, degeneration of cardiac muscle fibers, and interstitial haemorrhages. These changes were markedly prevented by BBG alone, propranolol/BBG and to a less extent by atropine/BBG pretreatment. The study provided the first evidence for a cardioprotective and anti-arrhythmogenic actions for BBG against epinephrine-induced arrhythmia and myocardial damage, and suggested that cholinergic mechanisms are involved in its anti-arrhythmogenic action.

Accelerating healing of infected wounds with G. glabra extract and curcumin Co-loaded electrospun nanofibrous dressing.

This study aimed to construct a nanofibrous wound dressing composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) containing curcumin and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract to inhibit infection and accelerate wound healing. Loading 10wt% of G. glabra extract-curcumin (50:50) by electrospinng technique resulted in the formation of nanofibers (NFs) with diameter distribution 303 ± 38 and had a uniform and defect-free morphology. FTIR analysis confirmed the loading of the components without adverse interactions. Also, the results showed extremely high porosity, extraordinary liquid absorption capacity, and complete wettability. In addition, G. glabra extract-curcumin showed significant antioxidant activity and their release profile from NFs was continuous and sustained. Also, the prepared NF could inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive Saureus and Gram-negative E. coli strains. Wound healing evaluation in the infected animal model showed that the NFs caused full wound closure and accelerated skin regeneration. The studies on inhibiting the bacteria growth at the wound site also revealed complete inhibitory effects. Moreover, histopathology studies confirmed the complete regeneration of skin layers, formation of collagen fibers, and angiogenesis. Finally, PVA/CS NFs containing G. glabra extract-curcumin as a multifunctional bioactive wound dressing presented a promising approach for promoting the healing of infected wounds.

Assessing the Influence of Intermittent Alcohol Access on Acrylamide-Induced Neuronal Toxicity in an Experimental Rat Model.

Tobacco and alcohol have been identified as health risk behaviors associated with significant unfavorable health consequences, ranking within the list of the top ten causes of mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALY). The combustion of tobacco leads to the formation of acrylamide (ACR), which is well known for its neurotoxic effects. Similarly, alcohol consumption has also been widely recognized for its neurotoxic effects. Both substances can affect neurons and neuroglia cells through various pathways. This study sought to examine the impacts of co-administration of ACR and intermittent-access ethanol (IAE) consumption over a period of one month. The experimental group received 20 mg/kg of ACR, administered orally, along with IAE of 20% ethanol sessions lasting 24 h, three times per week. The cognitive outcomes were assessed utilizing the elevated plus maze (EPM), which was employed as a means of assessing the capability to learn and remember, the novel object recognition (NOR) test, which was employed to assess recognition memory, and the Y-maze, which was used to explore a new environment and navigate. Additionally, ELISA assays were performed to examine underlying mechanisms, including markers associated with inflammation (NF-κB, PGE2, and TNF-α), apoptosis (Bcl2, Bax, and Caspase-3), and oxidative stress (MDA, catalase, and GSH). These markers were assessed in the brain homogenate as part of the investigation. Furthermore, a histopathological study was conducted. The findings indicated that NF-κB levels increased significantly in the combination of ACR and IAE groups (ACR + IAE) compared to either the ACR-alone or IAE-alone groups. However, parallel changes were observed in TNF-α, PGE2, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, GSH, and CAT levels when comparing the ACR + IAE group to the ACR-alone group. Comparable alterations were noted between the ACR + IAE treatment and IAE-alone groups in TNF-α, Bcl-2, MDA, GSH, and CAT levels. Moreover, the histopathological analysis revealed significant changes between the ACR + IAE and the ACR- or IAE-alone groups. Regarding memory parameters assessed using tests including EPM, NOR, and Y-maze, considerable changes were observed across all treatment groups as opposed to the control. Surprisingly, there were no notable differences in the NOR and Y-maze tasks between the alone and combination treatment. Further study is necessary to explore the long-term alteration of co-administering ACR and IAE on behavior, memory, and neurotoxicity-related mechanisms, in order to elucidate their combined effects more clearly.

Neuroprotective potential of solanesol against tramadol induced zebrafish model of Parkinson’s disease: insights from neurobehavioral, molecular, and neurochemical evidence

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and subsequent depletion of dopamine in the striatum. Solanesol, an alcohol that acts as a precursor to coenzyme Q10, possesses potential applications in managing neurological disorders with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory potential. In this study, a zebrafish model was employed to investigate the effects of solanesol in tramadol induced PD like symptoms. Zebrafish were administered tramadol injections (50 mg/kg) over a 20-day period. Solanesol was administered at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, three hours prior to tramadol administration from day 11 to day 20. Behavioral tests assessing motor coordination were conducted on a weekly basis using open field and novel diving tank apparatus. On day 21, the zebrafish were euthanized, and brain tissues were examined for markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurotransmitters level. Chronic tramadol treatment resulted in motor impairment, reduced antioxidant enzyme levels, enhanced release of proinflammatory cytokines in the striatum, and disrupted neurotransmitter balance. However, solanesol administration mitigated these effects and exhibited a neuroprotective effect against neurodegenerative alterations in the zebrafish model of PD. This was evident through improvements in behavior, modulation of biochemical markers, attenuation of neuroinflammation, restoration of neurotransmitters level, and enhancement of mitochondrial activity. The histopathological study also confirmed that solanesol dose dependently restored neuronal cell density which confirmed its neuroprotective potential. Further investigations are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of solanesol neuroprotective effects and evaluate its efficacy in human patients.

Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Study of Acute Tubular Injury in Native Kidney Biopsy.

Acute tubular injury (ATI) is a common diagnosis on renal biopsy. There are no accepted parameters to assess the severity of injury or predict recovery. An objective histologic grading system would be of immense value in clinical practice. The macrophage response to injury involves the MI phenotype which is proinflammatory and M2 which is prorepair. The study of these macrophages could aid in studying the severity and the recovery. A total of 58 native kidney biopsies with features of ATI and a minimum follow-up of 12 weeks were graded into mild, moderate and severe, using scores for simplification, sloughing, and mitosis. These scores and the density of macrophages stained with CD68, CD163, and HLA-DR were correlated with serum creatinine at presentation and with recovery. The effect of chronicity index as measured by glomerulosclerosis, tubular atrophy, and interstitial fibrosis and of co-morbidities of age, hypertension, and diabetes on the recovery pattern was also studied. All three histologic scores and the grades of ATI showed positive correlation with the serum creatinine level. The densities of CD 68 + and CD163 + macrophages also showed a significant correlation with serum creatinine level. However, none of these these histological features nor the macrophage densities predicted clinical recovery. Age >60 years, hypertension, diabetes, and chronicity score on biopsy were indicators of partial and delayed recovery. The histopathological semiquantitative scoring system can be used routinely to grade ATI. However none of the studied parameters predicted recovery.

Inflammation in Schizophrenia? A review of alterations in patients

Schizophrenia is a psychotic psychiatric disorder that significantly impacts the social life of the patient. A better understanding of pathogenesis of this disorder is of utmost importance to caregivers. Recent studies have shown evidence of inflammatory reactions involving the pathogenesis of Schizophrenia. Biochemical analysis of CSF has reported an increased count of IL-6 and IL-8 along with other inflammatory substances. Histopathological studies of brain of the affected individuals have presented microglial dysfunction along with several other changes, observed by different researchers. Also, mothers suffering from any particular condition that involved inflammation in the gestational period have been observed to lead to the development of Schizophrenia or related disorders in offspring. Gut-Brain Axis has recently acquired a huge interest among medical researchers. A lot of psychiatric conditions are nowadays being attributed to gut microbiota. Gut microbiota analysis among Schizophrenia patients has shown significant alteration of gut microflora, for example, an increased number of Lactobacillus sp. All these studies, when taken into consideration, can give a holistic approach towards the way the pathology of Schizophrenia being viewed, and thus allow professionals to provide better careto the patients.

Histopathologic Study of the Effects of Surgically Applied Cryoanalgesia on Intercostal Nerves in a Live Porcine Model.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish a histologic baseline for cryoanalgesia of 2 min duration and evaluate the effects of different freeze durations. Methods: A porcine model was used in which the application of bilateral cryoanalgesia from intercostal spaces T3-T7 was completed via partial median sternotomy. The animals were kept alive for 7 days and the ribcages were sent to a specialized center for histopathologic analysis of the freezing injury. Results: Forty freezing lesions were completed and analyzed histologically. Thirty-eight (95%) of the cryo-lesions presented 100% nerve fiber degeneration at or distal to the ablation site, with preservation of the perineural connective tissue, as intended. The two unaffected nerves were found to be physically located outside of the freezing area. Conclusions: The complete axonal degeneration with preservation of the perineural tissue opens the possibility to shorter freezing times than the recommended 2 min. Visualization of the nerve and positioning of the probe is important in ensuring the proper effect on the nerve. This histologic analysis confirms the process triggered by cryoanalgesia that, until now, had only been assumed.

Non-pigmented laser hair removal mediated via sepia melanin nanoparticles: in vivo study on albino mice

Objectives Melanin is considered the main chromophore for laser hair removal. Due to a lack of laser-absorbing chromophores, removing non-pigmented hair with laser is quite problematic with unsatisfactory outcomes. This problem could be solved by delivering more melanin to the area around the hair follicle and enhancing that area as a target for light absorption. The insolubility of Sepia melanin as an exogenous dye, in most solvents, limits its bioavailability and thus its clinical use. Methods In our study, to overcome the solubility problems and increase the bioavailability of melanin for biomedical and cosmetic applications, natural sepia melanin was loaded in different nano-delivery systems (spanlastics and transfersomes) to be delivered to the hair follicles. The different formulations of melanin were prepared and characterized. In vivo skin deposition and histopathological studies were conducted on albino mice. Results Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the spherical shape of the prepared vesicles with an average particle size of 252 and 262 nm and zeta potential of −22.5 and −35 mV for melanin spanlastics and melanin transfersomes, respectively. Histopathological examination of hair follicles and pilosebaceous glands for the irradiated and non-irradiated albino mice skin was studied post the application of the prepared formulations topically and subcutaneously. Qualitative statistical analysis was conducted and melanin transfersomes and melanin spanlastics showed significant damage to pilosebaceous glands and hair follicles with a p-value of 0.031 and 0.009 respectively. Conclusion Melanin nanovesicles as transfersomes and spanlastics could be considered a promising approach for the removal of non-pigmented hair.

Haematological, biochemical, histopathological studies and isolation of bacteriological agents from canine pyoderma cases in Karnataka

Haematological, biochemical, histopathological studies and isolation of bacteriological agents from canine pyoderma cases in Karnataka

Dermal Delivery of Hypericum perforatum (L.) Loaded Nanogel: Formulation to Preclinical Psoriasis Assessment.

Nanophytosomes represent an effective choice for topical drug delivery systems thanks to their small size, general non-toxicity, ease of functionalization and high surface to volume ratio. The goal of the current study was to investigate the potential benefits of using Hypericum perforatum extract nanogel as a means of improving skin penetration and prolonging skin deposition in dermatitis similar to psoriasis. Nanophytosomes (NPs) were developed, optimised and thoroughly characterised. The optimised NPs were then placed in a Carbopol gel base matrix and tested ex-vivo (skin penetration and dermatokinetic) and in-vivo (antipsoriatic activity in an Imiquimod-induced psoriatic rat model). The optimised NPs had a spherical form and entrapment efficiency of 69.68% with a nanosized and zeta potential of 168 nm and -10.37mV, respectively. XRD spectra and transmission electron microscopy tests confirmed the plant botanical encapsulation in the NPs. Following 60 days of storage at 40 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH, the optimised formula remained relatively stable. As compared to extract gel, nano-gel showed a much-improved ex vivo permeability profile and considerable drug deposition in the viable epidermal-dermal layers. When developed nano-gel was applied topically to a rat model of psoriasis, it demonstrated distinct in vivo anti-psoriatic efficacy in terms of drug activity and reduction of epidermal thickness in comparison to other formulations and the control. ELISA and histopathologic studies also demonstrated that nano-organogel had improved skin integrity and downregulated inflammatory markers (IL-17, IL-6, IFN-γ and MCP-1). Findings suggest that a developed plant botanicals-based nanogel has a potential for the treatment of psoriasis-like dermatitis with better skin retention and effectiveness.