Group HS Research Articles

Quantification of the uterine involution and dimensions, hormonal response and reproductive performance of pyometric and healthy dairy cows treated with Dinoprost

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of a PGF 2α analogue (Dinoprost) on involution of the puerperal uterus, especially with pyometra during 35 to 45 days postpartum in multiparous high yielding Holstein dairy cows. At days 40 ± 5 postpartum, 1250 cows were ultrasonographically examined. Fifty cows were diagnosed as pyometric. Fifty pyometric and 50 clinically healthy cows were assigned randomly to one of four groups. Groups were: 1.) Pyometric+Dinoprost cows (PD, n = 25 treated with 25 mg of Dinoprost), 2.) Pyometric+Saline cows (PS, n = 25 treated with saline), 3.) Healthy+Dinoprost cows (HD, n = 25 treated with 25 mg of Dinoprost), and 4.) Healthy+Saline cows (HS, n = 25 treated with saline). All treatments were given intramuscularly. Ultrasonography was performed at the time of examination and 7 days later to evaluate changes in uterine diameter. Treatment with Dinoprost significantly reduced gross uterine diameter in PD in comparison to the PS group in the presence or absence (P4 concentrations <1 ng/ml) of an active corpus luteum. Dinoprost treatment did not decrease gross uterine diameter in groups HD and HS. Luminal diameter was significantly smaller in the PD than in the PS group. Pregnancy rate of PD was greater than PS cows (36% vs 20%, respectively). Days to first service (110 d vs. 140 d) and open days (160 d vs. 190 d) were shorter in PD cows than PS cows. It was concluded that injection of 25 mg of Dinoprost to pyometric cows had uterotonic effects in presence or absence of functional corpus luteum. Therefore, this treatment can help uterine involution in puerperal dairy cows affected by pyometra and consequently improved reproductive performance. Keywords: Cattle, Dinoprost, pregnancy rate, pyometra, uterine health

Neuromuscular recovery in ACL reconstruction with Bone-Tendon-Patellar-Bone and Semitendinosus-Gracilis autograft.

Several different types of grafts have been used in ACL rupture. The purpose of the study was to compare the recovery of lower limbs muscle strength and proprioception in athletes, who underwent ACL reconstruction with Bone-Patellar-Tendon-Bone (BPTB) versus semitendinosus and gracilis(HS) autografts. We enrolled 30 male amateur athletes. Each patient was evaluated by isokinetic test, triaxial accelerometer test and balance test with stabilometric platform. Isokinetic test evaluated quadriceps and hamstrings Peak Torque. Accelerometer test evaluated squat jump test (SJT) and stiffness test (ST). The recording on the balance platform was performed with open and closed eyes and evaluated medio-lateral and anterior-posterior pathways. 30 patients were selected (15 in group BPTB and 15 in group HS). In SJT we noticed a statistically significant difference in height of jump in the involved side in favour of Group BPTB (p=0.037) and not significant difference in the other parameters. In the ST, we did not observe significant statistical differences in the parameters of the test. The stabilometric platform data and isokinetic peak torque parameters did not show a significant difference. Little high quality researches are available to help determine when patients can safely return to full activity and sport. Included evaluation criteria were a combination of factors regarding knee motion, muscles strength and neuromuscular function. In our study, despite a not full recovery of explosive strength in HS group , the balance and the other parameters after one year are comparable between the two graft. In our findings there isn't clinical difference between the two grafts. We suggest that the evaluation of explosive strength and proprioception are the priority parameters in neuromuscular recovery after ACL reconstruction.

Effect of epigallocatechin gallate on growth performance and antioxidant capacity in heat-stressed broilers

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of 35-d-old broilers exposed to heat stress. Broilers, 14 d of age, were divided into four groups with six replicates per group (eight chickens/replicate). Thermoneutral group (Group TN) was fed the basal diet and maintained at 28°C for 24 h/d. The heat-stressed groups were housed at 35°C for 12 h/d and 28°C for 12 h/d and fed the basal diet supplemented with EGCG at 0, 300 and 600 mg/kg diet (Groups HS0, HS 300 and HS600, respectively). Compared with Group TN, heat-stressed groups showed significantly reduced gain, feed intake and serum total protein and glucose levels; inhibited serum alkaline phosphatase activities; and increased serum levels of uric acid, cholesterol and triglycerides and the activity of serum creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05). Compared with Group HS0, Group HS600 exhibited an increased gain and feed intake; and normalised blood parameters and enzyme activities. Compared with Group TN, the expression of antioxidant-related liver proteins was decreased in Group HS0 and increased in Groups HS300 and HS600 (p < 0.05). The results suggest that EGCG can improve the growth performance and alleviate the oxidant damage by modulating the antioxidant properties of broilers.

Pan-Genomic Approaches in Lactobacillus reuteri as a Porcine Probiotic: Investigation of Host Adaptation and Antipathogenic Activity.

After the introduction of a ban on the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) for livestock, reuterin-producing Lactobacillus reuteri is getting attention as an alternative to AGPs. In this study, we investigated genetic features of L. reuteri associated with host specificity and antipathogenic effect. We isolated 104 L. reuteri strains from porcine feces, and 16 strains, composed of eight strains exhibiting the higher antipathogenic effect (group HS) and eight strains exhibiting the lower effect (group LS), were selected for genomic comparison. We generated draft genomes of the 16 isolates and investigated their pan-genome together with the 26 National Center for Biotechnology Information-registered genomes. L. reuteri genomes organized six clades with multi-locus sequence analysis, and the clade IV includes the 16 isolates. First, we identified six L. reuteri clade IV-specific genes including three hypothetical protein-coding genes. The three annotated genes encode transposases and cell surface proteins, indicating that these genes are the result of adaptation to the host gastrointestinal epithelia and that these host-specific traits were acquired by horizontal gene transfer. We also identified differences between groups HS and LS in the pdu-cbi-cob-hem gene cluster, which is essential for reuterin and cobalamin synthesis, and six genes specific to group HS are revealed. While the strains of group HS possessed all genes of this cluster, LS strains have lost many genes of the cluster. This study provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between probiotic properties and genomic features of L. reuteri.

Role of autophagy in hydrogen-induced inhibition of apoptosis in hippocampal neurons in a rat model of orthotopic liver transplantation

Objective To evaluate the role of autophagy in hydrogen-induced inhibition of apoptosis in hippocampal neurons in a rat model of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Methods Fifty-six pathogen-free healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 8-10 weeks, weighing 220-250 g, were used in the study.Thirty-two rats were selected and assigned into 4 groups (n=8 each)using a random number table: sham operation group (group S), OLT group, hydrogen-rich saline group (group HS) and chloroquine group (group CQ). The other 24 rats severed as the donors.In group S, laparotomy was performed, and the related blood vessels were isolated.The model of OLT was established in OLT, HS and CQ groups.In group OLT, normal saline 6 ml/kg was slowly injected via the inferior vena cava at 5 min before anhepatic phase.In group HS, hydrogen-rich saline 6 ml/kg was slowly injected via the inferior vena cava at 5 min before anhepatic phase.In group CQ, autophagy inhibitor chloroquine 60 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally at 1 h before establishment of the model, and the other treatments were similar to those previously described in group HS.At 6 h of reperfusion, the rats were sacrificed and hippocampi were isolated for determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, for pathological examination (with light microscope), and for detection of cell apoptosis (by TUNEL staining) and expression of autophagy- and apoptosis-related proteins caspase-3, cytochrome c (Cyt c), microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 Ⅱ (LC3 Ⅱ), Beclin-1 and p53 in hippocampal tissues (by Western blot analysis). Apoptosis index (AI) was calculated. Results Compared with group S, the MDA content and AI were significantly increased, the SOD activity was decreased, and the expression of caspase-3, Cyt c, LC3Ⅱ, Beclin-1 and p53 was up-regulated in OLT, HS and CQ groups (P<0.05). Compared with group OLT, the MDA content and AI were significantly decreased, the SOD activity was increased, the expression of caspase-3 and Cyt c was down-regulated, and the expression of LC3Ⅱ, Beclin-1 and p53 was up-regulated in group HS (P<0.05). Compared with group HS, the MDA content and AI were significantly increased, the SOD activity was decreased, and the expression of caspase-3 and Cyt c was up-regulated, and the expression of LC3Ⅱ, Beclin-1 and p53 was down-regulated in group CQ (P<0.05). Conclusion The mechanism by which hydrogen inhibits apoptosis in hippocampal neurons is related to promotion of autophagy in a rat model of OLT. Key words: Autophagy; Hydrogen; Liver transplantation; Brain injury; Apoptosis

Effect of hemorrhagic shock factor on pharmacokinetics of rocuronium in pigs

Objective To evaluate the effect of hemorrhagic shock factor on the pharmacokinetics of rocuronium in pigs. Methods Sixteen pathogen-free Bama miniature pigs of both sexes, aged 3-5 months, weighing 22-25 kg, were divided into 2 groups(n= 8 each)using a random number table: control group(group C)and hemorrhagic shock group(group HS). In group C, rocuronium 3.78 mg/kg was injected via the auricular vein.In group HS, the animals were subjected to volume-controlled hemorrhage, about 40% of blood volume was withdrawn from the left femoral artery over 15 min(30 ml/kg), and rocuronium 3.78 mg/kg was injected via the auricular vein after the model was successfully established.At 0, 2, 4, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360 and 420 min after rocuronium injection, blood samples were collected from the internal jugular vein for determination of the plasma concentration of rocuronium by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.The pharmacokinetic parameters of rocuronium were calculated. Results Compared with group C, the plasma concentration of rocuronium was significantly increased at 20 and 60-420 min after rocuronium injection, the elimination half-life and mean residence time were prolonged, and the plasma effect-site equilibration rate constant was decreased in group HS(P 0.05). Conclusion The elimination of rocuronium is slower in a pig model of hemorrhagic shock. Key words: Shock, hemorrhagic; Androstanols; Pharmacokinetics

Lung protection provided by suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid in a rat model of hemorrhagic shock after entering high altitude for the first time:comparison of resuscitation with different fluids

Objective To compare the lung protection provided by suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) in a rat model of hemorrhagic shock after entering high altitude for the first time during resuscitation with different fluids. Methods Forty-eight male Wistar rats, aged 1.5-2.0 months, weighing 250-300 g, were transported from the breeding area at altitude 2 800 m to the experimental area at altitude 3 780 m. The rats were randomized into 4 groups (n=12 each) using a random number table: sham operation group (group Sham), hemorrhagic shock group (group HS), resuscitation with lactated Ringer′s solution combined with SAHA group (group LR+ SAHA), and resuscitation with hypertonic sodium chloride hydroxyethyl starch 40 solution (HSH40) combined with SAHA group (group HSH+ SAHA). Hemorrhagic shock was induced by removing 45%-55% of blood volume from the left femoral artery at a constant speed within 15 min until mean arterial pressure was reduced to 30-40 mmHg and maintained at this level for 90 min through blood-letting or reinfusion of the shed blood.In group Sham, only cannulation was performed, the rats received no blood-letting or resuscitation, blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta at 3 h of observation, and then the rats were sacrificed.In group HS, hemorrhagic shock was induced, blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta immediately after successful establishment of the model, and then the rats were sacrificed.In group LR+ SAHA, after successful establishment of the model, lactated Ringer′s solution (1.5 times the volume of blood loss) was infused over 20 min, and then SAHA 7.5 mg/kg (in 0.25 ml of normal saline) was infused over 5 min for resuscitation.In group HSH+ SAHA, after successful establishment of the model, HSH40 4 ml/kg was infused over 5 min, and then SAHA 7.5 mg/kg (in 0.25 ml of normal saline) was infused over 5 min for resuscitation.In LR+ SAHA and HSH+ SAHA groups, the animals were sacrificed after blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta at 3 h after resuscitation.Blood samples from the abdominal aorta were obtained for blood gas analysis, the oxygenation index was calculated, and the occurrence of acute lung injury (oxygenation index ≤300 mmHg) was recorded.Lungs were removed for examination of the pathologic changes (with light microscope) and ultrastructure (with transmission electronic microscope) and for determination of wet to dry weight ratio (W/D ratio) and expression of claudin-3 and claudin-4 in lung tissues (by Western blot). The lung injury was scored. Results The incidence of acute lung injury was 70% in group HS, and no acute lung injury was found in Sham, LR+ SAHA and HSH+ SAHA groups.Compared with group Sham, the lung injury score and W/D ratio in lung tissues were significantly increased, and the expression of claudin-3 and claudin-4 in lung tissues was significantly down-regulated in HS, LR+ SAHA and HSH+ SAHA groups (P<0.05). Compared with group HS, the lung injury score and W/D ratio in lung tissues were significantly decreased, the expression of claudin-3 and claudin-4 in lung tissues was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), and the pathologic changes were significantly attenuated in LR+ SAHA and HSH+ SAHA groups.Compared with group LR+ SAHA, the lung injury score and W/D ratio in lung tissues were significantly decreased, the expression of claudin-3 and claudin-4 in lung tissues was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), and the pathologic changes were significantly attenuated in group HSH+ SAHA. Conclusion SAHA provides better lung protection when resuscitation is performed with HSH40 than with lactated Ringer′s solution in a rat model of hemorrhagic shock after entering high altitude for the first time. Key words: Hydroxamic acids; Sodium lactate; Saline solution, hypertonic; Hetastarch; Altitude; Shock, hemorrhagic; Respiratory distress syndrome, adult

Comparison of different stylets used for intubation with the C-MAC D-Blade® Videolaryngoscope: a randomized controlled study

ObjectiveThe angle of the C-MAC D-Blade® videolaryngoscope, which is used for difficult airway interventions, is not compatible with routinely used endotracheal tubes. MethodsA prospective randomized crossover study was performed comparing five intubation methods for use with standardized airways, including using different stylets or no stylet: Group HS, hockey-stick stylet; Group DS, D-blade type stylet; Group CS, CoPilot® videolaryngoscope rigid stylet®; Group GEB, gum elastic bougie; and Group NS, no stylet. A manikin was used to simulate difficult intubation with a Storz C-MAC D-Blade® videolaryngoscope. The duration of each intubation stage was evaluated. ResultsParticipants in this study (33 anesthesiology residents and 20 anesthesiology experts) completed a total of 265 intubations. The number of attempts made using no stylet was significantly greater than those made for the other groups (p<0.05 for group NS- group GEB, group NS- group DS, group NS- group CS and group NS- group HS). The duration to pass the vocal cords significantly differed among all groups (p<0.001). The total intubation duration was shortest when using D-blade stylet, CoPilot stylet and hockey stick stylet. Although no difference was observed between stylet groups, a significant difference was found between each of these three and no stylet and gum elastic bougie (p<0.05 and p<0.001, respectively). ConclusionUse of the correct stylet leads to a more efficient use of the Storz C-MAC D-Blade®. In our study, the use of the D-blade stylet, the CoPilot stylet and the hockey stick stylet provided quicker intubation, allowed easier passage of the vocal cords, and decreased the total intubation duration. To confirm the findings of our study, randomized controlled human studies are needed.

Role of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in reduction of acute kidney injury following orthotopic liver transplantation by hydrogen-rich saline in rats

Objective To investigate the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)signaling pathway in reduction of acute kidney injury following orthotopic liver transplantation(OLT)by hydrogen-rich saline in rats. Methods Thirty-two healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 220-250 g, were randomly assigned into 4 groups(n=8 each)using a random number table: sham operation group(S group), OLT group, hydrogen-rich saline group(HS group), and all-trans retinoic acid(ATRA)group.Laparotomy was performed, and the related blood vessels were isolated in group S. The model of orthotopic autologous liver transplantation was established in OLT, HS and ATRA groups.Normal saline and hydrogen-rich saline 6 ml/kg were injected through the inferior vena cava at 5 min before the portal vein was clamped in OLT and HS groups, respectively.In group ATRA, Nrf2 inhibitor ATRA 7 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally once a day for 2 consecutive days, the model of orthotopic autologous liver transplantation was established at 16 h after the last injection of ATRA, and the other treatments were similar to those previously described in group HS.At 6 h of reperfusion, blood samples were collected for determination of serum blood urea nitrogen(BUN), creatinine(Cr), interleukin-10(IL-10)and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)concentrations.After blood sampling, the lungs were removed for determination of malondialdehyde(MDA)content, superoxide dismutase(SOD)activity, expression of HO-1, Bcl-2 and Bax mRNA(by using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction), and HO-1 protein expression in lung tissues(by Western blot)and for microscopic examination.The damage to the renal tubules was scored. Results Compared with group S, the serum BUN, Cr and TNF-α concentrations were significantly increased, the serum IL-10 concentrations were decreased, the MDA content and renal tubular damage score were increased, the SOD activity was decreased, and the expression of HO-1 protein and mRNA, and Bcl-2 and Bax mRNA was up-regulated in group OLT(P<0.05). Compared with group OLT, the serum BUN, Cr and TNF-α concentrations were significantly decreased, the serum IL-10 concentrations were increased, the MDA content and renal tubular damage score were decreased, the SOD activity was increased, the expression of HO-1 protein and mRNA and Bcl-2 mRNA was up-regulated, and the expression of Bax mRNA was down-regulated in group HS(P<0.05). Compared with group HS, the serum BUN, Cr and TNF-α concentrations were significantly increased, the serum IL-10 concentrations were decreased, the MDA content and renal tubular damage score were increased, the SOD activity was decreased, the expression of HO-1 protein and mRNA and Bcl-2 mRNA was down-regulated, and the expression of Bax mRNA was up-regulated in group ATRA(P<0.05). Conclusion The mechanism by which hydrogen-rich saline reduces acute kidney injury following OLT is probably associated with activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in rats. Key words: Hydrogen; NF-E2-related factor 2; Heme oxygenase-1; Liver transplantation; Kidney injury

Identification and Characterization of Isolates of Pythium and Phytophthora spp. from Snap Beans with Cottony Leak.

Cottony leak is an important disease of snap bean in Oklahoma and nearby states. Oomycete pathogens isolated from diseased pods collected from commercial fields and research plots consisted of both Pythium spp. (n = 131) and Phytophthora spp. (n = 46). Isolates were identified to species by morphological characteristics and by sequencing a portion of the internal transcribed spacer region of representative isolates. The most common Pythium spp. were Pythium ultimum var. ultimum; Pythium 'group HS', a self-sterile form of P. ultimum that produces hyphal swellings in lieu of sporangia (n = 74); and P. aphanidermatum (n = 50). Phytophthora spp. included Phytophthora drechsleri (n = 41) and P. nicotianae (n = 5). Nearly all of the isolates (95%) and all species were pathogenic on detached pods but Pythium ultimum var. ultimum and Pythium 'group HS' were most aggressive. Phytophthora drechsleri was most aggressive on seedlings, causing preemergence damping off and seed rot. Pythium ultimum var. ultimum, Pythium 'group HS', and P. aphanidermatum were intermediate in virulence to seedlings, causing root rot, stunting, and limited postemergence damping off. Phytophthora nicotianae and Pythium diclinum (n = 4) were not pathogenic on seedlings. Most (87%) isolates were sensitive to metalaxyl-M (concentration that caused a 50% reduction in mycelial growth [EC50] < 1 μg/ml) and the rest were intermediate in sensitivity (EC50 > 1 to < 100 μg/ml). Phytophthora drechsleri was the most sensitive species (EC50 = 0.06 μg/ml) compared with Pythium aphanidermatum, which was least sensitive (EC50 = 1.3 μg/ml). Cottony leak is a disease complex caused by several oomycete species that should include Phytophthora drechsleri, a newly reported pathogen of snap bean in the United States.

The Efficacy of Femoral Block and Unilateral Spinal Anaesthesia on Analgesia, Haemodynamics and Mobilization in Patients undergoing Endovenous Ablation in the Lower Extremity.

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of femoral block and unilateral spinal anaesthesia on analgesia, haemodynamics and mobilization during endovenous ablation in patients with lower extremity venous insufficiency. Forty patients of ASA physical status I and II, with ages ranging between 30 and 45 years, and who were scheduled for endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins were prospectively enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized into a unilateral spinal anaesthesia group (group HS, n=20) or a femoral block group (group F, n=20). Group HS received 7.5-10 mg of heavy bupivacaine for unilateral spinal anaesthesia, while group F received 100 mg prilocaine for femoral block with ultrasound guidance. The level of motor blockage (Bromage score), visual pain score, mean heart rate and mean arterial pressures were recorded at postoperative 0, 1, 2, 3d and 6 h, respectively. Perioperative visual pain score values in both groups were <4. None of the groups required an additional analgesic agent. Bromage scores were significantly lower in group F than in group HS during the postoperative period (p<0.01). Motor function returned to normal in all patients at 3 h in group F and at 6 h in group HS. Postoperative mean heart rate and arterial pressure did not differ between the groups (p>0.05). In patients with lower extremity venous insufficiency who were undergoing endovenous laser ablation, an ultrasound-guided femoral block provided similar analgesia with that of unilateral spinal anaesthesia. In group F, the duration of anaesthesia and mobilization time was shorter.

English

Banana and plantain (Genus: Musa; Family: Musaceae) are giant perennial rhizomatous herbs native to South East Asia and Western Pacific. Present study analyzed the genetic population structure and diversity of South Indian Musa cultivars belonging to different genome groups using random amplified polymorphic (RAPD) markers. The total genetic diversity for all groups (Ht) was 0.22 and within groups (Hs) was 0.07 indicating high genetic variability among groups (Gst=0.69). Gene flow (Nm) was also found to be relatively very low with a value of 0.23. Genetic variability parameters and AMOVA revealed that genetic diversity is mainly present among the genome groups. Analysis of genetic diversity and structure revealed highest diversity and heterozygosity in AA group followed by AAB. Nei (1973) gene diversity was 0.12 ± 0.17 in AA group followed by 0.09 ± 0.14 in AAB group. Dendrogram derived based on UPGMA method also grouped AA cultivars into two different clusters and separated them from the wild Calcutta 4 (AA) indicating the involvement of several Musa acuminata subspecies in the origin and evolution of AA diploids. The current work revealed the status of genetic diversity and population structure among Musa genome groups implying the need of effective conservation of diploid M. acuminata (AA) group. Key words: Banana, genetic diversity, Musa, random amplified polymorphic (RAPD), population structure.

Efficacy of conivaptan and hypertonic (3%) saline in treating hyponatremia due to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone in a tertiary Intensive Care Unit.

Background:Hyponatremia is one of the most common electrolyte abnormalities encountered in clinical practice and has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The optimal management of hyponatremia is still evolving. Over the last decade, vaptans have been increasingly used in clinical practice with promising results.Materials and Methods:The study included eighty patients with symptomatic hyponatremia due to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) admitted and treated in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with either conivaptan or hypertonic (3%) saline. They were compared for time taken to achieve normal serum sodium, length of ICU and hospital stay, and adverse effects.Results:The demographic data and serum sodium levels at admission were comparable between the two groups. After initiating correction, sodium levels at 6, 12, and 24 h were similar between the two groups. However, at 48 h, patients in the conivaptan group (Group C) had higher sodium levels (133.0 ± 3.8 mEq/L) as compared to hypertonic saline group (Group HS) (128.9 ± 2.6 mEq/L), which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The length of ICU stay was less in the Group C (3.35 ± 0.89 days) when compared with the Group HS (4.61 ± 0.91 days) (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups.Conclusion:In patients with symptomatic hyponatremia due to SIADH, conivaptan with its aquaresis property can achieve a significantly better sodium correction, resulting in reduced ICU and hospital stay with no significant adverse effects.

Effect of sevoflurane on expression of aquaporin 8 in intestinal mucosa in a pig model of hemorrhagic shock

Objective To evaluate the effect of sevoflurane on the expression of aquaporin 8 (AQP8) in the intestinal mucosa in a pig model of hemorrhagic shock. Methods Twenty-four Bama miniature pigs of both sexes, weighing 22–25 kg, were randomly divided into 3 equal groups using a random number table: sham operation group (group S), hemorrhagic shock group (group HS) and sevoflurane group (group PS). The femoral artery and jugular vein were cannulated for blood pressure monitoring, blood-letting, and blood sampling in anesthetized pigs.Hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood from the right femoral artery.Hemorrhagic shock was induced after cannulation in group HS.In group PS, 2% sevoflurane was inhaled for 30 min after the model of hemorrhagic shock was successfully established.Before anesthesia, and at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3 and 4 h after hemorrhagic shock, blood samples were collected from the jugular vein for determination of serum D-lactic acid and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) concentrations.The animals were sacrificed at 4 h after hemorrhagic shock, and the intestinal specimens were obtained for microscopic examination and for determination of AQP8 expression in the intestinal mucosa (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). The intestinal water content was calculated. Results Compared with group S, the serum D-lactic acid and I-FABP concentrations, AQP8 expression, and intestinal water content were significantly increased in HS and PS groups (P<0.05). Compared with group HS, the serum D-lactic acid and I-FABP concentrations, AQP8 expression, and intestinal water content were significantly decreased in group PS (P<0.05). The pathological changes of intestinal tissues were significantly reduced in group PS as compared with group HS. Conclusion Sevoflurane can decrease the intestinal mucosal edema through inhibiting AQP8 expression, thus reducing hemorrhagic shock-induced damage to the intestinal mucosa in pigs. Key words: Anesthetics, inhalation; Shock, hemorrhagic; Intestinal mucosa; Aquaporins

Effect of hydrogen-rich saline on acute kidney injury after orthotopic liver transplantation and the role of autophagy

Objective To investigate the effects of hydrogen-rich saline on acute kidney injury after orthotopic liver transplantation(OLT)in rats and the role of autophagy. Methods Fifty-six healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 220–250 g, served as donors and recipients.Thirty-two recipient rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups using a random number table: sham operation group(group S), OLT group, hydrogen-rich saline group(group HS), and autophagy inhibitor chloroquine group(group CQ). In group S, laparotomy was performed, and the related blood vessels were isolated.The model of OLT was established in OLT, HS and CQ groups.In OLT and HS groups, normal saline and hydrogen-rich saline 6 ml/kg were injected, respectively, through the inferior vena cava at 5 min before anhepatic phase.In group CQ, chloroquine 60 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally at 1 h before establishment of the model, and the other treatments were similar to those previously described in group HS.Blood samples were obtained at 6 h of neohepatic phase for determination of serum blood urea nitrogen(BUN)and creatinine(Cr)concentrations.After the end of blood sampling, the left kidneys were removed for determination of malondialdehyde(MDA)content(using thiobarbituric acid method), superoxide dismutase(SOD)activity(xanthine oxidase method), and cell apoptosis(using TUNEL), and for examination of the pathological changes of renal tissues.The damage to the renal tubules was scored.Apoptosis index(AI)was calculated.The expression of phosphorylated p53(p-p53), activated caspase-3, cytochrome c(Cyt c), microtubule-associated protein light chain 3Ⅱ(LC3Ⅱ), and Beclin-1 was detected by Western blot analysis. Results Compared with group S, the levels of BUN, Cr, and MDA, AI, and renal tubular damage score were significantly increased, the SOD activity was decreased, and the expression of activated caspase-3, Cyt c and LC3Ⅱ was up-regulated(P 0.05). Compared with group OLT, the levels of BUN, Cr, and MDA, AI, and renal tubular damage score were significantly decreased, the SOD activity was increased, the expression of activated caspase-3, Cyt c was down-regulated, and the expression of LC3Ⅱ, Beclin-1 and p-p53 was up-regulated in group HS(P 0.05). Conclusion Hydrogen-rich saline can attenuate acute kidney injury after OLT, and the mechanism is associated with activation of p53, enhancement of autophagy and inhibition of cell apoptosis in rats. Key words: Hydrogen; Liver transplantation; Kidney injury; Autophagy; Apoptosis

Changes in expression of aquaporin-8 in intestinal mucosa in pigs with hemorrhagic shock

Objective To evaluate the changes in the expression of aquaporin-8 (AQP8) in intestinal mucosa in pigs with hemorrhagic shock. Methods Sixteen Bama miniature pigs, weighing 22-25 kg, were equally and randomly divided into sham operation group (group S) and hemorrhagic shock group (group HS). The animals were fasted for 8 h before operation. The animals were anesthetized with propofol 3 mg/kg injected via the auricular vein, and tracheostomized and mechanically ventilated. In group S, the femoral artery and internal jugular vein were only cannulated. In group HS, the femoral artery and internal jugular vein were cannulated for blood pressure and mean arterial pressure monitoring and blood sampling. Hemorrhagic shock was then induced by removing 40 percent of blood volume over 15 min. Before anesthesia (T0), and at 30 min and 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 h after the end of blood-letting (T1-6), blood samples were collected for determination of serum D-lactate and intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) concentrations. After blood sampling at T6, the pigs were sacrificed, and intestinal specimens were obtained for microscopic examination and for determination of AQP8 cotent in intestinal mucosa (by ELISA). The water content of intestines was calculated by wet/dry weight ratio. Results Compared with group S, the serum D-lactate concentrations at T2-6, I-FABP concentrations at T1-6, and water content of intestines were significantly increased, and the cotent of AQP8 was up-regulated at T6 in group HS. No changes were found in the intestinal mucosa in group S. In group HS, severe damage to the intestinal mucosa was found, and bleeding, inflammatory cell infiltration, and epithelial cell necrosis were observed. Conclusion The mechanism of hemorrhagic shock-caused damage to intestines is related to up-regulated expression of AQP8 in intestinal mucosa in pigs. Key words: Shock, hemorrhagic; Intestinal mucosa; Aquaporins

Effects of sevoflurane on invasion and migration of mouse lung cancer cells induced by hypoxia

Objective To evaluate the effects of sevoflurane on invasion and migration of mouse lung cancer cells induced by hypoxia. Methods Mouse Lewis lung cancer cells were inoculated in the culture plate.After being cultured for 24 h, the cells were randomly divided into 3 groups(n=18 each)using a random number table: control group(group C), hypoxia group(group H)and hypoxia+ 2% sevoflurane group(group HS). Cells were exposed to 95% air-5%CO2(2 L/min)for 4 h in group C. Cells were exposed to 94% N2-5%CO2-1% O2 for 4 h in group H. In group HS, cells were exposed to 2% sevoflurane and 94% N2(2 L/min)for 4 h. The invasion of cells was determined by Transwell assay, and the invaded cells were counted.The migration of cells was evaluated by wound healing assay, and cell migration rates were calculated.The expression of Beclin 1 and LC3Ⅱ protein in cells was detected by Western blot. Results Compared with group C, the number of invaded cells and cell migration rates were significantly increased, and the expression of Beclin 1 and LC3Ⅱ was up-regulated in H and HS groups.Compared with group H, the number of invaded cells and cell migration rates were significantly decreased, and the expression of Beclin 1 and LC3Ⅱ was down-regulated in group HS. Conclusion Sevoflurane can inhibit the invasion and migration of mouse lung cancer cells induced by hypoxia, and inhibition of autophagy is involved in the mechanism. Key words: Anesthetics, inhalation; Lung neoplasms; Cell hypoxia; Neoplasm invasiveness; Neoplasm metastasis

Effects of Partial Vibration on Morphological Changes in Bone and Surrounding Muscle of Rats Under Microgravity Condition: Comparative Study by Gender

Musculoskeletal disorders during and after spaceflight are considered as a serious health issue. In space, weight-bearing exercise recognized as the main countermeasure to bone loss, since many anti-resorptive medications have not yet been approved for spaceflight or have been unsuccessful in their limited application. We need to investigate a complementary or alternative way to prevent bone loss and muscle atrophy resulting from microgravity condition. Partial vibration was chosen because it is one of the most feasible ways to adopt safely and effectively. Moreover, although the influence of hind-limb suspension has been studied in both male and female rodents, only rarely are both genders evaluated in the same study. Thus, to further extend our knowledge, the present study performed comparative analysis between genders. A total of 36 12-week-old male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were used and were randomly assigned to control (CON), hind-limb suspension without vibration stimulus (HS), and hind-limb suspension with vibration stimulus (HV) groups. Hind-limb suspension has led to increasing the rate of bone loss and muscle atrophy regardless of gender. The rates of bone loss in male group obviously increased than that of female group. All structural parameters were showed significant difference between HS and HV (p < 0.05) in male group whereas there are no significant differences in female group. In female, the muscle volume with treatment of partial vibration stimulus significantly increased which compared with that of hind-limb suspension (p < 0.05) whereas there are no significant differences in male group. Thus partial vibration could prevent bone loss of tibia in males and muscle atrophy in females induced by hind-limb suspension. In other words, partial vibration has positive effects on damaged musculoskeletal tissues that differ based on gender.

Dietary Sodium Loading Increases Central Systolic Blood Pressure More in Middle‐Aged Compared to Young Salt Resistant Adults

Excess dietary sodium intake has been linked to increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and the development of hypertension. We sought to determine the effect of short‐term dietary sodium loading on central blood pressure in young (YG; n=46, 26±1 yrs) and middle‐aged (MA; n=27, 51±1 yrs) normotensive, salt resistant adults. Subjects were randomized to 7 days of low sodium (LS: 20 mmol/d) and 7 days of high sodium (HS: 300 mmol/d). Salt‐resistance was defined as mean 24‐hour MAP change 蠄5 mmHg between diets (LS: 87±1 vs. HS: 86±1 mmHg, p &gt; 0.05). On the last day of each diet, carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and the synthesis of a central aortic pressure waveform (by radial artery applanation tonometry and generalized transfer function) and wave separation analysis were performed. When compared to the LS diet, the HS diet elicited an increase in central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) in both YG (LS: 95±1 vs. HS: 98±1 mmHg, p &lt; 0.05) and MA (LS: 107±2 vs. HS: 116±3 mmHg, p &lt; 0.05), with a larger increase seen in MA (YG: 3±1 vs. MA: 9±2, p &lt; 0.05). In MA, HS elicited greater central forward wave amplitude (LS: 26±1 vs. HS: 30±1 mmHg, p &lt; 0.05) and central reflected wave amplitude (LS: 18±1 vs. HS: 22±1 mmHg, p &lt; 0.05) but no difference was seen in YG. PWV was not altered by 7 days of HS in either group (p&gt;0.05). These data suggest that higher sodium intake is associated with a greater increase in cSBP in MA compared to YG adults that may be due to increases in forward and reflected wave amplitudes.Supported by NIH Grant R01 HL104106

Development of a standardized trauma-related lung injury model

BackgroundThe pathophysiology of acute lung injury is multifactorial, and the mechanisms are difficult to prove. We have devised a study of two known and standardized animal models (hemorrhagic shock [HS] and oleic acid [OA]) to more closely reproduce the pathophysiology of posttraumatic acute lung injury. Material and methodsPressure-controlled HS (group HS) was performed by withdrawing blood over 15-min until mean arterial pressure reached 35 mm Hg for 90 min. In an additional group, HS and standardized lung injury induced by OA were combined (group lung injury [HS + OA]). After the shock period, both groups were resuscitated over 15 min by transfusion of the removed blood and an equal volume of lactate Ringer solution. The end point was 6 h. Plasma interleukin (IL)-6, keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and lung histology were carried out. ResultsThe posttraumatic lung injury group demonstrated significantly higher IL-6 levels when compared with HS group (744.8 ± 104 versus 297.7 ± 134 pg/mL; P = 0.004). Histologic analysis confirmed diffuse alveolar congestion and moderate-to-severe lung edema in animals with HS + OA. Lung injury was mild in mice with isolated HS or OA injection. ConclusionsWe established a posttraumatic lung injury model combining two different standardized protocols (HS and OA). This model leads to pronounced inflammation and lung injury. This model allows the analysis of the dynamics of sterile lung injury and associated organ dysfunction.