Ligature Group Research Articles

Experimental Model of Ligature-Induced Peri-Implantitis in Mice.

Dental implants have a high success and survival rate. However, complications such as peri-implantitis (PI) are highly challenging to treat. PI is characterized by inflammation in the tissues around dental implants with progressive loss of supporting bone. To optimize dental implants' longevity in terms of health and functionality, it is crucial to understand the peri-implantitis pathophysiology. In this regard, using mouse models in research has proven clear benefits in recreating clinical circumstances. This study aimed to describe an experimental model of ligature-induced peri-implantitis in mice and determine whether there is effectiveness in inducing this disease, given the observed bone and tissue changes. The experimental peri-implantitis induction comprehends the following steps: teeth extraction, implant placement, and ligature-inducted PI. A sample of eighteen 3-week-old C57BL/6J male mice was divided into two groups, ligature (N=9) and control non-ligature (N=9). The evaluation of clinical, radiographical, and histological factors was performed. The ligature group showed significantly higher bone loss, increased soft tissue edema, and apical epithelial migration than the non-ligature group. It was concluded that this pre-clinical model can successfully induce peri-implantitis in mice.

Comparison of two methods: Clipping and suturing in laparoscopic appendectomy

ObjectiveClosure of the appendix stump after appendectomy is considered one of the most important parts of laparoscopic appendectomy. Various techniques are used during this surgery, commonly including endoclips and ligatures. Therefore, this study was conducted to compare endoclips with intra-corporeal ligatures in closing the appendix stump during laparoscopic appendectomy. MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted using data from 50 patients with acute appendicitis who underwent uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy. The data from patients whose stumps were closed using endoclips in 25 patients (Group I) and with intra-corporeal ligatures in 25 patients (Group II) were extracted and compared regarding the occurrence of intraoperative and postoperative complications. ResultsThere were no differences between the two methods in terms of intraoperative and postoperative complications. The duration of surgery in the ligature group was significantly longer than in the clip group (p = 0.044). The hospital stay duration was clinically longer in the ligature group, but this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). ConclusionEndoclips for closing the appendix stump are safer with a shorter operating time and also a simpler method. Therefore, they could be a reliable alternative to the method of closing the appendix stump with ligatures.

Effects of periodontitis on bone and tryptophan metabolism of gut microbiota in estrogen-deficient mice

Objective: To study the effects of periodontitis on bone and tryptophan metabolism of gut microbiota in the context of estrogen deficiency. Methods: Thirty-two female C57BL6/J mice were randomly divided into four groups based on table of random numbers (n=8 in each group): Sham group, in which mice were given sham surgery; Sham_Lig group, in which mice were given sham surgery and were induced to periodontitis by ligating the bilateral maxillary second molars with 5-0 silk threads at the fourth week; Ovx group, in which mice were given bilateral ovariectomy; Ovx_Lig group, in which mice were given bilateral ovariectomy and were induced to periodontitis at the fourth week. After 8 weeks of ligation, the mice of 4 groups were euthanized for collecting the samples of femur, tibia, mandible and skull. Those samples were scanned by micro-CT to measure the bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume versus total volume ratio (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) and trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp). The cecum contents of 4 groups of mice were collected for gut microbiota 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The tryptophan and its metabolites in intestinal tracts were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to analyze the correlation between the abundance of gut microbiota and the content of tryptophan and its metabolites. Results: Femur BMD [(82.23±3.97) mg/cm3], BV/TV [(9.25±1.37)%] and Tb.Th [(70.95±5.70) μm] in Ovx_Lig group were significantly lower than Ovx group [(96.30±3.76) mg/cm3 (P=0.004); (14.45±1.55)% (P=0.022) and (87.58±8.02) μm (P<0.001), respectively]. The β-diversity analysis of gut microbiota based on Bray-Curtis distance showed that samples of Ovx_Lig group and Ovx group were obviously grouped. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) showed that Alistipes was the representative genus in Ovx_Lig group. The relative abundance of Alistipes in Ovx_Lig group [(0.42±0.14)%] were significantly higher than that in Ovx group [(0.17±0.05)%] (t=4.45, P<0.001). Tryptophan metabolism analysis showed that the content of kynurenic acid [(531.12±158.60) ng/g] in Ovx_Lig group were significantly higher than that in Ovx group [(400.42±57.96) ng/g] (t=2.19, P=0.046). And the content of indole-3-carbaldehyde [(383.37±144.06) ng/g] in Ovx_Lig group were significantly lower than Ovx group [(701.72±141.93) ng/g] (t=4.45, P<0.001). Correlation analysis showed that relative abundance of Alistipes was positively correlated with kynurenic acid (r=0.32, P=0.088), while negatively correlated with indole-3-carbaldehyde (r=-0.32, P=0.088). Conclusions: Periodontitis can induce bone destruction of femur in estrogen-deficient mice, the mechanism of which may be related to Alistipes in gut and the tryptophan metabolites kynurenic acid and indole-3-carbaldehyde.

Influence of the postoperative restrictive methodologies and efficacy of the Baerveldt 350 implant after 12 months follow‐up

Aims/Purpose: To assess the clinical outcomes subsequent to the implantation of a Baerveldt 350 drainage device, utilizing different restrictive methodologies to prevent sudden postoperative hypotony (HT) (IOP &lt;6 mmHg), and their subsequent impact on the incidence of a Hypertensive phase (HP).Methods: A retrospective observational analysis of 71 consecutive eyes that had a Baerveldt 350 implanted. 50 eyes had 6 or 7/0 polyglactin tube ligation (ligature group = LG) and 21 eyes had a 3/0 polypropylene intraluminal tear cord 3/0 added to the ligation (ripcord‐ligature group = RLG), which was manually removed at the surgeon's discretion after spontaneous opening of the polyglactin. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular hypotensive medication (OHM) lowering, failure rate, complete and partial success (CS and PS) and presence of HP were analysed.Results: The mean preoperative IOP was 26.14 (11.34) mmHg with 2.98 OHM for the LG and 28 (8.76) mmHg with 3.35 OHM for the RLG (p = 0.545 and p = 0.397). At the end of the follow‐up, the mean postoperative IOP was 13.35 (3.87) mmHg for the LG and 10.81(2.66) mmHg for the RLG (p = 0.01). The mean reduction of OHM was 2.25 (1.38) for the LG and 2.81 (1.6) for the RLG (p = 0.168). HP was noted in 26 patients (37.14%), 25 of them took place in the LG (50%); however, only 1 took place in the RLG (5%) (p = 0.00023). 35% of the patients who exhibited HP achieved CS, compared to 67.7% of the patients that did not show HP (p = 0.022). The survival analysis for a 12 months follow‐up period, showed that the estimate survival time for the LG was 10.97 (±0.521), and 11.64 (±0.342) for the RLG (p = 0.216). Two predictors were identified for risk of failure and CS: age of the patient before surgery (OR 0.157; 95% CI 0.029–0.865; p = 0.033) and the presence of HP (OR 3.90; 95% CI 1.189–12.794; p = 0.025). Lastly, HT was noted in 55 patients (80.9%), 45 of them took place in the LG (81.8%); however, only 10 took place in the RLG (18.2%) (Pearson Chi‐S p = 0.000225).Conclusions: Baerveldt 350 drainage device implantation has proven to be an effective procedure for glaucoma control. The use of the ripcord added to the absorbable ligature was associated with less risk of HP, and with better IOP results at the 12‐months follow‐up. Nevertheless, further research with larger population and larger follow‐up is needed to obtain robust results.

Influences of high vs. low-intensity exercises on muscle strength, function, and quality of life in post-COVID-19 patients with sarcopenia: a randomized controlled trial.

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of high vs. low-intensity exercise training on muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life in post-COVID-19 patients with sarcopenia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD). 82 subjects were randomized into 2 groups: high intensity (HIG, n=42), which received high-intensity resistance training, and low intensity (LIG, n=40), which conducted low-intensity aerobic activities. Exercises were performed for 30 min, 3 times per week for 6 weeks. A handheld dynamometer, pinch press, and 1 min sit-to-stand (STS) test were used to assess muscle strength. Modified physical performance test and sarcopenia Quality of Life questionnaire (SAR-QoL) were used to assess function and quality of life, respectively. Measures were collected before and at the end of the treatment program. Participants were similar at baseline. The within-group comparisons demonstrated statistically significant improvement in both HIG and LIG groups in all outcome measures (p<0.001). Between groups, comparisons revealed statistically significant better achievements with high effect size in Modified Physical Performance Test (MMPT) (p<0.001, d=1.28), handgrip (p<0.001, d=3.6), STS (p<0.001, d=2.38), and SAR-QoL (p<0.001, d=3.24) in favor of the HIG. On the other hand, pinch press strength was equally improved in both groups (p=0.09, d=0.36). High-intensity exercise is better than low-intensity exercises in post-COVID-19 patients with sarcopenia secondary to chronic kidney disease regarding muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life.

Cinnamaldehyde modulates host immunoinflammatory responses in rat ligature-induced periodontitis and peripheral blood mononuclear cell models.

Cinnamaldehyde is a natural product with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties, known to regulate host responses to bacterial stimuli. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cinnamaldehyde on ligature-induced periodontitis in rats, and its impact on the modulation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Male Wistar rats were assigned into three groups:i) control: no ligature+vehicle; ii) ligature: ligature+vehicle; and iii) ligature+cinnamaldehyde (50mg/kg); all treatments by daily oral gavage. After 14days of induced periodontitis, the hemimandibles were collected for bone loss evaluation. The gingival levels of IL-1β, MMP-9 and iNOS mRNA were evaluated. Nitric oxide (NO) was measured in both rat saliva and plasma. PBMC were stimulated with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) in the presence or absence of cinnamaldehyde (5, 20 e 40µM), and cytokine production was quantified in cell supernatant. Proliferating lymphocytes were taken for flow cytometer reading, while culture supernatants were used for IFN-γ and IL-10 assessment. The ligature group had both increased alveolar bone loss and gingival expression of IL-1β, MMP-9 and iNOS compared to the control group. All parameters were attenuated by cinnamaldehyde treatment. Lower salivary but not plasma NO was detected in the cinnamaldehyde compared to the ligature group. Aa-stimulated PBMCs treated with cinnamaldehyde produced less IL-1β; the compound also attenuated lymphocyte proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, as well as cell IL-10 production. Cinnamaldehyde treatment reduced periodontal bone loss, and downregulated key inflammatory mediators and human PBMC responses, pointing to novel potential therapeutic effects of this compound.

Energy Devices for Clipless-Sutureless Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Utility and Safety.

Background and Objectives: While laparoscopic appendectomy is standardized, techniques for appendiceal stump closure and mesoappendix division remain variable. Novel vessel sealing techniques are increasingly utilized ubiquitously. We sought to systematically summarize all relevant data and to define the current evidence on the safety and utility of energy devices for clipless-sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: This review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria included studies with laparoscopic appendectomy for appendicitis. The intervention included patients undergoing division of mesoappendix and/or securing of the appendicular base using diathermy (Monopolar or Bipolar or LigaSure Sealing Device) or Harmonic Scalpel (Group A) compared to patients undergoing division of mesoappendix and/or securing of the appendicular base using endoclip or Hem-o-lok or ligature (Group B). The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Downs and Black scale. The outcomes of surgical site infection (SSI) or intra-abdominal collection, postoperative ileus, average operative duration, and length of hospital stay (LHS) were compared. Results: Six comparative studies were included; three were retrospective, two were prospective, and one was ambispective. Meta-analysis revealed a shorter operative duration in Group A with respect to appendicular base ligation (MD -12.34, 95% CI -16.57 to -8.11, p &lt; 0.00001) and mesoappendix division (MD -8.06, 95% CI -14.03 to -2.09, p = 0.008). The pooled risk ratios showed no difference in SSI between groups. Additionally, no difference was observed in LHS. The risk of postoperative ileus was higher in group B regarding mesoappendix division (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.93, p = 0.02), but no difference was found concerning appendicular base ligation. The included studies showed a moderate-to-high risk of bias. Conclusions: Clipless-sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and fast. Postoperative ileus seems less common with energy devices for mesoappendix division. However, the studies included have a moderate-to-high risk of bias. Further studies addressing the individual devices with surgeons of similar levels are needed.

Periodontitis may impair the homeostasis of systemic bone through regulation of gut microbiota in ApoE-/- mice.

To investigate whether periodontitis impacts bone homeostasis via gut microbiota regulation. Experimental periodontitis was induced by ligatures (LIG group). ApoE-/- mice were employed as a model with weakened bone homeostasis. Bone turnover was evaluated through micro-computerized tomography, haematoxylin and eosin-stained sections, osteoblast and osteoclast biomarkers in the bone and serum. Gut microbiota was analysed through 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Serum concentrations of cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The role of gut microbiota was evaluated through their transplantation into antibiotic-treated mice. Periodontitis significantly increased the number of osteoclasts and the expression of the osteoclast biomarkers in the proximal tibia of ApoE-/- mice, with the RANKL/OPG (receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand/osteoprotegerin) ratio significantly increased, which indicated the osteoclastic activity overwhelmed osteogenesis. Meanwhile, periodontitis altered the composition of gut microbiota and induced low-grade inflammation in the colon and blood circulation. Interestingly, the concentration of circulating tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, IL-17A, and monocyte chemotactic factor-1 were positively correlated with faecal α1-antitrypsin and calprotectin, as well as serum OPG and RANKL. Furthermore, transplantation of gut microbiota from mice with periodontitis to antibiotic-treated mice could partially re-capitulate the phenotypes in the bone and colon. Periodontitis may impair systemic bone homeostasis through gut microbiota.

Do sclero-embolization procedures have advantages over surgical ligature in treating varicocele in children, adolescents and adults? Results from a systematic review and meta-analysis.

We aimed to systematically review complications, and recurrence rate of varicocele treatment by comparing the surgical ligature versus sclero-embolization techniques in children, adolescents and adults. The secondary outcomes were the evaluation of semen parameters and spontaneous pregnancy rate in adults. The review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework. Continuous variables were pooled using the inverse variance of the mean difference (MD) with a fixed effect, and 95% confidence interval (CI). The incidences of complications were pooled using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Method with the random effect model and reported as Odds Ratio (OR), and 95% CI. Statistical significance was set two-tail p-value < 0.05. Twenty studies were included. Incidence of postoperative hydrocele was significantly higher in the surgical ligation group (OR 3.06 95% CI 1.06-8.88, p=0.04). Incidence of postoperative orchiepidydimitys was significantly higher in sclero-embolization group (OR 0.26 95% CI 0.08-0.85, p=0.02). Presence of normal spermatozoa was significantly higher sclero-embolization group compared with the surgical ligature group (MD 2.54% 95% CI 0.43-4.65, p=0.02). No difference was found in overall complications, wound infection, testis pain, surgical site hematoma, total sperm count, sperm motility, pregnancy and recurrence rate. This review confirms that current data does still not support the superiority of one type of treatment over other ones.

Abstract 563: Age-related Differences In Vascular Remodeling Resulting From Acute Injury

Background: The vascular system, like other organ systems, ages, leading to differences in remodeling due to injury. The hallmark of acute vascular injury is the formation of intimal hyperplasia. Vascular procedures performed in the elderly, such as angioplasty, stent and other cardiovascular procedures/surgeries, result in higher rates of acute vascular injury compared to younger adults. We explored age-related differences in vascular remodeling due to acute injury using the unilateral carotid artery ligation (CAL) murine model. Methods: Four-month and twenty-two-month-old C57BL/6 male mice underwent ligation of the left common carotid artery immediately received either angiotensin II (1.4 mg/kg/day; Lig+Ang II) or vehicle (phosphate-buffered saline; Lig) via subcutaneous osmotic minipumps for 4 weeks. Results: Compared to young murine arteries, histopathology showed increased thinning and straightening of elastin in 22 mo. old arteries, as well as increasing collagen deposition in the media layer, resulting in thicker vessel walls.Old vessels were more susceptible to insults, as observed in the Lig group. In turn, the old vessel remodeled with neo-intimal formation, fragmentation of elastin and narrowing of the lumen, whilst there was no neo-intimal formation in the young arteries under the same injury.Even though Ang II increased remodeling in the young vessels with neo-intimal formation, Ang II exacerbated remodeling in the aged arteries with enough intimal hyperplasia that led to the occlusion of the lumen with a necrotic core, and the complete disintegration of the elastin. Molecular analysis showed differences between young and old arteries with and without perturbation. Conclusions: Together, these results indicate that vascular ageing can be detected in old arteries, but that there are age-dependent differences in vascular remodeling following acute injury revealed through pathological and molecular analysis. Thus, this study has provided an invaluable tool for understanding the mechanisms of neo-intimal formation in restenosis to elderly patients following angioplasty and vein grafts. It is also a means for pre-clinical pharmacological interventions.

Effects of taxifolin on bone formation and apoptosis in experimental periodontitis in diabetic rats

ABSTRACT We investigated the therapeutic potential of taxifolin for treatment of alveolar bone loss (ABL) in experimental periodontitis in diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by streptozotocin. Rats were divided into six groups: untreated control; DM only (D) group; ligature only (P) group; DM + ligature (DP) group; DM + ligature + 5 mg/kg/day taxifolin (Taxi-5) group; DM + ligature + 10 mg/kg/day taxifolin (Taxi-10) group. Experimental periodontitis was induced by ligation of the first molar and allowed to progress for 30 days before performing cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT), histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses of periodontal tissue destruction. ABL was assessed using CBCT. ABL was greatest in the P and DP groups. Decreased ABL was observed in the Taxi-5 and Taxi-10 groups. Bone morphogenic protein (BMP-2), osteocalcin (OCN), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), type I collagen, B cell lymphoma-associated X (Bax), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) levels were investigated using immunohistochemistry. The Taxi-5 and Taxi-10 groups exhibited decreased RANKL expression, but increased BMP-2, ALP, type I collagen and OCN levels compared to the P and DP groups. Bax activity was increased in the D, P and DP groups. Taxi-5 and Taxi-10 groups exhibited increased Bcl-2 activity. Our findings suggest that taxifolin can reduce apoptosis and improve alveolar bone formation in diabetic rats with periodontitis.

Evaluation of RANK induced periodontitis in rats previously exposed to Cyclosporine A

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of previous exposure to CsA on the expression of RANK and bone loss in experimental periodontitis induced in rats. Forty rats were divided into four groups as follows: Control (CON); Cyclosporine A (CsA), with daily doses of 10 mg/Kg of CsA; Ligature (LIG), with a ligature around the upper right second molar on day 30; and Ligature + CsA (CsAL). Sixty days later, the animals were sacrificed and samples removed for histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analysis of bone resorption, bone density and RANK expression. There was no significant influence of bone resorption on the application of CsA. LIG Group (735.88 ± 121.82) had significantly higher bone resorption (p = 0.01) than CON Group (569.13 ± 89.76), and CsAL Group (759.38 ± 198.23) also had significantly higher bone resorption (P = 0.001) than CsA Group (410.90 ± 105.95). Bone density in the CsA Group (87.49 ± 4.07) was lower than that of CON Group (92.42 ± 2.27) and similar to that of LIG Group (91.85 ± 3.91). CsAL Group (79.41 ± 3.81) showed the lowest density compared to the other groups. RANK did not differ between the groups. The prior exposure to CsA had no influence on the expression of RANK or bone resorption.

The effects of a grape seed extract on ligature induced – periodontitis in rats – an experimental study

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of administering a grape seed extract, rich in polyphenols in an experimental model of ligature induced periodontitis in rats. Methods: 30 male Wistar rats were divided into Control group, Ligature group and Grape seed extract (GSE) group. Periodontitis was induced by placing a wire ligature around the first mandibular molar for 4 weeks. The animals in the GSE group were administered grape seed extract by gavage. In days 1, 7 and 28 blood samples were taken and in day 28 the hemimandibles were harvested and sent for histological examination. Reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in serum and in gingival tissue. Results: Significantly higher values of MDA were found in serum and periodontium in the Ligature group in comparison to the GSE group. GSE administration resulted in an increase of GSH plasma concentration in the GSE group as compared to the Control and Ligature groups. In the GSE group inflammation and bone involvement were less marked than in the Ligature group. Conclusions: The grape seed extract proved protective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in a ligature-induced experimental model of periodontitis in rats and also improved the histological status of gingival tissue and bone.

Neuroinflammation changes with periodontal inflammation status during periodontitis in wild‐type mice

To investigate neuroinflammation under different periodontal status. Experimental periodontitis was induced by molar ligation (Lig group) or periodontal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, Lps group). Periodontal status was assessed by alveolar bone resorption and periodontal inflammation. Micro-computed tomography and haematoxylin-eosin staining were performed to assess alveolar bone resorption and periodontal inflammation, respectively. Neuroinflammation was assessed by glial cell proliferation and proinflammatory factor expression. Microgliosis was determined by immunofluorescence. Astrogliosis was determined by immunohistochemistry. Expressions of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-1β were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Microgliosis and astrogliosis in the Lig group were notable with molar ligation for 2weeks and 4weeks (p<.05), but were only slightly different similar from the control group by week 12. Microgliosis and astrogliosis in the Lps group were significant with LPS injection for 4 and 8weeks (p<.05). The groups displayed a positive correlation between the degree of periodontal inflammation and the number of glial cells (p<.05). Expressions of IL-1β and TNF-α in the Lps group were significantly increased with LPS injection for 8weeks (p<.05). In the Lig group, only TNF-α was highly expressed with molar ligation for 12weeks (p<.05). Both models demonstrated that the inflammatory response in the hippocampus of mice can change during periodontitis depending on the periodontal inflammation status.

Quercetin Decreased Alveolar Bone Loss and Apoptosis in Experimentally Induced Periodontitis Model in Wistar Rats

Quercetin is a flavonoid which has potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant effect. Purpose of this study was to evaluate effects of quercetin on alveolar bone loss and histopathological changes in ligature-induced periodontitis in rats. Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: non-ligated control (C, n=8) group; periodontitis (P, n=8) group; ligature and low dose quercetin group (75 mg/kg/day quercetin, Q75 group, n=8); ligature and high dose quercetin group (150 mg/kg/day quercetin, Q150 group, n=8). Silk ligatures were placed at gingival margin of lower first molars of mandibular right quadrant. Study duration was 15 days, and animals were sacrificed end of this period. Changes in alveolar bone levels were clinically measured and tissues were immunohistochemically examined, matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP 8), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP 1), Cysteine-aspartic proteases 3 (Caspase 3), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) positive osteoclast cells, osteoblast, and neutrophil counts were also determined. Alveolar bone loss was highest in P group, and differences among P, Q75, and Q150 groups were significant. Both doses of quercetin decreased TRAP+ osteoclast cells and increased osteoblast cells. Inflammation in P group was also higher than those of C, Q75, and Q150 groups indicating anti-inflammatory effect of quercetin. iNOS, MMP-8, and caspase-3 levels were highest, and TIMP-1 expression was lowest in P group; differences were statistically significant. Within limits of this study, it can be suggested that quercetin administration may reduce alveolar bone loss by increasing osteoblastic activity, decreasing osteoclastic activity, apoptosis, and inflammation in an experimental model of periodontitis.

Z-Ligustilide Ameliorates Diabetic Rat Retinal Dysfunction Through Anti-Apoptosis and an Antioxidation Pathway.

BackgroundDiabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the major causes of vision impairment. Z-ligustilide (3-butylidene-4,5-dihydrophthalide; Z-LIG) is an important volatile oil from the Chinese herb Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels. It has been extensively studied and reportedly has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, analgesic, vasodilatory, and neuroprotective effects. Its effects on DR, however, remain obscure. In this study, we attempted to explore the protective effects of Z-LIG on retinal dysfunction and the potential underlying mechanisms.Material/MethodsA diabetic rat model was constructed with streptozotocin injection. Three study groups were constituted: control (CON), diabetic model (DM), and DM+Z-LIG. The DM+Z-LIG group was injected intraperitoneally with 10 mg/kg of Z-LIG. The other groups received the same volume of 3% solution of polysorbate 80. After a 12-week intervention, a series of assessments were performed, including tests for retinal function, morphology, and molecular biology.ResultsZ-LIG treatment significantly elevated b-wave and OPs2-wave amplitude and thickened the inner layer of the nucleus of the retina, and the outer plexiform and nuclear layers (INL+OPL+ONL). Moreover, the rate of apoptosis and expression of bcl-2- associated X protein (BAX) and cleaved-Caspase-3 were clearly reduced, and the expression of bcl-2 was raised by Z-LIG in retinas of diabetic mice. In addition, the levels of retinal proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α were downregulated by Z-LIG. Furthermore, Z-LIG inhibited expression of vascular endothelial growth factor-α (VEGF-α) at the mRNA and protein levels.ConclusionsZ-LIG can inhibit inflammatory response and cell apoptosis in retinas of diabetic rats by repressing the VEGF-α pathway. Therefore, it may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for DR.

Comparison of the use of a vessel-sealing device versus ligatures for occlusion of uterine tissues during ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

To compare the bursting strength of the uterine horns (UHs) and cervical-vestibule junction (CVJs) of rabbits following sealing with a vessel-sealing device (VSD) or encircling ligatures. UHs and CVJs collected from 30 rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) cadavers. UHs and CVJs were randomly assigned to sealing with encircling Miller knot ligatures (LIG; n = 10 CVJs and 20 UHs) or a VSD (12 CVJs and 24 UHs). Lumens were infused with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution under pressure until seals burst or to a maximum pressure of 300 mm Hg. For CVJs, median (range) bursting pressure of the LIG and VSD groups was > 300 mm Hg (224 to > 300 mm Hg) and 35 mm Hg (0 to 60 mm Hg), respectively. Five of 12 CVJs in the VSD group failed at pressures < 33 mm Hg. For UHs, median (range) bursting pressure of the LIG and VSD groups was 255 mm Hg (120 to > 300 mm Hg) and 154 mm Hg (range, 44 to 202 mm Hg), respectively. The evaluated VSD was effective in sealing UHs at bursting pressures well in excess of expected physiologic pressures, indicating that the VSD may be useful for ovariectomy procedures in rabbits. However, CVJ seals created with the VSD were ineffective and could potentially burst at low pressures, which could predispose to urine entering the abdomen. Given these results, we do not recommend sealing of the CVJ with a VSD for ovariohysterectomy in rabbits.

Anagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, improved bladder function and hemodynamics in rats with bilateral internal iliac artery ligation

To investigate the effect of anagliptin (Ana), a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, on acute ischemia-induced bladder dysfunction in rats. Eight-week-old female Wistar-ST rats were randomly assigned into four groups: (a) sham; (b) ligation (Lig); (c) Lig + Ana; and (d) Lig + Liraglutide (a glucagon-like peptide-1 [GLP-1] receptor agonist; Lira). Rats in the Lig, Lig + Ana, and Lig + Lira groups underwent ligature of the bilateral internal iliac arteries. Ana was orally administered mixed with the CE-2 diet. Lira was subcutaneously administered once a day. Blood glucose levels, plasma dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) activity, GLP-1 levels, and bladder function were measured in all groups. Bladder blood flow was measured in the sham, Lig, and Lig + Ana groups, 4 weeks postsurgery. No differences in blood glucose levels among the groups were observed. DPP-4 activity decreased in the Lig + Ana group (P < .01). GLP-1 levels in the Lig + Ana and Lig + Lira groups were higher than those in the sham and Lig groups (P < .01). Intercontraction intervals (ICIs) were longer in the Lig and Lig + Lira groups than in the sham group (P < .05), but similar to those observed in the Lig + Ana and sham groups. The Lig group exhibited reduced bladder blood flow relative to the sham group (P < .01); however, this measure improved in the Lig + Ana group (P < .01). Ana administration improved ICIs and bladder blood flow after acute bladder ischemia through a GLP-1 receptor-independent signaling pathway, without altering the blood glucose levels. Therefore, Ana dosing might be useful to prevent ischemia-induced bladder dysfunctions.

Protective effects of desipramine on alveolar bone in experimental periodontitis.

Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant with immune-modulatory activity, whose effects on ligature-induced periodontitis are yet to be investigated. Hence, its actions on alveolar bone resorption, gingival collagen content and key inflammatory mediators were herewith analyzed. A total of 60 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups: 1) control: rats without ligature treated with vehicle (saline); 2) ligature: rats with ligature-induced periodontitis treated with vehicle; 3) ligature + desipramine: rats with ligature-induced periodontitis treated with desipramine (20mg/kg/d in vehicle). Mandibles and gingival tissues were collected 3 or 15 days after ligature insertion (or no ligature insertion for controls) and treatments. Alveolar bone resorption and gingival collagen fibers were histologically analyzed using either HE or picrosirius red staining. Gingival mRNA expressions of interleukin (IL)-1β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 were obtained through reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. MMP-9 activity was analyzed by zymography. Alveolar bone loss was significantly reduced in the ligature + desipramine group (P<0.05), whereas gingival collagen degradation was like the ligature group (P>0.05). Desipramine administration downregulated mRNA expressions of IL-1β, iNOS, COX-2, and TIMP-1 when compared to vehicle alone in the ligature group (P<0.05). MMP-9 expression and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio were similar among rats with ligature-induced periodontitis (P>0.05); however, MMP-9 activity was lower in the group treated with desipramine (P<0.05). Desipramine administration reduced alveolar bone loss as histologically observed, and modulated key bone remodeling and inflammatory mediators in rats with ligature-induced periodontitis.

Comparison of Two Tube-Modification Techniques in Baerveldt Glaucoma Implantation in Refractory Glaucoma.

ImportanceTo compare treatment outcomes among a stent group, ligature group and combined group in eyes with refractory glaucoma.BackgroundVarious techniques have been used intra-operatively to restrict the aqueous flow in Baerveldt glaucoma implantation.DesignRetrospective chart review.ParticipantsAll glaucoma patients aged over 18-years old who had Baerveldt implantation in Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, between October 2011 and February 2018 were included for analysis.MethodsRetrospective interventional research was conducted. All glaucoma patients who underwent drainage device implantations were retrospectively reviewed from medical records and divided into three groups: stent group, ligature group, and combined group. The primary outcome was post-operative intraocular pressure (IOP) changes and BCVA (logMAR) change. The secondary outcome is treatment failure. Repeated measurements with mixed models and multi-level parametric survival model stratified by propensity score and eye side were used to compare the primary and secondary outcomes between stent group and ligature group.Main Outcome MeasuresTreatment failure between two groups.ResultsA total of 163 patients with a mean age of 57.11 ± 19.04 years, implanted with Baerveldt tube, were eligible. There were no significant differences between stent and ligature groups in terms of post-operative IOP changes [mean difference with 95% confidence interval = 0.53 (−0.49, +1.55) vs −0.02 (−0.84, +0.81); P = 0.411] and post-operative BCVA (logMAR) change (0.02 (−0.13, +0.18) vs –0.05 (−0.18, +0.07); P = 0.465). The hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval of treatment failure in ligature group were 2.57 (0.72–9.19) compared with the stent group.ConclusionThis study suggests a trend toward a better result in the stent group compared with the ligature group. Further research with a larger sample size and randomized control trial is warranted.