NaCl Injection Research Articles

The new therapeutic option for female stress and stress-predominant mixed urinary incontinence: Periurethral hypertonic saline (10%) injection.

We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of periurethral hypertonic saline (10% NaCl) injection in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and stress-predominant mixed urinary incontinence (S-MUI) in women. This was a prospective study conducted between January 2014 and April 2018 with 64 women (44 SUI and 21 S-MUI). Patients with SUI and S-MUI were evaluated using the Urinary Distress Inventory 6. Quality of life was evaluated with the Incontinence Quality of Life Scale and lower urinary tract symptoms of the women were evaluated with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Modules. Incontinence status and treatment success were assessed via the Stamey incontinence grade and pad test. The subjective success rate was 58.5%, and the objective success rate was 81.5%. The rate of reinjection was 21.5%, and the mean duration of reinjection was 8.92 months (3-19 months). Minor adverse effects were observed in 30.4% of the 79 injections. International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Modules and Incontinence Quality of Life Scale scores improved remarkably starting from the first month. Urinary Distress Inventory 6 scores in the S-MUI group also improved. The results indicate that hypertonic saline injection is an effective and safe method in the treatment of SUI and S-MUI. Since hypertonic saline is a much cheaper and more accessible substance compared to bulking agents, it seems to be a viable alternative for urinary incontinence treatment in women.

Effect of Methotrexate Injection on Orthodontic Tooth Movement: An Experimental Study on Rats.

Introduction Knowledge about the effects of medications, vitamins, and various supplements on orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is imperative for orthodontists. This study aimed to assess the effect of methotrexate (MTX) injection on OTM in rats. Materials and Methods Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n = 7). The first molar and central incisor were connected using a nickel-titanium (NiTi) coil spring with a 50 g load in each rat. The two experimental groups received 0.75 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg MTX, respectively, intraperitoneally for 21 days. The negative control group did not receive any injection and did not undergo orthodontic treatment. The positive control group underwent orthodontic treatment and received 0.9% saline (NaCl) injections for 21 days. All rats were sacrificed with chloroform inhalation after 21 days; their maxilla was resected, and the mean number of Howship's lacunae, blood vessels, osteoclasts, and resorption lacunae was counted. The reduction in bone volume (bone volume to total volume ratio (BV/TV)) at the site of the maxillary molar was quantified by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). Results OTM, the number of osteoclasts, and the number of blood vessels significantly increased in rats treated with MTX (P < 0.05). However, the increase in the number of Howship's lacunae and resorption lacunae was not significant (P > 0.05). Lower BV/TV in the MTX groups was in agreement with the increased number of osteoclasts. Conclusion Injection of MTX can significantly increase OTM and decrease root resorption in rats.

Tolerance and osmotic response to food deprivation and salt loading in the herbivorous non-drinking Moroccan Spiny-tailed lizard Uromastyx nigriventris (Sauria: Agamidae)

Abstract Animals inhabiting arid environments use a variety of behavioural and physiological strategies to balance their water and salt budgets. We studied the effects of dehydration and salt loading on osmoregulatory capacities in a large herbivorous desert lizard, the Moroccan Spiny-tailed lizard Uromastyx nigriventris, the family Agamidae. These lizards select plants with a high K+ to Na+ ratio of 15 to 20, and like other herbivorous lizards, effectively eliminate the extra electrolyte load, mainly via a pair of active nasal salt glands, which exude the extra ions from blood. Here we present results of a series of laboratory experiments, which tested a five-week food and water deprivation and the excretory response of nasal salt glands, during a short period of five days, following salt loading by two separated injections of KCl or NaCl at a 5-day interval (4th and 9th days). During food-water deprivation, hypohydrated lizards lost 32% of their initial body mass with a substantial decrease of their Body Condition Index and the tail volume as an index of energy (fat and then potential metabolic water) storage. Plasma osmolality significantly increased by 20%. There were also significantly increased plasma sodium, chloride, and total protein concentrations. On the other hand, there was no significant decrease in the plasma glucose level. Most of the salt loaded lizards secreted far more K+ than Na+ via the nasal glands, even after NaCl loading. The K+/Na+ ratio decreased only after two to three repetitive NaCl injections but insufficient Na+ was eliminated. Two successive KCl injections were successfully eliminated, but daily natural average K+ administration induced progressive hyperkaliemia. These experimental data agreed with previous observations showing variations of plasma Na+ and K+ concentrations in free-living lizards. The nasal gland constitutes the main route of Cl− excretion but the Cl−/(Na+ + K+) ratio may vary according to observations in other herbivorous species.

Acute Skin Wounds Treated with Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Biopolymer Compositions Alone and in Combination: Evaluation of Agent Efficacy and Analysis of Healing Mechanisms

We studied the efficacy of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and a polymeric compound (based on chitosan and cellulose with integrated cerium dioxide nanoparticles (PCCD)) in wound healing, and to compare the effects with various invasive and external drugs used for the same purpose. Two wounds were made on the backs of each of 112 Wistar rats, removing the skin. Eight groups were studied: Control_0—intact wounds; Control_ss—0.9% NaCl injections; MSC injections; Control_msc—intact wounds on the opposite side of the body from the MSC group; external application of the PCCD; external application of a combination of the drugs PCCD + MSC; DCh –ointment Dioxomethyltetrahydropyrimidine + Chloramphenicol; and DHCB—injections of a deproteinized hemoderivative of calf blood. After 14 days, we evaluated the state and size of the wounds, studied the level of microcirculation, performed a histological study, and identified and counted the different types of cells. The most effective remedy was combination PCCD + MSC. The treatments in the PCCD and MSC groups were more effective than in the DHCB and DCh groups. Invasive drugs and DCh slowed the regeneration process. DHCB did not affect the rate of healing for acute wounds without ischemia during the first week. The proven efficacy of developed polymeric compounds demonstrates the feasibility of further studies in clinical practice.

Left ventricular depression and pulmonary edema in rats after short-term normobaric hypoxia: effects of adrenergic blockade and reduced fluid load

Acute normobaric hypoxia may induce pulmonary injury with edema (PE) and inflammation. Hypoxia is accompanied by sympathetic activation. As both acute hypoxia and high plasma catecholamine levels may elicit PE, we had originally expected that adrenergic blockade may attenuate the severity of hypoxic pulmonary injury. In particular, we investigated whether administration of drugs with reduced fluid load would be beneficial with respect to both cardiocirculatory and pulmonary functions in acute hypoxia. Rats were exposed to normobaric hypoxia (10% O2) over 1.5 or 6 h and received 0.9% NaCl or adrenergic blockers either as infusion (1 ml/h, increased fluid load) or injection (0.5 ml, reduced fluid load). Control animals were kept in normoxia and received infusions or injections of 0.9% NaCl. After 6 h of hypoxia, LV inotropic function was maintained with NaCl injection but decreased significantly with NaCl infusion. Adrenergic blockade induced a similar LV depression when fluid load was low, but did not further deteriorate LV depression after 6 h of infusion. Reduced fluid load also attenuated pulmonary injury after 6 h of hypoxia. This might be due to an effective fluid drainage into the pleural space. Adrenergic blockade could not prevent PE. In general, increased fluid load and impaired LV inotropic function promote the development of PE in acute hypoxia. The main physiologic conclusion from this study is that fluid reduction under hypoxic conditions has a protective effect on cardiopulmonary function. Consequently, appropriate fluid management has particular importance to subjects in hypoxic conditions.

Three broad classifications of acute respiratory failure etiologies based on regional ventilation and perfusion by electrical impedance tomography: a hypothesis-generating study

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to validate whether regional ventilation and perfusion data measured by electrical impedance tomography (EIT) with saline bolus could discriminate three broad acute respiratory failure (ARF) etiologies.MethodsPerfusion image was generated from EIT-based impedance–time curves caused by 10 ml 10% NaCl injection during a respiratory hold. Ventilation image was captured before the breath holding period under regular mechanical ventilation. DeadSpace%, Shunt% and VQMatch% were calculated based on lung perfusion and ventilation images. Ventilation and perfusion maps were divided into four cross-quadrants (lower left and right, upper left and right). Regional distribution defects of each quadrant were scored as 0 (distribution% ≥ 15%), 1 (15% > distribution% ≥ 10%) and 2 (distribution% < 10%). Data percentile distributions in the control group and clinical simplicity were taken into consideration when defining the scores. Overall defect scores (DefectV, DefectQ and DefectV+Q) were the sum of four cross-quadrants of the corresponding images.ResultsA total of 108 ICU patients were prospectively included: 93 with ARF and 15 without as a control. PaO2/FiO2 was significantly correlated with VQMatch% (r = 0.324, P = 0.001). Three broad etiologies of ARF were identified based on clinical judgment: pulmonary embolism-related disease (PED, n = 14); diffuse lung involvement disease (DLD, n = 21) and focal lung involvement disease (FLD, n = 58). The PED group had a significantly higher DeadSpace% [40(24)% vs. 14(15)%, PED group vs. the rest of the subjects; median(interquartile range); P < 0.0001] and DefectQ score than the other groups [1(1) vs. 0(1), PED vs. the rest; P < 0.0001]. The DLD group had a significantly lower DefectV+Q score than the PED and FLD groups [0(1) vs. 2.5(2) vs. 3(3), DLD vs. PED vs. FLD; P < 0.0001]. The FLD group had a significantly higher DefectV score than the other groups [2(2) vs. 0(1), FLD vs. the rest; P < 0.0001]. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) for using DeadSpace% to identify PED was 0.894 in all ARF patients. The AUC for using the DefectV+Q score to identify DLD was 0.893. The AUC for using the DefectV score to identify FLD was 0.832.ConclusionsOur study showed that it was feasible to characterize three broad etiologies of ARF with EIT-based regional ventilation and perfusion. Further study is required to validate clinical applicability of this method.Trial registration clinicaltrials, NCT04081142. Registered 9 September 2019—retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04081142.

Effects of iTBS-rTMS on the Behavioral Phenotype of a Rat Model of Maternal Immune Activation.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is considered a promising therapeutic tool for treating neuropsychiatric diseases. Previously, we found intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) rTMS to be most effective in modulating cortical excitation-inhibition balance in rats, accompanied by improved cortical sensory processing and sensory learning performance. Using an animal schizophrenia model based on maternal immune activation (MIA) we tested if iTBS applied to either adult or juvenile rats can affect the behavioral phenotype in a therapeutic or preventive manner, respectively. In a sham-controlled fashion, iTBS effects in MIA rats were compared with rats receiving vehicle NaCl injection instead of the synthetic viral strand. Prior to iTBS, adult MIA rats showed deficits in sensory gating, as tested with prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reflex, and deficits in novel object recognition (NOR). No differences between MIA and control rats were evident with regard to signs of anxiety, anhedonia and depression but MIA rats were somewhat superior to controls during the training phase of Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. MIA but not control rats significantly improved in PPI following iTBS at adulthood but without significant differences between verum and sham application. If applied during adolescence, verum but not sham-iTBS improved NOR at adulthood but no difference in PPI was evident in rats treated either with sham or verum-iTBS. MIA and control rat responses to sham-iTBS applied at adulthood differed remarkably, indicating a different physiological reaction to the experimental experiences. Although verum-iTBS was not superior to sham-iTBS, MIA rats seemed to benefit from the treatment procedure in general, since differences—in relation to control rats declined or disappeared. Even if classical placebo effects can be excluded, motor or cognitive challenges or the entire handling procedure during the experiments appear to alleviate the behavioral impairments of MIA rats.

Clinical evaluation of chemo-sterilization through histomorphology and hormonal changes in bucks

The study was aimed to evaluate methods for nonsurgical castration of Black Bengal bucks by intra-testicular injection of calcium chloride, sodium chloride, citric acid solutions or sterile deionized water. Twelve healthy bucks were randomly allotted to groups A, B, C, and D, consisting of three bucks each. The local anesthetic, 2% lidocaine hydrochloride, was infused into the spermatic cord of each buck, followed by bilateral intra-testicular injections of 30% calcium chloride (CaCl2), 25% sodium chloride (NaCl), 50% citric acid (C6H8O7) solutions, and sterile deionized water dosed at 2 ml per testis in groups A, B, C and D respectively. To evaluate the efficacy of chemical agents on the inactivation of testes, clinical parameters, changes in scrotal circumference, testicular fine needle aspiration (TFNA), histopathology and serum concentration of testosterone and LH were monitored. A significant decrease in the scrotal circumference was observed between the intra-testicular injection and day 14 in all the bucks. Absence of spermatogenic cells and spermatozoa in the testicular biopsy was observed on day 14 post injection in the bucks, except for one in group C. Histopathology revealed massive destruction of seminiferous tubules and disorganization of the testicular parenchyma. Serum testosterone concentration declined significantly on day 14 compared with day 0. Consequently, the gradual elevation in serum LH concentration was significant. Thus, intra-testicular injections of CaCl2 and NaCl were more effective than C6H8O7 in inducing chemical-based nonsurgical castration.

The Effect of PGF2α Injection on Post-Thaw Motility in Sperm of Nubian Goats

This study aims to determine the effect of PGF2α injection on the post-thaw motility (PTM) in sperm of Nubian goats. Three male Nubian goats (3-4 years) with good reproductive ability were used. This study used a 3 x 3 Latin square design. The experimental animals received a physiological NaCl injection as a control (P1); 37.5 mg of PGF2α (P2), and 75 mg of PGF2α (P3). Semen was collected using an artificial vagina with one-week storage intervals between treatments. The collected semen was then diluted and frozen using a simple freezing method. Observation of semen quality before freezing included macroscopic and microscopic examinations. Macroscopic examination consisted of volume, pH, color, odor, and consistency, while microscopic examination consisted of motility, concentration, viability, and abnormality. PTM examination was done by mixing a drop of sperm suspension and one drop of physiological NaCl on an object glass and covered prior to observation under microscope.. The results were analyzed using a Latin square pattern variant analysis, followed by Duncan's test. The PTM values of sperm (%) of Nubian goats in P1, P2, and P3 respectively are 28.71±10.24, 50.03±13.70, and 54.84±12.04 (P&lt;0.05). Injection of PGF2α to Nubian goats by injection increased the PTM.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Conditioned Medium as Good as Methyl Prednisolone in Decreasing Levels of Interleukin 10 and The Degree of Pulmonary Vasculitis in Lupus Mice

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects target organs. mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium has immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory properties in lupus. Methyl prednisolone is a standard drug for lupus with immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aims to compare the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium administration compared to methyl prednisolone on interleukin 10 levels and the degree of pulmonary vasculitis of lupus mice.&#x0D; Methods: The subjects were 24 female mice of Mus musculus Balb/C strain, which were categorized into 4 groups of 8 mice, i.e. the control group receiving 0.5 cc of 0.9% NaCl injection and placebo, the lupus group receiving 0.5 cc of pristane injection and placebo, and the treatment mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium group receiving 0.5 cc pristane injection and mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium 0,5 cc, and methylprednisolone group receiving 0,5 cc pristiane injection and methylprednisolone p.o 1,5 mg/kgbodyweight. After 24 days the mice were terminated and kidney and blood samples were taken. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA test followed by independent T-test. The p value was considered significant when the p &lt; 0.05.&#x0D; Results: The study showed that there was no difference on the levels of interleukin level10 among mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium goup and methyl prednisolone group (CM = 5,94 ± 2,49 pg/mL, mp = 5,86+1,73 pg/mL; p = 1) and the degree of pulmonary vasculitis (CM= 1,94 ± 0,25, MP=1,89+ 0,11 pg/ml; p = 0.667). Mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium as good as methyl prednisolone in decreasing levels of interleukin 10 and the degree of pulmonary vasculitis in lupus mice.&#x0D; Conclusion: Mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium as good as methyl prednisolone in decreasing levels of interleukin 10 and the degree of pulmonary vasculitis in lupus mice&#x0D; Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.20(2) 2021 p.426-430

Effects of sildenafil citrate on pancreatic and lung complications in an experimental L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis model.

AimIn this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of sildenafil citrate on acute pancreatitis and pulmonary complications of the disease.Material and methodsIn this study, we used 21 male Wistar-Albino rats weighing between 185 and 230 g. The rats were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 rats (control group, n = 7) were administered intraperitoneal 0.9% NaCl injection. Group 2 (study group, n = 7) and Group 3 (treatment group, n = 7) rats were given 100 mg/100 gr L-arginine twice, with an interval of 1 h to create acute pancreatitis. Group 3 was also administered intraperitoneal 10 mg/kg/day sildenafil citrate in 2 equal doses, 30 min and 12 h after creation of AP. The pancreas and lungs of all rats were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and examined histopathologically. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), interleukin (IL) 1α (IL-1α), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO) and ADMA levels were measured in blood samples.ResultsIn the treatment group, levels of amylase, AST, ALT, LDH, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and NO were lower. In addition, pancreas and lung oedema, and perivascular inflammation were significantly less on histopathological examination when compared to the study group (p < 0.001). The ADMA level was significantly higher in the treatment group when compared to the control and study groups. There was no acinar cell necrosis or haemorrhage in the treatment group. However, the difference was not regarded as statistically significant because sufficient acinar cell necrosis and haemorrhage could not be created in the study group.ConclusionsSildenafil citrate significantly decreases various biochemical and histopathological changes in the early phase of acute pancreatitis and protects pancreatic tissue.

Effects of Nanoherbal Haramonting (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa) and Extra Virgin Olive Oil on Histology of Liver and Kidney of Preeclamptic Rats.

Preeclampsia (PE) is a life threatening disease prevailing in pregnant women in Indonesia. Impaired kidneys and livers function in PE has a high risk during pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the role of nanoherbal haramonting and Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) on kidney and liver safety in preeclampsia rats. Nanoherbal Rhodomyrtus tomentosa is a medicinal plant with antioxidant activity such as EVOO which acts as inhibitor of oxidation, reduces lipid peroxidation and increases the speed of epithelialization. This study used pregnant rats (Ratus norvegicus) consisting of 5 treatments. Animal models of preeclampsia were made by injection of NaCl 6% 3 mL/day/kg b.wt., subcutaneously in pregnancy of 6-12 days and then given herbs in pregnancy at 13-19 days. The study group consisted of, C-: Normal pregnant rats, C+: PE rats, T1: PE rats were given EVOO, T2: PE rats were given nanoherbal haramonting and T3: PE rats were given EVOO and nanoherbal haramonting. Tissue histology was made by the paraffin method and staining Hematoxylin Eosin which was dissected on the 20th day of pregnancy. There was no significant difference in weight of the liver and kidneys after administration of EVOO and nanoherbal haramonting. The administration of this herb significantly decreased the narrowing of the kidney tubules and the glomerular diameters. Both of these herbs also repaired preeclamptic liver damage (p<0.05) in normal hepatocyte cells, parenchymal degeneration and necrosis. The EVOO and nanoherbal haramonting repaired preeclamptic liver and kidney damage.

Advanced Tenderization of Brine Injected Pork Loin as Affected by Ionic Strength and High Pressure.

This study investigated the effects of brine injection and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on the quality characteristics of pork loin. Brine with ionic strength conditions (0.7% vs 1.5% NaCl, w/v) were injected into pork loins, and the meat was pressurized up to 500 MPa for 3 min. As a quality indicator, moisture content, color, cooking loss and texture profile analysis (TPA) of pork loins were estimated. Based on the results, brine with low ionic strength (0.7% NaCl) resulted in low injection efficiency and high cooking loss, although, it improved tenderness of pork loin at moderate pressure level (~200 MPa). While high ionic strength condition (1.5% NaCl injection) lowered the hardness of pork loins at relatively high HHP level (400–500 MPa), it also caused high cooking loss. To commercialize the brine injected pork loins, it was necessary to regulate brine compositions, which was not evaluated in this study. Nevertheless, the present study demonstrated that brine injection followed by moderate pressure (200 MPa) could improve the tenderness of pork loins without causing other major quality losses.

Influence of overdistension/recruitment induced by high positive end-expiratory pressure on ventilation\u2013perfusion matching assessed by electrical impedance tomography with saline bolus

BackgroundHigh positive end-expiratory pressures (PEEP) may induce overdistension/recruitment and affect ventilation–perfusion matching (VQMatch) in mechanically ventilated patients. This study aimed to investigate the association between PEEP-induced lung overdistension/recruitment and VQMatch by electrical impedance tomography (EIT).MethodsThe study was conducted prospectively on 30 adult mechanically ventilated patients: 18/30 with ARDS and 12/30 with high risk for ARDS. EIT measurements were performed at zero end-expiratory pressures (ZEEP) and subsequently at high (12–15 cmH2O) PEEP. The number of overdistended pixels over the number of recruited pixels (O/R ratio) was calculated, and the patients were divided into low O/R (O/R ratio < 15%) and high O/R groups (O/R ratio ≥ 15%). The global inhomogeneity (GI) index was calculated to evaluate the ventilation distribution. Lung perfusion image was calculated from the EIT impedance–time curves caused by 10 ml 10% NaCl injection during a respiratory pause (> 8 s). DeadSpace%, Shunt%, and VQMatch% were calculated based on lung EIT perfusion and ventilation images.ResultsIncreasing PEEP resulted in recruitment mainly in dorsal regions and overdistension mainly in ventral regions. ΔVQMatch% (VQMatch% at high PEEP minus that at ZEEP) was significantly correlated with recruited pixels (r = 0.468, P = 0.009), overdistended pixels (r = − 0.666, P < 0.001), O/R ratio (r = − 0.686, P < 0.001), and ΔSpO2 (r = 0.440, P = 0.015). Patients in the low O/R ratio group (14/30) had significantly higher Shunt% and lower VQMatch% than those in the high O/R ratio group (16/30) at ZEEP but not at high PEEP. Comparable DeadSpace% was found in both groups. A high PEEP caused a significant improvement of VQMatch%, DeadSpace%, Shunt%, and GI in the low O/R ratio group, but not in the high O/R ratio group. Using O/R ratio of 15% resulted in a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 100% for an increase of VQMatch% > 20% in response to high PEEP.ConclusionsChange of ventilation–perfusion matching was associated with regional overdistention and recruitment induced by PEEP. A low O/R ratio induced by high PEEP might indicate a more homogeneous ventilation and improvement of VQMatch.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04081155. Registered on 9 September 2019—retrospectively registered.

Effect of Acute and Prolonged Inflammation on the Gene Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Their Receptors in the Anterior Pituitary Gland of Ewes.

An acute and prolonged inflammation inhibits the reproduction process by the disruption of the neurohormonal activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. It is thought that these changes may be caused by proinflammatory cytokines, i.e., interleukin (IL) -1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of an acute and prolonged inflammation on the expression of genes encoding cytokine and their receptors, gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR), beta subunits of luteinizing hormone (LHβ) and follicle-stimulating (FSHβ) in the anterior pituitary (AP). Moreover, the circulating concentration of LH and FSH was also assayed. Two experiments were carried out on adult ewes which were divided into two control groups and treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 400 ng / kg). Acute inflammation was caused by a single injection of LPS into the external jugular vein, while the chronic inflammation was induced by seven times LPS injection (one a day). In both experiments, animals were euthanized 3h after the last LPS / NaCl injection and the blood samples collected 15 min before euthanasia. An acute inflammation stimulates the expression of the IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα genes and their receptors in the AP of sheep. Prolonged inflammation increased TNFα gene expression and both types of TNFα and IL-6 receptors. Both an acute and prolonged inflammation inhibited LHβ gene expression in the AP and reduced LH level in blood. A sevenfold LPS injection raises FSH concentration. The gene expression of GnRHR was reduced in the ovine AP only after a single injection of endotoxin. Our results suggest that there are important differences in the way how an acute and prolonged inflammation influence proinflammatory cytokines and their receptors gene expression in the AP of anestrous ewes, which could be reflected by differences in the AP secretory activity during these states.

IL-2 and regulation of stress hormones and BDNF neurotropic factor levels after experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes a stable stress response and changes the expression of various cytokine genes and neurotrophic factors. The goal of this study was to reveal changes in the levels of the corticosterone and testosterone hormones and the BDNF cytokine in blood serum, as well as the expression of the BDNF gene in hypothalamus in order to determine the opportunity of correcting the TBI damage with rIL-2. We used a rat model of “dropping load”: mild TBI was caused by falling of the 115 g load from the height of 80 cm, or 120 cm to produce a moderate-degree trauma. After TBI (immediately, or 72 hours later), the rats were injected daily with recombinant human interleukin-2 (Roncoleukin) at a dose of 30 μg/kg, a total of 3 injections. Control animals (also with TBI) received 0.15 M NaCl injections. Blood serum concentrations of corticosterone, testosterone, and BDNF were measured with ELISA tests. BDNF gene expression in hypothalamus was measured using RT-PCR. Results: the experiments showed a relationship between hormone concentrations and severity of head injury. In mild TBI, blood corticosterone levels reached a peak 2 hours after the injury, while in moderate TBI, the peak concentration of corticosterone was lower, being delayed in time (after 24 hours). Corticosterone and testosterone concentrations changed reciprocally in the both groups of injured animals. With injection of rIL-2 in both groups, corticosterone and testosterone levels were significantly increased. On day 7 after TBI, the BDNF level in blood serum was decreased, but it was raised in experimental group that received rIL-2. On day 7, the increase of BDNF gene expression in hypothalamus was more pronounced, when rIL-2 was administered at 72 hours after the head injury. The revealed positive association of BDNF levels and glucocorticoid hormones after mild TBI, like as possible coordination of these parameters with rIL-2 injection after experimental moderate TBI provides a reason to assume that the favorable impact of rIL-2 on the CNS recovery after TBI is, in part, mediated by the mutual modulating interaction of BDNF and glucocorticoid hormones.

Melatonin Ameliorates Cadmium-Induced Affective and Cognitive Impairments and Hippocampal Oxidative Stress in Rat.

The present work aims to evaluate the effect of melatonin (Mel) on affective and cognitive disorders induced by chronic exposure to Cadmium (Cd). Male and female Wistar rats received either an intraperitoneal injection of saline solution NaCl (0.9%), Mel (4 mg/kg), Cd (1 mg/kg), or Cd (1 mg/kg) + Mel (4 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. Behavioral disorders were evaluated by different tests mainly the open field and elevated plus maze tests for anxiety-like behavior, forced swimming test (FST) for depression-like behavior, and the Y-maze and Morris water maze (MWM) tests for cognitive disorders. Thereafter, oxidative stress indices and histology of the hippocampus were evaluated. The results confirm that Cd administration has anxiogenic-like effects in both anxiety tests and depressive-like effects in the FST and leads to memory and learning disabilities in the Y-maze and MWM. We also report that Mel counteracts these neurobehavioral disorders. Biochemical assays showed that rats intoxicated with Cd significantly increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), while the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly decreased in the hippocampus. In contrast, Mel administration attenuates the Cd-induced changes. The histopathological studies in the hippocampus of rats also supported that Mel markedly reduced the Cd-induced neuronal loss in CA3 sub-region. Overall, our results suggest that Mel could be used to protect against Cd-induced neurobehavioral changes via its antioxidant properties in the hippocampus. The effects of Cd and Mel are sex-dependent, knowing that Cd is more harmful in males, while Mel is more protective in females.

Imaging of Therapeutic Effects of Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitors by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in a Rat Model.

PurposeThe aim of the study was to investigate optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) as a high-resolution in vivo imaging modality for monitoring therapeutic response to different vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors in the rat model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Further, OCTA findings were compared with fluorescein angiography (FA) and fluorescence microscopy.MethodsLaser treatment at day (D)0 was followed by intravitreal injection of aflibercept, AF564, and NaCl in dark agouti rats. Imaging with OCTA and FA was performed at D2, D7, D14, and D21. OCTA was compared to FA as well as confocal imaged flat mounts and analysis included quantification of CNV area, pixel intensity, vessel density, and number of vessel junctions.ResultsWithin laser lesions, neovascularization were visible especially in deeper retinal layers on OCTA, but not on FA images. Using OCTA, mean CNV area (D21) at the level of the outer nuclear layer (ONL) was 0.017 mm² following aflibercept administration, 0.016 mm² following AF564 and 0.026 mm² following NaCl injection (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03). Similar differences between treatment groups were determined by FA and histology, although the overall CNV area was always larger on FA due to dye leakage (P ≤ 0.0001, all layers).ConclusionsCompared to FA, OCTA imaging allows for a more precise and quantitative analysis of new blood vessel formation and therapeutic response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-inhibitors, whereas it does not permit assessment of leakage.Translational RelevanceThese findings suggest that OCTA may be particularly useful for the investigation of new treatment targets in the animal model.

Oxytocin and bone quality in the femoral neck of rats in periestropause

The objective of this study is to identify whether oxytocin (OT) contributes to the reduction of osteopenia in the femoral neck of rats in periestropause. Animals in irregular estrous cycles received two NaCl injections (0.15 mol/L) or OT (134 μg/kg) over a 12-h interval, and after thirty-five days without treatments, the biological sample collection was performed. The oxytocin group (Ot) demonstrated the highest enzymatic activity of alkaline phosphatase (p = 0.0138), lowest enzymatic activity of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (p = 0.0045), higher percentage of compact bone (p = 0.0359), cortical expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (p = 0.0101), osterix (p = 0.0101), bone morphogenetic protein-2/4 (p = 0.0101) and periostin (p = 0.0455). Furthermore, the mineral-to-matrix ratio (ν1PO4/Proline) was higher and type-B carbonate substitution (CO3/ν1PO4) was lower (p = 0.0008 and 0.0303) in Ot group. The Ot showed higher areal bone mineral density (p = 0.0050), cortical bone area (p = 0.0416), polar moment of inertia, maximum, minimum (p = 0.0480, 0.0480, 0.0035), bone volume fraction (p = 0.0166), connectivity density (p < 0.0001), maximal load (p = 0.0003) and bone stiffness (p = 0.0145). In Ot percentage of cortical pores (p = 0.0102) and trabecular number (p = 0.0088) was lower. The results evidence action of OT in the reduction of osteopenia, suggesting that it is a promising anabolic strategy for the prevention of primary osteoporosis during the periestropause period.

The small volume subcutaneous polyalkylimide injection-induced collagen capsule in rats: A preliminary study

Background: Polyalkylimide is a permanent dermal filler that has been used for skin augmentation to ameliorate skin ageing. The massive volume injection has a higher risk of complication. This study aims to find collagen capsule formation by small volume polyalkylimide implantation.  Methods: We used an experimental post-test only control group design. The control group received subcutaneous NaCl injection, and the treatment group received subcutaneous polyalkylimide injection 0.018 mL (equal 1 mL in the humans). After five weeks, all rats (Rattus norvegicus) strain Wistar were sacrificed. The skin samples were collected and proceed for histologic staining. Capsule thickness was performed as mean ± SD.     Results: The treatment group showed polyalkylimide mass in subcutaneous tissue, collagen fibres surrounding the polyalkylimide, and no inflammatory cells. The collagen capsule thickness was 7.45 ± 0.78 µm.Conclusion: The small volume polyalkylimide subcutaneous injection-induced collagen capsule formation. The small volume implantation shows promising effects for skin augmentation.