Number Of Scratches Research Articles

Evaluation of hair surface structure and morphology of patients with lichen planopilaris (LPP) by atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a chronic lymphocytic skin disease manifested by progressive scarring alopecia. The diagnosis of LPP is made based on histopathological examination, although it is not always definite. The current study evaluates the effectiveness of non-invasive atomic force microscopy (AFM) hair examination in detecting morphological differences between healthy and diseased hair. Here, three to five hairs from lesional skin of 10 LPP patients were collected and examined at nine locations using AFM. At least four images were taken at each of the nine sites. Metric measurements were taken and metric (length, width, and scale step height) and morphological features (striated and smooth surface of scales, the presence of endocuticle and cortex, shape of scales edges, scratches, pitting, cracks, globules, and wavy edge) were compared with hair from healthy controls. In addition, areas on diseased hair where the process of pathological, unnatural delamination of the hair fiber occurs are described. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of scratches in the initial sections of the LPP hair, in the intensity of wavy edges along the entire length of the tested hair, and in the number of scales with pitting in the middle section of the hair. In addition, a statistically significant higher number of scales with striated surface was found in LPP group starting at 3.5cm from the root continuing towards the free end of the hair. Other morphological changes such as presence of cortex, globules, oval indentations, and rod-like macrofibrillar elements were also assessed, however, detailed results are not presented, as the differences shown in the number of these morphological changes were not significantly different. This publication outlines the differences between virgin, healthy Caucasian hair, and the hair of LPP patients. The results of this study can be used for further research and work related to LPP. This is the first attempt to characterize the hair of LPP patients using AFM.

Genistein mitigates nitroglycerine-induced migraine: modulation of nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation and oxidative stress.

Migraine is a widespread brain condition described by frequent, recurrent episodes of incapacitating, moderate-to-severe headaches with throbbing pain that are usually one-sided. It is the 2nd most debilitating state lived with disability in terms of years, with a prevalence rate of 15-20%. Significant drops in estrogen levels have been associated with triggering acute migraine attacks in certain cases. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds that resemble estrogen in structure, enabling them to imitate estrogen's functions in the body by attaching to estrogen receptors. Thus, the study was aimed to explore the protective effect of genistein against migraine. Moreover, the role of nitric oxide was also studied in the observed effect of genistein. Nitric oxide (NO) is implicated in migraine pathophysiology due to its role in promoting cerebral vasodilation and modulation of pain perception. Exploring L-NAME, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor in migraine research helps scientists better understand the role of NO in migraine. Nitroglycerine treatment significantly increased the facial-unilateral head pain and spontaneous pain, as evidenced by the increased number of head scratching and groomings. Nitroglycerine treatment also induced anxiogenic behavior in mice. A significant reduction in the number of entries in the light phase and open arm, respectively. Biochemical analysis indicated a significant increase in inflammatory and oxidative stress in the nitroglycerin group. A significant increase and decrease in brain TBARS and GSH were observed with nitroglycerine treatment, respectively. Moreover, nitroglycerine treatment has uplifted the serum TNF-α level. Genistein (20mg/kg) significantly mitigated the facial-unilateral head pain, spontaneous pain, photophobia, and anxiety-like behavior induced by nitroglycerine. Biochemical analysis showed that genistein (20mg/kg) significantly abrogated the nitroglycerine-induced lipid peroxidation and increased serum TNF-α level. Genistein treatment also upregulated the brain GSH level and downregulated the serum TNF-α level. The L-NAME-mediated alleviation of the protective effect of genistein might be attributed to the vasodilatory effect of L-NAME. Conclusively, it can be suggested that genistein might provide relief from migraine pain by inhibiting nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation and oxidative stress.

Region-specific activation in the accumbens nucleus by itch with modified scratch efficacy in mice – a model-free multivariate analysis

Itch is a protective/defensive function with divalent motivational drives. Itch itself elicits an unpleasant experience, which triggers the urge to scratch, relieving the itchiness. Still, it can also result in dissatisfaction when the scratch is too intense and painful or unsatisfactory due to insufficient scratch effect. Therefore, it is likely that the balance between the unpleasantness/pleasure and satisfaction/unsatisfaction associated with itch sensation and scratching behavior is determined by complex brain mechanisms. The physiological/pathological mechanisms underlying this balance remain largely elusive. To address this issue, we targeted the "reward center" of the brain, the nucleus accumbens (NAc), in which itch-responsive neurons have been found in rodents. We examined how neurons in the NAc are activated or suppressed during histamine-induced scratching behaviors in mice. The mice received an intradermal injection of histamine or saline at the neck, and the scratching number was analyzed by recording the movement of the bilateral hind limbs for about 45 min after injection. To experimentally manipulate the scratch efficacy in these histamine models, we compared histamine's behavioral and neuronal effects between mice with intact and clipped nails on the hind paws. As expected, the clipping of the hind limb nail increased the number of scratches after the histamine injection. In the brains of mice exhibiting scratching behaviors, we analyzed the expression of the c-fos gene (Fos) as a readout of an immediate activation of neurons during itch/scratch and dopamine receptors (Drd1 and Drd2) using multiplex single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (RNAscope) in the NAc and surrounding structures. We performed a model-free analysis of gene expression in geometrically divided NAc subregions without assuming the conventional core–shell divisions. The results indicated that even within the NAc, multiple subregions responded differentially to various itch/scratch conditions. We also found different clusters with neurons showing similar or opposite changes in Fos expression and the correlation between scratch number and Fos expression in different itch/scratch conditions. These regional differences and clusters would provide a basis for the complex role of the NAc and surrounding structures in encoding the outcomes of scratching behavior and itchy sensations.

Research on flexible base discrete adhesion model of SCAPW for blade machining

Softness consolidation abrasives pneumatic wheel (SCAPW) is a new type of flexible machining tool, and its material removal characteristics are closely related to the deformation of the rubber base and the motion contact characteristics of surface abrasives. In order to solve the precision machining problems of complex curved surfaces of SCAPW, proposing a method for establishing a flexible base discrete adhesion model for FEM-DEM coupled simulation. The research investigates the pressure distribution of SCAPW under different compression amounts, which shows a central concave basin-like distribution law. Fitting a pressure distribution equation for the machining contact area and adjusting the coefficients of the Preston equation to derive a material removal model suitable for SCAPW polishing. Finally, the appropriate processing parameters are selected for the engine blade polishing experiment based on the contour error obtained by the coordinate measuring machine. The result shows that the surface roughness of the blade is reduced by nearly 83 %, the contour error of the blade edge is reduced to less than 0.1 mm, and the number of noticeable scratches is reduced by nearly 90 %. This experiment verifies the correctness of the model and the processing effect, providing a scientific basis for the subsequent optimization of the processing technology and improving processing efficiency.

Role of induced nitric oxide synthases in orofacial nociception/discomfort after dental tooth bleaching with hydrogen peroxide

ObjectiveTo evaluate the role of induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in nociception/orofacial discomfort in rats submitted to tooth whitening with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Design:Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n = 24/group): a sham group not submitted to whitening treatment, a saline group submitted to whitening treatment, and a test group submitted to whitening treatment and blockade of iNOS with aminoguanidine 50 mg/kg/day. After 24 and 48 h, and 7 days, the animals were euthanized to collect trigeminal ganglia and maxillae to histomorphometric analysis (size of neuronal bodies and percentage of pulp area filled by vessels) and behavior/nociception (Grimace scales, scratching and biting counting, weight loss and nociception assay). ANOVA-1- or − 2-way tests were used (p < 0.05, GraphPadPrism 5.0). Results:The aminoguanidine-treated group showed a reduction in nociceptive threshold in the masseteric region (p < 0.001), Grimace scale scores (p < 0.001), number of scratching (p = 0.011) and body mass loss (p = 0.007). After 24 and 48 h of tooth bleaching, the saline group showed a significant increase in the mean area of the blood vessels (p = 0.020) and iNOS immunostaining in odontoblasts (p = 0.002) and non-odontoblasts cells (p = 0.025). Aminoguanidine reversed both increases. Tooth bleaching reduced the mean area of neuronal bodies, and aminoguanidine significantly reversed it (p = 0.019), but an increase in GFAP immunostaining in neuronal bodies did not reduce after seven-days or after aminoguanidine treatment (p = 0.003). Conclusion:iNOS blockage by aminoguanidine plays an important role in nociception and orofacial discomfort by control of inflammation in dental pulp after tooth bleaching with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) 35%.

PJ‑001, a small‑molecule proteolysis‑targeting chimera, ameliorates atopic dermatitis‑like inflammation in mice by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 pathway and repairing the skin barrier.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common allergic skin disease, and its pathogenesis involves genetic and environmental factors, as well as the immune response and skin barrier. PJ-001 is a small-molecule proteolysis-targeting chimera, which can degrade proteins related to the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway. In the present study, 0.5% 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene was used to induce a mouse model of AD. Following treatment with PJ-001, the number of scratches and the severity of skin damage in the AD mice were recorded. Pathological changes in skin lesions were observed with hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression levels of JAK2/STAT3, Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB (TLR4/NF-κB), Beclin 1 and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) were detected using western blotting. Furthermore, reverse transcription-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of filaggrin (FLG) and keratin 17, and the change in interleukin-10 levels in the splenic tissue of the mice. Compared with in the control group, the model group exhibited severe skin lesions. Following treatment with PJ-001, the AD-like inflammation in mice decreased. The expression levels of LC3 II/LC3 I and Beclin 1 were significantly reduced (P<0.01), and the expression levels of JAK2, STAT3, TLR4 and NF-κB were significantly downregulated (P<0.001). Additionally, the mRNA expression levels of FLG were significantly upregulated (P<0.001). These results indicated that PJ-001 may alleviate the skin condition in a mouse model of AD. The underlying mechanism may involve inhibition of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, thereby suppressing the release of inflammatory factors, reducing excessive autophagy at the site of skin lesions, and enhancing the skin barrier function. In conclusion, PJ-001 could be considered a potential therapeutic option for AD.

Complex dental wear analysis reveals dietary shift in Triassic placodonts (Sauropsida, Sauropterygia)

Placodonts were durophagous reptiles of the Triassic seas with robust skulls, jaws, and enlarged, flat, pebble-like teeth. During their evolution, they underwent gradual craniodental changes from the Early Anisian to the Rhaetian, such as a reduction in the number of teeth, an increase in the size of the posterior palatal teeth, an elongation of the premaxilla/rostrum, and a widening of the temporal region. These changes are presumably related to changes in dietary habits, which, we hypothesise, are due to changes in the type and quality of food they consumed. In the present study, the dental wear pattern of a total of nine European Middle to Late Triassic placodont species were investigated using 2D and 3D microwear analyses to demonstrate whether there could have been a dietary shift or grouping among the different species and, whether the possible changes could be correlated with environmental changes affecting their habitats. The 3D analysis shows overlap between species with high variance between values and there is no distinct separation. The 2D analysis has distinguished two main groups. The first is characterised by low number of wear features and high percentage of large pits. The other group have a high feature number, but low percentage of small pits. The 2D analysis showed a correlation between the wear data and the size of the enlarged posterior crushing teeth. Teeth with larger sizes showed less wear feature (with higher pit ratio) but larger individual features. In contrast, the dental wear facet of smaller crushing teeth shows more but smaller wear features (with higher scratch number). This observation may be related to the size of the food consumed, i.e., the wider the crown, the larger food it could crush, producing larger features. Comparison with marine mammals suggests that the dietary preference of Placochelys, Psephoderma and Paraplacodus was not exclusively hard, thick-shelled food. They may have had a more mixed diet, similar to that of modern sea otters. The diet of Henodus may have included plant food, similar to the modern herbivore marine mammals and lizards.

Failure analysis of S30408 pipe cracking and preventive measures

BACKGROUND: The feed pipeline made from 30408 stainless steel of a new unit leaked during the air pressure test. OBJECTIVE: The present work aims to examine the specific cause of pipeline cracking, and providing effective approaches to avoid similar failures. METHODS: Macroscopic inspections of the cracked pipe defects were made on site immediately after leakage. Mechanical properties and hardness of specimens machined from the failed pipe were tested. In addition, microscopic analyses including material composition, microstructure observation and crack morphologies of the failed part were performed to get detail information. Composition of the feed raw material was also analyzed to identify whether it had been contaminated by corrosive elements or not. RESULTS: No impurity composition was found in the feed raw material. The element constituents, yield strength, tensile strength and hardness of the cracked pipe fulfill standard requirements. A number of scratches and defects with a size of several microns were found on the inner wall of the leaked pipe, and they were believed to be formed at the perforation step during pipeline processing. Liquation cracks were found at the pipeline butt weld joint, and they laid hidden dangers for the safety and steady operation of the pipeline. CONCLUSION: The overall analysis results indicated the pipeline leakage during air pressure test was caused by cracks initiated around inner wall defects, which sabotaged the bearing capacity of the pipe by wall thickness reduction and stress concentration. Therefore, improving the inner wall surface quality at the perforation step may help to avoid such failure. The metallurgical effect and weld stress caused during the welding process promoted the initiation and propagation of liquation cracks. The tendency of welding hot crack formation could be reduced by taking strict composition control of the welding rod and adopting reasonable welding parameters.

Jiawei guomin decoction regulates the degranulation of mast cells in atopic dermatitis mice via the HIS/PAR-2 pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceGuomin decoction (GMD) is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in clinical practice. It has traditionally been used to treat all allergic diseases. Currently, Jiawei Guomin Decoction (JWGMD) is used to treat sensitive skin after initial therapy. Although it has a significant clinical therapeutic effect, the exact role of mast cell degranulation in treating atopic dermatitis (AD) is still unclear. Aim of the studyGMD and JWGMD can both treat allergic diseases, while JWGMD focuses on skin allergies. This study aims to explore the potential effect of JWGMD on the degranulation of mast cells in an AD mouse model induced by 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) and investigate the effectiveness of JWGMD in alleviating disease progression to further provide specific therapeutic targets for treating AD. Materials and methodsThe scratching times and skin lesions of model mice induced by DNFB were observed, and skin tissues were collected for subsequent measurement. Histopathological changes in the back skin of mice were observed by haematoxylin eosin (H&E) staining, Toluidine blue staining was used to detect the degranulation of mouse skin mast cells, and the relationship between the expression of histamine (HIS), mast cell tryptase (MCT) and mast cell degranulation was analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2), histamine 1 receptor (H1R), H2R, H4R and MCT proteins in AD mice was detected by Western blot (WB). Immunofluorescence assay (IFA) further confirmed the localization of PAR-2, H1R, H2R, H4R, and MCT proteins in the skin. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to determine PAR-2, H1R, H2R and H4R mRNA levels in skin lesions to further clarify the mechanism by which JWGMD amplifies mast cell degranulation in AD. In addition, a reliable ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole electrostatic field orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-QE-MS) nontargeted metabolomics analysis was performed to analyse the differences in metabolite abundance between GMD and JWGMD, and these results were used to identify the active components in JWGMD that may have antipruritic and anti-inflammatory properties and inhibit mast cell degranulation. ResultsAfter intermittent stimulation with DNFB, the skin lesions showed extensive desquamation, dryness, scabbing, skin thickening, and slight bleeding. Both treatments alleviated this phenomenon and reduced the number of scratches, with JWGMD being the most effective. JWGMD can significantly reduce inflammatory cell infiltration, oedema, and some capillary neogenesis in mice and reduce the degranulation of mast cells. The ELISA results showed that JWGMD can increase the levels of MCT and HIS proteins. The WB and IFA results demonstrated that JWGMD reduced the expression levels of PAR-2, H1R, H4R, and MCT proteins in skin lesions, with protein localization mainly in the epidermal layer, while H2R protein levels were increased and mainly localized in the dermis. In addition, JWGMD downregulates the mRNA expression of PAR-2, H1R, H2R, and H4R. Interestingly, through UPLC-QE-MS nontargeted metabolomic analysis, we detected the anti-inflammatory and antiallergy active substances in JWGMD, such as methyl eugenol, dictamnine and sinapine. ConclusionsJWGMD may alleviate itching through methyl syringol, dictamnine, sinapine and other substances, and its mechanism may be related to inhibiting the HIS/PAR-2 pathway in AD model mice and further regulating the self-amplification of mast cell degranulation. JWGMD is a potential drug for treating AD. Therefore, it deserves continuous attention and research.

Nocturnal Scratching and Quality of Sleep in Children with Atopic Dermatitis.

Itching due to atopic dermatitis causes sleep disorders in children, but its pathology is unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate nocturnal scratching as an indirect index of itching during sleep and its relationship with depth of sleep in children with atopic dermatitis. Nocturnal scratching was measured in a total of 20 children with atopic dermatitis, using a smartwatch installed with the application Itch Tracker. Depth of sleep was analysed using polysomnography. The severity of atopic dermatitis was scored using Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) and Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM). The number and time of nocturnal scratching measured by Itch Tracker had a significantly positive correlation with EASI scores, whereas POEM scores were not correlated with EASI scores. Mean sleep efficiency was 90.0% and scratching episodes (n = 67) started mainly during the awake stage or light sleep stages. In the scratching episodes that started during sleep stages (n = 34), the sleep stage changed to a lighter one or to the awake stage in 35.5% of episodes. Itch Tracker is applicable to measure nocturnal scratching in children. Nocturnal scratching can deteriorate quality of sleep by changing the sleep stage to a lighter one or to the awake stage.

Mechanisms of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in itch: From acute itch model establishment to the role in chronic itch in mouse

Programmed cell death receptor/ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) blockade therapy for various cancers induces itch. However, few studies have evaluated the mechanism underlying PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-induced itch. This study aimed to establish and evaluate a mouse model of acute itch induced by PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors and to explore the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in chronic itch. The intradermal injection of the PD-1/PD-L1 small molecule inhibitors, or anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies in the nape of the neck in the mice elicited intense spontaneous scratches. The model was evaluated using pharmacological methods. The number of scratches was reduced by naloxone but not by antihistamines or the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel inhibitor. Moreover, the PD-1 receptor was detected in the spinal cord of the mouse models of chronic itch that exhibited acetone, diethyl ether, and water (AEW)-induced dry skin, imiquimod-induced psoriasis, and 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNFB)-induced allergic contact dermatitis. Intrathecal PD-L1 (1 μg, 4 times a week for 1 week) suppressed the activation of the microglia in the spinal dorsal horn to relieve the chronic itch that was elicited by imiquimod-induced psoriasis and DNFB-induced allergic contact dermatitis. Although the activation of the microglia in the spinal dorsal horn was not detected in the AEW-treated mice, intrathecal PD-L1 still reduced the number of scratches that were elicited by AEW. Our findings suggest that histamine receptor inhibitors or TRP channel inhibitors have limited effects on PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-induced itch and that spinal PD-1 is important for the spinal activation of the microglia, which may underlie chronic itch.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antipruritic Effects of Remote Ischaemic Postconditioning in a Mouse Model of Experimental Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

Background and Objectives: Allergic contact dermatitis is a common type IV hypersensitivity reaction characterised by redness, itching, oedema and thickening of the skin. It occurs in about 7% of the population and its incidence is increasing. It has been observed that the preconditioning of tissues by exposing them to transient ischemia increases resistance to subsequent permanent ischemia, and this phenomenon is called ischemic preconditioning. It has been shown that conditioning in one organ can also protect other organs. The protective effect of remote ischemic preconditioning is thought to be based on the induction of anti-inflammatory responses. The aim of this project was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects of remote ischemic postconditioning in a mouse model of experimental allergic contact dermatitis. Methods: Experimental allergic contact dermatitis was induced with 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene. Remote ischemic postconditioning was performed at 3 and 25 h after the challenge. Ear thickness and number of scratches 24 and 48 h after challenge, as well as cytokine levels and the infiltration of mast cells, neutrophils, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in serum and ear tissue at 48 h were measured to determine the effect of RIPsC. Results: Remote ischemic postconditioning decreased ear thickness, one of the symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis (p < 0.0001). It had no significant effect on the number of scratches. It reduced serum IL-17 levels (p < 0.01). It alleviated local inflammation by suppressing CD8+ T lymphocyte and neutrophil infiltration. Conclusions: It was concluded that remote ischemic postconditioning may alleviate the symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis by suppressing CD8+ T lymphocyte and neutrophil infiltration and reducing IL-17 secretion.

Influence of Shaft Scratch on Static and Transient Behavior of Water-Lubricated Bearing

Abstract When sand enters the gap between the shaft and water-lubricated bearing, it will nick surfaces of shaft and bearing bush, and the scratch will appear. The variations of static and transient performance with the number and depth of scratches are studied in the paper. The results show that scratches have a significant effect on the critical load and critical speed of the transformation of bearing lubrication state. The existence of scratches reduces the critical load from elastohydrodynamic lubrication to mixed lubrication. The shaft with scratches vibrates more strongly than the shaft with no scratch at the moment of start-up. The contact area, contact time, and bush-burning probability are directly proportional to the number of scratches. Shaft center movement orbits under step load have the similar “L” shape, whether the shaft has scratch or not. But the scratched shaft has longer movement orbit and lower equilibrium point than the shaft with no scratch. This paper can provide a reference for structure design and service life evaluation of bearing-shaft system.

Environmental influences on induction of itching and scratching using immersive virtual reality

Chronic itching is a serious and uncomfortable condition. The scratch response might result in a vicious cycle of alternating itching and scratching. To develop psychological interventions for people suffering from chronic itching and to break the vicious itch-scratching-itch cycle, it is important to elucidate which environmental factors trigger itch sensations. Virtual reality (VR) techniques provide a useful tool to examine specific content characteristics in a three-dimensional (3D VR) environment and their influences on itch sensations and scratching behaviour. This article describes two experiments in which we focused on the effects of environmental information on itching and scratching behaviour. Additionally, in the second experiment, we examined the influence of having a chronic skin condition on sensitivity to itch induction. We found evidence for the importance of the content of audio–visual materials for the effectiveness in inducing feelings of itch in the observers. In both experiments, we observed significantly higher levels of perceived itch in the itch-inducing conditions than in the control condition. Moreover, the results showed that elevated levels of perceived itch were associated with an increase in scratching behaviours, which was especially salient in the contagious itch condition, in which perceived itch was accompanied by a significant increase in the number of scratches. Experiment 2 additionally showed increased perceived itch levels in participants who reported having a chronic skin condition, reflecting higher sensitivity to itch-inducing audio–visual stimuli in this group than in participants without a chronic skin condition. Based on the results we concluded that directing attention towards itch- or scratch aspects of related information in the environment and to the consequences for one’s own skin are effective tools to induce itch sensations and scratching behaviour. This knowledge provides tools for developing novel strategies in advising and treating people suffering from chronic itching and breaking the vicious itch-scratching-itch cycle.

Zhenxin Anshen formula ameliorates atopic der-matitis-like skin dysfunction in mice and regulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 and transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 in Neural pathways.

To investigate the efficacy of Zhenxin Anshen formula (, ZXAS) on atopic dermatitis (AD) by transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) signalling pathway in mice and . AD-like lesions were induced by 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) to the shaved dorsal skin of BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were divided into five groups: normal control, model control, cetirizine, low-, medium-, and high-dose of ZXAS. After ZXAS in-tervention, the skin lesions and blood samples were collected for hematoxylin and eosin-stained and measuring the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines. Immun-oglobulin E (IgE), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) were de-tected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The spinal cords were collected for measuring the expression of gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), TRPV1, and TRPA1 by using immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses. In addition, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, ELISA, and Western blotting were conducted for analysis of primary dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons . ZXAS treatment improved DNCB-induced AD-like lesions through reducing dermatitis score, number of scratching and epidermal thickness, accompanied by the de-creased IgE and Th2 inflammatory cytokines. ZXAS also supressed the mRNA and protein expression of GRPR, TRPV1, and TRPA1 in the spinal cord. The medicated sera of ZXAS decreased capsaicin-induced Ca influx and downregulated the expression of TRPV1, TRPA1, and phospholipase C in DRG neurons. The therapeutic effect of ZXAS on AD may be related to the regulation of TRPV1 and TRPA1 and inhibition of Ca2+ signals in neurons.

Inhibitory effect of daphnetin on the C48/80-induced pseudo-allergic reaction

Pseudo-allergic reaction is an allergic reaction mediated by nonimmunoglobulin E (IgE), which does not require prior contact with antigen sensitization and directly leads to mast cell degranulation. Daphnetin (DAP) is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, but there are few studies on the effect of DAP on pseudo-allergy and its mechanism. To investigate the effect of DAP on pseudo-allergy and its mechanism, we inflicted pseudo-allergy on RBL-2H3 cells using C48/80 in vitro. Moreover, to assess the antipseudo-allergy effect of C48/80 in vivo, mouse models of local anaphylaxis, systemic anaphylaxis, and itch were used. The in vitro results show that DAP inhibits degranulation and chemokine release; furthermore, DAP reduced the activation of the PLC-IP3R and MAPK signaling pathways induced by C48/80. Additionally, our in vivo results showed that DAP inhibited C48/80-induced local anaphylaxis and inhibited eosinophil aggregation, vasodilation and mast cell degranulation. In systemic anaphylaxis, DAP inhibits the decrease in body temperature and reduces the release of His, TNF-a and IL-8. In C48/80-induced itch, the number of scratches in mice was reduced. Our results demonstrate that DAP can play a suppressive role in the pseudo-allergy induced by C48/80, providing information for the cure of disorders linked to pseudo-allergic reactions.

Effect of radial, concentric scratches on a steady state heat transfer through a fin of aluminum alloy 6061

The steady state heat transfer performance of the engine cylinder fin is investigated using ANSYS’s Workbench for understanding the effect of micro-scratches. The investigation was carried to incorporate new kinds of manufacturing techniques that will help for improving the performance and save the cost. The performance was improved with number of radial or concentric scratches due to the increase in surface area exposed for convective heat transfer. The tip temperature was decreased from 791.86 °C to 728.26 °C for 480 radial scratches, while the heat flux was increased from 4.5697 × 106 to 5.0317 × 106 W/m2. In the case of concentric scratches, the tip temperature was reduced to 589.47 °C and the heat flux was enhanced to 9.8531 × 106 W/m2 for 150 concentric scratches. The concentric pattern reduced temperature drastically, while the maximum heat flux is uplifted due to the high exposure of the fresh convective surface area upon the scratching normal to the direction of heat flow. For maintaining the safety temperature and improved heat dissipation, the non-conventional manufacturing process can be adopted to reduce the cost of fin and, most importantly, the fin length.

Increased noise levels cause behavioural and distributional changes in Atlantic cod and saithe in a large public aquarium—A case study

AbstractInvestigating the effects of underwater noise on aquatic animals is a research field that is receiving rapidly increasing attention. Despite this, surprisingly few studies have addressed the potential impacts of noise in a marine animal husbandry setting. In this regard, the behaviour of fish in public aquariums can be used as an indicator of well‐being, and noise is known to cause behavioural changes. This case study investigates the behaviour of cod (Gadus morhua) and saithe (Pollachius virens) in a large public aquarium when exposed to increased noise levels originating from an aquarium renovation carried out by construction divers. Swimming behaviour, group formation and vertical distribution, along with yawning and scratching frequencies of the fish, were analysed from video recordings made before, during and after the exposure to increased noise levels. The same parameters were also analysed to evaluate potential effects of the presence of divers when not making renovation noise, compared to fish behaviour prior to the renovation. There was a slight change in the depth distribution of both species and a decrease in the number of scratches in cod due to the presence of divers that were not making renovation noise. In the presence of construction noises in the tank, however, both cod and saithe showed a wider array of behavioural changes, including increased swimming speed, changes in depth distribution and increased yawning frequencies. The results from this case study demonstrate that an underwater renovation with increased noise levels impacts fish behaviour and suggests that underwater noise should be considered during the management of aquatic environments, including public aquaria.

Poly(Methylqinjgtebie Methacrylate) Nanoparticles-Based HIF-1α Carrier Reduces Epithelial Cell Activation and Adhesion Molecule Expression in Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin disease. This study established a mouse AD model to investigate the impact of PMMA (Poly(methyl methacrylate)) nanoparticles (PMMANPs) on epithelial cells. Nice (n = 30) receiving no intervention were taken as a healthy group, while the other animals (n = 30) were placed in the model group and sensitized with 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) acetone solution to establish the AD model. Skin epithelial cells on the backs of mice were assigned into blank control group, negative control group, PMMA group, Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (HIF)-1α group, and PMMA + HIF-1α group, followed by analysis of epithelial cell density by toluidine blue staining, HIF-1α, ICAM-1 (Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1) and VCAM-1 (Vascular cell adhesion molecule-1) expressions. The back skin of mice in the model group appeared with edema, erythema, and desquamation, with increased number of scratches and pathological changes such as skin keratinization, inflammatory cell infiltration, and epidermal thickening, indicating successful establishment of the AD model. In comparison, the epithelial cell density of the PMMA group, HIF-1α group, and PMMA+HIF-1α group (10.08±0.32, 10.50±0.34, 7.52±0.28) decreased significantly (P &lt;0.05), with lowest density in the PMMA+HIF-1α group. Importantly, treatment with HIF-1α, PMMANPs, and HIF-1α-loaded PMMANPs greatly elevated HIF-1α levels (3.25±0.08, 3.69±0.07, 4.46±0.10) while decreased ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels (794.02±56.27, 788.36±49.38, 744.64±36.40). Furthermore, combined treatment obtained highest HIF-1α expression and lowest ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 level (P &lt;0.05) expressions. Collectively, the PMMANPs carrying HIF-1α VCAM-1 exerted protective role in the recovery of AD, and these findings suggest that, the HIF-1α can be used as a target gene for AD treatment.

Anti-inflammatory effect of hydrogen sulfide donor sodium-sulfide in an experimental mouse model of contact hypersensitivity

Background: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), synthesized by most immune cells, has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects. The effect of H2S on allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), an inflammatory skin disease that negatively affects the quality of life, is unknown. Objectives: We planned to investigate the antipruritic and anti-inflammatory effects of the H2S donor sodium sulfide (Na2S) in the experimental mouse model of contact hypersensitivity (CHS), which is widely used for ACD research. Methods: CHS was created in Balb/c mice using 1-fluoro-2, 4-dinitrobenzene. Na2S was administered systemically (0.2-2-20 mg/kg/i.p.) and locally (1-3-10 nmol/both ear/i.d.) at 3 h and 25 h after the challenge. Ear thickness and the number of scratches were determined at 24 h and 48 h following the challenge. Ear tissue and serum interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, and IL-5 cytokine levels were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). H and E staining was performed for histopathological studies. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells located in the skin were examined by immunohistochemical staining. Results: Locally (1-3-10 nmol/ear/i.d., P &lt; 0.001, P &lt; 0.0001, P &lt; 0.0001, respectively) and systemically (2–20 mg/kg/i.p., P &lt; 0.01, P &lt; 0.0001, respectively), Na2S administration decreased ear thickness dose dependently. Local (1-3-10 nmol/ear/i.d.) Na2S treatment decreased serum IL-2 levels (P &lt; 0.01, P &lt; 0.05, and P &lt; 0.01, respectively). Na2S administered locally (3–10 nmol/ear/i.d., P &lt; 0.05) and systemically (20 mg/kg/i. p., P &lt; 0.05) decreased the number of CD4+ T lymphocytes. Conclusion: Locally and systemically administered Na2S reduces ear thickness, which is one of the symptoms of CHS, probably by preventing CD4+ T lymphocyte infiltration and proliferation and decreasing IL-2 synthesis.