Physiological Saline Research Articles

Solution Behavior of Glyco-Copoly(l-Glutamic Acid)s in Dilute Saline Solution.

A small series of copoly(α,l-glutamic acid/dl-allylglycine)s with the same chain length and allylglycine content (∼10 mol %) but different spatial distribution of allylglycine units was synthesized and subsequently glycosylated via thiol-ene chemistry. Dilute aqueous copolypeptide solutions (0.1 wt %, physiological saline) were analyzed by circular dichroism spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy. The copolypeptides adopted a random coil or α-helix conformation, depending on solution pH, and the glycosylated residues either distorted or enhanced the folding into an α-helix depending on their location and spatial distribution along the chain. However, regardless of their secondary structure and degree of charging, all partially glycosylated copolypeptides self-assembled into 3D spherical structures, supposedly driven by a hydrophilic effect promoting microphase separation into glucose-rich and glutamate-rich domains.

Preparing porcine lens to mimic human lens capsule.

To develop a chemical method that makes porcine lens anterior capsule resemble human lens anterior capsule in tear force and perforating force. Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing, China. Experimental study. Porcine eyes were divided into groups, and reagents (0.9% physiological saline, 0.1% sodium hypochlorite, 0.3% sodium hypochlorite and 0.5% sodium hypochlorite) were injected into the anterior chamber respectively, recorded as groups A, B, C and D, respectively. A senior physician collected each group of anterior capsules after performing continuous circular capsulorhexis and assessing the anterior capsule's tearing and perforation forces.an additional group, which consisted of human lens anterior capsules taken in the operating room from cataract patients, recorded as group E. A tensile system was used to measure each sample's tensile force. A significant difference was found between group A and any other group in maximum tensile force and average tensile force both in transverse and longitudinal directions. No significant difference was found between any two groups from group B to group E. According to the surgeon's assessment, the tear force characteristic of the porcine lens anterior capsule treated with 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution was similar to that of the human lens anterior capsule. Porcine lens capsule treated using this method can be used for training of new surgeons. The porcine lens anterior capsule treated with 0.5% sodium hypochlorite, which results showed most resembled human lens anterior capsule, can be used for robotic training.

An in vitro feasibility study of 355 nm laser atherectomy for the treatment of peripheral atherosclerotic lesions.

In this study, we utilized a novel 355 nm laser to ablate porcine aortas in the presence of physiological saline and contrast agent. Subsequently, we investigated the shape and depth of the resulting injuries. After ablating bovine tendons and aortas with the laser, we analyzed the size and quantity of particles postablation. Finally, we conducted ablation experiments using human ex vivo plaques. The analysis revealed minimal damage to porcine aortas within 2 s of exposure to the 355 nm laser. The degree of injury in the presence of contrast agent was higher than that in the presence of physiological saline but significantly lower than the damage caused by 308 nm laser. Regardless of whether it was bovine tendon or porcine aorta tissue, the proportion of particles <25 μm postlaser ablation exceeded 99%. Lastly, the 355 nm laser successfully opened three types of plaques: chronically occluded, stent restenosis, and stale thrombosis.

Biocompatible plasma-treated liquids: A sustainable approach for decontaminating gastrointestinal-infection causing pathogens

Nosocomial infections are a serious threat and difficult to cure due to rising antibiotic resistance in pathogens and biofilms. Direct exposure to cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has been widely employed in numerous biological research endeavors. Nonetheless, plasma-treated liquids (PTLs) formulated with physiological solutions may offer additional benefits such as enhanced portability, and biocompatibility. Additionally, CAP-infused long-lived reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) such as nitrite (NO2−), nitrate (NO3−), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can synergistically induce their antibacterial activity. Herein, we investigated those argon-plasma jet-treated liquids, including Ringer’s lactate (RL), phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and physiological saline, have significant antibacterial activity against nosocomial/gastrointestinal-causing pathogens, which might be due to ROS-mediated lipid peroxidation. Combining the conventional culture-based method with propidium iodide monoazide quantitative PCR (PMAxx™-qPCR) indicated that PTLs induce a minimal viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state and moderately affect culturable counts. Specifically, the PTL exposure resulted in pathogenicity dysfunction via controlling T3SS-related effector genes of S. enterica. Overall, this study provides insights into the effectiveness of PTLs for inducing ROS-mediated damage, controlling the virulence of diarrheagenic bacteria, and modulating homeostatic genes.

Bioactivity and antibacterial effects of zinc-containing bioactive glass on the surface of zirconia abutments

ObjectivesThis study aimed to enhance gingival fibroblast function and to achieve antibacterial activity around the implant abutment by using a zinc (Zn)-containing bioactive glass (BG) coating. Methods45S5 BG containing 0, 5, and 10 wt.% Zn were coated on zirconia disks. The release of silica and Zn ions in physiological saline and their antibacterial effects were measured. The effects of BG coatings on human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) were assessed using cytotoxicity assays and by analyzing the gene expression of various genes related to antioxidant enzymes, wound healing, and fibrosis. ResultsBG coatings are capable of continuous degradation and simultaneous ion release. The antibacterial effect of BG coatings increased with the addition of Zn, while the cytotoxicity remained unchanged compared to the group without coatings. BG coating enhances the expression of angiogenesis genes, while the Zn-containing BG enhances the expression of antioxidant genes at an early time point. BG coating enhances the expression of collagen genes at later time points. ConclusionsThe antibacterial effect of BG improved with the increase in Zn concentration, without inducing cytotoxicity. BG coating enhances the expression of angiogenesis genes, and Zn-containing BG enhances the expression of antioxidant genes at an early time point. BG coating enhances the expression of collagen genes at later time points. Clinical SignificanceAdding 10 wt% Zn to BG could enhance the environment around implant abutments by providing antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic effects, having potential for clinical use.

Tribological properties of MAO ceramic coatings with annulus array texture on disposable surgical gloves.

Introduction: In recent research, the expansion in the use of Mg alloys for biomedical applications has been approached by modifying their surfaces in conjunction with micro-arc oxidation (MAO) techniques which enhance their abrasion and corrosion resistance. Methods: In this study, combining laser texturing and MAO techniques to produce the dense ceramic coatings with microstructures. On the surface of the AZ31 Mg alloy, a micro-raised annulus array texture has been designed in order to increase the surface friction under liquid lubrication and to improve the operator's grip when holding the tool. For this work, the micro-morphology of the coatings was characterised, and the friction properties of the commonly used scalpel shank material 316L, the untextured surface and the textured surface were comparatively analysed against disposable surgical gloves. Results and discussion: The results show that the Laser-MAO ceramic coating grows homogenous, the porosity decreases from 14.3% to 7.8%, and the morphology after friction indicates that the coating has good wear resistance. More specifically, the average coefficient of friction (COF) of the three types of gloves coated with Laser-MAO ceramic was higher than that of the 316L and MAO ceramic coatings under the action of the annulus-integrated texture under the lubrication conditions of physiological saline and defatted sheep blood, which achieved the goal of increasing friction for the purpose of helping to prevent the problem of tool slippage from the hand.

Efficacy of dexamethasone injection at different sites on postoperative sequelae after extracting mandibular impacted third molars: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDexamethasone, an efficacious anti-inflammatory agent, is widely used after tooth extraction. However, its optimal injection site has yet to be investigated. PurposeWe compare the efficacy of dexamethasone injection at different sites on postoperative sequelae after extracting mandibular impacted third molars (MITMs). Study design, setting, and sampleA prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted. Healthy adults with fully MITMs scheduled for extraction were included. Exclusion criteria were 1) Patients with the systemic alteration that prevented the surgical procedure; 2) pregnancy, breastfeeding, premenstrual period; 3) hypersensitivity to the drug under test; and 4) those who did not return for postoperative follow-up at one, three, and seven days. Exposure variableThe subjects were randomized to three groups. An online randomization plan generator assigned each subject to a single treatment by randomly permuting blocks. Different sites for postoperative dexamethasone injections included the buccal side of the adjacent second molar and extraction sockets. Dexamethasone injection (4 mg) on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar (group 1), an injection on the buccal side of extraction sockets (group 2), an injection of physiological saline (0.8 mL) on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar (control). Outcome variablesThe outcome variables were postoperative facial swelling, limitation of the mouth opening, postoperative pain, and postoperative quality of life evaluation. The pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) at one, three and seven days, postoperatively. The quality of life was recorded throughout the Posse scale at seven days. CovariatesThe covariates are age, sex, length of operation, and type of impacted teeth and surgery. AnalysesThe statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, Chi-square, or Fisher’s exact tests with P-values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. ResultsOur study included 58 participants with a mean age of 19.48 ± 3.31 years; group 1 (n = 24), group 2 (n = 20), and control group (n = 14). On day three postoperative, the swelling and trismus were significantly less in group one than in the other two groups (P < 0.05), and group one had an overall postoperative quality of life compared to other groups (P < 0.05). Unaffected speech function was present in 73.7% of patients in group 1, while 50% of patients in group 2 had affected speech function three days after the operation (p < 0.05). The "unable to open mouth" of the “Eating subscale” and “felt tingling” had statistical significance (p < 0.05). ConclusionsDexamethasone injections on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar can be a viable option for treating facial swelling and limitation of mouth opening after total MITMs extraction.

Histopathological and biochemical Effects of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid application on lipopolysaccharide-induced kidney toxicity in rats

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin found in the wall of gram-negative bacteria and causes acute inflammation when it enters the tissues. 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA) is a substance found in licorice root and is responsible for this plant's antiallergic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity. This study aimed to examine the possible effects of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid on the damage caused by LPS in kidney tissue. The study divided 40 Sprague Dawley adult male rats into 5 equal groups (n = 8). The groups were created as follows; the control group; the group that received 1cc physiological saline throughout the experiment was the DMSO group; DMSO, an intraperitoneal carrier substance, was given. LPS group; A single dose of 7.5 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p) LPS was administered. 18β-GA50+LPS group; 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid was given by gavage at 50 mg/kg daily for 10 days, followed by a single dose of 7.5 mg/kg i.p. LPS was administered. 18β-GA100+LPS group; 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid was administered by gavage at 100 mg/kg daily for 10 days, followed by a single dose of 7.5 mg/kg i.p. LPS was administered. 18β-GA100 group; 18β-glycyrrhetinic was given by gavage at 100 mg/kg daily for 10 days. 24 hours after LPS application to all groups, the kidney tissues of the rats were removed under anesthesia and placed in 10% formaldehyde. Histopathological and oxidative stress parameters analyses were performed in kidney tissue.

Study the Teratogenic Effect of Antimony on The Histological Changes of the Liver in the Adult Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Background: Heavy elements such as antimony greatly affect the environment and living organisms. Antimony is discharged into the environment by mining and industries that use it as pesticides and flame retardants. This activity can lead to environmental pollution, water and soil contamination. Antimony can also accumulate in living organisms and cause negative health effects, such as damage to the respiratory system and skin, and growth abnormalities of animals and plants.Methods: The primary objective of this investigation was to explore the teratogenic impact of the antimony heavy metal on histological structure of the liver in adult rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The study included 21 adult white rabbits divided into several groups: the first one is the control group injected with physiological saline (0.09% NaCl), the other group injected with 20 mg/kg antimony, and the last injected with 30 mg/kg antimony over a 30-day period. Following this, postmortem procedures were conducted to extract and fix the liver organ, and tissue sections were prepared.Result: The results revealed significant histological changes, including distortion and rupture in Glisson’s Capsule, leading to the formation of a sub-capsular space due to its separation from hepatocytes. Additionally, alterations in the radial organization of hepatocytes and pyknosis in the nuclei were observed, characterized by a dark color and reduced size. Karyolysis, where nuclei completely disappeared, and hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes with swollen appearance and dark nuclei due to fluid accumulation were noted. Moreover, an increase in Kupffer cells and blood congestion in the central vein, resulting in dilation compared to the control group, were observed.Conclusion: Overall, the treatment with antimony at 20 and 30 mg/g doses for 30 days show profound teratogenic effects on the histological structure of the liver in adult rabbits. These effects are represented by the destruction of various parts of liver, in addition to changes in arrangement, and distortion and rupture of the cells. Furthermore, an increase in Kupffer cells and blood congestion were also recorded.Keywords: Antimony; Liver; Rabbits; Kupffer cells; Glisson’s capsule; Environmental effects

Inhibition of Panx1 reduces neuroinflammatory response and alleviates brain damage in septic mice

Objective: This study mainly investigates whether Pannexin 1 protein (i.e. Panx1) plays a role in the progression of brain injury in sepsis mice and its potential mechanisms. Methods: A total of 45 clean grade adult male C57BL/6 healthy mice were selected and divided into three groups using a random number table method, namely the sham group, the cecal ligation perforation (CLP) group, and the CBX pretreatment plus cecal ligation perforation (CBX+CLP) group, with 15 mice in each group. Excluding the Sham group, the remaining two groups of study mice were used to prepare sepsis brain injury models using the CLP method. The CBX+CLP group was injected into the lateral ventricles of both sides of the mouse half an hour before the modeling process, with a total amount of 1 μL CBX, which was injected into the bilateral lateral ventricles of the other two groups of mice with the same dose of physiological saline solution. 24 hours after the completion of modeling, three groups of mice were evaluated for neurological behavior. Subsequently, all mice were euthanized. After the cardiac perfusion phase, brain tissue of the mice was taken to observe the pathological damage of the hippocampal tissue. The effective content of IL-1β and TNF‐α in the mouse's hippocampal tissue was measured, and the expression of Panx1 protein, Caspase-1, NLRP3 protein, as well as NLRP3, Panx1, Caspase-1, TNF‐α, IL-1β were measured the mRNA of corresponds to its expression status. Results: Compared with Sham group mice, the neurobehavioral score of CLP group mice significantly decreased, and the pathological damage degree of hippocampal neurons in mice was significant. The expression levels of inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF‐α were increased, and the corresponding expression levels of Panx1, NLRP3, Caspase-1 proteins and mRNA were increased. The mRNA expression levels of inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF were also increased (P&lt;0 05), compared to the CLP group mice, the CBX+CLP group mice showed an increase in neurobehavioral scores, a reduction in pathological damage to hippocampal tissue, a decrease in the expression of inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF‐α, a decrease in the expression levels of NLRP3, Panx1, Caspase-1 proteins, and corresponding mRNA, and a corresponding decrease in the mRNA expression of the two inflammatory factors (P&lt;0 05). Conclusion: Inhibiting Panx1 can reduce the degree of neural inflammatory response, thereby improving brain damage in sepsis mice, which may be related to the limited activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes.

Extracellular acidification increases uterine contraction in pregnant mouse by increasing intracellular calcium.

As uterine extracellular pH decreases during the ischemic conditions of labor, but its effects on myometrial contraction are largely unknown, there is a need to elucidate its physiological effects and mechanisms of action. Furthermore, it is not known if any of the effects of extracellular acidification are affected by pregnancy, thus we also determined how gestation affects the response to acidification. Nonpregnant, mid-, and term-pregnant myometrial strips were obtained from humanely killed mice. Contractions were recorded under spontaneous, depolarized, and oxytocin-stimulated conditions. The extracellular pH of the perfusate was changed from 7.4 to 6.9 or 7.9 in HEPES-buffered physiological saline. Intracellular pH was measured using SNARF, and intracellular calcium was measured using Indo-1. Statistical differences were tested using the appropriate t-test. Extracellular acidification significantly increased the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous contractions in pregnant, but not nonpregnant, myometrium, whereas alkalinization decreased contractions. Intracellular acidification, via Na-butyrate, transiently increased force in pregnant tissue. Intracellular pH was gradually acidified when extracellular pH was acidified, but extracellular acidification increased contractility before any significant change in intracellular pH. If myometrial force was driven by oxytocin or high-K depolarization, then extracellular pH did not further increase force. Intracellular calcium changes mirrored those of force in the spontaneously contracting pregnant myometrium, and if calcium entry was prevented by nifedipine, extracellular acidification could not induce a rise in force. Extracellular acidification increases excitability, calcium entry, and thus force in pregnant mouse myometrium, and this may contribute to increasing contractions during labor when ischemic conditions and acidemia occur.

Characterization of nasal spray aerosol fields using the extended interferometric particle imaging technique

Nasal-drug-delivery is an effective way to improve therapeutic effect. Droplet diameter and its distribution directly impact the deposition position and bioavailability of the drug in nasal passage. In this paper, the spatial distribution of the droplet size, location and refractive index of spray are explored with extended interferometric particle imaging technique. A generalized expression of the spatial spacing of interference fringes is derived theoretically. The fringe spacing for two counter-propagating beams is the same as that for a single beam along one of the two-beam directions at the sideward scattering region, which is verified by simulation and experiment. The polystyrene microsphere and the nasal spray of physiological saline and oxytocin are tested experimentally. The relative error of microsphere size is less than 0.3 %, the refractive index accuracy of spray can reach 10−4. The method presented herein is promising for many relevant applications, such as fuel spray and nasal spray.

Reliability and performance of the IRRAflow® system for intracranial lavage and evacuation of hematomas-A technical note.

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a severe condition with poor outcomes and high mortality. IRRAflow® (IRRAS AB) is a new technology introduced to accelerate IVH clearance by minimally invasive wash-out. The IRRAflow® system performs active and controlled intracranial irrigation and aspiration with physiological saline, while simultaneously monitoring and maintaining a stable intracranial pressure (ICP). We addressed important aspects of the device implementation and intracranial lavage. To allow versatile investigation of multiple device parameters, we designed an ex vivo lab setup. We evaluated 1) compatibility between the IRRAflow® catheter and the Silverline f10 bolt (Spiegelberg), 2) the physiological and hydrodynamic effects of varying the IRRAflow® settings, 3) the accuracy of the IRRAflow® injection volumes, and 4) the reliability of the internal ICP monitor of the IRRAflow®. The IRRAflow® catheter was not compatible with Silverline bolt fixation, which was associated with leakage and obstruction. Design space exploration of IRRAflow® settings revealed that appropriate settings included irrigation rate 20 ml/h with a drainage bag height at 0 cm, irrigation rate 90 ml/h with a drainage bag height at 19 cm and irrigation rate 180 ml/h with a drainage bag height at 29 cm. We found the injection volume performed by the IRRAflow® to be stable and reliable, while the internal ICP monitor was compromised in several ways. We observed a significant mean drift difference of 3.16 mmHg (variance 0.4, p = 0.05) over a 24-hour test period with a mean 24-hour drift of 3.66 mmHg (variance 0.28) in the pressures measured by the IRRAflow® compared to 0.5 mmHg (variance 1.12) in the Raumedic measured pressures. Bolting of the IRRAflow® catheter using the Medtronic Silverline® bolt is not recommendable. Increased irrigation rates are recommendable followed by a decrease in drainage bag level. ICP measurement using the IRRAflow® device was unreliable and should be accompanied by a control ICP monitor device in clinical settings.

Effects of Ganjianglingzhu Decoction on Lean Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice Based on Untargeted Metabolomics.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is usually associated with obesity. However, it is crucial to recognize that NAFLD can also occur in lean individuals, which is frequently overlooked. Without an approved pharmacological therapy for lean NAFLD, we aimed to investigate whether the Ganjianglingzhu (GJLZ) decoction, a representative traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), protects against lean NAFLD and explore the potential mechanism underlying these protective effects. The mouse model of lean NAFLD was established with a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet in male C57BL/6 mice to be compared with the control group fed the methionine-choline-sufficient (MCS) diet. After four weeks, physiological saline, a low dose of GJLZ decoction (GL), or a high dose of GJLZ decoction (GH) was administered daily by gavage to the MCD group; the MCS group was given physiological saline by gavage. Untargeted metabolomics techniques were used to explore further the potential mechanism of the effects of GJLZ on lean NAFLD. Different doses of GJLZ decoction were able to ameliorate steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress in the liver; GL performed a better effect on lean NAFLD. In addition, 78 candidate differential metabolites were screened and identified. Combined with metabolite pathway enrichment analysis, GL was capable of regulating the glucose and lipid metabolite pathway in lean NAFLD and regulating the glycerophospholipid metabolism by altering the levels of sn-3-O-(geranylgeranyl)glycerol 1-phosphate and lysoPC(P-18:0/0:0). GJLZ may protect against the development of lean NAFLD by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, inhibiting the levels of sn-3-O-(geranylgeranyl)glycerol 1-phosphate and lysoPC(P-18:0/0:0) in glycerophospholipid metabolism.

Ranferon-12 tonic mitigates haematological abnormalities in cyclophosphamide-treated rats

Cyclophosphamide (CPA) has anticancer property with many side-effects including haematotoxicity while ranferon-12 tonic (RFT) possesses haematinic effect. This study investigated the mitigating effects of RFT on haematotoxicity in CPA-treated rats. Twenty-four animals were grouped into four (n=6) and treated orally as indicated: Group A: (Control) received 0.4 mL of physiological saline (PS) for 7 consecutive days; Group B: (CPA) received 0.4 mL of PS for 7 days followed by a single intraperitoneal dose of CPA (200 mg/kg) on the 7th day; Group C: (RFT) received RFT at 0.029 mL/kg for 7 days; Group D: (RFT+CPA) received RFT at 0.029 mL/kg for 7 days followed by a single intraperitoneal dose of CPA on the 7th day. Twenty-four hours after the final treatment, the animals were weighed, anaesthetised and sacrificed. Blood was obtained via cardiac puncture and transferred to EDTA and plain tubes for further analysis. Result showed that a single dose of CPA (200 mg/kg) significantly (p &lt; 0.05) reduced the level of white blood cells, haemoglobin, red blood cells, packed cell volume, and platelet (values &gt;36%). Additionally, the body temperature was significantly (p&lt;0.05) elevated by 5.1 %. Furthermore, decreased levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase with a concomitant rise in MDA content were observed. All these alterations were mitigated; to some extent, in animals pre-treated with RFT prior to CPA-administration. The study suggests that RFT could mitigate haematotoxicity in CPA-administered rats by suppressing oxidative stress via modulation of haematopoietic factors, which in turn promotes haematopoiesis.

Beyond expectations: safinamide's unprecedented neuroprotective impact on acute spinal cord injury.

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is the most common preventable cause of morbidity. Despite rapid advances in medicine, effective pharmacological treatment against SCI has not yet been confirmed. This study aimed to investigate the possible anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and neuroprotective effects of safinamide after SCI in a rat model. A total of 40 male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 underwent only laminectomy. Group 2 underwent SCI after laminectomy. In group 3, SCI was performed after laminectomy, and immediately afterward, intraperitoneal physiological saline solution was administered. In group 4, SCI was performed after laminectomy, and 90mg/kg of safinamide was given intraperitoneally immediately afterward. Moderate spinal cord damage was induced at the level of thoracic vertebra nine (T9). Neuromotor function tests were performed and levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) were measured. In both serum and spinal cord tissue, immunohistochemistry and histopathology studies were also conducted. TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels were found to be significantly increased in group 2 and group 3. In group 4, these levels were statistically significantly decreased. Group 4 also exhibited significant improvement in neuromotor function tests compared to the other groups. Histopathologically, it was found that group 4 showed significantly reduced inflammation and apoptosis compared to the other groups. This study revealed that safinamide has neuroprotective effects against SCI due to its anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antioxidant activities.

Three-dimensional ultrastructural and anatomical analysis of prostatic neuroendocrine cells in mice.

A few studies have examined the ultrastructure of prostatic neuroendocrine cells (NECs), and no study has focused on their ultrastructure in three dimensions. In this study, three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis of mouse prostatic NECs was performed to clarify their anatomical characteristics. Three 13-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were deeply anesthetized, perfused with physiological saline and 2% paraformaldehyde, and then placed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M cacodylate (pH 7.3) buffer for electron microscopy. After perfusion, the lower urinary tract, which included the bladder, prostate, coagulation gland, seminal vesicle, upper vas deferens, and urethra, was removed, and the specimen was cut into small cubes and subjected to postfixation and en bloc staining. Three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis was performed on NECs, the surrounding cells, tissues, and nerves using focused ion beam/scanning electron microscope tomography. Twenty-seven serial sections were used in the present study, and 32 mouse prostatic NECs were analyzed. Morphologically, the NECs could be classified into three types: flask, flat, and closed. Closed-shaped NECs were always adjacent to flask-shaped cells. The flask-shaped and flat NECs were in direct contact with the ductal lumen and always had microvilli at their contact points. Many of the NECs had accompanying nerves, some of which terminated on the surface in contact with the NEC. Three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis of mouse prostatic NECs was performed. These cells can be classified into three types based on shape. Novel findings include the presence of microvilli at their points of contact with the ductal lumen and the presence of accompanying nerves.

Influence of trimetazidine on myocardial injury in mice with diabetic cardiomyopathy

IntroductionThe prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing year by year globally, and diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), as the most common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus, seriously affects the prognosis of patients. Trimetazidine (TMZ), as a drug affecting myocardial energy metabolism, mainly reduces the oxidation rate of β-oxidation by inhibiting 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase (3-KAT), a key enzyme in β-oxidation of free fatty acid (FFA), so that the energy metabolism substrate of cardiomyocytes preferentially selects glucose rather than fatty acids, increases the content of intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP), enhances the contractile function of cardiomyocytes, and improves the state of cellular ischemia and hypoxia. Previous studies have shown that TMZ is closely related to the activation and induction of apoptosis of the MAPK pathway and AMPK pathway, and plays a role in the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the impact of TMZ on myocardial damage in mice exhibiting diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), and to furnish a laboratory foundation for the clinical treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy. MethodMale db/db mice (6 weeks old, n = 21) and male wild-type (wt) (6 weeks old, n = 20) mice were selected for the study. The wt mice were randomly assigned to the wt group (n = 10) and wt + TMZ group (n = 10), while the remaining db/db mice were randomly allocated to the db/db group (n = 11) and db/db + TMZ group (n = 10). Following 8 weeks of feeding, the wt + TMZ group and db/db + TMZ group received TMZ via gavage, whereas the remaining groups were administered physiological saline. Periodic measurements of blood glucose, blood lipids, and myocardial enzymes were conducted in mice, with samples obtained after the 12th week for subsequent biochemical analysis, myocardial pathology assessment, immunohistochemistry, western blot analysis, and TUNEL staining (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling). ResultGLU, TC, TG, LDL-C, and CK-MB levels were significantly higher in db/db mice compared to wt mice (GLU: M ± SD wt 5.94 ± 0.37, db/db 17.63 ± 0.89, p < 0.05, ES = 0.991; TC: M ± SD wt 3.01 ± 0.32, db/db 6.97 ± 0.36, p < 0.05, ES = 0.972; TG: M ± SD wt 0.58 ± 0.2, db/db 1.75 ± 0.14, p < 0.05, ES = 0.920; LDL-C: M ± SD wt 1.59 ± 0.12, db/db 3.87 ± 0.14, p < 0.05, ES = 0.989; CK-MB: M ± SD wt 0.12 ± 0.01, db/db 0.31 ± 0.04, p < 0.05, ES = 0.928). HDL-C levels were significantly lower in db/db mice (M ± SD wt 1.89 ± 0.08, db/db 0.64 ± 0.09, p < 0.05, ES = 0.963). Histopathological analysis confirmed myocardial damage in db/db mice. Treatment with TMZ reduced GLU, TC, TG, LDL-C, and CK-MB levels (p < 0.05, ES > 0.9) and increased HDL-C levels compared to untreated db/db mice. Additionally, TMZ treatment significantly decreased myocardial cell apoptosis (p < 0.05, ES = 0.980). These results demonstrate the efficacy of TMZ in reversing myocardial injury in DCM mice. ConclusionTMZ can mitigate myocardial damage in db/db mice by downregulating the expression of caspase-12, a protein associated with the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) cell apoptosis pathway, consequently diminishing cell apoptosis. This underscores the protective efficacy of TMZ against myocardial damage in mice afflicted with DCM.

The Role of the Orexin System in Craniocerebral Trauma-Induced Epilepsy in Mice.

Following traumatic brain injury (TBI), an imbalance arises in the central nervous system within the hippocampus region, resulting in the proliferation of mossy cell fibers, causing abnormal membrane discharge. Moreover, disruptions in cellular neurotransmitter secretion induce post-traumatic epilepsy. Extensive experimental and clinical data indicate that the orexin system plays a regulatory role in the hippocampal central nervous system, but the specific regulatory effects are unclear. Therefore, further experimental evaluation of its relevance is needed. This study aims to investigate the effects of orexin receptor agonists (OXA) on the seizure threshold and intensity in controlled cortical impact (CCI) mice, and to understand the role of the orexin system in post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). Male C57BL/6 mice weighing 18-22 g were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, CCI, and CCI+OXA. The three groups of mice were sequentially constructed with models, implanted with electrodes, and established drug-delivery cannulas. After a 30-day recovery, the Sham and CCI groups were injected with physiological saline through the administration cannulas, while the CCI+OXA group was injected with OXA. Subsequently, all mice underwent electrical stimulation every 30 minutes for a total of 15 times. Epileptic susceptibility, duration, intensity, and cognitive changes were observed. Concurrently, the expression levels and changes of GABAergic neurons in the hippocampus of each group were examined by immunofluorescence. Injecting OXA into hippocampal CA1 reduces the threshold of post-traumatic seizures, prolongs the post-discharge duration, prolongs seizure duration, reduces cognitive ability, and exacerbates the loss of GABAergic neurons in the hippocampal region. Based on the results, we can find that injecting OXA antagonists into the CA1 region of the hippocampus can treat or prevent the occurrence and progression of post-traumatic epilepsy.

Elevated fluid and glycosaminoglycan content in the Achilles tendon contribute to higher intratendinous pressure: Implications for Achilles tendinopathy

BackgroundTendinopathy alters the compositional properties of the Achilles tendon by increasing fluid and glycosaminoglycan content. It has been speculated that these changes may affect intratendinous pressure, but the extent of this relationship remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the impact of elevated fluid and glycosaminoglycan content on Achilles tendon intratendinous pressure and to determine whether hyaluronidase (HYAL) therapy can intervene in this potential relationship. MethodsTwenty paired fresh-frozen cadaveric Achilles tendons were mounted in a tensile-testing machine and loaded up to 5% strain. Intratendinous resting (at 0% strain) and dynamic pressure (at 5% strain) were assessed using the microcapillary infusion technique. First, intratendinous pressure was measured under native conditions before and after infusion of 2 mL physiological saline. Next, 80 mg of glycosaminoglycans were administered bilaterally to the paired tendons. The right tendons were additionally treated with 1500 units of HYAL. Finally, both groups were retested, and the glycosaminoglycan content was analyzed. ResultsIt was found that both elevated fluid and glycosaminoglycan content resulted in higher intratendinous resting and dynamic pressures (p < 0.001). HYAL treatment induced a 2.3-fold reduction in glycosaminoglycan content (p = 0.002) and restored intratendinous pressures. ConclusionThe results of this study demonstrated that elevated fluid and glycosaminoglycan content in Achilles tendinopathy contribute to increased intratendinous resting and dynamic pressures, which can be explained by the associated increased volume and reduced permeability of the tendon matrix, respectively. HYAL degrades glycosaminoglycans sufficiently to lower intratendinous pressures and may, therefore, serve as a promising treatment.