Physiologic Solution Of Sodium Chloride Research Articles

Sodium Chloride Physiological Saline Solution Versus Water Preparations Injectable in the Use of Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy: A Single-Center Experience

Shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) coronary system is a very useful new technology for de novo severely calcified coronary artery plaques before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The device uses a semi-compliant low-pressure balloon, integrated into a sterile catheter, to deliver by vaporizing fluid an expanding bubble that generates high-pressure ultrasonic energy by waves that create multiplane longitudinal micro-macro fractures in calcified plaques, which facilitate optimal stent placement and expansion, and luminal gain. The use of Shockwave IVL coronary system in our cardiac catheterization laboratory (Cath lab) at the "Clinique Saint-Hilaire" in Rouen, France, started in March 2019, with 42 procedures performed since this date: two patients in 2019, two patients in 2020, seven patients in 2021, 23 patients in 2022, and eight patients since the beginning of 2023. We had experienced problems at the beginning of our activity for the first 11 patients (two patients in 2019, two patients in 2020, and seven patients in 2021): after less than five pulses, the shock therapy stopped. We used initially for Shockwave IVL semi-compliant low-pressure integrated balloons a mixture of 50% contrast and 50% water preparations injectable (PPI). After changing water PPI by sodium chloride physiological saline solution, we never encountered this problem again for the following 31 patients (23 patients in 2022, and eight patients since the beginning of 2023). In fact, the proper functioning of Shockwave IVL system requires ions in balloon mixture in addition to the contrast. It is thanks to the ions contained in sodium chloride physiological saline solution that the spark necessary for shocks delivery after balloon inflation is produced. Water PPI or sodium chloride physiological saline solution is used in angioplasty balloons in a lot of Cath labs worldwide. It is therefore essential to disseminate in the worldwide Cath lab the obligation to put in Shockwave IVL semi-compliant low-pressure integrated balloons sodium chloride physiological saline solution, rather than water PPI for optimal performance, and the importance of Shockwave Medical reporting this to interventional cardiologists.

Morphofunctional reorganization of plantar aponeurosis in experimental modeling of fasciopathy by synthetic analogue of prostaglandin E1

Foundation. Chronic plantar fasciopathic pain syndrome is a pathology that significantly affects the quality of life of patients of all age categories. Insufficient knowledge of the etiological and pathogenetic factors in the development of fasciopathies explains the multiplicity, and sometimes inconsistency, of conservative and surgical treatment regimens. The choice of the optimal variant of therapeutic or surgical intervention may be associated with experimental modeling of fasciopathies and the study of the dynamics of the pathological process.The aim. To study the morphological changes in structures identical to the human plantar aponeurosis in experimental modeling of fasciopathy in animals.Research methods. The material for the study was fragments of the tendonaponeurotic complex of the foot of laboratory animals (control group: animals with the introduction of physiological sodium chloride solution (n = 12); main group: animals with the introduction of alprostadil (n = 12)). The methods of light microscopy (staining with alcian and toluidine blue, according to Van Gieson, Weigert – Van Gieson and Picro-Mallory) and morphometry were used.Results and discussion. As a result of the study, it was found that the four-fold administration of alprostadil had a significant effect on the structure of the dense fibrous connective tissue of the plantar foot of laboratory animals. The mechanisms of damage (edema, microhemorrhages, infiltration by lymphocytes, plasmocytes and leukocytes, dystrophy by the type of mucoid and fibrinoid swelling, delamination and rupture of collagen fibers), adaptation and regeneration (the appearance of a large number of activated fibrocytes, fibroblasts, microvessels, neoplasm of collagen fibers) were activated. All this together led to spatial focal histotopographic changes, consisting in an increase in the cellular composition of connective tissue structures against the background of a noticeable violation of their spatial orientation.Conclusion. Modeling of fasciopathy using alprostadil was accompanied by the appearance of mosaic reversible and irreversible heteromorphic and heterochronous changes in all connective tissue aponeurotic structures. Such histotopographic changes should be considered as one of the reasons for the clinical manifestations of plantar fasciopathies, causing functional insufficiency and explaining the clinical recurrent nature of the pathological process.

Physiotherapy. L. Blum. Treatment of sciatic nerve inflammation with epidural injections. Uber die Behandlung der Ischias mit epiduralen Injectionen.—Münch. med. Wochensch. 1910

The epidural injection technique was proposed almost simultaneously by Sicard and Chatelin. The author used epidural injections in the treatment of chronic ischias using first 1% cocaine solution or 4% stovaina, and subsequently with physiological sodium chloride solution.

Analysis of Ascites-Challenged Blood in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis Using Rotational Thromboelastometry: How Robust Is the Evidence on Ascites-Attributed Fibrinolysis?

Introduction: For over 30 years, ascites has been postulated to facilitate fibrinolysis in patients with liver cirrhosis. In contrast to previous research employing conventional coagulation tests, this study aimed to characterize hemostatic interactions between blood and ascites using the rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM). Methods: Blood samples – pure or mixed with ascites in a ratio of 1:1 – from cirrhotic patients (n = 10) were subjected to ROTEM analysis. In addition, a negative control group was built with cirrhotic patients (n = 10) whose blood was mixed with physiologic sodium chloride (0.9% NaCl) solution in a ratio of 1:1. Subsequently, ROTEM measurements were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: During ascites challenge, clotting time (CT, measured in seconds) was significantly prolonged in EXTEM (blood: 70.40 ± 20.40 vs. ascites/blood: 109.8 ± 47.7) and APTEM (blood: 66.50 ± 14.55 vs. ascites/blood: 138.7 ± 105.8), likely reflecting a dilution effect. However, CT in INTEM remained unchanged, suggesting a sustained intrinsic pathway function. Maximal clot firmness (measured in millimeters) in FIBTEM decreased significantly (blood: 14.70 ± 9.55 vs. ascites/blood: 6.00 ± 5.66), thus indicating depletion of fibrinogen in ascites. Strikingly, maximum lysis (measured in %) significantly decreased in EXTEM (blood: 9.30 ± 2.79 vs. ascites/blood: 5.50 ± 2.84), APTEM (blood: 8.50 ± 3.10 vs. ascites/blood: 5.60 ± 2.88), and INTEM (blood: 7.50 ± 2.27 vs. ascites/blood: 5.10 ± 3.48). Conclusions: ROTEM provided new evidence that ascites may not primarily induce fibrinolysis in cirrhotic patients. This finding seems to be of significant importance for the clinical management of cirrhotic patients experiencing complications, for example, abdominal hemorrhage after liver biopsy or paracentesis; here, replacement of prothrombin complex concentrates and/or fibrinogen concentrates may prove more beneficial than the use of fresh frozen plasma or antifibrinolytic drugs.

Хронический простатит: инфекционный или неинфекционный? (экспериментальное исследование)

Introduction. The pathogenesis of chronic prostatitis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to study the pathogenesis and frequency of infectious and non-infectious prostatitis and the effectiveness of prostatilen in its prevention in the experiment. Materials and methods. Experimental work was carried out on 82 male Wistar rats 5–8 months of age (weight 250–400 g). To initiate inflammation of the prostate gland, rats of the 1st and 2nd groups (30 in each) were injected into the rectum with 1 ml of a mixture of turpentine and Dimexide in a ratio of 1:4 to a depth of 2.5 cm. For rats of the 3rd group (n=17) prostatilen was intramuscularly injected daily for five days at a dose of 0.1 mg/100 g of weight. The day after the last injection into the rectum, they were also injected with a pathogenic mixture to initiate prostatitis. In the 4th group (n=5) there were control animals, which were injected intramuscularly with physiological sodium chloride solution for five days before the initiation of prostatitis. Rats were removed from the experiment by guillotinization, in the 1st group the next day, and in the 2nd group 28 days after the initiation of inflammation, and for rats of the 3rd and 4th groups – 5 days after the last injection (prostatilen or physiological solution respectively). The prostate gland and seminal vesicles were used as the test material for the culture and histological examination. Results. In the experiment, microorganisms were isolated in 23.4% of cases in the 1st group, and in 92.1% of cases in the 2nd group. Among the identified microorganisms, Staphylococcus aureus prevailed in the 1st group, and S. urealiticus in the 2nd group. The presence of mixed flora was found in 18.2% in the 1st group and in 20% in the 2nd group. During macro- and microscopic examination of the prostate gland of rats of the 3rd group, we did not find signs of its active inflammation, and during bacteriological examination, microorganisms were not detected. Conclusion. Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland initially develops as aseptic, but later the prostatitis becomes infectious. This can be confirmed by modern means and methods of laboratory diagnostics of bacterial flora in prostate exprimat in patients with chronic prostatitis. The data obtained from experimental studies confirm the ability of prostatilen to prevent the development of the inflammatory process in the prostate gland, which makes it possible to recommend it in clinical conditions for the complex therapy of patients with chronic prostatitis, as well as in means of preventing this disease.

Investigation of magnetically driven passage of magnetic nanoparticles through eye tissues for magnetic drug targeting

This paper elucidates the feasibility of magnetic drug targeting to the eye by using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to which pharmaceutical drugs can be linked. Numerical simulations revealed that a magnetic field gradient of 20 T m−1 seems to be promising for dragging magnetic multicore nanoparticles of about 50 nm into the eye. Thus, a targeting magnet system made of superconducting magnets with a magnetic field gradient at the eye of about 20 T m−1 was simulated. For the proof-of-concept tissue experiments presented here the required magnetic field gradient of 20 T m−1 was realized by a permanent magnet array. MNPs with an optimized multicore structure were selected for this application by evaluating their stability against agglomeration of MNPs with different coatings in water for injections, physiological sodium chloride solution and biological media such as artificial tear fluid. From these investigations, starch turned out to be the most promising coating material because of its stability in saline fluids due to its steric stabilization mechanism. To evaluate the passage of MNPs through the sclera and cornea of the eye tissues of domestic pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus), a three-dimensionally printed setup consisting of two chambers (reservoir and target chamber) separated by the eye tissue was developed. With the permanent magnet array emulating the magnetic field gradient of the superconducting setup, experiments on magnetically driven transport of the MNPs from the reservoir chamber into the target chamber via the tissue were performed. The resulting concentration of MNPs in the target chamber was determined by means of quantitative magnetic particle spectroscopy. It was found that none of the tested particles passed the cornea, but starch-coated particles could pass the sclera at a rate of about 5 ng mm−2 within 24 h. These results open the door for future magnetic drug targeting to the eye.

Effects of honokiol on activation of transient receptor potential channel in rat spinal dorsal root ganglion cells and pruritus in mouse models

Objective To evaluate the effect of honokiol on the activation of transient receptor potential (TRP) channel in rat spinal dorsal root ganglion cells and pruritus in mouse models. Methods Healthy male ICR mice aged 4-6 weeks were used to establish histamine-induced and acetone/ether/water (AEW) -induced itching models separately. Totally, mice were randomly divided into 7 groups (histamine-induced model experiment) or 6 groups (AEW-induced model experiment) : normal control group and model group both gavaged with sodium chloride physiological solution, solvent group gavaged with sodium carboxymethylcellulose solution, chlorphenamine group (only set up in the histamine-induced model experiment) gavaged with chlorphenamine, 50, 25 and 12.5 mg/kg honokiol groups gavaged with 50, 25 and 12.5 mg/kg honokiol respectively. In the histamine-induced model experiment, the mice were all injected with histamine except the normal control group injected with sodium chloride physiological solution 24 hours after the gavage treatment, while the mice in the AEW-induced model experiment were all topically treated with AEW except the normal control group topically treated with sodium chloride physiological solution for 4 days, followed by gavage with different drugs. The anti-itch effect of each treatment was evaluated by counting the scratching frequency within 30 minutes. Rat spinal dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells were isolated and subjected to a primary culture. Then, the DRG cells were divided into 6 groups: capsaicin or allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) -induced model group pre-incubated with Hank′s balanced salt solution (HBSS) , 500 μmol/L capsazepine or 10 μmol/L HSC030031 group pre-incubated with capsazepine or HSC030031, solvent group pre-incubated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) , 3 honokiol groups pre-incubated with 7.81, 15.63 and 31.25 mg/L honokiol respectively, and Ca2+ fluorescence imaging system was used to observe changes of Ca2+ influx in these cells after capsaicin or AITC stimulation. Statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS 20.0 software by using one-way analysis of variance and Dunnett-t test. Results In the histamine-induced mouse models, the scratching frequency was significantly lower in the 50 and 25 mg/kg honokiol groups than in the model group (21.88 and 21.14 vs. 63.70, t=3.48, 3.49 respectively, both P=0.003) , while no significant difference in the scratching frequency was observed between the 12.5 mg/kg honokiol group and the model group (t=2.01, P=0.062) . After the treatment with 50 mg/kg honokiol in the AEW-induced mouse models, the scratching frequency significantly decreased compared with the model group (61.4 vs. 101.17, t=0.45, P=0.009) , while there were no significant differences among the 25, 12.5 mg/kg honokiol groups and the model group (all P > 0.05) . Compared with the capsaicin or AITC-induced model group, the increase of Ca2+ fluorescence signal in the DRG cells was significantly inhibited in the 31.25 mg/L honokiol group: at the 45th second, the rate of relative fluorescence intensity change (ΔF/F0) was 1.11 in the model group, but-0.11 in the 31.25 mg/L honokiol group in the capsaicin-induced model experiment, and 0.56 in the model group, but 0.00 in the 31.25 mg/L honokiol group in the AITC-induced model experiment. Conclusion Honokiol shows an inhibitory effect on mouse models of pruritus induced by histaminergic or non-histaminergic factors, likely by inhibiting Ca2+ influx through activated TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels in the DRG cells. Key words: Pruritus; Honokiol; Transient receptor potential channels; Disease models, animal

Effects of metformin on inflammatory status and phosphorylated Stat3 expression in lesions of a psoriasis-like mouse model

Objective To evaluate the effect of metformin on an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model, and to explore its related mechanism. Methods A total of 50 male Balb/c mice were randomly divided into several groups: control group, imiquimod group (IM group) and imiquimod combined with metformin group (IM-Met group) . The IM-Met group were classified into 3 subgroups (100, 150 and 200 g/L IM-Met groups) according to the concentration of metformin. Mice in the control group were treated with topical vaseline cream on the back and intraperitoneal injection of 0.9% sodium chloride physiological solution of 0.3 millilitres every day. Mice in the IM group were treated with topical imiquimod cream on the back and intraperitoneal injection of 0.9% sodium chloride physiological solution of 0.3 millilitres every day. Mice in the 100, 150 or 200 g/L IM-Met groups were treated with topical imiquimod cream on the back and intraperitoneal injection of 100, 150 or 200 g/L metformin of 0.3 millilitres respectively every day. The changes of the erythema area, scales and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) over time in each group were observed by naked eyes. These mice were sacrificed after 7 days of treatment. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein expression of interleukin (IL) -17 and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p-Stat3) in the dorsal skin tissues of these mice, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect serum levels of IL-17, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in these mice. Comparison among these groups was carried out by using one-way analysis of variance, and means of two groups were compared by using least significant difference (LSD) -t test. Results Compared with the IM group, the 100, 150 and 200 g/L IM-Met groups showed alleviated erythema and scaling severity, and significantly decreased PASI score, protein expression of IL-17 and p-Stat3, and serum levels of inflammation factors such as IL-17, IL-6 and TNF-α (all P 0.05, =0.69, =0.76 respectively) . The serum levels of IL-17, IL-6 and TNF-α in the 150 g/L IM-Met group were 33.388 ± 1.556 ng/L, 210.741 ± 4.440 ng/L and 249.434 ± 8.594 ng/L respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the 200 g/L IM-Met group (26.720 ± 2.156 ng/L, 174.997 ± 9.501 ng/L, 193.034 ± 6.661 ng/L respectively; t=7.93, 10.79 and 16.403 respectively, all P<0.05) , but significantly lower than those in the 100 g/L IM-Met group (44.008 ± 1.722 ng/L, 260.926 ± 7.724 ng/L, 271.409 ± 3.037 ng/L respectively; t=-14.47, -17.81 and -7.62 respectively, all P<0.05) . Conclusion Metformin can alleviate psoriasis-like skin lesions and inflammation status in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model to a certain extent, which may be related to the decrease of p-Stat3 protein expression. Key words: Psoriasis; Metformin; Disease models, animal; Interleukins; Tumor necrosis factor-alpha; Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3

Nanoconjugates of a calixresorcinarene derivative with methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) fragments for drug encapsulation.

In order to obtain a non-toxic amphiphilic calixresorcinarene capable to form nanoconjugates for drug encapsulation, tetraundecylcalixresorcinarene functionalized by methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) chains has been synthesized. The macrocycle obtained is characterized by low hemotoxicity. In aqueous solution it forms nanoassociates that are able to encapsulate organic substrates of different hydrophobicity, including drugs (doxorubicin, naproxen, ibuprofen, quercetin). The micelles of the macrocycle slowed down the release of the hydrophilic substrates in vitro. In physiological sodium chloride solution and phosphate-buffered saline, the micelles of the macrocycle acquire thermoresponsive properties and exhibit a temperature-controlled release of doxorubicin in vitro. The combination of the low toxicity and the encapsulation properties of the obtained calixresorcinarene–mPEG conjugate shows promising potential for the use as a supramolecular drug-delivery system.

Gene mutation analysis of congenital skin defects: a case report

A female infant presented with skin defects and blisters for 2 hours after birth. Physical examination showed asymmetric skin defects on both lower extremities and left wrist, a thin-walled blister on the dorsal side of the right hand, and partial loss of the oral mucosa. No other abnormal signs were found. Genetic testing showed a heterozygous pathogenic mutation c.481C > T (p. Gln161*) in exon 4 of the COL7A1 (NM-000094) gene and a heterozygous pathogenic mutation c.1837C > T (p. Arg613*) in exon 14 of the COL7A1 (NM-000094) gene, which were also identified in the patient′s father and mother respectively. The infant was diagnosed with congenital skin defects. The patient received protective isolation, focal washing with 0.9% sodium chloride physiological solution, topical epidermal growth factor and comprehensive treatment for infection prevention. After 6-day treatment, the patient was discharged with dry and non-exudative skin lesions. This case prompted that abnormal heterozygosis mutation at C.481 and C.1837 sites on the COL7A1 (NM-000094) gene could form compound heterozygote, acting as pathogenic mutation. Key words: Focal dermal hypoplasia; Genetic testing; Epidermolysis bullosa; Genetic diseases, inborn; COL7A1 gene

Role of mast cells in Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin Binduced atopic dermatitis-like skin inflammation in mice

Objective To investigate the role of mast cells in Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) -induced atopic dermatitis (AD) -like skin inflammation in BALB/c mice. Methods A total of 24 BALB/c mice were randomly and equally divided into 4 groups to be topically treated with ovalbumin (OVA group) , SEB (SEB group) , OVA+ SEB (OVA+ SEB group) and sodium chloride physiological solution (control group) respectively, so as to establish mouse models of epicutaneously induced AD-like skin inflammation. The AD-like skin lesions were evaluated by clinical observation and eczema area and severity index (EASI) . Biopsy specimens were obtained from lesional skin of mice and then subjected to toluidine blue staining and immunohistochemical staining to count the mast cells, observe the morphology and distribution of mast cells, and calculate the percentage of degranulated mast cells. Results After 7-week treatment, the OVA group, SEB group and OVA+ SEB group all showed severer local skin inflammation, higher EASI scores and denser infiltration of inflammatory cells compared with the control group. Moreover, the OVA+ SEB group showed significantly severer local skin inflammation, skin lesions and degree of infiltration of inflammatory cells compared with the OVA group and SEB group (all P < 0.05) . The number of mast cells in the dermis of AD-like skin lesions per high-power field (× 400) was significantly higher in the OVA group (median[quartile range]: 10.625[3.675]) , SEB group (11.000[4.163]) and OVA+ SEB group (13.875[8.813]) than that in the control group (5.925[2.088], all P < 0.05) . The SEB group (71.083% ± 14.519%) and OVA+ SEB group (58.767% ± 16.978%) both showed significantly higher percentage of degranulated mast cells compared with the OVA group (24.050% ± 11.161%, both P < 0.05) and control group (23.617% ± 8.132%, both P < 0.05) . Bivariate correlation analysis showed that the number of mast cells in the skin lesions was positively linearly correlated with the EASI scores (P < 0.05) . Conclusions Epicutaneous application of SEB can induce AD-like skin lesions in mice, and can exacerbate the severity of OVA-induced AD-like skin lesions. Mast cell proliferation, activation/degranulation and tryptase release may participate in the inflammation. Key words: Dermatitis, atopic; Mast cells; Staphylococcus aureus; Enterotoxins; Tryptases; Ovalbumin

β-arrestin 2 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injuryviainhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway-mediated inflammation in mice

AIMTo study the role and the possible mechanism of β-arrestin 2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury in vivo and in vitro.METHODSMale β-arrestin 2+/+ and β-arrestin 2-/- C57BL/6J mice were used for in vivo experiments, and the mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 was used for in vitro experiments. The animal model was established via intraperitoneal injection of LPS or physiological sodium chloride solution. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected to analyze liver injury and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cultured cell extracts were collected to analyze the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and expression of key molecules involved in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.RESULTSCompared with wild-type mice, the β-arrestin 2 knockout mice displayed more severe LPS-induced liver injury and significantly higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-10. Compared with the control group, pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10) produced by RAW264.7 cells in the β-arrestin 2 siRNA group were significantly increased at 6 h after treatment with LPS. Further, key molecules involved in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, including phospho-IκBα and phosho-p65, were upregulated.CONCLUSIONβ-arrestin 2 can protect liver tissue from LPS-induced injury via inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway-mediated inflammation.

Effects of artesunate on rosacea-like inflammation in mouse models

Objective To evaluate effects of artesunate on rosacea-like inflammation in mouse models. Methods Twenty-five male BALB/c mice aged 7 weeks were injected subcutaneously with 40 μl antibacterial peptide LL-37 into the back once every 12 hours for 4 sessions to establish mouse models with rosacea-like inflammation. These 25 mice were randomly and equally divided into 5 groups: after each injection of LL-37, model group were gavaged with sodium chloride physiological solution, treatment groups gavaged with 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg artesunate solution separately, and positive control group gavaged with 30 mg/kg doxycycline hydrochloride solution. Another 5 healthy mice injected subcutaneously with pure water into the back for 4 sessions served as blank control group. Forty-eight hours after the initial injection of LL-37, changes in skin lesions and the intensity of erythema were assessed. Skin tissues at the dorsal injection site were resected and subjected to HE staining, the tissue structure was observed and the number of inflammatory cells was counted. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to estimate the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in skin lesions. Results The model group showed obvious inflammatory reactions, and significantly increased erythema score (3.20 ± 0.84) , inflammatory cell count (517.27 ± 99.43) and MPO activity (0.57 ± 0.08) compared with the blank control group (all P 0.05) . Conclusion Artesunate can inhibit rosacea-like inflammatory reactions in mouse models, especially the middle-and high-dose artesunate. Key words: Rhinophyma; Artemisinins; Doxycycline; Cathelicidins; Disease models, animal; Artesunate; LL-37

Combined application of low intensity pulsed ultrasound in dental implantation

To study the effect of to low-intensity low frequency pulsed ultrasound (LILFPUS) on the surface wettability of titanium dental implants, an experimental medical-technical model was developed, consisting of an ultrasonic device, a fixed-mounted digital photo/video camera and a laboratory stand with a smooth vertical feed, in which an ultrasound nozzle with an experimental dental implant and fastener with a control implant were fixed. As a wetting agent, 0.9 % sterile physiological sodium chloride solution was used in a petri dish tinted with brilliant green. Using the components of the model, it was possible to immerse the control and experimental dental implants, fixed on a laboratory stand, equally and uniformly at the same depth. The results of the studies showed that under the influence of ultrasound, the wetting of the surface of all the test samples was 100 %, and the wetting of the control samples was not observed.

The effect of intranasal sodium citrate on olfaction in post-infectious loss: results from a prospective, placebo-controlled trial in 49 patients.

Free calcium plays an integral role in peripheral olfactory processing, including feedback inhibition. It has therefore been suggested that reduction of intranasal free calcium with buffer solutions such as sodium citrate may improve olfactory function in patients with smell impairment. Several previous studies have supported this hypothesis, particularly in post-infectious olfactory loss. We therefore aimed to determine whether treatment with intranasal sodium citrate improves olfactory function in patients with post-infectious impairment. Prospective, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Interdisciplinary Smell and Taste Clinic, TU Dresden (tertiary referral centre). Forty-nine adult participants with post-infectious olfactory impairment (M : F = 11 : 38, mean age 58.71 ± 11.03 years). Olfactory function (odour threshold and identification) before and after treatment as determined using "Sniffin' Sticks". Patients were treated monorhinally with 1 mL sodium citrate solution. The contralateral nasal cavity was treated with 1 mL physiological sodium chloride solution, which acted as internal control. Clinical improvement was assumed where threshold or identification score increased by ≥2.5 or 3 points, respectively, or ≥5.5 points together. We demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in composite threshold + identification scores following treatment with sodium citrate, compared with placebo. This was true for all patients (mean improvement 0.87 ± 2.68 points, P = 0.04), and on subgroup analysis in those with hyposmia (mean improvement 1.15 ± 2.37 points, P = 0.02). However, the effect size did not reach clinical significance. Further basic and clinical work is required to fully delineate the effect of intranasal sodium citrate in the treatment of post-infectious olfactory loss.

Effects of a fusion protein LTβR-Fc on ovalbumin-induced dermatitis in a mouse model

Objective To evaluate effects of a fusion protein LTβR-Fc, which can block the herpesvirus entry mediator ligand (LIGHT-HVEM) signaling pathway, on ovalbumin-induced dermatitis in a mouse model. Methods Thirty BALB/c mice were randomly and equally divided into 3 groups: blank control group treated with 100 μl of sodium chloride physiological solution, model group sensitized with 100 μl of sodium chloride physiological solution containing 100 μg ovalbumin, blocker group firstly blocked with 100 μl of sodium chloride physiological solution containing 100 μg LTβR-Fc followed by sensitization with 100 μl of sodium chloride physiological solution containing 100 μg ovalbumin at 24 hours after the blocking. Disease severity was evaluated by eczema area and severity index (EASI) score, and lesional size was measured on day 0, 4, 8, 12, 15, 20, 23, 27, 31 and 34 after the first sensitization. A total of three sessions of sensitization were carried out. At the end of treatment, all the mice were sacrificed after serum was obtained from their orbital cavities. Thereafter, tissue specimens were obtained from skin lesions, and single cell suspensions of the spleen were prepared. RT-PCR was performed to detect mRNA expressions of interferon γ (IFN-γ) , interleukin 4 (IL-4) and IL-5 in murine lesions, ELISA to measure IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-5 levels in culture supernatants of murine splenocytes, as well as ovalbumin-specific and total IgE and IgG1 levels in murine sera. Results LTβR-Fc significantly suppressed inflammatory response in the mouse model of dermatitis induced by ovalbumin. Compared with the model group, the blocker group showed significantly decreased lesion area and EASI score (both P<0.05). In addition, a significant decrease was observed in the mRNA expressions of IL-4 (0.88 ± 0.25 vs. 1.81 ± 0.25, P<0.05) , IL-5 (0.75 ± 0.15 vs.1.24 ± 0.26, P<0.05) and IFN-γ (0.62 ± 0.09 vs. 1.11 ± 0.19, P<0.05) in murine lesions, and in supernatant levels of IL-4 (9.58 ± 1.44 ng/L vs. 20.12 ± 5.39 ng/L, P<0.05) , IL-5 (11.37 ± 2.02 ng/L vs. 22.77 ± 4.07 ng/L, P<0.05) and IFN-γ (16 167 ± 950.40 ng/L vs. 23 930 ± 44.20 ng/L, P<0.05) in the blocker group compared with the model group. The serum levels of both total IgE and ovalbumin-specific IgE were significantly lower in the blocker group than in the model group (total IgE: 27 466.67 ± 2 052.64 μg/L vs. 32 277 ± 407.53 μg/L, P<0.05; ovalbumin-specific IgE: 1 296.33 ± 32.72 μg/L vs. 2 323.33 ± 502.43 μg/L, P<0.05) , so were those of total IgG1 (0.46 ± 0.11 μg/L vs. 0.84 ± 0.11 μg/L, P<0.05) and ovalbumin-specific IgG1 (0.62 ± 0.11 μg/L vs. 0.86 ± 0.07 μg/L, P<0.05). Conclusion The fusion protein LTβR-Fc can alleviate symptoms of ovalbumin-induced dermatitis in the mouse model likely by suppressing the LIGHT-HVEM signaling pathway, suggesting that this signaling pathway may serve as a target for the treatment of dermatitis (such as atopic dermatitis). Key words: Dermatitis, atopic; Models, animal; Ovalbumin; T-lymphocytes, helper-inducer; Interleukins; Interferon-gamma; LIGHT-HVEM

Electron microscopy study of antibacterial effect of selimakcid against salmonella and escherichia

Aim. To assess Selimakcid effect on the submicroscopic organization of Salmonella and enteropathogenic Escherichia. Methods. Salmonella enteritidis and enteropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates were used in a study. Their morphological and functional characteristics after Selimakcid exposure were studied using methods of negative staining and ultrathin sections. Selimakcid was taken at 10, 15 and 25 mg/ml concentration in a physiological isotonic sodium chloride solution. Results. Incubation of Salmonella and Escherichia cultures with Selimakcid has no effect on the cells size compared to the control. Ultrastructural picture of Selimakcid post antibiotic effect on the Salmonella enteritidis cells demonstrated the outer membrane vesicles increase and cell wall changes, which can be attributed to the adaptation. In the Escherichia coli culture after incubation in medium containing Selimakcid at 25 mg/ml concentration, the presence of both damaged (with flake-like cytoplasm and plasma membrane ruptures) and lysed (release their content into the environment) cells was observed. Conclusion. The effect of Selimakcid on Salmonella enteritidis cells is characterized by the outer membrane vesicles increase and cell wall changes; in the Escherichia coli culture after Selimakcid exposure the presence of damaged and lysed cells was observed.

Expressions of Toll-like receptors 2 and 4 in mouse skin during early immune responses against Sporothrix

Objective To explore the expressions of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 2 and 4 in mouse skin during early immune responses against Sporothrix. Methods A total of 60 BALB/c mice were randomly and equally divided into an experimental group and a control group to be intracutaneously injected with Sporothrix conidium suspensions at a concentration of 1 × 106 cfu/ml and sodium chloride physiological solution respectively. Five mice were sacrificed before the injection, and at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 96 hours after the injection in each group, blood samples were obtained from the mice before sacrifice, and skin tissue specimens were resected from the area around the injection sites after sacrifice. Real-time fluorescence-based quantitative PCR was performed to quantify the mRNA expressions of TLR2 and TLR4, and immunohistochemical staining to observe the protein expressions of TLR2 and TLR4 in mouse skin specimens. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to determine the levels of interleukin 12 (IL-12) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in serum samples from the mice. Results After injection of Sporothrix conidium suspensions, the mRNA expression level of TLR2 gradually increased and peaked at 24 hours, which was 18.8 times that in the control group at 6 hours and 34 times at 24 hours. In addition, the mRNA expression level of TLR4 in the experiment group reached a peak, and was 56.7 times that in the control group at 6 hours after injection, then gradually decreased and reached the nadir at 96 hours. As immunohistochemical staining revealed, TLR2 and TLR4 were apparently expressed in both keratinocytes and macrophages in skin specimens from the experimental group, but not obviously in those from the control group. No significant differences were observed between the experimental group and control group in serum levels of IL-12 or TNF-α at any of the sampling time points. Conclusion TLR2 and TLR4 may play a favoring role in immunological defense by participating in the recognition of Sporothrix by keratinocytes and macrophages in mouse skin. Key words: Sporothrix; Toll-like receptor 2; Toll-like receptor 4

Biocompatibility of a novel zinc stent with a closed-cell-design.

Biomaterials made of zinc have been widely described to be antioxidative, hypothrombogenic, antiinflammatory and antiproliferative. Additionally in vivo zinc is toxic only in high concentrations and can completely be metabolized in vivo. Due to these properties zinc based vascular stents might be able to reduce the rate of restenosis in comparison to bare metal stents and zinc stents might be also able to limit the foreign body reaction. In the presented study we tested the biocompatibility and degradability of a stent made of zinc and characterized by a closed-cell-design to achieve high opening force and to increase stent stiffness. After 100 days of enzymatic and hydrolytic degradation in 15 ml blood serum (fetal calf serum) a significant loss of weight (1.72 wt% ) was measured. Zinc was compared to other metals in terms of degradation rates. After six weeks of incubation in physiologic sodium chloride solution zinc showed the slowest degradation time, 6 times less than stainless steel and 4 times less than magnesium. In the tests for cytotoxic effects the degraded zinc stent caused no changes in the LDH-release and cell membrane integrity (3T3 cells, mouse fibroblasts) respectively, in the cell activity/proliferation (MTS assay) and in the morphological characteristics of the cells and cell layers in comparison to the control material (polystyrene). Based on these results the tested zinc stent proved to be non-cytotoxic and to be characterized by degradation characteristics which might be advantageous in comparison to magnesium and stainless steel.

Protective effect of polysaccharide nucleic acid fraction of bacillus Calmette-Guerin against atopic dermatitis in Nc/Nga mice

Objective To evaluate the protective effect of polysaccharide nucleic acid fraction of bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG-PSN) against atopic dermatitis (AD) in Nc/Nga mice, and to explore its possible mechanism. Methods Sixteen Nc/Nga mice were classified into normal control group (n = 4) , low-concentration BCG-PSN group (n=5) and high-concentration BCG-PSN group (n=7) to be subcutaneously injected with sodium chloride physiological solution, BCG-PSN of 0.1 mg/kg and 0.5 mg/kg respectively, at 1, 8, 15 and 22 days of age. Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) was repeatedly and topically applied to these Nc/Nga mice to induce AD-like lesions at 49 days of age. The preventive effect of BCG-PSN against AD was evaluated by dermatitis scores, scratching frequency, histopathological manifestations and immunological parameters (including IgE, interleukin (IL) -4 and -12, and interferon (IFN) -γ) . Results Repeated injection of BCG-PSN within 4 weeks after birth significantly decreased the severity of DNCB-induced AD-like lesions, dermatitis scores and scratching behavior in Nc/Nga mice. There was no statistical difference in scratching frequency between the high- and low-concentration BCG-PSN groups. BCG-PSN treatment reduced the plasma level of IgE in Nc/Nga mice in a dose-dependent manner. BCG-PSN at 0.5 mg/kg increased the number of cells secreting IFN-γ in skin lesions of mice. Both doses of BCG-PSN down-regulated IL-4 level, but up-regulated IL-12 level in the culture supernatant of spleen mononuclear cells from mice. Conclusion Early injection of BCG-PSN could protect Nc/Nga mice against dermatitis by promoting the proliferation of IFN-γ-secreting cells, increasing the synthesis of IL-12, and reducing the levels of IL-4 and IgE. Key words: Dermatitis, atopic; Mice, Nc/Nga; Dendritic cells; BCG-PSN