PU Group Research Articles

Efficacy and Safety of External Versus Internal Stenting in Children with Open Pyeloplasty for Primary Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction. A Single Centre Experience

Background: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO), a condition, stops urine from freely passing from the renal pelvis to the ureter. It is a common urological condition, with a male to female ratio of 2:1 and an incidence of 1 in 500 (1). UPJ obstruction may be caused by inherited and acquired diseases. The majority of cases are congenital due to intrinsic or extrinsic causes (2). Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of external versus internal stenting in children with primary Ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Material and Methods: At the Institute of Kidney Diseases in Hayatabad, Peshawar, Pakistan, a randomized controlled study was carried out from January 2021 to December 2021. Patients were split into two groups based on the kind of stent that was used. All patients with DJ stents were placed in Group A, and patients with PU stents (5–6 Fr feeding tubes) that passed through the kidney parenchyma on their way from the ureteropelvic junction to the skin belonged in Group B. Results: 80 people in total (55 men and 25 women) were enrolled in the study. In groups A and B, the mean ages at surgery were 3.4 and 3.9 years respectively. Table 1 displays the patient's demographics and surgical factors. The two groups' mean operating times (124 ±3.4 for group A and 130 ± 3.1 for group B) were comparable. The DJS group's stent duration ranged from 3 to 4 weeks, with a mean of 27 days, while the PU group's ranged from 1 to 2 weeks, with a mean of 13 days. In DJS and PU stent, the median hospital stay was 1.3 and 2.8 days, respectively. Practical Implication: The surgeon must compare the inconvenience of a second anaesthesia, the cost, and the DJ stent's potential for complications against the longer hospital stay that comes with PU stenting and advise parents accordingly. Conclusion: According to our findings, the complication rates and mean operating time for both types of stents were comparable. Even though the DJS stent requires less recovery time than the PU stent, its removal still required a second anaesthesia Keywords: External Versus, surgical factors, ureteropelvic junction obstruction, urine, Congenital

Safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of the chimpanzee adenovirus type 3-vectored Marburg virus (cAd3-Marburg) vaccine in healthy adults in the USA: a first-in-human, phase 1, open-label, dose-escalation trial

WHO has identified Marburg virus as an emerging virus requiring urgent vaccine research and development, particularly due to its recent emergence in Ghana. We report results from a first-in-human clinical trial evaluating a replication-deficient recombinant chimpanzee adenovirus type 3 (cAd3)-vectored vaccine encoding a wild-type Marburg virus Angola glycoprotein (cAd3-Marburg) in healthy adults. We did a first-in-human, phase 1, open-label, dose-escalation trial of the cAd3-Marburg vaccine at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research Clinical Trials Center in the USA. Healthy adults aged 18-50 years were assigned to receive a single intramuscular dose of cAd3-Marburg vaccine at either 1 × 1010 or 1 × 1011 particle units (pu). Primary safety endpoints included reactogenicity assessed for the first 7 days and all adverse events assessed for 28 days after vaccination. Secondary immunogenicity endpoints were assessment of binding antibody responses and T-cell responses against the Marburg virus glycoprotein insert, and assessment of neutralising antibody responses against the cAd3 vector 4 weeks after vaccination. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03475056. Between Oct 9, 2018, and Jan 31, 2019, 40 healthy adults were enrolled and assigned to receive a single intramuscular dose of cAd3-Marburg vaccine at either 1 × 1010 pu (n=20) or 1 × 1011 pu (n=20). The cAd3-Marburg vaccine was safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic. All enrolled participants received cAd3-Marburg vaccine, with 37 (93%) participants completing follow-up visits; two (5%) participants moved from the area and one (3%) was lost to follow-up. No serious adverse events related to vaccination occurred. Mild to moderate reactogenicity was observed after vaccination, with symptoms of injection site pain and tenderness (27 [68%] of 40 participants), malaise (18 [45%] of 40 participants), headache (17 [43%] of 40 participants), and myalgia (14 [35%] of 40 participants) most commonly reported. Glycoprotein-specific antibodies were induced in 38 (95%) of 40 participants 4 weeks after vaccination, with geometric mean titres of 421 [95% CI 209-846] in the 1 × 1010 pu group and 545 [276-1078] in the 1 × 1011 pu group, and remained significantly elevated at 48 weeks compared with baseline titres (39 [95% CI 13-119] in the 1 ×1010 pu group and 27 [95-156] in the 1 ×1011 pu group; both p<0·0001). T-cell responses to the glycoprotein insert and neutralising responses against the cAd3 vector were also increased at 4 weeks after vaccination. This first-in-human trial of this cAd3-Marburg vaccine showed the agent is safe and immunogenic, with a safety profile similar to previously tested cAd3-vectored filovirus vaccines. 95% of participants produced a glycoprotein-specific antibody response at 4 weeks after a single vaccination, which remained in 70% of participants at 48 weeks. These findings represent a crucial step in the development of a vaccine for emergency deployment against a re-emerging pathogen that has recently expanded its reach to new regions. National Institutes of Health.

Development and Preliminary Characterization of Polyester-Urethane Microparticles Used in Curcumin Drug Delivery System for Oropharyngeal Cancer.

Background and Objectives: Curcumin (Cc) as an active substance is known for its anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic effects, together with its role in cholesterol regulation, and its use in different gastrointestinal derangements. On the other hand, curcumin can be used for its properties as an inactive substance, with Cc particles being more often tested in pharmaceutical formulations for drug delivery, with promising safety records and kinetics. The aim of this research was to obtain and characterize polyurethane microparticles that can be used as a carrier with a controlled Cc release. Materials and Methods: The in vitro samples were characterized by the Zetasizer procedure, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, while the in-vivo measurements on human subjects were performed by non-invasive skin assays (trans-epidermal water loss, erythema, and skin hydration). A total of 16 patients with oropharyngeal cancer stages II and III in equal proportions were recruited for participation. Results: The experimental values of sample characteristics using the Zetasizer identified a mean structural size of 215 nm in the polyester-urethane preparate (PU), compared to 271 nm in the curcumin-based PU. Although the size was statistically significantly different, the IPDI and Zeta potential did not differ significantly (22.91 mV vs. 23.74 mV). The average age during the study period was 57.6 years for patients in the PU group, respectively, and 55.1 years in those who received the curcumin preparations. The majority of oropharyngeal cancers were of HPV-related etiology. There were no significant side effects; 75.0% of patients in the PU group reporting no side effects, compared to 87.5% in the Cc group. The 48 h TEWL measurement at the end of the experiment found a statistically significant difference between the PU and the Cc group (2.2 g/h/m2 vs. 2.6 g/h/m2). The erythema assessment showed a starting measurement point for both research groups with a 5.1-unit difference. After 48 h, the difference between PU and PU_Cc was just 1.7 units (p-value = 0.576). The overall difference compared to the reference group with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was statistically significant at a 95% significance level. Conclusions: Our findings indicate the obtaining of almost homogeneous particles with a medium tendency to form agglomerations, with a good capacity of encapsulation (around 60%), a medium release rate, and a non-irritative potential. Therefore, this polyester-urethane with Cc microparticles can be tested in other clinical evaluations.

Periurethral and Intravenous Injections of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells to Promote Local Tissue Recovery in a Rat Model of Stress Urinary Incontinence

ObjectiveTo compare the effects of periurethral and intravenous injection of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on voiding function and tissue recovery in a stress urinary incontinence (SUI) rat model. MethodsSixty-four postpartum rats were randomly allocated to a normal group and the SUI model was established in 48 rats by vagina balloon dilation and bilateral ovariectomy. The SUI rats were randomized into 3 groups and received urethral injection of PBS (SUI group), periurethral injection of ADSCs (PU group), and intravenous injection of ADSCs (IV group) in 10 days after the ovariectomy. After 1, 7, and 14 days, ADSCs were tracked in urethra specimen. The urinary function of the remaining rats was analyzed at day 28, and urethral tissues were harvested for Western blotting and histochemical analyses. ResultsAlpha smooth muscle actin, myosin heavy chain, vascular endothelial growth factor, and neurofilament protein expression was increased in the IV and PU groups. Voiding function was also improved, with no significant differences between the IV and PU groups. The cell retention rate in rat urethral tissues was higher in the PU group than that in the IV group. Compared with the IV group, myosin heavy chain, vascular endothelial growth factor, neurofilament and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad pathway protein expression levels were significantly higher in the PU group, while alpha smooth muscle actin expression was significantly lower (P < .05). ConclusionPeriurethral and intravenous injection of ADSCs induces different degrees of recovery of the urethral sphincter, cytokine secretion levels and cell retention rates in the urethral tissues in SUI rats, however, there was no significant difference in 2 methods.

53 Use of Polylactic-acid-membrane in Split-thickness Skin Graft Donor Sites: A Prospective, Comparative, Randomized Study

IntroductionPolyurethane film (PU) dressings are commonly applied for coverage of split-thickness skin graft (SSG) donor sites, while previous studies have suggested reduced morbidity using a polylactic acid membrane (PLM). To further investigate the optimal treatment approach, the presented study compared outcome of donor sites in patients receiving either PLM or PU.MethodsThis randomized clinical trial allocated patients requiring SSG to receive either PLM or PU at the donor-site. Primary endpoint was difference in donor site scar appearance between groups 3 months postoperatively (Vancouver Scar Scale – VSS). Secondary endpoints included pain, the number of and time required for wound dressing changes, and costs related to the wound dressing.Results30 patients were allocated to each group. The median VSS scored lower for patients receiving PLM (PU: 3 (Q1: 2; Q3: 4) vs. PLM: 2 (Q1: 1; Q3: 3); p=0.049). Pain during change of wound dressing (PU: 2.0 ± 0.2 vs. PLM: 0.5 ± 0.2; p< 0.001) and mobilization (PU: 0.8 ± 0.2 vs. PLM: 0.3 ± 0.1; p=0.032) was reduced in the PLM group. Patients with PLM required less dressing changes per day of hospital stay (PU: 0.44 ± 0.06 vs. PLM: 0.28 ± 0.02; p=0.015). Mean time for wound dressing changes per patient was higher in the PU group (PU: 74.50 ± 5.72 vs. PLM: 21.43 ± 2.61 min; p< 0.001). Costs were higher in the PLM group (PU: 67.83 ± 5.56 vs. PLM: 162.79 ± 21.76 €; p< 0.001).ConclusionsPLM improves outcome of SSG donor sites, however, higher treatment costs must be taken into consideration.

Antibiotics Versus Surgery in Treatment of Early Flexor Tenosynovitis.

Treatment of pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis (FTS) historically involved surgical debridement supplemented with antibiotic therapy. No consensus exists on either: (1) the treatment algorithm for this infection; or (2) the clinical definition of "early" FTS. We performed a retrospective study to clarify indications for nonoperative management. We identified 40 patients with a diagnosis of FTS using Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, codes and a keyword search from an electronic medical record between 2011 and 2019. Patients underwent either surgical management (SG) (n = 20) or early antibiotics only (EAG) (n = 20). The surgical group was divided into patients with intraoperative purulence within the tendon sheath (PU) and those without purulence (NP). The number of Kanavel signs and duration of days of symptoms were significantly greater in SG compared with EAG. Subgroup analysis of SG showed a greater number of days of symptoms in the NP group when compared with the PU group. No statistical significance was found with respect to age, smoking, or specific individual Kanavel signs between SG and EAG. Both duration of symptoms and number of Kanavel signs should be considered in suspected early FTS. Patients with shorter duration of symptoms and fewer Kanavel signs were treated successfully with antibiotics alone. Operatively confirmed FTS presented more acutely with fewer days of symptoms and a higher number of Kanavel signs. Patients with subacute presentations may represent inflammatory conditions and hand infections other than FTS.

Comparison of Drainage Methods After Pyeloplasty in Children: A 14-Year Study

Objective: To summarize our experiences with drainage methods after laparoscopic pyeloplasty with a 14-year study.Methods: We reviewed the data of the 838 children operated on for hydronephrosis due to congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) between July 2007 and July 2020. Patients' demographics, perioperative details, postoperative drainage stents [including double-J stent, percutaneous trans-anastomotic (PU) stent, and trans-uretero-cystic external urethral stent (TEUS)], complications, hospital stay, and long-term follow-up outcomes were analyzed. Long-term follow-up was performed by outpatient visits and telephone follow-up. Moreover, we reviewed the details of nine cases of recurrence after laparoscopic pyeloplasty.Results: Comparison of preoperative general data among the three groups indicated that there was no statistical difference in age, gender, and surgical side of the three groups. Statistical differences were found in the incidence of postoperative complications from the three postoperative drainage method groups, especially the incidence of reoperations (p < 0.01): there were six cases (3.19%) of recurrences in the TEUS group, two cases (0.36%) in the DJ group, and one case (0.93%) in the PU group. In the six recurrent cases from the TEUS group, four cases (44.4%) were found to have stenosis, and two cases (22.2%) have iatrogenic valvular formation.Conclusion: Not all three types of drainage methods are suitable for drainage after pyeloplasty. Based on our findings, TEUS is not recommended.

Characterization of Shifts of the Cellular Component the Immune Status of Patients with Long-Term Course of Chronic Post-Traumatic Uveitis

Purpose: to study the subpopulation composition of peripheral blood lymphocytes in patients with long — term chronic post-traumatic uveitis (CPT).Patients and Methods. There were 131 people aged 17 to 87 years, who received the surgical treatment in the Department of plastic surgery and eye prosthetics in NMITS eye diseases Helmholtz of the Ministry of health, Russia, where the removal of the eyeball by evisceration was carried out in 101 patients (70.3 %), 30 patients (29.7 % of cases) were enucleated. The study identified two groups: the Ist group– with the outcome of the injury, including non-penetrating (n = 46) and penetrating wounds (n = 51) of the eyes, were 97 patients; group II included 34 patients with complications due to single (n = 8) or repeated (n = 26) ophthalmic surgery (development of glaucoma and retinal detachment).Results. When analyzing the mean values, we found a decrease in the relative number of CD3+ CD4+ helpers/inducers in the blood of patients of both groups (up to 43.5 ± 0.81 and 42.19 ± 1.29 % versus 45.7 ± 1.19 % in the control), statistically confirmed for the 2nd group. Individual analysis revealed multidirectional shifts from the norm of cellular immune status of patients with PU in both groups. The most interesting, in our opinion, results were obtained by analyzing the relative number of effector cytotoxic cells of adaptive and nonspecific immunity. The increase in the relative content of t-cytotoxic lymphocytes CD3+ /CD8+ and NK-lymphocytes CD16+ /CD56+ was revealed with the same frequency, approximately in 18.5 and 19.5 % of cases in the PU group at the outcome of injury, in the 2nd group the increased number of these subpopulations was observed more often, amounting to 23.5 and 20.5 %, respectively.Conclusions. The results of the study on a large clinical material indicate that in long-term CPTU there is a pronounced systemic imbalance in the immunoregulatory subpopulations of lymphocytes, revealed by individual analysis in groups of patients.

Neural Stimulation In Vitro and In Vivo by Photoacoustic Nanotransducers

Summary Neuromodulation is an invaluable approach for the study of neural circuits and clinical treatment of neurological diseases. Here, we report semiconducting polymer nanoparticles based photoacoustic nanotransducers (PANs) for neural stimulation in vitro and in vivo. Our PANs strongly absorb the nanosecond pulsed laser in the near-infrared second window (NIR-II) and generate localized acoustic waves. PANs are shown to be surface modified and selectively bind onto neurons. PAN-mediated activation of primary neurons in vitro is achieved with ten 3-ns laser pulses at 1,030 nm over a 3-ms duration. In vivo neural modulation of mouse brain activities and motor activities is demonstrated by PANs directly injected into brain cortex. With submillimeter spatial resolution and negligible heat deposition, PAN stimulation is a new non-genetic method for precise control of neuronal activities, opening up potentials in non-invasive brain modulation.

Meat quality traits and the expression of tenderness-related genes in the loins of young goats at different ages

Goat meat is considered healthy because of its low fat content, but it is often rather tough. Tenderness is the most important attribute of quality during meat consumption and there is scarce information about the expression of genes involved in the meat tenderization process in goats. The aim of this trial was to assess certain meat quality traits and the expression, at the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels, of specific genes involved in the tenderization process of the longissimus lumborum (LL) in young male goats (Capra hircus) at different ages. Samples of LL were collected at slaughter from 32 Alpine goats that were divided into three categories: 9 suckling kids (Sk) at 5.4±0.15 weeks of age, 16 chevons (Ch) at 17.1±0.55 weeks of age and 7 post-puberal goats (Pu) at 34.3±2.5 weeks of age. Animal and carcass variables (live weight gain, live weight, carcass weight and fat deposits) and quality traits of meat (lipid content, ultimate pH, color parameters, cooking loss and shear force) were determined. The mRNA abundances of calpain-1 (Capn1), calpain-2 (Capn2), calpastatin (Cast), caspase 3 (Casp3), caspase 9 (Casp9), αB-crystallin (Cryab), heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27), heat shock protein 40 (Hsp40) and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) were detected by quantitative PCR. Capn1, Cast, Cryab and Hsp27 protein expression was investigated by ELISA. The Sk group had the leanest carcasses. The meat of the Pu group was the darkest (P<0.05) and the toughest (P<0.05). The redness of meat increased with the age of the goats. The Sk group showed lower mRNA abundances for the Capn2/Cast ratio, Casp3, Cryab, Hsp27, Hsp40 and Hsp70 than the Pu group (P<0.05). Intermediate values were found for the Ch group. Similar results were highlighted for the protein expression of Cryab and Hsp27. The experiment acknowledged a differentiation of the experimental groups based on performance, carcass and meat characteristics, and the genes considered. Moreover, Sk and Pu groups, characterized by a different tenderness of their meat, were clearly discriminated by a different expression of the Hsp.

Abstract 452: Primary Left Ventricular Unloading Reduces Infarct Size by Increasing Myocardial Levels of Stromal Derived Factor One Alpha (SDF1a) in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Stromal derived factor 1 alpha (SDF1a) is a constitutively expressed cardioprotective chemokine that is rapidly degraded by proteases. We reported that compared to Primary Reperfusion (PR), first reducing myocardial oxygen demand by activating a trans-valvular pump (Impella CP) while delaying coronary reperfusion (Primary Unloading; PU) reduces infarct size in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We now hypothesize that PU reduces proteolytic degradation of SDF1a thereby increasing SDF1a signaling via the receptor CXCR4 in AMI. Methods: AMI was induced by occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) for 90 min in male swine (n=4/group). In the PR group, the LAD was reperfused for 120 min. In the PU group, after 90 min of ischemia an Impella CP was activated and the LAD left occluded for an additional 30 min, followed by 120 min of reperfusion. Whole-transcript expression analysis was performed on RNA from the infarct zone using Porcine 1.0 ST microarrays and ConsensusPathDB programs. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blots, and activity assays determined expression and activity of the SDF1a signaling pathway. Sham operated LV samples served as controls. Results: Compared to PR, PU reduced fibrotic and inflammatory gene expression including reduced transcript levels of matrix-metalloprotease-2 (MMP2), MMP9 and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4). Compared to PR, PU increased SDF1a protein levels within the infarct zone. Gel zymography confirmed reduced activity levels of MMP2 and MMP9 within the infarct zone after PU, not PR. Compared to PR, PU attenuated DPP4 protein levels and activity and protein levels of CXCR7, an SDF1a sequestration receptor, within the infarct zone. To explore a functional role for SDF1a in PU, adult male swine received intra-coronary injections of AMD3100, a CXCR4 receptor antagonist, after Impella CP activation. Loss of CXCR4 activity attenuated cardioprotective signaling via Akt, Erk and GSK3b and increased infarct size compared to vehicle treated controls. Conclusion: We introduce a novel mechanism by which PU limits proteolytic degradation and CXCR7 mediated sequestration of SDF1a, thereby increasing cardioprotective signaling via SDF1a and overcoming a critical barrier to SDF1a therapeutics in AMI.

The use of modern dressings in managing split-thickness skin graft donor sites: a single-centre randomised controlled trial.

To identify the most appropriate, most suitable and most efficient dressing for split-thickness skin graft (STSG) donor sites. Comparing the wound healing rate, pain severity and duration, as well as the dressing change frequency in four randomised patient groups. A single-centre non-blinded randomised controlled trial was carried out during 2010-2014. All patients treated for skin defects/lesions (due to burns, trauma or ulcers) using STSG were included in the study. All patients were randomly allocated in four different donor site treatment groups; polyurethane (PU group, Mepilex); polyurethane with silicone membrane (PUSM group; Mepilex border,); transparent, breathable film (TBF group; Mepitel film) and cotton gauze dressings (CG group) using Excel 2007. We evaluated: wound healing time, pain severity and duration, the frequency of dressing change, donor site re-epithelialisation, donor site complications (signs of inflammation or infection). Patients were assessed on postoperative days: 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 21. After random allocation of study participants the number of patients in each group were: PU group n=25; PUSM group n=24; TBF group n=24; CG group n=25. The groups were homogenous according to gender, age, main pathology, donor site area and wound size. The STSG donor site healing time varied from 9 to 21 days. The mean healing time in the CG group was 14.76 days, whereas in the PU, PUSM, and TBF group it was significantly shorter; 12.25 days, 11.63 days and 10 days, respectively. Patients in the TBF group demonstrated the most rapid healing time with 66.7% of STSG donor sites healed by postoperative day 9. The pain duration interval in modern dressing groups (PU, PUSM and TBF groups) was 0-9 days, whereas it was 6-18 day in the CS group. Pain intensity mean on postoperative day 1 was 2.21 in the PU group; 1.67 in the PUSM group; 1.46 in the TBF group and 3.04 in the CG group. The average pain duration in Group PU, PUSM, and TBF was 4.08 days; 2.5 days; 2.29 days, respectively. The average number of times each dressing was changed in each group was, 2.83 times in the PU group and PUSM group and 1.46 times in the TBF group. The CG dressing group were changed once when the donor site wound re-epithelialised. There was one patient in the PU group who experienced signs of infection, was treated accordingly and excluded from the study. The fastest healing time was demonstrated by patients in the TBF group. The pain was not as severe and for a shorter period of time in modern dressing study groups. However, the pain was lightest and felt shortest in TBF dressing group. The modern dressings PU and PUSM had to be changed more frequently than TBF.

Effect of Surface Treatment, Silane, and Universal Adhesive on Microshear Bond Strength of Nanofilled Composite Repairs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surface treatment and universal adhesive on the microshear bond strength of nanoparticle composite repairs. One hundred and forty-four specimens were built with a nanofilled composite (Filtek Supreme Ultra, 3M ESPE). The surfaces of all the specimens were polished with SiC paper and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 14 days. Half of the specimens were then air abraded with Al2O3 particles and cleaned with phosphoric acid. Polished specimens (P) and polished and air-abraded specimens (A), respectively, were randomly divided into two sets of six groups (n=12) according to the following treatments: hydrophobic adhesive only (PH and AH, respectively), silane and hydrophobic adhesive (PCH, ACH), methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (MDP)-containing silane and hydrophobic adhesive (PMH, AMH), universal adhesive only (PU, AU), silane and universal adhesive (PCU, ACU), and MDP-containing silane and universal adhesive (PMU, AMU). A cylinder with the same composite resin (1.1-mm diameter) was bonded to the treated surfaces to simulate the repair. After 48 hours, the specimens were subjected to microshear testing in a universal testing machine. The failure area was analyzed under an optical microscope at 50× magnification to identify the failure type, and the data were analyzed by three-way analysis of variance and the Games-Howell test (α=0.05). The variables "surface treatment" and "adhesive" showed statistically significant differences for p<0.05. The highest mean shear bond strength was found in the ACU group but was not statistically different from the means for the other air-abraded groups except AH. All the polished groups except PU showed statistically significant differences compared with the air-abraded groups. The PU group had the highest mean among the polished groups. Cohesive failure was the most frequent failure mode in the air-abraded specimens, while mixed failure was the most common mode in the polished specimens. While air abrasion with Al2O3 particles increased the repair bond strength of the nanoparticle composite, the use of MDP-containing silane did not lead to a statistically significant increase in bond strength. Silane-containing universal adhesive on its own was as effective as any combination of silane and adhesive, particularly when applied on air-abraded surfaces.

Myoprotective effects of bFGF on skeletal muscle injury in pressure-related deep tissue injury in rats.

BackgroundPressure ulcers (PUs) are a major clinical problem that constitutes a tremendous economic burden on healthcare systems. Deep tissue injury (DTI) is a unique serious type of pressure ulcer that arises in skeletal muscle tissue. DTI arises in part because skeletal muscle tissues are more susceptible than skin to external compression. Unfortunately, few effective therapies are currently available for muscle injury. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a potent mitogen and survival factor for various cells, plays a crucial role in the regulation of muscle development and homeostasis. The main purpose of this study was to test whether local administration of bFGF could accelerate muscle regeneration in a rat DTI model.MethodsMale Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (age 12 weeks) were individually housed in plastic cages and a DTI PU model was induced according to methods described before. Animals were randomly divided into three groups: a normal group, a PU group treated with saline, and a PU group treated with bFGF (10 μg/0.1 ml) subcutaneously near the wound.ResultsWe found that application of bFGF accelerated the rate of wound closure and promoted cell proliferation and tissue angiogenesis. In addition, compared to saline administration, bFGF treatment prevented collagen deposition, a measure of fibrosis, and up-regulated the myogenic marker proteins MyHC and myogenin, suggesting bFGF promoted injured muscle regeneration. Moreover, bFGF treatment increased levels of myogenesis-related proteins p-Akt and p-mTOR.ConclusionsOur findings show that bFGF accelerated injured skeletal muscle regeneration through activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and suggest that administration of bFGF is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of skeletal muscle injury in PUs.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s41038-016-0051-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Anti-osteoporotic effects of Pueraria candollei var. mirifica on bone mineral density and histomorphometry in estrogen-deficient rats

Although it has been clearly shown that Pueraria mirifica and its phytoestrogens can mimic estrogen in preventing bone loss, as osteoporosis is an asymptomatic disease, the therapeutic effects of P. mirifica should be acknowledged. In this study, 6-month-old female rats were ovariectomized, kept for 4 weeks to induce bone loss, divided into five groups, and treated with P. mirifica at doses of 0, 5, 25, and 50 mg/kg BW/day (PM0, PM5, PM25, and PM50 groups, respectively) or 7 mg/kg BW/day of puerarin (PU group) for 12 weeks. Only the trabecular bone mineral densities (BMDs) of tibia metaphysis (at the 12th, 14th, and 16th week) and total and trabecular BMDs of L4 (at the 16th week) of the PM50 group were significantly higher than those of the PM0 group. However, the BMDs of tibia metaphysis and L4 at the 16th week of the study period were kept significantly lower than those of the 0 week, and the BMD was also significantly lower than that of the 4th week for tibia metaphysis. The trabecular bone area (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), and osteoblast surface (Ob.S/BS) were significantly higher, and trabecular space (Tb.Sp) was significantly lower in the PM50 group, as compared with those of the PM0 group. This study indicates that P. mirifica could be used as an anti-osteoporotic agent for postmenopausal women. Since P. mirifica could mainly retain bone mass at the levels before bone loss is initiated, the use of other anabolic agents in combination with P. mirifica is recommended for osteoporotic patients.

Immunosuppressive effects of Pteridium aquilinum enhance susceptibility to urethane-induced lung carcinogenesis

Pteridium aquilinum (bracken fern), one of the most important toxic plants in the world, contains the toxic norsequiterpene ptaquiloside that induces cancers in humans and farm animals. Previous studies in the laboratory demonstrated immunotoxic effects produced by ptaquiloside, which are characterized by suppression of natural killer (NK) cell activity (i.e. cytotoxicity and interferon [IFN]-γ production). However, it is unknown whether these immunosuppressive effects could contribute to carcinogenesis in situ in general because of the important function of NK cells in innate killing of tumor cells. This study assessed the impact of P. aquilinum-induced immunosuppression on urethane-induced lung cancer in C57BL/6 mice. Adult mice were treated with an extract of P. aquilinum (30 g/kg/day) by gavage once daily for 14 days, followed by gavage (5 days/week) during an 11-week period that was accompanied by treatment with urethane (1 g/kg) via once-weekly intraperitoneal injection; 20 weeks after the end of the treatment period, all lungs were evaluated. The results indicated there was a significant increase in lung nodule number as well as in multiplicity of lesions in mice treated with both P. aquilinum and urethane (PU group) compared to values in mice treated only with the urethane (U group). In addition, histologic evaluation revealed a 76% increase in the rate of lung adenomas and a 41% increase in rate of bronchiolization of alveoli in the mice from the PU group compared to levels seen in mice within the U group. Taken together, the results here show for the first time that immunosuppressive effects of P. aquilinum could increase the risk of cancer formation in exposed hosts.

Effects of Push-ups Plus Sling Exercise on Muscle Activation and Cross-sectional Area of the Multifidus Muscle in Patients with Low Back Pain

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of lumbar stability exercises on chronic low back pain by using sling exercise and push-ups. [Subjects] Thirty adult subjects with chronic back pain participated, with 10 adults being assigned to each of 3 exercise groups: general physical therapy (PT), lumbar stability using sling exercises (Sling Ex), and sling exercise plus push-ups (Sling Ex+PU). Each group trained for 30 minutes 3 times a week for 6 weeks. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity of the lumbar muscles, and cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle on computed tomography (CT) were evaluated before and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of therapy. [Results] A significant decrease in ODI was seen in all therapy groups, and this change was greater in the Sling Ex and Sling Ex+PU groups than in the PT group. No changes in sEMG activity were noted in the PT group, whereas significant increases in the sEMG activities of all lumbar muscles were found in the other 2 groups. The increases in the sEMG activities of the rectus abdominis and internal and external oblique muscles of the abdomen were greater in the Sling Ex+PU group than in the other 2 groups. [Conclusion] These findings demonstrate that Sling Ex+PU, similar to normal lumbar stabilization exercise, is effective in activating and improving the function of the lumbar muscles. These results suggest that Sling Ex+PU has a positive impact on stabilization of the lumbar region.

Study of antibiotic property of polyurethane based soft liner material

Objective To investigate the antibacterial property of polyurethane based material containing polyphosphazenes nanosphere.Methods Test specimens made of polyurethane(PU group),polyurethane containing 1% polyphosphazenes nanosphere(1% PSZ group),polyurethane containing 5% polyphosphazenes nanosphere(5% PSZ group),self-curing silicon rubber material(negative group) and inner flat of sterilized plate(blank control group) were prepared(n=30).The antibacterial property for Candida albicans,Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of test specimens in each group was tested.The colonies were counted by sticking membrane culture method,and the antibacterial rates were calculated.Material with antibacterial rate lower than 90% was regarded as having no antibacterial property.Results The antibacterial rates of test specimens in PU group,1% PSZ group and 5% PSZ group for Candida albicans were 5.60%,3.75% and 6.25% respectively,those for Staphylococcus aureus were-2.31%,1.63% and 12.80% respectively,and those for Escherichia coli were 8.65%,0.75% and 6.02% respectively.Conclusion Polyurethane based soft liner materials containing less than 5% polyphosphazenes nanosphere have no significant effect on oral microflora balance.

243 Early in-hospital mortality of acute aortic syndromes: results from the French National Multicentric registry

Acute Aortic syndromes (AAS) are life threatening diseases. Despite recent improvement in management, data are limited regarding their actual diagnosis accuracy, therapeutic and mortality. We aimed to assess determinants of in-hospital mortality in patients with AAS. Our analysis was based on data from the French prospective National Multicentre Registry (14 referral French Health Care Centers) of AAS (Feb 2008 - Dec 2009). Assessment of determinants of in-hospital mortality was based on multivariable logistic regression. The study included 278 patients (72% men) mean aged 66 (± 14) years. AAS consisted in type A dissection (AD; n = 143), type B dissection (BD; n = 90), intra mural hematoma (IMH; n = 21), complicated thoracic aneurysm (CTA; n = 20) and penetrating ulcer (PU; n = 4). Major aortic complications were cardiogenic shock and visceral malperfusion in 14.3% (n = 40) and 13.6% patients (n = 38) respectively. Disease management was medical in 35% patients, surgery (45%) or endovascular treatment (13%). Total intrahospital mortality was 21% (n = 56) [40% in CTA group, 27% in AD group, 16% in IMH group, 9% in BD group and none in PU group (p = 0.001)]. Determinants independently associated with in-hospital mortality were: type of AAS (Odds ratio = 0.34 [95% confidence interval: 0.14–0.86] for BD, OR = 1.38 [0.45–4.22] for CTA and OR = 0.46 [0.12–1.79] for IMH or PU, versus type A dissection), age above to 65 years (OR: 2.73 [1.33–5.61]), history of hypertension (OR: 0.43 [0.21–0.86]), history of aneurysm (OR: 2.47 [1.04–5.88]), cardiogenic shock (OR = 2.71 [1.18–6.24]) and visceral malperfusion syndrome (OR = 2.42 [1.01–5.78]). Despite recent progress in diagnostic and therapeutic, acute aortic syndromes are still associated with high intrahospital mortality. This recent large multicentric study identifies higher risk patients of poor in-hospital prognosis and emphasizes the need to still improve the management of AAS.

Expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and cyclooxygenase 2 in oral squamous cell carcinoma

B i r t c t f c f i ( M c fl S e m w p c b b i a R 0 d t T e O t S r n t esults: Our data demonstrate that siRNA argeting u-PAR markedly reduced cell roliferation, and increased cell apoptosis, nd suppressed tumour growth, accomanying with the efficient and specific nhibition of endogenous u-PAR expresion in pU group than that in Mock, EV, nd pUc groups. onclusion: These findings suggest that NA interference targeting u-PAR could ffectively inhibit cell proliferation and umour growth of OSCC in vivo. Thus, t may be used as a potent and specific herapy for oral cancer.