Subgroup IIIa Research Articles

Phylogenetic Relationship of Plant MLO Genes and Transcriptional Response of MLO Genes to Ralstonia solanacearum in Tomato.

As a broad-spectrum disease resistance factor, MLO is involved in a variety of biotic and abiotic stress responses in plants. To figure out the structural features, phylogenetic relationships, and expression patterns of MLO genes, we investigated the genome and transcriptome sequencing data of 28 plant species using bioinformatics tools. A total of 197 MLO genes were identified. They possessed 5–7 transmembrane domains, but only partially contained a calmodulin-binding domain. A total of 359 polymorphic sites and 142 haplotypes were found in 143 sequences, indicating the rich nucleotide diversity of MLO genes. The MLO genes were unevenly distributed on chromosomes or scaffolds and were mainly located at the ends, forming clusters (24.1% genes), tandem duplicates (5.7%), and segment duplicates (36.2%). The MLO genes could be classified into three groups by phylogenetic analysis. The angiosperm genes were mainly in subgroup IA, Selaginella moellendorffii genes were in subgroup IA and IIIB, Physcomitrella patens genes were in subgroup IB and IIIA, and almost all algae genes were in group II. About half of the MLO genes had homologs within and across species. The Ka/Ks values were all less than 1, varying 0.01–0.78, suggesting that purifying selection had occurred in MLO gene evolution. In tomato, RNA-seq data indicated that SlMLO genes were highly expressed in roots, followed by flowers, buds, and leaves, and also regulated by different biotic stresses. qRT–PCR analysis revealed that SlMLO genes could respond to tomato bacterial wilt, with SlMLO1, SlMLO2, SlMLO4, and SlMLO6 probably involved in the susceptibility response, whereas SlMLO14 and SlMLO16 being the opposite. These results lay a foundation for the isolation and application of related genes in plant disease resistance breeding.

The effect of anxiety on the parameters of carpal tapping in patients with post-stroke epilepsy

Aim. To study the characteristics of carpal tapping in the normal condition and the effect of subclinical anxiety on its parameters with post-stroke epilepsy in adults.Material and methods. We examined 140 people aged from 22 to 55 years. The total sample was divided into 3 observation groups: the first (I) group included healthy volunteers; the second (II) group included the patients with post-stroke frontal lobe epilepsy; the third (III) group included the patients with post-stroke temporal lobe epilepsy. Each group was divided into two subgroups: subgroup Ia (33 people) included healthy volunteers who did not show reliably expressed symptoms of anxiety; subgroup Ib (27 people) included healthy volunteers with subclinical anxiety; subgroup IIa (20 people) included patients with post-stroke frontal lobe epilepsy who did not show reliably expressed symptoms of anxiety; subgroup IIb (20 people) included patients with post-stroke frontal lobe epilepsy with subclinical anxiety; subgroup IIIa (19 people) included patients with post-stroke temporal lobe epilepsy who did not show reliably expressed symptoms of anxiety; subgroup IIIb (21 people) included patients with post-stroke temporal lobe epilepsy with subclinical anxiety. The parameters of carpal tapping were investigated using the modified author’s program “Method of influencing an individual human rhythm through exogenous rhythmic stimulation”.Results. An acceleration of the individual rhythm was found in the presence of subclinically expressed anxiety both in healthy volunteers (from 1.13 Hz to 1.53 Hz) and in patients with post-stroke frontal lobe and temporal lobe epilepsy (from 2.07 Hz to 3, 45 Hz and from 1.83 Hz to 2.82 Hz, respectively). The rate of acceleration of the individual rhythm in patients with post-stroke frontal lobe and temporal lobe epilepsies was higher than in healthy volunteers (1.66 and 1.54 versus 1.35, respectively).Conclusion. The effect of anxiety on the parameters of carpal tapping was greater in patients with post-stroke epilepsy compared with healthy volunteers.

Эффективность элиминации вируса папилломы человека при лечении патологии шейки матки

Study Objective: To assess the efficacy of antiviral medications, using the apoptotic markers caspase-3 and caspase-9, in the treatment of cervical disorders accompanied by papillomavirus infection. Study Design: This was a prospective study. Materials and Methods: One hundred and seventy women with a positive human papillomavirus (HPV) test, aged 18 to 45, participated in the study. Group I consisted of 60 women with histologically confirmed cervical leukoplakia; Group II was made up of 55 patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) I; and Group III comprised 55 women with CIN II. The control group consisted of 40 healthy women. All participants underwent a standard examination and had measurements taken for levels of caspase-1, caspase-3, and caspase-9, which were used to assess changes in their apoptotic programs. During the study, the patients with HPV were divided into subgroups. In the cervical leukoplakia group, 34 women (subgroup Ia) were only monitored and 26 women (subgroup Ib) received antiviral treatment. Similarly, in the CIN I group, 27 patients (subgroup IIa) were only monitored and 28 women (subgroup IIb) received antiviral drugs. In the CIN II group, all patients underwent excision of their lesions. According to the study design, 28 women who had undergone excision had monitoring alone (subgroup IIIa) and for 27 participants the surgical treatment was combined with an antiviral medication (subgroup IIIb). The efficacy of the treatment regimens was assessed three and six later by cytology and colposcopy data and levels of caspase-3 and caspase-9. Treatment efficacy was assessed chiefly by the presence or absence of HPV or reduction in viral load below significant levels. Study Results: After three and six months, viral load reduction in all subgroups of women who received antiviral treatment was greater and more of these women had a negative HPV test (after three and six months the overall efficacy was 11.7% vs. 30.7% and 20.5% vs. 42.3% in subgroups Ia and Ib, respectively; 7.4% vs. 21.4% and 22.2% vs. 35.7% in subgroups IIa and IIb, respectively; and 75% vs. 85.2% and 64.2% vs. 92.6% in subgroups IIIa and IIIb, respectively). Caspase-3 and caspase-9 levels decreased in both the subgroups that had monitoring alone and the subgroups that received combination treatment, but in the latter case they were closer to the control group’s levels. Correlation analysis revealed a strong direct relationship between clinically significant viral load and caspase-3 levels (rху = 0.79) and a moderate direct relationship between caspase-9 levels and high viral load (rху = 0.58). Conclusion: The proposed comprehensive approach, including antiviral therapy, to the treatment of HPV-associated cervical disorders such as leukoplakia, CIN I and CIN II, has higher clinical efficacy than monitoring over time alone or only the excision of lesions (in patients with CIN II). This is because of its effects on the system of natural killers and stimulation of the ability of cytotoxic lymphocytes to identify and destroy defective cells. Keywords: human papillomavirus, apoptosis, caspases, dysplasia, leukoplakia.

Histological Changes of Maternal Risperidone and Folic acid on the Cerebellar Cortex of the Offspring of the Albino Rat

Background: Risperidone is atypical, second-generation antipsychotic and folic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin.Objective: Assessment of the effect of risperidone on the development of the cerebellar cortex of albino rats, and evaluation of the protective potential of folic acid. Material and Methods: The study involved treatment of 60 pregnant rats and examination of 180 of their offspring. The pregnant rats were divided equally into five groups (I–V), each of which was subdivided equally into two subgroups (A and B). Rats in the A subgroups were gavaged with a daily dose of 1 ml distilled water (subgroup IA), 0.58 ml distilled water (subgroup IIA), 0.072 mg Folic acid (subgroup IIIA), 0.108 mg risperidone (subgroup IVA) or 0.108 mg risperidone with 0.072 mg folic acid (subgroup VA), throughout pregnancy. Rats in the B subgroups received the same regimen throughout pregnancy and for 21 days after delivery. The cerebella of all studied offspring were subjected for light microscopic examination. In addition, the cerebella of 21 day old offspring were used for electron microscopic examination and morphometric study.Results: Risperidone induced signs of delayed development and degenerative changes in the cerebellar cortex. The degenerative changes were; cytoplasmic vacuoles, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, swollen mitochondria with destructed cristae, degenerated mitochondria and nuclear changes. Co-administration of folic acid with risperidone ameliorated the delayed development and the degenerative changes.Conclusion: Treatment of the pregnant rats with risperidone induced delayed development and degenerative changes in the cerebellar cortex of their offspring. The co-administration of folic acid with risperidone led to an amelioration of these deleterious effects. So, in pregnant and lactating women treated with risperidone, co-supplementation with folic acid is advisable.

REMINERALIZATION EFFECT OF HEXAMET APHOSPHATE COMBINED WITH LOW FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE ON ENAMEL SURFACE OF PRIMARY TEETH

INTRODUCTION: Investigators have been searching for alternative remineralizing compounds that have superior properties to thoseconventionally used; in order to reduce the risk of fluorosis in children.OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the anti-caries effect of hexametaphosphate (HMP) combined with low-fluoride toothpaste on primary teethenamel surface using fluoride uptake analysis.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy five freshly extracted anterior primary teeth were sectioned into two halves in a labiolingualdirection (150 specimens). One half of each tooth remained untreated and served as control and the other corresponding half that was treatedwith the remineralizing toothpaste served as test. Specimens were assigned into subgroup IA (untreated) n=25, subgroup IB (250ppm F +0.5% HMP) n=25, subgroup IIA (untreated) n=25, subgroup IIB (500 ppm F) n=25 and subgroup IIIA (untreated) n=25, subgroup IIIB (1000ppm F) n=25. Specimens were subjected to pH cycling for five days and immersed in remineralizing solution for an additional two days. Theenamel fluoride uptake analysis of specimens was evaluated quantitatively using an ion specific electrode. Data were analyzed using MannWhitney U, Kruskal-Wallis and Post-hoc pair-wise test.RESULTS: There was a significant high median enamel fluoride uptake between test subgroups IB (250ppm F + 0.5% HMP),IIIB (1000 ppm F) and their controls where p=0.008 and p=0.008 respectively, while there was no significant difference inmedian enamel fluoride uptake between the test subgroup IIB (500 ppm F) and its control subgroup IIA where p=0.690. Pairwise comparison of enamel fluoride uptake in the three test subgroups IB, IIB and IIIB showed significant high median value ofsubgroup IB than subgroup IIIB where p=0.027.CONCLUSIONS: A toothpaste containing 250ppm F + 0.5% HMP has a high anti-caries potential in comparison to pediatric 500 ppm Fand standard 1000 ppm F toothpastes on primary teeth.KEYWORDS: Demineralization, fluoride, hexametaphosphate, enamel, pH cycling, toothpastes.

Histological Study on the Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Injection (Dermal Filler) on the Skin of the Adult and Aged Albino Rat

Background: Injectable dermal fillers became more popular for improving skin contour defects such as wrinkles, lines, and depressed acne scars. Aim of the work: This work aimed to study different skin changes induced by dermal filler injection in adult and aged albino rat. Material and Methods: Forty five female albino rats were used. The animals were divided into three groups: Group I (Control): Included twenty adult rats. Group ІІ: Included fifteen adult rats, they received an injection of 0.1 ml of hyaluronic acid (HA). The animals were subdivided into three subgroups according to time of sacrification , five rats each: Subgroup IIa: after 7 days. Subgroup IIb: after 60 days. Subgroup IIc: after 90 days. Group ІІІ: Included ten aged rats, they were subdivided into two subgroups, five rats each: Subgroup IIIa: (Control aged group). Subgroup IIIb: the rats were given an injection of HA and were sacrificed after 30 days.Results:Thin skin of HA injected animals revealed significant (< 0.05) increase in the thickness of subcutaneous tissue (SC) and significant increase in collagen and elastic fibers, and significant increase in the CD34 positive endothelial cells as compared to control and aged rats. Active fibroblasts at the site of injection showing euchromatic nuclei. Their cytoplasm contained well developed rER, numerous mitochondria, many vesicles, and centrioles.Conclusion: Hyaluronic acid filler injection stimulated vascularization and enhanced fibroblasts to synthesize collgen and elastic fibers in SC. This protected the skin from aging features in adults,and play a role in improvement of skin defects in aged rats.

A Comparative Histological and Immunohistochemical Study of the Effect of Oxandrolone and Whey Protein on Disuse Induced Muscle Atrophy in old aged male rats

Background: Periods of immobilization are often associated with pathologies and/or aging. These periods of disuse muscle atrophy could worsen the pathology or elderly frailty. Exercise, the best way to recover muscle mass, is not always applicable. Aim of Work: This study aimed to compare the therapeutic effect of oxandrolone versus whey protein on disuse induced muscle atrophy in old aged male rats with low testosterone level and mobility limitation.Materials and Methods: Twenty four aged male albino rats were included: 6 rats as control (group I). Eighteen rats were subjected to hind limb suspension (HLS) for 2 weeks then were divided into: 6 rats as group II (disuse atrophy) and 12 rats as group III (treated group) which was equally subdivided into: group IIIa (oxandrolone treated) and IIIb (whey protein treated) where oxandrolone 1.23 mg/kg and whey protein 9.25 gm/kg were given orally daily for 4 weeks. Rats were sacrificed after 6 weeks. Gastrocnemius muscle weight and total protein content were measured. Muscle specimens were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin, PAS and immunohistochemical staining for Myogenin. Morphometric measurements of type I and type II fibers number and cross sectional area (CSA), number of myogenin positive cells (differentiated satellite cells) were taken and statistically analyzed. Results: Group II showed atrophic angulated muscle fibers and significant increase in type II fibers compared to the control. Subgroup IIIa showed muscle fibers with large diameter. Many rounded vesicular nuclei were observed among muscle fibers. A significant increase in type I fibers and number of myogenin positive cells as compared to the control and subgroup IIIb. Conclusion: Oxandrolone and whey protein treated subgroups showed improved muscle mass, CSA, total protein content, histological architecture of muscle fibers and increase of satellite cells number. However, oxandrolone showed better therapeutic potential in ameliorating disuse muscle atrophy.

The Effect of Microbiota of Ejaculate on the State of Immune Homeostasis in Men with Damaged Reproductive Function, Depending on the Kind of Alcohol Consumed

The objective: to study the effect of microflora of the ejaculate on the state of immune homeostasis in men with damaged reproductive function, depending on the kind and amount of alcohol consumed.Materials and methods. Totally 62 men aged from 24 to 45 years have been included in investigation. The first group (control) included 17 fertile men who didn’t consume any alcohol. The second group (comparison) consisted of 17 men without disorders of fertility, who consumed, but didn’t abuse all kinds of alcohol. Depending on the kind of alcohol, group III was divided into 3 subgroups: subgroup IIIa consisted of 7 patients abusing strong alcohol; IIIb consisted of 9 patients abusing beer and the third one IIIc («mixed» group) included 12 patients abusing both beer and strong drinks. Patients underwent a comprehensive study, including: a survey, the study of the state of cellular factors of innate immunity, bacteriological examination of pharynx and ejaculate smears.Results. Analysis of microflora of the ejaculate showed that at abusing strong alcohol indicated the presence only G+ flora (Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis), when beer abuse and “mixed” alcohol was noted as G+ (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis) and G– (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae) microflora. Associations of microorganisms were found in men of all the studied groups, with the greatest number of them being detected during the abuse of beer. Incompleteness of neutrophilic phagocytosis was observed in all the studied groups against the background of preservation of the functional and metabolic reserve in II and IIIa and its depletion in IIIb and IIIс groups.Conclusion. Changes in the state of microbiocenosis of the ejaculate can affect the normal functioning of the phagocytic link of the immune system, which leads to the formation of local violations of the defense system, and then, apparently, generalized dysfunction of the immune system.

Improving the Power of the American Society of Anesthesiology Classification System to Risk Stratify Vascular Surgery Patients Based on National Surgical Quality Improvement Project–Defined Functional Status

Recently published reports have shown that the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification system has limited applicability in vascular surgery patients. Most patients undergoing vascular procedures are designated as ASA class III, limiting discrimination in preoperative risk assessment. The 2006 National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (NSQIP), containing over 170,000 surgical cases, demonstrated that functional status is an important predictor of mortality. We propose that dividing ASA class III into 2 subgroups, based on NSQIP-defined functional status, improves the predictive value of the ASA scheme. The 2006 NSQIP database was queried for ASA class III patients undergoing vascular surgery procedures. Patients were divided into groups IIIA and IIIB based on independent or dependent (partial or complete) functional status, respectively. Difference in 30-day survival between subgroups was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier and logistic regression analyses. Differences in postoperative morbidity and length of stay were compared using the unpaired t-test. ASA class III patients having undergone vascular surgery procedures numbered 11,555 (68%). Of those 9,913 (85.7%) patients were independent (IIIA), and 1,642 (14.3%) were dependent (IIIB). Mean 30-day mortality was 1.3% in subgroup IIIA, and 6.5% in IIIB (logrank P<0.001, χ2, 137.8). Mean lengths of stay between subgroups IIIA and IIIB were 5.4 and 13.2days (P<0.001). The risk of NSQIP-defined postoperative complications was 0.16 in IIIA and 0.32 in IIIB (P<0.001). A 5-fold difference in mortality was observed between patients who were functionally independent and dependent. A significant increase in length of stay and incidence of postoperative complications was also observed in subgroup IIIB. Subdividing ASA class III vascular surgery patients markedly improves the value of the ASA classification system. Given the "high-risk" nature of patients with vascular disease, the addition of functional status to the preoperative assessment will assist in predicting outcomes in this patient population.

Comparative study of the therapeutic effect of pomegranate alone or in combination with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on experimentally induced gastric ulcer in adult male rats: A histological and immunohistochemical study

therapeutic effects. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a novel approach with promising therapeutic potential for curing human diseases.Aim of the work: To evaluate the effect of pomegranate and BMSCs on experimentally induced gastric ulcer in adult male rats.Materials and Methods: Sixty adult male rats were divided into four groups. Group I kept as the control group. Group II (Gastric ulcer), rats received 100% ethanol orally by gastric tube. Group (III) subdivided into 3 subgroups. Subgroup IIIa included rats with gastric ulcer that treated with pomegranate only. Subgroup IIIb, rats with gastric ulcer treated with BMSCs alone. Subgroup IIIc; gastric ulcer rats treated with a combination of pomegranate and BMSCs. Group IV included the untreated gastric ulcer rats. Fundus of stomach specimens were prepared and examined using histological and immunohistochemical techniques.Results: Groups II and IV showed various changes as deep erosion, marked damage of most of the cells. The presence of the inflammatory cells in gastric mucosa were supported by a significant increase of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) expression and collagen fibers depositions (P<0.01). A significant decrease of Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) positive reaction and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression was observed (P<0.01). Subgroup IIIa showed attenuation of some histological changes, while subgroups IIIb and IIIc revealed more improvement of the histological and immunohistochemical changes described before.Conclusion: BMSCs can ameliorate experimentally-induced gastric injury in rats and protect the gastric tissue. Addition of pomegranate to BMSCs can lead to better results.

The effect of tramadol on seminiferous epithelium of albino rats and the protective effect of vitamin C

Objective The aim of the study was to assess the effect of tramadol on the testes of adult male albino rats and to elucidate the possible protective effect of vitamin C. Background Tramadol is an opioid pain medication used to treat mild to severe pain, both acute and chronic, and premature ejaculation and as an antidepressant. Materials and methods Sixty adult male albino rats were used in the present study. Animals were divided into four groups: group I, the control group; group II, which received 500 mg/kg/day vitamin C orally for 4 weeks; group III, which was divided into two subgroups, subgroup IIIa and subgroup IIIb (receiving 50 mg/kg/day tramadol orally for 4 weeks) and subgroup IIIb, which was left without treatment for another 4 weeks; and group IV, which received tramadol and vitamin C in the doses same as the previous ones. At the end of the experiment, the testes were excised and specimens were processed for light, electron microscopic, morphometric studies and statistical analyses. Results Tramadol-treated rats showed degeneration, irregularity of seminiferous tubules with disorganization and exfoliation of spermatogenic cells in the lumen, which showed absence of sperms. Vascular dilatation and congestion was present. In addition, there was collagen fiber deposition in the interstitium and around the blood vessels with thickening of tunica albuginea. Cessation of tramadol administration showed reversibility of the previous changes but not complete recovery. However, coadministration of vitamin C with tramadol showed improvement. Conclusion Tramadol has harmful effect on the testes of rats. This effect is reversible when tramadol administration is stopped but complete recovery is not achieved. Vitamin C and tramadol in combination revealed improvement.

Histological comparative study between endogenous and therapeutic stem cells in adriamycin-induced renal cortical toxicity in male rats

Background Renal toxicity resulting from kidney injury poses an important problem to public health. Exogenous and endogenous stem cells (SCs) derived from various tissues hold great promise for regeneration. Aim The aim of this study was to assess and compare the effect of both endogenous and therapeutic SCs in rat model of adriamycin (ADR)-induced renal cortical toxicity. Materials and methods Twenty-four adult male albino rats were divided into three groups: the control group, the ADR group, and the SC therapy group. The ADR group received single intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg ADR; this group was subdivided into subgroups IIa and IIb, and the rats were sacrificed at 2 and 4 weeks following the expected confirmed renal cortical injury, respectively. The SC therapy group received ADR and was injected with 0.5 ml of human umbilical cord blood SCs in the tail vein. The SC therapy group was subdivided into subgroups IIIa and IIIb that were sacrificed at 2 and 4 weeks following SC therapy, respectively. Kidney sections were stained with H&E, Prussian blue stain, and CD105 immunostaining. Morphometric study and statistical analysis were performed. Results A significant decrease in the mean glomerular area was found in subgroup IIb compared with control and other subgroups. A significant increase in the mean area of vacuolated cells with dark nuclei was found in subgroups IIa and IIb compared with other subgroups. A significant increase in the mean area of CD105+ cells was detected in subgroup IIIa and IIIb compared with other subgroups. Conclusion Endogenous SCs need to be activated by exogenous administration of SCs for more rapid improvement to attain normal function as early as possible.

Effect of the antirheumatic drug leflunomide (Avara) on the lungs of adult male albino rats and the possible protective effect of N-acetylcysteine: histological and immunohistochemical study

Objective The present study was conducted to throw light on the histological effects of the antirheumatic drug leflunomide (Avara) on the lungs of adult male albino rats, and to clarify the possible protective effect of N-acetylcysteine. Background Leflunomide (Avara) is an immunomodulating agent and disease-modifying antirheumatic drug with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activity. N-acetylcysteine belongs to a class of drugs called antioxidants which may reduce the amount of damage caused by inflammation or active damage of the lungs. Materials and methods A total of 60 adult male albino rats were used in the present study. They were divided into four groups. Group I: The control group composed of 20 rats. Group II: The N-acetylcysteine-treated group composed of 10 rats received N-acetylcysteine in a daily oral dose of 200 mg/kg body weight. Group III: The leflunomide-treated group composed of 20 rats receiving leflunomide on a daily oral dose of 10 mg/kg body weight. Then, half the animals were killed 4 weeks after the treatment (subgroup IIIa), and the other half were left without treatment for another 2 weeks and served as the recovery group (subgroup IIIb). Group IV: The protected group composed of 10 rats receiving combined treatment of both leflunomide and N-acetylcysteine in the same previous doses and route of administration for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, animals were killed and specimens from the lungs were processed for both L/M, E/M, and immunohistochemical study (using caspase-3 immunostaining). Morphometric study for the number of pneumocyte type II was counted, and the thicknesses of the interalveolar septa were done and statically analyzed. Results The results of this study revealed that leflunomide treatment caused considerable histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural changes in the lungs. Concomitant administration of N-acetylcysteine with leflunomide resulted in remarkable improvement, whereas arrest of treatment for 2 weeks revealed mild improvement. Conclusion N -acetylcysteine is proven to have a protective effect on the lungs against hazardous effects induced by leflunomide treatment. Therefore, strict follow-up and coadministration of N-acetylcysteine are highly recommended for those patients who use leflunomide.

Complete genome sequence of Salmonella enterica subspecies arizonae str. RKS2983.

Salmonella arizonae (also called Salmonella subgroup IIIa) is a Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, motile, rod-shaped, facultatively anaerobic bacterium. S. arizonae strain RKS2983 was isolated from a human in California, USA. S. arizonae lies somewhere between Salmonella subgroups I (human pathogens) and V (also called S. bongori; usually non-pathogenic to humans) and so is an ideal model organism for studies of bacterial evolution from non-human pathogen to human pathogens. We hence sequenced the genome of RKS2983 for clues of genomic events that might have led to the divergence and speciation of Salmonella into distinct lineages with diverse host ranges and pathogenic features. The 4,574,836 bp complete genome contains 4,203 protein-coding genes, 82 tRNA genes and 7 rRNA operons. This genome contains several characteristics not reported to date in Salmonella subgroup I or V and may provide information about the genetic divergence of Salmonella pathogens.

The impact of vitamin E against acrylamide induced toxicity on skeletal muscles of adult male albino rat tongue: Light and electron microscopic study

Acrylamide, one of the major environmental public health problems, results from its increased accumulation in the process of cooking food materials. This study aimed to demonstrate the light and electron microscopic structural effects of acrylamide on the skeletal muscle fibers of adult male albino rat tongue and to investigate the possible protective effect of vitamin E co-administration. Thirty adult male albino Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups, each group included 10 rats. Group I (control), group II which was subdivided into two equal subgroups: subgroup IIa: included 5 rats that received acrylamide orally once daily for 20 days. Subgroup IIb: included 5 rats that received acrylamide orally once daily for 40 days. Group III was also subdivided into two equal subgroups: subgroup IIIa: included 5 rats that received acrylamide and vitamin E orally once daily for 20 days. Subgroup IIIb: included 5 rats that received acrylamide and vitamin E orally once daily for 40 days. At the end of the experiment the tongue was dissected out for histological and electron microscopic studies, another muscle sample was homogenized and processed for biochemical estimation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Light microscopic study of tongue skeletal muscles in acrylamide exposed animals revealed abnormal wavy course and splitting of the muscle fibers with fatty infiltration in between. Moreover, pyknosis and remnants of nuclei were detected. EM revealed marked aggregation of mitochondria of different size and shape with giant cells formation, and partial loss of myofilaments. There were statistically significant increase in MDA and decrease in TAC indicating oxidative stress in acrylamide administrated groups (group II) than the control group which increased by prolonged duration (subgroup IIb versus subgroup IIa, p<0.0001). This oxidative stress could explain the histological changes in tongue muscles of acrylamide exposed rats. Co-administration of vitamin E with acrylamide ameliorated most of the above mentioned histological changes in the animals used and signs of improvement that became better with prolonged administration of it (subgroup IIIb versus subgroup IIIa, p<0.0001) were detected. It could be concluded that, chronic exposure to acrylamide might lead to skeletal muscle damage in rat tongue which becomes worth with prolonged duration of exposure. Acrylamide induced oxidative stress is the implicated mechanism of such histological changes. This toxic effect of acrylamide could be minimized when vitamin E is given concomitantly with it by its antioxidant effect.

Effect of Exercise Training on Endogenous Stem Cells Activation in Ischemia Reperfusion Induced Skeletal Muscle Injury: A Physio- Histological Study

Background: This study aimed at investigating the possible role of exercise training in activating the migration of CD34 positive progenitor cells in a rat model of induced ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) of limb skeletal muscle and related regeneration potential. Material and methods: 28 adult male albino rats were divided into three groups: group I: control group; group II: IRI with 2 hours ischemia and 2 hours reperfusion, followed by immediate sacrifice (subgroup IIa) or delayed sacrifice after two weeks (subgroup IIb); group III: exercise in the form of group and gradual swimming for 4 weeks, followed by IRI and immediate sacrifice (subgroup IIIa), or delayed sacrifice (subgroup IIIb). Muscle performance was evaluated by physiological tests. Histological study was done using H&E staining, and immunohistochemical staining using anti αSMA and anti CD34. Areas of regenerating fibers, area of αSMA and area percentage of CD34 were measured. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: IRI group showed severe muscle damage in IIa in the form of wavy, disrupted darkly acidophilic fibers, many dark nuclei, and extravasated blood. There was some improvement in IIb in the form of regenerating fibres with central nuclei and increased αSMA and CD34 immunostaining. Group III showed better preservation of muscle fibers in IIIa. It also showed significant increase in area of regenerating fibers and statistically significant increase in area of αSMA and CD34 and in physiological parameters in IIIb as compared to group II. Conclusion: Exercise training prior to skeletal muscle IRI markedly improved muscle outcome through preservation and regeneration. Two populations of skeletal muscle stem cells, namely progenitor cells and satellite cells were involved in the process.

Effect of α-lipoic acid on fundic gastric mucosal damage induced by acetyl salicylic acid

Introduction α-Lipoic acid (ALA), an endogenous agent, has been shown to combat oxidative stress. Aim of the work The aim of the study was to evaluate the protective effect of ALA on fundic gastric mucosal damage induced by acetyl salicylic acid (ASA). Materials and methods Fifty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: group I (the control group), group II that received ALA for 2 weeks (subgroup IIa) and for 4 weeks (subgroup IIb), group III that received ASA for 2 weeks (subgroup IIIa) and for 4 weeks (subgroup IIIb), and group IV that received ALA 30 min before ASA for 2 weeks (subgroup IVa) and for 4 weeks (subgroup IVb). At the end of the experiment, specimens from the fundus of the stomach were processed for light and electron microscopic examinations. The mean number of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells, parietal cells, and the mean thickness of the fundic mucosa were measured and the results were statistically analyzed. Results Examination of sections revealed that ASA for 2 weeks induced widening of the gastric pits and focal mononuclear cellular infiltration. The mucous content of the mucosa was apparently increased and PCNA-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with the control group. ASA for 4 weeks resulted in extensive desquamation, thinning out of the mucosa, and diffuse mononuclear cellular infiltration. The collagen content of the lamina propria showed an apparent increase, whereas the mucous content showed an apparent decrease. The parietal cell count and the PCNA-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with the control group. In ultrathin sections, parietal cells showed cytoplasmic vacuoles, decreased intracellular canaliculi, and mitochondria, whereas the chief cells showed dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and decreased secretory granules. Concomitant use of ALA showed a histological profile nearly comparable with that of the control group in both subgroups IVa and IVb. Conclusion ALA administration prevented the structural changes of the gastric mucosa induced by ASA.

The effect of microcurrent therapy on repair of induced tendon injury in albino rat

Background Tendon repair involves a slow repair process, which results in inferior repair of tissue and failure to obtain full active range of motion. Microcurrent therapy (MCT) is a new therapy after arthroplasty. Stem cells with capacity of self-renewal are ideal for tissue engineering. Aim The present work aimed at investigating the effect of MCT and the possible role of endogenous stem cells in repair of induced tendon injury in albino rat. Materials and methods Twenty-four male albino rats were classified into: Control group, tenotomy group, 5 rats were sacrificed 2 weeks and 5 rats sacrificed 4 weeks following achillis tendon injury (Subgroups IIa and IIb respectively). MCT group of 10 rats subjected to tendon injury followed by MCT, 5 rats sacrificed 2 weeks and 5 rats sacrificed 4 weeks following MCT (Subgroups IIIa and IIIb respectively). Tendon sections were stained with H&E and CD44 and CD105 immunostains. A morphometric study was performed. Results Subgroup IIa demonstrated multiple areas of widely separated collagen fibers, infiltrating cells and multiple congested vessels. Subgroup IIb showed multiple areas of disorganized collagen bundles, less infiltrating cells and few congested vessels. MCT subgroup IIIa revealed some areas of parallel collagen bundles, some infiltrating cells and some dilated congested vessels. MCT subgroup IIIb showed multiple areas of parallel collagen bundles, few infiltrating cells and occasional congested vessels. CD44 +ve and CD105 +ve cells were seen among disorganized, parallel collagen fibers and inside blood vessels. A significant increase in the area of regenerated collagen bundles was recorded in MCT subgroup IIIb. The area% of CD44 +ve and CD105 +ve MSCs denoted a significant increase in MCT subgroup IIIa. Conclusion MCT activated endogenous bone marrow derived MSCs migration to the injured achillis tendon, which stimulated tendon repair following induced tenotomy.

Influence of pathogens and moderate leukocytes on seminal interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and sperm parameters

To evaluate the role of pathogens and moderate leukocytes on seminal interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and sperm parameters in men undergoing infertility investigation. Semen samples from men (n = 171) were divided into three groups on the basis of leukocyte count: no leukocytes (L-; ≤ 0.1 × 10(6)/ml Mio/ml), moderate leukocytes (L ±; >0.1 × 10(6)/ml and <1 × 10(6)/ml), and high leukocytes (=leukocytospermia) (L+; ≥ 1 × 10(6)/ml). Each group was further classified into two subgroups, according to the presence (B+) or absence (B-) of pathogens. IL-6, IL-8, and sperm characteristics were analyzed in each subgroup. A correlation test was performed to show the association between inflammatory parameters and sperm characteristics. No significant differences in leukocyte count, cytokine levels, and sperm characteristics were apparent in subgroups with and without pathogens. Grade b motility was significantly lower in subgroup IIa (L ±,B-) than in subgroup Ia (L-,B-)(p < 0.05). More significant limitations in sperm motility (lower rapid progressive motility and increased percentage of immotile sperm) were observed in subgroup IIIa (L+,B-) compared with subgroup Ia (p < 0.05). Moderate and high leukocytes increased significantly cytokine levels (p < 0.001). Moderate leukocyte counts could be an indicator of male genital tract inflammation. Seminal pathogens have no influence on cytokine levels and sperm parameters.

Draft Genome Sequence of a Single Cell of SAR86 Clade Subgroup IIIa

SAR86 denotes a 16S clade of gammaproteobacteria that are ubiquitous in ocean surface waters. So far, SAR86 is resistant to cultivation; thus, little is known about the genome contents or physiology of this clade. Recently, four partial genome sequences for SAR86 subclades I and II were published. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of a single cell from SAR86 subgroup IIIa isolated from coastal waters in San Diego, CA.