Thermal Sensitivity Tests Research Articles

Screening of Sensorial and Inflammatory Changes in Patients Submitted to Orthognathic Surgery.

Despite the high levels of success after orthognathic surgery, the immediate postoperative pain and edema, besides the neurosensorial deficits, are common complications. This study aimed to evaluate the pattern of sensory and inflammatory responses in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. This prospective observational study included 20 patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery, who were evaluated in the preoperative period and on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 30 after surgery, using a battery of tests to assess sensorial and inflammatory changes. Subjective and objective evaluations of edema indicated a trend toward edema resolution within 30 days, with a significant decrease in mouth opening on days 1, 7, and 30 after surgery. Regarding nasal obstruction, a significant increase in Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores was demonstrated on the first, second, and third days, returning to preoperative levels after 30 days. There was a significant increase in visual analogic scale (VAS) scores from the first to the seventh day after surgery, with a reduction within 30 days. For mechanical and thermal sensitivity tests, the lower lip and chin regions had poorer results, without recovery after 30 days. Positive correlations were observed between painful and inflammatory parameters, as well as between subjective and objective evaluations. Analysis of saliva biomarkers did not show significant differences for pre- and postoperative CCL3 or CCL4 levels. Data provide new evidence about the early inflammatory and sensorial complications after orthognathic surgery.

Preparation and Performance Study of Rapid Repair Epoxy Concrete for Bridge Deck Pavement.

With the rapid development of bridge construction, the service life of bridges and traffic volume continue to increase, leading to the gradual appearance of diseases such as potholes and cracks in bridge deck pavements under repeated external loads. These issues severely impact the safety and service life of bridges. The repair of bridge deck potholes and cracks is crucial for ensuring the integrity and safety of bridge structures. Rapid repair materials designed for this purpose play a critical role in effectively and efficiently addressing these issues. In order to address the issues of pavement diseases, this study focuses on the rapid repair of epoxy concrete for bridge deck pavements and its performance is studied using experimental methods. Firstly, carbon black, rubber powder, and other materials were used to improve the elastic modulus and aging resistance of the epoxy concrete. Secondly, the addition of solid asphalt particles provided thermal sensitivity to the repair material. Finally, various properties of the rapid repair epoxy concrete for bridge deck pavements were tested through experiments including compressive strength testing, elastic modulus measurement, thermal sensitivity testing, and anti-UV aging testing. The experimental results show that adding carbon black and rubber powder reduces the elastic modulus of epoxy concrete by 25% compared to normal epoxy concrete, while increasing its aging resistance by 1.8%. The inclusion of solid asphalt particles provided thermal sensitivity to the repair material, contributing to better stress coordination between the repair material and the original pavement material under different temperature conditions. The epoxy concrete has early strength, toughness, and anti-aging properties, making it suitable for rapid repair of bridge deck pavement.

Pruebas Térmicas de Sensibilidad Pulpar en Dientes Permanentes con Pulpitis: Valor Diagnóstico y Limitaciones

Introduction: The diagnostic process in endodontics begins with the recognition of the symptoms, the dental history and the objective clinical evaluation, where thermal pulp sensitivity tests are essential in the clinical routine to have an approximation of the pulp condition. However, understanding the nature of the diagnostic tests, and the pulp pathophysiology, are essential to correctly interpret their results. Objective: To recognize the diagnostic value and limitations of thermal pulp sensitivity tests during the endodontic evaluation of the permanent tooth affected with pulpitis. Materials and Methods: The development of this narrative review was carried out through a search strategy in the electronic database, consultation in specialized web portals, and, in addition, required a search for valuable primary articles and books. Results: 34 publications were selected for their contribution and relevance. Conclusions: The sensitivity test using the cold stimulus appropriately results in a high correspondence to rule out a vital or necrotic pulp. This high correspondence is also maintained for reversible pulpitis, with a slight decrease for cases of irreversible pulpitis, although it continues to have a high diagnostic value. However, their main drawbacks continue to be that they are based on a qualitative response from the patient, loaded with subjectivity, and necessarily require experience and skill on the part of the clinician for their execution and interpretation.

Construction of microstructurally controllable B/BaCrO4 particles based on droplet microfluidic technology for enhanced usability and delay precision

Tuning the microstructure of composite energetic materials is an effective way to improve charging, safety, and combustion performance. In this paper, boron (B)/barium chromate (BaCrO4) composite particles with controllable microstructure were prepared using droplet microfluidic technology (DMT). Based on the theory of droplet template self-assembly, composite particles with controllable morphology, size, and composition were prepared, revealing the regulation mechanism of the particle microstructure. The composite particles prepared using DMT exhibit a uniform distribution of characteristic elements, high circularity, smooth surface, enhanced bulk density, and excellent flow properties. The thermal decomposition characteristics, safety, and combustion properties of the samples were investigated by thermal weight loss, mechanical sensitivity, and combustion tests. Thermal weight loss and mechanical sensitivity tests showed that the samples had stable thermal decomposition properties and significantly increased mechanical stability compared to the control. The combustion test results showed that the DMT-prepared samples had a short ignition response time and significantly improved delay precision. This paper presents a straightforward method for preparing B/BaCrO4 particles with high delay accuracy, which can serve as a reference for preparing other composites.

Effects of high frequency strengthening on pain sensitivity and function in female runners with chronic patellofemoral pain

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of a high frequency strengthening program on function, pain, and pain sensitization in female runners with chronic patellofemoral pain (PFP). DesignCross-sectional study. SettingUniversity laboratory. ParticipantsThirty female runners (mean age 32 ± 8.1 years) with chronic PFP completed an 8-week home strengthening program. Main outcome measuresVariables assessed at baseline, 8-weeks, and 12 weeks included single leg step down test (SLSD), pain, Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS), University of Wisconsin Running Injury and Recovery Index (UWRI), and quantitative sensory testing. ResultsThere was large and statistically significant improvement at 8 and 12 weeks for average knee pain (ηp2 = 0.334, p < 0.001), worst knee pain (ηp2 = 0.351, p < 0.001), SLSD (ηp2 = 0.161, p = 0.001), AKPS (ηp2 = 0.463, p < 0.001), and UWRI (ηp2 = 0.366, p < 0.001). A medium to large effect and statistically significant improvement in pressure pain threshold testing was found for all local and remote structures (ηp2 range, 0.110 to 0.293, range p < 0.001 to p = 0.009) at 8 and 12 weeks. ConclusionsThere was a significant decrease in local and remote hyperalgesia via mechanical and thermal pain sensitivity testing in female runners with chronic PFP. There was a large effect and significant improvement in self-reported pain and function.

Novel Solid Propellants Enabled Through In Situ Martian Perchlorates

With evidence for the native perchlorates existing in the Martian regolith, this paper examines the feasibility and performance of propellants formed from perchlorate salts reported to be present on Mars. Thermochemistry calculations indicate that the Martian perchlorate-based propellants provide less theoretical specific impulse than AP composite propellants but could still be viable propellants. Three propellants made from Martian perchlorates were manufactured and compared to a control propellant with AP as the oxidizer. Deflagration experiments were performed to obtain the burning rates as a function of pressure, with results comparable to AP baseline propellant. The propellant energy density was evaluated through bomb calorimetry. The propellant formulation with a similar perchlorate mixture to the distribution found in Martian soil was then subjected to thermal analysis, elemental analysis, and sensitivity testing to examine its combustion behavior and suitability for handling. Further characterization and development work would be needed to field these propellants, but initial conclusions indicate an in situ blend of calcium perchlorate and magnesium perchlorate could serve as a novel oxidizer for future safe, high-performing, and economical solid propellant rocket motors, offering an alternative to most current proposals for Martian ascent vehicle architectures.

Guided Autotransplantation of an Immature Premolar to the Maxillary Incisor Region with Immediate Restoration of Esthetics: A Case Report

This case report describes the treatment of two maxillary central incisors following a traumatic injury with tooth #8 developing replacement resorption and #9 developing inflammatory root resorption. A 10-year-old girl presented complaining of pain in her maxillary central incisors. Upon clinical examination, teeth #8 and #9 were tender to percussion and palpation of the buccal soft tissues. Thermal and electrical pulpal sensitivity tests for teeth #8 and #9 were negative. An intraoral periapical radiograph revealed resorptive defects in tooth #8, which were filled with bone-like tissue, while tooth #9 had radiolucent resorptive defects along the root surface and a periapical radiolucency. A diagnosis of replacement resorption was made for tooth #8 and external inflammatory root resorption for tooth #9. Tooth #8 was treated with a multidisciplinary approach utilizing a guided template for premolar autotransplantation with an immediate veneer restoration, while tooth #9 was managed with root canal treatment using a tricalcium silicate cement to fill the canal. At the 1, 4, 8, 12, and 24-month follow-ups, the patient remained asymptomatic, and there was no radiographic evidence of root or periapical pathosis on either tooth. The root-end of the donor tooth transplanted to the #8 site continued to develop. This case report highlights successful interdisciplinary management of two forms of root resorption using modern treatment strategies that provided immediate function and esthetics to the maxillary central incisors in a young patient following trauma.

Electroacupuncture alleviates postoperative pain through inhibiting neuroinflammation via stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon pathway

ObjectiveThis work explores the impact of electroacupuncture (EA) on acute postoperative pain (APP) and the role of stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon (STING/IFN-1) signaling pathway modulation in the analgesic effect of EA in APP rats. MethodsThe APP rat model was initiated through abdominal surgery and the animals received two 30 min sessions of EA at bilateral ST36 (Zusanli) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao) acupoints. Mechanical, thermal and cold sensitivity tests were performed to measure the pain threshold, and electroencephalograms were recorded in the primary somatosensory cortex to identify the effects of EA treatment on APP. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to examine the expression and distribution of proteins in the STING/IFN-1 pathway as well as neuroinflammation. A STING inhibitor (C-176) was administered intrathecally to verify its role in EA. ResultsAPP rats displayed mechanical and thermal hypersensitivities compared to the control group (P < 0.05). APP significantly reduced the amplitude of θ, α and γ oscillations compared to their baseline values (P < 0.05). Interestingly, expression levels of proteins in the STING/IFN-1 pathway were downregulated after inducing APP (P < 0.05). Further, APP increased pro-inflammatory factors, including interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase, and downregulated anti-inflammatory factors, including interleukin-10 and arginase-1 (P < 0.05). EA effectively attenuated APP-induced painful hypersensitivities (P < 0.05) and restored the θ, α and γ power in APP rats (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, EA distinctly activated the STING/IFN-1 pathway and mitigated the neuroinflammatory response (P < 0.05). Furthermore, STING/IFN-1 was predominantly expressed in isolectin-B4- or calcitonin-gene-related-peptide-labeled dorsal root ganglion neurons and superficial laminae of the spinal dorsal horn. Inhibition of the STING/IFN-1 pathway by intrathecal injection of C-176 weakened the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of EA on APP (P < 0.05). ConclusionEA can generate robust analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on APP, and these effects may be linked to activating the STING/IFN-1 pathway, suggesting that STING/IFN-1 may be a target for relieving APP.Please cite this article as: Ding YY, Xu F, Wang YF, Han LL, Huang SQ, Zhao S, Ma LL, Zhang TH, Zhao WJ, Chen XD. Electroacupuncture alleviates postoperative pain through inhibiting neuroinflammation via stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon pathway. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(5): 496–508.

Improving Electric Vehicle Range and Thermal Comfort through an Innovative Seat Heating System

In the last decade, car manufactures invested a lot of effort to align their products to the latest energy directives which encourage the production and usage of electrified vehicles to reduce the greenhouse gases production. This resulted in several important developments, which enhanced the advantages of electric vehicles in terms of local emissions (zero tailpipe emissions), efficiency, convenience in urban areas and others and ultimately led to their ever-increasing adoption. However, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. One example is the negative influence of low (winter) and high (summer) atmospheric temperatures on electric vehicle range due to the cabin temperature heating and cooling. This requires more efficient ways of using energy to avoid sacrificing the passenger thermal comfort for an increased vehicle range. The present study proposes a new strategy for heating the seats in electrically powered vehicles using an uneven distribution of the heating elements. The uneven positioning of the heating elements is based on the thermal sensitivity of the human skin measured data and scientific literature. For this, a thermal sensitivity test device was developed to map the human skin thermal sensitivity. To test the new solution, a vehicle seat was equipped with heating pads (arranged according to the position of the relevant human skin thermal sensitivity points). For the next step, comparative measurements (power consumption, temperature distribution—with an IR camera—and human subjectivity test) were carried out between a classical vehicle seat heating system and the newly proposed heating solution. The outcome of the study revealed that the proposed heating system will supply at least the same thermal comfort sensation as the standard vehicle seat but using only half of the energy consumption, which translates in an increase of the electrically powered vehicle range between 1.2% and 1.5%, depending on the climate and driving conditions (over the WLTC). For example, a vehicle with a 16 kWh battery driving over the WLTC in Frankfurt climate conditions can gain in 1 year between 139.6 and 164.5 km.

Macrovascular and microvascular type 2 diabetes complications are interrelated in a mouse model

AimEvaluate the development of multiple complications, their interactions, and common mechanisms in the same individual with T2D. Material and methods4-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were divided into: control (n = 6) and T2D (n = 6). T2D was induced through a high-carbohydrate-diet and low doses of streptozotocin. T2D was validated by metabolic parameters. Diabetic neuropathy was evaluated by mechanical and thermal sensitivity tests. We performed a histopathological analysis of the heart, kidney, liver, and parotid salivary glands and changes in bone microarchitecture by μCT. We calculated the relative risk (RR), odd ratios (OR) and Pearson correlation coefficients between the different complications and metabolic features. ResultsT2D mice have cardiomyopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, liver steatosis and fibrosis, structural damage in parotid salivary glands, and bone porosity. RR analysis shows that all complications are interrelated by hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance, obesity, and systemic inflammation. ConclusionsT2D mice develop multiple complications simultaneously, which are related to each other, and this is associated with metabolic alterations. Our findings open up new approaches for the study and new therapeutic approaches of the pathophysiology of T2D and its complications.

Characterization and Testing for Lowest Eutectic Mixture of TNBA/DNTF

AbstractIn this work, electrostatic spraying was used to prepare TNBA/DNTF eutectic mixtures with different mass ratios. The T−X phase diagram and the H−X phase diagram were drawn from the DSC curves of the eutectic mixtures. The morphology, composition, structure, thermal decomposition properties, mechanical sensitivity, thermal sensitivity, and detonation properties of the lowest eutectic were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis‐mass spectrometry (TG‐MS), thermal sensitivity tests, mechanical sensitivity tests, and detonation performance calculations. The results showed that the best molar ratio of TNBA to DNTF was 59.41 : 40.59, whereas the best mass ratio was 60.17 : 39.83. The microscopic morphology was free of sharp edges and corners, the component proportions were the same as before electrostatic spraying, the surface elements were evenly distributed, and the crystal structure was essentially the same as those of the raw materials. The melting temperature was 352.0 K, which was 21.0 K and 33.1 K lower than those of the TNBA and DNTF raw materials, respectively. The thermal decomposition reaction rate constant (k), activation energy (EK), and preexponential factor (AK) of the lowest eutectic were 0.398 s−1, 81.34 kJ ⋅ mol−1, and 4.86×107 s−1, respectively. In the lowest eutectic, the component TNBA began to thermally decompose first, followed by DNTF. The main decomposition products of the lowest eutectic were CH4, H2O, H2, CO, N2, NH3, CO2, and N2O, with a small amount of C. The impact sensitivity (H50), friction sensitivity (P), and 5 s explosion temperature (T5s) of the lowest eutectic mixture were 39.7 cm, 28 %, and 563 K, respectively. Its detonation performance (OB=−36.52 %, QD=−4658 kJ ⋅ kg−1, vD=7598.37 m ⋅ s−1) was intermediate between those of TNBA and DNTF. The main detonation products were CO2, N2, CO, C(d), H2O, Br, and CH2O2.

CAN RADIOTHERAPY CAUSE DENTAL PULP NECROSIS? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Objectives To address whether radiotherapy could induce pulp necrosis in patients with head and neck cancer. Study Design A search was constructed according to patient, intervention, comparision, outcome and studies (PICOS) in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Open Grey databases. Clinical studies with pulp status assessment in patients with head and neck cancer subjected to radiotherapy were eligible. Risk of bias was evaluated using risk of bias in non-randomized studies- of interventions (ROBINS-I). RevMan software was used for meta-analysis. Results Out of the 171 potentially relevant records, 5 were included. Pulp status was assessed through cold thermal pulp sensitivity (CTPS), pulse oximetry, and electrical tests. Treatments were mostly radiotherapy alone, with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as the radiation modality (60-70 Gy total dose). All studies reported a significant reduction of CTPS responses in postradiotherapy periods (n = 4, I2 = 0%, P < .00001; n = 3, I2 = 0%, P < .00001). Electrical tests also revealed significant alterations postradiotherapy (n = 2, I2 = 68%, P < .00001). Pulp oxygenation presented no significant differences, yet meta-analysis was not feasible. Overall, 3 studies presented serious risk of bias and 2 presented moderate risk of bias. Conclusions CTPS and electrical tests revealed significant altered response postradiotherapy. However, cautious interpretation is required because they are not absolutely reliable tests, in addition to the quality of evidence presented. To address whether radiotherapy could induce pulp necrosis in patients with head and neck cancer. A search was constructed according to patient, intervention, comparision, outcome and studies (PICOS) in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Open Grey databases. Clinical studies with pulp status assessment in patients with head and neck cancer subjected to radiotherapy were eligible. Risk of bias was evaluated using risk of bias in non-randomized studies- of interventions (ROBINS-I). RevMan software was used for meta-analysis. Out of the 171 potentially relevant records, 5 were included. Pulp status was assessed through cold thermal pulp sensitivity (CTPS), pulse oximetry, and electrical tests. Treatments were mostly radiotherapy alone, with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as the radiation modality (60-70 Gy total dose). All studies reported a significant reduction of CTPS responses in postradiotherapy periods (n = 4, I2 = 0%, P < .00001; n = 3, I2 = 0%, P < .00001). Electrical tests also revealed significant alterations postradiotherapy (n = 2, I2 = 68%, P < .00001). Pulp oxygenation presented no significant differences, yet meta-analysis was not feasible. Overall, 3 studies presented serious risk of bias and 2 presented moderate risk of bias. CTPS and electrical tests revealed significant altered response postradiotherapy. However, cautious interpretation is required because they are not absolutely reliable tests, in addition to the quality of evidence presented.

Generalized pulp canal obliteration in a patient on long-term glucocorticoids: a case report and literature review

BackgroundThe calcification of the tooth pulp is a pathological condition that occurs in response to various factors. A uncommon haematological condition known as paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is characterized by bouts of haemolysis, and it requires long-term use of glucocorticoids (GCs).Case presentationA female patient who was diagnosed with PNH and had a history of long-term use of GCs came to our department for root canal therapy (RCT) for teeth 25, 26, and 27. The radiographs showed generalized pulp canal obliteration (PCO) in most of the patients. None of these teeth (25, 26, or 27) were sensitive to percussion, and they did not respond to thermal or electrical sensitivity tests. A diagnose of pulp necrosis was made for these teeth. RCT was carried out with the help of an oral microscope, and then a prosthodontic procedure was created for the teeth.ConclusionsBased on the patient’s long history use of GCs and a series of related studies, we conclude that the long-term usage of GCs contributes significantly to the onset of PCO.

Design of athermalized mounting structure for the sub-aperture primary mirror of a synthetic aperture telescope

The imaging quality of the synthetic aperture system is sensitive to the positioning accuracy of the sub-aperture primary mirror. A novel flexible mounting structure of bimetallic material is proposed for the athermalization of the sub-aperture primary mirror of the Fizeau Synthetic Aperture Telescope – which is composed of seven sub-aperture. The axial position accuracy of the sub-aperture primary mirror must be less than 5 µm under 10°C temperature rise to meet the requirements of the optical system. Firstly, a single mounting unit is analyzed theoretically, and the initial parameters are determined. The conceptual design of the mounting structure is carried out by using initial parameters. The orthogonal optimization algorithm and range analysis are used to optimize the structural parameters. The finite element model of the flexible mounting structure is established and the coupled thermal-mechanical simulation analysis is performed. Then the thermal sensitivity test of the sub-aperture primary mirror mounting structure was carried out. Under the effect of a temperature rise of 10°C, the axial displacement of the sub-aperture primary mirror mounting surface is less than 3 µm. Finally, the synthetic aperture system is assembled, and the optical test verifies that the synthetic aperture system has good imaging capabilities.

Efficacy of MI Paste® on Bleaching-Related Sensitivity: Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background To evaluate the effectiveness of MI Paste® in reducing sensitivity associated with vital tooth bleaching. Methods This randomized controlled split-mouth clinical trial included 45 subjects that were randomly divided into two groups. In Group 1, the maxillary arch was the control arch (only bleaching), while the mandibular arch was the intervention arch (bleaching and MI Paste®). In Group 2, the mandibular arch was the control arch (only bleaching), while the maxillary arch was the intervention arch (bleaching and MI Paste®). Subjects started with the control arch and then switched to the intervention arch after two weeks. Subjects were instructed to use MI Paste® in a custom tray for 5 minutes, wait for 1 hour, and then bleach overnight using a different tray. Sensitivity was measured using both a thermal sensitivity test and a daily log of sensitivity for 14 days. Shade was evaluated using a colorimeter and a shade guide. Results Immediately after treatment, the thermal test sensitivity scores for the arches bleached without MI Paste® were greater than those with MI Paste® (p=0.011). Arches not receiving the MI Paste® treatment showed significantly higher VAS sensitivity scores during the 14-day period of bleaching (p=0.002). The mean score for the 14-day period was 37.9 for the arches not treated with MI Paste® versus 27.5 for the treated arches. Both the intervention group and the control group showed significantly lighter shade relative to baseline (p < 0.001) with no significant difference between them (p=0.42). Conclusion MI Paste® significantly reduced the sensitivity associated with bleaching and did not interfere with shade change.

Inhibition of HDAC4 by GSK3\u03b2 leads to downregulation of KLF5 and ASK1 and prevents the progression of intravertebral disc degeneration

BackgroundIntervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major cause of lower back pain. This study aimed at exploring the effects of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) and its upstream and downstream signaling molecules on IDD development.MethodsA murine IDD model was established by inducing a needle puncture injury to the vertebrate, whereupon we isolated and transfected of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Disc height index (DHI) of the mice was determined by X-ray tomography, while the pain experienced by the IDD mice was evaluated by mechanical and thermal sensitivity tests. Next, the interaction between GSK3β and HDAC4 as well as that between HDAC4 and KLF5 acetylation was assessed by co-immunoprecipitation, while the promoter region binding was assessed identified by chromatin immunoprecipitation. By staining methods with TUNEL, Safranin O fast green, and hematoxylin and eosin, the NP cell apoptosis, degradation of extracellular matrix, and morphology of intervertebral disc tissues were measured. Furthermore, mRNA and protein expressions of GSK3β, HDAC4, KLF5, and ASK1, as well as the extent of HDAC4 phosphorylation, were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting.ResultsGSK3β was identified to be downregulated in the intervertebral disc tissues obtained from IDD mice, while HDAC4, KLF5, and ASK1 were upregulated. HDAC4 silencing alleviated IDD symptoms. It was also found that GSK3β promoted the phosphorylation of HDAC4 to increase its degradation, while HDAC4 promoted ASK1 expression through upregulating the expression of KLF5. In IDD mice, GSK3β overexpression resulted in increased DHI, inhibition of NP cell apoptosis, alleviation of disc degeneration, and promoted mechanical and thermal pain thresholds. However, HDAC4 overexpression reversed these effects by promoting ASK1 expression.ConclusionBased on the key findings of the current study, we conclude that GSK3β can promote degradation of HDAC4, which lead to an overall downregulation of the downstream KLF5/ASK1 axis, thereby alleviating the development of IDD.

A randomized comparative study of methylcobalamin, methylcobalamin plus pregabalin and methylcobalamin plus duloxetine in patients of painful diabetic neuropathy.

CONTEXT:Diabetic neuropathy affects 10.5%–32.2% of diabetic population posing clinical burden onto society.AIMS:We aimed to study the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of methylcobalamin, methylcobalamin plus pregabalin, and methylcobalamin plus duloxetine in patients of painful diabetic neuropathy.SETTINGS AND DESIGN:It is a prospective, randomized, open-label, interventional, and parallel-group study done in patients of painful diabetic neuropathy.MATERIALS AND METHODS:A total of 100 patients were recruited and randomized to three study groups A, B, and C on methylcobalamin, methylcobalamin and pregabalin, and methylcobalamin and duloxetine, respectively. Patients were assessed at day 0 and 4, 8, and 12 weeks. The tuning fork test, monofilament test, Thermal Sensitivity testing, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were used to analyze vibration, pressure, thermal sensitivity, and pain.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:The results are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Appropriate statistical methods were used to calculate P value (<0.05 – significant).RESULTS:The increase in number of patients with vibration perception is 11.6%, 37.9%, and 41.4%; pressure sensation is 7.6%, 37.9%, and 37.9%; and thermal sensitivity is 15.4%, 31.1%, and 37.9% in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. The decrease in VAS scores is 0.58 ± 0.14, 3.82 ± 0.05, and 4.17 ± 0.48 in Groups A, B, and C correspondingly. The adverse effects reported in Groups A, B, and C are 0%, 6.9%, and 10.3%, respectively.CONCLUSIONS:Group C is more efficacious when compared to Groups A and B while Group B is safer.

Preparation and properties of lowest eutectic mixture MTNP/TNAZ

ABSTRACT In this work, DSC tests were performed on 1-methyl-3,4,5-trinitropyrazole (MTNP) and 1,3,3-trinitroazetidine (TNAZ) binary eutectic systems with different molar ratios, and we drawn the T-X and H-X phase diagrams. We get the ratio of MTNP/TNAZ eutectic system by phase diagram, and the eutectic of the two were characterized by Energy spectrum analysis(EDS), X-ray diffraction(XRD), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermodynamic analysis, thermo gravimetric mass spectrometry (TG-MS), thermal sensitivity test, mechanical sensitivity test and detonation performance calculation. The results show that the ratio of MTNP/TNAZ eutectic system is 46.3/53.7, and the melting point is 72.58°C. EDS shows that there is no impurities in the lowest eutectic mixture. XRD indicates that there is some intermolecular force between the lowest eutectics mixture, which changes the diffraction peak. IR shows that the raw MTNP and raw TNAZ do not react with each other after forming the lowest eutectic mixture. Thermodynamic analysis indicates that the thermal decomposition reaction of the lowest eutectic mixture requires endotherm, and the entropy value of the reaction is decreased. Thermo gravimetric mass spectrometry (TG-MS) shows that the main decomposition products of the lowest eutectic mixture are CH4, N2O, CO2, H2, H2O, and only a small amount of NH3, and thermal decomposition of it is more complete than raw materials. Then the mechanical sensitivity of the raw MTNP, TNAZ and the lowest eutectic were tested, and the detonation performance were also calculated, the results show that the lowest eutectic has good mechanical sensitivity and detonation performance. Finally, the thermal sensitivity test was carried out on the raw materials and the lowest eutectic mixture, and it was found that the lowest eutectic mixture had the lowest activation energy, which is more conducive to thermal decomposition.

The Effect of Optogenetic Inhibition of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Neuropathic Pain Following Sciatic Nerve Injury.

Cortical disinhibition is the underlying pathological alteration contributing to neuropathic pain associated with peripheral nerve injury. Nerve injury resulting in disinhibition of the anterior cingulate cortex has been reported. However, the effect of optogenetic inhibition of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) on the sensory component of nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain has not been well studied. To investigate the feasibility of optogenetic ACC modulation, we injected an optogenetic virus or a null virus into the ACC of a nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain model. The unilateral ACC was modulated, and the optogenetic effect was measured by mechanical and thermal sensitivity tests. The assessment was performed in "pre-light off," "stimulation-yellow light on," and "post-light off" states. Optogenetic inhibition of the ACC in injury models revealed improved mechanical and thermal latencies with profound pain-relieving effects against nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain. The sensory thalamic discharge in electrophysiological in vivo recordings was also altered during laser stimulation. This finding indicates that hyperactivity of the ACC in nerve injury increases output to the spinothalamic tract through direct or indirect pathways. The direct photoinhibition of ACC neurons could play a vital role in restoring equilibrium and provide novel insight into techniques that can assuage peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain.

Genome Analysis of Two Novel Lytic Vibrio maritimus Phages Isolated from the Coastal Surface Seawater of Qingdao, China.

Two novel Vibrio phages, LP.1 and LP.2 that infected Vibrio maritimus R-40493, were isolated from surface seawater in Qingdao coastal area by the double-agar layer method. Morphological analysis by transmission electron microscope showed that the two phages displayed head-tail structures with icosahedral heads of 62.37 and 54.00nm in diameter and long non-contractile tails of 119.00 and 105.20nm in length, respectively, and can be grouped into the Siphoviridae family. Thermal and pH sensitivity tests exhibited that LP.1 was stable at temperature ranging from - 20 to 65°C and at pH ranging from 5 to 12, and LP.2 showed vitality over a wider range of temperature (- 20-75°C) and pH (3-12). Both LP.1 and LP.2 contained linear and double-stranded DNA genomes with a length of 46,791-bp and 37,128-bp, respectively. The genome of both phages can be classified into four functional groups, including DNA replication and regulation, phage packaging, phage structure, and additional function. The bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that the Vibrio phages LP.1 and LP.2 are novel phages. By conducting morphological, biochemical, and genomic analysis, our study provides useful information for further research on the interaction between Vibrio phages and their host.