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International audience; Core-shell configurations are ubiquitous in nature such as in the form of bacterial and cells. Inspired by this, microcapsules are designed with actives as the cores surrounded by thin shells. They not only play an increasing role as artificial models for understanding dynamic behaviors of biological cells in flows, but are also becoming a fundamental class of artificial vehicles at the heart of drug delivery and release in applications. The mechanical properties of the shells are of great importance in this context. Here, we review recent experimental and theoretical characterizations of microcapsules, focusing on the soft and deformable particles with liquid cores. We begin by exploring the concept and fabrication of artificial microcapsules, followed by a discussion of different methods on the mechanical characterization of the shell.

Cryptococcus gattii is a pathogenic yeast, member of the C. neoformans/gattii complex. Previous work from our laboratory has established the presence of C. gattii on cacti lesions, providing proof that it can grow in a stressful environment. However, it is not known which part of the cactus the yeast uses for nutrients. The purpose of this research is to determine the ability of C. gattii to grow in different parts of the cactus to assess how the yeast adapts to grow in this unique environment. Cactus media were developed using the outer, inner, and whole cactus from Pilosocereus spp. Cryptcoccus gattii was grown on the different cactus media, along with potato dextrose agar as a control for 24 and 48 h at 30 °C. Compared to the control medium, yeast growth was reduced in all cactus media, while an increase in the capsule development of the yeast grown in the inner part and the whole-cactus media was observed. Interestingly, the yeast produces melanin when grown in the outer membrane medium, which was dependent on laccase, suggesting that the outer membrane may contain a precursor that stimulatates pigment production. To our knowledge, this is the first study addressing these key differences in the growth of C. gattii on different parts of the cactus.

Biodegradable stents have tremendous theoretical potential as an alternative to bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents for the treatment of obstructive coronary artery disease. Any bioresorbable or biodegradable scaffold material needs to possess optimal mechanical properties and uniform degradation behavior that avoids local and systemic toxicity. Recently, molybdenum (Mo) has been investigated as a potential novel biodegradable material for this purpose. With its proven moderate degradation rate and excellent mechanical properties, Mo may represent an ideal source material for clinical cardiac and vascular applications. The present study was performed to evaluate the mechanical performance of metallic Mo in vitro and the biodegradation properties in vivo. The results demonstrated favorable mechanical behavior and a uniform degradation profile as desired for a new generation ultra-thin degradable endovascular stent material. Moreover, Mo implants in mouse arteries avoided the typical cellular response that contributes to restenosis. There was minimal neointimal hyperplasia over 6 months, an absence of excessive smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation or inflammation near the implant, and avoidance of significant harm to regenerating endothelial cells (EC). Qualitative inspection of kidney sections showed a potentially pathological remodeling of kidney Bowman's capsule and glomeruli, indicative of impaired filtering function and development of kidney disease, although quantifications of these morphological changes were not statistically significant. Together, the results suggest that the products of Mo corrosion may exert beneficial or inert effects on the activities of inflammatory and arterial cells, while exerting potentially toxic effects in the kidneys that warrant further investigation.

Oral cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancy affecting oral cavity. Determining the correct type of oral cancer at the early stages is important in designing a detailed treatment plan and predicting the response of the patient to the treatment being adopted. A major challenge lies in the detection of oral cancer from histopathological images. In oral malignancy diagnosis, the main visual features are generally extracted from the architectural differences of epithelial layers and the appearance of keratin pearls. This paper proposes a new approach for classifying oral cancer using a deep learning technique known as capsule network. Dynamic routing and routing by agreement of capsule network makes it more robust for rotation and affine transformation of augmented oral dataset. This network’s capability of handling pose, view and orientation makes it suitable for analysis of oral cancer histopathological images at an early stage. The performance of cross-validation indicate that the proposed methodology can efficiently classify the histopathological images of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) with 97.78% sensitivity, 96.92% specificity and 97.35% accuracy.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) 10% of the medicines in the Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) are of poor quality posing a major public health threat. One way to circumvent such problem is the development and deployment of rapid, economical and efficient analytical methods. Hence this research aims to develop a High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) method for the determination of doxycycline hyclate. A rapid and simple HPTLC method with densitometry detection at 360 nm to determine doxycycline hyclate in capsules and tablet formulations was developed and validated. HPTLC was performed on glass plates coated with C18 reverse phase silica gel 60 F254 and pretreated with 0.27 M ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (EDTA) solution. The mobile phase was dichloromethane: methanol: acetonitrile: 1% aqueous ammonia in the ratio of 10:22:53:15 (v/v). The linearity range lies between 200 and 1,000 ng/spot with correlation coefficient of 0.997. The Rf value is 0.5 ± 0.02%. Recoveries were in the range of 94.50–100.5%. Limit of detection and limit of quantitation values for doxycycline hyclate were 40 and 160 ng/spot respectively. The developed method was validated as per ICH guidelines. Thus, it was found to be accurate, precise, specific and robust. In forced degradation study, doxycycline hyclate was found to degrade in acidic and alkaline media, and through oxidative stress. The drug was found to be relatively stable to heat and photo degradation. The method was successfully applied for the routine quantitative analysis of dosage forms containing doxycycline hyclate. The developed method offered comparable results (as confirmed by F-test) with that of the HPLC pharmacopoeial (BP) analysis method.

In this study, a novel magnetically actuated robotic capsule (patent-filed, Alici and Zhou, 2019) is proposed for site-specific drug delivery inside the gastrointestinal tract. Retractable needles are equipped into the capsule-like robot to inject the drug directly into intended tissues, which will contribute to the full and fast absorption of the medication and consequently increase the efficacy of drug delivery. The needle is concealed inside the capsule initially and can be actively protruded and retracted by a magnetic membrane. A second magnetic membrane is employed to discharge the drug out of the reservoir and inject it into the targeted tissue through the needle. Besides active drug releasing, the robotic capsule is able to perform active locomotion controlled by an external magnet wirelessly. Theoretical and experimental analyses were conducted to characterize the magnetic membranes for the selections of these batteries-less soft actuators for wireless in-body drug injection. Both locomotion and drug injection tests were successfully performed with the prototypes inside the samples of the porcine small intestine, which validated the feasibility of the proposed drug delivery system.

Innovative swallowable capsule technologies such as drug-loaded, dissolvable microneedles, mucoadhesive patches, and various microdevices present unique drug-carrying capabilities to overcome challenges regarding oral delivery of biologics. Here, we report a swallowable capsule for intestinal drug delivery (SCIDD) with the potential of directly injecting biological therapeutics into the insensate small intestine wall. The design, optimization, and validation of the SCIDD's primary subsystems were performed both ex-vivo and in-vivo. The assembled capsule was further tested in vivo to validate the actuation sequence and showed a 70% (n = 17) success rate in an animal model. Additionally, a drug delivery study indicated systemic uptake of adalimumab via SCIDD compared with luminal delivery in the small intestine. The pilot study presented here establishes that the novel platform could be used to orally deliver systemic biologics.

One of the most frequent complications after total hip replacement is femoral head dislocation. To avoid this complication is possible by restoring of joint capsule.Objective: on the base of retrospective and prospective analysis we determined the efficacy of prophylaxis of femoral head dislocation due to designed method of hip replacement.Methods: we analyzed retrospectively 94 patients (54 with femoral head dislocation, 40 — without), prospective — 89 (with suggested method of hip replacement with capsule preserving). Quantitative criteria of risk forecasting for femoral head dislocation was made with consistent forecast procedure.Results: it was shown that the main factor of risk for femoral head dislocation after hip replacement is patient depended. Among them the most frequent are obesity weakness of hip joint muscles (77.8 %), age older than 55 y. o (70.4 %) and non-compliance of orthopaedic mode in the postoperative period with extensive movements in the hip joint (66.7 %). Suggested method of femoral head dislocation method with preserving of joint capsule is effective and proved with clinical and statistical studies.Conclusions: on the base of retrospective study we found factors of risk for femoral head dislocation after total hip replacement. The most informative forecast signs were repeated (two times and more) closed reduction of head dislocation (I = 1.23), extensive movements ih the hip joint (I = 0.64), femoral head diameter less than 28 mm (I = 0.54). Suggested method of prophylaxis and treatment of femoral head dislocation with preserving of joint capsule can provide favorable result of hip replacement., Вывих головки эндопротеза (ВГЭ) является одним из распространенных осложнений эндопротезирования тазобедренного сустава (ТБС). Избежать его позволяет восстановление капсулы ТБС.Цель: на основе ретроспективного и проспективного анализов определить эффективность профилактики ВГЭ путем использования разработанного способа эндопротезирования ТБС.Методы: проведен анализ протоколов клинико-рентгенологического ретроспективного обследования 94 больных (54 — с ВГЭ, 40 — без), проспективного — 89 (с использованием способа эндопротезирования ТБС с сохранением капсулы). Количественные критерии прогнозирования риска возникновения ВГЭ определены с применением последовательной прогностической процедуры.Результаты: показано, что основными факторами риска ВГЭ после эндопротезирования ТБС являются пациентозависимые. Среди них наиболее часто ВГЭ провоцирует избыточный вес (85,2 %), снижение силы и тонуса мышц области ТБС (77,8 %), возраст старше 55 лет (70,4 %) и нарушение ортопедического режима с излишними движениями в суставе после операции (66,7 %). Предложен способ профилактики и лечения ВГЭ с сохранением капсулы ТБС и подтверждена его эффективность в результате клинических и статистических исследований.Выводы: на основе ретроспективного анализа протоколов клинико-рентге­нологического обследования больных выявлены факторы риска ВГЭ после эндопротезирования ТБС. Наиболее информативными прогностическими признаками оказались многократные (2 и более раз) закрытые вправления ВГЭ (I = 1,23), чрезмерные движения в ТБС (I = 0,64), диаметр головки эндопротеза менее 28 мм (I = 0,54). Предложенный способ профилактики и лечения ВГЭ ТБС с сохранением капсулы сустава обеспечивает благоприятный результат эндопротезирования., Вивих головки ендопротеза (ВГЕ) є одним із найпоширеніших ускладнень ендопротезування кульшового суглоба (КС). Уникнути його дає змогу відновлення капсули КС.Мета: на підставі ретроспективного та проспективного аналізів визначити ефективність профілактики ВГЕ шляхом використання розробленого способу ендопротезування КС.Методи: проаналізовано протоколи клініко-рентгенологічного ретроспективного обстеження 94 хворих (54 — з ВГЕ, 40 — без), проспективного — 89 (із використанням способу ендопротезування КС зі збереженням капсули). Кількісні критерії прогнозування ризику виникнення ВГЕ визначено зі застосуванням послідовної прогностичної процедури.Результати: показано, що основними факторами ризику ВГЕ після ендопротезування КС є пацієнтозалежні. Серед них найчастіше ВГЕ провокує надмірна вага (85,2 %), зниження сили і тонусу м’язів ділянки КС (77,8 %), вік понад 55 років (70,4 %) і порушення ортопедичного режиму з зайвими рухами в суглобі після операції (66,7 %). Запропоновано спосіб профілактики і лікування ВГЕ зі збереженням капсули КС і підтверджено його ефективність у результаті клінічних і статистичних досліджень.Висновки: на підставі ретроспективного аналізу протоколів клініко-рентгенологічного обстеження хворих виявлено чинники ризику ВГЕ після ендопротезування КС. Найінформативнішими прогностичними ознаками виявилися багаторазові (2 і більше разів) закриті вправляння ВГЕ (I = 1,23), надмірні рухи в КС (I = 0,64), діаметр головки ендопротеза менше ніж 28 мм (I = 0,54). Запропонований спосіб профілактики та лікування ВГЕ КС зі збереженням капсули суглоба забезпечує сприятливий результат ендопротезування.

International audience; The extracellular capsule is a virulence factor present in many facultative pathogens, but its role in antimicrobial resistance remains controversial. To shed light on this debate, we tested six antibiotics on four Klebsiella pneumoniae species complex strains. Noncapsulated strains exhibited increased tolerance to polymyxins, but not to other antibiotics, as measured using the MIC. Our results urge caution on the use of therapeutic agents that target the capsule and may result in selection for its inactivation.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of cyclosporine on the morphology, cell wall structure, and secretion characteristics of Cryptococcus neoformans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cyclosporine was found to be 2 µM (2.4 µg/mL) for the H99 strain. Yeast cells treated with cyclosporine at half the MIC showed altered morphology, including irregular shapes and elongated projections, without an effect on cell metabolism. Cyclosporine treatment resulted in an 18-fold increase in chitin and an 8-fold increase in lipid bodies, demonstrating changes in the fungal cell wall structure. Cyclosporine also reduced cell body and polysaccharide capsule diameters, with a significant reduction in urease secretion in C. neoformans cultures. Additionally, the study showed that cyclosporine increased the viscosity of secreted polysaccharides and reduced the electronegativity and conductance of cells. The findings suggest that cyclosporine has significant effects on C. neoformans morphology, cell wall structure, and secretion, which could have implications for the development of new antifungal agents.

Hyperloop technology is a transport mode designed to move passengers anywhere in the world, using electric propulsion to carry passengers through a vacuum/near-vacuum tube for a maximum speed of 1200 km/h. Given this, governments, engineers, researchers, and billionaires have been racing over the past years to obtain the first operational system in the world off the ground and bring it from concept to reality. The paper aimed to maximize the capacity of the Hyperloop’s capsule and identify a suitable design of Hyperloop technology based on the different capacities and speeds of the capsules as well as the assumptions of the initial annual demand. Additionally, significant attention will be paid to the interior design of the capsules in which people travel to make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable. The design will be conducted in AutoCAD and Autodesk Revit models based on the allocation of different components such as capacity, compressor fan, batteries, compressor motor, etc. The Hyperloop is powered by solar panels located on the top of the tube, which will allow the capsule to generate more energy based on its capacity than it needs to run. The optimizing cost of each design of the Hyperloop’s capsule will be considered using an MS Excel sheet. As a result, the Hyperloop capsule with a lower capacity (28 seats) has the highest value of optimizing cost due to the number of acquired capsules (38) compared to 25 capsules and 16 capsules for medium- and high-capacity capsules, respectively. The total annual cost of the Hyperloop’s capsules with different capacities of 28, 40, and 50 seats is EUR 5.6 million, EUR 5.5 million, and EUR 6.2 million, respectively, which is determined through the sum of the purchasing cost, operating cost and maintenance cost of capsules.

To compare the biomechanical effects of superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) graft fixation length determined at 20° and 40° of glenohumeral (GH) abduction.Humeral translation, rotational range of motion (ROM), and subacromial contact pressure were quantified at 0°, 30°, and 60° of GH abduction in the scapular plane in 6 cadaveric shoulders for the following states: intact, massive rotator cuff tear, SCR with dermal allograft fixed at 20° of GH abduction (SCR 20), and SCR with dermal allograft fixed at 40° of GH abduction (SCR 40). Statistical analysis was conducted using a repeated-measures analysis of variance and a paired t test (P.05).A massive cuff tear significantly increased total ROM compared with the intact state at 0° and 60° of abduction. SCR 20 or SCR 40 did not affect ROM. Compared with the intact state, the massive cuff tear model significantly increased superior translation by an average of 4.6 ± 0.5 mm in 9 of 12 positions (P ≤ .002). Both SCR 20 and SCR 40 reduced superior translation compared with the massive cuff tear model (P.05); however, SCR 40 significantly decreased superior translation compared with SCR 20 at 0° of abduction (P ≤ .046). Peak subacromial pressure for the massive cuff tear model increased by an average of 486.8 ± 233.9 kPa relative to the intact state in 5 of 12 positions (P ≤ .037). SCR 20 reduced peak subacromial pressure in 2 of 12 positions (P ≤ .012), whereas SCR 40 achieved this in 6 of 12 positions (P ≤ .024).SCR with dermal allograft fixed at 20° or 40° of GH abduction decreases GH translation and subacromial pressure without decreasing ROM.With an increasing abduction angle for graft fixation, the medial-to-lateral graft length is decreased and the graft tension is effectively increased. Surgeons may increase shoulder stability without restricting ROM by fixing the graft at higher abduction angles. However, surgeons should remain cognizant of potential graft failure due to increased tension.

The intrinsic hypoxic tumor microenvironment and limited accumulation of photosensitizers (PSs) result in unsatisfied efficiency of photodynamic therapy (PDT). To enhance the PDT efficiency against solid tumors, a functional oxygen self-supplying and PS-delivering nanosystem is fabricated via the combination of catalase (CAT), chlorin e6 (Ce6) and metal-phenolic network (MPN) capsule. It is demonstrated that the CAT encapsulated in the capsules (named CCM capsules) could catalyze the degradation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to produce molecular oxygen (O2), which could be converted into cytotoxicity reactive oxygen species (ROS) by surface-loaded Ce6 under 660 nm laser irradiation, leading to synergistic anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, the application of CCM capsule could be a promising strategy to improve PDT effectiveness.

Background Despite the fact that primary adhesive capsulitis of the glenohumeral joint is often considered to be a self-limiting condition, not all patients make a full recovery. Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) is performed to forcibly rupture the contracted capsule in a controlled manner. However, the technique, timing, and use of additional injections are often debated. In this study we report the outcomes following the addition of capsular distension and counter-traction to MUA as a treatment for adhesive capsulitis. Methods A retrospective case-cohort study comparing three groups: group 1; MUA alone (n=54), group 2; MUA with capsular distension (n=114), group 3; MUA with capsular distension and counter-traction (n=167). Re-MUA rate, Constant-Murley Shoulder (CMS) and visual analog scale (for pain) (VAS) scores were measured after six weeks and six months. Results Re-MUA rate fell with the addition of both capsular distension and counter-traction: 63% in group 1, 39% in group 2, and 18% in group 3. Those in group 3 recorded the biggest improvement of CMS score after six weeks (+90% versus +68% for group 2 and +58% for group 1), with all groups showing improvements compared to pre-treatment. The only independent risk factor identified for re-MUA was smoking. If a second MUA was performed, CMS (+67%) and VAS (+61%) scores improved, but at six months CMS scores (74.57±7.6 versus 83.30±5.5) and the VAS score (10.57±1.8 versus 12.96±1.5) remained inferior to those who only needed a single MUA. Discussion and/or Conclusion MUA combined with capsular distension and counter-traction reduces the need for a second MUA and results in a faster improvement of functional outcome (CMS score) and reduction of pain (VAS score) compared to MUA or MUA with capsular distension. The results of this case-cohort study are of clinical relevance since they show that the efficacy of an MUA can be improved through relatively simple adaptations of the treatment protocol.

Given the role of the interaction between gut microbiome with dermatological diseases, namely “gut-skin axis”, the present author proved that gut restoration should alleviate canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), which was the purpose of the study. A 4-week, open-label, non-controlled case series involved 8 -owned dogs with CAD which had received no previous treatment. Evaluations included Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index version 4 (CADESI-04 scores), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pruritus scores and Polycheck in vitro allergen specific tests. Faecal samples were analysed by dual indexing one-step PCR and 16S rRNA targeted metagenomics for detecting gut microbiota alterations before and after fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) capsule treatment twice daily for 4 weeks. All cases were presenting pruritus and all of those dogs showed elevated IgE levels. CADESI scores decreased on days 28 (4-21) compared to day 0 initial values (50-128). Similarly, decreased VAS scores were detected on days 28 (0-2) in contrast to prior values (6-10). Regarding epidermal barrier functioning epidermal hydration (55-100 vs. 4-24) and pH (6.-7.8 vs. 4.2-5.7) values were elevated after FMT treatment in contrast to prior ranges, respectively. Alpha diversity revaled both richness and diversity of gut microbiota were improved for all cases on day 28. Furthermore at the end of trial Firmicutes: Bacteroidetes ratio was 8, the benchmark detected for healthy dogs. The present study supports a potential benefit of FMT capsule treatment against CAD. This safe and tolerant treatment modality directed against CAD shifted the gut microbiome composition towards a healthy state for all 8 dogs enrolled.

Background:: Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule is a realgar and cinnabar-containing traditional Chinese medicine, the contents of total arsenic and total mercury are found over regulation defined limits. However, only a small amount of arsenic in realgar and mercury in cinnabar are dissolved in the gastric juice, so the determination of soluble arsenic and soluble mercury is more significant than that of total arsenic and total mercury in Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule. Objective: : To study the contents of total arsenic, total mercury, soluble arsenic and soluble mercury in Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule. Method:: Microwave digestion and semi-bionic extraction were used to pretreat the samples of Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule, and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method was established to determine the contents of total arsenic, total mercury, soluble arsenic and soluble mercury in Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule. The accuracy of the established method was further evaluated by using a certified standard reference material prepared from dried citrus leaves (GBW10020(GSB-11)). Results: : The spiked recoveries were within 95-105 %. The R.S.D% of repeatability (N=6) and precision (N = 6) were below 5.0 %. The correlation coefficients of linear (R) for arsenic and mercury were both above 0.998. The limits of quantification (LOQ) were below 0.1 μg/L. The contents of As and Hg were defined in the dried citrus leaves and very near to the standard values provided by the manufacturer. The established method was applied to the analysis of three batches of Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule produced by three different manufacturers successfully. Insufficient realgar or cinnabar was formulated in some Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule samples. Conclusion: : The analysis showed that the contents of soluble arsenic and soluble mercury in artificial gastric juice were significantly less than that of total arsenic and total mercury in Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule. The results provided a reference for further study on the toxicology and pharmacokinetics of Compound Niuhuang Xiaoyan capsule.

Purpose A "dead bag syndrome" has been recently described, in which the capsular bag appears to be clear many years after surgery, becoming diaphanous and floppy, and unable to support the intraocular lens (IOL) within it. The aim of this study was to describe findings of this syndrome. Setting John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Design Case series with clinicopathological correlation. Methods Out of 10 cases suspected to be from dead bag syndrome, 8 IOLs/7 capsular bags were removed due to subluxation/dislocation. The seven capsular bags available for analysis were fixed in formalin and submitted to histopathological examination (hematoxylin/eosin and Masson's trichrome stains). The associated explanted IOLs in 5 cases were also examined microscopically. Results Histopathologic examination of the seven capsular bags showed capsular thinning and/or splitting. Lens epithelial cells (LECs) were completely absent on two specimens while the other five specimens had rare LECs on the inner surface of the capsule. Explanted IOLs were three-piece silicone lenses or single-piece hydrophobic acrylic lenses. One IOL optic showed a small amount of granular pigment deposition, but the optics of the other four lenses were unremarkable. Conclusions In this syndrome, there appears to be an absence of secondary proliferation of LECs, as well as fibrotic changes. The capsule shows some signs of degradation, such as thinning and/or splitting. Weakness of zonular attachments appears to be an associated finding, with subsequent in-the-bag IOL dislocation. Further studies are necessary to ascertain the etiology of this condition.

Вступ. Удосконалення медичних технологій призвело до широкого впровадження ендоскопічних методів діагностики і лікування хворих, в тому числі з нестабільністю плечового суглоба, що робить ще цікавішим порівняння технологій, що змінюються й удосконалюються. У статті автори аналізують особливості використання анкерної стабілізації капсули в лікуванні травматичної передньої нестабільності плечового суглоба при відкритому оперативному втручанні і використанні артроскопічної методики. Мета: вивчити особливості анкерної стабілізації капсули плечового суглоба при відкритій і артроскопічній методиках лікування нестабільності плечового суглоба, а також визначити шляхи оптимізації хірургічного втручання. Матеріали та методи. Матеріалом для дослідження особливостей використання анкерної стабілізації капсули в лікуванні передньої травматичної нестабільності плечового суглоба стали результати хірургічного лікування 113 хворих з даною патологією. Всі пацієнти були розділені на дві групи: до першої групи увійшли 65 пацієнтів, яким виконана відкрита стабілізація капсули за допомогою анкерів. До другої групи увійшли 48 пацієнтів, які перенесли артроскопічну стабілізацію капсули з використанням анкерів. Результати. Перший етап дослідження показав, що при однаковій довжині розриву капсули кількість анкерів при артроскопічному способі стабілізації майже в півтори рази перевищувала кількість анкерів, що були використані при відкритому оперативному втручанні. При подальшому дослідженні довжину відриву капсули вимірювали в годинних інтервалах, а кількість фіксаторів порівнювали при довжині розривів капсули, що дорівнювала 2, 3, 4 і 5-годинним інтервалам. Було відзначено чітку тенденцію до збільшення міжанкерного інтервалу при відкритій стабілізації плечового суглоба приблизно на 0,2 см зі збільшенням протяжності розриву на один годинний інтервал, тоді як при артроскопічній стабілізації при масивних розривах міжанкерний інтервал залишався стабільним (коливання не перевищували 0,02 см). Висновки. Збільшення міжанкерного інтервалу до 1,2–1,4 см і зменшення загального числа анкерів при артроскопічній стабілізації капсули може розглядатися як один із шляхів оптимізації артроскопічного лікування хворих із передньою травматичною нестабільністю плечового суглоба.

In the experiments on rats with a model of systemic vasculitis, it is shown that exogenous load on the body of nephrotoxic microele­ments, such as cadmium, lithium and molybdenum, affects the integral morphological indicators of kidney structure lesions, in particular cases of thickened basement membrane of Shumlianskyi capsule became 6.7 times more frequent, the severity of arteriolar endothelial proliferation increased by 63 % and degenerative (atrophic) changes in the tubules — by 21 %.

Magnetic navigation capsule endoscopy (MNCE) has been widely used for gastric examination because of its advantages of high examination accuracy, speed, and minimal injury. However, the insufficient driving force and single control strategy of currently commercialized products have become challenges for applying in the active inspection of the intestinal tract. To solve these problems, based on the existing cardiac interventional magnetic navigation system, the MNCE system with a dual-joystick navigation control method is proposed, which can achieve manipulation of the position and posture of the capsule endoscope for the whole gastrointestinal tract. The maximum workspace of the system has an opening diameter of 480 mm, the control region is a spherical area with a diameter of 200 mm, the magnetic field is 0.15 T, the maximum driving force is 250 mN, and the average inspection speed is 6.4 mm/s. The results of model tests and ex vivo experiments demonstrate that the system can generate sufficient force to drive the capsule and achieve three-dimensional precision inspection of the gastrointestinal tract. It also proves the engineering feasibility of the proposed control method, which significantly improves the inspection efficiency and is expected to rapidly promote the system to clinical applications.

Background Intra-incisional deposition of vancomycin powder is a strategy to limit Cutibacterium acnes infection after shoulder surgery. Unfortunately, limited research exists examining the effectiveness of vancomycin in a clinically relevant joint infection model. This basic science study investigated the efficacy of vancomycin administration as prophylaxis for C acnes growth in vitro using a mimetic shoulder arthroplasty. Methods A new bioartificial shoulder joint mimetic implant (S-JIM) was used to investigate the effect of vancomycin powder on C acnes growth within the first 48 hours after surgery. The impact of vancomycin was assessed on a skin-derived (ATCC 11827) C acnes strain and a periprosthetic joint infection–derived strain. C acnes strains were applied to titanium alloy foil and embedded beneath multiple layers of collagen-impregnated cellulose scaffold strips containing human shoulder joint capsular fibroblasts, facilitating the development of an oxygen gradient with an anaerobic environment around the foil and inner layers. Ten milligrams of vancomycin powder was applied between the C acnes layer and the human cell–containing scaffold strips to model direct antibiotic application, and intravenous vancomycin prophylaxis was modeled by adding vancomycin in media at 5 or 20 μg/mL. After 48 hours, the C acnes inoculum layer was subcultured from each S-JIM onto agar plates to assess the formation of viable C acnes colonies. Primary human shoulder capsule cells were assessed microscopically to detect any detrimental effects of vancomycin on cellular integrity. Results Agar plates inoculated with extracts from untreated S-JIMs consistently resulted in the growth of large numbers of C acnes colonies, whereas treatments with vancomycin powder or vancomycin in media at 20-μg/mL dilution effectively prevented the recovery of any C acnes colonies. The lowest vancomycin dilution tested (5 μg/mL) was insufficient to prevent the recovery of C acnes colonies. Vancomycin powder had no discernible short-term impact on shoulder capsule cell morphology, and the presence of these cells had no discernible impact on vancomycin degradation over time. Conclusions Vancomycin administration effectively prevented C acnes growth in a bioartificial S-JIM. These results support the hypothesis that intra-incisional vancomycin application may limit C acnes prosthetic joint infections.

A new sutureless technique used for repositioning and scleral fixation of the capsular bag-intraocular lens (IOL) complex in the surgical treatment of subluxated lenses is described. Iris retractors were used not only to induce a tent effect on the capsule but also to permanently fix the capsular bag to the sclera in this method, without the need to prepare scleral or conjunctival flaps. Surgery with the use of a capsular tension ring (CTR) and iris retractors, the ends of which were brought out through the sclera and cauterized, was performed in 7 eyes of 7 patients with moderate or severe subluxation of the crystalline lens. In all cases, simultaneous use of a CTR and iris retractors ensured good centration of the capsular bag-IOL complex. The method was safe and effective in fixing the capsule to the sclera in the case of significant damage to the ligamentous apparatus of the lens.

The hydrophobicity of natural rubber (NR) film provides it with a potential material for preparation of controlled drug delivery systems. The purpose of this study was to develop the NR/gelatin composite capsule shells for controlled drug release. The NR film and the NR/gelatin composite films, at the NR: gelatin ratio of 3:7, 4:6, 5:5, 6:4 and 7:3, were prepared. It was found that the composite films possessed higher strength and modulus, but lower elongation than the NR film. The smooth NR film absorbed water/aqueous media only to a small extent and hence scarcely eroded. Incorporation of gelatin resulted in the rough films, which were capable of absorbing more water/aqueous media and, therefore, eroding more than the NR film. The capsule shells were subsequently prepared from the NR: gelatin ratio of 6:4 composite film, contributing to its good mechanical properties and minimal erosion. Propranolol HCl was filled into the developed capsule shells. The drug was gradually released and reached the maxima within 8 and 4 h, in pH 1.2 and 6.8 buffer solutions, respectively. Thus, the NR/gelatin composite capsule shells were successfully prepared and able to control the drug release efficiently.

BACKGROUND Current literature shows no clear answer on the question how to manage the capsule after hip arthroscopy. Regarding patient reported outcome measures there seems to be no difference between capsular repair or unrepaired capsulotomy. AIM To evaluate and compare the integrity of the hip capsule measured on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan after capsular repair or unrepaired capsulotomy. METHODS A case series study was performed; a random sample of patients included in a trial comparing capsular repair vs unrepaired capsulotomy had a postoperative MRI scan. The presence of a capsular defect and gap size were independently evaluated on MRI. RESULTS A total of 28 patients (29 hips) were included. Patient demographics were comparable between treatment groups. There were 2 capsular defects in the capsular repair group and 7 capsular defects in the unrepaired capsulotomy group (P = 0.13). In the group of patients with a defect, median gap sizes at the acetabular side were 5.9 mm (range: 2.7-9.0) in the repaired and 8.0 mm (range: 4.5-18.0) in the unrepaired group (P = 0.462). At the muscular side gap sizes were 6.6 mm (range: 4.1-9.0) in the repaired group and 11.5 mm (range: 3.0-18.0) in the unrepaired group (P = 0.857). The calculated Odds ratio (OR) for having a capsular defect with an increasing lateral center-edge (CE) angle was 1.12 (P = 0.06). The OR for having a capsular defect is lower in the group of patients that underwent a labral repair with an OR of 0.1 (P = 0.05). CONCLUSION There is no significant difference in capsular defects between capsular repair or unrepaired capsulotomy. Regarding clinical characteristics our case series shows that a larger CE angle increases the likelihood of a capsular defect and the presence of a labral repair decreases the likelihood of a capsular defect.

Salix babylonica, S. alba and S. fragilis are closely related species characterized by the lanceolate, acuminate and serrulate leaves. The boundaries between them are defined by relatively few diagnostic characters, and their identification is not fully solved. Recent studies have demonstrated that the number of ovules present in the ovaries of the willow flower can assist in the identification of the species. The detailed ovule data, characteristic for flowers of each species, S. babylonica, S. alba and S. fragilis, and variation in the number of ovules per ovary were documented using many representatives of these species from various geographic regions. The data included the minimum and maximum number of ovules per valve and per ovary and the percentages of valves with a specific number of ovules in a catkin. Some intermediate genotypes and clusters with similar ovule indexes were observed. The important character for the identification of S. babylonica was the presence of valves with 1 or 2 ovules in the ovaries; S. fragilis had valves with 3 ovules while S. alba had the greater number (4–12).

A clinical strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae typed as sequence type 307 carrying three different alleles of the flu gene encoding the Escherichia coli virulence factor antigen 43 associated with biofilm formation was detected and characterized. The flu alleles are located in the chromosome inside putative integrative conjugative elements. The strain displays the phenotypes associated with Ag43, i.e. bi-phasic colony morphology and enhanced biofilm production. Furthermore, the strain produces low amount of capsule known to affect Ag43 function. Analysis of 1431 worldwide deposited genomes revealed that 3.7% Klebsiella pneumoniae carry one or two flu alleles.

Los bacteriófagos desempeñan un papel clave en la ecología y evolución bacterianas y son potenciales antimicrobianos. Sin embargo, los factores determinantes de la especificidad fago-hospedador siguen siendo poco conocidos. Debido a la prevalencia de bacterias encapsuladas, la cápsula es la primera barrera que encuentran muchos fagos. Esta capa, normalmente de polisacáridos, puede bloquear el acceso de los fagos a los receptores de su pared celular. Para superarla, algunos fagos codifican dominios depolimerasa (Dpos) específicos en sus proteínas de unión a receptores. En este trabajo, hemos cuantificado la predictibilidad de las interacciones fago-bacteria basándonos en el tipo de locus capsular del hospedador (CLT) y Dpos. Para ello, utilizamos Klebsiella pneumoniae como modelo debido a su alta diversidad capsular y a su importancia en salud pública. En primer lugar, establecimos una colección de 138 cepas clínicas de K. pneumoniae representativas de la diversidad genómica de la especie. Estas cepas se testaron con 46 fagos ambientales diferentes que comprendían 13 grupos filogenéticos. Las pruebas de spot revelaron que la mayoría de los fagos (42 de los 46) mostraban especificidad capsular, con un patrón de infección predicho con precisión (92%) por el CLT del hospedador. En consecuencia, las Dpos codificadas por los fagos, que a menudo han sufrido transferencia horizontal a largas escalas taxonómicas, eran determinantes clave del tropismo del hospedador. La tolerancia a la identidad de los Dpos de los fagos era alta, como mostró el tropismo capsular predicho con profagos de RefSeq para 13 CLT importantes epidemiológicamente. Aunque las cápsulas y el Dpos predijeron los primeros pasos del reconocimiento del virión y la adsorción, su precisión disminuyó para las infecciones productivas (53%). Aparte de los fagos especializados en cápsulas, encontramos que los fagos de los grupos S8/S9 tenían un rango de hospedador más amplio como resultado de un tropismo dependiente e independiente de la cápsula. El tropismo capsular de los fagos S8/S9 no estaba mediado por depolimerasas, sino que estos fagos codificaban proteínas de cola larga con múltiples dominios de unión a carbohidratos. Es importante destacar que >90% de las cepas bacterianas presentaban heterogeneidad fenotípica capsular, con la coexistencia de clones encapsulados y no encapsulados. Esta heterogeneidad afectó al tropismo de los fagos, ya que los fagos de amplio espectro infectaron preferentemente bacterias con un mayor número de bacterias acapsulares, al contrario que los fagos especialistas en cápsulas. Se observó que los mutantes acapsulares adquirían resistencia en 286 de las 406 combinaciones analizadas (70%). Ni la especificidad capsular de los fagos ni la infección de bacterias acapsulares se correlacionaron con la clasificación filogenética de los fagos. Sorprendentemente, el 43% de los fagos mostraron un comportamiento de unión capsular obligado o facultativo en función de la cepa bacteriana y su mecanismo de inactivación capsular, lo que a su vez dio lugar a diferentes tasas de emergencia de resistencia. Estos resultados amplían nuestro conocimiento de las complejas interacciones entre bacterias y sus virus y señalan la viabilidad de predecir los primeros pasos de la infección fágica utilizando secuencias genómicas de bacterias y fagos. Bacteriophages play key roles in bacterial ecology and evolution and are potential antimicrobials. However, the determinants of phage-host specificity remain elusive. Due to the prevalence of encapsulated bacteria, the capsule is the first barrier encountered by many phages. This layer, usually made of polysaccharides, can block phage access to their cell wall receptors. To overcome this, some phages encode specific depolymerase (Dpos) domains in their receptor-binding proteins. Here, we have quantified the predictability of phage-bacteria interactions based on the capsular locus type of host (CLT) and Dpos. For this, we used Klebsiella pneumoniae as a model due to its high capsular diversity and importance in global health. First, we established a collection of 138 clinical strains of K.pneumoniae representative of the genomic diversity of the species. These were challenged with 46 different environmental phages comprising 13 phylogenetic groups. Spot tests revealed that most of the phages (42 out of the 46) showed capsular specificity, with their infection pattern accurately predicted (92%) by the host CLT. Consequently, phage-encoded Dpos, which have often undergone horizontal gene transfer across large taxonomic scales, were key determinants of host tropism. The identity tolerance of phage Dpos was high, as shown by the predicted capsular tropism of RefSeq prophages for 13 important CLTs. Even though capsules and Dpos predicted the first steps of virion recognition and adsorption, their accuracy dropped for productive infections (53%). Apart from capsule-specialist phages, we found that the phages of groups S8/S9 had a broader host-range resulting from both capsule-dependent and independent tropism. Capsular tropism of S8/S9 phages was not mediated by depolymerases, instead these phages encoded long tail proteins with multiple carbohydrate-binding domains. Importantly, >90% of bacterial strains presented capsular phenotypic heterogeneity, with the co-existence of both encapsulated and non-encapsulated clones. This heterogeneity affected phage tropism, as broad-range phages preferentially infected bacteria with a higher number of acapsular bacteria, contrary to capsular-specialist phages. We found that acapsular mutants gained resistance in 286 of the 406 combinations tested (70%). Neither phage capsular specificity nor infection of acapsular bacteria was correlated with the phylogenetic classification of phages. Remarkably, 43% of the phages showed an obligate or facultative capsule attachment behavior depending on the bacterial strain and its mechanism of capsule inactivation, which in turn led to different trade-offs in resistance. These findings expand our knowledge of the complex interactions between bacteria and their viruses and point out the feasibility of predicting the first steps of phage infection using bacterial and phage genome sequences.

The Lianhua Qingwen (LHQW) capsule is a popular traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of viral respiratory diseases. In particular, it has been recently prescribed to treat infections caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, due to its complex composition, little attention has been directed toward the analysis of chemical constituents present in the LHQW capsule. This study presents a reliable and comprehensive approach to characterizing the chemical constituents present in LHQW by high-performance liquid chromatography-Q Exactive-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap-MS) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). An automated library alignment method with a high mass accuracy (within 5 ppm) was used for the rapid identification of compounds. A total of 104 compounds, consisting of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, quinones, terpenoids, and other phytochemicals, were successfully characterized. In addition, the fragmentation pathways and characteristic fragments of some representative compounds were elucidated. GC-MS analysis was conducted to characterize the volatile compounds present in LHQW. In total, 17 compounds were putatively characterized by comparing the acquired data with that from the NIST library. The major constituent was menthol, and all the other compounds were terpenoids. This is the first comprehensive report on the identification of the major chemical constituents present in the LHQW capsule by HPLC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap-MS, coupled with GC-MS, and the results of this study can be used for the quality control and standardization of LHQW capsules., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • The chemical components of LHQW capsule were revealed using HPLC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap-MS and GC-MS. • The approach combined HPLC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap-MS and GC-MS methods. • A library alignment method was used for the rapid identification of the chemical components. • In total, 120 compounds were putatively identified.

Background Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy is the first-choice technique for investigating the majority of small bowel diseases. Its most common complications are related to incomplete examinations and capsule retention. There is no consensus on how patients with previous gastrointestinal surgery should receive the capsule. Objective The primary endpoint was to compare the rate of complete small-bowel examinations (completion rate) between oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery of the capsule. The secondary endpoint was to compare diagnostic yield and adverse events in the two groups. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted in nine hospitals in Spain. Demographic data, previous surgery, indication for capsule endoscopy, intestinal transit time, diagnosis, completion rate (percentage of capsules reaching the caecum), diagnostic yield (percentage of results compatible with indication for the exam) and adverse events were collected. Results From January 2009 to May 2019 fifty-seven patients were included (39 male, mean age 66 ± 15 years). The most common indications for the exam were “overt” (50.9%) and “occult” (35.1%) small bowel bleeding. Previous Billroth II gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass were present in 52.6% and 17.5% of patients respectively. The capsule was swallowed in 34 patients and placed endoscopically in 23 patients. No significant differences were observed between the oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery groups in terms of completion rate (82.4% vs. 78.3%; p = 0.742), diagnostic yield (41.2% vs. 52.2%; p = 0.432) or small bowel transit time (301 vs. 377 min, p = 0.118). No capsule retention occurred. Only one severe adverse event (anastomotic perforation) was observed in the endoscopic delivery group. Conclusions In our case series, there were no significant differences between oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery in terms of completion rate, diagnostic yield or safety. Being less invasive, oral ingestion of the capsule should be the first-choice method in patients with previous gastrointestinal surgery.

Implantation of intraocular lens after combined procedure of vitrectomy and cataract surgery is usually required to reduce the postoperative refraction errors. However, because of the severe fibrosis of the anterior capsule and the adhesion between the anterior and posterior capsules, it is difficult to reopen the capsular bag to complete the secondary IOL implantation. We describe here a surgical approach for reopening the severe adhesion between capsules and removing the significant fibro-proliferative membranous material by injecting viscoelastic agent into the periphery of the capsular bag to separate the anterior and posterior capsules. The IOL was implanted into the capsular bag without any zonular rupture or posterior capsule tear. The position of the intraocular lens was stable during postoperative follow-ups up to 3 months. Our procedure to open a severely fibrosis capsule is safe and effective, and may be used as a preferred method.

Background Therapies for arthrofibrosis after knee surgery are needed to prevent loss of joint function. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonists (IL-1RA) have shown promise in treating established arthrofibrosis in pilot clinical studies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of intra-articular injection of IL-1RA to prevent knee joint contracture in a post-traumatic knee immobilization model. Methods 20 male Sprague Dawley rats were block randomized into two groups: control and IL-1RA. Rats underwent intra-articular surgical trauma of the right knee with placement of an immobilization suture, securing the knees in 150° flexion. On post-operative days 1 and 8, each group received a 0.1 ml intra-articular injection of either saline (control) or anakinra (IL-1RA:single dosage; 2.63 mg/kg). Rats were euthanized fourteen days after surgery and the immobilization femorotibial angles were measured on the operative limbs with the suture and musculature intact. Subsequently, musculature was removed and femorotibial angles were measured in the operative and non-operative limbs with a defined extension moment applied with the posterior capsule intact or cut. A contracture angle was calculated as the angular difference between the operative and non-operative limb. Results The immobilization knee flexion angle did not differ (P = 0.761) between groups (control: 152 ± 9; IL-1RA: 150 ± 11). The joint contracture angles (smaller angle = improved outcome) were reduced by 12 degrees on average in the IL-1RA group compared to the control for both the capsule intact (P = 0.024) and cut (P = 0.019) states. Conclusions Intra-articular IL-1RA injection was found to diminish knee extension deficits associated with arthrofibrosis in a post-traumatic joint immobilization model.

The finned or dumbo octopods (Octopoda: Cirrata) constitute a cephalopod (Mollusca: Cephalopoda) taxon almost exclusively comprising organisms that inhabit the deep-sea. This renders studying the general biology of adult cirrate specimens a difficult task, but even more so when it comes to gathering knowledge on their early life stages. During his comprehensive research exploits on cephalopod development, the late Sigurd von Boletzky (1942–2020) also sought to shed light on specific adaptations that eggs and embryos of these enigmatic deep-sea octopods might show. Based on his seminal work, the present article sets out to provide additional data on a broad range of early cirrate life stages, including egg capsules without any obvious embryonic stage as well as those containing embryos. These previously unreported specimens obtained from museum collections were analyzed using conventional morphological as well as modern three-dimensional imaging techniques. The present overview includes specimens from four of the five oceans, i.e., the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Southern Ocean. Based on information on cirrate ovum, chorion, and egg capsule size as well as shape gathered from the literature, an attempt is made here for the first time to identify von Boletzky's as well as the specimens introduced here down to at least genus level. The combined data provide novel insights into early life stages of finned octopods, aiming to continue von Boletzky's legacy with regard to developmental research on a still largely enigmatic taxon of extant deep-sea cephalopods.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the value of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) to that of magnetic resonance imaging obtained with extracellular contrast agent (ECA-MRI) for the diagnosis of a tumor capsule in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using histopathologic findings as the standard of reference. Materials and methods: This retrospective study included patients with pathologically-proven resected HCCs with available preoperative contrast-enhanced CT and ECA-MRI examinations. Two blinded radiologists independently reviewed contrast-enhanced CT and ECA-MRI examinations to assess the presence of an enhancing capsule. The histopathological analysis of resected specimens was used as reference for the diagnosis of a tumor capsule. The sensitivity and specificity of CT and ECA-MRI for the diagnosis of a tumor capsule were determined, and an intra-individual comparison of imaging modalities was performed using McNemar test. Inter-reader agreement was assessed using Kappa test. Results: The study population included 199 patients (157 men, 42 women; mean age: 61.3 +/- 13.0 [SD] years) with 210 HCCs (mean size 56.7 +/- 43.7 [SD] mm). A tumor capsule was present in 157/210 (74.8%) HCCs at histopathologic analysis. Capsule enhancement was more frequently visualized on ECA-MRI (R1, 68.6%; R2, 71.9%) than on CT (R1, 44.3%, P < 0.001; R2, 47.6%, P < 0.001). The sensitivity of ECA-MRI was better for the diagnosis of histopathological tumor capsule (R1, 76.4%; R2, 79.6%; P < 0.001), while CT had a greater specificity (R1, 84.9%; R2, 83.0%; P < 0.001). Inter-reader agreement was moderate both on CT (kappa = 0.55; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43-0.66) and ECA-MRI (kappa = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.45-0.70). Conclusion: Capsule enhancement was more frequently visualized on ECA-MRI than on CT. The sensitivity of ECA-MRI was greater than that of CT, but the specificity of CT was better than that of ECA-MRI. (c) 2021 Societe francaise de radiologie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Different levels of pain, with various symptoms, are present in patients with rotator cuff tears. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression of factors related to pain on the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and structures adjacent to the LHBT in patients with supraspinatus tears and to compare the differences in order to verify whether the structures are affected by the condition of the LHBT. Forty patients who underwent arthroscopic supraspinatus repair were enrolled. Patients with an intact LHBT were allocated to group 1 and patients with pathologic LHBTs were allocated to group 2. With the acquisition of tissues from the LHBT, anterior capsule, rotator interval, and subacromial bursa, the expressions of protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P, P75, S100, and CD34 were analyzed using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The gene expression levels of PGP9.5 (p = 0.02), GAP43 (p = 0.03), CGRP (p = 0.007), and CD34 (p = 0.03) from the LHBT were significantly higher in group 2. PGP9.5 (p = 0.04 and p = 0.01), GAP43 (p = 0.02 and p = 0.004), and P75 (p = 0.02 and p = 0.02) from the anterior capsule and rotator interval were also significantly higher in group 2. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased expression of pain-related factors in the anterior capsule and rotator interval of group 2. Enhanced expression of pain-related factors in the LHBT, anterior capsule, and rotator interval of patients with pathologic LHBTs suggests that a pathologic LHBT functions as a pain generator itself and adjacent structures can be influenced by the condition of the LHBT.

Capsular polysaccharides are common virulence factors of extracellular, but not intracellular bacterial pathogens, due to the antiphagocytic properties of these surface structures. It is therefore paradoxical that Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhi, an intracellular pathogen, synthesizes a virulence-associated (Vi) capsule, which exhibits antiphagocytic properties. Here, we show that the Vi capsular polysaccharide has different functions when S. Typhi interacts with distinct subsets of host phagocytes. The Vi capsular polysaccharide allowed S. Typhi to selectively evade phagocytosis by human neutrophils while promoting human macrophage phagocytosis. A screen of C-type lectin receptors identified human DC-SIGN as the receptor involved in macrophage binding and phagocytosis of capsulated S. Typhi. Consistent with the anti-inflammatory activity of DC-SIGN, purified Vi capsular polysaccharide reduced inflammatory responses in macrophages. These data suggest that binding of the human C-type lectin receptor DC-SIGN by the Vi capsular polysaccharide contributes to the pathogenesis of typhoid fever. IMPORTANCE Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhi is the causative agent of typhoid fever. The recent emergence of S. Typhi strains which are resistant to antibiotic therapy highlights the importance of vaccination in managing typhoid fever. The virulence-associated (Vi) capsular polysaccharide is an effective vaccine against typhoid fever, but the role the capsule plays during pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Here, we identify the human C-type lectin receptor DC-SIGN as the receptor for the Vi capsular polysaccharide. Binding of capsulated S. Typhi to DC-SIGN resulted in phagocytosis of the pathogen by macrophages and induction of an anti-inflammatory cytokine response. Thus, the interaction of the Vi capsular polysaccharide with human DC-SIGN contributes to the pathogenesis of typhoid fever and should be further investigated in the context of vaccine development.

Phase separation is a key phenomenon in artificial cell construction. Recent studies have shown that the liquid-liquid phase separation of designed-DNA nanostructures induces the formation of liquid-like condensates that eventually become hydrogels by lowering the solution temperature. As a compartmental capsule is an essential artificial cell structure, many studies have focused on the lateral phase separation of artificial lipid vesicles. However, controlling phase separation using a molecular design approach remains challenging. Here, we present the lateral liquid-liquid phase separation of DNA nanostructures that leads to the formation of phase-separated capsule-like hydrogels. We designed three types of DNA nanostructures (two orthogonal and a linker nanostructure) that were adsorbed onto an interface of water-in-oil (W/O) droplets via electrostatic interactions. The phase separation of DNA nanostructures led to the formation of hydrogels with bicontinuous, patch, and mix patterns, due to the immiscibility of liquid-like DNA during the self-assembly process. The frequency of appearance of these patterns was altered by designing DNA sequences and altering the mixing ratio of the nanostructures. We constructed a phase diagram for the capsule-like DNA hydrogels by investigating pattern formation under various conditions. The phase-separated DNA hydrogels did not only form on the W/O droplet interface but also on the inner leaflet of lipid vesicles. Notably, the capsule-like hydrogels were extracted into an aqueous solution, maintaining the patterns formed by the lateral phase separation. In addition, the extracted hydrogels were successfully combined with enzymatic reactions, which induced their degradation. Our results provide a method for the design and control of phase-separated hydrogel capsules using sequence-designed DNAs. We envision that by incorporating various DNA nanodevices into DNA hydrogel capsules, the capsules will gain molecular sensing, chemical-information processing, and mechanochemical actuating functions, allowing the construction of functional molecular systems.

Purpose: To determine the curative impact of mesalazine (MSZ)-BTVCs combination on ulcerative colitis (UC), and its influence on inflammation and oxidative stress in the patients.Methods: 100 UC patients were randomely assigned to a control group given MSZ capsule treatment only, and a combination group treated with BTVCs and MSZ. Treatment effectiveness, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress in the two groups before and after treatment were compared.Results: The combination group had higher total effectiveness than the control group. The serum levels of MDA, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), TNF-α and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were lower, while serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were markedly increased in patients given combination treatment, when compared with controls. Pre-drug exposure UC disease activity index (UC-DAI) and clinical symptom scores were similar in both cohorts of patients, but the post-treatment scores were statistically decreased, especially in the combination group.Conclusion: The combined use of MSZ and BTVCs was more effective against UC than monotherapy, as it effectively relieved inflammation and oxidative stress in patients, resulting in better clinical efficacy.

Objective. This present study aimed to explore the clinical effects of a novel capsule lumbar interbody fusion (CLIF) on foot drop due to lumbar degenerative diseases. Methods. Between June 2018 and January 2019, a total of 27 patients admitted to our department with lumbar degenerative diseases with associated foot drop were prospectively enrolled. Given the selection of surgical technique, patients were divided into traditional TLIF group and CLIF group. We assessed patients’ neurological status using JOA and VAS score, tibialis anterior muscle strength using MMT score, diameter and hemodynamic parameters of the L5 nerve root using intraoperative ultrasonography (IoUS), and related radiological parameters of the lumbar spine. Operation time, blood loss, and surgery-associated complications were also recorded. Results. The median duration of follow-up was 150 (6–1460) months. At the final follow-up, all patients acquired satisfactory improvement of neurological function. However, patients in the CLIF group showed better early recovery of foot drop three months after operation than those in the TLIF group, with 75% excellent rate. In addition, IoUS suggested that the diameter and hemodynamic parameters of the L5 nerve root were improved better in the CLIF group, which may suggest the correlation between the recovery of foot drop and the status of L5 nerve root. No severe complications were encountered with CLIF. Conclusions. Our preliminary study revealed that the axial tension of L5 nerve root may be involved in the pathological mechanism of foot drop. The novel technique of CLIF can shorten the lumbar spine and can be effective and safe for the treatment of foot drop due to lumbar degeneration-related diseases.

Purpose To evaluate the ultrastructural features of collagen fibrils, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in the Tenon's capsule of buphthalmic eyes. Methods A prospective comparative case series study was conducted on 35 buphthalmic eyes vs 25 control eyes. Children with congenital glaucoma (CG) who underwent a combined trabeculectomy-trabeculotomy procedure with mitomycin C (CTTM); the Tenon's capsule was obtained during the surgical procedure. The control group included children with strabismus, the Tenon's capsule was obtained in the course of strabismus surgery. Both H&E and Masson's trichrome staining were done. The Metalloprotenease-2 (MMP-2), alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunohistochemical staining was performed. Results Mean collagen percentage area by Masson trichrome stain in Tenons capsule was significantly higher in buphthalmic eyes (54.76% ± 0.32 vs 33.71% ± 1.4; P Conclusions Tenon capsule of buphthalmic eyes have their own histopathological features and properties making them more liable for fibrosis with high rate of failure following antiglaucoma surgeries. Such detailed information has not been published before which may aid in the identification of new antifibrotic therapies in management of glaucoma.

Purpose To describe a new technique for removing residual cortical material adjacent to posterior lens capsule during cataract surgery with the help of cohesive ophthalmic viscosurgical devices. Methods In this technique, if there are still cortical remnants and lens epithelial cells left after the routine irrigation–aspiration and polishing at the final steps of cataract surgery, the capsule is filled to about one-third with a highly viscous cohesive ophthalmic viscosurgical device. Rinsing is performed from the anterior chamber with the water jet directed tangentially to the ophthalmic viscosurgical device bolus and towards the posterior capsule, which creates a turbulence creating a “grindstone effect”. The ophthalmic viscosurgical device bolus transforms into a ball and starts to rotate very quickly within the capsule, grinding away the cortical remnants. Results In the first series of 62 cases, there were no intra-operative or post-operative complications. At day 1 there was no corneal oedema and no hypertension of intraocular pressure. Visual outcomes were good with a mean best corrected distance visual acuity of −0.01 ± 0.11 logMAR. Conclusion This technique appears to be effective and fast in removing persistent cortical remnants from the surface of the posterior capsule, while minimising risks such as capsule aspiration during irrigation/aspiration. There is limited pressure and mechanical force applied on the capsule; the anterior chamber and the corneal endothelium remain safe since the ophthalmic viscosurgical device stays inside the capsular bag to its high cohesiveness and molecular weight. More data on a larger cohort of patients is planned to confirm these results and evaluate long-term effects on posterior capsule opacification.

BACKGROUND Incomplete excretion rates are problematic for colon capsule endoscopy (CCE). Widely available booster regimens are suboptimal. Recently published data on one day preparation CCE protocol using castor oil appeared effective. AIM To assess the impact of adding castor oil to a standard split-dose (2-d) preparation in an unselected Western patient cohort. METHODS All patients aged 18 or more referred to our unit for a CCE over a 5-mo period were prospectively recruited. Controls were retrospectively identified from our CCE database. All patients received split bowel preparation with Moviprep® [polyethylene glycol (PEG)-3350, sodium sulphate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium ascorbate and ascorbic acid for oral solution; Norgine B. V, United States], a PEG-based solution used predominantly in our colonoscopy practice. Control booster regimen included Moviprep® with 750 mL of water (booster 1) on reaching the small bowel. A further dose of Moviprep® with 250 mL of water was given 3 h later and a bisacodyl suppository (Dulcolax®) 10 mg after 8 h, if the capsule was not excreted. In addition to our standard booster regimen, cases received an additional 15 mL of castor oil given at the time of booster 1. A nested case control design with 2:1 ratio (control:case) was employed. Basic demographics, completion rates, image quality, colonic transit time, diagnostic yield and polyp detection were compared between groups, using a student t or chi-square tests as appropriate. RESULTS One hundred and eighty-six CCEs [mean age 60 years (18-97), 56% females, n = 104], including 62 cases have been analysed. Indication breakdown included 96 polyp surveillance (51.6%), 42 lower gastrointestinal symptoms (22.6%), 28 due to incomplete colonoscopy (15%), 18 anaemia (9.7%) and 2 inflammatory bowel disease surveillance (1.1%). Overall, CCE completion was 77% (144/186), image quality was adequate/diagnostic in 91% (170/186), mean colonic transit time was 3.5 h (0.25-13), and the polyp detection rate was 57% (106/186). Completion rates were significantly higher with castor oil, 87% cases (54/62) vs 73% controls (90/124), P = 0.01. The number needed to treat with castor oil to result in an additional complete CCE study was 7, absolute risk reduction = 14.52%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.06- 25.97. This effect of castor oil on excretion rates was more significant in the over 60 s, P < 0.03, and in females, P < 0.025. Similarly, polyp detection rates were higher in cases 82% (51/62) vs controls 44% (55/124), P = 0.0001, odds ratio 5.8, 95%CI: 2.77-12.21. Colonic transit times were similar, 3.2 h and 3.8 h, respectively. Image quality was similar, reported as adequate/diagnostic in 90% (56/62) vs 92% (114/124). CONCLUSION In our capsule endoscopy centre, castor oil addition as a CCE booster significantly improved completion rates and polyp detection in an unselected Western cohort.

Purpose. Тo develop a method for the formation of anterior capsulorexis for the prevention of capsule block in cataract phacoemulsification with the implantation of a posterior chamber IOL. Material and methods. 135 people were studied, who were divided into two groups depending on the diameter of the performed anterior capsulorexis (CR). Group I (main) included 67 patients (67 eyes), who underwent CR according to the method proposed by the authors-in the form of an ellipse with a large axis of 7,0-7,5 mm along the tunnel incision and a small axis of 4.0-5.0 mm. Group 2 -68 patients (68 eyes), capsulorexis was produced in a round shape- 5-5.5 mm. Results. Complications during surgery – in patients of group 2, a capsule block and a tear in the anterior capsulorhexis were noted in 2.9% of cases, in 3% of cases posterior capsular fibrosis was diagnosed in each group, which required the performance of posterior capsulorhexis. In the late period in one patient of group 2 endothelial-epithelial dystrophy (EED) of the cornea developed, which required ultraviolet corneal crosslinking followed by keratoplasty. Conclusion. The proposed method for the creation of anterior capsulorexis in cataract phacoemulsification with the implantation of a posterior chamber IOL reliably eliminates the possibility of a capsule block due to the formation an oval shaped capsule hole. In addition, it reduces the risk of damage to the lens capsules, ensures reliable fixation of IOLs in the capsule bag and increases access for posterior capsulorhexis, if necessary. Key words: cataract phacoemulsification, posterior chamber IOL, oval capsulorexis, capsule block.

Active wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) based on simultaneous magnetic actuation and localization (SMAL) techniques holds great promise for improving diagnostic accuracy, reducing examination time and relieving operator burden. To date, the rotating magnetic actuation methods have been constrained to use a continuously rotating permanent magnet. In this paper, we first propose the reciprocally rotating magnetic actuation (RRMA) approach for active WCE to enhance patient safety. We first show how to generate a desired reciprocally rotating magnetic field for capsule actuation, and provide a theoretical analysis of the potential risk of causing volvulus due to the capsule motion. Then, an RRMA-based SMAL workflow is presented to automatically propel a capsule in an unknown tubular environment. We validate the effectiveness of our method in real-world experiments to automatically propel a robotic capsule in an ex-vivo pig colon. The experiment results show that our approach can achieve efficient and robust propulsion of the capsule with an average moving speed of $2.48 mm/s$ in the pig colon, and demonstrate the potential of using RRMA to enhance patient safety, reduce the inspection time, and improve the clinical acceptance of this technology.

Introduction. Due to their high biocompatibility, substances based on nanosized selenium particles, encapsulated in natural or synthetic polymer matrices, are promising materials for the creation of biomedical preparations of diagnostic and therapeutic value. Selenium nanoparticles are successfully used in the diagnosis of various types of cancer. In addition to the diagnostic value, selenium nanoparticles have their own prophylactic and oncological effect. This paper presents the results of a study of the toxicity of the Se nanocomposite encapsulated in the polymer matrix of arabinogalactan (SeAG). The emergence and development of the pathological process in the tissue of the brain, liver and kidneys during subacute administration of this nanocomposite was studied.Materials and methods. Twenty white outbred male rats weighing 200–220 g were used in the work. Animals were orally administered a solution of the selenium nanocomposite at a dose of 500 μg per kilogram of animal body weight for 10 days. Then, using the methods of histological analysis, the severity of the biological response of the organism to the introduction of this nanocomposite was assessed. An analysis of the state of the tissue of the liver, kidneys and the sensorimotor cortex of the brain was carried out.Results. With the intragastric administration of this drug, there is stasis of blood in the portal tracts, a pronounced macrophage reaction and diapedesis of leukocytes in the liver tissue. There is a decrease in the number of normal neurons per unit area, a decrease in the number of astroglia cells and an increase in the number of degeneratively altered neurons in the tissue of the sensorimotor cortex. There is also an increase in connective tissue in the cortex of the kidney, with the formation of fibrosis and a decrease in the area of the Shumlyansky – Bowman capsule.Conclusion. The effect of the investigated nanocomposite is characterized by the development of a pronounced pathological process in the central nervous and hepatorenal systems of the body.