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AbstractThe study investigates the drying behavior and desalination effectiveness of porous ceramic tiles made from fired clay materials like bricks or pottery on soil columns initially saturated with saline solution. Evaporation kinetics experiments compared the drying of saline soil with and without a ceramic tile. For soil without a ceramic cover, salt precipitation formed an efflorescent crust that initially (t ∼ 30 h) reduced the evaporation rate. However, with continued drying, the tensile stress caused cracks in the crust, allowing increased evaporation through the cracks (t > 200 h). When covered with a ceramic poultice, the saline solution was wicked into the porous ceramic by capillary action. Rapid salt efflorescence was observed on the ceramic surface. The ceramic layer initially reduced the soil evaporation rate due to pore clogging caused by salt precipitation. The pore structure characteristics of the ceramics significantly impacted their desalination performance. After an initial fast drying period controlled by evaporation, a reduced drying rate was observed as salt clogging effects became dominant, especially for the low porosity ceramic (t ∼20 h). The porous ceramic poultices could effectively extract salts from the soil, but their desalination efficiency depended critically on their pore structure properties. An industrial-based clay ceramic with large and more connected pores (porosity 0.33) was found to be around 62% more efficient in removing NaCl than a handmade pottery with small pores (porosity 0.18). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly miniaturized miniaturised meander-shaped implantable antenna is proposed for biomedical applications. The antenna has a volume of 12.29 mm3 and is designed with slots only. Using only slots on patch and ground surface, the fabrication of proposed implantable antenna is quite effortless unlike using techniques of sorting pin, metamaterial, and multiple patch stacking. The analysis shows that the proposed antenna has excellent impedance bandwidth of 140 MHz (2.39 GHz to 2.53 GHz) with resonating frequency of 2.41 GHz, circular polarisation with an axial ratio bandwidth of 80 MHz (2.45 GHz to 2.53 GHz), gain of −23.45 dB, acceptable SAR 901 W/KG in industrial, science and medical band (ISM). The detail parametric study of the designed antenna with substrate/superstrate materials, different human body tissues, different depth of penetration in human tissues, and thickness of substrate/superstrate have been analysed successfully. For the authenticity purpose, the results are correlated with the prepared skin mimicking gel (saline solution) in vitro model. The fabricated antenna indicates similar performance as provided by the proposed simulated antenna design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in ovo injection of folic acid (FA) and sulfur amino acids (SAAs) on the mitotic activity of myocytes, performance, relative organ weight, hematological values, and characteristics of broiler chicken carcasses. A total of 1200 fertile eggs from 42-week-old Ross AP© breeders were inoculated in the albumen on the first day of incubation in a completely randomized design with one of the treatments: C—intact eggs; SS: inoculation with 0.5 mL of saline solution; FA: 0.150 mg of FA; SAA: 5.90 mg of L-methionine and 3.40 mg of L-cysteine; or FA/SAA: FA + SAA. The inoculation of SAA did not influence (p > 0.05) the post-hatching characteristics of the chickens. FA inoculation increased (p < 0.05) the expression of the PAX7 and MYF genes in the pectoralis muscle of hatched chicks and reduced (p < 0.05) feed conversion at 42 days of age. The combination of SAA + FA increased (p < 0.05) the depth of the ileal crypt on the 1st day after hatching and the relative weight of the spleen and thymus on the 21st day of life. In conclusion, the inoculation of FA on the 1st day of incubation increases gene expression and improves the performance of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate a potential preventive effect of phycocyanin extract from Spirulina platensis against ethanol- induced hepatorenal toxicity and cognitive behavior impairment in male Wistar rats. The animals were randomly and equally divided into four groups (six animals each): control group received saline solution, ethanol (EtOH) group was injected intraperitoneally with 1 ml/kg of ethanol solution 38% (w/v), phycocyanin groups were treated with 25 (PC1) or 50 (PC2) mg/kg phycocyanin extract followed by ethanol administration. All treatments were conducted for 14 successive days. Results revealed that ethanol induced oxidative stress in brain, liver, and kidney by increasing lipid peroxidation level and SOD and CAT activities. Serum biochemical perturbations were also observed in EtOH group, which was indicated by a significant elevation in ALT, AST, cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, and urea levels. Combined exposure to EtOH with phytocyanin contracted these biochemical alterations. Phycocyanin decreased also EtOH-induced anxiety and ameliorated exploratory behavior assessed by the elevated-plus maze and open field tests respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at evaluating the influence of compatible solutes such as ectoine and hydroxyectoine (HOE), on bacterial cell viability during freeze-drying and storage (at 4 °C and 25 °C), in comparison to the well-established use of trehalose. Three strains, namely Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Levilactobacillus brevis SP-48, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 were used as models demonstrating that the highest survival rate during freeze drying was observed for cells protected with HOE. Although trehalose was more effective during lyophilization, interestingly the combination of trehalose and HOE most efficiently preserved long-term cell viability (viability loss < 0.5 log units after 6 months of storage). Finally, the ability of HOE to contribute to strain resistance in simulated gastrointestinal juices was evaluated and the latter protected all the strains tested more efficiently than all the other solutes, in particular the viability was improved from 58%, 87.5%, and 94% when cells were dried with saline solution to 88%, 98.3%, and 98% when lyophilized with HOE for L. fermentum, L. brevis, and B. lactis, respectively. In conclusion, the addition of HOE to trehalose improves the stability of probiotics during storage and enhances the survivability in simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of direct-feed microbial (DFM) treatment on body weight, serum biochemical indexes, serum immunoglobulins, and serum cytokines was studied. The study was a completely randomized design with 20 growing females Beichuan white goats, weighing 25.11 ± 1.96 kg, divided into two groups of 10 goats per treatment. Goats were offered (1) 10 mL saline solution (Control group) (2) or 10 mL microbials solution (DFM group) on days 0 and 7 for two times. No effect on final body weight and body size was observed between DFM and control group (p > 0.05). DFM treatment had greater serum total protein, globulin, and albumin/globulin ratio than the control treatment (p < 0.05). The concentrations of IgA, IgG, IgM, INF-γ, and IL-2 in DFM group were significantly higher than those in the control group on days 7, 14, and 21 (p < 0.05), and the highest content was detected on day 14 of the experiment. The concentrations of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-2, INF-γ, INF-α, IL-4, and IL-5 in DFM group on day 14 were higher than those on day 0 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, DFM enhanced serum immunoglobulins and cytokines without affecting body weight, body size, and normal serum metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzyme immobilization has been reported as a promising approach to improving parameters such as thermal stability, pH and reusability. In this study, a polyacrylamide cryogel functionalized with L-phenylalanine was prepared to be used in the adsorption of β-glucosidase from Thermoascus aurantiacus, aiming at its separation and also its immobilization on the cryogel matrix. The enzyme was produced by solid state fermentation. First, the adsorption was studied as a function of the pH and the resulting yield (Y, %) and purification factor (PF, dimensionless) were determined (1.57–5.13 and 64.19–91.20, respectively). The PF and yield from eluate samples obtained at pH 3.0 were the highest (5.13 and 91.20, respectively). Then, β-glucosidase was immobilized on the hydrophobic cryogel and the recovery activities (%) were determined as a function of temperature and in the presence of different saline solutions. The values ranged from 14.45 to 45.97. As expected, salt type and ionic strength affected the activity remained in the immobilized β-glucosidase. The average bioreactor activity was 39.9 U/g of dry cryogel and its operational stability was measured, with no decrease in activity being observed during seven cycles. Kinetic parameters of free and immobilized enzyme were determined according to different models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methotrexate (MTX) has been in use for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, and cancer since 1948. Its toxic side effects on tissues and organs have been well documented but splenotoxicity has not been addressed. This study set out to investigate this issue by examining the effectiveness of anti-TNFα agents against MTX-induced toxicity in T lymphocytes and macrophages via the regulation of CD3, CD68, and CD200R. Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were allocated to three groups: control (received saline solution only), MTX (20 mg/kg of single-dose of MTX), and Ada + MTX (single dose of 10 mg/kg Adalimumab before MTX administration). The spleens were removed 5 days after MTX administration. The number of CD3+/mm3cells for the control, MTX and Ada + MTX groups were, respectively, 2.69 ± 0.86, 20.51 ± 2.7, (p = 0.000) and 11.07 ± 2.01 (p = 0.000). The number of CD68+ macrophages/mm3 in the control, MTX and Ada + MTX groups were, respectively, 8.62 ± 1.08, 38.19 ± 1.37 (p = 0.000), and 16.87 ± 12.57 (p = 0.000). The number of macrophages that were CD200R+/mm3 in the control, MTX, and Ada + MTX groups were 3.33 ± 1.66, 25.77 ± 2.37 (p = 0.000), and 8.68 ± 2.66 (p = 0.000), respectively. We also observed that Ada reduced the numerical densities of these cells following MTX administration (p < 0.05). Ada may, therefore, be a promising candidate for the prevention of the deleterious effects on T lymphocytes and macrophages of MTX-induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In human and experimentally induced asthma, a dysfunction of the intra-alveolar-surface active agent (surfactant) has been demonstrated. Type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEII) synthesize, secrete and recycle surfactant. Prior to secretion, intracellular surfactant is stored in specific secretory organelles of AEII. The lamellar bodies (Lb) represent its ultrastructural correlate. The aim of this study was to investigate whether disturbances of the intra-alveolar surfactant are accompanied by alterations in the intracellular surfactant.Material and Methods: Brown-Norway rats were sensitized twice with ovalbumin (OVA) and heat killed Bordetella pertussis bacilli. During airway challenge, an aerosol of 5% ovalbumin/saline solution (0.25 l/min) was nebulized. 24 h after airway challenge, lungs were fixed by vascular perfusion. AEII and their Lb were characterized stereologically by light and electron microscopy.Results: In both groups, AEII were structurally intact. The number of AEII per lung and their number-weighted mean volume did not differ (controls: 49 × 106, 393 µm3; asthmatics: 44 × 106, 390 µm3). A mean of 90 Lb in AEII of asthmatics and of 93 Lb in AEII of controls were evaluated. The Lb mean total volume was 59 µm in asthmatics and 68 µm in controls. Values of both parameters did not reach significance. Also, the size distribution and mean volume of Lb was not influenced by asthma induction, because the volume weighted mean volume of Lb (2.18 µm in asthmatics compared to 1.87 µm in controls) and the numerical weighted mean volume (0.96 µm in asthmatics and 0.75 µm in controls) were comparable in both groups.Conclusion: The obtained results suggest that asthma-induced surfactant dysfunction is not related to disturbances in the intracellular surfactant´s ultrastructural correlates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of the in ovo injection of carbohydrates, antioxidants, and their combination into the stored incubating eggs. To conduct this research, 600 hatching eggs were selected for amniotic injection (on 17.5th embryonic day) from the laying hens of Cobb 500 strain after 14 days of storage, and after hatching, they were distributed for a rearing period in 5 treatments and 5 replicates in a completely randomised design(24 eggs per replicate). Experimental treatments include: (1) Negative control (NC) (without injection), (2) Positive control (PC) (injection of 0.5 ml normal saline solution), (3) Injection of 0.5 ml carbohydrates solution (CS), (4) Injection of 0.5 ml antioxidant solution (AS) and (5) Injection of 0.5 ml (CS) + (AS). The hatching percentage, chicken weight, the number of red cells, lymphocytes and tissue glycogen content in CS + AS treatment increased significantly compared to the control (p<.05). All experimental treatments had a significant improvement compared to the control in terms of the physical quality of chickens and the performance in the entire rearing period (p<.05). Antioxidant activity of the liver tissue for the treatments injected with antioxidants had the most significant difference in comparison with the control (p<.05). The results show that the CS + AS injection leads to a higher improvement of incubation and growth performance by preventing the reduction of glycogen stores, as well as increasing the antioxidant capacity and protection of unsaturated lipids against the stress in hatching period in the stored fertile eggs. Increased egg storage time have detrimental effects on embryonic development and hatching rate. The in ovo injection of carbohydrates by improving glycogen stores in stored fertile eggs is effective in improving performance. The in ovo injection of antioxidants have positive effects on antioxidant activity of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a high mortality rate. In this study, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect and safety of hepatic arterial administration of doxorubicin (Dox)-loaded hollow gold nanospheres (Dox@HAuNSs) combined with photothermal ablation (PTA) in a rabbit VX2 liver cancer model established by implanting VX2 tumour cells into rabbit livers. Rabbits were randomly divided into four treatment groups: physiological saline solution (control); lipiodol and doxorubicin (Dox + Lp); lipiodol and Dox@HAuNS (Dox@PEG-HAuNS + Lp); and lipiodol, Dox@PEG-HAuNS, and photothermal ablation (Dox@PEG-HAuNS + Lp + PTA). Dox release from Dox@PEG-HAuNS in the tumour was detected using fluorescence microscopy. Tumour size and liver-kidney function were assessed in each rabbit preoperatively and on postoperative days 3, 7, and 14. Necrosis, proliferation, and micro-vessel density of VX2 tumours were estimated in peripheral tumour tissues. Dox release from Dox@PEG-HAuNS was increased with a subsequent increase in tumour necrosis in liver tumours after PTA, whereas the tumour volume and proliferation decreased. However, the aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels indicated transient liver damage. Thus, intra-arterial delivery of Dox@PEG-HAuNS combined with PTA can suppress VX2 liver cancer growth. Dox@PEG-HAuNS + Lp + PTA is also associated with transient liver damage in rabbits. The combination of Dox@PEG-HAuNS chemoembolisation and PTA could be a potential therapeutic approach for HCC and it has broad application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eye exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) acid can cause blindness. A 42-year-old man working in a plating operation presented to the emergency department following a workplace incident. He had unintentionally fallen into a tank containing a mixture of 25% Cr(VI) and sulfuric acid (2.0 g/L) at a temperature of approximately 40 °C. The tank dimensions tank were 8 (depth) × 4 (width) × 3 (length) meters. A colleague rescued him from the tank, and he underwent a full body wash at the worksite. Emergency services adequately flushed both eyes with a 0.9% saline solution. He had significant corneal injury; however, no other significant injuries occurred. Upon presentation at the emergency department, the patient underwent a whole-body shower, and both eyes were flushed with 0.9% saline solution. As a treatment for acute chromium poisoning, he received dimercaprol and ascorbic acid. Additionally, he received eye drops for chemical corneal injury. The patient later underwent bilateral corneal transplants for chemical corneal injury but remained nearly blind. We describe a case of severe chemical corneal injury with limbal stem cell deficiency, leading to blindness due to Cr (VI) acid exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study determined the influence of in ovo (IO) vitamin E and ascorbic acid injections on hatching performance, chick development and antioxidant content of different tissues in day-old quail chicks. The experiment compared a control group (C: non-injection group) and injection groups, which had the yolk sac injected with 3.75 mg α- tocopherol (T1), or had the amniotic sac injected with 0.9% saline solution (T2), 2.5 mg ascorbic acid containing 0.9% saline solution (T3) and 2.5 mg ascorbic acid solution (T4), respectively. 2. Mean relative asymmetry (RA) of bilateral lengths increased in the T2, T3 and T4 groups, whereas it decreased in the T1 group compared to C. The highest total carotene content in the residual yolk sac (RYS) was seen for the T1 group, which was significantly higher compared to T2, T3 and T4 groups. The highest total carotene concentration in the liver was in the T1 group. 3. The concentrations of delta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol and total vitamin E in RYS tissue were significantly higher in the T1 group than T2, T3 and T4 groups. Alpha-tocopherol and total vitamin E levels in the liver were significantly higher in the T2 and T4 groups than C. 4. In ovo injections of vitamin E and ascorbic acid to different embryonic sacs caused antioxidant-specific effects on developmental stability of bilateral traits, RYS absorption, concentrations of total carotene and derivatives of vitamin E in newly hatched quail chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solute dynamics in a symmetrical poly (ethylene oxide)-poly (propylene oxide)-poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymer, P-123 were studied in aqueous and saline solutions as a function of additives, temperature using spectroscopic techniques. We have chosen a hydrophobic solute Coumarin-6 (C-6) as probe to study the photophysics and rotational dynamics in the above systems. We found that the rotational dynamics of C-6 is hindered in saline solution compared to that in aqueous solution of P-123. Therefore, in the saline solution of P-123, C-6 faced more restricted environment compared to the aqueous solution of P-123. In the absence of saline, at a temperature higher than cmt, we observed that addition of 0.02 M n-hexanol decreases the rotational relaxation time compared to that in P-123. Whereas, addition of 0.02 M n-hexylamine the rotational relaxation remains almost same compared to that in P-123. Therefore, n-hexanol affect more on the solute dynamics compared to n-hexylamine because of its preferential partitioning in the micellar phase owing to its greater hydrophobic ranking compared to n-hexylamine. In the saline solution we observed that addition of 0.02 M n-hexanol on P-123 solution affect more on the rotational dynamics of C-6 compared to the addition of 0.02 M n-hexylamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: C-Phycocyanin is a protein with anti-scavenger, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions against agents that cause cellular damage. The cardioprotective action of C-phycocyanin against acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has not been studied in animal models. Objective: To investigate C-phycocyanin's effect on oxidative stress, inflammation and cardiac damage in a model of isoproterenol-induced AMI. Materials and methods: Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (1) shamþvehicle (0.9% saline solution by oral gavage, OG); (2) shamþC-phycocyanin (50mg/kg/d, OG); (3) AMIþvehicle, and (4) AMIþCphycocyanin. AMI was induced by administering isoproterenol (20, 10, 5 and 3mg/kg each dose per day), and serum cardiac enzymes were quantified. After five days, the animals were euthanized; the heart was dissected to determine oxidative stress, redox environment, inflammation and cardiac damage markers. Results: We observed that C-phycocyanin reduced AMI-increased cardiac enzymes (CK by about 53%, CKMB by about 60%, AST by about 16% and ALT by about 21%), lipid peroxidation (57%), reactive oxygen species (50%), nitrites (46%), oxidized glutathione (41%), IL1b (3%), INFc (5%), TNFa 3%), Bcl2 (37%), Bax (43%), COX2 (21%) and caspase 9 (61%). Finally, C-phycocyanin reduced AMI-induced aberrant histological changes related to myonecrosis, interstitial oedema and inflammatory infiltration in the heart muscle. Conclusions: C-Phycocyanin prevents AMI-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and heart damage. This study is the first report that employed C-phycocyanin in an animal model of AMI and supports the potential use of C-phycocyanin in the management of AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Acute lung injury (ALI) is a complex, severe inflammation disease with high mortality, and there is no specific and effective treatment for ALI. Qingfei Xiaoyan Wan (QFXYW) has been widely used to treat lung-related diseases for centuries. Objective: This study evaluates the potential effects and elucidates the therapeutic mechanism of QFXYW against LPS induced ALI in mice. Materials and methods: BALB/c Mice in each group were first orally administered medicines (0.9% saline solution for the control group, 0.5 mg/kg Dexamethasone, or 1.3, 2.6, 5.2 g/kg QFXYW), after 4 h, the groups were injected LPS (1.0 mg/kg) to induce ALI, then the same medicines were administered repeatedly. The transcriptomics-based system pharmacological analyses were applied to screen the hub genes, RT-PCR, ELISA, and protein array assay was applied to verify the predicted hub genes and key pathways. Results: QFXYW significantly decreased the number of leukocytes from (6.34 ± 0.51) × 105/mL to (4.01 ± 0.11) × 105/mL, accompanied by the neutrophil from (1.41 ± 0.19) × 105/mL to (0.77 ± 0.10) × 105/mL in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Based on Degree of node connection (Degree) and BottleNeck (BN), important parameters of network topology, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network screened hub genes, including IL-6, TNF-α, CCL2, TLR2, CXCL1, and MMP-9. The results of RT-PCR, ELISA, and protein chip assay revealed that QFXYW could effectively inhibit ALI via multiple key targets and the cytokine-cytokine signalling pathway. Conclusions: This study showed that QFXYW decreased the number of leukocytes and neutrophils by attenuating inflammatory response, which provides an important basis for the use of QFXYW in the treatment of ALI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucalyptus grandis presents low durability, and due to its anatomical characteristics, impregnation with chemicals is not an effective alternative to increase it. This work analyses the effect that thermal modification carried out in an oxygen depleted atmosphere has on mass, density, hygroscopicity, chemical composition of the cell wall and decay resistance against locally collected wild strains of wood destroying Basidiomycetes, Trametes versicolor and Pycnoporus sanguineus. E. grandis boards were modified in a vacuum environment (P = –100 kPa) at 160°C, 180°C and 200°C for 1, 2 and 3 h. Hygroscopicity was determined by a sorption isotherm over saturated saline solutions at 25°C. The cell wall composition was characterized by the content of structural carbohydrates, lignin and total extractives. A mini-block fungal test was performed by exposing treated wood samples to mycelia, using Populus sp. as reference. The results showed that the thermal treatment caused mass and density reduction. Modified samples showed a reduction in xylose content while lignin content increased, and cellulose content remained constant. Treated samples presented lower hygroscopicity, especially the ones modified at higher temperatures. The analysis by the Hailwood-Horrobin model showed that the main effect occurred at the monomolecular level, causing a reduction of the sorption capacity of the treated wood. The fungi test evidenced that the modification increased the decay resistance of E. grandis against T. versicolor and P. sanguineus. Both fungi were capable of degrading modified wood, but had limited activity, explained by a reduction of moisture content and a change in the chemical composition of the wood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, different combinations of three products (Lithovit-Standard: Litho, monopotassium-phosphate: MKP and acetyl salicylic acid: ASA) were tested on tomato plants irrigated with five saline solutions (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 dS/m). The aim was to determine the possible complementary effects of these products applied separately and in different sequence at vegetative (11DAT: days after transplantation), flowering (25DAT) and fruit formation (39DAT). Control salt-stress plants were not subjected to product application. The data showed that the combination Asp-Litho-MKP improved total chlorophyll content and reduced the most cell electrolyte leakage compared to control. ASP-MKP-Litho treatment improved fruit number by an average of three to four fruits compared to control at all EC levels and maximized weight of individual fruits under EC 2, 4, and 10 dS/m. Yields in plants treated with ASP-MKP-Litho were higher by almost two to three folds than those of control plants. Plants treated by ASP-MKP-Litho had the highest contents of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg at all ECs. It was concluded that the three products had complementary effects on salt-stressed tomato crop if applied in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluate histomorphometry of ectopic and eutopic endometrial tissues in receptor mice. Method: Eighteen female Balb/c were divided into 3 groups, 6 animals each: GI Control, no procedure; GII – Sham, animals that had the same procedures as GIII without receiving the ectopic endometrial implant. Instead, they received saline solution; GIII – endometriosis model, animals had surgical intervention with an ectopic endometrial implant. GI and GIII mice were treated with 17β-estradiol, 100 µg/kg each. All animals were euthanized to collect uterine horns, which were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde, embedded in paraffin, stained with Hematoxilin and Eosin and submitted to histomorphometric analyzes. Data underwent one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test. Results: Local tissue growth, showing important lesions and adhesions, as well as dark cysts were noticed. In GIII group, there was an increase in number of blood vessels and glands (GIII ≥ GI and GIII p >.001). Thickening of the GIII endometrial epithelial was also evident (GIII ≥ GI and GIII. p >.001). We also noticed an increase in the number of eosinophils (GIII (GIII ≥ GI and GIII. p >.001). Conclusion: Easy to perform model, capable of reproducing morphological endometriosis characteristics. From our findings, there was an increase of endometrial thickness as well as an increase in the eosinophils population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal volvulus can cause morbidity and mortality. Surgical reduction, on the other hand, could result in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Hydrogen rich saline solution (HRSS neutralizes free radicals in the body. This study aimed to investigate the effects of HRSS in I/R injury in experimental intestinal volvulus in rats. Thirty rats were randomly allocated into 5 groups. All procedures were done under general anesthesia and sterile conditions in each animal. Five ml/kg of saline and HRSS were administered intraperitoneally (ip) in Sham (Group 1) and HRSS (Group 2) groups, respectively. Groups 3, 4, and 5 constituted the study groups in which volvulus was created in a 5-cm- long ileal segment 2 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. After 2 hours the volvuli were reduced and following 2 hours of reperfusion, these segments were removed. In volvulus-I/R group (Group 3) no additional procedure was done. HRSS was administered shortly before reperfusion (reduction of the volvulus) in Treatment I (Group 4) and 1 h before experimental volvulus in Treatment II (Group 5) groups. Blood and intestinal tissue samples were obtained from all rats at the 4th hour. Both tissue and blood total oxidant (TOS) and antioxidant status (TAS) levels were determined and tissue histomorphologies were studied. Oxidative stress indices (TOS ÷ TAS) (OSI) were calculated. Tissue TOS and OSI levels and histomorphological injury scores were statistically lower in treatment groups than I/R group, whereas blood TOS and OSI levels were similar between the groups. This study provides biochemical and histomorphological evidence that HRSS prevents intestinal damage in I/R injury caused by volvulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acellular dermal matrices (ADM) are a suitable alternative to autogenous soft tissue grafts (ASG). The aim of this study was to analyze the biomechanical properties and architectural features of ASG and ADM. ASG were harvested from the hard palate of fresh frozen body donors as connective tissue grafts and compared to ADM of porcine origin (NovoMatrix, NM; mucoderm, MD). Maximum load (ML, Newton [N]) and expansion (E, [mm]) were measured after rehydration in saline solution by tensile strength measurement. Light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to analyze the architectural features of ASG and ADM in high resolution. ASG demonstrated a significantly decreased ML compared to NM and MD (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.019). NM showed a significantly increased ML compared to MD (p = 0.001). ASG demonstrated a non-significantly reduced E compared to NM (p = 0.13) and a significantly increased E compared to MD (p = 0.025). NM showed an increased E compared to MD (p < 0.0001). LM and SEM highlighted the surface characteristics and internal structures of ASG and ADM, such as the surface compact layer of MD and the densely packed, parallel running and ordered collagen fibers of NM and MD. Significant differences concerning the biomechanical properties and architectural features of ASG, and ADM were found. Information about the biomechanical properties and architectural features of ASG and ADM can contribute to a better understanding of the clinical performance and extend the application area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Techniques using membranes for the treatment of wastewaters usually promote higher quality of treated water when compared to other processes. Among them, pervaporation has advantages in terms of selectivity in addition to low working pressure, which can prevent clogging problems. Polysulfone and polyurethane have complementary characteristics and are interesting in the context of membranes for industrial applications. In this sense, the aim of this work was to prepare and characterize polysulfone/polyurethane-based membranes and tested them with a simulated wastewater containing the reactive black dye and sodium chloride by pervaporation. In their manufacture, thermal treatment (at 60°C) and photo-radiation treatment (using ultraviolet light) were also applied. The characterizations were performed using different analytical tools. In general, it was possible to verify that all membranes have a dense layer. The thermal analysis allowed to define that the indicated working temperature is below 50°C. With respect to the simulated wastewater treatment, all membranes reached 100% selectivity. Concerning the saline solution, the mean selectivity was around 98.5%. Moreover, the permeate flow values were within the range presented by commercial membranes ranging from 1.6 to 2.4 kg m−2 h−1. Although for the photoirradiated membranes the photo-graft reaction has occurred, among all membranes, the blend without any treatment stood out from the others, presenting the highest permeate flow of the simulated wastewater. Finally, the results reveal that these membranes are capable of recovering wastewater from textile processes, in addition to having the potential to remove salts from water through the pervaporation process. Highlights Polysulfone/polyurethane-based membranes were not yet evaluated for wastewater recovery. Modifications in the membrane characteristics promoted variations in the permeate flow. Changes in physical–chemical properties of membrane as a result of a photoinitiation reaction. Removal efficiency achieved was 100% for reactive black dye and 98.5% for sodium chloride. A new way of performing pervaporation on the recovery of aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adhesions are a common consequence of abdomino-pelvic surgery. Efficacy of available adhesion prevention agents is discussed controversially. Here, we used the adhesion barrier 4DryField PH: a powder, which is transformed into a barrier gel with saline solution. The study includes 40 consecutive patients with surgeries for adhesiolysis, endometriosis and other gynaecological pathologies and subsequent second look interventions. The intervention group (n = 17) received 4DryField PH gel while control patients (n = 23) did not receive any adhesion prevention. Severity and extent of adhesion formation were scored during both interventions using an established score. Direct comparison between first and second interventions showed that extent and severity of adhesions could be reduced significantly using 4DryField PH gel. In contrast, in the control group, extent was not reduced and severity was even significantly higher. Direct comparison of second look laparoscopies revealed that adhesion extent and severity were significantly lower in the 4DryField PH than in the control group. What is already known on this subject? Adhesion formation after gynaecologic surgeries is known to be frequent and highly problematic as it directly induces complications and additionally makes subsequent surgeries more difficult. The effectiveness of established adhesion barriers is not sufficient to tackle these problems adequately. What the results of this study add? This is the first controlled study using the relatively new adhesion barrier 4DryField PH. It yields a significant reduction of extent as well as severity of adhesions, while adhesiolysis surgery alone does not solve the problem. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Usage of 4DryField PH gel seems to be a good approach to solve the adhesion problem of gynaecologic surgery in general and the reformation problem of adhesiolysis surgery specifically. The results should be confirmed in a larger prospective randomised controlled trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim of reducing the cost of ovaprim in induced breeding, the present study was conducted to evaluate the use of diluted ovaprim with normal saline solution at levels of 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% in the induced breeding of Clarias gariepinus. Ten gravid female and ten matured male CG were obtained from the Pilot Aquaculture Centre (weight range of 500 g–1000 g). In all, ten (10) spawning tests were conducted. Females under each treatment were injected around the dorsal fin and after close to 24 hours, each female was stripped of her eggs, total number of eggs A-12982 (40.2 g), B-12659 (39.2 g), C-12336 (38.2 g), D-0 (0 g) and E-0 (0 g). After twenty-four hours of the incubation period, total number of hatched eggs were determined and the unfertilized eggs that turned whitish were determined using the volumetric counting method. The percentage of hatchability of stripped eggs was A-65% (6299), B-62% (6008) and C-69% (6686), with no noteworthy (P >.05) among the three treatments, whereas percentage survival of the fry was 3124 (49.6%), 2644 (44%) and 3610 (54%) for A, B, and C treatments respectively. From the findings of our research, the study recommends the use of treatment C in induced breeding of catfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of different thawing methods on the quality of frozen cuttlefish, six different thawing methods were used: hydrostatic thawing (HT), flowing water thawing (FWT), saline solution thawing (SWT), ultrasonic water thawing (UWT), microwave thawing (MT), and 4°C refrigerator thawing (RT). In this study, the water retention (thawing loss rate, centrifugal loss rate, and cooking loss), pH value, malondialdehyde content, TVB-N value, and sulfhydryl content were measured to evaluate the quality after thawing. Protein secondary structure was measured using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, protein tertiary structure was obtained by fluorescence spectroscopy and water migration was determined using low-field NMR spectroscopy. The results showed that the microwave thawing time was the shortest, but the water holding capacity after thawing was the worst, and the TVB-N content was the highest at 14.31 mg/100 g. Ultrasonic thawing led to the best water holding capacity, but ultrasound promoted the oxidation of protein and fat. Microscopic observation showed that the muscle fiber bundles in the saline solution thawing samples were compactly arranged and intact, with minimal gaps. The samples thawed in saline solution had the highest hardness and chewiness. The results of comprehensive analysis showed that saline solution thawing and ultrasonic water thawing are more suitable for thawing cuttlefish, and this study provides some theoretical basis for the selection of thawing methods in the actual production of cuttlefish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the possible adverse effects and safe dose range of intravitreal colistin, an antibiotic, after its intravitreal application. Twenty eyes of 20 adult male and female New Zealand white rabbits were selected. Various concentrations of colistin were prepared. In each rabbit, 0.1 mL of colistin solution or saline solution was injected intravitreally into the right eye. Electroretinographic recordings were taken before and 2 weeks after injection. Histopathological examination was made using a light microscope following enucleation and fixation procedures. In histopathologic cross-sections, the differences between drug-injected eyes and control eyes were evaluated. Electroretinographic examination showed a decrease of 30% as a significant value in the a and b wave amplitudes of the rabbits that injected 400 µg/0.1 ml and higher concentrations. Histological examination revealed histiocytic infiltration, histiocytic vacuoles, inflammation, and retinal degeneration in rabbit eyes given 400 µg/0.1 ml, 800 µg/0.1 ml, and 1.6 mg/0.1 ml concentrations of colistin. Based on our findings, the safe concentration of colistin is 0.2 mg/0.1 ml. Administration of 0.4 mg/0.1 ml was associated with cataract development, electrophysiological depression, and pathological changes in retinal layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allogeneic cortical bone plates (CP) are used for alveolar ridge augmentation. Since CP are freeze-dried and dehydrated during processing, the breaking strength (BS) and the flexibility (FX) are reduced, resulting in a relevant risk for plate fractures during insertion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of rehydration time on the biomechanical properties (BS & FX) of CP in-vitro and in vivo. 40 CP were randomly divided into four experimental groups. (A) untreated control (n = 10), rehydration for 10 (B), 30 (C) and 60 (D) minutes in 0.9% saline solution (n = 10 each). BS [Newton, N] and FX [mm] (force till fracture and distance of deflection to the breaking point) were analyzed. Besides, architectural features of all CP groups were visualized and examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, the frequency of CP fractures of rehydrated- vs. non-rehydrated CP was retrospectively analyzed in 6 patients. Compared to the control group, significantly increased BS and FX were demonstrated after 10, 30 and 60 minutes of rehydration (p each ≤ 0.035). After a rehydration time of 10 minutes, no additional increase of BS and FX was seen when compared to30 and 60 minutes (p each = 1.0). SEM scans demonstrated that the CP fracture characteristics were influenced by the different rehydration protocols. The frequency of CP fractures was reduced in patients by CP rehydration. The biomechanical properties of CP can be significantly improved by 10 min of rehydration, resulting in an increased BS and FX, that might be clinically relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for methods that identify early toxicity, induced by chemotherapy, is urgent. Changes in the biodistribution of radiopharmaceuticals could give information on early toxicity. Ten-week-old CD1 male mice were divided into four groups. Two groups were administered a weekly dose of 5 mg/kg of doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) for 5 weeks and the control groups were administered saline solution. One week after the end of treatment, the biodistribution of 18F-FDG and 67Ga-citrate were carried out, as was the quantification of plasma enzymes CK, CK-MB, LDH and AST. All enzymes were higher in the treated animals, but only significant (p < 0.05) in the case of CK-MB. 18F-FDG uptake increased in all organs of treated animals except retroperitoneal fat, being significant in spleen, brain, heart, liver, lung, kidney, and inguinal fat. 67Ga-citrate had a more complex pattern. The uptake in the DOX group was higher in spleen, lung, kidney, testes, and gonadal fat, it did not change in brain, heart, and liver, and it was lower in the rest of the organs. It only showed significant differences in lung and pancreas. A thorough discussion of the possible causes that produced the change in biodistributions of both radiopharmaceuticals is included. The pilot study showed that both radiopharmaceuticals could identify early multi-organ toxicity induced by DOX. Although 18F-FDG seems to be better, 67Ga-citrato should not be ruled out a priori. The detection of early toxicity would serve to adopt treatments that prevent its progression, thus improving patient's quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt-lake brines containing high lithium (Li) contents are highly saline solutions with total dissolved solids on the order 300 g/L with Li+ concentrations around 1 g/L only. A drastic increase in the molar ratio of Li+ to other cations is the most important issue for practical Li recovery. We developed a novel λ-MnO2 adsorbent in order to selectively recover lithium from such brine. In this study, we investigated the adsorption characteristics such as adsorption capacity and selectivity of Li+ by batch adsorption and chromatographic separation using seawater and brine. The λ-MnO2 adsorbent synthesized by a hydrometallurgical method had higher adsorption capacity for Li+ than the adsorbent prepared by a pyrometallurgical process. The λ-MnO2 adsorbent shows an effective separation and recovery ability for Li+ from the large amounts of alkali and alkali earth metals such as Na+, K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+. The selective recovery of Li+ from the artificial seawater was performed by using chromatographic separation to achieve 200 times concentration of Li+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to describe a simple strategy highlighting the help of correct positioning of bevels at irrigation tips to ensure an appropriate lavage with high hydraulic pressure in the arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint. Two simple markings on both needle hubs, as described herein, could be helpful in ensuring appropriate lavage with high hydraulic pressure in the arthrocentesis of the TMJ. Two simple markings on both needle hubs could be helpful in ensuring appropriate lavage with high hydraulic pressure in the arthrocentesis of the TMJ. [Extracted from the article]