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Background Methods Key results Conclusions & inferences Chronic constipation is a gastrointestinal functional disorder which affects patient quality of life. Therefore, many studies were oriented to search herbal laxative agents. In this study, we investigated the phytochemical composition of beetroot juice (BJ) and its laxative potential in an experimental model of constipation and colonic dysmotility induced by loperamide (LOP) in Wistar rats.Animals were concurrently pretreated with LOP (3 mg/kg, b.w., i.p.) and BJ (5 and 10 mL/kg, b.w., p.o.), or yohimbine (2 mg/kg, b.w., i.p.), during 1 week. The laxative activity was determined based on the weight, frequency, and water content of the feces matter. The gastric‐emptying test and intestinal transit were determined. Colon histology was examined, and oxidative status was evaluated using biochemical‐colorimetric methods.The in vivo study revealed that LOP induced a significant inhibition of gastrointestinal motility, negative consequences on defecation parameters, oxidative stress, and colonic mucosa lesions. Conversely, administration of BJ reestablished these parameters and restored colonic oxidative balance. Importantly, BJ treatment protected against LOP‐induced inflammatory markers (pro‐inflammatory cytokines and WBC) and the increase in intracellular mediators such as hydrogen peroxide, free iron, and calcium levels.This study demonstrated that the bioactive compounds in BJ provided an anti‐constipation effect by modulating intestinal motility and regulating oxidative stress and inflammation induced by LOP intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A growing interest in using Nigella sativa oil (NSO) in the prevention or treatment of several cardiovascular diseases has prompted this study. The research aims to investigate the effect of NSO on cardiac damage prevention after long-term administration in induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. Methods: NSO was analyzed for its fatty acids composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and administered in rats before and after isoproterenol (45 mg/kg body weight) induced myocardial infarction. The following parameters were assessed: electrocardiograms, histopathological examination, serum biochemical aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), serum and heart inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1b), and interleukin 6 (IL-6)), and tissue oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and the total thiols (THIOL)). Results: Linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were approximately 89% of total fatty acids while palmitic acid (C16:0) was 6.10%. Administration of NSO for 28 days helped in preventing QT and QTc interval prolongation and reduced heart rate (HR), after MI induction. The histological assessment showed improvement in myofibrillary degeneration and necrosis and also better reduced inflammatory process in the groups treated with NSO. In serum, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1b and IL-6 were downregulated in chronic conditions (for IL-1b, NSO vs. control was 86.09vs 150.39 pg/mL, and for IL-6 NSO vs. control was 78.00 vs. 184.98 pg/ml). In the heart tissue, the downregulation was observed only for TNF in both acute and chronic conditions (acute NSO vs. control was 132.37 vs. 207.63 pg/mL, and chronic NSO vs. control was 135.83 vs. 183.29 pg/ml). The pro-oxidant parameters TOS, NO, MDA, and OSI, were reduced in the groups treated with NSO only after 14 days of treatment, suggesting that the NSO antioxidant effect is time-dependent. Conclusions: NSO administration might have a favourable impact on the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation processes after MI induction in rats, and it is worth considering its administration as an adjuvant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although peripheral nerve injury is not life-threatening, it causes significant disability. Following these damages, ischemia and inflammatory processes occur, resulting in neurological dysfunction. Several medications have been explored to alleviate the symptoms of peripheral nerve injury. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate how crocin (CR) and azithromycin (AZ) affected sciatic nerve crush injuries in rats. Materials & Methods: Five groups were established using 40 adult male rats: control, lesion, AZ, CR and AZ+CR. Except for the control group, sciatic nerve injury was surgically induced in the other groups. AZ and CR were administered alone or together to three treatment groups for seven days. Following the behavioral evaluations, sections of the sciatic nerve were stained for immunohistochemical, histological and morphometric assessment. Results: CR treatment's efficacy was more pronounced than AZ's (P=0.001). CR was found to be less efficacious than combination therapy involving AZ and CR, as determined by sciatic functional index (P=0.001), hot plate (P=0.001), and immunohistochemical analysis (P=0.001). In the remaining evaluations, no significant difference existed between the AZ+CR and CR groups (P> 0.05). Conclusion: This study found that both AZ and CR significantly improved the recovery of sciatic nerve injuries in rats, with CR being more effective. The combination of AZ and CR showed even greater benefits in some assessments compared to CR alone, although no significant differences were observed in other evaluations. These findings suggest that CR is a promising treatment for peripheral nerve injury and that combination therapy may enhance certain aspects of recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the potential therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of menstrual blood-derived stem cells (MenSCs) transplantation combined with exercise training in promoting recovery in rats with spinal cord injury (SCI) through transcriptome sequencing analysis. Methods Female SD rats aged two months were selected and a SCI model was established by a hemisection at the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10). The rats were then divided into two groups: the Cell and Treadmill Training (CTMT) group, which received MenSCs transplantation and treadmill training after SCI, and the SCI group (control), with 12 rats in each group. One week after modeling, the CTMT group received a microinjection of 1×105 MenSCs at the injury site, followed by two weeks of weight-supported aerobic exercise training. Spinal cord tissue from the injury site was selected for transcriptome sequencing, and mRNA expression data from both the SCI and CTMT groups were analyzed. Differential gene expression, GO (Gene Ontology) functional enrichment, KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were performed. Motor function recovery was assessed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) score, while histopathological changes at the injury site were evaluated through hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and Western blotting were used to verify the expression of differentially expressed genes. Results Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed 247 upregulated genes and 174 downregulated genes in the CTMT group compared to the SCI group. Notably, genes such as Bdnf, Hmox1, Sd4, Mmp3, and Cd163 were significantly upregulated [|log2(FoldChange)| ≥ 0.66, P<0.05]. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and GO functional enrichment analysis indicated that these differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in growth and development, metabolic reactions, and immune-inflammatory processes, such as axon growth and the electron transport chain. The Bdnf gene was notably enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The BBB score showed that MenSCs transplantation combined with exercise training significantly improved the motor function of SCI rats. HE staining revealed that pathological changes at the injury site were significantly reduced in the treatment group. Furthermore, real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting confirmed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and protein expression levels in the CTMT group were significantly higher than those in the SCI group (P<0.001). Conclusion The combined exercise training with MenSCs effectively promotes the recovery of motor function in SCI rats by upregulating BDNF expression, providing a novel strategy for SCI treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the impact of anti-reflux modified duodenal exclusion surgery on glucose metabolism in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and to elucidate the role of the duodenum in maintaining glucose homeostasis. Methods Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 5 weeks were fed a high-fat diet and induced with T2DM using low-dose streptozotocin. Thirty-six rats that met the T2DM model criteria were randomly divided into three groups: the simple duodenal exclusion surgery group (DE group), the anti-reflux modified duodenal exclusion group (MDE group), and the sham operation group (SO group), with 12 rats in each group. Gastroenterography was performed 4 weeks after surgery, and the body weight, fasting blood glucose levels, and serum glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) concentrations were measured before surgery and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-surgery. Eight weeks post-surgery, the rats were euthanized, and a 1 cm segment of the biliopancreatic loop was collected from each group for pathological sectioning and HE staining to observe the intestinal mucosal villus length under an optical microscope. Results Gastroenterography showed that there was significant reflux of the contrast agent into the duodenal lumen in the DE group, while no reflux was observed in the MDE group. At one week post-surgery, the body weights of rats in all three groups significantly decreased compared to before surgery (P< 0.05), and then the body weights of all groups increased over time, with no significant differences between the groups (P>0.05). Compared with the SO group, the fasting blood glucose levels in the MDE and DE groups significantly decreased at all time points post-surgery (P<0.05), while GLP-1 concentrations significantly increased (P<0.05). The fasting blood glucose levels in the MDE group were lower than those in the DE group at all time points post-surgery (P<0.05), but there were no significant differences in serum GLP-1 concentrations between the MDE and DE groups (P>0.05). Regarding intestinal mucosal morphology, the villus lengths of the biliopancreatic loops in the MDE group were significantly shorter than those in the DE and SO groups (P<0.05). Conclusion Anti-reflux modified duodenal exclusion surgery effectively improves glucose metabolism in T2DM rats by preventing the reflux of chyme into the diverted duodenum, thereby enhancing its hypoglycemic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aims to monitor the mRNA ratio of podocin to nephrin (PNR) in glomerular podocytes of early diabetic kidney disease (DKD) rat models. The feasibility of using PNR as an early diagnostic indicator for DKD was evaluated by comparing it with the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (U-ACR). Additionally, the early intervention effects of valsartan and fosinopril sodium on DKD were compared. Methods The DKD rat model was established by caudal intravenous injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at a dosage of 60 mg/kg. The early changes in PNR and U-ACR were monitored and compared, followed by timely intervention with valsartan and fosinopril sodium. Hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE) was used to observe glomerular structure, while transmission electron microscopy examined the ultrastructure of glomerular podocytes. Results PNR reached the critical value(≥1) on day 9 after modeling, earlier than U-ACR, which reached the critical value(≥30 mg/g) on day 15. Intervention with valsartan and fosinopril sodium on day 9 after modeling significantly reduced U-ACR (P < 0.05), with lowdose valsartan showing better results than high-dose (P>0.05), while high-dose fosinopril sodium outperformed low-dose (P>0.05). Both low doses of valsartan and fosinopril sodium significantly reduced PNR (P<0.05), with no significant effect observed for high doses. The interventions with valsartan and fosinopril sodium improved and maintained glomerular structure and podocyte arrangement. Conclusion PNR changes earlier than U-ACR, indicating its potential as an early diagnostic marker for DKD in rats. Early intervention with valsartan and fosinopril sodium demonstrates a therapeutic effect on DKD in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) prepared by the methods of "green" bionanotechnological synthesis is considered a promising food additive and food ingredient. At the same time, the risk of reducing the bioavailability of minerals due to their adsorption on BNC fibers having a high specific surface area and high adsorption and ion exchange capacity cannot be excluded. We studied the effect of oral administration of BNC on the accumulation of macronutrients and trace elements included in the diet in the liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Male Wistar rats received BNC at doses of 0 (control), 1, 10, and 100 mg/kg body weight as part of their diet for 8 weeks. The content of 30 macronutrients and trace elements in the liver and kidneys was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. It was found that BNC at all doses did not significantly change the content of the main essential macronutrients and trace elements in the organs (Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Se, and Zn), which indicates the absence of a negative effect on their bioavailability. Among other elements, a statistically significant decrease in the content of As, B, Cd, Co, and Pb in the liver and an increase in Al, B, Ba, Ni, and Pb in the kidneys were revealed (more than 20% of the control). The revealed decrease in the bioaccumulation of cobalt can indicate inhibition of assimilation of certain chemical forms of this trace element under the action of BNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In experiments on male Wistar rats, the stages of adaptive changes in the rhythm of periodic electrical activity in the small intestine during food deprivation were identified and the effect of GABA on changes of the rhythm under these conditions was assessed. It was found that on days 1-3 of food deprivation, the migrating myoelectric complex (MMC) in the small intestine is preserved, but the cycle becomes rarer. On days 4-6, MMC disappears, irregular and regular activity with no periods of quiescence is recorded. On days 7-9, predominantly irregular activity of the small intestine with short quiescence periods is observed. Enteral administration of GABA at different stages of food deprivation modulates electrical activity and preserves small intestinal MMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied interrelationships between behavioral parameters, metabolic processes, and cytokine content in the blood of male and female rats at different stages of postnatal ontogeny after intrauterine stress (mothers were forced to swim in cold water from the 10th to the 16th day of pregnancy). Correlations between behavioral and metabolic parameters in prenatally stressed rats were revealed at an earlier age (day 21 of life) than in controls. In comparison with intact rats, in males exposed to intrauterine stress no relationships between these parameters were revealed at older age, while in females, their direction and character change on day 60 of life. In prenatally stressed males, correlations of the blood levels of IL-6 were revealed: inverse relationships with behavioral parameters on the days 21 and 30 and direct relationships with metabolic parameters on day 60 of life. In prenatally stressed females on day 30 of life, we observed negative correlations between IL-4 levels and metabolic parameters that were absent under normal conditions. Thus, intrauterine stress leads to reorganization of the relationships between the parameters of metabolic and immune processes, which are essential for the purposeful behavior of mammals. The effects of stress seem to depend on the sex of the offspring and stage of postnatal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological features alone are not sufficient to distinguish a species from its congeners. Molecular analysis can be very helpful in identifying and distinguishing morphologically indeterminate species. Current communication concerns with 28 S rRNA-based molecular and phylogenetic characterization of mites. In this study, the mites were isolated from anthropogenic rodents of two species namely Rattus rattus (201) and Bandicota bengalensis (90) live trapped in domestic and peridomestic areas in the Punjab province of India. Overall, 20.27% of the rodents (n = 59) were found to be infested with one species of mite (n = 73), and the prevalence rate was higher in R. rattus (21.40%) as compared to B. bengalensis (17.80%). The infestation intensity and ectoparasite indices were 1.24 and 0.24, respectively. Based on the morphology, the mite was identified as Echinolaelaps sp. Further credentials were confirmed through PCR amplification of 28 S rRNA gene which showed a single band of approximately 390 bp. Compared to the sequences of Echinolaelaps species available worldwide, this isolate showed 100% nucleotide identity to the E. echidninus sequence available in the NCBI GenBank (MT813463) in Malta (Europe). The generated query sequence was submitted to GenBank (LC626772) and the phylogenetic tree was constructed using the maximum likelihood method. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of molecular characterization in the identification of the mite in question, as well as insight into the unobserved pervasiveness of the mite species concerning public health implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES Colchicine, an anti-inflammatory agent, has been reported to improve myocardial infarction prognosis by inhibiting neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) release. However, its role in cardiac surgery and the mechanisms behind NETs suppression remain unclear. This study aimed to explore colchicine's cardioprotective effects against perioperative myocardial injury in cardiac surgery, focusing on NETs inhibition as a novel therapeutic strategy. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were pre-treated with colchicine (0.1 mg/kg/day) or CI-amidine (10 mg/kg/day) for 7 days before undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass and myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury. The model was created by subjecting the rats to cardiopulmonary bypass and myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury. Under 4.0% sevoflurane anaesthesia, cardiopulmonary bypass was initiated by cannulating the tail artery and right atrium, and perfusion was maintained for 4 h. Immunofluorescence detected NETs, and haematoxylin and eosin staining assessed inflammatory cell. RESULTS We found colchicine treatment significantly reduced perioperative myocardial injury in rats. Furthermore, we observed a notable elevation of NETs in the myocardial tissue of animal models. Moreover, suppressing peptidylarginine deiminase 4 was found to markedly diminish perioperative myocardial injury in rats. Additionally, colchicine can mitigate the release of NETs by inhibiting peptidylarginine deiminase 4. CONCLUSIONS NETs were significantly elevated during the perioperative period of cardiac surgery. Colchicine significantly mitigated myocardial injury in cardiac surgery by inhibiting NETs formation, with peptidylarginine deiminase 4 inhibition being one of its mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES Minimally invasive thymectomy is an accepted approach for early-stage thymic epithelial neoplasia, reducing pain and length of stay compared with open surgery. In this study, we compare robotic and video-assisted thymectomy to assess pathological resection status, overall and disease-free survival. METHODS Data were retrieved from the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons prospectively maintained thymic database. Eighty-two international centres were invited to participate in the ESTS registry. Thirty-seven centres agreed to take part. We included all patients who had undergone complete thymectomy for malignancy through a minimally invasive approach and excluded patients in whom complete data were not available. RESULTS Between October 2001 and May 2021, a total of 899 patients with thymic malignancy underwent minimal access surgical resection and were included in the study. A propensity matched analysis was conducted with interrogation of 732 patients. Median age was 55 years, and 408 (56%) patients were female. Propensity matched was performed with 1:1 matching for surgical approach (video assisted = 366, robot assisted = 366). Robot-assisted surgery conferred significantly lower odds of incomplete resection (R1; 0.203 95% CI 0.13–0.317; P  < 0.001). However, there was no difference in terms of overall and disease-free survival between the 2 techniques. CONCLUSIONS In this analysis, after adjusting for thymoma stage, the odds of incomplete surgical resection were higher in patients undergoing video-assisted surgery than robotic. However, there was no difference in overall or disease-free survival. With data maturation and increased follow-up, this would need repeat analysis and perhaps may provide more credence to the concept of a prospective randomized study to compare outcomes in thymic epithelial neoplasia by surgical approach with a standardized pathological work-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness of intraperitoneal administration of ghrelin in the treatment of acetic acid-induced colitis. Method: A total of 30 Wistar-Albino rats were randomly and equally assigned to control, colitis-induced and study groups. The control group received normal saline (2 mL, 0.9 % w/v rectally). Colitis was induced with acetic acid (2 mL rectally). The study group administered ghrelin (3 - 7 nmol) intraperitoneally for 5 days after induction with acetic acid. Ghrelin was administered 1 h after acetic acid induction. Results: Macroscopic damage scores were significantly higher in colitis-induced group compared to control group (p < 0.001). However, macroscopic scores were significantly lower in study group (treated with ghrelin) compared to other groups (p < 0.001). Furthermore, MDA levels were significantly higher in colitis-induced group and study groups (p < 0.01) compared to control group. There was no significant difference in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in all groups. Conclusion: Ghrelin significantly lowers macroscopic damage and MDA levels in acetic-acid colitis. Further long-term studies on intraperitoneal ghrelin treatment in chronic colitis models may be able to clearly show the effects of treatment on oxidative markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the efiect and mechanism of Jiawei Ditan Decoction on cardiomyocyte ierroptosis in rats with chronic intermittent hypoxia based on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) /protein kinase B ( Akt) signaling pathway. Methods Thirty 8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal control, low-oxygen intervention, and Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention groups using the random number table method, with 10 rats per group. The low-oxygen and Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention groups were treated with intermittent hypoxia chamber for modeling, with 8 h of intervention daily. Gavage administration was performed before and after daily intervention. The intervention group received a dosage of 16. 38 g/kg Jiawei Ditan Decoction, whereas the other two groups received normal saline. The experimental intervention period was 12 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe the morphology of myocardial tissue. Transmission electron microscope was used to observe the mitochondrial ultrastructure in cardiomyocytes. Biochemical detection was used to measure the Fe2+ and malondialdehyde ( MDA ) content in myocardial tissue. Phosphorylated-phosphoinositide 3-kinase ( p-PI3K), PI3K, phosphorylated-protein kinase B ( p-Akt), Akt, solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), glutathione peroxidase 4 ( GPX4), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ( Nrf2), and acyl-coenzyme A synthetase long-chain family member 4 ( ACSL4) protein expression in myocardial tissue were measured using western blotting. The rat cardiomyocyte cell line, H9c2, was cultured in high glucose Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium, and the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography was used to detect drug components in Jiawei Ditan Decoction. The CCK-8 assay was used to detect the cell survival rate of cells treated with different concentrations of Jiawei Ditan Decoction. The cells were divided into the normoxic, erastin, and erastin + Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention groups, and p-Akt and GPX4 protein expression was measured using western blotting. p-PI3K and GPX4 protein expression were detected in the normoxic, low-oxygen intervention 12 h, and low-oxygen intervention 12 h + 740Y-P groups. The p-PI3K, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, and GPX4 protein expression was detected in the normoxic, low-oxygen intervention 6 h, low-oxygen intervention 12 h, low-oxygen intervention 12 h + Jiawei Ditan Decoction low-dose, low-oxygen intervention 12 h + Jiawei Ditan Decoction medium-dose, and low-oxygen intervention 12 h + Jiawei Ditan Decoction high-dose groups (drug concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 g/L, respectively). Results The myocardial cells in the low-oxygen intervention group were disordered and swollen and the mitochondrial arrangement of myocardial cells was disordered, with increased mitochondrial membrane density, ruptured cristae, and vacudar degeneration compared with those in the normal control group. The myocardial cells in the Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention group were arranged neater, and the morphology of mitochondria was relatively regular than those in the low-oxygen intervention group, and no apparent swelling was observed. Compared with the normal control group, the low-oxygen intervention group showed an increase in the MDA and Fe2+ content, a decrease in the p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt values, decreased SLC7A11, GPX4, and Nrf2 expression, and increased ACSL4 expression ( P <0.05). Compared with the low-oxygen intervention group, the Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention group showed a decrease in MDA and Fe2+ content, an increase in the p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt values, increased SLC7A11, GPX4, and Nrf2 expression, and decreased ACSL4 expression ( P <0.05). Jiawei Ditan Decoction contained DL-stachydrine, D-( +) -malicacid, adenosine, etc. The cell survival rate of the 10. 00 g/L group increased (P<0.05) compared to that of the Jiawei Ditan Decoction 0, 1.25, 2.50, 5. 00, and 20. 00 g/L groups. Compared with the normoxic group, p-Akt and GPX4 expression decreased in the erastin group (P<0.05) ； compared with the erastin group, the erastin + Jiawei Ditan Decoction intervention group showed increased p-Akt and GPX4 expression ( P<0. 05). Compared with the normoxic group, p-PI3K and GPX4 expression decreased in the low-oxygen intervention 12 h group ( P<0. 01) ； compared with the low-oxygen intervention 12 h group, the low-oxygen intervention 12 h + 740Y-P group showed increased p-PI3K and GPX4 expression ( P<0. 05). Compared with the normoxic group, GPX4 expression and the p-Akt/Akt and p-PI3K/PI3K were reduced in the low-oxygen intervention 6 and 12 h groups ( P < 0. 05) ; compared with the low-oxygen intervention 6 h and 12 h groups, the p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt values increased in the low-oxygen intervention 12 h + Jiawei Ditan Decoction low, medium, and high-dose groups ( P<0. 05). GPX4 expression was also increased ( P<0. 05). Conclusion Jiawei Ditan Decoction may improve cardiomyocyte ierroptosis in rats by regulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thereby playing a protective role against chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced cardiac injury in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the effect and mechanism of Shenqi Jieyu Formula ( SQJYF) on depression and anxiety-like behavior in adult ofispring rats after maternal separation ( MS). This was done by observing the levels of metabolites in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of the Papez circuit through magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( MRS). Methods Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats at 16 days of pregnancy were divided into the normal, model, SQJYF, and fluoxetine groups using the random number table method, with six rats per group. MS was performed 4 h a day from the first to the 21st day after birth. Starting from the 15th day, the corresponding medications ( SQJYF group: 12. 5 g/kg, fluxetine group: 2. 33 mg/kg) were administered to mother rats once a day for 7 consecutive days. Normal breastfeeding was performed during the gavage. The offspring rats were weaned on the 22nd day. According to the experimental grouping of mother rats, one male and one female offspring rat of each mother rat were randomly selected using the random number table method, with six rats per group. They were divided into normal, model, SQJYF, and fluoxetine female and male rat groups, respectively. After 8 weeks of feeding, the offspring rats in each group were subjected to forced swimming test ( FST), the sucrose water consumption test, and open field tests ( OFT), and the elevated plus maze ( EPM) test was conducted. The relative values of N-acetyl-aspartate ( NAA), choline ( Cho), glutamic acid ( Glu), myo-inositol (ml), and creatine (Cr) in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were detected using MRS. Results Compared with that of the normal female and male rat groups, the weight of the rats in the model group was decreased as well as sucrose water consumption and the horizontal and vertical scores of OFT, whereas the immobility time of FST increased. Compared with the normal female and male rat group, the NAA/Cr and Glu/Cr values in the bilateral hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of the female and male rats in the model group decreased ( all P<0. 01). The proportion of rats entering the open arm and open arm residence time of the model female rat group in the EPM test decreased, whereas the Cho/ Cr value of the right hippocampus of the female rats in the model group increased ( P<0. 05). Compared with the model female and male rat group, the weight of the rats in the SQJYF and fluoxetine groups increased, the immobility time of FST decreased, but the sucrose water consumption and the horizontal and vertical OFT scores increased ( P<0. 01). The proportion of rats entering the open arm and open arm residence time in the EPM increased in the SQJYF and fluoxetine female rat groups compared to those of the model female rat group ( P<0.01). Compared with the model female rat group, the NAA/Cr and Glu/ Cr values in the bilateral hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of female rats in the SQJYF and fluoxetine groups increased. The NAA/Cr and Glu/Cr values in the right hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of male rats in the SQJYF and fluoxetine groups were higher than those in the model group ( P< 0. 05), whereas the Cho/Cr value in the right hippocampus of female and male rats in the SQJYF and fluoxetine groups decreased ( P < 0. 05). Conclusion MS in early life can lead to depression and anxiety-like behavior in adult offspring. However, SQJYF may exert antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects by regulating the metabolite levels in related brain regions of the Papez circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the pharmacological efiects and regulatory mechanisms of Carthami Flos water extract and its main constituent, hydroxysafilower yellow A ( HSYA), on primary dysmenorrhea rats with cold coagulation and blood stasis. Methods Forty-two female specific pathogen-free grade rats aged 6-8 weeks were divided into blank, model, HSYA( 0. 01 g/kg), ibuprofen( 0. 04 g/kg), and low (0.06 g/kg), medium (0.20 g/kg), and high (0.40 g/kg) Carthami Flos water extract dose groups using the random number table method, with six rats per group. A rat model was established using ice water bath stimulation combined with estradiol benzoate and oxytocin. Continuous gavage was administered for 6 days from the seventh day of modeling. After the intervention, the writhing reaction test was conducted. The rats, uteri, and ovaries were weighed to calculate the organ index. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and radioimmunoassay were used to detect the prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2) and prostaglandin F2a ( PGF2a) contents in the uterus, thromboxane B2( TXB2 ) and 6 -keto-prostaglondin F1a ( 6-keto-PGF1a) in plasma, and estradiol (E2) in the serum. Hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to detect the pathological changes in uterine tissue. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX - 2 ) expression in uterine tissue, whereas immunofluorescence was used to measure follicle-stimulating hormone receptor ( FSH-R) expression in ovarian tissue. Western blotting was used to detect gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor ( GnRH-R) and FSH-R expression in uterine tissue. Results Compared with the blank group, the rats in the model group exhibited an increase in uterine and ovarian indices and increased PGE2 and PGF2a in the uterus. TXB2 in the plasma and E2 in the serum were also evaluated. Additionally, 6 -keto-PGF1a decreased, and COX - 2, GnRH-R, and FSH-R expression in the uterus and FSH-R expression in the ovaries also increased ( P <0.05). The morphology of the uterine tissue was disordered. Compared with the model group, the low Carthami Flos water extract dose group showed a decrease in uterine index ( P < 0. 05 ) . In the medium and high Carthami Flos water extract dose groups, the writhing response decreased, as did the uterine and ovarian indices and PGE2 and TXB2 contents. The 6 - keto-PGF1a content increased, whereas the GnRH-R protein expression in the uterus decreased ( P<0. 05). The high Carthami Flos water extract dose group also showed a decrease in PGF2a and FSH-R protein expression in the uterus (P<0. 05). In the HSYA group, the writhing response decreased, the uterine and ovarian indices decreased, the PGE2, PGF2a, and TXB2 contents decreased, and GnRH-R and FSH-R protein expression decreased in the uterus ( P< 0.05). The serum E2 levels of the groups that received Carthami Flos water extract at various doses and those of the HSYA group were reduced, and the uterine morphology was improved. COX-2 expression in the uterus and FSH-R protein expression in the ovaries were also reduced (P <0.05). Conclusion Carthami Flos water extract and HSYA can improve the pathological state of primary dysmenorrhea rats with cold coagulation and blood stasis. Its mechanism may be related to regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the GMO Panel assessed additional information related to the application for authorisation of food and feed containing, consisting of and produced from genetically modified soybean MON × MON 87708 × MON 89788 (EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2015‐126). The applicant conducted a 90‐day feeding study on GM soybean MON 87705 and provided a proposal for post‐market monitoring considering the altered fatty acid profile of GM soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788, to fulfil the deficiencies identified by EFSA GMO Panel, addressing elements that remained inconclusive from a previous EFSA scientific opinion issued in 2020. The GMO Panel concludes that the 90‐day feeding study on GM soybean MON 87705 is in line with the requirements of Regulation (EU) No 503/2013 and that no treatment‐related adverse effects were observed in rats after feeding diets containing soybean MON 87705 meals at 30% or 15% for 90 days. The GMO Panel reiterates the recommendation for a PMM for food in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and Regulation (EU) No 503/2013 and concludes that the proposal provided by the applicant is in line with the recommendations described for the PMM plan of soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 in the adopted scientific opinion. Taking into account the previous assessment and the new information, the GMO Panel concludes that soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788, as assessed in the scientific opinion on application EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2015‐126 and in the supplementary toxicity study, is as safe as its non‐GM comparator and the non‐GM reference varieties tested and does not represent a nutritional concern in humans and animals, within the scope of this application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming integral to medical practice, potentially enhancing outcomes in thoracic surgery. AI-driven models have shown significant accuracy in diagnosing non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), predicting lymph node metastasis, and aiding in the efficient extraction of electronic medical record (EMR) data. Moreover, AI applications in robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) and perioperative management reveal the potential to improve surgical precision, patient safety, and overall care efficiency. Despite these advancements, challenges such as data privacy, biases, and ethical concerns remain. This manuscript explores AI applications, particularly machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP), in thoracic surgery, emphasizing their role in diagnosis and perioperative management. It also provides a comprehensive overview of the current state, benefits, and limitations of AI in thoracic surgery, highlighting future directions in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is characterized by molecular damage from free radicals, leading to neural dysfunction and memory impairment. This study investigated using bioceramic material and colored light to mitigate neurodegenerative symptoms in aging rats. We assessed the effects of different color light spectrums on D-galactose-induced aging rats using the Morris water maze, novel object recognition, and open field tests. Findings revealed that bioceramic material with various light wavelengths improved activity, recognition, and memory in aging rats. Significant enhancements were observed in the open field and novel object recognition tests, with a trend toward improvement in the Morris water maze. These effects are attributed to the antioxidant properties and microcirculation enhancement associated with bioceramic materials. Color stimulation may impact enzymes, human physiology, psychological activity, and the autonomic nervous system. This study highlights the significance of exploring novel interventions for neurodegenerative symptoms and memory deficits in aging rats. Results indicate that bioceramic material with different colored light spectrums positively influences cognitive function. These findings contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of bioceramic materials and emphasize the need for further research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in female gender compared with male has been addressed as a health concern, particularly in menopausal age. We here hypothesized that co-administration of NMDARs agonist (D-serine) and AMPARs endocytosis inhibitor (Tat-GluA23y) might be a potential target for alleviating memory impairment in sporadic Alzheimer model of rats. Methods: Forty-eight female Wistar rats weighing 200–220 randomly divided into six groups. One month later, ovariectomized rats underwent stereotaxic surgery and were cannulated into the brain lateral ventricles. Streptozotocin was injected (3 mg/kg), then animals received the related treatments until the day 51, which experienced acquisition of spatial memory in Morris Water Maze test. Finally, the level of phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus was measured by Western blotting. Results: Co-administration of D-serine and GluA23y significantly enhanced the acquisition and retrieval of impaired spatial memory in ovariectomized rats with AD (p <.001). Compared to Glu-A 23, D-serine caused more improvement in the mentioned parameters above, however, these values for both groups were still significantly different from the control group (P <.05). Conclusion: Simultaneous treatment with D-serine and GluA23y synergistically improved STZ induced spatial memory impairment in OVX rat, probably partly via increase in phosphorylated CREB protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of the study was to explore Edaravone and Noscapine in anAlCl3-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) model. Methods: Morris Water Maze (MWM), Novel Object Recognition (NOR), andY-maze tests with TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, amyloid-β, CAT, SOD and MDAlevels were performed, followed by brain histology. Results: On the probe trial, the MWM demonstrated a decrease in escape latencyfollowed by an increase in the target quadrant. The NOR showeddiscrimination and recognition index scores and Y-maze, revealed arise in spontaneous alterations. TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, amyloid-β, CATand MDA levels increased, while SOD levels dropped. The results werefound to be significant for combination full and half doses (***p <0.001, **p < 0.01). The treated group's histology ofbrain revealed mild neurodegeneration with hippocampal pyknoticnuclei. Conclusions: Thus, Edaravone and Noscapine can be used for thetreatment of AD. Abbreviations: AlCl3: Aluminium chloride; AD: Alzheimer's disease; Aβ: Amyloid plaques; APP: amyloid precursor protein; BACE 1: Serum beta-secretase 1; GSK3β: Glycogen synthase kinase 3 β; CDK 5: cyclin-dependent kinase-5; NFTs: neurofibrillary tangles; ROS: reactive oxygen species; JNK: c Jun N-terminal kinases; MWM: Morris Water Maze; NOR: Novel Object Recognition (NOR); TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor -α; CAT: Catalase; SOD: Superoxide Dismutase; MDA: Malondialdehyde. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the possible pharmacological effects of Chlorella vulgaris (Cg), Spirulina platensis (St), and silymarin (Sl) against thioacetamide (TA)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, with a focus on their antioxidant, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. The following is the random grouping of sixty male rats into six groups of ten animals each: the control (negative control), TA-intoxicated group (positive control; 300 mg/kg body weight (BW)), Sl + TA group (100 mg Sl/kg BW + TA), St + TA group (400 mg St/kg BW + TA), Cg + TA (400 mg Cg/kg BW + TA), and St + Cg + TA group (400 St + 400 Cg mg/kg BW + TA) were all administered for 30 days. At the start of the study, groups 2 through 6 were administered TA intraperitoneally at a dosage of 300 mg/kg BW for two consecutive days, with a 24 h gap between each dose, to induce cardiac damage. Blood samples were obtained to measure hematological parameters and perform biochemical assays, including lipid profiles and cardiac enzymes. For histopathology and immunohistochemistry determination, tissue samples were acquired. The current findings showed that TA injection caused hematological alterations and cardiac injury, as evidenced by greater serum levels of troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, and total creatine kinase (p < 0.05), as well as significantly elevated serum malondialdehyde and decreased serum total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) concentrations. Moreover, an increase in blood low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol concentration (p < 0.05) was recorded in the TA group. There were alterations in the heart tissue's histological structure of the TA group compared to the control ones. These alterations were characterized by vacuolar degeneration of myocytes, loss of cross striation, coagulative necrosis, and fibrosis of interstitial tissue, which was ameliorated by the supplementation of SI, St, and Cg. The TA-intoxicated group showed weak expression of B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (p < 0.05) and strong immunoreactivity of tumor necrosis factor-α and B-cell lymphoma protein 2-associated X (p < 0.05). However, the groups receiving Sl, St, and Cg experienced the opposite. The administration of Sl, St, Cg, and St + Cg along with TA significantly improved and restored (p < 0.05) erythrogram indices, including RBCs, hemoglobin, total leukocytic count, lymphocytes, and monocyte, to the normal control values. The administration of Sl, St, and Cg alleviated the cardiotoxicity caused by TA via reducing oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and apoptosis in heart tissue. In summary, the current findings suggest that the treatment with Sl, St, and Cg was beneficial in ameliorating and reducing the cardiotoxicity induced by TA in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species eradication is a common strategy in naturalisation processes. It is no longer just about conserving or protecting, but about eliminating "invasive" species that have no place in the "restored" socio-ecosystem. This type of process is more complex than it is often presented, and its consequences transcend the strictly techno-ecological dimension. To understand it better, we propose an approach that considers eradication as a process that encompasses multi-species relations, political implications, and an intrinsic socio-ecological character. Consequently, the analysis focuses on two phenomena that are linked to eradication: (a) local reflections on the functioning of socio-ecosystems; and (b) the reconfiguration of human/environment relations. To this end, we studied the effect of eradication on a specific socio-ecosystem, Floreana Island, focusing on the elimination of two specific species, goats and rats, which are truly diverse in terms of meaning and significance for the inhabitants of this small island in the Galapagos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Maternal care plays a fundamental role in early life, and the alteration of its patterns can negatively affect the developmental course of the offspring in a myriad of domains in both rats and humans. The limited bedding and nesting (LBN) protocol is an extensively used paradigm in rodents to address the impact of altered maternal behavior patterns on infants' neurodevelopment. Here, we explore the altered patterns of maternal care in rats in LBN conditions by describing sequences of transition between maternal behavior components using network analysis. Using this technique, we capture how often maternal behavior transitions take place during the LBN period and which behaviors play central roles in those transitions over time. Materials and Methods: Female rats and their pups were placed in standard and LBN housing conditions from Postpartum Days 2 to 9, during which maternal behavior was observed during the light and dark phases. We used inferential statistical analysis to compare the maternal behavior profiles of control and LBN dams, and network analysis was used to capture the altered sequence of maternal behavior transitions during the period of LBN. Results: Compared to control dams, LBN dams significantly increased their high crouch nursing posture during light/dark phases (p = 0.018), and the number of behavioral transitions increased only during the dark phase (p = 0.0004). Network analysis revealed specific altered patterns of behavioral transitions in LBN dams, characterized by the predominance of switches between active nursing postures during the first five days of the LBN protocol. Conclusion: Nursing behavior was the most disrupted component of maternal behavior under the LBN protocol, mainly during the dark phase. Network analysis can complement and extend traditional methods to gain a more thorough understanding of maternal care strategies and behavioral patterns in LBN conditions and potential consequences for the offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the potent effects of denatonium benzoate (DB) on Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor-B2(MrgprB2)-mediated rat mast cell degranulation. Methods: RBL-2H3 cells were treated with DB overnight, before challenged with MrgprB2 ligands substance P (SP). The release of β-hex from MrgprB2-activated RBL-2H3 was detected by substrate method. Detection of LTC4, IL-6, TNF-α and cPLA2 activity were performed by ELISA. The Ca2+ influx and the expression of RBL-2H3 MrgprB2 receptors were measured by fluorescence assay. Results: The results showed 10 µmol/L, 50 µmol/L, 80 µmol/L, 100 µmol/L DB treatments promoted β-hex and LTC4 releases from activated RBL-2H3, accompanied by increased Ca2+ mobilization and cPLA2 activation. DB treatments did not affect IL-6 and TNF-α LTC4 releases in MrgprB2-activated RBL-2H3, as well as the levels of MrgprB2 expression in mast cells. Conclusion: Taken together, DB enhanced the MrgprB2-mediated RBL-2H3 degranulation in vitro, probably by up-regulating Ca2+ mobilization in activated cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Brazilian red propolis has attracted attention for its pharmacological properties. However, signs of toxicity were recently observed in long-term studies using the hydroalcoholic extract of red propolis (RPHE), likely due to polyprenylated benzophenones. This study aimed to develop a benzophenone-free red propolis extract (BFRP) and validate an HPLC-PDA method to quantify its main constituents: isoliquiritigenin, vestitol, neovestitol, medicarpine, and 7-O-methylvestitol. Methods: BFRP's toxicity was assessed in zebrafish larvae through a vibrational startle response assay (VSRA) and morphological analysis. Genotoxicity was evaluated using the micronucleus test in rodents, and the extract's effects on chemically induced preneoplastic lesions in rat colon were studied. An HPLC-PDA method was used to quantify BFRP's main compounds. Results: BFRP primarily contained vestitol (128.24 ± 1.01 μg/mL) along with isoliquiritigenin, medicarpin, neovestitol, and 7-O-methylvestitol. Zebrafish larvae exposed to 40 µg/mL of BFRP exhibited toxicity, higher than the 10 µg/mL for RPHE, though no morphological differences were found. Fluorescent staining in the notochord, branchial arches, and mouth was observed in larvae treated with both BFRP and RPHE. No genotoxic or cytotoxic effects were observed up to 2000 mg/kg in rodents, with no impact on hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity markers. Chemoprevention studies showed a 41.6% reduction in preneoplastic lesions in rats treated with 6 mg/kg of BFRP. Conclusions: These findings indicate that BFRP is a safe, effective propolis-based extract with potential applications for human health, demonstrating reduced toxicity and chemopreventive properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased allocation of behaviour to substance abuse at the expense of personal and social rewards is a hallmark of addiction that is reflected in several of DSM‐5 criteria for diagnosis of substance use disorder. Previous studies focused on refining the self‐administration (SA) model to better emulate an addictive state in laboratory animals. Here, we employed concurrent SA of sucrose pellets and morphine as two competing natural and drug rewards, respectively, to validate the feasibility of capturing pathological behavioural allocation in rats. A custom‐made three‐lever operant chamber was used. With one active and one inactive lever presented, rats were trained to self‐administer morphine (0.5 mg/kg/infusion; 2 h/day) under a fixed‐ratio 1 (FR‐1) schedule until a stable response was achieved. Next, they were trained to self‐administer morphine in the presence of a third lever dispensing sucrose pellets (20 mg) under FR‐1. Concurrent morphine‐sucrose SA sessions (2 h/day) were continued until stable morphine taking behaviour was re‐established. In another experiment, rats first established stable sucrose pellet SA (2 h/day, FR‐1) and then were trained to take morphine (0.5 mg/kg/infusion; 2 h/day). Subsequently, all rats underwent extinction training, in which morphine was replaced with saline while sucrose pellets were still available upon lever pressing, followed by cue‐induced reinstatement of morphine seeking behaviour. Results showed that rats retained morphine SA when sucrose pellets were also available, but they showed binge‐like sucrose intake when morphine was removed during the extinction sessions. However, morphine SA did not develop in rats that had previously established sucrose pellet SA. In conclusion, morphine SA developed even in the presence of a potent competing nondrug reward in rats. Adding an effort‐based contingent delivery of a natural reward to the standard SA model, this protocol may provide an improved model of drug addiction in laboratory animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the morphological characterization of guard hairs from six species of small non-flying mammals. Guard hair samples were obtained from both live individuals and museum specimens, with cuticular and medullary impressions made from the middle portions of the shafts and shields, respectively. A total of 112 samples were collected from the following species: Marmosa simonsi, Metachirus myosorus, Sigmodon peruanus, Aegialomys xanthaeolus, Rattus sp., and Mus musculus. This information can be used for taxonomic identification and, for instance, in the identification of prey items in carnivore and nocturnal raptor diet studies, which are areas lacking information in western Ecuador. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Skin injuries, such as burns, can result in an open wound that can lead to the deterioration of the skin, which acts as a protective barrier against external agents, and can cause serious health problems. Pectin, a plant-derived polysaccharide, is a suitable candidate for wound care due to its gel-forming ability and bio- compatibility. Pectin absorbs wound exudates to form a soft gel and is known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects. Pectin-based hydrogel systems promote wound healing by promoting fibroblast proliferation and keratinocyte migration. Methods: In the study, 60 male Wistar albino rats were used, and 6 different treatment groups were formed: Healthy control, burn control, silver sulfadiazine, pectin-based hydrogel system, pectin-based hydrogel system + iodine, pectin-based hydrogel system + plant extract. Rats with burn wounds were treated for 21 days, and the wound healing process was evaluated by macroscopic, biochemical, and histopathological analysis. Results: The results showed that the pectin-based hydrogel system, iodine, and plant extracts promoted healing in burn wounds. Especially in the groups treated with silver sulfadiazine and plant extracts, the development of granulation tissue and regeneration of collagen fibers showed significant improvement. Furthermore, the pectin-based hydrogel system is thought to contribute to wound healing by maintaining skin moisturization. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) levels decreased in the treatment groups compared to the burn group, and it was determined that these factors play an important role in wound healing. Conclusion: This study shows that pectin-based hydrogel systems can be an effective alternative in burn treatment, and their healing effects can be enhanced by the addition of iodine and plant extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress can damage the liver and lead to diabetes complications. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ-10) reduces diabetes-related oxidative stress. However, its molecular mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to examine CoQ-10's antioxidant capabilities against hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress in the livers of diabetic rats, specifically targeting the Nrf2/Keap1/ARE signaling pathway. Methods: This study was conducted between 2020-2021 at Arak University of Medical Sciences. A total of 30 male adult Wistar rats (8 weeks old) weighing 220-250 g were randomly assigned to five groups (n=6 in each group): control healthy, sesame oil (CoQ-10 solvent), CoQ-10 (10 mg/Kg), diabetic, and diabetic+CoQ-10. Liver oxidative stress indicators, including malondialdehyde, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione, were estimated using the spectrophotometry method. Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1 gene expressions were measured using real-time PCR tests in the liver tissue. All treatments were conducted for 6 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. One-way ANOVA followed by LSD's or Tukey's post hoc tests were used to compare the results of different groups. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The findings showed that induction of diabetes significantly increased Keap1 expression (2.1±0.9 folds, P=0.01), and significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of Nrf2 (0.38±0.2 folds, P=0.009), HO-1 (0.27±0.1 folds, P=0.02), and NQO1 (0.26±0.1 folds P=0.01), compared with the healthy group. In the diabetic group, the activity of glutathione peroxidase, catalase enzymes, and glutathione levels was decreased with an increase in malondialdehyde level. CoQ-10 supplementation significantly up-regulated the expressions of Nrf2 (0.85±0.3, P=0.04), HO-1 (0.94±0.2, P=0.04), NQO1 (0.88±0.5, P=0.03) genes, and inhibited Keap1 expression (1.1±0.6, P=0.02). Furthermore, as compared to control diabetic rats, CoQ-10 ameliorated oxidative stress by decreasing malondialdehyde levels and increasing catalase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and glutathione levels in the liver tissues of the treated rats in the treatment group. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed that CoQ-10 could increase the antioxidant capacity of the liver tissue in diabetic rats by modulating the Nrf2/Keap1/HO-1/NQO1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To identify an optimized strategy for the large‐scale production of nanovesicles (NVs) that preserve the biological properties of exosomes (EXOs) for use in periodontal regeneration. Materials and Methods: NVs from dental follicle stem cells (DFSCs) were prepared through extrusion, and EXOs from DFSCs were isolated. The yield of both extruded NVs (eNVs) and EXOs were quantified through protein concentration and particle number analyses. Their pro‐migration, pro‐proliferation and pro‐osteogenesis capacities were compared subsequently in vitro. Additionally, proteomics analysis was conducted. To further evaluate the periodontal regeneration potential of eNVs and EXOs, they were incorporated into collagen sponges and transplanted into periodontal defects in rats. In vivo imaging and H&E staining were utilized to verify their biodistribution and safety. Micro‐Computed Tomography analysis and histological staining were performed to examine the regeneration of periodontal tissues. Results: The yield of eNVs was nearly 40 times higher than that of EXOs. Interestingly, in vitro experiments indicated that the pro‐migration and pro‐proliferation abilities of eNVs were superior, and the pro‐osteogenesis potential was comparable to EXOs. More importantly, eNVs exhibited periodontal regenerative potential similar to that of EXOs. Conclusions: Extrusion has proven to be an efficient method for generating numerous eNVs with the potential to replace EXOs in periodontal regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and disabling disease that affects a significant proportion of the global population. Urine-derived stem cells (USCs) have shown great prospects in the treatment of OA, but there is no study that has compared them with traditional stem cells. Purpose: This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms of USCs and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for OA treatment. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: We compared the biological properties of USCs and ADSCs using CCK-8, colony formation, EdU, adhesion, and apoptosis assays. We evaluated the protective effects of USCs and ADSCs on IL-1β–treated OA chondrocytes by chemical staining, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. We assessed the effects of USCs and ADSCs on chondrocyte autophagy by transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. We also compared the therapeutic efficacy of intra-articular injections of USCs and ADSCs by gross, histological, micro–computed tomography, and immunohistochemical analyses in an OA rat model induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection. Results: USCs showed higher proliferation, colony formation, DNA synthesis, adhesion, and anti-apoptotic abilities than ADSCs. Both USCs and ADSCs increased the expression of cartilage-specific proteins and decreased the expression of matrix degradation–related proteins and inflammatory factors in OA chondrocytes. USCs had a greater advantage in suppressing MMP-13 and inflammatory factors than ADSCs. Both USCs and ADSCs enhanced autophagy in OA chondrocytes, with USCs being more effective than ADSCs. The autophagy inhibitor 3-MA reduced the enhanced autophagy and protective effects of USCs and ADSCs on OA chondrocytes. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the efficacy of USCs in the treatment of knee OA and to compare them with ADSCs. Considering the superior properties of USCs in terms of noninvasive acquisition, a high cost-benefit ratio, and low ethical concerns, our study suggests that they may be a more promising therapeutic option than ADSCs for OA treatment under rigorous regulatory pathways. Clinical Relevance: USCs may be a superior cell source for stem cells to treat knee OA, and this study strengthens the evidence for the application of USCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Activation of β2 adrenergic receptors reduces cutaneous mechanical pain thresholds in rats. While β2 adrenergic receptor activation may contribute to mechanisms that underlie temporomandibular joint pain, its effect on masticatory muscle pain sensitivity is uncertain. Objectives: The current study sought to determine the extent to which β adrenergic receptors are expressed by masticatory muscle afferent fibres, and to assess the effect of local activation of these receptors on the mechanical sensitivity of masticatory muscle afferent fibres in rats. Methods: Trigeminal ganglion neurons that innervate the rat (n = 12) masseter muscle and lower lip were identified by tissue injection of fluorescent dyes and were then stained with antibodies against β1 or β2 adrenergic receptors. Extracellular recordings from 60 trigeminal ganglion neurons that innervate the masticatory muscle were undertaken in a second group of anaesthetised rats of both sexes (n = 37) to assess afferent mechanical activation thresholds. Thresholds were assessed before and after injection of the β adrenergic receptor agonists into masticatory muscle. Results: β1 and β2 adrenergic receptor expression was greater in labial skin than in masticatory muscle ganglion neurons (p <.05, one‐way ANOVA, Holm–Sidak test). There was a higher expression of β2 adrenergic receptors in masticatory muscle ganglion neurons in males than in females. The mixed β agonist isoproterenol increased afferent mechanical activation threshold in male but not female rats (p <.05, Mann–Whitney test). In male rats, salbutamol, a β2 selective agonist, also increased afferent mechanical activation threshold but hydralazine, a vasodilator, did not (p <.05, Mann–Whitney test). Conclusion: Activation of β2 adrenergic receptors decreases the mechanical sensitivity of masticatory muscle afferent fibres in a sex‐related manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether flow fluid shear stress (FFSS)‐mediated signal transduction affects the function of Piezo1 ion channel in chondrocyte and to further explore the role of mechanical overloading in development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA). Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the expression of Piezo1 in TMJ OA tissue collected from rat unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) models. Chondrocytes harvested from normal adult SD rats were treated with FFSS (0, 4, 8, 12 dyn/cm2) in vitro. Immunofluorescent staining, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, flow cytometry and phalloidin assay were performed to detect the changes of cellular morphology as well as the expression of Piezo1 and certain pro‐inflammatory and degradative factors in chondrocyte. Results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that significantly increased Piezo1 expression was associated with UAC stimulation (p <.05). As applied FFSS escalated (4, 8 and 12 dyn/cm2), the expression levels of Piezo1, ADAMTS‐5, MMP‐13 and Col‐X gradually increased, compared with the non‐FFSS group (p <.05). Administering Piezo1 ion channel inhibitor to chondrocytes beforehand, it was observed that expression of ADAMTS‐5, MMP‐13 and Col‐X was substantially decreased following FFSS treatment (p <.05) and the effect of cytoskeletal thinning was counteracted. The activated Piezo1 ion channel enhanced intracellular Ca2+ excess in chondrocytes during abnormal mechanical stimulation and the increased intracellular Ca2+ thinned the cytoskeleton of F‐actin. Conclusions: Mechanical overloading activates Piezo1 ion channel to promote pro‐inflammation and degradation and to increase Ca2+ concentration in chondrocyte, which may eventually result in TMJ OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are chronic gastrointestinal disorders associated with significant morbidity and complications. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in a trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis model, focusing on inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal membrane permeability. Methods: Wistar albino rats were divided into Control, Colitis, and Colitis + DHA groups (n = 8–10/group). The Colitis and Colitis + DHA groups received TNBS intrarectally, while the Control group received saline. DHA (600 mg/kg/day) or saline was administered via gavage for six weeks. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of colon tissues were conducted. Parameters including occludin and ZO-1 expressions, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured in colon tissues. Results: Colitis induction led to significantly higher macroscopic and microscopic damage scores, elevated TOS levels, reduced occludin and ZO-1 intensity, decreased mucosal thickness, and TAS levels compared to the Control group (p < 0.001). DHA administration significantly ameliorated these parameters (p < 0.001). MPO, MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were elevated in the Colitis group but significantly reduced in the DHA-treated group (p < 0.001 for MPO, MDA; p < 0.05 for TNF-α and IL-6). Conclusion: DHA demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by reducing reactive oxygen species production, enhancing TAS capacity, preserving GSH content, decreasing proinflammatory cytokine levels, preventing neutrophil infiltration, reducing shedding in colon epithelium, and improving gland structure and mucosal membrane integrity. DHA also upregulated the expressions of occludin and ZO-1, critical for barrier function. Thus, DHA administration may offer a therapeutic strategy or supplement to mitigate colitis-induced adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effect of Danshen Baoxin Cha (DBC) on a rat model of coronary heart disease combined with cognitive impairment. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to two groups: normal group and model group. Streptozotocin was injected into the bilateral ventricles of rats in the model group to establish cognitive impairment model, then isoproterenol hydrochloride was injected subcutaneously to model myocardial ischemia. Behavioral experiments were conducted to verify the success of the model of cognitive dysfunction. The rats of the model group were randomly divided into five groups: model control group, Tongxinluo Capsule group (TXL group, 1.6 g·kg-1), and low- (4 g·kg-1), medium- (8 g·kg-1), and high- (16 g·kg-1) dose DBC groups. These groups were received the respective treatments continuously for two weeks. Subsequently, the Y-maze, novel object recognition and Morris water maze experiment were employed to assess the learning and memory abilities of rats. A kit was utilized to quantify the level of oxidative stress in the brain and the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content in the brain and mitochondria. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining were employed to observe the pathological changes of neurons in hippocampus CA1 region. Electron microscopy was utilized to observe the pathological changes of mitochondria in hippocampal CA1 region. The expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) were quantified by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the expression of proteins related to the AMPK/OPA1 signaling pathway was determined by Western Blot analysis. Results Compared with the normal group, the spontaneous alternating reaction rate, the novel object recognition index, number of crossing the original platform, and distance ratio in the model group were obviously decreased (P＜0.01). Neuronal density in the CA1 region of the hippocampus was decreased, Nissl bodies were decreased, and nucleus consolidation was increased. The ATP level in mitochondria, and the levels of ATP, SOD, and GSH-PX in brain were significantly decreased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01), as well as the content of ROS and MDA were significantly increased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). The mitochondria of hippocampus in CA1 region were swollen, with sparse and vacuolated cristae. The mRNA expression levels of GLUT4, PGC-1α, and OPA1 were significantly decreased (P＜0.01). The protein expression levels of GLUT4, SIRT1, PGC-1α and OPA1, and p-AMPK/ AMPK ratio were significantly decreased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Compared with the model group, the behavioral indexes of rats in the DBC groups were significantly improved (P＜0.05, P＜0.01), the number of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area, Nissl bodies and nucleus consolidation were improved. The ATP level in mitochondria and the levels of ATP, SOD, and GSH-PX in brain were significantly increased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). The levels of ROS and MDA were significantly decreased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). The structure of mitochondrial cristae in hippocampal CA1 region were relatively intact. The mRNA expression levels of GLUT4, PGC-1α and OPA1 were increased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01), and the expression of proteins related to the AMPK/OPA1 signaling pathway was significantly increased (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Conclusion DBC can enhance learning and memory abilities, reduce neuronal damage in a rat model of coronary heart disease combined with cognitive impairment. The mechanism may be related to the reduction of oxidative stress damage in the brain, the activation of the AMPK/OPA1 signaling pathway, and the restoration of energy levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the regulation of Chaihuang Qingyi Huoxue Granule on intestinal microecological changes in rats with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and the potential mechanism for its treatment of SAP. Methods Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into sham operation group (SHAM), SAP model group (SAP), and Chaihuang Qingyi Huoxue Granule (CH) group, with 16 rats in each group. Each group was further divided into 12 h and 24 h subgroups. The SAP model was induced by retrograde injection of 5% sodium taurocholate into the pancreaticobiliary duct through duodenal wall. The SHAM and SAP groups received normal saline by gavage, while the CH group received 1.2 g·kg-1 Chaihuang Qingyi Huoxue Granule solution by gavage every six hours. At 12 h and 24 h after operation, eight rats from each group were sacrificed to collect abdominal aortic blood, pancreatic and ileal tissues for analysis. Ascites, pancreatic and ileal tissues were observed. Serum amylase (AMY) and lipase (LPS) levels were measured biochemically. Pathological changes in pancreatic and ileal tissues were investigated by HE staining. Claudin-1 protein expression in ileal tissue was detected by Western Blot. Changes in the intestinal flora of ileocecal contents were analyzed by 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing. Results Compared to the SHAM group at the same time points, the SAP group exhibited extensive pancreatic edema and necrosis. Serum AMY and LPS levels, pancreatic and ileal histopathological scores increased, and Claudin-1 protein expression in ileal tissue markedly decreased (all P＜0.05). The differences in abundance of microbial community increased, while the evenness of community composition reduced. The microbial richness showed no significant change (P＞0.05), but the microbial diversity decreased (P＜0.05). Proteobacteria were dominant intestinal bacteria. Relative abundances of Oscillospira, Ruminococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides S24-7 decreased, whereas relative abundances of Shigella and Allobaculum increased. The differences in abundance of microbial community reduced, and the evenness of community composition increased. The microbial richness showed no significant change (P＞0.05), but the microbial diversity increased (P＜0.05). Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the dominant intestinal bacteria. Relative abundances of Oscillospira, Ruminococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides S24-7 increased, whereas relative abundances of Shigella and Allobaculum decreased. After the intervention of CH, pathological damage in ileal tissue was improved. The expression of Claudin-1 protein in the intestinal mucosal barrier increased compared to the model group (P＜0.05). The differences in abundance of microbial community reduced, and the evenness of community composition increased. CH group showed an increase in some beneficial bacteria and decrease in pathogenic bacteria compared to model group. Conclusion Chaihuang Qingyi Huoxue Granule may reduce pancreas injury in rats with SAP, which may be involved in modulating the intestinal microecology and improving intestinal mucosal barrier function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of salvia polyphenolic acid for injection (SAFI) on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Methods A total of 100 SD rats were randomly divided into sham surgery group, model group, low, medium and high dose (5, 10, 20 mg·kg-1) salvia polyphenolic acid groups, with 20 rats in each group. After being continuously administrated by intraperitoneal injection of SAFI once daily for three days, the rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/ R) was established using the thread embolization method at 1 hour after the last administration. The neurological deficit of rats was evaluated by Zea Longa score. The cerebral infarction volume was detected by 2, 3, 5- triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. The levels of serum NADPH oxidase (NOX), 4-hydroxynonanal (4- HNE), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-18 (IL-18), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were detected by ELISA kits. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining were used to observe the pathological changes of brain tissue and the morphology of neurons. The apoptosis of neuronal cells in brain tissue was detected by TUNEL. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression level of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in brain tissue. Western Blot was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3 and Caspasel in brain tissue. Results Compared with the sham surgery group, neurological deficit scores in model group increased remarkably (P<0.01). The cerebral infarction volume increased significantly (P<0.01). Serious pathological damage of brain was observed, and neuronal density decreased significantly (P<0.01). The apoptosis rate of cortical cells increased obviously (P<0.01). The levels of serum NOX, 4-HNE, 8-OHJC, MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-1β, IL-6 and ICAM-1 increased significantly (P<0.05, P<0.01). The protein expression of GFAP, NLRP3 and Caspasel in brain significantly upregulated (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, neurological deficit scores in medium and high dose SAFI groups decreased remarkably (P<0.01). The cerebral infarction volume decreased significantly (P<0.01). Neuronal damage was ameliorated to varying degrees, and neuronal density increased significantly (P<0.05, P<0.01). The apoptosis rate of cortical cells decreased obviously (P<0.01). The levels of serum NOX, 4-HNE, 8-OHJC, MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and ICAM-1 decreased significantly (P<0.05, P<0.01). The protein expression of GFAP, NLRP3 and Caspasel in brain significantly downregulated (P<0.01). Conclusion SAFI has a protective effect on MCAO/R rats, which can significantly reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, thereby reducing pathological damage and apoptosis of brain tissue. Its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway and astrocyte activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the mechanism of Zuogui Pills (ZGP) on improving the stemness of ovarian germline stem cells (OSCs) in ovarian aging rats through the gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) phosphorylation based on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway. Methods Eight week-old female SD rats were randomly divided into control (CON), model (cyclophosphamide, CTX), ZGP and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) groups, six rats in each group. CTX was injected intraperitoneally for 15 days to establish a model for ovarian aging, and then ZGP (1.85 g·kg-1) or DHEA (8.1 mg·kg-1) was administered by gavage once daily for 30 days. Follicle count at different stages and pathological changes of ovarian tissues were observed by HE staining. ELISA was used to detect serum levels of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol (E2) . The expression levels of related proteins (PCNA, MVH, Oct4, Cx43, p-Cx43, EGFR, AKT、p-AKT) in ovarian tissue were detected by Western Blot. Results Compared with the CON group, rats in CTX group had significantly reduced body mass (P＜0.05) and ovarian mass (P＜0.05). The number of primordial follicles decreased significantly (P＜0.01). Serum FSH level increased remarkably (P＜ 0.01), while AMH and E2 levels showed a downward trend (P＞0.05). The protein expressions of Oct4, MVH, PCNA, EGFR, p-AKT/AKT, p-Cx43 (Ser368) /Cx43 and Cx43 in ovarian tissue were obviously decreased (P＜ 0.05, P＜0.01). Compared with the model group, the body mass of rats in ZGP group was significantly increased (P＜0.05), as well as ovarian mass and ovarian coefficient were remarkably increased (P＜0.01). The number of primordial follicles were increased significantly (P＜0.01), and E2 level increased significantly (P＜0.05). The protein expressions of Oct4, MVH, PCNA, EGFR, p-AKT/AKT, p-Cx43 (Ser368) /Cx43 and Cx43 in ovarian tissue were all increased significantly (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Conclusion ZGP may ameliorate ovarian aging by maintaining the stemness of OSCs. Its mechanism of actions is related to the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and gap junction protein phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compound Remote Associates Test (RAT) is a classic measure of creativity. Participants are shown three cue words (sore-shoulder-sweat) and asked to generate a word that connects them (cold). Theoretical views of RAT performance differ in the degree to which they conceptualize performance as depending on automatic spreading activation across semantic networks, strategic generation of bi-associations, and other analytical processes (e.g. executive processes that support fluid intelligence). We tested these views by adding a fourth cue word to determine whether it impaired RAT accuracy (e.g. generation of bi-associations), impaired response times (analytic processes), or improved RAT accuracy without changing response times (e.g. spreading activation). Across four experiments, 551 adults completed 3- and 4-item RAT trials that were matched on linguistic and semantic metrics. Across experiments, adding the fourth word improved accuracy by 27.91%. This performance gain occurred with either modest or no changes to response times or ratings of insight/strategy use. Interestingly, the fourth word predominantly benefited accuracy and response times on difficult trials; on easy trials, the fourth word impaired or did not change performance. The findings suggest that both automatic and strategic/analytical processes contribute to successful RAT performance, with relative dependence on these processes dynamically adapting to the demands of the individual trial. Plain Language Summary: Understanding creative achievements in real-world settings requires understanding the cognitive processes that contribute to creativity. One way to do this involves examining performance on standardized creativity instruments across purposefully created conditions. We conducted four experiments in which we modified the semantic information in the Remote Associates Test (RAT), which is one of the more commonly used instruments to assess creativity. We found that as the amount of semantic information provided to participants increased, so too did performance on the RAT. There was, however, a surprising exception: on relatively easy trials, providing more semantic information sometimes hurt performance. These patterns replicated four times using different stimuli sets, designs, and participant samples. Collectively, the findings indicate that multiple cognitive processes are engaged to support creative thinking, with the relative dependence on a given process depending on the difficulty of the problem being solved. Targeting the dynamic nature of automatic and strategic/analytical thinking processes may improve the efficacy of interventions aimed at fostering creative achievements in real-world settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the histological and biochemical neuroprotective effects of secukinumab (SEC) on brain damage induced by subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in male Wistar Albino rats. Forty male Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of equal size: control, SEC, SAH, and SAH + SEC. SAH was induced the SAH and SAH + SEC groups by injecting autologous blood collected from the hearts of the rats into the subarachnoid space via the foramen magnum. SEC was administered intraperitoneally once a week to the SEC and SAH + SEC groups after the surgical procedure. On the 14th day of surgery, the rats were sacrificed and their cerebral tissues were collected for biochemical analysis and histopathological examination. SAH led to changes in oxidative stress parameters by increasing malondialdehyde levels and decreasing superoxide dismutase, glutathione, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels. Histopathologically, cerebral tissues in the SAH groups showed alterations such as congestion and cell infiltration. Treatment with SEC significantly reduced malondialdehyde levels and increased superoxide dismutase, glutathione, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels. SEC also decreased histopathological alterations in brain tissues. This study revealed that SEC (3 mg/kg) therapeutically influenced oxidative and histopathological changes in blood parameters and brain tissues caused by experimental SAH. SEC helps reduce brain damage in rats with SAH and possesses antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Further advanced studies are needed to prove its potential benefits for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective • Smoking stands as a significant factor contributing to aberrations in bone metabolism, while microRNAs are intricately linked to the regulation of bone metabolism. This study aimed to identify cotinine- responsive microRNAs (miRNAs) and downstream regulatory pathways of their target genes involved in the regulation of osteoblastic cells, providing a foundation for new treatments targeting miRNAs for the bone metabolism imbalance induced by smoking. Methods • Primary osteoblastic cells of Sprague-Dawley rats were cultured through a modified enzymatic digestion method from the cranial bone of neonatal rats and stimulated with a high concentration of cotinine (1000 ng/ mL) for 7 days. Then, miRNA gene chip technology was utilized to detect the changes in miRNA expression profiles in cotinine-stimulated osteoblastic cells, and differential expression profiles of cotinine-responsive miRNAs in osteoblastic cells were identified. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the levels of significantly differentially expressed miRNAs in rat osteoblastic cells. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were utilized to predict target genes of these miRNAs to reveal the potential biological functions and pathways. Results • We identified 6 statistically differentially expressed miRNAs in the miRNA microarray analysis, of which 3 were upregulated and 3 were downregulated. We chose bone metabolism-related miRNAs as the miRNAs of interest. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression levels of the differentially expressed miRNAs, and only miR-210 was significantly upregulated (3.34-fold), consistent with the microarray data. GO and KEGG pathway analyses of predicted miR-210 target genes revealed that miR-210 might participate in numerous signaling pathways, such as the RAS, Rap, PI3K-Akt, and calcium signaling pathways. Conclusion • We found that the strongly upregulated miR-210 may play an important regulatory role in osteoblast cells’ biological behavior and bone formation function. The GO analysis results showed that miR-210 mainly involved protein binding, transporter activity, growth factor binding, and ion channel activity. According to the results of the KEGG analysis, miR-210 might negatively regulate the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, thus affecting the proliferation of osteoblastic cells. These findings suggest that miR-210 may be a potential target for regulating the imbalance of bone metabolism caused by smoking, offering a new direction for clinical treatment of patients with bone metabolism-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: T2 and T2* mapping are crucial components of quantitative magnetic resonance imaging, offering valuable insights into tissue characteristics and pathology. Single‐shot methods can achieve ultrafast T2 or T2* mapping by acquiring multiple readout echo trains. However, the extended echo trains pose challenges, such as compromised image quality and diminished quantification accuracy. Purpose: In this study, we develop a single‐shot method for ultrafast T2 and T2* mapping with reduced echo train length. Methods: The proposed method is based on ultrafast single‐shot spatiotemporally encoded (SPEN) MRI combined with reduced field of view (FOV) and spiral out‐in‐out‐in (OIOI) trajectory. Specifically, a biaxial SPEN excitation scheme was employed to excite the spin signal into the spatiotemporal encoding domain. The OIOI trajectory with high acquisition efficiency was employed to acquire signals within targeted reduced FOV. Through non‐Cartesian super‐resolved (SR) reconstruction, 12 aliasing‐free images with different echo times were obtained within 150 ms. These images were subsequently fitted to generate T2 or T2* mapping simultaneously using a derived model. Results: Accurate and co‐registered T2 and T2* maps were generated, closely resembling the reference maps. Numerical simulations demonstrated substantial consistency (R2 > 0.99) with the ground truth values. A mean difference of 0.6% and 1.7% was observed in T2 and T2*, respectively, in in vivo rat brain experiments compared to the reference. Moreover, the proposed method successfully obtained T2 and T2* mappings of rat kidney in free‐breathing mode, demonstrating its superiority over multishot methods lacking respiratory navigation. Conclusions: The results suggest that the proposed method can achieve ultrafast and accurate T2 and T2* mapping, potentially facilitating the application of T2 and T2* mapping in scenarios requiring high temporal resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The image of dazed, plague-infected rats coming out of their nests and performing a pirouette in front of the surprised eyes of humans before dying is one well-known to us through Albert Camus's The Plague (1947). This article examines the historical roots of this image and its emergence in French missionary narratives about plague outbreaks in the Chinese province of Yunnan in the 1870s on the eve of the Third Plague Pandemic. Showing that accounts of the "staggering rat" were not meant as naturalist observations of a zoonotic disease, as is generally assumed by historians, but as a cosmological, end-of-the-world narrative with a colonial agenda, the article argues for an approach to historical accounts of epidemics that does not succumb to the current trend of "virus hunting" in the archive, but rather takes colonial outbreak narratives ethnographically seriously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of drugs of natural origin that increase endurance and/or accelerate recovery is an integral part of sports medicine and physiology. In this paper, decaffeinated green tea extract (GTE) and two ammonium salts—chloride (ACL) and carbonate (ACR)—were tested individually and in combination with GTE as stimulants of physical performance in a forced swimming rat experimental model. The determined parameters can be divided into seven blocks: functional (swimming duration); biochemistry of blood plasma; biochemistry of erythrocytes; hematology; immunology; gene expression of slow- and fast-twitch muscles (m. soleus, SOL, and m. extensor digitorum longus, EDL, respectively); and morphometric indicators of slow- and fast-twitch muscles. Regarding the negative control (intact animals), the maximum number of changes in all blocks of indicators was recorded in the GTE + ACR group, whose animals showed the maximum functional result and minimum lactate values on the last day of the experiment. Next, in terms of the number of changes, were the groups ACR, ACL, GTE + ACL, GTE and NaCl (positive control). In general, the number of identified adaptive changes was proportional to the functional state of the animals of the corresponding groups, in terms of the duration of the swimming load in the last four days of the experiment. However, not only the total number but also the qualitative composition of the identified changes is of interest. The results of a comparative analysis suggest that, in the model of forced swimming we developed, GTE promotes restoration of the body and moderate mobilization of the immune system, while small doses of ammonium salts, especially ammonium carbonate, contribute to an increase in physical performance, which is associated with satisfactory restoration of skeletal muscles and the entire body. The combined use of GTE with ammonium salts does not give a clearly positive effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of magnifying the damage caused by obesity induced by monosodium glutamate, using a model of maternal periodontitis, on the structure of the anterior tibialis muscle of the offspring. Materials and Methods: Twenty‐four female Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: control (n = 6), obese (n = 6), control with periodontitis (n = 6) and obese with periodontitis (n = 6). At 78 days of life, the rats were mated with males without any experimental intervention. The offspring of these rats (n = 1/L), at 120 days of life, were weighed and measured, then euthanized. Plasma was collected for analysis of cytokines IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐17 and TNF‐α. Adipose tissues were collected and weighed, and the anterior tibial muscle was designated for histomorphological analyses (n = 6/group). Results: Monosodium glutamate offspring showed significant muscle changes, such as a reduction in the size of fibres and neuromuscular junctions, and an increase in the nucleus and capillaries. However, all these changes were more expressed in monosodium glutamate‐obese with periodontitis offspring. Conclusion: This leads us to suggest a magnifying effect promoted by periodontitis to the damage already well described by monosodium glutamate‐obesity, determined by low‐intensity inflammation, causing greater muscle damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Anterior disc displacement (ADD) is a common clinical issue and may cause osteoarthritis (OA). However, the research of protein changes in synovial fluid as disease development marker and potential treatment clue is still insufficient. Materials and Methods: We conducted the high‐resolution mass spectrometry (MS) of synovial fluid collected from 60 patients with normal disk position to ADD and ADD with osteoarthritis (OA). The proteins with significant changes among the 3 groups were analyzed by biological information and further validated by in primary rat condyle chondrocytes and OA animal model. Results: FGL2, THBS4, TNC, FN1, OMD etc. were significantly increased in ADD without OA (p < 0.05), which reflected the active extracellular matrix and collagen metabolism. FGFR1, FBLN2, GRB2 etc. were significantly increased in ADD with OA group (p < 0.05), which revealed an association with apoptosis and ferroptosis. Proteins such as P4HB, CBLN4, FHL1, VIM continuously increase in the whole disease progress (p < 0.05). Both the in vitro and in vivo results are consistent with protein changes detected in MS profile. Conclusion: This study firstly provides the expression changes of proteins from normal disc condyle relationship toward ADD with OA, which can be selected and studied further as disease progress marker and potential treatment targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Exposure to benzo[α]pyrene (BaP) increases the incidence and severity of allergic rhinitis (AR), but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the in vivo effects of BaP exposure on mucus hypersecretion and tissue remodeling in a rat model of AR. Methods: Female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: a negative control group, a group of healthy rats exposed to BaP, a group of rats with ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR, and a group of AR model rats exposed to BaP. Nasal symptoms and levels of OVA-specific serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) were measured in each individual rat. Moreover, examination of goblet cell hyperplasia and collagen deposition was carried out with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining and Masson trichrome (MT) staining. Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results: BaP significantly increased the number of sneezes, the number of nasal rubs and the levels of OVA-specific serum IgE in rats with AR. Statistically significant differences in goblet cell hyperplasia and collagen deposition were observed between the BaP-exposed AR model group and the AR model group. Immunohistochemical results showed that the nasal mucosa of AR model rats displayed markedly elevated MUC5AC expression after BaP exposure. Conclusion: Our data indicate that mucus hypersecretion and the development of nasal remodeling might be pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying increased susceptibility to AR after exposure to BaP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Parastomal hernia poses a challenging problem in the field of hernia surgery. The high incidence and recurrence rates of parastomal hernia necessitate surgeons to enhance surgical techniques and repair materials. This study aimed to develop a rat model of parastomal hernia by inducing various types of defects on the abdominal wall with colostomy. This established method has potential for future studies on parastomal hernia. Methods: In this study, 32 male rats were included and randomly divided into four groups: the oblique abdominis excision (OE), oblique abdominis dissection (OD), rectus abdominis excision (RE), and rectus abdominis dissection (RD) groups. In each group, colostomy was performed and an abdominal wall defect was induced. The rats were observed for 28 days following surgery. The survival rate, body weight, parastomal hernia model scores, abdominal wall adhesion and inflammation, and collagen level in the hernial sac were compared. Results: No significant differences in survival rate and weight were observed among the four groups. The parastomal hernia model scores in the RE and RD groups were significantly higher than those in the OE and OD groups. The ratio of collagen I/III in the RE and RD groups was significantly lower than that in the OE and OD groups. Adhesion and inflammation levels were lower in the RE group than in the RD group. Conclusion: Based on a comprehensive comparison of the findings, RE with colostomy emerged as the optimal approach for establishing parastomal hernia models in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]