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African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly pathogenic and rapidly disseminated virus with strong viability in the environment, suggesting the importance of environmental detection for prevention and control in all the pig industry. However, the detection results of environmental swabs cannot always reflect the accurate status of viral pollution, leading to persistent ASFV environmental contamination. In this study, we developed an ASFV eluant with higher environmental ASFV detection efficiency relative to 0.85% saline solution, which obtains the patent certificate issued by the China Intellectual Property Office (patent number:202010976050.9). qPCR analysis showed that in the environmental swab samples, the number of viral copies was 100 times higher for the ASFV eluant treatment than the traditional eluant treatment (0.85% saline solution). And besides, the high sensitivity of the ASFV eluant had be verified in a slaughterhouse environmental sampling detection. In soil samples, the ASFV eluent showed the same extraction effect as the TIANamp Soil DNA Kit, in contrast to no extraction effect for 0.85% saline solution. Simultaneously, this eluent could protect ASFV from degradation and allow the transportation of samples at ambient temperature without refrigeration. In clinical practice, we monitored the environmental contamination condition of the ASFV in a large-scale pig farm. The results shown that the ASFV load decreased after every disinfection in environment. This study provides an effective solution for surveilling the potential threat of ASFV in environment. Key points: The ASFV eluant can significantly improve the positive detection rate in environmental samples in clinical practice. The ASFV eluant is economical and convenient compared to commercial kit.. The ASFV eluant can provide a caution for the environmental safety for China's pig industries, slaughter houses, and transportations and facilitate ASFV eradication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selenium is an essential mineral for poultry. The conflicting reports about its in ovo injection are the justification for the more detailed investigation. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of in ovo injection of organic selenium on the hatching traits of broiler chickens and their performance. Methods: Three hundred and twenty eggs of Ross 308 strain with an average weight of 65 g and 160 chicks were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups (each with 8 replicates of 10 eggs each for hatching parameters and 4 replicates of 10 chicks for broiler farming parameters): negative control (no injection), positive control (in ovo injection of 0.272 mL of normal saline solution) and 2 selenium treatments (in ovo injection of 2.72 or 5.44 μg of organic selenium). Injection was into the amniotic sac on the 10th day of incubation. Effects of in ovo injection on hatching and performance traits, blood parameters, immune responses, carcass characteristics, meat fatty acid profile, cecal microbial population and selenium consternation in the tibia were measured. Results: Fewer chicks from the injected treatments hatched than from the negative control group (p < 0.01). However, the injection of selenium increased feed intake and the final weight of the birds (p < 0.01). Blood parameters were also affected. Glucose and cholesterol in experimental treatment chicks was lower than those of the controls (p < 0.01), whereas blood lipoproteins (VLDL, LDL and HDL) and the ratio of cholesterol to HDL was significantly increased in the treatments injected with selenium (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the immune response or microbial population between the experimental groups, but carcass components, such as thigh, breast, wing and abdominal fat weight, were significantly greater in the selenium treatments. Conclusions: Intra‐egg injection of organic selenium produced favourable effects on performance of broiler chickens, although it had no effect on immune response or microbial population. However, the negative effect on hatching of chickens needs to be prevented to result in an acceptable economic return for the producer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penstemon, with more than 250 species native to North America, holds significant aesthetic and ecological value in Utah, supporting diverse pollinators. Despite their significance, the survival of penstemon is threatened by challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and Utah’s naturally high soil salinity. To address these challenges and understand their adaptability, this study evaluated the salt tolerance of two penstemon species [Penstemon davidsonii (Davidson’s penstemon) and Penstemon heterophyllus (foothill penstemon)] under controlled greenhouse conditions. The aim was to develop baseline information for nursery production and landscape use that utilize reclaimed water for irrigation. Plants were irrigated weekly with a nutrient solution at an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1.0 dS·m-1 as control or a saline solution at an EC of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, or 10.0 dS·m-1 for 8 weeks. Half of the plants were harvested after four irrigation events, and the remaining plants were harvested after eight irrigation events. At harvest, visual rating (0 = dead and 5 = excellent without foliage salt damage), plant width, number of shoots, leaf area, shoot dry weight, leaf greenness [Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD)], stomatal conductance, and canopy temperature were collected to assess the impact of salinity stress. In both species, salt damage was dependent on the salinity levels and length of exposure. After four irrigation events, both species exhibited foliage damage that increased in severity with rising EC. The most severe damage was observed in plants receiving saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m-1. After eight irrigation events, P. davidsonii exposed to a saline solution with an EC of 10.0 dS·m-1 received a visual rating of 0, whereas P. heterophyllus had a visual rating of 0.4. Both species exhibited salinity-induced effects, with variations observed in the specific parameters and the degree of response. Penstemon davidsonii exhibited significant salinity stress, as indicated by reduced leaf area, shoot dry weight, SPAD reading, and stomatal conductance with increasing EC of the saline solution. In addition, in both species, at both harvests, canopy temperatures increased either linearly or quadratically by 8% to 36% as the EC levels of the saline solution increased. These results indicate that P. davidsonii was more sensitive to salinity stress than P. heterophyllus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent literature suggests that the withdrawal of remifentanil (RF) infusion can be associated with hyperalgesia in clinical and nonclinical settings. We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with cross-over design, to assess the effect of discontinuing RF infusion on pain intensity and areas of hyperalgesia and allodynia in healthy volunteers. Nine studies were included. The intervention treatment consisted in RF infusion that was compared with placebo (saline solution). The primary outcome was pain intensity assessment at 30 ± 15 minutes after RF or placebo discontinuation, assessed by any pain scale and using any quantitative sensory testing. Moreover, postwithdrawal pain scores were compared with baseline scores in each treatment. Secondary outcomes included the areas (% of basal values) of hyperalgesia and allodynia. Subjects during RF treatment reported higher pain scores after discontinuation than during treatment with placebo [standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03-0.97; P = 0.04, I² = 71%]. A significant decrease in pain scores, compared with baseline values, was found in the placebo treatment (SMD: -0.87, 95% CI: -1.61 to -0.13; P = 0.02, I² = 87%), but not in the RF treatment (SMD: -0.28, 95% CI: -1.18 to 0.62; P = 0.54, I² = 91%). The area of hyperalgesia was larger after RF withdrawal (SMD: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.27-0.84; P = 0.001; I² = 0%). The area of allodynia did not vary between treatments. These findings suggest that the withdrawal of RF induces a mild but nonclinically relevant degree of hyperalgesia in HVs, likely linked to a reduced pain threshold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the refractive power profile, subjective depth-of-field and objective optical quality of two advanced monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed to improve intermediate vision. Methods: This prospective study evaluated forty-six eyes of twenty-three patients, aged 54–68 years, binocularly implanted with two monofocal enhanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), the Tecnis Eyhance and the Physiol Isopure. Subjective through-focus visual acuity curves were obtained by placing trial lenses in front of the eye while wearing its best spherical-cylindrical correction for distance. Objective optical quality was defined as the area under the modulation transfer function, calculated from the wavefront maps measured with a high-resolution aberrometer. The optical design of both lenses was compared based on their refractive power profiles measured with the lenses immersed in saline solution. Results: Both lenses have progressive aspherical geometries, in which the sagittal power decreases rapidly from the center to the edge of the optical zone. Mean monocular through-focus curves show a best corrected distance visual acuity of − 0.02 logMAR with both lenses. Through-focus visual acuity was marginally higher for the Eyhance, with a difference of 1 letter at the defocus position of − 0.5D and 3 letters between − 1.0D and − 2.0D. Objective assessment of optical quality revealed only a difference of about 2 points in MTF area at distance. Conclusion: Both IOLs use a similar approach to improve intermediate vision. The Eyhance showed marginally better subjective performance than the Isopure at the target vergences between − 1.00D and − 2.00D, although these results did not reach statistical significance and were not replicated by the objective findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater adhesives with injectable, organic solvent‐free, strong, fast adhesion, and hemostatic properties have become an urgent need in biomedical field. Herein, a novel polyurethane underwater adhesive (PUWA) inspired by mussels is developed utilizing the rapid post‐cure reaction of isocyanate esterification without organic solvents. The PUWA is created through the injectable two component curing process of component A (biocompatible polyurethane prepolymer) and component B (dopamine modified lysine derivatives: chain extender‐LDA and crosslinker‐L3DA). The two‐component adhesive cures quickly and firmly underwater, with an impressive bonding strength of 40 kPa on pork skin and excellent burst pressure of 394 mmHg. Moreover, the PUWA exhibits robust adhesion strength in hostile environments with acid, alkali and saline solutions. Combined with excellent biocompatibility and hemostatic performance, the PUWA demonstrates effectively sealing wounds and promoting healing. With the ability to bond diverse substrates rapidly and strongly, the PUWA holds significant potential for application in both biomedical and industrial fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fear and anxiety are considered concerns for animal welfare as they are associated with negative affective states. This study aimed to pharmacologically validate an attention bias test (ABT) for broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) as a cognitive bias test to determine anxiety. Two-hundred-and-four male Ross 708 broiler chickens were arbitrarily allocated to either the anxiogenic or control treatment at 25 days of age (n = 102/treatment). Birds from the anxiogenic group were administered with 2.5 mg of β-CCM (β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid-N-methylamide [FG 7142]) per kg of body weight through an intraperitoneal injection (0.1 ml/100 g of body weight). Birds from the control group were administered with 9 mg of a saline solution per kg of body weight. During ABT, birds were tested in groups of three (n = 34 groups of three birds/treatment) with commercial feed and mealworms as positive stimuli and a conspecific alarm call as a negative stimulus. Control birds were 45 s faster to begin feeding than anxiogenic birds. Birds from the control group vocalized 40 s later and stepped 57 s later than birds from the anxiogenic group. The occurrence of vigilance behaviors did not differ between treatments. This study was successful in pharmacologically validating an attention bias test for fast-growing broiler chickens, testing three birds simultaneously. Our findings showed that latencies to begin feeding, first vocalization, and first step were valid measures to quantify anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION What are the complications of transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy for the treatment of endometriomas? SUMMARY ANSWER Sclerotherapy is a reliable, minimally invasive method applicable in outpatient procedures but with specific and potential life-threatening complications that need to be identified and prevented. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There are currently few data on the use of transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy, and we mainly note septic complications. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective observational cohort study was carried out. The study was conducted at an academic hospital and included 126 women aged 31.9 ± 5.5 years (mean ± SD), between November 2013 and June 2021. We analyzed a total of 157 ethanol sclerotherapy treatment (EST), treated by 131 EST procedures, in 126 women. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study included women with an indication for transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy. Indications were women with at least one endometrioma over 10 mm, isolated or associated with other endometriosis locations, requiring treatment for pain or infertility before assisted reproductive treatment. We followed a standardized transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy procedure consisting of an ultrasound-guided transvaginal puncture of one or more endometriomas under general anesthesia. The cyst content was completely removed and flushed with saline solution. Ethanol (96%) was injected at 60% of the initial volume of the endometrioma, remained in the cyst for 10 min and was then completely removed. Ethanol loss was defined as a loss of 5 ml or more than 10% of the initial volume of the injected ethanol. Failure was defined by the contraindication of endometrioma puncture because of interposition of the digestive tract, ethanol loss in the previous endometrioma treated (in case of multiple ESTs), failure to aspirate the endometriotic fluid, contraindication to start ethanol injection owing to saline solution leakage, or contraindication to continue ethanol injection owing to suspicions of ethanol leakage at sonography. Intraoperative complications were defined by ethanol loss, positive blood alcohol level, and ethanol intoxication. Postoperative complications were defined by fever, biological inflammatory syndrome, and ovarian abscess. Complications were classified according to the Clavien and Dindo surgical classification, which is a system for classifying postoperative complications in five grades of increasing severity. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We reported a total of 17/157 (10.8%) transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy failures during 14/131 (10.7%) transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy procedures in 13/126 (10.3%) women. In the same sets of data, complication was reported for 15/157 (9.5%) transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy in 13/131 (9.9%) transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy procedures in 13/126 (10.3%) women. Nine of 126 women (7.1%) had a grade I complication, one (0.8%) had a grade II complication (medical treatment for suspicion of pelvic infection), two (1.6%) had a grade III complication (ovarian abscess) and one (0.8%) had a grade IV complication (ethanol intoxication). We did not observe any grade V complications. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a retrospective study and pain assessment not considered. The benefit-risk balance of endometrioma transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy was not evaluated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study is the first to evaluate the complications of transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy with such a large cohort of women in a standardized protocol. Transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy seems to be an effective alternative to laparoscopic surgery in the management of endometriomas and limits the alteration of ovarian reserve. Transvaginal ethanol sclerotherapy is a reliable, minimally invasive method applicable on an outpatient basis. The majority of complications are Clavien–Dindo ≤IV, for which preventative measures, or at least early diagnosis and treatment, can be easily performed. The risk of ethanol intoxication is rare, but it is a life-threatening risk that must be avoided by appropriate implementation and promotion of the sclerotherapy procedures. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Aix Marseille University's ethics committee registration number 2021-06-03-01. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the synthetic analogue of leu-enkephalin (dalargin) on the level of corticosterone in the blood and the mass of the adrenal glands in rats with various typological features of behavior in the model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was studied. Groups were formed: active low-anxiety (ALA) and high-anxiety (AHA), as well as passive low-anxiety (PLA) and high-anxiety (PHA) rats. Each of the four groups of rats was divided into three subgroups, where subgroup 1 is an intact control. Twenty days after the first stressful exposure, rats from subgroup 3 were injected intramuscularly with dalargin for seven days, and rats from subgroup 2 were injected with saline solution. It was found that the course of injections of dalargin into rats in the PTSD model had a positive effect on the studied indicators only in the group of active high-anxiety animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To provide a summary of our initial experience and assess the impact of the Saline‐Assisted Fascial Exposure (SAFE) technique on erectile function (EF), urinary continence, and oncological outcomes after Robot‐Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy (RALP). Patients and Methods: From January 2021 to July 2022, we included patients with a baseline Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) score of ≥17 and a high probability of extracapsular extension (ECE), ranging from 21% to 73%, as per the Martini et al. nomogram. A propensity score matching was carried out at a ratio of 1:2 between patients who underwent RALP + SAFE (33) and RALP alone (66). The descriptive statistical analysis is presented. The SAFE technique was performed using two approaches, transrectal guided by micro‐ultrasound or transperitoneal. Its principle entails a low‐pressure injection of saline solution in the periprostatic fascia to achieve an atraumatic dissection of the neural hammock. Potency was defined as a SHIM score of ≥17 and continence as no pads per day. Results: At follow‐up intervals of 6, 13, 26, and 52 weeks, the SHIM score differed significantly between the two groups, favouring the RALP + SAFE (P = 0.01, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.01, respectively). These results remained significant when the mean SHIM score was assessed. As shown by the cumulative incidence curve, EF rates were higher in the RALP + SAFE compared to the RALP alone group (log‐rank P < 0.001). The baseline SHIM and use of the SAFE technique were independent predictors of EF recovery. Conclusions: The use of the SAFE technique led to better SHIM scores at 6, 13, 26, and 52 weeks after RALP in patients at high risk of ECE who underwent a partial NS procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The aim of this study was to analyze, both theoretically and experimentally, the material transport mechanisms governing the separation of ionic species in aqueous solutions using nanofiltration membranes. To interpret the experimental results, the Donnan Steric Partitioning Model (DSPM) and the Dielectric Exclusion Model (DSPM-DE) were applied and computationally simulated in Matlab. Experimental tests were conducted using a pilot-scale system with commercial NF90 membranes. The results indicate that the DSPM better describes the rejection of monovalent ions (sodium and chloride), while the DSPM-DE is more suitable for divalent ions (sulfate and magnesium). Additionally, both models were sensitized to explore the impact of hindrance factors on the rejection of different ionic species. For neutral molecules present in the solution, it was observed that the DSPM and DSPM-DE do not adequately interpret selectivity, suggesting that under such conditions, the electrostatic exclusion mechanism loses significance, with the steric mechanism prevailing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Momordica charantia (bitter cucumber) is a tropical and subtropical plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Salinity is a major problem that limits plant growth and biomass production. The aim of this work was to determine the salinity tolerance of bitter cucumber, through the spectral analyses of some metabolites involved in their response to abiotic stress factors. To carry out the experiment, two varieties of bitter cucumber and three experimental lines were subjected to saline stress by applying treatments with saline solutions in different concentrations (control—0 mM NaCl; V1—100 mM NaCl; and V2—200 mM NaCl). After applying the treatments, analyses were carried out on the amount of free proline (Pro), ascorbic acid, and aromatic amino acids. For proline and ascorbic acid, the tendency was for their concentration to decrease in the variants treated with saline solutions" with "the tendency was for their absorbance to decrease in the variants treated with saline solutions. The differences between the controls and the treated variants, as well as between the studied genotypes, highlight their capacity for resistance and adaptation to saline stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato seeds are a rich source of protein that can be utilized for various industrial food purposes. This study delves into the effects of using supercritical CO2 (scCO2) on the structure and techno-functional properties of proteins extracted from defatted tomato seeds. The defatted meal was obtained using hexane (TSMH) and scCO2 (TSMC), and proteins were extracted using water (PEWH and PEWC) and saline solution (PESH and PESC). The results showed that scCO2 treatment significantly improved the techno-functional properties of protein extracts, such as oil-holding capacity and foaming capacity (especially for PEWC). Moreover, emulsifying capacity and stability were enhanced for PEWC and PESC, ranging between 4.8 and 46.7% and 11.3 and 96.3%, respectively. This was made possible by the changes in helix structure content induced by scCO2 treatment, which increased for PEWC (5.2%) and decreased for PESC (8.0%). Additionally, 2D electrophoresis revealed that scCO2 hydrolyzed alkaline proteins in the extracts. These findings demonstrate the potential of scCO2 treatment in producing modified proteins for food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Breast implants have always been composed of a silicone elastomer envelope filled with either silicone gel or saline. Breast implant illness (BII) is a set of symptoms that has previously been linked to the leakage of silicone particles from the implants into the body. Objectives Our research aimed to quantify the number of silicone particles present in the capsules of breast implants available in North America. Methods Thirty-five periprosthetic capsules were sampled and analyzed, and silicone particles were counted and measured. The capsule surface area was then measured and utilized to calculate particle density and total number of silicone particles. Results Eighty-five percent of capsules analyzed from silicone gel implants contained silicone, with an average of 62 particles per mm3 of capsular tissue. These implants had approximately 1 million silicone particles per capsule. In contrast, none of the saline implant capsules contained silicone. Capsules from macrotextured tissue expanders contained fewer and larger silicone particles. Conclusions Silicone gel implants presented silicone particle bleeding into the periprosthetic capsule, totaling on average 1 million silicone particles per capsule. On the other hand, no silicone particle bleeding was observed from saline breast implants. These data suggest that particle bleeding comes from the inner silicone gel, and not from the smooth outer silicone shell. Previous studies have reported the presence of breast implant illness in patients with both silicone- and saline-filled implants. Therefore, our data suggest that silicone migration is not the sole cause of BII. Level of Evidence: 4 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of ultrasound intensity and saline solution concentration (NH 4 Cl and CaCl 2) on phycocyanin extraction from Arthrospira platensis was evaluated. The intensity had a significant effect on phycocyanin content and purity, while the saline solution concentration only had an effect on purity. The optimum extraction condition was obtained at 41% of intensity and 8.5 g.L−1 of CaCl 2 solution. In this condition, ultrasound promoted cell disruption efficiently, increasing the extraction yield. The combination of ultrasound with CaCl 2 solution reduced the co-extraction of chlorophylls and other proteins, providing more purified extracts. The freezing and thawing method was compared to the best condition obtained, and it showed no significant difference for phycocyanin content but better results for purity. Overall, ultrasound treatment may be considered a promising technology to obtain phycocyanin by the food industry without additional purification techniques due to the reduced extraction time, less use of energy, and easy scale-up. • Ultrasound and saline solutions were evaluated for phycocyanin extraction. • The optimum condition was 41% of ultrasound intensity and 8.5 g L−1 of CaCl 2 solution. • The optimum condition reduced the co-extraction of chlorophylls and other proteins. • Ultrasound combined with CaCl 2 solution provided food grade phycocyanin extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-humped camels are livestock of physical, physiological, and biochemical adaptations to hot desert environments and to water scarcity. The tolerance of camels to water deprivation and their exceptional capacity for rapid rehydration requires blood cells with membranes of specialized organization and chemical composition. The objectives of this study are to examine the changes in the area (a proxy for volume) of camel blood cells in solutions with decreasing concentrations of NaCl and consequently identify the conditions under which blood cells can be phenotyped in a large population. Whole-blood samples from three healthy adult female camels were treated with four different concentrations of NaCl and examined at six incubation-periods. Observationally, red blood cells in all treatments remained intact and maintained their elliptical shape while white blood cells experienced some damage, lysing at concentrations below 0.90%. Average basal (in 0.90% NaCl) RBC area was ~15 μm² and swelled in the various treatments, in some cases reaching twice its original size. Excluding the damaged cells, the average area of combined WBCs, ~32.7 μm², expanded approximately three times its original size. We find that camel WBCs, like their RBCs, are adapted to hypotonic environments, and are capable of expanding while maintaining their structural integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Ambrosia arborescens Mill. (A. arborescens) is an aromatic plant used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory, anti-tussive, anti-rheumatic, and anti-diarrheal agent. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of A. arborescens Mill. on a Rattus norvegicus var. albinus-induced breast cancer model. Materials and Methods: We collected A. arborescens from the province of Julcán, La Libertad Region, Per, and prepared an ethanolic extract using pulverized leaves macerated in 96° ethanol for 72 h with magnetic stirring. In the evaluation of anticancer activity, four experimental groups with 10 female rats each were formed: Group I (Control-7,12-dimethylbenz[a] anthracene [DMBA]), which received DMBA (single dose) and physiological saline solution for 4 months, and Groups II, III, and IV, which received DMBA (single dose) and 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg/day of the ethanolic extract of A. arborescens, respectively, for 4 months. Results: The DMBA control group presented histological characteristics of ductal carcinoma in situ with necrotic and inflammatory areas, whereas the A. arborescens extract group showed a decrease in tumor volume and recovery of the ductal duct. Conclusion: Ethanol extract of A. arborescens leaves decreases tumor development in rats with induced breast cancer, and this effect is dose-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compelling evidence indicates that nitric oxide (NO) exerts a significant influence on the central nervous system, participates in the modulation of neurotransmitter release, contributes to the regulation of cognitive functions, and plays a crucial role in modulating various aspects of neural activity. We aimed to explore the influence of two NO donors, molsidomine (MSD) and V-pyrro/NO, on the innate spontaneous psychomotor abilities and short-term memory in rats. Using an actimeter test, the locomotor activity, stress-sensitive behavior, and anxiety level were investigated. The influence on the animal's cognitive functions was evaluated usingthe Y-maze test to assess the spontaneous alternation percentage, number of arms visited, number of alternations, and the preference index. Four distinct groups of five white male Wistar rats were exposed to the intraperitoneal treatments as follows: Control batch—0.3 mL/100 g of body weight saline solution, Mg batch—200 mg/kbwof magnesium chloride, MSD batch—1 mg/kbw of molsidomine, and V-pyrro/NO batch—5 mg/kbwof V-pyrro/NO. The intraperitoneal administration of MSD resulted in a significant reduction in spontaneous behavior and exploratory skills but was less pronounced than the positive control drug, magnesium chloride. Conversely, treatment with V-pyrro/NO led to only a slight decrease in horizontal movements during the actimeter test. MSD administration, but not V-pyrro/NO, notably increased the rate of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test. Additionally, the use of MSD resulted in an increase in the blood level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the intensification of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activity. In our experimental setup, we demonstrated that MSD exposure led to a decrease in spontaneous behavior, showed anxiolytic effects and antioxidant activity, and improved spatial memory acquisition in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfolane is a groundwater pollutant. While sulfolane is miscible in pure water, its miscibility in the presence of ions has not been widely investigated. This aspect is relevant to predict sulfolane migration in groundwater. Na2SO4 separates sulfolane from water, yielding bulk separation, emulsions seen by optical microscopy or molecular sulfolane clusters. We study these clusters with fluorescence spectroscopy, small-angle x ray (SAXS) and neutron (SANS) scattering, and x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS). Fluorescence spectroscopy reveals non-monotonic changes in the local viscosity of the water phase with 10% sulfolane and 0.25-1M Na2SO4, likely resulting from the interplay between sulfolane clustering and enhanced interactions between water molecules. NaCl affects the micro-viscosity of water similarly to Na2SO4, but at higher concentrations. At low sulfolane percentages, Cl− decreases the activity coefficients of water and sulfolane, suggesting stronger sulfolane–sulfolane and water–water interactions. SAXS confirms that Na2SO4 induces sulfolane clustering. SAXS data modeled with a power law and a Gaussian reveal a correlation length ξ = 16.3 Å, which we view as the radius of a sulfolane cluster surrounded by water and Na+ ions. SANS also shows that 2 mol. % of sulfate and chloride salts induce sulfolane clustering, with sulfates having a more marked effect. Furthermore, XAFS reveals that sulfates affect sulfolane sorption onto Si3N4 surfaces. Without Na2SO4, sulfolane directly sorbs onto Si3N4 surfaces. Conversely, with Na2SO4, water is directly sorbed onto Si3N4, likely because it surrounds sulfolane clusters. Also, hydrated Na+ ions are in Si3N4 surface proximity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The number of seven required throws per knot was previously reported as providing sufficient security against slippage. A novel high-strength suture featuring dynamic tightening may allow for throw number reduction without compromising stability. The aims of this study were to (1) investigate the influence of the throw number and the effect of different ambient conditions on the knot security of two different high-strength sutures, and (2) compare their biomechanical competence. Methods: Two sutures (FiberWire (FW) and DynaCord (DC)) were considered for preparing alternating surgical knots. The specimens were stratified for exposure to different media during biomechanical testing—namely air (dry), saline solution (wet), and fat (fatty-wet). A monotonic tensile ramp loading to failure was applied in each test run. For each suture and ambient condition, seven specimens with three to seven throws each were tested (n = 7), evaluating their slippage and ultimate force to failure. The minimum number of throws preventing suture unraveling was determined for each suture type and condition. Results: For each suture type and condition, failure occurred via rupture in all specimens for the following minimum number of throws: FW—dry–7, wet–7, fatty-wet–7; DC—dry–6, wet–4, fatty-wet–5. When applying seven throws, FW demonstrated significantly larger slippage (6.5 ± 2.2 mm) versus DC (3.5 ± 0.4 mm) in wet (p = 0.004) but not in dry and fatty-wet conditions (p ≥ 0.313). Conclusions: The lower number of throws providing knot security of DC versus FW in the more realistic wet and fatty-wet conditions indicates that the novel DC suture may allow to decrease the foreign body volume and save surgical time without compromising the biomechanical competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Medialization thyroplasty (MT) using various implants has been employed as a corrective procedure for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP). A newly developed APrevent® vocal implant system (VOIS) offers an innovative solution with a finely adjustable design. This study aimed to investigate the long-term functional voice outcomes and benefits of postoperative adjustments in patients receiving MT using the VOIS-implant. Methods: This is a prospective case series study at single tertiary medical center. Fourteen adult patients diagnosed with UVFP received MT with the VOIS implant and were followed up for more than 1 year. Implant adjustment procedure by injecting 0.9% physiological saline solution was performed both during and after the surgery to optimize glottal closure and voice quality. Objective voice outcomes and acoustic parameters were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at various timepoints. Results: Thirteen patients (93%) received intraoperative balloon adjustment, ranging from 0.05to 0.12 ml. Four patients underwent adjustments postoperatively and exhibited a positive trend towards immediately improving acoustic voice quality. Our long-term results demonstrated a notable improvement after the surgery in voice quality, with significant decreases in VHI-30 and improvements in perceptual parameters of GRBAS scale, acoustic measures such as jitter and signal-to-noise ratio (p < 0.001) and cepstral peak prominence smoothed in sustained vowel and short sentences. The voice outcomes remained stable more than 1 year follow-up. Conclusions: Overall, MT with VOIS implantation provides a favorable long-term outcomes and stability in voice quality for patients with UVFP and also an effective tool for postoperative adjustment without major revision surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of saline on the shear strength of compacted bentonite is important to investigate the safety assessment of engineering barriers of deep geological repositories. Different methods used for saturating compacted specimens yield inconsistent relationships between shear strength and salt solution concentration. In this study, we performed direct shear tests on compacted Na–bentonite saturated with distilled water and Na solutions using the constant-vertical stress (CP) method and the constant-volume (CV) method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements were conducted to investigate the microstructural characteristics of compacted bentonite. The results show that the measured shear strength increases with increasing vertical stress or solution concentration. Furthermore, the shear strength of specimens prepared through the CV method is larger when distilled water is used for saturation; at the same time, when salt solutions are used for saturation, CP samples show greater shear strength. On the microscale, both SEM images and NMR results show that specimens become increasingly aggregated with increasing pore-water salinity and that saline solution has a greater effect on the microstructure of the compacted bentonite when using the CP method for saturation because of the change in volume during saturation. The intergranular stress equation, which considers physicochemical effects, is introduced to theoretically characterize the mechanical behavior of compacted bentonite. It is found that the relationship between intergranular stress and shear strength is unique, independent of the saturation method. In other words, the salt solution concentration affects the microstructure, thereby affecting the interparticle stress of compacted bentonite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of i) pre-incubation storage time of Pekin duck eggs on incubation parameters and ii) different levels of in ovo injection with maltodextrin on Pekin duckling weight. The study was divided into two experiments using hatching eggs of Cherry Valley SM2 hens with egg-laying ages between 31 and 40 weeks. In experiment I, 8,820 eggs were subjected to different periods of pre-incubation storage (one-seven days). For experiment II, 120 eggs weighing between 75 and 85 g were selected and inoculated with 250 µL of 0.75% saline solution with different concentrations of maltodextrin treatments (0%, 1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.5%). In relation to pre-incubation storage time, eggs stored for one day had lower hatching and hatchability rates and higher duckling mortality rates than eggs stored for longer periods (P < 0.05). In ovo injection with 3.0% maltodextrin in 0.75% saline solution significantly increased the hatching weight of Pekin ducklings (53.62 g) compared to that by other study treatments (P < 0.05). Therefore, Pekin duck eggs produced between 31 and 40 weeks of life may be stored between two and seven days without affecting hatchery productivity parameters. The hatching weight of Pekin ducks may be improved with in ovo injection with 3.0% maltodextrin in 0.75% saline solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both balanced crystalloid solution and normal saline are commonly used for fluid therapy in critically ill patients. However, the association between the types of crystalloid solution and patient outcomes remains inconclusive. Materials and Methods: The authors performed a search using Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register through January 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing balanced crystalloids and normal saline in non-perioperative fluid resuscitation for critically ill adult patients were included. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. A trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to assess the effect of each type of fluid on the outcomes. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI), renal replacement therapy (RRT), and other pre-specified outcomes. Results: Ten RCTs were identified and included 36,233 participants. Between the balanced crystalloids and the normal saline group, there were no significant differences in mortality at 30 days (relative risk [RR] 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89 to 1.02, I²=0), the incidence of AKI (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.01, I²=0), and RRT (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.01, I²=13). However, patients receiving balanced crystalloids demonstrated a significantly lower serum chloride level than the patients receiving normal saline (MD -1.95, 95% CI -3.45 to -0.45, I²=99). There was also no mortality difference in the sepsis and traumatic brain injury subgroups. The TSA confirmed the absence of an effect on mortality at 30 days and the incidence of AKI. Conclusion: In critically ill patients, the use of balanced crystalloids does not decrease 30-day mortality or the incidence of AKI and RRT. However, data in specific subgroups of patients were underpowered and further studies are required. There were signals of benefit and risk of the balanced salt solution in the subgroups of sepsis and traumatic brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandstones of the Lourinhã Formation were studied. Alveolization is the major form of weathering on the façades of monuments near Peniche in the western region of Portugal. Salt weathering is an important cause of this degradation form. Stones of specimens, similar to those found in these ancient buildings, were used for an experimental program of artificial salt ageing through the use of sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium sulfate solutions, all at 10% (w/w). Salt weathering follow-up was carried out viz. the assessment of the degradation effect on these specimens of lower values of porosity under crystallization–dissolution cycles. Sodium chloride and sodium chloride with calcium sulfate were the more deleterious solutions, causing failure of the specimens after at least 40 cycles of immersion/drying. Surfaces of the sandstone specimens of variety A showed the onset of the alveolization form due to the use of a saline solution of sodium chloride with calcium sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intramyocardial hydrogel injection is a promising therapy to prevent negative remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI). In this study, we report a mechanism for in-situ gel formation without external stimulation, resulting in an injectable and tissue-retainable hydrogel for MI treatment, and investigate its therapeutic outcomes. A liquid-like polymeric solution comprising poly(3-acrylamidophenylboronic acid- co -acrylamide) (BAAm), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and sorbitol (S) increases the viscous modulus by reducing the pre-added sorbitol concentration is developed. This solution achieves a sol-gel transition in-vitro in heart tissue by spontaneously diffusing the sorbitol. After intramyocardial injection, the BAAm/PVA/S with lower initial viscous modulus widely spreads in the myocardium and gelate compared to a viscoelastic alginate (ALG) hydrogel and is retained longer than the BAAm/S solution. Serial echocardiogram analyses prove that injecting the BAAm/PVA/S into the hearts of subacute MI rats significantly increases the fraction shortening and ejection shortening and attenuates the expansion of systolic LV diameter for up to 21 d after injection compared to the saline injection as a control, but the ALG injection does not. In addition, histological evaluation shows that only the BAAm/PVA/S decreases the infarct size and increases the wall thickness 21 d after injection. The BAAm/PVA/S intramyocardial injection is better at restraining systolic ventricular dilatation and cardiac failure in the rat MI model than in the control groups. Our findings highlight an effective injectable hydrogel therapy for MI by optimizing injectability-dependent distribution and retention of injected material. In-situ gelling material is a promising strategy for intramyocardial hydrogel injection therapy for myocardial infarction (MI). Since the sol-gel transition of reported materials is driven by external stimulation such as temperature, pH, or ultraviolet, their application in vivo remains challenging. In this study, we first reported a synthetic in-situ gelling material (BAAm/PVA/S) whose gelation is stimulated by spontaneously reducing pre-added sorbitol after contacting the heart tissue. The BAAm/PVA/S solution spreads evenly, and is retained for at least 21 d in the heart tissue. Our study demonstrated that intramyocardial injection of the BAAm/PVA/S with more extensive distribution and longer retention had better effects on preventing LV dilation and improving cardiac function after MI than that of viscoelastic ALG and saline solution. We expect that these findings provide fundamental information for the optimum design of injectable biomaterials for treating MI. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim is to investigate the effects of the submucoperichondrial application of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) on nasal mucosal healing after septoplasty surgery. This prospective randomized observational study was conducted between July 2019 and February 2021, with 40 patients aged 18–60 years who underwent closed the only septoplasty operation for similar septal deviations. Patient divided into two group; 21 patients were placed in PRP group to which PRP was applied on all mucosal surface and submucoperichondrial area of septum and 19 patients were placed in control group to which saline solution was applied on same regions. Nasal obstruction score, mucociliary clearance time, presence of nasal crusting, and bleeding time were evaluated on 5th, 10th, 15th day after surgery and compared between groups. Intranasal crusting on day 10 was found to be lower in the PRP group (n :13 68.4 %) than control group (n :7 33.3 %) with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.028). The nasal obstruction score on day 10 and 15 were found to be lower in the PRP group (3,33 ± 2,75, 2,07 ± 2,20) (than the control group (5,44 ± 2,26, 3,37 ± 1,92) with a statistically significant difference (p = 0,003, p = 0,009). The mucociliary clearance rate was found to be higher and the bleeding time was found to be lower in the PRP group, but a statistically significant difference was not observed. Application of submucoperichondrial PRP could have beneficial effects on nasal mucosal repair, nasal crusting, and congestion after septoplasty surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common reconstruction technique following mastectomy is a 2-stage technique that involves tissue expansion followed by definitive implant-based reconstruction (IBR). Tissue expanders (TEs) have classically used saline for initial fill; however, TEs with an initial gas fill (GTE)—including the CO2-based AeroForm (AirXpanders, San Francisco, CA) TE and TEs initially filled with atmospheric air—have been increasingly used in the past decade. We aimed to compare the outcomes in breast reconstruction for tissue expanders initially filled with saline vs gas. PubMed was queried for studies comparing gas- and saline-filled tissue expanders (STEs) used in IBR. A meta-analysis was performed on major postoperative outcomes and the required expansion and definitive reconstruction time. Eleven studies were selected and included in the analysis. No significant differences existed between tissue expansion with GTEs vs STEs for 11 of the 13 postoperative outcomes investigated. Out of the complications investigated, only the risk of infection/cellulitis/abscess formation was significantly lower in the GTE cohort (odds ratio 0.62; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.82; P =.0009). The time to definitive reconstruction was also significantly lower in the GTE cohort (mean difference [MD], 45.85 days; 95% CI, −57.80 to −33.90; P <.00001). The total time to full expansion approached significance in the GTE cohort (MD, −20.33 days; 95% CI, −41.71 to 1.04; P =.06). A cost analysis considering TE cost and infection risk determined that GTE use saved a predicted $2055.34 in overall healthcare costs. Surgical outcomes for both fill types were predominantly similar; however, GTEs were associated with a significantly decreased risk of postoperative infection compared to saline-filled TEs. GTEs could also reduce healthcare expenditures and require less time until definitive reconstruction after placement. Level of Evidence: 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The presence of substantial amounts of dissolved salts creates serious difficulties in isotope analyses of water samples using conventional isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Although nowadays laser‐based instruments are increasingly used for this purpose, a comprehensive assessment of isotope effects associated with direct analyses of aqueous saline solutions using this technology is lacking. Methods: Here we report the results of laboratory experiments aimed at quantifying isotope effects associated with direct, δ2H, δ18O and δ17O analyses of single‐salt solutions and double‐salt mixtures prepared with a water of known isotopic composition. Three single‐salt solutions (NaCl, CaCl2 and MgSO4) and two double‐salt mixtures (NaCl + CaCl2 and NaCl + MgSO4) were prepared and investigated for a wide range of molalities. The triple‐isotope composition of the prepared solutions was analysed with the aid of a Picarro L2140‐i Cavity Ring‐Down Spectroscopy analyser. Results: The NaCl and CaCl2 solutions revealed small negative salt effects, independent of molality and comparable with measurement uncertainty. The MgCl2 solution showed the highest salt effects, reaching saturated solution ca. +2.7‰ (2H), −3.5‰ (18O) and −1.7‰ (17O). Salt effects for the double‐salt mixtures generally mirrored the effects observed for the single‐salt solutions. The observed salt effects are discussed in the context of processes occurring during the injection of the salt solutions into the vaporizer unit of the CRDS analyser. Conclusions: The presented study has demonstrated feasibility of direct, triple‐isotope analyses of aqueous salt solutions using a Picarro L2140‐i CRDS analyser for a broad range of salinities up to saturated conditions. Large uncertainties of 17O‐excess determinations for solutions forming hydrated salts preclude the use of this parameter for interpretation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, two laterites (LA)-based geopolymers were synthesized using alkalination (GPAL) and phosphoric acid-activation (GPAC) approaches and applied to scavenge malachite green (MG) dye from aqueous (non-saline) and saline water. The precursor (LA) and geopolymers were characterized by XRF, XRD, TG/DTA SEM, and FTIR techniques. Alkalination and acid-activation resulted in morphologically distinguishable geopolymers with different porosity structures. The dissolution of mineral phases and chemical composition was dependent on the activation medium, resulting in Na-polyferrosialate and polyferrophosphosialate geopolymers for GPAL and GPAC, respectively. The adsorption kinetics data were best described by the pseudo-first-order (PFO) model wherein the adsorption rate, denoted by rate constant (k 1), increased with an increase in ionic strength (salinity). The equilibrium data were best modelled by the Sips isotherm. GPAL had a higher maximum adsorption capacity (Q ms) than GPAC in both aqueous (non-saline) and saline water. The adsorption capacities were increased in saline solution relative to aqueous solutions without NaCl, from 12.4 to 54.1 mg/g and from 57.1 to 92.0 mg/g for GPAC and GPAL, respectively. The adsorption mechanism entailed electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Salinity decreased the solubility of MG and increased the hydrophobic interactions and affinity of MG, implied by apparent equilibrium constant (K a), resulting in increased adsorption density (Q ms). These results indicate that alkaline-based geopolymers are better candidates for scavenging MG dye from water, especially in saline environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: A combined microbial and cytological examination of uterine samples is the main diagnostic method for endometritis in mares. This study aimed to describe a procedure for using the same uterine cytobrush (CB) for both bacteriological and cytological evaluation. Material and Methods: The procedure consists of rolling the CB onto a sterilized glass slide immediately after collection and before the transfer into a sterile saline solution. In Experiment 1, a comparison between bacteriological results of the cotton swab (CS) and CB or pellet was made in 10 mares; in Experiment 2, bacteriological and cytological results were compared between different processing methods of CB in 28 mares; in other 6 mares, a CB was processed for cytology only, to investigate the reasons for the low cellularity of the pellet. Results: The agreement between culture results from the CB and CS was evaluated, and a comparison between the cytological data obtained by different processing methods of CB was performed. The perfect agreement between the CB and CS microbiological results was found. The described procedure enables useful diagnostic smears for cytology. Moreover, the seeding of both the tip of CB and the saline solution used for the transport produced accurate bacteriological results. Conclusion: The protocol described in this study for the use of CB for both cytological and bacteriological analysis could be used for the diagnosis of endometritis. To maximize diagnostic sample quality, cytology slides must be prepared with meticulous care in the field to preserve cellular integrity and minimize artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Striae distensae (SD), or stretch marks, are a common skin problem having a psychological impact and cosmetic concern, especially for women, in whom the prevalence is higher than in men. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of a single autologous micrografting treatment (AMT®) using Rigenera® technology for the management of SD. Methods: This single-centre study included 10 healthy women between 24 and 65 years of age, with Fitzpatrick–Goldman skin types I–IV, who had visible SD in glutes/thighs. Each subject acted as their own control. The treatment procedure (microneedling + AMT) and the control procedure (no treatment) were performed on contralateral sides of the glutes/thighs, targeting matched and paired SD. Microneedling was carried out using Dermapen®, equipped with 32 needle heads set at 1.5 mm needle length. The AMT procedure involved extracting biopsies from the mastoid hair zone with a 2.5-mm dermal punch, followed by disaggregation of the biopsies in a physiological saline solution using the Rigeneracons. The disaggregated micrografts were then intradermally injected using 30G 4-mm needles, maintaining a distance of 1 cm between injection points, covering the entire marked treatment region. Results: In the treated area, at 3 months post-procedure compared to pre-procedure, the following changes were observed, all with statistical significance (P ≤ 0.05): (a) significant reductions in skin roughness (Ra, − 15.9%; Rz, − 22.6%), skin luminance (− 2.0%), and blue-green color distribution (− 10.6%); (b) significant increases in skin microcirculation maximum value (+ 240.1%), skin hydration (+ 71.2%), skin elasticity (+ 216.5%), skin density (+ 34.3%), skin thickness (+ 26.0%), and hypodermis thickness (+ 29.9%). Furthermore, for each of the aforementioned parameters, there was a significantly greater improvement observed with the AMT procedure compared with microneedling at 3 months (all P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The AMT procedure using Rigenera technology resulted in an noticeable improvement in the SD appearance after 3 months in healthy women. Plain Language Summary: This was a study of the Autologous Micrografting Technology (AMT) procedure for management of SD. Striae distensae (SD) commonly known as stretch marks are visible linear scars on the skin arising from excessive stretching of the skin. They are a very common condition, especially in women, causing cosmetic concern and psychological discomfort. Ten healthy women with SD were included in the study and each subject acted as their own control. Matched and paired SD on contralateral sides of the glutes/thighs were identified for treatment and control. In the area identified for treatment, the skin was initially damaged by microneedling to enhance regeneration, followed by intradermal injection of disaggregated autologous micrografts. The micrografts for the AMT procedure were extracted from the mastoid hair zone and disaggregated in physiological saline solution using the Rigeneracons. In the control area, no treatment was performed. The efficacy of the AMT procedure was assessed at 1 and 3 months post-procedure using several validated methodologies. Three months after the AMT procedure, a significant increase was observed in skin hydration, elasticity, density, and thickness, as well as in hypodermis thickness and microcirculation maximum value compared with pre-procedure in the treated area. There also was a significant reduction in skin roughness, skin luminance, and blue-green color distribution at 3 months in the treated area. For each of these parameters, the improvement observed at 3 months was significantly higher with the AMT procedure compared with only microneedling. We showed that a single AMT procedure using Rigenera technology is useful in the management of SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three small-scale mock-up tests were carried out on artificially fractured Opalinus Clay samples from the lower sandy facies of Mont Terri site: the first with the synthetic water of neutral pH and at an osmotic suction of 1 MPa, the second with a highly NaNO3 saline solution with a neutral pH and at osmotic suction of 34 MPa, and the third with a hyperalkaline solution at pH = 13.5 and at osmotic suction of 1.16 MPa. The radial swelling pressure was monitored using a total pressure sensor along with the fracture opening using a displacement transducer. The tests ran for over 290 days. After that, the three tests were dismantled. A detailed petrophysical characterization of 45 subsamples was conducted, and the pore size distribution was determined at different positions. X-ray diffractometry measurements were also conducted to identify any mineralogical changes. Results show that, in the case of the synthetic water and the alkaline solution, the friction forces exerted by the lid and the base on the sample were significant and probably hampered the self-sealing of the fracture. Saline solutions affect the self-sealing process of claystones. Indeed, even though increasing the salinity caused the contraction of the diffuse double layer and generated additional fractures within the sample, which increased the permeability and thus accelerated the hydration process, a complete self-sealing of the fracture opening was not observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penstemons are a diverse group of flowering plants valued for their ability to enhance the visual appearance of urban landscapes. Penstemon barbatus (Cav.) Roth 'Novapenblu' (rock candy blueVR penstemon) and Penstemon strictus Benth 'Rocky Mountain' (rocky mountain beardtongue) are widely used in landscapes, but their tolerance to soil salinity remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of salinity levels at electrical conductivities (ECs) of 1.0 (nutrient solution), 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 dS·m21 on two penstemons (P. barbatus and P. strictus). Penstemons were irrigated with nutrient or saline solution for 8 weeks and various growth and physiological data were recorded before harvest. Salinity stress degraded the visual quality of penstemon species and led to a reduction in the growth rate and biomass production. Leaf burn and necrosis were observed in penstemons because of salinity stress. The visual score of P. barbatus and P. strictus decreased with increasing EC levels in the saline solution. When irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 7.5 dS·m21, Penstemon barbatus and P. strictus had severe-to-moderate foliar salt damage with average visual scores of 1.7 and 2.5, respectively (0 5 dead plant; 5 5 excellent plant without any foliar damage). The two penstemon species had severe foliar salt damage or were dead when irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m21. There were 87% and 92% decreases in the leaf area of P. barbatus and P. strictus, respectively, when irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m21 compared with those in the control. Although not statistically significant, there were 7% to 18% decreases in shoot dry weight of P. barbatus when irrigated with saline solutions at ECs of 2.5 to 10.0 dS·m21 compared with control. However, P. strictus displayed declines of 13% to 31% in shoot dry weight as the salinity levels of the irrigation solution increased. As the salinity levels increased, the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration (E) rates decreased. Furthermore, sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl2) contents of P. barbatus and P. strictus increased with the increase in salinity levels of the treatment solution. Consequently, P. barbatus and P. strictus demonstrated sensitivity to salinity stress at ECs of 7.5 and 10.0 dS·m21. This study provides important insights for their effective utilization in landscaping practices within saline-prone areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti-based bulk metallic glasses are promising materials for metallic bone implants, mainly due to their mechanical biofunctionality. A major drawback is their limited corrosion resistance, with high sensitivity to pitting. Thus, effective surface treatments for these alloys must be developed. This work investigates the electrochemical treatment feasibility of nitric acid (HNO3) solution for two bulk glass-forming alloys. The surface states obtained at different anodic potentials are characterized with electron microscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. The corrosion behavior of the treated glassy alloys is analyzed via comparison to non-treated states in phosphate-buffered saline solution (PBS) at 37 °C. For the glassy Ti47Zr7.5Cu38Fe2.5Sn2Si1Ag2 alloy, the pre-treatment causes pseudo-dealloying, with a transformation from naturally passivated surfaces to Ti- and Zr-oxide nanoporous layers and Cu-species removal from the near-surface regions. This results in effective suppression of chloride-induced pitting in PBS. The glassy Ti40Zr10Cu34Pd14Sn2 alloy shows lower free corrosion activity in HNO3 and PBS due to Pd stabilizing its strong passivity. However, this alloy undergoes pitting under anodic conditions. Surface pre-treatment results in Cu depletion but causes enrichment of Pd species and non-homogeneous surface oxidation. Therefore, for this glassy alloy, pitting cannot be completely inhibited in PBS. Concluding, anodic treatments in HNO3 are more suitable for Pd-free glassy Ti-based alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supine hypotensive syndrome is a common complication in late pregnancy. This study aims to explore the effects of ondansetron on the prevention of supine hypotensive syndrome during spinal anesthesia for cesarean section. Methods: A total of 80 women undergoing elective cesarean delivery were randomly assigned to two groups (the ondansetron group and the control group), with 40 cases in each group. The ondansetron group received 0.075 mg/kg of ondansetron intravenously 5 min before the induction of spinal anesthesia; the control group was given the same volume of saline solution. The blood pressure and heart rate were measured. Umbilical artery pH was analyzed, and the incidence of nausea and vomiting and vasoconstrictor drug usage were noted. Results: The incidence of supine hypotensive syndrome, nausea and vomiting, and vasoconstrictor drug use were significantly lower in the ondansetron group than the control group (2.5% vs. 20%, p = 0.029; 2.5% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.007; and 5% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.012, respectively). Umbilical artery pH was higher in the ondansetron group than the control group, and statistical significance was observed (7.31 ± 0.03 vs. 7.28 ± 0.04, p = 0.002). The maternal hemodynamic parameters and the neonatal Apgar score were similar between the two groups. Conclusion: Ondansetron can effectively prevent supine hypotensive syndrome, reduce the incidence of nausea, vomiting, and vasoconstrictor drug use, and improve neonatal umbilical arterial pH during spinal anesthesia for cesarean section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) in managing avulsed teeth. This systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (i.e., "PRISMA") statement 2020 and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (i.e., PROSPERO) with number CRD42022362198. The participants, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design (i.e., PICOS) for the present study considered the following question: "Does the use of laser PBM in the treatment of teeth with avulsion influence tissue repair performance?" A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest databases until January 2023. The SYRCLE's RoB tool (Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation) for animal studies were used for quality assessment. A total of 7 in vivo studies published between 2011 and 2018 were included in this systematic review for qualitative analysis. All studies used Wistar rats, totaling 368 specimens that simulated tooth avulsion trauma. The effect of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of avulsed teeth was positive in 5 studies (significant increase in tissue repair) and negative in 2 studies, in which both studies with negative results kept teeth in saline solution before reimplantation and showed the longest time and power of laser application. PBM appears to be effective for tissue repair in the treatment of avulsed teeth, depending on the means of conservation of the avulsed tooth and the laser application protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anthracycline cardiotoxicity is a well-known complication of cancer treatment, and miRNAs have emerged as a key driver in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the expression of miRNAs in the myocardium in early and late stages of chronic anthracycline induced cardiotoxicity to determine whether this expression is associated with the severity of cardiac damage. Method: Cardiotoxicity was induced in rabbits via daunorubicin administration (daunorubicin, 3 mg/kg/week; for five and 10 weeks), while the control group received saline solution. Myocardial miRNA expression was first screened using TaqMan Advanced miRNA microfluidic card assays, after which 32 miRNAs were selected for targeted analysis using qRT-PCR. Results: The first subclinical signs of cardiotoxicity (significant increase in plasma cardiac troponin T) were observed after 5 weeks of daunorubicin treatment. At this time point, 10 miRNAs (including members of the miRNA-34 and 21 families) showed significant upregulation relative to the control group, with the most intense change observed for miRNA-1298-5p (29-fold change, p < 0.01). After 10 weeks of daunorubicin treatment, when a further rise in cTnT was accompanied by significant left ventricle systolic dysfunction, only miR-504-5p was significantly (p < 0.01) downregulated, whereas 10 miRNAs were significantly upregulated relative to the control group; at this time-point, the most intense change was observed for miR-34a-5p (76-fold change). Strong correlations were found between the expression of multiple miRNAs (including miR-34 and mir-21 family and miR-1298-5p) and quantitative indices of toxic damage in both the early and late phases of cardiotoxicity development. Furthermore, plasma levels of miR34a-5p were strongly correlated with the myocardial expression of this miRNA. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that describes alterations in miRNA expression in the myocardium during the transition from subclinical, ANT-induced cardiotoxicity to an overt cardiotoxic phenotype; we also revealed how these changes in miRNA expression are strongly correlated with quantitative markers of cardiotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The safety of laboratory mice plays an important role in the success of laboratory experiments for correct and accurate results. Parasites are one of the most common diseases that affect most organisms. The worm Aspiculuris tetraptera is a common intestinal parasite of Mus musculus and rats, it is spread around the world. Aspiculuris tetraptera infection remains a problem for modern research groups; They should be excluded and monitored in rat populations due to their effects on animal health. Methods: The present study was conducted to assess the anthelmintic activity of Laurus nobilis extract in mice naturally infected with Aspiculuris tetraptera. Used was Thirty-six adult male and female (C57BL/6) mice, naturally infected with Aspiculuris tetraptera, were divided into six groups, each comprising six mice: Group 1, was the negative control (infected, untreated) and Groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 were treated with 50, 100, 200 and 400 µg/ml of L. nobilis for 5 days respectively. Group 6 was treated with 10 mg/mL Albendazole for 3 days as a positive control. Different six treatments were used to test Aspiculuris tetraptera worms in vitro, Containing 4 concentrations (50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/ml) of L. nobilis extract. Ten actively moving adult worms were then placed in each petri dish at room temperature. A saline solution and 10 mg/ml of Albendazole were prepared and used as negative and positive controls. After treatment, observations were made by recording the death time for worms at 20, 40, 80, 120 and 180 minutes. Worms are considered dead if they do not move for 30 seconds after touching their body parts using a surgical needle and the petri dish is shaken. Result: The analysis of phytochemicals by FT-IR for alcoholic extracts of L. nobilis extracts revealed the presence of 15% effective chemical ingredients responsible for killing worms’ activity. In vitro, worms died in 20, 40, 80, 120 and 180 minutes. Attained 96% and 100% after 180 minutes at the highest concentrations (200 and 400 mg/ml). At the same time, the untreated group lasted for long hours. The effects of the plant extract (Laurus nobilis) on Aspiculuris tetraptera worms were studied in vivo at therapeutic doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/mL. and the concentration of 400 ml/kg showed the most lethal effects for worms, infected mice that did not receive drugs were compared with the highest concentration of the extract and the reference treatment. The attention showed significant differences P≤0.05. The results showed that the mortality rate of worms taken from the intestines of the treated mice that were slaughtered three and six sdays after giving the treatment reached 96% and 100% in the concentration of 400 ml/kg of the extract and 89% and 97%for the mice that treated in 10 ml/kg of met Albendazole respectively. This research showed that herbal remedies could lead to new parasitic disease drugs, and their derivatives can be used for medication production and bioactivity improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Vascular reactivity may be influenced by the dysfunction of the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) that occurs after a prolonged high fat diet (HFD). Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the vascular responses in rats with prolonged HFD after the administration of Cornus mas L. extract as a simple solution or as a reducing agent for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Methods. Sprague-Dawley adult female rats (21 animals) were randomly allocated into three groups (n=7) and received for 9 months hyperlipid diet, the last month with treatment administered through oral gavage, 0.5 mL/day of solution as follows: HFD group - 0.9% saline solution, HFD+CM group - Cornus mas L. extract (0.158 mg/mL polyphenols), HFD+AuNPsCM group - gold nanoparticles phytoreduced with Cornus mas L. extract (AuNPsCM, 260 μg Au/kg/day). The Control group of rats (n=7) was fed with standard diet and in the last month received 0.9% saline solution as treatment. At the end of the experiment, the rats' descending aortas were collected and were used to investigate the aorta wall responses to vasoconstrictor (phenylephrine) and vasodilator (acetylcholine) substances added in tissue bath. Results. AuNPsCM administration, compared to Control and HFD groups, increased the contraction and reduced the relaxation in aorta rings of rats with prolonged high-fat diet. The simple solution of Cornus mas L. extract produced contractile responses similar to those recorded in the Control group, at lower levels than in HFD group, and relaxation responses significantly decreased in comparison with Control group and significant increased when compared to HFD group. Conclusions. Cornus mas L. extract administered as simple solution improved the aorta functions, while AuNPsCM solution enhanced the existed aorta wall modifications occurred after prolonged HFD, altering the vessel wall responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic and aortic morphometric effects of fish oil rich in omega-3 in hypercholesterolemic BALB/c mice. This is an experimental model that included 16 male BALB/c mice (Mus musculus) divided into three groups (G1 (standard commercial chow and 0.9% saline solution), G2 (hypercholesterolemic diet and 0.9% saline solution) and G3 (hypercholesterolemic diet and fish oil)) for 8 weeks. There was no significant difference in the treatment with omega-3-rich fish oil in the lipid profile (p > 0.05). In the histological analysis, group G2 detected the presence of hepatitis and liver tissue necrosis, but this was not observed in group G3. As for the morphometry in the light area of the vessel, the G1 group had a higher score (2.62 ± 0.36 mm2) when compared to G2 (2.10 ± 0.16 mm2) and G3 (2.26 ± 0.25 mm2) (p < 0.05). The vessel wall thickness did not differ between the groups (p > 0.05). It is concluded that supplementation with fish oil rich in omega-3 carried out in this study may have a protective effect on liver tissue, but it has not yet improved the lipid and morphometric profile. Despite this research being preliminary, it is a relevant study with future prospects for improving the doses of EPA and DHA in order to better elucidate the benefits of fish oil in models of dyslipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teaching veterinary anatomy using digital platforms requires improved image quality, which may influence the fixation process. This study aimed to compare four embalming solutions for high‐colour‐quality images of different tissues compared to the original image. Four equine left pelvic limbs were cut into metameres and divided equally for application of 10% formaldehyde, 96% glycerine, 33% hypersaturated NaCl solution and modified Larssen solution, respectively, which was maintained for 3 days. After drying for 3 days at room temperature, photographs were obtained at time 0 (T0), without any fixation process (original colour); time 1 (T1), immediately after removal from the solutions; and every 24 h for 3 days (T2–T4). The image colour quality was investigated by digitally evaluating the cortical bone, tendon and bone marrow using histograms and CIEDE2000 as well as by 10 specialists in an online survey. CIEDE2000 and histograms revealed that all fixation solutions changed the original tissue colour at all the time points (p < 0.0001). According to the specialists, the 33% saline solution produced the best results compared to the original one. The modified Larssen solution demonstrated better results for the tendon, marrow and cortical bone at T3 (p = 0.0015). Considering the colour of digital images, the modified Larssen solution provided the best results; however, the visual evaluation by the specialists revealed the 33% saline solution as the best. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal alteration of olivine greatly influences geodynamics and the recycling of volatiles (such as water and carbon) in subduction zones. Silica is an important component of geological fluids, and its influence on the hydrothermal alteration of olivine remains poorly constrained. In this study, we performed experiments at 300–515°C and 3.0 kbar (1 bar=105 Pa) by reacting well homogenized mixtures of olivine and silica powders with saline solutions (0.5 mol L−1 NaCl). Silica greatly influences the reaction pathways, reaction rates, and molecular hydrogen (H2) formation during olivine hydrothermal alteration. In experiments at 300°C and 3.0 kbar with mixtures of olivine and 10 wt% silica, olivine was replaced by serpentine and talc. The proportions of serpentine and talc were determined according to standard curves based on infrared spectroscopy analyses. Around 6.5% serpentine and 12% talc were produced after an experimental duration of 7 days, which had no change after a longer period (14 days). Compared to the kinetics in silica-free systems, the rates of olivine hydrothermal alteration in experiments with 10 wt% silica are much lower. The overall reaction is: 4.5Forsterite+5.5SiO2,aq+4H2O=Serpentine+2Talc. With the addition of more silica (20 wt% and 40 wt%), olivine was transformed into talc. The rates of reaction were much faster, e.g., for experiments with olivine and 20 wt% silica, 43% of talc was produced after 14 days, which increased to 77% for experiments with 40 wt% silica over the same period. The overall reaction is: 3Forsterite+5SiO2,aq+2H2O=2Talc. In experiments at 400–505°C and 3.0 kbar, the promoting effect of silica on olivine hydrothermal alteration was also observed, which is closely associated with a decrease in Gibbs free energies of olivine hydrothermal alteration. At 300°C and 3.0 kbar, silica decreased H2 formed during olivine hydrothermal alteration by around an order of magnitude, resulting in an increase in oxygen fugacity. Based on measured H2, we calibrated oxygen fugacities, ranging from 0.96 to 3.41 log units below FMQ (fayalite-magnetite-quartz buffer assemblage). This study suggests that the infiltration of SiO2-bearing fluids into peridotites greatly influences redox conditions and the rates of olivine hydrothermal alteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This experiment aimed to explore the protective action of dietary supplementation with isoquinoline alkaloids (IA) from Macleaya cordata on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury in broilers. Methods: Total 216 healthy broilers were selected in a 21-d trial and assigned randomly to the following 3 treatments: control (CON) group, LPS group, and LPS+IA group. The CON and LPS groups were provided with a basal diet, whereas the LPS+IA group received the basal diet supplemented with 0.6 mg/kg Macleaya cordata IA. Broilers in LPS and LPS+IA groups were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (1 mg/kg body weight) at 17, 19, and 21 days of age, while those in CON group were injected with equivalent amount of saline solution. Results: Results showed LPS injection caused systemic and liver inflammation in broilers, inhibited immune function, and ultimately lead to liver injury. By contrast, supplementation of IA ameliorated LPS-induced adverse change in serum parameters, boosted immunity in LPS+IA group. Furthermore, IA suppressed the elevation of hepatic inflammatory cytokines and caspases levels induced by LPS, as well as the expressions of genes related to the tolllike receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factorkappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Conclusion: Dietary inclusion of 0.6 mg/kg Macleaya cordata IA could enhance immune function of body and inhibit liver damage via inactivating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogels prepared using natural sources are of great importance in various applications due to their biodegradable and biocompatible features. In this work, a novel nanocomposite hydrogel based on the Gum extracted from Elaeagnus angustifolia was prepared and characterized. Graft copolymerization of Acrylic acid (AA) and Acrylamide (AAm) monomers was done on the polysaccharide chains of E. angustifolia Gum (EAG). To improve the physical and mechanical properties of the synthesized hydrogel, Cloisite 15A was used in different amounts as additive and physical cross-linking agent. The prepared hydrogels based on EAG polysaccharides were chemically and structurally characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, XRD analysis and SEM images. Incorporation of Cloisite 15A altered the porosity and network structure of the hydrogels-based EAG by acting as a physical cross-linker. So, the hydrogel containing Cloisite 15A showed improved water absorption and mechanical properties. Also, it was observed that the nanocomposite hydrogels have better performance in solutions with various pH values and saline solutions. The rheological studies showed that by the application of 3% wt of Cloisite 15A, the gel characteristics of the nanocomposite hydrogel are enhanced due to the optimum density of physical cross-linking in hydrogel structure. Accordingly, due to the natural source and proper physicochemical properties, the prepared hydrogel can be potentially used as water reservoir system in various agricultural and hygienic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The rBCG expressing rCP40 and rCP09720 proteins protect against C. pseudotuberculosis. • Mycobacterium bovis BCG/cp40 boosted with rCP40 (G5) showed 90% protection after challenge. • Besides eliciting an expected cross-immune response, rBCG induced specific humoral and cellular responses. In this study, we assessed the survival and immune response of mice vaccinated with recombinant Mycobacterium bovis BCG Pasteur that expressed the CP40 or CP09720 proteins after the mice were challenged with a C. pseudotuberculosis MIC-6 virulent strain. Six groups of mice (n = 10 mice per group) were immunised with a sterile 0.9% saline solution (G1), 106 CFU of M. bovis BCG Pasteur (G2), 106 CFU of M. bovis BCG/ cp40 (G3), 106 CFU of M. bovis BCG/ cp09720 (G4), M. bovis BCG/ cp40 boosted with rCP40 (G5), and M. bovis BCG/ cp09720 boosted with rCP09720 (G6). The highest survival rate of 90% was observed in the G5 group, followed by 80% in the G6 group and 70% in the G3 and G4 groups. Moreover, a significantly greater induction of IFN-γ and IL-10 was found in the G3 group and higher IL-17 levels were recorded in the G5 group compared to their levels in the control group (G1) (p < 0.05). A specific humoral immune response (total IgG) was found in the G5 and G6 groups on day 42 compared to the level of response in the G1 group. These results indicated that the vector vaccine elicited significantly greater survival of mice in all experimental groups after a strong virulent challenge and induced a strong immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to explore a storage solution for titanium implants and investigate its osteogenic properties. The commercial pure titanium (cp-Ti) surface and double-etched (SLA) titanium surface specimens were preserved in air, saline, 10 mM Vitamin C (VitC)-containing saline and 100 mM VitC-containing saline storage solutions for 2 weeks. The surface microtopography of titanium was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the surface elemental compositions of the specimens were analyzed by Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and water contact angle and surface roughness of the specimens were tested. The protein adsorption capacity of two titanium surfaces after storage in different media was examined by BCA kit. The MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts were cultured on two titanium surfaces after storage in different media, and the proliferation, adhesion and osteogenic differentiation activity of osteoblasts were detected by CCK-8, laser confocal microscope (CLSM) and Western blot. The SEM results indicated that the titanium surfaces of the air group were relatively clean while scattered sodium chloride or VitC crystals were seen on the titanium surfaces of the other three groups. There were no significant differences in the micromorphology of the titanium surfaces among the four groups. Raman spectroscopy detected VitC crystals on the titanium surfaces of two experimental groups. The XPS, water contact angle and surface roughness results suggested that cp-Ti and SLA-Ti stored in 0.9% NaCl and two VitC-containing saline storage solutions possessed less carbon contamination and higher surface hydrophilicity. Moreover, the protein adsorption potentials of cp-Ti and SLA-Ti surfaces were significantly improved under preservation in two VitC-containing saline storage solutions. The results of in vitro study showed that the preservation of two titanium surfaces in 100 mM VitC-containing saline storage solution upregulated the cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic related protein expressions of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. In conclusion, preservation of cp-Ti and SLA-Ti in 100 mM VitC-containing saline storage solution could effectively reduce carbon contamination and enhance surface hydrophilicity, which was conducive to osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of severe burns remains a complex challenge. Adenosine, lidocaine, and magnesium (ALM) resuscitation therapy has been shown to protect against hemorrhagic shock and traumatic injury. The aim of the present study was to investigate the early protective effects of small-volume ALM fluid resuscitation in a rat model of 30% total body surface area (TBSA) thermal injury. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (320–340 g; n = 25) were randomly assigned to: 1) Sham (surgical instrumentation and saline infusion, without burn, n = 5), 2) Saline resuscitation group (n = 10), or 3) ALM resuscitation group (n = 10). Treatments were initiated 15-min after burn trauma, including 0.7 mL/kg 3% NaCl ± ALM bolus and 0.25–0.5 mL/kg/h 0.9% NaCl ± ALM drip, with animals monitored to 8.25-hr post-burn. Hemodynamics, cardiac function, blood chemistry, hematology, endothelial injury markers and histopathology were assessed. Survival was 100% for Shams and 90% for both ALM and Saline groups. Shams underwent significant physiological, immune and hematological changes over time as a result of surgical traums. ALM significantly reduced malondialdehyde levels in the lungs compared to Saline (P =.023), and showed minimal alveolar destruction and inflammatory cell infiltration (P <.001). ALM also improved cardiac function and oxygen delivery (21%, P =.418 vs Saline), reduced gut injury (P <.001 vs Saline), and increased plasma adiponectin (P <.001 vs baseline). Circulating levels of the acute phase protein alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) increased 1.6-times (P <.001), which may have impacted ALM's therapeutic efficacy. We conclude that small-volume ALM therapy significantly reduced lung oxidative stress and preserved alveolar integrity following severe burn trauma. Further studies are required to assess higher ALM doses with longer monitoring periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]