Management of intrascleral chestnut burr spines under ultrasound biomicroscopy guidance

Purpose: To explore the efficacy of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) as a tool for detecting and localizing intrascleral chestnut burr spines. Methods: Individuals who were diagnosed with definitive or suspected intrascleral chestnut burr injuries between 2019 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent UBM to detect potential intrascleral spines. UBM imaging features were recorded and analyzed. Intrascleral spines were removed based upon UBM?guided localization. Patient clinical profiles, management, and treatment outcomes were recorded. Results: A total of 10 eyes (10 patients; 6 males, 4 females) were diagnosed with intrascleral spines over the study period, with an average patient age of 55 years (range: 39–71). Three of these 10 eyes exhibited involvement of the palpebrae and cornea, whereas three exhibited corneal involvement, and the remaining four patients exhibited only intrascleral spine injuries owing to their having undergone previous intracorneal spine extraction procedures. UBM features consistent with chestnut burr spines manifest a hyperechoic spot with a shadow. UBM enabled the precise localization of these spines and thus ensured their successful removal via a single surgery. During follow?up, two patients experienced vitreous hemorrhage due to a penetrating injury into the ciliary body that was gradually absorbed. All patients with eye irritation and red eyes progressed favorably, and no surgical complications were recorded. Conclusion: A retained scleral chestnut burr spine should be suspected if a patient complains of persistent eye irritation following intracorneal spine removal. UBM may be a valuable tool for detecting spines retained in the sclera, enabling the successful removal thereof.

Effects of ring finger and tryptophan-aspartic acid 2 on dendritic spines and synapse formation in cerebral cortex neurons of mice / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To clarify the functional effects of differential expression of ring finger and tryptophan-aspartic acid 2 (RFWD2) on dendritic development and formation of dendritic spines in cerebral cortex neurons of mice.@*METHODS@#Immunofluorescent staining was used to identify the location and global expression profile of RFWD2 in mouse brain and determine the co-localization of RFWD2 with the synaptic proteins in the cortical neurons. We also examined the effects of RFWD2 over-expression (RFWD2-Myc) and RFWD2 knockdown (RFWD2-shRNA) on dendritic development, dendritic spine formation and synaptic function in cultured cortical neurons.@*RESULTS@#RFWD2 is highly expressed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice, and its expression level was positively correlated with the development of cerebral cortex neurons and dendrites. RFWD2 expression was detected on the presynaptic membrane and postsynaptic membrane of the neurons, and its expression levels were positively correlated with the length, number of branches and complexity of the dendrites. In cultured cortical neurons, RFWD2 overexpression significantly lowered the expressions of the synaptic proteins synaptophysin (P < 0.01) and postsynapic density protein 95 (P < 0.01), while RFWD2 knockdown significantly increased their expressions (both P < 0.05). Compared with the control and RFWD2-overexpressing cells, the neurons with RFWD2 knockdown showed significantly reduced number of dendritic spines (both P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#RFWD2 can regulate the expression of the synaptic proteins, the development of the dendrites, the formation of the dendritic spines and synaptic function in mouse cerebral cortex neurons through ubiquitination of Pea3 family members and c-Jun, which may serve as potential treatment targets for neurological diseases.

Morphology of endoskeleton and spination in the sea star Midgardia xandaros (Brisingida: Brisingidae) from the Gulf of Mexico / Morfología del endoesqueleto y ornamentación de la estrella de mar Midgardia xandaros (Brisingida: Brisingidae) en el Golfo de México

Introduction: The deep-sea asteroid species of Brisingida have a nearly global distribution but have remained poorly understood due to their deep bathymetric distributions and fragile skeletons. Objective: To describe the external and internal morphology of Midgardia xandaros including the skeletal arrangement, through multifocal and SEM techniques. Methods: We examined a total of 21 specimens, including 27 arm fragments, from the Gulf of Mexico and Honduras. Two specimens were dissected. Results: Detailed descriptions of pedicellariae, abactinal, intercostal, inferomarginal, adambulacral, ambulacral, odontophore, and oral ossicles, and their spines are provided, emphasizing the articulations and muscle attachments. C-shaped valves pedicellariae and small pedicellariae valves with shorter denticulation areas were recognized. Conclusions: The morphological description of M. xandaros is expanded, providing the most extensive description of abactinal, first adambulacral, first and subsequent inferomarginal ossicles, abactinal spines, and C-shaped, crossed pedicellariae, as well as the distal arm plates, for a brisingid species using SEM to date.

Introducción: Las estrellas de mar de profundidad del orden Brisingida tienen una distribución casi global, sin embargo, han sido poco estudiadas debido a su profunda distribución batimétrica y esqueleto frágil. Objetivo: Describir la morfología externa e interna de Midgardia xandaros incluyendo el arreglo de las placas del esqueleto mediante técnicas de microscopía multifocal y electrónica de barrido (MEB). Métodos: Se examinó un total de 21 ejemplares, incluyendo 27 fragmentos de brazos, provenientes del Golfo de México y Honduras. Dos de estos ejemplares fueron disectados. Resultados: Se presenta la descripción de pedicelarios; placas abactinales, intercostales, inferomarginales, adambulacrales, ambulacrales, orales y odontóforo, y sus espinas, enfatizando los sitios de articulaciones e inserción de músculos. Se reconocieron pedicelarios con valvas con forma de C, y pequeños pedicelarios cuyas valvas poseen áreas de denticulación cortas. Conclusiones: La descripción morfológica de M. xandaros es ampliada, presentado por primera vez la morfología de las placas abactinales, primera adambulacrales, primera y subsecuentes inferomarginales, espinas abactinales y pedicelarios con valvas con forma de "C", así como las placas distales de los brazos para una especie del orden Brisingida.

Redescription of the sea urchin Eucidaris thouarsii (Cidaroida: Cidaridae) based on material from the Mexican Pacific / Redescripción del erizo de mar Eucidaris thyarsii (Cidaroida: Cidaridae) basado en material del Pacífico mexicano

Introduction: Eucidaris thouarsii is a cidaroid sea urchin found from the Gulf of California to Ecuador. Its taxonomy is based on general descriptions of test shape, primary and secondary spines, the Aristotle's lantern, apical system, and peristome. Objective: To redescribe E. thouarsii with detailed descriptions, adding new taxonomic characters. Methods: We examined and reidentified 792 specimens, measuring and analyzing in detail structures of taxonomic value. Results: The horizontal diameter of the test ranges from 2.8 to 48.45 mm; the peristome corresponds to 40-60 % of that diameter, proportionally bigger than the apical system; the interambulacral areas are four times larger than the ambulacral areas. The variation of the pedicellariae is shown with scanning electron microscopy. The specimens of the Mexican oceanic islands are markedly different when compared to those of the mainland. Conclusions: Eucidaris thouarsii has five well differentiated secondary spines, and also specific regionalization; the apical system varies according to the size of the Horizontal Diameter of the Test; the globiferous pedicellariae have intraspecific differences; and the tridentate pedicellariae are specifically regionalized.

Introducción: Eucidaris thouarsii es una especie de erizo de mar, cidárido presente desde el Golfo de California hasta Ecuador. Su taxonomía está basada en descripciones generales de la forma de la testa, espinas primarias y secundarias, la linterna de Aristóteles, el sistema apical y peristoma. Objetivo: Redescribir E. thouarsii con descripciones detalladas, añadiendo nuevos caracteres taxonómicos. Método: Examinamos y reidentificamos 792 ejemplares, midiendo y analizando a detalle estructuras de valor taxonómico. Resultados: El diámetro horizontal de la testa va de 2.8 a 48 mm; el peristoma corresponde entre el 40-60% del diámetro horizontal de la testa, proporcionalmente más grande que el sistema apical; el área interambulacral es cuatro veces más grande que el área ambulacral. La variación en los pedicelarios se muestra con microscopía electrónica de barrido. Los ejemplares de las islas oceánicas mexicanas son claramente diferentes, comparados con los de la costa. Conclusiones: Eucidaris thouarsii tiene cinco tipos bien definidos de espinas secundarias que se encuentran regionalizadas en la testa, el sistema apical varía de acuerdo con el diámetro horizontal de la testa, los pedicelarios globíferos tienen diferencias intraespecíficas y los pedicelarios tridentados estas específicamente regionalizados.

Effect of Baihe Dihuang Decoction on synaptic plasticity of hippocampus in rats with anxious depression / 中国中药杂志

To explore the effect of Baihe Dihuang Decoction on the synaptic plasticity of hippocampal neurons in rats with anxious depression. Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group, venlafaxine group(6.75 mg·kg~(-1)), high-dose Baihe Dihuang Decoction group(8.64 g·kg~(-1)) and low-dose Baihe Dihuang Decoction group(4.32 g·kg~(-1)). Chronic restraint stress(6 h) combined with corticosterone(ih, 30 mg·kg~(-1)) was used to establish an anxious depression model, and 7 days after modeling, the administration started and continued for 21 days. The anxiety and depression-like behaviors of the rats were evaluated. Golgi-Cox staining and electron microscopy were used to observe the morphology and ultrastructural changes of synaptic dendrites. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of hippocampal synaptic plasticity protein synapsin-1 and postsynaptic density protein 95(PSD-95). Western blot method was used to detect the expression of functional protein synaptophysin(SYP) and synaptic Ras GTPase activating protein(SynGap). The results showed that the rats in the model group had obvious anxiety and depression-like behaviors, the hip-pocampal dendritic spine density and branch length were reduced, the number of synapses was cut, and the internal structure was da-maged. The average fluorescence intensity of synapsin-1 and PSD-95 was significantly reduced and the expression of SYP and SynGap also decreased. High-dose Baihe Dihuang Decoction could significantly improve the anxiety and depression-like behaviors of model rats, relieve synaptic damage, and increase the expression of synapsin-1, PSD-95, SYP, and SynGap proteins. Therefore, we believe that Baihe Dihuang Decoction can improve anxiety and depression behaviors by regulating the synaptic plasticity of hippocampal neurons.

Morfología neuronal en el trastorno del espectro autista / Neuronal morphology in autism spectrum disorder

RESUMEN: El trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) abarca un grupo de trastornos multifactoriales del neurodesarrollo caracterizados por una comunicación e interacción social deteriorada y por comportamientos repetitivos y estereotipados. Múltiples estudios han revelado que en el TEA existen disfunciones sinápticas, en la cual la morfología y función neuronal son sustratos importantes en esta patogenia. En esta revisión comentamos los datos disponibles a nivel de anormalidades neuronales en el TEA, enfatizando la morfología de las dendritas, espinas dendríticas y citoesquelo de actina. Las dendritas y espinas dendríticas, ricas en actina, forman la parte postsináptica de la mayoría de las sinapsis excitadoras. En el TEA, los datos obtenidos apuntan a una desregulación en el crecimiento y desarrollo dendrítico, así como una alteración en la densidad de las espinas dendríticas. Lo anterior, se ve acompañado de alteraciones en la remodelación y composición del citoesqueleto neuronal. Para comprender mejor la fisiopatología del TEA, es necesario mayor información sobre cómo los cambios morfofuncionales de los actores que participan en la sinapsis impactan en los circuitos y el comportamiento.

SUMMARY: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized by impaired communication and social interaction skills, and by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Multiple studies report that there are synaptic dysfunctions in ASD, in which important substrates such as morphology and neuronal function are involved in this pathogenesis. In this review we discuss the data available at the level of neuronal abnormalities in ASD, and emphasize the morphological aspects of dendrites, dendritic spines, and actin cytoskeleton. Actin-rich dendrites and dendritic spines shape the postsynaptic part of the most excitatory synapses. In ASD, the data points to a dysregulation in dendritic growth and development, as well as an alteration in the density of dendritic spines. This is accompanied by alterations in the remodeling and composition of the neuronal cytoskeleton. In order to better understand the pathophysiology of ASD, further information is needed on how the elements of synaptic morphofunctional changes impact circuits and behavior.

Estimación del balance de metionina y lisina metabolizable en vacas de leche en pastoreo / Estimation of the balance of metabolizable lysine and methionine for grazing dairy cows

RESUMEN Objetivos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estimar en vacas en pastoreo, tanto la reproducibilidad como la precisión del balance de metionina (Met) y lisina (Lis), aminoácidos más limitantes en la producción de leche, cuando se comparan los valores predichos versus los valores observados. Materiales y métodos. Se usaron 12 vacas durante un periodo de 20 días. Control: animales pastoreando y suplementados con alimento balanceado; Met-Lis: igual al control y el suplemento se ajustó con Lis y Met protegida. Para los valores predichos para la suplementación de Met y Lis, se tuvo en cuenta el promedio del consumo de materia seca (CMS) del hato, basado en la oferta y el consumo de pasto y los valores de proteína microbiana. Los valores observados se determinaron con base en el CMS individual usando marcadores externos e internos, además, la producción individual de proteína microbiana. Se realizó una prueba de t pareada y un modelo de predicción para determinar la eficiencia fue determinado usando el error cuadrático medio de predicción (ECMP) y el coeficiente de concordancia (CCC). Resultados. Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre la suplementación y el balance de Met y Lis, entre los valores predichos y los valores observados para el CMS del forraje, la digestibilidad de la proteína microbiana, la producción de proteína microbiana, el suministro y el balance de Lis y Met. El CCC del balance de Lis y Met fue bajo (0.10), el ECMP fue alto, excepto para el CMS, que tuvo una concordancia moderada (0.63) y un bajo ECMP(4.42). Conclusiones. Estos resultados demuestran la falta de precisión de las herramientas que se usan para balancear las raciones individuales de vacas en pastoreo, ya que subestiman la suplementación y el balance de los aminoácidos.

ABSTRACT Objective. The aim of this study was to determine in grazing cows, the reproducibility and accuracy of the balance between predicted values, when compared with the observed values for the most limiting amino acids in milk protein synthesis, the methionine (Met) and Lysine (Lys). Materials and methods. Twelve lactating cows were used for a 20-day experimental period. Control: animals grazing and supplemented with balanced food; Met-Lys: same as control and supplemented with adjusted rumen protected Met and Lys. For Met and Lys supply predicted values, it was taking in account the average of the dry matter intake (DMI) of the herd, based in offer and foraging control and values of microbial protein data. Observed values were determined based in the individual DMI intake, using external and internal markers and the individual microbial protein production. A t-paired-sample test was performed and the efficiency of the model's prediction was determined using the mean square prediction error (MSPE) and the concordance coefficient (CCC). Results. Significant differences were found between the predicted and observed values for DMI forage, digestible microbial protein and microbial protein production, supply and the balance of Lys and Met. The CCC for Lys and Met balance were low (0.10), the MSPE was high except for the total DMI with a moderate concordance (0.63) and low MSPE (4.42). Conclusions. These results indicate a lack of precision of the tools, which underestimates the supply and balance of amino acids in individual grazing cows.

O desafio para compreender a morfologia cerebral: da visualização à quantificação / Challenges in understanding brain morphology: from visualization to quantification

O objetivo deste trabalho é estudar a morfologia neuronal a partir de modelos animais, fornecer informações biológicas difíceis de serem obtidas em humanos, permitindo estudar condições neuropsiquiátricas como doença de Alzheimer, ansiedade, dentre outras. O presente trabalho descreveu metodologia de estudo para cérebro de roedores, duas técnicas neuroanatômicas, Klüver-Barrera e Golgi-Cox, e seus respectivos processos de quantificação. A técnica de Klüver-Barrera permitiu visualização da substância branca e cinzenta com destaque na bainha de mielina. A técnica de Golgi-Cox, adaptada para realidade de nosso laboratório, mostrou-se eficiente para visualização de neurônios e seus prolongamentos, como dendritos e espinhas dendríticas, permitindo assim a quantificação. A partir de imagens obtidas de microscópio descreveu-se os diferentes passos para quantificação, a determinação de volume de estruturas internas cerebrais (corpo caloso e camada celular do hipocampo) assim como a quantificação das espinhas dendríticas em neurônios piramidais. Os métodos descritos e detalhados poderão ser utilizados em vários campos da neurociência

Neuronal morphology is analyzed in animal models to provide biological information difficult to obtain in humans. The above makes possible the study of neuro-psychiatric, such as Alzheimer´s disease, anxiety and others. Current study described methodology for rodents´ brains, two neuro-anatomic techniques, Klüver-Barrera and Golgi-Cox, and their respective quantification processes. Klüver-Barrera technique visualized the white and gray matter, particularly the myelin sheath. Golgi-Cox technique, adapted for current research, was efficient to visualize neurons and their prolongations, such as dendrites and dendritic spines, with quantification. Images by microscope described the different steps for the quantification, determination of volume of the brain´s internal structures (callous body and the hypocampus´s cell layer) coupled to the quantification of dendritic spines in pyramid neurons. Described and detailed methods will be useful in several fields of neuroscience

Neuronal Remodeling and Dendritic Spines: A Review

The neurons show remodeling in their dendritic arbor and spine/synapsenumber in many brain regions including the hippocampus, amygdala and the prefrontalcortex. The dendritic spine density is reported to be changed due to experiences andstressful conditions. The dendritic spines are the small protrusions arising from thedendritic shaft of the neurons. They have basic shapes as large mushroom spines, shortstubby spines and thin spines. The morphology of spines changes rapidly in response tovarious stimuli that may be internal such as hormones and external such as environmentalchanges. Dendritic spine density plays a major role in classification of principal neuronsi.e. multipolar and pyramidal neurons. The principal neurons may be classified as sparselyspinous, moderately spinous and heavily spinous on the basis of density of spine over thedendritic branches. In response to environment dendritic remodeling takes place in theform of spine shapes, spine turnover and spine density etc. Synaptic plasticity primarilytakes place in dendritic spines and enriched environment have positive effect while socialisolation have negative effect on synapse formation. Exposure of animals to environmentalcomplexity may improve the learning and memory by providing adaptive changes in thedendritic spine density.

Prevalence of Salmonella spp., in mesenteric pig's ganglia at Colombian benefit plants / Prevalencia de Salmonella spp., en ganglios mesentéricos de porcinos en plantas de beneficio Colombianas

ABSTRACT Objective. To determine the prevalence of Salmonella spp., in pigs mesenteric ganglion, from different regions of Colombia. Materials and Methods. A stratified sampling by proportional fixation was carried out at benefit plants of each of the 13 participating departments, whose pork production volume is representative at national level. Sampling was performed during five months, for a total of 457 samples analyzed. Salmonella spp., identification was performed by the MDS Molecular System, later isolates were confirmed in Maldi-TOF MS. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was determined using the B1016-180 panel and statistical analysis was performed in Whonet 2016, some of the multi-resistant isolates were them serotyped by Kauffman-White method. Results. National prevalence was 28.2%, with the presence of S. Typhimurium, S. Agama, S. London, S. Agona, S. Haifa and S. 1,4,12: i: -. Resistance to antibiotics frequently used in human (23.6% Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole, 2.7% Cefotaxime (CTX), 11.8% Ampicillin (AMP) and 1.8% Ciprofloxacin) was found. Conclusion. The prevalence of Salmonella in mesenteric ganglia was 28.2%, being the Huila region the one with the highest prevalence, recovering atypical serotypes such as S. London and S. Haifa.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de Salmonella spp., en ganglios mesentéricos de porcinos, provenientes de diferentes regiones de Colombia. Materiales y Métodos. Se realizó un muestreo estratificado por fijación proporcional en plantas de beneficio, de cada uno de los 13 departamentos participantes, cuyo volumen de producción de carne de cerdo es representativo a nivel nacional. El muestreo se realizó durante cinco meses, para un total de 457 muestras analizadas. La identificación de Salmonella spp., se realizó mediante el Sistema Molecular MDS, luego los aislamientos fueron confirmados por Maldi-TOF MS. Se determinó la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana de los aislamientos usando el panel B1016-180 y el análisis estadístico se realizó en Whonet 2016, posteriormente algunos de los aisalmientos multi-resistentes fueron serotipificados por el método de Kauffman-White. Resultados. La prevalencia nacional fue 28.2%, con presencia de los serotipos S. Typhimurium, S. Agama, S. London, S. Agona, S. Haifa y S. 1,4,12: i : --. Se encontró resistencia a antibióticos de uso frecuente en humanos (23.6% Trimetoprim/Sulfametoxazol, 2.7% Cefotaxime (CTX), 11.8% Ampicilina (AMP) y 1.8% Ciprofloxacina). Conclusión. La prevalencia de Salmonella en ganglios mesénticos fue del 28.2%, siendo la región del Huila la que más aportó, se recuperaron serotipos atípicos como S. London y S. Haifa.

Las espinas dendríticas, su función y algunas alteraciones / Dendritic spines, its function and some alterations

Resumen Las espinas dendríticas constituyen modificaciones de la membrana celular de las dendritas, ricas en actina, cuya morfología se modifica y puede sugerir la presencia de alteraciones en la comunicación neuronal. Las espinas dendríticas cuentan con un aparato espinoso que participa en la regulación del calcio (Ca) intracelular. Reportes recientes mencionan la relación entre el número de espinas y las alteraciones del sueño, estado fisiológico en el que ocurre la consolidación de la memoria. Diversos estudios asocian cambios en su forma y densidad con ciertas patologías. En esta revisión se identifican las características morfológicas de estas y su relación con el desarrollo del sistema nervioso, el sueño y algunas patologías.

Abstract The dendritic spines are dendritic membrane modifications rich in actin, whose morphology changes could suggest modifications in neural communication. These dendritic spines have a spiny-apparatus that regulates the intracellular calcium concentration. Recent reports mention the relationship between the number of spines and certain sleep disorders, the physiologic state in which memory consolidation takes place. Changes in their morphology and density are associated with several pathologies. In this revision we describe the morphological modifications of dendritic spines, their relationship with the development of the nervous system, sleep disorders and some other pathologies.

Effect of Electroacupuncture on Learning-memory Ability in Rats with Hypoxic-ischemic Encephalopathy / 针刺研究

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on changes of learning-memory ability, psychomotor coordination and anxiety-like behavior of cerebral hypoxic-ischemia (CHI) young rats, so as to explore its protective effect on neurons under hypoxic-ischemic conditions. METHODS: SD rats (aged 7 days) were randomly divided into sham operation (sham, n=12), model (n=11), and EA groups (n=12). In addition, 6 young rats in each group were used for observing the number of dendritic spines after Golgi staining. The CHI model was established by ligation of the left common carotid artery combined with hypoxia in a closed transparent vessel. EA was applied to "Baihui" (GV 20)and "Dazhui" (GV 14) for 20 min, once every other day, for 28 days. The rats' behavior changes were assessed by using rotarod performance (for psychomotor coordination), elevated plus maze (anxiety-like behavior) tests and Morris water maze (learning-memory ability) tests, separately. RESULTS: After modeling, the average escape latency and average escape distance of location navigation test within 70 seconds were significantly increased (P0.05). The density of dendritic spines was significantly lo-wer in the model group than in the sham group (P <0.05), and notably higher in the EA group than in the model group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: EA can improve the learning-memory ability of CHI young rats, which may be related to its effect in protecting the dendritic spines of CA 1 region of hippocampus from injury.

Research on morphological characteristics change of quercetin and polyphenols of accumulation dynamic of spines of Gleditsia sinensis / 中国中药杂志

To study morphological characteristics change of the development process and quercetin and polyphenols of accumulation dynamic of the spines of Gleditsia sinensis, measure and compare morphological indexes using Vernier caliper, ruler and balance, calibrate and analysis quercetin and polyphenols content using HPLC and colorimetric method. The spines of G. sinensis development process is divided into formation period (the beginning of August to the beginning of November), dormant period (the beginning of November to the end of March in the following year), germination period (the end of March to the middle of April), fast growth period (the middle of April to the middle of August), browning period (the middle of August to the end of August) and mature period (the beginning of September to the end of December). Formation period the spines primordium divides and forms the scale bubs; dormant period the scale bubs are in a dormant state; germination period the bubs scales fall off, spines primordium began to development; fast growth period rapid growth to maximum; browning period browning from the tip and browns until the whole becomes brown; mature period The early stage of maturity is full of luster, gradually the color deepened and the luster faded. The accumulation of quercetin was gradually decreasing after increasing. The total polyphenol accumulation was significantly decreased and then gradually increased, decreased finally. The content of quercetin was increased from 0.000 4%-0.002 6%, and the polyphenol content decreased from 0.761 9%-0.049 1% and then slowly increased to 0.286 9% in the fast growth period.The quercetin continuous increase to 0.004 3% and total polyphenol increased to 0.421 6% in the browning period. In the mature period, the quercetin content significantly decreased after reaching 0.009 6% in September, and the polyphenols content decreased after reaching 0.723 5% in October. Using principal component analysis results: September first, October 2nd, November 3rd. The morphological characteristics change of the development process and quercetin and polyphenols accumulation were determined. The development process is divided into six periods, the best harvest time is the early stage of mature period. Provide theoretical support for the utilization of the spines of G. sinensis and cultivation techniques of high yield.

Mechanism of low-dose ketamine-induced reduction of cognitive dysfunction following sevoflurane anesthesia in aged rats: plasticity of dendritic spines in entorhinal cortical neurons / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective To investigate the relationship between the plasticity of dendritic spines in entorhinal cortical neurons and mechanism of low-dose ketamine-induced reduction of cognitive dysfunction following sevoflurane anesthesia in aged rats.Methods Thirty-six pathogen-free healthy male SpragueDawley rats,aged 18 months,weighing 500-600 g,were divided into 3 groups (n=12 each) using a random number table:control group (group C),sevoflurane anesthesia group (group Sev) and ketamine group (group K).Group C received no treatment.Group Sev inhaled the mixture of air (flow rate 1 L/min) and 3.6％ sevoflurane for 3 h.In group K,ketamine 10 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally,and 5 min later the mixture of air (flow rate 1 L/min) and 3.6％ sevoflurane was inhaled for 3 h.Open field test and Morris water maze test were performed 3 days after anesthesia.After the behavioral tests,the animals were sacrificed,and their brains were removed and cut into sections for determination of the density of neurons,density of dendritic spines,and expression of postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) and synaptophysin (SY38) in superficial laminaes (Ⅱ-Ⅲ) of entorhinal cortex using Nissl's staining,Golgi staining and immunohistochemistry,respectively.Results Compared with group C,the time of staying at the central region was significantly shortened,the escape latency was prolonged,the density of dendritic spines was decreased,and the expression of PSD-95 and SY38 was down-regulated in group Sev (P＜0.05).Compared with group Sev,the time of staying at the central region was significantly prolonged,the escape latency was shortened,the density of dendritic spines was increased,and the expression of PSD-95 and SY38 was upregulated in group K (P＜0.05).There were no significant differences in the density of neurons in entorhinal cortex between the three groups (P＞0.05).Conclusion The mechanism by which low-dose ketamine attenuates cognitive dysfunction induced by sevoflurane anesthesia may be related to the enhanced plasticity of dendritic spines in entorhinal cortical neurons of aged rats.

Effect of the Chinese Prescription "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"on Learning and Memory Ability of Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease / 华中科技大学学报(医学版)

Objective "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"is a Chinese prescription that can replenish the kidney,remove phlegm and improve intelligence.This study was aimed to examine the efficacy of "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"in the rat model of Alzheimer's disease(AD)and the underlying mechanism.Methods The model of AD was established through injection of β-amyloid pro-tein25-35 (Aβ25-35 )into the left lateral ventricles of Sprague Dawley(SD)rats.Animals were treated with low(12.5 g/kg),medium (25 g/kg)or high(50 g/kg)dose of "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"decotion,twice daily,by gavage.Four weeks later,the Morris water maze and Golgi staining were used to detect the ability of learning and memory and the number of dendritic spines,and Western blotting to measure the levels of N-methyl-D-aspartatic acid receptor1(NR1),subunit 2B(NR2B)and syntaxin in the left hippo-campus.Results Injection of β-amyloid protein25-35 (Aβ25-35 )into the left lateral ventricle of rat could reduce the learning and memory ability of AD rats,which was accompanied by the decrease in the number of dendritic spines and the level of NR2B.These effects could be reversed by addition of "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"at a moderate dose.Conclusion "Bushen Huatan Yizhi"protects against the learning and memory decline of AD rats,possiblely by increasing the number of dendritic spines,reg-ulating their pasticity and upregulating the NR2B level.

Preliminary molecular characterization of a proinflammatory and nociceptive molecule from the Echinometra lucunter spines extracts

Abstract Background Sea urchins are animals commonly found on the Brazilian shoreline, being Echinometra lucunter the most abundant species. Accidents caused by E. lucunter have been reported as one of the most frequent in Brazil, and are characterized by intense pain and inflammation, consequence of spine puncture in the skin. In order to characterize such toxic effects, we isolated one molecule that caused inflammatory and nociceptive effects. Methods E. lucunter specimens were collected without gender distinction. Spines were removed and molecules were extracted, fractionated by RP-HPLC and assayed for inflammatory and nociceptive activity, in a biological-driven fractionation way, until the obtainment of one active molecule and its subsequent analysis by mass spectrometry (MS and MS/MS). For inflammation, intravital microscopy was performed on the mouse cremaster muscle, in order to evaluate rolled, adherent and migrating leukocytes. Paw edema was also evaluated. For the nociceptive activity, the paw pressure test was performed in rats. Results One molecule could be isolated and related to the inflammatory and nociceptive activity. Regarding inflammation, increase in adherent and migrating cells was observed in the cremaster muscle after the administration of the molecule. Corroborating the inflammatory response, paw edema was also observed, although only in 20% of controls and 20 min after injection. Additionally, this molecule was able to decrease significantly the pain threshold, characterizing hyperalgesia. This molecule was analyzed by mass spectrometry, and according to the exact molecular mass, isotopic distribution and fragmentation profile, it was possible to propose the molecular formula C29H48N3O10. Conclusions One isolated molecule from the spine extract of E. lucunter is able to elicit inflammation and hypernociception in animal models, which is in agreement with the effects observed in sea urchin accidents.

Preliminary molecular characterization of a proinflammatory and nociceptive molecule from the Echinometra lucunter spines extracts

Background Sea urchins are animals commonly found on the Brazilian shoreline, being Echinometra lucunter the most abundant species. Accidents caused by E. lucunter have been reported as one of the most frequent in Brazil, and are characterized by intense pain and inflammation, consequence of spine puncture in the skin. In order to characterize such toxic effects, we isolated one molecule that caused inflammatory and nociceptive effects. Methods E. lucunter specimens were collected without gender distinction. Spines were removed and molecules were extracted, fractionated by RP-HPLC and assayed for inflammatory and nociceptive activity, in a biological-driven fractionation way, until the obtainment of one active molecule and its subsequent analysis by mass spectrometry (MS and MS/MS). For inflammation, intravital microscopy was performed on the mouse cremaster muscle, in order to evaluate rolled, adherent and migrating leukocytes. Paw edema was also evaluated. For the nociceptive activity, the paw pressure test was performed in rats. Results One molecule could be isolated and related to the inflammatory and nociceptive activity. Regarding inflammation, increase in adherent and migrating cells was observed in the cremaster muscle after the administration of the molecule. Corroborating the inflammatory response, paw edema was also observed, although only in 20% of controls and 20 min after injection. Additionally, this molecule was able to decrease significantly the pain threshold, characterizing hyperalgesia. This molecule was analyzed by mass spectrometry, and according to the exact molecular mass, isotopic distribution and fragmentation profile, it was possible to propose the molecular formula C29H48N3O10. Conclusions One isolated molecule from the spine extract of E. lucunter is able to elicit inflammation and hypernociception in animal models, which is in agreement with the effects observed in sea urchin accidents.(AU)

Gill morphology in the red swamp freshwater crayfish procambarus clarkii (Crustacea: Decapoda: Cambarids) (Girard 1852) from the River Nile and its Branches in Egypt / Morfología de las branquias del cangrejo rojo de pantano de agua dulce procambarus clarkii (Crustacea: Decapoda: Cambarids) (Girard 1852) del Río Nilo y sus Ramas en Egipto

The aim of the present study was focused on and describes the gross morphological and scanning electron microscopical features of the gill of the red swamp freshwater crayfish. Our results noted that: all gills have the same general structure and appearance. The gill consists of axis with numerous finger-like filaments, having three morphological types; round, pointed and somewhat hooked shaped. There is a variation in the direction of filaments according to their position, in middle part were nearly perpendicular to gill axis while in the apex were nearly parallel to axis. There were characteristic system of gill spines on central axis, basal plate, setobranch and on the bilobed epipodal plate. There are four shape of spinated-like parts of setobranch seta, two pointed processes and two broad processes. The bilobed epipodal plate is devoid from any filaments and under SEM, its apical part has serrated free border and corrugated surface while the middle part has no serrated free border.

El objetivo del presente estudio fue describir las características morfológicas macroscópicas y mediante microscopio electrónico de barrido las branquias del cangrejo rojo de pantano de agua dulce. Nuestros resultados señalan que todas las branquias tienen la misma estructura y apariencia general. Las branquias se componen de ejes con numerosos filamentos similares a dedos, que tiene tres tipos morfológicos; redondo, punteado y con forma de gancho. Hay una variación en la dirección de los filamentos de acuerdo con su posición, en la parte media eran casi perpendicular al eje branquial, mientras que en el ápice fueron casi paralelas al eje. Hubo un sistema característico de espinas branquiales sobre el eje central, placa basal, espinas dorsales y sobre las placas epipodales bilobuladas. Se observaron cuatro formas de las ramas similares a espinas, dos procesos apuntados y dos procesos amplios. La placa epipodal bilobulada estaba desprovista de filamentos bajo microscopía electrónicas, su parte apical tiene una margen libre aserrado, con una superficie ondulada, mientras que la parte media no tiene margenes aserrados.

MiR-130a regulates neurite outgrowth and dendritic spine density by targeting MeCP2

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical for both development and function of the central nervous system. Significant evidence suggests that abnormal expression of miRNAs is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. MeCP2 protein is an epigenetic regulator repressing or activating gene transcription by binding to methylated DNA. Both loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations in the MECP2 gene lead to neurodevelopmental disorders such as Rett syndrome, autism and MECP2 duplication syndrome. In this study, we demonstrate that miR-130a inhibits neurite outgrowth and reduces dendritic spine density as well as dendritic complexity. Bioinformatics analyses, cell cultures and biochemical experiments indicate that miR-130a targets MECP2 and down-regulates MeCP2 protein expression. Furthermore, expression of the wild-type MeCP2, but not a loss-of-function mutant, rescues the miR-130a-induced phenotype. Our study uncovers the MECP2 gene as a previous unknown target for miR-130a, supporting that miR-130a may play a role in neurodevelopment by regulating MeCP2. Together with data from other groups, our work suggests that a feedback regulatory mechanism involving both miR-130a and MeCP2 may serve to ensure their appropriate expression and function in neural development.

Culturing primary hippocampal neurons of neonatal mouse and morphologic observation / 重庆医学

Objective To discuss a optimal culture method of primary hippocampal neurons and a more suitable method of mor-phological observation ,and provide basis to the study of synapse in Alzheimer′s Disease .Methods Postnatal 0 -1 days (P0 -1 ) C57BL/6J mice were decollated and bilateral hippocampus were separated .Low level concentration of trypsin and mechanical disso-ciation were adopted .And culture medium without serum was used to culture neurons .After 17 days culturing ,transfected neurons with Green Fluorescent Protein(GFP) by calcium phosphate precipitation ,and then observed neurons and spines by fluorescence mi-croscope .Results The neurons looked good and healthy by using this method .And the axons ,dendrites and spines which were typ-ical structure of neurons were observed clearly after transfected with GFP .Conclusion The cultured hippocampal neurons look good by this method .And the morphological characteristics of neurons and spines are observed much more clearly after transfected GFP by calcium phosphate precipitation .