Lead Toxicity in Children: Health Effects, Policies and Recommendations

Lead is a dangerous element that exists naturally in the Earth's crust. Any kind of lead causes a detrimental response in the human body. It is discharged into the environment during the manufacturing of batteries, foundries, ammunition, lead paint, water pipes, and other manufactured goods. It can enter the body through a variety of pathways, including those in the air, water, soil, food, and dust. Concern is raised since there is no amount of lead that is safe for the human body. The problem persists despite several prevention measures that the state and the federal governments have put in place. This review assesses the effects of lead exposure on children as well as suggested solutions to the issue.

Gut microbiota-mediated therapeutic effect of Shengmai formula (SMF) on sepsis in mice / 中国药科大学学报

@#To investigate the effects of Shengmai formula (SMF) on tissue damages, serum inflammatory factors and the proportion of innate immunocytes in peripheral blood, sepsis models using either intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) were established.The role of gut microbiota in septic mice during SMF treatment was further investigated.LPS-induced sepsis model was carried out 4 days after daily gavage administration with 0.3 g/kg, 0.6 g/kg, 1.2 g/kg SMF or intraperitoneal injection with 0.6 g/kg SMF.Survival rates of septic mice were determined.Histological evaluations of liver, lung and kidney were analyzed by H&E staining. Serum IL-6, TNF-α, Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine (Cr) levels were determined.LPS and CLP-induced sepsis models were established, and the proportion of monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils in peripheral blood were analyzed by flow cytometry after gavage administration or intraperitoneal injection of SMF.The therapeutic effects of SMF after antibiotics treatment were further determined, and the therapeutic effects of fecal microbiota from SMF-treated mice were investigated.The results show that LPS-induced sepsis caused death of mice, damages in liver, lung and kidney with increased infiltration of leukocytes and elevated levels of serum IL-6, ALT, AST, BUN and Cr, which were all reversed by gavage administration of SMF.Gavage administration of SMF could significantly reduce the proportion of peripheral macrophages in LPS model and monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils in CLP model.Intraperitoneal injection of SMF showed no therapeutic benefits in septic mice.Depletion of gut microbiota using antibiotics cocktail reversed the therapeutic effects of SMF on sepsis, indicating the involvement of gut microbiota.Fecal microbiota from SMF-treated donors was transplanted into pseudo-sterile recipients, and we found FMT could significantly ameliorate sepsis of recipients.These results showed that gavage administration of SMF reduced serum inflammatory factors and alleviated tissue damages in septic mice by regulating gut microbiota. This study provides a theoretical basis for the treatment of clinical sepsis with SMF.

Haikun Shenxi capsule improved cognitive dysfunction by activating autophagy in SAMP8 mice / 中国药理学通报

Aim To study the modulation effects of HKSX capsule on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and to preliminarily explore its mechanism using SAMP8 as an AD model.Methods SAMP8 mice aged 4 months were randomly divided into model group ( P8 group) , HKSX low-dose group (L-HKSX group) , HKSX high- dose group ( H-HKSX group) , and senescence-accel- erated mouse/resistance 1 (SAMR1 ) at the same age was used as normal control group ( R1 group).New object recognition and Morris water maze experiments were used to detect the learning and memory abilities of each group.Levels of A(3, _40 and A(3, 42 were detected by ELISA, and the expression levels of LC3- U , p62, Beclin-1 , PSD95 and Syn in hippocampus of each group were detected by Western blot.Results Compared with model group, both low and high doses of HKSX could enhance the D1 in new object recognition test, increase number of crossing the platform anrl the time spent in the target quadrant, and shorten the escape latency.Besides, it also enhanced the clearance °f Ap, _40 and AfJ, _42 , up-regulated the relative expression of Beclin-1 and LC3- II and down-regulated the expression of P62.In addition, it increased the expression of synaptic-related proteins PSD95 and Syn.Conclusions HKSX capsule can regulate the expression of autophagy-related proteins and improve autoph- agv dysfunction, which in turn reduce the deposition of A(3 in vivo to alleviate its cytotoxicity and improve synaptic plasticity.Thus, HKSX can improve the learning and memory deficits of AD mice.

Sufficient informed consent to medical treatment of adults legal and ethical perspectives from Malawi

This special communication discusses the current legal and ethical requirements for informed consent to medical treatment of adults in Malawi. It analyzes the scope of the laws and code of ethics on professional discipline, including criminal privilege for surgeries and clarifies when insufficient disclosures entitle patients to compensation under civil law. Inconsistencies and uncertainties in the law are made apparent. It evaluates to which degree disclosure standards of other Commonwealth jurisdictions (e.g. the case of Montgomery) would be suitable for the health care setting of a country like Malawi that is characterized by shortages of resources, high illiteracy rates and a communitarian cultural context. Doctor-patient communication is not alien to African culture and part of sufficient informed consent. In order to balance the need for efficiency in health care delivery, accountability for quality care, fairness and effective patient-doctor communication the authors suggest to adopt the reasonable patient test only, if a defence of heavy workload on case-to-case basis is introduced at the same time. This does not dispense the need for organisational diligence on part of the institutional health care provider within its capacity

Beneficios y perjuicios atribuidos a los trastornos de conducta alimentaria / Benefits and losses attributed to eating disorder

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los significados atribuidos a las consecuencias de los trastornos de conducta alimentaria (TCA) por parte de mujeres usuarias de un programa de tratamiento residencial en Lima, Perú. Esto con base a un enfoque cualitativo y la teoría fundamentada. Participaron ocho mujeres diagnosticadas con TCA, de entre 14 y 24 años de edad. Las técnicas empleadas fueron entrevista individual, grupo focal y documentos personales. Los resultados indicaron que las participantes valoraron las consecuencias del trastorno como beneficiosas y perjudiciales, alternándose dicha valoración según la situación y el logro de sus metas. Los beneficios atribuidos al TCA fueron bajar de peso en corto tiempo, aceptación y aprobación del grupo social, incremento de sus relaciones interpersonales, y atención y afecto de familiares. Los perjuicios atribuidos fueron deterioro de la salud, pérdida de funcionalidad física y social, activación de pensamientos disfuncionales, impulsividad/agresividad y desconfianza de la familia. Los resultados brindan sustento teórico a la implementación de estrategias de tratamiento que enfaticen los procesos de construcción de significados personales, contextuales y funcionales que se asignan a las conductas problemas del TCA, de tal forma que se promueva el cambio motivacional en las pacientes.

Abstract The objective of the study was to identify the meanings attributed to the consequences of eating disorders (ED) by women users of a residential treatment program in Lima, Perú. This is based on a qualitative approach and grounded theory. Eight women diagnosed with ED, between 14 and 24 years of age, participated. The techniques used were individual interview, focus group and personal documents. The results indicated that the participants evaluated the consequences of the disorders as beneficial and damaging, alternating this assessment according to the situation and the achievement of their goals. The benefits attributed to the ED were to lose weight in a short time, acceptance and approval of the social group, increase in interpersonal relationships, and attention and affection of family members. On the other hand, the damages attributed were deterioration of health, loss of physical and social functionality, negative psychological changes, activation of dysfunctional thoughts, impulsivity/aggressiveness and distrust of the family. The results provide theoretical support to the implementation of treatment strategies that emphasize the processes of construction of personal, contextual and functional meanings that are assigned to the behavior problems of the ED, in such a way that the motivational change in the patients is promoted.

Protective Effects of Scutellarin on Testicular Vessels of Rat with Type II Diabetes Mellitus-Induced Testicular Damages / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

@#【Objective】To evaluate the protective effect of Scutellarin（SCU）on type II diabetes-induced disorder of testes and show the mechanism of Scutellarin′s action.【Method】We divided 24 Wistar rats equally into 3 groups：control group，diabetes group and diabetes + SCU group. We used streptozotocin and high-fat diet to establish type Ⅱ diabetic rat model on Wistar rat. Haematoxylin and eosin staining were used to evaluate the testicular morphologic changes. Immunohistochemical staining was used to measure the expression level of vascular endothelial growth factor（VEGF）in testes. Oxidative stress in testes and epididymis was tested by fluorescence spectrophotometer and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay（ELISA）. The blood flow rate in testicular vessels was measured by Doppler. 【Results】 Our results showed that hyperglycemia induced morphologic impairments in testes of rats, higher concentrations of Malondialdehyde（MDA） and ROS in testes and epididymis, lower testicular blood flow rate, while administration of Scutellarin could significantly inhibit these damages（DCF：12.93 vs. 7.63 mg/min ；MDA：2.37 vs. 1.48 mg/min ；testicular blood flow rate：110.0 vs. 210.2 mm/s；P < 0.05）.【Conclusion】Our data suggest that SCU has the potential to reverse male reproductive disorder in diabetes by reducing the concentrations of ROS and improving. microcirculatory disturbances.

Prevention of Polyuria, Glucosuria, and Increase of Kidney Weight in Diabetes Mellitus Rats by Centella asiatica Extract

@#Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a disease that can cause complications in the kidneys. Centella asiatica extracts have the potential to inhibit pancreatic, liver and kidney tissue damage. This study was intended to determine the potential of C. asiatica extract in inhibiting kidney damage in an animal model of DM. Methods: Male Wistar rats were used in 5 treatment groups namely non-DM, DM, and DM with C. asiatica extract Dose 1 (250mg / kg), Dose 2 (500mg / kg) and Dose 3 (1000mg / kg). Changes in body weight, blood sugar, serum urea, kidney weight, glycosuria, and urine volume were observed in all treatment groups. Results: There were no significant differences between treatment groups on changes in blood glucose concentration, body weight, and serum ureum. However, C. asiatica treated group showed significantly lower value of urine volume, glycosuria, and kidney weight compare to those on Non-DM and DM groups. Decrease in blood glucose, although not significantly different, affects glucose urine excretion. Conclusion: C. asiatica extract has the potential to inhibit kidney damage in rats with DM through prevent the increase of urine volume, glycosuria, and kidney weight.

Emerging roles of long non-coding RNAs in cancer

Cancer is a physiological condition that has both the endogenous and exogenous influences on its progression. It originatesfrom unusual cell growth, where the cells undergo massive genetic alterations, bypass the signaling machinery andcompromise its genetic cohesion. Literature has well narrated the DNA damage studies including driver mutations thatinterfere with the treatment strategies. However, with evolving medical excellence, recent day studies are trying to unveilthe contribution of RNAs in the progression of tumor malignancies. A number of non-coding RNAs have been identified asan active component in cancer genomics. This article aims to review the role of long non-coding RNAs in the spectra ofcancers and its prognostic value as the biomarkers in molecular targeting with clinical utility and therapeutic beneficence.

Mechanisms underlying repeated ultraviolet A radiation-induced DNA damage in human skin fibroblasts / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective To evaluate the effects of repeated ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation on DNA damage,repair and replication processes in human skin fibroblasts,and to explore their mechanisms.Methods Fibroblasts were isolated from the circumcised foreskins of 3 children in the Department of Urological Surgery,Third Affiliated Hospital,Sun Yat-sen University,and subjected to a primary culture.Cultured human skin fibroblasts of 3rd-10th passages were divided into 2 groups:UVA group treated with repeated UVA radiation to establish a chronic photodamaged cell model,and control group receiving no treatment.Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay,β-galactosidase staining and flow cytometry were performed to assess cellular proliferative activity,and determine the proportion of photoaged cells and apoptosis rate respectively.Reverse transcription reaction was performed to establish a differentially expressed cDNA library,which was then subjected to high-throughput sequencing.The cDNA sequencing results were compared between the control group and UVA group,and the differentially expressed genes were analyzed in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database.The data were compared between the two groups by using two independent sample t test.Results Compared with the control group,the UVA group showed significantly decreased cellular proliferative activity (72.0％ ± 5.2％ vs.96.0％ ± 3.7％,t =6.51,P ＜ 0.05),but significantly increased proportion of photoaged cells (79.7％ ± 5.2％ vs.6.4％ ± 0.8％,t =24.12,P ＜ 0.05) and apoptosis rate (29.0％ ± 3.3％ vs.6.0％ ± 5.9％,t =5.89,P ＜ 0.05).Among the key enzymes involved in DNA mismatch repair,replication and base excision repair processes,the expression of DNA ligase 1 (Lig1),ribonuclease (RNase) H2A and helicase Dna2 in the UVA group was 0.47 ± 0.13,0.44 ± 0.07 and 0.49 ± 0.11 times (all P ＜ 0.01) that in the control group respectively.After the UVAinduced chronic photodamage in the human skin fibroblasts,After the UVA-induced chronic photodamage in the human skin fibroblasts,Lig expression decrease could block DNA single-base excision repair,Lig and Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA multiple-base excision repair,Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA mismatch repair,and RNaseH2A,Dna2 and Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA replication.Conclusion Repeated UVA radiation can change the expression of key enzymes involved in DNA base excision repair,DNA mismatch repair and DNA replication processes in skin fibroblasts,and then affect DNA repair and DNA replication processes in skin fibroblasts.

Mechanisms underlying repeated ultraviolet A radiation-induced DNA damage in human skin fibroblasts / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective@#To evaluate the effects of repeated ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation on DNA damage, repair and replication processes in human skin fibroblasts, and to explore their mechanisms.@*Methods@#Fibroblasts were isolated from the circumcised foreskins of 3 children in the Department of Urological Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, and subjected to a primary culture. Cultured human skin fibroblasts of 3rd-10th passages were divided into 2 groups: UVA group treated with repeated UVA radiation to establish a chronic photodamaged cell model, and control group receiving no treatment. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay, β-galactosidase staining and flow cytometry were performed to assess cellular proliferative activity, and determine the proportion of photoaged cells and apoptosis rate respectively. Reverse transcription reaction was performed to establish a differentially expressed cDNA library, which was then subjected to high-throughput sequencing. The cDNA sequencing results were compared between the control group and UVA group, and the differentially expressed genes were analyzed in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. The data were compared between the two groups by using two independent sample t test.@*Results@#Compared with the control group, the UVA group showed significantly decreased cellular proliferative activity (72.0% ± 5.2% vs. 96.0% ± 3.7%, t = 6.51, P < 0.05) , but significantly increased proportion of photoaged cells (79.7% ± 5.2% vs. 6.4% ± 0.8%, t=24.12, P < 0.05) and apoptosis rate (29.0% ± 3.3% vs. 6.0% ± 5.9%, t= 5.89, P < 0.05) . Among the key enzymes involved in DNA mismatch repair, replication and base excision repair processes, the expression of DNA ligase 1 (Lig1) , ribonuclease (RNase) H2A and helicase Dna2 in the UVA group was 0.47 ± 0.13, 0.44 ± 0.07 and 0.49 ± 0.11 times (all P < 0.01) that in the control group respectively. After the UVA-induced chronic photodamage in the human skin fibroblasts, After the UVA-induced chronic photodamage in the human skin fibroblasts, Lig expression decrease could block DNA single-base excision repair, Lig and Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA multiple-base excision repair, Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA mismatch repair, and RNaseH2A, Dna2 and Lig1 expression decrease could block DNA replication.@*Conclusion@#Repeated UVA radiation can change the expression of key enzymes involved in DNA base excision repair, DNA mismatch repair and DNA replication processes in skin fibroblasts, and then affect DNA repair and DNA replication processes in skin fibroblasts.

Construção de hidrelétricas e populações atingidas no Brasil: uma revisão sistemática / Construction of hydroelectric power plants and affected populations in Brazil: a systematic review

Este estudo possui o objetivo de realizar uma revisão sistemática dos artigos produzidos no Brasil nos últimos dez anos acerca dos grandes empreendimentos hidrelétricos e dos seus impactos às populações atingidas. A busca foi realizada na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde Psicologia e na Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde. Localizaram-se 329 trabalhos, sendo que 42 deles foram utilizados para o desenvolvimento deste estudo. Os resultados apontaram para uma equidade entre o número de artigos teóricos e empíricos, demonstrando que as revistas com maior número de publicações estão vinculadas a áreas interdisciplinares, envolvendo a geografia, o meio ambiente e a sociologia. Quanto aos principais resultados, identificou-se um declínio geral nas condições de saúde física e mental, a implantação de políticas reparatórias insuficientes e o papel do Movimento dos Atingidos por Barragens como estratégia de resistência social e política.(AU)

This study aims to carry out a systematic review of the articles that have been produced in Brazil in the last ten years about large hydroelectric power plant projects and their impacts on populations directly or indirectly affected. A search for different articles was performed in the Virtual Health Library in Psychology and in the Virtual Health Library. A total of 329 studies were found, and 42 of them were used in this study. The results show evenness between the numbers of theoretical and empirical articles, which demonstrate that journals with the greatest number of publications are linked to interdisciplinary areas, involving geography, environment and sociology. As for the studies' main results, an overall decrease in physical and mental health conditions, the implementation of insufficient reparative policies and the role of the Movement of People Affected by Dams as a strategy of social and political resistance were identified.(AU)

Evaluación formativa de dos intervenciones inspiradas en principios restaurativos en centros de reclusión / Formative evaluation of two interventions inspired by restorative principles in detention centers / Avaliação formativa de duas intervenções inspiradas em principios restaurativos em centros de reclusão

Resumen Los principios en los que se basa la justicia restaurativa representan una alternativa con gran potencial transformador para víctimas y victimarios, aunque todavía no es del todo claro cómo aprovechar bien ese potencial. Se presentan dos evaluaciones formativas de intervenciones para personas recluidas por haber cometido delitos. Participaron 7 adolescentes en el estudio 1 y 5 adultos en el estudio 2, todos hombres. La intervención del estudio 1 consistió en 10 sesiones de una hora que incluían un módulo de manejo de la ira adaptado del programa EQUIP y un módulo sobre reparación del daño. La intervención del estudio 2 fue de 6 sesiones focalizadas exclusivamente en reparación del daño. Las intervenciones incluían juegos de roles que simulaban un eventual encuentro entre los participantes y las víctimas de sus agresiones, y cartas a sus víctimas que sabían que no serían enviadas. Se encontró un alto grado de satisfacción e involucramiento de los participantes. Los participantes demostraron empatía por sus víctimas y disposición a reparar el daño, así como un aumento en su reporte de manejo de la ira. Estos dos estudios muestran que es posible aprovechar, en centros de reclusión, el potencial transformador de los principios restaurativos incluso sin reuniones con las víctimas.

Abstract Restorative justice is based on principles which constitute an opportunity with great transformative potential for victims and aggressors alike; although it is not clear yet how to tap that potential. Two formative evaluation of intervention are presented here for individuals held in detention because they have committed offences. Seven adolescents participated in study 1 and five adults took part in study 2, all of whom were men. The intervention in study I consisted of 10 session of 1 hour, which included an anger management module adapted from the EQUIP program and a reparation for damage module. The intervention of study 2 involved six sessions which were exclusively targeted for the reparation of damage. The interventions incorporated role plays that simulate a possible meeting of the participants, their aggression victims and letters to the victims that would not be sent. The study found a high level of participants' satisfaction and involvement; they demonstrated empathy for their victims and willingness for repairing the damage as well as an increase in their anger management report. These studies show that, in detention centers, it is posible to take advantage of the transformative potential of restorative principles even without conducting meetings with the victims.

Resumo Os princípios nos quais se baseia a justiça restaurativa representam uma alternativa com grande potencial transformador para vítimas e vitimizadores, embora não esteja bem claro como tal potencial deva ser aproveitado. Apresentam-se duas avaliações formativas de intervenções para pessoas detidas por terem cometido delitos. No estudo 1, participaram sete adolescentes e, no estudo 2, cinco adultos, todos eles homens. A intervenção do estudo 1 consistiu em dez sessões de uma hora, que incluíam um módulo sobre gerência da raiva, adaptado do programa EQUIP, e um módulo acerca da reparação do dano. A intervenção do estudo 2 resumiu-se a seis sessões, focadas exclusivamente na reparação do dano. As intervenções incluíram jogos de encenação, que simulavam um eventual encontro entre os participantes e as vítimas das suas agressões, e a escrita de cartas a suas vítimas, as quais os autores sabiam que não seriam enviadas. Identificou-se um alto nível de satisfação e envolvimento dos participantes, que demostraram empatia pelas suas vítimas e disposição para reparar o dano, bem como um aumento nos seus relatórios de gerência da raiva. Esses dois estudos mostram que é possível aproveitar, em centros de reclusão, o potencial transformador dos princípios restaurativos, inclusive sem reuniões com as vítimas.

Microscopic sperm head damage and abnormalities as heat stress indicators in Australian Merino rams (Ovis aries) in Northern Patagonia, Argentina / Danos e anormalidades microscópicas das cabeças espermáticas como indicadores de estresse por calor em carneiros Merino Australiano (Ovis aries) da Patagônia Norte, Argentina

In Northern Patagonia, the mating season starts on March 15th, when rams are submitted to summer temperatures. Exposure of rams to heat stress increases the prevalence of microscopic damage to spermatozoa, morphological abnormalities, and reductions in fertility. This study assesses the adaptive capabilities of six unshorn and six shorn Australian Merino rams, half of which were treated in a heat chamber for eight hours for five days, gradually reaching a temperature of up to 40 °C. Microscopic damage, abnormalities and ultramicroscopic alterations of the plasma membrane and the acrosome of sperm head were analysed. There were significant differences in the percentage of tailless spermatozoa and proximal cytoplasmic droplets between post-treatment periods. Temperature primarily affected the shorn rams and the sperm heads during spermiogenesis. Submicroscopic alterations were observed when the plasma membrane was present in the anterior segment. These alterations can be intact, waved, or dilated. When the plasma membrane was absent, the acrosome might be intact, dilated, and waved. In addition, the outer acrosomal membrane may completely lose its contents or have a nude nucleus. The plasma membrane assumes a waved shape as a result of the effect of temperature on the epididymis. According to this study, the tailless head, proximal cytoplasmic droplets, and the ultramicroscopic categories studied were robust indicators of semen heat stress. After ten weeks, the sperm head recovered its normal shape. Unshorn rams are better adapted to summer heat stress than shorn ones. Microscopy and transmission electron microscopy alterations have been shown to be excellent indicators of thermal stress in Australian Merino rams and may be useful tools to help sheep farmers choose when to begin the mating season, which will vary depending on the environmental conditions of the summer.(AU)

Na Patagônia Norte, os ovinos têm sua estação de acasalamento iniciada em 15 de março, portanto, ficam sujeitos às temperaturas do verão. A exposição de carneiros a estresse térmico aumenta a prevalência de danos microscópicos e anomalias morfológicas nos espermatozoides, que implica uma redução na fertilidade. Este trabalho avaliou a capacidade adaptativa de carneiros Merino Australiano com lã (N = 6) e tosquiados (N = 6): metade ficou ao ar livre e outra metade foi mantida em uma câmara climática por oito horas, durante cinco dias, chegando gradualmente a uma temperatura máxima de 40 °C. Foram analisados danos microscópicos, anormalidades e alterações ultramicroscópicas da membrana plasmática e do acrossoma da cabeça dos espermatozoides. Os resultados microscópicos confirmaram a existência de diferença significativa na porcentagem de espermatozoides sem cauda e com gota citoplasmática proximal, entre os ejaculados pós-tratamento. A temperatura afetou os carneiros tosquiados, principalmente a cabeça de seus espermatozoides, durante a espermatogênese. Alterações submicroscópicas foram observados na membrana plasmática quando ela estava presente no segmento anterior: quando não intacta, ficava ondulada ou dilatada. Quando a membrana plasmática estava ausente, o acrossoma podia se apresentar ondulado ou dilatado. Além disso, sob efeito do calor, a membrana acrossomal externa pode perder completamente seu conteúdo ou apresentar núcleo desnudo. A membrana plasmática assume uma forma ondulada pelo efeito da temperatura no epidídimo. Depois de dez semanas, a cabeça dos espermatozoides recuperou sua forma normal. Como demonstrado neste estudo, a cabeça sem cauda, as gotas citoplasmáticas proximais e as categorias ultramicroscópicas estudadas são indicadores do efeito do estresse térmico no sêmen, e os carneiros com maior cobertura de lã se adaptam melhor ao estresse por calor. Alterações de microscopia e de microscopia eletrônica de transmissão têm se mostrado excelentes indicadores de estresse por calor em carneiros Merino Australiano e podem ser ferramentas úteis para ajudar criadores de ovelhas a escolher quando começar a época de acasalamento, o que irá variar de acordo com as condições ambientais do verão.(AU)

Combined Extracts of Artemisia and Green Tea, Mitigated Alcoholic Gastritis Via Enhanced Heat-shock Protein 27 / 대한소화기학회지

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Several lines of evidence from epidemiologic and laboratory studies have shown that the consumption of Artemisia or green tea extracts (MPGT) is inversely associated with the risk of alcohol-induced damage and other chronic diseases. Supported by previous studies showing that the combined extract of Artemisia and green tea, MPGT, exerted significantly either antioxidative or anti-inflammatory actions against Helicobacter pylori-associated gastric diseases, it was hypothesized that MPGT can offer protection against alcoholic gastritis. METHODS: Ethanol was administered to induce gastric damage in Wistar rats, which had been pretreated with various doses of MPGT, to measure the rescuing action of a MPGT pretreatment against ethanol-induced gastric damage. In addition, the molecular mechanisms for the preventive effects were examined. RESULTS: The MPGT pretreatment (100, 300, and 500 mg/kg) alleviated the ethanol-induced gastric damage, which was evidenced by the significant decrease in calcium-dependent phospholipase A2, MAPKs, and NF-κB levels compared to ethanol alone. Furthermore, the MPGT pretreatment preserved 15-prostaglandin dehydrogenase, whereas cyclooxygenase-2 was decreased significantly. All of these biochemical changes led to the significant alleviation of alcohol-associated gastric mucosal damage. Ethanol significantly increased the TUNEL positivity in the stomach, but MPGT decreased the apoptotic index significantly, which was associated with significantly lower pathological scores of ethanol-induced mucosal ulcerations. The significant protective changes observed alcoholic gastritis with MPGT were related to the increased expression of cytoprotective genes, such as heat-shock protein (HSP)27, HSP60, and PDGF. CONCLUSIONS: The efficient anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and regenerative actions of MPGT make it a potential nutrient phytoceutical to rescue the stomach from alcoholic gastritis.

Protective effects of silymarin on methotrexate-induced damages in rat testes

Abstract The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of silymarin (SMN), an antioxidant, on methotrexate (MTX)-induced damage in rat testes. Thirty-two Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups (n = 8): control, MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p. on days 1 and 5), SMN (200 mg/kg, orally), and MTX + SMN (20 mg/kg, i.p. on days 1 and 5 and SMN 200 mg/kg orally) groups. At the end of the 6-week trial period, histopathological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and spermatological analyses were performed on testes tissues. Histopathologically, MTX-induced damage, including depletion of germ cell and loos of spermatozoa, was significantly improved with SMN treatment. Immunohistochemically, the immunoreactivity of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1) and manganese superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were detected more intensely in the MTX + SMN group than in the MTX group. Biochemical examinations revealed that SMN supplementation decreased the lipid peroxidation and increased enzymatic antioxidants in the SMN-treated rats. Spermatologically, significant differences were found in the density, motility, dead-to-live sperm ratio, and abnormal sperm rate in the MTX + SMN group compared to the MTX group. In conclusion, SMN seems to have protective effects as an antioxidant against MTX-induced damage in rat testes.

Putative 3-nitrotyrosine detoxifying genes identified in the yeast Debaryomyces hansenii: in silico search of regulatory sequences responsive to salt and nitrogen stress

Background: During salt stress, the yeast Debaryomyces hansenii synthesizes tyrosine as a strategy to avoid the oxidation of proteins. Tyrosine reacts with nitrogen radicals to form 3-nitrotyrosine. 3-nitrotyrosine prevents the effects of associated oxidative stress and thus contributes to the high halotolerace of the yeast. However, the mechanism of how D. hansenii counteracts the presence of this toxic compound is unclear. In this work, we evaluated D. hansenii's capacity to assimilate 3-nitrotyrosine as a unique nitrogen source and measured its denitrase activity under salt stress. To identify putative genes related to the assimilation of 3-nitrotyrosine, we performed an in silico search in the promoter regions of D. hansenii genome. Results: We identified 15 genes whose promoters had binding site sequences for transcriptional factors of sodium, nitrogen, and oxidative stress with oxidoreductase and monooxygenase GO annotations. Two of these genes, DEHA2E24178g and DEHA2C00286g, coding for putative denitrases and having GATA sequences, were evaluated by RT-PCR and showed high expression under salt and nitrogen stress. Conclusions: D. hansenii can grow in the presence of 3-nitrotyrosine as the only nitrogen source and has a high specific denitrase activity to degrade 3-nitrotyrosine in 1 and 2 M NaCl stress conditions. The results suggest that given the lack of information on transcriptional factors in D. hansenii, the genes identified in our in silico analysis may help explain 3-nitrotyrosine assimilation mechanisms.

Low-Dose Ionizing γ-Radiation Promotes Proliferation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Maintains Their Stem Cell Characteristics

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are multipotent and have self-renewal ability, support the regeneration of damaged normal tissue. A number of external stimuli promote migration of MSCs into peripheral blood and support their participation inwound healing. In an attempt to harness the potential beneficial effects of such external stimuli, we exposed human MSCs (hMSCs) to one such stimulus-low-dose ionizing radiation (LDIR)-and examined their biological properties. To this end, we evaluated differences in proliferation, cell cycle, DNA damage, expression of surface markers (CD29, CD34, CD90, and CD105), and differentiation potential ofhMSCs before and after irradiation with γ-rays generated using a ¹³⁷ CSirradiator.At doses less than 50 mGy, LDIR had no significant effect on the viability or apoptosis of hMSCs. Interestingly, 10 mGyofLDIR increased hMSC viability by 8% (p<0.001) comparedwith non-irradiatedhMSCs.At doses less than 50 mGy, LDIR did not induceDNA damage, including DNA strand breaks, or cause cellular senescence or cell-cycle arrest. Surface marker expression and in vitro differentiation potential of hMSCs were maintained after two exposures to LDIR at 10 mGy per dose. In conclusion, a two-dose exposure to LDIR at 10 mGy per dose not only facilitates proliferation of hMSCs, it alsomaintains the stem cell characteristics of hMSCswithout affecting their viability.These results provide evidence for the potential ofLDIRas an external stimulus for in vitro expansion of hMSCs and application in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Protective effects of Toddalia asiatica extract on oxidative damages in mice with myocardial ischemia and hyperlipidemia / 中国比较医学杂志

Objective To explore the effects of Toddalia asiatica extract( TAE) on oxidative damages in mice with myocardial ischemia and hyperlipidemia. Methods Fifty SPF male KM mice were randomly divided into 5 groups:control group,model group,simvastatin group (5 mg/kg),high-dose TAE group (400 mg/kg) and low-dose TAE group (100 mg/kg) . Hyperlipidemia was induced by feeding milk for 4 weeks. At the same time,the corresponding drug was given by oral administration with 20 mL/kg for 28 d. At the end of four-week treatment, isoprenaline hydrochloride ( Iso ) was subcutaneously injected every 24 hours for three times. The body weight, electrocardiogram, heart and liver indexes, myocardial water content, and the serum levels of TC, TG, HDL, LDL, SOD, MDA and GPx were measured. Results TAE significantly improved the electrocardiogram changes induced by Iso and milk in the mice, weight lose, inhibited the heart and liver indexes, reduced the myocardial water content, decreased the levels of TC, TG, LDL and MDA, and increased the contents of HDL, SOD and GPx. Conclusions TAE may play an important role in cardiovascular protection by regulating oxygen free radical metabolism and improving oxidative damages.

Efficacy of prolonged interval of tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor treatment in patients with spondyloarthritis: a pilot study / 中华风湿病学杂志

Objective To investigate whether prolonged the interval of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors (TNF-i) injection could continuously improve inflammatory biomarkers and imaging changes of sacroiliac joint and spine in spondyloarthritis (SpA).Methods A total of 154 SpA patients were included and 95 of them received TNF-α inhibitor therapy.TNF-i used in this study included etanercept,infliximab and adalimumab.The dose of etanercept was gradually reduced from 50 mg per week to every two weeks,every three weeks and then per month.The infusion of Infliximab was reduced from 4 mg/kg at 0,2,6 week to every 8 weeks,every 12 weeks and then every 16 weeks.The interval of Adalimumub injection was changed from 40 mg every two weeks to 3 weeks to 4 weeks and then to two months.The levels of inflammatory parameters,bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI),bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index (BASFI),ankylosing spondylitis disease activity score (ASDAS),spondyloarthritis research consortium of canada (SPARCC) scores of sacroiliac joint and fat metaplasia,bone erosion,sclerosis and ankylosis changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were investigated every 3 to 6 months.Radiograhs of spine were assessed by modified stoke ankylosing spondylitis spinal score (mSASSS) scores at baseline and 2 years.Analyses were performed by Paired t-test,Wilcoxon test,Mann-Whitney U test,Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-square test.Results After 3 months of treatment,erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR),c reactive protein (CRP),immunoglobulin A (IgA),BASDAI,BASFI,ASDAS and SPARCC scores were significantly lower than those of the baseline [13.00(6.00,31.00) mm/1 h vs 3.00 (2.00,6.00) mm/1 h,Z=-5.61;7.39(2.52,17.90) mg/L vs 1.88(1.21,3.75) mg/L,Z=-5.57;2.89(2.52,17.90) g/L vs 2.27(1.60,2.85) g/L,Z=-4.69;(2.57±1.43) vs (1.17±0.92),t=9.81;17.50(5.00,27.00) vs 4.00(0,11.00),Z=-6.69;2.62(2.02,3.52) vs 1.22(0.92,1.59),Z=-6.96;25.00(10.00,37.00) vs 12.00 (6.00,20.25),Z=-6.68;all P＜0.05].Compared to 3-6 months,SPARCC scores were significantly reduced during 2-3 years in the TNF-i group [12.00 (6.00,20.25) vs 7.00 (3.25,14.75),P=0.02].There were no significant progresses in fat metaplaisa,bone erosions,sclerosis or ankylosis during the follow-up period (61％,57％,x2=0.07,P=1.00;53％,43％,x2=0.40,P=0.75;31％,57％,x2=3.02,P=0.11;14％,7％,x2=0.43,P=0.66).The mSASSS scores were not different between TNF-i group and TNF-i group after 2 years of treatment [2.50 (0,8.00) vs 3.00 (0,8.00),Z=-0.30,P=0.76].Conclusion Prolonged the interval of TNF-i treatment could continuously improve bone marrow edema in SPA,whereas structural damages of sacroiliac joints and spine are not deteriorated.

Research progress of white matter injury following congenital heart disease / 国际儿科学杂志

Congenital heart disease is the most common birth defect.With the significant improvements of cardiac surgical techniques,the survival of newborns and infants with complex congenital heart disease(CHD) has obviously been increased.However,neurological sequelae are still common and up to 25 ％ ～50％.The most important lesion after CHD surgery is white matter(WM) injury.Recent studies show that periventricular leukomalacia disease characterized by WM injury is common in C-HD infants especially after cardiac surgery.It is previously thought to be due to the cardiopulmonary bypass and surgical operation.However,with the advances in surgery and medical diagnostic technology and development of basic research in recent years,it is discovered that WM injury in infants with CHD is a complex lesion influenced by preoperative,operating and postoperative factors.The movement disorders and the defects of attention,learning and other aspects in the late growth of these children bring a huge economic burden to the family and society,reducing the quality of the population.Therefore,exploring etiology,mechanisms and control methods of WM injury in infants with CHD becomes a hot topic in recent years,and it may also become an important direction for future research,aiming to the significant improvements in CHD children with neurodevelopmental damages.