A Microencapsulated Mixture of Eugenol and Garlic Tincture Supplementation Mitigates the Effect of Necrotic Enteritis on Intestinal Integrity and Increases Goblet Cells in Broilers

This study was conducted to examine the effects of a plant extract mixture, a microencapsulated product composed of eugenol and garlic tincture (PE), on intestinal health in broilers under necrotic enteritis (NE) challenge. A total of 960 d-old mixed-sex Cobb 500 chicks were randomly distributed to 48-floor pens housing 20 birds per pen. Six treatments were applied: UC, unchallenged control; CC, challenged control; PE, challenged group plus PE; AM, challenged group plus antimicrobial (AM); FAP, challenged group plus a full dose of AM with PE; HAP, challenged group plus a half dose of AM with PE in starter, grower and finisher phases. Birds in the challenged groups were inoculated with Eimeria spp. on d 9 and Clostridiumperfringens on d 14. On d 16, the CC group had increased serum fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-d), reduced villus surface area, goblet cell number, upregulated CLDN1, JAM2 genes and reduced microbial diversity compared to the UC group (p < 0.05). Birds fed PE had reduced FITC-d, increased goblet cell number and Bifidobacterium compared to the CC group (p < 0.05). Birds fed PE had reduced CLDN5 expression in male birds, and Bacteroides spp. in female birds than CC group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that PE supplementation mitigates the effect of NE by improving the intestinal health of birds.

The effect of selenium source on the oxidative status and performance of broilers reared at standard and high ambient temperatures

1. This study investigated the oxidative status of broilers fed diets containing selenium (Se) from 14 to 35 d of age and reared at two different constant temperatures. Measurements of oxidative status included blood glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and plasma total antioxidant status (TAS). Other variables included feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), Se levels in breast and liver tissue, jejunal villus morphometry, percentage weight of organs in relation to body weight; apparent metabolisable energy adjusted for nitrogen (AMEn); dry matter retention (DMR); fat retention (FR) and nitrogen retention (NR).2. The experiment started at 14 d of age, when 240 birds were randomly allocated to 48 pens (12 pens in four rooms). Treatments included a control diet 1 (SFC; 209.4 g/kg CP and 12.98 MJ/kg ME and no added Se containing saturated fat); diet 2 (SFSe) the control plus 12.605 mg/kg Se additive; diet 3 (USFC) was a second control diet (208.2 g/kg CP and 13.10 MJ/kg ME with no added Se containing unsaturated fat as rapeseed oil); diet 4 (USFSe) was the latter control plus 12.605 mg/kg Se additive. Two rooms were kept at a standard temperature of 20°C (ST) and two rooms were kept at high temperature of 35°C (HT).3. A temperature x Se interaction existed for GSH-Px in birds reared at ST (P < 0.05), and these birds had the highest levels of Se in liver tissue (P < 0.05). Fat x Se interactions were evident in breast tissue with highest levels in USFSe (P < 0.05). Adding Se improved jejunal VH: CD in USFSe fed birds (P < 0.001).4. Birds reared at ST had higher FI and WG than those reared at HT (P < 0.001), and had lower FCR than those reared at HT (P < 0.05). AMEn (MJ/kg DM) and FR were higher in birds fed USF diets, and lowest in birds fed SF (P < 0.50 and P < 0.001 respectively). NR was highest in birds raised at ST (P < 0.50).5. Broiler growth performance was reduced by HT. Oxidative status and Se in liver tissue was improved by adding Se in both diets.

The effect of feeding different sources and levels of selenium on growth performance and antioxidant status of broilers raised at two different temperatures

1. This study examined the effects of different dietary sources and levels of selenium (Se) on growth performance, hepatic and breast meat Se content, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and total antioxidant status (TAS) in blood, when fed to broilers from 14 to 35 d of age and reared at two different temperatures (20°C and 35°C). 2. Five hundred and sixty male Ross 308 broilers were reared in a single floor pen and fed the same proprietary starter diet from 0 to 14 d age (229.9 g/kg CP and 12.67 MJ/kg ME, without Se supplementation). 3. The experiment started at 14 d age, and the birds randomly assigned to 112 raised-floor pens (0.36 m² area, 5 birds/pen). Each of the seven experimental diets were offered to birds in 16 pens within four rooms. Two rooms were at 20°C and two rooms were maintained at 35°C. The experimental diets were fed from 14 to 35 d age and contained 214.9 g/kg CP and 13.11 MJ/kg ME. The experimental diets were as follows; control diet containing background Se only (0.189 mg/kg; C); low level sodium selenite (0.376 mg/kg; LSS): high level sodium selenite (0.558 mg/kg; HSS); low level commercial B Traxim® Se (0.244 mg/kg) (LBT); high level B Traxim® Se (0.448 mg/kg; HBT); low level selenised yeast (0.290 mg/kg; LSY); high level selenised yeast (0.487 mg/kg; HSY). 4. Birds consumed more when raised at 20°C compared to birds reared at 35°C (P ≤ 0.05). Birds fed lower Se level reared at 35°C had higher weight gain versus those fed higher Se level (P < 0.05). Birds fed SY had the lowest feed intake, weight gain and FCE (P < 0.05). The greatest GSH-Px activity was observed in birds fed SS diets (P < 0.001). There were interactions between diet x level for TAS, which were highest in birds fed LBT compared to birds fed HBT (P < 0.05). Breast Se content was higher in birds fed HSY compared to LSY (P < 0.001). The highest hepatic Se was seen in birds fed SY and lowest in C (P < 0.001). 5. Birds fed BT diets showed similar levels of Se to those birds fed inorganic Se, and similar levels of GSH-Px to birds fed SY. Further comparative work with broilers fed BT and other Se supplemented diets may elucidate the findings from this report.

Effect of feeding different sources of selenium on growth performance and antioxidant status of broilers

1. This study was conducted to determine the effect of different sources of selenium (Se) on breast and liver tissue deposition, apparent metabolisable energy (AME), growth performance and antioxidant status of broilers, measured as Se content in liver and breast tissues and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in blood, when used in 0-35 d broiler chicken diets. 2. A total of 200 male Ross 308 broilers were used in the feeding trial, which comprised two dietary phases, a starter from 0 to 21 d and finisher from 21 to 35 d of age. Four treatments with 10 replications each were used. A control diet (C) was formulated that was sufficient in protein and energy (230 and 215 g/kg of crude protein and 12.67 and 13.11 MJ/kg of metabolisable energy, respectively), for both phases, but contained background Se only from the feed ingredients. Diet 2 (IS) was supplemented with 10.35 g/t inorganic, elemental source of Se. Diet 3 (SY) was supplemented with 136.36 g/t selenised yeast, an organic source derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Diet 4 (SS) was supplemented with 0.666 g/t sodium selenite, an inorganic source. 3. Birds fed the SY diet consumed less and weighed less than those fed IS or C (P < 0.05; 0-35 d of age), but there was no difference compared to birds fed SS diets. There were no differences in FCR or dietary AME between broilers fed different Se sources. All diets containing supplementary Se increased concentrations in the liver and breast muscle, and for GSH-Px levels in blood compared to birds fed the C diet (P < 0.001). Birds fed SY diets had greater Se levels in liver and breast tissues compared to birds fed any of the other diets (P < 0.001). 4. Diets supplemented with Se had variable effects on broiler growth performances and antioxidant status. Feeding Se from a yeast source has higher transfer into breast tissues. Feeding different sources and levels of Se to birds in a more challenging situation to induce oxidative stress may bring more conclusive results.

Consumption of a Natural High-Intensity Sweetener Enhances Activity and Expression of Rabbit Intestinal Na+/Glucose Cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) and Improves Colibacillosis-Induced Enteric Disorders

Absorption of glucose, via intestinal Na⁺/glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1), activates salt and water absorption and is an effective route for treating Escherichia coli (E. coli)-induced diarrhea. Activity and expression of SGLT1 is regulated by sensing of sugars and artificial/natural sweeteners by the intestinal sweet receptor T1R2-T1R3 expressed in enteroendocrine cells. Diarrhea, caused by the bacterial pathogen E. coli, is the most common post-weaning clinical feature in rabbits, leading to mortality. We demonstrate here that, in rabbits with experimentally E. coli-induced diarrhea, inclusion of a supplement containing stevia leaf extract (SL) in the feed decreases cumulative morbidity, improving clinical signs of disease (p < 0.01). We show that the rabbit intestine expresses T1R2-T1R3. Furthermore, intake of SL enhances activity and expression of SGLT1 and the intestinal capacity to absorb glucose (1.8-fold increase, p < 0.05). Thus, a natural plant extract sweetener can act as an effective feed additive for lessening the negative impact of enteric diseases in animals.

Accurate quantification of metal-glycinates-sulphate complexes and free metals in feed by capillary electrophoresis inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Traceability of metal-glycinate-sulphate complexes (Metal-GLY) in feed requires specific analysis to differentiate complexes from inorganic forms. A previously described method focused on the quantification of Metal-GLY at one single concentration but not on the quantification of free metal ion forms. The objective of this work was to extend the method to quantify both Metal-GLY and free metal ion forms of various metals at low inclusion levels. A 50/50 w/w mix of corn flour and soybean meal was used as feed. Copper-glycinate(Cu-GLY), Manganese-glycinate (Mn-GLY) and Zinc-glycinate (Zn-GLY) complexes (provided by Pancosma SA) were used for in-feed inclusions. The feed metal background concentrations and species repartitions were assessed. Cu-GLY was spiked on feed at levels matching 5, 15 and 45 mg/kg, corresponding to metal concentrations of 1.2, 3.6 and 10.8 mg/kg. Mn-GLY and Zn-GLY were spiked at 15, 45 and 100 mg/kg, corresponding to 3.3, 9.9, 22 mg/kg Mn and 3.9, 11.7, 26mg/kg Zn, respectively. The water soluble fraction of un-supplemented feed contained 0.06 mg/kg Cu, 0.05 mg/kg Mn and 0.12 mg/kg Zn, with 69.5% of Cu, 33.2% of Mn and 24.3% of Zn being present under free metal ions but 30.4% of Cu being present under Cu-GLY, 66.82% of Mn and 75.7% of Zn being present under Mn-GLY and Zn-GLY, respectively. The supplemented feeds at the 3 tested doses, from the lowest to the highest inclusion levels, contained in total respectively: 1.1, 3.05 and 9.06 mg/kg Cu; 2.99, 8.9 and 18.2 mg/kg Mn; 3.72, 10.9 and 23.4 mg/kg Zn. The M-GLY species recovered by analysis within the different supplemented feeds ranged from 76.26 to 89.32% for Cu-GLY, form 94.5 to 98.51% for Mn-GLY and from 76.05 to 98.96% for Zn-GLY. These results showed that CE-ICP-MS technique can be used to quantify low doses and to measure metal-species repartition between Metal-GLY and free metal ions, when included in feeds. For the first time, this study highlighted that the raw materials used contain Metal-GLY compounds. This raises the question of the occurrence of these compounds within the different raw materials used in feed production that could dramatically affect the way to supplement minerals in animal feed.

Alvarado score: can it reduce unnecessary interventions for acute appendicitis in children?

The purpose of the study is to compare the outcomes of surgical interventions for acute appendicitis with the values of the Alvarado score. We conducted the study on 572 patients that underwent surgical interventions for acute appendicitis. Retrospectively, based on the medical records, we calculated the MANTRELS score and compared the outcomes of the intervention with the values of the applied score. Almost one third of the patients with a MANTRELS score lower than 6 had negative appendectomies. These patients represent 60% of the total cases of negative appendectomies, while in the case of patients with a high score around 2% had negative appendectomies. We concluded that using this scoring system to assess the need of immediate surgical intervention is important and can increase the rate of positive diagnosis mainly by limiting the number of unnecessary interventions.

Comparative Cellular Local Response in Abdominal Defect Plastic Surgery with Bovine Pericardium and Bovine Fascia Preserved in Formaldehyde in Experimental Rabbits

In the present paper, we refer to a method of primary closure of congenital defects of the anterior abdominal wall with tensionless viscero-abdominal disproportion. The study group included 10 animals subjected to surgery of the abdominal wall defect closure with bovine pericardium graft preserved in 0.5% formaldehyde, and 5 rabbits of the same breed and weight, in which bovine fascia graft was used as implant, being preserved in 0.5% formaldehyde. The abdominal anterior wall defect was made surgically by excision of the musculo-fascial structures and peritoneum. Bovine pericardium graft and bovine fascia graft were placed and fixed posteriorly to rectus abdominals muscles, having direct contact with the intra-abdominal contents and protected by suturing skin and subcutaneous layer.

The purpose of the study was to perform a comparative postoperative evaluation of local macroscopic and microscopic changes that develop after reconstruction of the major abdominal wall defects experimentally induced in rabbits, using bovine pericardium and bovine fascia grafts preserved in 0.5% formaldehyde.

In cases of major fascial defects of the anterior abdominal wall, bovine pericardium graft has acceptable strength and biocompatibility, having stabilizing properties of the abdominal wall due to the development of the connective tissue layer located between the implant and the subcutaneous layer. Bovine fascia grafts preserved in formaldehyde have an insignificant irritating and inflammatory action on the intestinal loops compared with bovine pericardium, and do not induce the development of a significant abdominal adhesion process, this allowing their use in the abdominal fascial defects closure with placement in direct contact with the abdominal contents.

Clinical and Morphopathological Considerations in Pulmonary Hydatid Cyst Complicated by Endobronchial Rupture in Children

The authors present a clinical case that aims to elucidate the diagnostic tactics and the efficiency of the chystostomy procedure performed in children with complicated endobronchial lung hydatid cyst and the potential serious postoperative complications that may occur in the case of this non-capitonary residual cavity technique after pulmonary echinococectomy.

Faced with the clinical, surgical and morphopathological investigations of the endobronchus ruptured lung hydatid cyst, the authors conclude that the spectra of morphological pathogenesis present in these cases are responsible for the development of persistent aerostatic disorder, resulting in a long-term postoperative morbidity, which confirms the need to optimize the methods of surgical correction of postechinococectomial residual cavities.

Ileal mesenteric cyst in young patient – Case presentation

Mesenteric cysts represent rare diseases of the abdominal cavity. The low incidence and the nonspecific clinical manifestations lead to a difficult diagnosis. Most of the time, these are diagnosed in advanced stages when complications arise or by chance following routine imagistic investigations. The ideal treatment for mesenteric cysts is the total surgical removal. The prognostic is favorable in most of the cases.

Correlation between erythropoietin serum levels and erythrocyte susceptibility to lipid peroxidation in elderly with type 2 diabetes

Erythropoietin (EPO), a key hormone involved in red blood cell formation has been recently acknowledged for its pleiotropic actions and protective role in ageing and various pathological conditions concurrent with oxidative stress, vascular diseases and metabolic abnormalities such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between circulating erythropoietin levels and oxidative stress biomarkers, in elderly with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The study was carried out in 67 subjects with T2DM (69 ± 5 years; n = 37) without anemia, and aged-matched controls (70 ± 6 years; n = 30). EPO serum levels, erythrocyte susceptibility to lipid peroxidation (ESP) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were evaluated. Lower EPO levels (p < 0.01) and higher ESP values (p < 0.001) were found in T2DM group, compared to healthy subjects. EPO levels showed significant negative associations with ESP, both in T2DM subjects (r = -0.565; p < 0.001) and in all study population (r = -0,600; p < 0,001; n = 67). In conclusion, we provide new data regarding the cytoprotective effect of EPO exerted at systemic level on erythrocyte membrane, in the particular state of impaired glucose metabolism associated with oxidative stress, in the elderly.

Considerations on the caliber of the internal iliac vein

The diameter at the origin of the internal iliac vein was found between 4.7 to 9.9 mm; for the right internal iliac vein between 4.7 to 9.7 mm; the statistical distribution groups value in ascending order being as follows: 4.7 to 5.5 mm: 4 cases (22.22% of cases); 6.9 to 7.8 mm: 6 cases (33.33% of cases); 8.4-8.8 mm: 4 cases (22.22% of cases); 9.1 to 9.7 mm: 4 cases (22.22% of cases). The diameter at the origin of the left internal iliac vein was between 4.8 to 9.9 mm, while the distribution statistics on groups of values, in ascending order, being as follows: 4.8-5.2 mm: 4 cases (22.22 % of cases); 6.8-7.1 mm: 8 cases (44.44% of cases); 8.3 to 9.9 mm: 6 cases (33.33% of cases). The diameter at the end of the internal iliac vein was between 5.9 to 10.2 mm; the diameter at the end of the right internal iliac vein was between 6.1 to 10.2 mm, the statistical distribution of values groups in ascending order being follows: 6.1 to 7.5 mm: 6 cases (33.33% of cases); 8.4 to 8.7 mm: 8 cases (44.44% of cases); 9.3 to 10.2 mm: 4 cases (22.22% of cases). The diameter at the end of the left internal iliac vein was between 5.9 to 9.9 mm, while the distribution statistics on groups of values in ascending order being as follows: 5.9 to 6.2 mm: 4 cases (22.22 % of cases); 7 to 7.6 mm: 3 cases (16.67% of cases); 8.3-8.4 mm: 5 cases (27.28% of cases); 9.1 to 9.9 mm: 6 cases (33.33% of cases). Comparing the common iliac vein caliber of the two, right and left, we found that in 10 cases (55.56% of cases), the right internal iliac vein has a greater diameter than the left one by 0.3 mm. In 8 cases (44.44% of cases), the left internal iliac vein has a larger diameter than the right one with 0.1-0.6 mm; between the two values there is a difference of 0.5 mm

In situ single-crystal to single-crystal (SCSC) transformation of the one-dimensional polymer catena-poly[[diaqua(sulfato)copper(II)]-μ₂-glycine] into the two-dimensional polymer poly[μ₂-glycine-μ₄-sulfato-copper(II)]

The one-dimensional coordination polymer catena-poly[diaqua(sulfato-κO)copper(II)]-μ2-glycine-κ(2)O:O'], [Cu(SO4)(C2H5NO2)(H2O)2]n, (I), was synthesized by slow evaporation under vacuum of a saturated aqueous equimolar mixture of copper(II) sulfate and glycine. On heating the same blue crystal of this complex to 435 K in an oven, its aspect changed to a very pale blue and crystal structure analysis indicated that it had transformed into the two-dimensional coordination polymer poly[(μ2-glycine-κ(2)O:O')(μ4-sulfato-κ(4)O:O':O'':O'')copper(II)], [Cu(SO4)(C2H5NO2)]n, (II). In (I), the Cu(II) cation has a pentacoordinate square-pyramidal coordination environment. It is coordinated by two water molecules and two O atoms of bridging glycine carboxylate groups in the basal plane, and by a sulfate O atom in the apical position. In complex (II), the Cu(II) cation has an octahedral coordination environment. It is coordinated by four sulfate O atoms, one of which bridges two Cu(II) cations, and two O atoms of bridging glycine carboxylate groups. In the crystal structure of (I), the one-dimensional polymers, extending along [001], are linked via N-H···O, O-H···O and bifurcated N-H···O,O hydrogen bonds, forming a three-dimensional framework. In the crystal structure of (II), the two-dimensional networks are linked via bifurcated N-H···O,O hydrogen bonds involving the sulfate O atoms, forming a three-dimensional framework. In the crystal structures of both compounds, there are C-H···O hydrogen bonds present, which reinforce the three-dimensional frameworks.

The dentist's operating posture - ergonomic aspects

The practice of dentistry involves laborious high finesse dental preparations, precision and control in executions that require a particular attention, concentration and patience of the dentist and finally the dentist's physical and mental resistance. The optimal therapeutic approach and the success of practice involve special working conditions for the dentist and his team in an ergonomic environment. The meaning of the posture in ergonomics is the manner in which different parts of the body are located and thus the reports are established between them in order to allow a special task execution. This article discusses the posture adopted by dentists when they work, beginning with the balanced posture and going to different variants of posture. The ideal posture of a dentist gives him, on the one hand the optimal working conditions (access, visibility and control in the mouth) and on the other hand, physical and psychological comfort throughout the execution of the clinical acts. Although the theme of dentist posture is treated with great care and often presented in the undergraduate courses and the continuing education courses on ergonomics in dentistry, many dentists do not know the subject well enough nor the theoretical issues and therefore nor the practical applicability. The risk and perspective of the musculoskeletal disorders related to unbalanced postures should determine the dentists take postural corrective actions and compensation measures in order to limit the negative effects of working in a bad posture.

Endo-periodontal lesion--endodontic approach

Endo-perio lesions might be interdependent because of the vascular and anatomic connections between the pulp and the periodontium. The aim of this study is to emphasise that primary endodontic lesion heals after a proper instrumentation, disinfection and sealing of the endodontic space. The primary endodontic lesion with a secondary periodontal involvement first requires an endodontic therapy and, in the second stage, a periodontal therapy. The prognosis is good, with an adequate root canal treatment; it depends on the severity of the periodontal disease, appropriate healing time and the response to the treatment. A correct diagnosis is sometimes difficult; an accurate identification of the etiologic factors is important for an adequate treatment. Primary perio-endo lesion may heal after a proper disinfection and sealing of the endodontic system, the one-year follow-up radiograph showing bonny repair. Invasive periodontal procedures should be avoided at that moment. The microorganisms and by-products from the infected root canal may cross accessory and furcal canals and determine sinus tract and loss of attachment. In both clinical cases presented in this article, successful healing was obtained after a proper disinfection and sealing of the endodontic system.

The significance of PDGF expression in serum of colorectal carcinoma patients--correlation with Duke's classification. Can PDGF become a potential biomarker?

BACKGROUND

The expression of serum angiogenic factors has been associated with tumor dissemination and poor prognosis in multiple cancer types. However, it is still unclear whether these angiogenic molecules can be used as an independent molecular marker or in correlation with other parameters for predicting the prognosis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC)patients.

METHODS

Protein expression was evaluated in 28 CRC and 10 control cases using Angiogenesis Fast Quant technology.

RESULTS

In this study, we found downregulation of PDGF-bb protein expression in the serum of patients with colorectal cancer compared with the control group. Thus, PDGF-bb might play an essential function in the progression of CRC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicated that the PDGF-bb protein expression might be an independent prognostic marker or in association with other parameters for CRC patients.

The clinical implications of platelet derived growth factor B, vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major health problem worldwide. Angiogenesis is a key process for tumor growth and metastasis. The conversion of tumor cells to an angiogenic phenotype involves the change in the balance of angiogenic growth factors and angiogenesis inhibitors. In our study we evaluated by qRT-PCR the level of expression of 3 growth factors involved in angiogenesis: platelet derived growth factor-B (PDGFb), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in patients with different stages of colon cancer. Our results showed the level of VEGF increased on all tumor without difference, statistically significant according with tumor stage whereas the others the levels of bFGF and PDGF were higher, statistically significant, on tumor classified stage B compared with stage C. The early implication of these molecules in colon carcinogenesis justifies the development of new biologic individualized therapies.

Ti-Si-C thin films produced by magnetron sputtering: correlation between physical properties, mechanical properties and tribological behavior

Ti-Si-C thin films were deposited onto silicon, stainless steel and high-speed steel substrates by magnetron sputtering, using different chamber configurations. The composition of the produced films was obtained by Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (EPMA) and the structure by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The hardness and residual stresses were obtained by depth-sensing indentation and substrate deflection measurements (using Stoney's equation), respectively. The tribological behavior of the produced films was studied by pin-on-disc. The increase of the concentration of non-metallic elements (carbon and silicon) caused significant changes in their properties. Structural analysis revealed the possibility of the coexistence of different phases in the prepared films, namely Ti metallic phase (alpha-Ti or beta-Ti) in the films with higher Ti content. The coatings with highest carbon contents, exhibited mainly a sub-stoichiometric fcc NaCI TiC-type structure. These structural changes were also confirmed by resistivity measurements, whose values ranged from 10(3) omega/sq for low non-metal concentration, up to 10(6) omega/sq for the highest metalloid concentration. A strong increase of hardness and residual stresses was observed with the increase of the non-metal concentration in the films. The hardness (H) values ranged between 11 and 27 GPa, with a clear dependence on both crystalline structure and composition features. Following the mechanical behavior, the tribological results showed similar trends, with both friction coefficients and wear revealing also a straight correlation with the composition and crystalline structure of the coatings.

In vitro effects of plant and mushroom extracts on immunological function of chicken lymphocytes and macrophages

1. The present study was conducted to examine the effects of organic extracts from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum), and shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) on innate immunity and tumor cell viability. 2. Innate immunity was measured by lymphocyte proliferation and nitric oxide production by macrophages, and the inhibitory effect on tumor cell growth was assessed using a non-radioactive assay. For measuring the cytokine levels in the HD11 macrophages which were treated with extracts of turmeric or shiitake mushroom, the levels of mRNAs for interferon-alpha (IFN- alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor superfamily 15 (TNFSF15) were quantified by real time RT-PCR. 3. In vitro culture of chicken spleen lymphocytes with extracts of milk thistle, turmeric, and shiitake and reishi mushrooms induced significantly higher cell proliferation compared with the untreated control cells. Stimulation of macrophages with extracts of milk thistle and shiitake and reishi mushrooms, but not turmeric, resulted in robust nitric oxide production to levels that were similar with those induced by recombinant chicken interferon-gamma. All extracts uniformly inhibited the growth of chicken tumor cells in vitro at the concentration of 6.3 through 100 microg/ml. Finally, the levels of mRNAs encoding IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-12, IL-18, and TNFSF15 were enhanced in macrophages that were treated with extracts of turmeric or shiitake mushroom compared with the untreated control. 4. These results document the immunologically-based enhancement of innate immunity in chickens by extracts of plants and mushrooms with known medicinal properties in vitro. In vivo studies are being planned to delineate the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for their mechanism of action.

Parametric models for characterizing respiratory input impedance

This study compares a manifold of parametric models reported in the literature with two novel parametric models for identifying human input respiratory impedance. The analysis is carried out on typical patient data obtained with the forced oscillations technique (FOT), on three sets of representative diagnosed subjects: healthy, asthma and COPD. The performance of the models is characterized by the error between the true respiratory impedance of the patient and the estimated impedance by the parametric models. The optimal solutions of the nonlinear estimations are compared. The resulting parameter values are discussed with respect to both model structure and physiological insight.

Interferon-beta increases BAFF levels in multiple sclerosis: implications for B cell autoimmunity

B cells are increasingly recognized as major players in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. The BAFF/APRIL system is crucial for B cell homoeostasis and may drive B cell-dependent autoimmunity. We asked whether this system is affected by Interferon (IFN)-beta therapy. We analysed transcription of the ligands (BAFF, APRIL, TWE-PRIL) and the corresponding receptors (BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA) by TaqMan-PCR ex vivo in whole blood and in immune cell subsets purified from IFN-beta-treated multiple sclerosis patients. Serum BAFF concentrations were determined by ELISA. This cross-sectional study involved 107 donors. IFN-beta therapy strongly induced BAFF transcription proportionally to the IFN-beta biomarker MxA in monocytes and granulocytes in vivo. BAFF serum concentrations were elevated in IFN-beta-treated multiple sclerosis patients to a similar level as observed in SLE patients. In cultured PBMC, neutrophils, fibroblasts and astrocytes, BAFF was induced by IFN-beta concentrations similar to those reached in vivo in treated multiple sclerosis patients. BAFF turned out to be the main regulated element of the BAFF/APRIL system. In untreated multiple sclerosis patients, there was no BAFF increase as compared to healthy controls. Our study reveals a complex situation. We show that IFN-beta therapy induces a potent B cell survival factor, BAFF. However, B cell depletion would be desirable at least in some multiple sclerosis patients. The systemic induction of BAFF by IFN-beta therapy may facilitate the production of various autoantibodies and of IFN-neutralizing antibodies. Individual MS/NMO patients who have major B cell involvement may benefit less than others from IFN-beta therapy, thus explaining interindividual differences of the therapeutic response.

[Colectomy in emergency surgery]

Unlike the standardised surgery of the right sided colic emergencies there is still a matter of debate on the emergency approach of the left colon and rectum. Between 1998 - 2007 on 32 patients (15 males, 17 females) we performed the single stage radical procedure total or subtotal colectomy. In the same period we performed 372 emergency operations for low intestinal occlusion. The patients had ages between 24 - 86 years, the admittance diagnosis was intestinal occlusion. The postoperative diagnosis was left colic carcinoma (n=23), strangulated hernia (n=2) strangulated incisional hernia (n=2), sigmoid volvulus (n=3) and synchronous colic carcinoma (n=2). All cases were submitted to surgery in the first 24 h of admission. Despite the presence of liver metastasis at the time of surgery in 2 patients, this had not contraindicate the radical procedure. 21 patients (65.62%) had a good evolution. The others 11 (34.38%) had postoperative complications: 2 anastomotic leakage (6.25%), 7 parietal infections (21.87%) and 2 death (6.25%). The total colectomy offers oncological radicality and satisfactory functional results. The disadvantage consists in postoperative diarrhea, gradually decreased with time.

[Stapled anastomoses in colorectal surgery]

The purpose of this paper was to analyze the advantages, indications and results of stapled circular anastomoses in colorectal surgery. In the last four years (1995-1998), fifteen patients underwent stapled anastomoses after Dixon's anterior rectal resection for cancers of upper and midrectum (11 patients), total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis for malignant familial polyposis (1 patient), segmental colectomy of transverse and descending colon (1 patient with synchronous colic and rectal cancers, having concomitant rectal resection for cancer), previous Hartmann's resection for perforated upper rectal cancer (1 patient) or distal sigmoid diverticulitis (1 patient). The anastomoses have been performed in end-to-end fashion (11 patients), according to the Knight's technique (2 cases) or in side-to-end fashion (2 patients). As most frequent associated technique with stapled anastomoses, anterior rectal resection for cancer was performed with 2 cm of clearance beyond the macroscopic margin of tumor. Distal margin of resection was histologically verified and it proved to be free of tumor cells. There was no operative mortality. Anastomotic leakage occurred in three patients because of imperfection of stapled anastomosis (2 cases) or after local irradiation (1 case). Spontaneous closure was seen in one patients. The other two patients needed reoperation for suture or colostomy. Late clinical, endoscopic and X-ray controls did not discover local recurrences. Functional results were good in terms of stool frequency and continence. In conclusion, stapled fashioned anastomoses have the main indication in sphincter saving Dixon's and Hartmann's procedures. In these cases, stapled anastomoses are easier than manual technique, reduce operative time and improve suture reliability.

Voltammetric determination of lactate dehydrogenase using a carbon paste electrode

A voltammetric study was performed by linear sweep voltammetry using a carbon paste electrode, in -0.1 to +1.3 V potential range, with the view of elaborating an assay for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in different enzymatic preparations and biological fluids. There have been performed studies concerning pH influence upon the enzymatic reaction, as well as the electrochemical behavior of LDH in the presence of modified carbon paste electrodes saturated with sodium pyruvate and/or NADH.

Ultrastructural aspects of the alveolar wall in SIDS

The aim of this study is to make a comparative analyse between light and ultrastructural lesions of the alveolar wall in SIDS. The study was made on lung specimens collected from autopsy of infants with sudden unexplained death. There were studied histopathologically 10 cases of sudden death. Only in 3 cases were made electron microscopically studies. At light microscope, there were put in evidence interstitial and intra-alveolar oedema and the presence of many parietal and intra-alveolar macrophages. There is a good correlation between light and ultrastructural aspects.

Freeze-drying of some strains of biotechnological interest (Aureobasidium pullulans)

Optimal freeze-drying conditions for Aureobasidium pullulans were investigated. Protective substances were used to compensate for the stress reported during freezing (gelatin, calf serum) and desiccation (saccharose, raffinose, trehalose), used in different combinations.

[The current and future outlook in immunosuppressive therapy for children]

The various cell proportions that form the immune system intervene in the activation of autoreactive cells and in the occurrence of the associated inflammatory process. Advances of the study of the mechanism involved in the autoimmunity, and the development of new immunosuppressive agents used for transplantations have deeply modified the therapeutic approaches. The classic treatment of autoimmune diseases has relied on corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. Now, these new treatments are evaluated on animal models, then controlled in clinical trials. Cyclosporin A has been shown to be effective in several autoimmune diseases. Intravenous immunoglobulins, cytokines, and anticytokines, immunotoxins, monoclonal anti-leukocyte antibodies (CD4, CD25) and soon peptide vaccination constitute the new types of treatments.

The unopened colostomy: a procedure to protect colonic anastomosis

The results of an alternative to the classic diverting lateral colostomy when used to protect a high risk anastomosis are reported. Fourteen out of 122 patients undergoing colonic or colorectal resection had a restoration of intestinal continuity with a proximal closed loop colostomy--of these 11 did not require opening in the immediate post-operative period. These had an uneventful early post-operative course, and the return of the colostomy to the abdominal cavity was performed within 10 days post-operatively, without having been opened. In three cases where local or general complications occurred, the opening of the colonic loop led to the creation of a conventional temporary protective colostomy. This procedure allowed a reduction of the originally planned number of colostomies by 50%.