Predictors of fibrogenesis in children with JIA: a single-center pilot study

BACKGROUND

Patients with rheumatological diseases are at high risk of developing irreversible fibrotic changes, both articular and extra-articular, as a result of tissue damage caused by the chronic phase of persistent inflammation. Thus, our purpose was to study early markers of fibrosis formation in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

Seventy patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, namely, polyarthritis (64.29%) and oligoarthritis (35.71%) variant JIA (mean age 13.3 years, 64.29% girls, 35.71% boys), were included in this 4-year prospective study. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were determined by ELISA kits.

RESULTS

We evaluated bFGF (mean: 7478.21 pg/ml; min: 4171.56 pg/ml; max: 18,011.25 pg/ml) and VEGF (mean: 342.47 pg/ml; min: 23.68 pg/ml; max: 2158.91 pg/ml) levels in children with JIA. Children with JIA had a higher VEGF level when JIA onset occurred after 15 years of age and they had a high disease activity; additionally, a higher bFGF level was observed in children older than 14 years and in those with a JIA onset after 15 years of age, the oligoarticular variant, a moderate disease activity and regardless of MTX administration but more often when MTX was administered at a dosage from 10 to 12.5 mg/m2/week.

CONCLUSIONS

Laboratory screening of fibrosis formation predictors could help identify patients who may be at greater risk of adverse outcomes. Children with JIA had higher bFGF and VEGF levels when JIA onset occurred after 15 years of age, depending on disease activity.

Synthesis and Study of Organic Nanostructures Fabricated by Inclusion of 2-Methylbenzimidazole Molecules in Nanotubes of Chrysotile Asbestos, Mesoporous Silica, and Nanopores of Borate Glasses

New organic nanostructures were synthesized by introducing 2-methylbenzimidazole (MBI) molecules from a melt, gas phase, or alcoholic solution into nanosized voids of borate porous glasses (PG), nanotubes of chrysotile asbestos (ChA), and mesoporous silica (MS). The incorporation of MBI into borate glasses with different pore sizes is accompanied by the appearance of several phases formed by nanocrystallites which have a MBI crystal structure, but somewhat differ in lattice parameters. The size of some crystallites significantly exceeds the size of nanopores, which indicates the presence of long-scale correlations of the crystal structure. The size of MBI nanocrystallites in ChA was close to the diameter of nanotubes (D ~10 nm), which shows the absence of crystal structure correlations. The XRD pattern of mesoporous silica filled by MBI does not exhibit reflections caused by MBI and a presence of MBI was confirmed only by the analysis of correlation function. The incorporation of MBI molecules into matrices is observed through optical IR absorption spectroscopy (FTIR) and photoluminescence. Introducing MBI in ChA and MS is followed by the appearance of bright green photoluminescence, the spectral structure of which is analogous to MBI crystals but slightly shifted in the blue region, probably due to a quantum-size effect. The influence of MBI inclusion in PG and ChA on the permittivity, dielectric losses, conductivity, and parameters of their hopping conductivity is analyzed.

Mixture of an ionic liquid and organic solvent at graphene: interface structure and ORR mechanism

Aprotic lithium-oxygen batteries are attracting the attention of the scientific community due to their outstanding theoretical performance, which, however, still has not been achieved in practice. One of the promising directions for improving the stability of Li-O₂ batteries is electrolyte design, which would provide good cyclability, inhibition of parasitic processes, and high energy density. In recent years, there has been progress in the use of ionic liquids in the composition of the electrolyte. The present work reveals possible explanations of the influence of the ionic liquid on the mechanism of the oxygen reduction reaction by the example of a combined electrolyte from an organic solvent DME and an ionic liquid Pyr₁₄TFSI. Molecular dynamics modelling of the interface between a graphene electrode and an organic solvent DME with a variable volume fraction of the ionic liquid shows the influence of the electrolyte structure at the interface to the kinetics on the adsorption and desorption stages of oxygen reduction reaction reactants. The obtained results suggest the promotion of a two-electron oxygen reduction reaction mechanism through the formation of solvated O₂^2-, which may explain the reduced recharge overpotential reported in experiments.

Generating human neural diversity with a multiplexed morphogen screen in organoids

Morphogens choreograph the generation of remarkable cellular diversity in the developing nervous system. Differentiation of stem cells toward particular neural cell fates in vitro often relies upon combinatorial modulation of these signaling pathways. However, the lack of a systematic approach to understand morphogen-directed differentiation has precluded the generation of many neural cell populations, and knowledge of the general principles of regional specification remain in-complete. Here, we developed an arrayed screen of 14 morphogen modulators in human neural organoids cultured for over 70 days. Leveraging advances in multiplexed RNA sequencing technology and annotated single cell references of the human fetal brain we discovered that this screening approach generated considerable regional and cell type diversity across the neural axis. By deconvoluting morphogen-cell type relationships, we extracted design principles of brain region specification, including critical morphogen timing windows and combinatorics yielding an array of neurons with distinct neuro-transmitter identities. Tuning GABAergic neural subtype diversity unexpectedly led to the derivation of primate-specific interneurons. Taken together, this serves as a platform towards an in vitro morphogen atlas of human neural cell differentiation that will bring insights into human development, evolution, and disease.

Crystal Structure, Raman, FTIR, UV-Vis Absorption, Photoluminescence Spectroscopy, TG-DSC and Dielectric Properties of New Semiorganic Crystals of 2-Methylbenzimidazolium Perchlorate

Single crystals of 2-methylbenzimidazolium perchlorate were prepared for the first time with a slow evaporation method from an aqueous solution of a mixture of 2-methylbenzimidazole (MBI) crystals and perchloric acid HClO₄. The crystal structure was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) and confirmed by XRD of powder. Angle-resolved polarized Raman and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) absorption spectra of crystals consist of lines caused by molecular vibrations in MBI molecule and ClO₄^- tetrahedron in the region ν = 200-3500 cm^-1 and lattice vibrations in the region of 0-200 cm^-1. Both XRD and Raman spectroscopy show a protonation of MBI molecule in the crystal. An analysis of ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectra gives an estimation of an optical gap E_g~3.9 eV in the crystals studied. Photoluminescence spectra of MBI-perchlorate crystals consist of a number of overlapping bands with the main maximum at E_photon ≅ 2.0 eV. Thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) revealed the presence of two first-order phase transitions with different temperature hysteresis at temperatures above room temperature. The higher temperature transition corresponds to the melting temperature. Both phase transitions are accompanied by a strong increase in the permittivity and conductivity, especially during melting, which is similar to the effect of an ionic liquid.

The effect of a mixture of an ionic liquid and organic solvent on oxygen reduction reaction kinetics

Li-O₂ batteries attract great attention due to their promising theoretical energy density. One of the main obstacles on the way to achieving high energy density and good cyclability is positive electrode passivation by the Li₂O₂ discharge product as well as the presence of parasitic reactions that degrade electrode and electrolyte materials. To overcome these issues new electrolytes are being extensively searched for to ensure the bulk-mediated mechanism of the oxygen reduction reaction and inhibition of parasitic reactions. Different additives to organic solvents can significantly change the properties of electrolytes. This work is devoted to the effect of ionic liquids (ILs), which are proposed as an additive to the solvent due to their excellent solvation properties, high stability, low volatility and flammability. Using molecular dynamics simulations we investigate mixtures of the Pyr₁₄TFSI ionic liquid and dimethoxyethane (DME) with different volume fractions of the IL. Our calculations show that the presence of the ionic liquid in the electrolyte stabilises solvation shells around the ions, both involved in the oxygen reduction and parasitic reactions, slowing down the kinetics of Li⁺ and O₂^- association. This makes the usage of such mixtures promising for electrolyte design for Li-O₂ batteries.

Features of cellular and molecular mechanisms of re-gulation of reparative processes in chronic wounds using photobiomodulation therapy

Introduction: Treatment of chronic wounds is an urgent worldwide problem for medicine. Among the many efforts in wound healing techniques, photobiomodulation therapy has shown promising results.

Aim: To study the effect of photobiomodulation therapy on optimisation of the regulation of reparative processes in chronic wounds by cytokines (through the example of interleukin-1β, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-4, interleukin-10, and granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor).

Materials and methods: The study involved 12 Wistar rats. A trophic wound was modelled in the animals. After the operation, the animals were divided into two groups of 6 animals each. The wound defects of animals in the experimental group were exposed to low-intensity laser radiation. Photobiomodulation therapy was applied once a day for 5 days, starting the day after wound modelling. The device Lika-therapist M (Ukraine) was used in a continuous mode at a wavelength of 660 nm, an output power of 50 mW, and an energy density of 1 J/cm², and 60 s exposure time.

Results: The study showed the following changes in the expression of intercellular mediators in the blood serum of animals with chronic wounds when using photobiomodulation therapy: a decrease in the levels of interleukin-1β (p>0.05) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (p<0.05); increased concentrations of interleukin-4 (p<0.05); the concentrations of interleukin-6, granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor, and interleukin-10 were not significantly changed. The histological study showed better organization of collagen fibers in the experimental group.

Conclusions: Photobiomodulation therapy can be an instrument for optimizing the reparative process by correcting the regulation by intercellular mediators.

The influence of foreign textile bodies from military clothes on the healing process of experimental injuries of soft tissues

Background

The healing of combat wounds can be complicated by the presence of foreign bodies, including fragments of military clothing. The present work aims to study the morphological features of soft tissue injuries with textile fibers implanted into wounds, personnel military forms during wound healing, in the experiment.

Methods

By randomization, 54 rats were divided into 3 groups. Control group animals performed a layer-by-layer incision of soft tissues without implantation of foreign bodies. Animals of the experimental group 1 were made implantation of fibers of a fabric consisting of 100% cotton, and of the experimental group 2-of fibers of a fabric consisting of 65% cotton and 35% polyester. Removal of laboratory animals from the experiment was carried out on the 15th, 30th, and 60th day. Soft tissue samples were histologically examined.

Results

The least pronounced inflammation was observed in rats of the control group. Wound healing in the experimental groups was slowed down due to the presence of inflammatory foci. A more pronounced inflammatory reaction was characterized by a group of animals with implanted tissue fibers consisting of 100% cotton. In the group with implanted tissue fibers consisting of 65% cotton and 35% polyester, the inflammatory reactions were less pronounced.

Conclusions

The presence of textile foreign bodies hampers the healing process of wounds of soft tissues due to the developing processes of inflammation around foreign bodies. The uniform of servicemen (35% synthetic and 65% natural fiber) is less reactive, leaving a wound as a textile foreign body, and has a less pronounced inflammatory effect, apparently due to the presence of synthetic threads that are more inert compared to fabric containing 100% natural fiber. This confirms the need for thorough debridement of combat wounds during the primary surgical treatment.

The role of intercellular mediators in the regulation of reparative processes of chronic wounds when using photobiomodulation therapy

Objective: The treatment of chronic wounds is one of the actual problems in medicine. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has gained considerable recognition among treatment modalities for various medical problems including wound repair processes. This research aims to investigate the role of intercellular mediators in the regulation of reparative processes of chronic wounds with the PBM therapy in the experiment. Methods: Studies were performed on 12 Wistar rats weighing 250 ± 30g. Rats were used for modeling a chronic wound. Animals were divided into two groups: control and experimental.The animal wounds from the experimental group were treated with low-intensity laser radiation from “Lika-therapist М” in continuous mode using a wavelength of 660 nm, output power at 50 mWt, energy density at 1 J/cm² once per day for 5 days. On the 14th day after the application of wounds, 6 rats from each group were removed from the experiment. PBM efficiency was evaluated with intercellular mediators analysis, as well as with histological examination. ELISA serum analysis was done for quantifying interleukin- 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Statistical processing of the results was performed using the Statistica 6.0 analysis package. Result: PBM effect on the expression of intercellular mediators in blood serum of animals with chronic wounds after 14 days after wound modeling, showed: increase of cytokine IL-1β (p > 0,05) and IL-4 (p < 0,05) levels; decrease of TNF-α and IL-10 levels (p < 0,05); without significant changes were concentrations IL-6 and GM-CSF. The histological study showed decrease vascular count and better organization of collagen fibers in experimental group. Conclusion: Histological studies of wound healing revealed an earlier transition of the process to the remodeling phase with the use of PBM therapy. PBM therapy can be an instrument for optimizing the reparative process by correcting the regulation by intercellular mediators. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 21 No. 02 April’22 Page : 398-403

MECHANISMS OF THE FORMATION OF MOTOR-SECRETORY DISORDERS IN PATIENTS WITH GERD WITH CONCOMITANT AIT

OBJECTIVE

The aim: The aim of this work was to study the effect of thyroid hormones on motor-secretory dysfunction in patients with GERD with concomitant AIT.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: The study involved three groups of patients: with isolated GERD, GERD with AIT at the stage of hypothyroidism and GERD with AIT at the stage of hyperthyroidism. The control group consisted of 15 practically healthy individuals. GERD and AIT were diagnosed on the basis of ICD-10. All patients underwent a comprehensive examination, including ultrasound examination of the motor-evacuation function of the esophagus and stomach. Quality of life of patients was assessed by using the GIQLI questionnaire.

RESULTS

Results: The most expressed complaints and low quality of life are observed among patients with combined pathology. The results of pH-metry indicate more severe course of GERD among patients with concomitant AIT. The most pronounced decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter and increased regurgitation were observed in the second group.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: 1. It was found that more reliable motor-secretory disorders were observed among patients with GERD with concomitant AIT. 2. A close correlation was established between the severity of the clinical picture, the level of increased thyroid hormones and the degree of impairment of motor-secretory disorders among patients with GERD with concomitant AIT; 3. The results obtained indicate that changes in the metabolism of thyroid hormones are one of the factors involved in the mechanisms of GERD formation.

DYNAMICS OF ULTRASTRUCTURAL REARRANGEMENTS OF SKELETAL MUSCLE FIBROBLASTS AFTER SIMULATED GUNSHOT SHRAPNEL WOUNDS

Purpose of the study the peculiarities of rearrangements of skeletal muscle fibroblasts surrounding the wound canal at various times after an experimentally modeled gunshot shrapnel wounds. Experimental modeling of gunshot shrapnel wounds of soft tissues has been carried out on 20 laboratory animals - breeding rabbits of the breed «Chinchilla». To laboratory animal was caused a gunshot wound in the sartorius area with the gun «Fort-12» caliber 9 mm. The initial velocity of the fragment was 305 m/s. Ultrathin muscle sections were examined using an EM-125 electron microscope at accelerating voltage of 75 kV, with a magnification of 20000 - 60000 arm. In an experiment it was revealed that on the thirtieth day most of the fibroblasts of the wound canal in the femoral muscle tissue had an ultrastructure characteristic of the course of compensatory-adaptive, synthetic, and reparative processes. Sixty days after a gunshot wound, the submicroscopic organization of fibroblasts from the wound canal area undergoes disorders associated with a decrease in the synthetic activity of fibroblasts.

Effect of water on the behaviour of lithium and superoxide ions in aprotic solvents

An aprotic lithium-air battery is a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage systems, but its practical performance is still low. The addition of water to an electrolyte can substantially increase the capacity and round-trip efficiency of batteries. However, fundamental mechanisms of the water impact are still far from being fully understood. To contribute to this issue, we studied by molecular dynamics simulations the effect of water additives on the behaviour of discharge intermediates Li⁺ and O₂^- in two frequently used solvents: dimethoxyethane (DME) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). We have estimated the structures of the solvation shells around Li⁺ and O₂^- ions, and the residence times of various electrolyte components inside the solvation shells depending on the concentration of water additives. Furthermore, we have estimated the rate and the equilibrium of the Li⁺ and O₂^- association. Our results reveal that water additives in electrolytes shift the equilibrium of the association reaction toward soluble Li⁺ and O₂^- ions in both DME and DMSO. These data argue for the view that water promotes the solution discharge mechanism, thus increasing the capacity. Moreover, we show that water accelerates the kinetics of the association reaction due to the decrease of the stability of Li⁺ and O₂^- solvation shells. This may explain the reduced discharge overpotential when water is added.

NEUROCHEMICAL STATUS OF NITRIC OXIDE IN THE SETTINGS OF THE NORM, ISHEMIC EVENT OF CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, AND PHARMACOLOGICAL BN INTERVENTION

The purpose of the given research is to study the efficiency of different inhibitors of NO-synthase in conditions of experimental cerebral ischemia by their capability to limit reactions of oxidative and nitrosative stress. In the given study a non-selective NOS inhibitor - N-nitro-L-arginine; a highly selective inhibitor of neuronal NOS - N-propyl-L-arginine and a highly selective competitive inhibitor of inducible NOS - (S)-methylurea were used. Cerebral circulation impairment was simulated by means of double-sided occlusion of common carotid arteries. It has been established that neurotoxic NO effect depends on definite enzyme of NO-synthase. Analysis of the obtained data shows a limited role of neuronal isoform in conditions of experimental impairment of blood circulation. The most relevant target for pharmacological regulation of NO-dependent mechanisms of neurodestruction is iNOS because of the fact that its activity begins to increase 12 hours after ischemia development and its action is implemented during several following days.

Boosting transfection efficiency: A systematic study using layer-by-layer based gene delivery platform

Nowadays, the nanoparticle-based delivery approach is becoming more and more attractive in gene therapy due to its low toxicity and immunogenicity, sufficient packaging capacity, targeting, and straightforward, low-cost, large-scale good manufacturing practice (GMP) production. A number of research works focusing on multilayer structures have explored different factors and parameters that can affect the delivery efficiency of pDNA. However, there are no systematic studies on the performance of these structures for enhanced gene delivery regarding the gene loading methods, the use of additional organic components and cell/particle incubation conditions. Here, we conducted a detailed analysis of different parameters such as (i) strategy for loading pDNA into carriers, (ii) incorporating both pDNA and organic additives within one carrier and (iii) variation of cell/particle incubation conditions, to evaluate their influence on the efficiency of pDNA delivery with multilayer structures consisting of inorganic cores and polymer layers. Our results reveal that an appropriate combination of all these parameters leads to the development of optimized protocols for high transfection efficiency, compared to the non-optimized process (> 70% vs. < 7%), and shows a good safety profile. In conclusion, we provide the proof-of-principle that these multilayer structures with the developed parameters are a promising non-viral platform for an efficient delivery of nucleic acids.

Fibrosis indexes in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis treated with methotrexate

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common form of arthritis in children and adolescents. Methotrexate is the mainstay of juvenile idiopathic arthritis treatment. Methotrexate is well known to cause serum aminotransferase elevations, and longterm therapy has been linked to the development of fatty liver disease, fibrosis and even cirrhosis. The aim of the study was to assess non-invasive liver fibrosis indexes in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis treated with methotrexate. Materials and methods: A total of 68 children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis were enrolled in the study. A total of 68 children – 25 boys (36.8%) and 43 girls (63.2%) – were examined. The children were divided into four groups based on the methotrexate cumulative dose. The following data were analysed: total bilirubin and its fractions, cholesterol, β-lipoproteins, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase. Fibrosis indexes, i.e. APRI, FIB-4 score, AAR, AARPRI, were studied. Results: When studying the dynamics of non-invasive indices, their heterogeneous nature and cumulative dose dependence are determined. Statistically significant changes in fibrosis indexes and biochemical parameters were observed when the children reached cumulative methotrexate doses of 1 g and 3 g. Conclusions: It is possible to monitor carefully liver condition during the whole treatment and conduct a more in-depth examination only if it is necessary. Our data shows that the APRI index (AST to platelet ratio index) is most indicative.

Healing features of experimental injuries of soft tissues that contain foreign bodies in the form of fragments of military personnel uniforms

INTRODUCTION

The healing of combat wounds can be complicated by the presence of foreign bodies. The present research aimed to study the regeneration of soft tissue injuries complicated by foreign bodies in the form of fragments of military uniforms.

METHODS

60 rats were divided into four groups: intact (Int), control (Con) and two experimental (EG1, EG2). In Con, wounds were sutured without implantation of foreign bodies. A uniform consisting of 100% cotton was used as foreign bodies for EG1 and a uniform consisting of 65% cotton and 35% polyester for EG2. Histological studies were performed according to generally accepted methods. The growth factors wеre determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

In EG1, the inflammatory reaction proceeded protractedly, which complicated the development of granulation tissue. In EG2, considering the moderate inflammatory reactions, healing of the wounds became possible. The increase of the growth factors content in Con was maximal at the 15th day: basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-2.2 times and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-1.6 times (p<0.001). In experimental groups, the bFGF content was maximal at the 60th day and exceeded the normal values by 1.7 times in EG1 and by 2.6 times in EG2 (p<0.001); the level of VEGF was slightly higher than that in healthy animals.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed wound healing in all groups. The repair of injuries in rats of EG1 and EG2 was complicated by the textile implant and took longer. The dynamics of the content of growth factors reflected the impairment of wound healing processes. These violations were more pronounced in the EG1 group.

THE IMPACT OF THE CHEMICAL AGENTS OF DIFFERENT PHARMACOLOGICAL GROUPS ON THE KLOTHO PROTEIN CONCENTRATION IN THE CARDIOMYOCYTE AND NEUROCYTE SUSPENSION IN 120 MINUTE HYPOXIA IN VITRO

Currently, central nervous and cardiovascular system disorders of hypoxia genesis are widely treated with drugs that restore blood flow, as well as drugs that affect cell metabolism, namely, individual units of adaptive molecular-biochemical reactions. Of particular interest are pharma-correction methods of affecting synthesis and expression of Klotho proteins, such as vitamin D and Necrostatin-1, estrogens. The purpose of the study was to identify the ability of vitamin D and tamoxifen estrogen receptor modulator to affect Klotho protein synthesis (under hypoxia in vitro modeling in brain and heart cells). The study was performed on sexually mature white non-linear rats - males weighing 190-230 g. Hypoxia in vitro was modeled by insertion of 0.6 μM concentration of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridil (MPTP) into the suspension of respiratory tract tissue differentiator cardiomyocytes. By means of immunoenzyme analysis, concentration of Nitrotyrosin (Ntz) (ELISA Kit "Hycult biotechnology b.v.") and Klotho protein (Elabscience, USA) in cell suspensions was evaluated. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using the STATISTICA® for Windows 6.0 program (StatSoft Inc., No. AXXR712D833214FAN5). The reliability of the differences was carried out using the Student's t-criterion. The data analysis demonstrated that a 120-minute MPTP incubation of cardiomyocytes and neurocytes resulted in a significant deficiency of Klotho protein concentration compared to intact suspensions. Such a decrease, in our opinion, is related to the development of oxidative stress in cell suspension (increase of Ntz by 65% ​​and 69% in the cardiomyocyte and neurocyte suspensions, respectively), as well as hyperproduction of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon (INF). Vitamin D (10-7) addition to the incubation medium of cardiomyocytes and neurocytes resulted in the increase of Klotho protein content by 56% on average, with 36% and 42% reduction of Ntz concentration, respectively. The registered effects of vitamin D are explained with its direct stimulating of the expression and synthesis of Klotho protein and limiting FGF23 hyperproduction. The introduction of tamoxifen estrogen receptor modulator (10-7) into the cardio- and neurocyte incubation medium did not affect Klotho protein concentration (an increase in concentration of 34% and 28% respectively) in advanced cell suspensions as much as vitamin D, however, nitrotyrosine concentration decrease made a more expressed impact, on average by 52% and 60%. The effects of tamoxifen are implemented due to its impact on the HSP proteins system, which provides the structural and functional integrity of the Klotho protein.

A highly efficient and safe gene delivery platform based on polyelectrolyte core–shell nanoparticles for hard-to-transfect clinically relevant cell types

The polyelectrolyte nanocarriers’ based on nanosized vaterite particles as a novel tool for genetic material delivery into the clinically relevant cell types and potential application of described technology in gene therapy approaches.

ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTICS OF CERVICAL CHANGES WITH DIFFERENT LOCALIZATION OF THE CERVICITIS IN WOMEN WITH THE ECTOPY OF THE VAGINAL PORTION OF THE CERVIX

The aim of the study was to improve the diagnosis of structural changes in all parts of the cervix depending on the preferential localization of the inflammatory process - in the ectocervix, endocervix, and also in the stroma in women with ectopia (pseudoerosis) of the vaginal part of the cervix. The study included women of predominantly early and middle reproductive age, as these women have inflammatory processes more often than in menopause. To perform the work, a transvaginal imaging method was used, which allowed us to see the smallest structures (up to 0.5-1.0 mm) of the cervix. We have previously developed a technique for visualizing the external part of the cervix and obtained a patent of Ukraine. The results of the ultrasound were compared with laboratory data, colposcopy and cervicoscopy. Traditionally, the diagnosis of cervicitis was made on the basis of clinical symptoms, smear results to determine the presence and type of pathogen. Endoscopic methods allowed visualization of only the mucous membrane of the cervical canal and external part of the cervix. The deep layers of the ectocervix, endocervix and cervical stroma can only be visualized using high-frequency ultrasound in a transvaginal way. According to the results of the study, it was possible to determine the preferential localization of the inflammatory process, to determine the nature of changes in different layers of the cervix. These changes were expressed in the presence of calcifications and cystic cavities of various sizes (1-6 mm), an increase or decrease in echogenicity, the degree of heterogeneity of the structure of the ecto-, endocervix and stroma.

STUDY OF BONE TISSUE REPARATION AFTER A FEMUR FRACTURE DEPENDING ON THE CORRECTION OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN MODEL OBJECT RATTUS NORVEGICUS (RAT GRAY)

The processes of bone remodeling and regulation of blood pressure are caused by common genetic determinants underlying the development of these diseases. To solve practical medical problems, it seems relevant to carry out the correction and treatment of syntropic diseases at the same time with the aim of achieving the maximum positive effect. The most serious complication of osteoporosis is bone fractures, especially fractures of the proximal femur, which are a serious medical and social problem. The aim of our work was to evaluate the repair of bone tissue after fractures of the proximal femur with subsequent intramedullary osteosynthesis on the background of arterial hypertension and its correction. A model object was used in the work - gray rats, lines Wistar and SHR, which were operated on. For the animals of one of the groups with genetically determined arterial hypertension, correction of the above-mentioned pathology in the form of enalapril monotherapy in the postoperative period was applied. In this group, the picture of the dynamics of blood pressure indices corresponded to the cumulative effect of enalapril - after three weeks of taking the drug, the rats' systolic blood pressure indices corresponded to those of normotensive animals, and the indicators of adhesion of the fracture zone were higher than in the group of rats with arterial hypertension, which was not corrected. Adequate correction of the level of blood pressure in the postoperative period favorably affects the reparative capabilities of the bone, while at the same time increasing the chances of positive results of surgical treatment of patients.

The correlation between electrical conductivity and second-order Raman modes of laser-reduced graphene oxide

Second-order Raman modes correlate with the electrical properties of reduced graphene oxide measured at the nanoscale by atomic force microscopy.

INTERACTIONS OF RANKL, OSTEOPROTEGERIN AND ADIPOKINES IN REGULATION OF BONE REMODELING IN EXPERIMENTAL CHRONIC KIDNEY FUNCTION DISORDER

RANKL and osteoprotegerin are the key cytokines of the axis regulating not only bone remodeling but also bone-kidney interrelations. They are connected with adipokines in the regulatory actions. The aim of the article was to investigate the role of the main parts of RANK-RANKL-osteoprotegerin axis and cytokines of additional link of regulatory network - adiponectin and visfatin and the interrelationship of these cytokines in chronic kidney disorder model in rats. Chronic kidney disorder model was created in the rats 12 weeks after intramuscular 50 % glycerol injection-induced acute kidney injury. RANKL, osteoprotegerin, adiponectin and visfatin levels was measured using ELISA. Increase of all cytokines and changes of their interrelations has been revealed in rats with chronic kidney disorder model. Conclusion was made that effects of the cytokine axis where RANKL is a trigger in the regulation network of interconnections «bone - kidney» has inflammatory character, so as visfatin effect, and adiponectin has opposite preserving bone effect.

[RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INFLAMMATIONAND HEART DYSSYNCHRONY IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE AND DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2]

The study involved 100 patients with chronic heart failure of ischemic origin II-III functional class (NYNA) and diabetes mellitus type 2. The concentration of serum markers of inflammation was determined by enzyme immunoassay. Сardiac dyssynchrony was detected echocardiographic and electrocardiographic methods. The study showed that the presence of cardiac dyssynchrony is accompanied by significant increase concentrations of inflammatory markers (CRP (p=2•10-9), TNF-α (p=4•10-6), IL-1β (p=0,01596), IL-6 (р=2•10-6) in patients. Аlso revealed statistically significant direct correlations between levels: Ts and CRP (r=0,604; p<0,001) and Ts-SD (r=0,611; p<0,001); TNF-α and Ts (r=0,585; p<0,001) and Ts-SD (r=0,561; p<0,001); IL-1β with the QRS (r=0,257; p<0,05), Ts (r=0,365; p<0,001), Ts-SD (r=0,350; p<0,001) and IVMD (r=0,272; p<0,05); IL-6 and Ts (r=0,744, p<0,001) and Ts-SD (r=0,744; p<0,001), which implies that the amplification of inflammation contributes to the further progression of myocardial dyssynchrony in patients with chronic heart failure of ischemic origin and type 2 diabetes.

Biochemical changes in cyanobacteria during the synthesis of silver nanoparticles

The methods of synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles by the cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis and Nostoc linckia were studied. A complex of biochemical, spectral, and analytical methods was used to characterize biomass and to assess changes in the main components of biomass (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and phycobilin) during nanoparticle formation. The size and shape of Ag nanoparticles in the biomass of both types of cyanobacteria were determined. Neutron activation analysis was used to study the accumulation dynamics of the Ag quantity. The analytical results suggest that the major reduction of Ag concentration in solutions and the increase in biomass occur within the first 24 h of experiments. While in this time interval minor changes in the N. linckia and S. platensis biomass took place, a significant reduction of the levels of proteins, carbohydrates, and phycobiliproteins in both cultures and of lipids in S. platensis was observed after 48 h. At the same time, the antiradical activity of the biomass decreased. The obtained results show the necessity of determining the optimal conditions of the interaction between the biomass and the solution containing Ag ions that would allow nanoparticle formation without biomass degradation at the time of Ag nanoparticle formation by the studied cyanobacteria.

Trends of atmospheric deposition of trace elements in Macedonia studied by the moss biomonitoring technique

In 2002 and 2005 the moss biomonitoring technique was applied to air pollution studies in the Republic of Macedonia in the framework of the International Cooperative Programme on Effects of Air Pollution on Natural Vegetation and Crops under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE-ICP Vegetation) Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP). In August 2005 samples of the terrestrial mosses Homolothecium lutescens and Hypnum cupressiforme were collected at 72 sites evenly distributed over the territory of the country, in accordance with the sampling strategy of the European moss survey programme. A total of 41 elements (Na, Mg, Al, Cl, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Br, Rb, Sr, Zr, Mo, Cd, Sb, I, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy Hf, Ta, W, Hg, Pb, Th, and U) were determined by instrumental epithermal neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry. Principal component analysis was used to identify and characterize different pollution sources. Distributional maps were prepared to point out the regions most affected by pollution and to relate this to known sources of contamination. A few areas, as in 2002, are experiencing particular environmental stress: Veles, Skopje, Tetovo, Radoviš and Kavadarci-Negotino, whereas the agricultural regions in the south, south-west, and south-east show median European values for most elements of mainly pollution origin. A significant increase in the content of Ni is noticed in the 2005 moss survey compared with 2002, due to the increased production of the ferro-nickel smelter in Kavadarci. A higher content of Cd, Hg, and Pb in 2005 relative to 2002 can be explained by pollution from the lead-zinc smelter in Veles, as well as the pollution that comes from the open slag waste dump of this smelter. Protection activities on the dump of slag from the former ferrochromium smelter located near Tetovo resulted in a lower content of Cr in the 2005 moss survey.

Terahertz quantum cascade laser as local oscillator in a heterodyne receiver

Terahertz quantum cascade lasers have been investigated with respect to their performance as a local oscillator in a heterodyne receiver. The beam profile has been measured and transformed in to a close to Gaussian profile resulting in a good matching between the field patterns of the quantum cascade laser and the antenna of a superconducting hot electron bolometric mixer. Noise temperature measurements with the hot electron bolometer and a 2.5 THz quantum cascade laser yielded the same result as with a gas laser as local oscillator.

Event-related synchronization and desynchronization during affective processing: emergence of valence-related time-dependent hemispheric asymmetries in theta and upper alpha band

Event-related desynchronization (ERD) and synchronization (ERS) in the individually defined theta, alpha-1, alpha-2, and alpha-3 frequency bands were measured in 22 healthy subjects (Ss) in response to neutral (Neut), emotionally positive (Pos), and negative (Neg) IAPS stimuli. The 62-channel EEG, facial EMG and ECG were simultaneously recorded while subjects viewed sequentially presented pictures and subjectively rated them after each presentation. The obtained findings indicate that differences induced by pictures varying in emotional valence are associated mainly with increased theta and alpha-3 synchronization activity and anterior hemispheric asymmetries. In the anterior temporal leads theta ERS revealed a significant valence by hemisphere interaction showing relatively greater right hemisphere theta ERS for Neg and left hemisphere ERS for Pos stimuli in the time window of 100-700 ms post-stimulus, whereas in the alpha-3 band Neg stimuli induced lateralized time-dependent left hemisphere ERS increased in the time window of 800-1200 ms, were not observed for Neut and Pos stimuli. The obtained results along with earlier observations on EEG correlates of affective processing challenge the notion that affective anterior hemispheric asymmetries are mainly sensitive to wide alpha frequency band. Frequency and time dependence of anterior hemispheric asymmetries in emotional valence discrimination is emphasized.