L-glutamic acid-g-poly hydroxyethyl methacrylate nanoparticles: acute and sub-acute toxicity and biodistribution potential in mice

The aim of this safety study in mice was to determine in vivo toxicity and biodistribution potential of a single and multiple doses of L-glutamic acid-g-p(HEMA) polymeric nanoparticles as a drug delivery system. The single dose did not cause any lethal effect, and its acute oral LD₅₀ was >2.000 mg/kg body weight (bw). Multiple doses (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg bw) given over 28 days resulted in no significant differences in body and relative organ weights compared to control. These results are supported by biochemical and histological findings. Moreover, nanoparticle exposure did not result in statistically significant differences in micronucleus counts in bone marrow cells compared to control. Nanoparticle distribution was time-dependent, and they reached the organs and even bone marrow by hour 6, as established by ex vivo imaging with the IVIS^® spectrum imaging system. In conclusion, L-glutamic acid-g-p(HEMA) polymeric nanoparticles appear biocompatible and have a potential use as a drug delivery system.KEY WORDS: biocompatibility, blood biochemistry, genotoxicity, histology, in vivo toxicity, micronucleus test, polymers     

Anterior epitympanic recess volume and Cog process length in temporal bones with Körner's septum: A radio- anatomical investigation

ObjectiveKörner's septum is a dense bony lamina dividing the mastoid cavity into superficial squamous and deeper petrosal portions at the level of antrum. In this study, we aimed at investigating the association of the Körner's septum with the length of the Cog process and the volume of anterior epitympanic recess (AER), using the 3-dimensional reconstruction models based on high resolution computed tomography sections of the temporal bone.MethodsUsing OsiriX software for MacOS (version 3.8.1, Pixmeo), we measured the volumes from three- dimensional models of anterior epitympanic recess. Anterior epitympanic recess volumes and Cog process lengths of the temporal bones with and without Körner's septum were compared.ResultsCog process length was significantly higher, and AER volume was significantly lower in patients with Körner's septum compared to the patients without. (p < 0.001). Additionally, Cog process length was significantly (p = 0.008), negatively, but weakly (rho= ?0.24) correlated with AER volume.ConclusionTemporal bones with Körner's septum had a longer Cog process and a smaller AER.     

Effect of collagenase ointment versus moist exposed burn ointment on healing of full‐thickness burns in mice by removing of necrotic tissue

The presence of necrotic tissue is one of the major problems that affect healing of burn wounds. The present study was designed to find the effectiveness of collagenase versus moist exposed burn ointment (MEBO) on removal of necrotic tissue of burns. Twenty mice randomly assigned and divided into four groups. For Group 1, burn wounds were treated with collagenase ointment only, Group 2 burn wounds were treated with MEBO, Group 3 burn wounds were treated with white vaseline alone, and Group 4 burn wounds were considered as control and left without treatment. In each group, the time of treatment was considered. The results indicated that the removal time of necrotic tissue and healing process was better in the case of using collagenase than using MEBO for treatment of burns.     

The gut microbiota at the intersection of bile acids and intestinal carcinogenesis: An old story,yet mesmerizing

The prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has markedly increased worldwide in the last decade. Alterations of bile acid metabolism and gut microbiota have been reported to play vital roles in intestinal carcinogenesis. About trillions of bacteria have inhabited in the human gut and maintained the balance of host metabolism. Bile acids are one of numerous metabolites that are synthesized in the liver and further metabolized by the gut microbiota, and are essential in maintaining the normal gut microbiota and lipid digestion. Multiple receptors such as FXR, GPBAR1, PXR, CAR and VDR act as sensors of bile acids have been reported. In this review, we mainly discussed interplay between bile acid metabolism and gut microbiota in intestinal carcinogenesis. We then summarized the critical role of bile acids receptors involving in CRC, and also addressed the rationale of multiple interventions for CRC management by regulating bile acids–microbiota axis such as probiotics, metformin, ursodeoxycholic acid and fecal microbiota transplantation. Thus, by targeting the bile acids–microbiota axis may provide novel therapeutic modalities in CRC prevention and treatment.     

Comparison of the anatomic and hearing outcomes of cartilage type 1 tympanoplasty in pediatric and adult patients

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - As a graft material cartilage produces an excellent anatomical result with a low risk of re-perforation. However, there is a controversy among surgeons...