Analysis of Germin-like protein genes family in Vitis vinifera (VvGLPs) using various in silico approaches / Análise da família de genes de proteínas semelhantes a germin em Vitis vinifera (VvGLPs) usando várias abordagens in silico

Germin-like proteins (GLPs) play an important role against various stresses. Vitis vinifera L. genome contains 7 GLPs; many of them are functionally unexplored. However, the computational analysis may provide important new insight into their function. Currently, physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, domain architectures, 3D structures, N-glycosylation & phosphorylation sites, and phylogeney of the VvGLPs were investigated using the latest computational tools. Their functions were predicted using the Search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING) and Blast2Go servers. Most of the VvGLPs were extracellular (43%) in nature but also showed periplasmic (29%), plasma membrane (14%), and mitochondrial- or chloroplast-specific (14%) expression. The functional analysis predicted unique enzymatic activities for these proteins including terpene synthase, isoprenoid synthase, lipoxygenase, phosphate permease, receptor kinase, and hydrolases generally mediated by Mn+ cation. VvGLPs showed similarity in the overall structure, shape, and position of the cupin domain. Functionally, VvGLPs control and regulate the production of secondary metabolites to cope with various stresses. Phylogenetically VvGLP1, -3, -4, -5, and VvGLP7 showed greater similarity due to duplication while VvGLP2 and VvGLP6 revealed a distant relationship. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of diverse cis-regulatory elements among which CAAT box, MYB, MYC, unnamed-4 were common to all of them. The analysis will help to utilize VvGLPs and their promoters in future food programs by developing resistant cultivars against various biotic (Erysiphe necator and in Powdery Mildew etc.) and abiotic (Salt, drought, heat, dehydration, etc.) stresses.

As proteínas do tipo germin (GLPs) desempenham um papel importante contra vários estresses. O genoma de Vitis vinifera L. contém 7 GLPs; muitos deles são funcionalmente inexplorados. No entanto, a análise computacional pode fornecer informações importantes sobre sua função. Atualmente, as propriedades físico-químicas, localização subcelular, arquitetura de domínio, estruturas 3D, sítios de N-glicosilação e fosforilação e estudos filogenéticos dos VvGLPs foram conduzidos usando as ferramentas computacionais mais recentes. Suas funções foram previstas usando a ferramenta Search para recuperação de genes/proteínas em interação (STRING) e servidores Blast2Go. A maioria dos VvGLPs são extracelulares (43%) na natureza, mas também mostraram expressão periplasmática (29%), na membrana plasmática (14%) e específica para mitocôndrias ou cloroplastos (14%). A análise funcional previu atividades enzimáticas únicas para essas proteínas, incluindo terpeno sintase, isoprenoide sintase, lipoxigenase, fosfato permease, receptor quinase e hidrolases geralmente mediadas por cátion Mn +. VvGLPs mostraram similaridade na estrutura geral, forma e posição do domínio cupin. Funcionalmente, os VvGLPs controlam e regulam a produção de metabólitos secundários para lidar com vários estresses. Filogeneticamente, VvGLP1, -3, -4, -5 e VvGLP7 mostraram maior similaridade devido à duplicação, enquanto VvGLP2 e VvGLP6 revelaram uma relação distante. A análise do promotor revelou a presença de diversos elementos cis-reguladores, entre os quais CAAT box, MYB, MYC, sem nome-4, sendo comum a todos eles. A análise ajudará a utilizar VvGLPs e seus promotores em programas alimentares futuros, desenvolvendo cultivares resistentes contra vários estresses bióticos (Erysiphe necator e no oídio, etc.) e abióticos (sal, seca, calor, estresse hídrico, etc.).

Invivo and invitro evaluation of antitumor effects of iron oxide and folate core shell-iron oxide nanoparticles

Abstract Nanoparticles are considered viable options in the treatment of cancer. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and magnetite folate core shell (MFCS) on leukemic and hepatocarcinoma cell cultures as well as their effect on the animal model of acute myelocytic leukemia (AML). Through current study nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized by various techniques, and their properties were studied to confirm their nanostructure. Invivo study, nanoparticles were evaluated to inspect their cytotoxic activity against SNU-182 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), K562 (human leukemia), and THLE2 (human normal epithelial liver) cells via MTT test. Apoptotic signaling proteins Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 expression were inspected through RT-PCR method. A cytotoxic effect of MNPs and MFCS was detected in previous cell cultures. Moreover, the apoptosis was identified through significant up-regulation of caspase-3, with Bcl-2 down-regulation. Invitro study, AML was induced in rats by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea followed by oral treatment with MNPS and MFCS. Biochemical indices such as aspartate and alanine amino transferases, and lactate dehydrogenase activities, uric acid, complete blood count, and Beta -2-microglubulin were assessed in serum. Immunophenotyping for CD34 and CD38 detection was performed. Liver, kidney, and bone marrow were microscopically examined. Bcl-2 promoter methylation, and mRNA levels were examined. Although, both MNPs and MFCS depict amelioration in biochemical parameters, MFCS alleviated them toward normal control. Anticancer activity of MNPs and MFCS was approved especially for AML. Whenever, administration of MFCS was more effective than MNPs. The present work is one of few studies used MFCS as anticancer agent.

Resumo Nanopartículas são consideradas opções viáveis no tratamento do câncer. Este estudo foi conduzido para investigar o efeito de nanopartículas de magnetita (MNPs) e núcleo de folato de magnetita (MFCS) em culturas de células leucêmicas e de hepatocarcinoma, bem como seu efeito no modelo animal de leucemia mielocítica aguda (LMA). Através do atual estudo, nanopartículas foram sintetizadas, caracterizadas por várias técnicas, e suas propriedades foram estudadas para confirmar sua nanoestrutura. No estudo in vivo, as nanopartículas foram avaliadas para inspecionar sua atividade citotóxica contra células SNU-182 (carcinoma hepatocelular humano), K562 (leucemia humana) e THLE2 (fígado epitelial humano normal) por meio do teste MTT. A expressão das proteínas sinalizadoras apoptóticas Bcl-2 e Caspase-3 foram inspecionadas através do método RT-PCR. Um efeito citotóxico de MNPs e MFCS foi detectado em culturas de células anteriores. Além disso, a apoptose foi identificada por meio de regulação positiva significativa da Caspase-3, com regulação negativa de Bcl-2. No estudo in vitro, a AML foi induzida em ratos por N-metil-N-nitrosoureia seguida por tratamento oral com MNPS e MFCS. Índices bioquímicos como aspartato e alanina aminotransferases e atividades de lactato desidrogenase, ácido úrico, hemograma completo e Beta-2-microglubulina foram avaliados no soro. A imunofenotipagem para detecção de CD34 e CD38 foi realizada. Fígado, rim e medula óssea foram examinados microscopicamente. A metilação do promotor Bcl-2 e os níveis de mRNA foram examinados. Embora tanto os MNPs quanto os MFCS representem uma melhora nos parâmetros bioquímicos, o MFCS os aliviou em direção ao controle normal. A atividade anticâncer de MNPs e MFCS foi aprovada especialmente para AML. Sempre, a administração de MFCS foi mais eficaz do que MNPs. O presente trabalho é um dos poucos estudos que utilizou o MFCS como agente anticâncer.

Analysis of Germin-like protein genes family in Vitis vinifera (VvGLPs) using various in silico approaches

Abstract Germin-like proteins (GLPs) play an important role against various stresses. Vitis vinifera L. genome contains 7 GLPs; many of them are functionally unexplored. However, the computational analysis may provide important new insight into their function. Currently, physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, domain architectures, 3D structures, N-glycosylation & phosphorylation sites, and phylogeney of the VvGLPs were investigated using the latest computational tools. Their functions were predicted using the Search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING) and Blast2Go servers. Most of the VvGLPs were extracellular (43%) in nature but also showed periplasmic (29%), plasma membrane (14%), and mitochondrial- or chloroplast-specific (14%) expression. The functional analysis predicted unique enzymatic activities for these proteins including terpene synthase, isoprenoid synthase, lipoxygenase, phosphate permease, receptor kinase, and hydrolases generally mediated by Mn+ cation. VvGLPs showed similarity in the overall structure, shape, and position of the cupin domain. Functionally, VvGLPs control and regulate the production of secondary metabolites to cope with various stresses. Phylogenetically VvGLP1, -3, -4, -5, and VvGLP7 showed greater similarity due to duplication while VvGLP2 and VvGLP6 revealed a distant relationship. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of diverse cis-regulatory elements among which CAAT box, MYB, MYC, unnamed-4 were common to all of them. The analysis will help to utilize VvGLPs and their promoters in future food programs by developing resistant cultivars against various biotic (Erysiphe necator and in Powdery Mildew etc.) and abiotic (Salt, drought, heat, dehydration, etc.) stresses.

Resumo As proteínas do tipo germin (GLPs) desempenham um papel importante contra vários estresses. O genoma de Vitis vinifera L. contém 7 GLPs; muitos deles são funcionalmente inexplorados. No entanto, a análise computacional pode fornecer informações importantes sobre sua função. Atualmente, as propriedades físico-químicas, localização subcelular, arquitetura de domínio, estruturas 3D, sítios de N-glicosilação e fosforilação e estudos filogenéticos dos VvGLPs foram conduzidos usando as ferramentas computacionais mais recentes. Suas funções foram previstas usando a ferramenta Search para recuperação de genes/proteínas em interação (STRING) e servidores Blast2Go. A maioria dos VvGLPs são extracelulares (43%) na natureza, mas também mostraram expressão periplasmática (29%), na membrana plasmática (14%) e específica para mitocôndrias ou cloroplastos (14%). A análise funcional previu atividades enzimáticas únicas para essas proteínas, incluindo terpeno sintase, isoprenoide sintase, lipoxigenase, fosfato permease, receptor quinase e hidrolases geralmente mediadas por cátion Mn +. VvGLPs mostraram similaridade na estrutura geral, forma e posição do domínio cupin. Funcionalmente, os VvGLPs controlam e regulam a produção de metabólitos secundários para lidar com vários estresses. Filogeneticamente, VvGLP1, -3, -4, -5 e VvGLP7 mostraram maior similaridade devido à duplicação, enquanto VvGLP2 e VvGLP6 revelaram uma relação distante. A análise do promotor revelou a presença de diversos elementos cis-reguladores, entre os quais CAAT box, MYB, MYC, sem nome-4, sendo comum a todos eles. A análise ajudará a utilizar VvGLPs e seus promotores em programas alimentares futuros, desenvolvendo cultivares resistentes contra vários estresses bióticos (Erysiphe necator e no oídio, etc.) e abióticos (sal, seca, calor, estresse hídrico, etc.).

Invivo and invitro evaluation of antitumor effects of iron oxide and folate core shell-iron oxide nanoparticles / Avaliação in vivo e in vitro dos efeitos antitumorais de nanopartículas de óxido de ferro e óxido de ferro com núcleo de folato

Abstract Nanoparticles are considered viable options in the treatment of cancer. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and magnetite folate core shell (MFCS) on leukemic and hepatocarcinoma cell cultures as well as their effect on the animal model of acute myelocytic leukemia (AML). Through current study nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized by various techniques, and their properties were studied to confirm their nanostructure. Invivo study, nanoparticles were evaluated to inspect their cytotoxic activity against SNU-182 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), K562 (human leukemia), and THLE2 (human normal epithelial liver) cells via MTT test. Apoptotic signaling proteins Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 expression were inspected through RT-PCR method. A cytotoxic effect of MNPs and MFCS was detected in previous cell cultures. Moreover, the apoptosis was identified through significant up-regulation of caspase-3, with Bcl-2 down-regulation. Invitro study, AML was induced in rats by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea followed by oral treatment with MNPS and MFCS. Biochemical indices such as aspartate and alanine amino transferases, and lactate dehydrogenase activities, uric acid, complete blood count, and Beta -2-microglubulin were assessed in serum. Immunophenotyping for CD34 and CD38 detection was performed. Liver, kidney, and bone marrow were microscopically examined. Bcl-2 promoter methylation, and mRNA levels were examined. Although, both MNPs and MFCS depict amelioration in biochemical parameters, MFCS alleviated them toward normal control. Anticancer activity of MNPs and MFCS was approved especially for AML. Whenever, administration of MFCS was more effective than MNPs. The present work is one of few studies used MFCS as anticancer agent.

Resumo Nanopartículas são consideradas opções viáveis ​​no tratamento do câncer. Este estudo foi conduzido para investigar o efeito de nanopartículas de magnetita (MNPs) e núcleo de folato de magnetita (MFCS) em culturas de células leucêmicas e de hepatocarcinoma, bem como seu efeito no modelo animal de leucemia mielocítica aguda (LMA). Através do atual estudo, nanopartículas foram sintetizadas, caracterizadas por várias técnicas, e suas propriedades foram estudadas para confirmar sua nanoestrutura. No estudo in vivo, as nanopartículas foram avaliadas para inspecionar sua atividade citotóxica contra células SNU-182 (carcinoma hepatocelular humano), K562 (leucemia humana) e THLE2 (fígado epitelial humano normal) por meio do teste MTT. A expressão das proteínas sinalizadoras apoptóticas Bcl-2 e Caspase-3 foram inspecionadas através do método RT-PCR. Um efeito citotóxico de MNPs e MFCS foi detectado em culturas de células anteriores. Além disso, a apoptose foi identificada por meio de regulação positiva significativa da Caspase-3, com regulação negativa de Bcl-2. No estudo in vitro, a AML foi induzida em ratos por N-metil-N-nitrosoureia seguida por tratamento oral com MNPS e MFCS. Índices bioquímicos como aspartato e alanina aminotransferases e atividades de lactato desidrogenase, ácido úrico, hemograma completo e Beta-2-microglubulina foram avaliados no soro. A imunofenotipagem para detecção de CD34 e CD38 foi realizada. Fígado, rim e medula óssea foram examinados microscopicamente. A metilação do promotor Bcl-2 e os níveis de mRNA foram examinados. Embora tanto os MNPs quanto os MFCS representem uma melhora nos parâmetros bioquímicos, o MFCS os aliviou em direção ao controle normal. A atividade anticâncer de MNPs e MFCS foi aprovada especialmente para AML. Sempre, a administração de MFCS foi mais eficaz do que MNPs. O presente trabalho é um dos poucos estudos que utilizou o MFCS como agente anticâncer.

Candida Bloodstream Infection and Antifungal Susceptibility Over Three Years in a Single Center from Medinah, Saudi Arabia

In the healthcare setting, Candida bloodstream infections significantly increase morbidity and mortality. There is little proof that invasive infections in Saudi Arabia are brought on by Candida spp. To identify Candida species that cause bloodstream infections and ascertain the clinical outcome and risk factors for mortality in a Saudi Arabian tertiary hospital. This retrospective analysis covered all instances in which patients hospitalized to Ohud hospital, a tertiary care facility in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2019 and December 2021, had positive blood cultures for Candida. Anaerobic and aerobic Bactec bottles were inoculated with blood samples and then incubated at 35°C for five days. Identification-YST card kits from VITEK II (BioMerieux, France) for yeast and yeast-like organisms. Testing for antifungal susceptibility was done using AST YS07. A total of 78 patients (71% men, 29% women) were found to have candidemia. Candida albicans (51.3%), Candida parapsilosis (16.7%), and Candida tropicalis (16.7%) were the three Candida spp. that were most frequently isolated. Those with Saudi (51%; P = 0.500), leukopenia (40%; P = 0.001), neutrophilia (92%; P = 0.638), and thrombocytopenia (42%; P = 0.374) had a higher incidence of candidemia. Fluconazole sensitivity in non-albicans Candida species was 39.5%. Nonetheless, caspofungin was effective against all species. This study discovered an epidemiological shift toward more non-albicans Candida spp. in Saudi Arabia as well as a changing pattern in the Candida spp. causing bloodstream infections.

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Asian and African Elephants: A Systematic Review

@#Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) in elephants have been reported in several studies over the last decades. Nonetheless, comprehensive data on clinicopathology of elephant GIPs, parasite burden threshold value, and the effectiveness of conventional anthelmintic drugs are still lacking. Herein, we have systematically reviewed the available knowledge on elephant GIPs identified among different parts of the world based on their prevalence, epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and control. Two electronic databases were searched for publications that met the inclusion criteria. About19 English journal articles published between year of 2011- 2021 were included. The main GIPs reported in elephants were Cyathostomidae (at least 14 species), Ancylostomidae, Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Oesophagostomum columbianum, Oesophagostomum aceleatum, Ascarids, Trichurids, Strongyloides, Anophlocephalidae, flukes, and Coccidia across different parts of the world, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Most elephants show no clinical signs until the equilibrium between parasite and host is disturbed. The common diagnostic methods for GIPs are traditional direct smear, faecal floatation, sedimentation, and McMaster egg counting technique, all involving morphological identification. However, some articles described the use of molecular detection to characterise common GIPs of elephants. Although benzimidazoles and macrocyclic lactones group of anthelmintic are the most conventional GIPs treatment and control for captive and semi-captive elephants, there is limited data on the threshold value of faecal egg count as the baseline for treatment decision. Over the last decades, various studies regarding elephant GIPs have been conducted. However, more focused and systematic studies are required to enhance our knowledge in multiple aspects of elephant parasitology to find effective solutions and improve elephant health.

Bovine anaplasmosis: A systematic review with meta-analysis on the global prevalence

@#Bovine anaplasmosis, caused by Anaplasma marginale, is a significant infectious disease affecting cattle populations globally. However, the prevalence and distribution of bovine anaplasmosis vary across regions, making it crucial to assess its global burden systematically. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the global prevalence of bovine anaplasmosis and synthesized data from diverse geographic regions. A literature search was conducted to identify all relevant published articles reporting the prevalence of bovine anaplasmosis and a total of 164 studies were found eligible for final systematic review and meta-analysis. Meta-analysis was conducted using meta package of R software and summary estimates of the prevalence were calculated. Meta-analysis of 129,851 samples from 42 countries was conducted and the overall estimated prevalence of bovine anaplasmosis was found to be 38% (100% CI = 33% - 42%). The prevalence was found to be higher in cattle (39.9%) in comparison to yaks (6.4%). Diagnosis using serology (40.2%) yielded a higher prevalence compared to molecular testing (38.3%) and blood smears (22.4%) methods. Additionally, there were significant differences in the prevalence of bovine anaplasmosis between different countries (p<0.05). This study will inform evidence-based strategies for control and prevention of bovine anaplasmosis on a global scale by discovering the true extent of the disease and identifying high-prevalence areas.

Trachéotomie chirurgicale chez l'enfant au centre hospitalier universitaire de Bouaké à propos de 32 cas / Surgical tracheotomy in children at the university hospital center of Bouake about 32 cases

Objectif : déterminer les indications de la trachéotomie chirurgicale chez l'enfant, décrire la technique et les suites opératoires. Matériel et méthode : il s'agit d'une étude descriptive rétrospective portant sur les trachéotomies pédiatriques réalisées au CHU de Bouaké de janvier 2016 à décembre 2022. Les indications de la trachéotomie, la technique opératoire et l'évolution ont été étudiées. Le test exact de Fisher a été utilisé pour évaluer le lien entre le motif de la trachéotomie et les pathologies au seuil α de 5%. Résultats : pendant la période d'étude, 32 enfants ont été trachéotomisés. Leur âge variait entre 9 mois et 15 ans avec un âge moyen de 7,2 ans. Il s'agissait de 22 garçons et 10 filles. L'impossibilité d'intuber le patient (65,62%) et la dyspnée laryngée sévère (25%) constituaient les motifs de la trachéotomie. Les corps étrangers laryngo-trachéaux et la papillomatose laryngée représentaient respectivement 37,5% et 21,87% des pathologies. Nous n'avons pas noté de lien significatif entre le motif de la trachéotomie et les pathologies (p=1,000). L'intervention a été réalisée sous sédation dans 78,12% des cas. L'ouverture trachéale était en forme de « H ¼ et de siège sous-isthmique. Les suites opératoires étaient simples chez 93,75% des patients. La décanulation a été effective dans 24 cas (75%). Conclusion : les principaux motifs de la trachéotomie dans notre expérience sont l'impossibilité d'intuber le patient et la dyspnée laryngée sévère. Les pathologies étaient dominées par les corps étrangers laryngo-trachéaux et la papillomatose laryngée. Les suites opératoires étaient généralement satisfaisantes.

Objective: to determine the indications for surgical tracheotomy in children, to describe the technique and the postoperative course. Material and method: This is a retrospective descriptive study of pediatric tracheotomies performed at the Bouaké University Hospital from January 2016 to December 2022. The indications for tracheotomy, the operating technique and the evolution were studied. Fisher's exact test was used to assess the link between the reason for the tracheotomy and the pathologies at the α threshold of 5%. Results: during the study period, 32 children were tracheotomized. Their age varied between 9 months and 15 years with an average age of 7.2 years. They were 22 boys and 10 girls. The impossibility of intubating the patient (65.62%) and severe laryngeal dyspnea (25%) were the reasons for the tracheotomy. Laryngo-tracheal foreign bodies and laryngeal papillomatosis accounted for 37.5% and 21.87% of pathologies respectively. We did not note any significant link between the reason for the tracheotomy and the pathologies (p=1,000). The intervention was performed under sedation in 78.12% of cases. The tracheal opening was "H" shaped and sub-isthmic. The postoperative course was simple in 93.75% of patients. Decanulation was effective in 24 cases (75%). Conclusion: the main reasons for tracheotomy in our experience are the impossibility of intubating the patient and severe laryngeal dyspnea. The pathologies were dominated by laryngo-tracheal foreign bodies and laryngeal papillomatosis. The postoperative course was generally satisfactory

Knowledge, fear, and willingness to accept covid-19 vaccine among residents of Gere lga, Borno state, Nigeria

Background: Coronavirus (COVID-19) which emerged from Wuhan, Hubei province, China has gained tremendous attention. It has caused huge morbidity and mortality as well as a visible psychological burden on communities across the globe. Knowledge, fear, and willingness to accept COVID-19 Vaccine are reported to be serious factors in the fight against the disease in many communities for which Jere LGA, Maiduguri, Borno State, may not be an exception. Objectives: To determine the Knowledge, fear, and willingness to accept the COVID-19 Vaccine among the residents of Jere LGA, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. Methodology:Adescriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted for this study. Atotal of 384 questionnaires were administered in this study. However, only 367 questionnaires were retrieved for analysis. The sampling technique adopted for this study was multistate sampling techniques. Results: The findings of the study revealed that the majority (67.8%) of the respondents had poor knowledge of the COVID-19 vaccine. On the question of COVID-19 fear, 50.1% had moderate fear. Regarding the vaccination status of the respondents, 93.5% did not receive the COVID-19 vaccine jab and 6.5% did receive the vaccine as of the time of this study. Of the 367 respondents, 78.2% were unwilling to accept the COVID-19 vaccine, if made available to them. Conclusions: The study concluded that there is poor knowledge, and moderate fear and the majority of respondents were unwilling to receive or accept the COVID-19 vaccine in the study area. Therefore, this study recommends a comprehensive awareness campaign on the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine at the community level.

Isolation, Identification and Evaluation of the Plant Growth Promoting Activities of Endophytic Stenotrophomonas maltophilia to Stimulate Growth of Clover Plants under Salt Stress

Two endophytic bacterial isolates were obtained from root nodules of clover plants grown in salt affected clay soil of Egypt. The isolates were closely linked to Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strains IPR-Pv696 and 262XG2 based on the sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA genes, and deposited in GenBank with accession numbers OM980221.1 (AM1) and OM980223.1 (AM2) respectively. The isolates were evaluated for their potential to promote plant growth. The results revealed that the two isolates of S. maltophilia strains (IPR-Pv696 and 262XG2) respectively exhibited production for indole-3- acetic acid (30.26 & 31.15 µg/ml), exopolysaccharides (13.57 & 13.68 g/l), nitrogen fixation activity and they solubilize the phosphate (278 & 208 mg/l) and potassium (33.5 & 32.9 µg/ml). In a field trial, these two isolates increased clover plant growth, chlorophyll, carbohydrates content and nutrients uptake while lowering proline levels. Hence this highlights its application to be exploited as biofertilizer by leading to sustainable agriculture. This could be a promising inoculant for many other crops.

Steroids from Diplazium esculentum: Antiplasmodial activity and molecular docking studies to investigate their binding modes

@#Diplazium esculentum is an edible fern commonly consumed by the local community in Malaysia either as food or medicine. Isolation work on the ethyl acetate extract of the stem of D. esculentum resulted in the purification of two steroids, subsequently identified as stigmasterol (compound 1) and ergosterol5,8-endoperoxide (compound 2). Upon further testing, compound 2 displayed strong inhibitory activity against the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 (chloroquine-sensitive) strain, with an IC50 of 4.27±1.15 µM, while compound 1 was inactive. In silico data revealed that compound 2 showed good binding affinity to P. falciparum-Sarco endoplasmic reticulum calcium-dependent ATPase (PfATP6); however, compound 1 did not show an antiplasmodial effect due to the lack of a peroxide moiety in the chemical structure. Our data suggested that the antiplasmodial activity of compound 2 from D. esculentum might be due to the inhibition of PfATP6, which resulted in both in vitro and in silico inhibitory properties.

Short isocapnic hyperoxia affects indices of vascular remodeling and intercellular adhesion molecules in healthy men

In preparation for tracheal intubation during induction of anesthesia, the patient may be ventilated with 100% oxygen. To investigate the impact of acute isocapnic hyperoxia on endothelial activation and vascular remodeling, ten healthy young men (24±3 years) were exposed to 5-min normoxia (21% O2) and 10-min hyperoxia trials (100% O2). During hyperoxia, intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) (hyperoxia: 4.16±0.85 vs normoxia: 3.51±0.84 ng/mL, P=0.04) and tissue inhibitor matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) (hyperoxia: 8.40±3.84 vs normoxia: 5.73±2.15 pg/mL, P=0.04) increased, whereas matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) activity (hyperoxia: 0.53±0.11 vs normoxia: 0.68±0.18 A.U., P=0.03) decreased compared to the normoxia trial. We concluded that even short exposure to 100% oxygen may affect endothelial activation and vascular remodeling.

Les indicateurs de l'alimentation du nourrisson et du jeune enfant prédicteurs de la malnutrition chez les enfants 6-23 mois dans la zone de santé de Kapolowe, Haut-Katanga, R D Congo / NA

Introduction. L'étude visait évaluer les indicateurs de l'alimentation du nourrisson et du jeune enfant liés à l'état nutritionnel dans la zone de santé de Kapolowe, province du Haut Katanga avant les essais cliniques. Matériel et méthodes. Nous avons conduit une étude descriptive transversale dans la communauté auprès des 568 couples mère-enfant 6-23 mois évalués sur les indicateurs nutritionnels associés à la malnutrition. Résultats. L'allaitement maternel optimal était observé chez 10,7% des couples mère-enfant et l'alimentation complémentaire adéquate bénéficiée par 5,5% des enfants. Presque 25,6% des ménages utilisaient des toilettes améliorées, 98,8% des ménages buvaient l'eau des sources protégées et 12,1% des mères pratiquaient un minimum de lavage de mains. Le premier aliment complémentaire donné à la moitié des enfants (46%) était importé, mais 60,3 % des mères utilisaient le mélange farine de maïs + huile + sucre comme aliment de complément. La prévalence de la malnutrition aiguë, de la malnutrition chronique et de l'insuffisance pondérale était respectivement de 11,9%, 37% et 26,8%. La malnutrition aiguë était associée à l'occupation de la mère, au niveau socio-économique du ménage, à la Religion de la mère, à la consultation prénatale suivie par la mère, au Minimum de Diversité Alimentaire, à l'allaitement maternel non optimal, aux infections récurrentes et au faible poids de naissance. L'insuffisance pondérale était associée au sexe, à l'occupation de la mère, au niveau socio-économique, à la religion de la mère, au minimum de diversité alimentaire, à l'allaitement maternel non optimal, aux infections récurrentes et au faible poids de naissance. La malnutrition chronique était associée au sexe, au niveau socio-économique,

Introduction. The aim of the study was to assess infant and young child feeding indicators related to nutritional status in the Kapolowe health zone, Haut Katanga province prior to the clinical trials. Material and methods. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in the community among568 mother-child pairs 6-23 months of age assessed on nutritional indicators associated with malnutrition. Results. Optimal breastfeeding was observed in 10.7% of the mother-child pairs and adequate complementary feeding in 5.5%. Almost 25.6% of households used improved toilets, 98.8% of households drank water from protected springs and 12.1% of mothers practiced minimal hand washing,12.1% of mothers practiced minimal handwashing. The first supplementary food given to half of the children (46%) was imported food, but 60.3% of mothers used maize flour + oil + sugar as a complementary food. The prevalence of acute malnutrition, chronic malnutrition and under weight were 11.9%, 37% and26.8% respectively. Acute malnutrition was associated with the mother's occupation, household socio-economic level, mother's religion, prenatal consultation attended by the mother, minimum dietary diversity, non-optimal breastfeeding, recurrent infections, and low birth weigh. Underweight was associated with gender, maternal occupation, socio-economic level, maternal religion, minimum dietary diversity, non-optimal breastfeeding, recurrent infections and low birth weight. Chronic malnutrition was associated with gender, socio-economic level, minimum meal frequency, type of toilet used, non-optimal breastfeeding, recurrent infections, and low birth weight. Conclusion. The prevalence of malnutrition, in all its forms, is still very high and worrying among children aged 6-23 months. The feeding practices are predictors of it.

Multiplex sequencing of SARS-Cov-2 genome directly from clinical samples using the Ion Personal Genome Machine (PGM)

@#Various methods have been developed for rapid and high throughput full genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we described a protocol for targeted multiplex full genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA directly extracted from human nasopharyngeal swabs using the Ion Personal Genome Machine (PGM). This protocol involves concomitant amplification of 237 gene fragments encompassing the SARS-CoV-2 genome to increase the abundance and yield of viral specific sequencing reads. Five complete and one near-complete genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 were generated with a single Ion PGM sequencing run. The sequence coverage analysis revealed two amplicons (positions 13 751-13 965 and 23 941-24 106), which consistently gave low sequencing read coverage in all isolates except 4Apr20-64Hu. We analyzed the potential primer binding sites within these low covered regions and noted that the 4Apr20-64-Hu possess C at positions 13 730 and 23 929, whereas the other isolates possess T at these positions. The genome nucleotide variations observed suggest that the naturally occurring variations present in the actively circulating SARS-CoV-2 strains affected the performance of the target enrichment panel of the Ion AmpliSeq™ SARS CoV 2 Research Panel. The possible impact of other genome nucleotide variations warrants further investigation, and an improved version of the Ion AmpliSeq™ SARS CoV 2 Research Panel, hence, should be considered.

A rare and unusual cause of Vibrio cholerae non-O1, non-O139 causing spontaneous peritonitis in a patient with cirrhosis

@#Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Vibrio cholerae non-O1/ non-O139 is a rare phenomenon. V. cholerae is known as a common aetiology of epidemic diarrheal disease and rarely causes extra-gastrointestinal infections. In this report, a 52-year-old man presented to our hospital with a clinical scenario for chronic liver cirrhosis with low grade fever and loose stools. V. cholerae was isolated from peritoneal fluid culture, which was further confirmed as non-O1/ non-O139 strain by multiplex polymerase chain reaction. The patient was successfully treated with antimicrobial therapy and peritoneal drainage. This case represents the first isolation of V. cholerae non-O1/ non-O139 strain from peritoneal fluid.

Complications of Sub-microscopic Plasmodium vivax Malaria among Orang Asli in Pos Lenjang, Kuala Lipis

@#In recent years, increasing cases of Plasmodium vivax complications had been reported all over the world. This former benign Plasmodium species is now recognized to be one of the human malaria parasites that can produce severe disease. In this article, we report two cases of sub-microscopic P. vivax malaria confirmed by PCR. Both patients were asymptomatic before treatment. They showed unusual presentations few days after initiation of antimalarial treatment. Both patients had subsequently completed antimalarial treatment and recovered completely.

Analysis Of Vipaka (METABOLIC Transformation) Of An Extra-Pharmacopoeial Drug-Bridelia Stipularis (L.) Blume

Objective: The objective of the present study is to explore the vipaka of an extra-pharmacopoeia drug Bridelia stipularis (L.) Blume belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Methods: 12 Wistar strain albino rats were selected and divided into 2 groups; Group A-Control, Group B-Test group. Each rat was kept in separate metabolic cages provided with a constant amount of water and food per day. Assessment of vipaka was done based on the consumption of food, consumption of water, the quantity of faecal matter, urine output, and quantity of water content of expelled faecal matter per day. Assessment of Vipaka was done on the basis of consumption of food; consumption of water; the quantity of faecal matter, urine output and quantity water content of expelled faecal matter per day. Assessment of Vipaka was done on the basis of consumption of food; consumption of water; the quantity of faecal matter, urine output and quantity water content of expelled faecal matter per day. Results: Absolute values of Group B or test group exhibited significant increase in water consumption (p<0.01), wet faecal matter (p<0.05), dry faecal matter (p<0.001), and food conversion ratio (p<0.05), and non-significant increase in food consumption, urine output, faecal water, and body weight. Conclusion: Based on the preliminary analysis it may be concluded that the drug Bridelia stipularis (L.) Blume possess Madhura vipaka (Sweet metabolic transformation).

Impact of a Healthy Lifestyle on the Psychological Well-being of University Students

Health can influence eating habits and also mental and social well-being. This cross-sectional study wasconducted to determine the relationship between healthy lifestyle and stress among 173 university students usingSimple Lifestyle Indicator Questionnaire (SLIQ) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Score-42 (DASS-42) tomeasure their emotional states of depression, anxiety and stress. The results indicated that 71.8% werecategorized as having an unhealthy lifestyle and 28.2% an intermediate lifestyle. Based on the SLIQ stressdomain, 50.7% are stressed. Based on DASS score, 46.8% have anxiety. There was a statistically significantdifference in healthy lifestyle score between various types of residences (F=3.929, p<0.05). The conclusion isthat students with poor lifestyles have higher anxiety, depression and stress. The implication of this study is thatuniversities should provide healthy activities to encourage healthy lifestyle practices by students.

A study on contraceptive use among women attending immunization clinic at McGann teaching hospital, Shimoga

Background: India is the first country to implement National family planning programme in 1952. Use of contraceptives can prevent at least 25% of all maternal deaths by allowing women to prevent unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, and protect themselves from sexually transmitting diseases. Even though there is wide availability of various types of contraceptives, the rate of population growth and unplanned pregnancies is still high. The acceptance and knowledge of contraceptive methods varies within the societies and factors responsible operate at the individual, family and community level.Methods: A hospital based, cross-sectional study was conducted during August 2018 at McGann Hospital, Shimoga. The study sample included 200 women in the age group of 20 to 40 years attending immunization clinic with their children. Informed consent was taken from the subjects after explaining the purpose of the study to them. A pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data by face-to-face interview of the study participants.Results: Out of 200 women 51% were aged between 20 to 24 years of age. Majority (72%) were Hindus. 67.5% were currently using contraception. Among acceptors of family planning 42.3% had undergone tubectomy. OCP was the most commonly used temporary method of contraception. Age of the woman, religion, education, husband’s education and number of children were found to be significantly associated with contraceptive usage.Conclusions: Factors influencing fertility and contraceptive practices should be properly assessed and addressed. Newly married couples should be motivated for accepting spacing methods.

Turban Pin Inhalation Syndrome with Unusually Mobile Pin from Series of Radiographs.

Foreign Bodies (FB) dislodges are common in the ear,nose and throat especially among infants and children.Occasionally, they can accidentally be ended up in thebronchus as well. We describe a 13-year-old girl withaccidental ingestion of a scarf needle pin after she wasslapped on the back while biting the pin. Chestradiograph had confirmed the diagnosis of piningestion which is consistent with turban pininhalation syndrome. In view of logistic and specialtyissues, she was transferred to another tertiary hospitalfor further intervention. A series of chest radiographshowed a migratory metallic FB in different locationsin the airway, which was considered as an extremerarity. We discuss this rare entity with literature reviewof FB aspiration in general.