Up-regulation of GINS1 highlighted a good diagnostic and prognostic potential of survival in three different subtypes of human cancer / A regulação positiva de GINS1 destacou um bom potencial diagnóstico e prognóstico de sobrevivência em três subtipos diferentes de câncer humano

Abstract Cancer is a fatal malignancy and its increasing worldwide prevalence demands the discovery of more sensitive and reliable molecular biomarkers. To investigate the GINS1 expression level and its prognostic value in distinct human cancers using a series of multi-layered in silico approach may help to establish it as a potential shared diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of different cancer subtypes. The GINS1 mRNA, protein expression, and promoter methylation were analyzed using UALCAN and Human Protein Atlas (HPA), while mRNA expression was further validated via GENT2. The potential prognostic values of GINS1 were evaluated through KM plotter. Then, cBioPortal was utilized to examine the GINS1-related genetic mutations and copy number variations (CNVs), while pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID. Moreover, a correlational analysis between GINS1 expression and CD8+ T immune cells and a the construction of gene-drug interaction network was performed using TIMER, CDT, and Cytoscape. The GINS1 was found down-regulated in a single subtypes of human cancer while commonly up-regulated in 23 different other subtypes. The up-regulation of GINS1 was significantly correlated with the poor overall survival (OS) of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC), Lung Adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). The GINS1 was also found up-regulated in LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC patients of different clinicopathological features. Pathways enrichment analysis revealed the involvement of GINS1 in two diverse pathways, while few interesting correlations were also documented between GINS1 expression and its promoter methylation level, CD8+ T immune cells level, and CNVs. Moreover, we also predicted few drugs that could be used in the treatment of LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC by regulating the GINS1 expression. The expression profiling of GINS1 in the current study has suggested it a novel shared diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC.

Resumo O câncer é uma doença maligna fatal e sua crescente prevalência mundial exige a descoberta de biomarcadores moleculares mais sensíveis e confiáveis. Investigar o nível de expressão de GINS1 e seu valor prognóstico em cânceres humanos distintos, usando uma série de abordagens in silico em várias camadas, pode ajudar a estabelecê-lo como um potencial biomarcador de diagnóstico e prognóstico compartilhado de diferentes subtipos de câncer. O mRNA de GINS1, a expressão da proteína e a metilação do promotor foram analisados ​​usando UALCAN e Human Protein Atlas (HPA), enquanto a expressão de mRNA foi posteriormente validada via GENT2. Os valores prognósticos potenciais de GINS1 foram avaliados por meio do plotter KM. Em seguida, o cBioPortal foi utilizado para examinar as mutações genéticas relacionadas ao GINS1 e as variações do número de cópias (CNVs), enquanto a análise de enriquecimento da via foi realizada usando DAVID. Além disso, uma análise correlacional entre a expressão de GINS1 e células imunes T CD8 + e a construção de uma rede de interação gene-droga foi realizada usando TIMER, CDT e Cytoscape. O GINS1 foi encontrado regulado negativamente em um único subtipo de câncer humano, enquanto comumente regulado positivamente em 23 outros subtipos diferentes. A regulação positiva de GINS1 foi significativamente correlacionada com a sobrevida global pobre (OS) de Carcinoma Hepatocelular de Fígado (LIHC), Adenocarcinoma de Pulmão (LUAD) e Carcinoma de Células Claras Renais de Rim (KIRC). O GINS1 também foi encontrado regulado positivamente em pacientes LIHC, LUAD e KIRC de diferentes características clínico-patológicas. A análise de enriquecimento de vias revelou o envolvimento de GINS1 em duas vias diversas, enquanto poucas correlações interessantes também foram documentadas entre a expressão de GINS1 e seu nível de metilação do promotor, nível de células imunes T CD8 + e CNVs. Além disso, também previmos poucos medicamentos que poderiam ser usados ​​no tratamento de LIHC, LUAD e KIRC, regulando a expressão de GINS1. O perfil de expressão de GINS1 no estudo atual sugeriu que é um novo biomarcador de diagnóstico e prognóstico compartilhado de LIHC, LUAD e KIRC.

Mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein 15 gene causing defective protein secretion in Cholistani infertile sheep / Mutações no gene da proteína morfogenética óssea 15 causadoras de defeitos na secreção proteica em ovelhas inférteis Cholistani

Naturally occurring mutations in morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are associated with decreased ovulation rate (OR), litter size (LS), and sterility. It is of a great interest to elucidate BMP15 gene in Cholistani sheep breed to uplift socio-economic status and the knowledge of Cholistani sheep breeding in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. In our study, a total of 50 infertile Cholistani sheep aged between 2-6 years and having no blood relation were screened for BMP15 mutations. For this purpose, a high-quality DNA was extracted from the blood of sheep followed by primer designing, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification, DNA sequencing, and in silico analyses. Out of total 50 samples, 9 samples including case 1 (T3), case 2 (T8), case 3 (T17), case 4 (T22), case 5 (T25), case 6 (T33), case 7 (T40), case 8 (T44), and case 9 (T47) were found positive for a variety of already reported and novel BMP15 mutations. Further in silico analyses of the observed mutations have shown the functional impact of these mutations on different characteristics (molecular weight, theoretical PI, estimated half-life, instability index, sub-cellular localization, and 3D confirmation) of the encoded proteins, possibly altering the normal functionality. In a nutshell, findings of this study have confirmed the possible essential role of the BMP15 mutations in the infertility of the Cholistani sheep.

Mutações de ocorrência natural na proteína morfogenética 15 (BMP15) estão associadas à diminuição da taxa de ovulação (TO), tamanho da ninhada (TN) e esterilidade. Estudar a BMP15 na raça Cholistani para elevar o status socioeconômico e o conhecimento da criação de ovinos Cholistani no sul de Punjab, Paquistão. Em nosso estudo, 50 ovelhas Cholistani inférteis sem parentesco sanguíneo foram rastreadas para mutações BMP15. Para tanto, um DNA de alta qualidade foi extraído do sangue dessas ovelhas, seguido de concepção do primer, amplificação da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), sequenciamento de DNA e análises in silico. Do total de 50 amostras, 9, incluindo caso 1 (T3), caso 2 (T8), caso 3 (T17), caso 4 (T22), caso 5 (T25), caso 6 (T33), caso 7 (T40), caso 8 (T44) e caso 9 (T47), foram consideradas positivas para uma variedade de mutações BMP15 novas e já relatadas. Mais análises in silico das mutações observadas mostraram o impacto funcional dessas mutações em diferentes características (peso molecular, PI teórico, meia-vida estimada, índice de instabilidade, localização subcelular e confirmação 3D) das proteínas codificadas, possivelmente alterando a funcionalidade normal. Nossos achados confirmaram o possível papel essencial das mutações BMP15 na infertilidade de ovelhas Cholistani.

Tracing probiotic producing bacterial species from gut of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), South-East-Asia / Rastreando espécies bacterianas produtoras de probióticos de intestino de búfalo (Bubalus bubalis), sudeste da Ásia

Due to extensive application of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feed, antimicrobial resistance has been increased. To overcome this challenge, rumen microbiologists search for new probiotics to improve the rate of livestock production. The present study was aimed to isolate and evaluate breed-specific lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as potential animal probiotics. The current study was conducted during 10 months from July 2020 to April 2021, in which a total of n=12 strains were isolated from different samples including milk, rumen, and feces of Nilli Ravi Buffaloes. These isolates were evaluated for their antimicrobial potential against common animal pathogens (Bacillus spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp.). All the isolates were identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the phylogenetic analyses inferred that these strains showed close relations to the species of various genera; Enterococcus lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis Weissella cibaria, Weissella soli, Bacillus tequilensis, Weissella bombi, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactococcus lactis, Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus ruminis, and Lactococcus lactis. NMCC-Ru2 has exhibited the enormous potential of antimicrobial activity, 28 mm, for Salmonella typhimurium;23 mm for Listeria monocytogenes 21 mm for E.coil. Highest resistance was seen in NMCC-Ru2 agasint test antbiotic, like 25.5 mm for Tetracycline. Overall results revesl that the probiotic profile of isolates was achieved using standard criteria, particularly with animal probiotic properties

Devido à extensa aplicação de antibióticos como promotores de crescimento na alimentação animal, a resistência aos antimicrobianos aumentou. Para superar esse desafio, os microbiologistas do rúmen buscam novos probióticos para melhorar a produtividade do gado. O presente estudo teve como objetivo isolar e avaliar bactérias lácticas específicas de raças (BAL) como potenciais probióticos animais. 12 cepas foram isoladas de diferentes amostras, incluindo leite, rúmen e fezes de búfalos Nilli Ravi. Esses isolados foram avaliados quanto ao seu potencial antimicrobiano contra patógenos animais comuns (Bacillus spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp.). Todos os isolados foram identificados por meio do sequenciamento do gene 16S rRNA e as análises filogenéticas inferiram que essas cepas apresentaram estreita relação com as espécies de vários gêneros; Enterococcus lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis, Weissella cibaria, Weissella soli, Bacillus tequilensis, Weissella bombi, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactococcus lactis, Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus ruminis e Lactococcus lactis. O perfil probiótico dos isolados foi obtido usando critérios padrão, particularmente com propriedades probióticas animais.

Up-regulation of GINS1 highlighted a good diagnostic and prognostic potential of survival in three different subtypes of human cancer

Abstract Cancer is a fatal malignancy and its increasing worldwide prevalence demands the discovery of more sensitive and reliable molecular biomarkers. To investigate the GINS1 expression level and its prognostic value in distinct human cancers using a series of multi-layered in silico approach may help to establish it as a potential shared diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of different cancer subtypes. The GINS1 mRNA, protein expression, and promoter methylation were analyzed using UALCAN and Human Protein Atlas (HPA), while mRNA expression was further validated via GENT2. The potential prognostic values of GINS1 were evaluated through KM plotter. Then, cBioPortal was utilized to examine the GINS1-related genetic mutations and copy number variations (CNVs), while pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID. Moreover, a correlational analysis between GINS1 expression and CD8+ T immune cells and a the construction of gene-drug interaction network was performed using TIMER, CDT, and Cytoscape. The GINS1 was found down-regulated in a single subtypes of human cancer while commonly up-regulated in 23 different other subtypes. The up-regulation of GINS1 was significantly correlated with the poor overall survival (OS) of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC), Lung Adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). The GINS1 was also found up-regulated in LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC patients of different clinicopathological features. Pathways enrichment analysis revealed the involvement of GINS1 in two diverse pathways, while few interesting correlations were also documented between GINS1 expression and its promoter methylation level, CD8+ T immune cells level, and CNVs. Moreover, we also predicted few drugs that could be used in the treatment of LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC by regulating the GINS1 expression. The expression profiling of GINS1 in the current study has suggested it a novel shared diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of LIHC, LUAD, and KIRC.

Resumo O câncer é uma doença maligna fatal e sua crescente prevalência mundial exige a descoberta de biomarcadores moleculares mais sensíveis e confiáveis. Investigar o nível de expressão de GINS1 e seu valor prognóstico em cânceres humanos distintos, usando uma série de abordagens in silico em várias camadas, pode ajudar a estabelecê-lo como um potencial biomarcador de diagnóstico e prognóstico compartilhado de diferentes subtipos de câncer. O mRNA de GINS1, a expressão da proteína e a metilação do promotor foram analisados usando UALCAN e Human Protein Atlas (HPA), enquanto a expressão de mRNA foi posteriormente validada via GENT2. Os valores prognósticos potenciais de GINS1 foram avaliados por meio do plotter KM. Em seguida, o cBioPortal foi utilizado para examinar as mutações genéticas relacionadas ao GINS1 e as variações do número de cópias (CNVs), enquanto a análise de enriquecimento da via foi realizada usando DAVID. Além disso, uma análise correlacional entre a expressão de GINS1 e células imunes T CD8 + e a construção de uma rede de interação gene-droga foi realizada usando TIMER, CDT e Cytoscape. O GINS1 foi encontrado regulado negativamente em um único subtipo de câncer humano, enquanto comumente regulado positivamente em 23 outros subtipos diferentes. A regulação positiva de GINS1 foi significativamente correlacionada com a sobrevida global pobre (OS) de Carcinoma Hepatocelular de Fígado (LIHC), Adenocarcinoma de Pulmão (LUAD) e Carcinoma de Células Claras Renais de Rim (KIRC). O GINS1 também foi encontrado regulado positivamente em pacientes LIHC, LUAD e KIRC de diferentes características clínico-patológicas. A análise de enriquecimento de vias revelou o envolvimento de GINS1 em duas vias diversas, enquanto poucas correlações interessantes também foram documentadas entre a expressão de GINS1 e seu nível de metilação do promotor, nível de células imunes T CD8 + e CNVs. Além disso, também previmos poucos medicamentos que poderiam ser usados no tratamento de LIHC, LUAD e KIRC, regulando a expressão de GINS1. O perfil de expressão de GINS1 no estudo atual sugeriu que é um novo biomarcador de diagnóstico e prognóstico compartilhado de LIHC, LUAD e KIRC.

Mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein 15 gene causing defective protein secretion in Cholistani infertile sheep

Abstract Naturally occurring mutations in morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are associated with decreased ovulation rate (OR), litter size (LS), and sterility. It is of a great interest to elucidate BMP15 gene in Cholistani sheep breed to uplift socio-economic status and the knowledge of Cholistani sheep breeding in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. In our study, a total of 50 infertile Cholistani sheep aged between 2-6 years and having no blood relation were screened for BMP15 mutations. For this purpose, a high-quality DNA was extracted from the blood of sheep followed by primer designing, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification, DNA sequencing, and in silico analyses. Out of total 50 samples, 9 samples including case 1 (T3), case 2 (T8), case 3 (T17), case 4 (T22), case 5 (T25), case 6 (T33), case 7 (T40), case 8 (T44), and case 9 (T47) were found positive for a variety of already reported and novel BMP15 mutations. Further in silico analyses of the observed mutations have shown the functional impact of these mutations on different characteristics (molecular weight, theoretical PI, estimated half-life, instability index, sub-cellular localization, and 3D confirmation) of the encoded proteins, possibly altering the normal functionality. In a nutshell, findings of this study have confirmed the possible essential role of the BMP15 mutations in the infertility of the Cholistani sheep.

Resumo Mutações de ocorrência natural na proteína morfogenética 15 (BMP15) estão associadas à diminuição da taxa de ovulação (TO), tamanho da ninhada (TN) e esterilidade. Estudar a BMP15 na raça Cholistani para elevar o status socioeconômico e o conhecimento da criação de ovinos Cholistani no sul de Punjab, Paquistão. Em nosso estudo, 50 ovelhas Cholistani inférteis sem parentesco sanguíneo foram rastreadas para mutações BMP15. Para tanto, um DNA de alta qualidade foi extraído do sangue dessas ovelhas, seguido de concepção do primer, amplificação da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), sequenciamento de DNA e análises in silico. Do total de 50 amostras, 9, incluindo caso 1 (T3), caso 2 (T8), caso 3 (T17), caso 4 (T22), caso 5 (T25), caso 6 (T33), caso 7 (T40), caso 8 (T44) e caso 9 (T47), foram consideradas positivas para uma variedade de mutações BMP15 novas e já relatadas. Mais análises in silico das mutações observadas mostraram o impacto funcional dessas mutações em diferentes características (peso molecular, PI teórico, meia-vida estimada, índice de instabilidade, localização subcelular e confirmação 3D) das proteínas codificadas, possivelmente alterando a funcionalidade normal. Nossos achados confirmaram o possível papel essencial das mutações BMP15 na infertilidade de ovelhas Cholistani.

Tracing probiotic producing bacterial species from gut of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), South-East-Asia

Abstract Due to extensive application of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feed, antimicrobial resistance has been increased. To overcome this challenge, rumen microbiologists search for new probiotics to improve the rate of livestock production. The present study was aimed to isolate and evaluate breed-specific lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as potential animal probiotics. The current study was conducted during 10 months from July 2020 to April 2021, in which a total of n=12 strains were isolated from different samples including milk, rumen, and feces of Nilli Ravi Buffaloes. These isolates were evaluated for their antimicrobial potential against common animal pathogens (Bacillus spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp.). All the isolates were identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the phylogenetic analyses inferred that these strains showed close relations to the species of various genera; Enterococcus lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis Weissella cibaria, Weissella soli, Bacillus tequilensis, Weissella bombi, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactococcus lactis, Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus ruminis, and Lactococcus lactis. NMCC-Ru2 has exhibited the enormous potential of antimicrobial activity, 28 mm, for Salmonella typhimurium;23 mm for Listeria monocytogenes 21 mm for E.coil. Highest resistance was seen in NMCC-Ru2 agasint test antbiotic, like 25.5 mm for Tetracycline. Overall results revesl that the probiotic profile of isolates was achieved using standard criteria, particularly with animal probiotic properties

Resumo Devido à extensa aplicação de antibióticos como promotores de crescimento na alimentação animal, a resistência aos antimicrobianos aumentou. Para superar esse desafio, os microbiologistas do rúmen buscam novos probióticos para melhorar a produtividade do gado. O presente estudo teve como objetivo isolar e avaliar bactérias lácticas específicas de raças (BAL) como potenciais probióticos animais. 12 cepas foram isoladas de diferentes amostras, incluindo leite, rúmen e fezes de búfalos Nilli Ravi. Esses isolados foram avaliados quanto ao seu potencial antimicrobiano contra patógenos animais comuns (Bacillus spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp.). Todos os isolados foram identificados por meio do sequenciamento do gene 16S rRNA e as análises filogenéticas inferiram que essas cepas apresentaram estreita relação com as espécies de vários gêneros; Enterococcus lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis, Weissella cibaria, Weissella soli, Bacillus tequilensis, Weissella bombi, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactococcus lactis, Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus ruminis e Lactococcus lactis. O perfil probiótico dos isolados foi obtido usando critérios padrão, particularmente com propriedades probióticas animais.

Assessment of humoral immune response to different COVID-19 vaccines in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis / Avaliação da resposta imune humoral a diferentes vacinas contra a COVID-19 em pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise de manutenção

ABSTRACT Introduction: The immune response to different Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines is under-investigated in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. We carried out this research to estimate the effectiveness of COVID-19 immunization in ESKD patients on regular hemodialysis (HD). Methods: In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 60 ESKD patients on regular HD who had completed COVID-19 vaccination and 30 vaccinated healthy participants. Serum levels of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 immunoglobulin G (SARS-COV2 IgG) were quantified 1 month after completing the vaccination schedule, and all participants were followed up from October 2021 to March 2022. The vaccines used in the study were from Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm. Results: The median level of SARS-COV2 IgG was lower in HD patients than in healthy participants (p < 0.001). Regarding the type of COVID-19 vaccination, there was no statistical difference in SARS-COV2 IgG levels among HD patients. During the observation period, none of the HD patients had COVID-19. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccination appeared to be protective in HD patients for 6 months and the side effects of vaccines were tolerable.

RESUMO Introdução: A resposta imune a diferentes vacinas contra a doença do coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19) é pouco investigada em pacientes com doença renal em estágio terminal (DRET), especialmente no Oriente Médio e norte da África. Realizamos esta pesquisa para estimar a eficácia da imunização contra a COVID-19 em pacientes com DRET em hemodiálise regular (HD). Métodos: Nesse estudo observacional prospectivo, inscrevemos 60 pacientes com DRET em HD regular que haviam concluído o esquema de vacinação contra a COVID-19 e 30 participantes saudáveis vacinados. Os níveis séricos de imunoglobulina G da síndrome respiratória aguda grave do coronavírus 2 (SARS-COV2 IgG) foram quantificados um mês após a conclusão do esquema vacinal, e todos os participantes foram acompanhados de outubro de 2021 a março de 2022. As vacinas utilizadas no estudo eram da Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca e Sinopharm. Resultados: O nível mediano de SARS-COV2 IgG foi menor em pacientes em HD do que em participantes saudáveis (p < 0,001). Com relação ao tipo de vacinação contra a COVID-19, não houve diferença estatística nos níveis de SARS-COV2 IgG entre pacientes em HD. Durante o período de observação, nenhum dos pacientes em HD teve COVID-19. Conclusão: A vacinação contra a COVID-19 pareceu ser eficaz na proteção de pacientes em HD por 6 meses e os efeitos colaterais das vacinas foram toleráveis.

Comparison of Short-Term Hearing Outcome in Stapedotomy Using either Vein or Fat (Adipose Tissue) as Sealing Material

Abstract Introduction Otosclerosis is a common cause of conductive hearing loss in the adult population that is caused by fixation of the stapes footplate. Cochlear otosclerosis may also present with sensorineural or mixed hearing loss. Surgery is the definitive treatment of choice and, during the procedure, sealing of the oval window with autologous tissue graft around the stapes prosthesis has been routinely done to improve hearing outcome and to mitigate postoperative complications. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of two different types of autologous tissue (vein or fat) grafts as oval window sealing materials in stapedotomy in improving short-term hearing outcomes. Methods In our study, 70 patients with otosclerosis who underwent primary stapedotomy were included. They were divided into group 1 (vein graft) and group 2 (fat graft) based on the type of sealing material used. All patients were followed-up at the end of 3 months, undergoing an audiometric examination to assess the hearing outcome. Results A total of 80% (n = 28) of the patients in group1 had an air-bone gap (ABG) closure < 10dB, and, in group 2, 85.7% had an ABG closure < 10 dB; this difference was found to be statistically insignificant. A total of 42.9% (n = 15) of the patients in group 1 and of 31.4% (n = 11) in group 2 had a significant improvement in bone conduction, while 14.3% (n = 5) of the patients in group 1 and 17.1% (n = 6) in group 2 had worsening of average bone conduction postoperatively, which was found to be statistically insignificant. Conclusions Both vein and fat grafts had comparable effects on hearing outcomes when used as sealing materials in stapedotomy.

Effect of controlled loss of 350 ml blood from human body on electrolytes and albumin levels – An observational study done in whole blood donors at a regional blood centre

Background: Researchers have studied the hemodynamic effect of hemorrhage widely but the biochemical alternations after blood loss are less explored. Knowledge about changes in electrolyte values after blood donation may help in assessing the effect on large quantity donations or massive hemorrhage. It may also be beneficial in donor counseling and reassurance. Aims and Objectives: Primary objective of the study was to quantify changes in plasma sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and albumin before and after blood donation. Materials and Methods: Predonation electrolyte and albumin levels were tested in all study subjects as baseline and repeated after 45 min of completed blood donation. Both values were compared with paired t test in SPSS version 17. Results: After 45 min of donating 350 ml whole blood, no significant changes were observed in sodium and potassium levels. Reduction in calcium, magnesium, and albumin was 0.188 mg/dL, 0.0328 mg/dl, and 0.193 g/dl, respectively, which were statistically significant. About 15% of the blood donors were already deficient in magnesium. Conclusions: Calcium, magnesium, and albumin levels were reduced after blood donation but well maintained within the normal level and most of the donors had normal predonation levels. Hence, in large volume or repeated plasma donation and massive blood loss, baseline evaluation, and monitoring of these parameters may be worthwhile.

Endodontic file separation and its management among dentists in Punjab, Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

The study aimed to find the incidence and awareness of endodontic instrument separation and its management among dental house officers, postgraduate trainees, demonstrators, consultants, and general dentists. Methods: This online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted with the approval of the IRB in private and public dental hospitals and dental clinics in Punjab. The authors developed the survey tool, which comprises 24 closed-ended items regarding demographics, the incidence of file separation, and awareness about its management. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24. The Chi-Square Test was used to compare percentages of categorical variables. Results: Postgraduate trainees experienced the most instrument separations (43.6%), made the most retrieval attempts (49.2%), and experienced the most secondary errors during retrieval (52.1%) (p<0.001). Around four out of ten respondents always informed the patients (39.6%) and department (41.6%) about errors. Manual files (69.8%), stainless steel files (75.8%), and short files (60.4%) were more frequently separated, and the most frequent cause was older fatigue files (57.7%). Manual files were more frequently broken in public dental institutes (p=0.003). Two-thirds of the file separations (72.5%) occurred during cleaning and shaping in the apical third of molars (65.1%), especially in mesiolingual canal (56.4%). Bypass attempt was the most common in symptomatic teeth (47.7%). Conclusions: Preventive approaches such as limiting file reuse and constructing a glide path can reduce the occurrence of file separation. Operators should be familiar with the number of uses of the instrument before fatigue and should be trained through workshops and refresher courses

Impact of maternal periodontal health on fetus weight in Iraqi pregnant women: a clinical study / Impacto da saúde periodontal materna no peso fetal em gestantes iraquianas: um estudo clínico

Objective: the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between periodontal health condition and the weight of fetuses in Iraqi pregnant women in order to magnify the importance of periodontal health maintenance during pregnancy. Material and Methods: fetus weight was determined using ultrasound scanning for 222 pregnant women, accordingly they were divided into two groups: group A: normal fetus weight and group B: below normal fetal weight. Their periodontal condition was examined by means of Plaque index (PI), Gingival index (GI), Bleeding on probing (BOP) and Clinical Attachment loss (CAL) using WHO CPITN periodontal probe. WHO charts of normal fetal weight for each week were considered to determine the normality of fetus weight. Results: significant value p=0.00 was obtained when comparing the examined periodontal parameters between groups A and B, mean of periodontal parameters of PI, GI and BOP were higher in group B (1.1964: 1.4541), (1.1877: 1.4925), (0.3553: 1.3748) respectively. Q2 and IQR of PI, BOP and GI in group A were (1.190:0.3), (0.30:0.5), (1.160:0.3) respectively. And (1.460:0.24) (1.50:0.7) (1.460:0.26) in Group B. There were 4 cases of CAL in group A as opposed to 88 cases in group B, Q2 of CAL in group A=0.00, Q2 in group B=1.00. IQR=0.00 in both groups. Non-significant value p=0. 503(p>0.05) was seen when comparing the incidence of low fetal weight between the three trimesters. Conclusion: it is important to maintain a good periodontal condition and oral Hygiene status in pregnant women for healthier fetal weight and healthier pregnancy with less complications. (AU)

Objetivo: o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a relação entre a condição de saúde periodontal e a peso dos fetos em gestantes iraquianas para ampliar a importância da manutenção da saúde periodontal durante a gravidez. Material e Métodos: o peso do feto foi determinado por ultrassonografia 222 As gestantes, consequentemente, foram divididas em dois grupos: grupo A: peso normal do feto e grupo B: abaixo do peso fetal normal. Sua condição periodontal foi examinada por meio de índice de placa (IP), gengival índice (GI), Sangramento na sondagem (BOP) e Perda de Inserção Clínica (CAL) usando a sonda periodontal CPITN da OMS. Os gráficos da OMS de peso fetal normal para cada semana foram considerados para determinar a normalidade do peso feto. Resultados: obteve-se valor significativo p=0,00 quando comparados os parâmetros periodontais examinados entre nos grupos A e B, as médias dos parâmetros periodontais do IP, GI e BOP foram maiores no grupo B (1,1964: 1,4541), (1,1877: 1,4925), (0,3553: 1,3748), respectivamente. Q2 e IQR do PI, BOP e GI no grupo A foram (1,190:0,3), (0.30:0.5), (1.160:0.3) respectivamente.E (1.460:0.24) (1.50:0.7) (1.460:0.26) no Grupo B. Houve 4 casos de CAL no grupo A em oposição a 88 casos no grupo B, Q2 de CAL no grupo A=0,00, Q2 no grupo B=1,00. IQR=0,00 em ambos os grupos. Valor não significativo p=0. 503(p>0,05) foi observado quando comparada a incidência de baixo nível fetal peso entre os três trimestres. Conclusão:é importante manter uma boa condição periodontal e Estado de higiene bucal em gestantes para maior peso fetal e gravidez mais saudável com menos complicações. (AU)

Evaluating the efficacy of Etoricoxib in reducing post-operative pain associated with minor oral surgery. A randomized clinical trial / Avaliação da eficácia do Etoricoxibe na redução da dor pós-operatória associada à cirurgia oral menor: ensaio clínico randomizado

Etoricoxib, a new cyclooxygenase-2-selective inhibitor has demonstrated a rapid onset analgesic effect for relieving acute pain especially when prescribed as a pre-emptive medication. On these bases, this study may provide useful information and guidance for clinicians working in the field of oral surgery, as regards handling odontogenic pain and postoperative pain precisely with cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors. Objective: the study aimed to measure the quantifiable efficacy of Etoricoxib in reducing post-extraction pain in subjects undergoing minor oral surgical intervention as compared to Naproxen (a traditional NSAID) which is commonly used to control postoperative pain. Material and Methods: a 120 mg film-coated tablet of Etoricoxib was given to each of the twenty patients representing the study group, and a 500 mg tablet of Naproxen was given to each of the other twenty subjects representing the positive control group. According to manufacturer instructions, the tablets were given to the subjects 30 minutes pre-operatively (before dental extraction). Post-operative pain was assessed for each subject using eleven points from zero to ten, visual analog scale. Results: showed no statistically significant difference between Etoricoxib and Naproxen in decreasing post-extraction odontogenic pain, suggesting that Etoricoxib is as efficient as Naproxen in the control of discomfort with dental origin taking into consideration the patient's status when prescribing the medication. Conclusion: this study suggests that Etoricoxib can be handled as a pre-emptive medication to reduce post-operative pain for subjects seeking traditional or surgical extraction of any of their teeth (AU)

O Etoricoxibe, um novo inibidor seletivo da ciclooxigenase-2, demonstrou um efeito analgésico de início rápido para aliviar a dor aguda, especialmente quando prescrito como medicação preventiva. Com base nesses fundamentos, este estudo pode fornecer informações úteis e orientação para clínicos que trabalham no campo da cirurgia oral, no que diz respeito ao manejo da dor odontogênica e da dor pós-operatória de forma precisa com inibidores da ciclooxigenase-2. Objetivo: o estudo teve como objetivo medir a eficácia quantificável do Etoricoxibe na redução da dor pós-extração em indivíduos submetidos a intervenção cirúrgica oral menor, comparado ao Naproxeno (AINE tradicional) que é comumente usado para controlar a dor pós-operatória. Material e Métodos: um comprimido revestido com um filme de 120 mg de Etoricoxibe foi administrado a cada um dos 20 pacientes representando o grupo de estudo, e um comprimido de 500 mg de Naproxeno foi administrado a cada um dos outros vinte sujeitos representando o grupo de controle positivo. De acordo com as instruções do fabricante, os comprimidos foram administrados aos indivíduos 30 minutos antes da cirurgia (antes da extração dentária). A dor pós-operatória foi avaliada para cada sujeito usando uma escala analógica visual de onze pontos, de zero a dez. Resultados: não mostraram diferença estatisticamente significativa entre o Etoricoxibe e o Naproxeno na diminuição da dor odontogênica pós-extração, sugerindo que o Etoricoxibe é tão eficiente quanto o Naproxeno no controle do desconforto de origem dentária, levando em consideração o estado do paciente ao prescrever a medicação. Conclusão: este estudo sugere que o Etoricoxibe pode ser administrado como medicação preventiva para reduzir a dor pós-operatória em indivíduos que buscam extração dentária tradicional ou cirúrgica de qualquer um de seus dentes. (AU)

Rare Coincidence of Gallbladder Perforation in Blunt Traumatic Injury: A Case Report

@#Traumatic gallbladder perforation is an unusual but potentially life-threatening injury that can occur following blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma. A 46-year-old male presented to the emergency department following a motor vehicle accident (MVA). He complained of severe abdominal pain and sustained ecchymosis with localized tenderness over the right upper quadrant. Despite a positive focused assessment with sonography in trauma scan, initial computed tomography of the abdomen revealed grade 1 liver and splenic injury but was unable to identify gallbladder perforation. He was initially managed conservatively until he developed secondary signs of sepsis after 24 hours. An exploratory laparotomy revealed a perforated gallbladder. A subtotal cholecystectomy was done. A retrospective review revealed a missed gallbladder perforation from an earlier CT scan assessment. We report a case of missed gallbladder perforation following MVA which was only diagnosed intraoperatively after failing non-operative management, following which the patient underwent laparotomy and subtotal cholecystectomy.

TOXICITY OF AFLATOXIN B1 TOWARDS THE INDUCING ALTERATIONS IN THE LIVER FUNCTIONS

Since 2003, the world's developing countries are home to more than 5 billion people thought to be at danger of prolonged consumption of contaminated foods that are aflatoxic according to a number of study efforts conducted in South Africa, Egypt, and other countries in west and east Africa. Additionally, the presence occurrence of aflatoxins and their byproducts in animal tissues used to make food (such as beef and sheep meat) may contaminate human diets. As a result of their increasing prevalence, aflatoxins have recently been identified as a significant public health concern. Aflatoxins are dangerous second-generation byproducts of Aspergillus species. Due to their chemical makeup, the majority of aflatoxins are highly liposoluble substances that can be absorption from the exposed site, such as the gastro-intestinal and respiratory tracts, into the bloodstream, where they can then spread throughout the body and reach various organs, including the liver and kidneys. The primary goals of the study were to monitor and screen for levels of aflatoxin B1 in the Karbala Province using a case-control study. The connection between Aflatoxin B1 concentrations and the common biochemical indicators of liver function as well investigated. How alter liver function by Aflatoxin B1. The study also emphasised the necessity to determine the pathophysiology of AFB1's involvement in the rising number of patients with liver dysfunction. AFB1 levels were quantitated using utilising thin layer chromatography, together with High Pressure liquid chromatography being employed for the quantitative identification (HPLC). In the province of Karbala, an analysis of case-control studies was done to look at the Aflatoxin B1 affects (AFB1) exposure on kidney disease patients. AFB1 levels were quantitated using utilising thin layer chromatography with high-performance liquid chromatography to provide quality results. The evaluations of the samples that tested positive for AFB1 as well as the lipid profile and indicators of liver function tests. The findings indicated that the population under investigation had afflatoxins exposure. AFB1 was found in 100% of individuals with unknown kidney disease (KD) and in 24%, 20%, and 100% of patients with known CKD, respectively. AFB1 concentrations in serum samples ranged from 0.68 to 8.33 ng/mL for patients with questionable KD, 1.21 to For patients, 5.60 ng/mL with known KD, likewise, healthy controls ranged from 0.11 to 1.30 ng/mL. The presence of AFB1 was positively and strongly linked with liver enzymes, specifically ALT and ALP. AFB1 levels among serum samples from KD sufferers and wholesome controls showed a prolonged contact with the poison, suggesting an unknown cause. The evaluation of the biochemical marker of liver functioning supported the effect of AFB1 exposure. This work may help build effective nationwide programmes for tracking AFs exposure. The study also emphasised the necessity to determine the pathophysiology of AFB1's involvement in the rising number of patients with liver dysfunction. Future research is urged to concentrate on more comprehensive topics that cover the entire nation (Iraq)

PLACENTAL ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE AS A THRESHOLD CONCEPT FOR EARLY DETECTION OF PRIMARY LUNG CANCER

The biochemical existing tool of diagnostic methods to lung cancer cases need to be improved. In order to validate an early screening of primary tumor patients, a developed a simple procedure or technique was demanded. The aims of this study were to provide an overview of alkaline Placental Alkaline Phosphatase activity in lung cancer. Using heating inactivation method regarding the measurement of Placental Alkaline Phosphatase activity as an early diagnosis marker in lung cancer cases. Total alkaline phosphatase and Placental alkaline phosphatase activity were measured in patients of Lung cancer patients who were classified according to the site of tumor by histological picture. ALP isoenzymes were identified by heat inactivation, and compared with the most frequently applied method (ELISA). Monitoring of the Total ALP and Placental ALP activity in the studied groups using two different methods were shown a highly performance of heating method by an experimental assessment to confirm the accuracy and validity of the proposed method. The distribution of serum placental ALP isoenzyme activity in patients and control groups which was measured by two different methods were found to be (20.2-43.1) IU/L respectively (measured by heating method) and (394.3- 454.5) pg/mL measured by ELISA method) respectively. Placental ALP isoenzyme showed a high significant activity in lung cancer patients than healthy control with p value less than (0.05). That application of the heat inactivation method yields similar indication to the ones obtained by the highly and specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results of detection Placental alkaline phosphatase in serum were in excellent agreement and could have a potentially extensive application for Placental alkaline phosphatase quantification.

Preliminary Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Screening of Leaves of Cosmostigma racemosum (roxb.) Wight.

Pharmacognostic and phytochemical evaluation are necessary for drug authentication and for prediction and confirmation of pharmacological activities of any plant part. Cosmostigma racemosum (Roxb.) Wight, a traditional and folklore drug in Kerala with many reputed usages, locally called as Vaattuvalli, is a shrubby twiner of Apocynaceae family. Leaves are the most used plant part. As no scientific data regarding its standards were available, preliminary pharmacognostic, physico-chemical and phytochemical evaluation of the leaves were done as per the guidelines of Ayurveda Pharmacopoiea of India and WHO. The study revealed that leaves of Cosmostigma racemosum (Roxb.)Wight are simple, opposite, exstipulate, apex caudate, base cordate and with a characteristic chilly odour. Microscopic examination of leaves revealed the presence of characteristic features such as lacticifers, secreting cells, absence of stomata on the upper epidermis, presence of paracytic stomata on the lower epidermis and presence of calcium oxalate crystals especially druse crystals. The preliminary phytochemical evaluation revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, steroids, saponins which indicates the wide range of pharmacological activities of the plant. The 13 peaks in the HPTLC profile indicate a wide pharmacological prospect of the leaves. The ICP-MS analysis confirmed that heavy metals like Cd, Cr, Zn, Cu, Pb and As present in the leaves are within permissible limits. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, different ash values, volatile oil content, different extractive values, ph, fibre content, and sugar content were also determined. All these findings can serve as standards for assuring the safety, quality and purity of the drug.

Prevalence of Anaemia among Adolescent Girls on Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) and Non WIFS Group in Rural Schools of Mangalore, Karnataka; a Comparative Study

Background: Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) Programme is an initiative to decrease the burden of anaemia among adolescents studying in Government schools. Objective: To assess the difference in prevalence of anaemia among Government school-going adolescents girls on WIFS as compared to private school girls not on WIFS. Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescent girls, 7th to 10th standard in Government schools (on WIFS) and private schools (not on WIFS). The sample size in each group was 104, selected by multi-stage sampling. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaire, clinical examination and haemoglobin estimation. Chi-square test and Unpaired t test used to compare the categorical and continuous variables respectively. Results: The prevalence of anaemia among the school children in government schools was 51% and in the private schools it was 64.4%. The mean haemoglobin was 11.77 � 1.41 and 11.34 � 1.49 in government and private school girls, respectively, which was statistically significant (p=0.013). Conclusions: The prevalence of anaemia among the government school girls was lesser as compared to the private schools girls, suggesting the role of WIFS in the reduction of prevalence of anemia. WIFS programme may be extended to private schools as well.

Pulsatile Chronotherapeutic Drug Delivery for Controlling Early Morning Surge in Blood Pressure; Effect of Coating on Eplerenone In-vitro, In-vivo Release and Urinary Na/K Ratio

Abstract The objective of the present study was to develop time delayed chronotherapeutic formulation of Eplerenone (Ep) to provide rapid drug release after a pre-determined lag time for the treatment of early morning hypertension. Cyclodextrin complexation was used to prepare fast release Ep core tablets. The developed core tablets were then coated with different rate-controlling polymers using compression coating technique. The developed tablets were evaluated for hardness, friability, drug content and swelling index. The in-vitro drug release was carried out to study the effect of different coating materials on drug release and lag time. Tablets selected for stability study were those showing lag time of 5-7 hours followed by complete drug release; F2, F3, F7, F8, and F12. The in-vivo study was carried out on tablets with the highest t90 as compared to commercial tablets after being administered to healthy human volunteers where plasma Ep and urinary Na/K ratio were determined. Results suggested that this approach was able to provide delayed release Ep formulations that will be useful for patients with morning surge in blood pressure.

Fagonia cretica: Identification of compounds in bioactive gradient high performance liquid chromatography fractions against multidrug resistant human gut pathogens

@#Plants are alternative source of natural medicines due to secondary active metabolites. Fagonia cretica extracts and Gradient High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography fractionations were checked against multidrug-resistant gastrointestinal pathogens including, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli and Shigella flexneri. ESI-MS/MS analysis of bioactive HPLC fractions was performed to elucidate antibacterial compounds. F. cretica extracts exhibited potential antibacterial activity. Twenty-four (24) HPLC fractions were obtained from methanol, ethanol and aqueous extracts of F. cretica. Eighteen (18) fractions showed antibacterial activity, while no activity was observed by the remaining six (6) fractions. HPLC fractions, F1 (25g ± 0.20 mm) and F2 (15f ± 0.12 mm) of aqueous extract exhibited activity against multidrug resistant GI pathogens. Gallic acid, quinic acid, cyclo-l-leu-l-pro, vidalenolone, liquirtigenin, rosmarinic acid and cerebronic acid were identified in F1 fraction of aqueous extract, while succinic acid, cyclo (l-Leul-Pro) and liquirtigenin were identified in F2 fraction of aqueous extract through ESI-MS/MS analysis. F. cretica extracts and HPLC fractions showed potential activity against MDR GI pathogens. Vidalenolone, Cyclo-1-leu-1-pro and Cerebronic acid are first time reported in F. cretica. Further characterization of bioactive compounds from F. cretica may be helpful to elucidate antibacterial therapeutic molecules.

A recurrent homozygous missense mutation in CCDC103 causes asthenoteratozoospermia due to disorganized dynein arms / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Asthenoteratozoospermia is one of the most severe types of qualitative sperm defects. Most cases are due to mutations in genes encoding the components of sperm flagella, which have an ultrastructure similar to that of motile cilia. Coiled-coil domain containing 103 (CCDC103) is an outer dynein arm assembly factor, and pathogenic variants of CCDC103 cause primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). However, whether CCDC103 pathogenic variants cause severe asthenoteratozoospermia has yet to be determined. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed for two individuals with nonsyndromic asthenoteratozoospermia in a consanguineous family. A homozygous CCDC103 variant segregating recessively with an infertility phenotype was identified (ENST00000035776.2, c.461A>C, p.His154Pro). CCDC103 p.His154Pro was previously reported as a high prevalence mutation causing PCD, though the reproductive phenotype of these PCD individuals is unknown. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of affected individuals' spermatozoa showed that the mid-piece was severely damaged with disorganized dynein arms, similar to the abnormal ultrastructure of respiratory ciliary of PCD individuals with the same mutation. Thus, our findings expand the phenotype spectrum of CCDC103 p.His154Pro as a novel pathogenic gene for nonsyndromic asthenospermia.