Aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et évolutifs de la tuberculose multifocale à N'djamena / Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation and Outcome of Multifocal Tuberculosis in N'djamena

Introduction. La tuberculose est dite multifocale (TMF) lorsqu ́il y a l ́atteinte d ́au moins deux sites extra pulmonaires non contigus associée ou non à une atteinte pulmonaire. Cette étude avait pour but d'étudier les aspects épidémiologiques, diagnostics et évolutifs de la TMF au service de pneumo-phtisiologie du CHU-RN de N'Djamena. Matériels et méthode. Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective à visée descriptive de 5 ans allant de janvier 2018 à décembre 2022. Les variables étudiées étaient, épidémiologiques, cliniques et évolutives. Résultats. Au total, 185 patients étaient inclus sur 2001 cas de tuberculose, soit une fréquence de 9,24%. L'âge moyen était de 34,1 ans avec des extrêmes de 16 ans et 75 ans. Le sex-ratio était de 1,28. Les patients sans-emploi étaient majoritaire soit 47% des cas. La notion de contage tuberculeux représentait 13,5% des cas, et 66,5% des patients étaient vaccinés au BCG avec une séroprévalence VIH de 54,6%. Tous les signes habituels de la tuberculose étaient présents. La localisation pulmonaire était la plus représentée (66,2%) suivie de la localisation ganglionnaire (48,6%). Dans 80% des cas, la localisationétait bifocale. La mortalité était de 21,6% pour un séjour moyen d'hospitalisation de 20,26 jours. Conclusion. La tuberculose multifocale est une forme rare et grave, qui survient généralement chez les patients infectés par le VIH, mais le sujet immunocompétent peut être aussi touché. Un traitement antituberculeux doit être instauré le plus rapidement possible afind'éviter les complications

Introduction. Tuberculosisis called multifocal (TMF) when there is involvement of at least two non-contiguous extrapulmonary sites, whether or notassociated with pulmonary involvement. This study aimed to study the epidemiological, diagnostic and evolutionary aspects of FMT in the pneumo-phthisiology department of the CHU-RN of N'Djamena. Materials and method. This was a 5-year retrospective study with a descriptive aim from January 2018 to December 2022. The variables studied were epidemiological, clinical and progressive. Results. In total, 185 patients were included out of 2001 cases of tuberculosis, i.e. a frequency of 9.24%. The average age was 34.1 years with extremes of 16 and 75 years. The sex ratio was 1.28. Unemployed patients were the majority, i.e. 47% of cases. The notion of tuberculosis contagion represented 13.5% of cases, and 66.5% of patients were vaccinated with BCG with an HIV seroprevalence of 54.6%. All the usual signs of tuberculosis were present. The pulmonary location was the most represented (66.2%) followed by the lymph node location (48.6%). In 80% of cases, bifocal localization. Mortality was 21.6% for an average hospital stay of 20.26 days. Conclusion.Multifocal tuberculosis is a rare and serious form, which generally occurs in patients infected with HIV, but immunocompetent subjects can also be affected. Anti-tuberculosis treatment must be started as quickly as possible to avoid complications.

Impact Of Communication Skills Training in Postgraduate Medical Education

Background: Effective communication is a key feature of optimal doctor-patient relationship. As the postgraduate curriculum lacks standardized teaching and assessment, this study aimed to assess effec-tiveness of training program on communication skills of postgraduate medical students. Materials and methods: A prospective, interventional study was conducted among first year postgrad-uate medical students from different clinical specialty. Training program included introduction to prin-ciples of communication with basics of doctor-patient relationship, administering informed consent, breaking bad news and counselling patients with HIV/cancer. Pre and post-test skill assessment by Fac-ulty and postgraduate (PG) self-rating was carried out using KEECC-A Assessment tool for seven core communication competencies. Perception of students on training program was collected via feedback questionnaire. Results: Forty-three postgraduate medical students participated. Statistically significant increase in communication skills scores was observed post training with mean post-test assessment scores of 24.26�94, p<0.001(rating by faculty), 25.19�76, p<0.001(PG self-rating) and high degree of internal consistency was found. Students perceived the training program as valuable and highlighted its im-portance as a part of curriculum. Conclusion: Training program significantly enhanced communication skills of postgraduate medical students. Integration of standardized teaching and assessment of communication skills is essential for better healthcare practice and optimal doctor-patient relationship.

Effectiveness of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) as an adjuvant therapy for Type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis / The Health Sciences Journal

INTRODUCTION@#Salba-chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a popular functional food containing high levels of protein, total dietary fiber, and is an excellent source of α-linolenic acid. Chia seeds significantly decreases weight, suppresses appetite, and has a potential benefit in the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of chia seeds as an adjuvant treatment for T2DM.@*METHODS@#Randomized controlled trials from 1990 onwards involving Type 2 diabetic patients given chia seed were included. PubMed, Cochrane, ClinicalKey, Google Scholar, and Hinari were searched systematically using MeSH terms “chia”, “Salvia hispanica”, “dietary supplement”, and “diabetes”. The quality of trials was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Data on the study design, blinding status, characteristics of participants, medications taken by participants, chia seed intervention, comparator, duration of intake, and interval of assessment were extracted. The percent change of outcome from baseline was compared between the chia and control groups.@*RESULTS@#Four randomized trials with a total of 213 diabetic patients were enrolled in the treatment group using ground salba-chia or the control group using bran. The supplementation of chia resulted in a statistically significant decrease in fasting glucose (-2.90 mmol/L; 95% CI, -3.08, -2.72; p < 0.001), waist circumference (-2.49 cm; 95% CI -2.81, -2.17; p < 0.001), total cholesterol (-2.72 mmol/L; 95% CI -3.68, -1.74; p < 0.001), HDL (-3.69 mmol/L; 95% CI -3.95, -3.42; p < 0.001), LDL (-3.22 mmol/L; 95% CI -4.08, -2.36; p < 0.001); and an increase adiponectin levels (6.50 mg/L; 95% CI 6.25, 6.25; p < 0.001).@*CONCLUSION@#Intake of chia seeds resulted in a statistically significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, waist circumference, total cholesterol levels, HDL and LDL cholesterol levels, and increased adiponectin. Chia seeds are generally safer and have lesser side effects compared to the placebo. Chia is effective as adjunctive treatment for Type 2 diabetic patients.

Hearing and clinical otologic profile of Filipinos living in Southern Tagalog Region IV-A (CALABARZON), Philippines: The Southern Tagalog ENT Hearing Specialists (STENTS) Survey 2012-2017

@#<p><strong>Objective:</strong> To determine the prevalence of hearing loss and otologic diseases among Filipinos living in the Southern Tagalog Region IV-A: CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Philippines.</p><p><strong>Methods:</strong></p><p><strong>               Design:</strong> Retrospective Review of Community Survey Data</p><p><strong>               Setting:</strong> Communities in Region IV-A provinces, Philippines</p><p><strong>               Participants:</strong> 3267 residents of the five provinces aged 0 months and above</p><p> <strong>Results:</strong> About 71.29% and 74.60% had at least mild hearing loss, in right and left ears, respectively. For disabling hearing impairment, overall prevalence was 26.33%, distributed into 11.87% among 4 to 18-year-olds; 8.97% for 19 to 64-year-olds; and 3.17% for 65-year-olds and above. Absence of prevalent and hearing loss-associated diseases: serous otitis media [OR 0.362, 95% CI 0.167 to 0.782, p = .010], CSOM [OR 0.407, 95% CI 0.236 to 0.703, p = .001] COM [OR 0.229, 95% CI 0.106 to 0.494, p < .001] can decrease the risk for hearing loss development in the region. Prevention of noise-induced hearing loss or delay in the manifestation of presbycusis can reduce the risk of having hearing loss by as much as 75% [OR 0.253, 95% CI (0.180 to 0.355), p < .001]. All pure tone audiometry measurements were obtained with surrounding median ambient noise of 55dB (IQR 46 to 60dB).</p><p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> The prevalence of hearing loss among surveyed residents of the Southern Tagalog Region IV-A provinces was high compared to the previous nationwide study but low compared to other low- and middle-income countries. The top otologic conditions of this population (ear occlusion with ear wax, chronic suppurative otitis media, chronic otitis media, presbycusis, noise-induced hearing loss) were associated with hearing loss and their absence decreased the risks for hearing impairment.</p>

Post-radiation neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is a prognostic marker in patients with localized pancreatic adenocarcinoma treated with anti-PD-1 antibody and stereotactic body radiation therapy

Purpose@#To investigate the role of pre- and post-stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with localized pancreatic cancer treated with anti-PD-1 (programmed cell death protein-1) antibody and SBRT. @*Materials and Methods@#This was a retrospective review of 68 patients with borderline resectable or locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with anti-PD-1 antibody and SBRT after multi-agent chemotherapy. Immunotherapy was administered with 5-fraction SBRT in the neoadjuvant, concurrent, or adjuvant/maintenance setting. Clinical outcomes included overall survival (OS), local progression-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and progression-free survival. Median pre- and post-SBRT peripheral blood markers were compared with the Mann-Whitney U test. Univariate and multivariable analyses (UVA and MVA) were performed to identify variables associated with clinical outcomes. Linear regression was performed to determine correlations between variables and peripheral blood markers. @*Results@#A total of 68 patients were included in the study. The percent change between median pre- and post-SBRT absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), absolute neutrophil count, and NLR were -36.0% (p < 0.001), -5.6% (p = 0.190), and +35.7% (p = 0.003), respectively. Median OS after SBRT was 22.4 months. On UVA, pre-SBRT CA19-9 (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.001; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.000–1.001; p = 0.031), post-SBRT ALC (HR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.11–0.91; p = 0.031), and post-SBRT NLR (HR = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04–1.22; p = 0.009) were associated with OS. On MVA, induction chemotherapy duration (HR = 0.75; 95% CI, 0.57–0.99; p = 0.048) and post-SBRT NLR (HR = 1.14; 95% CI, 1.04–1.23; p = 0.002) predicted for OS. Patients with post-SBRT NLR ≥3.2 had a median OS of 15.6 months versus 27.6 months in patients with post-SBRT NLR <3.2 (p = 0.009). On MVA linear regression, log10CTV had a negative correlation with post-SBRT ALC (regression coefficient = -0.314; 95% CI, -0.626 to -0.003; p = 0.048). @*Conclusion@#Elevated NLR after SBRT is primarily due to depletion of lymphocytes and associated with worse survival outcomes in localized pancreatic cancer treated with anti-PD-1 antibody. Larger CTVs were associated with decreased post-SBRT ALC.

Impact of somatic mutations on clinical and pathologic outcomes in borderline resectable and locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and stereotactic body radiotherapy followed by surgical resection

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to determine if somatic mutations are associated with clinical and pathologic outcomes in patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) or locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) who were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). @*Materials and Methods@#Patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and SBRT followed by surgical resection from August 2016 to January 2019 and who underwent next generation sequencing of their primary tumor were included in the study. Next-generation sequencing was performed either in-house with a Solid Tumor Panel or with FoundationOne CDx. Univariate (UVA) and multivariable analyses (MVA) were performed to determine associations between somatic mutations and pathologic and clinical outcomes. @*Results@#Thirty-five patients were included in the study. Chemotherapy consisted of modified FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel, or gemcitabine and capecitabine. Patients were treated with SBRT in 33 Gy in 5 fractions. On UVA and MVA, tumors with KRAS G12V mutation demonstrated better pathologic tumor regression grade (TRG) to neoadjuvant therapy when compared to tumors with other KRAS mutations (odds ratio = 0.087; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.009–0.860; p = 0.036). On UVA and MVA, mutations in NOTCH1/2 were associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.15; 95% CI, 1.57–10.95; p = 0.004) and progression-free survival (HR = 3.61; 95% CI, 1.41–9.28; p = 0.008). On UVA, only mutations in NOTCH1/2 were associated with inferior distant metastasis-free survival (HR = 3.38; 95% CI, 1.25–9.16; p = 0.017). @*Conclusion@# In BRPC and LAPC, the KRAS G12V mutation was associated with better TRG following chemotherapy and SBRT. Additionally, NOTCH1/2 mutations were associated with worse overall survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and progression-free survival.

IL-17 and IL-17C Signaling Protects the Intestinal Epithelium against Diisopropyl Fluorophosphate Exposure in an Acute Model of Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses

Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses (GWI) encompasses a broad range of unexplained symptomology specific to Veterans of the Persian Gulf War. Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is prominent in veterans with GWI and often presents as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).Neurotoxins, including organophosphorus pesticides and sarin gas, are believed to have contributed to the development of GWI, at least in a subset of Veterans. However, the effects of such agents have not been extensively studied for their potential impact to GI disorders and immunological stability. Here we utilized an established murine model of GWI to investigate deleterious effects of diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) exposure on the mucosal epithelium in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, acute DFP exposure negatively impacts the mucosal epithelium by reducing tight junction proteins and antimicrobial peptides as well as altering intestinal microbiome composition. Furthermore, DFP treatment reduced the expression of IL-17 in the colonic epithelium. Conversely, both IL-17 and IL-17C treatment could combat the negative effects of DFP and other cholinesterase inhibitors in murine intestinal organoid cells. Our findings demonstrate that acute exposure to DFP can result in rapid deterioration of mechanisms protecting the GI tract from disease. These results are relevant to suspected GWI exposures and could help explain the propensity for GI disorders in GWI Veterans.

Toll-like Receptor 2 in Autoimmune Inflammation

TLR signaling is critical for broad scale immune recognition of pathogens and/or danger molecules. TLRs are particularly important for the activation and the maturation of cells comprising the innate immune response. In recent years it has become apparent that several different TLRs regulate the function of lymphocytes as well, albeit to a lesser degree compared to innate immunity. TLR2 heterodimerizes with either TLR1 or TLR6 to broadly recognize bacterial lipopeptides as well as several danger-associated molecular patterns. In general, TLR2 signaling promotes immune cell activation leading to tissue inflammation, which is advantageous for combating an infection. Conversely, inappropriate or dysfunctional TLR2 signaling leading to an overactive inflammatory response could be detrimental during sterile inflammation and autoimmune disease. This review will highlight and discuss recent research advances linking TLR2 engagement to autoimmune inflammation.

Toll-like Receptor 2 in Autoimmune Inflammation

TLR signaling is critical for broad scale immune recognition of pathogens and/or danger molecules. TLRs are particularly important for the activation and the maturation of cells comprising the innate immune response. In recent years it has become apparent that several different TLRs regulate the function of lymphocytes as well, albeit to a lesser degree compared to innate immunity. TLR2 heterodimerizes with either TLR1 or TLR6 to broadly recognize bacterial lipopeptides as well as several danger-associated molecular patterns. In general, TLR2 signaling promotes immune cell activation leading to tissue inflammation, which is advantageous for combating an infection. Conversely, inappropriate or dysfunctional TLR2 signaling leading to an overactive inflammatory response could be detrimental during sterile inflammation and autoimmune disease. This review will highlight and discuss recent research advances linking TLR2 engagement to autoimmune inflammation.

Role of ultrasonographic optic nerve sheath diameter in the diagnosis and follow-up of papilledema and its correlation with Frisén's severity grading

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the ultrasonographic optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) in different grades of papilledema and in controls and to evaluate ONSD in atrophic papilledema/optic atrophy when raised ICP was suspected. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional case–control study. Following an ocular examination, papilledema was graded clinically using modified Frisén's grading. An ultrasonographic cross section of the retrobulbar optic nerve was obtained with a posterior transverse scan. Independent t-test and analysis of variance were the statistical tools used in the study. Results: The study included 55 cases and 55 age- and gender-matched controls; mean (± standard deviation) age was 37.17 (±11.25) years and male: female ratio was 49:61. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean ultrasonographic ONSD between cases [4.89 (±0.65) mm] and controls [3.12 (±0.22) mm] (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in the mean ONSD across Frisén's grades of papilledema (P < 0.001). The mean ONSD in atrophic papilledema was 6.2 (±0.75) mm. Conclusion: In the presence of symptoms, ultrasonographic ONSD >4 mm is diagnostic of papilledema. Ultrasonographic ONSD correlates well with the severity of papilledema and can be used to follow-up patients with chronically elevated ICP. It is useful in detecting raised ICP in the presence of optic atrophy and to distinguish true papilledema from pseudopapilledema.

Association of Erectile Dysfunction and extent of Coronary Vessel involvement by Syntax Score in Coronary Artery Disease patients undergoing Coronary Angiography at Perpetual Succour Hospital from October 2014 – September 2015

Introduction@#Erectile dysfunction (ED) has numerous links to cardiovascular disease. Numerous studies show the severity of ED is strongly associated with atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction implicated in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD). These common vascular pathways have led to evidence that ED onset may be used as a marker of the severity of CAD as well as a preclinical marker of early onset-CAD. The researchers aim to determine the association of ED and CAD in terms of prevalence, clinical presentation and severity and extent of vessel involvement by SYNTAX score among CAD patients undergoing coronary angiography.@*Methods@#This is a prospective, cross sectional, analytical study design set at Perpetual Succour Hospital – Cebu Heart Institute, a private, tertiary hospital with cardiac specialty units located in Cebu City. This study includes all Filipino patients admitted at Perpetual Succour Hospital suspected to have coronary artery disease based on symptoms of angina, dyspnea or other anginal equivalent with indications to undergo coronary angiography during the period of October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2015 were included.@*Results@#A total of 160 patients were included in the study. The mean age is 57.23 years with most of the patients admitted for stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD) of 54.7%, non-ST elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTEACS) 33.5% and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) 11.8% with multiple cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking and dyslipidemia. Eighty-two percent complained of ED symptoms with a mean International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score of 15.15. Most ED patients identified had mild to moderate ED (31.7%), mild ED (21.7%), moderate ED (17.4%) and severe ED (11.8%). There were only 17.4% of patients who had undergone coronary angiography for CAD complaints that had no ED symptoms on admission. Per clinical presentation, there was a significant association between patients presenting with severe ED, moderate ED and mild to moderate ED with those presenting with SIHD and ACS-NSTEMI on admission, moderate ED and mild to moderate ED. ED was significantly associated with obstructive CAD (p=0.001) and correlated directly with the number of vessels involved (p<0.01) and inversely related to SYNTAX scores (p<0.001). ED symptoms were noted to precede CAD diagnosis by 4.9 to 5.9 years.@*Conclusion@#In conclusion, there is a high prevalence of ED among CAD patients and its existence is significantly associated with obstructive CAD varying directly with extent and number of vessel involvement. There is a significant inverse relationship with severity of ED and SYNTAX scores. The existence of ED was present in all subsets of CAD patients, regardless of presentation of admission and preceded CAD symptoms and diagnosis by four to five years.

Antisickling and Radical Scavenging Activities of Selected Medicinal Plants and Compounds from Mitracarpus villosus (Sw.) DC. Cham

Aims: This study investigated the antisickling and radical scavenging activities of different morphological parts of nine plants, belonging to six families. A bioassay-guided fractionation was carried out on Mitracarpus villosus (Sw.) DC. Cham, which was one of the most active plants. Place and Duration of Study: Drug Research and Production Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, Nigeria between May 2013 and June 2016. Methodology: Plant materials were collected from OAU campus and Ile-Ife town, identified and voucher specimen deposited at IFE herbarium, OAU for future reference. In-vitro radical scavenging and antisickling (by haemoglobin polymerization inhibitory test) activities of extracts and isolated compounds were performed using ascorbic acid and vanillic acid as positive controls respectively. Bioassay-guided fractionation was achieved by combination of various chromatographic procedures and bioassay techniques to isolate the active constituents. Structural elucidation of the isolated compounds was by spectroscopic techniques including NMR and MS. Results: Six of the nine plant extracts showed considerable antisickling and antioxidant activities. Extracts of Emilia praetermissa and M. villosus, were however the most active. Extracts or compound which demonstrated strong radical scavenging activity were also found to demonstrate significant antisickling effects. Bioassay-guided fractionation of M. villosus resulted in the isolation of psychorubrin, quercetin and a mixture consisting of stigmasterol and an unidentified terpene. Quercetin was the most active antisickling and radical scavenging compound with percentage inhibition of 96.46±0.3 and 87.99±0.18 respectively. Conclusion: Mitracarpus villosus ranked second best in activity among the tested plants. Antisickling activity of its isolated compounds was found to increase with increase in the antioxidant capability of the compounds. Quercetin was the most active compound while the non-antioxidant terpenoidal mixture had very weak polymerisation inhibitory effect.

A quasi-experimental study on the effect of a nursery rhyme on the comfort of infants after vaccination in selected barangay health centers in Quezon City / The Health Sciences Journal

INTRODUCTION@#Administration of parenteral medications may cause pain in infants. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a nursery rhyme in increasing the comfort of infants after vaccination.@*METHODS@#Infants who were brought to six barangay health centers for vaccination were recruited. Infants from three barangay health centers were randomly assigned to the experimental group, while infants from the other three were assigned to the control group. A Filipino nursery rhyme Tatlong Bibe was played to the experimental group. The comfort of each infant was then assessed by a pediatrician prior to, immediately after, and two minutes post-vaccination using the COMFORTB scale. Results were analyzed using independent t-tests.@*RESULTS@#Prior to vaccination, the control and experimental groups had mean COMFORT-B scores of 12.46 and 12.74 (p = 0.634), respectively. The immediate post-vaccination mean COMFORT-B scores were 22.14 and 21.63 (p = 0.420), while the 2 minutes post-vaccination mean COMFORT-B scores were 16.40 and 16.49 (p = 0.927), respectively. There were no significant differences between groups for the three determinations.@*CONCLUSION@#Based on the study results, the nursery rhyme had no significant effect on the comfort of infants after vaccination.

Nyssorhynchus dunhami: bionomics and natural infection by Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax in the Peruvian Amazon

BACKGROUND Nyssorhynchus dunhami, a member of the Nuneztovari Complex, has been collected in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru and described as zoophilic. Although to date Ny. dunhami has not been documented to be naturally infected by Plasmodium, it is frequently misidentified as other Oswaldoi subgroup species that are local or regional malaria vectors. OBJECTIVES The current study seeks to verify the morphological identification of Nuneztovari Complex species collected in the peri-Iquitos region of Amazonian Peru, to determine their Plasmodium infection status, and to describe ecological characteristics of their larval habitats. METHODS We collected Ny. nuneztovari s.l. adults in 2011-2012, and Ny. nuneztovari s.l. larvae and adults in 2016-2017. When possible, samples were identified molecularly using cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcode sequencing. Adult Ny. nuneztovari s.l. from 2011-2012 were tested for Plasmodium using real-time PCR. Environmental characteristics associated with Ny. nuneztovari s.l. larvae-positive water bodies were evaluated. FINDINGS We collected 590 Ny. nuneztovari s.l. adults and 116 larvae from eight villages in peri-Iquitos. Of these, 191 adults and 111 larvae were identified by COI sequencing; all were Ny. dunhami. Three Ny. dunhami were infected with P. falciparum, and one with P. vivax, all collected from one village on one night. Ny. dunhami larvae were collected from natural and artificial water bodies, and their presence was positively associated with other Anophelinae larvae and amphibians, and negatively associated with people living within 250m. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Of Nuneztovari Complex species, we identified only Ny. dunhami across multiple years in eight peri-Iquitos localities. This study is, to our knowledge, the first report of natural infection of molecularly identified Ny. dunhami with Plasmodium. We advocate the use of molecular identification methods in this region to monitor Ny. dunhami and other putative secondary malaria vectors to more precisely evaluate their importance in malaria transmission.

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol target attainment in patients with stable or acute coronary heart disease in the Philippines: Results from the Dyslipidemia international study II

Objective@#To quantify the extent of hyperlipidemia and its treatment in patients with stable coronary heart disease (CHD) or an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the Philippines.@*Methods@#The Dyslipidemia International Study (DYSIS) II was an observational, multinational study conducted in patients aged ≥18 years with stable CHD or being hospitalized with an ACS. A full lipid profile was evaluated at baseline, and for the ACS cohort, at 4 months after discharge from hospital. Achievement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets and the use of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) were assessed.@*Results@#A total of 232 patients were enrolled from 10 centers in the Philippines, 184 with stable CHD and 48 being hospitalized with an ACS. The mean LDL-C level for the CHD patients was 88.0±40.1 mg/dL, with 33.3% achieving the target of <70 mg/dL recommended for very high-risk patients. For the ACS cohort, the mean LDL-C level was 109.0±48.5 mg/dL, with target attainment of 25.0%. The majority of the CHD cohort was being treated with LLT (97.3%), while 55.3% of the ACS patients were receiving LLT prior to hospitalization, rising to 100.0% at follow-up. There was little use of non-statins.@*Conclusions@#For these very high-risk patients from the Philippines, LDL-C target attainment was poor. Opportunities for better monitoring and treatment of these subjects are being missed.

Genetic polymorphisms in NAT1, NAT2, GSTM1, GSTP1 and GSTT1 and susceptibility to colorectal cancer among Filipinos

@#Objectives. Polymorphisms in metabolic genes which alter rates of bioactivation and detoxification have been shown to modulate susceptibility to colorectal cancer. This study sought to evaluate the colorectal cancer risk from environmental factors and to do polymorphism studies on genes that code for Phase I and II xenobiotic metabolic enzymes among Filipino colorectal cancer patients and matched controls. Methods. A total of 224 colorectal cancer cases and 276 controls from the Filipino population were genotyped for selected polymorphisms in GSTM1, GSTP1, GSTT1, NAT1 and NAT2. Medical and diet histories, occupational exposure and demographic data were also collected for all subject participants.Results. Univariate logistic regression of non-genetic factors identified exposure to UV (sunlight) (OR 1.99, 95% CI: 1.16-3.39) and wood dust (OR 2.66, 95% CI: 1.21-5.83) and moldy food exposure (OR 1.61, 95% CI:1.11-2.35) as risk factors; while the NAT2*6B allele (recessive model OR 1.51, 95% CI :1.06-2.16; dominant model OR 1.87, 95% CI: 1.05-3.33) and homozygous genotype (OR 2.19, 95% CI: 1.19-4.03) were found to be significant among the genetic factors. After multivariate logistic regression of both environmental and genetic factors, only UV radiation exposure (OR 2.08, 95% CI: 1.21-3.58) and wood dust exposure (OR 2.08, 95% CI: 0.95-5.30) remained to be significantly associated with increasing colorectal cancer risk in the study population.Conclusion. This study demonstrated that UV sunlight and wood dust exposure play a greater role in influencing colorectal cancer susceptibility than genotype status from genetic polymorphisms of the GST and the NAT` genes.

The prevalence of CYP2D6 Gene Polymorphisms among Filipinos and their use as biomarkers for lung cancer risk

Objectives@#The highly polymorphic nature of the CYP2D6 gene and its central role in the metabolism of commonly used drugs make it an ideal candidate for pharmacogenetic screening. This study aims to determine the prevalence of CYP2D6 polymorphisms among Filipinos and their association to lung cancer. @*Method@#Forty seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CYP2D6 gene were genotyped from DNA samples of 115 cases with lung cancer and age- and sex-matched 115 controls. @*Results@#Results show that 18 out of 47 polymorphisms have significant genotypic variability (>1% for at least 2 genotypes). No variant is associated with lung cancer. However, rs1135840, rs16947 and rs28360521, were found to be highly variable among Filipinos. @*Conclusion@#This study demonstrated that CYP2D6 polymorphisms are present among Filipinos, which, although not found to be associated with lung cancer, can be useful biomarkers for future pharmacogenetic studies. The SNP rs16947 is found to be associated with cancer and timolol-induced bradycardia; the SNP rs1135840, on the other hand, is only shown to be linked with cancer. The genetic variant rs28360521 is known to be associated with low-dose aspirin-induced lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Cholinesterase inhibitory activity and structure elucidation of a new phytol derivative and a new cinnamic acid ester from Pycnanthus angolensis

ABSTRACT The leaves of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb., Myristicaceae, are used as memory enhancer and anti-ageing in Nigerian ethnomedicine. This study aimed at evaluating the cholinesterase inhibitory property as well as isolates the bioactive compounds from the plant. The acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory potentials of extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds were evaluated by colorimetric and TLC bioautographic assay techniques. The extract inhibited both enzymes with activity increasing with purification, ethyl acetate fraction being most active fraction at 65.66 ± 1.06% and 49.38 ± 1.66% against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, respectively while the supernatant had 77.44 ± 1.18 inhibition against acetylcholinesterase. Two new bioactive compounds, (2E, 18E)-3,7,11,15,18-pentamethylhenicosa-2,18-dien-1-ol (named eluptol) and [12-(4-hydroxy-3-methyl-oxo-cyclopenta-1,3-dien-1yl)-11-methyl-dodecyl](E)-3-(3,4-dimethylphenyl)prop-2-enoate (named omifoate A) were isolated from the plant with IC50 of 22.26 µg/ml (AChE), 34.61 µg/ml (BuChE) and 6.51 µg/ml (AChE), 9.07 µg/ml (BuChE) respectively. The results showed that the plant has cholinesterase inhibitory activity which might be responsible for its memory enhancing action, thus justifying its inclusion in traditional memory enhancing preparations.

Raloxifene neutralizes bone brittleness induced by anti-remodeling treatment and increases fatigue life through non-cell mediated mechanisms / El raloxifeno invierte fragilidad ósea inducida por el tratamiento anti-remodelación y aumenta la resistencia a la fatiga a través de mecanismos mediados no celulares

Pre-clinical data have shown that tissue level effects stemming from bisphosphonateinduced suppression of bone remodeling can result in bone that is stronger yet more brittle. Raloxifene has been shown to reduce bone brittleness through non-cellular mechanisms. The goal of this work was to test the hypothesis that raloxifene can reverse the bone brittleness resulting from bisphosphonate treatment. Dog and mouse bone from multiple bisphosphonate dosing experiments were soaked in raloxifene and then assessed for mechanical properties. Mice treated with zoledronate in vivo had lower post-yield mechanical properties compared to controls. Raloxifene soaking had significant positive effects on select mechanical properties of bones from both vehicle and zoledronate treated mice. Although the effects were blunted in zoledronate bones relative to vehicle, the soaking was sufficient to normalize properties to control levels. Additional studies showed that raloxifene-soaked bones had a significant positive effect on cycles to failure (+114%) compared to control-soaked mouse bone. Finally, raloxifene soaking significantly improved select properties of ribs from dogs treated for 3 years with alendronate. These data show that ex vivo soaking in raloxifene can act through non-cellular mechanisms to enhance mechanical properties of bone previously treated with bisphosphonate. We also document that the positive effects of raloxifene soaking extend to enhancing fatigue properties of bone. (AU)

Los datos preclínicos han demostrado que los efectos a nivel de tejido que se derivan de la supresión del remodelado óseo inducida por bifosfonatos puede dar como resultado un hueso que es más fuerte pero más frágil. Está comprobado que el raloxifeno reduce la fragilidad ósea a través de mecanismos no celulares. El objetivo de este trabajo fue probar la hipótesis de que el raloxifeno puede revertir la fragilidad ósea resultante del tratamiento con bifosfonatos. Se emplearon huesos de perro y ratón de múltiples experimentos con diferentes dosis de bifosfonatos los cuales fueron sumergidos en raloxifeno y luego se evaluaron sus propiedades mecánicas. Ratones tratados con zoledronato in vivo mostraron propiedades mecánicas post-rendimiento más bajas en comparación con los controles. Luego de sumergirlos en raloxifeno se observaron efectos positivos significativos en algunas propiedades biomecánicas tanto en los huesos de ratones tratados con vehículo como con zoledronato. Aunque los efectos se atenuaron en los huesos tratados con zoledronato en relación con los tratados con vehículo, el raloxifeno fue suficiente para normalizar las propiedades a niveles basales. Estudios adicionales mostraron que los huesos sumergidos en raloxifeno tuvieron un efecto positivo significativo en los ciclos de fractura (+ 114%) en comparación con los huesos de ratón sumergido en vehículo. Finalmente, el raloxifeno mejoró significativamente las propiedades de costillas de perros tratados durante 3 años con alendronato. Estos datos muestran que la inclusión ex vivo en raloxifeno puede actuar a través de mecanismos no celulares para mejorar las propiedades mecánicas de huesos previamente tratado con bifosfonatos. También documentamos que los efectos positivos del raloxifeno mejoran las propiedades de fatiga del hueso. (AU)

Non-Invasive Imaging of Preoperative Mapping of Superficial Veins in Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

No abstract available.