Bioremediation of tannery wastewater using UV-treated bacteria in the free and immobilized form

Aims@#Heavy metals are significant environmental pollutants and toxic to life and chromium (Cr) (VI) is one of them being discharged in the environment due to many human activities. The leather industry uses Cr(VI) salt in the tanning process, which is discharged untreated and becomes a source of many diseases. The use of microbes to remove metals is a cost-effective and clean method. The present study aims to isolate local and native microbes for Cr(VI) removal from tannery wastewater and enhance their capacity to bioremediate the tannery wastewater. Further, efficiency in free and immobilized forms was also checked.@*Methodology and results@#Microbes were isolated from a local tannery wastewater outlet and after many rounds of minimum inhibitory concentration, and concentration of 500 µg/mL was found to be that concentration at which microbes could survive, above which they died. The sequencing of 16S rRNA and its analysis showed that it was closely related to Staphylococcus saprophyticus and in the given study, it was named B6. At 37 °C, pH 7.5 and 120 h of incubation, it removed 77% Cr(VI) from the reaction mixture. B6 was exposed to UV to obtain mutant. Exposure of 15 min to a UV lamp gave mutant MB6, which showed a removal capacity of 77% after 72 h only. Cr(VI) removal capacity of the mutant was then analyzed in the free and attached form where coal and sodium alginate were used as solid surfaces. Mutants immobilized on coal showed 91% Cr(VI) removal after 96 h, while sodium alginate showed 58% Cr(VI) removal in 120 h, thus showing coal as a more effective surface for adsorption.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#Our present study shows the use of cheap and environmentally friendly methods to remediate tannery wastewater, which is a big problem in a country like Pakistan. Pakistan is the second largest producer of leather but lacks a wastewater treatment facility. So, this method offers in-situ wastewater treatment, which can be further enhanced in different ways.

Effects of latroeggtoxin-VI on dopamine and α-synuclein in PC12 cells and the implications for Parkinson's disease

Background Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by death of dopaminergic neurons leading to dopamine deficiency, excessive α-synuclein facilitating Lewy body formation, etc. Latroeggtoxin-VI (LETX-VI), a proteinaceous neurotoxin discovered from the eggs of spider L. tredecimguttatus, was previously found to promote the synthesis and release of PC12 cells, showing a great potential as a drug candidate for PD. However, the relevant mechanisms have not been understood completely. The present study explored the mechanism underlying the effects of LETX-VI on dopamine and α-synuclein of PC12 cells and the implications for PD. Results After PC12 cells were treated with LETX-VI, the level of dopamine was significantly increased in a dose-dependent way within a certain range of concentrations. Further mechanism analysis showed that LETX-VI upregulated the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and L-dopa decarboxylase to enhance the biosynthesis of dopamine, and downregulated that of monoamine oxidase B to reduce the degradation of dopamine. At the same time, LETX-VI promoted the transport and release of dopamine through modulating the abundance and/or posttranslational modification of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) and dopamine transporter (DAT). While the level of dopamine was increased by LETX-VI treatment, α-synuclein content was reduced by the spider toxin. α-Synuclein overexpression significantly decreased the dopamine level and LETX-VI efficiently alleviated the inhibitory action of excessive α-synuclein on dopamine. In the MPTP-induced mouse model of PD, application of LETX-VI ameliorated parkinsonian behaviors of the mice, and reduced the magnitude of MPTP-induced α-synuclein upregulation and TH downregulation. In addition, LETX-VI displayed neuroprotective effects by inhibiting MPTP-induced decrease in the numbers of TH-positive and Nissl-stained neurons in mouse brain tissues. Conclusions All the results demonstrate that LETX-VI promotes the synthesis and release of dopamine in PC12 cells via multiple mechanisms including preventing abnormal α-synuclein accumulation, showing implications in the prevention and treatment of PD.

Impact of Climate Change on Farmer’s Vulnerability in Different Altitude Regions of Anantnag District of Kashmir, Indian Himalayas

Agriculture is vital to India's economy. Climate hazards and amplifying factors make farmers vulnerable. Climatic volatility threatens agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. Climate instability and climate change disrupt food supply, accessibility, and quality. This research assessed the farmers’ vulnerability in Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir, using a multi-stage sampling technique with 120 farmers across three altitudinal strata. The socio-economic analysis indicated that majority of the respondents in the study area belonged to middle age group, 94 per cent of them received some education, majority (48.4%) were having annual income of rupees (0.8-2.1 lakh), and majority (64.7%) had marginal land ownership of less than (0.29 ha). The evaluation uses 11, 14, and 6 indicators to measure exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. Pahalgam and Larnoo, which are in higher altitudinal zones, had higher vulnerability, while Vessu and Anantnag, in lower altitudinal zones, had lower vulnerability. The Climate Vulnerability Index ranged from 0.86 in high-altitude areas to 0.29 in low-altitude areas. Exposure (0.72) plays an important role in ranking high altitude regions at the first position, followed by sensitivity (0.47) and adaptive capacity (0.33). The findings highlighted the need for government strategies to lessen farmers' climate change vulnerability. Policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable farming and climate-smart practices can enhance farmers' climate change awareness and boost agricultural growth.

Carcinoma tipo-linfoepitelioma pulmonar con expresión de virus de Epstein-Barr y PD-L1 / Pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma with ex pression of Epstein-Barr virus and PD-L1

Resumen El carcinoma tipo-linfoepitelioma pulmonar es una variante rara de carcinoma de células no pequeñas de pulmón, representa aproximadamente 0.7% de todos los casos. Está usualmente asociado con la infección por el virus de Epstein-Barr y es más prevalente en el Sureste de Asia; sin embargo, es extremadamente raro en Améri ca Latina. Informamos el caso de un hombre de 65 años de edad con un carcinoma tipo-linfoepitelioma pulmo nar, que se presentó con tos, disnea y pérdida de peso. La TAC de tórax mostró nódulo mal definido localizado en el pulmón derecho. Se realizó biopsia transtorácica de la lesión, y el estudio microscópico reveló células gran des poligonales dispuestas en mantos, infiltrados por abundantes linfocitos y células plasmáticas, alrededor del intersticio. Las células neoplásicas fueron positivas para citoqueratina 5/6 y p63, y negativas para Napsina A y el factor de transcripción tiroideo 1 (TTF-1). La expre sión de PD-L1 fue positivo (aproximadamente 100%) por inmunohistoquímica; así como el núcleo de las células neoplásicas mediante hibridación in situ para el RNA codificado por el virus de Epstein-Barr (EBER-ISH). El paciente recibió seis ciclos de un esquema combinado de quimioterapia basado en platino (gencitabina/cisplatino) más durvalumab. Presentó progresión de la enfermedad y finalmente murió 9 meses después del diagnóstico.

Abstract Pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma is a rare type of non-small cell lung cancer, it accounts for approximately 0.7% of all cases. It is usually associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection and is more prevalent in Southeast Asia; however, it is extremely rare in Latin America. We present a 65-year-old man with a primary pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma, who presented with cough, dyspnoea and weight loss. Com puter tomographic scan of the thorax showed a nodule localized in the right lung. A transthoracic biopsy of the lung lesion was made and the microscopic obser vation revealed large polygonal cells that proliferated in a nest pattern with infiltration by lymphocytes and plasma cells around the interstitium. The tumour cells were positive for citokeratin 5/6 and p63, and negative for Napsin A and thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1). PD-L1 expression was positive (approximately 100%) in the immunohistochemical study, and the nuclei of the tumour cells were positive for EBV-encoded small RNA in-situ hybridization (EBER-ISH). The patient underwent six cycles of platinum-based combination (gencitabine/ carboplatin) chemotherapy plus durvalumab. He pre sented progression of the disease and finally he died 9 months after diagnosis.

La batalla decisiva contra la fiebre tifoidea en Santiago de Chile en el siglo XX / The decisive battle against typhoid fever in Santiago de Chile in the twentieth century

Hasta 1983, cuando alcanzaba la increíble tasa de 118 casos por 100.000 habitantes, la fiebre tifoidea era la peor amenaza infecciosa en Santiago, Chile, ciudad que figuraba junto a Ciudad de México, El Cairo y Bombay, como una de las con mayor endemia en el mundo. El Ministerio de Salud respondió formando el Comité de Tifoidea de Chile, con participación de expertos nacionales y del grupo de Myron Levine, de la Universidad de Maryland, que llevó a cabo ingeniosas investigaciones, culpando al río Mapocho, cuyas aguas contaminadas con Salmonella typhi regaban los predios agrícolas vecinos, conformando así un ciclo largo de infección. Las vacunas antitíficas ensayadas (oral Ty21a atenuada y polisacárido capsular Vi inyectable) no mostraron eficacia, los portadores crónicos no se trataron, pero una campaña sanitaria a través de la televisión contribuyó decisivamente a mejorar los hábitos higiénicos de la población, fortalecida por el pánico que causó la llegada del cólera en 1991, y la fiebre tifoidea prácticamente desapareció del escenario.

Until 1983, when reached the incredible frequency of 118 cases for 100.000 habitants, typhoid fever was the worst infectious threat in Santiago, Chile, city that appeared next to Mexico City, Cairo and Bombay, as one of the most endemic in the world. The Ministry of Health responded with the creation of The Chilean Typhoid Committee, with the participation of national experts and Myron Levine's group, which carried out ingenious investigations blaming the Mapocho River, whose waters contaminated with Salmonella typhi irrigated the neighboring farms, thus conforming a long cycle of infection. Typhoid vaccines tested (strain Ty 21a oral and Vi capsular polysaccharide) did not show efficacy, chronic carriers were not treated, but a health campaign on television made a decisive contribution to improving hygiene habits of the population, strengthened by the panic caused by the arrival of cholera in 1991, and typhoid fever practically disappeared from the stage.

Rhodojaponin VI indirectly targets Cav2.2 channels via N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein to alleviate neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain is a chronic disease that severely afflicts the life and emotional status of patients, but currently available treatments are often ineffective. Novel therapeutic targets for the alleviation of neuropathic pain are urgently needed. Rhodojaponin VI, a grayanotoxin from Rhododendron molle, showed remarkable antinociceptive efficacy in models of neuropathic pain, but its biotargets and mechanisms are unknown. Given the reversible action of rhodojaponin VI and the narrow range over which its structure can be modified, we perforwmed thermal proteome profiling of the rat dorsal root ganglion to determine the protein target of rhodojaponin VI. N-Ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion (NSF) was confirmed as the key target of rhodojaponin VI through biological and biophysical experiments. Functional validation showed for the first time that NSF facilitated trafficking of the Cav2.2 channel to induce an increase in Ca2+ current intensity, whereas rhodojaponin VI reversed the effects of NSF. In conclusion, rhodojaponin VI represents a unique class of analgesic natural products targeting Cav2.2 channels via NSF.

Surgical treatment of craniovertebral stenosis in two siblings with type vi mucopolysaccharidosis / Tratamento cirúrgico de estenose craneo-vertebral em dois irmãos com mucopolisacaredose tipo vi / Tratamiento quirúrgico de estenosis craneo-vertebral en dos hermanos con mucopolisacaridosis tipo vi

ABSTRACT We describe two cases of surgical treatment of craniovertebral stenosis in preschool-aged brothers with Maroteaux-Lamy (MPS type VI) syndrome. The older brother was diagnosed with MPS during her second pregnancy. Literature describing familial cases of the disease and the treatment strategy in young children with MPS type VI and spinal canal stenosis is scarce. Based on the presented observations, indications, surgical treatment approaches, and perioperative management of patients with mucopolysac-charidosis are suggested. MPS type VI may have familial forms of the disease and the course of craniovertebral stenosis is similar in siblings. Surgical treatment of craniovertebral stenosis in these patients should be performed timely. We adhere to the point of view of early treatment of craniovertebral stenosis in patients with MPS before irreversible spinal cord dysfunction develops. Level of Evidence IV; Prognostic Studies - Investigating the Effect of a Patient Characteristic on the Outcome of Disease and Case series.

Resumo: Descreve-se dois casos de tratamento cirúrgico de estenose craniovertebral entre irmãos em idade pré-escolar com síndrome de Maroteaux-Lamy (MPS tipo VI). O irmão mais velho foi diagnosticado com MPS durante a segunda gravidez. A literatura que descreve casos familiares da doença e a estratégia de tratamento em crianças pequenas com MPS tipo VI e estenose do canal raquidiano é escassa. Com base nas observações apresentadas, foram sugeridas indicações, abordagens de tratamento cirúrgico e manejo perioperatório de pacientes com mucopolissacaridose. A MPS tipo VI pode apresentar formas familiares da doença e o curso da estenose craniovertebral é semelhante entre irmãos. O tratamento cirúrgico da estenose craniovertebral nesses pacientes deve ser realizado em tempo hábil. Adere-se ao conceito de tratamento precoce da estenose craniovertebral em pacientes com MPS antes que se desenvolva uma disfunção irreversível da medula espinhal. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudos Prognósticos - Investigando o Efeito de uma Característica de Paciente sobre o Resultado de uma Doença e de uma Série de Casos.

Resumen: Se describen dos casos de tratamiento quirúrgico de estenosis craneovertebral en hermanos de edad preescolar con síndrome de Maroteaux-Lamy (MPS tipo VI). Al hermano mayor se le diagnosticó MPS durante el segundo embarazo. La bibliografía que expone casos familiares de la enfermedad y la estrategia de tratamiento en niños pequeños con MPS tipo VI y estenosis del tubo vertebral es escasa. Sobre el fundamento de las observaciones presentadas, se sugieren indicaciones, enfoques de tratamiento quirúrgico y manejo perioperatorio de pacientes con mucopolisacaridosis. La MPS tipo VI puede presentar formas familiares de la enfermedad y el curso de la estenosis craneovertebral es semejante en los hermanos. El tratamiento quirúrgico de la estenosis craneovertebral en estos pacientes debe realizarse tempranamente. Se adhiere al planteamiento del tratamiento precoz de la estenosis craneovertebral en pacientes con MPS anticipándose al desarrollo de una disfunción irreversible de la médula espinal. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Estudios Pronósticos - Investigando el Efecto de una Característica del Paciente en el Resultado de la Enfermedad y Series de Casos.

Concordancia de la clasificación VI-RADS® y la patología en espécimen de cistectomía en un centro oncológico colombiano / Concordance of VI-RADS® classification and pathology in cystectomy specimen in a Colombian oncology center

Objetivo: El objetivo principal de este estudio es evaluar la concordancia del reporte de la clasificación Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS®) en resonancia magnética (RM) y el reporte de patología del espécimen de cistectomía y definir si este estudio puede considerarse un estándar en el proceso de estadificación en el paciente con diagnóstico clínico de cáncer de vejiga. Método: Estudio analítico retrospectivo de corte transversal, se incluyeron 34 pacientes llevados a cistectomía radical o parcial a quienes se realizó RM multiparamétrica prequirúrgica y se realizó un estudio de concordancia entre la clasificación VI-RADS® y el resultado de patología. Todas las resonancias fueron leídas y revisadas por un único radiólogo institucional. Resultados: El estudio de concordancia como resultado principal mostró un área bajo la curva para VI-RADS® ≥ 4 y resultado patológico positivo para compromiso muscular de 0,84, con una sensibilidad del 89.3% y especificidad del 50%, demostrando la adecuada precisión diagnóstica de la prueba. Conclusiones: La clasificación VI-RADS® es una herramienta de diagnóstico caracterizada por un excelente rendimiento diagnóstico cuando se evalúa la concordancia con el reporte de la patología final en el espécimen de la cistectomía.

Objective: The main objective of this study is to assess the concordance of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS®) classification report and the pathology report of the cystectomy specimen and to define whether this study can be considered a standard in the staging process in patients with a diagnosis of bladder cancer. Method: Retrospective, cross-sectional analytical study that included 34 patients undergoing radical or partial cystectomy who underwent pre-surgical multiparametric MRI. A concordance study was performed between the VI-RADS® classification and the pathology result. All MRIs were read and reviewed by a single institutional radiologist. Results: The concordance study as the main result showed an area under the curve for VI-RADS® ≥ 4 and a positive pathological result for muscle involvement of 0.84, with a sensitivity of 89.3% and a specificity of 50%, demonstrating the adequate diagnostic accuracy of the test. Conclusions: The VI-RADS® classification is a diagnostic tool characterized by excellent diagnostic performance when evaluating the agreement with the final pathology report in the cystectomy specimen.

Resección laparoscópica de dilatación quística congénita del conducto cístico en un paciente pediátrico / Laparoscopic Resection of Congenital Cystic Dilatation of the Cystic Duct in a Pediatric Patient

Introducción: La dilatación quística congénita del conducto cístico o dilatación tipo VI de la clasificación de Todani, es una variante rara de dilatación congénita de la vía biliar. Objetivo: Explicar la metodología diagnóstica y terapéutica empleada en un caso pediátrico con esta entidad, y destacar la ventaja de su tratamiento oportuno por vía mínimamente invasiva. Presentación del caso: Paciente masculino de 6 años con sintomatología sugestiva de enfermedad vesicular, referido desde la atención secundaria por sospecha de quiste de colédoco. En el ultrasonido se detectaba una lesión ecolúcida adyacente a la vesícula biliar, sin dilatación de las vías biliares intrahepáticas. Se realizó colangiografía laparoscópica y se confirmó una dilatación quística aislada del conducto cístico, la cual se resecó por vía laparoscópica, igualmente. Conclusiones: La incidencia de la dilatación quística del conducto cístico es muy baja y se puede presentar en niños con sintomatología variable. El diagnóstico generalmente es tardío, puede sospecharse mediante la ecografía abdominal y confirmarse con la colangiografía laparoscópica, aun en ausencia de otros medios diagnósticos más modernos. Su reconocimiento y correcta clasificación permiten realizar el tratamiento quirúrgico definitivo exitosamente, de preferencia por vía laparoscópica(AU)

Introduction: Congenital cystic duct dilatation, or Todani classification type VI dilatation, is a rare variant of congenital bile duct dilatation. Objective: To explain the diagnostic and therapeutic methodology used in a pediatric case with this entity, and to highlight the advantage of its timely minimally invasive treatment. Case presentation: Six-year-old male patient with symptoms suggestive of gallbladder disease, referred from secondary care for suspicion of a common bile duct cyst. Ultrasound showed an echolucent lesion adjacent to the gallbladder, without dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Laparoscopic cholangiography was performed and confirmed an isolated cystic dilatation of the cystic duct, which was resected laparoscopically, likewise. Conclusions: The incidence of cystic dilatation of the cystic duct is very low and may present in children with variable symptomatology. Diagnosis is usually late, can be suspected by abdominal ultrasound and confirmed by laparoscopic cholangiography, even in the absence of other more modern diagnostic tools. Its recognition and correct classification permit a successful definitive surgical treatment, preferably laparoscopically(AU)

A full thickness macular hole following severe preeclampsia: a case report / Buraco macular de espessura total após pré-eclâmpsia severa

ABSTRACT We report a case of a young woman presenting with decreased vision in the right eye. One month earlier, she developed severe preeclampsia at 22 weeks of gestation and the pregnancy was terminated. Fundus examination revealed cotton wool spots and hard exudates in the macula bilaterally, with a yellow spot at the center of the fovea in the right eye. Optic coherence tomography showed a full thickness macular hole with elevated cystoid edges in the right eye. The patient was diagnosed with macular hole secondary to preeclampsia and followed up for spontaneous closure. One month after the first visit, surgical intervention was suggested due to declining vision. Three months later, the patient agreed to surgery. She underwent pars plana vitrectomy with a temporal inverted internal limiting membrane flap and C3F8 endotamponade, which provided anatomic and visual improvement.

RESUMO Relatamos o caso de uma jovem com diminuição da visão do olho direito. Um mês antes do primeiro atendimento, a paciente desenvolveu pré-eclâmpsia grave com 22 semanas de gestação e interrompeu a gravidez. O exame de fundo revelou manchas algodonosas e exsudatos duros na mácula em ambos os olhos, com uma mancha amarela no centro da fóvea do olho direito. A tomografia de coerência óptica mostrou um buraco macular de espessura total com bordas cistoides elevadas no olho direito. A paciente foi diagnosticada com buraco macular secundário a pré-eclâmpsia e acompanhada para fechamento espontâneo. Um mês após a primeira visita, foi-lhe sugerida a intervenção cirúrgica, devido a um declínio em sua visão. Três meses depois, o paciente aprovou a cirurgia e foi submetida a uma vitrectomia via pars plana com retalho invertido de membrana limitante interna e tampão interno C3F8, o que proporcionou uma melhora anatômica e visual.

Risk estimation for lung cancer caused by indoor radon exposure in China based on EPA/BEIR-VI model / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To estimate the attribution share of residents′lung cancer caused by indoor Radon.Methods:Based on the 2015 lung cancer mortality, all-cause mortality from China together with nationally representative smoking rate and the average indoor radon concentration of 30 Bq/m 3, the relatively authoritative and applicable EPA/BEIR-VI risk model was used to predict the lung cancer mortality caused by indoor radon exposure. Results:The excess relative risk (ERR) of indoor radon-related lung cancer mortality among the male non-smokers is higher than that of smokers. For the age-group above 50, the male smokers and male non-smokers have the highest ERR values, which were 0.511 and 0.230, respectively. Assuming the exposure incurred starting at age 0 with the same radon concentration, the lifetime risk of men and women non-smokers is higher than that of the smokers of the same gender. The higher the radon concentration, the higher the lifetime risk of lung cancer. Assuming that the radon concentration level in China is 30 Bq/m 3, the number of deaths from indoor radon-related lung cancer in 2015 is about 55 512. According to this, about 6.62% of lung cancers are caused by indoor radon exposure. If we assume that radon concentration levels are 40 Bq/m 3and 70 Bq/m 3 in China, approximately 8.82% and 15.38% of lung cancer deaths can be attributed to indoor radon exposure. Conclusions:Indoor radon exposure is an important environmental factor that causes Chinese residential lung cancer. Effective measures should be taken to prevent and control the increasing indoor radon levels. In order to accurately assess risk of lung cancer morality caused by indoor radon, more detailed data such as the indoor radon level in China are needed.

Optimization of conditions for preparation of amidoximated polyacrylonitrile membrane for U (VI) adsorption / 中国辐射卫生

Objective To optimize conditions for the preparation of amidoximated polyacrylonitrile (PAO) membrane for U (VI) adsorption that can be easily recycled and reused. Methods Using polyacrylonitrile powder as a raw material, the PAO membrane was prepared using the nonsolvent-induced phase separation method under different conditions. The effects of the polyacrylonitrile concentration and temperature and duration of amidoximation in the preparation of casting solution as well as alkali treatment before adsorption on the U (VI) adsorption performance of PAO membrane were investigated. Results Alkali treatment significantly improved the U (VI) adsorption performance of PAO membrane, and the temperature and duration of alkali treatment affected the U (VI) adsorption capacity. The optimal alkali treatment conditions were 0.1 mol/L NaOH, 80 min, and 60℃. The polyacrylonitrile concentration and temperature and duration of amidoximation in the preparation of casting solution influenced the adsorption performance of PAO membrane. The optimal preparation conditions were 10wt% polyacrylonitrile and amidoximation at 65℃ for 18 h. Under the optimal preparation and alkali treatment conditions, the U (VI) adsorption capacity of PAO membrane reached 255 mg/g. Conclusion The PAO membrane has the advantages of simple preparation, high adsorption capacity, and easy recycling and reuse, which can be used as an ideal material for adsorbing U (VI) in wastewater.

Clinico - Radiological Results of Tibial Bicondylar Fractures Managed with Ilizarov Technique with or without Minimal Internal Fixation

@#Introduction: Tibial bicondylar fractures are difficult fractures to treat and are usually associated with complications. Materials and methods: Thirty-five patients with Schatzker type V and VI fractures were managed from June 2016 to July 2018 with Ilizarov technique. The mean age of the patients was 46.5 ± 8.9 years, with 28 male and seven female patients. Sixteen patients had Schatzker type V fracture and the remaining had type VI. The functional outcome was assessed by using Modified functional evaluation system by Karlstrom - Olerud and the radiological outcome by Rasmussen's Radiological Score (RRS). Results: All patients achieved radiological union at a mean duration of 16 weeks for type 5 and 17 weeks for type 6 however, full weight-bearing was allowed at a mean of 18 weeks (14 - 22 weeks). Functional results were excellent in 24 cases, good in 10 and poor in one. Most patients achieved functional range of motion at the knee joint (average flexion 1280 ) except one, who had a flexion of less than 1100 . One patient with a delayed union united after bone marrow injection. Other complications included pin tract infections in 9 cases, axial malalignment of less than 100 in 4 cases and a prominent screw in one. Conclusion: Percutaneous restoration of articular anatomy and a ring external fixation with or without minimal internal fixation is an excellent method of treatment in this group of fractures caused by high energy trauma and with a usual association of severe comminution and a poor soft tissue envelope.

Estudio descriptivo de pacientes con cirrosis hepática de etiología viral, en la provincia de Matanzas / Descriptive study of patients with viral-etiology liver cirrhosis in the province of Matanzas

RESUMEN Introducción: la cirrosis hepática de etiología viral representa un impactante problema de salud a nivel mundial, no solo por su elevada tasa de prevalencia, sino por los costos generados en la atención médica. Objetivos: determinar el comportamiento de los pacientes cirróticos, de etiología viral, en la provincia de Matanzas. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo-retrospectivo en 47 pacientes con cirrosis hepática de etiología viral, atendidos en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario Clínico Quirúrgico Comandante Faustino Pérez Hernández, de Matanzas, de enero de 2016 a enero de 2018. Los resultados de las variables analizadas se expusieron en tablas de doble entrada. Resultados: el 68,1 % de los pacientes correspondió a cirrosis por virus C. Predominaron los mayores de 50 años, con carga viral entre 4-6,9 log10, y atendidos en régimen ambulatorio. En el 57,4 % se detectaron signos endoscópicos de hipertensión portal, que se corroboraron en el doppler hepático. La ascitis asociada a diferentes sepsis fueron las complicaciones más registradas. El 55,4 % fue clasificado como Child-Pugh A, y el 76,6 % en etapa clínica compensada. Conclusiones: el diagnóstico y seguimiento de la cirrosis hepática viral sigue siendo un verdadero reto para la comunidad médica. De ahí los esfuerzos que han de realizarse para su control desde las fases compensadas, para retardar la aparición de complicaciones (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: viral etiology liver cirrhosis is an impacting health problem around the world, not only because of its high prevalence rate but also because of the costs generated by its medical care. Objective: to determine the behavior of the patients with viral etiology liver cirrhosis in the province of Matanzas. Materials and methods: a descriptive-retrospective study was carried out in 47 patients with viral etiology liver cirrhosis treated in the service of Gastroenterology of the Hospital "Comandante Faustino Perez" of Matanzas, from January 2016 to January 2018. The results of the analyzed variables were shown in double-entry tables. Results: 68.1% of the patients presented cirrhosis caused by C virus, Patients elder 50 years old predominated, with 4-6.9 log10, treated in ambulatory regimen. Endoscopic signs of portal hypertension were found in 57.4%. It was corroborated with liver Doppler. Ascites associated to different sepsis were the most frequently registered complications. 55.4% were classified as Child-Pugh A, and 76.6% were in compensated clinical stage. Conclusions: viral liver cirrhosis diagnosis and follow-up is still a true challenge for the medical community, and hence the efforts that should be made to control it from the compensated stages to delay the appearance of complications (AU).

Knee and ankle disorders during functional gait in mucopolysaccharidosis type VI / Distúrbios articulares de joelho e tornozelo durante a marcha funcional na mucopolissacaridose tipo VI / Trastornos de la rodilla y el tobillo durante la marcha funcional en mucopolisacaridosis tipo VI

ABSTRACT To evaluate knee and ankle disorders during functional gait assessment in individuals with Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI). 19 subjects were included in this cross-sectional study and allocated in three groups according to age: Children Group (n=11); Adolescent Group (n=4); and Adult Group (n=4). Subphases of one gait cycle were analyzed: Initial contact; Medium support, and Pre-Balance. All volunteers with MPS VI presented greater knee and ankle flexion angles, in all gait subphases, when compared to the normal values defined by literature (p<0.05). Initial contact subphase: knee flexion angle ranging from 8.5º to 15º; Ankle = Child Group −23.73º ± 8.53º; Adolescent Group = −25º ± 11.22º; Adult Group = −27.75º ± 3.3º. Medium support subphase: Knee = Child Group 19.64º ± 10.47º; Adolescent Group 16.75º ± 10.34º; Adult Group = 21.25º ± 12.84º. Ankle = Child Group −18.82º ± 8.91º ± 8.53º; Adolescent Group = −16.5º ± 9.33º; Adult Group = −22.25º ± 4.19º. Pre-Balance subphase: Knee = Child Group 22.72º ± 13.49º; Adolescent Group 21.25º ± 7.97º; Adult Group = 27º ± 16.27º. Ankle = Child Group -15º ± 9.76º; Adolescent Group = −15.75º ± 5.31º; Adult Group = −14.75º ± 3.86º. In this study, MPS VI individuals presented hyperflexion of knee and ankle as the main joint disorders during functional gait, regardless of age.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar distúrbios articulares de joelho e tornozelo durante a marcha funcional na Mucopolissacaridose tipo VI (MPS VI). 19 indivíduos foram incluídos neste estudo transversal e alocados em três grupos de acordo com a idade: Grupo Crianças (n=11); Grupo Adolescentes (n=4); e Grupo Adultos (n=4). Foram analisadas as subfases de um ciclo da marcha: contato inicial; apoio médio e pré-balanço. Todos os voluntários com a MPS VI apresentaram maiores ângulos de flexão do joelho e tornozelo, em todas as subfases da marcha, quando comparados aos valores normais definidos pela literatura (p<0,05). Subfase contato inicial: ângulo de flexão do joelho variando de 8,5º a 15º; Tornozelo = Grupo Criança -23,73º ± 8,53º; Grupo Adolescente = -25º ± 11,22º; Grupo Adulto = -27,75º ± 3,3º. Subfase apoio médio: Joelho = Grupo Criança 19,64º ± 10,47º; Grupo Adolescente 16,75º ± 10,34º; Grupo Adulto = 21,25º ± 12,84º. Tornozelo = Grupo Criança -18,82º ± 8,91º ± 8,53º; Grupo Adolescente = -16,5º ± 9,33º; Grupo Adulto = -22,25º ± 4,19º. Subfase pré-balanço: Joelho = Grupo Criança 22,72º ± 13,49º; Grupo Adolescente 21,25º ± 7,97º; Grupo Adulto = 27º ± 16,27º. Tornozelo = Grupo Criança = -15º ± 9,76º; Grupo Adolescente = -15,75º ± 5,31º; Grupo Adulto = -14,75º ± 3,86º. Neste estudo, os indivíduos com MPS VI apresentaram hiperflexão do joelho e tornozelo como principais distúrbios articulares durante a marcha funcional, independentemente da idade.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los trastornos de la articulación de la rodilla y el tobillo durante la marcha funcional en mucopolisacaridosis tipo VI (MPS VI). En este estudio transversal participaron 19 personas, las cuales se asignaron a tres grupos según la edad: Grupo Niños (n=11); Grupo Adolescente (n=4); y Grupo Adulto (n=4). Se analizaron las subfases de un ciclo de marcha: contacto inicial; soporte mediano y balance previo. Todos los voluntarios con MPS VI tuvieron mayores ángulos de flexión de rodilla y tobillo en todas las subfases de la marcha en comparación con los valores normales definidos por la literatura (p<0,05). En la subfase de contacto inicial: ángulo de flexión de la rodilla varia de 8,5º a 15º; Tobillo = Grupo Niños -23,73º ± 8,53º; Grupo Adolescente = -25º ± 11,22º; Grupo Adulto = -27,75º ± 3,3º. En la subfase de soporte mediano: Rodilla = Grupo Niños 19,64º ± 10,47º; Grupo Adolescente 16,75º ± 10,34º; Grupo Adulto = 21,25º ± 12,84º. Tobillo = Grupo Niños -18,82º ± 8,91º ± 8,53º; Grupo Adolescente = -16,5º ± 9,33º; Grupo Adulto = -22,25º ± 4,19º. En la subfase de balance previo: Rodilla = Grupo Niños 22,72º ± 13,49º; Grupo Adolescente 21,25º ± 7,97º; Grupo Adulto = 27º ± 16,27º. Tobillo = Grupo Niños = -15º ± 9,76º; Grupo Adolescente = -15,75º ± 5,31º; Grupo Adulto = -14,75º ± 3,86º. En este estudio, los individuos con MPS VI presentaron hiperflexión de rodilla y tobillo como los principales trastornos articulares durante la marcha funcional independiente de la edad.

Methyl jasmonate stimulates the synthesis and accumulation of asperosaponin VI in the roots of Dipsacus asper / 药学学报

We investigated the effect of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on the content of asperosaponin VI and the expression of genes involved in its synthesis. Dipsacus aspero seedlings were treated with MeJA at different concentrations of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 μmol·L-1, and leaves and roots were sampled following treatment for 1, 3 and 5 days. The content of asperosaponin VI and superoxide anion in the roots, malondialdehyde (MDA) content in leaves and superoxide dismutase were determined. The results show that 150 μmol·L-1 MeJA significantly increased the accumulation of asperosaponin VI in roots. The content of asperosaponin VI was greatest after treatment for 3 days, and was 2.16 times higher than the control. After MeJA treatment, SOD activity decreased and MDA content increased in leaves. Moreover, superoxide anion content in roots increased. The expression of squalene epoxidase (DaSE1) and geranyl diphosphate synthase (DaGPS), key enzymes in the synthesis of asperosaponin VI, were up-regulated compared with the control group. These results indicate that an optimal concentration of 150 μmol·L-1 MeJA increases the accumulation of asperosaponin VI by up-regulating the expression of key enzymes involved in the synthesis of asperosaponin VI, which facilitates resistance to adversity stress stimulated by MeJA.

Systems pharmacology dissection of action mechanisms for herbs in osteoporosis treatment / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Osteoporosis has become the biggest cause of non-fatal health issue. Currently, the limitations of traditional anti-osteoporosis drugs such as long-term ill-effects and drug resistance, have raised concerns toward complementary and alternative therapies, particularly herbal medicines and their natural active compounds. Thus, this study aimed to provide an integrative analysis of active chemicals, drug targets and interacting pathways of the herbs for osteoporosis treatment. Methods: Here, we introduced a systematic pharmacology model, combining the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) screening model, drug targeting and network pharmacology, to probe into the therapeutic mechanisms of herbs in osteoporosis. Results: We obtained 86 natural compounds with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles and their 58 targets from seven osteoporosis-related herbs. Network analysis revealed that they probably synergistically work through multiple mechanisms, such as suppressing inflammatory response, maintaining bone metabolism or improving organism immunity, to benefit patients with osteoporosis. Furthermore, experimental results showed that all the five compounds (calycosin, asperosaponin VI, hederagenin, betulinic acid and luteolin) enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation in vitro, which corroborated the validity of this system pharmacology approach. Notably, gentisin and aureusidin among the identified compounds were first predicted to be associated with osteoporosis. Conclusion: Herbs and their natural compounds, being characterized as the classical combination therapies, might be engaged in multiple mechanisms to coordinately improve the osteoporosis symptoms. This work may contribute to offer novel strategies and clues for the therapy and drug discovery of osteoporosis and other complex diseases.

Outcome Analysis of Dual Plating in Management of Unstable Bicondylar Tibial Plateau Fracture - A Prospective Study

@#Introduction: Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures account for 10-30% of tibial plateau fractures. Despite recent advancements in the management of unstable bicondylar tibial plateau fractures, the outcomes are often poor. The present study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes and complications of internal fixation of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures with the dual plating using two incisions. Materials and methods: The present study included 30 patients (26 males; 4 females, mean age 35.6 years; range, 19 to 65 years) with bicondylar tibial plateau fractures who were treated with dual plating between January 2017 to August 2019. Out of 30 patients, 5 patients had Schatzker type (V) and 25 patients had Schatzker type (VI) bicondylar tibial plateau fracture. All patients were treated with dual plating using two incisions. In all patient’s similar standard physical rehabilitation therapy was followed. All complications including intra and post-operative were assessed and recorded. The patients were followed-up for over 24 months. Functional outcomes were assessed with Rasmussen’s functional grading system, Oxford knee score, and range of motion of knee joint. Radiological outcomes were evaluated using Rasmussen’s radiological scoring system. Result: All fractures united with a mean time of 18 weeks. The average knee range of motion was 1.5° - 130° (range: 0° - 10° for extension lag, range: 100° -135° for flexion). Mean Rasmussen's functional grading score at the final follow-up was 26.75. All patients showed excellent or good radiographic results according to Rasmussen’s radiological scoring with a mean score of 8.5 (range 6-10). The postoperative radiographs showed mean MPTA was 84.3° and the mean PPTA was 6.2°. In the present study, complications were encountered in five patients. However, there were no cases of secondary loss of reduction, failure of the implant, malunion, or non-union. Conclusion: The surgical treatment of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures with dual locking represents a significant treatment option and provides rigid fixation in these fractures with good functional and radiological outcomes.

Evaluation of Sample Preparation Procedures for Determination of Cr(VI) in Cr2O3 Pigments by Vis Spectrophotometry

Abstract Six sample preparation procedures were evaluated for selective extraction of Cr(VI) from commercial samples of chromium oxide green (Cr2O3) pigments prior to formation of its diphenylcarbazone complex [CrDPCO]- for determination by visible spectrophotometry: (I) water-soluble chromium; (II) EPA method 3060A without Mg2+; (III) EPA method 3060A with Mg2+; (IV) Na3PO4 based extraction; (V) method IRSA16 based on acidic extraction and; (VI) Na2CO3 based extraction. Evaluation of the influence of concomitant Cr(III) ions, time and stability of the [CrDPCO]- complex was investigated. Recoveries of soluble and insoluble Cr(VI) species were 86% and 80%, respectively, using procedure (VI). Direct calibration against aqueous standards prepared in the extraction medium was successful for Cr(VI) in the concentration range 0.05-1.50 μg L-1. Limits of detection and quantitation were 0.3 µg g-1 and 1.0 µg g-1, respectively, for 250 mg subsamples/25 mL. Procedure (VI) was applied to the analysis of four commercial samples of Cr2O3 pigments, three determined to have Cr(VI) within compliance limits below 1.0 µg g-1, but one at 16.6 ± 0.6 µg g-1, prohibiting use of this pigment in cosmetic formulations. This sample was conveniently employed to evaluate the accuracy of the method. The recommended procedure is simple and accurate and has been adopted by Tecpar's laboratory of Parana Institute of Technology (Curitiba, Brazil).