Comparison of psychosocial strengths and difficulties in children born through assisted reproductive technology versus naturally conceived children

Background: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is a set of medical interventions used to facilitate the conception process in couples suffering from fertility issues. ART encompasses several techniques, including ovulation induction (OI), artificial insemination, testicular sperm extraction (TESE), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This current study aimed to analyze the correlation between psychological strength and difficulties among children born by ART and normally conceived (NC) children. Methods: The study was conducted in a longitudinal retrospective fashion, in Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from December 2022 to June 2023. A total of 47 participants from the ART group and 50 participants from the NC group were selected as study subjects by purposive sampling technique. Data were gathered using a pre-designed questionnaire and analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 computer program. Results: The age range of the study participants was between 2 to 4 years old. A majority of the participants were female (53.2%), hailed from middle-class families (59.6%), lived in urban settings (42.6%), and identified as Muslim (72.3%). In terms of illnesses, a small proportion experienced physical ailments (6.4%) and psychiatric conditions (10.6%). Conclusions: Despite persistent worries regarding the potential adverse developmental effects on children conceived by ART, research findings suggest that such children do not exhibit noteworthy physical, psychological, or developmental challenges when compared to those conceived naturally.

Drug prescription awareness among dental students in Kerala: a survey of current knowledge and awareness

Background: Prescribing medicine is a core skill for dentists, impacting patient safety and requiring knowledge of medications, dosages, and risks. This study evaluates dental students' awareness of these critical aspects in Kerala, India. Methods: This study aimed to assess drug prescription awareness among dental students in Kerala, India, highlighting current knowledge, standard practices, and areas for improvement. Results: Dental pain emerged as the most commonly treated condition (57.7%), with Amoxicillin reigning as the antibiotic of choice (69.2%-76.3%). Textbooks reigned supreme as the primary source of prescription information (66.4%-58.3%), even as most participants (78.1%-72.4%) acknowledged the WHO prescribing guidelines. While interns demonstrably boasted greater confidence in their knowledge, nearly half of all participants grappled with a lack of confidence in drug dosage and frequency. Incorrect dosage stood out as the Achilles' heel of prescription practices (71.9%-77.6%). Strengths included awareness of the correct route of delivery (61.6%-74.4%) and adherence to WHO guidelines. Conclusions: Dental students in Kerala demonstrate fair drug prescription awareness but have gaps in knowledge regarding dosage, frequency, and duration. Textbooks are the primary information source, highlighting the need for more in-depth education and reliance on evidence-based resources. Targeted interventions focused on these areas could enhance prescribing practices and patient safety.

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in evaluation of vault prolapse

Background: Vault prolapse usually follows vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy and is usually associated with cystocele, rectocele and enterocele. Diagnosis is made clinically but magnetic resonance imaging can better detect enterocele than clinical finding.Methods: It was a prospective study over 3 years, so women presenting with vault prolapse, in which grading of vault prolapse was made clinically and by pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POPQ). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed for all cases to quantify prolapse and compare findings of MRI and POPQ with intraoperative findings of prolapse.Results: Mean age, parity, BMI were 58.4 years, 3.5, 22.71kg/m2 respectively. Most patients (75%) had vaginal hysterectomy while 25% had abdominal hysterectomy. Symptoms were pressure in lower abdomen and perineum (55%), bulge and feeling of mass descending in perineum (100%) and chronic constipation (60%). The type of prolapse was cystocele (100%), rectocele (100%), vault prolapse (100%) and enterocele (45%). MRI had agreement with intraoperative findings in 65% cases in cystocele, 45% cases in vault prolapse, 50% in rectocele but had much higher agreement of 88.8% for enterocele. While POPQ had higher agreement with intraoperative findings for cystocele (80%), vault prolapse (98%), rectocele (80%) but had poorer agreement for enterocele (66.6%).Conclusions: This study demonstrated that MRI was inferior in diagnosis of cystocele, rectocele and vault prolapse than POPQ but was superior in identification of enterocele than POPQ.

EVALUATION OF PRESCRIBING PATTERN IN ORTHOPEDICS DEPARTMENT IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Objective: To study the demographic profile and prescription pattern in Orthopedics department in a tertiary care hospital.Methods: A prospective, observational and cross-sectional study design was adopted for this study. A total of 144 patients were enrolled and their prescriptions were analyzed for three months. The data was analyzed by using a Microsoft Excel Worksheet. The Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification system and defined daily dose were used to classify the prescribed drugs.Results: Out of 144 patients enrolled, 105 (72.92%) were male and 39 (27.08%) were female. Maximum patients were between 21-40 y of age. The mean age of the patients was 35.04±18.53. The average number of drugs per prescription was 4.84. Fracture of limbs (58.33%) was the most common diagnosis. Analgesics were the most commonly prescribed drugs. Diabetes was the most common comorbidity. The percentage of drugs prescribed by generic names was 48.06, and that from the essential drug list was 47.78. The percentage of fixed-dose combinations used was 28.55.Conclusion: Although we found that a good percentage of drugs were prescribed from essential drug list but, this practice has to be increased in future. It is also seen that average number of drugs per prescription was high and percentage of drugs prescribed by generic names was less than that by brand names. So, there is immense scope of improvement for prescribing in the hospital.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used for cancer treatment at the province of Nador, Morocco

Morocco has varied wealth of aromatic and medicinal plants (AMPs) which are commonly used for prevention and treatment of vario us diseases or as complementary therapy such for cancer diseases. An ethnobotanical study was carried out in the province of Nador, located northeast of Morocco. A total of 418 persons were interviewed, information about their profile, type of medicinal pl ants existing in this area, plant characteristics and uses of those existing plants. Results showed 35 species distributed in 23 families, the most represented were Lamiaceae (7), Apiaceae (5) and Fabaceae (3). This study revealed that the population mainl y used seeds (28%), leaves (26%), aerial parts (20%) and fruits (14%). Moreover, it has shown that Nerium oleander were used by the local population for cancer treatments. Biological activity of N. oleander showed an antimicrobial effect on Escherichia col i , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus

Marruecos tiene una riqueza vegetal muy variada de plantas aromáticas y medicinales (AMP) y se utilizan com únmente para la prevención y el tratamiento de diversas enfermedades o como terapia complementaria, como las enfermedades del cáncer. Se llevó a cabo un estudio etnobotánico en la provincia de Nador, situada al noreste de Marruecos. Se entrevistó a un tota l de 418 personas, información sobre su perfil, tipo de plantas medicinales existentes en esta zona, características de las plantas, usos de las plantas existentes, etc. Los resultados mostraron una alta riqueza de especies de 35 especies distribuidas en 2 3 familias, las más representadas fueron Lamiaceae (7), Apiaceae (5) y Fabaceae (3). Este estudio reveló que la población utilizó preferentemente semillas (28%), hojas (26%), partes aéreas (20%) y frutos (14%). Además, se ha demostrado que la población loc al utilizaba Nerium oleander para tratamientos contra el cáncer. La actividad biológica de N. oleander mostró un efecto antimicrobiano sobre Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Staphylococcus aureus

Community-acquired neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infection: case report / Infecção neonatal por SARS-CoV-2 adquirida na comunidade: relato de caso / Infección neonatal por SARS-CoV-2 adquirida en la comunidad: reporte de caso

Background and Objectives: Data collection on the incidence of COVID-19 is conducted less frequently in newborns (NB) than in adults. In view of the small number of described neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infections, in this study, we report a clinical case of community-acquired COVID-19 infection in a newborn. Methods: Clinical characteristics were collected from the medical records from April 2021 until the final outcome of the newborn in May 2021. Results: This article discusses the case of a full-term male newborn aged 38 weeks. On the 17th day of life, this newborn was admitted to the pediatric unit with fever and zone 4 jaundice, mild lower chest retraction and tachypnea. The mother was diagnosed with COVID-19. Late neonatal sepsis with pulmonary focus was detected. The newborn was hospitalized and the antigen test for COVID-19 came back positive. The condition of the neonate rapidly deteriorated and he was referred to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where he was intubated and placed on pressure-controlled mechanical ventilation. During his second week in the NICU, he developed severe pulmonary hypertension with decreased peripheral oxygen saturation and tachycardia. The newborn required blood transfusion and was put into prone position during part of the treatment. Reductions in mechanical ventilation parameters were not tolerated by the NB's organism and he developed progressive hypoxemia. The newborn died 1 month and 3 days after hospitalization. Conclusion: Our study shows a case of community-acquired COVID-19 that progressed to the severe form of the disease.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: A coleta de dados sobre a ocorrência de covid-19 em recém-nascidos (RN) não é tão frequente quanto em adultos. Portanto, devido ao baixo número de infecções neonatais por SARS-CoV-2 descritas, relatamos, neste estudo, um caso clínico de infecção por covid-19 adquirida na comunidade em um recém-nascido. Métodos: As características clínicas foram coletadas dos prontuários desde abril de 2021 até o último desfecho do RN, em maio de 2021. Resultados: Este artigo abordará um RN do sexo masculino, a termo, com 38 semanas. No 17º dia de vida, o RN deu entrada na unidade pediátrica com quadro de febre e icterícia zona 4, leve retração torácica inferior e taquipneia. A mãe foi diagnosticada com covid-19. Foi detectada sepse neonatal tardia com foco pulmonar. O RN foi internado e o teste de antígeno para covid-19 foi positivo. O quadro do RN regrediu rapidamente, sendo encaminhado à unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal (UTIN), onde foi entubado e adaptado à ventilação mecânica em modo pressão controlada. Na segunda semana de internação na UTIN, desenvolveu hipertensão pulmonar grave com diminuição da saturação periférica de oxigênio e taquicardia. O RN necessitou de transfusão sanguínea e a posição prona foi realizada por períodos. Reduções nos parâmetros do ventilador mecânico não foram toleradas e o RN apresentou hipoxemia progressiva. O RN faleceu um mês e três dias após a internação. Conclusão: Nossos achados apresentam um caso de covid-19 adquirida na comunidade que evoluiu para a forma grave da doença.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: La recolección de datos sobre los contagios por covid-19 en recién nacidos (RN) no es tan frecuente como en adultos. En este contexto, y debido al bajo número de infecciones neonatales por SARSCoV-2 descritas, en este estudio se describe un caso clínico de infección posnatal por covid-19 en un recién nacido en la comunidad. Métodos: Se recogieron características médicas de las historias clínicas desde abril de 2021 hasta el último resultado del RN en mayo de 2021. Resultados: Este artículo reporta el caso de un RN del sexo masculino, a término de 38 semanas. Al 17.º día de vida, el RN ingresó a la unidad de pediatría con fiebre e ictericia zona 4, leve retracción torácica inferior y taquipnea. La madre dio positivo para covid-19. En el RN se detectó sepsis neonatal tardía con foco pulmonar. Lo hospitalizaron, y la prueba de antígenos para covid-19 dio como resultado positivo. El estado del RN empeoró rápidamente, lo remitieron a la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales (UCIN), donde requirió intubación y ventilación mecánica controlada por presión. En la segunda semana en la UCIN, desarrolló hipertensión pulmonar grave con disminución de la saturación periférica de oxígeno y taquicardia. El RN requirió transfusión sanguínea, y lo pusieron en posición prona por períodos. El paciente no soportó las reducciones en los parámetros del ventilador mecánico y presentó una hipoxemia progresiva. El RN falleció un mes y tres días después de la hospitalización. Conclusión: Los hallazgos muestran un caso del covid-19 adquirido en la comunidad que progresó a la forma grave de la enfermedad.(AU)

Fetal outcome of placenta accreta spectrum disorder patients admitted at Cumilla medical college hospital

Background: Placenta accreta spectrum disorder (PASD) is a complex obstetric condition associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Despite its increasing global prevalence, there is limited research focusing on the fetal outcomes of PASD patients, particularly in Asian populationsMethods: This observational study was conducted at Cumilla medical college hospital over 18 months, starting from January 2022. A total of 60 patients diagnosed with PASD were included, following specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, antenatal care, presenting complaints, and fetal outcomes.Result: The study found that 90% of the participants had live births, while 10% experienced intrauterine death. Among the live births, there was a nearly equal distribution between low and normal birth weights. The sociodemographic distribution was diverse, with the majority of participants falling within the age range of 21-30 years. Half of the participants received regular antenatal care, and antepartum hemorrhage was the most common presenting complaint.Conclusions: The study provides valuable insights into the fetal outcomes of PASD patients, with a notably high rate of live births. The findings also highlight the importance of regular antenatal care and early diagnosis in managing PASD effectively. The study serves as a foundation for future research aimed at improving both maternal and fetal outcomes in PASD.

Clinical Utility of Chest Sonography in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients Focusing on Diaphragmatic Measurements / 결핵및호흡기질환

Background@#There are many methods of evaluating diaphragmatic function, including trans-diaphragmatic pressure measurements, which are considered the key rule of diagnosis. We studied the clinical usefulness of chest ultrasonography in evaluating stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and those in exacerbation, focusing on diaphragmatic measurements and their correlation with spirometry and other clinical parameters. @*Methods@#In a prospective case-control study, we enrolled 100 COPD patients divided into 40 stable COPD patients and 60 patients with exacerbation. The analysis included 20 age-matched controls. In addition to the clinical assessment of the study population, radiological evaluation included chest radiographs and chest computed tomography. Transthoracic ultrasonography (TUS) was performed for all included subjects. @*Results@#Multiple A lines (more than 3) were more frequent in COPD exacerbation than in stable patients, as was the case for B-lines. TUS significantly showed high specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and accuracy in detecting pleural effusion, consolidation, pneumothorax, and lung mass. Diaphragmatic measurements were significantly lower among stable COPD subjects than healthy controls. Diaphragmatic thickness and excursion displayed a significant negative correlation with body mass index and the dyspnea scale, and a positive correlation with spirometry measures. Patients in Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) group D showed lower diaphragmatic measurements (thickness and excursion). @*Conclusion@#The TUS of COPD patients both in stable and exacerbated conditions and the assessment of diaphragm excursion and thickness by TUS in COPD patients and their correlations to disease-related factors proved informative and paved the way for the better management of COPD patients.

Whole genome sequencing of Streptococcus suis revealed potential drug resistance and zoonotic transmission in companion cat

@#Streptococcus suis is a bacterium of clinical importance in diverse animal hosts including companion animals and humans. Companion animals are closely associated in the living environment of humans and are potential reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens. Given the zoonotic potential of S. suis, it is crucial to determine whether this bacterium is present among the companion animal population. This study aimed to detect Streptococcus suis in companion animals namely cats and dogs of the central west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and further characterize the positive isolates via molecular and genomic approach. The detection of S. suis was done via bacterial isolation and polymerase chain reaction assay of gdh and recN gene from oral swabs. Characterization was done by multiplex PCR serotyping, as well as muti-locus sequence typing, AMR gene prediction, MGE identification and phylogenomic analysis on whole genome sequence acquired from Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. Among the 115 samples, PCR assay detected 2/59 of the cats were positive for S. suis serotype 8 while all screened dog samples were negative. This study further described the first complete whole genome of S. suis strain SS/UPM/MY/F001 isolated from the oral cavity of a companion cat. Genomic analysis revealed a novel strain of S. suis having a unique MLST profile and antimicrobial resistance genes of mefA, msrD, patA, patB and vanY. Mobile genetic elements were described, and pathogenic determinants matched to human and swine strains were identified. Phylogenetic tree analysis on the core genome alignment revealed strain SS/UPM/MY/F001 was distinct from other S. suis strains. This study provided insight into the detection and genomic features of the S. suis isolate of a companion cat and highlighted its potential for antimicrobial resistance and pathogenicity.

Effect of uncontrolled type-II diabetes mellitus and Its duration on nerve conduction parameters in adult Sudanese patients in Khartoum State

Background: Peripheral neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes, which has socioeconomic consequences as well as a reduced quality of life. Early neuropathic process recognition and management could alter its course and considerably reduce the associated morbidity and mortality. This study determines the effect of long-term glycemic control on diabetic peripheral neuropathy in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Methods: A hospital-based study was carried out at the National Centre of Neurosciences and Ibrahim Malik Hospital in Khartoum. All individuals who were older than 18 years and have had T2DM for less than 10 years were recruited. Using accepted techniques, the BMI, HbA1c level, and nerve conduction studies (NCS) were measured. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25.0 software. P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of the 95 patients with T2DM, 52 were male patients. Our findings showed that as the duration of diabetes increased, the sensory velocity reduced from 64.07 ± 3.22 to 54.00 ± 5.34 and the motor nerve from 63.39 ± 2.38 to 53.87 ± 2.08 (P = 0.05, P = 0.003, respectively). Additionally, with increased duration of diabetes, a significant decrease was seen in both motor nerve amplitude from 8.79 ± 3.11 to 6.94 ± 1.84 (P = 0.05) and sensory nerve amplitude from 25.71 ± 5.70 to 19.51 ± 6.51 (P = 0.003). Also, all parameters of NCS (velocity and amplitude) decreased when Hb A1c was >6 ­ sensory velocity from 63.96 ± 2.36 to 55.49 ± 2.43 (P = 0.03) and motor velocity from 63.00 ± 2.59 to 51.44 ± 1.66 (P = 0.02). And sensory amplitude decreased from 26.91 ± 1.26 to 20.85 ± 2.1 (P = 0.05), while motor amplitude decreased from 6.88 ± 3.55 to 6.61 ± 3.29 (P = 0.05). Additionally, there is a substantial (P = 0.05) correlation between sensory and motor amplitudes and the BMI. Conclusion: High BMI and poorly controlled (high HbA1c) long-term diabetes had a negative impact on all nerve conduction study parameters

The bioprotective role of irradiated hibiscus against harmful effects of using repeatedly frying edible oil / O papel bioprotetor do hibisco irradiado contra os efeitos nocivos do uso de óleo comestível para fritar

Abstract Repeatedly frying process of dietary edible oil has a potential role in the generation of free radicals. Therefore, questions have always been raised as to whether, there is an efficient and economical method to reduce the harmful effects of repeated use of frying edible oil. Since hibiscus has been stated to have a wide variety of therapeutic effects, it was important to investigate its properties against harmful effects of free radicals. The current study aspires to find out whether irradiated powder of hibiscus has a protective role against adverse effects of repeated use of frying edible oil. Thirty-five adult male albino rats were equally assigned into five groups. First group"G1" was fed with normal diet as control group, meanwhile, group"G2" the diet mixed with fresh oil, "G3" diet mixed with repeatedly frying oil only, "G4" diet mixed with frying oil treated with hibiscus and "G5" diet mixed with frying oil treated with irradiated hibiscus. Feeding duration was six weeks. Fatty acid analyses of oil as well as peroxide values were determined. Blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical analyses as well as histological study. Repeatedly heated cooked oil has significant increases in peroxide value, acid value, free fatty acid and both conjugated diene and triene compared with repeatedly frying oil treated with hibiscus. Also there are significant increases in cholesterol and triglyceride and impaired in liver functions in "G3"compared with others. In addition, relative to the hibiscus groups, there is a substantial reduction in oxygen consumption in "G3". Both hibiscus as well as irradiated hibiscus attract attention in order to play a vital and economical role against harmful effects of frequent use of frying edible oil on some biological functions but, irradiated hibiscus was more effective.

Resumo O processo de fritura repetida de óleo comestível da dieta tem papel potencial na geração de radicais livres que podem ter efeitos prejudiciais em algumas funções biológicas. Portanto, sempre se questionou se existe uma maneira eficiente e econômica de prevenir ou pelo menos reduzir os efeitos nocivos do uso repetido de óleo comestível para fritar. Como o hibisco tem ampla variedade de efeitos terapêuticos, foi importante investigar suas propriedades como agente antioxidante contra os efeitos nocivos dos radicais livres. O presente estudo pretende descobrir se o pó irradiado de hibisco tem papel protetor contra os efeitos adversos do uso repetido de óleo comestível para fritar. Trinta e cinco ratos albinos machos adultos foram divididos igualmente em cinco grupos. O primeiro grupo "G1" foi alimentado com dieta normal como grupo controle, enquanto o grupo "G2" dieta misturada com óleo fresco, dieta "G3" misturada com óleo de fritura repetida, dieta "G4" misturada com óleo de fritura tratada com hibisco e dieta "G5" misturada com óleo de fritura tratada com hibisco irradiado. A duração da alimentação foi de seis semanas. Foram determinadas as análises de ácidos graxos de óleo, bem como os valores de peróxidos. Amostras de sangue e fígado foram coletadas para análises bioquímicas e estudo histológico. O óleo cozido repetidamente aquecido tem aumentos significativos no valor de peróxido, valor de ácido, ácido graxo livre e dieno e trieno conjugados em comparação com óleo de fritura repetidamente tratado com hibisco. Também há aumentos significativos no colesterol e triglicérides e comprometimento das funções hepáticas no "G3" em comparação com outros. Além disso, em relação aos grupos de hibiscos, há uma redução substancial no consumo de oxigênio no "G3". Tanto o hibisco como o hibisco irradiado chamam atenção por desempenhar papel vital e econômico contra os efeitos nocivos do uso frequente de óleo comestível para fritar em algumas funções biológicas, mas o hibisco irradiado foi mais eficaz.

The bioprotective role of irradiated hibiscus against harmful effects of using repeatedly frying edible oil

Abstract Repeatedly frying process of dietary edible oil has a potential role in the generation of free radicals. Therefore, questions have always been raised as to whether, there is an efficient and economical method to reduce the harmful effects of repeated use of frying edible oil. Since hibiscus has been stated to have a wide variety of therapeutic effects, it was important to investigate its properties against harmful effects of free radicals. The current study aspires to find out whether irradiated powder of hibiscus has a protective role against adverse effects of repeated use of frying edible oil. Thirty-five adult male albino rats were equally assigned into five groups. First groupG1 was fed with normal diet as control group, meanwhile, groupG2 the diet mixed with fresh oil, G3 diet mixed with repeatedly frying oil only, G4 diet mixed with frying oil treated with hibiscus and G5 diet mixed with frying oil treated with irradiated hibiscus. Feeding duration was six weeks. Fatty acid analyses of oil as well as peroxide values were determined. Blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical analyses as well as histological study. Repeatedly heated cooked oil has significant increases in peroxide value, acid value, free fatty acid and both conjugated diene and triene compared with repeatedly frying oil treated with hibiscus. Also there are significant increases in cholesterol and triglyceride and impaired in liver functions in G3compared with others. In addition, relative to the hibiscus groups, there is a substantial reduction in oxygen consumption in G3. Both hibiscus as well as irradiated hibiscus attract attention in order to play a vital and economical role against harmful effects of frequent use of frying edible oil on some biological functions but, irradiated hibiscus was more effective.

Resumo O processo de fritura repetida de óleo comestível da dieta tem papel potencial na geração de radicais livres que podem ter efeitos prejudiciais em algumas funções biológicas. Portanto, sempre se questionou se existe uma maneira eficiente e econômica de prevenir ou pelo menos reduzir os efeitos nocivos do uso repetido de óleo comestível para fritar. Como o hibisco tem ampla variedade de efeitos terapêuticos, foi importante investigar suas propriedades como agente antioxidante contra os efeitos nocivos dos radicais livres. O presente estudo pretende descobrir se o pó irradiado de hibisco tem papel protetor contra os efeitos adversos do uso repetido de óleo comestível para fritar. Trinta e cinco ratos albinos machos adultos foram divididos igualmente em cinco grupos. O primeiro grupo G1 foi alimentado com dieta normal como grupo controle, enquanto o grupo G2 dieta misturada com óleo fresco, dieta G3 misturada com óleo de fritura repetida, dieta G4 misturada com óleo de fritura tratada com hibisco e dieta G5 misturada com óleo de fritura tratada com hibisco irradiado. A duração da alimentação foi de seis semanas. Foram determinadas as análises de ácidos graxos de óleo, bem como os valores de peróxidos. Amostras de sangue e fígado foram coletadas para análises bioquímicas e estudo histológico. O óleo cozido repetidamente aquecido tem aumentos significativos no valor de peróxido, valor de ácido, ácido graxo livre e dieno e trieno conjugados em comparação com óleo de fritura repetidamente tratado com hibisco. Também há aumentos significativos no colesterol e triglicérides e comprometimento das funções hepáticas no G3 em comparação com outros. Além disso, em relação aos grupos de hibiscos, há uma redução substancial no consumo de oxigênio no G3. Tanto o hibisco como o hibisco irradiado chamam atenção por desempenhar papel vital e econômico contra os efeitos nocivos do uso frequente de óleo comestível para fritar em algumas funções biológicas, mas o hibisco irradiado foi mais eficaz.

Células supressoras mieloides derivadas dois anos após a erradicação do vírus da hepatite C usando antivirais de ação direta / Myeloid-derived suppressor cells two years after hepatitis c virus eradication using directly acting antivirals

ABSTRACT Background: Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have immature morphology, relatively weak phagocytic activity, as well as some immunosuppressive functions. The capacity of MDSCs to inhibit T-cell-mediated immunological responses is their most notable functional characteristic. Down-regulating antitumor immune surveillance is one way that the expansion and activation of MDSCs contribute significantly to the occurrence and progression of tumors. Increased levels of MDSCs in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection could suppress T-cell responses, promoting viral escape and hepatitis progression. This may make HCV-infected individuals more vulnerable to severe infections, hepatic and extra-hepatic tumors, and a diminished capacity to react to immunization. It is still unknown if effective HCV eradication with directly acting antivirals (DAAs) can restore immune functions and immune surveillance capacity. Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the frequency of M-MDSCs (CD33+, CD11b+, and HLA-DR) in patients with a previous history of HCV, 2-3 years after virus eradication using DAA therapy. Methods: This study was conducted on 110 subjects: fifty-five subjects without liver cirrhosis who were treated with HCV using DAAs and attained SVR for a period of 2-3 years and 55 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The study was conducted during the period from January to July 2022. Patients were recruited from the National Viral Hepatitis Treatment Unit, Alexandria University Hepatology outpatient clinic, and the Alexandria University Tropical Medicine outpatient clinic. The frequencies of MDSCs (CD33+CD11b + HLA-DR-) by flow cytometry were assessed. Results: Even after the virus had been eradicated for longer than two years, MDSC levels in HCV-treated individuals were found to be considerably higher. In the HCV-treated group, the median number of MDSCs was 5, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 3.79-7.69. In contrast, the median for the control group was 3.1, with an IQR of 1.4-3.2 (P˂0.001). Conclusion: Successful DAA therapy leads to slow and partial immunological reconstitution, as demonstrated by the failure to attain normal levels of MDSC's 2 years after successful HCV eradication despite the normalization of laboratory parameters as well as the absence of liver fibrosis. The clinical implications of these findings should be thoroughly studied.

RESUMO Contexto: As células supressoras derivadas de mieloides (CSDMs) possuem morfologia imatura, atividade fagocítica relativamente fraca e algumas funções imunossupressoras. A capacidade das CSDMs de inibir respostas imunológicas mediadas por células T é sua característica funcional mais notável. A expansão e ativação das CSDMs contribuem significativamente para a ocorrência e progressão de tumores, regulando negativamente a vigilância imunológica antitumoral. Níveis aumentados de CSDMs em pacientes com infecção crônica pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV) poderiam suprimir respostas das células T, promovendo a fuga viral e a progressão da hepatite. Isso pode tornar os indivíduos infectados pelo HCV mais vulneráveis a infecções graves, tumores hepáticos e extra-hepáticos, e a uma capacidade diminuída de reagir à imunização. Ainda não se sabe se a erradicação eficaz do HCV com antivirais de ação direta (AAD) pode restaurar as funções imunológicas e a capacidade de vigilância imunológica. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi observar a frequência de M-CSDMs (CD33+, CD11b+ e HLA-DR-) em pacientes com histórico anterior de HCV, 2-3 anos após a erradicação do vírus usando terapia com AADs. Métodos: Este estudo foi realizado em 110 indivíduos: 55 indivíduos sem cirrose hepática que foram tratados com AADs para HCV e atingiram resposta virológica sustentada (SVR) por um período de 2-3 anos e 55 controles saudáveis pareados por idade e gênero. O estudo foi conduzido no período de janeiro a julho de 2022. Os pacientes foram recrutados da Unidade Nacional de Tratamento de Hepatites Virais, da clínica ambulatorial de Hepatologia da Universidade de Alexandria e da clínica ambulatorial de Medicina Tropical da Universidade de Alexandria. As frequências de CSDMs (CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR-) foram avaliadas por citometria de fluxo. Resultados: Mesmo após a erradicação do vírus por mais de dois anos, os níveis de CSDMs em indivíduos tratados para HCV foram consideravelmente mais altos. No grupo tratado para HCV, o número mediano de CSDMs foi de 5, com um intervalo interquartil (IQR) de 3,79-7,69. Em contraste, a mediana para o grupo controle foi de 3,1, com um IQR de 1,4-3,2 (P<0,001). Conclusão: A terapia bem-sucedida com AADs leva a uma reconstituição imunológica lenta e parcial, como demonstrado pela falha em atingir níveis normais de CSDMs 2 anos após a erradicação bem-sucedida do HCV, apesar da normalização dos parâmetros laboratoriais e da ausência de fibrose hepática. As implicações clínicas desses achados devem ser estudadas minuciosamente.

The effect of diabetes mellitus on differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into insulin-producing cells

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global epidemic with increasing incidences. DM is a metabolic disease associated with chronic hyperglycemia. Aside from conventional treatments, there is no clinically approved cure for DM up till now. Differentiating mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into insulin-producing cells (IPCs) is a promising approach for curing DM. Our study was conducted to investigate the effect of DM on MSCs differentiation into IPCs in vivo and in vitro. Methods We isolated adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Ad-MSCs) from the epididymal fat of normal and STZ-induced diabetic Sprague-Dawley male rats. Afterwards, the in vitro differentiation of normal-Ad-MSCs (N-Ad-MSCs) and diabetic-Ad-MSCs (DM-Ad-MSCs) into IPCs was compared morphologically then through determining the gene expression of β-cell markers including neurogenin-3 (Ngn-3), homeobox protein (Nkx6.1), muscu- loaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog A (MafA), and insulin-1 (Ins-1) and eventually, through performing glucose-stimulated insulin secretion test (GSIS). Finally, the therapeutic potential of N-Ad-MSCs and DM-Ad-MSCs transplantation was compared in vivo in STZ-induced diabetic animals. Results Our results showed no significant difference in the characteristics of N-Ad-MSCs and DM-Ad-MSCs. However, we demonstrated a significant difference in their abilities to differentiate into IPCs in vitro morphologically in addition to β-cell markers expression, and functional assessment via GSIS test. Furthermore, the abilities of both Ad-MSCs to control hyperglycemia in diabetic rats in vivo was assessed through measuring fasting blood glucose (FBGs), body weight (BW), histopathological examination of both pancreas and liver and immunoexpression of insulin in pancreata of study groups. Conclusion Our findings reveal the effectiveness of N-Ad-MSCs in differentiating into IPCs in vitro and controlling the hyperglycemia of STZ-induced diabetic rats in vivo compared to DM-Ad-MSCs.

Intercropping Options for Sustainable Minor Millet Production: A Review

High population pressure, climate change, stagnant crop productivity, changing food habit and declining natural resources compelled us to go for climate resilient resource conservation technologies to bring sustainability in our crop production. Crop diversification by replacing high input requiring cereals with “nutri- cereals” minor millets in our crop rotations and by following intercropping of minor millets with pulses or oilseeds may be economically profitable, environmentally safe and socially acceptable approach to ensure food and nutritional security of the burgeoning population. This is high time to include millets in our daily diets but millet availability in sufficient amount is big issue. Millets are crops of rainfed and dryland resource poor areas and moreover under the threat of global warming and changed climatic scenario sole planting of millets generally gives less economic returns. So, there is an urgent need for incorporation of the pulses/oilseeds as intercrop in millets production system to enhance the production to feed the increasing population on sustained basis besides restoring the soil nutritional status and to overcome the environmental stress. But performance of intercropping system depends on proper selections of suitable intercrop, appropriate row ratio combination and proper input management. Very limited research work has been conducted on intercropping in millets so far but noteworthy information was recorded by the researchers, which has been reviewed through a sincere effort here to give critical view about intercropping in minor millets for agricultural sustainability to the farmers, researchers and consumers.

Dermatitis Artefacta in a Young Female: A Case Report

Dermatitis artefacta is a self-inflicted dermatological condition where the underlying motive is to assume a sick role. The act of self-harm is to discharge the inner sense of isolation and emotional distress, which is too great to endure. Rarity may be attributed to masquerading presentation, leading to misdiagno? sis and paucity of awareness among the physicians. Lack of proper identification of the under? lying psychiatric disturbances may be the major cause of the loss of follow-ups. we were fortunate enough to identify the emotional need of the patient. A flexible, non con?frontational yet strong therapeutic rapport is required to improve the therapeutic outcomes.. This case report highlights a 19 year old young unmarried female patient, who presented to OPD with multiple skin lesions on accessible parts of her body, she was carrying prescriptions from multiple dermatologists. She was admitted in psychiatry ward for further observation

Transformative Role of Remote Sensing in Advancing Horticulture: Optimizing Sustainability, Efficiency and Resilience

The field of horticulture, vital for addressing global challenges like food security and sustainable agriculture, has been revolutionized by remote sensing technology. This comprehensive review explores the transformative impact of remote sensing on horticulture, emphasizing its role in optimizing resource utilization, promoting environmental sustainability, and mitigating the effects of climate change. Remote sensing, encompassing a range of sensors, satellites, and data analysis techniques, enables the collection of critical information from a distance, providing insights into crop health, soil conditions, water availability, and more. Precision agriculture, including the use of GPS and GIS, is integrated with remote sensing to enhance agricultural efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. Site-Specific Crop Management (SSCM) is highlighted as a key component of precision agriculture, enabled by geospatial technologies, including remote sensing. It discusses how remote sensing systems, with their multispectral and multi-temporal capabilities, support various horticultural applications such as crop yield estimation, abiotic and biotic stress management, crop classification, canopy measurement, crop area estimation, and even crop insurance validation. The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Global Positioning System (GPS) in tandem with remote sensing is explored in the context of spatial analysis, mapping, and precise navigation.

Morphological, Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Response of Barley (H. Vulgare L.) to Water Deficiency

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the earliest cultivated cereals and a foundational crop of ancient agriculture. After rice, maize, and wheat, barley is the fourth most widely cultivated cereal crop in the world. It is cultivated in numerous developed and developing nations, where it frequently faces severe drought stress. Every year, droughts afflict the entire planet, frequently with catastrophic effects on crop production. Many crop modification projects have primarily targeted on the enhancement of drought resistance. However, progress toward this objective has been modest due to complexity of the trait, variability and unpredictability of the drought conditions in the field, and diversified drought tolerance mechanisms employed by plants. Barley is regarded as the most drought-resistant grain crop. It serves as an uncomplicated genetic model for studying drought tolerance mechanisms along with the associated agronomic and physiological traits. Several morphological, physiological, biochemical, molecular and quality traits were identified from various barley varieties and used to improve performance under drought stress. The present report is a comprehensive review that intends to give morphological, physiological, biochemical and genomic insights into the modulation of drought stress responses in barley and provide a thorough picture of drought tolerance mechanism.

Wheat Genotype Evaluation for Spot Blotch Disease Resistance: Unveiling Resilient Varieties

Spot blotch, caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker is a major disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), in all the six agro climatic zones of India. Estimation of losses due to this disease vary from location to location, due to diverse environmental conditions. The use of resistant cultivars is the most effective, long-lasting, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly technique for sustainable disease control. The experiment was conducted at Crop Research Centre, Chirodi farm of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). Among the tested varieties, disease index and AUDPC values varied significantly for both years’ data viz. 2021-22 and 2022-23. In this experiment 32 wheat varieties were screened against B. sorokiniana under artificial epiphytotic conditions in the field. Each variety were sown in two row of three-meter length with three replications, two line of susceptible check RAJ 4015 was sown at every ten genotypes of interval. Among 32 wheat varieties, two varieties were found to be resistant, eleven varieties were found moderately resistant, fourteen varieties were found moderately susceptible and five varieties were found susceptible, none of the variety was found immune and highly susceptible against spot blotch disease. Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) calculated for the thirty- two wheat varieties on the basis of disease index. AUDPC varies from 212.90 to 1143.9 and 198.80 to 1144.90 during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 years’ data. The pooled mean, Area Under Disease Progress Curve varied from 205.85 to 1144.40, showing the fast progress of disease in all genotypes. It was observed that different wheat varieties expressed varied type of disease response against B. sorokiniana.

Effect of Clomiphene Citrate on the Ultrastructure of Testis in Albino Rats

SUMMARY: The aim of the present work was to study the closer effect of clomiphene citrate on the ultrastructure of the testis of adult albino rats to provide a basis for optimizing this drug in the treatment of male infertility. The testes were removed from both groups under anesthesia and then prepared for examination by light using hematoxylin and eosin stains and a transmission electron microscope. Semithin sections were cut into 1 µm thick sections, stained with toluidine blue, and examined by light microscopy for a survey. The desired areas were placed in the center, and other areas were trimmed. Primary spermatocytes showed marked nuclear changes (pyknosis), and their nuclear membranes were ill-defined and disrupted. The cytoplasm showed widespread degeneration of mitochondria and lysosomes and focal degeneration of the rough endoplasmic reticulum compared with the control group. The spermatids were pale, and the two phases of spermatogenesis were distinctly identifiable in the control group but were confused in the treated group. Some spermatids had interrupted nuclear membranes, also containing degenerated mitochondria, focal fragmentation of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and free ribosomes. Spermatozoa in the treated group appeared deformed compared to the control, where they had deformed head caps. Leydig cells of the treated group have an irregularly shaped nucleus, with focal chromatin aggregation and peripheral chromatin condensation on the inner surface of the nuclear membrane. The observations of the present work indicate a possible causal relationship between testicular affection and ingestion of clomiphene citrate, which can be avoided by close medical observations using ultrasonography, semen analysis, or testicular biopsy to detect early malignant changes. Furthermore, the drug should not be used for more than three to six cycles and should be stopped for at least three cycles before reuse. When clomiphene citrate is ineffective in the treatment of male infertility, human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) administration is typically selected. However, high-dose hMG therapy is associated with a variety of adverse effects. In this work, we report the success of a modified clomiphene citrate regimen in increasing sperm count without any hazards to the testicular tissue.

El objetivo del trabajo fue estudiar el efecto del citrato de clomifeno sobre la estructura de los testículos de la rata albina adulta, con la finalidad de determinar la mejor manera de utilizar este fármaco en el tratamiento de la infertilidad masculina. Los testículos se extrajeron bajo anestesia y para su análisis a través de microscopio de luz se tiñeron con HE. Además, las muestras fueron preparadas para su examen con microscopía electrónica de transmisión. Por otra parte, se cortaron secciones semifinas de 1 µm de espesor, se tiñeron con azul de toluidina y se examinaron mediante microscopía óptica. Los espermatocitos primarios mostraron cambios nucleares marcados (picnosis) y sus membranas nucleares estaban mal definidas y alteradas. En el grupo experimental las células presentaban el citoplasma con degeneración generalizada de las mitocondrias y de los lisosomas y una degeneración focal del retículo endoplásmico rugoso en comparación con el grupo control. Las espermátidas estaban pálidas y las dos fases de la espermatogénesis eran claramente identificables en el grupo control, pero se confundían en el grupo tratado. Algunas espermátidas tenían membranas nucleares interrumpidas, y también contenían mitocondrias degeneradas, fragmentación focal del retículo endoplásmico rugoso y ribosomas libres. Los espermatozoides del grupo tratado se presentaban deformados en comparación con el control. Las células de Leydig del grupo tratado presentaban un núcleo de forma irregular, con agregación focal de cromatina y condensación de cromatina periférica en la superficie interna de la membrana nuclear. Las observaciones del presente trabajo indican una posible relación causal entre la afección testicular y la ingestión de citrato de clomifeno, que puede evitarse mediante observaciones médicas minuciosas a través de ecografía, análisis de semen o biopsia testicular para detectar cambios malignos tempranos. Además, el medicamento no debiera ser usado durante más de tres a seis ciclos y debe suspenderse durante al menos tres ciclos antes de volver a usarlo. Cuando el citrato de clomifeno es ineficaz en el tratamiento de la infertilidad masculina, normalmente se selecciona la administración de gonadotropina menopáusica humana (hMG). Sin embargo, la terapia con hMG en dosis altas se asocia con una variedad de efectos adversos. En este trabajo, informamos el éxito de un régimen modificado con citrato de clomifeno para aumentar el recuento de espermatozoides sin riesgo para el tejido testicular.