Experience in the treatment of liver echinococcosis in Grodno Region, Belarus

Background: A parasitic hydatid disease called liver echinococcosis is brought on by the tapeworm echinococcus and is a reason for concern for global health. In addition to the liver, the lungs can harbor parasites. In the life cycle of parasites, humans occupy a middle position. Depending on the size and intensity of the cyst, the clinical signs can vary and be non-specific. The complications include bleeding, perforation, suppuration, cyst rupture, mechanical jaundice, and portal hypertension. Here is an analysis of own results of surgical treatment of patients with liver echinococcosis in Grodno region, Belarus between June 2012 to October 2022. Methods: The research design was cross-sectional. Diagnostic methods that are instrumental and laboratory-based include a general blood test, a biochemical blood test, an enzyme immunoassay (IFA), abdominal and retroperitoneal MRIs and ultrasounds, abdominal and chest CT scans and brain scans. There were 10 men and 17 women among the 27 patients. The age range of the majority of the patients was 18 to 83. Results: All patients underwent resections, including laparoscopic procedures. One of the patients in our series of cases received a two-stage therapy regimen due to a secondary focus of echinococcosis in the left lung. In our series of cases, no postoperative complications or mortality occurred. Conclusions: Patients with hepatic echinococcosis should be treated at specialized hospitals. Abdominal, chest, and brain CT scans are required in order to search for additional foci. When it comes to treating echinococcosis, minimal invasive surgical procedures should be preferred.

Sleep quality and its correlates among undergraduate students of a medical school in North Karnataka, India

Background: Poor sleep quality is a global health concern and is fast becoming one of the silent epidemics. Sleep quality among medical students is of particular interest as they are considered high risk groups for developing sleep related issues because of their demanding schedules. This study aims to estimate the magnitude of poor sleep and its correlates among undergraduate medical students of a medical school in Belgaum, India. Methods: An institutional based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 293 undergraduate medical students using a self-administered questionnaire. Sleep quality was assessed using Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). The potential determinants of quality of sleep were identified using logistic regression. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant and adjusted odds ratio with 95%CI was used to present the strength of association. Results: The prevalence of poor sleep quality among medical students was 69.3%. Factors like gender, female students (AOR=2.381, 95%CI=1.359-4.172), being overweight or obese (AOR=2.499, 95%CI=1.297-4.817) were associated with poor sleep quality. Students with good sleep hygiene (AOR=0.415, 95%CI=0.231-0.745) and who did not use technology during bedtime (AOR=0.38, 95%CI=0.168-0.878) were less likely of having poor sleep quality at p<0.05. Conclusions: Prevalence of poor sleep quality among substantial proportion of medical students in the current study is alarming. The already existing personal and professional development programme committee can conduct routine screening to assess sleep quality among students and focus on programmes to improve their sleep hygiene.

Pineal parenchymal tumour of intermediate differentiation: a rare case report

Pineal parenchymal tumours are erratic, accounting for <1% of all primary central nervous system tumours. It was first categorised by the WHO in 2000 as a pineal parenchymal tumour with an intermediate prognosis between pineocytoma and pineoblastoma. We reported a case of 38-year-old gentle man presented with chief complaints of headache and vomiting since 1 day. MRI brain showed a relatively well defined lesion epicentered at posterior aspect of third ventricle, extending and blocking Aqueduct of Sylvius leading to upstream dilatation of both lateral and third ventricles with periventricular ooze was observed. Excision of lesion was performed, histopathological diagnosis of pineal parenchymal tumours of intermediate differentiation (PPTID) was made, which was further confirmed on IHC. PPTID are enormously erratic tumour, and restricted data are available concerning their pathologic features and biologic behaviours causing interruption in making proper diagnosis and deciding an optimal treatment approach.

Profile and outcome of treatment in non-small cell lung cancer with brain metastasis

Background: Brain metastasis is a common problem in patients with NSCLC. This study was done to study the risk factors associated with the development of brain metastasis and assess treatment response in NSCLC to improve patient survival. Methods: This was a retro-prospective study in which 126 patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma with brain metastasis were taken for the study. Results: The mean age in study group was 56.1±12.72 years. Adenocarcinoma was found in 57.1% and squamous cell carcinoma in 41.3% patients. 65.9% patients received chemotherapy for primary disease followed by targeted therapy in 34 (27.0%) patients. 53.9% patients received WBRT after diagnosis of brain metastasis and 23% WBRT and systemic chemotherapy while as14.3% received WBRT and targeted therapy and 2.4% received WBRT, systemic chemotherapy and targeted therapy, 1.6% patients received systemic chemotherapy, WBRT and local RT to the primary site and 0.8% each was treated with gamma knife therapy; surgery, WBRT and targeted therapy; SRS and WBRT. Median overall survival of patients with brain metastasis who received WBRT was 2.5 months and patients who received WBRT and systemic chemotherapy was 9.0 months while patients with brain metastasis who received WBRT and targeted therapy was 14.3 months. Conclusions: The median overall survival as per treatment received after diagnosis of brain metastasis was higher in patients who received WBRT and targeted therapy as compared to patients who received WBRT and systemic chemotherapy and patients who received WBRT only.

Assessment of minimum inhibitory concentration to vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates by antibiotic gradient strips

Background: Staphylococcus aureus infections are one of the most common and serious hospital-acquired infections seen in developing countries. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important human pathogen and normally colonized in body parts including skin, nose, perineum and throat. MRSA is resistant not only to all ?-lactam groups but also other antibiotics including aminoglycosides, tetracycline and macrolides. In the present study the efficacy of agents used in the management of MRSA infections was determined by antibiotic gradient testing. Methods: A total of 60 clinical isolates of MRSA strains were collected from various diagnostic labs in central Kerala. Clinical isolates were reconfirmed as MRSA by gram staining, yellow-coloured colonies on mannitol salt Agar (MSA). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by disc diffusion method as recommended by CLSI guidelines. S. aureus isolates resistant to cefoxitin (30 µg) was identified as MRSA. Antibiotic gradient testing was performed to determine the MIC of vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin against MRSA isolates. Results: All the 60 MRSA isolates tested were sensitive to vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, daptomycin, ceftaroline and mupirocin (100%) and none of the MRSA isolates show resistance. Conclusions: Results of present study indicates that these agents may be used alongside vancomycin in management of infection caused by MRSA.

Observation of cardiac profile among the adult population of Sreemangal

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence and risk factors of CVDs vary across different populations and regions. This study aimed to observe the cardiac profile among the adult population of Sreemangal, Bangladesh, to identify the prevalence and risk factors of CVDs in this population. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a six-month period at a public health camp in Sreemangal, Bangladesh. A total of 137 adult participants were purposively selected. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and physical examination, including measurements of blood pressure and laboratory analysis of blood samples. Results: The study found that 44.53% of participants had elevated blood pressure, and 21.90% had stage 1 hypertension. Interestingly, 36.50% of participants were unaware of their hypertension status. Furthermore, 26.28% of participants had a known history of diabetes, but blood glucose level analysis revealed an additional 14.85% of participants were prediabetic, and 6.93% were diabetic based on fasting blood glucose levels. A statistically significant association was found between increasing age and the stage of hypertension (p<0.001), and between fasting and normal blood glucose levels and the stage of hypertension (p<0.005 and p<0.05, respectively). Conclusions: The findings of this study underscore the need for targeted interventions to prevent and manage CVDs in the adult population of Sreemangal, Bangladesh. These interventions should include regular screening for CVD risk factors, health education to increase awareness of these risk factors, and strategies to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors.

A rare cause of epididymo-orchitis

Epididymo-orchitis is an inflammatory lesion of the testis and epididymis with a lymphocytic exudate. Patients with acute epididymo-orchitis typically present with scrotal pain, swelling, tenderness and fever. Here, we present a patient with scrotal pain and hemiscrotal swelling as the main complaints; however further investigations revealed a completely different and rare diagnosis. Zinner抯 syndrome is a very rare developmental anomaly of the Wolffian duct. To date, only about 200 cases have been diagnosed. It is a triad of unilateral renal agenesis, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst and ejaculatory duct obstruction. Some patients remain asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, while others present with symptoms related to seminal vesicle cysts or ejaculatory duct obstruction: voiding or ejaculatory difficulty or pain. Treatment options include transurethral or transrectal aspiration and percutaneous drainage, however both are linked to an increased risk of recurrence. Symptomatic, complicated and recurrent cyst will require excision of the cyst, either laparoscopically or robotically.

Adverse pregnancy outcome and its association with the various determinants of current pregnancy in a district hospital, urban Bengaluru, India

Background: Maternal health is a crucial aspect of public health, directly influencing pregnancy outcomes. Adverse outcomes, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, cesarean delivery, and abortion, reflect poor maternal health and contribute to maternal mortality and infant mortality rates. Antenatal care (ANC) and institutional delivery are pivotal strategies to mitigate maternal and fetal complications. However, the escalating rates of cesarean sections in India, surpassing the WHO-recommended threshold, present a severe public health challenge. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study, conducted in urban Bengaluru from January to July 2023, aimed to identify adverse pregnancy outcomes and their determinants among women aged 15 to 49 in India. Data from maternal birth and labor records were analyzed, encompassing sociodemographic factors, obstetric characteristics, and adverse outcomes. Results: The study revealed a 20.8% magnitude of adverse pregnancy outcomes. It was found to be higher among women in the age group above 30 years, multigravida, have low blood pressure (BP) both systolic and diastolic, B blood group, positive Rh type, a male baby. In bivariate analysis, higher odds were observed among women in the 30-49 age group, body mass index overweight category, active management of the third stage of labor, and delayed cord clamping were found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: The study underscores the urgency for an expanded action plan to enhance maternal healthcare in India. While governmental initiatives exist, there remains a pressing need to address unnecessary caesarean deliveries and associated complications. The findings advocate for heightened awareness, community health worker training, and stringent guidelines on the necessity of caesarean sections.

Stimulation of mouse hematopoietic stem cells by angiogenin and DNA preparations

Immature hematopoietic progenitors are a constant source for renewal of hemocyte populations and the basic component of the tissue and cell repair apparatus. A unique property of these cells of internalizing extracellular double-stranded DNA has been previously shown. The leukostimulatory effect demonstrated in our pioneering studies was considered to be due to the feature of this cell. In the present research, we have analyzed the effects of DNA genome reconstructor preparation (DNAgr), DNAmix, and human recombinant angiogenin on both hematopoietic stem cells and multipotent progenitors. Treatment with bone marrow cells of experimental mice with these preparations stimulates colony formation by hematopoietic stem cells and proliferation of multipotent descendants. The main lineage responsible for this is the granulocyte-macrophage hematopoietic lineage. Using fluorescent microscopy as well as FACS assay, co-localization of primitive c-Kit- and Sca-1-positive progenitors and the TAMRA-labeled double-stranded DNA has been shown. Human recombinant angiogenin was used as a reference agent. Cells with specific markers were quantified in intact bone marrow and colonies grown in the presence of inducers. Quantitative analysis revealed that a total of 14,000 fragment copies of 500 bp, which is 0.2% of the haploid genome, can be delivered into early progenitors. Extracellular double-stranded DNA fragments stimulated the colony formation in early hematopoietic progenitors from the bone marrow, which assumed their effect on cells in G0. The observed number of Sca1+/c-Kit+ cells in colonies testifies to the possibility of both symmetrical and asymmetrical division of the initial hematopoietic stem cell and its progeny.

Selective inhibition of interleukin 6 receptor decreased inflammatory cytokines and increased proteases in an experimental model of critical calvarial defect

Considering the lack of consensus related to the impact of selective IL-6 receptor inhibition on bone remodeling and the scarcity of reports, especially on large bone defects, this study proposed to evaluate the biological impact of the selective inhibitor of interleukin-6 receptor (tocilizumab) in an experimental model of critical calvarial defect in rats. In this preclinical and in vivo study, 24 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups (n=12/group): defect treated with collagen sponge (CG) and defect treated with collagen sponge associated with 2 mg/kg tocilizumab (TCZ). The defect in the parietal bone was created using an 8-mm diameter trephine drill. After 90 days, the animals were euthanized, and tissue samples (skull caps) were evaluated through micro-CT, histological, immunohistochemistry, cytokines, and RT-qPCR analyses. Tocilizumab reduced mononuclear inflammatory infiltration (P<0.05) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels (P<0.01) and down-regulated tissue gene expression of BMP-2 (P<0.001), RUNX-2 (P<0.05), and interleukin (IL)-6 (P<0.05). Moreover, it promoted a stronger immunostaining of cathepsin and RANKL (P<0.05). Micro-CT and histological analyses revealed no impact on general bone formation (P>0.05). The bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes) in the defect area were similar in both groups (P>0.05). Tocilizumab reduced inflammatory cytokines, decreased osteogenic protein, and increased proteases in a critical bone defect in rats. Ninety days after the local application of tocilizumab in the cranial defect, we did not find a significant formation of bone tissue compared with a collagen sponge.

Effect of COVID-19 on chronic care management in primary health settings

The COVID-19 outbreak has brought changes to the management of conditions in primary healthcare settings, leading to a reassessment of current practices and the adoption of innovative approaches. This article examines the symptoms and treatment methods that have emerged in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. We explore how disruptions in care for people with illnesses and the complex relationship between chronic diseases and COVID-19 severity have influenced healthcare delivery. Additionally, we discuss the increased reliance on telehealth services, which have been crucial in ensuring patient care but have also revealed disparities in access and digital literacy. The need for a patient-centered approach is emphasized through a reevaluation of care delivery models- heightened attention to psychosocial factors. We also delve into the challenges related to resource allocation adjustments to treatment plans and the psychological impact on patients dealing with diseases. Finally, we highlight opportunities for the management of chronic conditions in the future through better integration of telehealth services and an enhanced focus on patient empowerment and preventive care. As healthcare systems adapt to this evolving landscape, there are lessons from this pandemic that can inform more patient-centric and adaptable strategies for managing chronic conditions.

An overview of juvenile ossifying fibroma

Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a cancerous bone condition that mainly affects the facial bones, particularly the jaw and upper jaw. This review article provides an overview of JOF, covering its signs, difficulties in diagnosis, radiographic characteristics, histopathological features, and current treatment strategies. The exact cause of JOF is still uncertain, leading to debates about whether it originates from a tumor growth, abnormal development, or reactive response. The way JOF presents clinically can vary greatly, emphasizing the importance of an approach when evaluating patients with facial swellings. Radiographically, JOF appears as a defined area of bone with varying degrees of mineralization. Clinical and histopathological findings must be combined with the results to diagnose this condition accurately. Histopathologically, JOF is characterized by increased tissue and mineralized components that create a two-phase pattern. Surgical treatment options range from removing the affected area to complete resection; however, achieving surgical margins can be challenging and may lead to recurrence due to its ability to infiltrate surrounding tissues. Reconstruction using either bone grafts or artificial materials is necessary for lesions caused by JOF. Long-term follow-up that includes imaging techniques is crucial due to the likelihood of recurrence in JOF cases. Various factors, such as the extent of removal and the aggressiveness of the lesion, influence recurrence rates. Highlight the complexity involved in managing JOF—emerging developments in procedures and understanding at the level offer promising possibilities for focused treatments. A comprehensive approach to managing JOF includes collaboration between healthcare experts, educating patients, and providing support. It is essential to continue research endeavors and promote data sharing to unravel the complexities surrounding JOF, improve precision and treatment approaches, and enhance well-being.

Components and outcome of triple antibiotic paste and its application in endodontic infections

In the field of endodontic therapies, the use of antibiotics, especially in the form of root canal medications, plays a pivotal role in ensuring successful treatment outcomes. This review examines the role of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) in such therapies, delving into its composition, application, and effects on endodontic infections. TAP, a combination of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and minocycline, targets the diverse microbial flora in odontogenic infections. Its local application within the root canal space proves more effective than systemic administration, significantly reducing microbial count and aiding in tissue regeneration and disinfection. However, the use of TAP is not without challenges, as it can cause tooth discoloration, particularly due to minocycline, and raise concerns about antibiotic resistance and long-term biocompatibility. This study, conducted through a comprehensive literature search, evaluates the efficacy of TAP, its impact on tooth structure, and its role in maintaining the vitality of diseased pulp. The findings highlight TAP’s significant role in endodontic treatments, emphasizing its benefits in achieving therapeutic goals while acknowledging the need for careful consideration of its drawbacks.

The effect and approach of dentures on the nutritional state of the elderly

The absence of natural teeth presents considerable hurdles in consuming certain foods that demand efficient chewing, rendering elderly individuals vulnerable to malnutrition. Studies have reported malnutrition rates among this group ranging from 2% to 10%. Several factors contribute to this issue, including tooth loss itself, diminished masticatory function, and age-related alterations in taste sensitivity and saliva production. This review delves into the significant effect of dentures on the nutritional well-being of elderly individuals, shedding light on the challenges posed by edentulism, or complete tooth loss. The review underscores the crucial role of integrating dietary guidance into the prosthodontic treatment of edentulous patients. Personalized dietary counselling emerges as a vital strategy to rectify nutrient imbalances and enhance oral and overall health. Key recommendations encompass embracing a diverse array of foods while also moderating salt, fat, and sugar consumption. Furthermore, promoting the intake of hydrating fluids such as water, juice, and milk is essential. Continuous monitoring and support are emphasized as indispensable components for ensuring enduring dietary improvements among this vulnerable population. In conclusion, this review underscores the imperative of addressing the nutritional implications of dentures in the elderly and advocates for a comprehensive approach to safeguarding their dietary health.

Assessment and early warning signs of deterioration in hospitalized patients

Efficient assessment methods and early warning systems are crucial to prevent events like arrest, unexpected transfers to the intensive care unit (ICU) or even death. This in-depth review delves into the aspects of evaluating and handling early warning indicators of deterioration among patients admitted to hospitals. The primary emphasis lies in identifying any signs of decline by observing and tracking indicators, like heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, body temperature and oxygen saturation. Standardized assessments like the modified early warning score (MEWS) play a role in assessing the seriousness of a patient’s condition while rapid response teams (RRTs) provide interdisciplinary interventions. Personalized care plans, customized medication management and the inclusion of support highlight an approach. Continuously reevaluating patients and providing education for healthcare professionals underscores the nature of patient care. Despite advancements in technology that enable real time monitoring challenges such as alarm fatigue and the need for consistent staff training persist. This review concludes that a comprehensive strategy combining expertise standardized assessments and technological support is vital for managing early warning signs of deterioration to ultimately enhance patient outcomes in hospital environments.

Orthopedic sports injuries: advanced imaging modalities, return-to-play criteria, and injury prevention

Orthopaedic sports injuries encompass a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions resulting from the physical demands of athletic activities. These injuries can vary from acute, such as sprains and fractures, to chronic overuse syndromes like tendinopathies. Prevalent due to the global enthusiasm for sports, they affect bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. The etiology of these injuries is multifactorial, stemming from biomechanical stressors, training methods, genetics, and environmental conditions. Advanced imaging modalities like magnetic resonance imaging and Computed tomography have revolutionized the assessment and diagnosis of these injuries, aiding in treatment decisions and return-to-play criteria. Injury prevention is paramount and involves understanding intrinsic (athlete-related) and extrinsic (environmental) risk factors. Strategies include pre-participation screening, strength and conditioning programs, biomechanical analysis, neuromuscular training, proper equipment use, rule changes, education, and creating a safety-conscious culture. Effective prevention reduces the burden of these injuries. Treatment strategies range from conservative approaches to surgery, depending on the type and severity of the injury. Emerging trends in sports medicine, including biologic therapies and telemedicine, offer promising avenues for improved diagnosis and recovery. The holistic approach to orthopaedic sports injuries encompasses prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ensuring athletes' well-being and longevity in their chosen sports.

Definition, epidemiology and characterization of sepsis

Sepsis is a condition that occurs when the body's response to infection becomes unbalanced and potentially life-threatening. In this study, there is a focus on understanding and addressing sepsis. This detailed review explores how sepsis is defined in its prevalence in populations and how it is present clinically. The development of sepsis involves a series of events triggered by infections resulting in inflammation and dysfunction in organs. The symptoms of sepsis can range from signs like fever and changes in state to more severe complications such as septic shock. Early recognition of these symptoms using criteria like Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is crucial for intervention, which can greatly impact patient outcomes. Various diagnostic markers, imaging techniques and a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology behind sepsis have contributed to identification and targeted treatment approaches. Managing sepsis involves a combination of therapy, support for blood circulation, respiratory interventions and careful use of agents that modulate the system. It's important to emphasize the efforts among healthcare professionals from disciplines when it comes to managing sepsis effectively. Providing follow up care is essential for survivors as they may experience long term consequences such as sepsis syndrome. Due to its impact on health ongoing research is necessary to explore therapeutic options and refine existing strategies for managing sepsis effectively. The field continues to evolve with advancements, in precision medicine host directed therapies and interdisciplinary collaboration playing roles. This review seeks to grasp the concept of sepsis, providing insights into its various aspects, including the difficulties, in diagnosis and the ever-evolving treatment strategies.

Identification of skin bacterial profiles of early deceased bodies and the relation to post-mortem interval

@#Post-mortem microbiology (PMM) is an important tool in identifying possible causes of sudden unexpected death, as an infectious cause is highly suspected. However, contamination is a major problem in microbiology, and this has increased the difficulty determining the true pathogen that contributes to death in post-mortem cases. Skin commensals are common contaminants in blood cultures. This study was conducted to investigate the skin flora on early deceased bodies and observe the bacteria detected at different post-mortem intervals (PMIs). As blood is usually drawn from the neck and femoral sites for PMM examination, the two body sites were chosen as the sampling sites. Skin swab samples from the neck and femoral (n=80) of each early deceased body were collected by sterile cotton swabs. DNA was extracted from the swabs and then subjected to high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing by using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Staphylococcus was found to be the most dominant genus in both neck and femoral sites. LEfSe results showed that Cutibacterium is significantly different at the neck site while Corynebacterium is more abundant at femoral site. There are significant differences at genus level between PMI<5H and PMI>5H at both neck and femoral sites. The findings of the present study may act as a reference for microbiologists and forensic pathologists when mixed growth or contamination occurs in post-mortem blood cultures.

Oxidative and osmotolerant effects in Salvator merianae (Squamata: Teiidae) red blood cells during hibernation / Efeitos de oxidação e osmotolerância dos eritrócitos de Salvator merianae (Squamata: Teiidae) durante a hibernação

Abstract Hibernation is a natural condition of animals that lives in the temperate zone, although some tropical lizards also experience hibernation annually, such as the lizard native from South America, Salvator merianae, or "tegu" lizard. Even though physiological and metabolic characteristic associated with hibernation have been extensively studied, possible alterations in the red blood cells (RBC) integrity during this period remains unclear. Dehydration and fasting are natural consequences of hibernating for several months and it could be related to some cellular modifications. In this study, we investigated if the osmotic tolerance of RBCs of tegu lizard under hibernation is different from the cells obtained from animals while normal activity. Additionally, we indirectly investigated if the RBCs membrane of hibernating tegus could be associated with oxidation by quantifying oxidized biomolecules and the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Our findings suggest that RBCs are more fragile during the hibernation period, although we did not find evidence of an oxidative stress scenario associated with the accentuated fragility. Even though we did not exclude the possibility of oxidative damage during hibernation, we suggested that an increased RBCs volume as a consequence of hypoosmotic blood during hibernation could also affect RBCs integrity as noted.

Resumo A hibernação é uma condição natural dos animais que vivem na zona temperada, embora alguns lagartos tropicais também experenciem hibernação anualmente, como é o caso do lagarto nativo da América do Sul, Salvator merianae ou "teiú". Embora as características fisiológicas e metabólicas associadas à hibernação tenham sido amplamente estudadas, possíveis alterações na integridade das hemácias durante esse período ainda permanecem obscuras. A desidratação e o jejum são consequências naturais da hibernação por vários meses e podem estar relacionadas a algumas modificações celulares. Neste estudo, investigamos se a tolerância osmótica de hemácias do lagarto teiú sob hibernação são diferentes das células obtidas de animais em atividade normal. Além disso, investigamos indiretamente por meio da quantificação de biomoléculas oxidadas e da atividade de enzimas antioxidantes se a membrana das hemácias dos teiús em hibernação poderia estar associada à oxidação. Nossos resultados sugerem que as hemácias possuem maior fragilidade durante o período de hibernação, embora não tenhamos encontrado evidências de um cenário de estresse oxidativo associado à essa fragilidade acentuada. Embora não tenhamos excluído a possibilidade de dano oxidativo durante a hibernação, sugerimos que um aumento no volume das hemácias como consequência de sangue hipoosmótico durante a hibernação também poderia afetar a integridade de hemácias, tal como foi observado.

Introgression of bacterial leaf blight (BLB) resistant gene, Xa7 into MARDI elite variety, MR219 by marker assisted backcrossing (MABC) approach / Introdução do gene resistente à ferragem da folha bacteriana (BLB), xa7 na variedade MARDI elite, MR219 por abordagem de backcrossing assistida por marcador (MABC)

Abstract Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) is one of the major rice diseases in Malaysia. This disease causes substantial yield loss as high as 70%. Development of rice varieties which inherited BLB resistant traits is a crucial approach to promote and sustain rice industry in Malaysia. Hence, this study aims were to enhance BLB disease resistant characters of high yielding commercial variety MR219 through backcross breeding approach with supporting tool of marker-assisted selection (MAS). Broad spectrum BLB resistance gene, Xa7 from donor parent IRBB7 were introgressed into the susceptible MR219 (recurrent parent) using two flanking markers ID7 and ID15. At BC3F4, we managed to generate 19 introgressed lines with homozygous Xa7 gene and showed resistant characteristics as donor parent when it was challenged with Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae through artificial inoculation. Recurrent parent MR219 and control variety, MR263 were found to be severely infected by the disease. The improved lines exhibited similar morphological and yield performance characters as to the elite variety, MR219. Two lines, PB-2-107 and PB-2-34 were chosen to be potential lines because of their outstanding performances compared to parent, MR219. This study demonstrates a success story of MAS application in development of improved disease resistance lines of rice against BLB disease.

Resumo A mancha bacteriana das folhas (BLB) é uma das principais doenças do arroz na Malásia. Essa doença causa perdas substanciais de rendimento de até 70%. O desenvolvimento de variedades de arroz que herdaram características de resistência ao BLB é uma abordagem crucial para promover e sustentar a indústria do arroz na Malásia. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi aumentar os caracteres BLB resistentes a doenças da variedade comercial MR219 de alto rendimento por meio de uma abordagem de cruzamento retrocruzamento com ferramenta de apoio de seleção assistida por marcador (MAS). O gene de resistência a BLB de amplo espectro, Xa7 do pai doador IRBB7, foi introgressado no MR219 suscetível (pai recorrente) usando dois marcadores flanqueadores ID7 e ID15. No BC3F4, conseguimos gerar 19 linhagens introgressadas com o gene Xa7 homozigoto e apresentamos características de resistência como genitor doador quando desafiado com Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae por inoculação artificial. O pai recorrente MR219 e a variedade controle, MR263, estavam gravemente infectados pela doença. As linhas melhoradas exibiram características morfológicas e de desempenho de rendimento semelhantes às da variedade elite, MR219. Duas linhas, PB-2-107 e PB-2-34, foram escolhidas como linhas potenciais por causa de seus desempenhos excelentes em comparação com a mãe, MR219. Este estudo demonstra uma história de sucesso de aplicação de MAS no desenvolvimento de linhas de arroz melhoradas com resistência a doenças contra a doença BLB.