Steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profile studies of a classical ayurvedic preparation of “Saraguna Balijarita Makardhwaja” after chronic administration to male Sprague-Dawley rats

Background: Saraguna Balijarita Makardhwaja (SGM) is an Ayurvedic preparation used as a traditional antipyretic in the rural population. This research work was designed to get an overview of steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profiles after chronic administration of this drug. Methods: The acute pharmacological test of SGM recorded no death or any signs of effectivity even at the highest dose of 4000 mg/kg body weight. For chronic pharmacological evaluation, sixteen healthy Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into two groups, one group was a control group and the other was an experimental group. The experimental group was assigned to receive the drug at a dose of 400 mg/kg of body weight orally. After 28 days of treatment, blood samples were collected for biochemical tests. Results: The research showed the following effects on the steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profile. In this study, serum circulating level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), testosterone level, progesterone, 17-beta-estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured to determine safety profile study of SGM after chronic administration. There were no significant differences in any parameters which is suggesting that SGM has no effect of the steroidal and hormone profile. Conclusions: According to studies, SGM has no harmful effect on the steroid and hormone profiles after chronic treatment. Further studies are needed to establish the safety aspects of SGM.

Prevalence of self-medication practices in the Maharashtra population: a cross-sectional study

Background: Self-medication is a significant issue in public health, with varying global prevalence. It is one of the major causes of the emergence of antibiotic resistance in India. The study's objective was to identify the pattern, cause, and adverse events of self-medication in Maharashtra's urban and rural areas. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a pre-populated questionnaire; including information on age (18-85 years), non-prescription and prescription medication use. Age, gender, past medical and medication history, social history, and self-medication pattern, frequency, reason, source of information, and adverse events noticed as a result of self-medication are all sociodemographic questions on the questionnaire. A percentage analysis was used to examine the data. Results: Study states that out of 400 sample, 76% of the individuals self-medicate, with painkillers (49.4%), antacids (23.7%), antibiotics (15.3%), being the most often used drugs for ailments like headache, fever, bodily pain, and acidity. The top most medications taken for self-medication are paracetamol (53.1%), pantoprazole (30.43%), ondansetron (13.62%), and azithromycin (12.46%); 66.07% usage of prescription drugs as self-medication was found. The most frequent causes of self-medication were discovered to be mild illnesses, the easy accessibility of medications, and chemist recommendations, 8% of those surveyed had adverse events, and sources of information were chemists, past prescriptions, family members, and acquaintances. Conclusions: In Maharashtra, self-medication is a prevalent practice that primarily utilizes over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. As a result, consumers should be made aware of the hazards of antibiotic resistance and other pharmaceuticals.

Multiple animal bite injuries in a child: a case report

Animal bites are a leading cause of injury among children, of which dog bites contribute significantly to the burden of Rabies in the world. This was a case report of a 7-year-old migrant girl child who was admitted to the casualty as a victim of multiple stray dog bite injuries. The child presented with multiple and extensive lesions all over the body. Trauma related to animal bites cause not just physical pain and suffering but also emotional stress and carries the risk of Rabies which is a highly fatal disease. Prompt management of the case with post exposure prophylaxis against Rabies needs to be done immediately, along with wound management to ensure good treatment results and patient outcome. This report presents the case of a child who sustained multiple stray dog bite injuries all over the body. Patient was followed up for one month, showed good wound healing and recovery.

Lichen planus and its clinical variants: a retrospective study in a tertiary care centre

Background: Lichen planus is a chronic pruritic immune-mediated disorder involving skin, oral and genital mucosa, nail and hair with several morphological variants. Although not lethal, the chronic nature of the disease have significant impact on patient’s quality of life and their psychological wellbeing. Aim was to find out clinico-epidemiological profile of LP and its variants including Dermoscopic features and its association with systemic diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension and Hypothyroidism. Methods: This is a hospital based retrospective observational study. Medical records of all patients with LP during the period from January to December 2022 were noted. Various clinico-epidemiological and dermoscopic features along with systemic disease association were analysed. Results: A total of 257 cases were reported. Most common age group affected was 41-60 yrs. Male:female ratio was 0.72:1 with female preponderance. LP in children (<18 yrs) was seen in 9.7% of cases. Classical LP was the most common type (29.5%) followed by Mucosal LP (12.45%). More than one variant was seen in 20.6% of cases. LP in association with systemic diseases was seen in 36.1% of cases with DM being the most frequent. Most common dermoscopic features were pigmentation (100%) followed by Wickham’s striae (83.6%) and vascular findings (49.4%). Conclusions: LP is a common papulosquamous disorder affecting middle aged adults with slight female preponderance. Childhood LP contributed to significant number of cases. Classical LP was the commonest clinical variant observed. LP is associated with DM, HTN and hypothyroidism. Dermoscopy is an useful tool in diagnosis and differentiating from other similar conditions.

Metabolic syndrome: a comprehensive review

Metabolic syndrome (syndrome X) includes several components like diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia etc. Every patient should undergo detailed assessment for the silent presence of the components of metabolic syndrome. Genetic predisposition, increased nutrient- dense food, decreased physical activity and chronic stress are common in metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance, obesity and hyperglycaemia are commonly seen which can later lead to serious consequences like cardiovascular complications, thrombotic events etc. Clinical features depend on the components of the metabolic syndrome in a patient. Some may present with complications and advanced disease. For non-diabetic individuals, oral glucose tolerance test is indicated. It is better to study serum uric acid level and to screen for silent kidney stones. Specific drugs are prescribed as indicated. Drugs for stress and insomnia are also prescribed. Thrombotic status of the patient should be considered, and antiplatelet drugs are prescribed if risk factors are present. Non-pharmacological measures like diet modification and increased physical activity should be given on a priority basis. Patient compliance of these two measures should be monitored regularly. Future deployment of “artificial intelligence – powered” predictive diagnostic tests will help in detecting and controlling metabolic syndrome. “At risk” individuals and patients showing some components of metabolic syndrome should undergo full investigations to detect other components of metabolic syndrome. Full range of therapeutic drugs, diet modification and increased physical activity should be prescribed.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of ‘P-drug concept’ among postgraduate residents and interns in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Maharashtra

Background: A P-drug is a clinician’s personal or preferred or priority choice drug. The study aims to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and practice of P-drug, which helps postgraduates to prescribe medicines rationally. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the P-drug concept among postgraduate students at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Methods: The study is a prospective, cross-sectional pre-validated questionnaire-based study conducted in the tertiary care teaching hospital. A total of 300 postgraduates, interns and consultants from Tertiary care teaching hospital from Maharashtra were enrolled and instructed to fill the questionnaire. These filled forms were collected, and data was analyzed. Results: Out of 300 members, 233 filled the questionnaire, and these forms are evaluated. About 49.7% among them are aware of P-drug, 43.4% are aware of P-treatment, 28.4% are not including fixed-dose combinations in their P-drug list, 42% are aware of the advantages of prescribing P-drug, and 48.4% felt that teaching programs are needed for preparing P-drug list. Conclusions: The P-drug concept is requisite for improving the quality of health care and practicing rational use of medicine. As only a few studies have been conducted on the P-drug idea in this institute, the institutional teaching review board should run teaching programs regarding the P-drug concept.

Comparison of medication adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a pre and post study

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus refers to a group of heterogeneous disorders with the common elements of chronic hyperglycemia. Diabetes medications play a crucial role in lowering blood sugar levels. The study aims to compare medication adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from urban and rural areas during pre and post visit. Methods: This pre and post-study was conducted from March to August 2022. A total of 104 participants were enrolled. Details have been obtained through data collection form. Medication adherence was measured using Hill-Bone medication adherence scale, and patient education was provided through leaflet. Results: The study included 54 females and 50 males. The correlation between medication adherence versus disease knowledge and drug knowledge was found out using Pearson’s correlation and the result is statistically significant. The medication adherence was found to be increased by 17.3% and 21.2% in rural and urban areas respectively. Inadequate follow-up and financial barriers were most accounted for medication non-adherence. Conclusions: The majority of type 2 diabetes patients have suboptimal treatment adherence which is associated with poor blood sugar control. We clinical pharmacists can tackle this problem of adherence through quality patient education.

Adjuvant-induced arthritis promotes vascular hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine through a nitric oxide-related mechanism

Arthritis has important cardiovascular repercussions. Phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction is impaired in rat aortas in the early phase of the adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA), around the 15th day post-induction. Therefore, the present study aimed to verify the effects of AIA on hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine in rat aortas. AIA was induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (3.8 mg/dL) in the right hind paw of male Wistar rats (n=27). Functional experiments in isolated aortas were carried out 15 days after AIA induction. Morphometric and stereological analyses of the aortas were also performed 36 days after the induction of AIA. AIA did not promote structural modifications in the aortas at any of the time points studied. AIA reduced phenylephrine-induced contraction in endothelium-intact aortas, but not in endothelium-denuded aortas. However, AIA did not change KCl-induced contraction in either endothelium-intact or denuded aortas. L-NAME (non-selective NOS inhibitor), 1400W (selective iNOS inhibitor), and ODQ (guanylyl cyclase inhibitor) reversed AIA-induced hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine in intact aortas. 7-NI (selective nNOS inhibitor) increased the contraction induced by phenylephrine in aortas from AIA rats. In summary, the hyporesponsiveness to phenylephrine induced by AIA was endothelium-dependent and mediated by iNOS-derived NO through activation of the NO-guanylyl cyclase pathway.

Rho GTPase activating protein 21-mediated regulation of prostate cancer associated 3 gene in prostate cancer cell

The overexpression of the prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) gene is well-defined as a marker for prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. Although widely used in clinical research, PCA3 molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Herein we used phage display technology to identify putative molecules that bind to the promoter region of PCA3 gene and regulate its expression. The most frequent peptide PCA3p1 (80%) was similar to the Rho GTPase activating protein 21 (ARHGAP21) and its binding affinity was confirmed using Phage Bead ELISA. We showed that ARHGAP21 silencing in LNCaP prostate cancer cells decreased PCA3 and androgen receptor (AR) transcriptional levels and increased prune homolog 2 (PRUNE2) coding gene expression, indicating effective involvement of ARHGAP21 in androgen-dependent tumor pathway. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay confirmed the interaction between PCA3 promoter region and ARHGAP21. This is the first study that described the role of ARHGAP21 in regulating the PCA3 gene under the androgenic pathway, standing out as a new mechanism of gene regulatory control during prostatic oncogenesis.

Diabetes, hemoglobin A1c, and cognitive performance in older adults: is there any impact of frailty? Evidence from the ELSI-Brazil study

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between diabetes and cognitive performance in a nationally representative study in Brazil. We also aimed to investigate the interaction between frailty and diabetes on cognitive performance. A cross-sectional analysis of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) baseline data that included adults aged 50 years and older was conducted. Linear regression models were used to study the association between diabetes and cognitive performance. A total of 8,149 participants were included, and a subgroup analysis was performed in 1,768 with hemoglobin A1c data. Diabetes and hemoglobin A1c levels were not associated with cognitive performance. Interaction of hemoglobin A1c levels with frailty status was found on global cognitive z-score (P-value for interaction=0.038). These results suggested an association between higher hemoglobin A1c levels and lower cognitive performance only in non-frail participants. Additionally, undiagnosed diabetes with higher hemoglobin A1c levels was associated with both poor global cognitive (β=-0.36; 95%CI: -0.62; -0.10, P=0.008) and semantic verbal fluency performance (β=-0.47; 95%CI: -0.73; -0.21, P=0.001). In conclusion, higher hemoglobin A1c levels were associated with lower cognitive performance among non-frail participants. Higher hemoglobin A1c levels without a previous diagnosis of diabetes were also related to poor cognitive performance. Future longitudinal analyses of the ELSI-Brazil study will provide further information on the role of frailty in the association of diabetes and glycemic control with cognitive decline.

Experimental study of local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic activities of fluorinated ethynylpiperidine derivatives

The chemical structure of piperidine has a unique ability to combine with other molecular fragments. This fact makes it possible to actively use it as an effective basis for the creation of new drug-like substances. Thus, the aim of the current investigation was to study the acute toxicity, local anesthetic potency, and antiarrhythmic activity of the two new synthesized piperidine derivatives under laboratory codes LAS-286 and LAS-294 (local anesthetic substances). The Bulbring & Wajda animal model and method of determining the nociception threshold during electrical stimulation was used to investigate the action of the substance during infiltration anesthesia. An antiarrhythmic activity was observed by the aconitine-induced rat arrhythmia model. Additionally, these compounds were studied in relation to molecular docking to delineate the structure-activity relationships. The tested piperidine derivatives had a low toxicity in the subcutaneous and intravenous administration routes. The experimental results showed a higher prolonged and pronounced local anesthetic activity for LAS-286 at a 0.5% concentration, compared to the reference preparations. The low dosage of 0.1 mg/kg of LAS-294 demonstrated a pronounced preventive antiarrhythmic effect in 90% of cases on the development of mixed arrhythmia, caused by aconitine. The results of molecular docking confirmed a higher binding affinity of the tested piperidines with the Nav1.4 and Nav1.5 macromolecules. The results of the present study are very promising, because these piperidines have shown a high biological activity, which can suggest a potential therapeutic application in the future.

Which detergent is most suitable for the generation of an acellular pancreas bioscaffold?

Pancreatic bioengineering is a potential therapeutic alternative for type 1 diabetes (T1D) in which the pancreas is decellularized, generating an acellular extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold, which may be reconstituted by recellularization with several cell types to generate a bioartificial pancreas. No consensus for an ideal pancreatic decellularization protocol exists. Therefore, we aimed to determine the best-suited detergent by comparing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium deoxycholate (SDC), and Triton X-100 at different concentrations. Murine (n=12) and human pancreatic tissue from adult brain-dead donors (n=06) was harvested in accordance with Institutional Ethical Committee of the University of São Paulo Medical School (CEP-FMUSP) and decellularized under different detergent conditions. DNA content, histological analysis, and transmission and scanning electron microscopy were assessed. The most adequate condition for pancreatic decellularization was found to be 4% SDC, displaying: a) effective cell removal; b) maintenance of extracellular matrix architecture; c) proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and collagen fibers preservation. This protocol was extrapolated and successfully applied to human pancreas decellularization. The acellular ECM scaffold generated was recelullarized using human pancreatic islets primary clusters. 3D clusters were generated using 0.5×104 cells and then placed on top of acellular pancreatic slices (25 and 50 μm thickness). These clusters tended to connect to the acellular matrix, with visible cells located in the periphery of the clusters interacting with the ECM network of the bioscaffold slices and continued to produce insulin. This study provided evidence on how to improve and accelerate the pancreas decellularization process, while maintaining its architecture and extracellular structure, aiming at pancreatic bioengineering.

Strategies for X-ray utilization in the evaluation of knee injuries

Knee injuries are prevalent among young athletes, and an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Knee pain is a widespread issue among adolescent athletes. About 50% of athletes experience knee pain every year, and an estimated 2.5 million sports-related knee injuries occur annually in young athletes. The study discusses common knee injuries, including fractures, cartilage damage, patellar injuries, and meniscus tears. It highlights the Ottawa knee rules (OKRs) as a valuable clinical decision tool for guiding the necessity of knee X-rays, emphasizing their high sensitivity and potential cost savings. Prevention strategies for youth athletes, such as injury prevention programs and neuromuscular training, are also discussed. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of radiation exposure and patient safety when utilizing diagnostic imaging, emphasizing adherence to radiation safety principles and the ALARA principle. In conclusion, this review emphasizes multifaceted role of X-rays in diagnosing knee injuries and importance of evidence-based decision rules, prevention strategies, and radiation safety in adolescent knee healthcare.

Providing inoculum for Didymella bryoniae studies: the effect of light spectrum and storing at low temperature / Fornecendo inóculo para estudos de Didymella bryoniae: o efeito do espectro de luz e armazenamento em baixa temperatura

Abstract The in vitro sporulation of Didymella bryoniae is of great importance for studies that require pure inoculum and in large quantities. Thus, the objectives of this study were to identify the best condition for D. bryoniae sporulation combining different light spectra (UV-A or UV-B light, white light, and continuous dark), with distinct culture media (PDA, V8, ML, and PDAB) and, to evaluate fungus' survivability stored at -20°C over time. The fungus samples were only able to sporulate when subjected to the UV-B light treatment, regardless of the culture medium. The highest appearance of spores conidium type was observed in the PDAB medium, and the lowest production occurred in the ML medium. Reproductive structures, such as perithecia and pycnidia, were observed in all culture media. However, there was considerable variation in the amount of each structure between the different culture media. The ML and V8 media showed a greater number of perithecia and the PDA and PDAB media presented a greater proportion of pycnidia compared to perithecia. The storage duration at -20°C did not affect mycelial growth or mycelial growth rate. In conclusion, the UV-B light is essential for D. bryoniae in vitro sporulation. Moreover, the culture medium composition influences the type of fungal structure produced, as well as spores' size and quantity. Freezing at -20°C is an efficient technique that can be used to store D. bryoniae for at least five months without loss of viability.

Resumo A esporulação de Didymella bryoniae in vitro é de grande importância para estudos que requerem inóculo puro e em grandes quantidades. Assim, os objetivos deste estudo foram identificar a melhor condição para esporulação de D. bryoniae combinando diferentes espectros de luz (luz UV-A ou UV-B, luz branca e escuro contínuo) com distintos meios de cultura (PDA, V8, ML e PDAB) e, avaliar a sobrevivência do fungo armazenado a -20°C ao longo do tempo. As amostras de fungo só esporularam quando submetidas ao tratamento com luz UV-B, independentemente do meio de cultura. Maior aparecimento de esporos do tipo conídio foi observado no meio PDAB, e a menor produção ocorreu no meio ML. Estruturas reprodutivas, como peritécios e picnídeos, foram observadas em todos os meios de cultura. No entanto, houve uma variação considerável na quantidade de cada estrutura entre os diferentes meios de cultura. Os meios ML e V8 apresentaram maior número de peritécios e os meios PDA e PDAB apresentaram maior proporção de picnídeos em relação aos peritécios. A duração do armazenamento a -20°C não afetou o crescimento micelial ou a taxa de crescimento micelial. Em conclusão, a luz UV-B é essencial para a esporulação de D. bryoniae in vitro. Além disso, a composição do meio de cultura influencia o tipo de estrutura fúngica produzida, bem como o tamanho e a quantidade dos esporos. O congelamento a -20°C é uma técnica eficiente que pode ser usada para armazenar D. bryoniae por pelo menos cinco meses sem perda de viabilidade

Chemical characterization and effects of volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet on the quality of collagen deposition and caveolin-1 expression in a muscular fibrosis murine model / Caracterização química e efeitos do óleo volátil de Alpinia zerumbet na qualidade da deposição do colágeno e expressão da caveolina-1 em modelo murino de fibrose muscular

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of the volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet (VOAz) on caveolin-1 gene expression and muscular fibrosis. The rats were immobilized to induce fibrosis of the gastrocnemius muscle, and they were treated with VOAz. Collagen quality was assessed by histology and the expression of the caveolin-1 (CAV-1) gene was evaluated using qPCR. Histomorphological analysis indicated a significant reduction in the perimeter, width, and intensity of collagen in the treated groups, thus showing that the oil was effective in regulating the quality of collagen at the three concentrations. The results of expression levels suggested a decrease in the lesioned group and in two treatment groups (0.0115 µg/g and 0.009 µg/g). However, with the lowest concentration (0.0065 µg/g), no significant difference was observed, with levels similar to those found in healthy tissue. Therefore, the results showed that VOAz has the potential to be a non-invasive and low-cost alternative to aid in the treatment of muscular fibrosis.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o efeito do óleo volátil de Alpinia zerumbet (OVAz) na expressão do gene da caveolina-1 e na fibrose muscular. Os ratos foram imobilizados para induzir a fibrose do músculo gastrocnêmio, e foram tratados com OVAz. A qualidade do colágeno foi avaliada com histologia e à expressão do gene caveolina-1 (CAV-1) foi avaliada usando qPCR. A análise histomorfológica indicou uma redução significativa no perímetro, largura e intensidade do colágeno nos grupos tratados. Os resultados dos níveis de expressão sugeriram diminuição nos grupos de lesão e em dois grupos de tratamento (0,0115 µg/g e 0,009 µg/g). No entanto, com a menor concentração (0,0065 µg/g), não foi observada diferença significativa, apresentando níveis semelhantes aos encontrados em tecido saudável. O uso do OVAz foi eficaz para reverter as alterações do colágeno causadas pela fibrose, e sua menor concentração apresentou uma possível tendência de aumento na expressão do CAV-1. Portanto, os resultados mostraram que o OVAz tem potencial para ser uma alternativa não invasiva e de baixo custo para auxiliar no tratamento da fibrose muscular.

Chemical characterization and effects of volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet on the quality of collagen deposition and caveolin-1 expression in a muscular fibrosis murine model

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of the volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet (VOAz) on caveolin-1 gene expression and muscular fibrosis. The rats were immobilized to induce fibrosis of the gastrocnemius muscle, and they were treated with VOAz. Collagen quality was assessed by histology and the expression of the caveolin-1 (CAV-1) gene was evaluated using qPCR. Histomorphological analysis indicated a significant reduction in the perimeter, width, and intensity of collagen in the treated groups, thus showing that the oil was effective in regulating the quality of collagen at the three concentrations. The results of expression levels suggested a decrease in the lesioned group and in two treatment groups (0.0115 µg/g and 0.009 µg/g). However, with the lowest concentration (0.0065 µg/g), no significant difference was observed, with levels similar to those found in healthy tissue. Therefore, the results showed that VOAz has the potential to be a non-invasive and low-cost alternative to aid in the treatment of muscular fibrosis.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o efeito do óleo volátil de Alpinia zerumbet (OVAz) na expressão do gene da caveolina-1 e na fibrose muscular. Os ratos foram imobilizados para induzir a fibrose do músculo gastrocnêmio, e foram tratados com OVAz. A qualidade do colágeno foi avaliada com histologia e à expressão do gene caveolina-1 (CAV-1) foi avaliada usando qPCR. A análise histomorfológica indicou uma redução significativa no perímetro, largura e intensidade do colágeno nos grupos tratados. Os resultados dos níveis de expressão sugeriram diminuição nos grupos de lesão e em dois grupos de tratamento (0,0115 µg/g e 0,009 µg/g). No entanto, com a menor concentração (0,0065 µg/g), não foi observada diferença significativa, apresentando níveis semelhantes aos encontrados em tecido saudável. O uso do OVAz foi eficaz para reverter as alterações do colágeno causadas pela fibrose, e sua menor concentração apresentou uma possível tendência de aumento na expressão do CAV-1. Portanto, os resultados mostraram que o OVAz tem potencial para ser uma alternativa não invasiva e de baixo custo para auxiliar no tratamento da fibrose muscular.

Providing inoculum for Didymella bryoniae studies: the effect of light spectrum and storing at low temperature

Abstract The in vitro sporulation of Didymella bryoniae is of great importance for studies that require pure inoculum and in large quantities. Thus, the objectives of this study were to identify the best condition for D. bryoniae sporulation combining different light spectra (UV-A or UV-B light, white light, and continuous dark), with distinct culture media (PDA, V8, ML, and PDAB) and, to evaluate fungus survivability stored at -20°C over time. The fungus samples were only able to sporulate when subjected to the UV-B light treatment, regardless of the culture medium. The highest appearance of spores conidium type was observed in the PDAB medium, and the lowest production occurred in the ML medium. Reproductive structures, such as perithecia and pycnidia, were observed in all culture media. However, there was considerable variation in the amount of each structure between the different culture media. The ML and V8 media showed a greater number of perithecia and the PDA and PDAB media presented a greater proportion of pycnidia compared to perithecia. The storage duration at -20°C did not affect mycelial growth or mycelial growth rate. In conclusion, the UV-B light is essential for D. bryoniae in vitro sporulation. Moreover, the culture medium composition influences the type of fungal structure produced, as well as spores size and quantity. Freezing at -20°C is an efficient technique that can be used to store D. bryoniae for at least five months without loss of viability.

Resumo A esporulação de Didymella bryoniae in vitro é de grande importância para estudos que requerem inóculo puro e em grandes quantidades. Assim, os objetivos deste estudo foram identificar a melhor condição para esporulação de D. bryoniae combinando diferentes espectros de luz (luz UV-A ou UV-B, luz branca e escuro contínuo) com distintos meios de cultura (PDA, V8, ML e PDAB) e, avaliar a sobrevivência do fungo armazenado a -20°C ao longo do tempo. As amostras de fungo só esporularam quando submetidas ao tratamento com luz UV-B, independentemente do meio de cultura. Maior aparecimento de esporos do tipo conídio foi observado no meio PDAB, e a menor produção ocorreu no meio ML. Estruturas reprodutivas, como peritécios e picnídeos, foram observadas em todos os meios de cultura. No entanto, houve uma variação considerável na quantidade de cada estrutura entre os diferentes meios de cultura. Os meios ML e V8 apresentaram maior número de peritécios e os meios PDA e PDAB apresentaram maior proporção de picnídeos em relação aos peritécios. A duração do armazenamento a -20°C não afetou o crescimento micelial ou a taxa de crescimento micelial. Em conclusão, a luz UV-B é essencial para a esporulação de D. bryoniae in vitro. Além disso, a composição do meio de cultura influencia o tipo de estrutura fúngica produzida, bem como o tamanho e a quantidade dos esporos. O congelamento a -20°C é uma técnica eficiente que pode ser usada para armazenar D. bryoniae por pelo menos cinco meses sem perda de viabilidade

An overview of implant overdenture attachment systems

Implant-retained overdentures have revolutionized dental prosthetics, addressing the limitations of traditional removable dentures. These overdentures rely on attachment systems to anchor them to dental implants or abutments, improving stability, retention, and functionality. Common attachment systems include locator attachments, bar attachments, magnets, Hader clips, ERA attachments, telescopic crowns, and OT equator attachments. Each offers unique benefits and retention levels. Implant survival rates are influenced by various factors, including attachment type, but overall, attachment choice may not be the primary determinant of implant success. Attachment systems that evenly distribute forces, like bar attachments, contribute to implant stability. Marginal bone loss can affect implant stability and is influenced by attachment systems. Precision attachments, such as telescopic crowns, have shown reduced marginal bone loss in practice. Soft tissue complications, including inflammation and mucositis, vary by attachment but can be managed with proper oral hygiene. Retention, crucial for function, varies with attachment type and implant number. More implants generally improve retention, although it may decrease over time. Bar attachments typically provide superior retention. Maintenance is essential, with some debate over whether bar or stud designs entail more upkeep. Patient satisfaction is high with both bar and ball attachments, while magnets may pose retention issues. The choice of attachment depends on patient needs and clinical factors, with regular follow-up and maintenance essential for long-term success.

Frequency of high risk behaviour in patients with alcohol dependence syndrome: a cross sectional study

Background: Alcohol use and high-risk behaviour has been shown to have an association. Severity of alcohol dependence has an association with frequency of risk-taking behaviour. Objectives were to evaluate the frequency of high risk behaviour in alcohol dependence syndrome and to find any correlation between psychosocial variables and high risk behaviour. Methods: 100 individuals with ICD 10 diagnosis of alcohol dependence syndrome were studied using semi structured interview. High risk behaviour was assessed using violent risk appraisal guide and deliberate self-harm inventory. The age of onset of initiation of alcohol use and dependence and severity of alcohol dependence syndrome were assessed and analyzed by frequency and Chi square test. Results: In 100 subjects with alcohol dependence syndrome, 4 (17.4%) and 7 (30.4%) of subjects with severe dependence had road traffic accidents and risky sexual and violent behaviour respectively. There was a statistically significant association between age of onset, age of dependence and high-risk behaviour. Conclusions: The present study concluded that most individuals with alcohol dependence syndrome had high risk behaviour. Road traffic accident was the most common followed by risky sexual and violent behaviour. There was a significant association between severity of alcohol dependence and high risk behaviour.

An insight into attitude about usage of ICT by teachers in school for hearing impaired

Background: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education is the mode of education that depends on digital medium of information transfer for delivery of course content and related learning experiences. Its focus is on utilization of different technologies in order to support, enhance, and optimise the delivery of information. ICT can be used in many ways to help both the students and the teachers gain knowledge on a particular topic/subject. The present study was inclined to look into the attitude of teacher for the hearing impaired towards usage of ICT in classrooms. Methods: Questionnaire which consists of attitude of teachers towards ICT. The questionnaire used for this study was adopted and modified from the original questionnaire designed by Gulbahar and Guven (2008), Ghavifekr and Athirah (2015) that is considered suitable for this research. Descriptive statistics was carried out for analyzing the data in SPSS version 20.0. Results: For all the questions framed to elicit positive opinions, the median values were either 4 i.e. agree is the common response of all the judges. For questions framed to elicit the common response is either disagree or strongly disagree. The responses of the judges suggest that they consider ICT to be helpful for teaching-learning of hearing impaired children. Conclusions: The study was able to demonstrate that ICT tools have gained popularity among the teachers of hearing impaired included in the study.