Antibacterial and bacteriostatic potential of coelomic fluid and body paste of Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) against ampicillin resistant clinical bacterial isolates / Potencial antibacteriano e bacteriostático do fluido celômico e pasta corporal de Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) contra isolados bacterianos clínicos resistentes à ampicilina

Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), a native earthworm of Pakistan and Southeast Asia, has wide utilization in vermicomposting and bioremediation process. In this study, P. posthuma coelomic fluid (PCF) and body paste (PBP) was evaluated as antibacterial agent against ampicillin (AMP) resistant five Gram positive and four Gram negative clinical isolates. The antibacterial effect of different doses (i.e. 25-100 µg/ml) of PCF and PBP along with AMP and azithromycin (AZM) (negative and positive controls, respectively) were observed through disc diffusion and micro-dilution methods. All nine clinical isolates were noticed as AMP resistant and AZM sensitive. Antibacterial effects of PCF and PBP were dose dependent and zone of inhibitions (ZI) against all clinical isolates were between 23.4 ± 0.92 to 0 ± 00 mm. The sensitivity profile of PCF and PBP against clinical isolates was noticed as 44.44 and 55.56%, respectively. Both PCF and PBP showed bacteriostatic (BTS) action against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Moreover, the cumulative BTS potential of PCF and PBP against all isolates was 66.67 and 55.56%, respectively. The MICs of PCF and PBP were ranged from 50-200 µg/ml against selected isolates. The bacterial growth curves indicated that PCF and PBP inhibited the growth of all isolates at their specific MIC concentrations. However, PBP has better antibacterial potential compared to PCF against selected isolates. Therefore, it is concluded that both PCF and PBP of P. posthuma possess antibacterial and BTS potential against ampicillin resistant clinical isolates. This organism might be considered as a second choice of antibacterial agents and can further be utilized in pharmaceutical industries for novel drug manufacturing by prospecting bioactive potential agents.

Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), uma minhoca nativa do Paquistão e sudeste da Ásia, tem ampla utilização em processos de vermicompostagem e biorremediação. Neste estudo, o fluido celômico de P. posthuma (PCF) e a pasta corporal (PBP) foram avaliados como agente antibacteriano contra cinco isolados clínicos Gram-positivos e quatro Gram-negativos resistentes à ampicilina (AMP). O efeito antibacteriano de diferentes doses (ou seja, 25-100 µg / ml) de PCF e PBP juntamente com AMP e azitromicina (AZM) (controles negativo e positivo, respectivamente) foi observado por meio de métodos de difusão em disco e microdiluição. Todos os nove isolados clínicos foram notados como resistentes a AMP e sensíveis a AZM. Os efeitos antibacterianos de PCF e PBP foram dependentes da dose e a zona de inibição (ZI) contra todos os isolados clínicos foi entre 23,4 ± 0,92 a 0 ± 00 mm. O perfil de sensibilidade do PCF e PBP contra isolados clínicos foi observado como 44,44% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Tanto o PCF quanto o PBP mostraram ação bacteriostática (BTS) contra S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Além disso, o potencial BTS cumulativo de PCF e PBP contra todos os isolados foi de 66,67% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Os MICs de PCF e PBP variaram de 50-200 µg / ml contra isolados selecionados. As curvas de crescimento bacteriano indicaram que o PCF e o PBP inibiram o crescimento de todos os isolados em suas concentrações específicas de MIC. No entanto, PBP tem melhor potencial antibacteriano em comparação com PCF contra isolados selecionados. Portanto, conclui-se que tanto o PCF quanto o PBP de P. posthuma possuem potencial antibacteriano e BTS contra isolados clínicos resistentes à ampicilina. Esse organismo pode ser considerado como uma segunda escolha de agentes antibacterianos e pode ainda ser utilizado nas indústrias farmacêuticas para a fabricação de novos medicamentos por meio da prospecção de agentes com potencial bioativo.

Antibacterial and bacteriostatic potential of coelomic fluid and body paste of Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) against ampicillin resistant clinical bacterial isolates

Abstract Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), a native earthworm of Pakistan and Southeast Asia, has wide utilization in vermicomposting and bioremediation process. In this study, P. posthuma coelomic fluid (PCF) and body paste (PBP) was evaluated as antibacterial agent against ampicillin (AMP) resistant five Gram positive and four Gram negative clinical isolates. The antibacterial effect of different doses (i.e. 25-100 µg/ml) of PCF and PBP along with AMP and azithromycin (AZM) (negative and positive controls, respectively) were observed through disc diffusion and micro-dilution methods. All nine clinical isolates were noticed as AMP resistant and AZM sensitive. Antibacterial effects of PCF and PBP were dose dependent and zone of inhibitions (ZI) against all clinical isolates were between 23.4 ± 0.92 to 0 ± 00 mm. The sensitivity profile of PCF and PBP against clinical isolates was noticed as 44.44 and 55.56%, respectively. Both PCF and PBP showed bacteriostatic (BTS) action against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Moreover, the cumulative BTS potential of PCF and PBP against all isolates was 66.67 and 55.56%, respectively. The MICs of PCF and PBP were ranged from 50-200 µg/ml against selected isolates. The bacterial growth curves indicated that PCF and PBP inhibited the growth of all isolates at their specific MIC concentrations. However, PBP has better antibacterial potential compared to PCF against selected isolates. Therefore, it is concluded that both PCF and PBP of P. posthuma possess antibacterial and BTS potential against ampicillin resistant clinical isolates. This organism might be considered as a second choice of antibacterial agents and can further be utilized in pharmaceutical industries for novel drug manufacturing by prospecting bioactive potential agents.

Resumo Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), uma minhoca nativa do Paquistão e sudeste da Ásia, tem ampla utilização em processos de vermicompostagem e biorremediação. Neste estudo, o fluido celômico de P. posthuma (PCF) e a pasta corporal (PBP) foram avaliados como agente antibacteriano contra cinco isolados clínicos Gram-positivos e quatro Gram-negativos resistentes à ampicilina (AMP). O efeito antibacteriano de diferentes doses (ou seja, 25-100 µg / ml) de PCF e PBP juntamente com AMP e azitromicina (AZM) (controles negativo e positivo, respectivamente) foi observado por meio de métodos de difusão em disco e microdiluição. Todos os nove isolados clínicos foram notados como resistentes a AMP e sensíveis a AZM. Os efeitos antibacterianos de PCF e PBP foram dependentes da dose e a zona de inibição (ZI) contra todos os isolados clínicos foi entre 23,4 ± 0,92 a 0 ± 00 mm. O perfil de sensibilidade do PCF e PBP contra isolados clínicos foi observado como 44,44% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Tanto o PCF quanto o PBP mostraram ação bacteriostática (BTS) contra S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Além disso, o potencial BTS cumulativo de PCF e PBP contra todos os isolados foi de 66,67% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Os MICs de PCF e PBP variaram de 50-200 µg / ml contra isolados selecionados. As curvas de crescimento bacteriano indicaram que o PCF e o PBP inibiram o crescimento de todos os isolados em suas concentrações específicas de MIC. No entanto, PBP tem melhor potencial antibacteriano em comparação com PCF contra isolados selecionados. Portanto, conclui-se que tanto o PCF quanto o PBP de P. posthuma possuem potencial antibacteriano e BTS contra isolados clínicos resistentes à ampicilina. Esse organismo pode ser considerado como uma segunda escolha de agentes antibacterianos e pode ainda ser utilizado nas indústrias farmacêuticas para a fabricação de novos medicamentos por meio da prospecção de agentes com potencial bioativo.

Antibacterial and bacteriostatic potential of coelomic fluid and body paste of Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) against ampicillin resistant clinical bacterial isolates / Potencial antibacteriano e bacteriostático do fluido celômico e pasta corporal de Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) contra isolados bacterianos clínicos resistentes à ampicilina

Abstract Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), a native earthworm of Pakistan and Southeast Asia, has wide utilization in vermicomposting and bioremediation process. In this study, P. posthuma coelomic fluid (PCF) and body paste (PBP) was evaluated as antibacterial agent against ampicillin (AMP) resistant five Gram positive and four Gram negative clinical isolates. The antibacterial effect of different doses (i.e. 25-100 µg/ml) of PCF and PBP along with AMP and azithromycin (AZM) (negative and positive controls, respectively) were observed through disc diffusion and micro-dilution methods. All nine clinical isolates were noticed as AMP resistant and AZM sensitive. Antibacterial effects of PCF and PBP were dose dependent and zone of inhibitions (ZI) against all clinical isolates were between 23.4 ± 0.92 to 0 ± 00 mm. The sensitivity profile of PCF and PBP against clinical isolates was noticed as 44.44 and 55.56%, respectively. Both PCF and PBP showed bacteriostatic (BTS) action against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Moreover, the cumulative BTS potential of PCF and PBP against all isolates was 66.67 and 55.56%, respectively. The MICs of PCF and PBP were ranged from 50-200 µg/ml against selected isolates. The bacterial growth curves indicated that PCF and PBP inhibited the growth of all isolates at their specific MIC concentrations. However, PBP has better antibacterial potential compared to PCF against selected isolates. Therefore, it is concluded that both PCF and PBP of P. posthuma possess antibacterial and BTS potential against ampicillin resistant clinical isolates. This organism might be considered as a second choice of antibacterial agents and can further be utilized in pharmaceutical industries for novel drug manufacturing by prospecting bioactive potential agents.

Resumo Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), uma minhoca nativa do Paquistão e sudeste da Ásia, tem ampla utilização em processos de vermicompostagem e biorremediação. Neste estudo, o fluido celômico de P. posthuma (PCF) e a pasta corporal (PBP) foram avaliados como agente antibacteriano contra cinco isolados clínicos Gram-positivos e quatro Gram-negativos resistentes à ampicilina (AMP). O efeito antibacteriano de diferentes doses (ou seja, 25-100 µg / ml) de PCF e PBP juntamente com AMP e azitromicina (AZM) (controles negativo e positivo, respectivamente) foi observado por meio de métodos de difusão em disco e microdiluição. Todos os nove isolados clínicos foram notados como resistentes a AMP e sensíveis a AZM. Os efeitos antibacterianos de PCF e PBP foram dependentes da dose e a zona de inibição (ZI) contra todos os isolados clínicos foi entre 23,4 ± 0,92 a 0 ± 00 mm. O perfil de sensibilidade do PCF e PBP contra isolados clínicos foi observado como 44,44% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Tanto o PCF quanto o PBP mostraram ação bacteriostática (BTS) contra S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Além disso, o potencial BTS cumulativo de PCF e PBP contra todos os isolados foi de 66,67% e 55,56%, respectivamente. Os MICs de PCF e PBP variaram de 50-200 µg / ml contra isolados selecionados. As curvas de crescimento bacteriano indicaram que o PCF e o PBP inibiram o crescimento de todos os isolados em suas concentrações específicas de MIC. No entanto, PBP tem melhor potencial antibacteriano em comparação com PCF contra isolados selecionados. Portanto, conclui-se que tanto o PCF quanto o PBP de P. posthuma possuem potencial antibacteriano e BTS contra isolados clínicos resistentes à ampicilina. Esse organismo pode ser considerado como uma segunda escolha de agentes antibacterianos e pode ainda ser utilizado nas indústrias farmacêuticas para a fabricação de novos medicamentos por meio da prospecção de agentes com potencial bioativo.

Nosocomial Infection Among Burn Patients Admitted to a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Nosocomial infection is a major challenge for the appropriate management of burns. The present study aimed to investigate incidence, risk factors, and causative organisms of nosocomial infection in burn patients of Khulna, Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study was conducted among patients admitted to the Burn and Plastic Surgery Department of Khulna Medical College Hospital (KMCH) from January to December 2020. Relevant data were collected from the patients' hospital records. Samples of wound swabs and blood were collected and cultured in the microbiology laboratory of KMCH. Logistic regression models were used to determine risk factors for infective complications in burn patients. All statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS version 26.0. A total of 100 burn patients were included. Mean age was 29.2 years with a male-female ratio of 1.3:1. Flame burns were most prevalent among the patients (41%), followed by scald (23%) and electric burns (15%). Almost 40% patients had full thickness burn. The incidence of nosocomial infection was 42% (wound infection 33% and septicemia 9%). Total body surface area of burn >40% (OR 7.56, 95% CI 2.89-19.81), full thickness burn (OR 34.40, 95% CI 3.25-97.14) and prolonged hospital stay (aOR 1.31, 95% CI 1.15-1.51) were significant risk factors for nosocomial infection. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated organism (45%), followed by Streptococcus (24%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (19%) and Escherichia coli (12%). As the epidemiology of nosocomial infection is not the same in different health facilities, a facility-based comprehensive burn management protocol considering the local epidemiology and causative organisms of burn wound infection is crucial for the prevention and management of nosocomial infections in burn patients.

Les infections nosocomiales sont une préoccupation majeure du traitement bien conduit des brûlés. Cette étude a eu pour but d'évaluer l'incidence, les facteurs de risque de survenue et les bactéries isolées d'infections nosocomiales survenues dans le CTB de Kulna (Bangladesh). Elle a étudié les dossiers l'ensemble des 100 patients admis dans le CTB du CHU de Kulna en 2020. Les analyses bactériologiques ont été réalisées dans le laboratoire du CHU. Une régression logistique a été utilisée pour déterminer les facteurs de risque d'infection. Toutes les analyses statistiques ont été réalisées avec SSPS 26.0. L'âge moyen était de 29,2 ans, le sex-ratio de 1,3H/1F. Les flammes représentaient 41% des causes, les liquides 23% et l'électricité 15%. Quasiment 40% des patients avaient des brûlures profondes. L'incidence des accidents infectieux était de 42% (cutanée 33%, bactériémies 9%). Les facteurs de risque indépendants de survenue d'une infection étaient une atteinte sur >40 % SCT (OR 7,56; IC95 2,89-19,81), une brûlure profonde (OR 34,40 ; IC95 3,25-97,14) et un séjour prolongé (OR 1,31; IC95 1,15-1,51). Les quatre bactéries les plus fréquentes étaient S. aureus (45%), Streptococcus spp (24%), P. æruginosa (19%), et E. coli (12%). Les épidémiologies bactériennes variant selon les services d'où elles sont issues, c'est sur l'épidémiologie locale que doivent se centre les mesures de contrôle des infections nosocomiales.

Antibacterial and bacteriostatic potential of coelomic fluid and body paste of Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) against ampicillin resistant clinical bacterial isolates.

Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant, 1868), a native earthworm of Pakistan and Southeast Asia, has wide utilization in vermicomposting and bioremediation process. In this study, P. posthuma coelomic fluid (PCF) and body paste (PBP) was evaluated as antibacterial agent against ampicillin (AMP) resistant five Gram positive and four Gram negative clinical isolates. The antibacterial effect of different doses (i.e. 25-100 µg/ml) of PCF and PBP along with AMP and azithromycin (AZM) (negative and positive controls, respectively) were observed through disc diffusion and micro-dilution methods. All nine clinical isolates were noticed as AMP resistant and AZM sensitive. Antibacterial effects of PCF and PBP were dose dependent and zone of inhibitions (ZI) against all clinical isolates were between 23.4 ± 0.92 to 0 ± 00 mm. The sensitivity profile of PCF and PBP against clinical isolates was noticed as 44.44 and 55.56%, respectively. Both PCF and PBP showed bacteriostatic (BTS) action against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, K. pneumonia, N. gonorrhoeae. Moreover, the cumulative BTS potential of PCF and PBP against all isolates was 66.67 and 55.56%, respectively. The MICs of PCF and PBP were ranged from 50-200 µg/ml against selected isolates. The bacterial growth curves indicated that PCF and PBP inhibited the growth of all isolates at their specific MIC concentrations. However, PBP has better antibacterial potential compared to PCF against selected isolates. Therefore, it is concluded that both PCF and PBP of P. posthuma possess antibacterial and BTS potential against ampicillin resistant clinical isolates. This organism might be considered as a second choice of antibacterial agents and can further be utilized in pharmaceutical industries for novel drug manufacturing by prospecting bioactive potential agents.

Primary Amenorrhea With Hypothyroidism: Finding the Cause.

Primary amenorrhea is a serious medical condition. A thorough clinical assessment is necessary for a timely and correct diagnosis and management of this ailment to prevent long-term health and social problems. Turner's syndrome is considered one of the important causes of primary amenorrhea, with an incidence of one in 2,500 to one in 3,000 live-born girls. In this report, we present an interesting case involving multinodular goiter, hypothyroidism, and primary amenorrhea. A 24-year-old woman with a history of multinodular goiter and hypothyroidism attended an endocrine clinic with fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) report of her bilateral thyroid nodules, which showed Bethesda category IV. She had a history of learning difficulties. During detailed history-taking, the patient also complained of primary amenorrhea. Clinical examination showed a lack of secondary sexual characters. Biochemical, imaging, and cytogenetic investigations were suggestive of absent ovaries and fallopian tubes, streaked uterus, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, and X0 karyotyping. The learning objectives of this case report are as follows: firstly, in countries with a lack of awareness and limited health resources, patients may present with one of the manifestations of Turner's syndrome. Clinicians from all specialties should be aware of the clinical features of this relatively rare entity and should try to make the most of incidental clinical findings. Secondly, clinicians should be more vigilant and thorough in their clinical assessment of patients with learning difficulties to minimize the chances of missing a clinical diagnosis.

Psychosocial and Sexual Implications of Repaired Cleft Lip in an Adult Male.

We describe the case of a 32-year-old man with repaired cleft lip complaining of sexual difficulties, which were determined to be multifactorial in origin. A negative body impression, anatomical difficulty in engaging in sexual acts, the indirect impact of secondary complications of cleft lip, and the negative perception of his dysmorphia from potential sexual partners led to his current state. Cleft lip and palate (CLP) are the most common malformations of the craniofacial region. The malformations of anatomical structures involved in CLP can manifest through several variations of clinical features and phenotypes, typically affecting hearing, social integration, speech, and feeding. From birth to the end of growth, a multidisciplinary approach involving orthodontists, speech therapists, psychologists, and social workers is essential for adequate management, even after surgical repair. This case report illustrates the critical importance of the functionality of normal lips essential for sexual function and psychosocial issues encountered in a patient with repaired cleft lip, as this issue likely has a higher prevalence than the literature actually suggests. Adding a psychiatrist on the panel for pediatric reconstructive surgery teams and post-repair rehabilitation would be essential to managing potential sexual and psychological issues into adulthood.

CHARACTERIZATION OF SAND SAMPLES FROM KARACHI BEACHES USING GAMMA SPECTROMETRY AND XRD.

Chemical phase and distribution of natural radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) were determined for sand samples collected from ten different beaches of Karachi. All samples, except one, were identified with major and minor phases as SiO2 and CaCO3, respectively. The average activity concentrations were 24.9, 25.0 and 239 Bq kg-1 for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, respectively. Including all samples, the average radium equivalent activity was 79.1 Bq kg-1. The external and internal radiation hazard indices and representative level index were all found below unity. The average air absorbed dose rate at 1 m above the sand due to the natural radionuclides was 18.3 nGy h-1, which was less than the world average for soil. The corresponding annual effective dose rate was 22.4 µSv y-1. It was found that Raeq had positive significant correlation with the amount of quartz present at the beaches.

The Role of Diabetes Mellitus in Sexual and Reproductive Health: An Overview of Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Management.

BACKGROUND: Uncontrolled or long-term diabetes mellitus is conducive to vascular and oxidative stress disturbances that impede several physiological systems, which may in turn elicit psychological symptoms. OBJECTIVE: We assess the sexual and hormonal complications of diabetes mellitus that impair reproductive function in males and females. METHODS: A comprehensive MEDLINE® search was guided using key words relevant to diabetes mellitus and reproductive health. RESULTS: We reviewed the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, imaging modalities, pharmacological treatment, and intervention options for each diabetic reproductive complication in males and females. Erectile dysfunction secondary to angiopathic, neuropathic, and myopathic damage is a leading complication of diabetes in males. Other reproductive complications include ejaculatory dysfunction, hypogonadism, modified semen parameters, and delayed puberty. Specifics of reproductive dysfunction in diabetic women are less definite than in men due to the lack of standardized evaluation of sexual function in women as well as the increased role of psychological morbidity. Despite this, it is known to manifest as hypogonadism, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, dyspareunia, menstrual dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. CONCLUSION: Longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to better comprehend the connection between diabetes and sexual dysfunction, chiefly in females. Understanding and dividing the role of fertility and sexual issues in reproductive dysfunction can help guide evaluation and management.

Anatomical Approach to Clinical Problems of Popliteal Fossa.

BACKGROUND: Popliteal fossa, also known as the popliteal space, is located behind the knee joint. This region can develop many clinical complications in the vascular, nervous, lymphatics, adipose, as well as swelling and masses. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review article is to give a detailed understanding of the popliteal fossa and the clinical pathology that may present itself. METHODS: MEDLINE® searches were conducted of literature published since 1950s for "popliteal fossa," "diseases," "anatomy," "arterial," "venous," "nerves," "entrapment syndrome," "aneurysms," "cysts," "lymphatics," "solid masses," "tumors," "inflammatory lesions," and "swellings." The references provide up-to-date literature for all the pathologies discussed. RESULTS: This review articles discusses the anatomy, clinical examination, including history, physical, and imaging modalities, and various diseases that present themselves in patients. Diseases relating to the arterial and venous systems, nervous system, musculature, adipose, lymphatics, cysts and other solid masses, including neoplasms, and abscesses. The differential diagnosis and symptoms of certain conditions are addressed to isolate the root of the manifestation. CONCLUSION: Diseases of the popliteal fossa can use histology and electrophysiology to aid in diagnosis, as well as instrumentation. Surgical approaches are uses to treat varying pathologies as they are the best means of therapy.

Genitourinary Complications of Diabetes Mellitus: An Overview of Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Management.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a vastly prevalent metabolic disorder with escalating global health concerns. Particularly when mismanaged, chronic micro- and macrovascular complications may highly impair physiological systems while immunodeficiency disposes us to infection. OBJECTIVE: We investigate infections, localized complications, and neoplasms of the genitourinary system secondary to the chronic complications of diabetes mellitus in males and females. METHOD: A comprehensive MEDLINE® search was guided using key words relevant to diabetes mellitus and the genitourinary system. RESULTS: Pathogen-friendly environments may implicate the sequelae of urinary tract and genital mycotic infections, potentially generating necrosis, abscess, and other inflammatory complications, which may present concomitantly with neurogenic and/or vasculogenic dysfunction to further exacerbate an existing genitourinary condition. Manifestations of the adrenal, renal, and genital organs and tissues are discussed as they relate to vascular, immunodeficient, and other hyperglycemic complications of the diabetic state. Among those, chronic kidney disease and cystopathy are the most prevailing and detrimental. Though studies have connected diabetes to either an increased risk of developing or poor prognosis of bladder, renal, prostate, endometrial, and cervical cancers, the explicit biological relationships are as of yet inconclusive. CONCLUSION: Despite the availability of precise treatments to ameliorate most presently reviewed conditions, particularly urinary tract and genital mycotic infection-related sequelae, reversing permanent vascular damage remains a great challenge. Leading a healthier lifestyle and managing diabetes mellitus with a patient-centric approach from the outset are the most putative methods for preventing critical long-term genitourinary manifestations of diabetes mellitus.

Unusual Glomus Tumor of the Penis.

INTRODUCTION: Glomus tumors are benign neoplasms commonly found in subungual regions of the extremities and rarely located in the penis. Misdiagnosis of glomus tumors is common; therefore, symptoms and clinical presentations should be reviewed. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this review article is to emphasize the pathogenesis, pathology, clinical presentation, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methods of glomus tumors in order to better identify and manage the condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Research was conducted using PubMed/Medline. The inclusion criteria required glomus tumor to be present on the penis. RESULTS: Glomus tumors, which appear as symptomatic or asymptomatic lesions, are attributed to dispersion grouping of neoplastic or non-neoplastic lesions in a particular area. CONCLUSION: Differential diagnosis of glomus tumors includes hemangiomas, neurofibromatosis, epithelial lesions, and spindle-cell lesions. Physical examination and histological findings should be used for diagnosis. Treatment options can be either conservative or invasive, in which the patient undergoes surgical excision.

Critical Manifestations of Pneumoscrotum.

INTRODUCTION: Pneumoscrotum is a critical, physical finding that may indicate significant morbidity and mortality. Accumulation of gas in the scrotum can be primary or secondary. OBJECTIVE: This paper discusses rapid diagnosis and treatment options. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed searches for pneumoscrotum, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment. RESULTS: We review the historical perspective, classification, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment options of pneumoscrotum, as well as the presentation of pneumoscrotum in neonates/infants. CONCLUSION: It is crucial to diagnose the etiology pneumoscrotum and designing a treatment option based off that.

Detecting diseases of neglected seminal vesicles using imaging modalities: A review of current literature.

Seminal vesicles (SVs) are sex accessory organs and part of male genitourinary system. They play a critical role in male fertility. Diseases of the SVs, usually results in infertility. Diseases of the SVs are extremely rare and are infrequently reported in the literature. We address the current literature of SV pathologies, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. We review the clinical importance of SVs from PubMed. The current imaging modalities and instrumentation that help diagnose SV diseases are reviewed. Common pathologies including, infection, cysts, tumors, and congenital diseases of the SVs are addressed. Many times symptoms of hematospermia, pain, irritative and obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms, and infertility are presented in patients with SV diseases.

Urological complications of uterine leiomyoma: a review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Uterine leiomyomas are common gynecologic tumor in reproductive-aged women, by age 50, diagnosis shared by urologist, gynecologists and radiologists. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this article is to review the current literature, study the impact of leiomyoma on female lower urinary tract, examine the cause female sexual dysfunction and provide a comprehensive review of current diagnostic, imaging studies, and current treatment of leiomyoma. METHODS: Clinical leiomyoma studies published from 1956 through 2015 were identified using the PubMed search engines and the key words leiomyoma, fibroid in the current literature. Impact of leiomyoma on the lower urinary tract including female sexual dysfunction was reviewed with terms of "urinary retention", "bladder", "urethra", "dyspareunia", "incontinence", "incomplete bladder emptying", "female sexual dysfunction", and "lower urinary tract" to study the urological and sexual effects of leiomyoma. Literature related to leiomyoma was reviewed from 1965 to present. RESULTS: Women with uterine leiomyomata complained of pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities, infertility, lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSION: Leiomyoma is a common tumor of the uterus that often clinically impacts on the lower urinary tract and results in urological and sexual symptoms. Leiomyoma can compress and grow into and become adherent to the bladder and surrounding pelvic organs or metastasize into peritoneal organs. Leiomyoma can enlarge and compress the urinary bladder, urethra, and lower end of the ureters. Leiomyoma can cause embarrassing sexual dysfunction in females. Current literature of non-surgical and surgical therapy of leiomyoma is described.

A genome-wide identification of the miRNAome in response to salinity stress in date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.).

Although date palm is relatively salt-tolerant, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to its salt tolerance. Only recently, investigators have uncovered microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene regulation, which is critical for typical plant development and adaptation to stress conditions such as salinity. To identify conserved and novel miRNAs in date palm and to characterize miRNAs that could play a role in salt tolerance, we have generated sRNA libraries from the leaves and roots of NaCl-treated and untreated seedlings of date palm. Deep sequencing of these four sRNA libraries yielded approximately 251 million reads. The bioinformatics analysis has identified 153 homologs of conserved miRNAs, 89 miRNA variants, and 180 putative novel miRNAs in date palm. Expression profiles under salinity revealed differential regulation of some miRNAs in date palm. In leaves, 54 of the identified miRNAs were significantly affected and the majority (70%) of them were upregulated, whereas in roots, 25 of the identified miRNAs were significantly affected and 76% of them were upregulated by the salinity stress. The salt-responsiveness of some of these miRNAs was further validated using semi-quantitative PCR (qPCR). Some of the predicted targets for the identified miRNA include genes with known functions in plant salt tolerance, such as potassium channel AKT2-like proteins, vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein, calcium-dependent and mitogen-activated proteins. As one of the first cultivated trees in the world that can tolerate a wide range of abiotic stresses, date palm contains a large population of conserved and non-conserved miRNAs that function at the post-transcriptional level. This study provided insights into miRNA-mediated gene expression that are important for adaptation to salinity in date palms.

Urological Manifestations of Placenta Percreta.

Placenta percreta is a condition of pregnancy associated with abnormal decidua placenta. It is characterized by invasion of chorionic villi past the myometrium and serosa, towards urogenital organs. Complications include massive hemorrhage, bladder dysfunction, and severe infections during delivery. Reports suggest an increasing prevalence of this condition. From a urological perspective, this review suggests how early diagnostic modalities, effective treatment plans, and appropriate surgical methods may aid in decreasing the morbidity and mortality of placenta percreta. The importance of maintaining bladder integrity during hysterectomy is emphasized.

Urological Manifestations of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura: A Review.

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is an immune-mediated systemic vasculitis generally found in children. The standard manifestations of HSP are palpable purpura, arthritis, abdominal pain, and renal complications. Although less common, there are significant urological manifestations associated with HSP. The primary objective of this review is to encourage better understanding and management of HSP by emphasizing the common and rare manifestations of HSP, how they are diagnosed, and the latest treatment options for mild to severe complications. Medline searches of HSP and its urological manifestations were conducted along with searches on current diagnostic and treatment methods. Urological manifestations of HSP involve the kidney, ureter, bladder, prostate, scrotum, testicle, and penis. Diagnosis and management of HSP are not always clear due to differential diagnosis and diversity of symptom presentation. Treatment for HSP is mainly supportive and includes use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief. In more severe cases, glucocorticoids, methylprednisolone, plasmapheresis, and peritoneal and hemodialysis are reported successful. It is important to note different symptoms of HSP in order to distinguish HSP from other diseases. Early diagnosis may prevent severe complications. Treatment options vary from conservative to invasive depending on the severity of the disease and time frame of diagnosis.

Amelioration of azoxymethane induced-carcinogenesis by reducing oxidative stress in rat colon by natural extracts.

BACKGROUND: Azoxymethane (AOM) is a potent carcinogenic agent commonly used to induce colon cancer in rats; the cytotoxicity of AOM is considered to mediate oxidative stress. This study investigated the chemopreventive effect of three natural extracts [pomegranate peel extract (PomPE), papaya peel extract (PapPE) and seaweed extract (SE)] against AOM-induced oxidative stress and carcinogenesis in rat colon. METHODS: Eighty Sprague-Dawley rats (aged 4 weeks) were randomly divided into 8 groups (10 rats/group). Control group was fed a basal diet; AOM-treated group was fed a basal diet and received AOM intraperitonial injections for two weeks at a dose of 15 mg/kg bodyweight, whereas the other six groups were received oral supplementation of PomPE, PapPE or SE, in the presence or absence of AOM injection. All animals were continuously fed ad-libitum until aged 16 weeks, then all rats were sacrificed and the colon tissues were examined microscopically for pathological changes and aberrant crypt foci (ACF) development, genotoxicity (induced micronuclei (MN) cells enumeration), and glutathione and lipid peroxidation. RESULTS: Our results showed that AOM-induced ACF development and pathological changes in the colonic mucosal tissues, increased bone marrow MN cells and oxidative stress (glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation) in rat colonic cells. The concomitant treatment of AOM with PomPE, PapPE or SE significantly ameliorated the cytotoxic effects of AOM. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study provide in-vivo evidence that PomPE, PapPE and SE reduced the AOM-induced colon cancer in rats, through their potent anti-oxidant activities.

Spinigerin induces apoptotic like cell death in a caspase independent manner in Leishmania donovani.

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are multifunctional components of the innate immune system. Chemotherapeutic agents used for treatment of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) are now threatened due to the emergence of acquired drug resistance and toxicity. AMPs are attractive alternative to conventional pharmaceuticals. In this study, first time we explored the antileishmanial activity of spinigerin originally derived from Pseudacanthotermes spiniger. Leishmania donovani promastigotes present apoptosis-like cell death upon exposure to spinigerin (IC50, 150 µM). The infection rate was reduced by 20% upon exposure to 150 µM spinigerin but no cytotoxicity on host macrophages was observed. Elevation of intracellular ROS level and down-regulation of two ROS detoxifying enzymes, ascorbate peroxidase (APx) and trypanothione reductase (TR) suggested essential role of ROS machinery during spinigerin mediated cell death. About 97% cell population was found to be Annexin-V positive; 44% cells being highly Annexin-V positive. Moreover, we observed morphological changes like cell rounding, nuclear condensation, oligonucleosomal DNA degradation and TUNEL positive cells without loss of membrane integrity upon spinigerin exposure, suggests apoptosis-like death. Interestingly, collapse in mitochondrial membrane potential and increased level of intracellular ROS and calcium were not associated with caspase like activity. Computational analysis suggests spiningerin interacts with trypanothione reductase and thus probably interferes its function to detoxify the toxic ROS level. Therefore, spinigerin induces apoptosis-like cell death in L. donovani in a caspase-independent manner. The study elucidates the antileishmanial property of spinigerin that may be considered for future chemotherapeutic option alone or adjunct with other drug regimens for improved treatment of visceral leishmaniasis.