Cadmium (Cd) influences calcium (Ca) levels in the skeleton of a freshwater fish Channa gachua

Abstract Environmental contamination with heavy metals is a threat to the organisms due to their toxicity, persistence and bioaccumulation in food chains. The study was aimed to assess cadmium (Cd) effect on calcium (Ca) level in bones of a freshwater fish Channa gachua. 42 fish individuals were kept into six (6) aquaria; labelled aq.0, 1, 2, 3,4 and 5 in the laboratory for treatment. Aq.0 was control group and aq.1, 2,3,4,5 were experimental with treatment solution of Cd 0, 0.1ppm, 0.5ppm, 1ppm, 2.5ppm and 5ppm respectively for three months. After exposure, bones tissue were examined for Cd accumulation and Ca concentration. Highest accumulation of Cd were recorded in aq.5 mean 46.86 ± 0.46 mgkg-1 .and lowest in the control group with mean 0.61 ± 0.06 mgkg-1. The order of Cd bioaccumulation in bones were aq.5 > aq.4 >aq.3 > aq.2 > aq.1 > aq.0. Highest concentration of Ca were noted in aq.0 (Control group) mean 7888.06 ± 4827.22 mgkg-1 and lowest were 1132.36 ± 203.73 mgkg-1 in aq.5 (at 5.0 ppm). Generally a pattern of decreasing Ca level were observed with each rise of Cd bioaccumulation aq.0 > aq.1 > aq.2 > aq.3 > aq.4 > aq.5. Current study indicated that Cd accumulation have substantial effect on Ca level in bones and hence on skeleton system. Strict rules must be implemented by government to control metals pollution and exploitations of biota.

Non-monotonic dose-response of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate isolated from Penicillium citrinum XT6 on adipogenesis and expression of PPARγ and GLUT4 in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

OBJECTIVES

Adipogenesis is the fat cell formation process regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARγ). The insulin-responsive glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) has a major role in glucose uptake and metabolism in insulin target tissues (i.e., adipose and muscle cells). The interplay between PPARγ and GLUT4 is essential for proper glucose homeostasis. This study aimed to isolate, elucidate, and investigate the effect of an isolated compound from Penicillium citrinum XT6 on adipogenesis, PPARγ, and GLUT4 expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

METHODS

The isolated compound was determined by analyzing spectroscopic data (LC-MS, FT-IR, Spectrophotometry UV-Vis, and NMR). The adipogenesis activity of the isolated compound in 3T3-L1 cells was determined by the Oil Red O staining method. RT-PCR was used to analyze the gene expression of PPARγ and GLUT4.

RESULTS

Di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP) was the isolated compound from P.citrinum XT6. The results revealed adipogenesis stimulation and inhibition, as well as PPARγ and GLUT4 expressions.

CONCLUSIONS

DEHP showed a non-monotonic dose-response (NMDR) effect on adipogenesis and PPARγ and GLUT4 expression. It is the first study that reveals DEHP's NMDR effects on lipid and glucose metabolism in adipocytes.

Organoleptic characteristics and compositional profile of meat of growing Japanese quail fed different levels of poultry byproducts compost

The poultry industry generates a lot of waste, including dead birds, manure, and poultry litter. Poultry waste should never be disposed of improperly because it can seriously harm the environment. The waste can be recycled as a feedstock for use in poultry feed by composting the litter and deceased birds. The compositional profile and organoleptic properties of the meat of growing Japanese quail were examined over the course of a 4-week trial to ascertain the effect of adding compost to the diet. In a completely randomized design (CRD), 1200 newly hatched quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were divided into five treatment groups (diets with 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% compost), each consisting of 40 birds with six replicates. The addition of compost to the diet had no noticeable effects on the organoleptic qualities of appearance, color, aroma, taste, texture, juiciness, tenderness, and acceptability (P>0.05). The compositional profile characteristics for chicks given compost at any level compared to chicks fed the control diet showed no differences (P>0.05). These findings suggest that the sensory characteristics and compositional profile of growing meat quails can be maintained when fed diets including up to 10% compost.

Association between oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, and homocysteine in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent health condition that commonly affects adolescent girls and young women. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between levels of total glutathione (TG), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine with PCOS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study employed a cross-sectional case-control design, involving a target population of 305 Sudanese females. Among them, 205 individuals were categorized as cases, and 100 served as controls. The TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine levels were measured in the serum of study participants through enzyme-linked immunosorbent essay.

RESULTS

Total glutathione (1,174.5 ± 271.4 vs. 986.1 ± 191.5, p = 0.01), GSH (801.3 ± 132.2 vs. 748.6 ± 103.1, p = 0.007), SOD (225.2 ± 57.8 vs. 195.5 ± 49.6, p = 0.009), lipid peroxidation (3.4 ± 1.1 vs. 2.4 ± 0.7, p = 0.03), and homocysteine (14.9 ± 2.1 vs. 13.5 ± 1.6, p = 0.04), showed significant differences between the two groups (cases vs. controls). A moderate positive correlation between TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, homocysteine, BMI, age, and duration of PCOS was observed. Furthermore, a strong positive correlation between BMI, age, and duration of PCOS was noted within the patient group.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that patients with PCOS have elevated levels of TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine compared to the control group. These findings suggest a potential association between PCOS and oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and homocysteine pathways. Moreover, the observed positive correlation with BMI, age, and duration of PCOS indicates the importance of these factors in disease progression.

Treatment Tolerance and Toxicity in Elderly Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients and Implication on Outcomes

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To investigate the tolerance level and toxicity for standard of care treatment for oropharyngeal cancer (OP) in elderly patients and their impact on outcomes.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Using our in-house head and neck cancer database, we looked for non-metastatic OP cases that received definitive treatment between 1/2009-6/2020. All patients received either definitive radiation therapy (RT) +/- concomitant systemic therapy (ST), or surgery followed by adjuvant RT or RT-ST. For the elderly (age at diagnosis ≥65 years) and young (<65 years) patients, we compared treatment package time (TPT) (time from surgery to RT conclusion) for adjuvant RT, total RT duration and unplanned RT interruptions. ST details and dose/protocol modifications were also compared. We evaluated worst grade of pain and mucositis, hospitalization for non-hydration causes and febrile neutropenia (FN) during RT. Feeding tube (FT) use and weight loss were compared. The independent effect of these indicators on locoregional (LRFS), distant (DRFS) recurrence free and overall (OS) survival was assessed using multivariate analyses (MVA).

RESULTS

A cohort of 326 patients was included: 36% elderly (n = 118) and 64% young (n = 208), with no differences in AJCC stage distribution (8th), treatment received and HPV status (HPV+ve: 73% vs 74.6%; p = 0.86). In 23.6 % who received adjuvant RT, median TPT was 86 (range 72-128) and 81 (65-137) days for elderly vs young (p = 0.27); whereas in the definitive RT cases 76.4%, total RT duration was 49 days for both age groups. Overall, prescribed RT course was not completed in 4% and unplanned RT interruptions occurred in 22.8% and both were non-significant between age groups. Among the 261 patients that received ST, elderly utilized more cetuximab (26 vs 12%; p = 0.007). For those who received cisplatin, 20% of elderly had cumulative dose <200 mg/m2 compared to 6% among the younger age group (p = 0.006); and cisplatin was changed to carboplatin or cetuximab in 18% vs 8% (p = 0.019). Delayed/cancelled cycles and dose reductions were similar. There were more hospitalizations (47% vs 27%; p<0.001) and a trend for more FN (9% vs 3%; p = 0.09) with older age, while worst pain and mucositis was similar. FTs were used more in elderly patients (64% vs 50%; p = 0.02), for a median of 97 vs 64 days (p = 0.31); of which 19.5% vs 11% (p = 0.28) were inserted before RT start. However, % weight loss was non-significant. On MVA, longer RT duration, FT use and hospitalizations predicted worse LRFS and DRFS; and they were prognostic for OS in addition to TPT >90 days (p<0.05 for all). Nevertheless, elderly vs young had non-significant 3-year LRFS (91% vs 90% and 67% vs 69%), DRFS (86% vs 90% and 79% vs 81%) & OS (85% vs 81% and 39% vs 52%) for HPV+ve and HPV-ve respectively (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Elderly patients with OP need more multi-disciplinary supportive care when receiving RT and concurrent ST. However, survival outcomes are equivalent to younger patients. Ongoing studies should enroll more elderly candidates and stratify endpoints with age.

First-in-Human Phase I Trial Combining Biologically Guided Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) Using a 90Y-Anti-CD25 Monoclonal Antibody (Mab) with CT-guided Total Marrow and Lymphoid Irradiation (TMLI) in Relapsed and Refractory (R/R) Acute Leukemia

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Patients with R/R acute leukemia after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT) have a dismal prognosis with 3-year survival rates of < 20%. To improve outcomes, innovative targeted forms of organ sparing radiotherapy, such as tumor-specific RIT and TMLI, are needed to dose escalate with acceptable toxicities, especially in patients ≥ age 60 years who cannot tolerate total body irradiation (TBI) / myeloablative regimens and who have a poor prognosis. CD25 is an ideal RIT target given its expression in acute leukemias, association with poor prognosis, and expression by leukemia stem cells. In this phase I trial (NCT05139004) we hypothesized that combining dose escalated 90Y-anti-CD25 RIT with fixed dose TMLI 12 Gy, fludarabine (flu), and melphalan (mel) in patients with R/R disease is safe and associated with acceptable toxicities.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The primary objective of this trial is to determine the maximum tolerated dose and recommended phase 2 dose of 90Y-anti-CD25 Mab (Day -15) with 12 Gy TMLI (1.5 Gy twice a day, days -8 to -5), flu (30 mg/m2/d days -5 to -2), and mel (100 mg/m2, day -2) in patients ≥ 60 years old or with a HCT-comorbidity index ≥ 2 and with R/R AML, ALL or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) scheduled to undergo alloHCT from a matched donor. TMLI mean organ dose constraints for kidney, lung and liver were 4 Gy. Planned dose levels of 90Y-anti-CD25 were 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 mCi/kg. 111In-anti-CD25 (5 mCi) was co-infused followed by serial nuclear scans to assess dosimetry and biodistribution.

RESULTS

To date 5 patients (ages 31-74) with R/R AML have been treated. Marrow and circulating blasts ranged from 10-36% and 9-44%, respectively. For the 3 patients at 0.3 mCi/kg, follow-up ranged from 89-191+ days. 90Y/111In-anti-CD25 nuclear scans demonstrated persistent uptake in bone out to 144 hours, which was associated with a decline in circulating blasts. After combined RIT and TMLI, mean doses (Gy) to lungs ranged from 5.7-6.5, to kidneys from 7.5-8.2 and to liver from 7.2-11.6. No dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) were observed. All 3 patients achieved CR on day +30 bone marrow biopsies and 2 remained in CR on day +90 biopsies. Two patients have recently been treated at the 0.4 mCi/kg dose level. The results of patients treated at the higher dose levels will be provided.

CONCLUSION

Dose escalation by adding 90Y-anti-CD25 RIT at 0.3 mCi/kg to 12 Gy TMLI was safe, including in older patients, with no dose-limiting toxicities, mean critical organ doses lower than conventional myeloablative TBI, and encouraging response rates. The toxicity profile and dose estimates at 0.3 mCi/kg predict that the planned higher dose levels will also be feasible with acceptable toxicities. RIT and TMLI are complementary and when combined address the limitations of each modality. Combining these targeted therapies may be a superior strategy to intensify dose to leukemia compared to dose escalation of either modality alone.

All-Microwave Leakage Reduction Units for Quantum Error Correction with Superconducting Transmon Qubits

Minimizing leakage from computational states is a challenge when using many-level systems like superconducting quantum circuits as qubits. We realize and extend the quantum-hardware-efficient, all-microwave leakage reduction unit (LRU) for transmons in a circuit QED architecture proposed by Battistel et al. This LRU effectively reduces leakage in the second- and third-excited transmon states with up to 99% efficacy in 220 ns, with minimum impact on the qubit subspace. As a first application in the context of quantum error correction, we show how multiple simultaneous LRUs can reduce the error detection rate and suppress leakage buildup within 1% in data and ancilla qubits over 50 cycles of a weight-2 stabilizer measurement.

The RYR3 gene is involved in Wharton's jelly derived mesenchymal stem cell treatment of Alzheimer's disease in rats

Introduction

Our study aims to observe the effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in lowering amyloid accumulation and ryanodine receptor 3 (RYR3) gene expression, further improving cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Twenty male adult Wistar rats were randomly distributed into three groups of animals (n = 5). The AlCl₃ group was given 300 mg/kg body weight (BW) of AlCl₃ intraperitoneally for 5 days, further the MSC injection, and their effect after 30 days was observed.

Results

MSCs improved amyloid accumulation and Y-maze scores, and expression of the RYR3 gene decreased compared to the control group.

Conclusions

MSCs improved amyloid accumulation, Y-maze scores, and RYR3 expression in the AD animal model.

Basil Extract (Ocimum basilicum L) Exhibits Antidiabetic and Hepatoprotective Effects via SIRT1 and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARγ) on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Rats Model

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism that causes hyperglycemia and insulin resistance during pregnancy. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorγ (PPARγ) are genes that play a role in glucose metabolism. Dysregulation of SIRT 1 and PPARγ is associated with the GDM. Hyperglycemia in GDM induces inflammation and oxidative stress in hepatocytes causing liver damage. Basil extract (Ocimum basilicum L) is one of indonesia medicinal plant has been used as traditional medicice in diabetic disorder. This study aims to investigate the hypoglycemic activity of basil extract by evaluating the expression of SIRT 1 and PPARγ in GDM rats and investigate the potential hepatoprotective effect of basil extract by analyzing the rat’s liver histology. Twenty-four of pregnant rats were divided into four groups; negative control, positive group induced by streptozotocin 40 mg/kg BW intraperitoneally, and two groups of GDM rats treated with 100 mg/kg BW and 200 mg/kg BW of basil extract for 14 days. Blood glucose levels were examined with a blood glucose meter. The expression of SIRT 1 and PPARγ was assessed by the RT-PCR. Histological analysis of the rat`s liver was conducted to determine the percentage of cell damage and tissue edem The data were statistically processed using SPSS. The extract of basil at a dose of 200 mg/kg BW showed an anti-diabetic effect which decreased the glucose level concentration by about two times compared to the untreated rat. It enhanced the expression of SIRT-significantly with a value of p= 0.035 (p <0.05). Basil extract-treated group showed a trend of increasing PPARγ expression, but not statistically significant. In addition, HE staining on the liver showed a tendency to improve in the group given basil extract. This Study concluded that basil extract could increase SIRT 1 and potential to be an anti-hyperglycemic therapy with a hepatoprotective effect.

Effect of remote ischemic postconditioning on left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Ischemic conditioning may help patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) to limit ventricular remodeling.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of remote ischemic postconditioning (RIPC) on left ventricular function during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in patients with STEMI.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Pre- and post-test intervention study with a total of 60 STEMI patients. Patients were divided in two groups: with and without RIPC.

RESULTS

During the 6-month follow-up, a significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction was observed in patients who underwent PPCI, which was higher in the group with RIPC in comparison with the group without RIPC: 1.0% (-1.0 to 4.3) vs. -1.0% (-4.0 to 1.3), p = 0.033. In addition, at 6-month measurement, left ventricular end-systolic volume in patients without RIPC was higher in comparison with their counterparts: 79.3 ± 30.5 mL vs. 64.4 ± 21.4 mL, p = 0.032.

CONCLUSIONS

RIPC shows favorable effects on left ventricular function and, therefore, in the future, it could be a potential cardioprotective strategy against ischemia-reperfusion injury in STEMI patients.

Serum HIF-1α Levels, miR-210 Expressions, and Reactive Oxygen Species Levels in Early Abortion and Normal Pregnancy

Background: The blastocyst implants in a relatively hypoxic state. Hypoxic state triggers hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1ɑ) production, upregulates the transcription factor miR-210, and stimulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by trophoblast cells. HIF-1α also increases the expression of miR-210. High expression of micro-RNA 210 (miR-210) suppresses mitochondrial respiration, increasing ROS production. High level of ROS may result in DNA damage or cell disfunction, thereby impaired trophoblast invasion, leading to early abortion. This study aims to determine the differences of serum HIF-1ɑ levels, miR-210 expressions, and ROS levels between early abortion and normal pregnancy. Method: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in Dr. M. Djamil Hospital Padang, Andalas University Hospital, and 5 Public Health Centers in Padang. Fifty-patients with gestational age less than 12 weeks (25 early abortions and 25 normal pregnancies) were included in this study. All samples were tested for HIF-1ɑ and ROS level using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, and miR-210 expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Spearman correlation and  Mann Whitney test. was used in this study. Results: Both study groups were equivalent in terms of age, gestational age, and gravidity (p = 0.51, 0.453 and 1.00). The median of HIF-1ɑ level, miR-210 expression, and ROS level were higher in early abortions than normal pregnancies i.e (3.73 vs 3.42) ng/mL (p = 0.016), (43.55 vs 17.85) copies/ng (p = 0.027), and (1.36 vs 1.20) ng/mL (p = 0.003). The coefficient correlations were 0.16 between HIF-1ɑ level and miR-210 expression (p=0.267), 0.46 between HIF-1ɑ level and ROS level (p=0.001), and 0.18 between miR-210 expression and ROS level (p=0.207). Conclusion: HIF-1ɑ level, miR-210 expression, and ROS level were associated with early abortion. HIF-1ɑ level has a correlation with ROS level.

Inhibitory Activity of α-Glucosidase by the Extract and Fraction of Marine Sponge-Derived Fungus Penicillium citrinum Xt6

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin secretion or activity. Diabetes treatment may include inhibiting carbohydrate breakdown enzymes like α-glucosidase. Chemical compounds of the marine-derived fungus have the potential to inhibit α-glucosidase and, thus, could be used in therapy. Marine sponge-derived fungus lives in a colony on the tissues of living things. In the marine sponge Xestospongia testudinaria DD-01, there is a colony of the fungus Penicillium citrinum Xt6. P. citrinum Xt6 has been reported to reduce blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase by the extracts and fractions of marine-derived fungus P. citrinum Xt6. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in vitro using p-nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (PNPG) substrate and α-glucosidase enzyme from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. ELISA was used to measuring the enzyme’s inhibition activity at the wavelength of 405 nm. Acarbose was used as the standard drug, which inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase. RESULTS: Inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of ethyl acetate extract was 37.39 μg/mL, methanol fraction was 60.01 μg/mL, n-hexane fraction was 75.45 μg/mL, and acarbose was 124.39 g/mL. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the extract and fraction of marine-derived fungus P. citrinum inhibit α-glucosidase activity. P. citrinum could be developed into an antidiabetic agent.

The Role of High Sensitivity C-reactive Protein to Predict Delirium Persistence in Elderly Patients with Pneumonia: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Delirium is a disorder of acute full attention, and cognitive function commonly occurs at elderly which  can prolong hospitalization, dependence rate, morbidity, and mortality, with pneumonia infection as one of its risk factors. Several markers have been studied for delirium, but relationship between delirium severity and persistence remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the role of hs-CRP, pNF-H, S100B, and NLR to predict delirium persistence.  Methods: A prospective  cohort study was  conducted among 80 subjects who were admitted to the internal ward in dr. M. Djamil Hospital in Padang. Subjects were grouped based on severity of delirium using the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale and  followed up until discharged to determine delirium persistence event.

RESULTS

Mean age of subjects is 70.7±7.4 years, 39 (48.8%) male and 41 (51.2%) female,consisting of 29 mild, 26 moderate, and 25 severe delirium. Levels of hs-CRP in mild, moderate, and severe delirium are 13.36±0.79, 13.56±0.78, and 13.88±0.59 mg/L (p=0.038), respectively. Median NLR values for mild, moderate, severe delirium were 6.80 (1.00-31.00), 9.50 (3.60-46.00), and 11.90 (2.80-46.50) (p=0.026). Cut off value hs-CRP 13.61 mg/L has significant difference for delirium persistence event (OR 2,54; 95% CI 1,01-6,39). Median levels of pNF-H and S100B are not significant in different delirium severity, regardless of non-persistent or persistent.

CONCLUSION

  Hs-CRP levels exceeding 13.61 can predict risk of persistent delirium, but not with levels pNF-H, S100B, and NLR.

P-572 Hormonal Monitoring and Progesterone Adjustment in Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycles

Study question

We investigated the effect of monitoring and follow-up of serum progesterone, estradiol & luteinizing hormone levels and progesterone supplement adjustments on pregnancy outcomes for FET in programmed HRT cycles.

Summary answer

Monitoring and follow-up of different hormones in patient’s serum in programmed frozen embryo transfer cycles didn’t have an impact on overall pregnancy rate.

What is known already

Frozen Embryo transfer treatment rapidly expanded in recent years. FET can effectively prevent IVF associated complications, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancy. In addition, FET serves as a safe & cost-effective way to increase cumulative pregnancy rate.

Though progesterone levels on the day of transfer have not yet been studied extensively in humans, tailoring the time of transferring a frozen embryo based on serial P4 values rather than cycle day number alone results in higher pregnancy rates.The value of measuring the serum E2 levels on the day of embryo transfer as an indicator for clinical pregnancy is still doubtful.

Study design, size, duration

Six Hundred FETs were performed in a randomized prospective manner in an infertility center in Alexandria starting from 2019 till 2021.These were further subdivided based on computer randomization into Group I (Non-intervention) including300 patients with only ultrasound monitoring & Group II (intervention) including 300 patients with monitoring of serum level of progesterone, estrogen & luteinizing hormone as well as progesterone supplement adjustments.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Group I (Non-intervention) including300 patients with only ultrasound monitoring & Group II (intervention) including 300 patients with monitoring of serum level of progesterone, estrogen & luteinizing hormone as well as progesterone supplement adjustments which are further subdivided into three groups depending on progesterone level in patient’s serum early in the morning prior to embryo transfer. Group II A: P4 levels &lt; 5ng/dl, Group II B: P4 levels 5-10ng/dl, Group II C: P4 levels &gt;10ng

Main results and the role of chance

Live birth and overall pregnancy rate showed no significant difference among group monitored with ultrasound only compared to the hormonal monitored group. However, on the day of embryo transfer, serum P4 &gt; 11.83 ng/ml represented a cut-off value above which there is marked increase in OPR/LBR and a sensitivity of 53.7% & specificity of 51.2% in predicting pregnancy. Also, serum E2 value more than 292 pg/ml at day 18 demonstrated an increase in OPR/LBR.In our study, the cut off value of LH level less than of 10.8 IU/L at day13 had a sensitivity of 58.3% & specificity of 50.4% in predicting pregnancy. Regarding pregnancy outcome, monitoring of LH levels didn’t generate useful data with no added prognostic value.Conclusion: Monitoring and follow-up of different hormones in patient’s serum in programmed frozen embryo transfer cycles didn’t have an impact on live birth, overall pregnancy & abortion rate when compared to ultrasound only in non-intervention group.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Patients in non-intervention group didn’t have a hormonal pre-transfer assessment so it’s not possible to determine if the progesterone levels are suboptimal or not when compared to intervention group.

Also, we didn’t have a post transfer hormonal assessment in case group to determine whether the progesterone dose reached desired levels.

Wider implications of the findings

Kofinas et al. proposed in his study that in order to optimize pregnancy and rate, P4 levels in FET cycles should be sustained between 10 and 20 ng/ml.

This was in accordance to our study where the cut off value of P4 on day of 11.83 ng/ml optimized pregnancy rates.

Trial registration number

NCT05189145

Drought stress enhances the efficiency of floral dip method of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation in Arabidopsis thaliana

The Agrobacterium-mediated floral dip protocol is the most extensively used transformation method for a model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Several useful methods for Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformations of Arabidopsis are existing, but they are time consuming and with low transformation efficiency. Here, we developed a transgenic Arabidopsis lines TET12p::TET12-RFP in a short period of time and enhanced transformation efficiency by using a modified transformation method by applying drought stress after floral dip. In this protocol, Agrobacterium cells carrying TET12p::TET12-RFP recombinant vectors were resuspended in a solution of 5% sucrose, 0.05% (v/v) silwet L-77 to transform female gametes of developing Arabidopsis inflorescences. Treated Arabidopsis were then applied with different levels of drought stresses to stimulate plants for the utilization of maximum plant energy in seed maturation process. The applied stresses achieved the fast maturation of already treated inflorescences while stopped the growing of newly arising untreated inflorescence, thus decreased the chances of wrong collection of untransformed seeds. Consequently, the collected seeds were mostly transgenic with a transformation frequency of at least 10%, thus the screening for positive transformants selection was more advantageous on a selective medium as compared to a classical floral dip method. Within 2-3 months, two hundred of individual transgenic plants were produced from just 10 infiltrated plants. This study concludes that application of drought stresses in a specific stage of plant is a beneficial strategy for achieving the transgenic Arabidopsis in a short period of time with high transformation efficiency.

Ocimum basilicum alleviates blood glucose, lipid profile and iNOS in diabetes gestational rat model

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes (GDM) complications affect maternal and fetus in utero. GDM's vascular dysfunction showed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) alteration and was linked to the higher production of nitrogen species, leading to diabetic embryopathy. Ocimum basilicum (O. basilicum) has been reported for its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects. Thus, the present study investigates the anti-diabetic effect, lipid-lowering effect, and iNOS expression in GDM animal models treated with O. basilicum extract.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES

Four groups of pregnant rats consist of control and GDM groups. One GDM group was set for control positive. Two GDM groups were treated with O. basilicum extract in two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg BW) for 14 days. Blood glucose of all groups was observed at 72 h after STZ injection and 14 days after administration of O. basilicum extract. Lipid profile and iNOS expression using real-time PCR were measured afterward.

RESULTS

O. basilicum extract lowered blood glucose levels in both doses, from 262.60 mg/dL±6.89-136.80 mg/dL ± 15.6 mg/dL and 113.20 mg/dL±5.25 mg/dL. Total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride showed a reduction, especially in 200 mg/kg BW dose extract from 122.37 mg/dL ± 14.84 mg/dL, 69.75 mg/dL±3.78 mg/dL and 137.51 mg/dL ± 8.12-74.64 mg/dL±8.71 mg/dL, 40.26 mg/dL±3.31 mg/dL and 87.57 mg/dL±6.29 mg/dL, respectively. iNOS expression downregulated in both doses, from 2.17±0.39 to 0.94±0.3 and 0.41±0.08.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that O. basilicum extract has a potential therapeutic activity in lowering blood glucose, improved lipid profile, and downregulating iNOS in GDM.

The Association between Modifiable Risk Factor with Inflammatory Marker in Knee Osteoarthritis Women

Background: IL-1β and TNF-α are vital inflammatory cytokines in the pathophysiological process of Osteoarthritis (OA). Several risk factors can increase the expression of these cytokines, such as BMI, physical activity, and menopausal status.   Aims: This study aims to determine the relationship of modifiable factors with synovial fluid IL-1β and TNF-α levels in knee OA women.   Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the orthopedic poly hospital Arifin Achmad Riau Province and Ibnu Sina Hospital in Pekanbaru City. A total of 93 women with knee OA were taken as samples by consecutive sampling. Data were obtained directly from respondents by conducting interviews using a questionnaire, measuring weight and height, examining levels of IL-1β and TNF-α from the synovial fluid using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The data were processed computerized using the Person correlation test, One Way Anova, and t-Test. The statistical analysis results were considered significant if the p-value was 0<05.   Results: the average age of subjects was 60.67 + 9.99 years, 87.8% aged > 40 years, 84.9% had menopause, and at most had moderate physical activity degrees (51.6%). The mean BMI was 27.18+4.17, the average of IL-1β 424.73+188.01 pg/mL, and TNF-α 105,17+48.98 ng/L. There was a significant positive correlation with moderate strength between BMI and levels of IL-1β and TNF-α synovial fluid (p=0.037, r=0.217, and p=0.047, r=0.207).   Conclusion: BMI is a risk factor for IL-1β and TNF-α levels in synovial fluid of knee joints in women with OA, but physical activity and menopausal status are not risk factors.

Optimization of the Duration of the Administration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Wharton’s Jelly to the Level of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 and Transforming Growth Factor-β in Osteoarthritis Rat Model

BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal Stem Cell Wharton’s Jelly (MSC-WJ) is promising candidates for osteoarthritis (OA) therapy since they have chondrogenic potential and the ability to form the extracellular matrix. AIM: This study aimed to determine the effect of the time giving MSC-WJ on bioactive markers of osteoarthritis. METHODS: The osteoarthritis rat model was treated by intra-articular injection with MSC-WJ and α _MEM as a control. Four and 8 weeks later performed a histological analysis of cartilage and the determination of the levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1(MMP-1) and Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in serum by ELISA. RESULTS: The results showed that administration of MSC-WJ showed improvement in the histological picture of knee joints in experimental animals characterized by an increase in cartilage thickness on the joint surface. The administration of MSC-WJ showed a tendency to decrease MMP-1 serum levels of OA rats treated for 8 weeks, although statistically did not show a significant difference. Whereas, administration of MSC-WJ showed a decrease in serum levels of TGF-β1 OA rat treated for 8 weeks. CONCLUSION: MSC-WJ can repair damaged knee OA cartilage tissue. The administration of MSC-WJ can reduce serum levels of TGF-β1 OA rats treated for 8 weeks.

A Diagnostic Pitfall in the Evaluation of CD138-Positive Plasmacytoid Cells in a Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy

Introduction/Objective

The identification of plasmacytoid cells on rapid assessment leads to a wide range of differential diagnoses.

Methods/Case Report

We present a 51-year-old female with a parotid mass and cervical lymphadenopathy. The fine needle aspiration biopsy of the lymph node showed clusters of plasmacytoid cells. Flow cytometric studies showed cells positive for CD19, CD45, CD138 and kappa, but negative for CD38 and lambda. The kappa to lambda ratio was greater than 100. Histological sections showed plasmacytoid cells that were positive for AE1/AE3, S100, and SOX10, weakly positive for CK7 and GATA3, but negative for CD79a, CD45, EMA, p40, p63, and pan-melanoma markers. Kappa and lambda had a 1:1 ratio. Due to the discrepancy between the flow cytometric results and the immunohistochemistry, excision was recommended. The subsequent excision specimen showed classic morphology for myoepithelial carcinoma, plasmacytoid variant.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

Myoepithelial carcinomas of the salivary glands are rare neoplasms, and they have various morphologies. The plasmacytoid variant can pose as a diagnostic pitfall. In fine needle aspiration biopsies, carcinoma cells with plasmacytoid morphology can be confused with a plasma cell neoplasm. CD138 is nonspecific marker, and it can be expressed in plasma cells as well as carcinomas. To further complicate matters, pancytokeratin and SOX10 can aberrantly expressed in some plasma cell myelomas. Flow cytometry studies is a valuable tool to define various cell types. However, it can be misleading if it is used as a sole source for interpreting plasmacytoid cells. Epithelial and myoepithelial neoplasms should be considered as differential diagnoses when CD138-positive plasmacytoid cells are encountered. Extended immunohistochemistry panel including multiple epithelial and myoepithelial markers play pivotal role in settling the diagnosis.

Expression of Cytokeratin 6 and 16 in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma

BACKGROUND: Cholesteatoma is hyperproliferative because of the response of direct biomechanical trauma, and inflammation processes then lead to temporal bone destruction with some clinical manifestations of complications. The hyperproliferation mechanism occurred because of the activation of intermediate filament protein type I and type II known as cytokeratin (CK). AIM: This study aimed to examine the expression CK 6 and CK 16 in cholesteatoma. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional comparative study. Cholesteatoma specimens obtained from 15 patients who underwent surgery were considered as the case, and 15 normal retro-auricular skins were considered as the control. All samples were examined for expression through immunohistochemistry and scored using the immunoreactivity score. Data were analyzed using SPSS via χ2 test, and the difference was significant (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The expression of CK 6 was high in cholesteatoma (33.3%) and low in retro-auricular skin. The expression of CK 16 was high in all samples of cholesteatoma and mostly high in the retro-auricular skin; both expressions were statistically significant (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The expression of CK 6 and CK 16 in cholesteatoma was higher than in normal retro-auricular skin.

Honey as a bioindicator of environmental organochlorine insecticides contamination

Honey is a suitable matrix for the evaluation of environmental contaminants including organochlorine insecticides. The present study was conducted to evaluate residues of fifteen organochlorine insecticides in honey samples of unifloral and multifloral origins from Dir, Pakistan. Honey samples (5 g each) were extracted with GC grade organic solvents and then subjected to Rotary Evaporator till dryness. The extracts were then mixed with n-Hexane (5 ml) and purified through Column Chromatography. Purified extracts (1μl each) were processed through Gas Chromatograph coupled with Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD) for identification and quantification of the insecticides. Of the 15 insecticides tested, 46.7% were detected while 53.3% were not detected in the honey samples. Heptachlor was the most prevalent insecticide with a mean level of 0.0018 mg/kg detected in 80% of the samples followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.0016 mg/kg detected in 71.4% of the honey samples. Honey samples from Acacia modesta Wall. were 100% positive for Heptachlor with a mean level of 0.0048 mg/kg followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.003 mg/kg and frequency of 83.3%. Minimum levels of the tested insecticides were detected in the unifloral honey from Ziziphus jujuba Mill. Methoxychlor, Endosulfan, Endrin and metabolites of DDT were not detected in the studied honey samples. Some of the tested insecticides are banned in Pakistan but are still detected in honey samples indicating their use in the study area. The detected levels of all insecticides were below the Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) and safe for consumers. However, the levels detected can cause mortality in insect fauna. The use of banned insecticides is one of the main factors responsible for the declining populations of important insect pollinators including honeybees.

Hubungan Kadar Docosahexaenoic Acid Terhadap Perlemakan Hati Non Alkoholik Remaja Obesitas

Latar belakang. Penyakit hati berlemak non alkohol (NAFLD) adalah penyakit yang ditandai dengan timbunan lemak yang signifikan di hepatosit dari parenkim hati yang menyebabkan kerusakan hati berupa peradangan. Prevalensi NAFLD meningkat seiring dengan meningkatnya obesitas pada anak dan remaja. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) merupakan salah satu pengobatan farmakologis untuk NAFLD dan belum ada data terbaru yang spesifik untuk pengukuran DHA pada anak NAFLD. Tujuan. Menganalisis hubungan DHA dengan NAFLD , dan mengukur nilai DHA setiap derajat NAFLD. Metode. Lima puluh delapan remaja obesitas (31 laki-laki, 27 perempuan), berusia 14-18 tahun yang terpantau di kota Padang, sejak Juni – Juli 2017. Penelitian ini bersifat observasional cross sectional. Hasil. Tidak ada perbedaan jenis kelamin yang diamati pada NAFLD. Indeks massa tubuh pada kelompok NAFLD lebih tinggi daripada non-NAFLD 30,30±4,21kg/m2 vs 28,70±2,65 kg/m2. Pengukuran derajat penyakit perlemakan hati non alkohol dengan hasil USG masing-masing derajat ringan, sedang dan berat adalah 12(37,5%), 15(46,8%) dan 5(15,6%). Selain itu, kandungan DHA memiliki perbedaan yang signifikan pada masing-masing kelompok, penyakit perlemakan hati non-alkohol vs non-NAFLD 40,46±19,23 menjadi 89,26±41,21µg/ml dengan p<0,0001. Kesimpulan. Nilai DHA signifikan lebih rendah pada kelompok penyakit hati berlemak non alkohol yang dikonversi dengan non-NAFLD. Manajemen diet dengan DHA tinggi penting untuk mencegah dan mengelola obesitas dengan lebih baik.

Tuneable exchange-spring stiffness in amorphous magnetic trilayer structures

We investigate the magnetic properties of amorphous Sm₁₀Co₉₀/Co₆₀(Al₇₀Zr₃₀)₄₀/Co₈₅(Al₇₀Zr₃₀)₁₅exchange-spring magnet trilayers. The magnetically soft Co₈₅(Al₇₀Zr₃₀)₁₅layer is coupled to the magnetically hard Sm₁₀Co₉₀layer through the weakly magnetic low-T_cCo₆₀(Al₇₀Zr₃₀)₄₀spacer layer. The strength of the coupling can be controlled with temperature and the coupling persists above the intrinsicT_cof the spacer layer due to a long-range magnetic proximity effect. Polarized neutron reflectivity is used to examine the magnetic profile of the trilayers during magnetization reversal. A two-step switching occurs, with the switching angle of the soft layer strongly dependent on the strength of the coupling. In the strong coupling regime a magnetic state can be achieved where the soft layer magnetization is perpendicular to the hard layer whereas in the weak coupling regime the soft layer reverses fully.

Ramipril Increases Adma Concentration in Acute Myocardial Infarction in Rats Induced by Isoproterenol

In experimental animals, the induction of isoproterenol which is a synthetic of catecholamine, can cause acute myocardial infarction where the pathophysiology and morphology are the same as myocardial infarction in humans. Isoproterenol induction will increase oxidative stress, which will damage the enzyme dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH), thus causing asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels to increase in circulation. Increased levels of ADMA will inhibit the activity of the enzyme nitric oxide synthase, which results in decreased nitric oxide resulting in endothelial damage. This study aims to determine the effect of Ramipril on asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels in rats (Rattus norvegicus) Wistar strain with acute myocardial infarction. Eighteen male Wistar rats (150-250 g) were randomly allocated into three groups: negative control group, positive control, and treatment group. The treatment group was pretreated with Ramipril at dose 3 mg/kg BW orally for seven days. Acute myocardial infarction was induced in positive control groups and treatment groups by subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (85 mg/kg BW) for two consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, rats from all groups were anesthetized and sacrificed for blood sample collection to evaluate the level of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine with Enzym-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. The result showed that ADMA levels were increased in the treatment group after pretreated with Ramipril. This study concluded that pretreatment with Ramipril increased ADMA concentration in acute myocardial infarction rats induced by isoproterenol.

Shoulder Function Assessment After Head And Neck Reconstruction With Pedicled Supraclavicular Flap

The supraclavicular artery flap is used for reconstruction of defects of the head and neck. One of the major implications of this procedure is injury to the nerve roots of C3 and C4 of the superficial cervical plexus, which provides sensation over the clavicle, shoulder and proximal chest, thereby causing problems in overall shoulder function. The objective of this study was to assess shoulder function, range of motion, pain, daily activities and overall satisfaction of the patient after using this flap. This study was conducted at the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences & Dr. Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan, from May 2015 to November 2018. Supraclavicular flap was used in 35 patients who underwent soft tissue reconstruction of defect of the neck after release of post burn contracture. Penn Shoulder Score and Constant Murley Score were used as assessment tools. Assessment by Penn Shoulder Score resulted in 25 (71.4%) patients within the upper quartile and 10 (18.6%) patients within the lower quartile. Constant Murley Score showed 19 (54.2%) of patients had 161°-180° shoulder abduction and lateral elevation. Forward flexion of 161°-180° was seen in 17 (48.5%) patients, 17 (48.5%) had internal rotation till the inter scapular region, 15 (42.8%) had no impairment of external rotation, 19 (54.2%) patients had no impairment of work/recreation, 25 (71.4%) had felt no change in their sleep and 22 (62.8%) were able to position their arm above their head. Overall parameters indicate better function, good range of motion, less pain, resumption of daily activities, and overall satisfaction.

High-Fidelity Controlled-Z Gate with Maximal Intermediate Leakage Operating at the Speed Limit in a Superconducting Quantum Processor

Simple tuneup of fast two-qubit gates is essential for the scaling of quantum processors. We introduce the sudden variant (SNZ) of the net zero scheme realizing controlled-Z (CZ) gates by flux control of transmon frequency. SNZ CZ gates realized in a multitransmon processor operate at the speed limit of transverse coupling between computational and noncomputational states by maximizing intermediate leakage. Beyond speed, the key advantage of SNZ is tuneup simplicity, owing to the regular structure of conditional phase and leakage as a function of two control parameters. SNZ is compatible with scalable schemes for quantum error correction and adaptable to generalized conditional-phase gates useful in intermediate-scale applications.

Expression of CCL27 in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma

BACKGROUND: Cholesteatoma is a lesion of the temporal bone lined by stratified squamous epithelium that contains desquamated keratin. Cholesteatoma is considered more aggressive during childhood. The molecular mechanism of the pathogenesis of cholesteatoma formation is still unclear. Previous studies reported on immunohistochemical examination and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) found that TCN1 and CCL27 were involved in the process of cholesteatoma keratinocytes and dermal endothelial cells. In skin tumors derived from keratinocytes, there is a protective mechanism of antitumor T cell-mediated by reducing CCL27 expression. AIM: The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of chemokine ligand 27 (CCL27) in cholesteatoma. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional comparative study. Cholesteatoma specimens were obtained from 15 patients who underwent surgery and 15 normal retroauricular skin as control. The specimen’s gene expression was examined with real-time PCR (RT-PCR). RESULTS: The expression of CCL27 was 36.215 ± 45.848 ng/ul in cholesteatoma, while it is 9.692 ± 15.760 ng/ul in normal retroauricular skin. The expression of CCL 27 in cholesteatoma was higher than in normal retroauricular skin, but it was not significant (p > 0.05) CONCLUSION: The expression of CCL27 in cholesteatoma was higher than in normal retroauricular skin.

Gambaran Kualitas Hidup Santriwati yang Menderita Skabies di Pondok Pesantren Kecamatan Enam Lingkung, Kabupaten Padang Pariaman

Kualitas hidup terkait dengan kesehatan  meliputi aspek fisik, psikis dan sosial. Penilaian kualitas hidup tersebut terdiri dari: tidak ada pengaruh, pengaruh kecil, pengaruh sedang dan pengaruh besar terhadap kualitas hidup karena penyakit skabies. Tujuan: Mengetahui gambaran kualitas hidup santriwati yang menderita skabies di Pondok Pesantren Kecamatan Enam Lingkung, Kabupaten Padang Pariaman. Metode: Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif dengan desain cross sectional. Pondok Pesantren Kecamatan Enam Lingkung Kabupaten Padang Pariaman pada bulan Desember 2019. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan teknik total sampling dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 32 orang. Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara, pemeriksaan kulit dan pengerokan kulit. Proses wawancara yang dipandu kuesioner modified Dermatology Life Quality Index yang sudah diterjemahkan dari Bahasa Inggris ke Bahasa Indonesia.  Hasil: Mayoritas penyakit skabies berpengaruh kecil terhadap kualitas hidup responden (62,5%), diikuti dengan pengaruh sedang pada kualitas hidup (25,0%), selanjutnya tidak ada pengaruh pada kualitas hidup (4%) dan pengaruh besar pada kualitas hidup (0%). Komponen kualitas hidup yang paling terganggu adalah kegiatan sekolah/belajar (18,8%) dan yang paling tidak terpengaruh adalah hubungan pertemanan (78,1%). Simpulan: Mayoritas penyakit skabies memiliki pengaruh yang kecil terhadap kualitas hidup penderita skabies.Kata kunci: modified dermatology life quality index, kualitas hidup, skabies

Is implantable loop recorder the answer to reduce the increased risk of stroke in cancer patients?

Introduction

Recent epidemiologic data suggests increased risk of ischaemic stroke in cancer patients. The etiology of increased ischaemic stroke is unknown. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is among the potential etiologies. The risk of AF has not been studied among cancer patients in the United States.

Purpose

Ascertain the association of AF in cancer patients in the USA by using the largest database i.e. National Inpatient Sample (NIS).

Methods

Patients ≥18 years old were selected in the NIS database for years 2010 to 2014 and stratified based on presence or absence of any of four cancers (lung, colon, breast and prostate; 4CA) using ICD 9 codes. Atrial fibrillation and stroke/TIA were also identified using ICD 9 codes. Components of CHADS2 score (CHF, hypertension, Age&gt;75, diabetes and stroke/TIA) were identified using ICD 9 codes. χ2 tests performed for prevalence of AF in patients with or without these cancers stratified by CHADS2 score. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze individual components of CHADS2 score.

Results

AF and stroke/TIA were significantly higher among 4CA than non-4CA group (18.7% vs 12.0%, P&lt;0.001 and 5.4% vs 4.8%, P&lt;0.001 respectively). AF prevalence increased with CHADS2 and was significantly higher in 4CA group with CHADS2 score 0 to 4 (Table 1 and Figure 1). Logistic regression for the outcome of AF showed “Age &gt;75” OR (3.0), CHF (2.8), CVA (1.2), HTN (1.3) and DM (1.1).

Conclusion

This is the first study using a national database of USA patients to estimate prevalence of AF in cancer patients compared to non-cancer patients and reaffirms the higher burden of AF in cancer patients. Prevalence of both AF and stroke were greater in cancer patients when stratified by CHADS2 score. This may indicate not just an increased risk of AF but an increased risk of stroke/TIA for the same CHADS2 score. Stroke incidence was also higher in the 4CA group (5.4% vs. 4.8% P&lt;0.001). Cancer patients with CHADS2 score &gt;1 may benefit from screening with loop recorder to identify previously undetected AF and initiate anticoagulation therapy. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed to validate this retrospective study.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Agronomic efficiency and profitability of cotton on integrated use of phosphorus and plant microbes

Cotton crop, plays a significant role in Pakistan's economy by ruling a prominent place in edible oil and local textile industry. Phosphorus (P) inaccessibility and deficiency of soil organic matter are the key restraints for low crop productivity in cotton. Therefore, a two years field study was designed during 2014-15, to explore the influence of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB), farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM) and inanimate sources of P on various physiological, growth, yield and quality parameters of cotton crop at CCRI Multan. Field responses of seeds inoculated with two distinctive phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) strains viz. S0 = control, S1 =strain-1, S2 = strain-2 and eight organic, inorganic P sources viz., P0= control, P1 = 80 kg ha-1 P from inorganic source, P2 = 80 kg ha-1 P from FYM, P3 = 80 kg ha-1 P from PM, P4 = 40 kg ha-1 P from FYM + 40 kg ha-1 P from inorganic source, P5 = 40 kg ha-1 P from PM + 40 kg ha-1 P from inorganic source, P6 = 80 kg ha-1 P from FYM + 40 kg ha-1 P from inorganic source, P7 = 80 kg ha-1 P from PM + 40 kg ha-1 P from inorganic source and P8 = 40 kg ha-1 P from FYM + 40 kg ha-1 P from PM were evaluated. Results revealed that inoculation of seeds with PSB and collective use of inorganic and organic sources of P had considerably increased the yield contributing attributes in cotton. However, the treatment P7 (80 kg P ha-1 from PM + 40 kg P ha-1 from inorganic source) in coincidence with seeds inoculated with PSB (S1) produced taller plant, maximum boll weight, significantly higher LAI and CGR. Significantly higher seed cotton yield, lint yield, fiber length and maximum BCR of 1.95 and 1.81 was also obtained from the P7 treatment during both crop-growing seasons. In conclusion, combined use of 80 kg P ha-1 from PM + 40 kg P ha-1 from inorganic source and cotton seeds inoculated with strain-1 improved phosphorus uptake ensuing in greater consumption of photo-assimilates for maximum growth and yield.

AB0139 T FOLLICULAR HELPER CELLS MAY BE INVOLVED IN THE LUPUS DEVELOPMENT IN HIGH FAT DIET-INDUCED OBESITY MICE

Background:

System lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that is associated with skin rash and multiple organs lesion. It is known that obesity is a major factor contributing to the onset and progression of autoimmune diseases including SLE. Our previous study showed that circulating T follicular helper (Tfh) cells played an important role in autoantibody production in SLE patients. A recent study showed that Tfh cells promote B cell production of IgA antibodies, which help shape the composition of the gut microbiota and may modulate obesity.

Objectives:

By establishing an obesity-associated lupus mouse model, we investigated the pathophysiologic link of obesity, SLE and Tfh cells using MRL/lpr lupus prone mice.

Methods:

Twenty MRL/lpr mice (10 male and 10 female) were randomized equally fed with a regular diet (RD) or high fat diet (HFD, 60% calories comprised of fat). Their body weights were recorded weekly as an indicator of obesity achievement. SLE progression was monitored weekly by development of skin lesion and urine protein levels assessed by Bradford assay. Blood was collected for IgG, anti-dsDNA and anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) detection. At the endpoint of week 14, spleen was measured and weighted. Spleen, kidney, and dorsum of neck skin were collected and embedded for H&E, PAS, Masson’s staining, and immune complex staining to detect active histopathological lupus lesions and be quantified as histological skin score and kidney index. Tfh cells in spleen was identified by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining glomerulus of kidney.

Results:

Obesity was achieved with a significant difference of mouse body weight between the RD and HFD groups by week 3 and continued until week 14 (p<0.05 top<0.01). Evidence of SLE development, such as skin rash on the dorsal neck and back in HFD group showed up as earlier as week 6 and occurred in 55.6% of the HFD group vs 11.1% of the RD group (p<0.05), with a higher histological score of skin in HFD group (p<0.05). Proteinuria was increased from 11 to 14 week in male HFD group with an elevated kidney index and immune-complex deposits in their glomerulus of kidney. There was an increase trend of anti-dsDNA and IgG titer in HFD group, but no difference of ANA was observed between these two groups. Splenomegaly was observed in the HFD mice (p<0.05). The Tfh cells in the spleen of HFD group were higher than RD group.

Conclusion:

Our results show accelerated and greater severity of lupus development in MRL/lpr mice with HFD compared to mice on RD, indicating HFD-induced obesity exacerbates lupus development in mice. Tfh cells may be involved in the relation of SLE and obesity. This model could be used to investigate the mechanism underlying the link between obesity and SLE development. Interventions to reduce body weight or target Tfh cells may improve both lupus symptoms and outcomes in genetically predisposed SLE patients.

References:

[1]Tedeschi S, et al. Obesity and the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus among woman in the Nurses’ Health Studies. Semi in Arth and Rheu. 2017, 47:376-383

[2]Cozier YC, et al. A prospective study of obesity and risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) among Black woman. Semi in Arth and Rheu. 2019, 48:1030-1034

[3]Wang G, et al. Differential oxidative modification of proteins in MRL+/+and MRL/lpr mice: Increased formation of lipid peroxidation-derived aldehyde-protein adducts may contribute to accelerated onset of autoimmune response. Free Radic Res. 2012, 46(12):1472-1481

[4]Seth A, et al. Spatial and functional heterogeneity of follicular helper T cells in autoimmunity. Current Opinion in Immunology. 2019, 61:1-9

5.Petersen C, et al. T cell–mediated regulation of the microbiota protects against obesity. Science. 2019, 365 (6451): eaat9351

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Isolation of Amniotic Fluid Mesenchymal Stem Cells Obtained from Cesarean Sections

BACKGROUND: The term amniotic fluid (AF) can be an ideal alternative as a source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), originating from the neonate. Preclinical studies of the second- and third-trimester amnion fluid cells confirmed the number of potential donors from this wasted material. AIM: This study aims to look at the forming time of stem cells derived from AF-MSCs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AF samples from healthy human donors were collected during full-term C-sections and kept at 4°C until processed. The number of colony-forming unit-fibroblast was assessed microscopically by calculating spindle-shaped colonies that clearly resembled of fibroblasts and did not include colonies with rounded epithelioid morphology. The immunophenotyping of their independent AF preparations was done using the human MSC phenotyping kit which was done according to the manufacturer’s instruction by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The result showed that it succeeded in getting 8 million cells which will be used for research on pelvic organ prolapse therapy using AF-MSCs. The stem cell isolation totally takes 6 weeks. We got 2 million stem cells in one flask. CONCLUSION: This study concludes that the time needed for differentiation of AF-MSCs is 6 weeks and AF-MSCs express mesenchymal markers such as CD90, CD73 (SH3, SH), and CD105 (SH2) and these cells also express HLA antigens – ABC, CD 34, and CD 45 which are hematopoietic markers and endothelial CD31 markers.

Roles of a Mast Cell-Specific Receptor MRGPRX2 in Host Defense and Inflammation

Mast cells are multifunctional immune cells that are found most abundantly at host-environment interfaces, such as the skin, respiratory tract, and oral/gastrointestinal mucosa. Not surprisingly, mast cells act as sentinel cells that sense microbial attacks and initiate a protective immune response and promote healing. Although mast cells share many features with other innate immune effector cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, they uniquely interact closely with blood vessels and release an extensive set of mediators for the recruitment of innate and adaptive immune cells. A novel human G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), known as Mas-related GPCR-X2 (MRGPRX2, mouse ortholog, MrgprB2), has recently been identified, which is expressed on mast cells but not neutrophils and macrophages. Interestingly, activation of MrgprB2 by bacteria-derived quorum-sensing peptides inhibits bacterial growth, prevents biofilm formation, and leads to the recruitment of neutrophils to effectively clear bacteria. Furthermore, host defense antimicrobial peptides and small-molecule peptide mimetics also activate mast cells via MRGPRX2/B2. MrgprB2-mediated activation of local mast cells also clears cutaneous bacterial infection, promotes healing, and protects against reinfection. In addition to their role in host defense, mast cells contribute to a number of chronic inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis, neurogenic inflammation, and inflammatory pain likely via the activation of MRGPRX2. In this review, we discuss the roles of MRGPRX2/B2 in the clearance of bacterial infection, wound healing, periodontal disease, neurogenic inflammation, and inflammatory pain. We propose that harnessing mast cells' host defense and immunomodulatory properties via the activation of MRGPRX2 may lead to novel approaches for the treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections. On the other hand, increased MRGPRX2 expression on mast cells and their inappropriate activation may contribute to periodontitis, neurogenic inflammation, and inflammatory pain. Thus, targeting MRGPRX2 could provide novel approaches to modulate these conditions.

SCUBE2, vascular endothelium, and vascular complications: A systematic review

The vascular endothelium plays a vital role in regulating normal vascular function. Endothelial lining maintains the balance of thrombolytic and fibrinolytic microenvironment in the vasculature. Alterations of vascular endothelium referred to as endothelial dysfunction, caused the pathological changes in vessel wall such activation of proinflammatory and procoagulatory that initiate atherosclerosis. The concept that endothelial dysfunction plays a critical role in the initiation of atherosclerosis due to vascular inflammation gained tremendous attention. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic-related disease that caused high mortality and morbidity, leading to its cardiovascular complication over the past decade. Atherosclerosis is the leading cardiovascular complication in diabetes mellitus. Despite metabolic and glycemic control, atherosclerotic plaque progression remains an enormous problem in diabetes mellitus complications. Thus, new inroads therapeutic approach in preventing complications that induced inflammation in endothelial cells could help prevent the disease progression. Signal peptide-CUB-EGF like domain-containing protein 2 (SCUBE2) expressed in vascular endothelium and reported to involve in inflammation. A recent study reported an increased SCUBE2 expression in diabetes mellitus and correlated with high expression of endothelin-1 (ET-1), a proinflammatory endothelial cell-derived peptide. Moreover, this gene showed to increase during atherosclerosis development. The present systematic review will summarize the involvement of SCUBE2 in vascular endothelium function changes and vascular complication, particularly in diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis.

In vitro anti-diabetic activity of stingless bee honey from different botanical origins

The number of patients with diabetes mellitus is increasing at an alarming rate and this situation has triggered the interest of searching natural product as an alternative treatment. Stingless bee honey containing a diverse array of bioactive compounds is commonly utilized as a functional food and also found to possess various therapeutic effects including anti-diabetic through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition. However, the composition level of bioactive compounds varying of geographical origins and botanical sources of honey leads to different enzyme inhibition abilities. Therefore, this study explored the total phenolic, total flavonoid, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activities of stingless bee honey from various botanical origins. In this study, stingless bee honey was collected from 6 different botanical origins namely, acacia, coconut, mangrove, starfruit, multifruit and multiflower plant. Honey from tualang tree was used as a positive control. Phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activities of honey were studied spectrophotometrically. Stingless bee honey from mangrove was found to have the highest phenolic content (141.74±0.03 mg GAE/100 g). The honey collected from coconut origin showed the highest flavonoid content with the value of 51.33±0.02 mg RE/100 g and also achieved the highest percentage inhibition against α-glucosidase (68.33% at 100 µg/mL). Furthermore, tualang honey and honey samples from mangrove, coconut and Acacia tree were found to have strong α-amylase inhibition abilities as their inhibition percentages were more than 70.00% at 100 µg/mL. This study showed that the presence of flavonoid and phenolic compounds in honey from different botanical origins yielded different degree of α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition and also recommended the uses of stingless bee honey in diabetes treatment.