Amino acid pattern reveals multi-functionality of ORF3 protein from HEV

The smallest open reading frame (ORF) encoded protein ORF3 of hepatitis E virus (HEV), recently, has been demonstrated to perform multiple functions besides accessory roles. ORF3 could act as a target for vaccine against HEV infections. The IDR (intrinsically disordered region); IDP (ID protein)/IDPR (ID protein region), plays critical role in various regulatory functions of viruses. The dark proteome of HEV-ORF3 protein including its structure and function was systematically examined by computer predictors to explicate its role in viral pathogenesis and drug resistance beyond its functions as accessory viral protein. Amino acid distribution showed ORF3 enrichment with disorder-promoting residues (Ala, Pro, Ser, Gly) while deficiency in order-promoting residues (Asn, Ile, Phe, Tyr and Trp). Initial investigation revealed ORF3 as IDP (entirely disordered protein) or IDPR (proteins consisting of IDRs with structured globular domains). Structural examination revealed preponderance of disordered regions interpreting ORF3 as moderately/highly disordered protein. Further disorder predictors categorized ORF3 as highly disordered protein/IDP. Identified sites and associated-crucial molecular functions revealed ORF3 involvement in diverse biological processes, substantiating them as targets of regulation. As ORF3 functions are yet to completely explored, thus, data on its disorderness could help in elucidating its disorder related functions.

Fabrication, structural, and enhanced mechanical behavior of MgO substituted PMMA composites for dental applications

The most common denture material used for dentistry is poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA). Usually, the polymeric PMMA material has numerous biological, mechanical and cost-effective shortcomings. Hence, to resolve such types of drawbacks, attempts have been made to investigate fillers of the PMMA like alumina (Al2O3), silica (SiO2), zirconia (ZrO2) etc. For the enhancement of the PMMA properties a suitable additive is required for its orthopedic applications. Herein, the main motive of this study was to synthesize a magnesium oxide (MgO) reinforced polymer-based hybrid nano-composites by using heat cure method with superior optical, biological and mechanical characteristics. For the structural and vibrational studies of the composites, XRD and FT-IR were carried out. Herein, the percentage of crystallinity for all the fabricated composites were also calculated and found to be 14.79-30.31. Various physical and optical parameters such as density, band gap, Urbach energy, cutoff energy, cutoff wavelength, steepness parameter, electron-phonon interaction, refractive index, and optical dielectric constant were also studied and their values are found to be in the range of 1.21-1.394 g/cm3, 5.44-5.48 eV, 0.167-0.027 eV, 5.68 eV, 218 nm, 0.156-0.962, 4.273-0.693, 1.937-1.932, and 3.752-3.731 respectively. To evaluate the mechanical properties like compressive strength, flexural strength, and fracture toughness of the composites a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) was used and their values were 60.3 and 101 MPa, 78 and 40.3 MPa, 5.85 and 9.8 MPa-m1/2 respectively. Tribological tests of the composites were also carried out. In order to check the toxicity, MTT assay was also carried out for the PM0 and PM15 [(x)MgO + (100 - x) (C5O2H8)n] (x = 0 and 15) composites. This study provides a comprehensive insight into the structural, physical, optical, and biological features of the fabricated PMMA-MgO composites, highlighting the potential of the PM15 composite with its enhanced density, mechanical strength, and excellent biocompatibility for denture applications.

Potential role of microRNAs in personalized medicine against hepatitis: a futuristic approach

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been the subject of extensive research for many years, primarily in the context of diseases such as cancer. However, our appreciation of their significance in viral infections, particularly in hepatitis, has increased due to the discovery of their association with both the host and the virus. Hepatitis is a major global health concern and can be caused by various viruses, including hepatitis A to E. This review highlights the key factors associated with miRNAs and their involvement in infections with various viruses that cause hepatitis. The review not only emphasizes the expression profiles of miRNAs in hepatitis but also puts a spotlight on their potential for diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. Ongoing extensive studies are propelling the therapeutic application of miRNAs, addressing both current limitations and potential strategies for the future of miRNAs in personalized medicine. Here, we discuss the potential of miRNAs to influence future medical research and an attempt to provide a thorough understanding of their diverse roles in hepatitis and beyond.

Correction: Yadav et al. PLGA-Quercetin Nano-Formulation Inhibits Cancer Progression via Mitochondrial Dependent Caspase-3,7 and Independent FoxO1 Activation with Concomitant PI3K/AKT Suppression. Pharmaceutics 2022, 14, 1326

In the published publication [...].

Structure based docking and biological evaluation towards exploring potential anti-cancerous and apoptotic activity of 6-Gingerol against human prostate carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

6-Gingerol (6-G) is the primary active phytocomponent of ginger and has been shown to regulate multiple targets against cancer and its treatment. Androgen receptors (ARs) remain critical in the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). This study focuses on investigating 6-G as a promising anti-cancerous agent that inhibits AR activity significantly.

METHODS

In this study, molecular docking simulation was done to investigate the binding affinity of 6-G and control drug Bicalutamide (BT) against oncogenic AR and tumor suppressor estrogen receptor β (ERβ). The crystal structure of AR and ERβ was retrieved from Protein Data Bank (PDB) and docked with 3D Pubchem structures of 6-G using iGEMDOCK and AutoDock. Further in vitro study was done to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-cancerous, apoptotic, and wound healing potential of 6-G.

RESULTS

The result displays that 6-G shows good binding affinity with AR and ERβ. Condensation of the nucleus, change in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the ability to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) were done in human PCa PC-3 cells. Results from the MTT assay demonstrated that 6-G and control drug BT showed significant (p < 0.01) dose and time dependent inhibition of human PCa PC-3 cells. 6-G increased the ROS generation intracellularly and decreased the MMP, and cell migration in treated PCa PC-3 cells. 6-G treated cells showed fragmented, condensed chromatin and nuclear apoptotic bodies.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, this study validates 6-G as a potential drug candidate against human PCa. However, further study of the anticancer potency of 6-G has to be done before its use for PCa treatment.

Salivary transforming growth factor beta in oral submucous fibrosis: A diagnostic and predictive marker

CONTEXT

Growth factors and cytokines like transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) play a key role in the pathogenesis of oral submucous fibrosis.

AIMS

To elucidate the role of Salivary TGF-β isoforms as a predictive and diagnostic marker for oral submucous fibrosis.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A total of 30 OSMF and 10 control patients were included in this study, and their clinic-epidemiological data was recorded.

METHODOLOGY

The expression of TGF-β genes-TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3-was studied by a real-time polymerase chain reaction in tissue and saliva. Patients were given medicinal intervention for 12 weeks along with jaw-opening exercises. Expression of salivary TGF-β genes was studied at 12 weeks.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

SPSS software version 20.

RESULT

Expression of salivary TGF beta isoforms in OSMF was more than in the control group. There was an increase in salivary TGF-β1, β2, β3 expressions with increasing clinical grades of OSMF and advancing the stage of the disease. Expression of all the TGF beta isoforms was decreased after treatment with statistically significant results. Statistically significant correlations were found between the mean difference of TGF-β1 and the mean difference between mouth opening and tongue protrusion.

CONCLUSION

Salivary TGF-β isoforms may be used in diagnosis, risk assessment, and screening of the entire population at risk of OSMF after its clinical validation. However, adequate sample size and segmental assessment of the expression of TGF-β isoforms are needed for further evaluation.

TNF-α and MMPs mediated mucus hypersecretion induced by cigarette smoke: An in vitro study

Cigarette smoke is one of the leading causes of oxidative stress due to high levels of free radicals, which in turn leads to the degradation of alveolar cell walls and development of emphysema. Cigarette smoking has been linked to chronic bronchitis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and lung cancer as well. The aim of the present study was to observe the effect of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on TNF-α and MMPs mediated mucus hypersecretion in A549 cell line. The MTT experiments showed that CSE caused a dose-dependent decline in the level of viability of A549 cells. In addition, AO/PI and Mitotracker Red staining assays demonstrated that CSE caused the A549 cells to undergo apoptosis. This was determined by observing the reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential. CSE was found to be responsible for the formation of intracellular ROS, which was observed by DCFDA staining through fluorescence microscopy. Approximately 65% migration rate was decreased in 20% CSE exposed cells. CSE exposure led to the significantly increased mRNA levels of TNF-α, MMP-7, and MMP-12, in comparison to the control cells. Additionally, the expression of MUC5AC and MUC5B was provoked by CSE as well. Human epithelial cells are stimulated by TNF-α and MMPs secreted mucus, as shown by expression of MUC5AC and MUC5B. CSE could induce mucus in lungs through TNF-α and MMPs mediated pathways.

Synergetic effects of boron nitride with waste zirconia: Evaluation of instantaneous fingerprint detection and mechanical properties for biomedical applications

Herein, present study mainly focuses on the synthesis and characterizations of boron nitride reinforced waste zirconia (wZrO2) with different concentrations. Composites were prepared via a scalable solid-state reaction method. Various physical parameters such as density, ionic concentration, polaron radius, and field strength were evaluated. XRD results reveal crystalline nature with a major phase of tetragonal zirconia and as boron nitride is reinforced, the tetragonal transforms into a monoclinic zirconia. Interconnected spherical grains and nanosheets were observed using FESEM. Mechanical characterizations revealed the highest compressive strength of 266 MPa. The latent fingerprints were visualized using a composite on different surfaces, implementing the powder dusting and solution techniques. MTT assay was performed and revealed good biocompatible nature. These results reveal that composite is suitable for fabrication of bioceramics with acceptable mechanical and biological performances. The composite can also be utilized for latent fingerprint detection in forensic science.

Enhanced therapeutic efficacy of Piperlongumine for cancer treatment using nano-liposomes mediated delivery

Piperlongumine (PL) is a well-known bioactive alkaloid that has been reported as a potent anticancer molecule but has failed to provide potential activity in translational and clinical applications due to some drawbacks like low bioavailability, hydrophobicity, and rapid degradation. However, nano-formulation is a good choice to increase the bioavailability and enhance cellular uptake of PL. In this study, PL loaded nano-liposomes (NPL) were formulated using the thin-film hydration method and analyzed by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in order to treat cervical cancer. The NPL were thoroughly characterized using particle size, PDI, zeta potential, drug loading capacity, encapsulation efficiency, SEM, AFM and FTIR. Different assays viz. MTT, AO/PI, DAPI, MMP, cell migration, DCFDA and apoptotic assay using Annexin V-FITC/PI were performed for anticancer potential of NPL in human cervical carcinoma cells (SiHa and HeLa). NPL showed enhanced cytotoxicity, diminished cell proliferation, reduced cell viability, enhanced nuclear condensation, reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibited cell migration, increased ROS level and promoted more apoptosis in both human cervical cancer cell lines. These findings demonstrated that NPL may be a potential therapeutic option for cervical cancer.

Global and local evolutionary dynamics of Dengue virus serotypes 1, 3, and 4

Evolutionary studies on Dengue virus (DENV) in endemic regions are necessary since naturally occurring mutations may lead to genotypic variations or shifts in serotypes, which may lead to future outbreaks. Our study comprehends the evolutionary dynamics of DENV, using phylogenetic, molecular clock, skyline plots, network, selection pressure, and entropy analyses based on partial CprM gene sequences. We have collected 250 samples, 161 in 2017 and 89 in 2018. Details for the 2017 samples were published in our previous article and that of 2018 are presented in this study. Further evolutionary analysis was carried out using 800 sequences, which incorporate the study and global sequences from GenBank: DENV-1 (n = 240), DENV-3 (n = 374), and DENV-4 (n = 186), identified during 1944-2020, 1956-2020, and 1956-2021, respectively. Genotypes V, III, and I were identified as the predominant genotypes of the DENV-1, DENV-3, and DENV-4 serotypes, respectively. The rate of nucleotide substitution was found highest in DENV-3 (7.90 × 10-4 s/s/y), followed by DENV-4 (6.23 × 10-4 s/s/y) and DENV-1 (5.99 × 10-4 s/s/y). The Bayesian skyline plots of the Indian strains revealed dissimilar patterns amongst the population size of the three serotypes. Network analyses showed the presence of different clusters within the prevalent genotypes. The data presented in this study will assist in supplementing the measures for vaccine development against DENV.

MANAGING ARTHRITIS PAIN: MEDICATIONS AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES

This study aims to characterize and contrast the triennial rates at which doctors prescribe PT, determine patient, doctor, and practicing characteristics related to every therapy suggestion, and assess pain relievers, lifestyle counseling, and PT as effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis (OA). We analyzed the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), narcotics prescriptions, physical therapy referrals, and primary care physician visits for knee OA have been determined and evaluated. The average yearly rate after three years of therapy was determined. Using multivariable logistic modeling with adjustments for complicated sample design, we analyzed the relationships among patient, physician, and practice characteristics and treatments. Over time the patients were prescribed physical therapy to improve their lifestyle whereas the percentage of patients who were prescribed NSAIDs or drugs. Physical therapy, lifestyle therapy, and drugs were prescribed at similar rates across time for basic care doctor visits. There was an association between nonclinical characteristics and treatment suggestions, such as provider type, practice setting, and geographic proximity. Physical therapy (PT) and lifestyle counseling (LC) seem underused in patients with knee OA, but prescriptions for pain medication rose over the studied period. The treatment decisions varied due to variables outside of medicine. Increased usage of physical therapy and lifestyle changes, as well as decreased treatment variance for knee OA, are important areas for further study.

Correlation between different retinal layers with visual acuity in diabetic retinopathy patients with clinically significant macular edema

Purpose

To study the corelation between outer retinal layer thickness (ORL), outer photoreceptor segment thickness (PROS), and central macular thickness (CMT) with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in patients having clinically significant macular edema (CSME) and compare these parameters with normal patients.

Methods

This was a prospective, nonrandomized, observational, comparative study done during the period of January to May 2019. The study included 60 eyes of 36 patients. The patient population was segregated into two Groups: Group I (30 normal eyes of 15 normal patients) and Group II (30 eyes of 21 diabetic patients) with CSME. The comparison between ORL, PROS, and CMT was made between both the groups, and the correlation between ORL thickness, PROS thickness, and CMT with BCVA in Group II was studied.

Results

The mean age in Group I was 52.6+10.66 years, and 53.42+8.15 years in Group II. The male/female ratio was 1.1:1 in Group I and 4:3 in Group II. The mean CMT was greater in Group II (330.13 ± 37.01) than in Group I (222.20 ± 12.30). The mean ORL thickness was greater in Group I (97.73 ± 6.92) than in Group II (80.63 ± 9.03). The PROS thickness was statistically significant in Group I (35.05 ± 3.4) than in Group II (28.57 ± 3.53). There was a strong correlation between BCVA and ORL thickness (r = -0.580, P < 0.001) and more strong correlation between BCVA and PROS thickness in Group II (r = -0.611, P < 0.000). There was a moderate correlation between BCVA and CMT (r = 0.410, P < 0.025), and all results were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Both ORL and PROS thickness were greater in healthy normal eyes than in eyes with CSME. BCVA was strongly correlated with PROS and ORL thickness and moderately associated with CMT.

Point prevalence audit surveys of respiratory tract infection consultations and antibiotic prescribing in primary care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland

BACKGROUND

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most common reason for prescribing antibiotics in general practice. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on antibiotic prescribing and delivery of primary care in Ireland.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the quality of antibiotic prescribing, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and identify opportunities for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in Ireland.

METHODS

Point prevalence audit surveys for RTI consultations were conducted as part of a European study at three time periods: January-February 2020, March-May 2020 and March-May 2021. Antibiotic prescribing was assessed and comparisons made between the three time periods.

RESULTS

In total, 765 consultations were recorded, which were mainly face to face before the pandemic, but changed to predominantly remote consultations during the pandemic surveys in 2020 and 2021 (82% and 75%). Antibiotics were prescribed in 54% of RTI consultations before the pandemic. During pandemic surveys, this dropped to 23% in 2020 and 21% in 2021. There was a decrease in prescribing of Red (reserve) agents in 2021. Assessment against indication-specific quality indicators showed a high proportion of consultations for bronchitis and tonsillitis resulting in an antibiotic prescription (67% and 85%). Point-of-care testing (POCT) to aid diagnosis of RTIs were utilized in less than 1% of consultations.

CONCLUSIONS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a reduction in antibiotic prescribing. Opportunities identified to support AMS in primary care in Ireland are targeted initiatives to reduce antibiotic prescribing for bronchitis and tonsillitis and introducing POCT to support appropriate antibiotic prescribing.

Intrinsic disorder in the open reading frame 2 of hepatitis E virus: a protein with multiple functions beyond viral capsid

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the cause of a liver disease hepatitis E. The translation product of HEV ORF2 has recently been demonstrated as a protein involved in multiple functions besides performing its major role of a viral capsid. As intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) are linked to various essential roles in the virus's life cycle, we analyzed the disorder pattern distribution of the retrieved ORF2 protein sequences by employing different online predictors. Our findings might provide some clues on the disorder-based functions of ORF2 protein that possibly help us in understanding its behavior other than as a HEV capsid protein.

RESULTS

The modeled three dimensional (3D) structures of ORF2 showed the predominance of random coils or unstructured regions in addition to major secondary structure components (alpha helix and beta strand). After initial scrutinization, the predictors VLXT and VSL2 predicted ORF2 as a highly disordered protein while the predictors VL3 and DISOPRED3 predicted ORF2 as a moderately disordered protein, thus categorizing HEV-ORF2 into IDP (intrinsically disordered protein) or IDPR (intrinsically disordered protein region) respectively. Thus, our initial predicted disorderness in ORF2 protein 3D structures was in excellent agreement with their predicted disorder distribution patterns (evaluated through different predictors). The abundance of MoRFs (disorder-based protein binding sites) in ORF2 was observed that signified their interaction with binding partners which might further assist in viral infection. As IDPs/IDPRs are targets of regulation, we carried out the phosphorylation analysis to reveal the presence of post-translationally modified sites. Prevalence of several disordered-based phosphorylation sites further signified the involvement of ORF2 in diverse and significant biological processes. Furthermore, ORF2 structure-associated functions revealed its involvement in several crucial functions and biological processes like binding and catalytic activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The results predicted ORF2 as a protein with multiple functions besides its role as a capsid protein. Moreover, the occurrence of IDPR/IDP in ORF2 protein suggests that its disordered region might serve as novel drug targets via functioning as potential interacting domains. Our data collectively might provide significant implication in HEV vaccine search as disorderness in viral proteins is related to mechanisms involved in immune evasion.

A Trinuclear Cobalt Coordination Complex Constructed using Novel Triazine Ligands via One-pot Green Synthesis: Structural Properties and Biological Evaluation

New triazine ligands C3H5N5O (L1) and C5H5N5O3 (H2L2) were synthesised by reacting diaminoguanidine hydrochloride and glyoxylic acid in 1:1 and 1:2 molar ratios, respectively, at 150°C in a green solvent...

Prevalence and risk factors associated with human Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) in rural and urban areas of Quetta, Pakistan

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are endemic worldwide and more prevalent in countries with unhygienic conditions. The objective of the research was to identify the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in rural and urban areas of Quetta, Balochistan and to check their associated risk factors including; age, gender, educational status, sanitary system and any other immunodeficiency. For this instance 204 stool samples were collected from the urban and rural population of Quetta, Balochistan. The participants with positive results for Intestinal Parasitic Infections were interviewed using close-ended questionnaire. From the findings of this study, it has been revealed that prevalence of Intestinal parasitic infections in rural and urban areas was 21%. Males were found more prevalent (66%) as compared to females (34%) due to higher risk of contacting to outer environment. The prevalence was higher in rural areas (23%). The most prevalent intestinal parasite was Entamoeba histolytica (48%). Other prevailing parasites were Hymenolepis nana (26%), Giardia Intestinalis (17%), Trichomonas hominis (5%) and Trichuris trichiura (5%). The majority of patients were having lower socio-economic (52%) and educational status (48%). Educational status of 48% patients was primary or below primary. Most of the participants with positive results did not have hand washing habit (62%) and didn't have the closed sanitary system (71%). The intestinal parasitic infections were more prevalent among children aged from 1-10 (33%). This may be a result of poor hygiene in children. The study will contribute to lower down the prevalence in the studied areas by the application of different preventive measures in future.

Integrative Multiomics and Regulatory Network Analyses Uncovers the Role of OAS3, TRAFD1, miR-222-3p, and miR-125b-5p in Hepatitis E Virus Infection

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a long-ignored virus that has spread globally with time. It ranked 6th among the top risk-ranking viruses with high zoonotic spillover potential; thus, considering its viral threats is a pressing priority. The molecular pathophysiology of HEV infection or the underlying cause is limited. Therefore, we incorporated an unbiased, systematic methodology to get insights into the biological heterogeneity associated with the HEV. Our study fetched 93 and 2016 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from chronic HEV (CHEV) infection in kidney-transplant patients, followed by hub module selection from a weighted gene co-expression network (WGCN). Most of the hub genes identified in this study were associated with interferon (IFN) signaling pathways. Amongst the genes induced by IFNs, the 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthase 3 (OAS3) protein was upregulated. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) modular, functional enrichment, and feed-forward loop (FFL) analyses led to the identification of two key miRNAs, i.e., miR-222-3p and miR-125b-5p, which showed a strong association with the OAS3 gene and TRAF-type zinc finger domain containing 1 (TRAFD1) transcription factor (TF) based on essential centrality measures. Further experimental studies are required to substantiate the significance of these FFL-associated genes and miRNAs with their respective functions in CHEV. To our knowledge, it is the first time that miR-222-3p has been described as a reference miRNA for use in CHEV sample analyses. In conclusion, our study has enlightened a few budding targets of HEV, which might help us understand the cellular and molecular pathways dysregulated in HEV through various factors. Thus, providing a novel insight into its pathophysiology and progression dynamics.

Prevalence of diabetic nephropathy and subsequent cardiovascular outcomes: a nationwide study of 74,014 patients with type 2 diabetes

Background

Nonsteroidal, selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events among patients with diabetic nephropathy, a clinical syndrome characterized by persistent albuminuria. However, prior reports have suggested a substantial underuse of MRAs among eligible patients. In real-life, it is unknown how many have urinary excretion of albumin measured, and the cardiovascular outcomes among type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with versus without albuminuria is relatively unknown.

Purpose

To identify candidates eligible for treatment with MRAs and compare the risk of cardiovascular events in real-life T2D patients with albuminuria versus without albuminuria.

Methods

Using the Danish nationwide registers, we identified all patients ≥18 years old with prevalent T2D at index date 1st January 2015 with an albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) and a creatinine level measured within 365 days prior to the index date. For each patient, the last ACR and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) registered prior to the index date were used. eGFR was calculated using the CKD-EPI formula. The patients were separated into two groups consisting of patients with T2D with ACR ≥30 mg/g (albuminuria) or ACR&lt;30 mg/g (no albuminuria), respectively. Outcomes for both groups were analyzed as time-to-event as a composite cardiovascular outcome of heart failure (HF), myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and all-cause death and each component of the composite endpoint was analyzed individually. In both groups, we estimated the 4-year absolute risk of the cardiovascular outcome and the risk of experiencing HF, MI, and stroke.

Results

A total of 158,904 patients with T2D were identified and of those 74,014 patients (47%) had urinary ACR analyzed within the last year. Of those who had ACR analyzed 29,581 (40%) patients had albuminuria. The absolute 4-year risk of the composite cardiovascular outcome in patients with albuminuria and no albuminuria was 28.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 28.1–29.1) versus 18.7% (95% CI: 18.4–19.1), respectively. The absolute 4-year risk for the individual components were HF 7.0% (95% CI: 6.7–7.3), MI 4.4% (95% CI: 4.2–4.6), and stroke 7.6% (95% CI: 7.3–7.9) for patients with albuminuria, versus HF 4.0% (95% CI: 3.8–4.2), MI 3.2% (95% CI: 3.1–3.4), and stroke 5.5% (95% CI: 5.3–5.7) for patients with no albuminuria.

Conclusion

In Denmark, only 47% of patients with T2D had ACR analyzed within a year indicating lack of adherence to the national T2D guidelines. A total of 40% of those who had albuminuria analyzed were eligible for treatment with MRAs based on trial inclusion criteria, and the absolute 4-year risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event was significant. However, patients with no albuminuria still displayed a substantial risk of experiencing a composite event of HF, MI, stroke, and all-cause death. Our analyses may have implications for implementation of new MRAs in patients with T2D.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Innate Immune Response and Inflammasome Activation During SARS-CoV-2 Infection

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 outbreak, has become a pandemic threatening millions of lives worldwide. Recently, several vaccine candidates and drugs have shown promising effects in preventing or treating COVID-19, but due to the development of mutant strains through rapid viral evolution, urgent investigations are warranted in order to develop preventive measures and further improve current vaccine candidates. Positive-sense-single-stranded RNA viruses comprise many (re)emerging human pathogens that pose a public health problem. Our innate immune system and, in particular, the interferon response form an important first line of defense against these viruses. Flexibility in the genome aids the virus to develop multiple strategies to evade the innate immune response and efficiently promotes their replication and infective capacity. This review will focus on the innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the virus’ evasion of the innate immune system by escaping recognition or inhibiting the production of an antiviral state. Since interferons have been implicated in inflammatory diseases and immunopathology along with their protective role in infection, antagonizing the immune response may have an ambiguous effect on the clinical outcome of the viral disease. This pathology is characterized by intense, rapid stimulation of the innate immune response that triggers activation of the Nod-like receptor family, pyrin-domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway, and release of its products including the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-18, and IL-1β. This predictive view may aid in designing an immune intervention or preventive vaccine for COVID-19 in the near future.

Study of Serum Troponin-I Level in Non-diabetic Hyperglycemic ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients

The most common cause of premature death in developing countries like Bangladesh is ischaemic heart disease. Cardiac troponin-I (cTnI) is 100 percent tissue specific for the myocardium which has been shown to be a very sensitive and specific biomarker for acute myocardial infarction. As acute myocardial infarction is a stressful condition so, plasma glucose level may also increase in this condition which is stress hyperglycemia and also plasma glucose level may be used for prediction of outcome as it is a cheap and easy available test. The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of the elevation of troponin-I level with plasma glucose level of non-diabetic patients in ST-elevation myocardial infarction. This study which was comparative type of analytical and cross- sectional study carried out in the Department of Physiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2021 to December 2021. Data was collected from Cardiology Department of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh. A total number of 70 subjects participated in this study and were grouped as normoglycemic ST elevation myocardial infarction- Control group (Group I) and non-diabetic hyperglycemic ST elevation myocardial infarction- Study group (Group II). The results were calculated and analyzed by using SPSS. Serum troponin-I was measured by Fluorescence Immunoassay (FIA) and plasma glucose estimated by GOD-PAP method. Data were expressed in mean±SD and statistical significance of difference among the groups were calculated by unpaired Student's 't' test. The correlation between different parameter was done by Pearson's correlation coefficient test. In this study, the result suggests that there is significant positive association between serum troponin-I and plasma glucose level in study group (hyperglycemic non-diabetic STEMI) in comparison to control group (normoglycemic STEMI). So, by this study we recommend that routine estimation of these parameters is important for prevention of complications related to acute myocardial infarction.

Development of Highly Sensitive Sandwich ELISA for the Early-Phase Diagnosis of Chikungunya Virus Utilizing rE2-E1 Protein

Introduction

Chikungunya is caused by an alpha virus transmitted to humans by an infected mosquito. Infection is generally considered to be self-limiting and non-critical. Chikungunya infection may be diagnosed by severe joint pain with fever, but it is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms of chikungunya are common to many pathogens, including dengue fever. Diagnosis mainly depends on viral culture, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and IgM ELISA. Early and accurate diagnosis of the virus can be achieved by the application of PCR methods, but the high cost and the need for a thermal cycler restrict the use of such methods. On the other hand, antibody-based IgM ELISA is considered to be inexpensive, but antibodies against chikungunya virus (CHIKV) only develop after 4 days of infection, so it has limited application in the earlier diagnosis of viral infection and the management of patients. Because of these challenges, a simple antigen-based sensitive, specific, and rapid detection method is required for the early and accurate clinical diagnosis of chikungunya.

Methods

The amino acid sequence of CHIKV ectodomain E1 and E2 proteins was analyzed using bioinformatics tools to determine the antigenic residues, particularly the B-cell epitopes and their characteristics. Recombinant E2-E1 CHIKV antigen was used for the development of polyclonal antibodies in hamsters and IgG was purified. Serological tests of 96 CHIKV patients were conducted by antigen-capture ELISA using primary antibodies raised against rCHIKV E2-E1 in hamsters and human anti-CHIKV antibodies.

Results

We observed high specificity and sensitivity, of 100% and 95.8%, respectively, and these values demonstrate the efficiency of the test as a clinical diagnostic tool. There was no cross-reactivity with samples taken from dengue patients.

Discussion

Our simple and sensitive sandwich ELISA for the early-phase detection of CHIKV infection may be used to improve the diagnosis of chikungunya.

Histopathological Evaluation of Endoscopic Duodenal Biopsies in Children with Coeliac Disease and its Correlation with Tissue Transglutaminase Level

This cross sectional, descriptive study was conducted at Paediatrics department of BSMMU from July 2016 to June 2018 to find out histopathological pattern of Coeliac disease according to Modified Marsh criteria and to correlate it with tissue transglutaminase IgA level. A total of 62 children (age <18 years) attending the Paediatrics department of BSMMU with clinical suspicion of celiac disease were enrolled for the study. Mean age of studied children was 7.87±4.67 years. Ratio of the male and female was 2.27:1. Maximum (66.1%) children came from middle income class family. Out of 62 children, 35.5% (22) were positive for IgA anti-tTG of who female were 11.3% and male 24.2%. Mean duration of symptoms was 44.07±21.77 months in serology positive patients and 34.49±30.52 months in serology negative patients. The age group, 10-14 year showed the highest (50.0%) prevalence of positive anti-tTG. In the tTG positive group mean Hb was 9.6±1.14gm/dl and which is lower than that in tTG negative group (11.7±1.47gm/dl). Among 22 sero-positive patients, histological changes compatible with CD were found in 19 (86.3%) cases and normal in 3 cases. Histological changes were of 3a category of Marsh was found in 12(63.2%) cases, 3b in 4(21.1%) cases and 3c in 3(15.8%) cases. Strong correlation was observed between the serological level of tTGA and histological types of CD by Modified Marsh criteria. In conclusion, screening for celiac disease may be included in diagnostic tests to investigate clinically suspected children and serum tTGA level can be used to predict histopathological severity of coeliac disease.

Assessment of Nutritional Status of Children with Chronic Kidney Disease in a Tertiary Care Level Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Malnutrition is recognized to be a serious and common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in children. Early identification and swift intervention is the key in the management of malnutrition in CKD. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in children with CKD, to see the prevalence of malnutrition according to different anthropometric indices, to see the prevalence of malnutrition in different stages of CKD, to compare the nutritional status of children with CKD according to chronological age and height age. This analytical cross sectional study was done in the Department of Pediatric Nephrology of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2014 to May 2015. Thirty children were enrolled in the study by purposive sampling. Nutritional assessment was done from dietary assessment by 72 hours recall and anthropometric measurements. Anthropometric indices were expressed in Z-scores and percentiles according to both chronological age and height age. Numeric data was analyzed by ANOVA and categorical data was tested by chi-square test. Difference between proportions was tested by Z-test of proportion. P value (<0.05) was considered significant. Data shows that the mean age of the studied population was 10.99±3.5 years with a male predominance. Eighteen (60.0%) children were on hemodialysis and rests on conservative management. Average calorie intake was 74.31±9.34% of estimated energy requirement (EER). The prevalence of malnutrition was 70.0% (95% CI: 53.6-86.4) according to height Z-score (HAZ), 66.7% (95% CI: 45.8-80.2) for weight Z-score (WAZ) and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) Z-score, according to BMI percentile it was 56.7% (95% CI: 39-74.4), for mid arm muscle circumference (MAMC) the prevalence was 53.3% (95% CI: 35.5-71.1), according to arm muscle area (AMA) and arm fat area (AFA) the prevalence was 50.0% (95% CI: 38.1-67.9) and for triceps skin fold thickness (TST) it was 43.3% (95% CI: 25.5-61). Height was the most affected parameter and triceps skin fold thickness was the least affected parameter. When anthropometric indices were adjusted for height age, the prevalence was 36.7% according to BMI and TST, 30.0% according to AFA, 13.3% according to MUAC, 10.0% each for MAMC and AMA and 3.3% for WAZ. The difference in the prevalence of malnutrition according to this two approach was statistically significant in all parameters accept BMI, TST and AFA. Malnutrition was more associated with advanced stage of CKD. Low calorie intake was associated with low BMI and low serum albumin level. Serum albumin level was low in the present study population. In conclusion, prevalence of malnutrition is very high in children with CKD.

PLGA-Quercetin Nano-Formulation Inhibits Cancer Progression via Mitochondrial Dependent Caspase-3,7 and Independent FoxO1 Activation with Concomitant PI3K/AKT Suppression

Quercetin is one of the most important plant flavanols, having several pharmacological and biological uses. Quercetin (Q) is an extremely hydrophobic phytochemical and has poor intracellular absorption, which makes its use limited. Present research demonstrates that quercetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (PLGA-QNPs) could overcome its low hydrophilicity and improve its anti-cancer potential. PLGA nanoparticles loaded with Q were prepared by the solvent evaporation technique and its anticancer activity was examined in vitro as well as in vivo. The cell viability was assessed through MTT assay and apoptosis was assayed through Hoechst-PI and EB/AO double staining followed by mitochondrial damage through Mito-tracker RMX-Ros. Gene expression was examined through RT-PCR. Cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase was analyzed through FACS. The results obtained revealed that PLGA-QNPs significantly reduced the viability of human cervical and breast cancer cell lines. PLGA-QNPs induced apoptosis in human cervical cancer cells in a dose dependent manner. The gene expression of PI3K/AKT was down-regulated and FoxO1 was upregulated in PLGA-QNP-treated cells, which showed a high expression level of active Caspase-3 and 7, which are responsible for apoptosis. In addition, PLGA-QNPs reduced the average number of tumors and prolonged the tumor latency period in DMBA-induced mammary adenocarcinoma SD rats. These findings suggest that PLGA-QNPs inhibit cervical and breast cancer progression via mitochondrial dependent Caspase-3 and 7 and mitochondrial independent FoxO1 activation with concomitant suppression of the PI3K/AKT pathway. For future studies, we suggest that potential druggability efficacy and clinical development of anticancer PLGA-QNPs need to be evaluated intensely for successful anticancer drug development.

Sequence to structure analysis of the ORF4 protein from Hepatitis E virus

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the main cause of acute hepatitis worldwide. HEV accounts for up to 30% mortality rate in pregnant women, with highest incidences reported for genotype 1 (G1) HEV. The contributing factors in adverse cases during pregnancy in women due to HEV infection is still debated. The mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of viral infection is attributed to different genomic component of HEV, i.e., open reading frames (ORFs): ORF1, ORF2, ORF3 and ORF4. Recently, ORF4 has been discovered in enhancing the replication of GI isolates of HEV through regulation of an IRES-like RNA element. However, its characterization through computational methodologies remains unexplored. In this novel study, we provide comprehensive overview of ORF4 protein's genetic and molecular characteristics through analyzing its sequence and different structural levels. A total of three different datasets (Human, Rat and Ferret) of ORF4 genomes were built and comparatively analyzed. Several non-synonymous mutations in conjunction with higher entropy values were observed in rat and ferret datasets, however, limited variation was observed in human ORF4 genomes. Higher transition to tranversion ratio was observed in the ORF4 genomes. Studies have reported the association of intrinsic disordered proteins (IDP) with drug discovery due to its role in several signaling and regulatory processes through protein-protein interactions (PPIs). As PPIs are potent drug target sources, thus the ORF4 protein was explored by analyzing its polypeptide structure in order to shed light on its intrinsic disorder. Pressures that lead towards preponderance of disordered-promoting amino acid residues shaped the evolution of ORF4. The intrinsic disorder propensity analysis revealed ORF4 protein (Human) as a highly disordered protein (IDP). Predominance of coils and lack of secondary structure further substantiated our findings suggesting its involvement in binding to ligand molecules. Thus, ORF4 contributes to cellular signaling processes through protein-protein interactions, as IDPs are targets for regulation to accelerate the process of drug designing strategies against HEV infections.

Analysis of codon usage patterns in open reading frame 4 of hepatitis E viruses

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a member of the family Hepeviridae and causes acute HEV infections resulting in thousands of deaths worldwide. The zoonotic nature of HEV in addition to its tendency from human to human transmission has led scientists across the globe to work on its different aspects. HEV also accounts for about 30% mortality rates in case of pregnant women. The genome of HEV is organized into three open reading frames (ORFs): ORF1 ORF2 and ORF3. A reading frame encoded protein ORF4 has recently been discovered which is exclusive to GT 1 isolates of HEV. The ORF4 is suggested to play crucial role in pregnancy-associated pathology and enhanced replication. Though studies have documented the ORF4’s importance, the genetic features of ORF4 protein genes in terms of compositional patterns have not been elucidated. As codon usage performs critical role in establishment of the host–pathogen relationship, therefore, the present study reports the codon usage analysis (based on nucleotide sequences of HEV ORF4 available in the public database) in three hosts along with the factors influencing the codon usage patterns of the protein genes of ORF4 of HEV.

Results

The nucleotide composition analysis indicated that ORF4 protein genes showed overrepresentation of C nucleotide and while A nucleotide was the least-represented, with random distribution of G and T(U) nucleotides. The relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis revealed biasness toward C/G-ended codons (over U/A) in all three natural HEV-hosts (human, rat and ferret). It was observed that all the ORF4 genes were richly endowed with GC content. Further, our results showed the occurrence of both coincidence and antagonistic codon usage patterns among HEV-hosts. The findings further emphasized that both mutational and selection forces influenced the codon usage patterns of ORF4 protein genes.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is first bioinformatics study evaluating codon usage patterns in HEV ORF4 protein genes. The findings from this study are expected to increase our understanding toward significant factors involved in evolutionary changes of ORF4.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43088-022-00244-w.

Bone markers and bone mineral density associates with periodontitis in females with poly-cystic ovarian syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Studies suggest an association between poly-cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and chronic periodontitis (CP), both being inflammatory conditions. However, insufficient evidence assesses the impact of this inflammation on bone metabolism and bone turnover markers (BTMs). The present study aimed to determine the association between BTMs, bone mineral density (BMD), and clinical periodontal parameters in PCOS women with CP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three groups, each with 40 newly diagnosed (1) PCOS+CP, (2) PCOS alone, (3) CP alone, and fourth group (n = 20) systemically and periodontally healthy females aged 18-30 years were included in the study. Full mouth clinical periodontal parameters, C-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (CTX), bone alkaline phosphatase (ALP), BMD and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (VD) were recorded for all.

RESULTS

Low BMD (0.89 ± 0.11 g/cm²), increased CTX levels (2.76 ± 4.64 ng/ml), decreased bone ALP levels (11.09 ± 6.86 ng/ml), higher VD levels (289.02 ± 168.28 nmol/l) and poor clinical periodontal status were observed in PCOS + CP females. BMD-spine showed weak positive correlation with CTX, bone ALP, VD (r = 0.02, r = 0.07, r = 0.15, respectively) in PCOS + CP group. ANCOVA depicted covariates had no confounding effect. Multiple regression model explained 21.0% for BMD-spine and 12.7% for BMD-femur of total variability signifying association with all measured parameters among all groups.

CONCLUSION

Enhanced inflammatory thrust by periodontitis increases CTX levels and decreases bone ALP and BMD levels in women with PCOS. Screening PCOS women for periodontal disease and vice versa may have a direct bearing on overall bone health.

Decoding the codon usage patterns in Y-domain region of hepatitis E viruses

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a positive-sense RNA virus belonging to the family Hepeviridae. The genome of HEV is organized into three open-reading frames (ORFs): ORF1, ORF2, and ORF3. The ORF1 non-structural Y-domain region (YDR) has been demonstrated to play an important role in the HEV pathogenesis. The nucleotide composition, synonymous codon usage bias in conjunction with other factors influencing the viral YDR genes of HEV have not been studied. Codon usage represents a significant mechanism in establishing the host-pathogen relationship. The present study for the first time elucidates the detailed codon usage patterns of YDR among HEV and HEV-hosts (Human, Rabbit, Mongoose, Pig, Wild boar, Camel, Monkey).

Results

The overall nucleotide composition revealed the abundance of C and U nucleotides in YDR genomes. The relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis indicated biasness towards C and U over A and G ended codons in HEV across all hosts. Codon frequency comparative analyses among HEV-hosts showed both similarities and discrepancies in usage of preferred codons encoding amino acids, which revealed that HEV codon preference neither completely differed nor completely showed similarity with its hosts. Thus, our results clearly indicated that the synonymous codon usage of HEV is a mixture of the two types of codon usage: coincidence and antagonism. Mutation pressure from virus and natural selection from host seems to be accountable for shaping the codon usage patterns in YDR. The study emphasised that the influence of compositional constraints, codon usage biasness, mutational alongside the selective forces were reflected in the occurrence of YDR codon usage patterns.

Conclusions

Our study is the first in its kind to have reported the analysis of codon usage patterns on a total of seven different natural HEV hosts. Therefore, knowledge of preferred codons obtained from our study will not only augment our understanding towards molecular evolution but is also envisaged to provide insight into the efficient viral expression, viral adaptation, and host effects on the HEV YDR codon usage.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43141-022-00319-2.

Plant hormone profile and control over isoprene biosynthesis in a tropical tree Ficus septica

Plant hormone signalling and the circadian clock have been implicated in the transcriptional control of isoprene biosynthesis. To gain more insight into the hormonal control of isoprene biosynthesis, the present study measured plant hormone concentrations in jasmonic acid (JA)-treated leaves of our previous model study, examined their relationship with gene expression of isoprene synthase (IspS) and hormone signalling transcription factors. Of the plant hormones, IAA and JA-Ile and their related transcription factors (MYC2 and SAUR21) were significantly correlated with IspS gene expression. Concentrations of cytokinins, isopentenyladenine (iP), trans-zeatin riboside (tZR) and cis-zeatin riboside (cZR), were similarly significantly correlated with IspS expression. However, there was no significant correlation between their related transcription factor (ARR-B) and IspS expression. The circadian clock-related gene PRR7, but not the transcription factor LHY, was highly correlated with IspS expression. These results suggest that the hormonal balance between JA-Ile and IAA plays a central role in transcriptional regulation of IspS through the transcription factors MYC2 and SAUR21, the early auxin responsive genes. The putative cis-acting elements for SAUR on the IspS promoter (TGTCNN and CATATG), in addition to the G-box for MYC2, support the above proposal. These results provide insightful information on the core components of plant hormone-related regulation of IspS under coordination with the circadian clock genes.

Thymoquinone Induced Leishmanicidal Effect via Programmed Cell Death in Leishmania donovani

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) or kala-azar is a vector-borne dreaded protozoal infection that is caused by the parasite Leishmania donovani. With increases in the dramatic infection rates, present drug toxicity, resistance, and the absence of an approved vaccine, the development of new antileishmanial compounds from plant sources remains the keystone for the control of visceral leishmaniasis. In this study, we evaluated the leishmanicidal effect of thymoquinone against L. donovani with an in vitro and ex vivo model. Thymoquinone exhibited potent antipromastigote activity with IC₅₀ and IC₉₀ concentrations achieved at 6.33 ± 1.21 and 20.71 ± 2.15 μM, respectively, whereas the IC₅₀ and IC₉₀ concentrations were found to be 7.83 ± 1.65 and 27.25 ± 2.20 μM against the intramacrophagic form of amastigotes, respectively. Morphological changes in promastigotes and growth reversibility study following treatment confirmed the leishmanicidal effect of thymoquinone. Further, thymoquinone exhibited leishmanicidal activities against L. donovani promastigote through cytoplasmic shrinkage, membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation, cellular and nuclear shrinkage, and DNA fragmentation, as observed under scanning and transmission electron microscopy analyses. The antileishmanial activity was exerted via programmed cell death as proved by exposure of phosphatidylserine, DNA nicking by TUNEL assay, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Thymoquinone at a concentration of 200 μM was devoid of any cytotoxic effects against mammalian macrophage cells. Thymoquinone showed strong leishmanicidal activity against L. donovani, which is mediated via an apoptosis mode of parasitic cell death, and accordingly, thymoquinone may be the source of a new lead molecule for the cure of VL.

Intrinsically disordered regions in the rodent hepevirus proteome

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of Hepatitis E infections across the world. Intrinsically disordered protein regions (IDPRs) or intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) are regions or proteins that are characterized by lack of definite structure. These IDPRs or IDPs play significant roles in a wide range of biological processes, such as cell cycle regulation, control of signaling pathways, etc. IDPR/IDP in proteins is associated with the virus's pathogenicity and infectivity. The prevalence of IDPR/IDP in rat HEV proteome remains undetermined. Hence, we examined the unstructured/disordered regions of the open reading frame (ORF) encoded proteins of rat HEV by analyzing the prevalence of intrinsic disorder. The intrinsic disorder propensity analysis showed that the different ORF proteins consisted of varying fraction of intrinsic disorder. The protein ORF3 was identified with maximum propensity for intrinsic disorder while the ORF6 protein had the least fraction of intrinsic disorder. The analysis revealed ORF6 as a structured protein (ORDP); ORF1 and ORF4 as moderately disordered proteins (IDPRs); and ORF3 and ORF5 as highly disordered proteins (IDPs). The protein ORF2 was found to be moderately as well as highly disordered using different predictors, thus, was categorized into both IDPR and IDP. Such disordered regions have important roles in pathogenesis and replication of viruses.

Association of blood pressure and postural control in older adults with hypertension: an observational study

The study investigated the association of orthostatic hypotension (OH) with functional position change and balance in older adults with hypertension. The presence of OH was assessed with intermittent (OH intermittent) and continuous blood pressure (OH continuous) monitoring. The change in functional position was tested with sitting to standing assessment, balance performance using activity specific balance confidence scale (ABC), and timed up and go test (TUG). Testing unilateral and bilateral standing with and without altered sensory inputs was tested using the Humac balance system. ABC, TUG, and standing up time showed no significant association with OH intermittent and OH continuous. A significant association was found between bilateral standing with eyes closed on foam surface for overall stability index and OH intermittent. Older people with hypertension may be routinely examined for OH and appropriate intervention strategies should be included for comprehensive care.

Novel chimeric vectors harboring hepatitis B viral promoter and reporter gene demonstrated liver-specific significance

Aim: Expression of EGFP was investigated to ascertain the strength and specificity of CMV, U6 and hepatitis B virus (HBV) core promoters in hepatic and non-hepatic cells. Materials and methods: pSilencer-2.1 plasmid vector is known for siRNA-based inhibition. To achieve target-specific correction of disease-causing genes, pSilencer-GFP was constructed. For liver specific expression of therapeutic genes, endogenous U6 promoter of pSilencer-2.1 was replaced with HBV core promoter and ubiquitously active CMV promoter. Results: Transfection results showed that GFP expression under the control of HBV core promoter was higher in hepatic Hep3B than non-hepatic HEK293T cells. Conclusion: HBV core promoter could lead to specific expression in hepatocytes, which might be used in gene therapy of liver diseases as well as for siRNA-based therapeutic strategies.

A Review Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Plant-Based Metallic Gold Nanoparticles

Nanotechnology has become a trending area in the field of science and technology. It has made great advances with the development of functional, engineered nanoparticles. The better advancements made towards the synthesis of nanoparticles using plant materials have become a major focus of researchers because of their advantages including high stability and loading capacity. Recently, zinc oxide nanoparticles have drawn the attention of several researchers owing to their several biological applications including anticancer and antimicrobial activities. Different techniques have been employed for the production of gold nanoparticles due to their elaborated applications in different interdisciplinary fields. The synthetic procedure of plant-based nanoparticles has attracted a keen interest of various researchers as the synthesis is comparatively fast, safe and light and can be followed under basic room conditions without the requirement of any advanced synthesis requirements. Every part of the plants can be used for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Gold nanoparticles play a pivotal role as the most active, environment friendly and biocompatible towards a greener approach. In this review paper, we report highlighted about the various plants extract, which have been used for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles and their biological evaluation based on previous year’s research and scientific papers and journal and articles.

Sequence to structural analysis of ORF5 protein in Norway rat Hepatitis E Virus

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major causative agent of acute hepatitis in developing countries. The Norway rat HEV genome consists of six open reading frames (ORFs), i.e., ORF1, ORF2, ORF3, ORF4, ORF5 and ORF6. The additional reading frame encoded protein ORF5 is attributed to life cycle of rat HEV. The ORFF5 protein's function remains undetermined. Therefore, it is of interest to analyze the ORF5 protein for its physiochemical properties, primary structure, secondary structure, tertiary structure and functional characteristics using bioinformatics tools. Analysis of the ORF5 protein revealed it as highly unstable, hydrophilic with basic pI. The ORF5 protein consisted mostly of Arg, Pro, Ser, Leu and Gly. The 3D structural homology model of the ORF5 protein generated showed mixed α/β structural fold with predominance of coils. Structural analysis revealed the presence of clefts, pores and a tunnel. This data will help in the sequence, structure and functional annotation of ORF5.

Development of Multi-Scale Carbon Nanofiber and Nanotube-Based Cementitious Composites for Reliable Sensing of Tensile Stresses

In this work, multi-scale cementitious composites containing short carbon fibers (CFs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were studied for their tensile stress sensing properties. CF-based composites were prepared by mixing 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 wt.% CFs (of cement) with water using magnetic stirring and Pluronic F-127 surfactant and adding the mixture to the cement paste. In multi-scale composites, CNFs/MWCNTs (0.1 and 0.15 wt.% of cement) were dispersed in water using Pluronic F-127 and ultrasonication and CFs were then added before mixing with the cement paste. All composites showed a reversible change in the electrical resistivity with tensile loading; the electrical resistivity increased and decreased with the increase and decrease in the tensile load/stress, respectively. Although CF-based composites showed the highest stress sensitivity among all specimens at 0.25% CF content, the fractional change in resistivity (FCR) did not show a linear correlation with the tensile load/stress. On the contrary, multi-scale composites containing CNFs (0.15% CNFs with 0.75% CFs) and MWCNTs (0.1% MWCNTs with 0.5% CFs) showed good stress sensitivity, along with a linear correlation between FCR and tensile load/stress. Stress sensitivities of 6.36 and 11.82%/MPa were obtained for the best CNF and MWCNT-based multi-scale composite sensors, respectively.

Molecular insights into the Y-domain of hepatitis E virus using computational analyses

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) of the family Hepeviridae is a major causative agent of acute hepatitis in developing countries. The Y-domain is derived from multi-domain non-structural polyprotein encoded by open reading frame 1 (ORF1). Previous studies have demonstrated the essentiality of Y-domain sequences in HEV life cycle; however, its function remains completely unexplored. The following study was thus conceptualized to examine the detailed computational investigation for the putative Y-domain to estimate its phylogenetic assessment, physiochemical properties, structural and functional characteristics using in silico analyses.

Results

The phylogenetic assessment of Y-domain with a vast range of hosts indicated that the protein was very well conserved throughout the course of evolution. The Y-domain was found to be unstable, hydrophilic and basic in nature with high thermostability value. Structural analysis of Y-domain revealed mixed α/β structural fold of the protein having higher percentage of alpha-helices. The three-dimensional (3D) protein model generated through homology modelling revealed the presence of clefts, tunnels and pore. Gene ontology analysis predicted Y-domain protein’s involvement in several binding and catalytic activities as well as significant biological processes. Mutations in the conserved amino acids of the Y-domain suggested that it may stabilize or de-stabilize the protein structure that might affect its structure–function relationship.

Conclusions

This theoretical study will facilitate towards deciphering the role of unexplored Y-domain, thereby providing better understanding towards the pathogenesis of HEV infection.

Effect of Moringa olifera leaves on growth and gut microbiota of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa olifera on the growth and gut health of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The feed having 30% crude protein was prepared as an experimental diet with 4%, 8% and 10% M. olifera leaf supplementation, respectively. The control diet was devoid of M. olifera leaves. The 10 weeks feeding trial was carried out on 60 fish in aquaria. Fish was fed @ 3% of body weight twice a day. Diet with the high level of inclusion of M. olifera leaves significantly increased the growth rate, Survival Rate (SR), Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in all treatment groups compared to the control group. Similarly, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) gradually decreased and found highly-significant. To check the gut health of the Tilapia, random samples were selected and dissected. Nutrient agar was used as culture media to check the growth of bacteria. Pour Plate Method was used for viable colonies count by colony counter. Through staining method, the different bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identify abundantly in the intestine of control diet fish but less number present in treatment diets groups. These results showed that M. olifera leaves up to 10% of dietary protein can be used for Nile tilapia for significant growth and healthy gut microbiota of fish.

Role of "dual-personality" fragments in HEV adaptation-analysis of Y-domain region

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by the pathogen hepatitis E virus (HEV). The largest polyprotein open reading frame 1 (ORF1) contains a nonstructural Y-domain region (YDR) whose activity in HEV adaptation remains uncharted. The specific role of disordered regions in several nonstructural proteins has been demonstrated to participate in the multiplication and multiple regulatory functions of the viruses. Thus, intrinsic disorder of YDR including its structural and functional annotation was comprehensively studied by exploiting computational methodologies to delineate its role in viral adaptation.

RESULTS

Based on our findings, it was evident that YDR contains significantly higher levels of ordered regions with less prevalence of disordered residues. Sequence-based analysis of YDR revealed it as a "dual personality" (DP) protein due to the presence of both structured and unstructured (intrinsically disordered) regions. The evolution of YDR was shaped by pressures that lead towards predominance of both disordered and regularly folded amino acids (Ala, Arg, Gly, Ile, Leu, Phe, Pro, Ser, Tyr, Val). Additionally, the predominance of characteristic DP residues (Thr, Arg, Gly, and Pro) further showed the order as well as disorder characteristic possessed by YDR. The intrinsic disorder propensity analysis of YDR revealed it as a moderately disordered protein. All the YDR sequences consisted of molecular recognition features (MoRFs), i.e., intrinsic disorder-based protein-protein interaction (PPI) sites, in addition to several nucleotide-binding sites. Thus, the presence of molecular recognition (PPI, RNA binding, and DNA binding) signifies the YDR's interaction with specific partners, host membranes leading to further viral infection. The presence of various disordered-based phosphorylation sites further signifies the role of YDR in various biological processes. Furthermore, functional annotation of YDR revealed it as a multifunctional-associated protein, due to its susceptibility in binding to a wide range of ligands and involvement in various catalytic activities.

CONCLUSIONS

As DP are targets for regulation, thus, YDR contributes to cellular signaling processes through PPIs. As YDR is incompletely understood, therefore, our data on disorder-based function could help in better understanding its associated functions. Collectively, our novel data from this comprehensive investigation is the first attempt to delineate YDR role in the regulation and pathogenesis of HEV.

Circulation of DENV-3 Genotype 3 during 2017 to 2018 in Delhi: A Single-Center Hospital-Based Study

Introduction  Delhi is hyperendemic for dengue virus (DENV) where all the four DENV have previously been reported. A constant vigilance of circulating DENV serotypes is important in surveillance, since the introduction of a new variant to areas affected by preexisting serotypes constitutes a risk factor for dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.

Objectives  This retrospective study was performed with an objective to determine the circulating serotype and genotype of DENV in acute phase blood samples of patients who have reported to a tertiary liver care hospital in New Delhi during the last 2 years (2017–2018).

Methods  The data of clinician-initiated testing for dengue nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) antigen (Ag) was searched in the institutional hospital information system. The serum sample of dengue NS1 Ag-positive cases confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; PANBIO, Gyeonggi-do, ROK) and a fever duration of less than 5 days were retrieved from the laboratory archive. The DENV serotyping on these sample was performed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis was done for the capsid premembrane (CprM) region to determine the genotype.

Results  A total of 440 acute-phase samples were received. Twenty one (4.77%) were positive for dengue NS1 Ag with a mean age of 35.1 years and male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1. Eight cases (38.09%) were positive by dengue RT-PCR and all belonged to DENV-3 serotypes. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed DENV-3 clustered to genotype III with 100% homology with 2008 Indian subcontinent strain.

Conclusion  This study revealed circulation of DENV-3, genotype III in Delhi from 2017 to 2018, similar to the 2008 viral type. Virological surveillance is an important exercise to be done for viral infections with public threat and outbreak potential.

Limiting amino acids supplementation in low crude protein diets and their impacts on growth performance and carcass composition in Labeo rohita (rohu) adult fish

Ninety days study was conducted in hapas installed in earthen ponds. Fish of an average initial weight (220g) were evenly distributed in triplicate groups within fifteen hapas. Five experimental diets labeled as T1 (25% CP and NRC recommended amino acid level) as control diet, T2 (with 2% low protein and 5% amino acid supplementation), T3 (with 2% low protein and 10% amino acid supplementation), T4 (with 4% low protein and 10% amino acid supplementation) and T5 (with 4% low protein and 20% amino acid supplementation) were prepared. Fish were fed with @3% of their body weight twice a day at 10.00 & 16:00 hour. Significantly higher percent weight gain (420.18 ± 66.84a) and specific growth rate (13499.33±1273.54a) along with improved feed conversion ratio (1.29 ± 0.09b) and hundred percent survivals were recorded during the trial. Furthermore proximate analysis of meat showed significant improvement in the crude protein level (81.77 ± 0.19a) served with diet containing 20% limiting amino acids mixture. Therefore, limiting amino acids can be a source of cost effective feed and use safely in L. rohita diet.