Ion specific tuning of nanoparticle dispersion in an ionic liquid: a structural, thermoelectric and thermo-diffusive investigation

Dispersions of charged maghemite nanoparticles (NPs) in EAN (ethylammonium nitrate) a reference Ionic Liquid (IL) are studied here using a number of static and dynamical experimental techniques; small angle scattering (SAS) of X-rays and of neutrons, dynamical light scattering and forced Rayleigh scattering. Particular insight is provided regarding the importance of tuning the ionic species present at the NP/IL interface. In this work we compare the effect of Li+, Na+ or Rb+ ions. Here, the nature of these species has a clear influence on the short-range spatial organisation of the ions at the interface and thus on the colloidal stability of the dispersions, governing both the NP/NP and NP/IL interactions, which are both evaluated here. The overall NP/NP interaction is either attractive or repulsive. It is characterised by determining, thanks to the SAS techniques, the second virial coefficient A2, which is found to be independent of temperature. The NP/IL interaction is featured by the dynamical effective charge ξeff0 of the NPs and by their entropy of transfer ŜNP (or equivalently their heat of transport ) determined here thanks to thermoelectric and thermodiffusive measurements. For repulsive systems, an activated process rules the temperature dependence of these two latter quantities.

Psychosis Unmasking a Diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: a Case Report

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that affects multiple organs. Neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) can manifest with a multitude of neurological and psychiatric symptoms. Psychosis is a rare NPSLE manifestation that can occur at any phase of the illness; 21% of SLE-related psychosis cases occur at the onset of SLE, but the evidence base for this is lacking. We report a case of acute-onset psychosis in a woman that led to a diagnosis of SLE, which was substantiated by physical evaluation and laboratory assessments. Assessment of acute-onset psychosis requires consideration of all differential diagnoses, especially in the presence of atypical features. This case also underscores the importance of physical examination and laboratory investigations in psychosis.

Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 Virus Proteins: Implications on Its Proteome

COronaVIrus Disease 19 (COVID-19) is a severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused by a group of beta coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is similar to previous SARS- and MERS-causing strains and has infected nearly six hundred and fifty million people all over the globe, while the death toll has crossed the six million mark (as of December, 2022). In this chapter, we look at how computational modeling approaches of the viral proteins could help us understand the various processes in the viral life cycle inside the host, an understanding of which might provide key insights in mitigating this and future threats. This understanding helps us identify key targets for the purpose of drug discovery and vaccine development.

Design of concentrated colloidal dispersions of iron oxide nanoparticles in ionic liquids: Structure and thermal stability from 25 to 200 °C

HYPOTHESIS

Some of the most promising fields of application of ionic liquid-based colloids imply elevated temperatures. Their careful design and analysis is therefore essential. We assume that tuning the structure of the nanoparticle-ionic liquid interface through its composition can ensure colloidal stability for a wide temperature range, from room temperature up to 200 °C.

EXPERIMENTS

The system under study consists of iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) dispersed in ethylmethylimidazolium bistriflimide (EMIM TFSI). The key parameters of the solid-liquid interface, tuned at room temperature, are the surface charge density and the nature of the counterions. The thermal stability of these nanoparticle dispersions is then analysed on the short and long term up to 200 °C. A multiscale analysis is performed combining dynamic light scattering (DLS), small angle X-ray/neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).

FINDINGS

Following the proposed approach with a careful choice of the species at the solid-liquid interface, ionic liquid-based colloidal dispersions of iron oxide NPs in EMIM TFSI stable over years at room temperature can be obtained, also stable at least over days up to 200 °C and NPs concentrations up to 12 vol% (≈30 wt%) thanks to few near-surface ionic layers.

Body status and blood metabolites profiles during resumption of postpartum ovarian activity in yak (Poephagus grunniens)

We examined the changes in body weight (BW), back-fat thickness (BFT) and blood metabolites in relation to postpartum (PP) ovarian activity status in twenty female yaks raised under semi-intensive system. BFT and ovarian activities, like follicle development, ovulation (OV) and corpus luteum (CL) development, were monitored from 4 to 15 weeks (wk) PP using ultrasonography. Resumption of ovarian activity was confirmed with ovulation of dominant follicle (DF) and subsequent CL development, and >1 ng/ml progesterone concentration in blood plasma sample after 1week of ovulation. Yaks were further classified as cyclic (with CL), acyclic (without CL), and cystic (with >25 mm follicular cyst; FC). Within 20 weeks PP, 60% yaks resumed cyclic ovarian activity, while 25% failed to initiate cycling activity, and 15% developed follicular cysts. In all categories of yak, BW gradually decreased (p < .05) till nadir; however, nadir reached earlier (p < .05) in acyclic yaks. BFT differed (p < .05) among the yak groups, but it tended to be higher in cyclic yaks as compared to acyclic and cystic. No difference (p > .05) in non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) values was found among the different categories of yaks, whereas, beta-hydroxy butyrate (BHB) levels were higher in cystic animals as compared to acyclic and cyclic. Blood glucose levels decreased in all yaks during initial 2 weeks after calving. Our findings suggest that yaks with low BW, BFT and glucose levels, and higher BHB values were at risk of delayed resumption of ovarian activity and concomitant development of follicular cysts.

Thermodiffusion anisotropy under a magnetic field in ionic liquid-based ferrofluids

Ferrofluids based on maghemite nanoparticles (NPs), typically 10 nm in diameter, are dispersed in an ionic liquid (1-ethyl 3-methylimidazolium bistriflimide - EMIM-TFSI). The average interparticle interaction is found to be repulsive by small angle scattering of X-rays and of neutrons, with a second virial coefficient A2 = 7.3. A moderately concentrated sample at Φ = 5.95 vol% is probed by forced Rayleigh scattering under an applied magnetic field (up to H = 100 kA m-1) from room temperature up to T = 460 K. Irrespective of the values of H and T, the NPs in this study are always found to migrate towards the cold region. The in-field anisotropy of the mass diffusion coefficient Dm and that of the (always positive) Soret coefficient ST are well described by the presented model in the whole range of H and T. The main origin of anisotropy is the spatial inhomogeneities of concentration in the ferrofluid along the direction of the applied field. Since this effect originates from the magnetic dipolar interparticle interaction, the anisotropy of thermodiffusion progressively vanishes when temperature and thermal motion increase.

Expression and functional role of IGFs during early pregnancy in placenta of water buffalo

Adequate vascularisation is a key factor for successful fetal development. We hypothesized that Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF) family members regulate angiogenesis along with promoting fetal development and growth. In this experiment, we determined the expression and functional role of IGF family in placental compartments (caruncle; CAR, cotyledon; COT) during different stages of early pregnancy in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Samples were collected from early pregnancy 1 (EP1, 28-45 days), early pregnancy 2 (EP2, 45-90 days), and third stage of estrous cycle (11-16 days), which was taken as control. In addition, the role of IGF1 on mRNA expression of vWF, StAR, CYP11A1, 3βHSD, PCNA, and BAX were elucidated in cultured trophoblast cells (TCC) obtained from EP2. Quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR), westernblot, and immunohistochemistry were done to investigate the gene expression, protein expression, and localization of examined factors, and RIA was also done to assess progesterone (P₄) concentration. Expression of IGFs, its receptors and binding proteins were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both CAR and COT as compared to control during early pregnancy, except binding proteins IGFBP1, 3 and 4 which were significantly (p < 0.05) downregulated in COT with advancement of pregnancy. mRNA expression was consistent with the findings of immunoblotting and immunolocalization experiments. Trophoblasts cell culture (TCC) study showed a significant time and dose-dependent effect of IGF1 onsteroidogenic transcript, which was found to be maximum at 100 ng/ml that paralleled with P₄ accretion in the media (p < 0.05). Further, IGF1 upregulated the transcripts of vWF, PCNA, and downregulated BAX at the same concentration (p < 0.05). Overall, our results demonstrated that the expression of IGFs is a site-specific phenomenon in placentome, which indicates autocrine/paracrine and endocrine function. Our in-vitro finding support that IGF1 plays a critical role in placental development by promoting angiogenesis, steroid synthesis, and cell proliferation during early pregnancy.

Metronomic Chemotherapy After Palliative Radiotherapy In Rare Soft Tissue Sarcomas; An Insight Into Radiation Therapy And The Immune Response

Introduction/Objective

Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) account for less than 1% of the overall human burden of malignant tumors. The intent of treatment in metastatic STSs is palliative and prognosis is dismal. This study aims to evaluate the role of low dose radiotherapy and low dose oral metronomic therapy in heavily pretreated metastatic infrequent STSs.

Methods

This research was conducted in a prospective observational manner in a tertiary care center. A total of 16 cases met the inclusion criteria for enrollment in the study group. The diagnosis of all subtypes of STS was confirmed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry or cytogenetic studies. All the enrolled patients with metastatic STSs who were treated with surgery and two lines of chemotherapy were initially treated with low dose radiotherapy of twenty Gy in five fractions or thirty Gy in ten fractions according to ECOG performance status of the patient.

Results

Out of 16 patients, seven patients (43.75%) were treated with 20Gy, 5# and 9 patients (56.25%) were treated with 30Gy, 10 # radiotherapy (RT). Out of 16 patients, four were of malignant fibrohistiocytic sarcoma, three were angiosarcoma, three were malignant phylloides tumor of the breast, and two were fibrosarcoma. One patient from each of the following subtypes inflammatory myofiroblastic tumor, leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and dermato fibrosarcoma protuberance. Out of 16 patients, seven (43.75%) had a partial response (PR), nine (56.25%) had stable disease (SD) at 3 months and all the patients had stable disease (SD) at 6 months of evaluation. All the patients had enjoyed a better quality of life as compared to their life during injectable chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Targeted low dose radiation and metronomic chemotherapy lead to quantifiable antiangiogenic effects, immune effects in the local tumor microenvironment, and influences circulating immune mediators and anti- angiogenesis that could potentially help eradicate disease both within and outside the radiation treatment field.

Structural insight into the role of novel SARS-CoV-2 E protein: A potential target for vaccine development and other therapeutic strategies

The outbreak of COVID-19 across the world has posed unprecedented and global challenges on multiple fronts. Most of the vaccine and drug development has focused on the spike proteins and viral RNA-polymerases and main protease for viral replication. Using the bioinformatics and structural modelling approach, we modelled the structure of the envelope (E)-protein of novel SARS-CoV-2. The E-protein of this virus shares sequence similarity with that of SARS- CoV-1, and is highly conserved in the N-terminus regions. Incidentally, compared to spike proteins, E proteins demonstrate lower disparity and mutability among the isolated sequences. Using homology modelling, we found that the most favorable structure could function as a gated ion channel conducting H+ ions. Combining pocket estimation and docking with water, we determined that GLU 8 and ASN 15 in the N-terminal region were in close proximity to form H-bonds which was further validated by insertion of the E protein in an ERGIC-mimic membrane. Additionally, two distinct "core" structures were visible, the hydrophobic core and the central core, which may regulate the opening/closing of the channel. We propose this as a mechanism of viral ion channeling activity which plays a critical role in viral infection and pathogenesis. In addition, it provides a structural basis and additional avenues for vaccine development and generating therapeutic interventions against the virus.

Expression and functional role of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in placenta during different stages of pregnancy in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The objective of this study was to document the expression and functional role of BMPs in the placental (caruncle; CAR, cotyledon; COT) during different stages of pregnancy in water buffalo. Samples collected from Early pregnancy 1 (EP1); Early pregnancy 2 (EP2), Mid pregnancy (MP), Late pregnancy (LP) while the third stage of oestrus cycle (NP) was taken as control. Also, the synergistic role of BMP4/BMP7 or combination on mRNA expression of vWF, PCNA, StAR, CYP11A1, 3βHSD, and BAX were studied in trophoblast cells cultured (TCC) during an early stage. The qPCR and immunoblotting studies revealed that BMP2, BMPR1A, BMPR1B, and BMPR2 mRNA level was significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated during early pregnancy in COTs while in CARs it was significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) during all the stages of pregnancy.BMP4 mRNA level was significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) during early pregnancy in COTs as well as in CARs. BMP6 expression was significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) during early and late stages of pregnancy. BMP7 mRNA level was upregulated (p < 0.05) during the late stage of pregnancy in COTs. At 100 ng/ml, the BMP4 maximally stimulated the transcripts of StAR, CYP11A1, and 3βHSD while BMP7 maximally stimulated the transcripts of 3βHSD that paralleled with P4 accretion in the media (P < 0.05). BMP4 as well as BMP7 upregulated the transcripts of PCNA, vWF, and downregulated BAX in the TCC (P < 0.05). In conclusion, BMPs are expressed in a regulated manner with stage-specific differences in the placenta and promotes the angiogenesis, proliferation, cell survivability, and steroidogenesis thereby regulating placental function in an autocrine/paracrine manner in water buffalo.

Alpha lipoic acid supplementation ameliorates the wrath of simulated tropical heat and humidity stress in male Murrah buffaloes

A supplement which ameliorates temperature-humidity menace in food producing livestock is a prerequisite to develop climate smart agricultural packages. A study was conducted to investigate the heat stress ameliorative efficacy of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) in male Murrah water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Eighteen animals (293.61 ± 4.66Kg Bwt) were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 6); NHSC (non-heat-stressed control), HS (heat-stressed) and HSLA (heat-stressed-supplemented with ALA@32 mg/kg Bwt orally) based on the temperature humidity index (THI) and ALA supplementation. HS and HSLA were exposed to simulated heat challenge in a climatically controlled chamber (40 °C) for 21 consecutive days, 6 h daily. Physiological responses viz. Respiration rate (RR), Pulse rate (PR) and Rectal temperature (RT) were recorded daily before and after heat exposure. Blood samples were collected at the end of heat exposure on days 1, 6, 11, 16, and 21 and on day 28 (7th day post exposure which is considered as recovery) for peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) separation, followed by RNA and Protein extraction for Real time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis respectively, of heat shock proteins (HSPs). Two-way repeated measure ANOVA was performed between groups at different experimental periods. RR (post exposure) in HS and HSLA was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than NHSC from day 1 onwards but HSLA varied significantly from the HS 8th day onwards. Post exposure RT and PR in both HS and HSLA varied (P < 0.05) from NHSC throughout the study; but between HS and HSLA, RT significantly varied on initial 2 days and last 6 days (from days 16 to 21). HSP70 mRNA expression significantly up regulated in high THI groups with respect to the low THI group throughout the experimental period. During chronic stress (days 16 and 21) HSP70 significantly (P < 0.05) increased in HS but not in HSLA (P > 0.05) with respect to NHSC. ALA supplementation up-regulates and sustains (P < 0.05) the expression of HSP90 in HSLA in comparison to the HS and NHSC. HSP105 expression was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) in HS on days 16 and 21 (during long-term exposure) but only on day 21 (P < 0.05) in HSLA. HSP70, HSP90, and HSP105 protein expression dynamics were akin to the mRNA transcript data between the study groups. In conclusion, supplementing ALA ameliorates the deleterious effect of heat stress as reflected by improved physiological and cellular responses. ALA supplementation improved cellular antioxidant status and sustained otherwise easily decaying heat shock responses which concertedly hasten the baton change from a limited window of thermo tolerance to long run acclimatization.

Monitoring of fruit freshness using phase information in polarization reflectance spectroscopy

The control of food quality and freshness is of growing interest for both consumers and the food industry. The optical absorption and scattering properties in fruits, for example, changes with the physiological and biochemical alterations in the tissues during ripening and storage. The absorption and scattering properties are nondestructively monitored using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. NIR has proved to be one of the most efficient and advanced tools for continuous monitoring and controlling of process and product quality in the food processing industry. However, NIR spectroscopy is costly and needs reliable calibration. The basic spectral feature of fruit reflectance in the visible region is considered in this work for the development of algorithms to nondestructively monitor the ripening and decay of apples using phase information of the reflected light. The objective is to develop simple and low-cost instruments that could revolutionize the on/inline quality monitoring of foods.

Inversion of thermodiffusive properties of ionic colloidal dispersions in water-DMSO mixtures probed by forced Rayleigh scattering

Thermodiffusion properties at room temperature of colloidal dispersions of hydroxyl-coated nanoparticles (NPs) are probed in water, in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and in mixtures of water and DMSO at various proportions of water, [Formula: see text]. In these polar solvents, the positive NPs superficial charge imparts the systems with a strong electrostatic interparticle repulsion, slightly decreasing from water to DMSO, which is here probed by Small Angle Neutron Scattering and Dynamic Light Scattering. However if submitted to a gradient of temperature, the NPs dispersed in water with ClO₄^- counterions present a thermophilic behavior, the same NPs dispersed in DMSO with the same counterions present a thermophobic behavior. Mass diffusion coefficient [Formula: see text] and Ludwig-Soret coefficient [Formula: see text] are measured as a function of NP volume fraction [Formula: see text] at various [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text]-dependence of [Formula: see text] is analyzed in terms of thermoelectric and thermophoretic contributions as a function of [Formula: see text]. Using two different models for evaluating the Eastman entropy of transfer of the co- and counterions in the mixtures, the single-particle thermophoretic contribution (the NP's Eastman entropy of transfer) is deduced. It is found to evolve from negative in water to positive in DMSO. It is close to zero on a large range of [Formula: see text] values, meaning that in this [Formula: see text]-range [Formula: see text] largely depends on the thermoelectric effect of free co- and counterions.

Regulation of steroidogenic function of luteal cells by thrombospondin and insulin in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The present study examined the effect of exogenous thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) on the steroidogenic function of luteal cells cultured invitro. Furthermore, the transcriptional interaction of insulin with TSP1 and its receptor, cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) were also investigated. At the highest dose (500ngmL−1) TSP1 significantly downregulated the expression of the angiogenic marker von Willebrand factor (vWF) and progesterone production in cultured luteal cells. Moreover, the simultaneous upregulation in the expression of caspase 3 by exogenous TSP1 was consistent with a reduction in the number of viable luteal cells as determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltertrazolium bromide (MTT) assay after 72h of culture. However, the expression of critical enzymes in the progesterone synthetic pathway was not significantly modulated by treatment with TSP1 in cultured luteal cells. Knocking out of endogenous TSP1 with the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/ CRISPRassociated protein9 (Cas9) system improved the viability of luteal cells as well as increasing progesterone production and decreasing caspase 3 activation. Insulin treatment suppressed the expression of TSP1 and CD36 in cultured luteal cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. To conclude, TSP1 acts as a negative endogenous regulator of angiogenesis that attenuates progesterone production, possibly by reducing the number of luteal cells via apoptosis during luteal regression, whereas insulin as a luteinising signal may have inhibited the thrombospondin system for the efficient development of luteal function.

Racial and Ethnic Differences in Graft Loss Among Female Liver Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Racial differences in post-liver transplantation (LT) outcomes are identified in predominantly male cohorts. Despite known sex differences in a spectrum of liver-related outcomes, it is not known how race influences graft outcomes in women.

METHODS

Using the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, we examined race and ethnicity and graft loss (death or retransplant) in women transplanted from 2002 to 2012. Covariates included recipient and donor characteristics, socioeconomics, and medical comorbidities.

RESULTS

The eligible cohort (n = 15,860) included 11,051 Caucasians, 2171 Hispanics, 1876 African Americans (AAs), and 762 Asian women with median follow-up of 3.1 years. Five-year graft survival was lower in AA women (60%) compared with Caucasians (71%), Hispanics (70%), and Asians (73%) (P < .001). Graft loss was 45% higher among AA women <40 years at transplant compared with AA women aged 50 to 59 (hazard ratio 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.17-1.81) and aged 60 to 69 years (hazard ratio 1.33, 95% confidence interval 1.03-1.71), and risk increased after age 60 among Caucasians (P < .001 for race-age interactions). Increased graft loss among young AA women was limited to the first 2 years post-LT (P = .002).

CONCLUSION

Younger AA women are at particularly high risk for graft loss, which predominates in the first 2 years post-LT. Prospective studies of immunosuppression adherence and pharmacokinetics, particularly in relation to patient age, may help to explain the mechanisms underlying the higher rates of graft loss in younger AA women.

Scrotal circumference: A predictor of testosterone concentration and certain attributes of seminal vesicles influencing buffalo male fertility

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of scrotal circumference (SC) with plasma testosterone, seminal vesicles (SVs) weight, and its secretion as measurable indicators of fertility and also to sequence and establish phylogenetic relatedness of certain SV protein genes with other species as such integrated approach is lacking.

Materials and Methods:

Altogether, 59 apparently healthy male buffaloes sacrificed at slaughterhouse were selected (irrespective of breed) for measuring SC and collecting blood and paired SVs. The SC was measured at greater curvature using soft thread. In the present study, blood plasma testosterone, cholesterol, protein, and glucose in addition to SV fructose, citric acid and proteins in SV fluid were also estimated. The SV tissue was fixed in RNAlater for RNA extraction. Male buffaloes were categorized as per total SV weight into Group I (<5.0 g), Group II (5.0-7.84 g), and Group III (>8.0 g) and dentitions-I (≤18 months), II (18-24 months), and III (≥24 months) to assess the effect of weight and dentition age on SC, SV weight, and its certain secretions. Data were analyzed using linear model procedure including Tukey HSD test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Variance inflation and condition index were also used to assess multicollinearity.

Results:

Gross and histomorphological evaluation of SVs did not show any abnormality. Macronutrients (plasma protein, glucose, and cholesterol) showed non-significant (p>0.05) variation between groups. The SC and SV weight varied significantly (p<0.05) with a significant positive relationship with plasma testosterone, SV protein, fructose, and citric acid. In addition, testosterone concentration also showed increasing trend from Groups I to III but increased significantly (p<0.05) from Group II to III with positive and significant correlations with SV protein, fructose, and citric acid similar to SV weight and SC. Binders of sperm protein (BSP1, 3, and 5) genes (full length) were sequenced and established an evolutionary relationship which is lacking in buffalo.

Conclusion:

The present findings established a significant positive correlation of SC with that of other fertility parameters related to SVs weight and its secretions: Fructose, citric acid, and protein (inclusive of BSPs sequenced full length), and testosterone. Therefore, the present integrated approach along with certain semen quality attributes reflecting epididymis function could be used as a predictive fertility marker for grading and selection of breeding bulls and their progenies to develop outstanding bull mother farm.

The Association of Hispanic Ethnicity with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 10-15% of reproductive age women and is a recognized risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The more severe form of NAFLD, known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), results in liver inflammation with or without fibrosis, and is now a leading cause of cirrhosis. Ethnic differences are apparent in NAFLD, with higher prevalence in Hispanics, although the role of Hispanic ethnicity on risk for NAFLD/NASH in women with PCOS is not known.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate ethnic differences in the prevalence and risk of NAFLD/NASH in women with PCOS.

STUDY DESIGN

Among PCOS women followed in a large academic medical center the association of Hispanic ethnicity with elevated biomarkers of NASH, including plasma cytokeratin 18 (CK18) M30 fragments and/or ALT levels (n=303), was assessed. Prevalence of hepatic steatosis by Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) imaging was also evaluated in a subset of PCOS women (n=35).

RESULTS

The median cohort age (n=303) was 28 years (IQR 8), and 15.5% (n=47) were Hispanic, the majority of whom reported white race (94%). Most Hispanic women had hepatic steatosis on imaging, which was markedly higher than in non-Hispanics (83% vs 24%, p=0.005). Approximately 17% of PCOS women had elevated ALT or elevated CK18, which was more common in Hispanics than non-Hispanics, at 34% vs 14%, respectively, p=0.002. On univariate analysis, Hispanic ethnicity was associated with two-fold higher odds of NASH (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0-3.9, p=0.038), and the association persisted after adjustment for HOMA-IR and waist circumference (AOR 3.1, 95% CI 1.1-8.9, p=0.034).

CONCLUSION

NAFLD/NASH is an important condition to be considered by PCOS providers and Hispanic women with PCOS are a particularly high-risk group that may warrant routine screening.

Expression dynamics of HSP90 and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms during heat stress acclimation in Tharparkar cattle

Six male Tharparkar cattle of 2-3 years old were selected for the study. After 15-day acclimation at thermoneutral zone (TNZ) in psychrometric chamber, animals were exposed at 42 °C for 6 h up to 23 days followed by 12 days of recovery period. Blood samples were collected during control period at TNZ (days 1, 5, and 12), after heat stress exposure (day 1, immediate heat stress acclimation (IHSA); days 2 to 10, short-term heat stress acclimation (STHSA); days 15 to 23, long-term heat stress acclimation (LTHSA); days 7 and 12, recovery period), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated for RNA and protein extraction. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression in PBMCs were determined by qPCR and western blot, respectively. Samples at TNZ were taken as control. The mRNA expression of HSP90, iNOS, and eNOS was significantly upregulated (P < 0.05) on day 1 (ISHA) as compared to control, remained consistent during STHSA, again increased during LTHSA, and finally reduced to basal level during recovery period. The protein expression of HSP90, iNOS, and eNOS were akin to their transcript pattern. PBMC culture study was conducted to study transcriptional abundance of HSP90, iNOS, and eNOS at different temperature-time combinations. The present findings indicate that HSP90, iNOS, and eNOS could possibly play an important role in mitigating thermal insults and confer thermotolerance during long-term heat stress exposure in Tharparkar cattle.

Expression dynamics of HSP70 during chronic heat stress in Tharparkar cattle

Six male Tharparkar cattle aged 2-3 years were selected for the study. The animals were acclimatized in the psychrometric chamber at thermoneutral zone (TNZ) for 15 days and then exposed to 42 °C temperature up to 23 days followed by 12 days of recovery period. Physiological responses were estimated, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated at TNZ on day 1, day 5, and day 12; after 6 h of heat stress exposure on day 16 to day 20, day 25, day 30, day 32, day 34, day 36, and day 38; and a recovery period on day 45 and day 50. The PBMCs were cultured to study the effect of thermal challenge on HSP70 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression pattern at different temperature-time combinations. The mRNA and protein expression of HSP70 in PBMCs along with serum extracellular HSP70 (eHSP70) was increased (P < 0.05) and showed two peaks on day 17 and day 32 (2nd and 17th days of thermal challenge, respectively). The HSP70 mRNA expression was increased (P < 0.05) in a temperature- and time-dependent manner in heat stress challenge treatment as compared to control in cultured PBMCs. HSP70 expression was found to be higher (P < 0.05) after 10 days of heat exposure (corresponds to chronic heat stress) as compared to the first 5 days of heat stress (corresponds to short-term heat stress) and control period at TNZ. The present findings indicate that HSP70 is possibly involved in heat stress adaptive response in Tharparkar cattle and the biphasic expression pattern may be providing a second window of protection during chronic heat stress.

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) synergistically promote steroidogenesis and survival of cultured buffalo granulosa cells

The present study investigated the combined effect of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) on estradiol (E₂) secretion and relative abundance of mRNA for aromatase enzyme (CYP19A1), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and BCL-2 associated X protein (BAX) in cultured buffalo granulosa cells (GCs). Follicles were isolated and classified into four groups based on size and E₂ concentration in follicular fluid (FF): Small, 4-6mm diameter, E₂<0.5ng/ml; Medium, 7-9mm, E₂=0.5-5ng/ml; Large, 10-13mm, E₂=5-40ng/ml; Preovulatory (PFs), >14mm, E₂>180ng/ml. The GCs of PF were cultured in 24 well cell culture plates and allowed to become 75-80% confluent. Then cultured GCs were treated with FGF2 (200ng/ml) and VEGF-A (100ng/ml) separately and in combination for three incubation periods (24, 48 and 72h). Estradiol secretion was greater in GCs treated with FGF2+VEGF-A compared to FGF2 or VEGF-A at all incubation periods and was greatest (P<0.05) at 72h of incubation. The relative abundance of CYP19A1 and PCNA mRNA were relatively consistent with the amount E₂ secretion. In contrast, the relative abundance of Bax mRNA was less in GCs treated with the combination of FGF2 and VEGF-A as compared to either FGF2 or VEGF-A alone and the least concentration (P<0.05) was at 72h of incubation. Findings with use of immunocytochemistry of cells treated with these factors were consistent to the relative abundance of mRNA transcript for the factor. The present findings indicate that FGF2 and VEGF-A may function in a synergistic manner to promote steroidogenesis and survival of cultured buffalo GCs.

Phenolic compound-mediated single-step fabrication of copper oxide nanoparticles for elucidating their influence on anti-bacterial and catalytic activity

A single-step synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) from a phenolic compound (rosmarinic acid) at ambient temperature was developed in this study.

The DEAD box protein p68: a novel coactivator of Stat3 in mediating oncogenesis

DEAD box RNA helicase p68 acts as a transcriptional coactivator of several oncogenic transcription factors apart from being a vital player of RNA metabolism. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) is a major oncogenic contributor of diverse cancers, including that of colon. Deciphering the mechanistic insights of coactivation of Stat3 transcriptional activity may aid in improved therapeutic strategies. Here we report for the first time a novel mechanism of alliance between p68 and Stat3 in stimulating transcriptional activity of Stat3. Interestingly, we observed that the expression of p68 and Stat3 bears strong positive correlation and significant colocalization in normal and colon carcinoma patient samples. We demonstrated that p68 directly interacts with Stat3 in HEK293 cells as well as multiple colon cancer cell lines. Additionally, p68 positively modulated both mRNA and protein expression levels of Stat3 target genes; promoter activity of Stat3 target gene Mcl-1 in multiple colon cancer cell lines. Also, p68 occupied the promoters of multiple Stat3 target genes in enhancing Stat3-dependent transcription. Moreover, the strong positive correlation between the abundance of p68 and Stat3 target genes in the same set of colon carcinoma samples further supported our observations. Enhanced expression levels of Stat3 target genes observed in primary tumors and metastatic lung nodules, generated in mice colorectal allograft model using syngeneic cells stably expressing p68, further reinforced our in vitro findings. Hence, this study unravels novel modes of p68-mediated oncogenesis through coactivation of Stat3 and enhancing Stat3 signaling.

Determination of two mercapturic acids related to crotonaldehyde in human urine: influence of smoking

Crotonaldehyde, an αβ-unsaturated aldehyde, and a potent alkylating agent, is present in many foods and beverages, ambient air and tobacco smoke. A previous study indicated that two metabolites, 3-hydroxy-1- methylpropylmercapturic acid (HMPMA) and 2-carboxy1-1-methylethylmercapturic acid (CMEMA), were excreted in rat urine after subcutaneous injection of crotonaldehyde. Herein, we report the development of a method based on liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and deuterated analytes as internal standards, for the determination of HMPMA and CMEMA in human urine. The limits of quantification of the method were 92 and 104 ng/mL for HMPMA and CMEMA, respectively. The calibration curves for both compounds were linear up to 7500 ng/mL with R2 >0.99. It was found that cigarette smokers excreted about three to five-fold more HMPMA, and only slightly elevated amounts of CMEMA, in their urine compared to non-smokers. In smokers, we also found significant correlations between the urinary excretion levels of HMPMA (but not CMEMA) and several markers of exposure for smoking, including the daily cigarette consumption, carbon monoxide in exhaled breath, salivary cotinine, and nicotine plus five of its major metabolites in urine. Smoking cessation or switching from smoking conventional cigarettes to experimental cigarettes with lower crotonaldehyde delivery led to significant reductions of urinary HMPMA excretion, but not CMEMA excretion. Alcohol consumption did not influence either urinary HMPMA or CMEMA excretion. We conclude that HMPMA is a potentially useful biomarker for smoking-related exposure to crotonaldehyde.

Modulatory role of leptin on ovarian functions in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the modulatory role of leptin on bubaline granulosa cells (GCs) and luteal cells (LCs) functions using an in vitro cell culture system and to establish a cross talk between leptin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). GCs were collected from group IV follicles (>13 mm size) and LCs from mid-luteal phase corpus luteum and were grown in serum-containing media supplemented with leptin at three different dose rates (0.1, 1, and 10 ng/mL) and time durations (24, 48, and 72 hours). We evaluated the production and secretion of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) using RIA and the mRNA expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STARD1), cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage (CYP11A1), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19A1), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), steroidogenic factor-1 (SF1), anti-apoptotic gene PCNA, pro-apoptotic gene caspase 3 and endothelial cell marker, Von Willebrand factor (vWF), using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results depicted a direct inhibitory action of leptin on GCs steroidogenesis in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.05), whereas in the presence of IGF-1 the inhibitory effect was reverted. Furthermore, leptin augmented both cellular proliferation (PCNA) and apoptosis (caspase 3). On the other hand, in LCs, leptin alone showed an apparent stimulatory effect on steroidogenesis (P < 0.05); however, in the presence of IGF-1, an antagonistic effect was witnessed. Moreover, leptin had an inhibitory effect on apoptosis while promoted cellular proliferation and angiogenesis. These findings were further strengthened by immunocytochemistry. To conclude, these observations for the first time reported that in buffaloes leptin has a direct dose-, time-, and tissue-dependent effect on ovarian steroidogenesis, angiogenesis, and cytoprotection, and furthermore, it can regulate the effect of systemic factors like IGF-1. Hence, this in vitro study provides an insight into the putative roles of leptin alone and its interactions in vivo.

Riboflavin conjugated temperature variant ZnO nanoparticles with potential medicinal application in jaundice

Significant ameliorative efficiency of riboflavin conjugated ZnO nanoparticles against jaundice stress at molecular and cellular levels.

Association of IFNL3 and IFNL4 polymorphisms with liver-related mortality in a multiracial cohort of HIV/HCV-coinfected women

African Americans coinfected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) have lower liver-related mortality than Caucasians and Hispanics. While genetic polymorphisms near the IFNL3 and IFNL4 genes explain a significant fraction of racial differences in several HCV-related outcomes, the impact of these variants on liver-related mortality has not been investigated. We conducted a cohort study of HIV/HCV-coinfected women followed in the multicentre, NIH-funded Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) to investigate whether 10 polymorphisms spanning the IFN-λ region were associated with liver-related mortality by dominant, recessive or additive genetic models. We also considered whether these polymorphisms contributed to previously reported differences in liver-related death by race/ethnicity (ascertained by self-report and ancestry informative markers). Among 794 coinfected women, there were 471 deaths including 55 liver-related deaths during up to 18 years of follow-up. On adjusted analysis, rs12980275 GG genotype compared to AG+AA hazards ratios [(HR) 0.36, 95% CI 0.14-0.90, P = 0.029] and rs8109886 AA genotype compared to CC+AC (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45-0.99, P = 0.047) were most strongly associated with liver-related death although these associations were no longer significant after adjusting for race/ethnicity (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.16-1.04, P = 0.060 and HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.51-1.19, P = 0.25, respectively). African American women had persistently lower liver-related death independent of IFN-λ variants (HRs ≤ 0.44, P values ≤ 0.04). The lower risk of death among African American HIV/HCV-coinfected women is not explained by genetic variation in the IFN-λ region suggesting, that other genetic, behavioural and/or environmental factors may contribute to racial/ethnic differences in liver-related mortality.

Adolescents' and parents' views of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Ireland

Service user involvement is essential for quality care in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). This study was conducted to explore adolescents' and parents' experiences of CAMHS in relation to accessibility, approachability and appropriateness. This study used a descriptive qualitative design, and focus groups and single interviews were conducted with adolescents (n = 15) and parents (n = 32) from three mental health clinics. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Accessing mental health services was a challenging experience for many parents and adolescents due to knowledge deficit, lack of information and limited availability of specialist services. Some parents and adolescents reported positive experiences while others reported negative experiences. They expressed a need for more information, involvement in decision making, flexible scheduling of appointments, school support and parent support groups. The nature and quality of the relationship with staff was critical to positive experience with the service; therefore, frequent changes of medical staff was disruptive. Mental health nurses can play a vital role in ensuring continuity, assessing adolescents' participation preferences and advocating for their information needs with other members of the interdisciplinary team.

Health-related quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in North India

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major health problem in India and constitutes an important cause of mortality and morbidity. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess health-related quality of life (HRQL) and its determinants in patients with COPD from India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 126 patients (73.81% male) were enrolled using convenient sampling prospectively in this cross-sectional study. Eligible patients were assessed for socioeconomic status, anthropometric measures, COPD severity, dyspnea and health status using the Hindi version of St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Linear regression model was used to examine the association between risk factors and HRQL score (a higher score indicating poorer HRQL), adjusting for age and sex.

RESULTS

The mean total score for SGRQ in the patients was 52.66 ± 12.89, indicating a marked impairment of HRQL. Impairment was associated with the severity of airway obstruction, but within each Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage, the variation (SD) was wide [stage I: 47.8 ± 12.3 (n = 14); stage II: 49.28 ± 11.69 (n = 47); stage III: 53.47 ± 11.69 (n = 44); stage IV: 61.75 ± 14.14 (n = 21)]. A regression analysis showed that body mass index, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 ), dyspnea grade, and depression were associated with poor HRQL.

CONCLUSION

HRQL of COPD patients was significantly impaired across stages. Marked impairment of HRQL was found even in patients with mild disease.