14th Day Research Articles

Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Different Doses of Eladis® in the Therapy of Cough Against Acute Respiratory Viral Infection

Aim. Justification of the optimal dosage regimen regarding the efficacy and safety of Eladis®, film-coated tablets, 10 mg (Valenta Pharm JSC, Russia) in comparison with placebo in patients with non-productive cough due to acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI). Material and methods. A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized multicenter study was conducted in which 141 patients with non-productive cough on the background of acute respiratory viral infection took part. The study participants were randomized into 4 groups. Patients from the first group took 1 tablet of Eladis® 2 times a day (daily dose of 20 mg); patients from the second group took 2 tablets of Eladis® 2 times a day (daily dose of 40 mg); patients from the third group took 4 tablets of Eladis® 2 times a day (daily dose of 80 mg). Patients in the fourth group received placebo tablets in quantities corresponding to the first three groups. For this purpose, 3 subgroups of 12 people were allocated within group 4. The duration of therapy was 7–14 days. The effectiveness of therapy was assessed based on monitoring the frequency of cough attacks, changes in values on the day and night cough scales, a digital rating scale (DRS), and the time to achieve clinical cure of cough and ARVI symptoms was also taken into account. The safety of the studied drug was assessed based on monitoring of vital signs, laboratory parameters, and electrocardiogram (ECG) data. The number and severity of adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) were assessed. Results. Analysis of data on the primary endpoint (reduction of cough attack frequency by ;)50% by the 5th day relative to the 1st visit) showed the superiority of Eladis® over placebo at a daily dose of 80 mg (P=0.00003). At the same time, the proportion of patients who reached the primary endpoint by day 5 when receiving Eladis® at a dose of 80 mg per day was 71.43%, while in the combined placebo group it was 22.22%. Conclusion. Evaluation of various dosage regimens of Eladis® has shown that a daily dose of 80 mg is optimal for the treatment of non-productive cough in patients with ARVIs, as it provides the greatest effectiveness with a safety profile comparable to other studied doses.

Changes in electrical parameters of the heart in an experimental model of malignant tumor growth during of hyperthyroidism

Experimental and clinical studies demonstrate the possibility of modulating the development of malignant tumors in thyroid imbalance, in particular hyperthyroidism, which negatively affects the electrophysiology of the heart. In an experimental model of tumor growth during of hyperthyroidism, activation of the tumor was shown.Aim: To study electrophysiological parameters of the mouse heart at the initial stages of transplantable tumor growth during of hyperthyroidism.Material and Methods. In female mice of the C57BL/6 line (n = 20) was created a model of melanoma B16/F10 growth during of hyperthyroidism, which was induced by daily intraperitoneal administration of liothyronine sodium (T3) for a long time and confirmed by determining the content of thyroid-stimulating hormone and triiodothyronine in the blood using the radioimmune method. On the 5th day of T3 administration, the melanoma was transplanted. ECG was recorded non-invasively (ecgTUN- NEL, ecgAVG software, emka TECHNOLOGIES, France) on the 1st and 3rd days of T3 administration, in groups with a tumor – on the 6th day after its transplantation.Results. Pathological changes were revealed: in the group with hyperthyroidism – rhythm irregularity, decrease the amplitude of P and T below the isoline, widening of the QRS, on the 3rd day – the death of 1 mouse was noted due to large-focal myocardial infarction; in the group with melanoma – only sinus arrhythmia and decreased heart rate; in the group with a combination of pathologies – an almost normal ECG, with the exception of an increase in P amplitude and a slight increase in QRS.Conclusion. Already in the early stages of hyperthyroidism or tumor growth, there was a violation of myocardial depolarization/ repolarization processes, capable of causing even death of the animal. In case of comorbidity, the majority of ECG parameters normalized, indicating the inclusion of compensatory mechanisms in the interaction of pathologies. The results demonstrate the need for a deeper study of the mechanisms of interaction of several simultaneously existing pathologies in the body.

Reaction of young physically active men with early repolarization phenomena on a cycle of inhalations of a hypoxic gas mixture

Aim: To examine a reaction of young physically active men with early repolarization phenomena (ERP) on an inhalation of a hypoxic gas mixture (IHGM).Material and Methods.17 men (6 with ERP & 11 without it) participated in our study. ECG, echocardiography, clinical blood test and erythropoietin blood test were carried out to every of them initially and on the 1-st and 10-th days after the IHGM.Results. It was found that end systolic volume was 13,8% more (р = 0,01) and ejection fraction was 8% less (р = 0,01) in ERP group than in non ERP group. These indicators were not change after IHGM. In ERP group on 1-st day after IHGM erythropoietin concentration was 79% more (р = 0,027) and on a 10-th day was 64% more (р = 0,003) than in non-ERP group. In ERP group high fluorescent reticulocyte count on a 1-st day after IHGM was 69% more (р = 0,03) and middle fluorescent reticulocyte count on a 10-th day after IHGM was 13% more (р = 0,04) than in non-ERP group. On a 10-th day after IHGM hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration were 5% (р = 0,01) and 12% (р = 0,01) less than in non ERP group.Conclusion. Thus, men with ERP have a pronounced reaction of the erythropoiesis system on normobaric hypoxia.

Development and characterization of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-enriched functional yogurt using Limosilactobacillus fermentum 4–17

The consumption of functional foods is steadily increasing due to their positive impact on health. This study focused on developing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-enriched functional yogurt using Limosilactobacillus fermentum 4–17 over a 14-day storage period. Various aspects, including the physicochemical properties of the yogurt, GABA levels, and viable cell counts, were examined. Throughout the storage period, the pH of the yogurt decreased, while the acidity increased, indicating changes in fermentation activity. The highest level of GABA (14.846 mg/100 mL) was recorded on the second day. The viable cell count increased in all samples, reaching its peak at 7.47 Log CFU/mL by the 14th day. Notably, on the 14th day, the yogurt exhibited the lowest syneresis percentage, along with the highest water-holding capacity (WHC), hardness, and overall stability. These findings suggest that this GABA-enriched yogurt has significant potential as a functional product in the market, contributing to improved health benefits for consumers.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Benzalkonium Chloride Gel with Tongue Brush on S. Mutans and L. Acidophilus and Tongue Coating – A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: The tongue microbiota, like other parts of the oral cavity, plays a significant role in the development of dental caries. S. mutans and L. acidophilus species, are associated with the initiation and progression of dental caries.  Aim: To assess the efficacy of benzalkonium Chloride gel along with tongue cleaning aids in the reduction of tongue coating and bacterial count on dorsal surface of the tongue.  Materials and Methods: A double blinded randomized control trial was conducted among 17-25 years old college students. A total of 60 participants were randomly divided into 4 groups according to their use of tongue cleaning aids as follows: Group A, Tongue Brush Alone; Group B, Tongue Brush with Chlorhexidine Mouthwash (Clohex ADS); Group C, Tongue Brush with Chlorhexidine Gel (Hexigel); and Group D, Tongue Brush with Benzalkonium Chloride Gel. The Winkel tongue coating index (WTCI) was used to measure the tongue coating at baseline and at 14th day and the participant’s tongue coatings on dorsal surface were sampled using swab method, and the number of S. mutans and L. acidophilus colonies were counted before and after intervention.  Results: Both the Hexigel group and Benzalkonium chloride gel group reduced both the bacterial load and tongue coating at 14th Day compared to the baseline data.  Conclusion: This study suggests that usage of Tongue brush along with Benzalkonium Chloride gel decreased the tongue coating and the number of bacteria on the dorsal tongue surface.

Umbilical Catheter Extravasation Mimicking Necrotizing Enterocolitis in a Preterm Neonate: A Diagnostic Challenge.

Managing acute abdomen in very low birth weight (VLBW) and premature infants presents a diagnostic challenge, often necessitating a thorough assessment to discern underlying causes. Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs), commonly used in neonatal intensive care, are essential but not without risks. A 29-week premature male infant, born to a 23-year-old mother, was referred to our clinic on the 16th day of life with a suspected diagnosis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The infant had spent the first day intubated and received non-invasive respiratory support for 15 days. A 5 French UVC was inserted at the 2nd hour of life, and by the 3rd day of life, the infant transitioned to minimal enteral feeding. Between the 12th and 16th days of life, the infant initially diagnosed with NEC due to symptoms such as decreased stool passage and abdominal distension. The patient had been on a continuous course of antibiotic treatment throughout the entirety of his life, commencing on the very first day due to suspected early neonatal sepsis, followed by nosocomial sepsis during the hospitalization, and persisting with antibiotic therapy for suspected NEC. The case took a unique turn upon further evaluation after being referred to our unit. Despite a preliminary NEC diagnosis, further evaluation revealed umbilical catheter complications, leading to total parenteral nutrition extravasation. Removal of the catheter, drainage, and antibiotic adjustment resulted in improved clinical outcomes. In neonatal care, cautious management is vital when dealing with infants exhibiting abdominal symptoms. A nuanced approach, including differential diagnosis and careful antibiotic use, is essential.

Fabrication of GelMA - Agarose Based 3D Bioprinted Photocurable Hydrogel with In Vitro Cytocompatibility and Cells Mirroring Natural Keratocytes for Corneal Stromal Regeneration.

The complex anatomy of the cornea and the subsequent keratocyte-fibroblast transition have always made corneal stromal regeneration difficult. Recently, 3D printing has received considerable attentionin terms of fabrication of scaffoldswith precise dimension and pattern. In the current work, 3D printable polymer hydrogels made of GelMA/agarose are formulated and its rheological properties are evaluated. Despite the variation in agarose content, both the hydrogels exhibited G'>G'' modulus. A prototype for 3D stromal model is created using Solid Works software, mimicking the anatomy of an adult cornea. The fabrication of 3D-printed hydrogels is performed using pneumatic extrusion. The FTIR analysis speculated that the hydrogel is well crosslinked and established strong hydrogen bonding with each other, thus contributing to improved thermal and structural stability. The MTT analysis revealed a higher rate of cell proliferation on the hydrogels. The optical analysis carried out on the 14th day of incubation revealed that the hydrogels exhibit transparency matching with natural corneal stromal tissue. Specific protein marker expression confirmed the keratocyte phenotype and showed that the cells do not undergo terminal differentiation into stromal fibroblasts. The findings of this work point to the potential of GelMA/A hydrogels as a novel biomaterial for corneal stromal tissue engineering.

Exploring a novel toxicological mechanism: Ammonia-N induces neurotoxicity, oxidative damage in brain tissue, and modulates the expression of central appetite factors to suppress feeding in juvenile Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii Brandt)

Ammonia-N is a common toxic factor in aquatic environment, known to inhibit fish feeding, yet its mechanism remains unclear. To investigate the toxicological mechanism of ammonia-N in inhibiting fish feeding, this study conducted experiments exposing juvenile Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) to ammonia-N at concentrations of 0, 5, 10, and 15 mg/L for 14 days. The results revealed a significant reduction in both daily and cumulative food intake. Obviously decreased condition factor (CF), hepatosomatic index (HSI), and viscerosomatic index (VSI) at 15 mg/L (P < 0.05). Besides, the serum ammonia concentration significantly increased on the 14th day, while the neurotoxic marker acetylcholinesterase (AchE) showed a consistent increase over the 14-day period (P < 0.05). Pathological examination of brain tissue demonstrated that ammonia-N induced damage, particularly evident in 15 mg/L ammonia-N group, where severe nerve fiber dissolution was observed. Moreover, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly increased in the brain on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th day (P < 0.05). RNA-seq analysis o revealed 1566, 2188, and 2026 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained in the 5, 10, and 15 mg/L ammonia-N groups, respectively, compared to the control group, and 30 DEGs related to appetite regulation were identified. Further quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis indicated that ammonia-N exposure changed the expressions of appetite factors, including downregulation of agouti-related protein (agrp) and neuropeptide Y (npy), and upregulation of pro-opiomelanocortin (pomc), cocaine-and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptide (cart), and corticotropin releasing factor (crf) (P < 0.05). Therefore, these results suggest that ammonia-N inhibits feeding via neurotoxicity induced oxidative damage which primarily by downregulating appetite promoting factors and upregulating appetite-inhibiting factors. This study lays the groundwork for deeper understanding of the toxicological mechanism of ammonia-N on aquatic animals, particularly its detrimental effects on fish brain function and feeding behavior.

Locally released dexamethasone and its effects on osteogenic activity at implant-tissue interface.

The osseointegration of titanium implants within the host tissue holds crucial importance. The introduction of functional coatings at tissue-implant interface enhances the bioactivity of titanium implants, improves their therapeutic outcomes, and enhances the effectiveness of treatments. In this study, we focused on enhancing the bioactivity of titanium-based implant materials by coating the titanium surfaces with chitosan microspheres, which are loaded with osseointegration-promoting agent dexamethasone (DEX). Initially, chitosan microspheres were successfully produced, followed by DEX loading through diffusion, resulting in a drug loading efficiency of around 50.2 (wt %). The subsequent drug release profile displayed a 24-hour duration, releasing approximately 32.6 (wt %) of the loaded DEX. In cell proliferation assays using human osteosarcoma (SAOS-2) cells, Ti surfaces coated with DEX-loaded chitosan microspheres initially exhibited lower cell numbers compared with DEX-free ones. This observation was attributed to transient osteogenic differentiation effects of DEX, since a notable increase in cell proliferation was observed on the 7th day. Von Kossa staining revealed mineralization beginning on the 14th day, particularly evident in DEX-loaded samples. Moreover, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity displayed a pattern of initial increase and subsequent decrease, with DEX release from chitosan microspheres showing a clear influence on the osteogenic differentiation, especially on the 7th day. These findings align with literature, highlighting DEX's potential to enhance osteogenic differentiation and cellular behavior on chitosan microsphere-coated titanium surfaces. This study emphasizes the promising implications for functionalizing surfaces of implant materials with DEX-loaded chitosan microspheres to improve their biocompatibility and bioactivity.

Value of plasma alpha- and beta-synuclein levels in the diagnosis, severity, and functional outcome of acute ischemic stroke

Abstract OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the role of plasma alpha- and beta-synuclein levels and other routine inflammatory parameters in the diagnosis, outcome, and mortality of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). METHODS: In our study, serum alpha- and beta-synuclein levels and clinical data were prospectively evaluated in 93 subjects (43 controls and 50 AIS patients) admitted to the emergency department. The outcome status and prognostic classification were performed according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores on the 30th day from hospital admission. RESULTS: The mean age of the subjects was 70.6 ± 11 years. Thirty-eight percentage were female. Plasma α-synuclein levels in the AIS group (33.6 ± 8.5 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those in the control group (4.22 ± 2.1 ng/mL) (P &lt; 0.001). Plasma β-synuclein levels in the AIS group (13.07 ± 2.7 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those in the control group (2.17 ± 1.4 ng/mL) (P &lt; 0.001). There was no significant difference in alpha- and beta-synuclein levels between the subgroups formed according to the 30th-day results of the patients using the mRS scores (P = 0.813 and 0.812, respectively). CONCLUSION: The serum alpha- and beta-synuclein concentrations of patients with AIS at admission were significantly higher than the healthy control group. At admission, serum alpha- and beta-synuclein levels do not have definitive clinically predictive value in predicting stroke progression and outcome in patients with AIS.

Interesting Case Of Congenital Tuberculosis

Background: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) is a global public health problem and is the causative organism of TB. There were 234,000 deaths of children due to tuberculosis. Since most of the pregnant women who have active TB are symptomless, diagnosis of TB is usually delayed2,3. It is difficult to differentiate between true congenital TB and postnatally acquired TB. High suspicion is needed for early diagnosis and treatment. Case: A 30-day-old girl had abdominal distension 1 week before admission and refusal to feed appeared on the 30th day. Clinically, sepsis, TORCH infection was suspected. USG abdomen showed multiple hypoechoic lesions in liver. Ct chest and abdomen showed multiple discrete non-calcified nodules in bilateral lung fields and liver. Gastric aspirate for AFB was negative. Mother was screened for TB; the TSTwas positive and TB QuantiFERON gold came positive. Hence, Tru-cut Liver biopsy was done for neonate and Biopsy for Genexpert showed low level Mycobacterium TB detected. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis for acid-fast bacilli was negative. 4 drug ATT regimen was started. Two weeks after anti-TB medication, the distension completely disappeared. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment is the key for the survival of neonatal TB

Remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil in mining areas with vaterite-type biological calcium carbonate

In recent years, research on the remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil by microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology has yielded significant findings. However, when utilizing MICP for remediation in situ, urea and calcium chloride may produce high concentrations of NH4+ and Cl-, which subsequently cause secondary pollution. If the biological calcium carbonate (Bio-CaCO3) produced by MICP is employed as a highly efficacious adsorbent, secondary pollution can be avoided while remediating heavy metal pollution. In this study, vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3 was prepared under the regulation of sophorolipids, and the remediation effect and mechanisms for heavy metal contaminated soil were investigated. The results demonstrated that sophorolipids facilitate the formation and stabilization of vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3. The addition of vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3 could notably increase the content of soil organic matter, enhance soil urease activity, and reduce soil catalase activity. On the 30th day of remediation with vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3, the active state content of Pb and Cd in the soil exhibited a decrease of 41.23% and 35.00%, respectively. Additionally, the exchangeable state content demonstrated a reduction of 6.61% and 8.48%, while the carbonate-bound state exhibited an increase of 12.05% and 13.89%, respectively. The principal mechanisms for the remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil by vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3 may be attributed to ion exchange, chemical precipitation, physical adsorption, and complexation reactions. The analysis of the microbial community structure demonstrated that vaterite-type Bio-CaCO3 could enhance the abundance of multiple genera with urease-producing genes, including Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, and Bacillus while maintaining the soil biodiversity. This study provides a new idea for the remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil around the mining area and offers technical support for the construction of green mines.

Comparison of the Effects of Hesperidin Over 30- and 60-Day Intervals on Rainbow Trout: A Potential Biostimulant to Promote Growth, Immunological and Antioxidant Responses, and Disease Resistance

Abstract The current research evaluated the effects of dietary hesperidin (HSP) on growth parameters, digestive enzyme activities, innate immune markers, and antioxidant responses in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss after the 30- and 60-day feeding trial. Then, specimens were subjected to Yersinia ruckeri infection for 14 days. For this, six hundred rainbow trout juveniles (initial weight; 25.49±0.40 g) were fed with different levels of HSP including 0 (HSP0; control), 50 (HSP50), 100 (HSP100), 150 (HSP150), and 200 (HSP200) mg/kg feed. After 60 days, dietary HSP100 supplementation significantly improved growth and feed efficiency indices. The optimal dose of HSP based on the regression test for WG and FCR detected 122 and 131 mg/kg, respectively. At the end of the 30th day, dietary HSP150 supplementation markedly boosted serum lysozyme (LYZ), myeloperoxidase (MPO), complement component C3, and immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, but decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content. In the same period, dietary administration of HSP at the different concentrations markedly increased complement component C4 (HSP150 and HSP200), superoxide dismutase (SOD), skin mucus alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (HSP100–HSP200), skin mucus LYZ and catalase (CAT) (HSP100 and HSP 150), and skin mucus Ig level (HSP50–HSP200). After 60 days, all dietary HSP supplementation significantly improved lipase, serum C3, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and skin mucus ALP, LYZ, and Ig levels, but decreased MDA, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values. After 60 days, dietary administration of HSP150 induced a significant discrepancy in the activity of serum LYZ, MPO, respiratory burst (RB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) compared to the control group. In the same period, dietary HSP supplementation at different levels induced a remarkable increase in digestive protease activity (HSP100), serum ACH50 and CAT activities (HSP100 and HSP150), skin mucus peroxidase and serum SOD levels (HSP100–HSP200), and serum C4 value (HSP50, HSP150, and HSP200), but markedly decreased ALP activity (HSP150 and HSP200). In addition, dietary HSP supplementation, especially HSP150, markedly boosted disease resistance against Y. ruckeri infection. The current data demonstrated that the oral administration of 100–150 mg/kg HSP has a high potential to promote growth performance, disease resistance, and faster induction of immune and antioxidant responses.

Dexamethasone and azithromycin enhance goat sperm preservation quality by regulating lipid metabolism

Phospholipase A (PLA) in goat semen aggregates with egg yolk in semen diluent, leading to sperm death. The aim of this study is to address the issue of sperm death caused by the interaction between PLA and egg yolk, and to explore the protective effect and metabolic regulation mechanism of the combination of dexamethasone (DXMS) and azithromycin (AZM) on goat sperm under low temperature conditions. At a low temperature of 4°C, different concentrations of DXMS were added to semen diluents containing 30μg/mL AZM to detect the quality of goat sperm. The optimal concentration of DXMS was determined to be 20μg/mL. On the 5th day of storage, antioxidant capacity, total cholesterol (TC) levels, energy metabolism, and metabolomics analysis were performed on the sperm of the 20μg/mL DXMS group. The results showed that there was no aggregation caused by the interaction between PLA and egg yolk in the group containing 30μg/mL AZM at 4°C. 20 μg/mL DXMS significantly improved sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) (P<0.05), catalase (CAT) (P<0.01), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P<0.01). The content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Fe2+ significantly decreased (P<0.01), while the content of ATP (P<0.01) and TC (P<0.05) significantly increased. Through metabolomics analysis, a total of 56 differential metabolites (P<0.05) were screened, including 5a, 6-Anhydrotetracycline, Betamethasone, and 11-Dehydrocorticosterone, mainly enriched in 8 metabolic pathways (P<0.05), including steroid hormone biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and choline metabolism in cancer. Among them, 5 metabolic pathways are related to lipid metabolism. The results indicate that AZM effectively inhibits the aggregation of PLA and yolk, and the combination of AZM and DXMS enhances the preservation quality of goat sperm during low-temperature preservation by regulating lipid metabolism.

Comparative evaluation of the therapeutic effect of combined schemes for therapy and rehabilitation in acute respiratory infections with the inclusion of immunocorrective and sedative agents in children from 6 months to 6 years on the background of stress disorders in the conditions of war in Ukraine

Background. Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are one of the most common groups of diseases in the practice of pediatricians. Stressful factors affect the immune system, reducing its effectiveness and leading to direct impact on the nervous system and the occurrence of its disorders: sleep changes, the development of a post-traumatic stress disorder, a decrease in the quality of life, especially during the last years in wartime conditions in Ukraine. The latter requires improving the implementation of combined therapeutic approaches to increase a short- and long-term effect on the health of the youngest children. Aim of the study: to increase the effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation of children from the youngest age group (6 months to 6 years) with ARIs against the background of stress disorders of the war in Ukraine by using comprehensive schemes with the inclusion of immunocorrective (the drug with immunocorrective properties contained a complex of ultra-low-dose dilutions of gamma interferon antibodies, histamine antibodies, CD4 antibodies) and sedative (the drug with sedative properties contained antibodies to the brain-specific protein S100) agents. Material and methods. The study involved 119 children aged 6 months to 6 years who had ≥ 5 episodes of ARIs (55 %) during the previous year and permanently lived in almost the entire territory of Ukraine (Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Kropyvnytskyi, Vinnytsia, Kryvyi Rih, Zhytomyr, Cherkasy, Poltava, Sumy, Berdychiv, Romny, Bila Tserkva). The study was carried out as part of the program for outpatient observation of children with various manifestations of ARIs against the background of stress damage to the nervous system who took drugs with immunocorrective properties (scheme (1)) alone and in combination with a sedative agent (scheme (1+2)). The drug with immunocorrective pro­perties contained a complex of ultra-low-dose dilutions of gamma interferon antibodies, histamine antibodies, CD4 antibodies, and the drug with sedative properties — antibodies to the brain-specific protein S100. The observation period was October-December 2023. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using GraphPad Prism 9.0 Software for Windows (USA, San Diego, CA). Results. The combined therapeutic approach of the scheme (1+2) showed a significantly better effect on fever, duration of low fever, sore throat, runny nose, bronchitis symptoms, manifestations of respiratory infection, assessed by the Wisconsin Questionnaire, as well as stress, sleep disorders, and changes in the quality of life on the 5th day of treatment and after 1 month of observation. The comparative evaluation of scheme (1) and scheme (1+2) showed a significant diffe­rence in favor of the effectiveness of the latter, which is ensured by its additional sedative and anti-anxiety action, resulting in a direct positive effect on stress-induced disturbances of the nervous system and an indirect — on the immune response, which in general increases the effectiveness of solving the problem of ARI therapy in children aged 6 months to 6 years, who for 2.5 years were constantly in psycho-traumatizing and socially oppressed conditions of the war in Ukraine. The analysis of satisfaction with the treatment effect according to the international IMOS scale during the observation period showed positive results and a high level of evaluation by both parents and doctors. Conclusions. The use of a combination of reme­dies with immunocorrective and sedative effects showed their high mutual enhancing effectiveness in the treatment and rehabilitation of children aged 6 months to 6 years, suffering from ARIs, and in the correction of stress disorders caused by the war in Ukraine.

Effectiveness of Communication Board on Level of Satisfaction among Mechanically Ventilated Patients at Intensive Care Unit in a Tertiary Hospital

Introduction: Critical care nurses are crucial in managing critical patients, facing challenges with advanced technology, alarms, ventilators, and multiple laboratory investigations. They must effectively communicate and manage patients on mechanical ventilation (MV), a lifesaving intervention for those needing oxygenation and ventilation support to ensure patient satisfaction. Materials and Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental design with 80 mechanically ventilated patients selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using demographic and clinical pro forma and a predesigned four-point Likert satisfaction scale comprised 14 items. The intervention group utilized a communication board, while the conventional group received routine care. The aim was to evaluate satisfaction levels in both groups, followed by a posttest on the 5th day using the same instrument. Results: The pretest revealed mean satisfaction scores of 32.47 ± 6.48 and 33.95 ± 6.41 for the intervention and conventional groups, respectively, with a mean difference of 1.47, considered statistically nonsignificant (t 78 = 1.023, P = 0.310). Conversely, posttest scores showed 37.85 ± 8.23 and 34.32 ± 6.18 for the intervention and conventional groups, respectively, with a mean difference of 3.53, indicating statistical significance (t 78 = 2.164, P = 0.034). Hence, the communication board intervention significantly enhanced satisfaction scores among mechanically ventilated patients, underscoring its positive impact on nursing care in terms of patients’ satisfaction. Conclusion: Effective communication is crucial in intensive care unit patient care, especially for those unable to speak due to MV. Utilizing communication boards significantly enhances patient satisfaction, highlighting the need for ongoing innovation in critical care nursing.

Understanding sex and populational differences in spatio-temporal exploration patterns and homebase dynamics of zebrafish following repeated ethanol exposure

Ethanol (EtOH) is one of the most widely consumed substance, affecting neurobehavioral functions depending on multiple environmental and biological factors. Although EtOH modulates zebrafish (Danio rerio) anxiety-like behaviors in novelty-based paradigms, the potential role of biological sex and populational variability in the exploratory dynamics in the open field test (OFT) is unknown. Here, we explored whether a repeated EtOH exposure protocol modulates the spatio-temporal exploration and homebase-related parameters in a population- and sex-dependent manner. Male and female fish from the short-fin (SF) and leopard (LEO) phenotypes were exposed to EtOH for 7 days (1 % v/v, 20 min per day). On the 8th day, the OFT was performed to assess locomotor and exploratory behaviors. We verified significant populational differences in the baseline spatio-temporal exploration patterns, supporting a pronounced anxiety in LEO with a higher homebase index compared to SF. We also found sex-dependent differences in EtOH sensitivity, where SF was more sensitive to EtOH, especially in females, which showed marked alterations in thigmotaxis and homebase occupancy. Conversely, only LEO female subjects showed increased center occupancy following EtOH. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed the main components that explained data variability, which were sex- and population-dependent. Overall, our novel findings support the utility of zebrafish-based models to assess how EtOH influences the exploratory profile in the OFT, as well as to elucidate potential differences of sex and population in the neurobehavioral responses of alcohol exposure in a translational perspective.

Human anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins protect yeast cells from aging induced oxidative stress

Aging is a degenerative, biological, and time-dependent process that affects all organisms. Yeast aging is a physiological phenomenon characterized by the progressive transformation of yeast cells, resulting in modifications to their viability and vitality. Aging in yeast cells is comparable to that in higher organisms in some respects; however, due to their straightforward and well-characterized genetic makeup, these cells present unique advantages when it comes to researching the aging process. Here, we assessed the impact of human anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins on aging using a yeast model. The findings clearly showed that these proteins exhibited remarkable anti-aging properties in yeast cells. Our data indicate that the presence of both proteins enhanced the reproductive survival of aging cells, likely by effecting the components functioning as both pro- and anti-oxidants, depending on the stage of yeast cell lifespan. Both proteins partially protected yeast cells from aging-related morphological deformations and cellular damage during the aging period. In particular, Bcl-xL expressing yeast cells reached the maximum activity levels for almost all of the major antioxidant enzymes and the total antioxidant status on the 8th day of lifespan and could provide effective protection at the latest stage of the investigated aging period. The chemometric data analysis of IR spectra confirmed the findings of the morphological and biochemical analyses. In this regard, specifically, understanding the mechanism of action on the cellular redox state of Bcl-xL in yeast may facilitate comprehension of its indirect antioxidant function in higher eukaryotes.

Investigating the expression profiles of cysteine string proteins (CSPs) in cochlear tissue

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the expression patterns of cysteine string protein alpha (CSPα) and cysteine string protein beta (CSPβ) in the mammalian inner ear, with an emphasis on their temporal dynamics during the developmental stages of C57BL/6 mice. MethodsWe utilized immunofluorescence staining to assess the localization and distribution of CSPα and CSPβ within the inner ears of C57BL/6 mice and miniature pigs. Additionally, this method facilitated the investigation of their temporal expression profiles. ResultsIn adult C57BL/6 mice and miniature pigs, CSPα and CSPβ were identified in the cytoplasm of inner hair cells and spiral ganglion cells, yet were absent in outer hair cells. Both proteins were found to colocalize with Ctbp2 on the basal side of the cytoplasm in inner hair cells' basilar membrane. Expression of CSPα was observed at the nerve fiber termini at the basilar membrane's base of inner and outer hair cells 10 days postnatally in C57BL/6 mice. Notably, expression of both CSPα and CSPβ in the cytoplasm of inner hair cells emerged on the 12th day post-birth, aligning with the timeline for registering cochlear potentials. The expression levels of both proteins increased with age, but were consistently absent in outer hair cells. Contrastingly, expression of CSPα and CSPβ was present in the cytoplasm of inner hair cells in miniature pigs as early as one day post-birth, yet remained absent in the three rows of outer hair cells. ConclusionCSPα and CSPβ exhibit predominant and specific expression in inner hair cells and spiral ganglion cells. A unique expression pattern was observed for CSPα, which was also present at the nerve fiber endings of both inner and outer hair cells. The developmental expression trajectory of CSPα and CSPβ in mouse inner hair cells is characterized by an initial absence, followed by a gradual increase. Moreover, the timing of expression onset between mice and miniature pigs indicates distinct temporal dynamics, suggesting a potential role in auditory development.

High strength “breathable” glycosilicone/Aloe vera polysaccharide-based gel dressing for efficient wound repair

Medical wound dressings are effective in protecting wounds, maintaining moisture, creating an optimal healing environment and accelerating wound healing. However, their deficiencies in mechanical properties, adhesion and prevention of adhesion to the wound bed have been identified as limiting factors for their therapeutic efficacy in wound healing. To address these issues, we prepared glycosilicone gel dressings consisting of hydrophobic polysiloxanes and highly hydrophilic polysaccharides via ester exchange and silicone hydrogen addition reactions. Silicone gel dressings exhibit skin-like “respiratory” properties, with good permeability to O2 and CO2. Additionally, elongation and other important parameters are similar to those of the skin, which provides a foundation for the application of silicone gels in the field of wound dressings. The introduction of Aloe vera polysaccharide (AP) results in the glycosilicone gel exhibiting certain mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 0.35 MPa and an adhesion force of 10 N/m. Furthermore, a mouse model of total skin defect demonstrated that the wound healing rate of the mice on the 12th day was 98 %, which effectively promotes wound healing. Consequently, the glycosilicone gel is anticipated to be an optimal wound dressing.