1st Day Research Articles

The Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Active Ingredients From Hydroxysafflor Yellow A in Healthy Chinese Volunteers

AbstractHydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA), an active ingredient extracted from Carthami flos, shows potential for treating ischemic stroke. This phase 1 study assessed the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of HSYA in healthy Chinese volunteers who received intravenous infusions of pure HSYA powder. The study comprised 2 parts. Part A was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled dose‐escalation study that evaluated safety and tolerability. This included a single‐dose study with 7 dose levels of HSYA (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 125 mg) in 52 volunteers, and a multidose study (100 and 125 mg) in 16 volunteers. Part B was an open‐label study where 12 volunteers received 75 mg of HSYA once daily for 14 consecutive days to examine PKs. There were no adverse events (AEs) leading to treatment discontinuation by HSYA throughout the treatment period. All reported AEs were mild and did not require special treatment. PK analysis revealed rapid absorption (median Tmax of 1.1 hours) and elimination (median t1/2 4.0 and 4.7 hours) of HSYA. Total body clearance on the 1st and 14th days was 1.7 and 1.6 L/h, respectively.

INFLUENCE OF ALTERNARIA SPP. FUNGI METABOLITES ON DEVELOPMENT OF WHEAT SPROUTS

The study purpose was in vitro investigation of phytotoxic activity of culture broth filtrates (CBFs) of five Alternaria Spp. fungi isolates on development of wheat sprouts. Fungi isolates were received from wheat seeds cultivated under conditions of Northern Kazakhstan. According to the study findings, culture filtrates of all the isolates studied varied with regard to their influence on wheat sprout development. Stimulant effects on seed germinating power were revealed with 14- and 21-day CBFs of A. infectoria (7/4), 14-day CBF of A. brassicae (7/2) and 21-day CBF of A. porri (8/1). It was found that long-term cultivation of fungi on a culture medium contributed to media pH modification towards alkalization due to production of metabolites of various chemical nature, including toxins, which could trigger growth inhibition of radicles and sprouts. However, the CBFs were predominantly low-toxic or non-toxic. Under effect of the 14-day CBF, significant positive correlation was identified between pH values and sprout lengths (0,86±0,25), while negative correlation was found between pH values and germinating power (-0,75±0,33). Change of pH value on the 21st day significantly affected radicle length (-0,92±0,20). Based on the findings it can be concluded that the 14-day CBF of all the Alternaria fungi isolates studied was most toxic for wheat sprouts.

A rare case of cerebellar abscess caused by Nocardia cyriacigeorgica

Background: Gram-positive opportunistic bacteria of the Nocardia species are responsible for a large spectrum of infections, such as pneumonia, skin infections, and more widespread conditions, including brain abscesses. Case Description: A 67-year-old male patient suffered from headache, gait disorder, and vertigo for a week before admission to our department. An enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed a mediosagittal hyperintense infratentorial lesion with concomitant compression of the fourth ventricle. The patient underwent surgical treatment with general anesthesia. The frozen section did not reveal any tumoral tissue but rather a purulent content. He was comatose on the 1st postoperative day, and he underwent a follow-up computed tomography (CT) scan, which revealed triventricular hydrocephalus. The external ventricular drain was performed, and a follow-up CT scan revealed significant improvement of hydrocephalus. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight did not reveal any causative agent from the intraoperative content, but the 16s ribosomal DNA method confirmed Nocardia cyriacigeorgica. The patient was intravenously treated with ceftriaxone and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and died on the 5th postoperative day. Conclusion: Nocardiosis presents a rare Gram-positive bacterial infection that typically affects immunocompromised hosts. Nocardia-caused brain abscesses present a significant challenge in its treatment for its atypical presentation and slow culture growth.

Effect of silver nanoparticles in polyethylene packaging on physicochemical, microbiological, and textural properties of oil cake.

This study investigated silver nanoparticle (SNP)/titanium dioxide polyethylene films as chemical preservative substitutes to increase the shelf life of oil cake. The research examined three types of packaging films: standard low-density polyethylene (LDPE), LDPE with 3% SNP, and LDPE with 5% SNP, and assessed their impact on oil cake shelf life. Analysis of packaging films included scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The study evaluated the effects of SNP on chemical and microbial stability on oil cakes in different storage days (1st, 15th, 30th, and 37th days) at 25 °C. Parameters such as moisture content, water vapor permeability, water activity, peroxide, fat acidity, texture, and microorganisms were studied. The results demonstrated that SNP-containing films can extend the shelf life of oil cake up to 37 days, marked by a significant decrease in microbial growth, particularly mold, compared to conventional packaging films. Notably, films with 5% SNP concentrations exhibited the highest efficacy in preserving the quality of the oil cake. Higher concentrations of SNP led to an increased reduction in microbial load and enhanced mold control while maintaining favorable quality assessment indices throughout the storage period from day 1 to day 30. Remarkably, oil cake packaged with a 5% SNP polymer film displayed the most promising outcomes, extending shelf life up to 30 days at 25 °C.

Influence of glycodelin on the formation of immune response at the level of T-helpers and T-regulatory cells in an <i>in vivo</i> experiment

Objective. To study the influence of glycodelin on T-helpers and Tregs level in the process of forming an immune response to the introduction of allogeneic bone marrow (BM) cells in a dynamic experiment on Wistar rats. Materials and methods. The original experimental model "host versus transplant reaction" on male Wistar rats without preliminary conditioning in recipients was used in the study. Animals were administered recombinant glycodelin against the background of allogeneic intraperitoneal transplantation of BM cells in a dynamic experiment. The level of peripheral T-helpers (CD4+) and Tregs (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+), and the expression of FOXP3 in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes were assessed. The material was collected on the 3rd and 21st days of the experiment. Results. Glycodelin was shown to reduce the absolute number of T-helpers in the peripheral blood (on the 3rd and 21st days) and to increase the proportion of Tregs on the 21st day of the experiment against the background of the introduction of allogeneic BM cells. It was found out, that glycodelin reduced the level of Tregs in the white pulp of the spleen on the 3rd day of the experiment, while the number of these cells on the 21st day increased, reducing the number of T-helpers at the same time. At the level of the mesenteric lymph nodes, glycodelin reduced the level of T-helpers on the 21st day of the experiment, simultaneously increasing the number of Tregs. In general, a unidirectional and distributed effect of glycodelin on the immune response at the level of T-helpers was observed, that was a decrease of T-helpers, but an increase of Tregs on the 21st day of the experiment. Conclusion. Thus, glycodelin had an immunomodulatory effect on T-helpers and Tregs formation. The vector of the obtained effects was immunosuppressive in nature and contributed to the suppression of the immune response to allogeneic cells.

Post Operative Outcome of Conventional Dacryocystorhinostomy with Mitomycin C and Without Mitomycin C

Background: Dacryocystitis is an inflammatory condition of the lacrimal sac, typically caused by obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct. The purpose of the study compares the results of intra operative Mitomycin C application in DCR surgery compared to external DCR without Mitomycin C. Materials and methods: This was randomized control trial. A total of 80 patients of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction were divided into 2 groups on the basis of simple random sampling. Group-1 contained 40 patients who received 0.02% solution of MMC at the osteotomy site during surgery and considered as the study group and group-2 contained another 40 patients who did not get MMC during surgery and considered as the control group. Patients were followed on 1st post-operative day, 1st week, 1-, 3-, 6- & 12-months interval. Patency of lacrimal passage was assessed by lacrimal syringing and patient’s symptoms were recorded on each follow up. Results: Data shows that there was statistically significant difference in the study showed 39 (97.50%) patients with patent lacrimal passage, only 1 (2.50%) patient was found blocked in their lacrimal drainage system in 1, 3, 6 Months and finally 1 year follow up time. On the other hand in control, 34 (85%) patients showed patency of the drainage system after 1 year and 6 (15%) patients showed blockage and this results was maintained up to 1 year follow up after treatment. During the follow up period, no complications such as abnormal nasal bleeding, mucosal necrosis or infection were noted in any patients. Conclusion: Distinctly higher success rates were achieved in patients undergoing DCR with intra operative MMC as compared to those undergoing external DCR. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 7(1), June 2024; 22-25

Study of the establishment of a guinea pig model of ocular accommodative spasm by carbachol eye drops.

To explore a method for establishing a model of ocular accommodative spasm in guinea pigs by using different concentrations of carbachol eye drops and different frequency of administration. Eighteen healthy guinea pigs were selected to establish models for both eyes. Guinea pigs were randomly divided into two groups. Group A was modeled with carbachol eye drops at a concentration of 2ml:0.1mg, and group B was modeled with carbachol eye drops at a concentration of 4ml:0.1mg. The two groups were further randomly divided into three groups according to the random number table method. Three groups of guinea pigs were established: In the A1, B1 group, the drug was administered one time/day; in the A2, B2 group, the drug was administered two times/day; and in the A3, B3 group, the drug was administered three times/day. Before modeling, retinoscopy optometry was performed on the guinea pigs without mydriasis and mydriasis, and a refractive state was recorded. On subsequent days, modeling was performed again, and carbachol eye drops were administered using the same administration times. Retinoscopy was performed in a dark room without mydriasis on days 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21, and the data were recorded. After optimizing the modeling method, the ciliary muscle tissue of the model guinea pig and normal guinea pig were obtained for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining of paraffin sections to compare the morphological differences under a light microscope. (1) There was no statistical significance in the interaction of time*0 d and time*drug frequency between group A and group B (P > 0.05). However, the main effect of different dose times varied between group A and group B (P < 0.05), and the modeling effect of three drops was better. (2) The overall modeling methods of groups A and B were not affected by the time factor, but three doses of carbachol eye drops achieved the best modeling effect on the 7th day, and the diopter of guinea pigs stabilized on the 14th and 21st days. (3) To further optimize the medication, the A and B groups were given three drops. On the 7th day, the refractive data of guinea pigs were compared between the groups, and the refractive status of the two groups of guinea pigs before modeling was compared within the groups. There was no statistical difference between the groups (P > 0.05), and there was a statistical difference within the groups (P < 0.05). (4) In the H&E staining of paraffin sections, the color of the ciliary muscle of the guinea pig with spasm of accommodation was darker than that of the normal guinea pig, and the myofilaments were more closely arranged. (1) Carbachol has the effect of contracting the ciliary muscle; (2) Three drops of 2ml:0.1mg or 4ml:0.1mg of carbachol eye drops can be selected for seven days for modeling.

More than a repository

The value of a university degree is increasingly under scrutiny, with concerns that technologies such as ChatGPT will diminish the need for distributed scholarly content. The challenges created by technology can also become opportunities, under the right circumstances (Dempere et al., 2023). In this project, we leveraged the emerging Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) to create a chatbot, to enable, rather than diminish, students’ learning. Students enrolled in a capstone research unit of Master of Advanced Practice (by coursework) are required to conduct a research project. Common challenges encountered by students include identification of project topic, digital literacy skills, research methodological knowledge, and research writing skills (Ginns et al., 2009; Li et al., 2019; Qasem &amp; Zayid; 2019; Stagg &amp; Kimmins, 2014). It is imperative to guide students to decide on an area of research that not only matches personal interest but also has clinical relevancy and significance. Delaying the identification of a feasible topic can cause students to experience anxiety and distress related to fear they are unable to complete their project on time (Qasem &amp; Zayid; 2019; Li et al., 2019). This project explored two aims: (1) to harness GenAI (Chatbot) for scalable student learning, and (2) to enrich students’ university experiences by providing a scaffolded research-focussed learning opportunity. The project was guided by the active digital learning pedagogy consisting of student-centredness, formative feedback, constructive alignment and flexible infrastructure (Røe et al., 2022). Using a mixed-method approach, the project had four stages. Stage 1 collated and synthesised former students’ project topics (Year 2014 to 2023). Stage 2 created, tested, and tuned a GenAI topic-bank/chatbot based on the collated 252 project topics from Stage 1. To achieve this, we collaborated with an AI Experience Strategist to create the project topic-bank/chatbot using Azure open AI (GPT-4 with AI Search) via the reactive Amazone web server Amazon. The chatbot was then tested and tuned to ensure consistency search outcomes. Stage 3 implemented the chatbot on the 1st day of semester by posting the link with user guide as learning resource for students, who enrolled into the capstone research project unit. Stage 4 evaluated the chatbot’s usability and effectiveness using a 9-item self-developed survey based on the active digital learning pedagogy (Røe et al., 2022) and a 11-item Bot Usability Scale (BUS) (Borsci et al., 2023). The BUS scale consists of 5 domains focusing on students’ perception of accessibility to chatbot functions, quality of chatbot functions, quality of conversation and information provided, privacy and security, and time responses. Two open-ended questions were used to narratively explore students’ overall experiences and suggestions to improve the chatbot. Our findings showcased students’ early engagement with the unit by interacting with the project topic-bank/Chatbot. This ameliorated the challenges described above, whereby students practised search skills by entering key concept as “prompts” of their area of interest for the prospective project topic. These prompts included specialty, population and/or main concept/variables. Search results of the chatbot facilitated students in identifying project topic and improved overall unit satisfaction and learning experience.

Aluminium nanoparticles (AL-NPs) caused gastrointestinal malformations, metabolic disorders and steatohepatitis in zebrafish larvae: Modulatory role of rosmarinic acid

Recently, nanomaterials including alumina have been extensively involved in aquaculture for many purposes resulting in potential hazards in fish. However, its effect on the developing metabolic organs and lipid metabolism remains unclear. This study, investigated the effects of aluminium nanoparticles (AL-NPs) on the metabolic organs of the growing zebrafish larvae including intestine, liver, and pancreas in addition to the potential ameliorative role of rosmarinic acid (RA) against AL-NPs - induced toxicity. Briefly, fertilized zebrafish eggs were divided into 4 groups. The 1st group was kept as a control. The 2nd group was exposed to RA (0.5 mg/L). The 3rd group was exposed to AL-NPs (160 mg/L). The 4th group received both RA and AL-NPs at the same concentrations from 1st day post fertilization (dpf) till the 14th dpf. Here, AL-NPs exposed group showed the highest mortality rate, external morphology defects and gastrointestinal malformations after larval-to-juvenile transition. Interestingly, mixing RA to AL-NPs significantly reduced these effects. Additionally, AL-NPs induced intestinal epithelium defects at the histological and genetic levels and abnormal lipid retention via up-regulation of the lipogenesis-related genes and down-regulation of the hepatic fatty acid β-oxidation. However, addition of RA to AL-NPs could reverse these effects. AL-NPs also induce inflammatory response and mediated endoplasmic reticulum ER and cellular oxidative stress indicated by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis which were then be reduced by RA. Collectively, AL-NPs were highly correlated with the induction of steatohepatitis and lipogenesis after the larval-to-juvenile transition and this could be relief in the presence of RA suggesting it as a promising nutrient for fish.

Modern aspects of treatment of acute tonsillopharyngitis

Introduction. Primary referral for infectious and inflammatory diseases of the pharynx reaches 30%.Aim. To study the effectiveness of ambazon in patients with acute tonsillopharyngitis.Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the SCDC Clinics of the Samara State Medical University and the CDC “Persona-Med” LLC in 75 patients (45.9 ± 11.2 years old) with acute tonsillopharyngitis (ATP). The main group (Group I, n = 48) additionally received ambazon, 1 tablet for resorption 15 minutes after meals 4 times a day for 4 days. The control group (Group II, n = 27) received symptomatic therapy. On the 1st, 2nd and 4th day, the complaint of sore throat was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS), the frequency of additional complaints, and the pharyngoscopic picture using a 4-point scale.Results and discussion. On the 2nd day, the severity of sore throat according to VAS in group I was 3.5 ± 0.2 points, in group II 4.9 ± 0.3 points (p &lt; 0.05). On the 4th day, the severity of sore throat in group I had lower values 1.1 ± 0.1 points, in group II 2.9 ± 0.1 points (p &lt; 0.05). On the 2nd day, complaints of a sensation of a foreign body in the oropharynx and discomfort when swallowing in group I amounted to 27.1% and 45.8%, and in group II 77.8% and 66.7%, respectively. The pharyngoscopic picture in group I was characterized by a decrease in the severity of edema and hyperemia of the pharyngeal mucosa (score of 1.3 ± 0.3 points and 1.1 ± 0.2 points), in group II 2.1 ± 0.3 points and 2.9 ± 0.4 points, respectively. On the 4th day, the pharyngoscopic picture in group I returned to normal, while in group II, hyperemia and edema of the mucosa and an increase in regional lymph nodes persisted.Conclusions. The use of ambazon in the treatment of ATP allows to reduce the severity of the pain symptom, reduce the frequency of additional complaints and normalize the pharyngoscopic picture.

Social isolation induces addictive behavior and increases release of dopamine in the &lt;i&gt;nucleus accumbens&lt;/i&gt; in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcing zone

The study of the role of social isolation in the pathogenesis of addictive behavior disorders is an important medical and biological problem. Of particular importance are the limitations of social experience in ontogenesis. This work makes an attempt to find a connection between social isolation in ontogenesis and impulsive-compulsive behavior, as an indicator of the premorbid background for gaming and other forms of behavioral addictions. The mechanisms of addictive behavior in rats reared in isolation (IS) were investigated by analyzing the extracellular release of dopamine in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcing zone. Before the experiments, male rats were kept in individual cages from the 21st day of birth to the 90th day. To study elements of addictive behavior, a variant of the Iowa Gambling Task in a 3-arm maze and a method of developing compulsive overeating using intermittent consumption of high-calorie foods were used. To study compulsive behavior, a marble test was used against the background of withdrawal from a high-calorie diet. Surgeries were performed to implant electrodes into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens in rats exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the 3-arm maze. These animals were then trained to respond to VTA self-stimulation. Dopamine release was recorded telemetrically in freely moving rats in response to electrical stimulation of the VTA self-stimulation zone. Fast scan cyclic voltammetry was used to determine changes in dopamine levels in the extracellular environment of the nucleus accumbens. IS entered less into the arm with a high degree of probability but with a low reward, and entered more in the arm with a low degree of probability, but with a high reward, which is associated with the appearance of impulsivity in behavior. In the model of compulsive overeating, the number of approaches to the feeder in IS increased, and against the background of withdrawal of high-calorie food, IS were more active in the marble test. In IS exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the 3-arm maze, the content of extracellular dopamine in response to electrical stimulation of the VTA self-stimulation zones did not reveal any differences compared to the control group of rats with addictive behavior in the maze. At the same time, IS exhibiting elements of addictive behavior in the maze showed a more pronounced dopamine response to a complex stimulus: a conditioned signal used during maze learning light + VTA stimulation. Thus, rearing in the IS causes an increase in dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens in response to stimulation of the positive reinforcement area associated with addictive behaviors: impulsivity and compulsivity. A conclusion is drawn about the prospects of studying the extracellular release of dopamine and assesses addictive behavior disorders caused by limited social contacts in ontogenesis.

Ameliorative effect of rutecarpine supplementation against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats via inhibition of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, high-mobility group box 1, and nuclear factor kappa B.

Cisplatin, the pioneering heavy metal compound, stands out as a potent drug for the treatment of various solid tumors. However, its clinical utility is hampered by notable toxicity and adverse effects, particularly nephrotoxicity. The potency of rutecarpine, a phytochemical, in mitigating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was assessed in the present study. In this experimental setup, healthy male Wistar rats were grouped into four and Group I rats served as the control group, receiving only vehicle control. Group II rats were subjected to cisplatin treatment alone, administered intraperitoneally at a dosage of 7mg/kg body weight on the 19th, 20th, and 21st days. Group III and IV rats were orally administered with rutecarpine at doses of 10 and 20mg/kg body weight, respectively, starting from Day 1 and continuing daily for 21 days. Additionally, they were injected intraperitoneally with cisplatin at the same dosage and schedule as Group II. Relative kidney weight and renal biochemical markers blood urea nitrogen, lactate dehydrogenase, serum urea, and creatinine were measured to assess rutecarpine inhibitory potency against cisplatin toxicity. Markers of oxidative damage and antioxidants levels were quantified in the ruteacarpine- and cisplatin-treated rats. The study investigated the anti-inflammatory property of rutecarpine in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by analyzing inflammatory cytokines. Renal tissue levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, high-mobility group box 1, and nuclear factor kappa B, key markers of nephrotoxicity, were quantified to assess rutecarpine's potential to mitigate cisplatin-triggered damage. Histopathological examinations were performed to confirm the impact of rutecarpine against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Treatment with rutecarpine notably reduced renal biochemical markers, prevented renal edema, and attenuated oxidative stress-induced damage in cisplatin-treated rats. Both inflammatory and nephrotoxicity markers showed significant decreases in rats treated with rutecarpine along with cisplatin. Histological analysis affirmed that rutecarpine pretreatment effectively prevented cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The study findings demonstrate that rutecarpine ameliorates cisplatin-triggered nephrotoxicity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that rutecarpine supplementation alongside cisplatin treatment could potentially reduce nephrotoxicity in cancer patients.

Genome Wide Association Analysis for Uniform Coleoptiles Emergence and Early Seedling Growth in Rice

Early seedling vigour (ESV) is a complex trait in rice. Detection of QTLs/genes controlling these traits can help us in enhancing the yield potential in rice varieties. Association mapping is a technique based on the principle of linkage disequilibrium that is used to find genes or quantitative trait loci (QTL) underlying the complex traits. In this study of haplotype breeding 281 rice genotypes were taken. ANOVA analysis showed P- value for traits and genotypes was found significant. Similarly, P-value for interaction between the traits and genotypes was also found to be highly significant (1.8663*10-208). Further, mean germination data positively correlated with mean shoot length, mean leaf number, mean culm diameter, mean shoot dry weight, and mean shoot area of 21st day among the 281 genotypes. Among the 281 number of genotypes, 111 genotypes are found to be in PCA1 and 170 genotypes are found to be in PCA2 based on the phenotypic analysis. PCA1 component constituted 29.93% and PCA2 constituted the 13.68% of total variation in the analysis. Besides, whole genome phylogenetic analysis showed three major groups of which Group 1 consists of 215 genotypes, group 2 consists of 38 genotypes and group 3 consists of 28 genotypes respectively. Especially, both the subgroups II and III comprised of the unique genotypes from the indica and aus subpopulations of rice. In this analysis, 16 significant associations (LOD Score &gt;7) for different traits were identified using the three different models (MLM, farmCPU, and blink) for GWAS studies Especially, one major QTL was identified for the mean coleoptiles’ emergence for 10 DAS on 11th chromosome (18983591) which explained 49% of the phenotypic variance. Additionally, another major QTL contributing to the shoot length variation of 29.75% was identified in the Chr02 (32954393) for shoot length trait on 28 DAS. A candidate gene namely Os02g0778400 UMP/CMP kinase A/adenylate kinase (LOC_Os02g53790) was located in the significant SNP region of the GWAS analysis. Further characterization of this gene would assist in elucidation of the mechanism regulating the early seedling length in rice under direct seeded rice.

Comparison of mean postoperative decrease in hemoglobin level in patients undergoing transurethral resection of prostate with and without preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine.

Objective: To determine and compare the mean decrease in hemoglobin level from the baseline value in patients undergoing TURP with and without preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine injection. Study Design: Analytical Cross Sectional study. Setting: Department of Urology, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad. Period: Nov 2023 to Feb 2024. Methods: After ERC approval and taking informed consent a total of 40 patients with enlarged prostate and scheduled for TURP, having comparable baseline clinical and laboratory characteristics such as age, preoperative prostate size and baseline hemoglobin were enrolled in the study &amp; were divided in two equal numbered groups called group A and group B, each having 20 patients in it. Before performing monopolar TURP group A patients were given 200mcg of intraprostatic epinephrine injection diluted in 20ml of normal saline (10ml in each right &amp; left lobe) under transrectal ultrasonic guidance via the transperineal route, while no such intervention was done before TURP in group B patients. One pint of whole blood was transfused to the patients of both the groups intraoperatively and blood samples were sent to laboratory on 1st post-operative day to determine the postoperative hemoglobin levels of patients of both the groups. Data was entered on the designated pro forma for analysis. Results: Postoperative hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in group A patients (mean and S.D 11.83 ±1.01 g/dl) as compared to the group B patients (mean and S.D 11.00 ± 1.06 g/dl) with a p value of 0.015, and hence drop of hemoglobin levels from the baseline values were lower in group A patients (mean and S.D 1.28 ± 0.89 g/dl) as compared to the group B patients (mean and S.D 2.31 ± 0.98 g/dl), confirming a statistically significant difference with p value of 0.001. Conclusion: The hemorrhage associated with TURP can be decreased significantly by giving preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine injection. This is a clinically safe technique that can not only reduce the postoperative blood transfusion requirements but can also allow the operating surgeon to resect more tissue within the desired time thus increasing the efficacy of TURP.

Bacillus Cereus Control Using Lactoferrin and/or Propolis Incorporated Carboxymethyl Cellulose Edible Coating in Chilled Beef Fillets

Background: Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) is a major food poisoning bacterium that resists high cooking temperatures. The aim of this study was to prepare Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) edible coats incorporated with lactoferrin, propolis and mixtures of them and evaluate their effects on B. cereu) experimentally inoculated in beef fillets stored in the refrigerator till spoilage. Methods: Prepare Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) edible coats incorporated with lactoferrin, propolis and mixtures of them and evaluate their effects on bacillus cereus that experimentally inoculated in beef fillets stored refrigerated till spoilage. Results: The results revealed a significant and gradual increase in B. cereus count from ~8 log CFU/g. In first day the count reached a population of 9.69±0.12 and 9.27±0.02 log CFU/gm. at 9th day of storage in un-coated group (BF/BC) and blank coated group (CMC/BF/BC), respectively. While coated groups showed a significant decrease in B. cereus count from ~8 log CFU/gm. in first day of inoculation to 5.80±0.1, 5.41±0.06, 5.11±0.02 in CMC/BF/BC/LF, CMC/BF/BC/PR and CMC/BF/BC/LF/PR groups, respectively. The groups with coated beef showed a significant decrease (P&lt;0.05) in B. cereus count from approximately 8 log CFU/g. On the first day of inoculation to 5.80, 5.41, and 5.11 in the Lactoferrin fortified CMC edible coating beef fillet, propolis fortified CMC edible coating beef fillet, and Lactoferrin/propolis fortified CMC edible coating beef fillet groups, respectively, on the 21st day of refrigerated storage. A synergistic antimicrobial effect between Lactoferrin and propolis was shown against B. cereus. Conclusion: It was revealed that CMC fortified with LF/PR plus its anti-B. cereus effect increased the shelf life and enhanced sensory profile of beef fillets during the 21 days of storage.

Construction and validation of a risk prediction model for postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with lung cancer.

This study aimed to analyze the risk factors for postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with lung cancer (LC) and construct a predictive model. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 192 elderly patients with LC who underwent surgical treatment in our hospital between February 2020 and May 2023. According to whether there is lung infection after surgery, they were divided into an infected group (n = 55) and a noninfected group (n = 137). Binary logistic regression was used to analyze factors influencing postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with LC. Based on the logistic regression results, a predictive model for postoperative lung infection in LC patients was constructed. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to analyze C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and their combination in predicting postoperative lung infection in patients with LC. There were significant differences between the infected group and the noninfected group in age, smoking history, diabetes, and perioperative antibiotic use were significantly different between the infected and noninfected groups (P < .05). The postoperative CRP, IL-6, and IGF-1 levels in the infected group were higher than those in the noninfected group on the 1st day (P < .05). Logistic regression analysis showed that age > 70 years, history of smoking, history of diabetes, prolonged use of perioperative antibiotics, and elevated CRP, IL-6, and IGF-1 levels on the 1st day after surgery were risk factors for postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with LC (P < .05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under curve values of CRP, IL-6, IGF-1, and their combination in predicting postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with LC were 0.701, 0.806, 0.737, and 0.871, P < .05), with sensitivity values of 0.443, 0.987, 0.456, and 0.835, respectively; the specificity was 0.978, 0.525, 0.991, and 0.821, respectively. Age > 70 years, smoking history, diabetes history, prolonged use of perioperative antibiotics, and elevated CRP, IL-6, and IGF-1 levels on the 1st day after surgery have an impact on postoperative lung infection in elderly patients with LC. Early postoperative monitoring of changes in CRP, IL-6, and IGF-1 levels can provide an important reference for predicting the occurrence of postoperative lung infections.

Assessment of Physicochemical attributes and variation in mass volume of Himalayan pears: Computer vision-based modeling

The current study attempts to examine the physicochemical properties of Himalayan pears and envision the relationship between mass and volume with various physical properties. These properties are measured using image processing techniques at different storage days (1st day, 4th day, 7th day, 10th day, and 13th day). The study employs both single and multivariable regression models, including linear, quadratic, rational, and exponential models to establish predictive relationships. Among the single variable models, the length-based linear and rational models demonstrated exceptional suitability for envisioning the mass and volume of pears, achieving higher R2 values of 0.92 and 0.90, respectively. For mass and volume prediction considering combined physical properties, the rational and exponential models exhibited the best fit with higher R2 values of 0.94 and 0.91, accompanied by low RMSE values of 0.217 and 0.141. Consequently, the established relationship between the mass and volume of Himalayan pears with its physical attributes contributes to the development of a faster, more authentic, and accurate grading system.

Preparation, antioxidant, antibacterial, and in vivo evaluation of pomegranate flower extract nanofibers based on thiolated chitosan and gelatin for treating aphthous stomatitis

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common condition that manifests as ulcerative lesions in the oral mucosa. In this study, bilayer, mucoadhesive nanofibers loaded with pomegranate flower extract (PFE) were prepared using thiolated gelatin (TGel) and thiolated chitosan (TCS) as the active layer and drug-free polycaprolactone (PCL) as the backing layer. Gelatin (Gel) and chitosan (CS) were successfully thiolated (proven by Ellman's assay, solubility, 1H NMR, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD) and electrospun into active nanofibrous layers with a diameter of 356.9 nm. The in vitro release assay showed extended release of PFE, reaching about 57 % drug release in 48 h, fitted to the Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics. FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD also showed the characteristic peaks of the nanofibers and their components. The nanofibers also exhibited significant hydrophilicity (contact angle of 47–49°), mucoadhesion (432.7), antioxidant capabilities (93.3 ± 0.2 %), and antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, PFE-loaded thiolated nanofibers significantly accelerated wound healing and epithelial tissue regeneration in vivo, reducing the ulcer area from 187 ± 19 mm on the 1st day to 68 ± 6 on the 7th day. Overall, bilayer PFE-loaded nanofibers based on TCS and TGel showed promising potential for treating RAS.

Effect of Calcium Formulations to Increase Yield and Shelf Life of Manjri Naveen Grapes

The application of Calcium at veraison stage maintain the quality of grapes. Hence to evaluate the effect of Calcium formulations for increasing yield and the shelf life of Manjri Naveen grapes. The experiment was designed as randomized block design (RBD) having seven treatments and four replications (1 replicate = 4 vines). Three calcium formulations were used i.e. CaCl2, CaO, Ca(No3)2 as a dose of (2.5 g/l) and (5 g/l). Foliar application of calcium was done 10 days before harvest at veraison stage. Results obtained from the experiment showed the lowest weight loss was found in bunches of calcium oxide and calcium chloride spray treatments (8.14 %), (8.61 %) respectively, while the highest weight loss (10.36 %) occurred in untreated control. The PLW increased significantly at successive from 1.32 % on 1st day to 10.36 % on 7th day of storage at room temperature. CaO at 5 g/l recorded the lowest fallen berries 2.70 (%), followed by Ca(NO3)2 at 2.5 g/l recorded 3.38 (%). It might be due to calcium accumulated mostly in the rachis and less in the flesh during grape berry development. Yield and quality components like bunch weight, berry weight, total yield/vine, TSS, TSS/Acidity ratio were significantly influenced by calcium spray. Hence from this study it is concluded that the foliar application of CaO at 5 g/l was found to be effective for increasing the shelf life and yield of Manjri Naveen grapes.

The Comparison of Two Multitasking Approaches to Cognitive Training in Patients after Coronary Bypass Surgery: Theta Activity Changes and &lt;i&gt;sLORETA&lt;/i&gt; Analysis Data

The study investigated the changes in theta activity and localization of its sources by standardized low resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) in patients who have underwent two variants of multitasking cognitive training (CT) in the early postoperative period of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Two groups were formed in a pseudo-random way, which differed according to the type of motor problem used: CT I (n = 27) – a postural balance task and CT II (n = 27) – a simple visual-motor reaction. Cognitive tasks were the same for both groups (counting backwards, verbal fluency, and unusual uses for common objects). Daily sessions of CT were held from the 3rd to 4th day after CABG, with a duration of 5 minutes on the 1st day of training and up to 20 minutes on the 6th to 7th day of training. The current density of theta rhythm sources was lower before CABG than after surgery in the CT II group only. The most significant differences are in the Brodmann area 31, the parietal occipital lobes and precuneus, which may indicate damage associated with cardiac surgery. This effect was not observed in the CT I group. The results of our study demonstrated the informativeness of sLORETA indicators to determine an effective cognitive recovery option after CABG. The reduction of the severity of damaging effects of CABG during training using cognitive tasks and postural balance task was shown. Further research is needed to determine the optimal mode and duration of cognitive training to maximize the functional reserves of such patients.