4th Week Research Articles

Activating PPARβ/δ-Mediated Fatty Acid β-Oxidation Mitigates Mitochondrial Dysfunction Co-induced by Environmentally Relevant Levels of Molybdenum and Cadmium in Duck Kidneys.

Cadmium (Cd) and high molybdenum (Mo) pose deleterious effects on health. Prior studies have indicated that exposure to Mo and Cd leads to damage in duck kidneys, but limited studies have explored this damage from the perspective of fatty acid metabolism. In this study, 40 healthy 8-day-old ducks were randomly assigned to four groups and fed a basic diet containing Cd (4mg/kg Cd) or Mo (100mg/kg Mo) or both. Kidney tissues were harvested on the 16th week. Results demonstrated that Cd and/or Mo inhibited mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation and disrupted mitochondrial dynamics, along with significant suppression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ) protein in duck kidneys. In vitro study, duck renal tubular epithelial cells were exposed for 12h to either Mo (480μM Mo), Cd (2.5μM Cd), and GW0742 (0.3μM, a potent agonist of PPARβ/δ) alone or in combination. The results demonstrated that Cd and/or Mo led to marked fatty acid oxidation deficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction and that PPARβ/δ protein was involved in the process. Altogether, this study found that activating PPARβ/δ-mediated fatty acid β-oxidation mitigates mitochondrial dysfunction co-induced by Mo and Cd in duck kidneys.

Effect of fasting on cardiovascular risk factors among healthy adult Muslims attending primary care, Kano, Northern Nigerian.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are among the most prevalent and preventable chronic diseases in the 21st century The global burden of disease: 2004 update. The Report in Sections. A person's risk of developing CVD can be reduced by adopting healthy lifestyles, spiritual and religious practices The American Heart Association Life's Simple 7 in African Americans of the Jackson Heart Study. Fasting as a spiritual practice is not exempted from these benefits. Most world's religions recommend a period of fasting. The obligatory Ramadan fasting in Islam may provide an interesting opportunity to reduce food intake and increase physical activity. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of Ramadan fasting on cardiovascular risk factors on healthy adult Muslims. The study was pre/post-test single arm intervention conducted at the staff clinic of Family Medicine department, AKTH, and Northwest, Nigeria. Kano. The study recruited healthy adults 18yrs and above not on any medications that can affect metabolic profiles consecutively from two weeks before Ramadan fasting of 2018 and the last week of Ramadan of the same year. The questionnaire included information on sociodemographic, clinical parameters and Lifestyle pattern. Thirty healthy volunteers were included in this study, 25 males (83.3%) and 5 females (16.7%). The mean age was 38.23 ± 6.35(SD). Twenty-five participants were married (83.3%) with 4 singles (13.3%) and 1 divorcee (3.3%). During Ramadan fasting, weight reduced (67.90 ± 11.61 versus 66.53 ± 12.13 4th week of Ramadan p-value < 0.002) Body Mass Index (22.89 ± 3.63 versus 4th week of Ramadan 22.38 ± 3.64 p-value < 0.002) and systolic blood pressure (120.33 ± 19.91versus 4th week of Ramadan 115.33 ± 14.32 p-value 0.003) reduced significantly compared to baseline. The waist circumference, pulse rate, fasting blood sugar and cholesterol were reduced but were not statistically significant. The result from this study suggested that Ramadan fasting may be a useful means of reducing burden of cardiovascular diseases, as the improved cardiovascular risk factors associated with fasting may translate into a significant health benefit.

Dietary Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) Root Powder on Growth and Blood Parameters of Cyprinus carpio (Common Carp)

Aims: The present study evaluated the effect of different levels of Withania somnifera root powder in fish formulated diets on the growth performance of economically important freshwater fish species in Asia Cyprinus carpio and compare the hematological changes occurred in fishes fed with control feed and herbal formulated diet. Study Design: The experiment was planned with the size group of 30.0±1.0g. Fish of the respective size group of Cyprinus carpio were subjected to different herbal formulated diets at a concentration 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% of Withania somnifera root powder extract through their diet, while the control group received a standard diet without any supplementation. Duration of Study: The study was conducted over a period of 4 weeks. Methodology: During which growth parameters such as Average Daily Growth, Specific Growth Rate and Absolute Growth Rate were monitored at regular (10 days) intervals. The blood samples were collected at 4th week from each group to assess hematological parameters including Red Blood Cell count, White Blood Cell count, Hemoglobin, Total Cholesterol and Total serum protein levels. The overall results revealed that the inclusion of Withania somnifera extract in the diet of Cyprinus carpio significantly influenced both growth and blood parameters. Results: Fish exposed to Withania somnifera extract exhibited enhanced growth performance compared to the control group, with increased Average Daily Growth, Specific Growth Rate and Absolute Growth Rate. Moreover, hematological analysis revealed positive effects on the blood parameters of treated fish, including improvements in Red Blood Cell count, White Blood Cell count, Hemoglobin, Total Cholesterol and Total serum protein levels. Conclusion: The overall results revealed that the inclusion of Withania somnifera extract in the diet of Cyprinus carpio significantly influenced both growth and blood parameters.

Relating normal human cardiac development to the anatomical findings in the congenitally malformed heart.

A proper appreciation of cardiac development can now provide the necessary background to understand the anatomical findings in the congenitally malformed heart. We recently presented an account of human cardiac development based on reconstructions of histological datasets from human embryos aged between 3.5 and 8 weeks subsequent to conception. In this review, we summarize the changes observed relative to the findings when the heart is congenitally malformed. Beginning at the stage when it is first possible to recognize the primary heart tube, we describe the looping of its ventricular component, which occurs in the 5th week. We proceed with discussion of the formation of the atrial and ventricular chambers in the 6th week. The phases are successive, albeit partially overlapping. Separation of the circulations at the venous pole is completed at stage 17, equivalent to almost 6 weeks of development. During stages representing the 7th week of development, we concentrate on the remodeling of the outflow tract. This involves initially septation, but then separation of the developing circulations. The changes involve incorporation of the proximal outflow tract into the ventricles, with formation of the arterial roots in its middle part, and addition of a distal non-myocardial component to produce the intrapericardial arterial trunks. We pay particular attention to the changes occurring during remodeling of the interventricular foramen. We show that an understanding of this process provides the basis for understanding the functionally univentricular heart, as well as the arrangement found in double outlet right ventricle.

Smartphone Application Intervention on Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among Overweight and Obese High-Tech Employees: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an adjusting lifestyle intervention with a smartphone application (app) in managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among overweight and obese high-tech employees. A 6-months three-armed randomized controlled trial was employed. A total of 144 eligible participants were randomly allocated into the smartphone app 'MyFitnessPal' plus education (MFPE; n = 48), 'MyFitnessPal'-only (MFP-only; n = 50) and the control group (n = 46) at a 1:1:1 ratio. The data were collected using related questionnaires and portable sleep monitor. Generalized estimating equation was used to analyze data. Results revealed that there was a significant interaction between time and group in BMI (Wald χ2 = 4.47, p = 0.04) in the MFPE after the 12th week of the intervention. Nevertheless, there was no significant interaction between group and time observed in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) score after 24 weeks of intervention. The adjustment lifestyle integrated with an app may offer a simple and cost-effective approach. The findings of this study may provide precious information for occupational healthcare providers, facilitating health promotion in the workplace for overweight employees with OSA.

Ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block with lidocaine vs. saline combined with physical exercises for the rehabilitation of supraspinatus tendinitis: a randomized double-blind controlled trial

IntroductionShoulder pain is the third leading cause of musculoskeletal complaints in primary care clinics. Its prevalence varies from 14% to 34%. Among all the structures that can cause shoulder pain, the most vulnerable to injury is the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle. The ideal management protocol is still unknown. To date, little is known in the literature about the use of ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block as a treatment for supraspinatus muscle tendinitis. Our objective was to assess the effects of the association of a single ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block combined with home-based rotator cuff exercises to reduce pain and improve shoulder functioning in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis.MethodsWe evaluated the effect of a single ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block on pain and functioning of people with supraspinatus tendinitis. Diagnosis was performed using the positive Jobe test. Due to large disparity between clinical and radiological findings, only clinical diagnostic criteria were used to select patients. This was a double-blind, randomized, controlled, clinical study in which patients in the intervention group (n = 42) received a single injection of 5 ml of 2% lidocaine, while in the control group (n = 41) patients underwent the same procedure receiving saline solution 0.9%. All patients received face to face instructions by an experienced physiotherapist and a leaflet explaining home-based exercises. Pain and functioning were assessed using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) questionnaire before the procedure, one week and 12 weeks after the procedure.ResultsPatients in both groups improved significantly since the initial evaluation until the 12th week. Intervention group SPADI (pre, 1 week, 12 weeks): 75.80 ± 18.96, 56.25 ± 31.37, 46.31 ± 31.41 (p &amp;lt; 0.001); Control group SPADI: 75.49 ± 16.67, 50.51 ± 27.58, 49.37 ± 30.90 (p &amp;lt; 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between groups (p = 0.291).Discussion/conclusionWe concluded that both lidocaine and saline ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve blocks reduce pain and improve shoulder functioning in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis. Unexpectedly, the same block performed with saline showed similar results and effects. Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier [NCT02495818].

Abstract 4136741: Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors and Lipid Reduction: A Network Meta-Analysis

Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors offer additional lipid reduction beyond that achieved with statins. However, the optimal PCSK9 therapy for lowering lipid levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia and/or hyperlipidemia on background statin therapy remains unclear. Methods: PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for RCTs assessing tafolecimab, evolocumab or alirocumab vs. placebo (administrated Q2W or Q4W, 12-week treatment) in patients with hypercholesterolemia and/or hyperlipidemia on medium-intensity statin up to March 28, 2024. The outcomes of interest were the percentage change in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) or lipoprotein(a) from baseline to the 12th week. A frequentist random-effect network meta-analysis was applied to calculate MD and 95% CI using Stata 16.0 software. Results: A total of 4960 patients [PCSK9 inhibitors (n=3230), placebo (n=1730)] across 13 RCTs were included. At week 12, tafolecimab, evolocumab and alirocumab (either Q2W or Q4W) all induced significant reductions in LDL-C levels compared to placebo ( Figure ). The efficacy of evolocumab Q2W was significantly higher compared with alirocumab Q2W (MD=-18.67%, 95% Cl [-29.59%, -7.74%]), while similar LDL-C reduction was observed in tafolecimab Q2W vs. alirocumab Q2W and evolocumab Q2W vs. tafolecimab Q2W. Furthermore, tafolecimab Q4W and evolocumab Q4W were more effective in lowering LDL-C levels compared to alirocumab Q4W (tafolecimab vs. alirocumab: MD=-23.66%, 95% Cl [-32.58%, -14.74%]; evolocumab vs. alirocumab: MD=-25.84%, 95% Cl [-34.21%, -17.46%]), while there was no difference between evolocumab Q4W and tafolecimab Q4W. Lastly, the ranking of the effects for reducing lipoprotein(a) levels was as follows: tafolecimab &gt; evolocumab&gt; alirocumab (either Q2W or Q4W). Conclusions: In patients with hypercholesterolemia and/or hyperlipidemia treated with medium-intensity statins, tafolecimab and evolocumab (either Q2W or Q4W) might be preferred choices for lowering LDL-C. Additionally, tafolecimab (either Q2W or Q4W) appears to be the most effective agent for reducing lipoprotein(a) levels.

Determination of the Prevalence of Postpartum Depression and Its Affecting Factors in Turkish Mothers and Syrian Refugee/Asylum Seeker Mothers.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression and the factors that influence postpartum depression in Turkish and Syrian refugee mothers. The participants were administered the Personal Information Form and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale in the 6th week of the postpartum period. While the number of Turkish mothers participating in the study was 66, the number of Syrian mothers was 71. The study was conducted in Çubuk Halil Şıvgın State Hospital in 2022. The postpartum depression prevalence was found to be 16.7% in Turkish mothers and 0% in Syrian mothers. Turkish mothers' postpartum depression mean score was found to increase due to factors such as being exposed to social violence by the spouse, having had an abortion before, having had a stillbirth before, living in a nuclear family, losing a child before, having an acute social problem in the postpartum period, having full-term delivery, and being primipara. Syrian mothers' postpartum depression mean score (p < .05) was found to increase due to factors such as having had an abortion before, experiencing problems during pregnancy, experiencing an acute social problem in the postpartum period, being primigravida, and losing a child before. The postpartum depression rate was found to be 2.29 times higher in Turkish mothers compared to Syrian mothers.

Histopathological and radiological evaluation of the efficacy of hydroxyapatite-boric acid and hydroxyapatite-magnesium coated Kirschner wires on fracture healing in femoral diaphyseal fractures: an experimental study.

Biomaterials used in fracture healing hold a significant place in orthopedics. This study aimed to develop biomaterials coated with hydroxyapatite (HA), boric acid (BA), and magnesium (Mg) and investigate their effects on fracture healing. Sixty female Wistar Albino rats were included in the study. The subjects were randomized into five groups. Cytotoxicity tests were performed on HA, BA, and Mg, and cell viability rates were calculated. Coatings were applied to Kirschner (K) wires at determined ratios. Group I was the control group with a steel K wire, Group II used HA-coated K wires, Group III used HA + BA-coated K wires, Group IV used HA + BA + Mg-coated K wires, and Group V used HA + Mg-coated K wires. A fracture was induced in the right femur of the subjects, followed by fixation with intramedullary K wires. The subjects were randomly divided into equal numbers and sacrificed at 6 and 12 weeks. Radiological and histopathological evaluations were performed. In direct cytotoxicity tests, the highest viability rate was observed in Group IV, while in indirect cytotoxicity tests, it was highest in Group II. In radiological evaluation at the 6th week, the highest scores were in Groups IV and V, while the lowest was in Group III. At the 12th week, the highest scores were in Groups II and V, while the lowest was in Group I. No significant differences were found between the groups (p = 0.837, p = 0.0479). In histopathological evaluation, a significant difference was observed between the groups (p < 0.001), with the highest scores in Group V. A correlation was found between the radiological and histopathological scores (p < 0.001, r = 0.438). It was found that HA + Mg significantly improved histological outcomes in fracture healing. Good histological results can be achieved with the use of Mg-containing implants in both early and late-stage fracture healing. Coating the biomaterials used in fracture fixation with Mg may lead to positive outcomes in fracture healing.

The Predictive Power of the Mother’s Neck Circumference in the Early Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a risk factor for the health of both the mother and fetus, responsible for a significant number of maternal, perinatal, and neonatal complications. Timely diagnosis and effective treatment can reduce the burden of the disease on the health of women and their infants during and after pregnancy. Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the predictive power of the mother’s neck circumference in the early diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted on 782 pregnant women with a gestational age of 16 weeks who visited health centers in Jiroft between 2020 and 2021. Neck circumference was measured in the 16th week of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with 75 grams of glucose at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Participants were selected using convenience sampling, and data were collected through interviews with the participants. Results: Among the 782 pregnant women, 179 were diagnosed with GDM, while 603 did not have GDM. The best cut-off point for neck size was determined to be 35.45 cm using the ROC curve. For the neck circumference test, sensitivity was 71.5%, specificity was 60%, positive predictive value was 34.8%, and negative predictive value was 87.7%. Conclusions: The findings indicate that a neck circumference greater than 35.45 cm in early pregnancy (16 weeks) can be considered a new diagnostic test for GDM. Early identification of women at risk should prompt necessary measures to reduce the complications associated with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Cariprazine in Hospital Treatment of Acute Psychotic Conditions Due to Comorbid Schizophrenia and Chemical Addictions

Background: endogenous psychoses complicated with different addictions have special psychopathological structure including delirious episodes, true hallucinations combined with typical positive symptoms of schizophrenia. These cases are difficult for treatment due to non-compliance of patients and their bad tolerance to drugs. The aim was to study the most effective psychopharmacological treatment using cariprazine for acute psychotic states in paranoid schizophrenia combined with chemical addictions. Patients and Methods: the study was conducted at psychiatric hospitals of Tomsk region, St. Petersburg, Nizhnevartovsk and Noyabrsk from 2018 to 2024. 208 men aged 18 to 45 years suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and dependent on psychoactive substances were examined. The main group made up 104 in-patients, who took cariprazine alone or in combination with haloperidol or chlorpromazine. The control group included 104 in-patients treated with other antipsychotics (aripiprazole, risperidone, olanzapine). Research methods: clinical and psychopathological, psychometric (PANSS, SANS, CGI, GAF), statistical (Python 3.11.0; R version 3.2.4; SPSS Statistics Base 22.0). Results: It was revealed that when comparing the control group with the main group, similar indicators were observed on the CGI and GAF scales on the 2nd week of the study, and on the 4th week of the study, compared with the control group, an improvement in indicators on the PANSS, SANS, CGI, GAF scales was observed. Conclusions: Cariprazine, compared with other atypical antipsychotics (risperidone, olanzapine, aripiprazole), showed a distinct antipsychotic effect in the treatment of acute psychotic states in patients with schizophrenia dependent on psychoactive substances. By the end of the 2nd week after hospitalization, when treating with cariprazine at an average dose of 3 to 6 mg/day in combination with typical neuroleptics (haloperidol, chlorpromazine) or a tranquilizer, the most pronounced antipsychotic effect is achieved. Subsequent isolated use of cariprazine at a therapeutic dose of 3–4.5 mg/day has an effect similar to that of leading atypical antipsychotics by the end of the 4th week of treatment. Unlike other atypical antipsychotics, cariprazine was more effective in the treatment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia, which made it possible to achieve an improvement in overall functioning, increase the duration of remission, and reduce the risk of rehospitalization and the development of hospitalism.

The treatment efficacy of 7.5% dapsone gel in papulopustular rosacea: a prospective study

Introduction Topical dapsone has a level A recommendation for the treatment of papulopustular rosacea; however, its treatment efficacy has not been studied previously. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical 7.5% dapsone gel applied once daily at night in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea. Patients and methods This is a prospective study including female papulopustular rosacea patients with a minimum IGA score of 2. The patients were recruited at two different outpatient clinics by two independent dermatologists. The patients were prescribed 7.5% dapsone gel (same brand) for once-daily use at night. No other topical or systemic treatment modalities were allowed to be used during the study except for a sun protection factor 50 sunscreen and an emollient face cream. The patients were evaluated with the total lesion counts and IGA scores at weeks 0, 4 and 8 by two independent dermatologists. The side effects of burning, stinging, pain, erythema, and exfoliation were questioned during the follow-up visits. Results All 32 recruited patients (18–70) completed the study. The mean lesion counts of the patients were 22.10 ± 8.95 on the initial visit, 11.90 ± 6.49 on the 4th week follow-up and 3.87 ± 3.76 on the 8th week follow up. The mean IGA scores of the patients were 3.06 ± 0.81 on the initial visit, 2.10 ± 0.87 on week 4 and 0.74 ± 0.73 on week 8. The decrease in the mean lesion count and IGA score of the patients in weeks 4 and 8 were statistically significant (p = 0.000 for all). This decrease was independent of the patient’s age (p > 0.005). No side effects were reported. Conclusions The 7.5% topical formulation of dapsone is effective for papulopustular rosacea both on the first and second months of the treatment regardless of the age of the patient. Its safe side effect profile suits for a comfortable use in rosacea patients with a decreased skin tolerance.

District Level Crop Weather Calendars and Advisories for Kharif Rice in Odisha, India

The crop weather calendar is a visual depiction of key facts about crop growth phases, typical crop water requirements, and alerts that should be sent out in response to weather that is conducive to the spread of pests and diseases. Farmers and other stakeholders may successfully plan crops, schedule irrigation, and take plant protection measures by using these calendars, which are practical and helpful tools for farmers. The crop weather calendars are prepared in different languages for better understanding to farmers and explain the usage importance and plan farm operation and activities by taking decisions as per the prevalent crop weather conditions in fields. It plays a vital role for important crops and various varieties through research &amp; development-based process at village/ panchayat level. It also helpful for improving the quality of medium range weather forecast based on Agro-Advisory Services (AAS). The AAS provides strategies based on weather for crop and livestock management to increase production and food security. The AAS has been useful to advise farmers regarding farm operations to manage the inclement weather for effective crop production in the changing environment. The Research was carried out on the studies of crop weather calendar on Rice crop in different districts of Odisha by All India co-ordinated research project on Agrometeorology, Bhubaneswar centre with the support of Agro Meteorological Field Unit (AMFU). It has been prepared with an objective to study climate normal of past 30 years from (1993-2023). Climatic data of Rice crop in Kharif season has been taken 25th SMW to 42nd SMW for medium duration (125 days) and 26th to 49th SMW for long duration (150 days) Rice crop in both English and Odia (local) languages for the coastal districts i.e (Khordha, Puri, Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur) of Odisha. From the crop weather calendar the medium duration of rice crop, it was found that for sowing to seeding the mean temperature is 290C, before the transplanting and the water requirement of 670-690 mm is found congenial for better yield of the crop. The growth of the crops severely affected where the temperature falls below 200C, for high yielding of Rice crop during the kharif season the favourable weather conditions are Tmax: 300C, Tmin: 260C, Rainfall: 78 mm to 110 mm during the 29th to 30th week with RH 87%. For the pest likes stem borer and leaf folder the congenial weather conditions are Temperature :20 to 300C, RH:87%, Wind speed (Km/h) &lt;5 and Rainfall: 00-30 mm. Similarly for Blast and BLB diseases, the favourable conditions during the 28th-31st week to 48th week, when the temperature range 20-300C, RH=&gt; 90 %, Wind speed &lt; 5 (Km/h) RH:30-50%. It has been found that the severity of pest and diseases increases with decreases in temperature and High RH and very low rainfall.

Comparison of high intensity laser therapy and extracorporeal shock wave in treatment of lateral epicondylitis: a randomized controlled study.

This study aims to evaluate and compare the short-term efficacies of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and ESWT(focused) on pain, sensitivity, handgrip strength and functions, in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis (LE). Fourty seven patients (age range, 18 to 65 years) with unilateral elbow pain were randomized into two groups. HILT group (n = 24) and ESWT group(n = 23). The HILT and ESWT were administered three times a week for three weeks, and each treatment was combined with exercises. All paticipant in both of two groups were evaluated with ultrasonography for common extansor tendon thickness. A visual analog scale (VAS), quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QDASH), hand grip strength test were used to evaluate the patients before, one and six weeks after treatment. There were significant improvement in VAS, hand grip strength, QuickDASH scores and CET thickness before and after treatment in both group(p < 0,05). But there were no significant differences between the groups pre-treatment, at the 1st week, and 6th week after treatment (p > 0.05). Only hand grip strength was smilar to the pretreatment outcomes in HILT group. Both treatment methods were found to be effective and safe in the short-term treatment of LE. Consequently, these non-invasive, effective and safe techniques can be successfully used in the treatment of common pathology of the elbow.

Comparison of Different Antibiotic Alternatives for Safe Broiler Production

The use of growth-promoting antibiotics in broiler feed, once widespread, is now recognized as risky due to antibiotic resistance and residue concerns in meat. To mitigate these risks, the goal of this study was to compare different alternative additives like organic acids, neem, enzymes, and probiotics for producing a safe broiler. A total of 360 Cobb-500-day-old broiler chicks were indiscriminately assigned into six treatment groups, i.e., Control (T1), Basal feed + Antibiotic (T2), Basal feed + Organic acid (T3), Basal feed + Enzyme (T4), Basal feed + Probiotic (T5), and Basal feed + Medicinal plant (T6) having four replications of 15 birds in each. During the experiment, significant differences (P &lt; 0.05) in body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) among the experimental groups were observed only in the 5th week. At the end of the study, the highest BW, BWG, and FCR were found in organic acid, followed by the enzyme, antibiotic, probiotic, neem, and control group. There were no significant differences (P &gt; 0.05) in BW, BWG, and FI among the dietary groups during the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th weeks. No significant differences (P &gt; 0.05) in meat yield (drumstick meat, thigh meat, wing weight, and breast meat), bone development, and dressing parameters were observed among the dietary groups. Supplementation of different additives significantly (P &lt; 0.05) affects cholesterol and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase content, whereas HDL, LDL, triglyceride, GPT, and creatinine were not affected among the groups. The neem and organic acid groups had the lowest cholesterol and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase values, respectively, compared to the others. It can be concluded that supplementing organic acid, probiotics, enzymes, and neem enhanced the growth performance, carcass quality, and blood biochemical profiles of the broilers, potentially serving as antibiotic alternatives. Mainly, the organic acid gives the best results among all the antibiotic alternatives.

The Interaction of Apical Periodontitis, Cigarette Smoke, and Alcohol Consumption on Liver Antioxidant Status in Rats

This study aimed to investigate the impact of alcohol (A), secondhand cigarette smoking (ShS), and their combined effect on liver antioxidant activity and hepatic damage in rats with induced apical periodontitis (AP). Thirty-five female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups (n = 7): (1) control (rats without ShS, alcoholic diet, or AP), (2) control-AP (induced AP only), (3) ShS-AP (ShS exposure and induced AP), (4) A-AP (alcoholic diet and induced AP), and (5) A+ShS-AP (alcoholic diet, ShS exposure, and induced AP). Alcohol was administered through semi-voluntary intake, while ShS exposure involved the daily inhalation of cigarette smoke. The experimental period lasted 8 weeks, with AP induction occurring in the 4th week following molar pulp exposure. Liver samples were collected post-euthanasia for histomorphometric and antioxidant marker analyses. All AP-induced groups exhibited increased liver sinusoidal dilation compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). AP significantly reduced total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) across all groups (p &lt; 0.05). In AP-induced groups, FRAP levels were further decreased in ShS-AP and A+ShS-AP compared to control-AP (p &lt; 0.05). AP also led to a decrease in the glutathione defense system (p &lt; 0.05). Rats with alcohol exposure (A-AP and A+ShS-AP) showed reduced glutathione peroxidase activity (p &lt; 0.05). Glutathione reductase activity was comparable in the control and control-AP groups (p &gt; 0.05), but significantly decreased in the alcohol and ShS-exposed groups (p &lt; 0.05). Apical periodontitis can relate to morphological changes in the liver’s sinusoidal spaces and impairment of liver’s antioxidant capacity of rats, particularly when combined with chronic alcohol consumption and exposure to cigarette smoke.

Efficacy of Olmesartan/Amlodipine Single-Pill Combination on 24-h Mean Systolic Blood Pressure Measured by Ambulatory Monitoring in Non-Responders to Valsartan or Candesartan Monotherapy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of olmesartan/amlodipine (OLM/AML) single-pill combination (SPC) therapy using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in non-responders to valsartan or candesartan monotherapy. Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is the most prevalent form of hypertension in middle-aged and elderly individuals. Patients aged over 55 years who did not achieve the target systolic blood pressure (SBP < 140mmHg) with valsartan 80mg or candesartan 8mg for at least 4 weeks were included. Doses were escalated from 20/5mg to 40/5mg and finally to 40/10mg of OLM/AML SPC until patients reached the target SBP. Efficacy was assessed via ABPM by comparing baseline values with those in the 12th week. Office blood pressure (OBP) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were assessed at baseline, weeks 4, 8, and 12. Fifty-four patients (average age 64 ± 6 years; 33 males) participated. The 24-h mean BPs decreased significantly from an average of 146.2 ± 12.7/93.3 ± 9.2mmHg to 129.7 ± 14.3/83.4 ± 10.7mmHg (p < 0.001), and pulse pressures (PPs) from ABPM were reduced (p < 0.001). Additionally, significant reductions in night-time SBP standard deviations (SDs) (14.7 ± 4.7vs. 12.5 ± 3.9, p = 0.029) were observed at 12 weeks compared to baseline. OBPs significantly dropped from 151.1 ± 9.7/89.3 ± 8.3mmHg to 125.5 ± 13.8/77.8 ± 8.8mmHg after 12 weeks of SPC therapy (p < 0.001). Reductions in PPs of OBP and baPWVs were also observed. OLM/AML SPC therapy effectively reduced the 24-h mean BP, as measured by ABPM, in hypertensive patients over 55 years old who failed to achieve a target SBP (< 140mmHg) with angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) monotherapy using valsartan 80mg or candesartan 8mg. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01713920.

Effectiveness of telerehabilitation-based mckenzie method versus manual therapy in low-back pain management: a randomised controlled trial

Abstract Background Studies comparing the effectiveness of telerehabilitation and spinal manual therapy (SMT) for chronic non-specific low-back pain (NSLBP) are limited. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of the telerehabilitation-based McKenzie therapy (TBMT) and SMT among patients with NSLBP. Methods Forty-nine consenting patients randomised into either TBMT (n = 28) or SMT (n = 21) group completed the study. TBMT is a mobile phone-based telerehabilitation involving the ‘McKenzie extension protocol’. SMT is a grade II (10 oscillations) posterior-anterior central vertebral pressure on the offending spinous process. Both interventions were applied thrice weekly for eight weeks, and outcomes were assessed on Pain Intensity (PI), Activity Limitation (AL), Participation Restriction (PR), and Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in the fourth and eighth weeks. Results Within-group comparison across baseline, 4th and 8th week indicate that SMT had a significant effect on PI (F = 132.804, p = 0.001), AL (F = 75.984, p = 0.001), PR (F = 99.428, p = 0.001) and for all the scales of SF-12 except for mental health domain (p &gt; 0.05). Similarly, TBMT had a significant effect on PI (F = 243.631; p = 0.001), AL (F = 85.930; p = 0.001), PR (F = 48.425; p = 0.001), and for all the scales except also for mental health domain (p &gt; 0.05). However, there were no significant differences (p &gt; 0.05) in the treatment effects between SMT and TBMT, except for the ‘health perception’ (p = 0.045) scale at week four and the ‘mental health’ scale (p = 0.023) at week eight. Conclusion Telerehabilitation-based McKenzie method and SMT are effective in chronic NSLBP, with TBMT leading to significantly higher long-term health perception improvement. Trial Registration Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202010667228786), Registered 27 October 2020-Retrospectively registered.

A Comparative Study of AEFI (Adverse Events Following Immunization) in BCG Vaccinated Children at Birth and at 6 Weeks

Background: Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) is not uncommon following BCG vaccination. However, incidence of post vaccination adverse event in relation of time of administration are not elucidated yet in our perspective. Therefore, the study was designed to observe AEFIs following BCG vaccination at birth and at 6 weeks. Methods: This hospital based Comparative observational study was conducted at the EPI center, Department of Paediatrics in Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College &amp; Hospital, for a period of 12 months from January 2019 to December 2019. Child attending in the EPI center for vaccination was approached for inclusion following consenting their parents. Results: Among the child who received BCG vaccination at birth there were 65.3% males and 34.7% were female while at 6 weeks group-male vs female was 57.3 vs 42.7%. No significant difference was noted across the group (p&gt;0.05). Development of redness, ulceration and scarring at inoculation site were almost present in all cases in both groups but these developed earlier who took at 6th week. No incidence of post vaccination abscess, lymphadenitis, osteomyelitis and disseminated BCG disease in both groups. Conclusion: This study found no adverse effects following BCG immunization but redness, ulceration and scarring appeared earlier in 6th week group. However, further studies are needed to establish and use the findings.

Randomized Clinical Study of Nano-Cerium Oxide and its Efficacy in Sciatic Nerve Regeneration: A Histopathological Evaluation

Background: Peripheral nerve damage is a frequent clinical condition. peripheral nerve injuries are variable, and these injuries are mostly caused by trauma. Blunt trauma has many types, including contusion, laceration, stretching, traction, penetrating and perforating injuries, abnormal sleeping positions, external pressure, internal compression, ischemia. Cerium oxide nanoparticles are used widely in the materials field. Besides their material applications. Objective: this study was examining how cerium oxide nanoparticles impact axonal regeneration of the sciatic nerve in rats. Materials and Methods: 24 adult animals used, weighing average (M±SD: 230 ± 20 g). The animals were separated into two group. The first group (control) was left without treatment, The second group (Nano cerium Oxide) was treated orally with 50 mg of Nano cerium oxide daily for 7 days. Right Sciatic nerve was completely transected in all animals. The result evaluated at 4th, 8th and 12th weeks post-operative. Results: The histopathological results, indicated that the high effective result in the second group, then the control group. The control group has a significant nerve damage and some regenerative signs over time. While there are indications of severe damage particularly at 4 and 8 weeks, then presence of almost normal nerve fibers at 12 weeks suggests partial recovery. Conclusion: Nano Cerium Oxide accelerated the regeneration of the peripheral nerves These findings suggest that this nanoparticle could can be seen as a novel therapy for promoting the regeneration of the nervous system.