28th Day Research Articles

Experience with the use of hyaluronic acid solution (Diart) in the treatment of patients with degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint

Background. Degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the joints are chronic progressive pathological conditions, accompanied by such features as presence of pain syndrome, impaired functional capacity, muscle weakness, deformation and instability of the joints. The high prevalence of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint necessitates the search for optimal non-invasive treatment methods. Objectives. This study aims to analyze the clinical results of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid solution (Diart) in the treatment of patients with II–III stages of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint. Materials and methods. The clinical results of 30 patients with II–III stages of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint were analyzed. The group included 11 (36.67%) males and 19 (63.33%) females. The mean age of group was 61.43±7.98 years. All patients underwent a course of drug therapy using hyaluronic acid solution (Diart), which included 3 intra-articular injections of the drug, which were performed with the 7-day interval. Clinical results were evaluated at the initial visit, at 7, 14, 30 and 90 days after the first injection of Diart by objective examination of patients and analysis of subjective data using the WOMAC questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica 13 software package. Results. The high effectiveness of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (Diart) in the treatment of patients with II-III stages of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint and the absence of complications associated with intra-articular injection of the drug have been established. Signs of post-injection sy- novitis, discomfort, swelling or other unpleasant sensations weren’t observed in any of the examined patients. Comparing the results established during remote period, on the 90th day of observation, and indicators determined at the initial visit, we proved a decrease in the intensity of the pain syndrome in the hip joint by 30.35%, in stiffness — by 29.57%, an improvement in the indicators characterizing the functional capacity by 21.34 % and the total values of the WOMAC index — by 27.37%, after a treatment course using Diart. Conclusion. The high efficiency of using intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid solution (Diart) in the treatment of patients with II–III stages of degen- erative-dystrophic diseases of the hip joint has been proven.

Characterization of Root Hair Curling and Nodule Development in Soybean-Rhizobia Symbiosis.

Soybean plants form symbiotic nitrogen-fixing nodules with specific rhizobia bacteria. The root hair is the initial infection site for the symbiotic process before the nodules. Since roots and nodules grow in soil and are hard to perceive, little knowledge is available on the process of soybean root hair deformation and nodule development over time. In this study, adaptive microrhizotrons were used to observe root hairs and to investigate detailed root hair deformation and nodule formation subjected to different rhizobia densities. The result showed that the root hair curling angle increased with the increase of rhizobia density. The largest curling angle reached 268° on the 8th day after inoculation. Root hairs were not always straight, even in the uninfected group with a relatively small angle (<45°). The nodule is an organ developed after root hair curling. It was inoculated from curling root hairs and swelled in the root axis on the 15th day after inoculation, with the color changing from light (15th day) to a little dark brown (35th day). There was an error between observing the diameter and the real diameter; thus, a diameter over 1 mm was converted to the real diameter according to the relationship between the perceived diameter and the real diameter. The diameter of the nodule reached 5 mm on the 45th day. Nodule number and curling number were strongly related to rhizobia density with a correlation coefficient of determination of 0.92 and 0.93, respectively. Thus, root hair curling development could be quantified, and nodule number could be estimated through derived formulation.

Comparative Study of Lactogenic Effect and Milk Mutritional Density of Oral Galactagogues in Female Rabbit.

Hypogalactia and agalactia in lactating mothers are the major causes of child malnutrition, mortality, morbidity, and overall ill health. The development of such treatments requires a well-designed preclinical study with suitable laboratory animals, which needs to be improved. Thus, a suitably designed study with a laboratory animal to analyse galactagogue activity, along with an assessment of the quality and quantity of milk, is required. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of rabbits as an animal model for studying lactogenic activity. The structural homology of prolactin, prolactin, and prolactin in humans, rabbits, and rats was studied using BLAST and PyMol to assess similarity in the lactogenic system. Daily and cumulative milk production and pre-treatment (control) and post-treatment (three drugs) in rabbits were recorded and evaluated by analysing protein, fat, lactose, solid non-fat, and ash values. All parameters were recorded on the 0th day and at the end of weeks 1, 2, and 3. Mammary gland histopathology was performed to evaluate the effects on mammary glands. Homology studies revealed that the sequences of the human and rabbit prolactin genes, receptors, and hormones had a high similarity index. Treatment with Domperidone, Metoclopramide, and Shatavari significantly enhanced milk production by enhancing prolactin secretion; only Shatavari increased milk nutrition. Enlargement of the tubuloalveolar ducts of the mammary glands was observed. Our findings suggest that rabbits are robust, reproducible, ethically superior, and preclinically relevant animals for assessing lactogenic activity.

Characterization of fresh biowastes for biogas production and environmental health in Niger Delta, Nigeria

BackgroundEnvironmental pollution is a public health problem in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to: identify the major fresh biowastes in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta; quantify the biogas yields from mono-digestion and co-digestion of identified biowastes; determine the first day of biogas production during hydraulic retention time; assess pH variations during anaerobic digestion; and evaluate biogas flame colours.MethodsFifteen communities in Bayelsa State were randomly selected, and on-the-spot assessment and quantification of the biowastes found in each community were carried out daily per week. Mono-digestion of 20 kg of each biowaste and co-digestion of 10 kg of animal waste with 10 kg of plant waste were carried out respectively under anaerobic conditions. Cumulative biogas yield and pH were measured using a pH meter and weighing scale respectively. Biogas flame colours during combustion were visually assessed.ResultsExactly 120.61 metric ton of fresh biowastes was found to be generated per week in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. Industrial biowastes were the highest [47.6 tonnes, (39.46%)], followed by abattoir biowastes [33 tonnes (27%)], market and roadside sellers biowastes [25.5 tonnes (21.14%)], and farm biowastes [14.51 (12.03%)]. Biogas yields (kg) were: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 17, 14, 2, 18, 16, 17, 15 and 1 kg for palm oil mill effluent (POME), orange fruit waste (OFW), pineapple peels (PP), plantain peels, cassava mill effluent (CME), rumen digesta (RD), cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-rumen digesta, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage respectively. The first day of biogas production for RD, cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-RD, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage was on the 6th, 32nd. 56th, 1st, 26th, 18th, 25th, and 60th day of hydraulic retention time respectively. A dominant blue flame colour mixed reddish yellow or orange flames were found during biogas combustion. A slight increase in pH was found in all the biodigester media.ConclusionsIn the present study, a variety of biowastes yielding various quantities and qualities of biogas were identified in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. The study’s findings have provided evidence-based data that might be explored as a road map and catalyst for policy creation against inadequate biowaste management and as sustainable alternatives to the expensive liquefied petroleum gas. The potential of current research study to be scaled up for commercial use is implicated in the present study.

Structural and sensory impact of various emulsifiers in cocoa hazelnut spread formulations.

In this study, the effects of emulsifiers such as lecithin, AMPs, Palsgaard® Oil-Binder and GMS on cocoa hazelnut spread rheology were compared under the same process conditions and formulation. Emulsifiers were added to the formulation separately at rates of 0.3%-0.4%-0.5%. Hardness values in cocoa hazelnut spread were examined at 15-day intervals until the 60th day. In addition, viscosity, rheological analyses, color, spreadability, stability tests, and sensory analyses were performed. In the production of cocoa hazelnut spread, lecithin and AMP have less hardness and lower viscosity, greater fluent consistency, better spreadability, and lower "work of shear" values compared with other emulsifiers. The emulsifier type/ratio difference did not affect the color value statistically. It was determined that the use of Oil-Binder and GMS significantly protected the stability compared with other emulsifiers. During the 60-day storage period, lecithin preserved its hardness properties better than other emulsifiers. When sensory properties were examined, the use of lecithin and AMP in cocoa hazelnut spread samples scored high in brightness, spreadability, mouthfeel, and taste parameters. As a result, lecithin comes to the fore in the use of different types and ratios of emulsifiers in cocoa hazelnut spread production technology.

Correlation of Silage Feeds to Blood Biochemical Parameters in Saanen Goats

This paper presents the results of monitoring blood biochemical parameters of Saanen goats when using some types of silage. The study was conducted on 40 Saanen goats 6-12 months old, with an average weight of 17.5 kg, raised at the Center for Livestock Biotechnology. The goats were completely randomized in blocks into 3 treatments (NT); NT1: pseudo-silage cashew nuts, NT2: silage cassava pulp and NT3: silage corn stalks and leaves and 1 control group (using standard feed at the center). Blood samples were taken by jugular vein puncture of each animal in the morning, before feeding on days 1, 45 and 90 of the experiment. Blood biochemical indices: Glucose, Protein, Albumin, Globulin, BUN, Creatinine, AST, ALT, ALP, electrolyte index (Na, K, Ca, P) were measured by Abaxis Vetscan 2 chemical analyzer. Biochemical parameters of the control group and the 3 treatments 1, 2, 3 on the 90th day were respectively Glucose was 4.56 ± 2.86; 4.59 ± 3.84; 4.38 ± 3.88; 4.42 ± 3.18 mmol/l; Protein was 76.83 ± 8.56; 77.56 ± 6.82; 77.36 ± 7.96; 78.35 ± 8.38 g/l. The results of the evaluation of blood biochemical parameters of Saanen goats were all at normal levels when using silage rations. There was no statistical difference between the experimental and control groups. The results confirmed that the use of supplementary silage in Saanen goat farming did not affect blood biochemical indices. These data are useful for further studies on other ruminants, suggesting the use of silage in goat farming from agricultural by-products.

The effects of zinc citrate, selenium citrate, and germanium citrate on hematological parameters of rabbits under heat stress

Background. The environmental crisis has affected the annual ambient tempera­ture increase, adversely affecting the mammalian body. Due to their lack of sweat glands, Rabbits are more sensitive to heat stress than other animals. The effect of elevated ambient temperatures on the rabbit body leads to violations of blood parame­ters, endocrine regulation, immune and reproductive function, which reduces their productivity and increases animal mortality. Particular attention is now paid to the study of organic compounds of trace elements, which are characterized by high physiological activity, are non-toxic, have a wide range of biological effects, and have a positive impact on reducing the negative effect of elevated ambient temperatures on animals. However, their action depends on the element and its applied quantity. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of zinc citrate, selenium citrate, and germanium citrate on changes in the number of blood cells in rabbits to mitigate the effects of heat stress. Materials and methods. The studies were conducted on young analog rabbits of the Termon White breed from 35 to 78 days of age. The rabbits were kept indoors at elevated ambient temperatures from 28.9 to 30 °C and relative humidity from 78.1 to 87.4 %. Animals of the control group were kept on the main diet with feeding of standard balanced granulated compound feed and water without restriction. Rabbits of groups I, II, and III of the study groups consumed the same compound feed as in control, but within 24 hours, they received water: group I – zinc citrate – 60 mg Zn/L or 12 mg Zn/kg of body weight; group II – selenium citrate – 300 μg Se/L or 60 μg Se/kg of body weight; group III – germanium citrate – 62.5 μg Ge/L or 12.5 μg Ge/kg of body weight. Using individual drinkers for each animal and placing the animals in different cages allowed us to control the amount of water consumed by each rabbit. Blood for the study was selected for supplementation on the 14th day of the prepara­tory period and the 14th and 29th days of the study period. During the study period, the room temperature was monitored, taking into account the temperature and humidity index. Results. The addition of micronutrient citrates to the diet of rabbits during 29 days of study under heat stress caused haematological changes in indicators compared to the control: the number of erythrocytes in the blood of rabbits of experimental groups I and II increased by 16.4 and 13.6 % and 19.9 and 14.5 % on day 14 and 29, respectively, in group III by 15.3 % on day 14; the haemoglobin content of groups I, II and III increased by 20.8, 21.6 and 19.5 % on day 14 and 11.1, 12.5 and 9.7 % on day 29; haematocrit value of groups I and II increased by 24.1 and 15.7 % and 21.1 and 16.5 % during the study, group III by 18.6% on day 14; the number of leukocytes of groups I, II and III decreased by 13.1 and 8.3 %; 11.2 and 10.4 % and by 11.4 and 9.3 % on days 14 and 29; the number of lymphocytes of groups I, II and III decreased by 25.9, 27.3 and 29.0 % on day 14 and by 20.4, 21.7 and 16.0 % on day 29; the number of monocytes of groups I and II increased by 14.8 and 21.3 % and 17.0 and 18.3 % over 29 days; the number of platelets in animals of group II decreased by 29.4 % on day 29, the average volume of red blood cells increased by 11.6 and 14.6 % on days 14 and 29 of the experiment. Conclusions. Adding micronutrient citrates to the rabbit diet mitigated the effects of heat stress on the body. The effect of these additives on animals resulted in significant changes in the hematological parameters of the rabbits’ blood, of which the best results were observed under the influence of selenium citrate (60 μg Se/kg body weight) and zinc citrate (12 mg Zn/kg body weight): red blood cell count (p &lt;0.05–0.01), leukocyte (p &lt;0.05–0.01), lymphocyte (p &lt;0.05–0.01), monocyte (p &lt;0.05–0.01), haemoglobin content (p &lt;0.01–0.001), haematocrit value (p &lt;0.01), compared to the control. Feeding germanium citrate led to less pronounced changes in these blood parameters.

Intelligent locust bean gum-k-carrageenan nanofibrous mats with Rosa canina petal anthocyanins and chitosan nanoparticles: Preparation, characterization, and application for monitoring of beef meat freshness

The objectives of the present experiment were to add Rosa canina petal extract (RCE, 3.5%) and chitosan nanoparticles (CNP, 1.5%) into the locust bean gum-kappa-carrageenan (LBG-KC) nanofiber mats and to examine their utilization for the freshness tracking of beef meat during the 6-day storage period. The surface morphology analysis of nanofibers using the scanning electron microscope showed that all developed nanofibers were cylindrical, uniformly disordered network structures with smooth surfaces. The tensile strength, elongation at break, water vapor permeability, water solubility, and moisture content of RCE/CNP-loaded nanofiber mats were recorded to be 10.00–31.77 MPa, 16.55%–22.98%, 5.04–9.18 × 10‾5 g mm/m2 h Pa, 3.80%–10.08%, and 2.10%–4.89%, respectively. The LBG-KC + RCE 3.5% and LBG-KC + RCE 3.5% + CNP 1.5% nanofibers were red, dark blue, green, and brown at pH values 1–6, 7–8, 9, and 10–12, respectively. After 4 days of beef meat storage at refrigerated conditions, the total viable count, pH, and total volatile basic nitrogen were 7.24 log CFU/g, 7.11, and 28.89 mg N/100 g, respectively. Moreover, on the 0th day, the pH-sensitive indicators presented a white color and after 4 days of meat storage, the indicator color changed to dark blue, which could indicate beef meat spoilage.

An exploratory single-arm open-label clinical study to evaluate the combined effect of Vamana and Sarasvata Churna in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness

BackgroundExcessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) is inferred as persistent sleepiness and often a general lack of energy during the day even after apparently adequate or even prolonged nighttime sleep. The subjects may not be identifying excessive daytime sleepiness but may present as feeling tired, lack of energy etc. They may seem apparently healthy and without any other systemic illness. The prevalence was found to be as high as 18 % in 2012 in United Kingdom. Also, it is a risk factor for diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Conventional management (Modafinil, Sodium Oxybate and Stimulants) addresses only the subjective condition in EDS and is associated with adverse effects compromising the quality of life. In the current health scenario there is a need for alternative interventions to manage this disease. On analyzing this condition through Ayurveda, we could understand it as Nidradhikya (Excessive daytime sleepiness) which is caused due to vitiated Kapha Dosha along with Vriddha Tamoguna (increased Tamoguna) that can be managed by Shodhana (biopurification) followed Shamana (pacification) therapies. ObjectiveThis study was aimed to assess the combined effect of Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Sarasvata Churna in reducing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness. Materials and methodsThis was a single-arm exploratory open-label clinical trial. 10 subjects having EDS diagnosed using Modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale (MESS) with a score of 10–24 with proper exclusion were recruited from OPD and IPD, Department of Kāyacikitsa, Amrita School of Ayurveda. All the participants were clinically examined, sought for medical history and further checked biochemically to exclude any other systemic illness that may lead to this condition. Only healthy subjects with quality night sleep (assessed by PSQI) and without any other systemic illness were selected. The treatment protocol adopted was Vamana Karma followed by 30 days of Sarasvata Churna as Shamana Aushadha (medicine for pacification). Assessment was done using MESS on 0th day and after 30 days of Shamana Aushadha Sevana. After completion of treatment, the results were statistically analysed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and final conclusion was drawn. ResultsOn analysis of the symptoms using Modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the mean total score reduced from 14.8 to 2.8 with 81.08 % relief in these 10 subjects and a significant p value < 0.05 after Vamana followed by 30 days of Shamana Aushadha Sevana. DiscussionVamana helps in Kapha Nirharana (expelling) which removes the Avarana (occlusion) of Manas seen in Nidradhikya. This results in Hrit Shuddhi (purity of heart) that helps in bringing the equilibrium of Mano Gunas (qualities of mind) (Satvoudaryam Tamojayaha) which forms the line of management. Sarasvata Churna which was administered as Shamana Aushadha possesses Medhya (Nootropic), Buddhi Smriti Dhriti Vardhaka (intellect, memory and patience promoting) attributes and is being indicated in Vicetas. Most of the drugs in Sarasvata Churna are Rasayana (rejuvenation) that imparts Indriya Bala (strengthening of senses) and Priti (contempt) to Manas by Prinana (nourishing) of Rasa Dhatu. ConclusionFrom this study, we could conclude that the combination of Vamana Karma followed by Sarasvata Churna administration is effective in reducing EDS.

INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF ANNUAL AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION CHANGES ON CORS-TR STATIONS: THE CASE OF KSTM STATION

In this study, the effects of meteorological changes on the point positioning of CORS-TR stations were investigated. For this purpose, KURU, SINP, BOYT, CORU, CANK, CMLD, KRBK, KSTM stations were selected. The KSTM station was taken as unknown and adjusted based on other stations. Seasonal normal values of KSTM station in Kastamonu province covering the years 2016-2020 were examined in terms of temperature and precipitation amount. These values were determined according to the minimum, maximum and average value criteria by using Türkiye State Meteorological Service data. For the calculations, IGS-standardized RINEX data of the stations for 5 years and 12 months between 2016 and 2020 and for 10 days on the 11th and 20th days of each month were used. All calculations were processed with Leica Geo Office v8.x. The calculated coordinates were compared with the current coordinates of CORS-TR at the same epoch and examined according to annual temperature and precipitation. In the analyzes, it was tested by statistical method whether all measurements were compatible. When it was examined whether the temperature changes were statistically significant, it was observed that the test values were calculated according to the temperature changes were below the test distribution limit at 95% confidence interval. When it was examined whether the precipitation changes were statistically significant, it was observed that the test values were calculated according to the precipitation changes were below the test distribution limit at 95% confidence interval.

Sub-acute dermal toxicity of Jatropha curcas Linn. leaf extract coated silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in wistar rats

The application of different nanoparticles is underway in the development of phyto-medicines. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are commonly used as coating agents to treat various bacterial and viral diseases. Their safety and potential toxicity necessitate further research to explore the development of nanoparticles coated herbal drugs. The Azadirachta indica (neem) 5% leaf extract and silver nitrate was used to prepare the silver nanoparticles (SNPs) with the biological reduction (green synthesis) method [1]. The application of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) coated with J. carcus leaf extract (JcLE) on Wistar rats showed no adverse sign of toxicity on hematological parameters except an increase in the neutrophil count and increased in total erythrocyte count (TEC) on 28th day. Similarly, serum biochemical values exhibited an increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST/SGOT) and alanine transaminase (ALT/SGPT) with JcLE-coated SNPs in treated groups. The histopathology revealed that there was no alteration in skin architecture, however, minimal alteration was observed in the liver and kidney with dilatation of the central vein and sinusoidal space, fatty change in the liver, multifocal necrobiotic changes, cystic degeneration and mild focal glomerular atrophy and hyaline cast in the lumen of tubules of kidney. It indicates the proper absorption and excretion of SNPs from the body. There was no significant effect on hematological parameters in the rats treated with J. curcas leaf extract-coated SNP. However, the serum biochemical analysis revealed a toxic effect on the kidney.

Organ-Specific Metabolomics of Aerial Parts of Melochia corchorifolia for Antibiofilm and Wound Healing Activities.

Melochia corchorifolia is a well-known perennial herb and has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of a wide number of diseases. However, the phytochemical investigation in the different organs of the M. corchorifolia was poorly understood. In the present study, the organ-specific metabolomic profiling of leaves, stems, and vegetable extract of M. corchorifolia was determined, and their potential antibiofilm activity with wound healing properties was evaluated. The UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MSE analysis showed 59 compounds in the leaf, stem, and vegetable extracts of M. corchorifolia. The crystal violet staining assay clearly showed that the extracts of M. corchorifolia have excellent antibiofilm activity against Proteus mirabilis and Salmonella typhi. The extracts of M. corchorifolia also caused the architecture of the bacterial biofilm by inhibiting the adherence to polystyrene and auto-aggregation and subsequently inhibiting the growth and colonization of the biofilm-forming bacteria P. mirabilis and S. typhi. The extracts of M. corchorifolia accelerate the wound healing process in BALB/c mice by completely closing the wound on the 20th day of treatment. Together, the phytochemicals present in the leaf, stem, and vegetable extracts of M. corchorifolia are responsible for potent antibiofilm and wound healing properties and could be used as an excellent remedy for treating chronic wounds and their associated infectious disease.

Analysis of changes in intestinal microbiota in female Wistar rats at the stage of breast cancer induction by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea

The intestinal microbiota, having enormous metabolic potential, makes a significant contribution to the physiological and pathological processes of humans and animals and is currently considered as an important factor in the pathogenesis of cancer. The aim of this study is to determine changes in the quantitative and qualitative composition of the intestinal microbiota in Wistar rats during chemical induction of breast cancer (BC). Material and methods. The work was performed on female Wistar rats (n = 40) aged 3 months, weighing 200–210 g, using cultural methods for studying fecal microbiota in intact rats (1 group) on the 1st, 14th, 35th days and in rats with induction of breast cancer and and in rats, whereby N-methyl-N-nitrosourea was administered to induce breast cancer (2 group) on the 1st (before injection of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea), 14th, 35th days after injection of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. Results and discussion. In all experimental animals, representatives characteristic of the intestinal normobiota of warm-blooded animals predominated, namely: Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Escherichia coli with pronounced enzymatic properties, Enterococcus spp., Clostridium spp. In addition, Staphylococcus spp., yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida and mold. Escherichia coli with reduced enzymatic activity was also detected. It was established that the isolated bacteria belonged to 3 types, 4 classes, 5 orders, 6 families, 6 genera of the bacterial domain. Also, 2 genera of fungi belonging to the order Saccharomycetales were isolated. The most significant changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota were noted in rats with chemically induced breast cancer on the 35th day tumor induction: the appearance of pathogenic microflora in the intestine was revealed.

Effect of production factors on the relative telomere length of ICR mice

Currently, the issues of studying the quantitative assessment of the isolated effects of physical and chemical occupational factors of low intensity, severity and intensity of the labor process on the telomere relative length (TRL) are relevant in order to establish the mechanisms of development of premature aging. The aim is to evaluate the effect of isolated exposure to low–intensity physical and chemical occupational factors on the relative length of telomeres in an animal experiment. Material and methods. ICR mice (n = 65) are distributed in equal numbers into 3 test groups (exposure to vibration, noise, chemical exposure) and 1 control group (contained in comfortable conditions and not exposed to these factors). The duration of the experiment was 90 days, samples for DNA isolation from the striated muscle tissue of ICR mice thigh were taken on days 0, 30, 60 and 90. TRL was measured using real time PCR. Results and discussion. The results of the study indicate a significant shortening of TRL on the 90th day in the control group compared to the initial indicators, which may indicate the general processes of aging of animals. A long (90-day) stay of ICR mice in conditions simulating the isolated influence of various occupational hazard factors (vibration, noise, chemicals) operating at a level of 1.5 MAC, MPL, was accompanied by unidirectional dynamics of TRL. The chemical factor has the greatest impact on TDC (a decrease in TDT relative to the value of the control group is noted on the 30th, 60th and 90th days of the experiment), the physical factor causes a shortening of TDT after 60 and 90 days. Conclusions. Further study of the isolated influence of occupational factors on the TRL change in model organisms will contribute to the establishment of mechanisms that prevent the development of pathological processes in workers under conditions of production hazards.

Prophylactic and curative activity of Withania somnifera on experimentally induced calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis

Withania somnifera an ayurvedic herb was utilized to assess the antilithic properties of calcium oxalate (CaOx) Nephrolithiasis in rats fed ethylene glycol (EG) in an experimental setting. There were 5 groups of animals (n = 6). The control group was given normal saline, Lithiatic control was given ethylene glycol 1% (v/v) with ammonium chloride 1% (w/v) for 4 days (received stone inducing treatment till 28th day ), follow by 1% ethylene glycol alone in water, Standard group received antiurolithiatic drug (Cystone) (500 mg/Kg) from 15th day till 28th day, treatment group received Withania somnifera methanolic extract (200 mg/Kg) from 15th day till 28th day (Curative regimen) and received Withania somnifera methanolic extract (WS-200 mg/Kg) from 1st day till 28th day (prophylactic regimen) in wistar rats. Blood and kidney tissue were collected after the 28th day of urine. Ca2-, Mg2+, K+ and PO4- levels were estimated in urine, creatinine and urea level were estimated in serum whereas all oxidative stress was measured in kidney tissue. Additionally, Urinary microscopy and kidney histopathology were estimated. Lithiatic control group showed significant elevation (P&lt;0.0001 vs. control) in serum creatinine, blood urea and antioxidants levels. Due to crystal deposits, the histopathology of Lithiatic group showed tubule dilatation with interstitial inflammatory infiltrate, whereas the therapy group showed less tubule dilatation with interstitial inflammatory infiltrate. It can be concluded that at 200 mg/kg the herbal drug possessed significant potential in the management of nephrolithiasis.

Study on Enzyme Activity and Metabolomics during Culture of Liquid Spawn of Floccularia luteovirens.

To comprehensively investigate the physiological characteristics and metabolic processes of the mycelium of Floccularia luteovirens (F. luteovirens), a wild edible fungus unique to the plateau region, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the mycelium enzyme activity and metabolites during different culture periods. The activity of seven enzymes all followed a trend of initially increasing and then decreasing. The intra- and extracellular activity peaks of three hydrolases-amylase, protease, and cellulase-all occurred on the 20th day, except for the extracellular amylase, which peaked on the 15th day. In contrast, the peak activity of laccase occurred on the 10th day. Moreover, three types of oxidoreductases in the mycelium (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC)-dehydrogenase (TTC-DH)) also exhibited significant changes in activity. CAT and SOD activity reached their maximum on the 20th day, whereas TTC-DH showed high activity on both the 10th and 20th days. Through a comprehensive assessment of the evolving trends of these physiological parameters, we determined that the optimal cultivation cycle for F. luteovirens liquid spawn is 20 days. An untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that 3569 metabolites were detected in the F. luteovirens mycelium, including a variety of secondary metabolites and functional components, with terpenoids being particularly abundant, accounting for 148 types. By comparing three different culture stages (10 days, 20 days, and 30 days), 299, 291, and 381 metabolites, respectively, showed different accumulation patterns in the comparison groups of 10d vs. 20d, 20d vs. 30d, and 10d vs. 30d. These differential metabolites were primarily concentrated in carboxylic acids and their derivatives, fatty acyl groups, organic oxygen compounds, and lipid compounds. In addition, there were several amino acids whose abundance continued to grow during culturing. The metabolism of amino acids greatly affects mycelium growth and development. This research delineates the interplay between mycelium growth and metabolism, offering empirical support for a cultivation strategy for liquid F. luteovirens, and an exploration of its metabolites for potential applications.

Impact of Iba and Naa Concentrations on Growth Characteristics of MR2 Mulberry (Morus sinensis) Using Mini-Clonal Technology at Nursery Level

Using mini-clonal technology, an experiment was carried out to examine the effects of rooting hormone on the growth and rooting characteristics of the mulberry (Morus sinensis L.) variety 'MR2'. Cuttings from the apical shoots of the mulberry variety MR2, which is the popular variety among farmers and have good resistance towards mildew attack was taken for the study. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam. Four replications of the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experiment were used to arrange the data. Two hormones, such as Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and Napthalene acetic acid (NAA), were used in the experiment. The hormones were replicated four times in each of the following concentration ranges: 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 ppm. Different hormone concentrations were applied to apical shoot cuttings before they were planted in the appropriate rooting medium in a greenhouse. At the 90th day, measurements were taken of the following parameters like shoot length (cm), number of roots per plant (no’s), root length (cm) and number of leaves per plant (no’s). IBA and NAA at 5000 ppm out performed all other treatments in terms of mulberry mini cutting growth and root characteristics.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Among Very Premature Infants in a Tunisian Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) stands as the primary chronic respiratory complication in premature infants, posing a substantial public health concern due to its rising prevalence, potential mortality, and socioeconomic burden. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of BPD in very preterm infants and identify its associated risk factors. We conducted a retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study including all premature infants born between 26 and 31 weeks of gestation age (GA) who survived beyond the 28th day of life, over a five-year period (2017-2021). Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of BPD, which was defined by the need for oxygen supplementation for at least 28 days. we included 231 newborns. The prevalence of BPD was 37.7% among survivors on the 28th day of life and 36.7% among those reaching 36 weeks postmenstrual age. BPD was mild, moderate and severe in 25.2%, 4.9% and 6.6% of cases, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified maternal hypertensive disorders (RR=6.15, 95%CI=[2.27-16.67], p<0.001), chorioamnionitis (RR=4.23, 95%CI=[1.25 -14.27], p=0.02), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (RR =20.4, 95%CI=[3.39 -122.66], p=0.001), GA less than 30 weeks (RR=26.97, 95%CI=[10.23 -71.14], p<0.001), and mechanical ventilation (MV) (RR=5.33, 95%CI=[1.95-14.54], p=0.001) as independent factors associated with BPD occurrence. The mortality rate was 10.3% among patients with BPD versus 0.7% in patients without BPD (p = 0.001). Our study revealed a high prevalence of BPD in very preterm infants and identified several independent risk factors such as maternal hypertensive disorders, IUGR, chorioamnionitis, MV, and GA less than 30 weeks.

Electroacupuncture alleviates neuropathic pain by regulating hippocampal SP/NK1R/ARRB1 pathway.

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on pain, anxiety like behavior, and substance P(SP) /neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R) /β -arrestin 1(ARRB1) pathway related protein expression in hippocampus of chronic constriction injury (CCI) rats, so as to explore its mechanisms underlying improvement of neuropathic pain. Twenty-seven male SD rats were randomly divided into sham operation, model and EA groups, with 9 rats in each group. The CCI model was established by ligature of the left sciatic nerve. On the 8th day following modeling, EA (2 Hz, 0.5-1.5 mA) was applied to the left "Huantiao" (GB34) and "Yanglingquan" (GB34) for 30 min, once every other day for 13 times. Mechanical paw withdrawal threshold (MWT), thermal paw withdrawal threshold (TWL) and difference of the weight distribution of the hind limbs were detected before operation and at the 5th, 9th, 17th, 25th and 33rd days after operation. Open field test was used to evaluate the anxiety-like behavior of rats. The content of SP in hippocampus was determined by ELISA. The protein expression of NK1R and ARRB1 in hippocampus was detected by Western blot. Compared with the sham operation group, the MWT and TWL of the left hind limb at the 5th, 9th, 17th, 25th and 33rd days after operation, the time of entering the central area and the total distance of movement, and the content of SP in the hippocampus were significantly decreased (P<0.001, P<0.01), while the difference of the weight distribution of the hind limbs at the 5th, 9th, 17th, 25th and 33rd days after operation and the protein expression of NK1R and ARRB1 were significantly increased (P<0.001, P<0.05) in the model group. After EA intervention, the MWT and TWL of the left hind limb, the time of entering the central area and the total moving distance, and the expression of SP in the hippocampus were significantly increased (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.05), while the difference in the weight distribution of the hind limbs was significantly reduced, and the expression of NK1R and ARRB1 protein in the hippocampus were significantly decreased (P<0.001, P<0.05) in the EA group. EA can effectively improve the pain and anxiety behaviors in CCI rats, and reverse the abnormal expression of SP, NK1R and ARRB1 proteins in the hippocampus, which may be related to its effects in regulating the SP/NK1R/ARRB1 pathway in the hippocampus.

Evaluation of muscular apoptotic changes and myogenin gene expression in experimental trichinosis after stem cells and atorvastatin added to ivermectin treatment

Trichinosis is a common parasitic disease that affects the striated skeletal muscles, causing apoptotic and degenerative changes associated with myogenin expression in the affected myocytes. Hence, this study aimed to assess the ameliorative effects of stem cells and atorvastatin added to ivermectin on the infected myocytes during the muscular phase of murine trichinosis. 120 laboratory Swiss albino male mice were divided into 10 groups, and each group was subdivided into intestinal and muscular phases (each n = 6); uninfected control; untreated infected control; infected received ivermectin monotherapy; infected received atorvastatin monotherapy; infected received stem cells monotherapy; infected received ivermectin and atorvastatin dual therapy; infected received ivermectin and stem cells dual therapy; infected received atorvastatin and stem cells dual therapy; infected received ivermectin 0.2, atorvastatin 40, and stem cells triple therapy; and infected received ivermectin 0.1, atorvastatin 20, and stem cells triple therapy. Intestinal phase mice were sacrificed on the 5th day post-infection, while those of the muscular phase were sacrificed on the 35th day post-infection. Parasitological, histopathological, ultrastructural, histochemical, biochemical, and myogenin gene expression assessments were performed. The results revealed that mice that received ivermectin, atorvastatin, and stem cell triple therapies showed the maximum reduction in the adult worm and larvae burden, marked improvement in the underlying muscular degenerative changes (as was noticed by histopathological, ultrastructural, and histochemical Feulgen stain assessment), lower biochemical levels of serum NK-κB and tissue NO, and lower myogenin expression. Accordingly, the combination of stem cells, atorvastatin, and ivermectin affords a potential synergistic activity against trichinosis with considerable healing of the underlying degenerative sequel.