Alternate Days Research Articles

Follicular, luteal dynamics and effect of synchronization methods on reproductive responses in Cholistani cows.

The Cholistani cow is considered one of the milch breeds of Zebu cattle. Despite being heat and tick-resistant, it has not yet gained much popularity among Pakistan dairy farmers due to its long calving interval. This study aimed to understand the basic reproductive physiology of Cholistani cows using sonography and reproductive biotechnologies such as estrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination to improve reproductive efficiency. In experiment 1, six Cholistani cows with mixed parity 3.20 ± 1.30 and weighing 400 kg were selected to monitor ovarian dynamics on alternate days by the same sonographer from the onset of heat through ovulation until the next ovulation. Experiment 2 measured the effect of estrus synchronization methods, controlled internal drug release-gonadotropin-releasing hormone (CIDR-GnRH, n = 31) and Ovsynch (OVS, n = 32) on various reproductive parameters. The mean estrous cycle length was 19.81 ± 0.56 days with two follicular waves. The mean inter-ovulatory interval was 20.80 ± 0.52 days, with a preovulatory follicular size of 13.83 ± 2.37 mm. Estrus response was higher (p > 0.05) in controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-GnRH (93.54%) than in OVS (84.37%) cows. Similarly, ovulation and conception rates were higher in CIDR-GnRH (91.66% vs. 68.42%) than in OVS cows (41.37% vs. 33.33%), respectively. In conclusion, CIDR-GnRH results in a better estrus response, higher ovulation rate, and subsequently greater conception rate than OVS in Bos indicus dairy cows.

ACUTE TOXICITY AND ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF PHYLLANTHUS NIRURI USING ZEBRA FISH

This study was designed to assess the acute toxicity and antidiabetic activity of Ethanolic extract of Phyllanthus niruri (EEPN). Several invivo studies have demonstrated that extracts of Phyllanthus niruri has significantly lowered the blood glucose levels and lowers the complications associated with Type 2 diabetes in rodents, but till date no studies have been reported using zebrafish model for antidiabetic activity using Phyllanthus niruri. In the present study zebra fish are divided into six groups and given doses of 6, 12, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/L of EEPN for extraction. These fish are then examined at intervals of 6, 24, 48, and 72 hours.Thirty zebra fish were divided into control and treatment groups for the purpose of evaluating their anti-diabetic activity. For 30 days, high glucose diet was used to induce diabetes in all zebra fish. The test groups are treated with concentrations of the extracts 25mg/L & 50mg/L and standard with 20mM metformin. The blood glucose levels are estimated in alternative days for seven days and on seventh day fish were studied histopathologically. Acute toxicity study of EEPN does not show any mortality,morbidity, and behavioural changes even after 96 hrs at maximum concentration 400mg/L. The extract showed significant lowering of blood glucose levels on diabetic zebra models. Extensive study can be done on the extract to study the natural lead compounds from this plant which are responsible for antidiabetic activity.

Withanolide derivatives: natural compounds with anticancer potential offer low toxicity to fertility and ovarian follicles in mice.

Anticancer therapy often leads to premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and infertility due to the extreme sensitivity of the ovarian follicle reserve to the effects of chemotherapy. Withanolides are known for their cytotoxic effect on cancer cells and low cytotoxicity on non-malignant or healthy cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the in vivo effects of three withanolides derivatives: 27-dehydroxy-24,25-epoxywithaferin A (WT1), 27-dehydroxywithaferin A (WT2), and withaferin A (WTA) on fertility, and the ovarian preantral follicles of young female mice. To achieve this, mice received 7 intraperitoneal doses of WT1, WT2, or WTA at a concentration of 2 mg/kg (Experiment I) and 5 or 10 mg/kg (Experiment II) over 15 alternate days. In experiment I, two days after administration of the last dose, half of the mice were mated to evaluate the effects of withanolides on fertility. The other half of the mice, as well as all mice from experiment II, were sacrificed for histological, inflammation, senescence, and immunohistochemical analyses of the follicles present in the ovary. Regardless of the administered withanolide, the concentration of 2 mg/kg did not show toxicity on the follicular morphology, ovarian function, or fertility of the mice. However, at concentrations of 5 and 10 mg/kg, the three derivatives (WT1, WT2, and WTA) increased follicular activation, cell proliferation, and ovarian senescence without affecting inflammatory cells. Furthermore, at a concentration of 10 mg/kg, the three withanolides showed intensified toxic effects, leading to DNA damage as evidenced by the labeling of γH2AX, activated Caspase 3, and TUNEL. We conclude that the cytotoxic effect of the tested withanolide derivatives (WT1, WT2, and WTA) in the concentration of 2 mg/kg did not show toxicity on the ovary. However, in higher concentrations, such as 10 mg/kg, toxic effects are potentiated, causing DNA damage.

Blood pressure response to 12 weeks of isometric handgrip exercise training in prehypertensive adult males

Background: Studies have shown that isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise is effective in reducing the systolic blood pressure (SBP) in hypertensive individuals. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of IHG exercise along with salt restriction in pre-hypertensive individuals to bring them to normotensive levels. Dynamic exercise is physically demanding, lacks objective quantification, and is cumbersome. Aims and Objectives: (1) To study the effect of IHG exercise on SBP, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) in the exercise group; (2) To determine the SBP, DBP, and MABP pre- and poststudy in the control group; and (3) To compare the blood pressure difference pre- and postexercise among the exercise and control groups. Materials and Methods: 60 prehypertensive males were selected; SBP, DBP, and MABP were recorded as 0 weeks. 30 of them were subjected to only salt restriction, referred to as the control group; another 30 were subjected to salt restriction along with 30% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) IHG exercise, 5 sessions per day with each hand performing every alternate day for 12 weeks. SBP, DBP, and MABP were recorded every 3rd week. The difference of 0-week and 12-week variable values was compared between the control and training groups. Results: A significant reduction by a mean value of 5.2 ± 2.15 was seen in SBP among the training group, whereas the difference in other variables was not significant. Conclusion: IHG exercise at 30% MVC, in combination with lifestyle modification, can be recommended to patients with prehypertension and can be a part of a comprehensive treatment regimen.

Impact of Class IV LASER Therapy and Conventional Exercise on Young Adults with Cervicogenic Headache: A Randomised Clinical Trial Protocol

Introduction: A Cervicogenic Headache (CGH) is characterised by unilateral neck pain that originates in the bony or soft tissues of the neck and refers to the head. Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) therapy is frequently employed in clinical settings to treat musculoskeletal diseases. Need for the study: Authors anticipate cervicogenic headache (CGH) treatment with Class IV LASER therapy will lead to statistically significant reduction in both neck pain and headache compared to baseline measurement. Adverse events related to Class IV LASER on CGH is minimal. The anticipated result of the present protocol will provide valuable insight into the efficacy and safety of Class IV LASER in the management of headache and neck pain. Aim: To determine the efficacy of Class IV LASER therapy in young adults with CGH. Materials and Methods: A randomised clinical trial protocol will be conducted on a total of 44 patients having age range between 20- 39 years with cervicogenic headache were recruited by convenience sampling method. Recruited individuals with cervicogenic headache will be randomly divided into two groups: Treatment Group A (Class IV LASER therapy with conventional exercises) and Treatment Group B (Conventional exercises). Treatment time for group A will be calculated by dividing the total energy delivered by the average total output. Each patient received six sessions in total alternative days. Group B also received same session as group A. The visual analogue scale, neck disability index, algometer, and headache impact test are outcome measures that will be recorded as a baseline and of the two-week post-intervention period.

Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Household Drinking Water from Source to Point of Use in Akewu Community in Ibadan, Oyo State, Southwest, Nigeria

Poor household water storage is one of the major factors contributing to contamination of drinking water in Nigeria. Studies have shown that sizes of containers opening can affect water quality, but little has been documented on comparative effect of storage containers with different opening sizes in improving drinking water quality in Ibadan. This study was designed to assess the effect of different storage containers on household drinking water quality in selected communities in Ibadan. A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Four communities in Ibadan North Local Government namely; Akewu using protected springs as household drinking water sources were purposively selected. Forty-four households (11 from each community) were selected and randomly assigned to four treatment groups; those with Covered Buckets with Taps (CBT), Covered Buckets without Tap (CB), Covered Kegs with Taps (CKT) and Covered Kegs without Tap (CK). Prior to introducing the treatment containers, water samples were collected from their Regular Storage Containers (RSC) and springs for physicochemical and bacteriological analysis using standard methods. Participants were thereafter encouraged to store drinking water in the treatment containers provided for them. Water samples were later collected from CBT, CB, CKT and CK containers twice daily for 3 alternate days over two weeks for bacteriological analysis. In addition, oldest female of selected households were interviewed using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire to elicit information on their socio-demographic characteristics, storage container cleaning and handwashing practices. Results of physicochemical and bacteriological findings were compared with Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) guidelines. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t- test and ANOVA at p=0.05. At baseline, mean pH values of water samples from the springs and RSC were 6.4±0.6 and 7.1±0.7 respectively compared with 6.5-8.5 limits recommended by SON. Mean chloride concentration of springs (14.3±7.4mg/l) and RSC (19.3±10.0 mg/l) samples were below 250mg/l limit recommended by SON. Mean Total Coliform Count (TCC) of the springs in the four communities was 18.0±4.0 and mean TCC of RSC was 12.7±4.9 which exceeded the SON standard of 10MPN/100ml. Five percent of water samples from RSC had mean E.coli count of 100/100ml compared with SON guidelines of 0/100ml. The mean TCC after introducing CB, CBT, CK and CKT in all the communities were 10.0±4.0, 8.5±4.2, 6.9±2.8 and 7.3±3.7 respectively (p<0.05). No E.coli was found in the samples collected from the treatment storage containers. The percentage difference of coliform count in water from springs and RSC was 29.4% while percentage difference from RSC and CB, CBT, CK and CKT were 21.5%, 33.2%, 45.5% and 42.5% respectively. Mean age of the 44 respondents interviewed was 37.9±10.7years. Seventy-three percent washed their hands with only water after defecation and 95.0% stored water for cooking and drinking in the same container. Sixty-eight percent cleaned their containers weekly while 32.0% cleaned twice weekly.

Comparative study of oral iron and intravenous iron sucrose for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia in pregnancy

Background: The most prevalent nutritional disorder during pregnancy is iron-deficiency anemia (IDA). Management of anemia can be done by either oral, parenteral, or blood transfusion, depending on the severity. Oral iron (OI) replacements can be taken as they are safe, effective, and lower cost. However, one disadvantage is poor tolerability, as they cause gastrointestinal complications. Iron sucrose complex is a relatively new drug used intravenously (IV) for the correction of IDA. Aims and Objectives: This research compared the safety and effectiveness of OI versus iron sucrose in the treatment of IDA during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was performed involving 60 patients who attended the antenatal clinic from June 2019 to November 2019 at Bidar Institute of Medical Science between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation and hemoglobin levels between 7 and 10 g/dL. In the IV group, 200 mg of iron sucrose was administered in 100 mL of 0.9% normal saline over 15–20 min on alternate days. In the oral group, 200 mg of ferrous ascorbate per day for 4 weeks was prescribed. All patients were monitored for laboratory responses and adverse effects. An unpaired “t” test was used for statistical analysis. P < 0.05 was considered significance. Results: There was an increase in hemoglobin in both groups, but there was a significant increase in hemoglobin in the IV group. The other laboratory parameters also showed a significant increase in the IV group than in the oral group. The IV group had no major side effects. Conclusion: The IV iron sucrose formulation was more effective than the oral formulation for anemia correction in pregnancy.

Effects of Crocus sativus and its constituent, safranal, and pioglitazone, on systemic inflammation and oxidative stress induced by paraquat aerosol in rats.

The effects of Crocus sativus, safranal, and pioglitazone on aerosolized paraquat (PQ)-induced systemic changes were examined. Control (Ctrl) and PQ groups of rats were exposed to saline or PQ (27 and 54 mg/m3, PQ-L and PQ-H) aerosols eight times on alternate days. Nine PQ-H groups were treated with dexamethasone (0.03 mg/kg/day, Dexa), two doses of C. sativus extract (20 and 80 mg/kg/day, CS-L and CS-H), safranal (0.8 and 3.2 mg/kg/day, Saf-L and Saf-H), pioglitazone (5 and 10 mg/kg/day, Pio-L and Pio-H), and the combination of low dose of the pioglitazone and extract or safranal (Pio + CS and Pio + Saf) after the end of PQ exposure. Interferon-gamma (INF-γ), interleukin 10 (IL-10), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and thiol serum levels were reduced, but tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total and differential WBC were increased in both PQ groups (P<0.05 to P<0.001). All measured variables were improved in all treated groups (P<0.05 to P<0.001). The effects of high dose of C. sativus and safranal on measured parameters were higher than dexamethasone (P<0.05 to P<0.001). The effects of Pio + CS and Pio + Saf treatment on most variables were significantly higher than three agents alone (P<0.05 to P<0.001). C. sativus and safranal improved inhaled PQ-induced systemic inflammation and oxidative stress similar to those of dexamethasone and showed synergic effects with pioglitazone suggesting the possible PPARγ receptor-mediated effects of the plant and its constituent.

Kojic acid reverses LPS-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment by regulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Intense neuroinflammation contributes to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) are an integral part of the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria that act as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and potentially activate the central nervous system's (CNS) immune system. Microglial cells are the local macrophages of the CNS and have the potential to induce and control neuroinflammation. This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect of kojic acid against the toxic effects of LPSs, such as neuroinflammation-induced neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. The C57BL/6N mice were subjected to LPS injection for 2weeks on alternate days (each mouse received 0.25mg/kg/i.p. for a total of seven doses), and kojic acid was administered orally for 3weeks consecutively (50mg/kg/mouse, p. o). Bacterial endotoxins, or LPSs, are directly attached to TLR4 surface receptors of microglia and astrocytes and alter the cellular metabolism of immune cells. Intraperitoneal injection of LPS triggers the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), phospho-nuclear factor kappa B (p-NFκB), and phospho-c-Jun n-terminal kinase (p-JNK) protein expressions in the LPS-treated group, but these expression levels were significantly downregulated in the LPS + KA-treated mice brains. Prolong neuroinflammation leads to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) followed by a decrease in nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the enzyme hemeoxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression in LPS-subjected mouse brains. Interestingly, the levels of both Nrf-2 and HO-1 increased in the LPS + KA-treated mice group. In addition, kojic acid inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-1β production in mouse brains. These results indicated that kojic acid may suppress LPS-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in male wild-type mice brains (in both the cortex and the hippocampus) by regulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Effect of Retinoic Acid on HaCaT and NIH-3T3 cells in an in vitro 3D Collagen Cell Culture Skin Model

Human skin aging is characterized by epidermal and dermal thinning, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles. Keratinocytes, the most common type of skin cell and fibroblasts, present in the cellular stroma beneath the skin’s surface, each play a role in aging. Using these cell types in in vitro research can reveal a deeper understanding of the dermatological function and cellular changes in aged skin. 3D cell culture techniques provide an opportunity to use these cell types in a model that can more accurately mimic human skin. Treatment of aging skin is of interest to both medical and consumer communities. Retinoic acid (RA) is a metabolite of vitamin A and retinol that assists in cell proliferation, differentiation, and immune functions. Over the counter (OTC) and prescription retinoids are common topical products used for anti-aging and acne treatments. This study seeks to determine the impact of topical retinoid creams on keratinocyte proliferation and morphology in 3D cell culture models of aged and unaged human skin. NIH-3T3 fibroblasts were embedded in a 3D collagen matrix of varying thickness, and HaCaT keratinocytes were seeded on top of the matrix at varying seeding densities to mimic aging and youthful skin. 0.1 µM 0.025% tretinoin and 0.1 µM 0.1% adapalene topical creams were prepared in culture medium and used to treat cells daily, on alternate days, or just once during a week-long period. Alamar Blue assays and microscopy showed that tretinoin treatment was cytotoxic at this concentration, with a single treatment reducing cell viability by ~43% compared to the untreated control. Adapalene treatment, while showing significantly greater cell proliferation than tretinoin, did not exceed the proliferation of the untreated control. It is understood that retinol increases cell turnover by killing cells rapidly, so it is proposed that in our model, the rate of proliferation does not overcome the rate of cell death. Cell viability trends remain similar between young and old skin model treatments. Future studies should focus on creating a 3D model more accurately representing the aging in vivo skin environment where keratinocytes can be readily differentiated from epidermal stem cells. KEYWORDS: HaCaTs; NIH-3T3; Retinoids; Retinoic Acid; Tretinoin; Adapalene; 3D Collagen Gel; Proliferation

Growth and Lipid Production of Marine Microalgae Tetraselmis Chuii Cultured in Different Phosphorus Concentrations

Lipid produced in the marine microalgae, Tetraselmis chuii has the potential to be processed into biofuels which can replace the use of fossil fuels that contributes to the global warming on earth. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of phosphorus on lipid production in Tetraselmis chuii. Therefore, Tetraselmis chuii was cultured under normal concentration of phosphorus in the Conway medium. The cell was harvested on the fourth day and then transferred and cultured under different concentrations of phosphorus (10g, 15g, 20g, 25g and 30g of NaH2 PO4 .2H2 O in 1 L Conway medium). The cell density and optical density analysis of the culture were analyzed daily whereas the biomass (dry weight) analysis and lipid extractions were carried out on every alternate day. Result of the study showed that the highest lipid production in Tetraselmis chuii was achieved on day 4 in the phosphorus sufficient culture medium (25 g/L of NaH2 PO4 .2H2 O). Under the deficiency of phosphorus in the culture medium especially when the growth reached the stationary phase, more lipids accumulated in all the treatments. Therefore, our findings illustrated that phosphorus was important in regulating the growth of Tetraselmis chuii and the lipid accumulation was higher when the growth of Tetraselmis chuii was limited by the depleted phosphorus. In addition, total lipid yields also increased with the presence of excess phosphorus in the culture medium.

Impact of Maturity Stage on Postharvest Quality of Strawberries Cold Stored for Fresh Consumption

Strawberries, being a non-climacteric fruit is usually harvested near maturity for optimal flavour and quality. However, this could also lead to a limited shelf life being highly perishable. However, the ripening stages could be a possible solution to minimizing the losses of post-harvest. Therefore, a current study was performed to evaluate the influences of ripening stages affecting the quality of strawberry fruit. Strawberry fruit was picked at four ripening stages unripe, semi-ripe, fully ripe and over-ripe maturity stages and stored at 5°C and were evaluated every alternate day for changes in fruit quality. The results concluded that red ripe fruits retained maximum fresh fruit weight and only 10%of fruit was un-marketable after 10 days of storage period. On the contrary, the highest decay rate was observed in over-ripe fruits and 50% of the fruit was unmarketable after 10 days of storage. Moreover, red ripe fruits were organoleptically more acceptable and retained higher total soluble solids whereas unripe and semi-ripe achieved low organoleptic scores due to higher total titratable acids. High levels of sugar in over-ripe fruits favoured a high incidence of pathogen attack. From this experiment, we can suggest that if fruits are picked at the red ripe stage will have optimal quality, moisture level, TSS, pH, TSS/acid ratio, TA, and good organoleptic score. Therefore, strawberry fruits for fresh eating should be picked at the red ripe maturity stage.

Quercetin Exerts Anticonvulsant Effect through Mitigation of Neuroinflammatory Response in Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizure in Mice.

Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain characterized by seizures. The currently available anticonvulsants only treat symptoms with serious adverse drug reactions. Therefore, there is need for new therapeutic intervention that will prevent epileptogenesis with greater therapeutic success. Quercetin (QT) is a flavonoid with known neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. The study aimed to investigate its effects against pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures. Animals were divided into four groups (n = 10). Group 1(control) only received vehicle (10 mL/kg), group 2 received vehicle, groups 3 and 4 received QT 12.5 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg respectively. Sixty minutes after treatments, animals in groups 2 to 4 were injected with sub-convulsive dose of pentylenetetrazole (35 mg/kg, i.p.) on every alternate day (48±2h) for 21 days. The mice were observed for 30 minutes after each PTZ injection for seizure activity. Brain samples were collected for biochemical assays. Administration of PTZ caused significant increase in the intensity of seizures, neuronal degeneration and level of proinflammatory cytokines in animals compared to control. These behavioural alterations were attenuated significantly by QT (12.5 and 25 mg/kg). The PTZ-induced increase in IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-ɣ were significantly reduced by pre-treatment with the QT (12.5 and 25 mg/kg, p.o). Quercetin also reduced neuronal loss compared to control. Quercetin attenuates seizures in kindled mice and reduces neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. This neuroprotective effect may be attributed to its ability to inhibit inflammatory mediators in the brain.

Effect of Different Salinity Levels on Growth Performance, Hematological Parameters and Proximate Composition of Cyprinus Carpio

The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different salinity levels on the growth performance, proximate composition, and hematological parameters of Common carp (Cyprinus carpio). The experiment was designed under Laboratory conditions with twice replica as five treatments: T0: 0-ppt, (control); T1: 2-ppt, T2: 4-ppt, T3: 6-ppt and T4: 8-ppt and fish were randomly stocked (5 fish /aquarium). The C. carpio were fed 5% (commercial diet CP-30%) of their body weight and water was replaced regularly after every alternate day. The present study describes the significant changes (p&lt;0.05) in growth parameters (viz; final weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio) with poor feeding behavior and stress were observed with further increase in salinity. Furthermore, body composition (Protein, fat, moisture, and ash contents) also showed significant changes (p&lt;0.05). The crude protein and moisture contents were significantly decreased while crude fat and ash contents were increased with the increase of salinity respectively. The results of hematological parameters also decrease with the increase of salinity and found significant changes (p&lt;0.05). The results of this study indicate that C. carpio exhibits a great degree of adaptability and resistance to salinity stress. This study serves as a basis for developing strategies to optimize the rearing conditions and welfare of common carp in different salinity regimes. Further research is warranted to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the observed responses, enabling more precise management practices for the sustainable cultivation of C. carpio.

Reduction of Environmental Noise Impact on Preterm Babies in NICU by Using Ear Plugs

Objective − To determine if using ear plugs reduce the impact of noise on preterm babies admitted to neonatal intensive care units in terms of changes in their vital parameters and their discomfort level, assessed using the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS) score.Materials and Methods − This is an interventional study conducted in a tertiary level neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (Bangalore, India) over a period of 3 months, ranging from June 2022 to September 2022. This study included 20 preterm babies with different gestational ages and birth weights who were admitted to the NICU during that period. The babies’ response to noise, in terms of changes in heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and discomfort level, were assessed with ear plugs and without ear plugs on alternate days and the results were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. Results − On days 1 and 3, mean heart rate and systolic blood pressure were lower in babies wearing ear plugs (141.55±2.42 SD and 60.1±11.58, respectively) than in the same babies without ear plugs (157.55±2.52 SD and 61.85±1.6 SD, respectively) on days 2 and 4. The mean oxygen saturation was higher in babies wearing ear plugs (96.7%±0.80 SD) than in the same babies without the intervention (93.75%±1.29 SD). The mean NIPS score was lower with the intervention (2.05±0.22) than without ear plugs (5.05±0.22 SD).Conclusion – Ear plugs were an effective alternative in situations where noise in the NICU cannot be consistently maintained at a lower level than the standard recommendation by the AAP of 45 decibels.

Impact of Irrigation Scheduling and Nitrogen Management Through Drip Irrigation System on Nutrient Content and Uptake of Rabi Maize (Zea mays L.)

The state of the soil's nutrients can be significantly impacted by improper irrigation and nitrogen application, which may accelerate nutrient losses and cause soil erosion and ground water pollution. A field experiment was conducted during consecutive two rabi seasons of the years 2021 and 2022 at Regional Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India to study the “Impact of irrigation scheduling and nitrogen management through drip irrigation system on nutrient content and uptake of rabi maize (Zea mays L.)”. The soil of the experimental field was loamy sand in texture, with low organic carbon and available nitrogen, medium available phosphorus and high potassium with soil pH 8.21. The experiment was carried out in split plot design with four levels of irrigation scheduling based on Alternate Day Pan Evaporation Fraction (ADPEF) were considered in main plot viz., I1 : Irrigation scheduling at 0.8 ADPEF, I2 : Irrigation scheduling at 1.0 ADPEF, I3 : Irrigation scheduling at 1.2 ADPEF and I4 : Control (Flood irrigation) and three nitrogen management treatments viz. N1 : 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer, N2 : 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + Bio NPK consortium, N3 : 50% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + Bio NPK consortium + 5 t/ha FYM were assigned in sub plots, comprised of 12 treatment combinations. Result of the experiment showed that irrigation scheduling at 1.2 ADPEF (I3) recorded significantly higher N content in grain and stover and it was remained at par with irrigation scheduling at 1.0 ADPEF (I2) during 2021, 2022 and pooled analysis. P and K content in grain and stover was found non-significant due to various irrigation scheduling treatments during individual years and on pooled basis. Irrigation scheduling at 1.2 ADPEF (I3) recorded significantly higher N, P uptake by grain and stover and K uptake by grain during 2021, 2022 and on pooled basis. K uptake by stover found significantly higher under irrigation scheduling at 1.2 ADPEF (I3) during 2021-22 and pooled basis. While K, uptake by stover found non-significant. Nitrogen management with 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer recorded significantly the highest N content in grain and stover and pooled analysis. While, P and K content grain and stover found non- and pooled analysis. Application of 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer found significantly higher N, P and K uptake by grain and stover and pooled basis. Interaction effect of irrigation scheduling and nitrogen management treatments was found significantly higher N uptake by grain and K uptake by stover (pooled basis) under irrigation scheduling at 1.2 ADPEF with 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer (I3N1).

Aflatoxin B1 administration causes inflammation and apoptosis in the lungs and spleen

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin that has numerous toxic effects. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the lungs and spleen. Mice were repeatedly exposed to AFB1 (0.3 mg/kg body weight) on alternate days for four weeks via oral route. The histopathological data in AFB1-treated mice show alveolar epithelial hyperplasia with inflammation and the presence of numerous alveolar macrophages with minimal hemorrhage. There was an increase in vascular neutrophils and interstitial inflammation. The branching of vessels was plugged with neutrophils. AFB1 administration also causes splenomegaly. The AFB1-treated spleen shows the tingible body macrophages (TBM) scattered within the splenic white pulp. Apoptosis may lead to atrophy in a selected region of the white pulp area. There is a decrease in cellularity within the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath (PALS). The inflammation causes the congestion of red pulp with the increase in nuclear debris, and vacuoles are also visible. The flow cytometry data further suggests enhanced apoptosis in lung and spleen cells.

Bardoxolone Methyl Ameliorates Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathic Pain by Activation of Phosphorylated Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in the Dorsal Root Ganglia.

Many chemotherapeutic drugs, including paclitaxel, produce neuropathic pain in patients with cancer, which is a dose-dependent adverse effect. Such chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP) is difficult to treat with existing drugs. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a major regulator of antioxidative responses and activates phosphorylated Nrf2 (pNrf2). We determined the analgesic effects of bardoxolone methyl (BM), an Nrf2 activator, and the role of pNrf2 on CINP. CINP was induced in rats by intraperitoneally injecting paclitaxel on 4 alternate days in rats. BM was injected systemically as single or repeated injections after pain fully developed. RNA transcriptome, mechanical hyperalgesia, levels of inflammatory mediators and pNrf2, and location of pNrf2 in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were measured by RNA sequencing, von Frey filaments, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry in rats and human DRG samples. In addition, the mitochondrial functions in 50B11 DRG neuronal cells were measured by fluorescence assay. Our RNA transcriptome of CINP rats showed a downregulated Nrf2 pathway in the pain condition. Importantly, single and repeated systemic injections of BM ameliorated CINP. Paclitaxel increased inflammatory mediators, but BM decreased them and increased pNrf2 in the DRG. In addition, paclitaxel decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and increased mitochondrial volume in 50B11 cells, but BM restored them. Furthermore, pNrf2 was expressed in neurons and satellite cells in rat and human DRG. Our results demonstrate the analgesic effects of BM by Nrf2 activation and the fundamental role of pNrf2 on CINP, suggesting a target for CINP and a therapeutic strategy for patients.

Combined effect of myofascial release and passive stretching on plantar pressure in individual with hamstring tightness- an experimental study

IntroductionThe lower kinetic chain is known to be affected by hamstring tightness which causes biomechanical alterations. As per the literature, short hamstring might cause prolonged forefoot loading, which can cause higher repeated stress on the plantar fascia. There is evidence supporting the use of various stretching and myofascial release techniques for hamstring tightness, further research is needed to investigate their impact on plantar pressure. Hence the study aims to determine combined effect of myofascial release and passive stretching on plantar pressure in individual with hamstring tightness. MethodsThis was an experimental pre-post study design with 67 randomised screenings from asymptomatic health care science students aged 18 to 25. From this scientific survey, a sample size of 47 students having HMS tightness based on the popliteal angle were recruited using a universal goniometer. An intervention was proposed that included MFR and passive stretching in 3 sessions on alternate days. Plantar pressure of these individuals was noted by using the “Harris and Beath foot printing mat” before and after the intervention. ResultSignificant pressure changes were observed after intervention: great toe of right side (p = 0.001), toes 2 to 5 of right side (p = 0.010) and left side (p = 0.008), first metatarsal of left side (p = 0.010), lateral forefoot of right side (p = 0.019) and left (p = 0.018), medial heel (p = 0.044), and lateral heel of right side (p = 0.025). These values substantiate the enhancement in plantar pressure. ConclusionThe combined effect of Myofascial release and passive stretching in an individual with hamstring tightness resulted in a significant increase in popliteal angle and plantar pressure.

Is Ultrahypofractionated Whole Pelvis Radiation Therapy (WPRT) as Well Tolerated as Conventionally Fractionated WPRT in Patients With Prostate Cancer? Early Results From the HOPE Trial

ObjectiveTo evaluate acute toxicity and quality of life (QOL) impact of ultra-hypofractionated whole pelvis radiotherapy (WPRT) compared to conventional WPRT fractionation post high-dose rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy (BT). MethodsBLINDED FOR REVIEW is a phase 2, multi-institutional randomized controlled trial involving men with prostate-confined disease and NCCN unfavorable intermediate, high, or very-high-risk prostate cancer. Patients were randomly assigned to receive conventionally fractionated WPRT (standard arm) or ultra-hypofractionated WPRT (experimental arm) in a 1:1 ratio. All patients underwent radiotherapy with 15 Gy HDR-BT boost in a single fraction followed by WPRT delivered with conventional fractionation (45 Gy in 25 daily fractions or 46 Gy in 23 fractions) or ultra-hypofractionation (25 Gy in 5 fractions delivered on alternate days). Acute toxicities, measured during radiotherapy and at 6 weeks post-treatment, were assessed using the clinician-reported Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0, and QOL was measured using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-50) and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). ResultsA total of 80 patients were enrolled and treated across three Canadian institutions. A total of 39 and 41 patients received external radiotherapy with conventionally fractionated and ultra-hypofractionated WPRT, respectively. All patients received androgen deprivation therapy, except for 2 patients treated in the ultra-hypofractionated arm. Baseline clinical characteristics were similar between the two arms, with 51 (63.8%) patients having high or very high-risk prostate cancer disease. Treatment was well tolerated with no significant differences in the rate of acute adverse events between arms. No grade 4 adverse events or treatment-related deaths were reported. Ultra-hypofractionated WPRT had a less detrimental impact in the EPIC-50 bowel total, function and bother domain scores when compared to conventional WPRT in the acute setting. On the contrary, more patients treated with ultra-hypofractionated WPRT reached the minimum clinical important difference on EPIC-50 urinary domains. No significant QOL differences between arms were noted in the sexual and hormonal domains. ConclusionUltra-hypofractionated WPRT following HDR-BT is a well-tolerated treatment strategy in the acute setting and leads to less detrimental impact on bowel QOL domains when compared to conventional WPRT.