Body Systems Research Articles

1H NMR-metabolomics studies on acute toxicity effect of lead in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) model

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is ideal for studying the effects of toxins like lead or plumbum (Pb) which persist in the environment and harm body systems when absorbed. Increasing Pb concentration could result in a higher mortality rate and alteration of behavior and metabolism. The present study evaluates the acute toxicity effect of Pb on metabolome and behavior in adult zebrafish. The zebrafish were exposed to various Pb concentrations ranging from 0 to 30 mg/L for different periods (24, 48, and 72 h) before the fish samples were subjected to Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-multivariate data analysis (MVDA) with additional support from behavioral assessment. The behavior of zebrafish was significantly altered after Pb inducement and the differential metabolites increased in low (5 mg/L) while decreased in high (10 mg/L) Pb concentrations. An ideal Pb induction could be achieved by 5 mg/L concentration in 24 h, which induced significant metabolite changes without irreversible damage. Continuing research on the effects of lead toxicity is crucial to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Pregled brahicefalne opstruktivne bolesti dišnih putova

Popularity of brachycephalic breeds of dogs is ever-increasing, which is somewhat surprising given the fact that the awareness of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) and its many consequences is on the rise. The BOAS is a chronic, debilitating and progressive disease that starts early and shortens both the lifespan and health of these dogs. Although there is a strong genetic component to this condition, most brachycephalic dogs are not born having all these anatomical abnormalities. Rather, BOAS begins as stenotic nostril, continues with thickening of the nasal mucosa, followed by laryngeal softening and collapse, tracheal narrowing and bronchial collapse. Concurrently, other body systems also suffer, including the eyes, brain, skin, spine but most of all, the gastrointestinal system. The severity of BOAS can be greatly reduced through owner education, early detection of the condition and early treatment. This review article provides an overview of BOAS pathophysiology, clinical examination, grading scales, diagnosis and treatment of those patients. Dogs with BOAS share many common issues though this is still an individualised condition with many faces. Consequently, many different treatment options are described. Finally, prognostic factors and future trends are also discussed.

Assessment of the health status in pharmaceutical workers

Introduction. Pharmaceutical workers (PW) being exposed to adverse physical, chemical, and biological factors are responsible for the performance results and experience psycho-emotional stress. This contributes to the emergence of diseases associated with professional activity, and, therefore, it is necessary to find ways to prevent them. The purpose of the study: assessment of the state of health in the pharmaceutical workers; determination of factors affecting morbidity, search for ways to preserve and strengthen the health in specialists. Materials and methods. To study the health status in PW, data were collected by using the questionnaire method, which made it possible to identify symptoms of diseases of the nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, musculoskeletal, immune, genitourinary, and reproductive systems. The level of anxiety in PW was determined by the method of CD Spielberger. Results. In PW there were found symptoms of diseases of all body systems, but the greatest number of complaints were about disorders of the nervous (25.3%), digestive (18.1%), and respiratory (16.0%) systems. The majority of respondents revealed medium and high levels of situational anxiety as much as 46.7% and 36.5%, respectively. Almost half of the respondents have a high level of personal anxiety. The influence of age and work experience on the health status in PW was noted. The highest level of personal anxiety is observed in women. Situational anxiety is expressed among workers who have bad habits. Employees with high situational anxiety have more symptoms of nervous system diseases. Research limitations. A total of 107 questionnaires were evaluated, when studying the health status of PW in pharmacy organizations. Conclusion. Most PW maintain a healthy lifestyle: they do not have bad habits, follow a healthy diet, have sufficient sleep, and an active lifestyle. However, 80% noted non-compliance with the work-rest balance when performing occupational activities (working). In this regard, it is important to pay attention to the labour optimization, ensuring a favourable socio-psychological climate at work, and the use of relief techniques.

The Effectiveness of Using Cells at Work Anime Media on Students' Learning Outcomes in the Material of Cells in Blood Circulation and Immunity

AbstractIndonesian society can easily access information and media through the internet. One of the animation video media easily accessible to all segments of Indonesian society is Japanese Animation, known as Anime. Anime has various interesting stories, one of which is Hataraku Saibou, which tells the activities of cells in the human body in the form of a narrative. This raises the question of whether anime with themes depicting the lives of working cell characters in the body can be used as a learning media for students to understand the explanation of cell activities in the body in a narrative form in the anime. Research has been conducted on the Hataraku Saibou Anime among the general public. It is said that this anime effectively increases public understanding of the human body system. However, there has been no study on the effectiveness of this anime when used in the learning process for students. Therefore, a study was conducted on Hataraku Saibou Anime, with the research objective of determining the effectiveness of the animation media of Hataraku Saibou anime. The research method used a Non-equivalent Control Group Design, an experimental class research with the treatment of watching Hataraku Saibou anime, and the control class with PowerPoint learning selected under certain conditions. Data was collected using pre-test and post-test question evaluation with validated RPP Instruments. The research results, analyzed by comparing the improvement of experimental and control class scores, were calculated using hypothesis testing with SPSS 21. It was found that using the t-test, the value obtained was 2.087 with a significance of 0.000. The critical value (t-crit) is 1.986. So it can be concluded that t-value is greater than t-crit (2.087 > 1.986). From this result, it can be concluded that the animation media of Hataraku Saibou anime is effective in the material of cells in the bloodstream and immune system.

Using Virtual Reality to Teach Science Vocabulary to Transition Aged Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities have been less involved in school activities than their peers of the same age and this includes career preparation in science and math (Agran et al., 2019; Eriksson et al., 2007; Jackson et al., 2022). Students with disabilities often lack access to facilities, programs, and equipment, and acceptance by educators, employers, and co-workers (Burgstahler, 1994). The effects of a virtual reality (VR) human anatomy application as the means of teaching science vocabulary definitions and locations acquisition for three different human anatomy systems (digestive, respiratory, and integumentary) to college-age students with intellectual disability (ID) are reviewed. This single subject, multiple baseline study included two transition age youth with ID. The intervention package included both a guided and exploratory portion. Data were collected on the participants’ accuracy on the definitions and locations of ten vocabulary words for each of the three body systems on a paper assessment. Findings indicated that a functional relation existed between the implementation of the intervention package and an increase in the accuracy of scores in both definitions and locations for each of the three body systems for each participant.

Exploring dietary changes and supplement use among cancer patients in Norway: prevalence, motivations, disclosure, information, and perceived risks and benefits: a cross sectional study

BackgroundCancer is the leading cause of death in Norway, with prostate, breast, lung, and colon cancers being the most prevalent types. Adopting a healthy and varied diet can help reduce cancer risk and recurrence. However, access to dietary counselling remains limited for cancer patients in Norway. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of dietary supplement use and dietary changes made by cancer patients and survivors. Additionally, it sought to explore the reason(s) for such practices, communication with healthcare providers, sources of information, and reported benefits and potential harms resulting from these changes and supplement use.MethodsConducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Cancer Society (NCS), this online cross-sectional study targeted members of their user panel who had either current or previous cancer (n = 706). The study took place in September/October 2021, utilizing a modified cancer-specific version of the International Questionnaire to Measure Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (I-CAM-Q). Out of 468 participants (315 women and 153 men), 67.2% consented to participate. Between-group analyses were conducted using Pearson chi-square tests and Fisher exact tests for categorical variables, while independent sample t-tests were applied for continuous variables.ResultsThe majority of the participants (97%) reported making changes to their diet (78%) and/or incorporating dietary supplements (73%) in response to their cancer diagnosis. The primary goal of these changes was to strengthen their body and immune system. Almost half of the participants (49%) reported that they found these changes beneficial and discussed them openly with their healthcare providers, with family physicians being the most common point of discussion (25%). Adverse effects were reported by only a few participants, mostly mild. Information about dietary changes and supplements was primarily sourced from the internet or healthcare providers.ConclusionsThis study highlights that most individuals affected by cancer attribute to dietary adjustment. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing adherence to dietary recommendations and using reliable sources of information. Additionally, the study highlights the potential, yet currently underutilized, role of healthcare professionals in initiating dialogues about dietary interventions to address any unmet needs of patients. Such proactive engagement may contribute to the promotion of reliable sources of information and the prevention of non-evidence-based and potentially harmful diets or supplement adoption.

COMPARISON OF PRE-HOSPITAL PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS AND DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSIS IN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IN PATIENTS BROUGHT BY AMBULANCE

Aim: In this study, it was evaluated whether the anamnesis taken by paramedics before the hospital and the physical examination performed by paramedics in a limited time in non-traumatic patients brought to a second-level district state hospital by ambulance showed targeted effectiveness and whether the appropriate preliminary diagnosis was made in the evaluations made, and these preliminary diagnoses were compared with the final diagnoses made after the examinations in the emergency department. Methods: Between 01.01.2023 and 30.06.2023, patients brought to a State Hospital by ambulance were retrospectively analyzed. All age groups brought from the field for non-traumatic reasons were included in the study. Results: During the study period, all patients brought to our emergency department by ambulance were examined. The mean age of the patients was 66. More than half of the cases were female (57.7%). Comparison of the body systems belonging to the symptoms and preliminary diagnoses considered by the paramedics with the body systems belonging to the definitive diagnoses made in the emergency department showed a statistically moderate level of agreement between the pathologies considered by the 112 teams and the pathologies considered by the emergency department physicians in all body systems except the pathologies of the genitourinary system (Kappa 0.558). Conclusion: It was observed that the preliminary diagnosis or symptom stated in the case form by ambulance workers working in prehospital emergency health services was similar to the definitive diagnostic systems in the emergency department. However, it was found that 74.9% of the case forms indicated symptoms instead of preliminary diagnosis. This may have been due to the fact that paramedics did not want to take responsibility by stating a more general approach in patient delivery.

Study on the coupling calculation method for the launch dynamics of a self-propelled artillery multibody system considering engraving process

The launch dynamics theory for multibody systems emerges as an innovative and efficacious approach for the study of launch dynamics, capable of addressing the challenges of complex modeling, diminished computational efficiency, and imprecise analyses of system dynamic responses found in the dynamics research of intricate multi-rigid-flexible body systems, such as self-propelled artillery. This advancement aims to enhance the firing accuracy and launch safety of self-propelled artillery. Recognizing the shortfall of overlooking the band engraving process in existing theories, this study introduces a novel coupling calculation methodology for the launch dynamics of a self-propelled artillery multibody system. This method leverages the ABAQUS subroutine interface VUAMP to compute the dynamic response of the projectile and barrel during the launch process of large-caliber self-propelled artillery. Additionally, it examines the changes in projectile resistance and band deformation in relation to projectile motion throughout the band engraving process. Comparative analysis of the computational outcomes with experimental data evidences that the proposed method offers a more precise depiction of the launch process of self-propelled artillery, thereby enhancing the accuracy of launch dynamics calculations for self-propelled artillery.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRESS LEVELS AND THE DEGREE OF PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA IN STUDENTS OF THE MEDICAL UNDERGRADUATE STUDY PROGRAM, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, UDAYANA UNIVERSITY

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is pain or tenderness during menstruation without any gynecological abnormalities. The main contributory cause to primary dysmenorrhea is an increase in prostaglandin production, one of which can be brought on by stress. Stress is the response of the human body to stressors and can be a defense system of the human body. It has been determined from numerous research that stress is relatively common among medical students. The stress experienced by female students can cause disturbances in the endocrine system so that it can be a trigger or a factor in aggravating the degree of dysmenorrhea.
 Objective: This study aims to determine the relationship between stress levels and the degree of primary dysmenorrhea in students of the Medical Undergraduate Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University.
 Methods: This study used an observational analytic research study with a cross sectional design. By using total sampling, 81 students from the Medical Education Study Program at the Faculty of Medicine at Udayana University, year 2020, were selected as the research sample. Data on stress were obtained from filling out the PSS-10 questionnaire and data on primary dysmenorrhea were obtained from the NRS. Analysis of research data using chi-square test to determine the correlation between stress and primary dysmenorrhea.
 Results: The results of the study showed that there was no relationship between stress and primary dysmenorrhea with a p-value of 0,79.
 Conclusion: The conclusion of this study is that there is no significant relationship between stress levels and the degree of primary dysmenorrhea in students of the Medical Undergraduate Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University.
 Keywords : Stress, stress level, dysmenorrhea, primary dysmenorrhea

The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in tissues and its association with long COVID symptoms: a cross-sectional cohort study in China

Growing evidence suggests that symptoms associated with post-COVID-19 condition (also known as long COVID) can affect multiple organs and systems in the human body, but their association with viral persistence is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in diverse tissues at three timepoints following recovery from mild COVID-19, as well as its association with long COVID symptoms. This single-centre, cross-sectional cohort study was done at China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing, China, following the omicron wave of COVID-19 in December, 2022. Individuals with mild COVID-19 confirmed by PCR or a lateral flow test scheduled to undergo gastroscopy, surgery, or chemotherapy, or scheduled for treatment in hospital for other reasons, at 1 month, 2 months, or 4 months after infection were enrolled in this study. Residual surgical samples, gastroscopy samples, and blood samples were collected approximately 1 month (18-33 days), 2 months (55-84 days), or 4 months (115-134 days) after infection. SARS-CoV-2 was detected by digital droplet PCR and further confirmed through RNA in-situ hybridisation, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Telephone follow-up was done at 4 months post-infection to assess the association between the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and long COVID symptoms. Between Jan 3 and April 28, 2023, 317 tissue samples were collected from 225 patients, including 201 residual surgical specimens, 59 gastroscopy samples, and 57 blood component samples. Viral RNA was detected in 16 (30%) of 53 solid tissue samples collected at 1 month, 38 (27%) of 141 collected at 2 months, and seven (11%) of 66 collected at 4 months. Viral RNA was distributed across ten different types of solid tissues, including liver, kidney, stomach, intestine, brain, blood vessel, lung, breast, skin, and thyroid. Additionally, subgenomic RNA was detected in 26 (43%) of 61 solid tissue samples tested for subgenomic RNA that also tested positive for viral RNA. At 2 months after infection, viral RNA was detected in the plasma of three (33%), granulocytes of one (11%), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of two (22%) of nine patients who were immunocompromised, but in none of these blood compartments in ten patients who were immunocompetent. Among 213 patients who completed the telephone questionnaire, 72 (34%) reported at least one long COVID symptom, with fatigue (21%, 44 of 213) being the most frequent symptom. Detection of viral RNA in recovered patients was significantly associated with the development of long COVID symptoms (odds ratio 5·17, 95% CI 2·64-10·13, p<0·0001). Patients with higher virus copy numbers had a higher likelihood of developing long COVID symptoms. Our findings suggest that residual SARS-CoV-2 can persist in patients who have recovered from mild COVID-19 and that there is a significant association between viral persistence and long COVID symptoms. Further research is needed to verify a mechanistic link and identify potential targets to improve long COVID symptoms. National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Key R&D Program of China, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences, and New Cornerstone Science Foundation. For the Chinese translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Workflow of a Preclinical Robotic Magnetic Resonance Imaging-guided Focused Ultrasound Body System

Abstract Background: Establishing an efficient workflow is crucial for the success of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) procedures. The current study provides a comprehensive description of the workflow of a customized MRgFUS robotic body device for preclinical use and accompanied software through experiments in excised porcine tissue. Methods: The employed system comprises a single-element spherically focused transducer of 2.6 MHz that can be moved along four PC-controlled axes. A detailed description of essential software functionalities and its integration with a 3T Siemens magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner through Access-I for interactive remote control of the scanner and real-time access to imaging data is provided. Following treatment planning on preoperative MR images, porcine tissue samples were sonicated in rectangular and irregular grid patterns with varying ultrasonic parameters and spatial step under software-based monitoring. Results: MRgFUS ablations of ex vivo porcine tissue were successfully performed utilizing a multimodal monitoring approach combining MRI-based temperature, thermal dose, and necrotic area mapping, thus demonstrating an efficient procedural workflow. The simulated necrotic regions were in excellent agreement with the actual lesions revealed upon tissue dissection and highly consistent with the planned sonication patterns. The software’s ability to accurately identify regions where necrosis did not occur and indicate to the user the specific points to be re-sonicated was demonstrated. Conclusion: Overall, the study highlights critical aspects in accurately planning and executing preclinical MRgFUS protocols within an efficient workflow. The provided data could serve as the basis for other researchers in the field.

Microplastics and Nano-plastics Contamination in Foods: Current Understanding of the Health Impact on Human and Potential Solutions

Plastics released into the environment can be degraded by physical erosion, biodegradation, photocatalytic activity, and oxidation, resulting in smaller plastics particles. Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles relatively smaller than 5 mm in size. Furthermore, microplastics with particle sizes less than 1000 or 100 nm are known as nano-plastics (NPs). The presence and effect of MPs and NPs in human body has not been adequately studies, thus we aim to explain the origins of MPs and NPs adept, carefully explore the pathways by which MPs and NPs enter the body system and highlight the impact of MPs and NPs on human health. Major examples include Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). MPs and NPs were found to have two sources (primary and secondary). The primary sources are materials purposely produced to suit household and industrial uses, such as exfoliants for skin care products, construction, and packaging materials. Secondary sources originated from the decomposition/degradation of large plastic products over time. Plastics were found in plants (fruits and vegetables), animals (fish, crab, shrimp, oysters, and mussels), water (taps, sachet, and bottled water), salt, sugar, and honey. Plastics' impact on the human ecosystem is getting increasingly severe, and it is imperative that proper attention be paid to this issue. The vast number of MPs and NPs available can influence the lives of the populace in each geographic area. In this review article, we identified three routes through which MPs and NPs gain entrance into the human body: oral ingestion, cutaneous (skin contact), and inhalation. Furthermore, we investigated and summarized the impacts of MPs and NPs on human health. The most impacted organs in the body included the lungs, blood, kidney, brain, ovary, testes, and intestines. In this review, we offered a viable solution that includes the use of biodegradable polymers, increased usage of eco-friendly biotechnology and engineering solutions, and the implementation of regulatory measures. In future, we intend to investigate the bioaccumulation and effect of MPs/NPs on human health.

The Role of Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolites in Patients with Heart Failure.

Heart failure (HF) is a significant health concern; early detection and prevention are crucial. Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiota and its metabolites may influence HF development and risk factors. We explored this relationship by examining changes in gut microbiota composition and metabolite levels in HF patients. HF patients often exhibit decreased alpha and beta diversity compared to controls, suggesting lower bacterial richness and community variation. Changes in specific bacterial phyla were observed, with decreases in Firmicutes (e.g., Ruminococcus) and Bacteroidetes (e.g., Prevotella) and increases in Proteobacteria (e.g., Escherichia, Shigella, and Klebsiella) and Actinobacteria. Gut-microbiota-related metabolites have been identified, potentially affecting various body systems, including the cardiovascular system. Among these are short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), betaine, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), phenylalanine, tryptophan-kynurenine, and phenylacetylgutamine (PAGIn). Although SCFAs positively affect our organisms, patients with HF have been observed to experience a decline in bacteria responsible for producing these chemical compounds. There have been indications of possible links between betaine, TMAO, phenylalanine, tryptophan-kynurenine, PAGIn, and heart failure. TMAO and phenylalanine, in particular, show promise as potential prognostic factors. However, their clinical significance has not yet been thoroughly evaluated and requires further investigation.

Mini-encyclopedia of mitochondria-relevant nutraceuticals protecting health in primary and secondary care—clinically relevant 3PM innovation

Despite their subordination in humans, to a great extent, mitochondria maintain their independent status but tightly cooperate with the “host” on protecting the joint life quality and minimizing health risks. Under oxidative stress conditions, healthy mitochondria promptly increase mitophagy level to remove damaged “fellows” rejuvenating the mitochondrial population and sending fragments of mtDNA as SOS signals to all systems in the human body. As long as metabolic pathways are under systemic control and well-concerted together, adaptive mechanisms become triggered increasing systemic protection, activating antioxidant defense and repair machinery. Contextually, all attributes of mitochondrial patho-/physiology are instrumental for predictive medical approach and cost-effective treatments tailored to individualized patient profiles in primary (to protect vulnerable individuals again the health-to-disease transition) and secondary (to protect affected individuals again disease progression) care. Nutraceuticals are naturally occurring bioactive compounds demonstrating health-promoting, illness-preventing, and other health-related benefits. Keeping in mind health-promoting properties of nutraceuticals along with their great therapeutic potential and safety profile, there is a permanently growing demand on the application of mitochondria-relevant nutraceuticals. Application of nutraceuticals is beneficial only if meeting needs at individual level. Therefore, health risk assessment and creation of individualized patient profiles are of pivotal importance followed by adapted nutraceutical sets meeting individual needs. Based on the scientific evidence available for mitochondria-relevant nutraceuticals, this article presents examples of frequent medical conditions, which require protective measures targeted on mitochondria as a holistic approach following advanced concepts of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM/3PM) in primary and secondary care.

Physiological Importance of Asthi and Peshi Sharira: An Ayurveda and Modern Perspective

Asthi and Peshi are terms from Ayurveda; they refer to different aspects of the human body. They refer to the skeletal system or the bone structure of body, bones are considered as Dhatus that make up the human body. Asthi Sharira is responsible for providing support and protection to the body. Peshi Sharira refers to the muscular system of body encompasses various types of muscles including skeletal muscles, smooth muscles and cardiac muscles, etc. These systems are responsible for the movement inside the body. Both Asthi Sharira and Peshi Sharira are essential components of body to provide support, holding capacity, basic skeleton frame, movement and rigidity to physical structure. This article narrates physiological importance of Asthi and Peshi Sharira

Post-COVID-19 syndrome in everyday clinical practice: interdisciplinary expert position statement endorsed by the Polish Society of Civilization Diseases.

Post-COVID-19 syndrome, also known as long COVID-19 syndrome, is a complex set of symptoms that persist for weeks or months after recovery from an acute phase of COVID-19. These symptoms can affect various body systems, including the respiratory, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. The most common complaints are fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, taste and smell disorders, as well as problems with memory and concentration. Pathogenesis of post-COVID-19 syndrome is complicated and not fully understood, but it is likely related to an overactive immune system, disturbances in the intestinal microbiome, and cell and tissue damage caused by the virus. Incorporating a multidisciplinary approach to treating and rehabilitating patients and further research into this syndrome's underlying mechanisms and therapy are crucial for understanding and effectively treating this complex and multifaceted condition.

The Effect of an Elevated Dietary Copper Level on the Vascular Contractility and Oxidative Stress in Middle-Aged Rats.

Copper (Cu), being an essential mineral, plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis across multiple bodily systems, notably the cardiovascular system. However, an increased Cu level in the body may cause blood vessel dysfunction and oxidative stress, which is unfavorable for the cardiovascular system. Middle-aged (7-8 months old) male Wistar rats (n/group = 12) received a diet supplemented with 6.45 mg Cu/kg (100% of the recommended daily dietary quantity of copper) for 8 weeks (Group A). The experimental group received 12.9 mg Cu/kg of diet (200%-Group B). An ex vivo study revealed that supplementation with 200% Cu decreased the contraction of isolated aortic rings to noradrenaline (0.7-fold) through FP receptor modulation. Vasodilation to sodium nitroprusside (1.10-fold) and acetylcholine (1.13-fold) was potentiated due to the increased net effect of prostacyclin derived from cyclooxygenase-1. Nitric oxide (NO, 2.08-fold), superoxide anion (O2•-, 1.5-fold), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 2.33-fold) measured in the aortic rings increased. Blood serum antioxidant status (TAS, 1.6-fold), Cu (1.2-fold), Zn (1.1-fold), and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.4-fold) increased. An increase in Cu (1.12-fold) and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.09-fold) was also seen in the rats' livers. Meanwhile, cyclooxygenase-1 (0.7-fold), cyclooxygenase-2 (0.4-fold) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (0.5-fold) decreased. Moreover, a negative correlation between Cu and Zn was found (r = -0.80) in rat serum. Supplementation with 200% Cu did not modify the isolated heart functioning. No significant difference was found in the body weight, fat/lean body ratio, and organ weight for either the heart or liver, spleen, kidney, and brain. Neither Fe nor Se, the Cu/Se ratio, the Se/Zn ratio (in serum and liver), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), or intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (iCAM-1) (in serum) were modified. Supplementation with 200% of Cu potentiated pro-oxidant status and modified vascular contractility in middle-aged rats.

COVID-19 drug discovery and treatment options.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused substantial morbidity and mortality, and serious social and economic disruptions worldwide. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated older individuals with underlying diseases are especially prone to severe disease. In patients with non-fatal disease, long COVID affecting multiple body systems may persist for months. Unlike SARS-CoV and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, which have either been mitigated or remained geographically restricted, SARS-CoV-2 has disseminated globally and is likely to continue circulating in humans with possible emergence of new variants that may render vaccines less effective. Thus, safe, effective and readily available COVID-19 therapeutics are urgently needed. In this Review, we summarize the major drug discovery approaches, preclinical antiviral evaluation models, representative virus-targeting and host-targeting therapeutic options, and key therapeutics currently in clinical use for COVID-19. Preparedness against future coronavirus pandemics relies not only on effective vaccines but also on broad-spectrum antivirals targeting conserved viral components or universal host targets, and new therapeutics that can precisely modulate the immune response during infection.

Concept of Deshaviparyaya w.s.r. to Migration - A Literary Review

Desha (geographical distribution) is one of the important principles linked with health of individual. The characteristics of the Desha impart certain physical, physiological, psychological attributes in inhabitants. There is another term Deshaviparyaya which is not much understood. This factor is one main cause for many diseases prevailing nowadays. A comprehensive exploration can be done between Deshaviparyaya and migration. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this work aims to provide insights into complex interplay between geographical disorientation and health effects on people’s health. Aims &amp; Objectives: Literary review on basic concepts of Desha &amp; Satmya (Habituation) &amp; understanding concepts of Deshaviparyaya in view of migration. Materials &amp; Methods: Ayurvedic literatures containing all details about Desha, Satmya &amp; Deshaviparyaya were studied and literary material was critically reviewed. Discussion: Effect of migration and on sleep, integumentary system and generation of stress has been discussed with its Ayurvedic treatment. Conclusion: Migration has impact on different systems of human body. This article can be hypothesized that Desha &amp; Satmya should be considered for successful administration of therapeutics.

A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Topical and Infiltrative Anesthesia for Dermatosurgery Through a Subject-Oriented Approach.

Introduction The skin, along with its subcutaneous tissue, constitutes one of the major organ systems of the human body. Dermatosurgery is the branch dealing with skin conditions that operate at the level of skin, without disturbing the milieu intérieur of the human organ system. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken, which included 100 patients comprised of 50 patients in each group. For group A, the topical anesthetic agent used was a eutectic mixture of topical 2.5% lignocaine and 2.5% prilocaine cream (EMLA); for group B, infiltration anesthesia with 2% lignocaine injection. Patients satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited for the study. All the participants were requested to rate the pain at the time of drug administration, during the dermatosurgical procedure, and post-procedurally with a visual analogue scale (VAS) separately. Results In this study, 50% of the participants were of the age group of 21-40 years. Males constituted 57.8% whereas females constituted 42.2%. The common procedures performed in the study were electrocautery at 37%, intralesional platelet-rich plasma (PRP) at 16%, and intralesional steroid at 7%. In group A, the VAS score during drug administration was 0. In the group B, 70% had a VAS score of 4-6, and 30% had a VAS score of 1-3 pre-procedurally. The mean VAS score during procedure was 3.06 for group A and 1.03 for group B. Conclusion The study inferred that topical anesthesia is a better choice in superficial dermatosurgical procedures for providing adequate anesthesia and improved compliance when compared to infiltrative anesthesia.