Dunnett's Multiple Comparison Test Research Articles

Sensory evaluation and chemical composition of Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum herbal tea and spice.

Herbal teas are ingested for various purposes and by diverse populations across the globe. There is a growing recognition among individuals of the advantages associated with the use of this beverage, leading to a heightened demand for the manufacture of herbal tea derived from therapeutic plants. Spices on the other hand add flavour to food but could pose harm if it is high in phytates and oxalates. The objective of this study was to develop natural spices and herbal tea with health beneficial properties using Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum berries. Herbal tea samples from S. nigrum were prepared by sorting berries, maceration, divided into two (fermenting at 18 °C and non-fermenting) and dried at 60 °C for 12 h in a hot oven. Spices from S. torvum and S. nigrum were prepared by removing the berries from the stalk, freeze-drying and smooth milling into fine powder. In addition, antinutrient, phytochemical and sensory evaluation studies were conducted on these spices and herbal teas. A nine-point hedonic scale was utilized for the purpose of conducting a consumer acceptability sensory evaluation test using 101 untrained panelists. Data was then analyzed by t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the level of significance (p < 0.05) was assessed using Tukey's and Dunnett's multiple comparison tests. The panellists expressed a favourable perception towards Solanum nigrum unripe unfermented green herbal tea (6.65 ± 2.08) as compared to the other formulated teas due to the components working together in a way that produces a nice tea sample. Both Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum spices contained various levels of catechins, saponins, flavonoids, oxalates, phytates and tannins comparable to literature. The herbal tea samples exhibited a range of catechin content, varying from 0.255 to 0.756 mg/g. The antioxidant activity of the various herbal tea samples ranged from 66.37 ± 0.24 to 78.53 ± 0.18 µg/mL GAE as determined by the DPPH free radical assay Fermented black herbal teas recorded higher total phenols (2.80 ± 0.09d), total flavonoids (21.84 ± 1.84c) and showed greater antioxidant activity (78.53 ± 0.18a) as compared to the unfermented green herbal teas. The process of fermentation resulted in a decrease in pH from 7.22 to 6.53 within a period of 12 h. The Total Titratable Acidity (TTA) grew as the fermentation period progressed, whereas the Total Soluble Solids (TSS) decreased. Phytates were the least antinutrients among the two Solanum species accounting for 0.02 mg/100 g and 0.03 mg/100 g in S. torvum berries (STBs) and (S. nigrum berries) SNBs respectively.

Acute Cannabis Administration Transiently Reduces Mitochondrial DNA in Young Adults: Findings from a Secondary Analysis of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Cannabis is one of the world's most commonly used substances; however, many questions remain unanswered as to how cannabis impacts the body. Recently, there has been a resurgence of research into the effects of plant-derived cannabinoids on mitochondrial health. In particular, a number of studies implicate mitochondrial-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) interactions with altered memory, metabolism, and catalepsy in mice. Although the research in this field is expanding rapidly, there is little known about the effects of cannabis on mitochondria health in human subjects either in acute or chronic term use. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group randomized clinical trial in which adults who regularly use cannabis (1-4 days/week) aged 19-25 years were randomized 2:1 to receive either an active (12.5% Δ9-THC) cigarette or placebo (<0.01% Δ9-THC) cigarette containing 750 mg of cannabis before driving simulator testing. DNA was extracted from whole blood using commercial spin columns, followed by measurement of mt-ND1, mt-ND4, and β2M using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett's multiple comparisons test was used to observe changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number over time. A two-tailed Pearsons R test was used to assess correlations between mtDNA copy number and cannabinoid levels (Δ9-THC and metabolites) in blood. Results: We found that exposure to active cannabis containing Δ9-THC, as opposed to placebo, was associated with an acute reduction in mitochondrial DNA copy number in whole blood at 15 min and 1 h after smoking. The observed decrease in mtDNA copy number negatively correlated with blood concentrations of 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-Nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH), the two primary metabolites of Δ9-THC, but not Δ9-THC itself. Further, the negative correlation between 11-OH THC and THC-COOH concentrations and mtDNA copy number was found in only a subgroup of participants who use cannabis infrequently, suggesting a tolerance effect. Conclusions: These results illuminate mitochondrial alterations attributed to Δ9-THC consumption, which may be mediated by metabolites. These results appear to suggest stronger effects in individuals who consume cannabis less frequently, suggesting some form of tolerance to the effects of Δ9-THC and its metabolites on mtDNA content in whole blood. Keywords: Mitochondria; mtDNA; cannabis; THC; THC metabolites; blood; THC-COOH; 11-OH-THC.

A universal urinary cell gene signature of acute rejection in kidney allografts

IntroductionAcute rejection (AR) undermines the life-extending benefits of kidney transplantation and is diagnosed using the invasive biopsy procedure. T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR), antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR), or concurrent TCMR + ABMR (Mixed Rejection [MR]) are the three major types of AR. Development of noninvasive biomarkers diagnostic of AR due to any of the three types is a useful addition to the diagnostic armamentarium. MethodsWe developed customized RT-qPCR assays and measured urinary cell mRNA copy numbers in 145 biopsy-matched urine samples from 126 kidney allograft recipients. We determined whether the urinary cell three-gene signature diagnostic of TCMR (Suthanthiran et al., 2013) discriminates patients with no rejection biopsies (NR, n = 50) from those with ABMR (n = 28) or MR (n = 20) biopsies. ResultsThe urinary cell three-gene signature discriminated all three types of rejection biopsies from NR biopsies (P < 0.0001, One-way ANOVA). Dunnett's multiple comparisons test yielded P < 0.0001 for NR vs. TCMR; P < 0.001 for NR vs. ABMR; and P < 0.0001 for NR vs. MR. By bootstrap resampling, optimism-corrected area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.749 (bias-corrected 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.638 to 0.840) for NR vs. TCMR (P < 0.0001); 0.780 (95% CI, 0.656 to 0.878) for NR vs. ABMR (P < 0.0001); and 0.857 (95% CI, 0.727 to 0.947) for NR vs. MR (P < 0.0001). All three rejection categories were distinguished from NR biopsies with similar accuracy (all AUC comparisons P > 0.05). ConclusionThe urinary cell three-gene signature score discriminates AR due to TCMR, ABMR or MR from NR biopsies in human kidney allograft recipients.

Host and pathogen factors that influence variability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis lipid body content in sputum from patients with tuberculosis: an observational study

High proportions of Mycobacterium tuberculosis cells in sputum containing triacylglycerol-rich lipid bodies have been shown to be associated with treatment failure or relapse following antituberculous chemotherapy. Although lipid body determination is a potential biomarker for supporting clinical trial and treatment decisions, factors influencing variability in sputum frequencies of lipid body-positive (%LB+) M tuberculosis in patients are unknown. We aimed to test our hypothesis that exposure to host-generated NO and M tuberculosis strains are factors associated with differences in sputum %LB+. In this observational study, we determined %LB+ frequencies before treatment by microscopy in patients with smear-positive tuberculosis from two separate prospective observational study settings (Gondar, Ethiopia, recruited between May 1, 2010, and April 30, 2011, and Fajara, The Gambia, who provided sputum samples before treatment between May 5, 2010, and Dec 22, 2011). In Ethiopia, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was measured as a biomarker of host NO, and M tuberculosis strain differences were determined by spoligotyping. Treatment response was assessed by percentage weight change after 7 months. In The Gambia, treatment responses were assessed as change in BMI and radiographic burden of disease after 6 months. Sputum Mtuberculosis isolates were studied invitro for their %LB+ and triacylglycerol synthase 1 (tgs1) mRNA responses to NO exposure. Propidium iodide staining was used as a measure of NO strain toxicity. Correlation between invitro %LB+ frequencies following NO exposure and those of the same strain in sputum was examined with linear regression and Dunnett's multiple comparison test. In Ethiopia, 73 patients who were smear positive for pulmonary tuberculosis were recruited (43 [59%] were male and 30 [41%] were female). Of these, the %LB+ in the sputum of 59 patients showed linear correlation with log10 FeNO (r2=0·28; p<0·0001) and an association with strain spoligotype was suggested. Seven Mtuberculosis strains from The Gambia showed different dose-responses to NO invitro, demonstrated by changing lipid body content, tgs1 transcription, and bacterial toxicity. In sputum %LB+ frequencies correlated with invitro %LB+ responses to NO of the corresponding isolate. In a subset of 34 patients across both cohorts, higher sputum %LB+ frequencies before treatment were associated with weaker responses to treatment than lower sputum %LB+ frequencies. M tuberculosis strain and exposure to host-generated NO are associated with sputum %LB+. Our results support the use of M tuberculosis strain-dependent sputum %LB+ as a predictive biomarker of treatment response. The Medical Research Council, the University of Leicester, and the University of Gondar.

Therapeutic effects of Artocarpus communis J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. seeds on letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome wistar rats

BackgroundHerbal extracts are an effective treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and have been shown to improve insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, sex hormones, ovulation, and PCOS symptoms. Artocarpus communis seed's potential effects on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have not been studied. PurposeThis research aims to investigate the beneficial effects of Artocarpus communis seeds on PCOS induced by letrozole in Wistar rats. MethodsTo induce PCOS, female Wistar rats weighing between 160 g to 250 g were administered letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. Subsequently, for 12 days, the rats were given the Artocarpus communis seed methanol extract, and its hexane, DCM, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions (100 mg/kg body weight) and Clomiphene citrate (1 mg/kg body weight), a standard medication. Luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels were assessed using ELISA, and the expression of P53, insulin receptor substrate (IRS), type 2 17-HSD (17-HSD), fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), and 11a-hydroxylase/17,20-desmolase (CYP11a) genes were investigated. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and a significance threshold of p < 0.05 was set for Dunnett's Multiple Comparison Test. ResultsAdministration of the methanol extract of Artocarpus communis seed and its Hexane fraction led to a decrease in LH level and an increase in FSH and estradiol levels in the PCOS-induced animals. Furthermore, methanol extract, DCM, and ethyl acetate fraction normalize the expression of P53, insulin receptor substrate (IRS), type 2 17-HSD (17-HSD), fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), and 11a-hydroxylase/17,20-desmolase (CYP11a) genes in PCOS rats cervix. ConclusionArtocarpus communis seed exhibited ameliorative effects on polycystic ovary conditions in Wistar rats, suggesting its potential use in the management of PCOS.

Comparative study of the bronchodilator efficacy and adverse effects of salbutamol and hyoscine butylbromide in horses with severe asthma.

Salbutamol and hyoscine butylbromide (HBB) are commonly used bronchodilators in horses with severe asthma (SA). To compare the bronchodilation potency, duration, and adverse effects of salbutamol and HBB in SA. Six horses in exacerbation of SA. The effects of inhaled salbutamol (1000 μg) and HBB (150 mg, IV) were compared in a randomized, blinded, crossover experiment. Lung function, intestinal borborygmi and heart rate were assessed before and sequentially until 180 minutes after drug administration, and analyzed with 2-way repeated-measures ANOVA and Dunnett's multiple comparison tests. Both treatments caused a similar improvement in lung function. Pulmonary resistance and reactance returned to baseline values within 30 minutes after HBB administration, whereas salbutamol improved reactance until 180 minutes (mean improvement at 180 minutes of 0.040 Kpa/L/s, 95% CI = 0.004 to 0.076; P = .02 for salbutamol and of 0.009 Kpa/L/s, 95% CI = -0.028 to 0.045; P = .98 for HBB for the resistance at 3 Hz and of 0.040 Kpa/L/s, 95% CI = 0.007 to 0.074; P = .01 for salbutamol and of 0.009 Kpa/L/s, 95% CI = -0.024 to 0.042; P = .97 for HBB for the reactance at 7 Hz). From 5 to 30 minutes after HBB administration, the heart rate accelerated (mean increase of 3.3 beats per minute, 95% CI = -6.6 to 13.1; P = .92 for salbutamol, and of 13.0 beats per minute, 95% CI = 3.6 to 22.4; P = .002 for HBB at 30 minutes) and the gut sounds decreased (mean reduction of 1.3, 95% CI = -0.1 to 2.8; P = .09 for salbutamol and of 2.8 for the gastrointestinal auscultation score, 95% CI = 1.4 to 4.3; P < .0001 for HBB at 30 minutes). Both drugs have a similar bronchodilator potency but with a longer duration for salbutamol. Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects were noted only with HBB, suggesting the preferential use of salbutamol to relieve bronchoconstriction in horses with asthma.

Effects of simulated glyphosate drift to native prairie plants and canola-compatible Brassicaceae species of North Dakota, United States

This study evaluated effects to native plant and weedy Brassicaceae species growing in areas potentially affected by drift of glyphosate used with glyphosate-resistant canola (Brassica napus). Ten native grass and forb species were selected based on importance in prairie areas of North Dakota, US; and four introduced Brassicaceae species (Brassica juncea, Brassica nigra, Brassica rapa, and Sinapis arvensis ssp. arvensis) were selected based on their ability to cross with B. napus. Greenhouse-grown seedlings were treated with 0 (carrier control), 0.00056, 0.0032, 0.018 and 0.1 × a field application rate (FAR) of 829 g ha−1 acid glyphosate (g acid equivalent or a.e. ha−1), along with no spray plants; with each treatment repeated in two experiments. Shoot dry weight and height were measured 14 days after treatment, and data were subjected to analysis of variance or covariance followed by a Dunnett's multiple comparison test to obtain No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Rates (NOAERs) for both parameters. A Weibull regression was used to obtain the rate producing a 25% reduction (ER25) for shoot dry weight or height for a limited number of species and experiment combinations. Based on NOAER values for both shoot dry weight and height, most native species had reductions in growth with 0.1 × FAR resulting in NOAERs of 0.018 × FAR for at least one experiment. Nassella viridula was the most sensitive native species, with a NOAER of 0.0032 × FAR for shoot dry weight and one experiment for height. The Brassicaceae species responded similarly to glyphosate as the native species, with NOAER values ranging from 0.0032 to 0.018 × FAR. Only four species had valid regression analyses for shoot dry weight or height resulting in ER25 values between 0.007 and 0.054 × FAR. Pascopyrum smithii and Schizachyrium scoparium were not affected by glyphosate as indicated by NOAER values. This study indicated that drift concentrations between approximately 0.003, but more commonly ≥0.1 × FAR (2.49 and 82.9 g ha−1 acid glyphosate, respectively) may affect the growth and potential competitiveness of selected native plant species, and Brassicaceae species sexually compatible with glyphosate-resistant B. napus in North Dakota.

Evaluation of novel cosmetic shampoo formulations against Malassezia species: Preliminary results of anti-dandruff shampoo formulations.

Malassezia species are common, clinically relevant, and lipid-dependent yeasts of humans. They are also the leading causes of the dandruff problem of humans, and the azoles are used primarily in their topical and systemic treatment. Resistance to azoles is an emerging problem among Malassezia sp., which indicates the need of new drug assessments that will be effective against dandruff and limit the use of azoles and other agents in treatment. Among them, the efficacy of various combinations of piroctone olamine and climbazole against Malassezia sp. ishighly important. Here, we assessed the efficacies of various piroctone olamine and climbazole formulations against Malassezia sp. in comparison with ketoconazole. A total of nine formulations were included in the study, where each formulation was prepared from different concentrations of piroctone olamine and climbazole and both. All formulations contained the same ingredients as water, surfactants, hair conditioning agents, and preservatives. Malassezia furfur CBS1878, Malassezia globosa CBS7874, and Malassezia sympodialis CBS9570 were tested for antifungal susceptibility of each formulation by agar diffusion method. Sizes of the inhibition zones were compared with standard medical shampoo containing 2% ketoconazole, and the data were analyzed by Dunnett's multiple-comparison test. For all Malassezia sp. strains, climbazole 0.5% and piroctone olamine/climbazole (0.1%/0.1% and 0.1%/0.5%) combinations were found to have the same effect as the medical shampoo containing 2% ketoconazole. Piroctone olamine/climbazole 1.0%/0.1% formulation showed the same efficacy as 2% ketoconazole on M. furfur and M. sympodialis, while 0.1%/0.5% formulation to only M. furfur. For M. globosa, none of the formulations tested were as effective as ketoconazole. The species distribution of Malassezia sp. varies depending on the anatomical location on the host. According to the results of this study, climbazole and piroctone olamine combinations seem to be promising options against the dandruff problem with their high antifungal/anti dandruff efficacy.

Cadmium Toxicity-Induced Changes in Antioxidative Enzyme Levels in Freshwater Catfish Channa Punctatus (Bloch)

Present study has been planned to observe the effect of Cadmium chloride on the locally available economically important edible fish _Channa punctatus _(body weight 27.04±0.19 g and length 16.7±0.20 cm). To assess the effect of cadmium in terms of enzymatic and non-enzymatic assays, laboratory studies have been done. Fish were acclimatized and treated separately with concentrations of 35 mg/L and 70 mg/L of CdCl2. The livers were dissected out and homogenized in 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Biochemical analyses were done for lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and protein estimations. The results were shown as mean and standard error (Mean ± SEM). The analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were analysed and significantly applied for the Dunnett test for multiple comparisons of groups against the control, which determined the significant differences among the groups. This study is of academic importance and will provide valuable information regarding cadmium toxicity. At the same time, it will address the public health issue as far as consumption of fishes from contaminated water is concerned.

Hypoglycemic, antidiabetic and toxicological evaluation of leaf extract of Xylopia parviflora (A. rich.) Benth

BackgroundAlmost all Xylopia species have a long history of being used therapeutically in China due to their potent antioxidant properties. Xylopia parviflora (X. parviflora) is a relatively novel plant comprised mainly of beta-pinene, which has a rich history in Chinese medicine and is a principal active constituent in numerous Chinese herbs such as Rakkyo, the Chinese onions, Huasi Baidu Fang and Ru Xiang which are all native to China. ObjectiveThe study evaluated the antidiabetic potentials of the methanol leaf extract of X. parviflora and its toxicity profile. MethodsA modified version of the OECD guidelines was used to conduct acute and sub-chronic toxicity tests on the plant extract. The extract's effects on glucose, haematological, and biochemical components were evaluated using standard procedures. Using glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) and distilled water as positive and negative controls, the extract was tested for its antidiabetic activity in diabetic rats with streptozotocin induction at 50, 150, and 300 mg/kg for 28 days. Furthermore, vital organs underwent histopathological examination. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Dunnett multiple comparison tests were used for the statistical analysis, with a significance level of p < 0.05 ResultsPreliminary phytochemical analysis of the leaf extract revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, deoxy-sugars, and anthraquinones. The extract's median lethal dose (LD50) was greater than 2000 mg/kg in mice. Although it significantly reduced blood glucose levels in normal rats at 150 and 300 mg/kg doses, it had no toxic effects on the haematological and biochemical components of the collected blood samples. The extract produced an antidiabetic, non-dose-dependent impact on day seven at all the tested doses in streptozotocin-induced rats. On days 14, 21, and 28, however, glibenclamide and extract activity at all tested doses were comparable. At 200 mg/kg, the extract did not affect the histology of the liver, brain, kidney, or pancreas, but at 400 and 800 mg/kg, it had a slight and severe impact on these organs, respectively. ConclusionAccording to the study's findings, X. parviflora has antihyperglycemic activity and is non-toxic at low doses but may be harmful at high doses.

Effects of Topoisomerase II alpha Inhibition on Oral Cancer Cell Metabolism and Cancer Stem Cell Function.

Topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A), is an enzyme involved in DNA replication, transcription, recombination, and chromatin remodeling and is found in a variety of cancers. However, the role of TOP2A regulation in oral cancer progression is not fully explained. We investigated the effect of TOP2A inhibition on cell survival, metabolism, and cancer stem cell self-renewal function in oral cancer cells. Oral carcinoma cell line SCC25 was cultured in complete DMEM/F12 media and treated with 5μM of Etoposide (Topoisomerase II inhibitor) for 48h. The critical parameters of cellular metabolism, including extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation based on the oxygen consumption rate of cancer cells were assessed using Seahorse assay. Western blotting was performed to assess the proteins that are associated with proliferation (Survivin, IL-6) and cancer stem cell function (Oct4, Sox2) in cell lysates prepared from control and etoposide treated groups. Statistical analysis was performed using One-way ANOVA with Dunnett's multiple comparisons test. The protein expression of TOP2A was significantly (P<0.05) inhibited by etoposide. Additionally, TOP2A inhibition decreased the mitochondrial respiratory parameters including basal respiration, maximal respiration and ATP production. However, TOP2A inhibition has no impact on glycolytic function. Moreover, the proliferative marker survivin and IL-6 showed a significant (P<0.05) decrease after TOP2A inhibition. Conversely, the protein expression of cancer stem cell markers Oct-4 and Sox 2 were not altered. These results indicate that inhibition of TOP2A is more efficacious by decreasing the mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming and thereby downregulating the key anti-apoptotic and pro-survival mediators. Thus, TOP2A represents an ideal therapeutic target and offers a potential treatment strategy for OSCC.

The antimicrobial activity of an antiseptic soap against Candida Albicans and Streptococcus Mutans single and dual-species biofilms on denture base and reline acrylic resins.

To evaluate the effect of antiseptic soap on single and dual-species biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans on denture base and reline resins. Samples of the resins were distributed into groups (n = 9) according to the prevention or disinfection protocols. In the prevention protocol, samples were immersed in the solutions (Lifebuoy, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution and PBS) for 7, 14 and 28 days before the single and dual-species biofilms formation. Overnight denture disinfection was simulated. In the disinfection protocol, samples were immersed in the same solutions during 8 hours after the single and dual-species biofilms formation. Antimicrobial activity was analyzed by counting colony-forming units (CFU/mL) and evaluating cell metabolism. Cell viability and protein components of the biofilm matrix were evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were submitted to ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-test (α = 0.05) or Dunnett's T3 multiple comparisons test. In the prevention protocol, Lifebuoy solution effectively reduced the number of CFU/mL of both species. In addition, the solution decreased the cell metabolism of the microorganisms. Regarding disinfection protocol, the Lifebuoy solution was able of reduce approximately of 2-3 logs for all the biofilms on the denture base and reline resin. Cellular metabolism was also reduced. The images obtained with CLSM corroborate these results. Lifebuoy solution was effective in reducing single and dual-species biofilms on denture base and reline resins.

Voice Pathologies and the General Population’s Perception

To examine how the general population perceives voice pathology based on subjective qualities. Descriptive, cross-sectional, survey-based study. This is an IRB-approved Qualtrics survey on Amazon MTurk for respondents ages 18 and older. Ten subjects with voice pathologies supplied voice recordings of the Rainbow Passage to be assessed by the respondents. Respondents then assessed the voice conditions on perceived qualities of intelligence, leadership ability, and employability. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Dunnett's multiple comparison test with Sidak correction compared the mean scores of the samples (alpha=0.05). A total of 1754 responses were included in the final dataset. The female control voice was scored as more likely to be a Fortune 500 leader as well as more intelligent, friendly, attractive, and employable when compared to the female vocal fry and muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) recordings (P<0.0001). Conversely, the male MTD was the only male pathology that received a significantly lower score on friendliness, attractiveness, Fortune 500 leader status and employability than the male control (P=0.0102, P=0.0007, P=0.0338, and P=0.0039, respectively). This study demonstrates the more critical appraisal of voice pathologies of female patients compared to their male counterparts. People with voice disorders are perceived as being less successful, a disadvantage to potential leadership and career opportunities.

An Experimental Study on the Analgesic Action of Padmak Agad

Padmak Agad is indicated in all types of Luta and Keet Visha. According to Acharya Vagbhatta, heaviness in head and eyes, coma, dizziness, dyspnoea, pain, swelling, fever, itching and anorexia are common symptoms of all Keeta Damsha. Several synthetic and plant origin analgesic are being tested for their efficacy and potency on different animal model including hot plate, tail flick, tail clip, cold pain, filament pain, tail immersion technique, acetic acid induced writhing test, formalin induced writhing test etc. Material and Methods: Tail clip model and Hot plate model were selected for the present study. Eighteen Swiss albino mice had been divided in to three groups each group contain six mice. First group was negative control group; second group was test drug group while third group was standard group. Test drug was given to the group 2 for 7 days O.D. Result: When we performed the tail clip test, response time of group 1, 2, 3 were 4.40±1.853, 14.07±9.309, 40.68±11.759 seconds respectively. In Hot Plate model, calculated response time of group 1, 2, 3 were 2.93±0.667, 5.46±0.911, 6.04±0.857 seconds respectively. When we used Dunnett's multiple comparisons test to compare the group 1 to group 2 and group 1 to group 3, there was statistically no significant role of test drug in tail clip model and hot plate model. Discussion and Conclusion: No effect of Padmak Agad is found in tail clip model. Padmak Agad is effective in hot plate model but not up to significant level.

Role of pelitinib in the regulation of migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via inhibition of Twist1

BackgroundOverexpression of Twist1, one of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-transcription factors (EMT-TFs), is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis. Pelitinib is known to be an irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is used in clinical trials for colorectal and lung cancers, but the role of pelitinib in cancer metastasis has not been studied. This study aimed to investigate the anti-migration and anti-invasion activities of pelitinib in HCC cell lines.MethodsUsing three HCC cell lines (Huh7, Hep3B, and SNU449 cells), the effects of pelitinib on cell cytotoxicity, invasion, and migration were determined by cell viability, wound healing, transwell invasion, and spheroid invasion assays. The activities of MMP-2 and -9 were examined through gelatin zymography. Through immunoblotting analyses, the expression levels of EMT-TFs (Snail1, Twist1, and ZEB1) and EMT-related signaling pathways such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Akt signaling pathways were measured. The activity and expression levels of target genes were analyzed by reporter assay, RT-PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, and immunoblotting analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Dunnett's Multiple comparison tests in Prism 3.0 to assess differences between experimental conditions.ResultsIn this study, pelitinib treatment significantly inhibited wound closure in various HCC cell lines, including Huh7, Hep3B, and SNU449. Additionally, pelitinib was found to inhibit multicellular cancer spheroid invasion and metalloprotease activities in Huh7 cells. Further investigation revealed that pelitinib treatment inhibited the migration and invasion of Huh7 cells by inducing Twist1 degradation through the inhibition of MAPK and Akt signaling pathways. We also confirmed that the inhibition of cell motility by Twist1 siRNA was similar to that observed in pelitinib-treated group. Furthermore, pelitinib treatment regulated the expression of target genes associated with EMT, as demonstrated by the upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of N-cadherin.ConclusionBased on our novel finding of pelitinib from the perspective of EMT, pelitinib has the ability to inhibit EMT activity of HCC cells via inhibition of Twist1, and this may be the potential mechanism of pelitinib on the suppression of migration and invasion of HCC cells. Therefore, pelitinib could be developed as a potential anti-cancer drug for HCC.

Changes in blood pressure, oxygen saturation, hemoglobin concentration, and heart rate among low-altitude migrants living at high altitude (5380 m) for 360 days.

This article aimed to study the adjustment and adaptation of resting systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DPB), oxygen saturation (SpO2 ), hemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), and heart rate (HR) in low-altitude migrants during a 1-year stay at high altitude. Our study enrolled 35 young migrants who were exposed to a hypoxia environment at 5380 m altitude on the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau between June 21, 2017, and June 16, 2018. We set 14-time points (the 1st-10th, 20th, 30th, 180th, and 360th day after arriving at 5380 m) for obtaining the measurements of resting SBP, DBP, HR, SpO2, and [Hb] and compared them with the control values recorded prior to migration. Variables with continuous data were summarized as means (SD). One-way repeated measures ANOVA without assuming sphericity was carried out to test whether the mean values (SBP, DBP, HR, SpO2 , and [Hb]) on different days were different significantly. Furthermore, Dunnett's multiple comparisons test was carried out to determine the time points whose values were significantly different from the control values. SBP and DBP were continually increasing within d1-3 and peaked on the 3rd day, then steadily declined from d3 to d30. SBP fell back to the control values on d10 (p > 0.05), and DBP fell back to the control values on d20 (p > 0.05). A significant decline occurred on d180 (p < 0.05). Both SBP and DBP were lower than the control values on d180 (p < 0.05), and this trend was maintained to d360. There were similar characteristics of HR and BP in the time course at HA. HR on d1-3 was increasing (p < 0.05) compared to the control values, after which it fell back to the control values on d180 (p > 0.05), and this trend was maintained to d360. SpO2 was the lowest on d1 and lower than the control value throughout the study at HA (p < 0.05). [Hb] increased after long-term exposure (180 and 360 days) to HA (p < 0.05). Our study continuously monitored lowlanders at 5380 m in Tibet, and is perhaps the only longitudinal study of migrants conducted at an altitude above 5000 m during a 1-year period. Our study provides new information on the adjustment and adaptation of [Hb], SpO2 , SBP, DBP, and HR in high-altitude plateau migrants during a 360-day stay at an altitude of 5380 m.

Antioxidant and Ameliorative Effects of Basella alba L. On Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Rats

Basella alba L. (BA) is utilized in Nigeria to manage Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS),&nbsp;according to an ethnobotanical study. However, this claim has not been supported by any scientific data. This study investigated the effect of the methanol leaf extract of the plant in alleviating polycystic ovary conditions in rats. The methanol extract of BA was subjected to a brine shrimp lethality assay. Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), and the DPPH assay were used to measure antioxidant activity. To induce PCOS in thirty female Wistar rats (180-200 g), letrozole (1 mg/kg) was used. For 15 days, BA leaf methanol extract (100 mg/kg body weight) and Clomiphene citrate (1 mg/kg body weight), a standard medication, were given. Microscopically, the ovaries underwent histopathological investigation. ELISA was used to assess luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels. One-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data, and P &lt; 0.05 was set as the threshold for Dunnett's Multiple Comparison Test. LC50 value for the extract was 17.29±0.15 μg/mL. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of the ethyl acetate fraction was the highest. When PCOS animals were given BA, the ovarian stroma was normal and the granular cells were leutinized. The level of estradiol increased but the level of LH was not significantly different between the BA-treated group (0.23±0.03 mIU/mL) and the untreated PCOS group (0.23±0.01 mIU/mL). Basella alba leaf displayed ameliorative effects on polycystic ovary conditions in rats. This support the use of this plant in the management of PCOS.

Understanding the Pathogenesis of Red Mark Syndrome in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) through an Integrated Morphological and Molecular Approach.

Red mark syndrome (RMS) is a widespread skin disorder of rainbow trout in freshwater aquaculture, believed to be caused by a Midichloria-like organism (MLO). Here, we aimed to study the pathologic mechanisms at the origin of RMS by analyzing field samples from a recent outbreak through gene expression, MLO PCR, quantitative PCR, and a histopathological scoring system proposed for RMS lesions. Statistical analyses included a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with a Dunnett's multiple comparisons test to assess differences among gene expression groups and a nonparametric Spearman correlation between various categories of skin lesions and PCR results. In short, the results confirmed the presence of a high quantity of 16S gene copy numbers of Midichloria-like organisms in diseased skin tissues. However, the number of Midichloria-like organisms detected was not correlated to the degree of severity of skin disease. Midichloria-like organism DNA was found in the spleen and head kidney. The spleen showed pathologic changes mainly of hyperplastic type, reflecting its direct involvement during infection. The most severe skin lesions were characterized by a high level of inflammatory cytokines sustaining and modulating the severe inflammatory process. IL-1 β, IL-6, IL-10, MHC-II, and TCR were upregulated in severe skin lesions, while IL-10 was highly expressed in moderate to severe ones. In the moderate form, the response was driven to produce immunoglobulins, which appeared crucial in controlling the skin disease's severity. Altogether our results illustrated a complex immune interaction between the host and Midichloria-like organism.

The carbon footprint cost of travel to Canadian Urological Association conferences.

Canadian Urological Association (CUA) conferences are held annually across Canada. Guests from across the world attended, contributing to the overall carbon footprint of the conference with their travel and accommodations. This study identified the carbon footprint of each of the 2016 (Vancouver), 2018 (Halifax), and 2019 (Quebec City) CUA conferences to investigate their carbon footprint and help determine the most eco-friendly location to hold future conferences. Registrant home institution was used to estimate the distance and method of transportation of attendee travel. Carbon footprint was calculated using an online calculator in tons of CO2 equivalents (tCO2). Total attendees, number of attendees driving, number of attendees flying, mean distance travelled per attendee, total carbon footprint, and average carbon footprint per attendee were calculated for each conference. Mean carbon footprint, and mean distance travelled were compared using a Brown-Forsythe ANOVA test, with Dunnett's T3 multiple comparisons test (α=0.05). Vancouver had the largest number of attendees (n=473; 407 flying, 66 driving), followed by Halifax (n=382; 331 flying, 51 driving), and Quebec City (n=362; 265 flying, 97 driving). The mean distance attendees travelled was greatest for the Vancouver CUA (6041 km/roundtrip) compared to Quebec City (3096 km/roundtrip, p<0.0001) and Halifax (2985 km/roundtrip, p<0.0001). There was no difference in mean distance travelled between Halifax and Quebec City (p=0.95). The highest total carbon footprint was seen in Vancouver (tCO2=447.76), followed by Quebec City (tCO2=217.04) and Halifax (tCO2=182.22). The average footprint per attendee was significantly higher in Vancouver (mean tCO2=1.08) compared to both Quebec City (mean tCO2=0.62, p<0.0001) and Halifax (mean tCO2=0.52, p<0.0001). There was no difference in the average footprint between Halifax and Quebec City (p=0.63). The estimated emissions associated with the Vancouver CUA conference is greater than both the Halifax and Quebec City locations combined. In-person conferences provide several benefits to the urological community. Incorporating environmental considerations into conference planning, such as conference location, could reduce the CUA conference's overall carbon footprint, mitigating the contribution to rising temperatures and negative health outcomes.

Sales trends of psychotropic drugs in the COVID-19 pandemic: A national database study in Brazil.

Background: The social restrictions among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have posed a thoughtful risk to mental health and have implications in the use of drugs, including antidepressants, anxiolytics and other psychotropics. Objective: This study analyzed the sales data of the psychotropics prescribed in Brazil, in order to verify the change in consumption trends of these drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This interrupted time-series analyzed psychotropic sales data, between January 2014 and July 2021, using the National System of Controlled Products Management from The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency. The monthly mean DDDs per 1,000 inhabitants per day of psychotropic drugs was evaluated by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett Multiple Comparisons Test. The changes in monthly trends in the use of the psychotropic studied were evaluated by Joinpoint regression. Results: During the period studied, clonazepam, alprazolam, zolpidem and escitalopram were the most sold psychotropic drugs in Brazil. According to Joinpoint regression, an upward trend was observed in sales during the pandemic of pregabalin, escitalopram, lithium, desvenlafaxine, citalopram, buproprion and amitriptyline. An increase in psychotropic consumption was noted throughout the pandemic period, with the maximum consumption (2.61 DDDs) occurring in April 2021, with a downward trend in consumption that accompanied the drop in the number of deaths. Conclusions: The increase in sales, mainly of antidepressants during the COVID-19 pandemic, draws attention to issues related to the mental health of the Brazilian population and on the need for greater monitoring in the dispensing of these drugs.