Group G2 Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Grape Seed Oil, Linseed Oil, and a Blend: In Vivo Effects of Supplementation.

Grape seeds are rich in bioactive substances, including polyphenols, terpenoids, and phytosterols. Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) boasts a high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), lignans, phytoestrogens, and soluble fibers, all contributing to its therapeutic potential. In this study, we pioneered the formulation of an oil blend (GL) combining grape seed oil (G) and golden linseed oil (GL) in equal volumes (1:1 (v/v)) and we evaluated in terms of the nutritional, physical, and chemical properties and their influence in an in vivo experimental model. We analyzed the oils by performing physical-chemical analyses, examining the oxidative stability using Rancimat; conducting thermal analyses via thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), performing optical UV-vis absorption analyses; examining the fluorescence emission-excitation matrix, total carotenoids, and color, and conducting metabolic assessments in an in vivo experimental trial. The fatty acid profile presented a higher fraction of linoleic acid (C18:2) in G and GL and alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3) in L. The acidity and peroxide indices were within the recommended ranges. The TG/DTG, DSC, and Rancimat analyses revealed similar behaviors, and the optical analyses revealed color variations caused by carotenoid contents in L and GL. In the in vivo trial, G (G2: 2000 mg/kg/day) promoted lower total consumption, and the blend (GL: 2000 mg/kg/day) group exhibited less weight gain per gram of consumed food. The group with G supplementation (G2: 2000 mg/kg/day) and GL had the highest levels of HDL-c. The group with L supplementation (L2: 2000 mg/kg/day) had the lowest total cholesterol level. The L2, G1 (1000 mg/kg/day), and G2 groups exhibited the lowest MCP-1 and TNF-α values. Additionally, the lowest adipocyte areas occurred in G and GL. Our results suggest that this combination is of high quality for consumption and can influence lipid profiles, markers of inflammation, and antioxidant status.

Influences of Bacillus pumilus SA388 as an environmentally friendly antibiotic alternative on growth performance, blood biochemistry, immunology, cecal microbiota, and meat quality in broiler chickens

The widespread use of antibiotics causes the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, which have a severe impact on poultry productivity and human health. As a result, research is continuing to develop safe natural antibiotic alternatives. In the current study, Bacillus pumilus SA388 was isolated from the chicken feces and confirmed to be a probiotic. The selected strain was tested for its antimutagenic and antioxidant capabilities before being employed as a probiotic food supplement and antibiotic alternative. The effect of B. pumilus SA388 impact on broiler chickens' growth performance, gut microbiome, blood biochemical markers, immunological response, and meat quality was also studied. B. pumilus SA388 showed significant bactericidal activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Klebsiella pneumonia. A total of 200 chickens were used in the present study, divided equally among four experimental groups (ten birds per group with 5 replicates): group 1 (control, G1) received a basal diet without B. pumilus SA388, group 2 (G2) received a basal diet supplemented with 0.4 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388, group 3 (G3) received a basal diet supplemented with 0.8 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388, and group 4 (G4) received a basal diet supplemented with 1.6 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388. Over 35 d, the B. pumilus SA388-supplemented groups outperformed the G1 in terms of body weight gain, performance index, and feed conversion ratio, with a preference for the G4 treatment. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing B. pumilus SA388 dosages compared to the control G1 group. Dietary supplementation of B. pumilus SA388 at 1.6 mg/kg (G4) significantly (P < 0.05) resulted in improved lipid profile, immunological response, thyroid function, and gut microbiota compared to the control group (G1). Compared to the broilers in the control treatment (G1), the addition of B. pumilus SA388 to broilers in G4 significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced juiciness, tenderness, aroma, and taste. Adding B. pumilus SA388 to chicken feed at different doses significantly (P < 0.05) decreased average feed intake while increasing economic and relative efficiency measures. In conclusion, B. pumilus SA388 has been proven to be an effective antibiotic and nutritional supplement.

Sodium fluctuation as a parameter in predicting mortality in general hospitalized patients.

Dysnatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in hospitalized patients. Sodium fluctuation level may be a better parameter in dysnatremia management. We aimed to examine the association between sodium fluctuation level during hospitalization and mortality and to evaluate its value in predicting poor prognosis among general hospitalized patients. Data were collected from patients admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital. The generalized estimated equation (GEE) was used to examine the relationship between sodium fluctuation level and mortality. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to calculate the optimal cutoff value and the area under the ROC curve (AUC). Sodium fluctuation level showed a dose-dependent association with increased mortality in general hospitalized patients. After adjusting age, sex, length of hospital stay, and Charlson comorbidity index, the ORs of group G2 to G6 were 5.92 (95% CI 5.16-6.79), 26.45 (95% CI 22.68-30.86), 50.71 (95% CI 41.78-61.55), 104.38 (95% CI 81.57-133.58), and 157.64 (95% CI 112.83-220.24), respectively, p trend <0.001. Both normonatremia and dysnatremia patients on admission had the dose-dependent associations similar to general hospitalized patients. The AUC of sodium fluctuation level was 0.868 (95% CI 0.859-0.877) in general hospitalized patients, with an optimal cutoff point of 7.5 mmol/L, a sensitivity of 76.5% and a specificity of 84.2%. We determined that sodium fluctuation level had a dose-dependent association with increased mortality in general hospitalized patients. Sodium fluctuation level could be used to develop a single parameter system in predicting mortality in general hospitalized patients with acceptable accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.

Efficacy of liver free and Chitosan against Eimeria tenella in chickens

Eimeria spp. are the pathogen that causes coccidiosis, a significant disease that affects intensively reared livestock, especially poultry. Anticoccidial feed additives, chemicals, and ionophores have routinely been employed to reduce Eimeria infections in broiler production. Therefore, the shift to antibiotic-free and organic farming necessitates novel coccidiosis preventive strategies. The present study evaluated the effects of potential feed additives, liver free and chitosan, against Eimeria tenella infection in White Leghorn broiler female chickens. One hundred sixty-five 1-day-old White Leghorn broiler female chicks were divided into 11 groups (15 female chicks per group), including the positive control group (G1), the negative control group (G2), a chitosan-treated group (G3), a chitosan-treated-infected group (G4), the liver free-treated group (G5), the liver free-treated-infected group (G6), the liver free-and-chitosan-treated group (G7), the liver free-and-chitosan-infected group (G8), the therapeutic liver free-and-chitosan-treated-infected group (G9), the sulfaquinoxaline-treated group (G10), and the sulfaquinoxaline-treated-infected group (G11). Chitosan was fed to the chicks in G3 and G4 as a preventative measure at a dose of 250 mg/kg. The G5 and G6 groups received 1.5 mg/kg of Liverfree. The G7 and G8 groups received chitosan and Liverfree. The G10 and G11 groups were administered 2 g/L of sulfaquinoxaline. From the moment the chicks arrived at Foshan University (one-day-old chicks) until the completion of the experiment, all medications were given to them as a preventative measure. G8 did; however, receive chitosan and liver free as therapeutic supplements at 7 dpi. The current study showed that the combination of liver free and chitosan can achieve better prophylactic and therapeutic effects than either alone. In E. tenella challenged chickens, G8 and G9 chickens showed reduced oocyst shedding and lesion score, improved growth performance (body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and mortality rate), and cecal histology. The current study demonstrates that combining liver free and chitosan has superior preventive and therapeutic benefits than either alone, and they could also be used as alternative anticoccidial agents.

Scanning electron microscopy and morphometric analysis of the hair in dromedaries with SEM-EDX in relation to age

BackgroundHair characterization is critical for determining animal individuality throughout life. This study aimed to assess the morphological features of dromedary camel hair in relation to age.Materials and methodsHair samples were obtained from the camel humps of 30 dromedary camels separated into three groups: G1 (n:10) aged one-year, G2 (n:10) aged 3–5 years, and G3 (n:10) at the age of 8–10 years. The hair was examined using light microscopy, SEM, and SEM-EDX.ResultsThe Maghrebi camel had varied medulla patterns and structures across the ages. In the G1 group 75% had continuous medulla patterns and amorphous medulla structures, compared to 70% in G2, and 90% in G3. The medulla index increased with age, rising from 0.3 to 0.77%. The shaft width grew in size from G1 to G2, then fell to approximately one-third of the G2 size at G3. The cortex and cuticle widths were also determined by age, and they increased in the G1 compared to G3 camels. The shape of the cuticle scales in G1 camels was wavy, like mountain tops with irregular edges, within G2 camels the scales were particularly long, oval-shaped scales with smooth, wavy borders. The scales of the older G3 camels were quite long and rectangular. SEM-EDX spectra recognized carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, calcium, aluminum, silicon, and potassium at the medulla and cortex. Sulfur levels were highest in the G2 samples but lowest in the G1 samples.ConclusionThe dromedary camel’s hair structure and mineral content, particularly carbon and nitrogen, differed as camels aged.

Dietary supplementation with ginseng extract enhances testicular function, semen preservation, and fertility rate of mature and aging Thai native roosters

The decrease in fertility in aging roosters is related to the reduced quality of ejaculated sperm. This study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with ginseng extract at various concentrations (0–150 mg/kg) on testicular function, semen preservation, and fertility at different stages of sexual maturity (mature and aging roosters) in Thai native roosters. Pradu Hang Dum roosters at 32 (mature; n = 24) and 75 (aging; n = 24) weeks of age were fed diets with non-supplemented or supplemented ginseng extracts (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) until the end of the experiment. In experiment 1, fresh semen samples were examined for the quality parameters of semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm viability, lipid peroxidation, and enzymatic activities. In experiment 2, semen was preserved at 5 °C for up to 48 h, and the semen quality and fertility potential were determined. In experiment 3, testicular function and testosterone concentrations were evaluated. The results showed that ginseng extract supplementation in the diets of both mature and aging roosters at 50 and 100 mg/kg improved fresh semen quality (P < 0.05). A decrease in malondialdehyde levels in fresh semen was observed with increasing enzyme activities. In mature roosters, the progressive motility of cold-stored semen and fertility rates were higher in the G50 and G100 groups compared to the control and G150 groups after 24 h of storage (P < 0.05). In aging roosters, the highest significant differences in progressive motility, viability, and fertility rates were observed in the G50 and G100 groups at all storage times (P < 0.01). These improvements might be attributed to good testicular function in spermatogenesis, as revealed by the results of histological examination and testosterone concentrations. However, higher doses of ginseng extract supplementation negatively affected sperm quality. In summary, the recommended dose of ginseng extract supplementation in diets is 50 mg/kg. Fertility results indicated that insemination with semen preserved for 24 h was satisfactory in both mature and aging roosters.

Estimation of age and sex from fingernail clippings by using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy coupled with chemometric interpretation.

Fingernails can act as important forensic evidence as they can be a source of DNA that may link the victim or accused to the crime scene and may also contain traces of drugs such as cocaine and heroin, in regular users. Moreover, previous studies have shown that analyzing fingernails with various techniques can reveal important information, such as age and sex. In this work, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy with chemometric tools has been used to estimate the age and sex from fingernails by analyzing 140 fingernail samples (70 males, and 70 females) collected from volunteers aged between 10 and 70 years old. The amide bands obtained from spectra confirmed the presence of keratin proteins in the samples. PCA and PLS-R were used for the classification of samples. For sex estimation, samples were divided into four categories based on age groups, followed by the differentiation of sex in each group. Similarly, for age estimation, all samples were divided into two sets based on male and female followed by differentiation of age groups in each set. The result showed that PLS-R was able to differentiate fingernail samples based on sex in groups G1, G2, G3, and G4 with R-square values of 0.972, 0.993, 0.991, and 0.996, respectively, and based on age in females, and males with R-square values of 0.93 and 0.97, respectively. External validation and blind tests were also performed which showed results with 100% accuracy. This approach has proved to be effective for the estimation of sex and age from fingernail samples.

Isolated and Associated Use of the Nematophagous Fungi Pochonia chlamydosporia and Duddingtonia flagrans to Control Taenia saginata Eggs

The aim of this study was to evaluate the isolated and associated use of the nematophagous fungi Pochonia chlamydosporia (isolate VC4) as an ovicide and Duddingtonia flagrans (isolate AC001) as a predator in the control of Taenia saginata eggs. Viable T. saginata eggs were obtained by dissecting mature proglottids from a specimen. For the experimental assay, four groups were formed in microtubes, as follows: (G1—T. saginata eggs/control); (G2—100 T. saginata eggs + VC4); (G3—100 T. saginata eggs + AC001); (G4—100 T. saginata eggs + VC4 + AC001). All the groups were stored in a B.O.D. incubation chamber at a temperature of 27 °C for 15 days and then the contents of the microtubes were analyzed using an optical microscope with a 40x objective. At the end of the assay the treated groups (G2 to G4) showed ovicidal activity (destruction of eggs) compared to the control group (G1). The highest ovicidal percentage was observed in group G2 (eggs + VC4), with 43.3%. In groups G3 and G4 (combination of fungal isolates), the ovicidal percentages were 25.7% and 25.6%, respectively. The results of this study shed light on a new possibility for the combined use of different species of nematophagous fungi, which could be used in the future for environmental biological control of T. saginata eggs.

Client Oriented Scale of Improvement in First-Time and Experienced Hearing Aid Users: An Analysis of Five Predetermined Predictability Categories through Audiometric and Speech Testing.

Objectives: The aim of our investigation was to explore the relationship between unaided pure-tone and speech audiometry and self-reported aided performance measured according to five predetermined COSI categories among first-time hearing aid users and experienced hearing aid users. Methods: Data from 286 patients were retrospectively evaluated. We divided the sample into first-time hearing aid users (G1) and experienced hearing aid users (G2). The correlation between unaided tonal and speech audiometry and five preliminary selected client-oriented scale of improvement (COSI) categories was studied. Results: A greater percentage of hearing aid users aged >80 years and a higher prevalence of severe-to-profound hearing loss in G2 group were observed (p < 0.05). For the total cohort, a mean hearing threshold of 60.37 ± 18.77 db HL emerged in the right ear, and 59.97 ± 18.76 db HL was detected in the left ear (p > 0.05). A significant statistical difference was observed in the group of first-time hearing aid users for the "Television/Radio at normal volume" item, where patients with a lower speech intellection threshold (SIT) were associated with higher COSI scores (p = 0.019). Studying the relationship between the speech reception threshold (SRT) and the COSI item "conversation with 1 or 2 in noise" evidenced worse speech audiometry in patients who scored ≤2 among experienced hearing aid users (p = 0.00012); a higher mean 4-8 kHz frequencies threshold for the better ear was found within the G2 group among those who scored ≤2 in the COSI item "conversation with 1 or 2 in quiet" (p = 0.043). Conclusions: Our study confirms a poor correlation between unaided tonal and speech audiometry and self-reported patient assessment. Although we included only five COSI categories in this study, it is clear that unaided audiometric tests may drive the choice of proper hearing rehabilitation, but their value in predicting the benefit of hearing aids remains limited.

Postoperative complications and mortality after thoracic surgery of COVID-19 omicron hospital infections: A retrospective multicenter study

BackgroundPostoperative complications and mortality of Omicron hospital infection, who have undergone thoracic surgery, are scarce. MethodsBased on real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results in-hospital using nasal or pharyngeal swab samples, the patients who had undergone thoracic surgery were categorized into two groups: G1 (Omicron hospital infection) group and G2 (non- Omicron hospital infection) group. The occurrence of postoperative complications was assessed using the Clavien–Dindo classification. Both groups were compared using propensity score matching (PSM) to evaluate the occurrence of complications and mortality. The trail was enrolled in the clinical trail (NCT06040606). Results119 patients (G1, 53 and G2, 66) were included. The occurrence of postoperative complications was significantly higher in G1 group than G2 group (37.7% vs. 10.6%, respectively) (P < 0.001) and the mortality also increased (7.5% vs. 0). The logistic regression analysis identified Omicron hospital infection as the risk factors for postoperative complications (95% CI, 3.989 to 33.858). The PSM analysis indicated significant increase in postoperative complications and mortality in the G1 vs. G2 group (P < 0.01, NA). But, there was no significant difference in the occurrences of grade ≥3 complications and mortality between lung surgery and upper gastrointestinal operation, as the PSM analysis. ConclusionThe occurrences of complications and mortality significantly increased in thoracic surgery recipients with Omicron hospital infection.

Overexpressing the PRSS1 Protein Specifically in the Pancreatic Islets by Nano-Celery Provided Protection against Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus in Male Rat

The goal of this study was to find out how giving whole barley grain to rats that had been given streptozotocin (STZ) affected lipid peroxidation (LPO), the activities of antioxidant enzymes in erythrocytes, and the production of insulin genes in the pancreas. A single shot of STZ (60 mg/kg, i.p.) caused diabetes in the experiment. The oxidative stress was measured by the amount of LPO in the tissue, the amount of reduced glutathione (GSH), and the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR enzymes in erythrocytes. The most important things that were seen in diabetic control rats were higher blood sugar and LPO levels, lower GSH levels, and lower enzyme functions. When diabetic rats (group G2) were given barley seed whole grain by mouth for 30 days, their LPO level dropped significantly compared to rats that were given STZ (group G3). Furthermore, diabetic rats (group G4) that were fed barley had higher levels of both enzyme- and non-enzymatic antioxidants, as well as higher levels of insulin and regeneration (PRSS1) genes, compared to diabetic normal rats (group G2). The results make it clear that oxidative stress plays a part in causing diabetes and suggest that adding barley to an animal's diet might help protect them.

P-024 Revitalizing male fertility: Crocin’s dual role in antioxidant mastery and mitochondrial activation to enhance sperm motility

Abstract Study question The study aims to investigate the potential effect of crocin, a major constituent of Crocus sativus (saffron), on improving sperm motility in patients with asthenozoospermia. Summary answer In vitro crocin treatment enhances sperm motility, reduces ROS, improves mitochondrial membrane potential, and boosts mitochondrial activity, suggesting the potential role of enhancing sperm motility. What is known already Male infertility can result from various factors, with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) adversely affecting sperm motility. Crocin, known for its antioxidant properties in scavenging ROS, has led to increasing interest in natural compounds to enhance sperm quality. Study design, size, duration The current study involved the evaluation of 95 patients at the Service of Reproductive Biology at the Maternity and Neonatology Center of Monastir. Sperm samples were collected and incubated for 3 hours at 37 °C with increasing concentrations of Crocin (0, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5 mM). Participants/materials, setting, methods This study included asthenozoospermic patients, categorized into two groups: G1 with progressive motility (PM) between 20% and 30%, and G2 with PM between 10% and 15%. Sperm samples underwent treatment with Crocin. Evaluation encompassed sperm motility, considering the distance covered and velocity via video-microscopy. Additionally, intracellular ROS levels were assessed using DCFH-DA fluorochrome, mitochondrial membrane potential was measured with rh123, and mitochondrial activity was determined through succinate dehydrogenase activity via the MTT assay. Main results and the role of chance The results demonstrate that sperm motility is significantly enhanced after in vitro treatment with 1mM Crocin for 3 hours, with 1.9-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and 1.7-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increases in sperm velocity and distance traveled, respectively. Additionally, Crocin reduces intracellular ROS levels, exhibiting a reduction of 1.5-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in G1 and 2.4-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in G2. Fluorescence microscopy of spermatozoa from a patient with severe asthenozoospermia showed intense ROS-induced fluorescence, which was attenuated after incubation with 1 mM Crocin for 3 hours. Furthermore, Crocin demonstrates a noteworthy improvement in mitochondrial membrane potential, with 1.7-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) for G1 and 1.9-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) for G2, suggesting its capability to prevent the decline of mitochondrial potential. Microscopic fluorescence revealed a marked increase in fluorescence, particularly in the midpiece after Crocin treatment, confirming the protective effect of Crocin on mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, there is a substantial increase in mitochondrial activity with Crocin, particularly in G1, showing a 2.14-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increase compared to the G2 group’s 1.85-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increase. These findings collectively highlight the multifaceted benefits of Crocin, encompassing enhanced sperm motility, reduced ROS levels, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, and heightened mitochondrial activity, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for male infertility, particularly in cases of asthenozoospermia. Limitations, reasons for caution While promising, this study’s limitations include the in vitro treatment, and not fully replicating complex in vivo conditions. Focused on asthenozoospermia, generalizing findings to other male infertility forms necessitates further investigation. Validation of Crocin’s therapeutic potential in male infertility requires additional clinical trials. Wider implications of the findings Our findings suggest that in vitro enhancement of sperm quality with crocin may serve as a promising solution to improve assisted reproductive techniques, mitigating exogenous oxidative stress during laboratory procedures. This insight holds potential for advancing reproductive interventions and warrants further exploration in clinical settings. Trial registration number not applicable

Effect of rest duration between sets on fatigue and recovery after short intense plyometric exercise

Plyometric training is characterized by high-intensity exercise which is performed in short term efforts divided into sets. The purpose of the present study was twofold: first, to investigate the effects of three distinct plyometric exercise protocols, each with varying work-to-rest ratios, on muscle fatigue and recovery using an incline-plane training machine; and second, to assess the relationship between changes in lower limb muscle strength and power and the biochemical response to the three exercise variants employed. Forty-five adult males were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 15) performing an exercise of 60 rebounds on an incline-plane training machine. The G0 group performed continuous exercise, while the G45 and G90 groups completed 4 sets of 15 repetitions, each set lasting 45 s with 45 s rest in G45 (work-to-rest ratio of 1:1) and 90 s rest in G90 (1:2 ratio). Changes in muscle torques of knee extensors and flexors, as well as blood lactate (LA) and ammonia levels, were assessed before and every 5 min for 30 min after completing the workout. The results showed significantly higher (p < 0.001) average power across all jumps generated during intermittent compared to continuous exercise. The greatest decrease in knee extensor strength immediately post-exercise was recorded in group G0 and the least in G90. The post-exercise time course of LA changes followed a similar pattern in all groups, while the longer the interval between sets, the faster LA returned to baseline. Intermittent exercise had a more favourable effect on muscle energy metabolism and recovery than continuous exercise, and the work-to-rest ratio of 1:2 in plyometric exercises was sufficient rest time to allow the continuation of exercise in subsequent sets at similar intensity.

The Protective Role of Nigela Sativa Volatile Oil on Antioxidant and Oxidative Stress Enzymes

Hepatotoxicity is the outcome of a paracetamol overdose.In this study, 40 adult male rats, weighing 180–260 gm and aged between 9 and 13 weeks, were given doses of Nigela sativa oil and their liver enzymes were examined to see how paracetamol affected them. The rats were kept in an environment at a temperature of 25 Co in an animal house. ,There were four groups of rats, and food was provided for them. (G). (G1) The only injections given to the control group are food and regular saline (0.9% of the time). (G2) 200 mg/kg of N. sativa and (G3) 400 mg/kg of paracetamol Addition of 400 mg/kg body weight of paracetamol. supplying 300 mg/kg B.W. of N. sativa to (G4)400 milligrams/kg B.W. of aspirin. Rat G2, GPT 87.80 IUL, and GOT hepatic enzyme concentration (129.32 IUL) all exhibit significant increases in comparison to the control. Furthermore, the levels of the liver GSH enzyme in rats (G2 )1.24 IUL shown a substantial increase, whereas G3 ( GOT ) 91.9 IUL, (GPT )76.70 IUL, and group (G4) GOT 109.88 IUL and enzyme (GPT ) 55.66 IUL exhibited significant declines as compared with control. While MDA enzyme in rats G2 (0.259 IUL) shows a major increase in comparison to the control, rats G3 (0.139 IUL) and G4 (0.112) show a noticeable decrease in comparison to G2. While body weight indicates that G2's outcomes are significantly lower than those of the other three groups. Groups G3 (2.55 gm) and G4 (2.7 gm) demonstrated a significant rise in liver weight compared to controls and G2, whereas groups G2 (24.23 gm) demonstrated a significant increase in liver weight compared to controls and group G2. Male rats in groups G2 (1.7 gm) demonstrated a significant drop in liver weight compared to controls.

The effect of the HMGB1/RAGE/TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway in patients with idiopathic epilepsy and its relationship with toxoplasmosis.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between toxoplasmosis and this pathway, which may be effective in the formation of epilepsy by acting through the HMGB1/RAGE/TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway in patients with idiopathic epilepsy. In the study, four different experimental groups were formed by selecting Toxoplasma gondii IgG positive and negative patients with idiopathic epilepsy and healthy controls. Experimental groups were as follows: Group 1: Epilepsy+/Toxo- (E+, T-) (n = 10), Group 2: Epilepsy-/Toxo- (E-, T-) (n = 10), Group 3: Epilepsy-/Toxo+ (E-, T+) (n = 10), Group 4: Epilepsy+/Toxo+ (E+, T+) (n = 10). HMGB1, RAGE, TLR4, TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, IRAK1, IRAK2, IKBKB, IKBKG, BCL3, IL1β, IL10, 1 L8 and TNFα mRNA expression levels in the HMGB/RAGE/TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway were determined by quantitative simultaneous PCR (qRT-PCR) after collecting blood samples from all patients in the groups. Statistical analysis was performed by one-way ANOVA followed by LSD post-hoc tests, and p < 0.05 was considered to denote statistical significance. The gene expression levels of HMGB1, TLR4, IL10, IL1B, IL8, and TLR2 were significantly higher in the G1 group than in the other groups (p < 0.05). In the G3 group, RAGE and BCL3 gene expression levels were significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.05). In the G4 group, however, IRAK2, IKBKB, and IKBKG gene expression levels were significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.05). HMGB1, TLR4, IRAK2, IKBKB, IL10, IL1B, IL1B, and IL8 in this signalling pathway are highly expressed in epilepsy patients in G1 and seizures occur with the stimulation of excitatory mechanisms by acting through this pathway. The signalling pathway in epilepsy may be activated by HMGB1, TLR4, and TLR2, which are considered to increase the level of proinflammatory cytokines. In T. gondii, this pathway is activated by RAGE and BCL3.

Impact of ginger powder (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on the performance, biochemical parameters, antioxidant status, and rumen fermentation in Ossimi rams.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has great potential as a growth promoter and immunostimulant in ruminant nutrition. This study assessed the impact of ginger powder supplementation on Ossimi rams' rumen fermentation, biochemical parameters, and antioxidant levels. Fifteen Ossimi rams, aged 10 ± 1.3 months and weighing 30 ± 1.5 kg. Rams were randomly divided into three experimental groups: The control group (G1) received standard feed, while ginger powder (5 g and 7 g/kg body weight [BW] for G2 and G3, respectively) mixed in water was administered to groups G2 and G3 before their standard feed. The control group recorded higher dry matter (DM) intake values (p < 0.05) than the ginger-treated groups. The ginger-treated groups showed superiority (p < 0.05) in weight gain and feed conversion compared to the control group. The digestion coefficients of DM, crude protein, and crude fiber were significantly (p < 0.05) increased by a high dose (7 g/Kg BW) of ginger supplementation, whereas organic matter, ether extract, and nitrogen-free extract digestibility remained unchanged. Compared to the control group, the rams given 5 g of ginger had significantly less (p < 0.05) total protein and globulin in their serum, but the rams given 7 g of ginger had significantly more (p < 0.05) of these proteins. In the ginger groups, these levels were significantly (p < 0.01) lower than those in the control group for serum creatinine, uric acid, urea, total lipids, triglycerides, total cholesterol, glucose, serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase. Rams given ginger had significant growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, total superoxide dismutase, GSH-Px, TAC, immunoglobulin (Ig) A, and IgG enhancement (p < 0.01), and a decrease (p < 0.01) in malondialdehyde concentration compared to the control group. Significant increases in total short-chain volatile fatty acids, acetic, propionic, and isovaleric acids (p < 0.05), and significant decreases in NH3N and protozoa (p < 0.01). Ginger powder (5 g and 7 g) can improve growth, immune responses, antioxidant status, and ruminal parameters in rams. Further study is needed to evaluate the effect of ginger on different types of animals (cow, buffalo, and goat) to develop new feed additives.

Modified method of producing sciatic nerve crush injury model in Wistar rats: A pilot study

The production of a standard and reproducible experimental mode of peripheral nerve injury, has been a long-time quest in nerve regeneration research. The aim of this pilot study was to reproduce sciatic nerve crush injury model in Wistar rats and also use the established method for broader and future research. Materials and Methods: twenty (20) rats grouped into five (5) of five (5) rats each. Normal control (G1), the sciatic was not exposed nor crushed; Sham (G2), the sciatic nerve were surgically exposed but not crushed; Crushed (G3), the sciatic nerve were surgically exposed and uniformly crushed, using a non-serrated heamostatic forceps that exerted a compressive force of 33N for a duration of 30 seconds and Transected (G4), the sciatic nerve were exposed and completely transected. Sciatic nerves were harvested at seven (7) days (post-injury) for histological evaluation and the groups were compared for histopathological changes. Results: Transverse sections of toluidine blue (TB) stained sciatic nerve micrograph, showed degenerative changes in the axons, myelin ballooning and surveiling white blood cells, all of which were consistent with Wallerian degeneration in G3, when compared with groups G1 and G2. The G4 group showed more severe degenerative changes when compared with group G3. Conclusion: The histopathological analysis suggest that the modified induction method used in this study, caused Axonotmetic lesion in the crushed sciatic nerves of the Wistar rats.

Therapeutic Effect of Avishan-e-Shirazi (Zataria Multiflora Boiss) Root Extract on Oxidative Stress Markers in Moderate Asthmatic Patients

Avishan-e-Shirazi (Zataria Multiflora Boiss) is a plant widely recognised for its medicinal and culinary purposes. Objectives: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of plant’s root extract on pulmonary function tests and oxidative stress markers among moderate Asthma tic patients. Methods: A total participant of 66 patients with pulmonary disease, 30-40 age, were selected for the 2-month research trial. Individuals were enrolled and distributed equally in two groups, 33 each. In the control group, 53.8% of individual were man, and 46.2% were women. In the treatment group, 49.1% of participants were man, and 50.9% were women. The groups G0 was considered as a control group with no root extract, and group G1 where conventional treatment and root extract were advised to participants. The participants were selected from the Jinnah Hospital, Pakistan. The 5mg/kg/day dried root extract supplements 3 times a day were given to the individuals daily for 2 months. Results: The mean age group of Asthma tic patients enrolled in the study was 35 ± 2.98 years in G0, and in G1, it was 34 ± 3.05. The mean BMI was 31.34 and 30.98 kgm-2 in both groups, respectively. There was a significant improvement in FEV1 levels and MDA enzyme levels with a p-value less than 0.05. The NO2 levels were also better. Similarly, the enzymes thiolase and SOD levels also improved with a p-value less than 0.05 in the treatment group. Conclusions: The current study concluded that Avishan-e-Shirazi root extract could improve the pulmonary function and inflammation among Asthma patients.

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Self-cured, Heat-cured, and Photosensitive 3D Printing Resins After the Addition of Silica Nanoparticles

This study evaluated investigate the addition of silica nanoparticles in autopolymerizable resin and into liquid resin for 3D printing and compare them with CAD-CAM blocks and thermopolymerizable resin, regarding flexural strength and surface roughness. Eight groups (n=12) were created according to the types of materials: autopolymerizable resin (G1-G4), photosensitive resin for 3D printing (G5-G6), PMMA block (G7) and thermopolymerizable resin (G8). Functionalized silica nanoparticles (0.5-1.5 wt%) were added in groups G2-G4 and G6. Mechanical flexural strength, surface roughness and morphological analysis were carried out to evaluate the properties of the samples. One-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-hoc test, was used to evaluate the data. The average surface roughness was higher in group G7 and lower in the G8 group, with a statistical difference (p &lt; 0.001). The G8 and G1-G4 showed no significant difference in surface roughness. The G5 and G6 presented surface roughness higher than that recommended by Borchers and Bollen (Ra=0.2 µm). The incorporation of nanoparticles into self-polymerizing acrylic resins negatively affected the mechanical properties of the material, reducing flexural strength. The G5 and G6 demonstrated the lowest flexural strength (p&lt;0.001), presenting values lower than those recommended by ISO (σ &gt;60 MPa) regardless of the incorporation or not of silica nanoparticles. The G7 presented the highest flexural strength value followed by the G8. Within the limits of this study, it may be concluded that the addition of silica nanoparticles did not improve the flexural strength the G6 and also affected negatively the mechanical properties of self-polymerizing acrylic resins.

Effect of Age on Sexual Behaviour, Scrotal Circumference and Scrotal Surface Temperature in Sahiwal Bulls

Age of the bull influences the sexual behaviour and quality of semen. The present study was conducted to find out the age window at which the bull shows best reproductive performance. Fifteen Sahiwal bulls were selected and classified into three age groups (n=5, in each group) - G1(2- 3.5), G2 (&gt;3.5-8) and G3 (&gt;8-12) years. The sexual behaviour was recorded at the time of semen collection by CCTV camera at 15 days interval. Scrotal circumference (by scrotal tape) and scrotal surface temperature (by IRT) were also taken at monthly interval. The data so obtained in the experiment was subjected to statistical analysis by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS software version 26.0 to draw scientific interferences. The results revealed that the mean value of scrotal circumference was significantly (p&lt;0.05) low in G1 as compared to the other two groups. No significant difference was observed among the groups for scrotal surface temperature and scrotal temperature gradient. Most of the sexual behaviour parameters were significantly high in the G2 (&gt;3.5-8) group except for the time to enter arena from preparation site and total number of mountings. Therefore, it can be concluded from this study that sexual behaviour is influenced by age and adult (middle) aged bulls performed better as compared to young and old groups.