Abnormal Levels Research Articles

An all-in-one smartphone-assisted ratiometric fluorescent device for visual and quantitative detection of glutathione

The daily consumption of foods abundant in Glutathione (GSH) can be supplemented to maintain the homeostasis of GSH in human health and alleviate pathologies resulting from abnormal GSH levels. The fluorescence-based visual determination of GSH has gradually attracted the attention of researchers due to its robust performance and versatile implementation. However, the current GSH visual strategy primarily relies on variations in fluorescence intensity at a single emission wavelength, which poses challenges for naked-eye and portable readout, as well as distorted signals caused by complex matrix effects in real samples. Herein, a ratiometric fluorescence sensor based on carbon dots (CDs) combined with an all-in-one 3D-printed smartphone-based device was successfully developed for low-cost, visual and rapid detection of GSH without the need for an external excitation light source. The ratiometric fluorescent materials were synthesized by conjugating blue carbon dots (B-CDs) with yellow carbon dots (Y-CDs) through the utilization of selected Cu2+ ions. The resulting mechanism demonstrated that the coordination interaction between Cu2+ and residual aromatic amino groups in Y-CDs (Y-CDs-Cu2+) contributed to a newly emitted peak at 580 nm, thereby inducing fluorescence resonance energy transfer from B-CDs to Y-CDs-Cu2+. A linear correlation was found between GSH concentrations and R/B values in the range of 10–100 μM, with a limit of detection observed at 4.8 μM. By utilizing this portable device in combination with RGB analysis, the quantitative detection of GSH can be achieved even in complex food matrices such as tomatoes and grapes. The universality of this all-in-one device was further validated by pre-spraying CDs onto a paper strip for visual measurement of GSH. This work offers a portable, visual, and accessible approach to evaluating food safety and nutrition, thereby demonstrating significant economic value and holding profound implications for human health.

Associations of abnormal fluid status, plasma sodium disorders, and low dialysate sodium with mortality in hemodialysis patients.

Abnormal fluid and plasma sodium concentrations are established prognostic factors for hemodialysis patients. However, the cumulative effects of abnormal salt and water and potential effect modifications and the effect of dialysate sodium remain incompletely understood. The study followed 68,196 incident hemodialysis patients from 875 dialysis clinics in 25 countries over 10 years (2010-2020) investigating dose-response patterns between cumulative exposure time of fluid overload/depletion (measured by bioimpedance spectroscopy using the Fresenius Body Composition Monitor [BCM]), abnormal plasma sodium levels, low dialysate sodium, and all-cause mortality. We calculated time-varying cumulative exposure (in months) of relative fluid overload (any degree; >7% or severe; >13 or >15% in women or men, respectively) and fluid depletion (<-7%), hypo- or hypernatremia (sodium <135 or >145 mmol/L, respectively), low dialysate sodium (≤138 mmol/L), and estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause mortality using a multivariable Cox model. Of 2,123,957 patient-months, 61% were spent in any degree of fluid overload, 4% in fluid depletion, 11% in hyponatremia, and 1% in hypernatremia. Any degree of fluid overload was associated with higher all-cause mortality (HR peak at 3.42 (95% confidence intervals: 3.12-3.75) relative to no exposure), and this association with all-cause mortality appeared to be stronger with severe fluid overload. The risk pattern associated with hyponatremia was approximately linear in the first four patient-months and then plateaued after the fourth patient-month. We did not observe effect modification between fluid overload and hyponatremia. Even mild fluid overload was associated with higher mortality in hemodialysis patients. Whether a more stringent fluid management results in clinical improvement requires further investigation.

A novel dual-site fluorescent probe for the one-step detection of Cys and SO2 in living cells

BackgroundCysteine (Cys) is the major intracellular thiol and plays a key role in human pathology. Furthermore, endogenous sulfur dioxide (SO2) is produced in mammals. Abnormal levels of SO2 are commonly associated with a variety of respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Therefore, given their important role in life activities, it is significant to construct a fluorescent probe that can detection between Cys and SO2. ResultsWe have designed and synthesized a two-site fluorescent probe CUM with coumarin derivative and benzaldehyde molecules, which can detect and differentiate between Cys and SO2 through dual excitation wavelengths. Its carbon-carbon double bond reacts with Cys and undergoes a nucleophilic reaction, emitting green fluorescence at 520 nm, while SO32− reacts with benzaldehyde molecules in the probe CUM and undergoes a blue fluorescence at 460 nm. SO32− reacts with the benzaldehyde molecule of probe CUM and fluoresces blue at 460 nm. Thus, the probe CUM with two reaction sites can distinguish between Cys and SO2 and shows good selectivity and fast reaction speed. In addition, we successfully utilized probe CUM to image Cys and SO2 in human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). SignificanceThis work provides an effective method for the molecular design of coumarin-based fluorescent probes. Probe CUM as a promising and reliable tool for the meticulous discrimination and quantification of Cys and SO2 in diverse biological matrices, thereby opening up new avenues for various biological systems.

Efficacy and safety of systemic spironolactone for acne in female patients in Sulaymaniyah teaching center of dermatology

Background and objectives: Acne vulgaris is a common disease in which hormone plays a role in its pathogenesis. Spironolactone, an androgen receptor blocker is used to treat acne. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of systemic spironolactone for acne in female patients in our local area. Methods: Open-label therapeutic trial study performed in the Sulaymaniyah teaching center of dermatology between 1/2/2022 - 1/9/2022, on a total of 47 patients aged 12-38 years old. Patients were divided into two groups in regard to age. Hormonal profile was assessed for all the patients. The 4-grade European classification system was used to classify the acne severity. Spironolactone 100 mg once daily at morning was given to them with follow up monthly for 3 months. Clinical response of the drug was assessed through a decrease in the number of the lesions. Signs and symptoms of the side effects were checked monthly. Results: In a total of 47 patients, 22 patients were ? 25 years and 25 patients were &gt;25 years. A significant difference was recorded in the response rate among the patients' ages and hormonal status of them as 83.3%, 61.1% and 50% of the complete response was in those who were &gt;25 years old and had abnormal testosterone and DHEA-s levels respectively. 100% of non-responder patients were below 25 years old with normal hormonal levels. 55.32% of the patients had no side-effect and menstrual irregularity was the most commonly reported side effect. Conclusion: Spironolactone is statistically considered an effective and safe line for the treatment of acne vulgaris particularly for acne in female over 25 with abnormal hormonal levels.

GALNT9 enrichment attenuates MPP+-induced cytotoxicity by ameliorating protein aggregations containing α-synuclein and mitochondrial dysfunction

BackgroundGALNTs (UDP-GalNAc; polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferases) initiate mucin-type O-GalNAc glycosylation by adding N-GalNAc to protein serine/threonine residues. Abnormalities in O-GalNAc glycosylation are involved in various disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder. GALNT9 is potentially downregulated in PD patients.MethodsTo determine whether GALNT9 enrichment ameliorates cytotoxicity related to PD-like variations, a pcDNA3.1-GALNT9 plasmid was constructed and transfected into SH-SY5Y cells to establish a GALNT9-overexpressing cell model.ResultsDownregulation of GALNT9 and O-GalNAc glycosylation was confirmed in our animal and cellular models of PD-like variations. GALNT9 supplementation greatly attenuated cytotoxicity induced by MPP+ (1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium iodide) since it led to increased levels of tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine, reduced rates of apoptosis, and significantly ameliorated MPP+-induced mitochondrial dysfunction by alleviating abnormal levels of mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species. A long-lasting mPTP (mitochondrial permeability transition pores) opening and calcium efflux resulted in significantly lower activity in the cytochrome C-associated apoptotic pathway and mitophagy process, signifying that GALNT9 supplementation maintained neuronal cell health under MPP+ exposure. Additionally, it was found that glycans linked to proteins influenced the formation of protein aggregates containing α-synuclein, and GALNT9 supplement dramatically reduced such insoluble protein aggregations under MPP+ treatment. Glial GALNT9 predominantly appears under pathological conditions like PD-like variations.ConclusionsGALNT9 enrichment improved cell survival, and glial GALNT9 potentially represents a pathogenic index for PD patients. This study provides insights into the development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of PD.

Correlates of sleep-disordered breathing and Cheyne-Stokes respiration in patients with atrial fibrillation who have undergone pulmonary vein isolation.

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is a common comorbidity in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for AF have a high prevalence of SDB. In previous studies, some patients with AF had Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR). The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of SDB and the correlates of SDB severity and CSR in AF patients who have undergone PVI. The study was conducted using a single-center observational design. All participants underwent a home sleep apnea test (ApneaLink Air, ResMed, Australia), which could determine the severity of SDB as assessed by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and the percentage of CSR (%CSR) pattern. 139 AF patients who underwent PVI were included in the study. Overall, 38 (27.3%) patients had no SDB (AHI < 5), 53 (38.1%) had mild SDB (5 ≤ AHI < 15), 33 (23.7%) had moderate SDB (15 ≤ AHI < 30), and 15 (10.8%) had severe SDB (AHI ≥ 30). Correlates of the increased AHI included male sex (β = 0.23, p = 0.004), age (β = 0.19, p = 0.020), high body mass index (β = 0.31, p < 0.001), and β blockers usage (β = 0.18, p = 0.024). Conversely, correlates with the %CSR rate included male sex (β = 0.18, p = 0.020), age (β = 0.19, p = 0.015), non-paroxysmal AF (β = 0.22, p = 0.008), and high glycohemoglobin A1c (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (β = 0.24, p = 0.005) levels. SDB is prevalent in patients with AF who have undergone PVI; predisposing factors for SDB include male sex, older age, and obesity. CSR occurs in patients with AF who have undergone PVI; predisposing factors for CSR include male sex, older age, high left ventricular filling pressure, and abnormal blood glucose level.

Predictors of sleepiness in a large-scale epidemiology study ESSE-RF.

To identify predictors of excessive daytime sleepiness we analyzed data from the 'Epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases in regions of Russia (ESSE-RF)' study. Data from participants of the cohort study ESSE-RF (2012-2013), aged 25-64 years, from 13 regions of Russia were analyzed (2012-2013). The participants were interviewed regarding their sleep complaints, including difficulties with initiating and maintaining sleep, sleepiness, and use of sleeping pills. Sleepiness was considered significant if it occurred at least three times a week. The examination encompassed social, demographic, and anthropometric measures, lifestyle factors, self-reported diseases, and laboratory parameters. The final analysis included 13,255 respondents. Frequent (≥3 times/week) sleepiness was reported by 5,8%, and occasional sleepiness (1-2 times/week) by 10.8% of respondents. Multivariate regression analysis identified significant predictors of frequent sleepiness. Sleep complaints (insomnia, sleep apnea, snoring) and frequent use of sleep medication were prominent factors. Additionally, age, female gender, higher education, and retirement status were associated with sleepiness. Beyond demographics and sleep, the analysis revealed predictors: abnormal anxiety levels, low high-density lipoprotein, high salt intake and following medical conditions: arrhythmia, hypertension, myocardial infarction, other heart diseases, and renal disease. This study identified a significant prevalence of EDS in Russians, aligning with global trends. However, findings suggest potential regional variations. Analysis revealed a complex interplay of factors contributing to EDS, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment approaches for improved sleep health.

The effect of the modified Atkins diet and anti-seizure medications on lipid marker levels in adults with epilepsy.

Some anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are known to induce liver enzymes and impact lipid values that include total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and triglyceride (TG). In addition, use of ketogenic diet therapies, including the modified Atkins diet (MAD), has also influenced lipids. Here, we explored the combined impact of enzyme inducing ASMs (EIASMs) and MAD on lipid values in adults with epilepsy. Diet-naïve adults with epilepsy who began MAD were divided into three groups based on ASM use: EIASMs, non-EIASMs, and those on no ASMs. Demographic information, epilepsy-specific clinical history, anthropometrics and lipid values were obtained through retrospective chart review at baseline and after a minimum of 12 months of MAD use. Forty-two adults on MAD had baseline and follow up 12-month lipid outcomes. There was a significant increase in median levels of TC, LDL, non-HDL, and HDL after 12 months of MAD use. There was no change in median levels of TG. When separated according to ASM category, adults on non-EIASMs showed significant elevations in TC, HDL, and LDL after 12 months of MAD use. In contrast, adults on EIASMs only showed a significant increase in HDL after 12 months of MAD use. The increase in atherogenic cholesterol levels observed after 12 months of MAD use was most pronounced in adults with epilepsy on non-EIASMs and not observed in adults with epilepsy on EIASMs despite a higher proportion of abnormal cholesterol levels at baseline in those on EIASMs.

NT-pro-BNP Level is Related to Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients With Primary Aldosteronism.

To assess the relationship between the left ventricular remodeling parameters of cardiac magnetic resonance and NT-pro-BNP in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). Seventy-four PA and 39 essential hypertension patients were prospectively recruited and underwent cardiac magnetic resonance. Plasma NT-pro-BNP was measured before patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance. Left ventricular remodeling parameters were defined as left ventricular function parameters, T1 mapping parameters, and strain parameters. Differences in continuous variables between two groups were analyzed using Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney U test. Differences in categorical variables between two groups were analyzed by chi-squared test. Spearman's correlation and linear regression were used to analyze the relationships between left ventricular remodeling parameters and plasma NT-Pro-BNP level. P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Patients with PA demonstrated higher NT-pro-BNP [86.0 (49.5, 145.5) vs. 45.0 (28.5, 73.5) pg/mL, P=0.001] and Native T1 (1227±41 vs. 1206±43 ms, P=0.015) level than essential hypertension patients. Compared to patients with normal NT-pro-BNP levels, those with abnormal levels demonstrated different left ventricular remodeling parameters. NT-pro-BNP level was independently related to native T1 (β=0.316, P=0.006), extracellular volume (β=0.419, P<0.001), short-axis global circumferential strain (β=0.429, P<0.001), four-chamber global longitudinal strain (β=0.332, P=0.002), and four-chamber global radial strain (β=-0.334, P=0.004) in patients after adjusting for baseline characteristics. NT-pro-BNP level was related to left ventricular remodeling parameters derived from cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with PA. This result implies that clinicians should pay attention to NT-pro-BNP assessment in patients with PA in routine clinical assessment.

Dental caries and adolescent cardiometabolic health from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)

Background and aimsTo assess the association between dental caries and cardiometabolic risk in adolescents. Methods and resultsThe analysis included adolescents aged 13–17 years enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2011 to 2018 who completed an Oral Health Examination. Untreated caries was defined as having one or more decayed teeth. Caries experience was assessed by Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) score. Primary cardiometabolic outcomes included elevated BP (defined as BP 120–129/<80 mmHg) and hypertensive BP (defined as BP ≥ 130/80 mmHg). Secondary cardiometabolic outcomes included obesity, dyslipidemia (defined as any abnormal lipid level), glucose intolerance (measured by HOMA-IR), and microalbuminuria (defined as urine albumin: creatinine ≥30 mg/mg). Adjusted linear and logistic models examined associations using complex survey design procedures.In the sample of 2861 adolescents, 25.6 % (1.3 %) had untreated caries. 55.4 % (1.3 %) had DMFT ≥1. In adjusted regression analyses, untreated caries status was not significantly associated with primary outcomes of elevated BP (OR = 1.04, 95 % CI 0.71, 1.52 p > 0.05), hypertensive BP (OR = 1.72, 95 % CI 0.71, 3.89 p > 0.05), nor secondary cardiometabolic outcomes. No statistically significant associations were found between DMFT score and primary outcomes of elevated BP (OR = 0.01, 95 % CI 0.34, 1.07 p > 0.05), hypertensive BP (OR = 0.91, 95 % CI 0.81, 1.08 p > 0.05), or secondary cardiometabolic outcomes. ConclusionAlthough studies in other countries and in adults show associations between caries and cardiometabolic outcomes, this study did not find an association between caries and cardiometabolic markers.

A turn-off xanthene-based fluorescent probe for detection of cysteine and its practical application in bioimaging and food samples

BackgroundCys, as an essential amino acid that can be ingested from daily food, plays an important role in maintaining the oxidative balance in cells. Abnormal Cys levels in organisms will lead to various diseases. Therefore, it is of great significance to construct a fluorescent probe that can detect Cys levels in food and biological systems. ResultsHere, a turn-off type probe TA had been successfully synthesized, which attached diethylamine as the strong electron donor, acrylate as the weak electron donor, and xanthene as the π-bridge. TA showed wonderful selectivity, low detection limit, good photostability and well live-cell compatibility for Cys by reducing acrylate group to hydroxyl group of TAOH. The reaction mechanism was demonstrated by 1H NMR, ESI-MS spectra, pH-dependent response experiments, and DFT calculations. Importantly, the reason why TAOH exhibited no fluorescence was the disappearance of the ICT effect in the molecule due to the dominant existence of spirocyclic state of TAOH. In addition, the probe can be used not only for the imaging detection of Cys in A549 cells and zebrafish, but also for the detection of Cys levels in food samples. SignificanceThis work provides a new idea for the design of Cys fluorescent probe, which may be beneficial to the comprehension of the potential mechanism of novel fluorescent probe.

IoT based Smart Aquaculture Monitoring System for Fish Tank Management

Aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms, plays a critical role in meeting the increasing global demand for seafood. Effective monitoring and management of aquaculture systems are essential for ensuring optimal conditions and maximizing productivity. This research presents a comprehensive aquaculture-based fish tank monitoring system designed to enhance operational efficiency and fish welfare. At the heart of the system is the Arduino Uno microcontroller, serving as the central processing unit to coordinate various functions. Key components include pH sensor for continuous monitoring of acidity levels, turbidity sensor for detecting suspended particles, and water level sensor for maintaining optical water levels within the tank. In the event of abnormal pH levels or high turbidity, the system triggers automated alerts, sending notifications to the designated owner through SMS and transmitting data to an IoT website for remote monitoring. To ensure consistent environmental conditions, two pump motors are utilized: one for automatic water replenishment in case of water level fluctuations and another for removing water in case of particle accumulation. Furthermore, the system integrates a servo motor mechanism for precise dispensing of fish feed at predetermined intervals, promoting healthy growth and nutrition. Control over pump motors and feeding schedules is facilitated through a user-friendly website interface, providing operators with seamless management capabilities.

Roles of microbiota in autoimmunity in Arabidopsis leaves

Over the past three decades, researchers have isolated plant mutants that show constitutively activated defence responses in the absence of pathogen infection. These mutants are called autoimmune mutants and are typically dwarf and/or bearing chlorotic/necrotic lesions. Here, from a genetic screen for Arabidopsis genes involved in maintaining a normal leaf microbiota, we identified TIP GROWTH DEFECTIVE 1 (TIP1), which encodes an S-acyltransferase, as a key player in guarding leaves against abnormal microbiota level and composition under high-humidity conditions. The tip1 mutant has several characteristic phenotypes of classical autoimmune mutants, including a dwarf stature, showing lesions, and having a high basal level of defence gene expression. Gnotobiotic experiments revealed that the autoimmune phenotypes of the tip1 mutant are largely dependent on the presence of microbiota as axenic tip1 plants have markedly reduced autoimmune phenotypes. We found that the microbiota dependency of autoimmune phenotypes is shared by several ‘lesion mimic’-type autoimmune mutants in Arabidopsis. It is worth noting that autoimmune phenotypes caused by mutations in two Nucleotide-Binding, Leucine-Rich Repeat (NLR) genes do not require the presence of microbiota and can even be partially alleviated by microbiota. Our results therefore suggest the existence of at least two classes of autoimmunity (microbiota-dependent versus microbiota-independent) in plants. The observed interplay between autoimmunity and microbiota in the lesion mimic class of autoimmunity is reminiscent of the interactions between autoimmunity and dysbiosis in the animal kingdom. These parallels highlight the intricate relationship between host immunity and microbial communities across various biological systems.

Under-Recognized Threats for Cardio-Vascular Disease (CVD) and Health of Women

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally weighing, substantially, and disproportionately compared to men. Common factors like high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, diabetes, poor diet, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity have been acknowledged. New evidence indicates the existence of several lesser-known risk factors that specifically affect women’s cardiovascular health. This paper provides an analysis of these under-recognized risk factors, which include psychosocial variables, intimate partner violence (IPV), health literacy, poverty, unstable economic conditions, and socioeconomic and cultural issues. Through recognition and action on these often-overlooked factors influencing women’s cardiovascular health, the world community can improve women’s health more broadly. A systematic review of past twenty years existing literature which were selected from data base PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar was conducted to collect and analyze the relevant data.

Increased Intestinal Inflammation and Permeability in Glaucoma.

Evidence suggests that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the development of glaucoma. This dysbiosis is commonly associated with chronic intestinal inflammation and increased intestinal permeability. However, the understanding of intestinal inflammation and permeability in glaucoma remains insufficient. This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between fecal inflammation and permeability markers and glaucoma. We recruited 114 glaucoma patients and 75healthy controls. Levels of fecal lactoferrin (Lf) and alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) were quantified using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to compare both biomarkers between groups and across different severity grades of glaucoma. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between these fecal biomarkers and glaucoma. The severity of glaucoma was assessed based on the mean deviation (MD) in the visual field. In this study, we observed elevated levels of fecal Lf and AAT in glaucoma patients. The proportion of glaucoma patients with abnormal fecal Lf levels (≥ 7.25µg/g) was significantly higher than that of the controls (p = 0.012). A positive correlation was noted between fecal Lf and AAT (rho = 0.20, p = 0.006). After adjusting for age and sex, multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that both fecal Lf (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01-1.21, p = 0.026) and AAT (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01-1.02, p < 0.001) positively correlated with glaucoma. These biomarkers might reflect glaucoma severity, with significant differences in fecal Lf levels observed between moderate and severe stages, but not in the early stage. Furthermore, increasing levels of fecal AAT correlated with greater severity of glaucomatous injury and a larger vertical cup-to-disc ratio (VCDR) (p < 0.05). This study suggests an increase in intestinal inflammation and permeability in glaucoma, further indicating the importance of the 'gut-retina axis' in the pathogenesis of the disease and potentially offering new therapeutic avenues.

A "signal-off" anodic photoelectrochemical sensor based on ZnIn2S4/TiO2 heterojunction for dopamine detection

Dopamine (DA) is an important neurotransmitter. Abnormal levels of it in human body can increase the risk of many neurological diseases. Thus, developing a simple, sensitive detection method of DA is crucial. In this paper, we reported a "signal-off" anodic PEC sensor based on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass modified ZnIn2S4/TiO2 heterojunction (ZnIn2S4/TiO2/FTO) for DA detection. The experimental results show that the ZnIn2S4/TiO2/FTO electrode prepared by two-step hydrothermal method has a good photocurrent response performance under visible light. After incubation with DA, the photocurrent response decreases significantly because DA can rapidly oxidizes to polydopamine (PDA) through the action of superoxide radical (·O2−) and hydroxyl radical (·OH) intermediate species, which are intermediates produced by the ZnIn2S4/TiO2/FTO electrode under visible light irradiation. The constructed PEC sensor has a good linear relationship in the concentration range from 0.5 to 1000.0 μM, and its detection limit is 0.253 μM. In addition, the results of the proposed PEC sensor in real serum samples are satisfactory. The PEC sensor provides a promising platform for DA detection, laying the foundation for future advances in disease diagnosis and prevention.

Coconut water combined with purebred chicken egg yolk as an alternative semen extender for Madura Pote bucks semen preservation

One of the many efforts to increase the quality of livestock genetics is through artificial insemination (AI). Other than increasing it, AI can be conducted to preserve semen. A successful AI is determined by seminal quality, therefore, a method to preserve semen for a longer storage time is needed. The method used is adding an extender that fulfills prerequisites for a semen extender such as coconut water combined with egg yolk citrate extender. Coconut water is rich in carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants while egg yolk contains lecithin. This study aims to find out the Pote buck spermatozoa quality stored in coconut water and egg yolk extender. This study uses three groups of treatments (T0: 0.1 ml semen + 0.9 ml egg yolk citrate, T1: 0.1 ml semen + 0.9 ml coconut water, and T2: 0.1 ml semen + egg yolk citrate (20%) + coconut water). All three of these are stored at 5oC and evaluated every day until day 5 of their motility, viability, intact plasma membrane, abnormality, and MDA level. Data analysis used is ANOVA and a further test called BNT is conducted if a significant difference is determined. No significant difference was found between T0 and T1 (p&gt;0.05). The highest progressive motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane (%) among the three groups of treatments happened to be from T2. Meanwhile, a low percentage of spermatozoa abnormality and MDA level were also found in T2 with its extender being coconut water combined with egg yolk citrate. To conclude, the best extender for storing Pote buck semen is stored at 5oC is coconut water combined with egg yolk citrate extender.

A difunctional NMR&CD probe for specific detection and enantiomeric recognition of biothiols in complex mixtures

BackgroundBiothiols are important for numerous cellular processes, such as resisting oxidative stress and protecting cell health. Their abnormal levels and molecular configurations have been associated with various diseases. So, establishing an effective and reliable method for the specific detection and enantiomeric discrimination of diverse biothiols is highly meaningful. ResultsWe have developed a new NMR and CD probe using 1,4-dinitroimidazole, specifically targeting the thiol group. This probe allows for the specific detection and enantiomeric recognition of biothiols in complex mixtures. We achieved this by identifying the distinguishable 1H NMR signals of 2nd in imidazole-ring of the resulting 4NI-biothiols in the downfield region at 7–8 ppm and newly discovered induced CD signals within 290-430 nm. Using this probe, the limits of detection of Cys, GSH, and Hcy, the recovery rates, and the concentration of GSH extracted from HEK293T cells were determined by measuring the unique downfield 1H NMR signals. Moreover, Cys, GSH, and Hcy can be discriminated simultaneously in complicated samples at a pH range of 2–3.5. Furthermore, this probe can also be utilized to sense chiral thiol-drugs. SignificanceThis method offers a cost-effective and accurate sensing solution for the specific detection of biothiols in complex mixtures, with stereochemical recognition.

Hemorrhagic shock and encephalopathy syndrome: A call for new clinical criteria for early intervention

Background: Current epidemiological diagnostic criteria for hemorrhagic shock and encephalopathy syndrome (HSES) may not be optimal for early identification in clinical settings. We analyzed the specific timing at which Bacon's criteria were met after encephalopathy onset.Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at the National Center for Child Health and Development, a quaternary-care facility that receives critically ill patients from a wide geographic area, between January 2014 and December 2023. Cases of HSES were identified using Bacon's criteria. Data on detailed time courses after seizure onset were extracted from medical records. The primary outcome was the time at which Bacon's criteria were met, measured using median values.Results: Of the 206 patients with acute encephalopathy, 13 had HSES. Four were excluded due to insufficient data. Only one patient met Bacon's criteria based on initial examinations, while eight met them after presentation. The median time from seizure onset to meeting Bacon's criteria was 4 h. Early diagnostic markers included abnormal blood coagulation, renal dysfunction, and elevated enzyme levels. The median time to initiation of steroid pulse therapy was 11.5 h; it was 9 h for plasma exchange. Irreversible brain damage, indicated by cerebral edema, occurred at a median of 7 h post-seizure.Conclusions: The existing criteria fail in the context of early diagnosis. Routine practice should include early blood tests, including those for coagulation abnormalities, for patients with febrile status epilepticus to identify HSES at an early stage. Future research should validate new diagnostic criteria and explore additional interventions.

Screening for Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension in Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Objective: To determine the prevalence and significant correlates of prediabetes (pre-DM), diabetes mellitus (DM), prehypertension (pre-HT), and hypertension (HT) among adults in all districts of Duhok Governorate through a community-based screening study. Methods: This is a cross-sectional community-based screening study involving 3,000 non-fasting adults not diagnosed as prediabetes or DM and prehypertension or HT conducted in all districts of Duhok Governorate. Random glucose and blood pressure reading according to American Diabetes Association and American Heart Association Guidelines in 2023 will be used in a community-based screening. BMI will be also calculated in the present study as a screening tool. Results: Findings reveal that 18.2% had DM, 14.7% had pre-DM and 41.3% had HT and 11.5% had pre-HT. The study also revealed that nearly two third had increased BMI in which 40.1% were overweight and 24.5% were obese. Among screened subjects 32% were smokers. Around half of screened subjects reported having family history of DM and HT, DM alone (10.8%), HT alone (12.1%) and 28.9% had family history of both DM and HT together. The study also shows that screened male subjects reported higher prevalence of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT than screened female subjects. Older age group of screened subjects tend to have more abnormal blood sugar and blood pressure levels than younger age group. Conclusion: This study has shown a high prevalence of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT among adults in all districts of Duhok Governorate. Significant correlates of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT in this study were age, gender, BMI, smoking and family history.