Proper Dose Research Articles

A Comparison of Different Doses Efficacy of Isobaric Ropivacaine 0.5% in Spinal Anesthesia in Cesarean Section

Background: Cesarean delivery is a standard surgical procedure in women. Thus, a practical, affordable, and low-risk anesthetic technique is essential for mother and infant safety. Spinal anesthesia is a popular and efficient technique for anesthesia during cesarean delivery. However, other local anesthesia drugs with negligible side effects should be considered. The most selective medication for this purpose is bupivacaine (marcaine), which creates optimal anesthesia at doses of 10 to 12 mg. Objectives: The most available medicine for spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery is a 0.5% marine solution. However, ropivacaine for spinal anesthesia can occasionally be accessed as a long-acting amide local anesthetic agent used as an alternative to marcaine during the cesarean delivery. The ropivacaine's advantage over marcaine is its less neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity, as well as the more stable hemodynamical condition of the patients. So far, no proper therapeutic dose of 0.5% isobaric ropivacaine has been proposed to be used during the cesarean delivery. Any increase in the dose may ensure the block performance, but, by contrast, some side effects may arise, including hypotension, bradycardia, vomiting, and nausea. Herewith, the likelihood of maximum block and most minor side effects was attempted to be assessed at the tiniest doses of this anesthetic agent. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on C-section candidates. Patients were categorized into three groups receiving 22.5, 25, and 20 mg of the 0.5% isobaric ropivacaine solution. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heartbeats, the level of sensational and sympathetic nerve block, duration to reach the maximum motor block, the rate of vasopressors and atropine consumption, rate of vomiting and nausea, the rate of using supplementary drugs, block breakdown, and the patient's satisfaction with the anesthesia were measured and recorded. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Results: No significant difference was found between demographic characteristics. Likewise, there was no significant difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heartbeats, the level of sensational and sympathetic nerve block, duration to reach the maximum motor block, the rate of vasopressors and atropine consumption, rate of vomiting and nausea, and the rate of using supplementary drugs between the three groups. The most significant block breakdown and use of supplementary drugs were found in the first group (20 mg), with a significant difference between the three groups. Conclusions: The three doses used did not result in meaningful differences between the three groups. However, the differences were significant for the block breakdown, with the higher block breakdown and supplementary drug use observed when using 20 mg of the 0.5 ropivacaine solution.

Toxicity optimization of green zinc oxide quantum dots in zebrafish using Box-Behnken design: a novel approach for safer nanoparticle synthesis

Zinc oxide quantum dots, also known as ZnO QDs, are highly desirable due to their numerous favorable characteristics, such as their beneficial photoluminescence, solubility in water, along with sunlight absorption. They are well-suited for use in biomedical applications, drugs, and bioimaging. However, study on the in-vivo toxicology of these QDs is needed before they can be used in humans. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are cheap, fast-growing, and similar to humans, which makes them ideal as in vivo model for studying the toxicity of nanomaterials. The toxicity investigations involving zinc oxide QDs (ZnO QDs) and zinc oxide bionanocomposite (ZnO BC) in zebrafish that were concentration-dependent are evaluated, and the Box-Behnken design (BBD) was utilized to optimize the results. To determine the proper dosage, a study on cell line as well as hemocompatibility was carried out prior to testing the toxic effects of ZnO QDs along with ZnO BC upon zebrafish. When administered at 2.5 μg/l of ZnO BC and 2 μg/l of ZnO QDs, neither ZnO BC nor ZnO QDs appeared to be toxic to embryos during hatching and development. The testing of larval behavior in visible light revealed a dose-dependent decrease in both the total diving distance as well as speed. Nevertheless, at ZnO BC and ZnO QDs levels >250 μg/l and >200 μg/l, respectively, notable effects were seen in zebrafish embryos. Hence, ZnO QDs and BC at low concentrations were notably nontoxic. In order to guarantee the safety of nanomaterials in bio applications, this research supports upcoming in-vivo imaging investigations on their harmful effects.

Amiodarone Therapy: Updated Practical Insights.

Amiodarone, a bi-iodinated benzofuran derivative, is among the most commonly used antiarrhythmic drugs due to its high level of effectiveness. Though initially categorized as a class III agent, amiodarone exhibits antiarrhythmic properties across all four classes of antiarrhythmic drugs. Amiodarone is highly effective in maintaining sinus rhythm in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation while also playing a crucial role in preventing a range of ventricular arrhythmias. Amiodarone has a complex pharmacokinetic profile, characterized by a large volume of distribution and a long half-life, which can range from several weeks to months, resulting in prolonged effects even after discontinuation. Side effects may include thyroid dysfunction, pulmonary fibrosis, and hepatic injury, necessitating regular follow-ups. Additionally, amiodarone interacts with several drugs, including anticoagulants, which must be managed to prevent adverse effects. Therefore, a deep understanding of both oral and intravenous formulations, as well as proper dosage adjustments, is essential. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive and updated review on amiodarone's indications, contraindications, recommended dosages, drug interactions, side effects, and monitoring protocols.

The Usability of Metallurgical Production Waste as a Siliceous Component in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Technology

The reconstruction of buildings is a complex process that often requires the consideration of the construction load when selecting correct building materials. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC)—which has a lower bulk density (compared to traditional masonry materials)—is very beneficial in such applications. A current trend in AAC development is the utilization of secondary raw materials in high-performance AAC, characterized by higher bulk density and compressive strength than regular AAC. The increase in bulk density is achieved by increasing the content of quartz sand in the mixing water. In this study, part of the siliceous component was replaced by ladle slag, foundry sand, furnace lining, and chamotte block powder. These materials are generated as by-products in metallurgy. The substitution rates were 10% and 30%. The samples were autoclaved in a laboratory autoclave for 8 h of isothermal duration at 190 °C with a saturated water vapor pressure of 1.4 MPa. The physical–mechanical parameters were determined, and the microstructure was described by XRD and SEM analyses. The results were compared with traditional AAC, with silica sand being used as the siliceous component. The measurement results show that sand substitution by the secondary raw material is possible, and it does not have a significant impact on the properties of AAC, and in a proper dosage, it can be beneficial for AAC production.

Synthesis of Thioglycolic Acid-Modified Molybdenum Disulfide Nanosheets for Electrochemical Sensing and Its Application in Molnupiravir Detection

In the modern world, population growth, industrialization, and lifestyle changes have led to a rise in existing and new diseases, increasing global drug consumption. Proper pharmaceutical dosage is vital since drugs are only effective within specific concentration ranges. Therefore, developing reliable analytical methods for drug analysis in pharmaceuticals and biological samples is essential. Electroanalytical methods are particularly advantageous due to their low cost, ease of use, and rapid response. This study introduces a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based on thioglycolic acid (TA)-decorated metallic phase molybdenum disulfide (MP-MoS2) nanosheets for the selective detection of molnupiravir (MOL), an antiviral drug used in Covid-19 treatment. The TA@MP-MoS2 nanomaterial was characterized using FTIR, TEM, and EIS. Screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) were modified with TA@MP-MoS2 nanosheets to evaluate their electro-chemical and catalytic behaviours towards MOL by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV). The sensor displayed a well-defined electro-oxidation signal for MOL at 0.534 V, with the linear responses in two concentration ranges: 0.50–3.40 μM and 3.40–9.55 μM, and a low detection limit of 22.6 nM. The proposed design that has promising results could be an alternative strategy to fabricate the sensitive sensor for the detection of antiviral agents in real samples.

Selenium Improves Arsenic-Induced Male Reproductive Dysfunction by Regulating H3K14ac Level.

Arsenic exposure has been known to be associated with male reproduction injury. Exploring the antidote of arsenic and ascertaining proper dose of antidote are important for detoxifying the male reproductive toxicity of arsenic. Selenium, which is essential for the male reproduction and spermatogenesis, can alleviate the toxicity of many environmental toxins, such as metals, and fluoride (F). Selenium relieves arsenic-induced reductions in spermatogenesis index and testicular function marker enzymes via promoting the antioxidative ability of rats. Our previous study has found that arsenic can induce male reproductive toxicity by affecting the level of H3K14ac in the testis, so we further investigate whether selenium can antagonize arsenic-induced male reproductive toxicity through the H3K14ac pathway and ascertain the appropriate dose of selenium. The results show that selenium intervention reduces the accumulation of arsenic in rat testis probably attributing to promote the excretion of arsenic from rat, then improves the testis injury induced by arsenic. Selenium intervention enhances sperm quality, testosterone level, and expression of steroidogenic genes by regulating H3K14ac level and expression of its associated enzymes (KAT2A, BAZ2A, and HDAC6), and thus alleviates the male reproductive toxicity of arsenic, and the proper dose of Se for mitigating arsenic male reproductive toxicity is 1mg/kg.

Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) in Traditional Heritage: Exploring Local Knowledge and Usage Practices in the Community of Tarutung, Tapanuli Utara

The use of ginger (Zingiber Officinale) as a traditional medicine and food ingredient has become an integral part of the lives of people in North Tapanuli, especially in the Tarutung area. This study highlights the local practices in the processing and use of ginger that have been passed down from generation to generation. Using literature review and observation methods, this research found that ginger has various health benefits, including treating coughs, colds, sore throats, diarrhea, and diabetes. Ginger is also popular in the form of beverages such as bandrek, which not only provides a delicious taste but also health benefits. Local knowledge about ginger processing and proper dosage is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and avoid side effects. Therefore, the conservation and preservation of knowledge about ginger must continue to ensure its benefits can be enjoyed by future generations.

Botulinum toxin-related blepharoptosis in emergency department admissions

The use of Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNT-A) has become prevalent not only for therapeutic purposes but also for cosmetic applications. Among healthcare professionals, there has been an increase in BoNT-A administration within familial or friend circles. This rise has corresponded with a notable increase in cases of unilateral blepharoptosis presenting in emergency department admissions. This trend may be attributed to insufficient knowledge and experience regarding the proper dosing of BoNT-A, inadequate understanding of facial anatomy, or anatomical variations of the supraorbital foramen or neurovascular pedicle. While BoNT-A administration for reducing facial wrinkles may appear straightforward for a healthcare professional, a thorough understanding of anatomy and the causes and treatment of blepharoptosis is essential.

UV aging resistance improvement of SBS modified asphalt binder by organic layered double hydroxide and naphthenic oil: Its preparation, properties and mechanism

To enhance the UV aging resistance of SBS modified asphalt, LDHs and naphthenic oil were selected to modify it compositely. Firstly, organic treatment for LDHs was carried out through the combination of surface modification method and intercalation modification method to improve its compatibility with asphalt, and effectiveness of organic treatment was evaluated through the microscopic testing methods. Then, organic LDHs/SBS modified asphalt binders were developed by melt blending method, on this basis, appropriate naphthenic oil was added for composite modification. Subsequently, the conventional physical properties, storage stability and rheological properties tests were carried out to evaluate the comprehensive properties of the prepared modified asphalt containing LDHs and naphthenic oil. On this basis, TOPSIS method was conducted for multi-index optimization to determine the optimal dosages of LDHs and naphthenic oil. Finally, UV aging resistance of the developed modified asphalt was also evaluated, and reaction mechanism was explored with FTIR and FM. Test results show that stearic acid (SA) was successfully absorbed on the surface of LDHs, and -SO32- in ultraviolet light absorber (UVT) has successfully entered the interlayer galleries of LDHs, thus achieving the organic treatment for LDHs. Organic LDHs can significantly improve the high temperature properties and storage stability of SBS modified asphalt, and naphthenic oil can also improve the storage stability of SBS modified asphalt at the proper dosage. In addition, the two modifiers can both effectively improve the UV aging resistance of SBS modified asphalt. Based on the multi-index optimization results, it is recommended that the optimal dosages of LDHs and naphthenic oil are 2 % and 2.5 %, respectively, and at this conditions, comprehensive properties of the prepared modified asphalt can achieve the best. Microstructure characterization tests results reveal that LDHs and naphthenic oil are only simply dispersed in asphalt and do not cause the structural damage of SBS modified asphalt. Meanwhile, the special layered structure of LDHs can hinder the mobility of asphalt molecular chains, which enhances the interaction force between asphalt molecular chains and SBS modifier molecular chains, thus improving the road properties of SBS modified asphalt.

Cobalt stress enhanced dendrobine-type total alkaloids biosynthesis of Trichoderma longibrachiatum UN32 through reactive oxygen species formation.

Trichoderma longibrachiatum UN32 is a well-documented mutant strain known to produce dendrobine-type total alkaloids (DTTAs). It was serendipitously observed that the addition of Co2+ to the medium resulted in a notable enhancement in DTTAs production in the T. longibrachiatum UN32 strain, accompanied by an upregulating effect on the expression of antioxidase-related genes. Hence, the objective of the present work was to ascertain whether ROS (intracellular levels of hydrogen peroxide) induced by Co2+ treatment has a beneficial or detrimental impact on DTTAs biosynthesis. A comparison of the intracellular levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and DTTAs treated with CoCl2 and CH3COOH revealed that CoCl2 was the optimal inducer for investigating the relationship between ROS formation and DTTAs production. This was due to the observation that ROS formation was reduced by approximately 4% and DTTAs production was increased by 12.55% in comparison to the CH3COOH treatment. The physiological results revealed that the introduction of Co2+ resulted in the oxidative damage and activation of the expression of intracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). Furthermore, it was confirmed that ROS induced by Co2+ was beneficial to DTTAs production by adding exogenous ROS scavengers. The inclusion of all ROS scavengers, including vitamin C, tocopherol, melatonin, mannitol, and sesamol, resulted in a reduction in ROS accumulation and a concomitant decrease in DTTAs production. Specifically, the addition of melatonin at a concentration of 0.4mg/L demonstrated significant effects, resulting in a 32.53% (P < 0.01) decrease in ROS accumulation and a 45.22% (P < 0.01) reduction in DTTAs production. Subsequently, the timelines of accumulation of intracellular H2O2 and DTTAs content indicated that ROS are also crucial for normal fermentation without CoCl2 addition. Specifically, the proper H2O2 dose for DTTAs accumulation is between 8.82 and 18.86μmol/g. The present study offers the initial experimental evidence indicating that CoCl2 enhance DTTAs production during the culture of T. longibrachiatum UN32 via leading an increase in intracellular ROS, which is conductive to DTTAs production and can be inhibited by the ROS scavengers. Our results provide insights into the mechanistic study of DTTAs biosynthesis.

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) Syndrome with Multiple Drugs (Leflunomide and Cefuroxime): A Case Report

Background: Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) are unexpected reactions to a medicine administered in the correct manner and at the proper dosage. Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms syndrome (DRESS syndrome) is a Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reaction (SCAR) type of ADR with complicated clinical features involving several organ systems of the body; frequently involved organs are the liver, kidney, lungs, and other organs. Prompt recognition and correct diagnosis, followed by withdrawal of the causative agent, can promote appropriate treatment, accelerate recovery, and reduce the related morbidity and mortality. Case presentation: We have, herein, presented a case of a 42-year-old female with a history of leflunomide intake for plantar fasciitis. The patient subsequently developed fever, gastrointestinal tract disturbance, facial edema, liver injury, skin rash, hematologic abnormalities (eosinophilia), hepatosplenomegaly, and lymph node enlargement. The probability of leflunomide-induced DRESS syndrome was rated as “definite”, with seven scores graded by RegiSCAR. The suspected causative agent was withdrawn, and the patient was managed symptomatically. Following her management and discharge, she again encountered similar complaints after administration of the cefuroxime tablet. The causality assessment of the reactions was done using the WHO-UMC scale and Naranjo’s assessment scale, and a “probable” reaction was found for both drugs. Conclusion: The presented case contributes to the existing global literature regarding exceptional clinical presentations. Leflunomide and cefuroxime drugs have the potential to cause DRESS syndrome. Thus, they should be handled cautiously, and if such a reaction occurs, it should be reported to the responsible authorities.

Evaluation of a novel pediatric asthma inhalation drug delivery device: a focus on patient accessibility, ease of use, dosage feedback, and future directions

Objective Pediatric asthma management faces challenges in medication delivery through oral inhalation devices. While dry powder inhalers (DPIs) are increasingly prescribed to children, many do not receive their prescribed dosage due to insufficient inspiratory flow. This study investigates the utilization of metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) and DPIs among pediatric patients with asthma, focusing on medication delivery challenges. Methods Two survey cohorts comprising a total of 42 caregivers of patients with asthma were conducted. Modifications in the second cohort addressed neutral Likert scale responses to obtain more nuanced feedback. Results Caregivers expressed concerns about uncertainties in their child’s ability to use both MDIs and DPIs and challenges in ensuring proper dosage. Notably, 42% of caregivers in the second cohort rated their child’s inhaler usage as unable, indicating a significant worry about the efficacy of current delivery methods. Additionally, 50% of caregivers across both cohorts expressed uncertainties about their child receiving the full medication dosage. In response to identified challenges with DPIs, an adaptor device emerged as a potential solution, with caregivers exhibiting positive perceptions post-exposure. Features prioritized for the device include ease of use and assurance of dose delivery. Conclusions The study highlights caregiver preferences and the need for innovations to ensure effective medication delivery for pediatric asthma patients. A DPI adaptor device shows promise in addressing technical issues and alleviating caregiver concerns, ultimately contributing to more effective asthma management. Future research should refine these devices based on caregiver feedback to meet the evolving needs of the pediatric asthma population.

Correct Use of HCQ Did Not Cause Extra Fatalities in COVID-19 Infection

Abstract: A recent study has claimed that nearly 17,000 people in the U.S. and five other countries died prematurely during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic due to the compassionate use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for treatment. However, this study's conclusions are contentious due to reliance on flawed data and the neglect of significant evidence supporting HCQ's efficacy in early outpatient treatment. Our critique challenges the validity of the study, highlighting its methodological weaknesses and the confounding factors it overlooked. By reviewing the comprehensive body of scientific literature, we demonstrate that treatment with HCQ, particularly in combination with zinc and antibiotics, consistently yielded positive outcomes, especially in the early stages. This work aims to provide a balanced and objective assessment of HCQ's impact on COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper dosage.

Performance regulation of the TFC NF membrane via the introduction of oleic acid into different organic solvents

AbstractBACKGROUNDTailored design of high‐performance nanofiltration membranes is desirable. The physicochemical properties of the organic phaseare essential for the preparation of nanofiltration membranes. Therefore, byfine‐tuning the organic phase, it is possible to achieve nanofiltrationmembranes with enhanced performance.RESULTSIn this work, oleic acid, a naturally extracted fatty acid, wasintroduced into three different organic solvents (n‐heptane, n‐octane andisopar G) to construct special oil phases for interfacial polymerization. Testingresults showed that proper dosage of oleic acid addition can effectivelydecrease the nanofiltration membrane pore size and enhance the salt rejectionregardless of the solvent type. Taking n‐octane as example, 5% oleic acidaddition in it can decrease the mean pore size from 0.500 nm to 0.341 nm and improve the MgSO4 rejection from 52.4% to 95.5%. Further characterizationindicated that the introduction of oleic acid into organic solvent cansignificantly reduce the interfacial tension and promote the diffusion of piperazinefrom aqueous phase to the oil phase. In addition, oleic acid could react with piperazineand produce some white particles that could be embed into the polyamide layer, thus altering the surface morphology.CONCLUSIONIn this work, a novel modified thin film composite nanofiltration membrane was prepared by a simple and controllable oleic acid assisted interfacial polymerization strategy, which exhibits good water permeability, solute selectivity and antifouling property. Without changing the existing process, our strategy opens up a simple, environmentally friendly and operable route for the synthesis of thin film composite nanofiltration membranes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Pharmacists Impact on Promoting the Public Health

Because they can guarantee that patients receive safe and effective medications, pharmacists are essential members of the healthcare team. In an effort to maximize patient results, they work in tandem with other medical specialists to evaluate pharmacological therapy, dispense medication, counsel patients on drug interactions and side effects, and monitor medication schedules. Pharmacists also give patients advice on managing illnesses, changing lifestyles, and adhering to medication regimens. The range of work that pharmacists do has expanded with the emergence of numerous global health issues. Safe and efficient drug usage by community and clinical pharmacists is necessary to provide the best possible patient outcomes. The public is still ignorant about the pharmacist's contribution to national and international health, nevertheless. They also perform drug use assessments, act as drug information specialists, and offer advice on the proper choice and dosage of medications. Pharmacists play a critical role in healthcare organizations as they strive to reduce prescription errors, enhance patient safety, and manage costs. The pharmacist can improve public health in a beneficial way. Thus far, the rise in the importance of pharmacists has been more influenced by the expansion of patient services than by a population-based approach to health. Pharmacists may find that integrating the five public health core competencies—social and behavioral science, health policy and administration, epidemiology, biostatistics, and environmental health sciences—into their pharmacy practice increases their efficacy and influence.

POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS OF CEFPODOXIME IN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS (TURSIOPS TRUNCATUS).

Cefpodoxime proxetil is commonly used to treat cetacean patients with suspected or confirmed bacterial infections; however, pharmacokinetic data are needed to guide proper dosing in these species. Cefpodoxime proxetil is a time-dependent, semisynthetic, third-generation cephalosporin, appropriate for once-daily dosing and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for use in dogs with a broad spectrum of activity including gram-positive and gram-negative species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the population pharmacokinetics of cefpodoxime in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). A sparse-sampling design was used, with serum from dolphins receiving cefpodoxime proxetil at 10 mg/kg orally every 24 h to treat suspected or confirmed bacterial infections. Serum samples (n = 57) from 24 dolphins were analyzed at 12 time points from 0 to 96 h postdose. Serum samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. One- and two-compartment linear models with first order absorption were tested. Covariates including weight, age, and sex were considered for inclusion in the model, and between-subject variability was incorporated. A two-compartment model performed best, where following an oral dose of 10 mg/kg, serum concentration reached a mean maximum concentration of 23.0 µg/ml, mean time to maximum concentration of 5.0 h, and mean half-life of 11.4 h. With daily dosing, accumulation was approximately 18% and steady state was reached by the second dose. Serum protein binding was 82.8% as determined by equilibrium dialysis, similar to plasma protein binding reported in dogs. Based on the population pharmacokinetic model, once-daily oral dosing was systemically absorbed and quickly reached maximum concentrations. The half-life in dolphins appears to be longer than other species studied to date. Given the paucity of antimicrobial pharmacokinetic studies in dolphins, and limited once-daily oral antibiotic options for this species, these data are helpful for clinicians to make informed antimicrobial choices.

A Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Feasibility and Practicability of an Oatmeal Intervention in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Study in the Outpatient Sector.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and practicability of repeated three-day sequences of a hypocaloric oat-based nutrition intervention (OI) in insulin-treated outpatients with type 2 diabetes and severe insulin resistance. Methods: A randomized, two-armed pilot study was conducted with three months of intervention and three months follow-up with 17 participants with insulin resistance (≥1 IU/kg body weight). Group A (n = 10) performed one sequence of OI; Group B (n = 7) performed two sequences monthly. A sequence was 3 consecutive days of oat consumption with approximately 800 kcal/d. The main objective was to assess feasibility (≥70% completers) and practicability regarding performance aspects. Biomedical parameters such as HbA1 c were observed. To evaluate the state of health, a standardized questionnaire was used (EQ-5 D). Results: OI was feasible (13/17 completer participants (76.5%): 70.0% Group A, 85.7% Group B). Individually perceived practicability was reported as good by 10/16 participants (62.5%). Total insulin dosage decreased from 138 ± 35 IU at baseline to 126 ± 42 IU after OI (p = 0.04) and 127 ± 42 IU after follow-up (p = 0.05). HbA1 c was lower after OI (-0.3 ± 0.1%; p = 0.01) in all participants. Participants in Group B tended to have greater reductions in insulin (Δ-19 IU vs. Δ-4 IU; p = 0.42) and weight loss (Δ-2.8 kg vs. Δ-0.2 kg; p = 0.65) after follow-up. Severe hypoglycemia was not observed. EQ-5 D increase not significantly after follow-up (57.2 ± 24.0% vs. 64.7 ± 21.5%; p = 0.21). Conclusions: The feasibility and practicability of OI in outpatients were demonstrated. OI frequency appears to correlate with insulin reduction and weight loss. Proper insulin dose adaptation during OI is necessary. Presumably, repeated OIs are required for substantial beneficial metabolic effects.

Increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids and carotenoid accumulation in the microalga Golenkinia brevispicula (Chlorophyceae) by manipulating spectral irradiance and salinity.

Microalgal biotechnology offers a promising platform for the sustainable production of diverse renewable bioactive compounds. The key distinction from other microbial bioprocesses lies in the critical role that light plays in cultures, as it serves as a source of environmental information to control metabolic processes. Therefore, we can use these criteria to design a bioprocess that aims to stimulate the accumulation of target molecules by controlling light exposure. We study the effect on biochemical and photobiological responses of Golenkinia brevispicula FAUBA-3 to the exposition of different spectral irradiances (specifically, high-fluence PAR of narrow yellow spectrum complemented with low intensity of monochromatic radiations of red, blue, and UV-A) under prestress and salinity stress conditions. High light (HL) intensity coupled to salinity stress affected the photosynthetic activity and photoprotection mechanisms as shown by maximal quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQmax) reduction, respectively. HL treatments combined with the proper dose of UV-A radiation under salinity stress induced the highest carotenoid content (2.75 mg g dry weight [DW]- 1) composed mainly of lutein and β-carotene, and the highest lipid accumulation (35.3% DW) with the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid content (alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3) and linoleic acid (C18:2)). Our study can guide the strategies for commercial indoor production of G. brevispicula for high-value metabolites.

Growth Factors and Their Application in the Therapy of Hereditary Neurodegenerative Diseases

Hereditary neurodegenerative diseases (hNDDs) such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s disease, and others are primarily characterized by their progressive nature, severely compromising both the cognitive and motor abilities of patients. The underlying genetic component in hNDDs contributes to disease risk, creating a complex genetic landscape. Considering the fact that growth factors play crucial roles in regulating cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, and survival, they could have therapeutic potential for hNDDs, provided appropriate dosing and safe delivery approaches are ensured. This article presents a detailed overview of growth factors, and explores their therapeutic potential in treating hNDDs, emphasizing their roles in neuronal survival, growth, and synaptic plasticity. However, challenges such as proper dosing, delivery methods, and patient variability can hinder their clinical application.

Current Management of Fluorometholone Steroids in Pediatric Vernal Conjunctivitis: A Literature Review

Vernal conjunctivitis is a rare allergic eye disease, usually affecting children in the prepubertal years and can last between 5 to 10 years. Treatment of this condition is often challenging, requiring effective therapies to reduce symptoms. This literature review, conducted between 2015 and 2023, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of fluorometholone steroid use in the treatment of pediatric vernal conjunctivitis. Recent studies comparing the effectiveness of Fluorometholone 0.1% in the treatment of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) were analyzed. The results showed that Fluorometholone was effective compared to Cyclosporine in reducing VKC symptoms. However, the use of Fluorometholone should be done with caution due to potential side effects such as increased intraocular pressure and risk of infection.Fluorometholone is an effective treatment option for vernal conjunctivitis in children. However, it is important to have close monitoring by an ophthalmologist to avoid serious side effects. With careful monitoring and proper dose adjustment, Fluorometholone can be a safe and effective therapy in managing this condition.