Red Test Research Articles

Characterization and Evaluation of Native Rhizobium of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and Soybean (Glycine max L.)

The present investigation was conducted to characterize and evaluate native Rhizobium isolates of groundnut and soybean to enhance the Legume-Rhizobium symbiosis as well as increase sustainable crop production. In this connection, all the native isolates under study were characterized biochemically and tested with N-free sand culture in the glasshouse to select effective native Rhizobium isolates through proper screening. 10 isolates of each crop were collected from the culture collection bank of the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Raipur (Chhattisgarh). Out of 10 isolates, 3 isolates of each crop were selected on the basis of their growth performance and the purity of the culture. The biochemical studies of selected isolates include starch hydrolysis, catalase, urease, citrate utilization, indole production, gelatine iron, and methyl red tests, which were further evaluated for nodulation and biological nitrogen fixation in groundnut and soybean under controlled conditions with four treatments for each crop and five replications. The experiment result revealed that the evaluation of native Rhizobium isolate no. 1185 of groundnut and isolate no. 1076 of soybean was found to be superior among all the rhizobial isolates taken for study. These isolates accumulated 1.24, 1.44 mg/plant extra amount of atmospheric nitrogen over un-inoculated control plants, respectively. Further, it can be concluded that these native isolates may be the most effective nitrogen fixers for groundnut and soybean over the control.

Enterovirus A71 infection-induced dry eye-like symptoms by damaging the lacrimal glands.

To determine the effects of EV-A71 (Enterovirus A71) infection on ocular surface and its mechanism. AG6 mice aged two to three weeks were randomly divided into control and EV-A71 infected groups. Slit-lamp observation, fluorescein staining, and phenol red thread test were used to assess symptoms of ocular surface at 4 dpi (days post infection). The pathological changes of cornea and lacrimal gland were observed by H&E staining, PAS staining, TUNEL assay, IHC staining and qRT-PCR. Corneas and lacrimal glands from mice were obtained and processed for RNA sequencing analysis. Newly diagnosed HFMD patients caused by EV-A71 were recruited and ensured they met the inclusion criteria. Ocular surface parameters (TMH and NIKBUT) were measured using the OCULUS Keratograph 5M. Tear samples were taken to examine Cxcl1 and IL-6 levels through the ELISA method. Mice studies revealed that EV-A71 infection caused tear film instability, decreased tear secretions, decreased in lacrimal gland size, and distinct goblet cell loss. It also resulted in increased large vacuoles within acinar cells and structural damage in lacrimal gland. Apart from minor damage to the epidermis, there was no obvious inflammatory changes or apoptosis in the cornea. However, there were significant inflammatory injury and apoptosis in the lacrimal gland. RNA-seq analysis showed IL-17 and NF-κB signaling pathways were activated in the lacrimal glands of mice infected with EV-A71. In HFMD patients, the THM was in a low range and NITBUT was significantly shorter than the control group by Oculus Keratograph 5M. ELISA assay showed a higher tear Cxcl1 and IL-6 level in them. EV-A71 infection affected lacrimal gland structure and function and induced dry eye-like symptoms.

Phenotypic and Genotypic Study of Staphylococcus Haemolyticus and Staphylococcus Warneri Clinically Isolated from the Bloodstream

Background: The Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Staphylococcus warneri are coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) as part of human skin’s natural flora. In recent years, CoNS has increased its visibility as opportunistic pathogens acquired in hospital patients. This study aims to isolate S. haemolyticus and S. warneri strains from patients with bloodstream infections and to analyze the antimicrobial profile of these bacteria by molecular detection of the mecA gene. Materials and Methods: Four hundred and twenty-three clinical blood samples were collected from patients admitted to general three hospitals in Hilla city, Iraq, during the period from September 2021 to July 2022. Blood samples were inoculated immediately into blood bottles containing 70 ml of Brain-Heart Infusion Broth. All isolates were identified by morphology, biochemical tests, and VITEK 2 automated system (bioMerieux, France). The Congo red agar plate test was used to detect biofilm production. The mecA gene was detected by conventional polymerase chain reaction. Results: S. haem olyticus (nine isolates) and S. warneri (six isolates) were detected out of 423 clinical blood samples. Molecular detection of the mecA gene was detected in all 15 isolates. As well 11 (73.3%) isolates were β-lactam resistant and biofilm production. The results of oxacillin-resistance minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (≥4 mg/ml) showed that 11 (73.3%) of the 15 isolates were oxacillin and methicillin-resistant CoNS (MR-CoNS). Susceptibility to various isolates (MICs µg/ml) using VITEK 2 system showed erythromycin (≥8 µg/ml), rifampin (≥4 µg/ml), clindamycin (≥4 µg/ml), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (≥4 µg/ml) resistance were (80%), (13.3%), (20%), and (53.3%), respectively. All isolates were (100%) sensitive to linezolid (≥8 µg/ml) and teicoplanin (≥32 µg/ml). Conclusions: The S. haemolyticus and S. warneri are serious infections associated with bacteremia and septicemia infections. Linezolid, teicoplanin, and rifampin are the drug of choice for the treatment of infections caused by MR-CoNS isolates. A high rate of the mecA gene and biofilm production is present in these bacteria.

Development and validation of an individualised nomogram to predict mother-to-child transmission in pregnant women with syphilis in China: a retrospective cohort study

ObjectivesThe elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of syphilis has been set as a public health priority. However, an instrument to predict the MTCT of syphilis is not available. We aimed...

Hemp Seed Oil Inhibits the Adipogenicity of the Differentiation-Induced Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells through Suppressing the Cannabinoid Type 1 (CB1).

Central and peripheral mechanisms of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) favor energy intake and storage. The ECS, especially cannabidiol (CBD) receptors, controls adipocyte differentiation (hyperplasia) and lipid accumulation (hypertrophy) in adipose tissue. In white adipose tissue, cannabidiol receptor 1 (CB1) stimulation increases lipogenesis and inhibits lipolysis; in brown adipose tissue, it decreases mitochondrial thermogenesis and biogenesis. This study compared the availability of phytocannabinoids [CBD and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)] and polyunsaturated fatty acids [omega 3 (ω3) and omega 6 (ω6)] in different hemp seed oils (HSO). The study also examined the effect of HSO on adipocyte lipid accumulation by suppressing cannabinoid receptors in adipogenesis-stimulated human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Most importantly, Oil-Red-O' and Nile red tests showed that HSO induced adipogenic hMSC differentiation without differentiation agents. Additionally, HSO-treated cells showed increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) mRNA expression compared to controls (hMSC). HSO reduced PPARγ mRNA expression after differentiation media (DM) treatment. After treatment with HSO, DM-hMSCs had significantly lower CB1 mRNA and protein expressions than normal hMSCs. HSO treatment also decreased transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) mRNAs in hMSC and DM-hMSCs. HSO treatment significantly decreased CB1, CB2, TRPV1, and G-protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPCR55) protein levels in DM-hMSC compared to hMSC in western blot analysis. In this study, HSO initiated adipogenic differentiation in hMSC without DM, but it suppressed CB1 gene and protein expression, potentially decreasing adipocyte lipid accumulation and lipogenic enzymes.

Detection and clinical application of red blood cell survival.

There are 2 techniques for detecting red blood cell survival (RBCS) detection techniques: red blood cell labeling test and carbon monoxide (CO) breath test. The former has disadvantages such as long measurement times and complicated procedures, while the latter is simple, convenient, moderately priced, and capable of dynamically monitoring changes in RBCS before and after treatment. Currently, the CO breath test is gradually being implemented in clinical practice. RBCS is not only applied to hematologic diseases such as multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, lymphoma, and thalassemia, but also to non-hematologic diseases like type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. It can assist in diagnosis, guide treatment, evaluate drug treatment efficacy, and predict disease progression.

Evaluation of therapeutic efficacy of Emustil drops for ocular discomfort and tear film osmolarity using different treatment management modes under dry environmental conditions

BackgroundWe aimed to check the efficacy of Emustil (oil in water emulsion) drops on tear film index and ocular surface dynamics in dry environments through protection and relief treatment modalities.MethodsThe subjects were exposed to a dry environment using a Controlled Environment Chamber (CEC) where the relative humidity (RH) was 5% and the temperature was 21 °C and screened for ocular symptoms, tear osmolarity, ocular surface temperature (OST) and tear production using ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire (OSDI), OcuSense TearLab Osmometer, FLIR System ThermaCAM P620 and Schirmer strips/phenol red test respectively. Tear production was calculated by the Tear Function Index test (TFI).ResultsThe mean tear film osmolarity decreased significantly from 296.8 mOsm/l at 40% RH to 291 mOsm/l at 5%. (p = 0.01). Instillation of Emustil resulted in a significant increase in tear osmolarity in the relief method compared with osmolarity seen at 5% RH when no drop was used. The mean PRT value decreased from 26 ± 9 in normal conditions (40% RH) to 22 ± 4 mm in dry conditions (5% RH). Emustil drops did not induce any significant change in tear production in the PRT test. No significant change was found in OST following exposure to 5% RH. OST did not show a statistically significant change with the emulsion when used for relief (p > 0.05). The mean score of ocular discomfort observed was 70 at 5% RH. Still, the instillation of the oil-in-water emulsion (Emustil) resulted in a noticeable decrease in visual discomfort to 37 (p = 0.00) in protection and 59 in relief (p = 0.05). Emustil drops substantially improved tear film parameters under a desiccating environment, however, tear film parameters respond differently to the management modalities. In the protection method, tear film osmolarity was protected against a dry environment, while in the relief mode, tear production was improved.ConclusionCEC allows for a thorough evaluation of tear film parameters and dry eye treatment protocols in labs, providing greater confidence when applying them to patients. In addition, our study showed that Emustil not only provides protection and relief for dry eyes but also helps to maintain ocular homeostasis in desiccating environments. This indicates a promising potential for improving dry eye treatment protocols.

Bacterial Flora and Treatment Strategies in Women With Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infections.

Introduction This study explores the intricate relationship between bacterial flora and the occurrence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) infections in gynecological patients. It aims to provide insights into the various treatment strategies used to effectively manage bacterial pathogens, especially E. coli infections. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the bacterial flora in gynecological patients, the study highlights the notable presence of E. coli, promptingfurther investigation into the factors that contribute to its colonization. The objective of the study is to comprehensively investigate and detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) specifically caused by E. coli among gynecological patients. The study aims to delve into bacterial flora prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns, and potential virulence factors. Through this analysis, the study intends to identify effective strategies for rapid detection and diagnosis of UTIs caused by E. coliby utilizing advanced microbiological and molecular techniques. Furthermore, the study aims to formulate and propose a strategic treatment approach with a particular emphasis on selecting appropriate antibiotics to reduce the risk of severe infections and associated complications. Materials and methods The methodology employed in this study included the isolation and characterization of bacterial strains from clinical samples obtained from gynecological patients. A total of 52 urine specimens were collected from patients with complaints of infection in the urinary tract and infertility. These samples underwent both preliminary and confirmatory microbiological analysis, such as gram staining, biochemical confirmation test, and antibiotic susceptibility, and further proceeded with the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The results of PCR and antibiotic susceptibility revealed the specific gene involvement and resistant characteristics of E. coli. Results The findings revealed a total of 32 specimens positive for E. coli, of which 10 patients had infertility complaints and 22 patients had UTIs. The preliminary test, gram staining, showed the gram-negative bacilli E. coli, and the nutrient agar plate revealed smooth circular translucent colonies; MacConkey agar showed pink-colored lactose-fermented colonies; and the blood and chocolate agar plates showed grayish white moist gamma-hemolytic colonies. The biochemical confirmation of E. coli resulted in positive for indole and methyl red tests and negative for Voges-Proskauer and citrate utilization tests. The multiplex PCR analysis confirmed the E. coli strains with the presence of two target genes,stx2d and stx2e. Conclusion To summarize, this study offers valuable insights into the bacterial flora of gynecological patients impacted by E. coli infections, which provides a foundation for the development of precise and efficient treatment strategies. The results emphasize the importance of personalized treatment approaches that consider both the microbiological characteristics of the infection and the evolving landscape of antibiotic resistance. The implication of this research extends to enhancing clinical outcomes and alleviating the burden of E. coli infections in gynecological settings.

The Association of Race, Ethnicity, and Insurance Status with the Visual Acuity of Retinoblastoma Survivors in the IRIS® Registry

ABSTRACT Purpose To identify sociodemographic factors associated with the visual outcomes of retinoblastoma survivors. Methods Retrospective cohort study using a US-based clinical data registry. All individuals < 18 years of age with a history of retinoblastoma in the Intelligent Research in Sight (IRIS®) Registry (1/1/2013–12/31/2020). The primary outcome was visual acuity below the threshold for legal blindness (20/200 or worse) in at least one eye. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between visual outcomes and age, sex, laterality, race, ethnicity, type of insurance, and geographic location. Results This analysis included 1545 children with a history of retinoblastoma. The median length of follow-up was 4.1 years (IQR, 2.2–5.9 years) and the median age at most recent clinical visit was 12 years (IQR, 8–16 years). Retinoblastoma was unilateral in 54% of cases. Poor vision in at least one eye was identified in 78% of all children and poor vision in both eyes in 17% of those with bilateral disease. Poor visual outcomes were associated with unilateral diagnosis (OR, 1.55; 95% CI,1.13–2.12; p = .007), Black race (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.19–3.47; p = .010), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.16–2.37; p = .006), and non-private insurance (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.02–2.10; p = .037). Conclusions Poor visual outcomes appear to be more common among Black, Hispanic, and publicly insured children with a history of retinoblastoma, raising concerns regarding healthcare inequities. Primary care physicians should ensure that young children receive red reflex testing during routine visits and consider retinoblastoma in the differential diagnosis of abnormal eye exams.

Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Fruit Juices on Clinical and non-Clinical Enterotoxigenic, biofilm-producing Methicillin Resistance Staphylococcus aureus

The drug-resistance behavior of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has made it difficult to treat. This study aimed to discover some fruit juice's anti-MRSA potential and the presence of enterotoxin genesin MRSA.MRSA strains were confirmed phenotypically by the disc diffusion method. The well-diffusion method and Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)were used to determine the antibacterial effects of fruit juices. Congo red test and ring tests were performed to analyze the biofilm-forming ability. PCR detected staphylococcal enterotoxin genes Sea and Seg. A total of 90strains, of which 26 nonclinical and 64 clinical samples were processed. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) was highly resistant to MRSA in both groups. In clinical isolates, Citrus reticulate has shown the maximum antibacterial activity against 67.1% MRSA, whereas, Punicagranatum was most effective for 46.1% strains isolated from non-clinical sources. Punicagranatum and Citrus reticulate were inhibiting the growth of MRSA at the concentration of &gt;64μl/ml in both groups. Both Congo red and ring tests determined the biofilm-forming ability in 57.60% and 65.30% of non-clinical strains, respectively. Enterotoxin-producing gene Sea was detected in 8% of MRSA in the non-clinical group and only 2% in the clinical group. Seg and the co-existence of both genes were found in the same ratio in both groups. This study showed that fruit juices, especially pomelo, orange, and pomegranate, have high antibacterial activity. Enterotoxin genes play a role in the spread of infections caused by MRSA.

Robotic Multi-Boll Cotton Harvester System Integration and Performance Evaluation

Several studies on robotic cotton harvesters have designed their end-effectors and harvesting algorithms based on the approach of harvesting a single cotton boll at a time. These robotic cotton harvesting systems often have slow harvesting times per boll due to limited computational speed and the extended time taken by actuators to approach and retract for picking individual cotton bolls. This study modified the design of the previous version of the end-effector with the aim of improving the picking ratio and picking time per boll. This study designed and fabricated a pullback reel to pull the cotton plants backward while the rover harvested and moved down the row. Additionally, a YOLOv4 cotton detection model and hierarchical agglomerative clustering algorithm were implemented to detect cotton bolls and cluster them. A harvesting algorithm was then developed to harvest the cotton bolls in clusters. The modified end-effector, pullback reel, vacuum conveying system, cotton detection model, clustering algorithm, and straight-line path planning algorithm were integrated into a small red rover, and both lab and field tests were conducted. In lab tests, the robot achieved a picking ratio of 57.1% with an average picking time of 2.5 s per boll. In field tests, picking ratio was 56.0%, and it took an average of 3.0 s per boll. Although there was no improvement in the lab setting over the previous design, the robot’s field performance was significantly better, with a 16% higher picking ratio and a 46% reduction in picking time per boll compared to the previous end-effector version tested in 2022.

A “one‐pot” method for synthesizing zinc tryptophan and its derivatives as highly efficient PVC thermal stabilizer with excellent mechanical properties

AbstractZinc Tryptophan (Trp‐Zn) and zinc N‐(salicylic) tryptophan (SalTrp‐Zn) were synthesized from tryptophan, zinc acetate, and salicylic aldehyde by one‐pot method, respectively. The structure was analyzed by FT‐IR, 1H NMR, and elemental analysis. PVC samples were prepared by stirring method and solvent film process, and then the thermal properties of PVC samples were studied by thermal aging chamber test, Congo red test, electrical conductivity test, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The thermal stability of Trp‐Zn and SalTrp‐Zn stabilized PVC samples was better than calcium and zinc soaps used in industry. The thermal stability time was up to 80 min, and it was a long‐acting thermal stabilizer. After the addition of CaSt2 and Trp‐Zn stabilizer in different proportions, the thermal stability of PVC was obviously improved, and the initial whiteness of the film was improved after the combination of Trp‐Zn/SalTrp‐Zn. In addition, the tensile test verified that the PVC samples stabilized by Trp‐Zn and SalTrp‐Zn had the highest elongation at break. The addition of Trp‐Zn can reduce the elastic modulus of PVC, effectively improve the mechanical properties of PVC, and make the PVC film have better toughness and elasticity. Through DMA and EDS tests, it can be seen that Trp, SalTrp‐Zn had good compatibility with PVC and DOP. The quantum chemical calculation of Trp‐Zn, SalTrp‐Zn and vinyl chloride models was carried out, and the thermal stability mechanism of thermal stabilizer on PVC was analyzed accurately, mainly the absorption mechanism of HCl and the substitution mechanism of unstable chlorine atoms.

Development of toluidine red particle agglutination-based turbidimetric immunoassay for anticardiolipin antibody detection in syphilis

IntroductionSerological tests of non-treponemal and treponemal types are the most frequently used for syphilis diagnosis. Nontreponemal tests are used to monitor disease activity. Toluidine red unheated serum test (TRUST), as one of nontreponemal tests, is generally applicable to hospitals at different levels. However, accurate judgment of TRUST results is inseparable from an experienced and accurate operator. To reduce current shortcomings of manual TRUST method, we attempted to convert the manual TRUST test into automatic TRUST test, that is, to determine the degree of aggregation of toluidine red particles by detecting the absorbance value of serum after reaction with toluidine red particles. Methods50 μL of serum sample and 80 μL toluidine red particles were added to 96-well plate. Then, the 96-well plate was placed on a microplate reader at medium grade for 8 min to mix. Then, plasma reagin reacted with toluidine red particles and promoted the aggregation of toluidine red particles to form a large clot, which eventually caused a decrease in the absorbance at 540 nm. ResultsThe results showed that the specificity of the automatic TRUST test was 100%, the sensitivity was 87%. And this method showed 93.5% correlation with manual TRUST test. The developed method is simple and involves less subjectivity in reading results, opening new avenues for syphilis diagnostic testing. ConclusionTurbidimetric immunoassay can avoid the shortcomings of subjective interpretation, time-consuming and manual operation of manual TRUST method, and is more suitable for large-scale screening in health examination.

Bioactive exopolysaccharide from Limosilactobacillus fermentum LAB-1: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antibiofilm properties

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) are an intriguing group of high-molecular-weight carbohydrate polymers known for their diverse functional benefits. Our study focused on assessing the bioactive characteristics of EPS produced by Limosilactobacillus fermentum LAB1, lactic acid bacterium (LAB) isolated from the popular dairy beverage Borhani. Previous research had demonstrated its robust antimicrobial potential against various pathogens and provided genomic evidence of its EPS production. In this investigation, we verified and validated the EPS production ability of LAB1 through a battery of tests including the string test, Congo red agar test, and aniline blue agar plate method, all of which produced positive results. The EPS extracted from LAB1 displayed a high carbohydrate-to-protein ratio and exhibited a multifaceted repertoire of bioactive properties. It demonstrated antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, and showed the ability to inhibit biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus (76.61%) and Escherichia coli (13.64%). Furthermore, the EPS exhibited DPPH free radical scavenging (92.25%), hydroxyl radical scavenging (87.82%), and reducing power capacity (3.1 mM/L), which indicate its substantial antioxidant potential. Additionally, the EPS sample demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity (75.79 %) and moderate oil emulsifying capacity with an emulsification index of 38.38%. These findings underscore the versatility of LAB1 EPS, positioning it for diverse applications and highlighting its multifunctional role across various industrial domains.

Aprepitant Restores Corneal Sensitivity and Reduces Pain inDED.

This study aims to assess the efficacy of two aprepitant formulations (X1 and X2), in a preclinical model of dry eye disease (DED) induced by benzalkonium chloride (BAK). Two aprepitant formulations were tested on 7 to 8-week-old male mice for their efficacy. In vivo corneal fluorescein staining assessed epithelial damage as the primary end point on days 0, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, and 14 using slit-lamp microscopy. The DED model was induced with 0.2% BAK twice daily for the first week and once daily for the next week. Mice were randomly assigned to 5 treatment groups: Aprepitant X1 (n = 10) and X2 (n = 10) formulation, 2mg/mL dexamethasone (n = 10), control vehicle X (n = 10), 0.2% hyaluronic acid (n = 10), or no treatment (n = 10). Eye wiping, phenol red, and Cochet Bonnet tests assessed ocular pain, tear fluid secretion, and nerve function. After 7days, the mice were euthanized to quantify leukocyte infiltration and corneal nerve density. Topical aprepitant X1 reduced BAK-induced corneal damage and pain compared to gel vehicle X (P = 0.007) and dexamethasone (P = 0.021). Aprepitant X1 and X2 improved corneal sensitivity versus gel vehicle X and dexamethasone (P < 0.001). Aprepitant X1 reduced leukocyte infiltration (P < 0.05) and enhanced corneal nerve density (P < 0.001). Tear fluid secretion remained statistically unchanged in both the X1 and X2 groups. Aprepitant formulation X1 reduced pain, improved corneal sensitivity and nerve density, ameliorated epitheliopathy, and reduced leukocyte infiltration in male mouse corneas. Aprepitant emerges as a safe, promising therapeutic prospect for the amelioration of DED's associated symptoms.

Exploring the various effects of Cu doping in hydroxyapatite nanoparticle

Adding foreign ions to hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a popular approach for improving its properties. This study focuses on the effects of calcium substitution with copper in HAp. Instead of calcium, copper ions were doped into the structure of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles at 1%, 3%, and 5% concentrations. XRD analysis showed that the amount of substituted copper was less than needed to generate a distinct phase, yet its lattice parameters and crystallinity slightly decreased. Further, the results of degradation tests revealed that copper doping in hydroxyapatite doubled calcium ion release in water. The incorporation of copper into the apatite structure also boosted the HAp zeta potential and FBS protein adsorption onto powders. According to antibacterial investigations, a concentration of 200 mg/ml of hydroxyapatite containing 5% copper was sufficient to effectively eradicate E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. Furthermore, copper improved hydroxyapatite biocompatibility. Alkaline phosphatase activity and alizarin red tests showed that copper in hydroxyapatite did not inhibit stem cell differentiation into osteoblasts. Also, the scratch test demonstrated that copper-containing hydroxyapatite extract increased HUVEC cell migration. Overall, our findings demonstrated the utility of incorporating copper into the structure of hydroxyapatite from several perspectives, including the induction of antibacterial characteristics, biocompatibility, and angiogenesis.

A Case of Oropharyngeal Syphilis.

We present a case of a 50-year-old male who complained of a sore throat persisting for 2 months. Upon physical examination, multiple mucous patches were observed in the oropharynx region, but no skin lesions were found. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy confirmed these findings. The Treponema pallidum particle agglutination test and toluidine red unheated serum test (TRUST) were positive with a titer of TRUST 1:64. The patient admitted to engaging in extramarital sexual activities with several females but no males. Based on the clinical manifestations and laboratory test results, a diagnosis of secondary syphilis of the oropharynx was established. He was treated with 2.4 million units of benzathine penicillin G by intramuscular injection once a week for 3 weeks. After 1 month, the lesions completely disappeared without any symptoms. The titer of TRUST reduced to 1:2 in 1-year follow-up. This report aims to enhance physicians' understanding and recognition of oropharyngeal syphilis, enabling timely diagnosis and effective management.

Prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility profile, and associated risk factors of uropathogenic Escherichia coli among pregnant women attending Dr. Sumait Hospital Mogadishu, Somalia.

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a strain of E. coli commonly associated with urinary tract infections. In addition, antibiotic resistance in UPEC is one of the most significant health problems. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and factors linked to uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) in pregnant women. This cross-sectional study was conducted within a hospital setting between August 2022 and December 2022. Using consecutive convenient sampling, the research enrolled 220 pregnant women. The urine samples obtained from these women were cultured on MacConkey and blood agar and incubated at 37°C overnight, followed by sub-culturing on Mueller Hinton media. Bacterial identification involved Gram staining and biochemical characterization (TSI, indole, citrate, methyl red, urea agar, and motility tests). Conversely, susceptibility tests were performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. A binary logistic regression model and analysis of odds ratios (ORs) were employed to evaluate the risk factors associated with E. coli infection, and statistical significance was attributed to p-values of ≤0.05. Out of the 220 urine samples examined, 42 (19%) exhibited a positive culture, indicating an E. coli infection in pregnant women. Our analysis revealed that income, gestational age, and history of UTIs were identified as risk factors associated with E. coli infection. Most E. coli isolates demonstrated sensitivity to amikacin (100%), nitrofurantoin (85.7%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and meropenem (83.3%). The prevalence of E. coli was remarkable. It could be recommended that pregnant women in antenatal care have routine culture and antimicrobial susceptibility tests to prevent transmission of resistant pathogens and complications in both pregnant mothers and the unborn baby.

Evaluation of abdominal fat pad aspiration highlighting challenges to interpretation

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of abdominal fibroadipose tissue is a commonly utilized method for the detection of amyloidosis. While generally regarded as an accurate and specific detection method, the sensitivity is variable. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of fat pad FNAs in detecting amyloidosis relative to other tissue biopsies. Fat pad FNA results from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2022, were catalogued. Clinical data including FNA indication were ascertained for each case. The results of any subsequent tissue biopsy/biopsies evaluated for amyloidosis by Congo red staining were also assessed. Challenges to diagnostic interpretation were explored. A total of 334 fat pad FNAs were identified. The most common indications were peripheral neuropathy (29.3%), cardiomyopathy/heart failure (28.1%), monoclonal gammopathy (27.8%), and multiple myeloma/lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (21.0%). Cytologic interpretations were: 7 (2.1%) nondiagnostic, 284 (85.0%) negative, 18 (5.4%) indeterminate, 16 (4.8%) suspicious, and 9 (2.7%) positive for amyloid deposition. In our sample, 103 (30.8%) patients had Congo red testing performed on a subsequent surgical specimen(s) including: 3 of 7 of nondiagnostic cases, none which were positive on the subsequent surgical; 70 of 284 negative cases, 27 which were positive on the subsequent surgical; 11 of 18 indeterminate cases, 7 which were positive on the subsequent surgical; 13 of 16 suspicious cases, 2 which were positive on the subsequent surgical; and 6 of 9 positive cases, 3 which were positive on the subsequent surgical. Challenges to FNA interpretation included scant cellularity, focal staining/birefringence, and overstaining. It is best to view fat pad aspiration versus other tissue biopsy results as complimentary diagnostic tests that should be interpreted in the context of the clinical setting and overall clinical suspicion for amyloidosis.

Urine Congo red test for the detection of preeclampsia in pregnant women presenting with suspected preeclampsia

Objectives To determine the predictive performance of the urine Congo red point-of-care test for the identification of preeclampsia in women presenting with suspected preeclampsia. Methods A prospective multi-center cohort study was conducted to include women with suspected preeclampsia (n = 244). The urine Congo red test was determined (score range 1–8). The diagnosis of preeclampsia was based on criteria proposed by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The primary outcome was the predictive performance (sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values, as well as likelihood ratios) of the Congo red kit test for the diagnosis of preeclampsia. Results Fifty-four percent (131/244) of women with suspected preeclampsia subsequently developed preeclampsia. The sensitivity and specificity of the urine Congo red test were 49.6% and 94.7%, respectively, when using a cutoff for Congo red ≥4. The test had a significant positive correlation with the level of urine protein (Pearson correlation 0.61, p-value <.01). Intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were good (intra-class correlation coefficient and Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.88 and 0.75, respectively; p < .01). Conclusion The urine Congo red kit test has a high positive predictive performance for the identification of preeclampsia with high reproducibility. This test may be used as a bed side test to rule-in the diagnosis of preeclampsia in women presenting with suspected preeclampsia.