Significant Differences In Concentrations Research Articles

Iron Management and Anemia in Patients on the Active Kidney Transplant List

IntroductionIron metabolism disorders and anemia are one of the main complications of end-stage renal disease that may affect the evaluation process for kidney transplantation. The study aimed to assess the iron metabolism in hemodialysis patients in relation to waiting list status. Study MethodThe study included 5068 hemodialysis patients, including those on the active waiting list (N = 449) and those who were not eligible for the waitlist (N = 4619). Demographic and biochemical data, Charlson's comorbidity index, duration of hemodialysis therapy and, respectively, hemoglobin, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels were compared in both groups of patients. ResultsPatients on the active waiting list were significantly younger −53.2 vs 67.2 years (P < .001), with a lower Charlson comorbidity index score: 3.33 vs 4.42 (P < .001). The duration of hemodialysis therapy was similar: 66.0 vs 63.2 months (P = .416), the incidence of anemia according to World Health Organization (90.6%, vs 91.2%) and KDIGO (72.4% vs 70.4%). The degree of anemia correction in terms of hemoglobin concentration and transferrin saturation was comparable in both groups and amounted to an average of 10.9 g/dL (P = .349) for hemoglobin concentration and 32.7% vs 33.4% (P = .513) for transferrin saturation. However, there was a statistically significant difference in ferritin concentration: 554 ug/L vs 733 ug/L (P = .001). ConclusionsPatients on the active list have significantly lower ferritin levels despite similar duration of hemodialysis treatment and comparable hemoglobin values. This may be due to lower inflammation, and less frequent blood transfusions, and lead to a lower risk of immunization and an increased chance of potential kidney transplantation.

Biochemical changes associated with H. pylori infection in humans

Since its first isolation, H. pylori, a Gram-negative flagellated bacterium, has been the subject of intensive research because of its widespread dissemination and associations with several disorders. The bacterium is proven to be a causative factor for a number of gastric diseases, such as gastritis, gastric adenocarcinoma, and MALT-lymphoma. While H. pylori infection has been reported to be linked to several extra-gastric diseases, this study investigated extra-gastric manifestation of H. pylori using specific biomarkers in humans. The GERDs questionnaire was used to randomly chose 150 (one hundred and fifty) participants, of which 75 (seventy five) were found to be H. pylori positive and another 75 (seventy five) were chosen as negative controls. Samples were gathered, and biochemical characteristics were examined. The study revealed a significant (p&lt;0.05) reduction in the levels of oxidative stress markers, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), vitamin C (vit C) and no significant difference was observed in malondialdehyde (MDA) and Total iron concentrations, although with a mean increase and reduction respectively. For the lipid profile biomarker results were statistically (p&lt;0.05) significant for triglyceride (TG) and low density lipoprotein(LDLc) while no significant difference was observed in total cholesterol (TC) and high density lipoprotein (HDLc). Kidney function assessment revealed a statistical (p &gt; 0.05) no significant different with sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-) and bicarbonate (HCO2-) concentrations while there was a significant difference in urea and creatinine concentrations when compared with the control subjects. In the liver function parameters, a statistical (p&lt;0.05) significant difference was observed with the aminotransferases (ALT, AST, ALP) and conjugated bilirubin while total bilirubin had a no significant difference when compared with the control subjects. A correlation coefficient analysis of parameter in H. pylori positive subjects were significantly adjusted (p&lt;0.05) for TG, total cholesterol, aminotransferases and bilirubin. The aim of the study was to investigate the biochemical changes of H. pylori infection in humans using specific biomarkers.

BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF GASTRIC JUICE IN INCOMPETENCE OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL GASTRIC CARDIA

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical characteristics of gastric juice in cases incompetence of the physiological cardia (IPC) at the gastroesophageal junction. Methods. Gastric juice samples were collected from 42 patients diagnosed with hiatal hernia (HH) at the State Institution "Institute of Gastroenterology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine". Patients were classified into type I (sliding) HH (n=26) and type II (paraesophageal) HH (n=16), with a control group of healthy volunteers (n=9). Results. Analysis included pH, pepsin concentration, bile acids, total calcium and stable metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx). In type I HH, gastric juice showed increased pH (3.73±0.49) and elevated pepsin concentration (1.33±0.22 mg/ml) compared to controls (p&lt;0.01 and P&lt;0.05 respectively), indicating hypoacidity and hyperfunction of chief cells. Type II HH exhibited pH levels (2.34±0.72) similar to controls and no significant difference in pepsin concentration. NOx levels in type I HH were lower (P&lt;0.05) compared to controls, suggesting reduced NOergic system activity. Calcium concentration in gastric juice did not significantly differ between groups. Conclusions. These findings suggest that type I HH is associated with disturbances in gastric secretion regulation, possibly unrelated to duodenogastric reflux. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

Allelopathy of the essential oil of Fortunella margarita (Lour.) Swingle) in the germination on Helianthus annuus L. and Hordeum vulgare L.

Fortunella margarita known as ‘Kin-Kan or kumquat orange’ is a citrus species cultivated in South America with excellent adaptation to different climates, especially tropical. The fruits of F. margarita have a spectacular essential oil content. This study aimed to evaluate the allelopathic action of essential oil from ripe fruits of F. margarita in different concentrations on two large crops, sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) in vitro. Ripe fruits of F. margarita were collected from an orchard in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil in January 2024. The skin of the fruits was removed and crushed to obtain the essential oil by Clevenger. The essential oil content obtained was expressed as a percentage (%). For the chemical profile, gas chromatography with sequential mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used. For the allelopathic assay, varying concentrations of essential oil were produced. The allelopathic test was carried out in acrylic germination boxes and kept in a D.B.O. vegetation chamber. The results were expressed as percentage of germination µL mL-1. The radicle length was determined using a digital caliper and expressed in centimeters (cm). Seven major volatile compounds were obtained (D-Limonene 22%, β-Phellandrene 12%, β-Pinene 11%, Germacrene D 9%, Bicyclosexquiphellandrene 8%, Trans-Arbuscolene and α-Guaiene both with 5%). The essential oil demonstrated strong allelopathic activity on sunflower germination rates, especially for concentrations greater than 12.5-100 µL mL-1, between 54.40 and 12.80%. Barley seeds demonstrated resistance and a rate greater than 50% at the highest concentration (100 µL mL-1). Radicle length also showed a significant difference (P &lt; 0.05) in all essential oil concentrations. Again, sunflower was strongly affected, with average primary roots between 0.98 and 0.11 cm and between 2.77 and 0.11 cm for barley. The essential oil from the ripe fruits of Fortunella margarita has an allelopathic action on germination and a toxic effect on the development of primary roots in sunflower and barley seeds.

Therapeutic efficacy of generic artemether–lumefantrine in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ghana: assessing anti-malarial efficacy amidst pharmacogenetic variations

BackgroundDespite efforts made to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with malaria, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, malaria continues to be a public health concern that requires innovative efforts to reach the WHO-set zero malaria agenda. Among the innovations is the use of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) that is effective against Plasmodium falciparum. Generic artemether–lumefantrine (AL) is used to treat uncomplicated malaria after appropriate diagnosis. AL is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 family of enzymes, such as CYP2B6, CYP3A4 and CYP3A5, which can be under pharmacogenetic influence. Pharmacogenetics affecting AL metabolism, significantly influence the overall anti-malarial activity leading to variable therapeutic efficacy. This study focused on generic AL drugs used in malarial treatment as prescribed at health facilities and evaluated pharmacogenomic influences on their efficacy.MethodsPatients who have been diagnosed with malaria and confirmed through RDT and microscopy were recruited in this study. Blood samples were taken on days 1, 2, 3 and 7 for parasite count and blood levels of lumefantrine, artemisinin, desbutyl-lumefantrine (DBL), and dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the active metabolites of lumefantrine and artemether, respectively, were analysed using established methods. Pharmacogene variation analysis was undertaken using iPLEX microarray and PCR–RFLP.ResultsA total of 52 patients completed the study. Median parasite density from day 1 to 7 ranged from 0–2666/μL of blood, with days 3 and 7 recording 0 parasite density. Highest median plasma concentration for lumefantrine and desbutyl lumefantrine, which are the long-acting components of artemisinin-based combinations, was 4123.75 ng/mL and 35.87 ng/mL, respectively. Day 7 plasma lumefantrine concentration across all generic ACT brands was ≥ 200 ng/mL which potentially accounted for the parasitaemia profile observed. Monomorphism was observed for CYP3A4 variants, while there were observed variations in CYP2B6 and CYP3A5 alleles. Among the CYP3A5 genotypes, significant differences in genotypes and plasma concentration for DBL were seen on day 3 between 1/*1 versus *1/*6 (p = 0.002), *1/*3 versus *1/*6 (p = 0.006) and *1/*7 versus *1/*6 (p = 0.008). Day 7 plasma DBL concentrations showed a significant difference between *1/*6 and *1/*3 (p = 0.026) expressors.ConclusionsThe study findings show that CYP2B6 and CYP3A5 pharmacogenetic variations may lead to higher plasma exposure of AL metabolites.

A comparative study of multiple biomarkers levels in complicated versus noncomplicated type 2 diabetic patients.

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is growing globally and the management of diabetes is a critical issue for public health. This study aimed to analyze the concentration of different biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without complication, T2DM patients with complication (T2DM+C), and compared to healthy controls (HC). For this aim, there were 164 participants: 59 T2DM, 60 T2DM+C, and 45 HC. Venous blood was collected and the levels of Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), fasting blood glucose, Interleukin-31 (IL-31), IL-35, glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA), developmental locus-1 (Del-1), fibroblast growth factor-9 (FGF-9) and FGF-18) and lipid profile (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglyceride) were analyzed. Results showed that IL-31 was significantly higher in T2DM compared to HC (p<0.0001), and compared to T2DM+C (p<0.0001). IL-31 was significantly lower in T2DM+C than HC (p=0.009). The level of serum GADA was significantly elevated in T2DM compared to HC (p=0.0009), and T2DM+C (p=0.03). There was a significant correlation between (IL-31, IL-35, GADA, Del-1, FGF-9 and FGF-18). The duration of having diabetes was significantly longer in T2DM+C compared to T2DM (p<0.0001). However, there was no significant difference in the level of HBA1C% between T2DM+C and T2DM patients (p=0.98). In conclusion, there were significant differences in biomarker concentrations between all three groups. This indicates that the monitoring of multiple biomarkers may be of value in the controlling of T2DM in the future.

METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION FOR QUANTIFICATION OF IMATINIB MESYLATE SPIKED IN VITRO SALIVA BY LC-MS/MS

A novel, sensible, rapid, reliable and economical analytical hyphenated LC-MS/MS method has been developed as a key for the safety surveillance in chronic leukemia patients, and as a part of therapeutic drug monitoring of imatinib mesylate in human saliva. Imatinib mesylate or imatinib methane sulfonate is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, apoptosis inducer and also known to be an anticoronaviral agent. Imatinib mesylate is a monomesylate salt of imatinib used for the treatment of gastrointestinal tumors and chronic myelogenous leukemia, and also in other complex malignancies. The lmax of imatinib mesylate was observed at 258 nm by UV spectrometry, establishing a very good linearity along with sensitivity. The detection limit (LOD) =0.2925 µg mL-1 and quantitation limit (LOQ)= 0.8977 µg mL- ¹ were obtained from the linear concentrations taken in the range of 2-12 µg mL-1. The correlation coefficient (r2 ) found was 0.999. The method validation parameters according to ICH Q2 (R1) were performed. The developed method described here, UPLC-MS/MS, was found to be novel, sensitive and rapid with improved results when successfully tested for human saliva samples without significant differences in the steady state imatinib mesylate concentrations. Current method could overcome the safety issues during therapeutic drug monitoring and pharmacokinetic behavior of the drug when tested clinically.

Differences in Volatile Profiles and Sensory Characteristics in Plum Spirits on a Production Scale

The specific sensory properties attributed to distillates from different plum varieties are intricately linked to aromatic substances, fruit quality, and technology employed during production. This study compares four plum brandies, each made from a renowned plum variety: Presenta, Valjevka, Čačanská lepotica, and Čačanská rodná on a production scale. Analytical and sensory profiles were assessed using GC-FID, an available analytical method advantageous for monitoring industrial fruit distillate production. Between 71 and 85 analytes were detected in the distillates, with the Presenta plum distillate containing the highest number of substances. Statistically significant differences in analyte concentration between plum varieties (p &lt; 0.05) were observed for 11 analytes. The comparison of analytical profiles and sensory evaluation revealed that a high concentration of 1-propanol, despite its negative sensory perception, significantly impacts the overall perception of a distillate, contrasting with substances like acetaldehyde and propyl acetate, which have positive sensory evaluations but lesser significance in content. Our work identified key compounds and procedures that can be used as benchmarks for production of plum brandy with positive sensory evaluation. These findings demonstrate the broad application potential of GC-FID in fruit distillate production as an independent tool for aromatic profile assessment and quality control.

Spatial variability of heavy metals concentrations in soil of auto-mechanic workshop clusters in Nsukka, Nigeria

The indiscriminate disposal of spent engine oils and other hazardous waste at auto mechanic workshops clusters in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria is an environmental concern. This study examines the concentration of heavy metals in the soil inside the workshop cluster and in the unpolluted soil outside the workshop cluster at approximately 100 m. Ten sampling points were randomly selected from within the cluster and another ten from outside the cluster. Using a hand-held Global Positioning System, the coordinates of the selected points were established and used to create a digital map. Soil samples at depths of 0–30 cm and 30–60 cm, were analyzed for Cu, Fe, Zn, Pb, As and Cd using Spectrophotometer. Moisture content determination and particle size analysis were also done on the samples. Spatial variability of heavy metals concentrations of the studied site was also mapped with ArcGIS 10.2.2 using interpolation methods. Results showed that the soil ranged from sandy loam to sandy clay loam. Cadmium and Zinc had the lowest and highest concentration, respectively, in the studied area. Comparing the concentrations of heavy metals in soils within and outside the auto mechanic cluster revealed notable differences across various depths (0–30 cm and 30–60 cm). The analysis results for soil samples within the cluster exhibited concentration levels (mg/kg) ranging from 0.716–0.751 (Cu), 2.981–3.327 (Fe), 23.464–30.113 (Zn), 1.115–1.21 (Pb), 2.6–2.912 (As), and 0.133–0.365 (Cd) demonstrating a variation pattern in the order of Zn > Fe > As > Pb > Cu > Cd. Conversely, for soil samples outside the cluster, concentration levels (mg/kg) ranged from 0.611–0.618 (Cu), 2.233–2.516 (Fe), 12.841–15.736 (Zn), 0.887–0.903 (Pb), 1.669–1.911 (As), and 0.091–0.091 (Cd). To assess the disparity in heavy metal concentration levels between samples collected within and outside the clusters, ANOVA test was performed. The test showed significant difference in heavy metal concentrations between samples within and outside the auto mechanic cluster (p < 0.05), implying auto mechanic activities significantly impact heavy metal levels within the cluster compared to outside areas. The assessment of soil pollution utilized indices including the Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo), Contamination factor (Cf), and anthropogenic metal concentration (QoC). Zinc, Cadmium, and Arsenic showed the highest contamination factors, indicating significant soil contamination likely due to anthropogenic activities. The concentrations of the metals analyzed were within WHO permissible limits while the metals concentrations were also observed to decrease as depth was increased. Using ArcGIS 10.2.2, spatial maps showing heavy metal distribution were developed, with the Kriging method proving superior. This study suggests that heavy metal levels in the soil at the area be monitored on a regular basis.

Interplay of arsenic exposure and cigarette smoking on oxidative DNA damage in healthy males

BackgroundLong-term exposure to inorganic arsenic (As) and cigarette smoking has been associated with adverse health effects such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. Oxidative stress is one of the most well-known damage mechanisms for both. However, studies on the association with induced 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in Iran are scarce, with no study on the interactive effect of As exposure and smoking in the literature.ObjectiveThis stratified cross-sectional study aimed to assess urinary and serum 8-OHdG levels in the relation to As exposure from drinking water, smoking and their interaction effect.MethodsThis study was based on 132 healthy male subjects living in villages of Hashtroud County, Iran (2021). All participants were categorized into four groups: (i) non-As exposed, never smokers (n = 33); (ii) non-As exposed, active smokers (n = 33); (iii) As exposed, never smokers (n = 33); and (iv) As exposed, active smokers (n = 33). Data on demographic and lifestyle factors were collected, and urinary and serum levels of 8-OHdG were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The smoker's daily cigarette consumption and the duration of smoking were self-reported data.ResultsParticipants consuming drinking water with an As concentration > 10 µg/L had significantly higher urinary total arsenic (U-tAs) concentrations (median 26.96, IQR 21.35–37.17) µg/g Cr compared to the reference group (median 19.33, IQR 17.29–23.26) µg/g Cr. There was a significant difference in the serum concentration of 8-OHdG between groups (i) and (iii), (iv) and also between groups (ii) and (iv). We did not find a significant interaction effect of As exposure and smoking on the both urinary and serum 8-OHdG levels (P > 0.05). Serum 8-OHdG (S-8OHdG) was associated with average daily intake of As (As-ADI) (β = 0.32; 95% CI 0.01, 0.04, P-value = 0.001) and cigarettes smoked per day (β = 0.3; 95% CI 0.00, 0.043, P-value = 0.046). While As-ADI (β = 0.16; 95% CI 0.001, 0.004, P-value = 0.01) and U-tAs (β = 0.6; 95% CI 0.006, 0.009, P-value < 0.001) were associated with increased urinary 8-OHdG (U-8OHdG), moderate physical activity (β = − 0.15; 95% CI − 0.07, − 0.008, P-value < 0.015) inversely decreased biomarker levels.ConclusionOur findings suggest that As exposure and smoking are potential risk factors for oxidative DNA damage, and it is strongly recommended to pay more attention to the role of lifestyle factors in future studies.

Unveiling the genetic landscape of suspected congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type I: A retrospective cohort study of 36 patients.

Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia type I (CDA I) is a rare hereditary condition characterized by macrocytic/normocytic anemia, splenomegaly, iron overload, and distinct abnormalities during late erythropoiesis, particularly internuclear bridges between erythroblasts. Diagnosis of CDA I remains challenging due to its rarity, clinical heterogeneity, and overlapping phenotype with other rare hereditary anemias. In this case series, we present 36 patients with suspected CDA I. A molecular diagnosis was successfully established in 89% of cases, identifying 16 patients with CDA I through the presence of 18 causative variants in the CDAN1 or CDIN1 genes. Transcriptomic analysis of CDIN1 variants revealed impaired erythroid differentiation and disruptions in transcription, cell proliferation, and histone regulation. Conversely, 16 individuals received a different diagnosis, primarily pyruvate kinase deficiency. Comparisons between CDA I and non-CDA I patients revealed no significant differences in erythroblast morphological features. However, hemoglobin levels and red blood cell count differed between the two groups, with non-CDA I subjects being more severely affected. Notably, most patients with severe anemia belonged to the non-CDA I group (82% non-CDA I vs. 18% CDA I), with a subsequent absolute prevalence of transfusion dependency among non-CDA I patients (100% vs. 41.7%). All patients exhibited reduced bone marrow responsiveness to anemia, with a more pronounced effect observed in non-CDA I patients. Erythropoietin levels were significantly higher in non-CDA I patients compared to CDA I patients. However, evaluations of erythroferrone, soluble transferrin receptor, and hepcidin revealed no significant differences in plasma concentration between the two groups.

Relationships among Cortisol, Perceived Stress, and Dental Caries Experience in Adolescents and Young Adults

Introduction: Stress can impact mental and physical health, especially during adolescence and young adulthood, but the extent of its contribution to dental caries is poorly understood. The present study assessed the association between perceived stress, cortisol levels (in hair and saliva), and overall caries experience of adolescents and young adults aged 15–25 years. Methods: Hair and saliva samples were obtained from 93 participants free of periodontal disease. Cortisol in hair and saliva was determined using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Participants completed a perceived stress questionnaire and underwent full-mouth oral examination by a calibrated examiner. Dental caries experience was based on the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index. Sociodemographic variables were also recorded. Results: There were significantly higher hair cortisol levels and perceived stress scale (PSS) scores in individuals with dental caries experience (DMFT≥1) than in those without (DMFT = 0). However, there was no significant difference in salivary cortisol concentration. A binary logistic regression revealed that higher hair cortisol levels and greater scores on the perceived stress scale were associated with increased odds of having experienced dental caries. In contrast, no significant association was found between salivary cortisol concentration and dental caries. Using multivariable regression models, caries experience was found to be significantly associated with both hair cortisol levels and PSS scores. These associations remained statistically significant even after adjusting for sociodemographic variables. Conclusion: Hair cortisol levels and perceived stress have a significant association with dental caries experience, whereas salivary cortisol concentrations do not.

Intensified bacterial productivity during the Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum: Molecular evidence in the Tarim Basin in the eastern Tethyan realm

The investigation of bulk and molecular compositions in organic matter at the Bashibulake Section in the SW Tarim Basin, West China, across the Paleocene–Eocene boundary reveals a complex mixture of marine and terrigenous origins during the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) in the eastern Tethys. Source-related biomarkers, such as n-alkanes, isoprenoid alkanes, steranes, hopanes and methylhopanes, exhibit diverse compositions influenced by both marine and terrigenous sources. Sterane and hopane isomer distributions, indicative of immature OM, are primarily controlled by biological configurations. Changes in compound class abundance and isomer ratios reflect variations in source inputs and depositional conditions. Elevated concentrations of n-alkanes from higher plants, along with ratios of C29-C32 moretanes/hopanes and C31/C32 homohopanes, suggest increased terrigenous OM supply during the PETM. However, the significant differences in concentration between n-alkanes from higher land plants and bacterial hopanes, coupled with the presence of 2α-methylhopanes, prevalence of C27 compounds in regular steranes, and absence of oleanane suggest a dominant aquatic bacterial contribution. The study highlights the role of enhanced continental flux and warming in stimulating microbial activity, enriching OM, a factor often overlooked by other analytical methods. The absence of carbonate carbon and low trisnorhopane isomerization provide supportive evidence of ocean acidification and carbonate dissolution during the PETM. Reduced pregnanes and tricyclic terpanes, along with low degree of hopane and sterane isomerization, indicate rising sea levels and low salinity. The findings emphasize the significance of the biomarker approach in identifying OM origin and characterizing the depositional environment in PETM-related sequences, suggesting a more substantial role of bacterial contributions than previously recognized.

Iron Heterogeneity in Soil and its Relation to its Uptake by Water Leaf (Talinum Triangulaire L.)

This study investigated the relationship between iron (Fe) heterogeneity in soil and Fe uptake by water leaf (Talinum triangulaire). A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted with water leaf grown under three treatments; control (0mg/kg Fe added), homogeneous (1000mg/kg Fe added), and heterogeneous (simulated realistic heterogeneity) for six weeks after initial establishment in the nursery for four weeks). At harvest, plant samples were cut, washed, dried, milled into powder and analyzed for iron concentrations using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) Thermos Fisher Scientific Model 3000 ICE after acid digest by Nitric acid (HNO3). The mean root Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 1263 ±154mg/kg, 1504 ±178mg/kg and 1393mg/kg ±140mg/kg respectively. The mean shoot Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 904 ±174u mg/kg, 1401±117 mg/kg and 1045 ±95 mg/kg respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p &gt;0.005) in shoot and root Fe concentration between treatments. However, the homogeneous treatment was 0.19 times higher than the control and 0.07 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. Iron level in the roots was 0.35 times high as the control and 0.25 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. The Concentration factors for the control, homogeneous, and heterogeneous treatments were 0.1118, 0.1498 and 0.1258 respectively. The similarity in concentration factor between treatments showed that it is an accumulator of Fe and has the affinity for Fe irrespective of the varied soil concentrations. These findings indicate that water leaf possesses mechanisms enabling efficient Fe acquisition from variable soil conditions. Overall, the study provides initial evidence that water leaf is resilient to variability in soil Fe distribution, holding implications for its improved cultivation. However, further research on the specific genes and processes governing iron mobilization and uptake in water leaf is recommended.

A retrospective multicenter study on clinical and serological parameters in patients with MuSK myasthenia gravis with and without general immunosuppression.

Muscle-specific kinase (MuSK)- myasthenia gravis (MG) is caused by pathogenic autoantibodies against MuSK that correlate with disease severity and are predominantly of the IgG4 subclass. The first-line treatment for MuSK-MG is general immunosuppression with corticosteroids, but the effect of treatment on IgG4 and MuSK IgG4 levels has not been studied. We analyzed the clinical data and sera from 52 MuSK-MG patients (45female, 7 male, median age 49 (range 17-79) years) from Italy, the Netherlands, Greece and Belgium, and 43 AChR-MG patients (22 female, 21 male, median age 63 (range 2-82) years) from Italy, receiving different types of immunosuppression, and sera from 46 age- and sex-matched non-disease controls (with no diagnosed diseases, 38 female, 8 male, median age 51.5 (range 20-68) years) from the Netherlands. We analyzed the disease severity (assessed by MGFA or QMG score), and measured concentrations of MuSK IgG4, MuSK IgG, total IgG4 and total IgG in the sera by ELISA, RIA and nephelometry. We observed that MuSK-MG patients showed a robust clinical improvement and reduction of MuSK IgG after therapy, and that MuSK IgG4 concentrations, but not total IgG4 concentrations, correlated with clinical severity. MuSK IgG and MuSK IgG4 concentrations were reduced after immunosuppression in 4/5 individuals with before-after data, but data from non-linked patient samples showed no difference. Total serum IgG4 levels were within the normal range, with IgG4 levels above threshold (1.35g/L) in 1/52 MuSK-MG, 2/43 AChR-MG patients and 1/45 non-disease controls. MuSK-MG patients improved within the first four years after disease onset, but no further clinical improvement or reduction of MuSK IgG4 were observed four years later, and only 14/52 (26.92%) patients in total, of which 13 (93.3%) received general immunosuppression, reached clinical remission. We conclude that MuSK-MG patients improve clinically with general immunosuppression but may require further treatment to reach remission. Longitudinal testing of individual patients may be clinically more useful than single measurements of MuSK IgG4. No significant differences in the serum IgG4 concentrations and IgG4/IgG ratio between AChR- and MuSK-MG patients were found during follow-up. Further studies with larger patient and control cohorts are necessary to validate the findings.

No observed bidirectional effect between tenofovir diphosphate concentrations and gender-affirming hormone concentrations among transgender persons switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine to tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.

Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals have expressed concerns about the potential for oral pre-exposure prophylaxis to affect hormonal concentrations achieved from taking gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). The purpose of this study was to understand the bidirectional effects between hormone and intraerythrocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations when switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) to tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine (TAF/FTC) in TGD users/nonusers of GAHT. The study evaluated stored blood samples and dried blood spot cards from TGD adults without HIV who took ≥12 weeks of TDF/FTC and then switched to ≥12 weeks of TAF/FTC for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Thirty-nine individuals met the study inclusion criteria. Regardless of sex assigned at birth and the use of GAHT, there were no significant differences in hormone concentrations when individuals taking GAHT were taking TDF/FTC and then switched to TAF/FTC. Further, there was no significant difference in intraerythrocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations between users and nonusers of GAHT. There are no bidirectional effects between hormone and intraerythocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations when switching from TDF/FTC to TAF/FTC in TGD users/nonusers of GAHT.

TEST OF RESISTANCE OF ALPUKAT (Persea americana mill) FRUIT EXTRACT ON THE GROWTH OF THE Streptococcus mutans

Introduction: Streptococcus mutans is one of the normal flora living in the oral cavity, but in excessive amounts is the main causative agent of dental caries. The active compounds of alkaloids, saponins and quinones in avocado pulp extract is an antibacterial alternative that can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans in the oral cavity. The aim of this research was to determine the inhibitory power that contain in avocado pulp against Streptococcus mutans . Materials and Methods: This study used 4 concentrations namely 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% with each repetition 4 times. Avocado pulp extraction was carried out by maceration method using 96% ethanol solvent. Inhibition zone testing was carried out using the Kirby baurer method. Results and Discussions: The zone of inhibition was determined using the Kruskal wallis test, which showed that there were significant differences in various concentrations against the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria. Avocado fruit pulp extract is able to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria because avocado fruit pulp extract has active compounds that cause antibacterial activity. Active compounds of avocado fruit flesh that are efficacious as antibacterials are alkaloids, saponins and quinones. Conclusion: Avocado pulp extract has been proven to have an antibacterial effect against Streptococcus mutans with an effective concentration level of 100%. Increasing the concentration of avocado pulp extract was also shown to affect the diameter of Streptococcus mutans inhibition zone

Incidence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in private drinking water supplies in Southwest Virginia, USA

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of man-made contaminants of human health concern due to their resistance to degradation, widespread environmental occurrence, bioaccumulation in living organisms, and potential negative health impacts. Private drinking water supplies may be uniquely vulnerable to PFAS contamination in impacted areas, as these systems are not protected under federal regulations and often include limited treatment or remediation, if contaminated, prior to use. The goal of this study was to determine the incidence of PFAS contamination in private drinking water supplies in two counties in Southwest Virginia, USA (Floyd and Roanoke) that share similar bedrock geologies, are representative of different state Department of Health risk categories, and to examine the potential for reliance on citizen-science based strategies for sample collection in subsequent efforts. Samples for inorganic ions, bacteria, and PFAS analysis were collected on separate occasions by participants and experts at the home drinking water point of use (POU) for comparison. Experts also collected outside tap samples for analysis of 30 PFAS compounds. At least one PFAS was detectable in 95 % of POU samples collected (n = 60), with a mean total PFAS concentration of 23.5 ± 30.8 ppt. PFOA and PFOS, two PFAS compounds which presently have EPA health advisories, were detectable in 13 % and 22 % of POU samples, respectively. On average, each POU sample contained >3 PFAS compounds, and one sample contained as many as 8 compounds, indicating that exposure to a mixture of PFAS in drinking water may be occurring. Although there were significant differences in total PFAS concentrations between expert and participant collected samples (Wilcoxon, alpha = 0.05), collector bias was inconsistent, and may be due to the time of day of sampling (i.e. morning, afternoon) or specific attributes of a given home. Further research is required to resolve sources of intra-sample variability.

Retrospective Analysis of Steady-State Sodium Valproate Plasma Concentrations in Chinese Patients With Bipolar Disorder: Impact of Demographic and Clinical Characteristics.

This study comprehensively examined the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing valproic acid therapy and explored their potential impact on plasma valproic acid concentrations. All enrolled patients were administered the extended-release formulation. An in-depth investigation of factors, including dose, age, sex, body mass index, co-administered medications, and laboratory test findings, was conducted to evaluate their potential influence on study outcomes. In total, 164 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. The patient age ranged from 13 to 60 years, with a median age of 25.71 years. Most patients (89%) received a daily dose of 1 g valproic acid. Co-administered psychiatric medications included aripiprazole, quetiapine, and lorazepam. Laboratory test results, such as hemoglobin and transaminase levels, were also collected as part of the study. The average plasma valproic acid plasma concentration was 79.8 mg/L. The dose significantly affected valproic acid concentrations, as a higher percentage of measurements exceeded the therapeutic range at a daily dose of 1 g. Furthermore, females exhibited significantly higher valproic acid concentrations compared with males at the same dose ( P < 0.05). However, different age groups showed no statistically significant differences in valproic acid concentrations ( P > 0.05). The co-administered antipsychotic and antidepressant medications significantly affected valproate concentrations, as reflected in the multiple regression model ( P < 0.01). This study offers valuable insights into the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing valproic acid therapy. It highlights the influence of dose, sex, and concomitant medications on plasma valproic acid concentrations. Overall, these findings can help guide dose adjustments and implement personalized treatment strategies in valproic acid therapy.

Effects of the Neuropeptides Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide and Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide in Male Fertility.

Background and Objectives: The neuroendocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including reproduction, with evidence suggesting its significant involvement in male fertility and sperm development. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) are expressed in both male and female reproductive tissues, influencing penile erection and regulating steroidogenesis in males. Therefore, our study aimed to compare the protein levels of VIP and PACAP in seminal plasma between healthy controls and sub-fertile patients. Additionally, we sought to correlate the levels of these biomarkers with clinical, functional, and laboratory findings in the participants. Materials and Methods: The study included a total of 163 male participants for analysis. The participants were further stratified into subgroups of fertile and sub-fertile men of four subgroups according to the 2021 WHO guidelines. Seminal plasma concentrations of the neuropeptides VIP and PACAP were measured using human enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Results: The findings showed statistically significant differences in total sperm count, sperm concentration, total motility, and vitality (p < 0.001) between the fertile group and the sub-fertile group. Specifically, significant differences found between healthy males and oligoasthenospermic patients (p = 0.002), and between asthenospermic and oligoasthenospermic patients (p = 0.039). An ROC analysis showed associated sensitivity and specificity values of 62.2% and 55.6%, respectively, to PACAP seminal levels differentiated between sub-fertile patients from fertile males (p = 0.028). No significant difference in seminal levels of VIP was found between the sub-fertile and fertile groups. Conclusions: Previous research leads to the point of PACAP active involvement in spermatogenesis. In accordance to our study, in human semen samples, we have seen a significance change in PACAP levels amongst patients with low sperm count or with both low sperm count and low motility, hinting at its contribution and acting as a possible factor in this complex process. Thus, alterations in the levels or actions of these neuropeptides have been associated with certain reproductive disorders in males.