bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumour Microenvironment as a Potential Immune Therapeutic Target for Tongue Cancer Management
Authors: Janardhanan Mahija , Smitha NV , Rajalakshmi G , George Antony , Koyakutty Manzoor , Iyer Subramania
Published: September 2024

Immunotherapy is a promising approach in the management of human cancers and has been proven to provide a durable response in many cancers. It is helpful as an adjuvant therapy for cancers and at present is considered as a fourth pillar supporting surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In the treatment of oral cancer, immunotherapy is approved in late-stage diseases where surgical resection cannot be carried out or fails, leading to recurrences and metastasis. Evidences suggest that when given as a first-line treatment, it can elicit an immune response that shrinks tumours, which could provide long-term benefit for patients. But unlike the traditional approach which follows the uniform protocol for all oral cancer patients, effective immunotherapy requires a more site-specific personalized approach. The aim of this paper is to review the various immune evasive mechanisms adopted by tumour cells and their relevance as potential targets for immunotherapy in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma.
Evaluation of biosafe alternative to eosin in hematoxylin and eosin staining procedure: A comparative study
Authors: Pradeepthi Katakam , Rajani Korlepara , Rao GuttikondaVenkateswara , Sravya Taneeru , Wahed Sarah Abdul , Sailaja Joparti
Published: September 2024

Background:

Hematoxylin and eosin staining is the globally accepted staining technique for histology and histopathology sections. Hematoxylin is a natural dye as compared to eosin which is a synthetic dye manufactured from chemicals. Eosin acts as a counterstain to hematoxylin giving a sharp contrast to its blue color. Eosin being a chemical, can cause health hazards and environmental pollution. Using eco-friendly materials and going organic is the demand of this era. Curcuma longa rhizomes are proven to contain curcuminoids that exhibit various medicinal properties and curcumin the bright yellow component of the plant, that is, being used as a colorant. This natural dye from C. longa provides a significant alternative to eosin as they are safer to use without health hazards and are biodegradable and have easy disposability.

Aim:

To evaluate and compare the staining qualities of C. longa (turmeric) with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 paraffin-embedded tissue block specimens of various pathological tissues were stained with H and E and hematoxylin and curcumin (H&C). Evaluation and comparison of the staining efficacy were done for all the pathological tissues. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results:

H&C staining gave comparable results with H and E staining with a statistically insignificant P value (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Curcumin has shown equivalent staining to that of eosin. Thus, it can be used as a better alternative.
Expression of PTCH gene in ameloblastoma and odontogenic keratocyst: A comparative study
Authors: Srinagesh Sharada , Sahana NS , Suganya G , Renuga S , Natarajan Srikant , Kulkarni Meghashyama
Published: September 2024

Aim:

This is a cross-sectional comparative study, aimed to quantify the expression of patched (PTCH) gene in ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) and also the comparison of both the expressions.

Materials and Methods:

Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and quantified, and the expression of the PTCH gene was done in 17 cases of ameloblastoma and 17 cases of OKC by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results:

It was observed that there was an overexpression of the PTCH gene in both ameloblastoma and OKC with a good mean cycle threshold (CT) value of 32.71 ± 2.432 and 34.69 ± 1.875, respectively. When comparing the PTCH expression between the two, ameloblastoma showed higher expression than the OKC and the difference is statistically significant with P value of 0.025.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that there is overexpression of PTCH in ameloblastoma and OKC, but it is highly expressed in ameloblastoma when compared to OKC. Overexpression of PTCH may constitute the activation of the Sonic Hedgehog pathway and may suggest the mechanism for the development of ameloblastoma and OKC. Hence it can be used as a valuable marker for early diagnosis and in the identification of therapeutic targets.
Age estimation using extracted teeth in coastal Karnataka population
Authors: Kavya S , Prabhu Sudeendra , Adyanthya Soniya , Miqdad Syed M. , Abdulla Riaz , Jayarajan Devika
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Age estimation using regressive alterations such as root dentin translucency, PDL attachment, and attrition are easy and reliable way of predicting the age. However, extensive and population-specific formula has not been generated. This attempt was to assess the correlation of these alterations with age and to generate a Linear regressive formula, specific to this population.

Methods and Material:

Three alterations were assessed such as dental attrition, root dentin translucency, and periodontal attachment level from the extracted teeth. Dental attrition was measured using Johanson's and Li and Ji criteria. PDL attachment level and root dentin translucency was measured using the Johanson method and the Lamendin method.

Statistical Analysis:

SPSS software (Version 27), Pearson correlation test, and Linear regressive analysis were used.

Results:

Our results showed all three factors/parameters such as attrition, periodontal ligament, and translucency having a very good correlation with age and correlation coefficient r value ranging from 0.6 to 0.8. All the parameters were having statistically significant correlation with P value <0.005. Among them, root dentin translucency with Johanson G method showed excellent correlation with r = 0.83 followed by PDL attachment by Johanson G method with r = 0.702.

Conclusions:

Regressive changes such as Dentin translucency, PDL attachment and attrition on Coastal Karnataka showed a very good correlation with age. Among them, Dentin translucency by Johanson G method had the best correlation with the a standard error of estimate (SEE). Results of our study indicates that all these parameters [Translucency, PDL attachment, and attrition] can be utilized in age estimation.
Expression of CD 20 B-Lymphocyte in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma: A comparative immunohistochemistry study
Authors: Thomas Anela , Smitha T , Rao Kavita , Priya N S , Sheethal H S , Chitra S
Published: September 2024

Background:

As the progressive trends in the field of immunotherapy, it is very favourable to reconsider the role played by B lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment. Both the protumorogenic and antitumorogenic responses have to be evaluated to formulate an effective immunotherapeutic protocol.

Aim and objective:

The study was primarily conducted to assess the qualitative expression of B lymphocytes in pretumorogenic (oral epithelial dysplasia) and tumorogenic environment (oral squamous cell carcinoma). The differential immunohistochemical staining of CD 20 immune marker was assessed in about 60 cases that included 30 cases of oral epithelial dysplasia and 30 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Results:

The study found significant correlation between CD 20 IHC immune expression and histopathological diagnosis along with significant correlation between the subject's age group and histopathological diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Modulating the immune response in a precancerous state can be highly beneficial in implementing better immunotherapeutic strategies to treat or prevent malignancy at an early stage.
Calcifications in oral carcinomas: Depicts diversity of calcium in cancer biology!
Authors: Banerjee Abhishek , Nandini Doddabasavaiah Basavapur , Misra Satya Ranjan , Chakraborty Bidyut
Published: September 2024

Calcifications in the soft tissues can be accidental findings during diagnostic procedures. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) forms the major percentage of oral malignancies; calcifications are rare findings in OSCC. Calcifications are seen as a result of necrosis, chronic inflammations as well as degenerative changes and imbalances of the local calcium and phosphorous environment. The presence of calcifications can be a prognostic marker, hypothesizing that the influx of calcium from hard tissues into the soft tissues, can probably determine the invasive nature and the destructive characteristics of the carcinoma; hence, detecting calcifications can help us in predicting the prognosis and spread of the malignancy.
Role of hypoxia and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the formation and maintenance of oral cancer stem cells in oral squamous cell carcinomas and metastatic lymph node: An immunohistochemical analysis
Authors: Varsha VK , Savita JK , Girish HC , Shyamala K
Published: September 2024

Background:

Inspite of having advanced treatment modalities the overall survival rate in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains poor. This is considered to be mainly due to local recurrence and distant metastasis. Various studies have concentrated on the role of oral cancer stem cells (OCSCs) in the progression and metastasis of OSCC. However, the role of tumor microenvironment components has been less delved into. Hence clarity on cell biology and metastatic potential OCSCs is essential for the development of more effective anti-cancer treatment.

Aim:

To establish the role of OCSCs in different grades of OSCC and metastatic lymph nodes through the expression of cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44). To demonstrate and correlate the role of hypoxia and Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the various grades and metastatic lymph nodes in the formation and maintenance of OCSCs by employing Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 Alpha (HIF 1α) and Snail respectively.

Method and Material:

A total of 36 cases of OSCC, 12 from each grade and 12 normal oral mucosal tissues were included in the study. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for the demonstration of CD44, HIF1α, and Snail.

Statistics:

Descriptive analysis, Chi-square, and Spearman's rank correlation were used to analyze frequency and proportion, to compare expression and correlate between lesion proper and lymph node in each group respectively.

Results:

Significant expression of CD44, HIF1 α, and Snail among advancing grades of OSCC and their metastatic lymph node were observed. A positive correlation was seen between them.

Conclusions:

The prognosis of OSCC can be improved by better understanding and targeting the molecules involved in the formation and maintenance of OCSCs.
Role of MMP1 and MMP10 in local invasion and distant metastasis in different levels of oral squamous cell carcinoma - A immunohistochemical comparative study
Authors: J. K. Savita , V. K. Varsha , H. C. Girish
Published: September 2024

Background:

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are basically a part of a large family of proteolytic enzymes. They play an important role in degrading extracellular matrix and basement membrane, which is a basic mechanism in local invasion and tumour metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate immunohistochemically the expression of MMP1 and MMP10 in tumour invasion locally and at distant levels, including lymph nodes at different levels in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 50 tissue samples with clinically confirmed OSCC and 15 normal oral mucosal tissues will be included in the study. Immunohistochemical staining will be performed for the demonstration of MMP1 and MMP10 in lesional tissue, perilesional tissue, and lymph nodes of different levels that were evaluated with respect to microscopic features.

Results:

All OSCC cases had MMP1 and MMP10 expression levels. The expression increased as the nodal level increased from level I to level V. This difference was statistically significant at P < 0.001 Both MMPs were not expressed in normal epithelial cells. There was no significant correlation between MMP1 and MMP10 expression.

Conclusion:

This study showed that MMP1 and MMP10 are expressed in the tissues of OSCC and may serve as prognostic indicators for the disease.
Gene therapy as a treatment of oral cancer: An insight
Authors: Modak Baishakhi , Solomon Monica C. , Karmakar Shaswata , Polley Shreyasi
Published: September 2024

Oral cancer or oral squamous cell carcinoma comprises more than three-fourth of all the malignant neoplasms of the oral cavity. Worldwide, it is the 18th most common malignancy. The patients suffering from cancer usually remains immune to the standard therapies such as surgical resection of tumours, radiotherapy and chemotherapy; however, there can be probabilities of chronic and acute toxicities and secondary malignancies as well. Recently, gene therapy has been introduced in the arena of biomedicine to improve the treatment modality for oral malignant and potentially malignant disorders. It replaces the defective gene followed by repairing by a therapeutic gene. Gene therapy can attack cancerous cells without causing harmful effect to the normal tissue. It is useful to cope with the relapse of diseases and as a synergetic treatment. The present article reviewed the types of gene therapy, modes of delivery of the therapeutic genes and different techniques used along with pros and cons of gene therapy.
Expression of transforming growth factor-β in oral submucous fibrosis: A systematic review
Authors: Bansal Shivani P. , Pereira Treville , Desai Rajiv S. , Jena Abinashi , Mehta Vini
Published: September 2024

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a potentially malignant disorder characterised by inflammation and progressive fibrosis. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been established as a master regulator of fibrosis in various organs; however, lack of systematic review on expression of TGF-β and its isoforms in OSF restrict the understanding of their behaviour in its pathogenesis. Online electronic databases, such as PubMed Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus, were searched from their respective dates of inception till 31st March 2022. Human studies related to TGF-β expression in histopathologically diagnosed OSF cases, with or without malignant transformation, were included and assessed using a Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool: For non randomised studies of interventions (ACROBAT NRSI). The electronic literature search yielded 394 articles. Of those, ten articles met the inclusion criteria and involved total of 579 OSF patients. The risk of bias (RoB) was low to moderate. These studies demonstrated a significant positive expression of TGF-β and its isoforms in OSF compared to that in normal tissue samples. An increased pan TGF-β expression was observed in the early stages of OSF, and an increased expression of TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 were seen in advanced stages of OSF. Stage wise expression of TGF-β3 has not been discussed in the included studies. No significant relationship was observed between epithelial dysplasia and TGF-β expression in OSF. The distinct pattern in the expression of pan TGF-β, TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 in various stages of OSF indicates their different roles in OSF progression. We believe isoform targeted studies exploring stage wise expression of the marker will open new treatment avenues for OSF.
Pathogenetic model of survivin-dependent molecular signalling pathways in tumorigenesis of oral cancer and precursor lesions
Authors: Aggarwal Dipanshu , Shetty Devi Charan , Jain Anshi , Gulati Nikita , Juneja Saurabh
Published: September 2024

Background:

p53 tumour suppressor gene limits unchecked cellular growth in response to DNA damage, by causing G1 arrest and the activation of apoptosis. Inhibitors of apoptosis include survivin which acts by inhibition of caspases. Survivin has a significant role as a cell cycle modulator and is only minimally present in mature tissues. Aberrant expression of p53 and survivin has been evaluated in various carcinomas. Thus, the objective of this research was to elucidate the co-expression of p53 and survivin in tissue samples of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders (OPMDs) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCCs).

Method:

Thirty tissue samples of OPMDs and 30 tissue samples of OSCCs taken from department archives were used in the study. Expression of p53 and survivin was analyzed in the study groups by the help of immunohistochemistry. Also, co-expression of both the markers was evaluated.

Results:

The expression of p53 and survivin in the oral epithelium of patients with OSCCs was significantly higher than that in patients with OPMDs (P value ≤0.05).

Conclusion:

Our results provide insights into the altered survivin and p53 co-expression with significant immunoexpression within the study groups. Therefore, survivin and p53 could be better markers for identifying cell proliferation and apoptotic pathway. Also, malignant transformation rate of OPMD increases with increased expression of these markers.
Comparative evaluation of podoplanin in odontogenic cysts and tumours to determine their proliferative potential—An immunohistochemical study
Authors: Anjum Bushra , Gannepalli Ashalata , Baghirath Pacha V. , Abidullah Mohammed , Penigalapati Sivaram , Ch Gayatri
Published: September 2024

Context:

Odontogenic cysts and tumours are a wide array of complex pathological entities ranging from mild indolent to aggressive detrimental in nature, which occur as a result of anomalous alterations in normal odontogenesis. Hence, these odontogenic lesions need to be evaluated extensively by using potential immunohistochemical markers.

Aim:

To evaluate and compare the expression of podoplanin, a lymphoendothelial IHC marker in odontogenic cysts and odontogenic tumours to determine their proliferative potential.

Settings and Design:

All the study samples were retrieved from the archives of the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, PIDS&RC, Hyderabad. The study samples were selected as per the standard histopathological diagnostic criteria and subjected for IHC analysis using podoplanin.

Method and Materials:

Seventy paraffin-embedded tissue specimens of OKC, OOC, dentigerous cyst (DC) and ameloblastoma (AM) include study sample, which were stained with podoplanin IHC marker and staining properties were evaluated. All the cases were categorized as high, moderate, weak or negatively reactive on the basis of the composite scoring.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 14, and then results were compared by ANOVA post hoc test and Kruskal Wallis Test.

Results:

In the comparison of composite scores of OKCs and AM, there was no significant statistical difference.

Conclusion:

The present study contributes to the significant association of podoplanin expression with cellular proliferation, cystic expansion and local invasiveness of odontogenic cysts and tumours through cytoskeletal reorganization and cell migration.
Reduction of Intubation Requirement in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Infection from the Fifth Dose of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine
Authors: Mungmunpuntipantip Rujittika , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

There is still no cure for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is a global emergency. The best choice for disaster management is vaccination. The principal COVID-19 preventive tactic of COVID-19 immunization is now widely accepted. Some scientists are advocating a fifth dosage vaccine in the event of the arrival of a new strain as well as the probable loss of public immunity following routine mass vaccination.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

The fifth dose of COVID-19 is typically reported to have successfully avoided mortality, although there is still concern about how to prevent severe COVID-19 cases that necessitate intubation. After receiving the fifth dosage of the COVID-19 vaccine, the authors of this study evaluated an extra protection rate that would reduce the need for intubation in COVID-19 infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The authors of this study employed a clinical model technique to assess an extra protection rate leading to a decrease in the need for intubation in COVID-19 infection following the fifth dose of COVID-19 vaccine immunization.

RESULTS:

According to the study, just four vaccine doses are required and are highly successful in preventing the need for intubation, thus there is no further benefit in this regard. However, the fifth dose may still be helpful in reducing the risk of contracting COVID-19.

CONCLUSION:

Clinical experiments have proven its efficacy in preventing omicron COVID-19 infection. However, there is no additional benefit in terms of lowering the need for intubation because just four immunization doses are necessary and extremely effective in doing so.
Lack of Short-term Memory Improvement in Caenorhabditis elegans after Petunidin-3-glucoside Supplementation
Authors: Guese Jan Mackenzie , Hernandez Cherry Pie , Mabalot Mark Edrex , Nas John Sylvester
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Learning and memory can be enhanced by antioxidants by protecting the neurons against oxidative damage. Phytochemicals, like anthocyanins, may hold the potential to improve cognitive function by ameliorating neuronal damage induced by reactive oxygen species. Petunidin-3-glucoside (P3G) is one of the different classes of anthocyanin found in various plants.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

This study investigated the effects of P3G on the cognitive function in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) exposed to glyphosate or ethanol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

P3G was purchased from AS Polyphenols (Norway). This compound was dissolved in distilled water to obtain the desired concentrations. The solutions were stored at 4°C until use. Worms were supplemented with various concentrations of P3G prior to massed training and chemotaxis assays. The collected data were presented as mean ± standard error of the mean, and results were analyzed as biological replicates with three trials. The statistical analysis was done through the SPSS 21.0 (IBM) software, and the results were considered statistically significant whenP< 0.05.

RESULTS:

We found out that P3G did not affect the learning and short-term memory of C. elegans. P3G did not also salvage the decline in learning and memory of the nematodes after exposure to glyphosate or ethanol.

CONCLUSION:

Taken together, the antioxidant activity of P3G may not be enough to enhance learning and short-term memory in C. elegans nor protect their cognitive function against glyphosate nor ethanol-induced neuronal toxicity.
Molecular Docking Studies of Selected Phytoconstituents from Some Indigenous Medicinal Plants against Different Targets of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Vichare Vijaya Sachin , Sutar Snehal H. , Rokade Manasi Pratap , Dhole Shashikant N. , Choudhari Vishnu P.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

COVID-19 is a transmissible disease and propagated through a new strain severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) since December 2019 emerged from Wuhan, China, and this infection has widespread globally that causes to declare public health emergency in the whole world by the WHO. In this article, an attempt was made to recognize natural phytoconstituents from various indigenous medicinal plants, in order to utilize as a source against COVID-19 infections by virtue of molecular docking. The main focus of the study was molecular docking analysis of forty phytoconstituents from plants such as Tinospora cordifolia, Zingiber officinale, Azadirachta indica, Withania somnifera, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Ocimum tenuiflorum with four different targets of SARS-CoV-2.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

The aim of the study is to determine binding affinity of phytoconstitutents against different targets of SARS CoV2.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Molecular docking was performed using VLifeMDS® (version: 4.6. 08032021) and AutoDockTools.

RESULTS:

Among forty phytoconstituents based on binding affinity, berberine and vicenin 2 showed the highest potential toward 3-chymotrypsin-like protease enzyme of SARS-CoV-2. Licorice and tinosporide had the potential to bind with the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 of SARS-CoV-2. Rosmarinic acid also has a binding affinity toward papain-like protease (PLpro) enzyme of SARS-CoV-2. It has been also seen that isoorientin has ability to bind to RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of SARS-CoV-2.

CONCLUSION:

Based on docking scores, the phytoconstituents from T. cordifolia, Z. officinale, A. Indica, W. somnifera, G. glabra, and O. tenuiflorum showed a good potential for binding to selected targets of SARS-CoV-2, and the antiviral activity of these plants can be scientifically supported by docking studies.
Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Blevings Pippa J. , Moore John E. , Millar Beverley Cherie
Published: September 2024

The last decade has witnessed an unprecedented arrival and introduction of several new innovations in the treatment and management of cystic fibrosis (CF), all for the benefit of people with CF (PwCF). Such innovations have been largely led by the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator medicines, which have also been accompanied by new antibiotics, nutritional formulations, as well as advances in the delivery of medicine through nebulization. Many of these have had an influence on the microbiology of the CF lung and the rebalancing of microbial taxa and cell density within the airways. Simultaneously, certain aspects of the new treatments have led to difficulties in PwCF being able to produce sufficient sputum to enable routine microbiological analyses to be performed. Coupled with this, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the emergence of the virtual CF clinical, where individuals with CF do not have to physically travel to CF clinic as frequently as before, with the disadvantage of not producing sputum specimens for routine microbiological analyses. This review examines the interaction between CF mutations and CFTR modulators, with particular focus on CF microbiology.
The Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Childhood Asthma
Authors: Al-Tuama Nabaa Mohammed Jawad , Almusawi Zuhair Mahdi , Abood Haidar Abdul Amir Najim , Abutiheen Ali , Al-tuama Karrar Mohammed Jawad
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Asthma, a major public health issue, is one of the most common diseases affecting millions of population globally. It is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by increased airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness. Vitamin D deficiency has become a global public health concern. Vitamin D is of particular interest in asthma due to its immunomodulatory effects. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency is found to be a risk factor in the development of serious chronic diseases where inflammatory mechanisms play a role in the pathogenesis. Several researches have reported positive associations between Vitamin D and asthma. On the other hand, others have reported contrasting effects of Vitamin D on asthma.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study is to determine whether asthmatic patients attending Kerbala teaching hospital for pediatrics have Vitamin D deficiency or not.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In a case–control study, patients with asthma and healthy volunteers between the ages 1 and 14 years were enrolled into the study as patient and control groups, respectively. Fifty patients with asthma and 66 healthy children were included. For both groups, demographic information and body mass index were recorded. We measured 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in serum collected from all 116 children. For asthmatic patients, clinical findings were recorded and total Immunoglobulin E (IgE) were determined for all patients.

RESULTS:

Fifty patients with asthma and 66 healthy children were included. Compared to the control group, decreased serum Vitamin D levels were significantly detected in patient group. Forty six (92%) of asthmatic patients have were Vitamin D insufficient, as defined by a level of 30 ng/mL or less 25-hydroxyvitamin D. In compare to the control group, forty six (69.7%) have Vitamin D insufficiency (odds ratio = 5,P< 0.001). No significant correlation was found between Vitamin D levels and age, gender, obesity, sun exposure, and dietary intake in asthmatic patients.

CONCLUSION:

The frequency of Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was higher in children with asthma, compared to the controls.
Design a New Home-based Multifunctional Physiotherapy Device for Musculoskeletal Pain Relief
Authors: Eskandari Mahsa , Hosseini-Baharanchi Fatemeh Sadat , Moghaddam Mohammad Hossein Ghafouri , Delisnav Alireza , Shafaghi Shadi , Ghorbani Fariba , Taherkhani Nasrin , Shafaghi Masoud
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

COVID-19 has affected public health and the patients suffering from musculoskeletal pain have little chance to receive medical care to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal pain with no definitive treatment, the need for home remedies is felt more than ever for such patients. This research is presented a new kind of home physiotherapy device by three different therapeutic functions including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), vibration, and heat to provide patients with remote services.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The conceptual map of the system, including the mechanical, electrical, and software parts, as well as the location and connection of electrical components used in the system, is presented. Then, after programming the device and designing a mobile application layout tree for creating an account, the device is turned on, and therapeutic values are entered into the device. Finally, the results of the initial use are displayed on a mobile phone.

RESULTS:

In this section, we present several screenshots of the mobile application's screen and a picture of the primary prototype of the device. The first item includes the main menu, which allows the user to enter the application. On first use, the patients will have to register themselves by selecting the “register” option. Another page provides details about the therapeutic methods of TENS, heat, and vibration.

CONCLUSION:

This system is a cost-and-time-effective strategy and helps physiotherapists to cover more patients at the same time and follow patients' treatment courses through televising.
In silico Study of shape complementarity, binding affinity, and protein–ligand interactions of systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment-aptamer to programmed death ligand-1 using patchdock
Authors: Ching Kirstie Wong Chee , Nazri Muhammad Najmi Mohd , Rachman Abdul Rahim Abdul , Mustafa Khairul Mohd Fadzli , Mokhtar Noor Fatmawati
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Nucleic acid aptamers hold great promise in diagnostic and therapeutic applications for a wide range of diseases due to their analog feature to antibodies. Despite the utility of systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) method for aptamer determination, complementarity in silico aptamer design is highly sought after to facilitate virtual screening and increased understanding of important aptamer–protein interactions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We previously obtained aptamers against programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) through SELEX: P12, P32, and P33. In the present work, structure prediction and binding mode of these aptamers to PD-L1 were evaluated using mFold and DNA sequence to structure (IIT Delhi) for two-dimensional and three-dimensional structure prediction, respectively, and PatchDock for docking. PD-L1 model protein 5N2F was used as the target protein. Docking was performed and analyzed based on three aspects: shape complementarity score, binding affinity, and interactions with aptamer.

RESULTS:

All three aptamers combine steadily with 5N2F protein through strong hydrogen (polar bonds), hydrophobic interactions (nonpolar bonds), and π-cation interactions, which can be accessed through a fully automated protein–ligand interaction profiler.

CONCLUSIONS:

Molecular docking experiments indicated the feasibility of using in silico technique to select aptamers that can function as antibodies analog.
The Role of the Immune System in the Pathophysiology of Essential Hypertension
Authors: Rekabi Mahsa , Daneshmandi Zahra , Sadati Elham , Mirzendehdel Mahsa , Mahdaviani Seyed Alireza , Valinejadi Ali , Velayati Ali Akbar , Honarpisheh Parisa
Published: September 2024

Hypertension (HTN) is a critical worldwide health issue and an imperative risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. There are many crevices in our knowledge about the pathophysiology of HTN. The mechanisms intervening in HTN are complex. In recent years, a large scale of evidence supports the role of various components of the innate and adaptive immune systems (such as immune cells subsets, cytokines, complement system, and toll-like receptors) as contributors to HTN and developed end-organ damage. The endpoint of all these pathways is to develop an inflammatory condition that leads to HTN and damage to the end organ. Despite the availability of different antihypertensive drugs, there are still many patients with persistent or uncontrolled HTN. Therefore, understanding these immune pathways and their effects on patients with resistant hypertension. In addition, finding the detailed immunopathogenesis may help us find more targeted therapeutic approaches and improve cardiovascular and renal function in this high-risk untreated population. This review article summarizes different conducted studies on immunity and HTN that indicate the basic role of the immune system in causing HTN.
Bacille Calmette – Guérin vaccination
Authors: Maes Roland
Published: September 2024

Today, tuberculosis (TB) kills one person in 14 s in India and one in 12 s, worldwide (that comes to approximate 4000 people per day). The majority of cases are invisible because they are either confined in sanatoria and/or do not encumber regular hospitalization, in contrast to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemy has put in glaring light the fragility of the elders, the minorities, and the exposure of the healthcare agents that was similar to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The mayhem of coronavirus might be repeated itself with the foreseen rise of TB, that would affect the healthcare system resemble much of what occurred during the last 3 years (2019-till date). We must keep in mind that currently TB is neglected and that it might expand again, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this review, the past and further perspective of Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination is described. In addition, the tuberculin skin-testing which has a complex and long story was reviewed. Furthermore, the effect and side-effect of BCG vaccination compared and discussed.
Positive Associations of Chlamydia pneumoniae Immunoglobulin G and Immunoglobulin E Antibodies and Asthma in Iraqi Children
Authors: Hameed Raghdah Maytham , Al-Hasnawi Huda Hadi , Najim Abood Haidar Abdul Amir
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Chlamydia pneumoniae is an intracellular bacterium that causes respiratory tract infection.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between past C. pneumoniae infection and asthma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We examined the presence of C. pneumoniae Immunoglobulin (IgG) and Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies by the commercial quantitative Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits in 87 asthmatic children and 87 controls.

RESULTS:

C. pneumoniae IgG antibody was significantly increased in patients (24.89 ± 16.65) as compared with controls (10.93 ± 6.75) P < 0.001. Further, the C. pneumoniae IgE antibody was significantly increased in patients (8.037 ± 4.645) compared to controls (6.52 ± 3.062) P = 0.024. There was a highly significant positive correlation between IgG and IgE levels (P < 0.001* r = 0.466). There was no significant difference in C. pneumoniae IgG and C. pneumoniae IgE levels among asthma severity groups (P = 0.507 and P = 0.539, respectively) and asthma-controlled groups (P = 0.858 and P = 0.517, respectively).

CONCLUSION:

Compared to a control group, children with asthma have a significantly higher rate of C. pneumoniae IgG and C. pneumoniae IgE levels. In asthmatic patients, there is a positive correlation between C. pneumoniae IgG and C. pneumonia IgE. Controversially, C. pneumoniae infection has no role in asthma severity and control.
Pharmacological Interrelationship Analysis between Lentinula Edodes and COVID-19
Authors: Mungmunpuntipantip Rujittika , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Learning about the numerous ways traditional plants can be used to address medical concerns is fascinating. Many researches are being conducted to investigate the effects of traditional herbal mushrooms in the treatment of a variety of medical ailments, including respiratory disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this study, we used network pharmacology to identify a biological relationship between the pharmacological influence of shiitake or Lentinula edodes, a traditional Asian medicinal fungus, and coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pathophysiology.

RESULTS:

Using interrelationship analysis, the scientists revealed the common pathway through inducing mitochondrial membrane potential loss.

CONCLUSION:

The use of L. edodes to treat COVID-19 could be useful. It is suggested that more research be done on the efficacy of shiitake mushrooms in the treatment of COVID-19. Based on the findings of this study, a method to combat COVID-19 using a locally available herbal regimen should be a current high priority research field. The primary in silico study's likely alternate option should be advanced to in vitro and in vivo research as a result.
Relationship between Helicobacter Pylori and colon cancer
Authors: Khorsheed Batool Ali , Hameed Raghdah Maythem , Khorsheed Zahraa Hussein
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacteria found in the gastric epithelia of around half of the world's population. Chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, and stomach cancer are all known to be caused by this illness. Furthermore, there is evidence that bacteria are linked to a number of extragastric disorders. Since it was initially hypothesized that the link between extragastric illnesses and colon cancer.

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study was to obtain the correlation between colon cancer and H. pylori infection.

METHODS:

In this study, we tested blood samples were collected from the patients with colon cancer to assess the presence of anti-H. pylori infection antibodies in 10 patients with colorectal cancer and 10 with no specific pathologies as a control group.

RESULTS:

There was a statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) and a highly significant difference (P > 0.001) in H. pylori infection and colon cancer between patients and control, respectively. A significant correlation between H. pylori infection and colon cancer (P > 0.05) was noted. It was found to be a positive linear correlation with H. pylori infection (r = 0.436) and significant (P = 0.027). The study showed a significant correlation between age and H. pylori and colon cancer (P = 0.013 and P = 0.034, respectively).

CONCLUSION:

H. pylori infection is one of the risk factors that develop colon cancer. The old age correlates with increased colon cancer and H. pylori infection.
Molecular Epidemiology and Infectious Disease Agent Typing Terminology – A Revised Glossary of Key Terms
Authors: Millar Beverley Cherie , Moore John E.
Published: September 2024

Epidemiological tracking of infectious diseases is important to help determine the source and routes of transmission of the causal agent, whether this be a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite. This can be complicated due to the diagnostic typing tools employed and the terminologies used can be unfamiliar to the nonspecialist, who needs to be able to understand the terms used. Therefore, we have developed an up-to-date glossary of 95 related epidemiological terms from peer-reviewed publications to help in the understanding of these terms, particularly with a nonspecialist audience.
Benchmarking the distribution coefficient of anticancer lead compounds using the predicted log D values of clinically approved chemotherapeutic drugs
Authors: Eclarin Paolo Raphael , Yan Patricia Andrea , Paliza Carlo Lorenzo , Ibasan Blanche , Basiloy Patricia Rosemarie , Gante Nick Adrian , Reyes Angelie Nicole , Nas John Sylvester
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

The distribution coefficient (Log D) can predict the solubility of a compound at a particular pH. In identifying lead compounds, Log D is helpful to predict the behavior, permeability, and clearance of a compound in the different organs.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

This study examined the ability of Log D to discriminate cancer tissues from non-cancer tissues using the predicted Log D of various clinically approved anticancer drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We collected the information on the different anticancer drugs for breast, liver, kidney, lung small, lung non-small, prostate, and bone cancer from the National Cancer Institute. We predicted their Log D values at different pH of their respective tissues.

RESULTS:

Results show that only the Log D values of breast and lung non-small cancer drugs in the cancer tissues were significantly different (p<0.05) from the Log D of the non-cancer tissue counterpart. Moreover, the Log D value of the normal and bone cancer tissues is significantly different (p<0.05) from the different normal and cancer tissues evaluated. Furthermore, the Log D values of small lung cancer tissues are significantly different (p<0.05) from normal and kidney cancer tissues, normal and liver cancer tissues, and normal non-small and lung cancer tissues.

CONCLUSION:

These findings suggest that drugs that may be permeable in breast and lung non-small cancer tissues may not be permeable in their normal tissue counterpart. Additionally, bone and lung small cancer drugs may have low permeability with other tissues, indicating that the unintended effects may be low. However, since there is a low permeability in other organs, it may not be a good candidate for drug repurposing. These findings are yet inconclusive; hence, further investigation is needed to verify the results of this investigation.
Potential approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of drug-resistant leprosy
Authors: Lavania Mallika , Datta Gaurav , Gupta Umesh Dutt
Published: September 2024

Leprosy, a chronic human disease with potentially debilitating neurological consequences, results from infection with Mycobacterium leprae, which is still a major health problem in several countries of Asia, Latin America, and Africa. With the mass campaigns, using multidrug therapy, the prevalence of leprosy has come down drastically worldwide. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an important consideration in the management of leprosy. Unfortunately, quinolone-resistant strains of Mycobacterium leprae have also been reported in several countries, probably due to the extensive use of quinolones for treating several types of infections. To meet the challenge of containing the disease and being able to respond to an increase in circulation of drug-resistant strains, it is essential to assess drug-sensitivity patterns globally, as well as to monitor resistance among both new and retreatment cases. However, these studies highlight the need for increased vigilance to AMR. In this study, we thoroughly reviewed the molecular methods used to detect drug resistance in leprosy. We can infer that our article assessing strategies less complex than multifunction peripheral and genome sequencing are promising choices for the testing of AMR in leprosy patients. Furthermore, our analysis recommends that the extent of safe cases has not essentially expanded in late many years.
Acute Kidney Injury in Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Tuberculosis, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Tuberculosis Patients on Treatment and its Association with Host Predicting Factors, in South-West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Enoh Jude Eteneneng , Cho Frederick Nchang , Agwa Ngyah Ambo , Ako Simon Eyongabane , Manfo Faustin Pascal , Longdoh Anna Njunda , Akum Eric Achidi
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the incidence and severity of kidney injury and explore the host factors to predict acute kidney injury (AKI) among tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and TB/HIV patients on the treatment in Fako Division of Cameroon.

METHODS:

A prospective study was carried out from September 2018 to November 2019. Serum creatinine and urea were measured spectrophotometrically. The Chi-square test with cox regression was used to assess the association between the risk factors and AKI.

RESULTS:

The overall incidence of AKI and renal injury was 21.4%–41.4%, respectively. Stage 1 AKI as well as mild renal injury was more prevailing among the HIV-infected patients; 10.5% versus 31.4%. The highest incidences; 30.0% AKI, and 53.0% renal injury were recorded amongst those with TB/HIV coinfections and HIV mono-infections, respectively. Persons who were ≥40 years and those with low baseline hemoglobin levels were two times and two and half times more likely to develop AKI compared to their counterparts.

CONCLUSIONS:

The cumulative incidence of AKI in patients on treatment was high. Thus, it is important to evaluate the renal function of patients before treatment within the first 2 weeks of treatment.
Brief Overview
Authors: Kumar Ankur , Singh Amresh Kumar , Pandey Anita
Published: September 2024

This article reviews the burden of rotavirus (RV) disease and the role, types, and coverage of RV vaccines (RVVs) in India as well as globally. Establishing the epidemiology and burden of RV disease became an early priority. In the world, diarrheal infections are the second greatest cause of death in children, accounting for one in nine fatalities. Before the widespread use of RV vaccinations, an estimated 453,000 children under the age of 5 died worldwide from RV gastroenteritis (RVGE) in 2008. That's why the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that RV vaccination should be included in national immunization programs to prevent RVGE. Several vaccines have been invented, and they are an efficient way to shield kids from RVGE. Four RVVs are currently approved by the WHO and accessible worldwide: the monovalent live attenuated human RVV (Rotarix); the pentavalent human-bovine reassortant RVV (RotaTeq); the naturally occurring monovalent neonatal bovine-human reassortant neonatal G9P[11], also known as 116E (Rotavac) and the Pentavalent, human-bovine RVV Rotasiil; all of them WHO prequalified, well tolerated with variable efficacy and protective value distributed globally. To control the RV disease among children, it is crucial to support the development of the next generation of vaccines. If the new vaccine is found to be secure, more efficient, simple to administer, and inexpensive for all, the disease may be controlled more efficiently in the near future.