bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heparanase Contributes to Psoriatic Lesions Through Crosstalk with IL-17 Pathway
Authors: Zhu Chengyao , Ren Yunqin , Yao Hongliang , Feng Bo , Liu Lunfei , Zheng Min
Published: May 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that is considered by a network of immunocytes and cytokines. Among all, Th17 cells–derived IL-17 is a critical driving factor in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Recently, disruption of the extracellular matrix was found to be related to psoriasis progression. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of heparanase (HPSE) in psoriasis and the crosstalk with the IL-17 signalling pathway. Skin tissues from non-affected areas and psoriatic lesion areas before and after 12 weeks of IL-17 monoclonal antibody treatment of 30 psoriasis patients were collected. HaCaT cells were treated with different concentrations of IL-17 antibody, and HPSE in cells and medium were measured with Western blotting assay as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In the imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis model, IL-17 protein and mRNA expression levels were measured, and changes in the proportion of Th17 cells were detected via flow cytometry. Our data showed that HPSE is upregulated in lesion tissues isolated from psoriasis patients, and was inhibited by anti-IL-17 treatment. In cutaneous cells and IMQ-induced psoriasis model, IL-17 promoted the synthesis of HPSE. Inversely, HPSE was also found to increase the percentage of Th17 cells derived from CD4+ T cells. Finally, we found that the combined treatments of HPSE inhibitor and IL-17 monoclonal antibody produced therapeutic effects on IMQ-induced psoriasis model. Our findings revealed the new role of HPSE in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and also provided a target for combined treatment of psoriasis.
Nail Changes in Immuno-Bullous Disorders
Authors: Kadu Priya P. , Kura Mahendra M.
Published: May 2024

Context:

Autoimmune blistering (AIBD) disorders affect mucosae, skin, and appendages. Appendageal involvement has not been studied extensively to date. However, they are important as nail changes are commonly encountered during a flare-up of the disease.

Aims:

To determine the prevalence and patterns of nail changes in various Immunobullous disorders and to study the relationship between the nail changes and the disease duration and severity.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology, venerology, and leprosy at a tertiary care center in Mumbai.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study including a total of 74 cases of Immunobullous diseases was conducted and the prevalence of nail changes was determined. The association between the mean number of nail changes and the disease duration and severity was analyzed using ANOVA (Analysis of variance) and unpaired t-test.

Statistical Analysis:

The Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS) software was used for statistical evaluation.

Results:

We found that the prevalence of nail changes was 91%. There was a significant difference in the mean number of nail changes with respect to the severity grades of mucosal involvement in AIBD (P value < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the mean number of nail changes with respect to the severity grades of Pemphigus vulgaris (PV), Pemphigus foliaceous (PF), subepidermal blistering diseases, and the duration of AIBD.

Conclusions:

Nails are frequently affected in AIBD. The number of nail changes is related to the severity of mucosal disease but not to duration.
Clinical and Metabolic Characteristics in Hidradenitis Suppurativa – An Indian Perspective
Authors: Mendiratta Vibhu , Yadav Vidya , Bhardwaj Apoorva V. , Pangti Rashi
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory, recurrent follicular disorder affecting apocrine gland bearing areas such as axillae, inframammary area and groin. Significant association of HS with metabolic derangements such as hypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia and hyperinsulinemia has been found. There is dearth of literature on epidemiological and metabolic profile of HS in Indian subjects.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to assess abnormalities in the levels of fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, and lipid profile in patients with HS.

Primary Objective:

To assess the frequency of abnormal levels of fasting blood sugar, serum insulin and lipid profile in patients with HS. Secondary objectives: To assess the frequency of hypertension, raised basal metabolic index, polycystic ovarian syndrome, follicular disorder, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and c-reactive protein (CRP) in patients with HS and to assess the severity of of clinical presentation HS using Hurley staging system.

Methodology:

This is a retrospective record based study. Records of clinically diagnosed patients of HS, aged > 18 years fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were analysed.

Results:

Total 30 patients were recruited with 1:1 male to female ratio. Five (16.67%) cases fulfilled NCEP ATP III criteria for the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Statistically significant association was observed between severity of HS, in younger age group (<20 years), moderate to severe BMI, fasting serum insulin, fasting total cholesterol and raised ESR.

Limitations:

This is retrospective, hospital record based study with small sample size.

Conclusion:

Holistic management of HS should be individualized according to need of patient and it should be combined approach including dermatologist, plastic surgeon, psychiatrist and dietician. We recommend an initial screening for derangements in metabolic profile in these patients for more effective management and preventing long term cardiovascular complications.
Evaluation of Serum Levels of Interleukins 6, 8, 17 and 22 in Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Singh Sweta , Khurana Ananta , Chitkara Anubhuti
Published: May 2024

Background:

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic, multifactorial, inflammatory skin disease, and it is now becoming increasingly clear that the inflammatory pathway is involved at a very early in the pathogenesis of acne. The Th17 cells, the activators of this cell line and its downstream effector cytokines, are all likely to have a critical role in inducing and maintaining the disease.

Aim:

To analyse the role of interleukins (ILs) 6, 8, 17 and 22 in the pathogenesis of acne.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients of AV and thirty age- and sex-matched controls were included in our study. Serum levels of interleukins 6, 8, 17 and 22 were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and thereafter, levels were correlated with the severity of acne.

Result:

Serum levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-17 and IL-22 were 0.15 ± 0.0174 pg/ml, 0.38 ± 0.080 pg/ml, 0.19 ± 0.0075 pg/ml and 0.23 ± 0.0152 pg/ml in cases, respectively, and 0.13 ± 0.0095 pg/ml, 0.14 ± 0.034 pg/ml, 0.13 ± 0.0033 pg/ml and 0.21 ± 0.0099 pg/ml in controls, respectively. The difference in levels between cases and controls was significant for IL-8 and IL-17, while for IL-6 and IL-22 the difference was insignificant. There was a highly significant positive correlation between IL-8 and IL-17 levels. IL-6 and IL-8 showed a significant positive correlation with the severity of disease.

Conclusion:

IL-8 and IL-17 play a critical effector role in the pathogenesis of AV. IL-6-stimulated Th17 cells are likely the major producers of IL-8 in acne lesions.
A Comparative Study of the Efficacy of Methotrexate versus Methotrexate with Apremilast in Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Srivastava Divyanshu , Krishna Arvind , David Abhinav
Published: May 2024

Background:

Psoriasis is an inflammatory systemic disease with a chronic relapsing course. Methotrexate, a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor, and Apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase type 4 inhibitor, are currently the mainstay drugs in the treatment of psoriasis.

Aims and Objectives:

To compare the efficacy of Methotrexate with a combination of Methotrexate and Apremilast in treating chronic plaque psoriasis.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was a prospective comparative study conducted among 40 patients, aged above 18 years, with clinically diagnosed psoriasis attending Dermatology OPD of a tertiary care hospital in North India. The study utilised a pre-structured proforma to record a detailed demographic profile and clinical examination related to chronic plaque psoriasis. The patients were divided into two groups of 20 each. Group A was treated with oral Methotrexate, while Group B was treated with oral Apremilast and Methotrexate, and they were evaluated every 4 weeks for 12 weeks. Necessary investigations were done wherever indicated.

Results:

The male-to-female ratio was 1.35, and the majority (55.0%) of patients belonged to the age group of 31-50 years. 27.5% of patients had comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, etc., The mean PASI score of group A at the first, second and third follow-ups was higher than that of group B. The reduction in mean PASI score was statistically significant in group B at successive follow-ups, with a percentage improvement of 89.4% at the end of 12 weeks.

Conclusions:

When comparing monotherapy with methotrexate and multidrug therapy with Methotrexate and Apremilast, multidrug therapy had better efficacy.
The Role of NFATC4 Gene in Human Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Li Fengjuan , Chen Hongquan , Lu Xiaoou
Published: May 2024

Nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 4 (NFATC4) has been implicated in keratinocyte development and several types of cancer. A well-defined role for NFATC4 in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) has not yet been established. In this study, NFATC4 gene function in CSCC development was examined. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to measure the mRNA expression of NFATC4 in CSCC tissues and controls. A431 and Colo16 cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis were measured by CCK-8 assay, transwell invasion, and flow cytometry, respectively, after an NFATC4 expression lentivirus infection. Animal models were applied to validate the function of the NFATC4 gene. (1) CSCC tissues showed a significant decrease in NFATC4 expression compared to controls. (2) Overexpression of NFATc4 suppresses A431 and Colo16 cell proliferation and invasion but promotes cell apoptosis. (3) Mouse models overexpressing NFATC4 showed reduced tumourigenesis. It was suggested that NFATC4 might be a tumour suppressor gene in CSCC.
Biologics-Induced Immunophenotypic Cross-Switching in Patients with Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Li Yanyan , Liu Hong , Zhang Furen
Published: May 2024

Antibody-based therapies that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine signalling are commonly used in dermatology. Paradoxically, these biological agents may induce or exacerbate paradoxical reactions. Recently, it has been reported that the treatment of eczema with dupilumab can lead to the development of psoriasiform eruptions, which we called psoriasiform paradoxical reactions (P-PRs). Conversely, cases of eczematous paradoxical reactions (E-PRs) have also been described in patients with psoriasis treated with biologics. To summarise the case characteristics and disease features of phenotypic transition between psoriasis and eczematoid dermatitis, and to explore the mechanism or connection related to biological agents or patients’ genetic characteristics, a systematic review was conducted for P-PRs in atopic dermatitis and E-PRs in patients with psoriasis treated with corresponding biological agents, respectively. We identified a series of P-PRs in 42 atopic dermatitis cases treated with dupilumab. The time to onset of P-PRs typically ranged from weeks to months, with a mean latency period of 22.65 weeks. Almost all patients presented with new-onset P-PRs. Simultaneously, we reviewed 22 articles reporting 51 patients with psoriasis with biological agent-induced E-PRs, which occurred on average at 24.47 weeks, 72.55% of them induced by IL-17A inhibitors. 48.98% (24/49) of cases reported a positive personal history of atopy, which may suggest an increased risk of biological agent-induced paradoxical eruptions. Overall, the improvement or resolution upon discontinuation of the inciting biologics was relatively common, and further studies are needed to estimate the real prevalence and unveil the pathophysiological mechanisms of these paradoxical events.
Assessment of Cutaneous Parameters and Sympathetic Skin Response as a Non-Invasive Complementary Diagnostic Tool in Psoriasis
Authors: Sundareswaran L. , Nagendran Prabhakaran , Subramanian Senthil K. , Dharmalingam Amudharaj , Mohuiddin Syed G.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Various diagnostic tools are used to assess cutaneous psoriasis, but most of it were subjective. Sympathetic skin response (SSR), skin PH and temperature objectively measure the skin barrier functions that could aid clinicians to evaluate accurately and predict skin disease incidence even before the onset of clinical symptoms.

Aim and Objectives:

The study's objective was to assess the utility of cutaneous parameters (skin temperature and pH) and SSRs influencing psoriatic patients’ diagnosis management and treatment compared to controls.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 40 healthy participants and 40 psoriasis patients aged 18 to 65 years were recruited for this study. SSR, skin temperature and pH were assessed. The psoriasis disability index (PDI) was recorded from all the patients. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 20.0.

Results:

The results shows significantly increased skin temperature, prolonged SSR latency (bilaterally) and decreased SSR amplitude (bilaterally) among patients affected with psoriasis compared to control subjects. There is a positive correlation between SSR latency with PDI and a negative correlation between SSR amplitude and PDI in psoriasis patients.

Conclusion:

SSR reveals sympathetic sudomotor dysfunction and increased skin temperature in psoriasis. Furthermore, there is a link between increased SSR latency and PDI, which shows that local nervous system impairment significantly contributes to the inflammatory process in psoriasis. Thus, SSR can be used as a complementary tool for the early identification and assessment of epidermal barrier integrity in psoriasis patients, along with the clinician's standard protocols.
The Efficacy of Moisturisers Containing Ceramide Compared with Other Moisturisers in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Nugroho Wisnu Triadi , Sawitri Sawitri , Astindari Astindari , Utomo Budi , Listiawan M. Yulianto , Ervianti Evy , Astari Linda
Published: May 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that recurs frequently and has diverse clinical features. The main mechanism of AD is the dysfunction of the skin-epidermal barrier. One of the causes of stratum corneum (SC) structural integrity disruption is the decreased production of ceramide, an important lipid component in SC. The latest generation of moisturisers contain ceramide to help replace this lipid deficit. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of moisturisers containing ceramide with other moisturisers for AD management. Searches were conducted systematically on PubMed, the Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar for studies published from January 2012 to July 2022. Interventions and outcomes were compared in this study. Statistical analysis was performed with ReviewManager 5.4 software. Five articles met the eligibility and inclusion criteria. Three articles were meta-analyses on trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) outcomes and two articles were meta-analyses on SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) outcomes. A meta-analysis of TEWL results found that TEWL values were not significantly different in subjects treated with ceramide-containing moisturisers (mean difference: −3.56, 95% CI [−8.63, 1.52], P = 0.17) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 92%) compared to other treatments. The change in SCORAD was significantly higher in moisturisers containing ceramide (mean difference: −0.98, 95% CI [−1.63, −0.33], P = 0.003) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Moisturisers containing ceramide improve SCORAD and TEWL; however only the changes in SCORAD in moisturisers containing ceramide is superior to other moisturisers.
Assessment of Retention of Implant Bearing Mandibular Overdentures with Various Attachments: A Three-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Singh Kavipal , Singh Jashandeep , Suman Neelam , Kaur Ravneet , Chopra Priyanka
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Mandibular dentures are considered dubious in terms of retention in resorbed ridges. Implant bearing overdentures can be a solution to the abovesaid issue. Various attachments in use offer variations in retention and maintenance. The aim was to assess long term durability and retention of implant supported overdenture attachments. Two implant bearing overdentures were placed in 20 patients. Magnet and ball attachment were used and dentures were evaluated over a period of three years at different time intervals. Difference of attachments’ performance between intervals was assessed with ANOVA test and Tukey HSD post hoc test and the level of significance was set at p<0.05. There was a decline in retention throughout research period in both categories; the ball and socket batch showed statistically significant (P<0.05) better retention force compared to that of magnet group. There was lesser decline in mean retention force of 10.97N±0.82 to 7.24N±0.903 from one month to three years in magnet attachment retained overdentures. Ball attachments offer better retentive forces than magnet category. Magnet bearing overdentures offer more durability in terms of retention.
Evaluation of histopathological patterns of testicular biopsies in azoospermic patients: A study of 3 years in Al-Najaf Center
Authors: Allebawi Shaymaa Ahmed Hadi , Al-Janabi Asaad Abdul Hamza
Published: May 2024

Background:

Testicular biopsy is still considered the main dependable technique required for the assessment of azoospermic patients. Many studies have been done to explore the main changes that occurred in testicular tissue related to the status of azoospermia. Little has been written and published in our country, so this study has been conducted to look for how much the histopathological pattern plays a role in the assessment of azoospermic testicular biopsy.

Objectives:

To evaluate the most common histopathological patterns of testicular specimens from male patients in whom the chief complaint is azoospermia and to categorize each case according to the Modified Johnson’s scoring system.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study, including a review of 180 male patients with a history of infertility with azoospermia or cryptorchidism, aged 18–60 years, submitted for histopathological examination, in Al-Najaf center for histopathology, during a period of 3 years (2020–2022).

Results:

A total of 180 cases of testicular biopsy from azoospermic patients were evaluated. The most frequent type is germ cell maturation arrest (84 cases) (46.67%) which is further categorized into early and late arrest with a spermatogenesis score 3–7 according to the Modified Johnson’s score. The second most frequent type is germ cell aplasia/sertoli cell-only syndrome (54 cases) (30%) with spermatogenesis scored as 2.

Conclusion:

This study has recognized four histopathological patterns of testicular biopsies in the case of azoospermia and identified that germ cell maturation arrest was the most frequent pattern in our population.
Schools’ toilets quality and its relation to urinary tract problems in pupils of primary schools in Hilla city
Authors: Jawad Russul Hamed , Alsalman Abdul Razzaq
Published: May 2024

Background:

Avoiding school toilets might cause irregular or infrequent voiding, which can lead to a variety of urinary issues. In this study, primary school-aged children’s bathroom habits, contributing factors, and relationships to lower urinary tract symptoms were examined.

Objectives:

The objectives of the study were: (1) to evaluate factors that affect students going to school toilets including toilet facilities and toilet hygiene in children of primary schools; (2) to evaluate urinary symptoms in those children; (3) to differentiate between private school children and public school children; and (4) to evaluate pupils-to-toilets ratio among primary school children.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hilla city primary schools, and the time of this study was from February 15 to June 15, 2022. This study was conducted on 500 pupils by selecting 10 primary schools in Hilla city randomly (five of them were private schools and other five were public schools).

Results:

Public school students reported that toilets are significantly more dirty (72.2%) compared with private schools. Similar significant differences were reported regarding the presence of stool/urine on the floor, smell of toilet, lighting of toilet, and availability of soap. The presence of urinary tract infection symptoms (at least one symptom) was found to be significantly higher among public sector schools (53.1%) compared with private sector schools (46.9%), with P value of 0.031. Public schools had significantly higher number of children per toilet (108.0% ± 68.5%) compared with private schools (26.8% ± 7.6%), with P value of 0.030.

Conclusions:

Toileting habits and urinary tract symptoms were both significantly correlated. Many children influenced by negative perceptions of school toilets have adopted unhealthy toilet habits during school time. Public school students reported that toilets are significantly more dirty compared with private schools.
Characterization and antibacterial activity of biogenic iron nanoparticles using Proteus mirabilis
Authors: Ahmed Mais Emad , Hasan Huda Mohammed , Kttafah Anfal Jabbar
Published: May 2024

Background:

The green production of iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs) due to its numerous biotechnological uses has attracted a lot of attention and clean and eco-friendly approaches in the medical field.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study are to demonstrate the biogenic creation of FeONPs. The search for alternative antimicrobial medicines has been prompted by growing worries about multidrug resistance.

Materials and Methods:

The purpose of this work was to investigate if Proteus mirabilis was the source of green-manufactured iron nanoparticles (INPs). The Fourier transform infrared, attenuated total reflectance, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible, and dynamic light scattering measurements were used to characterize the green synthesized nanoparticles (NPs). Using the agar-well diffusion method, the antibacterial investigation’s efficacy was evaluated.

Results:

The results found that at 128 μg/mL minimum inhibitory concentration, we have demonstrated the potent antibacterial properties of FeONPs produced through biological procedures against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria that are resistant to many drugs. These NPs, including their antimicrobial qualities, how they work, how they affect drug-resistant microbes, the risks involved with using them, the unique qualities of NPs, their mode of action as antibacterial properties, and the elements that influence how well they function in a therapeutic setting all are thoroughly investigated.

Conclusion:

Further research on biogenic INPs was necessary to enhance their nanopharmacological importance for biological applications, as they have demonstrated promising biomedical capabilities were successfully synthesized in a friendly environment with few costs, and the highly INPs product showed exceptional activity against bacterial strains.
Antibacterial activity of Streptomyces spp. crude extract on multidrug resistant Psedomonas aeruginosa isolated from clinical samples
Authors: Abed Zainab Hasan , Jarallah Eman Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Background:

Actinomycetes are the heterogeneous group of microorganisms, which have thread-like filaments, isolated from the soil.

Objectives:

Isolation, identification, and partial purification of crude bioactive agents of the Actinomycetes isolates and isolation and identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from clinical samples, and to study antibiotics susceptibility for these isolates.

Materials and Methods:

Forty soil samples were collected from different agriculture locations in Hilla city. Soil samples were air dried and pre-treated with calcium carbonate (1%). The best selective medium for growth Actinomycetes is yeast malt extract agar medium (International Streptomyces project—ISP2) with 1 mg/mL Nystatin as antifungal agent.

Results:

A total of 68 actinomycetes species were isolated and 23 Streptomyces spp. isolates were recovered after molecular identification. By cross- streaking method , the antibacterial activity for these isolated were tested against 30 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa that showed resistance to 17 antibiotic types of streptomyces isolates demonstrated potential antibacterial activity were mass cultured and secondary metabolites were extracted using ethyl acetate. Among the 23 isolated strains, seven isolates (St4, St5, St6, St8, St11, St12, and St14) demonstrated a significant antibacterial activity with the zone of inhibition ranging from 0 to 22 mm against P. aeruginosa, according to the primary and secondary screening.

Conclusion:

The isolates St6 and St12 showed the higher antimicrobial metabolites activity, so these isolates were elected for sequencing.
Purification and characterization of arginine deiminase from Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Alameedy Taif Hussien , Jebor Mohammed Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives:

This study was aimed to characterize arginine deiminase (ADI) purified from Klebsiella pneumoniae in vitro.

Materials and Methods:

Precipitation with 70% saturated ammonium sulphate, ion exchange chromatography with a DEAE-cellulose column, and gel filtration chromatography throughout sepharose-6B were the three steps taken to isolate the arginine-degrading enzyme from a K. pneumoniae clinical isolate, which is a potent anticancer source.

Results:

After 5.9 folds of purification and 38.7% enzyme recovery, the specific activity of the purified enzyme reached 164.2 U/mg. When biochemical characteristics of the purified enzyme were studied, results showed that the activity was maximum at pH 6 and is most stable in pH ranging from (5–9), the optimum temperature for enzyme activity was observed at 37ºC and reach 11.5 U/mL. In contrast, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), NaNO3, and ZnSO4 slightly inhibited ADI activity, whereas MnCl2, increased the remaining activity of enzyme to 125%., as well as NaNO3, EDTA, ZnSO4, and FeCl3 were found that they inhibit enzyme activity by 90, 70, 88, and 110, respectively.

Conclusion:

A locally isolated strain of K. pneumoniae N1 is a useful and potent arginine deiminase producer.
Pharmacogenetics: Influence of CYP2C9*2 and *3 alleles polymorphisms on Iraqi type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Rasool Ghada S , Hussien Asmaa A , Al-Tayie Suhad R , Al-Awadi Salwa J , Al-Dahmoshi Hussein OM
Published: May 2024

Background:

Sulfonylureas (SUs) are the most prescribed anti-diabetic drugs. The enzyme responsible for metabolizing of SUs is hepatic cytochrome P4502C9 (CYP2C9). The CYP2C9 gene has numerous allelic variations; among those, the CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 are the most common and clinically significant allelic variations. The pharmacokinetics of SUs are dramatically impacted by CYP2C9 genotype.

Objective:

Evaluation of the association of genetic polymorphisms in CYP2C9 gene with the efficacy of glibenclamide (GB), second-generation SUs, by investigating two CYP2C9 allelic variants.

Materials and Methods:

Blood samples were collected from 113 type 2 diabetes patients. Allele specific amplification-polymerase chain reaction was used to genotype the CYP2C9 gene. Fasting serum glucose, fasting insulin, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were measured as part of the biochemical analysis.

Results:

The CYP2C9 gene variants were analyzed in a study group. The results exposed that 75 patients carried the wild (CYP2C9*1/*1) genotype, 25 were heterozygote allele (CYP2C9*1/*2) for CYP2C9*2 gene, 4 were homozygous for the variant CYP2C9*2 allele (CYP2C9*2/*2), and 9 were heterozygous for the variant CYP2C9*3 allele (CYP2C9*1/*3). Statistically significant difference was found in mean HbA1c between the mutant and wild alleles group (P = 0.044). The mean HbA1c for those carrying the CYP2C9*2 and*3 alleles (n = 38) was 8.4750 compared to 9.3177 for those carrying the CYP2C9*1 allele (n = 75), which indicate better glycemic control.

Conclusion:

The accordance of CYP2C9*2 and*3 was found to be associated with severe hypoglycemia (odd ratio [OR] = 2.045). The OR suggests a strong association between CYP2C9*2 and*3 alleles and hypoglycemia. Our findings imply that the diabetic patients with CYP2C9 polymorphism are more likely to suffer hypoglycemia than those with wild type alleles when treated with GB.
Determine the prevalence and fluoroquinolone resistance pattern of Escherichia coli ST131 among clinical isolates from vaginitis patients
Authors: Nasser Noor Ismeal , Abdul-Razzaq Mohammed Sabri , Al-Hili Nadia M
Published: May 2024

Background:

The most interesting lineage of Escherichia coli is the sequence type 131 (ST131), a pandemic clone that is responsible for the high incidence of E. coli infections outside the intestine; in addition, it contributes to the global dissemination of multiantibiotic resistance.

Aims:

To determine the prevalence of E. coli st131, along with their fluoroquinolone resistance patterns and their phylogenetic background.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 150 high vaginal swabs were taken from female patients with aerobic vaginitis and were screened for the isolation and identification of E. coli ST131 using polymerase chain reaction technology that targets ST131-specific sequence polymorphisms in both the mdh and gyrB genes. An antibiotic sensitivity test was performed to determine resistance patterns.

Results:

Twenty-seven (18%) E. coli isolates were obtained from women with aerobic vaginitis, including 11 (40.7%) isolates belonging to sequence type 131. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the majority belonged to phylogroup B2 (90.9%), and one isolate belonged to phylogroup B1 (9.09%). All the isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin, and levofloxacin, whereas they were all sensitive to gatifloxacin and moxifloxacin.

Conclusions:

The presence of E. coli ST131 among E. coli isolates from patients with aerobic vaginitis, and the confirmation of their high resistance to most fluoroquinolones included in this study reflect their ability to adapt to different sites, which increases their risk as a pathogen.
Prevalence of gentle herpes simplex type 2 in Babylon province for last 3 years: A retrospective descriptive data analysis
Authors: Shalan Ammar Abbas , Hindi Nada Khazal K , Radhi Mohammed Malih , Chabuck Zainab Adil Ghani
Published: May 2024

Background:

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection stands as a prevalent sexually transmitted disease with global ramifications. Understanding its prevalence across different age groups and genders is crucial for an effective control and management.

Objectives:

This study is aimed to retrospectively investigate the prevalence of HSV-2 infection based on age and gender categories.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive analytical design was conducted for the periods of April 28 and May 23, 2023. Examination of medical records unveiled a total of 91 confirmed positive cases. Data collection encompassed hospitals, private clinics, and health institutions. A descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were done to glean meaningful insights.

Results:

The prevalence of HSV-2 infection exhibited a marked gender discrepancy, with females accounting for the highest proportion (60.4%). Notably, individuals aged 15-50 exhibited a substantial prevalence rate of 52.7%. The findings further illuminated a progressive rise in mild herpes prevalence with advancing age. The infection’s prevalence trajectory showed a notable shift over time, with the lowest rate recorded in 2020, gradually ascending to its zenith in 2022. Statistical assessments unveiled significant disparities in HSV-2 prevalence across age and gender strata. Older individuals displayed higher prevalence (p = 0.002), while a profound gender influence was evident, with females displaying a significantly greater prevalence (p = 0.000).

Conclusions:

With the infection’s persistent nature and the availability of serologic testing, gauging HSV-2 frequency becomes a straightforward task. Despite potential limitations stemming from incomplete data, the study unequivocally underscores the widespread nature of HSV-2 infection. The insights gleaned from this study serve as a pivotal foundation for formulating targeted interventions and preventive strategies on a global scale.
Electroacupuncture Ameliorates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Pyroptosis through the Sirtuin-1 Pathway
Authors: Luo Ya-Nan , Xu Rong-Hua , Feng Zhi-Tao , Yang Song-Bai , Huang Ya-Guang , Mei Zhi-Gang
Published: May 2024

Objective:

NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3)-mediated pyroptosis is pivotal in the pathological development of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). Although previous research has shown that electroacupuncture (EA) can alleviate CIRI through sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), the mechanism has not been well elucidated. Our study aimed to clarify whether the neuroprotective functions of EA are related to the reduction in NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis through the SIRT1 pathway.

Materials and Methods:

Rats received daily pretreatment with EA for 5 consecutive days before undergoing middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery. The Longa score was used to assess neurologic function. Infarct volume and morphological alterations were analyzed using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride and hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, neuronal pyroptosis was identified by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling/caspase-1 and neuronal nuclear antigen/caspase-1 immunofluorescence double staining. Levels of expression of pyroptosis markers were assessed by Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

EA improved deficits in neurologic function and minimized cerebral infarct volume. Mechanistically, a number of neuronal pyroptotic cells and protein levels of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD, and gasdermin D in the cerebral cortex were markedly reduced by EA treatment, and conversely, SIRT1 levels were increased. Notably, the specific SIRT1 inhibitor, EX527, reversed the effects of EA.

Conclusions:

EA potentially exerts a neuroprotective effect against CIRI through the SIRT1 pathway in NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis.
Limits of almost homogeneous spaces and their fundamental groups
Authors: Zamora Sergio
Published: May 2024

We say that a sequence of proper geodesic spaces

X_{n}

consists of
almost homogeneous spaces
if there is a sequence of discrete groups of isometries

G_{n} \leq \operatorname{Iso}(X_{n})

with diam

(X_{n}/G_{n})\to 0

as

n \to \infty

. We show that if a sequence

(X_{n},p_{n})

of pointed almost homogeneous spaces converges in the pointed Gromov–Hausdorff sense to a space

(X,p)

, then

X

is a nilpotent locally compact group equipped with an invariant geodesic metric. Under the above hypotheses, we show that if

X

is semi-locally-simply-connected, then it is a nilpotent Lie group equipped with an invariant sub-Finsler metric, and for

n

large enough,

\pi_{1}(X)

is a subgroup of a quotient of

\pi_{1}(X_{n})

.
Morita equivalence of two $\ell^p$ Roe-type algebras
Authors: Chung Yeong Chyuan
Published: May 2024

Given a metric space with bounded geometry, one may associate with it the

\ell^{p}

uniform Roe algebra and the

\ell^{p}

uniform algebra, both containing information about the large scale geometry of the metric space. We show that these two Banach algebras are Morita equivalent in the sense of Lafforgue for

1\leq p<\infty

. As a consequence, these two Banach algebras have the same

K

-theory. We then define an

\ell^{p}

uniform coarse assembly map taking values in the

K

-theory of the

\ell^{p}

uniform Roe algebra and show that it is not always surjective.
О свойствах типа тесноты пространства слабо аддитивных функционалов
Authors: Ayupov Shavkat Abdullaevich , Mamadaliev Nodirbek Kamoldinovich
Published: May 2024

Исследуются свойства типа тесноты, такие как теснота, минимальная теснота и локальная плотность, пространства слабо аддитивных функционалов с конечными носителями. Также исследуются некоторые обобщения непрерывных функций. Кроме того, представлено продолжение функтора слабо аддитивных функционалов с конечными носителями до класса строго $\tau $-непрерывных функций. Вводятся два расширения категорий $\mathrm {Comp}$ и $\mathrm {Tych}$ (компактов и тихоновских пространств соответственно). Один из основных результатов работы состоит в том, что функтор $O_n$ слабо аддитивных функционалов с конечными носителями сохраняет тесноту бесконечных компактов. Кроме того, показано, что локальные плотности пространств $X$ и $O_n(X)$ совпадают для любого бесконечного компакта $X$.
Распространение ветвящегося случайного блуждания на периодических графах
Authors: Bulinskaya Ekaterina Vladimirovna
Published: May 2024

Впервые получено асимптотическое описание распространения популяции частиц с ростом времени для модели ветвящегося случайного блуждания по $\mathbb Z^d$ с бесконечным множеством источников размножения и гибели частиц, имеющим периодическую структуру. При этом интенсивности источников могут быть различными. Предполагается, что режим ветвления надкритический, а хвосты распределения скачка блуждания "легкие". Основная теорема устанавливает сходимость в метрике Хаусдорфа должным образом нормированного случайного облака частиц, существующих в ветвящемся случайном блуждании в момент времени $t$, к предельному множеству, когда $t$ стремится к бесконечности. Эта сходимость имеет место для почти всех элементарных исходов события, означающего невырождение рассматриваемой популяции частиц. Предельное множество в $\mathbb R^d$, именуемое асимптотической формой популяции, найдено в явном виде.
Low‐complexity patch projection method for efficient and lightweight point‐cloud compression
Authors: Rhyu Sungryeul , Kim Junsik , Park Gwang Hoon , Kim Kyuheon
Published: May 2024

The point cloud provides viewers with intuitive geometric understanding but requires a huge amount of data. Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) has developed video‐based point‐cloud compression in the range of 300–700. As the compression rate increases, the complexity increases to the extent that it takes 101.36 s to compress one frame in an experimental environment using a personal computer. To realize real‐time point‐cloud compression processing, the direct patch projection (DPP) method proposed herein simplifies the complex patch segmentation process by classifying and projecting points according to their geometric positions. The DPP method decreases the complexity of the patch segmentation from 25.75 s to 0.10 s per frame, and the entire process becomes 8.76 times faster than the conventional one. Consequently, this proposed DPP method yields similar peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) outcomes to those of the conventional method at reduced times (4.7–5.5 times) at the cost of bitrate overhead. The objective and subjective results show that the proposed DPP method can be considered when low‐complexity requirements are required in lightweight device environments.
Unveiling the Potential of Hydrogen in a Downsized Gasoline Direct
Injection Engine Performance and Emissions Experimental Study
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed , Biswal Abinash , Wang Xinyan , Zhao Hua , Harrington Anthony , Hall Jonathan
Published: May 2024

The transportation sector’s growing focus on addressing environmental and
sustainable energy concerns has led to a pursuit of the decarbonization path. In
this context, hydrogen emerges as a promising zero-carbon fuel. The ability of
hydrogen fuel to provide reliable performance while reducing environmental
impact makes it crucial in the quest for net zero targets. This study compares
gasoline and hydrogen combustion in a single-cylinder boosted direct injection
(DI) spark ignition engine under various operating conditions. Initially, the
engine was run over a wide range of lambda values to determine the optimal
operating point for hydrogen and demonstrate lean hydrogen combustion’s benefits
over gasoline combustion.

Furthermore, a load sweep test was conducted at 2000 rpm, and the performance and
emission results were compared between gasoline and optimized hydrogen
combustion. An in-depth analysis was conducted by varying fuel injection time
and pressure. This enabled us to explore the effects of these variables on the
fuel’s performance and emissions, providing valuable insights for further
optimization.

The key findings of this study are significant. They note that hydrogen fuel
allows the engine to operate under lean conditions with stable combustion up to
3.8 lambda. Lean combustion produces higher engine thermal efficiency, low
cyclic variability, and near-zero NOx emissions. According to the
study, hydrogen combustion produces zero emissions of hydrocarbons (HC), carbon
monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2) under a wide range of
operating conditions, making it a clean and environmentally friendly fuel
source. During low loading, exhaust hydrogen slip is less than 1000 ppm. This
slip drops below 500 ppm as the load increases. Finally, the study proved that
hydrogen is more stable than gasoline at a stoichiometric level. This suggests
that hydrogen could replace gasoline in some applications, which has major
implications for alternative energy.
Urgency of energy security, Ukrainian lesson≈
Authors: Ilchuk Maryna
Published: May 2024

Reducing the EU’s dependence on imported Russian gas has become the main focus of EU policy after the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. The Russian war in Ukraine has revealed bottlenecks in EU energy policy fully demonstrating the lack of reliability of Russian energy supplies. Ukraine has demonstrated its remarkable strategy of cutting dependence on Russian energy sources, including during the war. Ukraine’s energy infrastructure continues to suffer devastating damage and the country faces unbelievable challenges on its way to rebuilding the energy sector. Thus, according to estimates from the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, energy sector losses as of the end of March 2022 comprised approximately USD 2 billion and about USD 1 billion for the renewable sector. At the same time Ukraine is already thinking of its future energy sector and has recently presented the national programme ‘Energy independence and the green course’ which includes, among other things, construction of 1.5-2 GW of peak power and around 700 MW of energy storages, 10 GW of hydrogen export from Ukraine to the EU, and the production and supply of biomethane. In addition, in order to contribute to the EU reducing its dependence on Russian energy, Ukraine is proposing to utilize its energy infrastructure, including gas transportation systema and gas storages, stating that the existing Ukrainian capacities for gas transit (with a significant part of them already booked but not used) are more than sufficient to compensate for the reduction in transmission via Nord Stream-1. Last, but not least, Ukraine has already started electricity export to the EU, proposing competitive pricing and, thereby, helping the EU to reduce the usage of natural gas for electricity production.
Soil management affects soil C and N stocks but not overall soil health
Authors: Cordero-Irizarry Patricia Marie , Lal Rattan , Sotomayor-Ramírez David
Published: May 2024

Soil health describes a soil’s capacity to function as a vital ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans. It can be assessed by measuring specific soil physical, chemical, and biological parameters combined into a soil health index (SHI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of management, depth, and their interaction on soil health indicators. We evaluated long-term continuous tillage, horticultural crop rotation, which had an antecedent tropical pumpkin/bean rotation, and a no-till avocado orchard in a Cumulic Haplustolls at the Juana Díaz Agricultural Experiment Substation. Soil samples were taken at 0 to 15, 15 to 30, 30 to 50, 50 to 75, and 75 to 100 cm intervals using a hydraulic probe. Soil pH, electrical conductivity, bulk density, dry stable aggregates, mean weight diameter, tensile strength, carbon and nitrogen stocks, and water content were quantified. The data were analyzed in a multivariate ANOVA. Results were classified considering threshold values, and an SHI score was determined based on the simple additive method. Our findings show that the no-till avocado orchard had better soil physicochemical qualities, including higher C and N stocks, but this did not lead to an improved SHI score when compared with the continuous tillage crop rotation plot. Soil depth, management, and their interaction were significant effects in both management systems with a score of 0.55 on the SHI scale. These results imply that, although overall soil health is not affected, increased C concentration, no-till, and perennials have a favorable effect on SHI indicators in horticultural systems in the San Antón series.
Characterization and comparison of growth curves in slick and wild type-haired Puerto Rican Holstein calves and heifers
Authors: Colón-Rodríguez Ireliz , Domenech-Pérez Katherine , Arcelay-Ruiz Enid , Sánchez-Rodríguez Héctor L.
Published: May 2024

The ideal weight gain for Holstein heifers in the United States is between 0.73 and 0.86 kg/d. However, heat stress may limit growth, whereas a slick-haired coat confers superior thermoregulation. This study compared and evaluated (GLIMMIX and REG Procedures-SAS) body weight, hip height, shoulder to pin bone distance, thoracic perimeter, withers height, and barrel growth curves of nine slick vs. nine wild type-haired Holstein calves, weekly [one to eight weeks of age (1 to 8 WOA)] and monthly [three to 33 months of age (3 to 33 MOA)]. From 1 to 8 WOA, no hair coat type x age interactions (P≥0.1834) or hair coat type effects (P≥0.4778) were observed. During this period all variables evaluated increased linearly (R2≥0.34; P<0.0001). From 3 to 33 MOA, only body weight (P=0.0312) and barrel circumference (P=0.0038) presented a hair coat type x age interaction. No hair coat type effects (P≥0.5398) were observed. During this period, all dimensions demarcated by bones behaved quadratically (R2≥0.87; P<0.0001), while body weight remained linear (R2≥0.94; P<0.0001). From 1 to 8 WOA, gains of 0.48 and 0.48 kg/d were observed in slick and wild type-haired calves. Respective gains of 0.61 and 0.62 kg/d were noted in heifers 3 to 33 MOA. No growth-related differences were observed between hair coat types. Limited gains were observed in both groups.