A Laboratory-Scale Evaluation of Smart Pebble Sensors Embedded in Geomaterials.

This paper introduces a novel approach to measure deformations in geomaterials using the recently developed 'Smart Pebble' sensors. Smart Pebbles were included in triaxial test specimens of unbound aggregates stabilized with geogrids. The sensors are equipped with an aggregate particle/position tracking algorithm that can manage uncertainty arising due to signal noise and random walk effects. Two Smart Pebbles were placed in each test specimen, one at specimen's mid-height, where a geogrid was installed in the mechanically stabilized specimen, and one towards the top of the specimen. Even with simple raw data processing, the trends on linear vertical acceleration indicated the ability of Smart Pebbles to assess the geomaterial configuration and applied stress states. Employing a Kalman filter-based algorithm, the Smart Pebble position coordinates were tracked during testing. The specimen's resilient deformations were simultaneously recorded. bender element shear wave transducer pairs were also installed on the specimens to further validate the Smart Pebble small-strain responses. The results indicate a close agreement between the BE sensors and Smart Pebbles estimates towards local stiffness enhancement quantification in the geogrid specimen. The study findings confirm the viability of using the Smart Pebbles in describing the resilient behavior of an aggregate material under repeated loading.

Interactions between diabetic and hypertensive drugs: a pharmacogenetics approach.

Diabetes is known to increase susceptibility to hypertension due to increase in inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, leading to vascular stiffness. The polytherapy might lead to several drug-drug interactions (DDIs), which cause certain life-threatening complications such as diabetic nephropathy and hypoglycaemia. So, in this review we focused on drug-drug interactions and impact of genetic factors on drug responses for better disease management. Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) may act either synergistically or antagonistically. For instance, a combination of metformin with angiotensin II receptor antagonist or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) synergistically improves glucose absorption, whereas the same hypertensive drug combination with sulphonylurea might cause severe hypoglycaemia sometimes. Thiazolidinediones (TDZs) can cause fluid retention and heart failure when taken alone, but a combination of angiotensin II receptor antagonist with TZDs prevents these side effects. Interindividual genetic variation affects the DDI response. We found two prominent genes, GLUT4 and PPAR-γ, which are common targets for most of the drug. So, all of these findings established a connection between drug-drug interaction and genetics, which might be used for effective disease management.

Genetic polymorphisms of IL6 gene -174G > C and -597G > A are associated with the risk of COVID-19 severity.

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is pro-inflammatory disorder characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome. Interleukin-6, a cytokine secreted by macrophages, which mediates an inflammatory response, is frequently increased and associated with the severity in COVID-19 patients. The differential expression of IL6 cytokine in COVID-19 patients may be associated with the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in regulatory region of cytokine genes. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of two promoter polymorphisms of the IL6 gene (-597G > A and -174G > C) with the severity of COVID-19. The study included 242 patients, out of which 97 patients with severe symptoms and 145 patients with mild symptoms of COVID-19. Genotyping of two selected SNPs, rs1800795 (-174G > C) and rs1800797 (-597G > A) of promoter region of IL6 gene, was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). In our study, individuals with GC genotypes of IL6 (-174G > C) polymorphism showed significantly higher risk of severity [adjusted odds (OR) 3.86, p <.001] but we did not observe any association of COVID-19 severity with rs1800797 (-597G > A) polymorphism. The COVID-19 severity was significantly higher in individuals having 'C' allele of IL6 (-174G > C) polymorphism (p = .014). Linkage disequilibrium between rs1800795 (-174G > C) and rs1800797 (-597G > A) showed that individuals having AC* haplotype significantly association with COVID-19 severity (p = .034). Our results suggest that 'C' allele of rs1800795 (-174G > C) polymorphism of IL6 may be the risk allele for severity of COVID-19 in North Indian population.

Maggot debridement therapy and complementary wound care: a case series from Nigeria.

OBJECTIVE: Maggot debridement therapy (MDT) is an emerging procedure involving the application of sterile maggots of the Dipteran species (commonly Lucilia sericata) to effect debridement, disinfection and promote healing in wounds not responding to antimicrobial therapy. Data on MDT in sub-Saharan Africa (including Nigeria) are scarce. This study aimed to use medicinal grade maggots as a complementary method to debride hard-to-heal necrotic ulcers and thereby promote wound healing. METHOD: In this descriptive study, we reported on the first group of patients who had MDT at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), a tertiary hospital in northern Nigeria. The first instar larvae of Lucilia sericata were applied using the confinement (free-range) maggot therapy dressing method under aseptic conditions. RESULTS: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) grade III-IV constituted more than half of the wounds (53.3%), followed by necrotising fasciitis (30%), and post-traumatic wound infection (10%). Others (6.7%, included pyomyositis, surgical site infection and post traumatic wound infection). The median surface area of the wounds was 56cm2. Of the 30 patients, half (50%) had two MDT cycles with a median time of four days. Of the wounds, 22 (73%) were completely debrided using maggots alone while eight (27%) achieved complete debridement together with surgical debridement. Wound culture pre-MDT yielded bacterial growth for all the patients and Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate in 17 wounds (56.7%) while Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes were predominant in five wounds (16.7%) each. Only four (13.3%) wound cultures yielded bacterial growth after MDT, all Staphylococcus aureus. CONCLUSION: A good prognosis was achieved post-MDT for various wounds. MDT effectively debrides and significantly disinfects wounds involving different anatomical sites, thus enhancing wound healing and recovery. MDT is recommended in such wounds.

The Impact of Taste Preference-Related Gene Polymorphisms on Alcohol Consumption Behavior: A Systematic Review.

Unhealthy alcohol consumption is recognized as a leading contributory factor to mortality and disability. In addition to other factors, taste sensation also mediates alcohol intake. The orosensation provoked by alcoholic drinks may vary across individuals and may be responsible for differences in preference for alcoholic beverages. Thus, individual genetic variability of taste preference may have an impact on alcohol consumption practices. The present review aimed to explore the associations between different taste preference polymorphisms and alcohol consumption behavior. Based on the PRISMA statement, the three databases PubMed, Web of Science and ProQuest Central were searched to identify articles and the Q-Genie tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Among the 17 studies included in this review, 5 and 12 were of good and moderate quality, respectively. Most of the studies analyzed TAS2R38 (taste 2 receptor member 38) rs713598, rs1726866, rs10246939 polymorphisms. Due to the inconclusive findings on these variants and the very limited number of studies on other polymorphisms, additional extensive research is recommended to replicate the existing findings, to generate new knowledge to enhance our understanding of the complexity of alcohol consumption behavior and to aid the development of personalized recommendations on unhealthy alcohol use.

Association of GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms with COVID-19 susceptibility and its outcome.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has become a global health issue and develops into a broad range of illnesses from asymptomatic to fatal respiratory diseases. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with oxidative stress that triggers cytokine production, inflammation, and other pathophysiological processes. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) is an important enzyme that catalyzes the conjugation of glutathione (GSH) with electrophiles to protect the cell from oxidative damage and participates in the antioxidant defense mechanism in the lungs. Thus, in this study, we investigated the role of GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphism with COVID-19 susceptibility, as well as its outcome. The study included 269 RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 patients with mild (n = 149) and severe (n = 120) conditions. All subjects were genotyped for GSTM1 and GSTT1 by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) followed by statistical analysis. The frequency of GSTM1-/- , GSTT1-/- and GSTM1-/- /GSTT1-/- was higher in severe COVID-19 patients as compared to mild patients but we did not observe a significant association. In the Cox hazard model, death was significantly 2.28-fold higher in patients with the GSTT1-/- genotype (p = 0.047). In combination, patients having GSTM1+/+ and GSTT1-/- genotypes showed a poor survival rate (p = 0.02). Our results suggested that COVID-19 patients with the GSTT1-/- genotype showed higher mortality.

Prevalence, Psychological Responses and Associated Correlates of Depression, Anxiety and Stress in a Global Population, During the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic.

Uncertainty and isolation have been linked to mental health problems. Uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to trigger mental health problems, which include anxiety, stress, and depression. This paper evaluates the prevalence, psychological responses, and associated correlates of depression, anxiety, and stress in a global population during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. A cross-sectional study design was adopted. 678 completed forms were collected during the COVID-19 quarantine/lockdown. An online questionnaire was designed and DASS-21 was used as the screening tool. A non-probability sampling technique strategy was applied. 50.9% of participants showed traits of anxiety, 57.4% showed signs of stress, and 58.6% exhibited depression. Stress, anxiety, and depression are overwhelmingly prevalent across the globe during this COVID-19 pandemic, and multiple factors can influence the rates of these mental health conditions. Our factorial analysis showed notable associations and manifestations of stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. People aged 18-24, females, and people in non-marital relationships experienced stress, anxiety, and depression. Separated individuals experienced stress and anxiety. Married people experienced anxiety. Single and divorced people experienced depression. Unemployed individuals experienced stress and depression. Students experienced anxiety and depression. Canada, the UK, and Pakistan are all countries that are experiencing stress and depression as a whole. An extended number of days in quarantine was associated with increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Family presence yielded lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Lastly, lack of exercise was associated with increased stress, anxiety, and depression.

Role of C- reactive proteins and liver function tests in assessing the severity of dengue fever.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether C-reactive protein and liver function tests can serve as severity markers for dengue fever. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015-16 in Karachi and comprised patients with dengue fever visiting a tertiary care hospital. World Health Organisation classifications 1997 and 2009 were used to categorise patients according to clinical signs and symptoms. Receiver Operating Characteristics curve was used to determine discriminative ability and optimum cut-off value of biochemical markers. Comparisons were done through one-way analysis of variance using SPSS 17. RESULTS: Of the 218 patients, 133(61%) were males and 85(39%) were females. The overall mean age was 35.07±15.96 years. Levels of C-reactive protein and total bilirubin were significantly higher for dengue haemorrhagic fever compared to dengue fever; dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue fever; dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue haemorrhagic fever; and dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue fever / dengue haemorrhagic fever (p<0.05 each). Levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher for dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue fever; dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue haemorrhagic fever; and dengue shock syndrome compared to dengue fever / dengue haemorrhagic fever (p<0.05 each). Levels of C-reactive protein, total bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatise in patients with severe dengue were significantly higher compared to non-severe dengue. CONCLUSIONS: C-reactive protein and liver function tests were found to be effective biochemical markers in assessing dengue fever severity.

Knowledge, attitude and perception survey of doctors regarding antibiotic use and resistance in Karachi, Pakistan.

OBJECTIVE: To establish a better understanding of physicians' knowledge and beliefs, and to compare distinctions in knowledge, attitude and perception of junior and senior doctors regarding rational use of antibiotics. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, from June 1 to July 31, 2016, and comprised senior and junior doctors. A 26-item questionnaire divided in three sections was used to test knowledge, attitude and perception of the subjects regarding rational use of antibiotics. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. RESULTS: Of the 200 subjects, 132(66%) were senior doctors; 68(34%) were junior; 116(58%) were females; 84(42%) were males; and the highest number of respondents were from General Medicine 65(32.5%). While 182(91%) doctors realised that antibiotic resistance was a pressing issue, only 131(65.5%) felt confident about their prescriptions and 94(47%) admitted that they over-prescribed antibiotics. Among young physicians, 13(19.1%) believed that antibiotics did not cause side effects even when prescribed unnecesarily. Also, 47(69.1%) junior doctors felt that patients' demands influenced their prescriptions compared to 66(50%) senior doctors (p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Although physicians were found to be knowledgeable about rational use of antibiotics, there were gaps in knowledge and perception.

The role of the human psoralen 4 (hPso4) protein complex in replication stress and homologous recombination.

Psoralen 4 (Pso4) is an evolutionarily conserved protein that has been implicated in a variety of cellular processes including RNA splicing and resistance to agents that cause DNA interstrand cross-links. Here we show that the hPso4 complex is required for timely progression through S phase and transition through the G2/M checkpoint, and it functions in the repair of DNA lesions that arise during replication. Notably, hPso4 depletion results in delayed resumption of DNA replication after hydroxyurea-induced stalling of replication forks, reduced repair of spontaneous and hydroxyurea-induced DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), and increased sensitivity to a poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor. Furthermore, we show that hPso4 is involved in the repair of DSBs by homologous recombination, probably by regulating the BRCA1 protein levels and the generation of single strand DNA at DSBs. Together, our results demonstrate that hPso4 participates in cell proliferation and the maintenance of genome stability by regulating homologous recombination. The involvement of hPso4 in the recombinational repair of DSBs provides an explanation for the sensitivity of Pso4-deficient cells to DNA interstrand cross-links.

Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 20 regulates Rad17 stability, checkpoint kinase 1 phosphorylation and DNA repair by homologous recombination.

Rad17 is a subunit of the Rad9-Hus1-Rad1 clamp loader complex, which is required for Chk1 activation after DNA damage. Rad17 has been shown to be regulated by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. We have identified a deubiquitylase, USP20 that is required for Rad17 protein stability in the steady-state and post DNA damage. We demonstrate that USP20 and Rad17 interact, and that this interaction is enhanced by UV exposure. We show that USP20 regulation of Rad17 is at the protein level in a proteasome-dependent manner. USP20 depletion results in poor activation of Chk1 protein by phosphorylation, consistent with Rad17 role in ATR-mediated phosphorylation of Chk1. Similar to other DNA repair proteins, USP20 is phosphorylated post DNA damage, and its depletion sensitizes cancer cells to damaging agents that form blocks ahead of the replication forks. Similar to Chk1 and Rad17, which enhance recombinational repair of collapsed replication forks, we demonstrate that USP20 depletion impairs DNA double strand break repair by homologous recombination. Together, our data establish a new function of USP20 in genome maintenance and DNA repair.

Combination of bendamustine, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (BLD) in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma is feasible and highly effective: results of phase 1/2 open-label, dose escalation study.

This multicenter phase 1/2 trial investigated the combination of bendamustine, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone in repeating 4-week cycles as treatment for relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (MM). Phase 1 established maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Phase 2 assessed overall response rate at the MTD. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A total of 29 evaluable patients were enrolled. Median age was 63 years (range, 38-80 years). Median number of prior therapies was 3 (range, 1-6). MTD was bendamustine 75 mg/m(2) (days 1 and 2), lenalidomide 10 mg (days 1-21), and dexamethasone 40 mg (weekly) of a 28-day cycle. Partial response rate was 52%, with very good partial response achieved in 24%, and minimal response in an additional 24% of patients. Median follow-up was 13 months; median OS has not been reached. One-year OS is 93% (95% confidence interval [CI], 59%-99%). Median PFS is 6.1 months (95% CI, 3.7-9.4 months) with one-year PFS of 20% (95% CI, 6%-41%). Grade 3/4 adverse events included neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, hyperglycemia, and fatigue. This first phase 1/2 trial testing bendamustine, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone as treatment of relapsed refractory MM was feasible and highly active. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01042704.

Targeting the microbiome to improve human health with the approach of personalized medicine: Latest aspects and current updates.

The intricate ecosystem of microorganisms residing within and on the human body, collectively known as the microbiome, significantly influences human health. Imbalances in this microbiome, referred to as dysbiosis, have been associated with various diseases, prompting the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Personalized medicine, Tailors treatments to individual patient characteristics, offers a promising avenue for addressing microbiome-related health issues. This review highlights recent developments in utilizing personalized medicine to target the microbiome, aiming to enhance health outcomes. Noteworthy strategies include fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), where healthy donor microbes are transferred to patients, showing promise in treating conditions such as recurrent Clostridium difficile infection. Additionally, probiotics, which are live microorganisms similar to beneficial gut inhabitants, and prebiotics, non-digestible compounds promoting microbial growth, are emerging as tools to restore microbiome balance. The integration of these approaches, known as synbiotics, enhances microbial colonization and therapeutic effects. Advances in metagenomics and sequencing technologies provide the means to understand individual microbiome profiles, enabling tailored interventions. This paper aims to present the latest insights in leveraging personalized medicine to address microbiome-related health concerns, envisioning a future where microbiome-based therapies reshape disease management and promote human health.

Primary central nervous system angiitis: a case report.

Introduction: Primary central nervous system angiitis is a rare idiopathic vasculitis that is limited to the central nervous system. It has a wide range of clinical presentations that can mimic other vasculopathies. Case presentation: A 24-year-old female patient presents with various non-specific neurological complaints in a progressive course. After a challenging diagnostic work-up, she was diagnosed by tissue biopsy to have primary central nervous system angiitis. Discussion: Although primary central nervous system angiitis has been reported increasingly recently, its pathogenesis is still unknown, and its diagnosis is still very challenging. No universal criteria have been adopted, and there is no laboratory test or imaging modality with sufficient sensitivity and specificity to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other mimickers. Conclusion: To prevent misdiagnosis, clinicians treating patients with suspected primary central nervous system angiitis should be aware of its differentials.

From Trauma to Triumph: Navigating the Complexities of a Central Hip and Ipsilateral Knee Dislocation with Associated Fractures.

Introduction: Central hip dislocations are rare orthopedic injuries, and their concomitant occurrence with ipsilateral knee dislocations is an even rarer phenomenon. We present a unique case of central hip dislocation along with ipsilateral knee dislocation and additional fractures involving the lateral condyle of the left tibia and patella. This complex injury pattern resulted from a severe road traffic accident, necessitating operative management to address the multiple musculoskeletal injuries. Ultimately, femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN) developed, leading to the need for total hip replacement (THR). Case Report: A 28-year-old male was involved in a high-impact road traffic accident, leading to central hip dislocation, ipsilateral knee dislocation, and fractures of the lateral condyle of the left tibia and patella. The patient was promptly assessed, and operative intervention was initiated. Closed reduction and internal fixation with K-wires were performed for the fractures of the lateral condyle of the left tibia and patella. For the central hip dislocation, open reduction was achieved using a 9-hole RECON plate. Following the procedures, a long leg slab was applied for 6 weeks to facilitate optimal healing.Postoperatively, at the 6-week mark, K-wires were removed, and the patient commenced physiotherapy with partial weight-bearing permitted. However, during the rehabilitation phase, the patient reported instability in his left knee. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an avulsion fracture of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) from its tibial attachment site and a complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. It was observed that the femoral head had developed AVN. This complication necessitated further intervention, leading to the performance of a THR. Discussion: This case underscores the challenges and complexities associated with managing central hip dislocation and ipsilateral knee dislocation with multiple fractures. The post-operative instability of the knee, diagnosed as an avulsion fracture of the PCL and complete ACL tear, necessitated additional intervention. The patient subsequently underwent PCL reconstruction using a semitendinosus graft, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to address the diverse musculoskeletal injuries resulting from high-impact trauma. Conclusion: The successful management of central hip dislocation and ipsilateral knee dislocation with associated fractures requires a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating timely surgical intervention, rigorous rehabilitation, and vigilant post-operative monitoring to address potential complications. This case emphasizes the need for ongoing clinical assessment and imaging studies to identify and manage secondary injuries that may manifest during the recovery phase. In addition, it highlights the development of femoral head AVN, ultimately leading to the necessity for THR.

The migraine epidemic among medical students: a call for action.

Migraine is characterized by recurrent headaches of moderate-to-severe intensity and poses a significant challenge for medical students. This is a narrative literature review using PubMed and Scopus databases. This study examines how common migraine is in this group and suggests working together to address how it affects students' well-being and chances of succeeding as a medical professional in the future. Early diagnosis by licensed medical specialists is essential for effective management of migraine. To address this, the authors propose a multifaceted strategy. By including direct education on migraines in medical school curricula, future doctors will be better prepared to treat patients with comparable problems and manage their own migraines. Students with migraines can also benefit greatly from creating a supportive learning environment through staff training, accommodating academic policies, and providing easily available healthcare resources. In addition, this technology may be helpful. Apps for relaxation and migraine tracking can help students better manage their condition. Long-term success requires cooperation among all parties. By promoting cooperation among medical schools, student associations, healthcare practitioners, and governmental organizations, the authors can raise public awareness of migraine, make pertinent resources easier to access, and create evidence-based solutions specially designed to meet the needs of medical students who experience migraine. In the end, putting student well-being first and working together to put these solutions into practice can enable aspiring doctors to succeed at both personal and professional levels.

Tibial Tuberosity Avulsion Fracture with Epiphyseal Injury in a Soccer Player: Treatment Options and Challenges.

Introduction: Acute avulsion of the tibial tubercle is an uncommon fracture, with reported incidence rates of 0.4-2.7% of all epiphyseal injuries and <1% of all physeal injuries. Typically, these fractures present with marked displacement of the entire proximal apophysis, with or without intra-articular extension, and variable associated soft-tissue injury. The Ogden classification has historically directed both non-operative and operative treatment of this injury. The overarching objective of several fracture fixation techniques has been outlined as being to restore the joint surface and the extensor mechanism. Case Report: This case report describes the management of a 14-year-old male who sustained a rare avulsion fracture of the left tibial tuberosity with epiphyseal injury during a soccer game. The fracture was classified as Ogden Type III-B, indicating an intra-articular extension. The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation with three cannulated screws and tension band wiring. Conclusion: The fracture united with no residual deformity and return of full range of motion. Tension band wiring provides stable reduction; hence, prompt diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention in similar cases is important to optimize outcomes.

Functional Outcomes and Gait Analysis of Total Hip Arthroplasty Through Lateral Hardinge Approach and Gluteus Medius-Sparing Approach: A Prospective Study.

Background and objective Hip degenerative joint disease is a common and debilitating musculoskeletal disorder. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a reconstructive hip procedure to relieve this condition through various surgical approaches. This study aimed to compare the functional outcomes between patients undergoing THA using the lateral Hardinge approach and the lateral gluteus medius-sparing approach. Material and methods This prospective study was carried out at a tertiary care institution. Thirty patients with arthritic hip joints were managed with total hip replacement (THR). The patients were allocated into two treatment groups; in group A, 14 patients received a THR by the lateral Hardinge approach, whereas in group B, 16 patients were managed by the lateral gluteus medius-sparing approach. Functional outcomes were assessed by the Harris Hip Score (HHS), and gait analysis was performed. Results The mean age of group A was 39.79 ±14.01 years and that of group B was 37.00 ±14.81 years. The mean length of incision was significantly lower in group B (p=0.001), whereas the mean duration of surgery (p=0.018) and mean contralateral pelvic tilt were found to be significantly lower in group A (p=0.009). No significant difference was found in abductor muscle strength, limb length discrepancy, HHS, pelvic obliquity, and pelvic rotation. Conclusion While functional outcomes were similar in both groups, the group that underwent THA with the gluteus medius-sparing approach had better gait based on lower pelvic tilt.

Characterization and optimization of lyophilization and storage conditions of Leech saliva extract from the tropical leech Hirudinaria manillensis.

The medicinal Malaysian leeches have been used in traditional medicine to treat many different ailments. In this study, leech saliva extract (LSE) was collected from the medicinal Malaysian leech Hirudinaria manillensis. Gel electrophoresis of LSE was carried out to estimate the peptide and protein molecular weights of its content. Results showed that LSE contains more than 60 peptides and proteins with molecular masses ranging from 1.9-250kDa. Thrombin time assay in vitro was employed to assess the collected LSE antithrombin activity. First, to study its stability, LSE was lyophilized under the following different conditions: pre-freezing temperature, type of container and lyophilization cycle. Pre-freezed LSE sample at -20°C and lyophilized for 24 hours retained about 100-95% of its original biological activities. Second, the LSE antithrombin activity was monitored for a period of six months. Storage temperature, type of the container and photosensitivity effects on antithrombin activity of the lyophilized (solid state) and non-lyophilized (liquid state) were investigated. Results showed that storage temperature drastically affected the biological activity of LSE with -20 °C as the optimum temperature. Samples stored at ambient temperature and +4 °C were light photosensitive and adversely affected when stored in polypropylene tubes. Lyophilized samples were more stable than non-lyophilized ones over the period of study. To sum up, in order to have a biologically active stock of LSE, it has to be lyophilized for no more than 24 hours following freezing at -20°C and has to be stored at -20°C in glass tubes protected from light.

Nonunion of an Isolated Medial Condyle of a Femur Hoffa Fracture in a 21-Year-Old Male: A Case Report.

Isolated Hoffa fractures of the femur are often missed on initial radiographic evaluations. Routine CT scans for intraarticular fractures in suburban populations are not routinely done. Nonunion of medial condyle Hoffa fracture of the distal femur is a rare finding and presents late with pain in weight-bearing and painful flexion. This is a case report of a 21-year-old male who sustained trauma as a result of a motorcycle-car collision and was managed elsewhere conservatively on an above-knee slab. He presented after five months to our side with a limited range of movement at the knee and pain during ambulation. After radiological work diagnosis of isolated non-union of medal condyle Hoffa fracture of the distal femur was made, the patient was managed by freshening of fracture followed by rigid fixation with cancellous screws and reconstruction plate. At postoperative six weeks, the patient had a painless full range of motion at the knee joint.