Comparison of Potassium-Competitive Acid Blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors in Patients With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of potassium-competitive acid blockers (PCABs) compared to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, and 11 randomized controlled trials comparing PCABs with PPIs were included. The primary outcome was the healing of erosive esophagitis (EE), with secondary outcomes, including relief of heartburn symptoms and adverse events. The analysis included 11 studies and a pooled sample of 4,108 GERD patients. Results showed that PCABs were significantly more effective in healing EE compared to PPIs (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.24-2.24, p<0.01). PCABs also demonstrated a higher rate of complete resolution of heartburn symptoms, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 0.98-2.09, p=0.06). In terms of safety, there was no significant difference in adverse events between PCABs and PPIs (OR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.79-1.04, p=0.18), including serious adverse events. The superior efficacy of PCABs can be attributed to their unique pharmacological properties, which allow for more rapid and potent acid suppression compared to PPIs. However, the long-term safety profile of PCABs, particularly newer agents, requires further investigation. The study was limited by the predominance of vonoprazan among the PCABs studied and the focus on patients with EE rather than non-erosive reflux disease. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that PCABs are more effective than PPIs in treating GERD, particularly in healing EE, while maintaining a comparable safety profile. Future research should focus on evaluating a wider range of PCABs, assessing their efficacy in non-erosive reflux disease, and investigating their long-term safety in GERD management.

The Effect of Surface Treatments on the Retentive Strengths of Crowns Fabricated From Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Reinforced With Graphene Nanoparticles After Thermocycling: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The study aims to assess the effect of surface treatments by chemical agents on the retentive strengths of crowns fabricated from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) reinforced with graphene nanoparticles adhesively bonded to abutments after thermocycling. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: In vitro comparative study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is composed of four groups - one control, one treated with 99% pure etchant acetone solution, one treated with 15 wt% potassium hydrogen fluoride solution, and the last group treated with a combination of both solutions. RESULTS: The results showed that the mean load in Group A is 228.46±3.16, Group B is 252.57±7.14, Group C is 184.51±6.61, and Group D is 211.03±2.54. The mean score is highest for Group B followed by Group A and Group D, and it is least for Group C. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) detected highly significant differences (p<0.01) among the four groups. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that acetone is the best chemical etchant solution for crowns fabricated from G-CAM discs (Graphenano Dental, Graphenano Nanotechnologies, Spain).

Unconventional localization of PAI-1 in PML bodies: A possible link with cellular growth of endothelial cells.

Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1/Serpin E1) is classically known for its antifibrinolytic activity via inhibiting uPA and tPA of the fibrinolytic pathway. PAI-1 has a paradoxical role in tumor progression, and its molecular functions are poorly understood. PAI-1 is a widely accepted secretory protease inhibitor, however, a study suggested the localization of PAI-1 in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Besides the plethora of its biological functions as a secretory protein, intracellular localization, and functions of PAI-1 remain unexplored at the molecular level. In this study, using various in silico approaches, we showed that PAI-1 possesses a nuclear export signal. Using the CRM1-specific inhibitor leptomycin B, we demonstrated that PAI-1 has a functional CRM1-dependent NES, indicating the possibility of its nuclear localization. Further, we confirm that PAI-1 is localized in the nucleus of endothelial cells using fluorescence microscopy and immunoprecipitation. Notably, we identified an unconventional distribution of PAI-1 in the PML bodies of the nucleus of normal endothelial cells, while the protein was restricted in the cytoplasm of slow-growing cells. The data showed that the localization of PAI-1 in PML bodies is highly correlated with the growth potential of endothelial cells. This conditional nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of PAI-1 during the aging of cells could impart a strong link to its age-related functions and tumor progression. Together, this study identifies the novel behavior of PAI-1 that might be linked with cell aging and may be able to unveil the elusive role of PAI-1 in tumor progression.

Exploring novel Apalutamide analogues as potential therapeutics for prostate cancer: design, molecular docking investigations and molecular dynamics simulation.

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PC) ranks as the second most frequent type of cancer in men and is the fourth largest cause of mortality worldwide. Androgenic hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone are crucial for the development and progression of the prostate gland. Androgenic hormones bind to androgen receptors (AR) and trigger the synthesis of many genes that stimulate the growth of prostate cells, initiating PC growth. Apalutamide (APL) is a non-steroidal antiandrogen drug used to treat PC; however, it also causes a variety of toxicities and resistance during the treatment. Methods: The purpose of this study was to computationally identify new and safer analogues of APL, focusing on improved pharmacokinetic properties and reduced toxicity. Drug likeness (DL) and drug score (DS) were also calculated. Docking studies on the designed analogues were conducted to predict their binding affinities and compare their orientations with the ligands in the original crystal structure. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of docked ligands was done using Schrödinger suite. Results: We generated a total of 1,415 analogues for different groups of APL using the bioisosteric approach. We selected 80 bioisosteres based on pharmacokinetic profiles, DL and DS score predictions, and found that the designed APL bioisosteres were optimal to good compared to APL. Analogues APL19, APL35, APL43, APL76, and APL80, formed hydrogen bonds with protein (PDB ID: 5T8E) which is similar hydrogen bonding to the standard (APL). The MD simulation result confirmed that APL43 and APL80 complexes were stable during the 100 nS run. Discussion: The results suggest that the APL analogues, particularly APL43 and APL80, are predicted to be potential antiandrogen drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Ternary Passivation for Enhanced Carrier Transport and Recombination Suppression in Highly Efficient Sn-Based Perovskite Solar Cells.

The exploration of nontoxic Sn-based perovskites as a viable alternative to their toxic Pb-based counterparts has garnered increased attention. However, the power conversion efficiency of Sn-based perovskite solar cells lags significantly behind their Pb-based counterparts. This study presents a ternary passivation strategy aimed at enhancing device performance, employing [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric-acid-methyl-ester (PCBM), poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT), and indene C60 bisadduct (ICBA). These components play crucial roles in managing energy levels and enhancing carrier transportation, respectively. The results reveal that the introduction of the ternary system leads to improvements in carrier collection and transportation, accompanied by a suppression of the recombination process. Ultimately, the champion device achieves a remarkable performance with an efficiency of 14.64%. Notably, the device also exhibits robust operational and long-term stored stability.

Phenotypic and transcriptomics characterization uncovers genes underlying tuber yield traits and gene expression marker development in potato under aeroponics.

MAIN CONCLUSION: Transcriptome analysis in potato varieties revealed genes associated with tuber yield-related traits and developed gene expression markers. This study aimed to identify genes involved in high tuber yield and its component traits in test potato varieties (Kufri Frysona, Kufri Khyati, and Kufri Mohan) compared to control (Kufri Sutlej). The aeroponic evaluation showed significant differences in yield-related traits in the varieties. Total RNA sequencing was performed using tuber and leaf tissues on the Illumina platform. The high-quality reads (QV > 25) mapping with the reference potato genomes revealed statistically significant (P < 0.05) differentially expressed genes (DEGs) into two categories: up-regulated (> 2 Log2 fold change) and down-regulated (< -2 Log2 fold change). DEGs were characterized by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Collectively, we identified genes participating in sugar metabolism, stress response, transcription factors, phytohormones, kinase proteins, and other genes greatly affecting tuber yield and its related traits. A few selected genes were UDP-glucose glucosyltransferase, glutathion S-transferase, GDSL esterase/lipase, transcription factors (MYB, WRKY, bHLH63, and BURP), phytohormones (auxin-induced protein X10A, and GA20 oxidase), kinase proteins (Kunitz-type tuber invertase inhibitor, BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1-associated receptor kinase 1) and laccase. Based on the selected 17 peptide sequences representing 13 genes, a phylogeny tree and motifs were analyzed. Real time-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was used to validate the RNA-seq results. RT-qPCR based gene expression markers were developed for the genes such as 101 kDa heat shock protein, catechol oxidase B chloroplastic, cysteine protease inhibitor 1, Kunitz-type tuber invertase inhibitor, and laccase to identify high yielding potato genotypes. Thus, our study paved the path for potential genes associated with tuber yield traits in potato under aeroponics.

Microplastics and heavy metal contamination along a land-use gradient in a Himalayan foothill river: Prevalence and controlling factors.

The co-occurrence of microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals in aquatic systems has raised significant concerns, yet their relationship in freshwater ecosystems remains poorly understood. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of MPs and factors controlling their distribution in both water and sediment in the Markanda River, Northwest India. MPs were extracted from sediment and water samples using density separation and classified through fluorescence microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Metal concentrations in river water samples were analyzed using ICP-MS, and their correlation with MP abundance was explored. The results indicated the widespread occurrence of MP pollution across the Markanda River basin, with particle concentrations ranging from 10 to 530 particles L-1 in surface water and 1330-4330 particles kg-1 dry weight (dw) in sediment samples. The variability in MP abundance at sampling sites along the Markanda River courses results from factors such as the proximity of industrial establishments and human habitation, while the influence of grain size on MP distribution appears to be limited. Pellets (88.5 %) and fragments (8.5 %) were the most abundant types of MPs, with polyethylene (45.45 %) and polystyrene (30.9 %) being the dominant forms in water samples. The ICP-MS analysis of heavy metals in water samples indicated elevated levels of As (1.67 to 32.31 ppb) in downstream areas of the river system, influenced by human activities. While metals exhibited correlation with each other, there was a weak association, except for As, with the levels of MPs in the Markanda River. The SEM-EDX analyses to characterize chemical elements absorbed onto the surface of MP showed distinct variations in upstream and downstream sites, with the presence of elements such as Mn, Ni, Cr, Zn, As, Se, and Cu found in downstream areas. We conclude that MPs contaminated with heavy metals potentially threaten the ecological security of freshwater aquatic systems and highlight the importance of management action to reduce plastic pollution worldwide.

Granulocyte colony stimulating factor improves Prednisolone responsiveness and 90-day survival in steroid eligible severe Alcohol associated Hepatitis: The GPreAH Study a randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: Severe alcohol-associated-hepatitis(SAH) carries high one-month mortality. Corticosteroids provide a modest 28 day but not 90-day survival benefit, due to development of infections and organ failures. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor(GCSF) has shown promise in SAH patients by its immunomodulatory and regenerative capabilities. We studied the safety and efficacy of combination(GCSF+Prednisolone, GPred) therapy in management of steroid eligible SAH patients. METHODS: Steroid eligible patients with SAH(mDF scores 32- 90) were randomized to receive Prednisolone(GrA, n=42), GPred(GrB, n=42) or GCSF alone(GrC, n=42). GCSF was given as 150-300mcg/day for 7 days followed by every third day for a maximum of 12 doses in one month. Prednisolone 40mg/day was given for 7-days and continued for 28days in responders(Lille score<0.45). RESULTS: Baseline characteristics of patient groups were comparable. On intention-to-treat analysis, the primary endpoint of 90-day survival was achieved in 64.3%(27/42) in Prednisolone, 88.1%(37/42) in GPred and 78.6%(33/42) in GCSF group respectively (p =0.03, Prednisolone vs. GPred). The 28-day survival was not different between the groups [85.7%, 95.2% and 85.7% respectively(p=0.27)]. GPred group had more responders by day-7 (71.4% vs. 92.9% vs. 76.2%,p=0.037) and had greater reduction in mDF (-7.33±4.78, -24.59±3.7,-14.59±3.41,p=0.011), and MELDNa (-1.69±1.26,-7.02±1.24, -3.05±0.83, p=0.002) by day-90. Prednisolone-only group had higher incidence of new infections(35.7%, 19%, 7.1% respectively, p<0.002). Acute kidney injury (33.3%, 7.1%, 11.9%, p=0.002), hepatic encephalopathy (35.7%,9.5%,26.2%,p=<0.001) and rehospitalizations (59.5%, 14.3%, 30.9%, p=<0.01) were lower in GPred group. CONCLUSION: Addition of GCSF to prednisolone improves steroid responsiveness and 90-day survival with fewer infections and new onset complications in SAH patients.

Intraduodenal Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Ameliorates Gut Atrophy and Cholestasis in a Novel Parenteral Nutrition Piglet Model.

BACKGROUND: Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) provides lifesaving nutritional support intravenously; however it is associated with significant side effects. Given gut microbial alterations noted with TPN, we hypothesized that transferring fecal microbiota from healthy controls would restore gut-systemic signaling in TPN and mitigate injury. METHODS: Using our novel ambulatory model (US Patent: US 63/136,165), 31 piglets were randomly allocated to enteral nutrition (EN), TPN only, TPN + antibiotics (TPN-A) or TPN + intraduodenal fecal microbiota transplant (TPN-FMT) for 14 days. Gut, liver, and serum were assessed through histology, biochemistry, and qPCR. Stool samples underwent 16s rRNA sequencing. PERMANOVA, Jaccard and Bray-Curtis metrics were performed. RESULTS: Significant bilirubin elevation in TPN and TPN-A vs EN (p<0.0001) was prevented with FMT. IFN-G, TNF-alpha, IL-beta, IL-8 and LPS were significantly higher in TPN (p=0.009/0.001/0.043/0.011/<0.0001), with preservation upon FMT. Significant gut-atrophy by villous/crypt ratio in TPN (p<0.0001) and TPN-A (p=0.0001) vs EN was prevented by FMT (p=0.426 vs EN). Microbiota profiles using Principal Coordinate Analysis demonstrated significant FMT and EN overlap, with the largest separation in TPN-A followed by TPN, driven primarily by Firmicutes and Fusobacteria. TPN altered gut barrier was preserved upon FMT. Upregulated CYP7A1 and BSEP in TPN and TPN-A, and downregulatedFGFR4, EGF, FXR and TGR5 vs EN was prevented by FMT. CONCLUSION: This study provides novel evidence of prevention of gut atrophy, liver injury and microbial dysbiosis with intraduodenal FMT, challenging current paradigms into TPN injury mechanisms and underscores importance of gut microbes as prime targets for therapeutics and drug discovery.

Primary Malignant Melanoma of Tongue: Rare and Aggressive Malignant Tumor.

Primary melanoma of the oral cavity is extremely rare, accounting for 0.2-8% of all melanomas. Lesions arising from mucosal melanocytes occur most frequently on the gingiva or palate. Mucosal melanomas carry a worse prognosis than cutaneous melanomas. Very few studies have been published due to rarity of disease. 46 year old lady presented with black colored lesion over left side of her tongue for 6 weeks. On examination there was 3 × 2.5 cm black colored patch over left lateral part of tongue in middle 1/3rd, not crossing midline. Tip and base of tongue were free. Biopsy was suggestive of malignant melanoma of tongue. Patient underwent surgery (wide local excision of left lateral border of tongue lesion + left selective neck dissection). Final Histopathological report revealed malignant melanoma of tongue with all margins free, Depth of invasion 3 mm, Lympho-vascular invasion present, and no perineural invasion, left level III cervical lymph node metastases. Patient thus received adjuvant RT. Immunotherapy was also advised in multidisciplinary clinic, but patient was non-compliant. Early diagnosis will be promoted by careful oral examination and early biopsy of pigmented and non-pigmented masses. Early diagnosis and treatment will improve the prognosis of patients with oral malignant melanoma.

Effect of Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate Loading on Postoperative Insulin Resistance, Patient-Perceived Well Being and Surgical Outcomes in Elective Colorectal Surgery - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Insulin resistance (IR) is one of the independent determinants influencing the length of hospital stay (LOH) and postoperative complications in colorectal procedures. Preoperative oral carbohydrate loading (POCL) has emerged as a prospective countermeasure for IR. This study aimed to investigate the effects of preoperative carbohydrate loading on postoperative IR, inflammatory parameters, and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery. METHODS: This was an open-label, parallel arm, superiority randomized controlled trial conducted over 2 years. Participants were assigned to conventional fasting (CF) and oral carbohydrate loading (OCL) groups. Insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), and IL-6 levels were analyzed on the day of surgery, and the first and third postoperative days. Clinical parameters like thirst, hunger, dry mouth, anxiety, weakness, pain, nausea, and vomiting were compared in the perioperative period. Surgical clinical outcomes such as intestinal recovery, time to independent ambulation, postoperative morbidity, and LOH were also studied. RESULTS: A total of 72 participants were included, with 36 in each group. In the OCL group, there was a statistically significant decrease in postoperative insulin resistance during preop, POD-1 and POD-3 (p=0.0336). Similarly, inflammatory parameters and the Glassgow prognostic scale were found to be significantly lower in the OCL group (p<0.001). Clinical parameters such as thirst, hunger, and dry mouth were significantly lower in the intervention group (p=0.00) with a shortened LOH. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that preoperative carbohydrate loading is associated with reduced insulin resistance and inflammatory markers, shortened hospital stays, and improved overall clinical outcomes in elective colorectal surgery.

Intracellular peroxynitrite perturbs redox balance, bioenergetics, and Fe-S cluster homeostasis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

The ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to tolerate nitric oxide (•NO) and superoxide (O2•-) produced by phagocytes contributes to its success as a human pathogen. Recombination of •NO and O2•- generates peroxynitrite (ONOO-), a potent oxidant produced inside activated macrophages causing lethality in diverse organisms. While the response of Mtb toward •NO and O2•- is well established, how Mtb responds to ONOO- remains unclear. Filling this knowledge gap is important to understand the persistence mechanisms of Mtb during infection. We synthesized a series of compounds that generate both •NO and O2•-, which should combine to produce ONOO-. From this library, we identified CJ067 that permeates Mtb to reliably enhance intracellular ONOO- levels. CJ067-exposed Mtb strains, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) clinical isolates, exhibited dose-dependent, long-lasting oxidative stress and growth inhibition. In contrast, Mycobacterium smegmatis (Msm), a fast-growing, non-pathogenic mycobacterial species, maintained redox balance and growth in response to intracellular ONOO-. RNA-sequencing with Mtb revealed that CJ067 induces antioxidant machinery, sulphur metabolism, metal homeostasis, and a 4Fe-4S cluster repair pathway (suf operon). CJ067 impaired the activity of the 4Fe-4S cluster-containing TCA cycle enzyme, aconitase, and diminished bioenergetics of Mtb. Work with Mtb strains defective in SUF and IscS involved in Fe-S cluster biogenesis pathways showed that both systems cooperatively protect Mtb from intracellular ONOO- in vitro and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-dependent growth inhibition during macrophage infection. Thus, Mtb is uniquely sensitive to intracellular ONOO- and targeting Fe-S cluster homeostasis is expected to promote iNOS-dependent host immunity against tuberculosis (TB).

Prevalence of hypertension, screening, awareness, and associated risk factors in teaching institution of Etawah District, Uttar Pradesh: A cross-section study.

Background: Hypertension is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting over one billion people. It is responsible for roughly half of all heart disease and stroke-related deaths globally. Because hypertension does not cause any symptoms on its own, it is commonly referred to as "the silent killer." Objective: This study aimed to determine (1) the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors and (2) the level of awareness of hypertension status among study participants. Material and Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted for 3 months during January-March 2023 at the teaching institution in Etawah District, Uttar Pradesh. It was conducted among 392 study participants who were ≥18 years old. Data were collected through a predesigned, pretested, semi-structured questionnaire, and anthropometric measurement was determined using standard guidelines. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension screening was 69.4% (male: 33.8% and female: 66.2%), respectively. The majority of hypertensives were found in female participants. Tobacco and alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, stress and strain, and an unhealthy diet were also associated with hypertension. Among 392 study participants, only 67 (24.6%) were aware of their hypertension status. Conclusion: We conclude that hypertension has been described as an "Iceberg disease" as those who suffer are usually unaware and hence usually seek healthcare services at a very late stage. Preventive measures should be needed to improve hypertension screening, awareness, treatment, and control.

Elevated N1-Acetylspermidine Levels in Doxorubicin-treated MCF-7 Cancer Cells: Histone Deacetylase 10 Inhibition with an N1-Acetylspermidine Mimetic.

Cancer drug resistance is associated with metabolic adaptation. Cancer cells have been shown to implicate acetylated polyamines in adaptations during cell death. However, exploring the mimetic of acetylated polyamines as a potential anticancer drug is lacking. We performed intracellular metabolite profiling of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells treated with doxorubicin (DOX), a well known anticancer drug. A novel and in-house vertical tube gel electrophoresis assisted procedure followed by LC-HRMS analysis was employed to detect acetylated polyamines such as N1-acetylspermidine. We designed a mimetic N1-acetylspermidine (MINAS) which is a known substrate of histone deacetylase 10 (HDAC10). Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations were used to evaluate the inhibitory potential of MINAS against HDAC10. The inhibitory potential and the ADMET profile of MINAS were compared to a known HDAC10 inhibitor Tubastatin A. N1-acetylspermidine, an acetylated form of polyamine, was detected intracellularly in MCF-7 cells treated with DOX over DMSO-treated MCF-7 cells. We designed and curated MINAS (PubChem CID 162679241). Molecular docking and MD simulations suggested the strong and comparable inhibitory potential of MINAS (-8.2 kcal/mol) to Tubastatin A (-8.4 kcal/mol). MINAS and Tubastatin A share similar binding sites on HDAC10, including Ser138, Ser140, Tyr183, and Cys184. Additionally, MINAS has a better ADMET profile compared to Tubastatin A, with a high MRTD value and lower toxicity. In conclusion, the data show that N1-acetylspermidine levels rise during DOX-induced breast cancer cell death. Additionally, MINAS, an N1-acetylspermidine mimetic compound, could be investigated as a potential anticancer drug when combined with chemotherapy like DOX.

Paradigm shift in transfusion practices during early COVID-19 pandemic: A single center retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: The advent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) unveiled the worst national blood crisis that the United States had witnessed in over a decade. With the pandemic influencing the different stages of the acquisition of blood products outside the hospital setting, we aimed to explore the possible barriers contributing to the shortage of blood products within the medical community. AIM: To assess the adherence to restrictive blood transfusion practices for patients in the COVID era and pre-COVID era. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study on hospitalized patients distinguishing the pattern of blood transfusion during the COVID and pre-COVID era in a community hospital. Data was tabulated to include the number of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and if transfusions met restrictive blood transfusion criteria as per institutional guidelines. Chi-square was applied to test the statistical association between qualitative variables. Unpaired t test and Mann Whitney U test were applied respectively to test the mean difference of quantitative variables. RESULTS: A total of 208 patients were included in the study, of which 108 were during COVID era and 100 were during pre-COVID era. The leading reason for admission in both the COVID era and pre-COVID era transfused patients was shortness of breath (53.7% and 36% P = 0.001), followed by gastrointestinal bleeding (25.9% and 21% P = 0.001). There was a higher percentage of RBC transfusions in the intensive care unit in the COVID-era group than in the pre-COVID era group (38.9% vs 22%, P = 0.008). The restrictive transfusion criteria were met in 62% vs 79% in the COVID and pre-COVID eras, respectively (P = 0.008). CONCLUSION: The COVID-era group received RBC transfusions with less stringent adherence to restrictive blood transfusion practices in comparison to pre-COVID era group.

Biofortification of Triticum species: a stepping stone to combat malnutrition.

BACKGROUND: Biofortification represents a promising and sustainable strategy for mitigating global nutrient deficiencies. However, its successful implementation poses significant challenges. Among staple crops, wheat emerges as a prime candidate to address these nutritional gaps. Wheat biofortification offers a robust approach to enhance wheat cultivars by elevating the micronutrient levels in grains, addressing one of the most crucial global concerns in the present era. MAIN TEXT: Biofortification is a promising, but complex avenue, with numerous limitations and challenges to face. Notably, micronutrients such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu) can significantly impact human health. Improving Fe, Zn, Se, and Cu contents in wheat could be therefore relevant to combat malnutrition. In this review, particular emphasis has been placed on understanding the extent of genetic variability of micronutrients in diverse Triticum species, along with their associated mechanisms of uptake, translocation, accumulation and different classical to advanced approaches for wheat biofortification. CONCLUSIONS: By delving into micronutrient variability in Triticum species and their associated mechanisms, this review underscores the potential for targeted wheat biofortification. By integrating various approaches, from conventional breeding to modern biotechnological interventions, the path is paved towards enhancing the nutritional value of this vital crop, promising a brighter and healthier future for global food security and human well-being.

The long noncoding RNA (LINC-RBE) expression in testicular cells is associated with aging of the rat.

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulatory biomolecules responsible for many cellular processes. The aging of mammals is manifested by a slow and gradual decline of physiological functions after adulthood, progressively resulting in age-related diseases. Testis comprises different cell-types with defined functions for producing haploid gametes and androgens in males, contributing gene-pool to the next generation with genetic variations to species for evolutionary advantage. The LINC-RBE (long intergenic noncoding-rat brain expressed) RNA showed highest expression in the Leydig cells, responsible for steroidogenesis and production of testosterone; higher expression in primary spermatocytes (pachytene cells), responsible for generation of haploid gametes and high expression in Sertoli cells, the nursing cells of the testes. Testes of immature (4-weeks), adult (16- and 44-weeks), and nearly-old (70-weeks) rats showed low, high, and again low levels of expression, respectively. This along with the nuclear-cytoplasmic localization of LINC-RBE RNA showed age-related expression and function. Thus, expression of LINC-RBE is involved in the molecular physiology of testes, especially Leydig cells, primary spermatocytes, and Sertoli cells. The decline in its expression correlates with diminishing reproductive function of the testes during aging of the rat.

Injection of antioxidant trace minerals/vitamins into peripartum crossbred cows improves the nutritional and immunological properties of colostrum/milk and the health of their calves under heat stress conditions.

Multimineral and vitamin injections can provide better nutrient availability at the cellular level, which is essential for mitigating transition period stress and improving the wellbeing and productivity of dairy cows. The present study was conducted to assess the colostrum quality and calf health after intramuscular injection of multi-minerals (MM) and multi-vitamins (MV) to peripartum cows during winter (THI = 58 to 66) and summer (THI = 78 to 82) months. In each season, twenty-four pregnant crossbred Karan Fries cows were grouped into four, each consisting of six cows. Group I, referred to as the Control, received solely the basal diet, without any additional supplements. Groups II, III, and IV were administered additional MM (T1), MV (T2), and a combined MM and MV (T3) along with their basal diet, starting 30 days before calving and continuing for 30 days after calving. Blood samples were collected from the calves, while colostrum/milk samples were obtained from the cows on days 1, 3, 7, and 15 after calving. The somatic cell counts (SCC) in the milk were determined using a cell counter. Cortisol, IgG, IGF1 and total immunoglobulins (TIG) in whey and plasma from cow colostrum/milk or calf blood samples were estimated by ELISA. Cows that calved in the summer exhibited notably reduced levels (P < 0.05) of IgG, milk, and plasma IGF1, along with lower calf body weights, in comparison to those calving in the winter season. Furthermore, the summer months saw significant increases (P < 0.05) in plasma and milk cortisol levels, as well as total somatic cell counts (SCC) in both colostrum and milk samples. Maximum beneficial effect was observed in T3 group. Results indicate that injections to peripartum cows could be an important strategy for improving colostrum quality and calf health during the summer seasons.