Immersive horizons: navigating ethical terrain and practical boundaries in the use of virtual reality for cancer symptom management � a comprehensive narrative review

Cancer is a significant healthcare problem. However, advancements in diagnostic procedures and therapeutic modalities have led to a decline in cancer mortality rates by 1% annually in most countries. Cancer patients often experience symptoms such as pain, cancer-related fatigue, anxiety, and lymphedema. To counter these side effects, there have been tremendous efforts. One such effort is the use of virtual reality (VR) technology, which is an interactive technology. VR has played a significant role in managing disorders such as phobias and anxiety disorders, and support for patients with cognitive and physical rehabilitation, acute and chronic pain management, and emotional support in different settings such as during hospitalizations. Our team conducted an extensive search for electronic literature on virtual reality in various databases, such as Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Psych INFO, up to July 2023. We used keywords like "virtual reality," "cancer care," "depression," "cognition," "pain," "telemedicine," "rehabilitation care," "physical therapy," "radiotherapy," "telerehabilitation," "avatar," "video games," and "visual aid" as our search criteria. VR interventions for cancer patients include exposure therapy, psycho-education, and relaxation techniques, which have been shown to reduce symptoms significantly. VR distraction can also mitigate pain during medical procedures. Studies suggest that VR holds promise in rehabilitation and oncologic treatment, as it can improve function metrics, range of motion, and motivation for treatment. The review scrutinizes the use of digital information and virtual reality technology to alleviate cancer-related distress by providing remote care.

Recurrence of hepatitis C virus after treatment with pegylated interferon and direct acting antivirals in Punjab Pakistan / Recorrência do vírus da hepatite C após tratamento com interferon peguilado e antivirais de ação direta em Punjab, Paquistão

Although increased response rates concomitant in hepatitis C virus but relapse after treatment is threatened. Therefore, it is terrible requirement to evaluate the response of Pegylated interferon and direct acting antivirals in Punjab Pakistan. The study was conducted to find the rate of recurrence of HCV infection after treatment with Pegylated Interferon and Direct Acting Antivirals in Punjab Pakistan. This study was conducted at Department of Pathology, Nawaz Sharif Medical College Gujrat, while treatment effects monitored in different Government and Private Hospitals of Punjab, Pakistan. Total 973 patients who administered the recommended dose and divided in two groups (i) Interferon based therapy (ii) direct acting antivirals (DAAs).Other parameters like ALT and viral load studied. The rate of recurrence was higher in female infected with genotype 2b and in male with mixed genotype 3a/2b after six month of antiviral therapy. Genotype 3a showed significant response to therapy after three month. 32 among 374 (8.5%) were positive after 24 weeks of treatment with interferon, 29 (7.7%) patients have same genotype while 3 patients were re-infected with different HCV strains. With DAAs, only 27 (4.8%) patients were positive among 558 after 2 weeks and one patient re-infected with different genotype. Early and sustained virological response noted in DAAs. ALT and viral load decreased faster with DAAs that not achieved after 4 weeks with pegylated interferon. Sustained virological response appears in DAAs and recurrence rate is high in interferon therapy compared to DAAs. Therefore, reinfection has implications for correct treatment efficiency and to select strategies for retreatment cases.

Embora aumentem as taxas de resposta concomitantes no vírus da hepatite C (HCV), há risco de recidiva após o tratamento. Portanto, é um requisito terrível avaliar a resposta do interferon peguilado e antivirais de ação direta em Punjab, Paquistão. O estudo foi conduzido para encontrar a taxa de recorrência da infecção por HCV após o tratamento com interferon peguilado e antivirais de ação direta em Punjab, Paquistão. Este estudo foi conduzido no Departamento de Patologia Nawaz Sharif Medical College Gujrat, enquanto os efeitos do tratamento foram monitorados em diferentes hospitais públicos e privados de Punjab, Paquistão. Total de 973 pacientes que administraram a dose recomendada foram divididos em dois grupos: (i) Terapia baseada em interferon, (ii) antivirais de ação direta (DAAs). Outros parâmetros como ALT e carga viral foram estudados. A taxa de recorrência foi maior em mulheres infectadas com o genótipo 2b e em homens com genótipo misto 3a / 2b após seis meses de terapia antiviral. O genótipo 3a mostrou resposta significativa à terapia após três meses. 32 entre 374 (8,5%) foram positivos após 24 semanas de tratamento com interferon, 29 (7,7%) pacientes têm o mesmo genótipo, enquanto 3 pacientes foram reinfectados com diferentes cepas de HCV. Com DAAs, apenas 27 (4,8%) pacientes foram positivos entre 558 após duas semanas e um paciente reinfectado com genótipo diferente. Resposta virológica precoce e sustentada observada em DAAs. ALT e carga viral diminuíram mais rapidamente com DAAs, que não alcançou após 4 semanas com interferon peguilado. A resposta virológica sustentada aparece em DAAs, e a taxa de recorrência é alta na terapia com interferon em comparação com DAAs. Portanto, a reinfecção tem implicações para a eficiência do tratamento correto e para selecionar estratégias para casos de retratamento.

Recurrence of hepatitis C virus after treatment with pegylated interferon and direct acting antivirals in Punjab Pakistan

Abstract Although increased response rates concomitant in hepatitis C virus but relapse after treatment is threatened. Therefore, it is terrible requirement to evaluate the response of Pegylated interferon and direct acting antivirals in Punjab Pakistan. The study was conducted to find the rate of recurrence of HCV infection after treatment with Pegylated Interferon and Direct Acting Antivirals in Punjab Pakistan. This study was conducted at Department of Pathology, Nawaz Sharif Medical College Gujrat, while treatment effects monitored in different Government and Private Hospitals of Punjab, Pakistan. Total 973 patients who administered the recommended dose and divided in two groups (i) Interferon based therapy (ii) direct acting antivirals (DAAs).Other parameters like ALT and viral load studied. The rate of recurrence was higher in female infected with genotype 2b and in male with mixed genotype 3a/2b after six month of antiviral therapy. Genotype 3a showed significant response to therapy after three month. 32 among 374 (8.5%) were positive after 24 weeks of treatment with interferon, 29 (7.7%) patients have same genotype while 3 patients were re-infected with different HCV strains. With DAAs, only 27 (4.8%) patients were positive among 558 after 2 weeks and one patient re-infected with different genotype. Early and sustained virological response noted in DAAs. ALT and viral load decreased faster with DAAs that not achieved after 4 weeks with pegylated interferon. Sustained virological response appears in DAAs and recurrence rate is high in interferon therapy compared to DAAs. Therefore, reinfection has implications for correct treatment efficiency and to select strategies for retreatment cases.

RESUMO Embora aumentem as taxas de resposta concomitantes no vírus da hepatite C (HCV), há risco de recidiva após o tratamento. Portanto, é um requisito terrível avaliar a resposta do interferon peguilado e antivirais de ação direta em Punjab, Paquistão. O estudo foi conduzido para encontrar a taxa de recorrência da infecção por HCV após o tratamento com interferon peguilado e antivirais de ação direta em Punjab, Paquistão. Este estudo foi conduzido no Departamento de Patologia Nawaz Sharif Medical College Gujrat, enquanto os efeitos do tratamento foram monitorados em diferentes hospitais públicos e privados de Punjab, Paquistão. Total de 973 pacientes que administraram a dose recomendada foram divididos em dois grupos: (i) Terapia baseada em interferon, (ii) antivirais de ação direta (DAAs). Outros parâmetros como ALT e carga viral foram estudados. A taxa de recorrência foi maior em mulheres infectadas com o genótipo 2b e em homens com genótipo misto 3a / 2b após seis meses de terapia antiviral. O genótipo 3a mostrou resposta significativa à terapia após três meses. 32 entre 374 (8,5%) foram positivos após 24 semanas de tratamento com interferon, 29 (7,7%) pacientes têm o mesmo genótipo, enquanto 3 pacientes foram reinfectados com diferentes cepas de HCV. Com DAAs, apenas 27 (4,8%) pacientes foram positivos entre 558 após duas semanas e um paciente reinfectado com genótipo diferente. Resposta virológica precoce e sustentada observada em DAAs. ALT e carga viral diminuíram mais rapidamente com DAAs, que não alcançou após 4 semanas com interferon peguilado. A resposta virológica sustentada aparece em DAAs, e a taxa de recorrência é alta na terapia com interferon em comparação com DAAs. Portanto, a reinfecção tem implicações para a eficiência do tratamento correto e para selecionar estratégias para casos de retratamento.

Validity and Reliability of the Arabic Translation of Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT1)

@#Introduction: Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT1) is a tool to assess patients’ diabetes knowledge and lifestyle. It comprises two subscales: the DKT1-general and DKT1-insulin-use. This study aimed to translate the DKT1 into Arabic and tested its validity and reliability in the Saudi population. Methods: This single-centre, cross-sectional study examined diabetes-related knowledge and lifestyle of Saudi patients with diabetes who used anti-diabetic medication and/or insulin. The participants’ mean scores for the two subscales of DKT1 were compared according to their type and duration of diabetes, medication use, and levels of education. Internal consistency tests and factor analysis were applied to examine the reliability and validity of the subscales, respectively. Results: In total, 400 individuals with diabetes (mean age 43.8±16.1 years) were enrolled. Of these, 44.2% had type 1 diabetes, and 51% were men. The Arabic version of DKT1 received internal consistency scores with coefficient alpha (95% confidence interval) values of 0.541 (0.472–0.604) and 0.741 (0.699–0.785) for the DKT1-general and DKT1-insulin-use subscales, respectively. The validity test showed that the participants with type 1 diabetes attained marginally higher score in the DKT1-general subscale and significantly higher score in the DKT1-insulin-use subscale than those with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the scores increased with higher levels of education and longer durations of the disorder. Conclusion: The Arabic translation of DKT1 is an acceptable tool which can be used to measure the effectiveness of diabetes education programmes and would help to identify patient’s education needs.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan

ABSTRACT Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

RESUMO Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Impact of inorganic salts on vase life and postharvest qualities of the cut flower of Perpetual Carnation / Investigar os efeitos dos sais inorgânicos na vida dos vasos e nas qualidades pós-colheita da flor de corte do Cravo Perpétuo

Abstract This study was carried out in the laboratory of Shangqiu Institute of Technology, Henan to investigate the effect of a different combination of inorganic salt on the quality and physiological characteristics of cut flowers (CFs) of Perpetual Carnation. Furthermore, to find out the best preservation solution of inorganic salt that can enhance the ornamental value of CFs of Carnation and prolong its vase life. Sucrose, 8-hydroxyquinoline, paclobutrazol, salicylic acid and different kinds of inorganic salts were added as a preservation solution. And the same amount of distilled water was used as control. The effects of these various inorganic salts on the morphological characteristics including vase life, changes in flower stems, fresh weight (FW) and water balance and the physiological characteristics including contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), cell membrane permeability and the contents of proline of carnation were investigated. The CFs placed in vase solution with inorganic salts showed significant changes in its morphology and physiological characteristics as compared to control. The changes in flower diameter (FD), FW, malondialdehyde and cell membrane permeability showed an increasing trend first and then decreasing. The value of water balance was observed with a downward trend. However, the vase life, FD, the contents of malondialdehyde, contents of proline and FW of CFs held in the preservative solution containing inorganic salts were increased than that of control. The fresh preservative solution contained sucrose 3% + 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) (200 mg·L‾1) + paclobutrazol (100 mg·L‾1) + salicylic acid (SA) (25 mg·L‾1) + CaCl2 (100 mg·L‾1) has the best effect on longevity (34 days), FW and FD of carnation CFs. This solution has improved the ornamental and physiological characteristics of fresh carnation CFs.

Resumo Este estudo foi realizado no laboratório do Instituto de Tecnologia de Shangqiu, Henan, para investigar o efeito de diferentes combinações de sal inorgânico na qualidade e características fisiológicas de flores cortadas do Cravo Perpétuo. Além disso, para descobrir a melhor solução de preservação de sal inorgânico que pode aumentar o valor ornamental das flores cortadas de Cravo e prolongar a vida do vaso. Sucrose, 8-hidroxiquinolina, paclobutrazol, ácido salicílico e diferentes tipos de sais inorgânicos foram adicionados como uma solução de preservação. E a mesma quantidade de água destilada foi usada como controle. Os efeitos destes vários sais inorgânicos sobre as características morfológicas incluindo a vida dos vasos, alterações nos caules, peso fresco e balanço hídrico e as características fisiológicas incluindo conteúdo de malondialdeído (MDA), permeabilidade da membrana celular e conteúdo de prolina de cravo foram investigados. As flores de corte colocadas em solução de vaso com sais inorgânicos apresentaram mudanças significativas em sua morfologia e características fisiológicas em relação ao controle. As alterações no diâmetro das flores, no peso fresco, no malondialdeído e na permeabilidade da membrana celular mostraram uma tendência crescente primeiro e depois decrescendo. O valor do balanço hídrico foi observado com tendência de queda. No entanto, a vida útil do vaso, o diâmetro da flor, o conteúdo de malondialdeído, o conteúdo de prolina e o peso fresco de flores cortadas mantidos na solução preservativa contendo sais inorgânicos foram aumentados em relação ao controle. A solução conservante fresca continha sacarose 3% + 8-hidroxiquinolina (8-HQ) (200 mg·L‾1) + paclobutrazol (100 mg·L‾1) + ácido salicílico (SA) (25 mg·L‾1) + CaCl2 (100 mg·L‾1) tem o melhor efeito na longevidade (34 dias), peso fresco e diâmetro de flor de flores cortadas de cravo. Esta solução melhorou as características ornamentais e fisiológicas das flores frescas de cravo.

Prevalence of Y chromosome microdeletion in azoospermic infertile males of Iraqi population

In human gamete development, the important period is spermatogenesis, which is organized by specific genes on Y chromosome. In some cases, the infertile men have shown microdeletions on Y chromosome, which seemed as if the structural chromosome variance is linked to the reduction of sperm count. This study aimed to determine the frequency and patterns of Y chromosome microdeletions in azoospermia factor (AZF) of Iraqi infertile males. Here, 90 azoospermic infertile males as a study group and 95 normal fertile males as control group were investigated for the microdeletion of AZF loci using numerous sequence-tagged sites. Of these 90 infertile male patients, 43 (47.8%) demonstrated Y chromosome microdeletions, in which AZFb region was the most deleted section in azoospermia patients (33.3%) followed by deletions in the AZFc region (23%), while there were no microdeletion in the AZFa region. The largest microdeletion involved in both AZFb and AZFc was detected in six azoospermic patients (6.7%). The present study demonstrated a high frequency of Y chromosome microdeletions in the infertile Iraqi patients which is not reported previously. The high frequency of deletions may be due to the association of ethnic and genetic factors. PCR-based Y chromosome screening for microdeletions has a potential to be used in infertility clinics for genetic counselling and assisted reproduction.

A Survey to Assess Quality of Life of Gastro‐Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Patients in Saudi Arabia

Gastrointestinal Esophagus Ailment is a chronic disease that usually results in complications. GERD symptomsinclude chest pain, acid regurgitation, heartburn, nausea, chronic cough, asthma, and hoarseness. A considerablenumber of research studies have shown that old age, obesity, drug and substance abuse are significant factorsthat exacerbate the present condition. The findings from the present research study illustrate that the conditionhas a major impact on psychological problems. Precisely, the consequences of the condition appeared to vary indifferent age groups. In particular, this difference was determined with chi-square while taking into considerationthe existing variables. Furthermore, the results ascertained that some variations were registered in terms ofseveral factors that differ significantly across gender. Eating pattern between males and females also emerged asa major factor in the research study. The difference is also evident in the age group category as the age group18-25 shares different sentiments in various aspects.

Seroprevalence, associated risk factors and hematological impacts of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants of Multan, Punjab-Pakistan

@#Toxoplasmosis is a protozoal infection of zoonotic potential with worldwide geographical distribution which affects nearly all warm-blooded animals including mammals and birds. Keeping in view, this study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis along with associated risk factors and its haematological impacts in small ruminants of district Multan, Pakistan. In this study, a total of 250 sera samples collected from sheep (n=125) and goats (n=125) from three tehsils of Multan were examined using commercially available Latex agglutination test kit for the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies. The haematological profiles of Toxoplasma seropositive and seronegative animals were determined by using automated haematology analyser. Overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants was 42.80% with a higher prevalence rate (44.80%) in sheep as compared to goats (40.80%). Sex, existence of co-morbid conditions, feeding pattern and presence of pet cats and dogs were identified as significant (P<0.05) risk factors associated with the presence of antibodies against toxoplasmosis. The breed was found to be a significant (P=0.026) risk factor for the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in goats but not in sheep. Haematological analysis revealed significantly altered leukocytic counts (P<0.05) in seropositive sheep and goats as compared to seronegative ones. Our findings showed that small ruminants of the Multan District in Pakistan are toxoplasma seropositive and may pose a serious threat of public health concern in the region.

Impact of inorganic salts on vase life and postharvest qualities of the cut flower of Perpetual Carnation

Abstract This study was carried out in the laboratory of Shangqiu Institute of Technology, Henan to investigate the effect of a different combination of inorganic salt on the quality and physiological characteristics of cut flowers (CFs) of Perpetual Carnation. Furthermore, to find out the best preservation solution of inorganic salt that can enhance the ornamental value of CFs of Carnation and prolong its vase life. Sucrose, 8-hydroxyquinoline, paclobutrazol, salicylic acid and different kinds of inorganic salts were added as a preservation solution. And the same amount of distilled water was used as control. The effects of these various inorganic salts on the morphological characteristics including vase life, changes in flower stems, fresh weight (FW) and water balance and the physiological characteristics including contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), cell membrane permeability and the contents of proline of carnation were investigated. The CFs placed in vase solution with inorganic salts showed significant changes in its morphology and physiological characteristics as compared to control. The changes in flower diameter (FD), FW, malondialdehyde and cell membrane permeability showed an increasing trend first and then decreasing. The value of water balance was observed with a downward trend. However, the vase life, FD, the contents of malondialdehyde, contents of proline and FW of CFs held in the preservative solution containing inorganic salts were increased than that of control. The fresh preservative solution contained sucrose 3% + 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) (200 mg·L1) + paclobutrazol (100 mg·L1) + salicylic acid (SA) (25 mg·L1) + CaCl2 (100 mg·L1) has the best effect on longevity (34 days), FW and FD of carnation CFs. This solution has improved the ornamental and physiological characteristics of fresh carnation CFs.

Resumo Este estudo foi realizado no laboratório do Instituto de Tecnologia de Shangqiu, Henan, para investigar o efeito de diferentes combinações de sal inorgânico na qualidade e características fisiológicas de flores cortadas do Cravo Perpétuo. Além disso, para descobrir a melhor solução de preservação de sal inorgânico que pode aumentar o valor ornamental das flores cortadas de Cravo e prolongar a vida do vaso. Sucrose, 8-hidroxiquinolina, paclobutrazol, ácido salicílico e diferentes tipos de sais inorgânicos foram adicionados como uma solução de preservação. E a mesma quantidade de água destilada foi usada como controle. Os efeitos destes vários sais inorgânicos sobre as características morfológicas incluindo a vida dos vasos, alterações nos caules, peso fresco e balanço hídrico e as características fisiológicas incluindo conteúdo de malondialdeído (MDA), permeabilidade da membrana celular e conteúdo de prolina de cravo foram investigados. As flores de corte colocadas em solução de vaso com sais inorgânicos apresentaram mudanças significativas em sua morfologia e características fisiológicas em relação ao controle. As alterações no diâmetro das flores, no peso fresco, no malondialdeído e na permeabilidade da membrana celular mostraram uma tendência crescente primeiro e depois decrescendo. O valor do balanço hídrico foi observado com tendência de queda. No entanto, a vida útil do vaso, o diâmetro da flor, o conteúdo de malondialdeído, o conteúdo de prolina e o peso fresco de flores cortadas mantidos na solução preservativa contendo sais inorgânicos foram aumentados em relação ao controle. A solução conservante fresca continha sacarose 3% + 8-hidroxiquinolina (8-HQ) (200 mg·L1) + paclobutrazol (100 mg·L1) + ácido salicílico (SA) (25 mg·L1) + CaCl2 (100 mg·L1) tem o melhor efeito na longevidade (34 dias), peso fresco e diâmetro de flor de flores cortadas de cravo. Esta solução melhorou as características ornamentais e fisiológicas das flores frescas de cravo.

Histological study on the effect of vitamin C on ischemia reperfusion injury in the adult rat ovary

Ovarian torsion may cause serious complications such as infertility in young women. Conservative management includes detorsion and reperfusion of the twisted segment. However, it may have local and systemic consequences due to production of large amounts of reactive oxygen species during reperfusion of ovaries. The present work aimed to study the possible histological and immunohistochemical changes due to ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat ovaries and the possible protective effect of vitamin C as an antioxidant. A total of 32 albino rats were divided into four groups. Group I was the control sham-operated group [either sham operated only, or with vitamin C administration]. In group II rats, ovarian ischemia was induced by torsion of the right adnexa. In rats of group III, 4 h of ischemia followed by reperfusion was performed. In rats of group IV, 4 h of ischemia was followed by 50 mg/kg vitamin C administration, which was injected intravenously, and then reperfusion was performed. Except for the ischemia group, all other groups were subdivided into two subgroups from which the right ovaries were surgically removed either after 5 h or after 2 weeks of starting the experiment. From the ischemia group ovarian samples were taken after 5 h only. Specimens were processed for paraffin sections and stained with H and E and with an immunohistochemical stain for apoptotic marker p53. Image analysis and statistical analysis of the obtained results were carried out. Severe vascular congestion, edema, hemorrhage, and increased P53 immunoreaction were detected in the ovaries after ischemia, which became less marked after reperfusion and considerably improved with vitamin C administration, especially after 2 weeks. Vitamin C treatment can help in protecting the ovaries from ischemia-reperfusion injury after detorsion

Analysis of Immunoglobulin G subclasses in Hepatitis C virus patients: Correlation with disease activity and viraemia

Hepatitis C virus antibodies are found in the serum of most patients with chronic hepatitis C. However, the significance of the humoral response is still uncertain. There is no reliable and simple diagnostic marker available to diagnose recent hepatitis C virus [HCV] infection. It has been shown that the avidity of specific IgG antibody is low in primary viral infection and increases with time. In this study, in vitro IgG anti-hepatitis C virus secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with hepatitis C was analyzed. To assess the effect of elicited HCV antigen-specific IgG antibody subclasses on the clinical outcome of HCV infection. The study protocol was approved in Damnhour National Medical Institute, and patients provided written informed consent. Forty-five [45] hepatitis C patients [5ml blood for each pt.] were divided into 3 groups: the first HCV Patients with variable degrees of viraemia [low-moderate-high], second: HCV patients with end stage complications [cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma] third: HCV sero-positive individuals without viraemia or complications; 15 patients [5ml blood for each pt.] were randomized into the normal group [HCV sero-negative could subjects]. Hepatitis C patients with [in vitro] IgG anti-hepatitis C virus secretion had higher AFP and IgG levels in serum than did patients without such secretion in vitro [p<0.002]. Furthermore, there is correlation between IgG antibody secretion levels and activity and degree of HCV patients [p<0.001]. The mean-counts of IgG plasma cells in 3 studied groups hepitits C patient were significantly correlated with activity of disease. Whereas IgG plasma cells resulted more correlated with normal group. IgG plasma cells on hepatitis C can be a valuable parameter for better diagnosis of degree of hepatitis C disease and also for follow up the patients

Study of the immune effects in hemodialysis patients receiving erythropoietin

Recombinant human erythropoietin [rHuEpo] [Clinical Pathology Department] may affect the human immune system. Partial correction of anemia by erythropoietin improves hemodialysis [HD]-[Immunology Department]. associated immunosuppression. It is not known whether hemoglobin normalization improves immune status further. All in Damanhour National Numerous studies have investigated the immune effects Medical Institute, of recombinant human erythropoietin [rHuEPO] used in the treatment of anemia of ESRD to hematocrits of 28 to 31%, showing improvement in cell-mediated and humoral immunity. The aim of the study: In the present study, we compared prospectively the immune system parameters of hemodialysis [HD] patients who received rHuEPO and were randomized to normal hemoglobin versus anemic hemoglobin. The study protocol was approved in Damanhur National Medical Institute, and patients provided written informed consent. Each patient was followed for 12 months with serum sample obtained at 12 months. During the course of the study, the slope of CD8 cells increased significantly from baseline in the anemic group [P<0.0001], whereas there was no change in the normal hemoglobin group. Our study sought to determine whether the immune system of HD patients with normalized hemoglobin differed from that of HD patients with partially corrected anemia

Immediate outcome of acute glomerulonephritis in children - experience in a tertiary level hospital.

Acute Glomerulonephritis (AGN) in children is common in our country and possesses a significant hospital load. AGN is principally a disease of children were poverty, overcrowding and poor hygiene are prevailing. It is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Objective : To see the immediate outcome of the children with AGN. Materials and Mithods: Sixty two cases of AGN were enrolled in this study. All cases were collected from paediatric department of Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC) and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka during the period of September 2000 to November 2001. A thorough history were taken and chemical examination were carried out and the patient were observed during hospitalization and after discharge and recorded in a preformed questionnaire. Results: Total number of cases were sixty two. Eighty one percent were between 6 years to 12 years of age with male predominance. Most of then came from poor socioecononic status (81%). All patients had generalized edema. Eighty one percent had reduced micturation, 29% had gross haematuria, 13% ascitis, 3% anuria, 2% had epistaxis with convulsion and coma. Eighty four percent had hypertension, 50% had infected scabies. Urinary RBC was found in 93.55% cases and RBC cast in 70-96% cases, blood urea over 40 mg/dl in 30.64% patient and serum creatinine over 1.0 mg/dl in 9.88% patients.

Study of INF-gamma and IL-6 in patients with Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori evade host immune defenses and causes chronic gastritis. Immunity against intestinal pathogens is largely mediated by dendritic cells, yet the role of dendritic cells in acute H pylori infection is largely unknown. The current study was to determine the serum/plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-alpha in H pylori patients and explain the correlation with disease state, helicabacter pylori Ab IgG and 1gM and urea Breath test. We examined the levels of serum cytokines IL-6 and INF-gamma in 50 patients. Mean serum/plasma levels of IL-6 and INF-gamma in H. pylori patients were significantly higher than those in the healthy controls [P<0.05]. There was a statistically significant correlation between IL-6 levels and INF-alpha in group of positive and negative, IgM. levels of IL-6 and INF-gamma can be used as important parameters for clinical diagnosis and follow up of Helicobacter pylori cases. CRP and ESR is a useful marker ongoing infection but there is Correlation with disease state

Study of the Hemodialysis on Immunomodulation of TH1/TH2 balance

Patients on chronic intermittent haemodialysis [HD] show an impaired cellular and humoral immune response that clinically appears with frequent infectious complications and low vaccination responses. This immune defect strongly correlates with reduced in vitro proliferative responses of T cells. The defect is localized in antigen presenting cells, which show a decreased co-stimulatory activity. Furthermore, the impaired immune response correlates with an increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In response to primary, activation, CD4 positive T helper [Th] cells mainly differentiate into either Th1 or Th2 cells. Th1 cells support cell mediated immunity whereas Th2 cells enhance humoral immune responses. Since both types of responses mutually inhibit each other, the impaired humoral immune response seen in HD patients could either be due to a reduced number of Th2 cells or to a predominant Th1 response. The current study was to analyze the outcome of the Th1 or Th2 cell responses in HD patients compared with healthy controls and to place them in the context of the altered cellular characteristics and impaired immune status seen in HD patients. The study protocol was approved in 50 Patients in Damnhour National Medical Institute. In HD patients, a significantly higher percentage of CD4 cells are characterized by a Th1-type cytokine secretion pattern compared with healthy controls. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of impaired cellular immune functions in dialysis patients. They provide a link between overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines [IL-12] and imbalanced T-cell activation

Diagnostic significance of serum S 100-B protein for management of patients with acute brain injury

Knowledge about the influence of current neuroprotective interventions on prognostic marker after traumatic brain injury is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic yield of estimation of serum level of protein S100B in patients with traumatic brain injury [TBI], so as to be used as prognostic marker for cases admitted to ICU after TBI. The study comprised 40 patients with TBI and 10 volunteers to donate blood as a control group. Initial injury severity was assessed at admission using the Glasgow coma score [GCS] for a total score-of 15 as the best, 13-15: mild, 9-12: moderate and GCS 0.1 micro g/L are considered pathologic. Time lag between trauma affliction and sampling [Sampling time] was identified. There were 17 patients [42.5%] with isolated TBI and 23 patients [57.5%] had TBI associated with multiple trauma. Mean initial GCS score was 11.2 +/- 2.8; range: 5-15 and 14 [35%] patients had normal cranial CT, while cranial CT was positive in 26 patients [65%]. Fifteen patients died for a mortality rate of 37.5% after a mean duration of ICU stay of 2.8+1.2 days and 25 patients were discharged after a mean ICU stay of 9.1+5.2 days. Survivors showed significantly higher GCS at time of arrival compared to non-survivors. Estimated serum levels of S 100 B were significantly higher in patients compared to control group levels, moreover, mean serum level of S 100 B was significantly [P2<0.05] higher in non-survivors compared to survivors with positive significant correlation between higher mortality and both serum levels of S 100 B, [r=0.706, P<0.001] and initial GCS, [r=0.435, P=0.005]. Using Logistic Regression analysis to identify the predictor of high mortality defined serum levels of S 100B as a significant predictor in 2 models and time of sampling in one model and Receiver operator characteristics [ROC] curve analysis judged by area under curve [AUC] defined high serum levels of S100B as the most specific predictor of mortality with an AUC=0.945, followed by sampling time with AUC 0.517. S 100 B is released into the peripheral circulation immediately after primary brain trauma. The predictive power of elevated serum S 100 B is higher than that of traditional clinical indicator. The serum S 100 B concentration reflects the severity of brain injury. So estimation of serum S100 B immediately after TBI at cutoff point of>0.1 micro g/L could be used as a predictor for post-traumatic mortality with high specificity irrespective of the extent or severity of inflicted trauma

Evaluation of different Rheumatoid factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: correlation with disease activity and response to therapy

Antibodies to citrullinated proteins have been described in patients with rheumatoid arthritis [RA] and these appear to be the most specific markers of the disease. Our objective was to determine the frequency of antibodies to cyclic citrullinated [CCPs] in patients with RA and investigate that. Comparison of available serologic rheumatoid markers in patient with rheumatoid arthritis [anti-CCP and rheumatoid factor]and correlation of the relevance of these markers to disease activity and their sensitivity to anti rheumatoid drugs. Patients divide into two groups 1[st] group contain 30 patients with RA [Newly diagnosed], 2[nd] group contain 30 patients with RA [Receiving different therapies] and 10 consider as healthy control group, median age of patient 25 years, range [10-35 years]. This study was conducted in the outpatient rheumatology unit of Damanhour Medical Institute. There was no significant difference between the anti-CCP positive and negative patients with RA. There was also no significant correlation between anti-CCP antibody and ESR, CRP. A small but significant correlation was found between RF and anti-CCP antibody. Anti-CCP antibodies had a better diagnostic value than RF for RA. However the moderate sensitivity and high specificity of anti CCP antibodies for RA, along with the appearance of anti-CCP antibodies before disease onset, suggest that anti-CCP antibodies be included in the classification criteria for RA