Effect of salinity stress and surfactant treatment with zinc and boron on morpho-physiological and biochemical indices of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum).

Micronutrient application has a crucial role in mitigating salinity stress in crop plants. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of zinc (Zn) and boron (B) as foliar applications on fenugreek growth and physiology under salt stress (0 and 120 mM). After 35 days of salt treatments, three levels of zinc (0, 50, and 100 ppm) and two levels of boron (0 and 2 ppm) were applied as a foliar application. Salinity significantly reduced root length (72.7%) and shoot length (33.9%), plant height (36%), leaf area (37%), root fresh weight (48%) and shoot fresh weight (75%), root dry weight (80%) and shoot dry weight (67%), photosynthetic pigments (78%), number of branches (50%), and seeds per pod (56%). Fenugreek's growth and physiology were improved by foliar spray of zinc and boron, which increased the length of the shoot (6%) and root length (2%), fresh root weight (18%), and dry root weight (8%), and chlorophyll a (1%), chlorophyll b (25%), total soluble protein content (3%), shoot calcium (9%) and potassium (5%) contents by significantly decreasing sodium ion (11%) content. Moreover, 100 ppm of Zn and 2 ppm of B enhanced the growth and physiology of fenugreek by reducing the effect of salt stress. Overall, boron and zinc foliar spray is suggested for improvement in fenugreek growth under salinity stress.

Photodynamic therapy in management of cutaneous leishmaniasis: A systematic review.

This systematic review evaluated the efficacy and safety of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the management of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). The electronic search for identification of relevant studies, adhered to the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes and Study type) framework, was conducted through PubMed, Google scholar, Dimensions, X-mol, and Semantic Scholar till December 2023. All types of studies reporting PDT in the management of CL with no language restriction were included. Methodological quality appraised of the selected studies was performed using Jadad index. Of the 317 identified studies, 21 reported PDT for the treatment of CL lesions, consisting of two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), four single-center open study, one case series and 14 case reports. Collectively, these studies presented a total of 304 patients with ages ranging from 1 to 82 years, undergoing varying number of PDT sessions (3-28) and follow-up durations spanning 4 weeks to 24 months. The CL lesions predominantly manifested on the exposed body areas, such as face, limbs, neck, ear and nose, and characterized with the use of clinical variables, such as plaques, papules, erythema and ulceration. PDT protocols differed in the photosensitizer type, incubation time, light source characteristics (e.g., wavelength, output power, and energy density), duration of light illumination, number of PDT sessions and their respective frequencies. Treatment response was assessed through the clinical presentation (i.e., at the baseline and after PDT completion) or by the absence of Leishmania parasites. Adverse effects comprised of pain, burning and tingling sensation experienced during PDT, followed by erythema, pigmentation changes and edema post-treatment. This systematic review revealed that PDT is an efficacious and safe modality for the treatment of CL, with mild and transient side effects.

Sebaceous carcinoma of forehead: A rare malignant lesion.

Sebaceous carcinoma is an uncommon malignant tumour of the sebaceous glands. This lesion typically occurs as painless and slow growing nodule in the eyelid region. In rarity, it can develop on buccal mucosa, head and neck, and other regions of the body in people in their 60s and 70s. Sebaceous carcinoma is locally aggressive and carries the potential of regional and distant spread. We present the case of a 15-year-old male who was diagnosed with sebaceous carcinoma over the forehead. After discussing the case in the board meeting, surgery was performed to remove the tumour with 1 cm margin. Outer table of the frontal bone was also removed and intraoperative frozen section was done for margin clearance. After the excision, soft tissue coverage was done with free Anterolateral thigh flap and the patient received six cycles of post-operative radiation therapy.

Recent deep learning-based brain tumor segmentation models using multi-modality magnetic resonance imaging: a prospective survey.

Radiologists encounter significant challenges when segmenting and determining brain tumors in patients because this information assists in treatment planning. The utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), especially deep learning (DL), has emerged as a useful tool in healthcare, aiding radiologists in their diagnostic processes. This empowers radiologists to understand the biology of tumors better and provide personalized care to patients with brain tumors. The segmentation of brain tumors using multi-modal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images has received considerable attention. In this survey, we first discuss multi-modal and available magnetic resonance imaging modalities and their properties. Subsequently, we discuss the most recent DL-based models for brain tumor segmentation using multi-modal MRI. We divide this section into three parts based on the architecture: the first is for models that use the backbone of convolutional neural networks (CNN), the second is for vision transformer-based models, and the third is for hybrid models that use both convolutional neural networks and transformer in the architecture. In addition, in-depth statistical analysis is performed of the recent publication, frequently used datasets, and evaluation metrics for segmentation tasks. Finally, open research challenges are identified and suggested promising future directions for brain tumor segmentation to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes for patients with brain tumors. This aligns with public health goals to use health technologies for better healthcare delivery and population health management.

Recent advances in genome editing strategies for balancing growth and defence in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum).

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum ) has gained more attention worldwide in recent decades because of its importance as a bioenergy resource and in producing table sugar. However, the production capabilities of conventional varieties are being challenged by the changing climates, which struggle to meet the escalating demands of the growing global population. Genome editing has emerged as a pivotal field that offers groundbreaking solutions in agriculture and beyond. It includes inserting, removing or replacing DNA in an organism's genome. Various approaches are employed to enhance crop yields and resilience in harsh climates. These techniques include zinc finger nuclease (ZFN), transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/associated protein (CRISPR/Cas). Among these, CRISPR/Cas is one of the most promising and rapidly advancing fields. With the help of these techniques, several crops like rice (Oryza sativa ), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ), maize (Zea mays ), barley (Hordeum vulgare ) and sugarcane have been improved to be resistant to viral diseases. This review describes recent advances in genome editing with a particular focus on sugarcane and focuses on the advantages and limitations of these approaches while also considering the regulatory and ethical implications across different countries. It also offers insights into future prospects and the application of these approaches in agriculture.

Aflatoxin B1-associated oxidative stress along with toxicopathological and immunological alterations is efficiently counteracted by dietary supplementation of distillery yeast sludge in broilers.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is among the most potent genotoxic and carcinogenic mycotoxins and is a major source of distress for the growing poultry sector. On the other hand, distillery yeast sludge or distillery sludge (DS) is a byproduct of molasses-based industries. It is often treated as a waste despite containing abundant nutrients particularly protein, basic amino acids, and vitamins along with other macro and micronutrients. This study was designed to investigate the oxidative stress and immunological alterations induced by AFB1 and their amelioration by dietary supplementation with DS. For this purpose, 360 newly hatched broiler chicks were randomly divided into twelve groups (30 birds each) and fed different combinations of AFB1 (100, 200, or 600 µg/kg) and DS (5 or 10 g/kg) for 42 days. The parameters under consideration were body weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), relative organ weights, histopathological examination of different visceral organs, total antioxidant capacity, antibody response to intravenous injection of sheep red blood cells, in situ lymphoproliferative response to phytohemagglutinin-P, and phagocytic potential through a carbon clearance assay system. The results of this study established that DS supplementation ameliorated AFB1-associated oxidative stress and ameliorated toxicopathological and immunological anomalies in groups given AFB1 at 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg; however, little to no relief was observed in birds fed AFB1 at 600 µg/kg. The determination of the actual ratio of the AFB1 to the DS for substantiating the ameliorating effects requires further investigation.

Advances in organocatalyzed synthesis of organic compounds.

The recent advancements in utilizing organocatalysts for the synthesis of organic compounds have been described in this review by focusing on their simplicity, effectiveness, reproducibility, and high selectivity which lead to excellent product yields. The organocatalytic methods for various derivatives, such as indoles, pyrazolones, anthrone-functionalized benzylic amines, maleimide, polyester, phthalimides, dihydropyrimidin, heteroaryls, N-aryl benzimidazoles, stilbenoids, quinazolines, quinolines, and oxazolidinones have been specifically focused. The review provides more understanding by delving into potential reaction mechanisms. We anticipate that this collection of data and findings on successful synthesis of diverse compound derivatives will serve as valuable resources and stimulating current and future research efforts in organocatalysis and industrial chemistry.

Green Organo-Photooxidative Method for the Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye.

This study used an organophoto-oxidative material to degrade the toxic azo dye, methylene blue (MB), due to its hazardous effects on aquatic life and humans. MB is traditionally degraded using metal-based catalysts, resulting in high costs. Several organic acids were screened for organo-photooxidative applications against various azo dyes, and ascorbic acid (AA), also known as vitamin C, was found to be best for degradation due to its high photooxidative activity. It is an eco-friendly, edible, and efficient photooxidative material. A photocatalytic box has been developed for the study of organo-photooxidative activity. It was found that when AA was added, degradation efficiency increased from 42 to 95% within 240 min. Different characterization techniques, such as HPLC and GC-MS, were used after degradation for the structural elucidation of degraded products. DFT study was done for the investigation of the mechanistic study behind the degradation process. A statistical tool, RSM, was used for the optimization of parameters (concentration of dye, catalyst, and time). This study develops sustainable and effective solutions for wastewater treatment.

Visible light assisted photooxidative facile degradation of azo dyes in water using a green method.

In this study, the methyl orange (MO) dye has been degraded after screening several azo dyes due to its effective results and being toxic and carcinogenic to aquatic life and humans. An environmentally friendly, economical, and green method for water purification was used in this study using the photooxidative method. Several organic acids were screened for oxidative applications against various azo dyes but due to better results, methyl orange was selected for the whole study. Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, was found to be best for photodegradation due to its high oxidative activity among various organic acids utilized. A newly developed photoreactor box has been used to conduct the photooxidation process. To evaluate the degradation efficiency of AsA, photooxidative activity was monitored periodically. When the dose of AsA was used at a contact time of 180 minutes, degradation efficiency was 96%. The analysis of degraded products was performed using HPLC and GC-MS. The nucleophilicity of HOMO-LUMO and MEPs was confirmed using density functional theory. For the optimization of the process, central composite design (CCD) in Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was utilized.

Impact of waste management among Industry 4.0 and sustainable development.

The study is aimed at investigating the impact of waste management in the context of Industry 4.0 and sustainable development. Data were collected from 257 production managers in the industrial sector using a survey questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS and PLS-SEM. The findings indicated that Industry 4.0 and waste management significantly contribute to achieving sustainable development. The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies and effective waste management practices can help organizations implement sustainable development goals. Practical implications include assisting organizations in implementing Industry 4.0 technologies and waste management strategies based on the 3Rs principle. This can lead to reduced environmental impacts and improved resource efficiency, contributing to sustainable development. Policymakers can also benefit from the study's insights to address waste management challenges and promote sustainable development. The study's originality lies in its incorporation of the cyber-physical system and niche theory to explore how Industry 4.0 can facilitate sustainable waste management. It highlights the transformative potential of Industry 4.0 in the industrial sector, particularly in developing countries. Overall, this research offers a unique contribution to understanding waste management within the context of Industry 4.0 and sustainable development.

Immune regulation in gastric adenocarcinoma is linked with therapeutic efficacy and improved recovery.

Adenocarcinomas are one of the most common histological types of gastric cancer. It has been ranked fifth among common cancers and is the third among death causing cancers worldwide. The high mortality rate among patients with gastric cancer is because of its silent evolution, genetic heterogeneity, high resistance to chemotherapy as well as unavailability of highly effective therapeutic strategy. Until now a number of several treatment strategies have been developed and are being practiced such as surgery, chemotherapy, radio therapy, and immunotherapy, however, further developments are required to improve the treatment responses and reduce the side effects. Therefore, novel personal therapeutic strategies based on immunological responses should be developed by targeting different check points and key immune players. Targeting macrophages and related molecular elements can be useful to achieve these goals. In this minireview, we discuss the available treatment options, molecular underpinnings and immunological regulations associated with gastric adenocarcinoma. We further describe the possible check points and immunological targets that can be used to develop novel therapeutic options.

Mitigative Potential of Novel Lactobacillus plantarum TISTR 2076 against the Aflatoxins-Associated Oxidative Stress and Histopathological Alterations in Liver and Kidney of Broiler Chicks during the Entire Growth Period.

Aflatoxins are the secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and have severe pathological effects on the health of human and animals. The present study was designed to investigate the toxicopathological changes induced by aflatoxins and mitigative potential of Lactobacillus plantarum in broiler birds. One hundred and eighty broiler chicks at one day of age was procured from the local market, and chicks were equally divided into six groups with thirty birds in each group. These birds were treated with aflatoxins (300 and 600 µg/kg) and Lactobacillus plantarum (1 × 108 cfu/kg of feed) in different combinations. The first group was kept as the control, and only a basal diet was provided to birds (BD). In the second group (AF1), the first level of aflatoxins (300 µg/kg) was fed to the birds. In the third group (AF2), the second level of aflatoxins (600 µg/kg) was fed to birds. In the fourth group (AF1LP), Lactobacillus plantarum was given with first level of aflatoxins. In the fifth group (AF2LP), Lactobacillus plantarum was given with the second level of aflatoxins, and in the 6th group (BDLP), Lactobacillus plantarum alone was fed to the chicks. This experimental study was continued for 42 days. Birds were slaughtered after 42 days, and different parameters were assessed. Parameters studied were gain in body weight, organ weight along with some histopathological, hematological, biochemical parameters and residues of aflatoxins in liver and kidney. Lactobacillus plantarum improved the body weight gain and restored the relative organ weight. Hepatic and renal biomarkers returned to normal concentrations, serum proteins were restored in combination group AF1LP, and partial amelioration was observed in the AF2LP group. Red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin centration and packed cell volume became normalized in the AF1LP group, while partial amelioration was observed in the AF2LP group. LP also reduced the concentration of aflatoxin residues in liver kidney and improved the TAC concentrations. The results of this study elucidated the mitigative potential of Lactobacillus plantarum against serum biochemical, histopathological, hematological and toxicopathological changes induced by aflatoxins in the chicks.

Effect of dietary supplementation of Neem, Azadirachta indica leaf extracts on enhancing the growth performance, chemical composition and survival of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss.

Rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss has a great nutritional value and delicious taste. A 90-days experimental trial was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary leaf extract of neem tree Azadirachta indica as a feeding supplement on the growth performance and proximate composition of O. mykiss. Four experimental diets were designed as T1 (with 5% A. indica leaf extract), T2 (with 7% of A. indica leaf extract), T3 (with 10% A. indica leaf extract), and T4 (control group feed with a regular diet with 0% A. indica leaf extract). The average initial weight of fry 0.4 ± 0.14 g was stocked at 25 fish/tank with two replicates per treatment (4 × 2 = 8). After 90 days of the experimental trial, One-way ANOVA showed significant differences in final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and survival rate among the treatment groups (p < 0.05). The highest final body weight (48.10 g) and weight gain (47.70 g) was observed in T2 with 7% A. indica leaf extract, which was significantly different from the other treatments (p < 0.05). The lowest FCR was recorded in T2 (1.90), which was significantly different compared to other treatment groups (p < 0.05). Inclusion of A. indica leaf extract in formulated feed for rainbow trout had significant effects in the hepatosomatic index, viscerosomatic index and Fulton's condition factor (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the survival rate of rainbow trout fry treated with different experimental diets (p > 0.05). The phenomenal regression indicates that 7.5% A. indica inclusion is optimum for best growth performance for rainbow trout under a controlled environment. Thus, the present study suggests that the dietary leaf extract has performed an excellent nutritional supplement by enhancing growth performance and health conditions of rainbow trout in the hatchery conditions.

Potential biomedical applications of Araucaria araucana as an antispasmodic, bronchodilator, vasodilator, and antiemetic: Involvement of calcium channels.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Since pre-Columbian era, the resin of Araucaria araucana tree has been used traditionally for the treatment of ulcers and wounds. Araucaria species have also been used to treat inflammation, respiratory problems, viral infections, ulcers, and rheumatoid, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders. AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: Due to its popular use, the authors aimed to scrutinize the potential of this plant as an antispasmodic and an antiemetic agent. Furthermore broncho- and vasodilatory effects of this plant was explored to rationalize its folkloric uses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Araucaria araucana crude extract (Aa.Cr) was evaluated in isolated preparations of rabbit jejunum, trachea, aorta, and atria to investigate the antispasmodic, bronchodilator, and vasodilator effects. The potential mechanistic approaches were compared with the standard drug 'verapamil'. The antiemetic activity was determined and compared with the standard drug 'domperidone' via chick emesis model. RESULTS: Aa.Cr dose-dependently relaxed both spontaneous and K+-induced contractions in the isolated jejunum preparations of rabbits. In concentration-response curves of calcium (Ca++), Aa.Cr also triggered the rightward shift like verapamil. Applying carbachol and phenylephrine (1 µM) and K+ (80 mM) to the isolated tracheal and aortic tissue preparation, respectively, resulted in broncho- and vasodilatory activities, respectively which may be due to the inhibition of Ca++ channels. Aa.Cr inhibited atrial force and spontaneous contractions in the rabbit's right atria. Aa.Cr exhibited significant antiemetic activity (P < 0.001 vs. saline) in dose-dependent (50-150 mg/kg) manner like domperidone. In silico molecular docking was performed to investigate the biological targets of purified components of Aa.Cr which revealed that cadinol dominantly targets ß2 receptors to cause bronchodilation, however, eudesmin binds non-specifically to all the selected targets, while secoisolariciresinol mediated high hydrogen bonding with muscarinic receptors (M1 and M3) and Ca++ channels, thus shows the suggested mechanistic pathways of targeted activities. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicates that Aa.Cr may exhibit antispasmodic activity, bronchodilation, and vasodilation by inhibiting voltage-dependent Ca++ channels and release of subcellular calcium. This explains its folkloric use in hypertension, bronchospasms, gastrointestinal spasms, and emesis.

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome After Administration of AZD1222 or Ad26.COV2.S Vaccine for COVID-19: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Cases of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) have been reported following vaccination with AZD1222 or Ad26.COV2.S. This review aimed to explore the pathophysiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of TTS. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted to identify evidence on TTS till 4th September 2021. Case reports and series reporting patient-level data were included. Descriptive statistics were reported and compared across patients with different sexes, age groups, vaccines, types of thrombosis, and outcomes. FINDINGS: Sixty-two studies reporting 160 cases were included from 16 countries. Patients were predominantly females with a median age of 42.50 (22) years. AZD1222 was administered to 140 patients (87·5%). TTS onset occurred in a median of 9 (4) days after vaccination. Venous thrombosis was most common (61.0%). Most patients developed cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST; 66.3%). CVST was significantly more common in female vs male patients (p = 0·001) and in patients aged <45 years vs ≥45 years (p = 0·004). The mortality rate was 36.2%, and patients with suspected TTS, venous thrombosis, CVST, pulmonary embolism, or intraneural complications, patients not managed with non-heparin anticoagulants or IVIG, patients receiving platelet transfusions, and patients requiring intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, or inpatient neurosurgery were more likely to expire than recover. INTERPRETATION: These findings help to understand the pathophysiology of TTS while also recommending diagnostic and management approaches to improve prognosis in patients. FUNDING: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

The implications of hyperoxia, type 1 diabetes and sex on cardiovascular physiology in mice.

Oxygen supplementation, although a cornerstone of emergency and cardiovascular medicine, often results in hyperoxia, a condition characterized by excessive tissue oxygen which results in adverse cardiac remodeling and subsequent injurious effects to physiological function. Cardiac remodeling is further influenced by various risk factors, including pre-existing conditions and sex. Thus, the purpose of this experiment was to investigate cardiac remodeling in Type I Diabetic (Akita) mice subjected to hyperoxic treatment. Overall, we demonstrated that Akita mice experience distinct challenges from wild type (WT) mice. Specifically, Akita males at both normoxia and hyperoxia showed significant decreases in body and heart weights, prolonged PR, QRS, and QTc intervals, and reduced %EF and %FS at normoxia compared to WT controls. Moreover, Akita males largely resemble female mice (both WT and Akita) with regards to the parameters studied. Finally, statistical analysis revealed hyperoxia to have the greatest influence on cardiac pathophysiology, followed by sex, and finally genotype. Taken together, our data suggest that Type I diabetic patients may have distinct cardiac pathophysiology under hyperoxia compared to uncomplicated patients, with males being at high risk. These findings can be used to enhance provision of care in ICU patients with Type I diabetes as a comorbid condition.

Application Of Cling Film Over Burn Wounds (Occlusive Wound Dressing): Our Experience.

BACKGROUND: This study shares our experience and review the outcome of the use of cling film with silver sulfadiazine cream in terms of healing time, and patient's satisfaction score. METHODS: It was a descriptive case series conducted at Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Center, Lahore, from March 2018 to February 2019. In this study, a thick layer of silver sulfadiazine was applied and then wrapped with cling film on 35 patients sustained mix thickness burns on the trunk and limbs. Dressing was done daily after wound wash with normal saline. Consultant Plastic surgeon assessed the wound healing by observation and serial photographs. Duration of wound healing and complications were noted. RESULTS: Complete wound healing was achieved in 25 (71.4%) patients with mean healing time of 13.3 days (range 11-15 days). The wound infection was seen in 5 (14.2%) patients, that were diagnosed by change in colour of wound edges and patients with signs of sepsis (ABA scoring). Sepsis was treated in 5 patients with debridement and culture specific antibiotics. split skin graft done in 8 (22.8%) cases. CONCLUSIONS: Moist wound dressing with Silver Sulfadiazine and cling film is cost effective, easy to apply with good visibility of the wound and has good patient satisfaction, but is labour intensive.

Accuracy of Thermal Imaging Camera in Identification of Perforators.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of thermal imaging camera in the identification of perforators using peroperative visual inspection as gold standard. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study. Place of Study: Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre / Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, from October 2017 to September 2018. METHODOLOGY: Patients undergoing pedicled or free perforator flap for reconstructive surgery of upper and lower limb, abdomen, groin, and head and neck region, where soft tissue defect was caused by trauma (road traffic accidents and electric burns), were included in this study. All patients underwent the same treatment protocol of identification of perforator location with Flir One camera preoperatively. Later, it was confirmed peroperatively by visual inspection. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value. RESULTS: Diagnostic accuracy in identification of perforators in pedicled (n=154) and free flaps (n=30) by thermal imaging camera was calculated as sensitivity of 86.2%, specificity of 80.0% with the positive and negative predictive values of 98.7%, and 25.0%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Flir One, a smartphone-compatible miniature thermal imaging camera, is useful for the detection of perforators and is highly sensitive and specific. Key Words:  Flir One, Perforators, Thermal imaging, Thermal imaging camera.

Glycerol Preserved Amnion: A Viable Source of Biological Dressing for Superficial Partial Thickness Facial Burns.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the role of amnion as a biological dressing in superficial partial thickness facial burns. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY: Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre, Lahore, from January 2017 to December 2018. METHODS: Sixty two patients with superficial partial thickness facial burns were randomly divided into two groups (A and B). Ointment containing Polymyxin B and Bacitracin was applied in group A (n=28) while amnion was applied in group B (n=34). The patients were monitored for the pain related to burns needing analgesia, time of healing of burns, and cosmetic outcome of the facial scarring over a period of six months. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 26.5 ±12.2 years. 39 (62.9%) patients were male and 23 (37.1%) were females. The mean percent total facial surface area burned was 2.7% ±1. None of the patients developed facial wound infections. The average healing time was 6 ±2 days. The mean frequency of analgesia for 3 days of group B was less as compared to group A. infection rate was similar in both groups. No significant difference was observed in VAS score at 1, 3 and 6 month follow up between both groups. CONCLUSION: Amnion is a safe, cost effective and most readily available biological dressing for superficial partial thickness facial burn management. Key Words: Amnion, Facial burn, Biological dressing, Scarring, Partial thickness burn.

Neuroprotective effects of melatonin and celecoxib against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration: a computational and pharmacological approach.

PURPOSE: Melatonin and celecoxib are antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that exert protective effects in different experimental models. In this study, the neuroprotective effects of melatonin and celecoxib were demonstrated against ethanol-induced neuronal injury by in silico, morphological, and biochemical approaches. METHODS: For the in silico study, 3-D structures were constructed and docking analysis performed. For in vivo studies, rats were treated with ethanol, melatonin, and celecoxib. Brain samples were collected for biochemical and morphological analysis. RESULTS: Homology modeling was performed to build 3-D structures for IL1ß), TNFα, TLR4, and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Structural refinement was achieved via molecular dynamic simulation and processed for docking and postdocking analysis. Further in vivo experiments showed that ethanol induced marked neuronal injury characterized by downregulated glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, and upregulated inducible nitric oxide synthase. Additionally, ethanol increased the expression of TNFα and IL1ß. Finally, neuronal apoptosis was demonstrated in ethanol-intoxicated animals using caspase 3 and activated JNK staining. On the other hand, melatonin and celecoxib treatment ameliorated the biochemical and immunohistochemical alterations induced by ethanol. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrated that ethanol induced neurodegeneration by activating inflammatory and apoptotic proteins in rat brain, while melatonin and celecoxib may protect rat brain by downregulating inflammatory and apoptotic markers.