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1.
Food Res Int ; 186: 114344, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38729696

ABSTRACT

The research aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasonication and succinylation on the functional, iron binding, physiochemical, and cellular mineral uptake efficacy of chickpea protein concentrate. Succinylation resulted in significant improvements in the water-holding capacity (WHC) (25.47 %), oil-holding capacity (OHC) (31.38 %), and solubility (5.80 %) of the chickpea protein-iron complex. Mineral bioavailability significantly increased by 4.41 %, and there was a significant increase in cellular mineral uptake (64.64 %), retention (36.68 %), and transport (27.96 %). The ferritin content of the succinylated chickpea protein-iron complex showed a substantial increase of 66.31%. Furthermore, the dual modification approach combining ultrasonication and succinylation reduced the particle size of the protein-iron complex with a substantial reduction of 83.25 %. It also resulted in a significant enhancement of 51.5 % in the SH (sulfhydryl) content and 48.92 % in the surface hydrophobicity. Mineral bioavailability and cellular mineral uptake, retention, and transport were further enhanced through dual modification. In terms of application, the addition of single and dual-modified chickpea protein-iron complex to a fruit-based smoothie demonstrated positive acceptance in sensory attributes. Overall, the combined approach of succinylation and ultrasonication to the chickpea protein-iron complex shows a promising strategy for enhancing the physiochemical and techno-functional characteristics, cellular mineral uptake, and the development of vegan food products.


Subject(s)
Biological Availability , Cicer , Iron , Cicer/chemistry , Iron/chemistry , Iron/metabolism , Humans , Food, Fortified , Plant Proteins/chemistry , Digestion , Minerals/chemistry , Caco-2 Cells , Succinic Acid/chemistry , Particle Size , Food Handling/methods , Solubility , Ferritins/chemistry , Ferritins/metabolism
2.
Adv Sci (Weinh) ; : e2308561, 2024 Apr 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38590131

ABSTRACT

Underwater organisms exhibit sophisticated propulsion mechanisms, enabling them to navigate fluid environments with exceptional dexterity. Recently, substantial efforts have focused on integrating these movements into soft robots using smart shape-changing materials, particularly by using light for their propulsion and control. Nonetheless, challenges persist, including slow response times and the need of powerful light beams to actuate the robot. This last can result in unintended sample heating and potentially necessitate tracking specific actuation spots on the swimmer. To tackle these challenges, new azobenzene-containing photopolymerizable inks are introduced, which can be processed by extrusion printing into liquid crystalline elastomer (LCE) elements of precise shape and morphology. These LCEs exhibit rapid and significant photomechanical response underwater, driven by moderate-intensity ultraviolet (UV) and green light, being the actuation mechanism predominantly photochemical. Inspired by nature, a biomimetic four-lapped ephyra-like LCE swimmer is printed. The periodically illumination of the entire swimmer with moderate-intensity UV and green light, induces synchronous lappet bending toward the light source and swimmer propulsion away from the light. The platform eliminates the need of localized laser beams and tracking systems to monitor the swimmer's motion through the fluid, making it a versatile tool for creating light-fueled robotic LCE free-swimmers.

3.
Langmuir ; 40(12): 6172-6186, 2024 Mar 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38467540

ABSTRACT

Conformational changes play a seminal role in modulating the activity of proteins. This concept becomes all the more relevant in the context of metalloproteins, owing to the formation of specific conformation(s) induced by internal perturbations (like a change in pH, ligand binding, or receptor binding), which may carry out the binding and release of the metal ion/ions from the metal binding center of the protein. Herein, we investigated the conformational changes of an iron-binding protein, monoferric human serum transferrin (Fe-hTF), using several spectroscopic approaches. We could reversibly tune the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-induced conformation of the protein, exploiting the concept of mixed micelles formed by three sequestrating agents: (3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate) hydrate (CHAPS) and two bile salts, namely, sodium cholate (NaC) and sodium deoxycholate (NaDC). The formation of mixed micelles between CTAB and these reagents (CHAPS/NaC/NaDC) results in the sequestration of CTAB molecules from the protein environment and aids the protein in reattaining its native-like structure. However, the guanidinium hydrochloride-induced denatured Fe-hTF did not acquire its native-like structure using these sequestrating agents, which substantiates the exclusive role of mixed micelles in the present study. Apart from this, we found that the conformation of transferrin (adopted in the presence of CTAB) displays pronounced esterase-like activity toward the para-nitrophenyl acetate (PNPA) substrate as compared to native transferrin. We also outlined the impact of the iron center and amino acids surrounding the iron center on the effective catalytic activity in the CTAB medium. We estimated ∼3 times higher specific catalytic efficiency for the iron-depleted Apo-hTF compared to the fully iron-saturated Fe2-hTF in the presence of CTAB.


Subject(s)
Iron , Micelles , Humans , Iron/chemistry , Cetrimonium , Transferrin/chemistry , Protein Binding
4.
Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis ; 109(2): 116281, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38537507

ABSTRACT

These diverse outcomes of Covid-19 are influenced by various factors including age, gender, underlying health conditions, immune responses, viral variants, external factors, and overall quality of life. Demographic analysis of patients aged 0-18 years experienced mild to moderate cases, above 55 years with co-morbidities, were more severely affected.COVID-19 incidence was higher in males (58 %) & (42 %) in females. The reduced expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR) in severe and critical patients is a crucial determinant. This reduced TLR expression is primarily attributed to the dominance of the PLpro viral protein of COVID-19. Disease enrichment analysis highlights the long-term impact of COVID-19, which can lead to post-recovery complications such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiac diseases, and brain ischemia in Covid-19 patients. In conclusion, a comprehensive strategy targeting key factors like PLpro, TLR, and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 and IL-6 could offer an effective approach to mitigate the devastating effects of COVID-19.


Subject(s)
COVID-19 , SARS-CoV-2 , Humans , COVID-19/immunology , Female , Male , SARS-CoV-2/immunology , Adolescent , Child , Child, Preschool , Infant , Toll-Like Receptors/immunology , Infant, Newborn , Middle Aged , Adult , Young Adult , Cytokines/immunology , Cytokines/blood , Aged
6.
Food Chem ; 445: 138671, 2024 Jul 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38367556

ABSTRACT

Chickpea protein, a valuable plant-based source, offers versatile applications, yet the impact of modifications like succinylation and ultrasonication on its properties remains unclear. This study explored dual succinylation and ultrasonication modification to enhance its functionality and application. Modified chickpea protein with a degree of succinylation of 96.75 %, showed enhanced water holding capacity 39.83 %, oil holding capacity 54.02 %, solubility 7.20 %, and emulsifying capacity 23.17 %, compared to native protein. Despite reduced amino acid content (64.50 %), particularly lysine, succinylation increased sulfhydryl by 1.74 %, reducing hydrophobicity (Ho) by 41.87 % and causing structural changes. Ultrasonication further reduced particle size by 82.57 % and increased zeta potential and amino acid content (57.47 %). The dual-modified protein exhibited a non-significant increase in antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (25.93 ± 1.36 mm) compared to the native protein (25.28 ± 1.05 mm). In conclusion, succinylation combined with ultrasonication offers a promising strategy to enhance chickpea protein's physicochemical properties for diverse applications.


Subject(s)
Amino Acids , Cicer , Amino Acids/metabolism , Cicer/chemistry , Proteins/metabolism , Solubility , Water/metabolism
7.
JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc ; 62(270): 155-157, 2024 Feb 24.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38409970

ABSTRACT

Zellweger syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease within the spectrum of peroxisome biogenesis disorder manifesting in the neonatal period with profound dysfunction of the central nervous system, liver and kidney. Common clinical presentations include hypotonia, seizure, hepatomegaly, craniofacial dysmorphism and early death. Mutation in one of the PEX genes coding for a peroxisome assembly protein creates a functionally incompetent organelle causing accumulation of very long chain fatty acids in various organs. Here we report the case of a 5-month-old male presented at birth with hypotonia, poor feeding, gross congenital anomalies and later during early infancy with failure to thrive, several episodes of seizures, aspiration due to feeding difficulties and recurrent severe pneumonia. A whole genomic sequencing brought us to the final diagnosis of Zellweger syndrome. Despite an absence of treatment options, prompt diagnosis of Zellweger syndrome is important for providing appropriate symptomatic care, definitive genetic testing and prenatal counselling. Keywords: case reports; mutation; neonate; Zellweger syndrome.


Subject(s)
Peroxisomal Disorders , Zellweger Syndrome , Infant, Newborn , Humans , Male , Infant , Zellweger Syndrome/diagnosis , Zellweger Syndrome/genetics , Muscle Hypotonia/genetics , Peroxisomal Disorders/genetics , Genetic Testing , Mutation
9.
Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg ; 62(2): 164-170, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38310027

ABSTRACT

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis leads to mandibular micrognathia that severely collapses the upper airway causing obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), resulting in deterioration and compromise in the quality of life (QoL) of patients. In this study, we aimed to calculate airway volume changes, apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI), and improvement in quality of life before and after distraction osteogenesis (DO). Fourteen Patients with OSA secondary to TMJ ankylosis at a mean (SD) age of 17.5 (5.43) years were enrolled in this prospective study. Multivector mandibular distractors were used in all patients following the standard Ilizarov distraction protocol with a mean (SD) anteroposterior distraction of 16.21 (4.37) mm and a consolidation period of 116.92 (14.35) days. The patients were followed up for six months. A polysomnography test (PSG) was done to quantify AHI and a low-dose computed tomographic scan was done to calculate airway volume using Dolphin medical imaging software pre and post-DO. The QoL of the patients was calculated using the OSA-18 questionnaire. Results analysis depicted that the mean (SD) preoperative AHI was 51.44 (37.99)/h which was improved to 9.57 (9.74)/h (p = 0.001) after DO. Airway volume was calculated on Dolphin software before and after DO showed a significant improvement in airway volume by 121.12% (98.30)%. Similarly, the OSA-18 questionnaire showed significant improvement in QoL from severe to normal. This study suggested that DO increases the corpus length of the mandible, leading to an increment in airway volume, which improves the QoL.


Subject(s)
Ankylosis , Dolphins , Osteogenesis, Distraction , Sleep Apnea, Obstructive , Temporomandibular Joint Disorders , Humans , Animals , Adolescent , Quality of Life , Prospective Studies , Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/etiology , Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/surgery , Ankylosis/complications , Ankylosis/surgery , Temporomandibular Joint
10.
Med J Armed Forces India ; 80(1): 1-3, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38239599
11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38176095

ABSTRACT

Isolation of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) has been done extensively in the past using ultracentrifugation, a recent shift has been observed towards precipitation, and exosome isolation kits. These methods often co-elute contaminants of similar size and density which makes their detection and downstream applications quite challenging. As well as the EV yield is also compromised in some methodologies due to aggregate formation. In recent reports, size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) is replacing density gradient-based ultracentrifugation as the gold standard of exosome isolation. It outperforms in yield, purity and does not account for any physical damage to the EVs. We have standardized the methodology for an efficient pure yield of homogenous exosomes of size even smaller than 75 nm in Caenorhabditis elegans homogenate. The paper entails the application and optimization of EV isolation by SEC based on previous studies by optimizing bed size and type of sepharose column employed. We propose that this method is economically feasible in comparison with currently available approaches. A comparative study was conducted to investigate the performance of CL-6B in relation to CL-2B and further, this was combined with ultracentrifugation for higher efficacy. The methodology could be introduced in a clinical setting due to its therapeutic potential and scope. The eluted EVs were studied by flow cytometry, nanotracking and characterized for size and morphology.


Subject(s)
Exosomes , Extracellular Vesicles , Animals , Caenorhabditis elegans , Extracellular Vesicles/chemistry , Ultracentrifugation/methods , Chromatography, Gel
12.
Biogerontology ; 2024 Jan 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38240923

ABSTRACT

The influence of chronic diseases on various facets of macrophage cellular senescence is poorly understood. This study evaluated the impact of chronic hyperglycemia on the induction of cellular senescence and subsequent immunosurveillance functions in RAW264.7 macrophages. Macrophages were cultured under normal glucose (NG; 5 mM), high glucose (HG; 20 mM), and very high glucose (VHG; 40 mM) conditions and assessed for markers of cellular senescence. Hyperglycemia induced strong upregulation of SA-ß-gal activity, and loss of PCNA and Lamin B1 gene expression while markers of cell cycle arrest generally decreased. Non-significant changes in SASP-related proteins were observed while ROS levels slightly decreased and mitochondrial membrane potential increased. Protein concentration on the exosome membrane surface and their stability appeared to increase under hyperglycemic conditions. However, when macrophages were exposed to the secretory media (SM) of senescent preadipocytes, a dramatic increase in the levels of all inflammatory proteins was recorded especially in the VHG group that was also accompanied by upregulation of NF-κB and NLRP3 gene expression. SM treatment to hyperglycemic macrophages activated the TLR-2/Myd88 pathway but decreased the expression of scavenger receptors RAGE, CD36, and Olr-1 while CD44 and CXCL16 expression increased. On exposure to LPS, a strong upregulation in NO, ROS, and inflammatory cytokines was observed. Together, these results suggest that primary markers of cellular senescence are aberrantly expressed under chronic hyperglycemic conditions in macrophages with no significant SASP activation. Nonetheless, hyperglycemia strongly deregulates macrophage functions leading to impaired immunosurveillance of senescent cells and aggravation of inflamm-aging. This work provides novel insights into how hyperglycemia-induced dysfunctions can impact the potency of macrophages to manage senescent cell burden in aging tissues.

13.
Chem Commun (Camb) ; 60(13): 1663-1673, 2024 Feb 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38260953

ABSTRACT

Beryllium possesses a unique amalgamation of characteristics, its electronegativity included, that not only make it a vital component in a wide range of technical sectors and consumer industries, but also make it an interesting candidate for forming covalently bonded compounds. However, the extremely toxic nature of beryllium, which can cause chronic beryllium disease, has limited the exploration of its chemistry, making beryllium one of the least studied (non-radioactive) elements. The development of selective chelating ligands, sterically encumbered substituents and, moreover, the boom of N-heterocyclic carbenes in organometallic chemistry and main group chemistry has revived the interest in beryllium chemistry. Therefore, some quite remarkable progress in the coordination and organometallic chemistry of beryllium has been made in the last two decades. For example, low oxidation state beryllium compounds, antiaromatic/aromatic beryllium compounds, where beryllium is involved in π-electron delocalization, and the isolation of beryllium-beryllium bonded species have all been achieved. This article provides an oversight over the recent developments in the organometallic chemistry of beryllium.

14.
Nanoscale ; 16(2): 806-820, 2024 Jan 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38090989

ABSTRACT

The core and the ligand shell of metal nanoclusters (MNCs) have an influential role in modulating their spectroscopic signatures and catalytic properties. The aspect of electrostatic interactions to regulate the catalytic properties of MNCs has not been comprehensively addressed to date. Our present work conclusively delineates the role of the metal core and the electrostatic surface of MNCs involved in the reduction of nitroarenes. A facile surface modification of mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA)-templated AgNCs has been selectively achieved through Mg2+ ions (Mg-AgNCs). Microscopic studies suggest that the size of Mg-AgNCs is ∼3.3 nm, which is considerably higher than that of MSA-templated AgNCs (∼1.75 nm), confirming the formation of a nano-assembled structure. Our spectroscopic and microscopic experiments revealed that the negatively charged AgNCs efficiently catalyze the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) with a rate constant of 0.23 ± 0.01 min-1. However, upon surface modification, the catalytic efficiency almost doubles due to the formation of Mg-AgNCs. Catalysis through AgNCs and Mg-AgNCs collectively portrays the role of the core and electrostatic surfaces. Furthermore, the role of electrostatic interaction has been substantiated by varying the ionic strength of the medium, as well as employing different molecular systems. A quantitative assessment of the Debye screening length asserts the correlation between the ionic strength of the medium and the role of electrostatic interactions involved herein. This highly enhanced catalytic aspect has been utilized for the real sample analysis, wherein AgNCs unexpectedly outperform Mg-AgNCs. This approach of real sample analysis also emanates the role of electrostatics involved. This comprehensive investigation represents the influential role of the core and ligand shell of MNCs as well as the role of electrostatics on its catalytic activities, which is relevant for the rational design of highly efficient catalysts.

15.
J Basic Microbiol ; 64(3): e2300616, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38161239

ABSTRACT

The ectomycorrhizal (EcM) roots of Cedrus deodara associated with a unique hypogeous EcM fungus-Rhizopogon himalayensis is meticulously characterized and comprehensively described based on well-established standard morphological and anatomical features. The mycobiont-R. himalayensis was found organically associated with the roots of C. deodara. The EcM morphotypes are distinguished by differences in the shape and color of the roots, type of ramification, surface texture, type of mantle, as well as different chemical reactions. All the examined morphotypes were having similar mycorrhizal system and anatomically (Mantle and Hartig net) no disparities were seen, that is, nonsignificant (p > 0.05) variations were observed. The majority of mycorrhizal systems were irregularly pinnate, dichotomous type with 0-1 order of ramification and occasional coralloid type. Mantle surface was densely cottony to loosely wooly. The outer and inner mantles were H & Q type. Hartig net was a complex net-like structure with uniseriate to mutiseriate type of hyphal cell arrangement. Rhizomorph were smooth and round, consistently growing along roots. Moreover, extraradical hyphae were hyaline, septate, and without clamp connections. Sclerotia and cystidia were absent. Our findings will contribute to the biology of ectomycorrhizae associated with primitive and economically valuable conifers, thriving in the face of shifting environmental conditions in the northwestern Himalayas.


Subject(s)
Basidiomycota , Mycorrhizae , Cedrus , Plant Roots , Hyphae
16.
Exp Clin Transplant ; 21(11): 868-871, 2023 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38140930

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Parvovirus testing is not done in routine clinical practice; thus, it is possible that reported parvovirus cases are just the tip of the iceberg of total prevalence. We present a single-center retrospective analysis of 22 events of parvovirus B19 anemia in 20 renal transplant recipients, among which 2 patients had recurrence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this descriptive analytical study, parvovirus B19 disease was defined as parvovirus infection (detection by real-time polymerase chain reaction) in the presence of anemia with clinical symptoms or bone marrow biopsy findings consistent with the diagnosis. Study duration was 18 months, from June 2021 through December 2022, and patients were enrolled from a single center. RESULTS: All patients detected with the virus had received induction with thymocyte globulin and were on standard triple drug immunosuppression. Mean age was 32 ± 12 years with median time to diagnosis of 2 months after transplant. Anemia was observed in all patients with mean hemoglobin level at presentation of 6.02 ± 1.28 g/dL. Creatinine at presentation was 1.49 mg/dL (interquartile range, 0.92-2.69 mg/dL). The most common presentation was asymptomatic patient with evaluation for anemia. During therapy, the highest median creatinine level was 2.0 mg/dL (interquartile range, 1.38-3.2 mg/dL), which was significantly higher than that at presentation (P < .018). After therapy, median creatinine level was 1.3 mg/dL, which was not significantly higher than the baseline level, demonstrating a mostly transient graft dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Parvovirus B19 is a relatively underreported disease in renal transplant recipients, with patients presenting with anemia and the disease causing transient graft dysfunction. Parvovirus B19 infection responds well to a decrease in immunosuppression and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.


Subject(s)
Anemia , Kidney Transplantation , Parvoviridae Infections , Parvovirus B19, Human , Parvovirus , Humans , Young Adult , Adult , Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects , Creatinine , Retrospective Studies , Parvoviridae Infections/diagnosis , Parvoviridae Infections/epidemiology , Anemia/diagnosis , Anemia/epidemiology , Anemia/etiology , Parvovirus B19, Human/genetics
17.
BMC Complement Med Ther ; 23(1): 362, 2023 Oct 13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37833682

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Sterile fecal filtrate (SFF) is being considered a safer alternative to fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) therapy; however, its bioactive potency is very little understood. The present study thus assessed the age-dependent immunostimulatory and immunomodulatory attributes of murine SFF in vitro. METHODS: SFF from young (Y-SFF) and old (O-SFF) Swiss albino mice were prepared. Immunostimulatory and immunomodulatory effects of SFF were evaluated in resting and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated macrophage cells by measuring intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) production, inflammatory cytokines profile, as well as gene expression of oxidative and inflammatory transcription factors. SFF were also evaluated for native antioxidant capacity by measuring DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity. Bioactive components present in SFF were also determined by GC/MS analysis. RESULTS: Both Y-SFF and O-SFF induced potent immunostimulatory effects characterized by changes in cell morphology, a significant increase in NO production, ROS levels, and an increased ratio of pro-inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1ß) to anti-inflammatory (IL-10) secretory proteins although no significant aggravation in the transcription of NF-κB and Nrf-2 could be observed. Application of LPS to cells significantly augmented a pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory response which was much higher in comparison to Y-SFF or O-SFF application alone and mediated by strong suppression of Nrf-2 gene expression. Pre-treatment of macrophages with both Y-SFF and O-SFF robustly attenuated cellular hyperresponsiveness to LPS characterized by significantly decreased levels of NO, ROS, and inflammatory cytokines while a concomitant increase in anti-inflammatory protein (IL-10) was observed. Further, both Y-SFF and O-SFF strongly resisted LPS-induced downregulation of Nrf-2 expression although O-SFF appeared to protect cells slightly better from the overall LPS threat. Neat SFF samples exhibited moderate antioxidant capacity and GC/MS analysis of SFF revealed diverse volatile organic compounds characterized by alkanes, organosulphur compounds, furans, amides, amino acids, and antimicrobial elements. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that SFF is a potent stimulant of macrophages and confers strong anti-inflammatory effects regardless of donor age thereby suggesting its therapeutic efficacy in lieu of FMT therapy.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Interleukin-10 , Animals , Mice , Antioxidants/chemistry , Signal Transduction , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Lipopolysaccharides/pharmacology , Macrophages , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Cytokines/metabolism , Nitric Oxide/metabolism
18.
Biomed Microdevices ; 25(4): 39, 2023 10 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37801137

ABSTRACT

In this paper we demonstrate how the use of frequencies ranging from 50 kHz to 5 GHz in the analysis of cells by electrorotation can open the path to the identification of differences not detectable by conventional set-ups. Earlier works usually reported electrorotation devices operating below 20 MHz, limiting the response obtained to properties associated with the cell membrane. Those devices are thus unable to resolve the physiological properties in the cytoplasm. We used microwave-based technology to extend the frequency operation to 5 GHz. At high frequencies (from tens of MHz to GHz), the electromagnetic signal passes through the membrane and allows probing the cytoplasm. This enables several applications, such as cell classification, and viability analysis. Additionally, the use of conventional microfabrication techniques reduces the cost and complexity of analysis, compared to other non-invasive methods. We demonstrated the potential of this set-up by identifying two different populations of T-lymphocytes not distinguishable through visual assessment. We also assessed the effect of calcein on cell cytoplasmic properties and used it as a controlled experiment to demonstrate the possibility of this method to detect changes happening predominantly in the cytoplasm.


Subject(s)
Electric Conductivity , Cytoplasm , Cell Membrane
19.
J Nepal Health Res Counc ; 21(1): 129-135, 2023 Sep 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37742162

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: One of the main complications of chronic kidney disease is anemia. Disorders of iron homeostasis seen in such patients make the management of anemia more challenging and risky. To obtain the desired result, erythropoietin and iron dose must be carefully regulated. The aim of the study is to find out the prevalence of anemia and level iron indices in patients of chronic kidney disease at a tertiary care hospital. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on chronic kidney disease patients at a tertiary care center. Demographic data like age, sex, height and weight were collected with the help of using Performa. The hematological and biochemical study variables were assayed by blood sample of the patients in the clinical laboratory services. Data were analyzed by statistical package for the social sciences Version 20.0 Results: Out of 171 patients with chronic kidney disease, 162 (94.7%) were anemic, with the highest percentage 54 (31.5%) having hypertension. The median value with inter-quartile range of hemoglobin, serum iron, serum ferritin, TIBC and transferring saturation were 8.9 gm/dl (6.7-10.0), 115.0 (µg/dl) (60.0-140.0), 599.0 ng/ml (142.6-973.0), 279.0 µg/dl (250.0-342.0) and 41.0 % (22.0-53.0) respectively. Serum creatinine and eGFR were significantly correlated with hemoglobin and iron indices. CONCLUSIONS: The current study showed that anemia was more prevalent in patients of chronic kidney disease in our setting as compared to similar studies. Hypertension was the most common disease among them. The median value of parameters of iron profile except ferritin among them was within the reference limit.


Subject(s)
Anemia , Hypertension , Humans , Iron , Cross-Sectional Studies , Nepal/epidemiology , Anemia/epidemiology , Ferritins
20.
J Clin Med ; 12(18)2023 Sep 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37762942

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Management of cleft lip and palate is interdisciplinary. An evidence-mapping approach was envisaged to highlight the existing gaps in this field, using only the highest level of evidence. OBJECTIVES: To conduct evidence mapping and quality analysis of systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to any aspect of cleft lip and palate. SEARCH METHODS: The cleft lip and palate field was divided into 9 domains and 50 subdomains and a method of categorization of systematic reviews was established. A comprehensive search strategy was carried out in seven databases along with the search of gray literature and references of included articles. SELECTION CRITERIA: Systematic reviews related to any aspect of cleft lip and palate, conducted by a minimum of two reviewers, with a comprehensive search strategy and adequate quality analysis were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: A self-designed, pre-piloted data-extraction sheet was used to collect information that was analyzed through an expert group discussion. Quality analysis was performed using ROBIS-I, AMSTAR 2, and the PRISMA checklist. RESULTS: A total of 144 systematic reviews published between 2008 and 2022 were included. The largest number of these could be categorized in the therapeutic domain (n = 58). A total of 27% of the studies were categorized as inconclusive, 40% as partially conclusive, and 33% as conclusive. As per ROBIS-I, 77% of reviews had high risk of bias while 58% were graded as critically low in quality as per AMSTAR 2. The majority of systematic reviews showed low reporting errors. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of systematic reviews related to cleft lip and palate relate to therapeutic and prognostic domains and show high risk of bias and critically low quality regardless of the source journal. The results of this paper might serve as a starting point encouraging authors to carry out high-quality research where evidence is lacking. REGISTRATION: A multidisciplinary expert-group formulated an a priori protocol, registered in Open Science Framework (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/NQDV2).

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