Coupling of a streamlined solid-liquid extraction protocol with LC-ESI-MS/MS for the regular oversight of illegal bromate additive use: An accurate and sensitive determination method in preliminary and bakery products.

A reliable solid-liquid extraction protocol coupled with liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry in the negative-ion mode was developed and validated for illegal bromate determination in preliminary and bakery products. Crude and dried-treated samples were directly extracted with acetonitrile-water (4:1, v/v). Bromate was determined using a Phenomenex Synergi™ Polar reversed-phase column and MS/MS under multiple reaction monitoring. The chosen solvent efficiently extracted bromate with all applied extraction-assisting techniques (p > 0.05). Although this assay avoids cleanup procedures, matrix effect of <-11% was achieved. Rapid bromate separation in only 8 min was attained by a reversed-phase column. In both commodities, linearity range, R2, recovery%, repeatability, intermediate precision, LOD and LOQ results were 0.05-100 ng mL-1, >0.9999, 88.6-103%, 2.93-9.80% and 9.64-10.10%, 0.015 µg kg-1 and 0.05 µg kg-1, respectively. Out of 288 tested real samples, 13.9% of violations were observed. This high-sensitivity protocol offers effective oversight and consumer protection.

Recurrent Painful Ophthalmoplegic Neuropathy Responding to Lamotrigine: A Case Report.

Recurrent painful ophthalmoplegic neuropathy (RPON) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by recurring ipsilateral headache and paresis of one or more ocular motor nerves. We report the case of a 56-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and hypertension, who presented with severe recurring headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Initially misdiagnosed with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, her symptoms persisted despite anticoagulant therapy. Further evaluation led to the diagnosis of RPON. Management included intravenous analgesia, hydration, and indomethacin for pain relief. Persistent headache episodes necessitated the introduction of lamotrigine, resulting in significant symptom improvement. However, discontinuation of lamotrigine led to a recurrence of symptoms, which resolved upon resuming the medication. This case contributes to the limited RPON literature, providing insights into its diagnosis and management, with the goal of enhancing awareness and improving patient care.

Patterns and outcomes of acute toxicological cases before, during, and after COVID-19 lockdown in Sohag University hospitals, Egypt.

Background: Toxicologists manage poisoning by preventing, detecting, and treating it, which requires continuous data collection and analysis of toxicological hazards. Aim of the work: The study aims to report and compare the pattern and outcome of acute toxicological cases admitted to Sohag University Hospitals during the COVID-19 lockdown (2020-2021) with the year before (2019) and the year after (2022). Methods: This comparative study reviewed the sociodemographic and clinical data in the medical records. The study showed that Sohag University Hospitals received 670 toxicological cases between 2019 and 2022; 105 cases in 2019, 347 cases in 2020-2021, and 218 cases in 2022. Results: Most of patients were below seven years with no sex differences. Accidental poisoning was the most frequent toxicity. The oral route was the most common in the three studied periods. During the lockdown, metal phosphide was the most frequent (19.0%), while therapeutic agents were the most reported after the lockdown (23.9%). The delay time showed a significant difference between the studied periods (p-value < 0.001). In the three studied periods, complete recovery was achieved in more than 70% of cases; however, the mortality rate and the rate of complications during the lockdown period (10.4% and 9.5%, respectively) were almost twice those of the year before and the year after the pandemic with significant odds ratio of mortality during pandemic (OR) 0.07 CI 95% (0.02, 0.11). Conclusion: The pandemic had a bad impact on outcomes as showed the highest percentage of mortality compared to before and after COVID-19 periods.

Reservoir characterization of the Abu Roash D Member through petrography and seismic interpretations in Southern Abu Gharadig Basin, Northern Western Desert, Egypt.

This research combines petrography and seismic analysis to assess the Upper Cretaceous Abu Roash (AR)/D's carbonate member composition in the Southwest Abu-Sennan oil field in the Southern Abu Gharadig Basin within the Northern Western Desert of Egypt. Various datasets were used, including petrographic thin sections, and electrical well logs for four stratigraphic wells (01, -02, -03, and, -04), along with a time domain seismic dataset covering the study area. Petrographic analysis across multiple depths and intervals has provided valuable insights. Well-01 demonstrates mud-wackstone with diverse mineral components at 1671-74 m MD, indicating favorable reservoir quality. Well-02 exhibits diverse compositions at intervals 1740-43 m MD and 1746-49 m MD, also showcasing good reservoir quality. Well-03 reveals a packstone rock type at 1662-65 m MD with favorable reservoir characteristics. Well-04 displays peloids Wack-Packstone and Oolitic Packstone at intervals 1764-67 m MD and 1770-73 m MD, respectively, both indicating good reservoir quality. Integrating the petrography and seismic attributes results concerning the structural level of AR/D concerning the used wells, it's evident that Well-03 stands out due to its relatively high structural level, drilled near a major fault, revealing distinct fracture sets that contribute to a notably high reservoir quality as depicted in the RMS amplitude and Ant track attributes maps. AR/D reservoir levels in wells 02, and, 04, are relatively positioned at structurally lower levels, and face challenges with overburden pressure and mechanical compaction, resulting in diminished facies quality for the reservoir. Seismic attributes like the Ant track and RMS amplitude indicated that the presence of fractures within the AR/D Member's carbonate is linked to the prevalence of interpreted normal faults. The implemented procedure in this research can be applied to enhance comprehension of AR/D carbonate reservoirs in adjacent regions, thereby increasing the hydrocarbon exploration possibilities.

Phenolic profiling and bioactivity assessment of in vitro propagated Psidium cattleianum Sabine: A promising study.

Psidium cattleianum Sabine (strawberry guava) is an evergreen shrub that is grown as a fruiting hedge and has received significant consideration in the food and pharmaceutical disciplines. This study aims to set a promising protocol for in vitro propagation of P. cattleianum, along with profiling the phenolic content of the original plant (OP), induced callus (IC), and regenerated plantlets (RP) extracts, ultimately, evaluating their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer potential. Seeds were treated with commercial bleaching, HCl, and H2O2 to enhance the germination percentage and minimize the contamination percentage. Culturing sterilized leaf explants onto Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with benzyl adenine (BA), 2,4-dichloro phenoxy acetic acid, and kinetin showed the best callus induction, while supplementation of MS media with BA, adenine sulfate, naphthalene acetic acid, and gibberellic acid activated regeneration. Augmentation of MS media with indol-3-butyric acid recorded the maximum rooting percentage. Finally, the obtained rooted shoots were successfully acclimatized in sand and peat moss soil. HPLC-MS/MS profiles of OP, RP, and IC showed a variety of phenolic metabolites. IC extract decreased the viability of MCF-7, HepG2, and K-562 cancer cell lines. Also, OP exhibits strong antioxidant activity. P. cattleianum and its RP are profound sources of phenolic compounds promoted for promising applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Suitability of treated wastewater for irrigation and its impact on groundwater resources in arid coastal regions: Insights for water resources sustainability.

Water scarcity threatens agriculture and food security in arid regions like Saudi Arabia. The nation produces significant quantities of municipal wastewater, which, with adequate treatment, could serve as an alternative water source for irrigation, thereby reducing reliance on fossil and non-renewable groundwater. This study assessed the appropriateness of using treated wastewater (TWW) for irrigation in a dry coastal agricultural region in Eastern Saudi Arabia and its impact on groundwater resources. Field investigations were conducted in Qatif to collect water samples and field measurements. A multi-criteria approach was applied to evaluate the TWW's suitability for irrigation, including complying with Saudi Standards, the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI), the National Sanitation Foundation water quality index (NSFWQI), and the individual irrigation indices. In addition, the impact of TWW on groundwater was assessed through hydrogeological and isotope approaches. The results indicate that the use of TWW in the study area complied with the Saudi reuse guidelines except for nitrate, aluminum, and molybdenum. However, irrigation water quality indices classify TWW as having limitations that necessitate the use for salt-tolerant crops on permeable and well-drained soils. Stable isotopic analysis (δ2H, δ18O) revealed that long-term irrigation with TWW affected the shallow aquifer, while deep aquifers were minimally impacted due to the presence of aquitard layer. The application of TWW irrigation has successfully maintained groundwater sustainability in the study area, as evidenced by increased groundwater levels up to 2.3 m. Although TWW contributes to crop productivity, long term agricultural sustainability could be enhanced by improving effluent quality, regulating irrigation practices, implementing buffer zones, and monitoring shallow groundwater. An integrated approach that combines advanced wastewater treatment methods, community involvement, regulatory oversight, and targeted monitoring is recommended to be implemented.

Simulation Use in Respiratory Therapy Programs in Saudi Arabia: Results of a National Survey.

Background: The use of simulation-based methods for teaching and learning in the education of health professions is increasing, but its prevalence in Saudi Arabia among respiratory therapy programs has yet to be investigated. The purpose of this study is to identify the use of simulation-based learning (SBL) in respiratory therapy programs in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed by sending Google forms survey via Email to directors of respiratory therapy programs in Saudi Arabia (N=16) to evaluate how each one used simulations as an educational tool. Results: The survey was returned with a total response of 12 out of all 16 program that were initially contacted (75% response rate). Among the respondents, approximately 75% of the programs are using SBL, while high-fidelity simulation is used by all programs. The present data show that 67% of the respiratory therapy programs has a space for simulation within the department, while 33% utilizes institutional simulation centers. For short simulation scenarios, debriefing is not conducted in 67% of the programs. There is acceptance by program directors that simulation hours should be counted towards clinical hours. About 67% of respondent programs have mandatory simulation learning activities, and 100% agree that simulations should be used more. However, lack of training and shortage of staff are among barriers to increase the use of SBL. Conclusion: SBL is commonly used and relatively varied among respiratory therapy programs. However, it requires some improvements in several aspects, including the use of debriefing and increasing the number of properly trained staff.

Risk Prediction of Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Using the Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Retrospective Study From Saudi Arabia.

Background Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a significant complication in extremely preterm infants. Therefore, early diagnosis of BPD is important for planning treatment strategies. In this study, we aimed to assess the predictive efficacy of the Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) in determining severe BPD or death outcomes in very preterm infants. Methodology This retrospective study included preterm infants born with a gestational age of ≤30 weeks. The inclusion criteria comprised individuals who were mechanically ventilated (<1 week) during the first four weeks of life. Any patients who died during the first seven days of life were excluded. RSS values were recorded on days 3, 14, 21, and 28 of life. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify a correlation between RSS and patient outcomes. Results A total of 154 infants were included in the analysis, of whom 82 (53.24%) developed severe BPD and 38 (24.67%) died. RSS was higher in patients who either died or developed severe BPD compared to those who survived. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that RSSs at postnatal day 14 (odds ratio (OR) = 3.970; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.114-14.147; p < 0.05), day 21 (OR = 6.201; 95% CI = 1.937-19.851; p < 0.05), and day 28 (OR = 8.925; 95% CI = 3.331-28.383; p < 0.05) was significantly associated with a higher risk of death or severe BPD. Conclusions The findings of the present study revealed that RSS can help predict the risk of severe BPD in very preterm infants.

Regional analgesia using ultrasound-guided intermediate cervical plexus block versus cervical erector spinae block for anterior cervical spine surgery: a randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: Regional analgesia techniques are crucial for pain management after cervical spine surgeries. Anesthesiologists strive to select the most effective and least hazardous regional analgesia technique for the cervical region. Our hypothesis is that an intermediate cervical plexus (IC) block can provide adequate postoperative analgesia compared to a cervical erector spinae (ES) block in patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery. METHODS: In this double-blind prospective trial, 58 patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups prior to the administration of general anesthesia. Patients in the IC group (n = 29) underwent ultrasound-guided bilateral intermediate cervical plexus block with 15 ml of bupivacaine 0.25% administered to each side. The ES group (n = 29) underwent ultrasound-guided bilateral cervical erector spinae plane blocks with 15 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine administered to each side at the C6 level. The primary outcome was to record the time to the first call for rescue analgesia (nalbuphine), and the secondary outcomes were to measure the performance time, the onset of the sensory block, the intraoperative fentanyl consumption, postoperative pain intensity using VAS, the postoperative total nalbuphine consumption, and postoperative complications such as nausea, vomiting, hypotension, and bradycardia. RESULTS: The performance and onset of sensory block times were significantly shorter in the IC group compared to the ES group. The time to first call for nalbuphine was significantly shorter in the IC group (7.31 ± 1.34 h) compared to the ES group (11.10 ± 1.82 h). The mean postoperative VAS scores were comparable between the two groups at the measured time points, except at 8 h, where it was significantly higher in the IC group, and at 12 h, where it was significantly higher in the ES group. The total nalbuphine consumption was significantly higher in the IC group (33.1 ± 10.13 mg) compared to the ES group (22.76 ± 8.62 mg). CONCLUSIONS: For patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery, the intermediate cervical plexus block does not provide better postoperative regional analgesia compared to the cervical erector spinae block. Performance time and onset time were shorter in the IC group, whereas nalbuphine consumption was lower in the ES group. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov. (NCT05577559, and the date of registration: 13-10-2022).

Assessment of Bacterial Load and Post-Endodontic Pain after One-Visit Root Canal Treatment Using Two Types of Endodontic Access Openings: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

The need for controlling bacteria and pain during root canal therapy is undeniable. This clinical trial aimed to assess whether there is a difference in colony-forming unit (CFU) reduction after instrumentation and post-endodontic pain after root canal treatment (RCT) using a traditional endodontic cavity (TEC) versus a conservative endodontic cavity (CEC). This clinical study was conducted on 89 patients designated for a single-visit RCT. Patients were allocated randomly (TEC n = 45 and CEC n = 44). The access opening was gained accordingly in each group by a single operator. A pre-instrumentation sample of root canal dentin was collected using an endodontic file; the second sample was collected similarly, right after shaping and cleaning the root canal. The CFU was calculated based on the samples collected. The pain level was recorded preoperatively and at 1, 7, and 21 days postoperatively utilizing a visual analog scale (VAS). There were no statistically significant differences in the CFU reduction between the TEC and CEC groups (p > 0.05). Additionally, there were no statistically significant differences found in postoperative pain levels between the TEC and CEC at 1, 7, and 21 days (p > 0.05). Despite the limitations of this study, both the CEC and TEC demonstrate a decrease in bacteria within the root canals and alleviate postoperative pain with no difference between them.

Synthesis and Analysis of Euphorbia cognata Boiss-Assisted Organic-Inorganic Complex: Photosynthesis and Stabilization of CoO Nanoparticles.

Synthesis of metal oxide nanomaterials using phytochemicals has now been regarded as mutually exclusive to chemical synthesis techniques. Here, we have extracted, isolated, and characterized the phytochemicals of Euphorbia cognata Boiss leaf hydro-organic extract and utilized them as biofuel in the preparation of metal oxide nanoparticles (CoO NPs). To evaluate the chemical composition of bio templates, chromatographic techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) were being utilized. The reducing properties of the organic fuel were investigated by efficiently synthesizing CoO NPs by treating aqueous plant extract with an aqueous complex of Co(NO3)·6H2O. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was utilized for identification of newly prepared NPs, and composition of elements was inveterate via energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The spherical-shaped morphology was noticed via field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and the biocomponents of synthesized metal oxide were identified by GC-MS which has confirmed the active presence of monopolized octodrine, decanoic acid, cathinone, and acetic acid in the synthesized metal oxides NPs. Overall, the present study has demonstrated well the significant potential of E. cognata phytocompounds as fuel in the synthesis of nanomaterial.

Bee chitosan nanoparticles loaded with apitoxin as a novel approach to eradication of common human bacterial, fungal pathogens and treating cancer.

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the largest medical challenges because of the rising frequency of opportunistic human microbial infections across the globe. This study aimed to extract chitosan from the exoskeletons of dead bees and load it with bee venom (commercially available as Apitoxin [Api]). Then, the ionotropic gelation method would be used to form nanoparticles that could be a novel drug-delivery system that might eradicate eight common human pathogens (i.e., two fungal and six bacteria strains). It might also be used to treat the human colon cancer cell line (Caco2 ATCC ATP-37) and human liver cancer cell line (HepG2ATCC HB-8065) cancer cell lines. The x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) properties, ζ-potentials, and surface appearances of the nanoparticles were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). FTIR and XRD validated that the Api was successfully encapsulated in the chitosan nanoparticles (ChB NPs). According to the TEM, the ChB NPs and the ChB NPs loaded with Apitoxin (Api@ChB NPs) had a spherical shape and uniform size distribution, with non-aggregation, for an average size of approximately 182 and 274 ± 3.8 nm, respectively, and their Zeta potential values were 37.8 ± 1.2 mV and - 10.9 mV, respectively. The Api@ChB NPs had the greatest inhibitory effect against all tested strains compared with the ChB NPs and Api alone. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the Api, ChB NPs, and Api@ChB NPs were evaluated against the offer mentioned colony forming units (CFU/mL), and their lowest MIC values were 30, 25, and 12.5 µg mL-1, respectively, against Enterococcus faecalis. Identifiable morphological features of apoptosis were observed by 3 T3 Phototox software after Api@ChB NPs had been used to treat the normal Vero ATCC CCL-81, Caco2 ATCC ATP-37, and HepG2 ATCC HB-8065 cancer cell lines for 24 h. The morphological changes were clear in a concentration-dependent manner, and the ability of the cells was 250 to 500 µg mL-1. These results revealed that Api@ChB NPs may be a promising natural nanotreatment for common human pathogens.

Retrograde chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention via ipsilateral collaterals.

BACKGROUND: There is limited data on retrograde chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via ipsilateral epicardial collaterals (IEC). AIMS: To compare the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and outcomes of retrograde CTO PCI via IEC versus other collaterals in a large multicenter registry. METHODS: Observational cohort study from the Prospective Global registry for the study of Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention (PROGRESS-CTO). RESULTS: Of 4466 retrograde cases performed between 2012 and 2023, crossing through IEC was attempted in 191 (4.3%) cases with 50% wiring success. The most common target vessel in the IEC group was the left circumflex (50%), in comparison to other retrograde cases, where the right coronary artery was most common (70%). The Japanese CTO score was similar between the two groups (3.13 ± 1.23 vs. 3.06 ± 1.06, p = 0.456); however, the IEC group had a higher Prospective Global Registry for the Study of Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention (PROGRESS-CTO) score (1.95 ± 1.02 vs. 1.27 ± 0.92, p < 0.0001). The most used IEC guidewire was the SUOH 03 (39%), and the most frequently used microcatheter was the Caravel (43%). Dual injection was less common in IEC cases (66% vs. 89%, p < 0.0001). Technical (76% vs. 79%, p = 0.317) and procedural success rates (74% vs. 79%, p = 0.281) were not different between the two groups. However, IEC cases had a higher procedural complications rate (25.8% vs. 16.4%, p = 0.0008), including perforations (17.3% vs. 9.0%, p = 0.0001), pericardiocentesis (3.1% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.018), and dissection/thrombus of the donor vessel (3.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: The use of IEC for retrograde CTO PCI was associated with similar technical and procedural success rates when compared with other retrograde cases, but higher incidence of periprocedural complications.

Association of Coronary Wall Thickening and Diminished Diastolic Function in Asymptomatic, Low Cardiovascular Disease-Risk Persons Living with HIV.

Purpose To assess early subclinical coronary artery disease (CAD) burden and its relation to myocardial function in asymptomatic persons living with HIV (PLWH) who are at low risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Materials and Methods In this prospective, HIPAA-compliant study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01656564 and NCT01399385) conducted from April 2010 to May 2013, 74 adult PLWH without known CVD and 25 matched healthy controls underwent coronary MRI to measure coronary vessel wall thickness (VWT) and echocardiography to assess left ventricular function. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to evaluate statistical associations. Results For PLWH, the mean age was 49 years ± 11 (SD), and the median Framingham risk score was 3.2 (IQR, 0.5-6.6); for matched healthy controls, the mean age was 46 years ± 8 and Framingham risk score was 2.3 (IQR, 0.6-6.1). PLWH demonstrated significantly greater coronary artery VWT than did controls (1.47 mm ± 0.22 vs 1.34 mm ± 0.18; P = .006) and a higher left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (77 ± 16 vs 70 ± 13; P = .04). Compared with controls, PLWH showed altered association between coronary artery VWT and both E/A (ratio of left ventricular-filling peak blood flow velocity in early diastole [E wave] to that in late diastole [A wave]) (P = .03) and LVMI (P = .04). In the PLWH subgroup analysis, coronary artery VWT increase was associated with lower E/A (P < .001) and higher LVMI (P = .03), indicating restricted diastolic function. In addition, didanosine exposure was associated with increased coronary artery VWT and decreased E/A ratio. Conclusion Asymptomatic low-CVD-risk PLWH demonstrated increased coronary artery VWT in association with impaired diastolic function, which may be amenable to follow-up studies of coronary pathogenesis to identify potential effects on the myocardium and risk modification strategies. Keywords: Coronary Vessel Wall Thickness, Diastolic Function, HIV, MRI, Echocardiography, Atherosclerosis Clinical trial registration nos. NCT01656564 and NCT01399385 Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2024.

Effect of urea-treated rice straw, mixed with faba bean straw, on nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites and performance of growing lambs.

The present study aimed to use poor quality roughages, such as rice and faba bean straw, treated with or without urea, and their impacts on digestibility, rumen fermentation, some blood parameters, and growth performance of lambs. Twenty crossbred male lambs (1/4 Finland ×¾ Ossimi, 25±1.13kg live body weight) were chosen and divided into four groups. All lambs were fed rations of concentrated feed mixture at 2% of live weight with the following roughages ad libitum: URS (control group, untreated rice straw), TRS (urea-treated rice straw), FBS (faba bean straw), and TRS+FBS (mixture of TRS and FBS, 1:1). Nutrient digestibility and feeding values improved (P<0.05) with TRS+FBS lambs versus FBS, TRS and URS lambs. The highest numerical values of ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration in TRS lambs were recorded 23.9 ml.eq/dl followed by TRS+FBS, URS and FBS. Regarding to the ruminal parameters, there were no differences (P>0.05) among evaluated groups except for NH3-N, the highest concentration (P<0.05) was recorded in TRS lambs at 3 h post-feeding. Lambs of TRS, FBS and TRS+FBS showed faster growth (P<0.05) than those of the control (i.e., URS). Intakes of dry matter, total digestible nutrients, and digestible crude protein were numerically increased for TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS. Feed conversion, as kg dry matter/kg gain, was improved for TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS lambs versus URS. Daily gain of lambs increased (P<0.05) with lambs of TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS but URS lambs showed a decrease (P<0.05) in daily gain. Feed conversion as kg dry matter intake/kg gain was improved (P<0.05) by feeding on TRS, FBS and TRS+FBS rations versus URS. The TRS+FBS lambs tended to have the highest economic efficiency versus URS, TRS and FBS lambs. It was concluded that urea-treated rice straw could be used as sole roughage or mixed with faba bean straw (1:1) in growing lambs' ration to improve their performance and economic efficiency without adversely affecting their health.The present study aimed to use poor quality roughages, such as rice and faba bean straw, treated with or without urea, and their impacts on digestibility, rumen fermentation, some blood parameters, and growth performance of lambs. Twenty crossbred male lambs (1/4 Finland ×¾ Ossimi, 25±1.13kg live body weight) were chosen and divided into four groups. All lambs were fed rations of concentrated feed mixture at 2% of live weight with the following roughages ad libitum: URS (control group, untreated rice straw), TRS (urea-treated rice straw), FBS (faba bean straw), and TRS+FBS (mixture of TRS and FBS, 1:1). Nutrient digestibility and feeding values improved (P<0.05) with TRS+FBS lambs versus FBS, TRS and URS lambs. The highest numerical values of ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration in TRS lambs were recorded 23.9 ml.eq/dl followed by TRS+FBS, URS and FBS. Regarding to the ruminal parameters, there were no differences (P>0.05) among evaluated groups except for NH3-N, the highest concentration (P<0.05) was recorded in TRS lambs at 3 h post-feeding. Lambs of TRS, FBS and TRS+FBS showed faster growth (P<0.05) than those of the control (i.e., URS). Intakes of dry matter, total digestible nutrients, and digestible crude protein were numerically increased for TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS. Feed conversion, as kg dry matter/kg gain, was improved for TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS lambs versus URS. Daily gain of lambs increased (P<0.05) with lambs of TRS, FBS, and TRS+FBS but URS lambs showed a decrease (P<0.05) in daily gain. Feed conversion as kg dry matter intake/kg gain was improved (P<0.05) by feeding on TRS, FBS and TRS+FBS rations versus URS. The TRS+FBS lambs tended to have the highest economic efficiency versus URS, TRS and FBS lambs. It was concluded that urea-treated rice straw could be used as sole roughage or mixed with faba bean straw (1:1) in growing lambs' ration to improve their performance and economic efficiency without adversely affecting their health.

Plasma metadherin mRNA expression in bladder cancer.

Urinary bladder cancer (BC) is the ninth most common cancer worldwide. At present, the clinical diagnosis of BC depends on self-reported symptoms, tissue biopsy specimens by cystoscopy and from voided urine cytology. However, cystoscopy is an invasive examination and voided urine cytology has low sensitivity, which might provoke misdiagnosis. The search for cancer biomarkers in blood is worthy of intense attention due to patients' comfort and ease of sampling. This work aimed to study expression of mRNA metadherin (MTDH) in plasma, serum BC specific antigen 1 (BLCA-1) and cystatin C as biomarkers of BC and their relation to different disease stages. This study included 59 BC patients, 11 patients with benign bladder lesion and 18 subjects as normal controls. MTDH expression was assessed by real time polymerase chain reaction, BLCA-1, and cystatin C by the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The three biomarkers were elevated in BC patients than patients with benign bladder diseases and controls. Patients with BC grade 3 and 4 had higher cystatin C, BLCA-1 and MTDH in comparison to patients with grade 1 and grade 2 (p=0.000). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that BLCA-1 at a cutoff point of 32.5 ng/ml and area under the curve of 1.00, had 100% accuracy, 100% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive values and 100% negative predictive value. In conclusion, BLCA-1 was a better biomarker than cystatin C and MTDH. Cystatin C, BLCA-1 and MTDH levels, can differentiate between benign bladder lesion and BC and correlated with tumor grades.especially with OL-HDF compared to HF-HD, with acceptable albumin loss in the dialysate.

Leishmania blood parasite dynamics during and after treatment of visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa: A pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model.

BACKGROUND: With the current treatment options for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), recrudescence of the parasite is seen in a proportion of patients. Understanding parasite dynamics is crucial to improving treatment efficacy and predicting patient relapse in cases of VL. This study aimed to characterize the kinetics of circulating Leishmania parasites in the blood, during and after different antileishmanial therapies, and to find predictors for clinical relapse of disease. METHODS: Data from three clinical trials, in which Eastern African VL patients received various antileishmanial regimens, were combined in this study. Leishmania kinetoplast DNA was quantified in whole blood with real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) before, during, and up to six months after treatment. An integrated population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model was developed using non-linear mixed effects modelling. RESULTS: Parasite proliferation was best described by an exponential growth model, with an in vivo parasite doubling time of 7.8 days (RSE 12%). Parasite killing by fexinidazole, liposomal amphotericin B, sodium stibogluconate, and miltefosine was best described by linear models directly relating drug concentrations to the parasite elimination rate. After treatment, parasite growth was assumed to be suppressed by the host immune system, described by an Emax model driven by the time after treatment. No predictors for the high variability in onset and magnitude of the immune response could be identified. Model-based individual predictions of blood parasite load on Day 28 and Day 56 after start of treatment were predictive for clinical relapse of disease. CONCLUSION: This semi-mechanistic pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model adequately captured the blood parasite dynamics during and after treatment, and revealed that high blood parasite loads on Day 28 and Day 56 after start of treatment are an early indication for VL relapse, which could be a useful biomarker to assess treatment efficacy of a treatment regimen in a clinical trial setting.

Comparative morphological analysis of telson and uropods in Penaeus canaliculatus (Olivier, 1811), Penaeus semisulcatus (De Haan, 1844), and Metapenaeus stebbingi (Nobili, 1904) using scanning electron microscopy and EDX analysis.

The telson and uropods collectively form the tail fan, playing crucial roles in locomotion, buoyancy, defense, and respiration. We aimed to compare telson and uropod structures in three shrimp species-Penaeus canaliculatus, Penaeus semisulcatus, and Metapenaeus stebbingi-to identify the species with the most robust telson for its environment. Our analysis involved morphological measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), supplemented by a novel approach-Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, a technique not previously utilized in studies on these three species. M. stebbingi exhibited the longest telson length, whereas P. semisulcatus had the longest uropod. P. canaliculatus featured a single pair of fixed spines, while P. semisulcatus had evenly spaced small conical spines along the sides of the median elevation and groove. A distinctive feature of M. stebbingi was the telson, which had three pairs of large spines. Diverse setae on telsons included simple, unipennate, and plumose setae. Notably, specialized branched tubular setae on uropods' endopods may aid in grooming or swimming behavior. EDX spectroscopy revealed that the telson cuticle primarily consists of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen, with significantly high concentrations alongside comparatively lower calcium and phosphorous concentrations. P. semisulcatus exhibited the highest calcium and phosphorus content among the three species. In conclusion, M. stebbingi's telson is structurally robust, emphasizing the importance of morphology, while P. semisulcatus demonstrated a hard telson through EDX analysis. Our study underscores not solely relying on morphology for telson strength assessment but considering telson composition. These variations among species may be attributed to diverse ecological and physiological adaptations.

Value of Serum Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) As a Novel Biomarker for Uveitis in Behçet's Disease.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the serum asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) level as a biomarker for uveitis in Behçet's Disease (BD). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, two groups of BD patients were examined: 33 with uveitis and 27 without uveitis. All patients were clinically evaluated, with disease activity measured by Behçet's Disease Current Activity Form (BDCAF) score. They also underwent thorough ophthalmic evaluation, and routine laboratory investigations, including serum ADMA. RESULTS: Patients with BD who experienced active or inactive uveitis had higher levels of serum ADMA compared to those without uveitis. Anterior (ρ = 0.34, p < 0.01), posterior (ρ = 0.3, p < 0.05), and pan uveitis (ρ = 0.35, p < 0.01) were significantly correlated with serum ADMA levels. However, there was no significant correlation between ADMA and other BD manifestations. ROC curve analysis showed that increased serum ADMA levels in BD patients predicted uveitis with a sensitivity of 61.8%, specificity of 96.2%, and AUC of 0.78(95% CI: 0.66-0.9, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Serum ADMA level can serve as a novel biomarker of uveitis in BD and its severity with good diagnostic accuracy, regardless of its site or activity.

Response of human peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (PBMM) to demineralized and decellularized bovine bone graft substitutes.

The performance of apparently biocompatible implanted bovine bone grafts may be compromised by unresolved chronic inflammation, and poor graft incorporation leading to implant failure. Monitoring the intensity and duration of the inflammatory response caused by implanted bone grafts is crucial. In this study, the ability of demineralized (DMB) and decellularized (DCC) bovine bone substitutes in initiating inflammatory responses to peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (PBMMs) was investigated. The response of PBMMs to bone substitutes was evaluated by using both direct and indirect cell culture, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, apoptosis, immunophenotyping, and cytokine production. Analysis of DMB and DCC substitutes using scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed a roughened surface with a size ranging between 500 and 750 µm. PBMMs treated with DMB demonstrated cell aggregation and clumping mimicking lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated PBMMs and a higher proliferation ability (166.93%) compared to control (100%) and DCC treatments (115.64%; p<0.001) at 24h. This was associated with a significantly increased production of intracellular ROS in PBMMs exposed to DMB substitutes than control (3158.5 vs 1715.5; p<0.001) and DCC treatment (2117.5). The bone substitute exposure also caused an increase in percentage apoptosis which was significantly (p<0.0001) higher in both DMB (27.85) and DCC (29.2) treatment than control (19.383). A significant increase in proinflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α: 3.4 folds; p<0.05) was observed in DMB substitute-treated PBMMs compared to control. Notably, IL-1ß mRNA was significantly higher in DMB (21.75 folds; p<0.0001) than control and DCC (5.01 folds). In contrast, DCC substitutes exhibited immunoregulatory effects on PBMMs, as indicated by the expression for CD86, CD206, and HLDR surface markers mimicking IL-4 treatments. In conclusion, DMB excites a higher immunological response compared to DCC suggesting decellularization process of tissues dampen down inflammatory reactions when exposed to PBMM.