Novel high throughput screen reports that benzo(a)pyrene overrides mouse trophoblast stem cell multipotency, inducing SAPK activity, HAND1 and differentiated trophoblast giant cells

INTRODUCTION

Cultured mouse trophoblast stem cells (mTSC) maintain proliferation/normal stemness (NS) under FGF4, which when removed, causes normal differentiation (ND). Hypoxic, or hyperosmotic stress forces trophoblast giant cells (TGC) differentiate. Hypoxic, hyperosmotic, and genotoxic benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), which is found in tobacco smoke, force down-regulation of inhibitor of differentiation (Id)2, enabling TGC differentiation. Hypoxic and hyperosmotic stress induce TGC by SAPK-dependent HAND1 increase. Here we test whether BaP forces mTSC-to-TGC while inducing SAPK and HAND1.

METHODS

Hand1 and SAPK activity were assayed by immunoblot, mTSC-to-TGC growth and differentiation were assayed at Tfinal after 72hr exposure of BaP, NS, ND, Retinoic acid (RA), or sorbitol. Nuclear-stained cells were micrographed automatically by a live imager, and assayed by ImageJ/FIJI, Biotek Gen 5, AIVIA proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) software or open source, CellPose artificial intelligence/AI software.

RESULTS

BaP (0.05-1μM) activated SAPK and HAND1 without diminishing growth. TSC-to-TGC differentiation was assayed with increasingly accuracy for 2-4 N cycling nuclei and >4 N differentiating TGC nuclei, using ImageJ/FIJI, Gen 5, AIVIA, or CellPose AI software. The AIVIA and Cellpose AI software matches human accuracy. The lowest BaP effects on SAPK activation/HAND1 increase are >10-fold more sensitive than similar effects for mESC. RA induces 44-47% 1st lineage TGC differentiation, but the same RA dose induces only 1% 1st lineage mESC differentiation.

DISCUSSION

First, these pilot data suggest that mTSC can be used in high throughput screens (HTS) to predict toxicant exposures that force TGC differentiation. Second, mTSC differentiated more cells than mESC for similar stress exposures, Third, open source AI can replace human micrograph quantitation and enable a miscarriage-predicting HTS.

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Sinonasal Teratocarcinosarcoma a Rare Malignancy: An Audit From an Academic Tertiary Care Centre in India

AIMS

Sinonasal teratocarcinosarcomas (SNTCS) are rare sinonasal malignancies, the incidence of which is less than 1% of all tumors. There is limited data available on SNTCS's, often as case reports and small case series. The management of SNTCS is complicated because of its location, locally aggressive biology, difficulty in achieving complete resection, and limited data on chemotherapy in these malignancies. This audit was performed to understand the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in SNTCS's, its ability to downstage the disease, achieve complete resection, and impact on long-term survival outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC). The baseline characteristics, the extent of tumor, Kadish stage, NACT regimen, and adverse events were extracted from the Electronic Medical Records and the patient's case file. Patients with baseline extensive/inoperable disease were referred for NACT from the multidisciplinary joint clinic followed by response assessment (RECIST v1.1). Patients underwent skull-base surgery if respectable post-completion of NACT, however, if deemed unresectable were treated with non-surgical modalities or palliative therapies.

RESULTS

The data of 27 patients were evaluated from the year 2015-2022. The median age was 42 years (IQR:30-56) and 85.2% (n = 23) were males. The ECOG-PS was 0-1 in 88.8% (n = 24) patients. All 27 patients received NACT in view of extensive disease at presentation. 74.1% (n = 20) patients received Cisplatin-Etoposide and 25.9% (n = 7) received other chemotherapy regimens. The median number of chemotherapy cycles was 2(IQR:2-3). 96.3% patients (n = 26) completed the planned NACT cycles. 70.4% (n = 19) patients achieved a partial response in post-NACT imaging. 77.8% (n = 18) underwent surgery, 18.5% (n = 5) received CTRT, and 7.4% (n = 2) received definitive-RT alone. The median PFS and OS of the cohort was 19months (95%CI:12.0-25.6) and 23months (95%CI:5.94-40.06) respectively.

CONCLUSION

NACT is safe, feasible, and effective with significant response rates, leading to effective downstaging, resectability and improved survival in patients with locally advanced SNTCS's.

Autism risk gene Cul3 alters neuronal morphology via caspase-3 activity in mouse hippocampal neurons

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in which children display differences in social interaction/communication and repetitive stereotyped behaviors along with variable associated features. Cul3, a gene linked to ASD, encodes CUL3 (CULLIN-3), a protein that serves as a key component of a ubiquitin ligase complex with unclear function in neurons. Cul3 homozygous deletion in mice is embryonic lethal; thus, we examine the role of Cul3 deletion in early synapse development and neuronal morphology in hippocampal primary neuronal cultures. Homozygous deletion of Cul3 significantly decreased dendritic complexity and dendritic length, as well as axon formation. Synaptic spine density significantly increased, mainly in thin and stubby spines along with decreased average spine volume in Cul3 knockouts. Both heterozygous and homozygous knockout of Cul3 caused significant reductions in the density and colocalization of gephyrin/vGAT puncta, providing evidence of decreased inhibitory synapse number, while excitatory synaptic puncta vGulT1/PSD95 density remained unchanged. Based on previous studies implicating elevated caspase-3 after Cul3 deletion, we demonstrated increased caspase-3 in our neuronal cultures and decreased neuronal cell viability. We then examined the efficacy of the caspase-3 inhibitor Z-DEVD-FMK to rescue the decrease in neuronal cell viability, demonstrating reversal of the cell viability phenotype with caspase-3 inhibition. Studies have also implicated caspase-3 in neuronal morphological changes. We found that caspase-3 inhibition largely reversed the dendrite, axon, and spine morphological changes along with the inhibitory synaptic puncta changes. Overall, these data provide additional evidence that Cul3 regulates the formation or maintenance of cell morphology, GABAergic synaptic puncta, and neuronal viability in developing hippocampal neurons in culture.

Low Temperature Dynamic Polaron Liquid in a Manganite Exhibiting Colossal Magnetoresistance

Polarons-fermionic charge carriers bearing a strong companion lattice deformation-exhibit a natural tendency for self-localization due to the recursive interaction between electrons and the lattice. While polarons are ubiquitous in insulators, how they evolve in transitions to metallic and superconducting states in quantum materials remains an open question. Here, we use resonant inelastic x-ray scattering to track the electron-lattice coupling in the colossal magneto-resistive bi-layer manganite La_{1.2}Sr_{1.8}Mn_{2}O_{7} across its metal-to-insulator transition. The response in the insulating high-temperature state features harmonic emissions of a dispersionless oxygen phonon at small energy transfer. Upon cooling into the metallic state, we observe a drastic redistribution of spectral weight from the region of these harmonic emissions to a broad high energy continuum. In concert with theoretical calculations, we show that this evolution implies a shift in electron-lattice coupling from static to dynamic lattice distortions that leads to a distinct polaronic ground state in the low temperature metallic phase-a dynamic polaron liquid.

Social Disadvantage and Multimorbidity Including Oral Conditions in the United States

Existing studies on multimorbidity have largely excluded oral diseases in multimorbidity prevalence estimates. The reason behind this is somewhat unclear, as chronic oral conditions are highly prevalent, affecting over half the global population. To address this gap, we examined the relationship between social disadvantage and multimorbidity, stratifying by the inclusion and exclusion of oral conditions. For participants aged 30 y and over (n = 3,693), cross-sectional analysis was carried out using the US National Health and Nutrition Survey (2013-2014). Multimorbidity was defined as having 2 or more chronic conditions. Five medical conditions were examined: diabetes, asthma, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and depression, as well as 4 oral health conditions: caries, periodontal disease, number of teeth, and edentulousness. Education and income poverty ratio were selected as measures of social disadvantage. Multimorbidity prevalence estimates according to social disadvantage were analyzed on an absolute and relative scale using inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW), adjusting for age, sex, and ethnicity. The inclusion of oral health conditions in the assessment of multimorbidity increased the overall prevalence of multimorbidity from 20.8% to 53.4%. Findings from IPTW analysis demonstrated clear social gradients for multimorbidity estimates stratified by the exclusion of oral conditions. Upon inclusion of oral conditions, the prevalence of multimorbidity was higher across all social groups for both education and income. Stratifying by the inclusion of oral conditions, the mean probability of multimorbidity was 27% (95% confidence interval [CI], 23%-30%) higher in the low-education group compared to the high-education group. Similarly, the mean probability of multimorbidity was 44% (95% CI, 40%-48%) higher in the low-income group. On a relative scale, low education was associated with a 1.52 times (95% CI, 1.44-1.61) higher prevalence of multimorbidity compared to high education. Low income was associated with a 2.18 (95% CI, 1.99-2.39) higher prevalence of multimorbidity. This novel study strongly supports the impact of chronic oral conditions on multimorbidity prevalence estimates.

School-based physical activity interventions: which intervention characteristics are associated with participation and retention? A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Many school-based intervention studies are conducted to increase students' physical activity (PA). Recruitment and retention problems potentially impact the robustness of RCT findings. We conducted a meta-analysis to summarize recruitment and retention rates in long-term secondary school-based PA intervention studies and examined associated participant and intervention characteristics.

METHODS

Web of Science, Pubmed, Medline, and PsychInfo were searched until March 20th 2023. We included studies on secondary school-based PA interventions ≥12 weeks, aimed at typically developing adolescents. We abstracted number of schools and students invited, randomized, and participating at follow-up to calculate pooled recruitment and retention rates; participant and intervention characteristics were abstracted to execute subgroup or meta-regression analyses.

RESULTS

Recruitment rates were 51% for invited schools and 80% for invited students, the retention for schools was almost 100% and for students 91%. Interventions with fixed and flexible components, executed in Asia and South America, and from later publication years had higher student recruitment rates. Students' retention rates were lower for interventions which had flexible components, were theory/model-based, used an accelerometer, had a longer intervention duration, and included more females.

CONCLUSION

Recruitment and retention rates in school-based PA interventions are high. Some participant and intervention characteristics influence these rates: flexibility of the intervention, theory/model-based intervention, accelerometer use, intervention duration, continent, and number of females. Researchers should consider these characteristics in intervention development to achieve optimal balance between intervention effectiveness, recruitment, and retention.

Stump Ectopic Pregnancy: A Rare Presentation

Ectopic pregnancy is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in women of reproductive age group. Tubal ectopic in an unstable patient is a medical emergency. Tubal stump ectopic is a rare presentation. It is difficult to diagnose. Early diagnosis can prevent significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we present a case of ruptured tubal stump ectopic pregnancy in a 33-year-old female who had undergone salpingectomy previously for ectopic pregnancy.

The effect of flow-responsive pulsation on teat tissue condition and milking performance in Holstein dairy cows

The objectives of this study were to assess the effect of a reduced liner-open phase applied through flow-responsive pulsation (FRP), as a method to provide supplemental stimulation, on teat tissue conditions and milking characteristics in dairy cows. In 2 switch-back trials, 156 Holstein cows milked 3 times daily were assigned to the FRP or conventional (CON) group in alternating sequences. Trial I lasted for 35 d and was split into 5 alternating 1-week periods of FRP and CON. The duration of Trial II was 84 d, consisting of 4 alternating 3-week periods of FRP and CON. Premilking udder preparation for both groups consisted of predipping, forestripping and wiping the teats. Upon milking unit attachment, the FRP cows were milked at a pulsation rate of 50 cycles/min and a pulsation ratio of 30:70 until the preset milk flow threshold of 0.5 kg/min was reached. When the threshold value of 0.5 kg/min was reached, the pulsation was automatically switched to milking mode, which consisted of a pulsation rate of 60 cycles/min and a pulsation ratio of 70:30. Cows in the CON group were milked by milking mode (pulsation rate, 60 cycles/min; pulsation ratio, 70:30) immediately after attachment of the milking unit. We assessed machine milking-induced short-term changes to the teat tissue by palpation and visual inspection during Trial I, and we assessed teat-end hyperkeratosis in Trial II. Electronic on-farm milk meters were used to assess milking characteristics [milk yield (kg/milking session), milking unit-on time (s), 2-min milk yield (kg), peak milk flow rate (kg/min), and duration of low milk flow rate (s)]. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the effect of treatment on the outcome variables. The odds of machine milking-induced short-term changes to the teat tissue were lower for cows in the FRP group than for those in the CON group [odds ratio (95% confidence interval; 95% CI) = 0.41 (0.31-0.55)]. There were no meaningful differences in the odds of teat-end hyperkeratosis between the FRP and CON groups [odds ratio (95% CI) = 1.05 (0.38-2.89)]. The least squares means (95% CI) of milking characteristics in the FRP and CON groups were 14.3 (13.8-14.7) and 14.3 (13.8-14.7) kg for milk yield, respectively; 272 (264-281) and 270 (262-278) s for milking unit-on time, respectively; and 5.0 (4.8-5.1) and 4.9 (4.7-5.1) kg/min for peak milk flow rate, respectively. The FRP group had lower odds of bimodality than the CON group [odds ratio (95% CI) = 0.67 (0.61-0.74)]. In reference to CON, the odds ratios (95% CI) in FRP were 1.05 (0.76-1.46) for kick-off, and 1.02 (0.85-1.23) for milking unit reattachment. In this study, cows that were milked using FRP had lower odds of postmilking short-term changes to the teat tissue and lower odds of bimodal milk flow. We conclude that FRP may foster adequate teat stimulation in cows before the initiation of milk harvest and has the potential to improve teat tissue conditions.

An objective way to predict remission and relapse in Cushing disease using Bayes' theorem of probability

OBJECTIVE

In this study on patients with Cushing disease, post-transsphenoidal surgery (TSS), we attempt to predict the probability of remaining in remission, at least for a year and relapse after that, using Bayes' theorem and the equation of conditional probability. The number of parameters, as well as the weightage of each, is incorporated in this equation.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The study design was a single-centre ambispective study. Ten clinical, biochemical, radiological and histopathological parameters capable of predicting Cushing disease remission were identified. The presence or absence of each parameter was entered as binary numbers. Bayes' theorem was applied, and each patient's probability of remission and relapse was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 145 patients were included in the study. ROC plot showed a cut-off value of the probability of 0.68, with a sensitivity of 82% (range 73-89%) and a specificity of 94% (range 83-99%) to predict the probability of remission. Eighty-one patients who were in remission at 1 year were followed up for relapse and 23 patients developed relapse of the disease. The Bayes' equation was able to predict relapse in only 3 out of 23 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Using various parameters, remission of Cushing disease can be predicted by applying Bayes' theorem of conditional probability with a sensitivity and a specificity of 82% and 94%, respectively. This study provided an objective way of predicting remission after TSS and relapse in patients with Cushing disease giving a weightage advantage to every parameter.

Search for a Neutron Dark Decay in ^{6}He

Neutron dark decays have been suggested as a solution to the discrepancy between bottle and beam experiments, providing a dark matter candidate that can be searched for in halo nuclei. The free neutron in the final state following the decay of ^{6}He into ^{4}He+n+χ provides an exceptionally clean detection signature when combined with a high efficiency neutron detector. Using a high-intensity ^{6}He^{+} beam at Grand Accélérateur National d'Ions Lourds, a search for a coincident neutron signal resulted in an upper limit on a dark decay branching ratio of Br_{χ}≤4.0×10^{-10} (95% C.L.). Using the dark neutron decay model proposed originally by Fornal and Grinstein, we translate this into an upper bound on a dark neutron branching ratio of O(10^{-5}), improving over global constraints by one to several orders of magnitude depending on m_{χ}.

The association between teat shape and bimodal milk ejection in Holstein dairy cows

Our objectives were to investigate the association of teat shape with (1) bimodality (2) incremental milk flow rates (average flow rates during the first 15 s, 15-30 s, 30-60 s, and 60-120 s of milking), and (3) peak milk flow rate in Holstein dairy cows milked 3 times per day. In this prospective cohort study, we analyzed 220,928 milking observations that were collected from 2,520 cows from a single dairy herd over a period of 31 d. Teat shape was visually assessed and classified into 1 of 4 categories as follows: (1) triangular barrel and pointed teat end (TP), (2) square barrel and round teat end (SR), (3) square barrel, round teat end, and flat in the area of the teat orifice (SRF), and (4) square barrel and flat teat end (SF). Individual cow-level milk flow rates were obtained using electronic on-farm milk meters. We considered bimodality to be present if any of the incremental milk flow rates (flow rates during 15-30 s, 30-60 s, or 60-120 s) were lower than any of the previous rates (flow rates during the first 15 s, 15-30 s, or 30-60 s). The frequency distribution of cows with different teat shapes was as follows: TP, 96 (3.8%); SR, 1,751 (69.5%); SRF, 617 (24.5%); and SF, 56 (2.2%). A generalized linear mixed model revealed differences in the odds of bimodality among cows with different teat shapes. Compared with cows in category SR, the odds (95% confidence interval) of bimodality of cows in other categories were as follows: TP, 0.68 (0.48-0.97); SF, 1.96 (1.21-3.19); and SRF, 1.46 (1.23-1.72). General linear mixed models indicated an association between teat shape and all incremental milk flow rates, with higher milk flow rates being present for cows with teat shapes in the SRF and SF categories. The general linear mixed model for the dependent variable peak milk flow rate indicated an association between teat shape and peak milk flow rate. Least squares means and 95% confidence intervals were 5.1 (4.9-5.3) kg/min for TP, 5.8 (5.5-6.1) kg/min for SF, 5.6 (5.5-5.7) for SRF, and 5.3 (5.3-5.4) for SR, respectively. We conclude that in this study cohort, bimodality is more likely to occur in cows with flat teat ends compared with those with a round teat ends. We attribute this relationship to the difference in milking speed across cows with different teat shapes. Teat shape may serve as a useful phenotype to identify cows that are more likely to exhibit bimodality. Because our study population was unique, future studies considering different circumstances such as breed, milking system, and milking routine are needed before results can be extrapolated.

The effect of 2 different premilking stimulation regimens, with and without a latency period, on teat tissue condition and milking performance in Holstein dairy cows

The objectives of this study were to assess the effect of 2 different premilking stimulation regimens, with and without a latency period between tactile stimulation and the attachment of the milking unit, on the teat tissue condition and milking performance of dairy cows. In a randomized controlled crossover study, 145 Holstein cows milked 3 times daily were assigned to treatment (TRT) or control (CON) groups. Premilking udder preparation for the TRT group consisted of the application of a latency period resulting in a preparation lag time of 90 s. The only difference in the premilking udder preparation of the CON group was the absence of latency period; the milking unit was attached immediately after completion of the tactile stimulation. The average duration of total tactile stimulation in TRT and CON group was 8 ± 2 and 9 ± 2 s, respectively. The study lasted for 14 d and was split into 2 periods, each consisting of a 2-d adjustment period followed by 5 d of data collection. We assessed machine milking-induced short-term changes to the teat tissue by palpation and visual inspection postmilking. Electronic on-farm milk meters were used to assess milking characteristics (milk yield [kg/milking session], machine-on time [s], 2-min milk yield [kg], and duration of low milk flow rate [s]). Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the effect of treatment on the outcome variables. The odds of machine milking-induced short-term changes to the teat tissue were lower for cows that received a 90-s preparation lag time (TRT cows) compared with cows in the CON group (odds ratio [95% confidence interval; 95% CI] = 0.13 [0.08-0.20]). The least squares means (95% CI) values of cows in the TRT and CON groups were 15.4 (14.9-15.9) and 15.3 (14.8-15.8) kg, respectively, for milk yield, and 246 (239-253) and 253 (247-260) s for machine-on time. The 2-min milk yield was higher for the TRT compared with CON group cows at all the parity levels. The 2-min milk yields of animals in lactation 1, 2, and ≥3 were 5.7, 5.7, and 6.5 kg, respectively, in the TRT group and 4.6, 5.0, and 5.9 kg in the CON group. The TRT cows spent less time in low milk flow rate compared with CON cows at all parity levels. The durations of low milk flow rate of cows in lactation 1, 2, and ≥3 in the TRT group were 19, 17 and 13 s, respectively, and those in the CON group were 31, 22, and 15 s. In this study, cows that received a latency period, and thus were subjected to a 90-s preparation lag time had lower odds of exhibiting short-term changes to the teat tissue after machine milking, shorter machine-on time, higher 2-min milk yields, and lower durations of low milk flow rates. We conclude that consideration of latency period leading to a 90-s preparation lag time in the premilking stimulation regimen facilitated cows' milk-ejection reflex. This latency period can alleviate the adverse effects of vacuum-induced forces on teat tissue during machine milking, improve udder health, and promote animal well-being.

Unraveling Links between Chronic Inflammation and Long COVID: Workshop Report

As COVID-19 continues, an increasing number of patients develop long COVID symptoms varying in severity that last for weeks, months, or longer. Symptoms commonly include lingering loss of smell and taste, hearing loss, extreme fatigue, and "brain fog." Still, persistent cardiovascular and respiratory problems, muscle weakness, and neurologic issues have also been documented. A major problem is the lack of clear guidelines for diagnosing long COVID. Although some studies suggest that long COVID is due to prolonged inflammation after SARS-CoV-2 infection, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The broad range of COVID-19's bodily effects and responses after initial viral infection are also poorly understood. This workshop brought together multidisciplinary experts to showcase and discuss the latest research on long COVID and chronic inflammation that might be associated with the persistent sequelae following COVID-19 infection.

Health care access, psychosocial outcomes and mental health in adults living with epilepsy during the COVID-19 pandemic

PURPOSE

People living with epilepsy (PLWE) have a higher prevalence of mental health comorbidities and poorer psychosocial outcomes compared to the general population. The aim of this study was to examine psychosocial outcomes, mental health, healthcare accessibility, and seizure burden in PLWE during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of adults with epilepsy treated in an urban multicenter health system from 2021 to 2022. A standardized questionnaire assessed for COVID-19 history, comorbidities, access to antiseizure medications (ASMs) and neurological care, seizure burden, and psychosocial outcomes (e.g., employment, social and financial support). The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) were administered to evaluate for depression and anxiety. Frequency and proportions for categorical variables and median and interquartile ranges for continuous variables were calculated.

RESULTS

Fifty-five PLWE participated (95 % response rate). Median age was 40 years (IQR 31.5-66.5), 61.8 % were women, 47.3 % had a bachelor's degree or higher and 29.1 % each had Medicaid and Medicare insurance. Race (from highest to lowest %) was: 32.7 % White, 20 % Black, 20 % Latinx, 14.5 % Asian, and 12.7 % selected "other" or "prefer not to say." COVID-19 had been diagnosed in 21.8 % of participants. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were self-reported by 43.6 % and 34.5 % of patients, respectively, with many describing this symptom as new post-pandemic (37.5 % and 31.6 %, respectively). Using validated scales, 52.7 % had depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 5) with 30.9 % having moderate/severe depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 10), while 29.1 % had probable generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7 score ≥ 8). Seizure burden increased in 21.8 % of participants, while 20 % reported fewer seizures and 29.1 % were seizure free since the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic impacts of the pandemic included job loss (25 % amongst those employed at onset of pandemic), new or worsened financial difficulties (40 %), and new or worsened social support issues (30.9 %). Of all participants, 18.2 % reported difficulties accessing ASMs and 25.5 % cancelled visits, but of those with cancelled visits, 78.6 % had their appointments rescheduled as a telehealth visit.

CONCLUSION

Our cohort of PLWE experienced some challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic including poorer mental health and financial and employment-related stressors. Encouragingly, healthcare access was relatively spared during the COVID-19 crisis, with some patients even reporting a reduction in seizure burden. However, PLWE require ongoing psychosocial support with particular attention to decompensation of mental health and social stressors that may be exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Role of Cerebroplacental Ratio in Predicting Perinatal Outcome

Objective Doppler velocimetry provides a sensitive, non-invasive, and safe method of surveillance of fetal hemodynamics and fetomaternal circulation. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) is an indicator of placental function and fetal maladaptation to placental insufficiency. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) is becoming a significant indicator of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes, which has implications for the assessment of fetal well-being. This study aimed to determine the cut-off value of the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) in appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses in high-risk mothers to predict adverse perinatal outcomes. We also compared the efficacy of CPR, umbilical artery pulsatility index (UmA PI), and middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA PI) for predicting adverse perinatal outcomes. Design and setting This was a prospective observational study conducted at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India. Methods A total of 100 women with singleton high-risk pregnancies were included in this prospective observational study. Obstetric ultrasound was performed at the time of recruitment, and fetal weight and CPR were noted. Based on fetal weight, patients were divided into AGA and fetal growth restriction (FGR) groups; CPR was measured; patients were followed up fortnightly; and outcomes were noted. Main outcome The effectiveness of CPR, UmA PI, and MCA PI for predicting poor perinatal outcomes and identifying the cut-off value of CPR in appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses in high-risk mothers was assessed. Result The values of MCA PI, UmA PI, and CPR were statistically significant between AGA and FGR (p-value =.023, .002 and .0001), respectively. The cut-off value for CPR-detecting adverse outcomes in AGA was 1.49. It has sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 67.5%, 68%, 71.69%, and 70.21%, respectively. Conclusion Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) reflects both circulatory insufficiency of the placenta and adaptive changes of the middle cerebral artery, indicating an important non-invasive surveillance modality.

Assessing feasibility of sewage sludge composting in rotary drum reactor

In a year-long study, the efficacy of a manually operated rotary drum prototype, jointly developed by CEIT Spain and IIM Mumbai, was examined for sanitized compost production in Indian conditions. The prototype, a 200-liter horizontal plastic drum made of high-density polyethylene, incorporated a perforated polypropylene pipe for passive aeration of the composting mixture. Focused on optimizing composting of sewage sludge from a Municipal MBBR, the research targeted key process variables in the rotary drum reactor to attain the thermophilic phase. Wood shavings emerged as the optimal bulking agent, with a mixing ratio of three parts dewatered sewage sludge to one-part bulking agent. A turning frequency of every 12 h proved optimal for achieving the desired temperature of around 60 °C. The study concluded that the final sludge quality met prescribed standards, showcasing the viability of the rotary drum system for efficient compost production in Indian settings.

Clinical Profile of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Hospital-Based Study

Introduction Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a new concept and an important area of investigation. In Western country's literature, different studies reported on TNBC and all indicated the poor prognostic aspect of this molecular subtype over other types of breast cancer. However, there is a scarcity of comprehensive data from India. Hence, the present study was carried out to look at the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of TNBC in the Indian population. Methods The present study was performed between January 2020 and June 2021 at a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India. A total of 150 patients with TNBC were enrolled in the study. The epidemiological and clinical features of enrolled patients were collected and reviewed. Results The median age of patients at TNBC presentation was 45.53 years (24 to 74 years). The median tumor size was reported to be 5.32 cm. Of 150 patients, 94(62.67%) showed enlarged lymph nodes and 56 (37.33%) patients had no lymph node enlargement. In the present study, 85 (56.67%) patients were in the pre/perimenopausal stage at presentation, whereas 65 (43.33%) patients were in the postmenopausal stage. Upon evaluating the spread of TNBC, it was observed that a maximum of patients 60 (40%) were at the T4 stage and 56 (37.33%) at the N0 condition. The clinical staging of TNBC reported a maximum of 74 (49.33%) patients at the IIA, and IIB stages followed by 53 (35.33%) patients at the IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC stages and a minimum of 11 (7.33%) patients at stage IV. Only five (3.33%) patients were reported with a family history of breast cancer. Of all patients, 126 (84%) had detected early breast cancer thereby applicable for surgery at the time of presentation, whereas 71 (47.33%) patients were eligible for radiation therapy and 138 (92%) patients received chemotherapy. A total of 112 (74.67%) patients were found alive after 24 months of follow-up, 22 (4.67%) patients were observed with remission, and 11 (7.33%) patients died due to TNBC progression. During the course of follow-up, five (3.33%) patients were lost in the study.  Conclusion TNBC is an aggressive malignancy that has a high risk of systemic relapses in the first two years after diagnosis. For more mature evidence on TNBC, longer follow-up of patients is necessary.

Binding interactions of Vildagliptin with pepsin: A multi-spectroscopic and in-silico approach and a comparative account with metformin

Vildagliptin (VDG) and Metformin (Met) belong to a class of dipeptidylpeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor and biguanide, respectively and used for the management of diabetes mellitus type II (DMTII). Both the drugs are orally available which leads to various side effects due to its oral ingestion. Occurrence of these side effects might be due to some interactions with pepsin at a molecular level. Therefore, in order to investigate these interactions, multi-spectroscopic and in-silico techniques have been extensively studied to identify the binding characteristics of VDG with pepsin. Fluorescence data suggested that the quenching is due to dynamic and static mechanism and static was dominant one. However, fluorescence and UV-Vis spectroscopic measurement analysis suggested that VDG tends to associate with pepsin, via ground-state complex formation. Fluorescence study revealed the binding-constant value which was found to be 0.559 × 103 M-1 at 298.15 K that is non-covalent in nature. VDG-pepsin complex shows exothermic and spontaneous binding as confirmed by the calculated values of ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG, are majorly caused by van der Waals forces and H-bonding interactions. CD spectra of pepsin in presence of VDG confirmed post binding conformational change. Enzyme-activity assay showed that activity of pepsin was decreased by upto 28 %. FRET analysis suggested that energy transfer efficiency is negligible for VDG-pepsin interaction. In-silico analysis reveals that H-bonding and electrostatic negative forces are the significant driving forces involved in the interaction of VDG and pepsin.

Rapid nongenomic estrogen signaling controls alcohol drinking behavior

The sex steroid hormone estrogen is a key modulator of numerous physiological processes and adaptive behaviors, but it may also be co-opted to drive maladaptive behaviors. While many behavioral roles for estrogen signaling have been shown to occur through canonical genomic signaling mechanisms via nuclear receptors, estrogen can also act in a neurotransmitter-like fashion at membrane-associated estrogen receptors to rapidly regulate neuronal function. Early alcohol drinking confers greater risk for alcohol use disorder in women than men, and binge alcohol drinking is correlated with high circulating estrogen but a causal role for estrogen in alcohol drinking has not been established. Here, we demonstrate that gonadally intact female mice consume more alcohol and display an anxiolytic phenotype when they have elevated levels of ovarian-derived estrogen across the estrous cycle. We found that rapid, nongenomic estrogen signaling at membrane-associated estrogen receptor alpha in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is necessary and sufficient for the pro-alcohol drinking effects of ovarian estrogen signaling, regardless of the transcriptional program of a high ovarian estrogen state. We further show that a population of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) BNST neurons (BNSTCRF) is a critical mediator of these effects, as high estrogen rapidly enhances synaptic excitation of BNSTCRF neurons and promotes their role in driving binge alcohol drinking. These findings show a causal role for endogenous, ovarian-derived estrogen in hormonal modulation of risky alcohol consumption and provide the first demonstration of a purely rapid, nongenomic signaling mechanism of ovarian estrogen in the brain controlling behavior in gonadally intact females.

Computer Simulation for Effective Pharmaceutical Kinetics and Dynamics: A Review

Computer-based modelling and simulation are developing as effective tools for supplementing biological data processing and interpretation. It helps to accelerate the creation of dosage forms at a lower cost and with the less human effort required to conduct the work. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive description of the different computer simulation models for various drugs along with their outcomes. The data used are taken from different sources, including review papers from Science Direct, Elsevier, NCBI, and Web of Science from 1995-2020. Keywords like - pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamics, computer simulation, whole-cell model, and cell simulation, were used for the search process. The use of computer simulation helps speed up the creation of new dosage forms at a lower cost and less human effort required to complete the work. It is also widely used as a technique for researching the structure and dynamics of lipids and proteins found in membranes. It also facilitates both the diagnosis and prevention of illness. Conventional data analysis methods cannot assess and comprehend the huge amount, size, and complexity of data collected by in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo experiments. As a result, numerous in silico computational e-resources, databases, and simulation software are employed to determine pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters for illness management. These techniques aid in the provision of multiscale representations of biological processes, beginning with proteins and genes and progressing through cells, isolated tissues and organs, and the whole organism.

Plummeting toxic contaminates from water through phycoremediation: Mechanism, influencing factors and future outlook to enhance the capacity of living and non-living algae

Freshwater habitats hold a unique role in the survival of all living organisms and supply water for drinking, irrigation, and life support activities. In recent decades, due to anthropogenic activities, deterioration in the water quality has been a long-lasting problem and challenge to the scientific fraternity. Although, these freshwater bodies have a bearable intrinsic capacity for pollution load however alarming increase in pollution limits the intrinsic capacities and requires additional technological interventions. The release of secondary pollutants from conventional interventions further needs revisiting the existing methodologies and asking for green interventions. Green interventions such as phycoremediation are natural, eco-friendly, economic, and energy-efficient alternatives and provide additional benefits such as nutrient recovery, biofuel production, and valuable secondary metabolites from polluted freshwater bodies. This systemic review in a nut-shell comprises the recent research insights on phycoremediation, technological implications, and influencing factors, and further discusses the associated mechanisms of metal ions biosorption by living and non-living algae, its advantages, and limitations. Besides, the article explores the possibility of future research prospects for applicability at a field scale that will help in the efficient utilization of resources, and improved ecological and health risks.

IMPACT OF MOTHER'S HYPOTHYROIDISM ON FETAL DEVELOPMENT AND OUTCOMES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

The thyroid, a gland with a butterfly-like shape in the base of the human neck, plays an important role in metabolism. Body heat, energy levels, weight, hair, fingernail, and regular menstruation cycles are controlled by three hormones produced by the thyroid. A system of feedback regulates the release of those hormones. Overproduction as well as underproduction of thyroid hormones can result from shifts in the stimulation and regulation of those hormones. These factors can have physiological or pathological origins. Pregnancy is a physiological factor. There is a plethora of physiological and psychological shifts that occur during pregnancy. A thyroid alteration in the mother is one example. Thyroid irregularities result from a failure to adjust to new circumstances. Thyroid hormone levels can drop, or manufacturing could be slowed during pregnancy due to variations in hormone concentration. Hypothyroidism describes this disorder. Hypothyroidism in women who are pregnant is either gestational or could be a disorder that is present before pregnancy. Gestational hypothyroidism cures itself throughout postpartum times, though it can stay as subclinical hyperthyroidism for some time after delivery. They pose a serious risk to development, stunt the growth of the unborn child and lead to defects in subsequent generations. Enhanced thyroid binding globulin levels, enhanced iodine clearance by the kidneys, modified effects of the human reproductive hormone and reduced dietary consumption of iodine lead to these alterations in the gland. Cretinism and mental disorders are among the serious health problems related to an iodine imbalance in maternal hypothyroidism. The growth of the brain, nervous system and Intelligence of an unborn child depends on thyroid hormones. As a result, normal early stages of development suffer due to changes in maternal hormone levels.