Amelioration of N,N'-dimethylhydrazine induced colon toxicity by epigallocatechin gallate in Wistar rats

Colon cancer is a life-threatening disease all over the world and is linked to constant oxidative stress and inflammation. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is a naturally occurring flavone possessing health benefiting pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties. Our study investigates the role of EGCG on N,N'-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), a toxic environmental pollutant, induced colon toxicity. To investigate the effect of EGCG, Wistar rats were given EGCG for 7 days at the two doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight and DMH was injected on the seventh day in all the group rats except the control. Our results indicate that DMH administration increased the oxidative stress (MDA) and depleted the glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GR, GST and GPx) which was significantly ameliorated by EGCG treatment. Additionally DMH treatment upregulated inflammatory markers expression (NF-κB, COX-2 and IL-6) and enhanced mucosal damage in the colon. EGCG treatment significantly reduced inflammation and restored the normal histoarchitecture of the colon. We can conclude from the present study findings that EGCG protects the colon from DMH toxicity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

Advanced Approaches to Breast Cancer Classification and Diagnosis

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has recently reported a 66% increase in the global number of cancer deaths since 1960. In the US alone, about one in eight women is expected to develop invasive breast cancer(s) (breast cancer) at some point in their lifetime. Traditionally, a BC diagnosis includes mammography, ultrasound, and some high-end molecular bioimaging. Unfortunately, these techniques detect BC at a later stage. So early and advanced molecular diagnostic tools are still in demand. In the past decade, various histological and immuno-molecular studies have demonstrated that BC is highly heterogeneous in nature. Its growth pattern, cytological features, and expression of key biomarkers in BC cells including hormonal receptor markers can be utilized to develop advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools. A cancer cell's progression to malignancy exhibits various vital biomarkers, many of which are still underrepresented in BC diagnosis and treatment. Advances in genetics have also enabled the development of multigene assays to detect genetic heterogeneity in BC. However, thus far, the FDA has approved only four such biomarkers-cancer antigens (CA); CA 15-3, CA 27-29, Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and circulating tumor cells (CTC) in assessing BC in body fluids. An adequately structured portable-biosensor with its non-invasive and inexpensive point-of-care analysis can quickly detect such biomarkers without significantly compromising its specificity and selectivity. Such advanced techniques are likely to discriminate between BC and a healthy patient by accurately measuring the cell shape, structure, depth, intracellular and extracellular environment, and lipid membrane compositions. Presently, BC treatments include surgery and systemic chemo- and targeted radiation therapy. A biopsied sample is then subjected to various multigene assays to predict the heterogeneity and recurrence score, thus guiding a specific treatment by providing complete information on the BC subtype involved. Thus far, we have seven prognostic multigene signature tests for BC providing a risk profile that can avoid unnecessary treatments in low-risk patients. Many comparative studies on multigene analysis projected the importance of integrating clinicopathological information with genomic-imprint analysis. Current cohort studies such as MINDACT, TAILORx, Trans-aTTOM, and many more, are likely to provide positive impact on long-term patient outcome. This review offers consolidated information on currently available BC diagnosis and treatment options. It further describes advanced biomarkers for the development of state-of-the-art early screening and diagnostic technologies.

Effect of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus History on Future Pregnancy Behaviors: The Mutaba'ah Study

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in any pregnancy and recurrence rates are high in future pregnancies. This study aims to investigate the effect of self-reported history of previous GDM on behaviors in a future pregnancy. This is an interim cross-sectional analysis of the pregnant women who participated in the Mutaba'ah Study between May 2017 and March 2020 in the United Arab Emirates. Participants completed a baseline self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic and pregnancy-related information about the current pregnancy and previous pregnancies. Regression models assessed the relationships between self-reported history of GDM and pre-pregnancy and pregnancy behaviors in the current pregnancy. Out of 5738 pregnant parous women included in this analysis, nearly 30% (n = 1684) reported a history of GDM in a previous pregnancy. Women with a history of previous GDM were less likely to plan their current pregnancies (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74-0.96) and more likely to be worried about childbirth (aOR: 1.18, 95% CI 1.03-1.36). They had shorter interpregnancy intervals between their previous child and current pregnancy (aOR: 0.88, 95% CI 0.82-0.94, per SD increase). There were no significant differences between women with and without a history of GDM in supplement use, sedentary behavior, or physical activity before and during this current pregnancy. Nearly a third of parous pregnant women in this population had a history of GDM in a previous pregnancy. Pregnant women with a previous history of GDM were similar to their counterparts with no history of GDM in the adopted pre-pregnancy and prenatal health behaviors. More intensive and long-term lifestyle counseling, possibly supported by e-health and social media materials, might be required to empower pregnant women with a history of GDM. This may assist in adopting and maintaining healthy prenatal behaviors early during the pregnancy or the preconception phase to minimize the risk of GDM recurrence and the consequential adverse maternal and infant health outcomes.

Knowledge and Preference Towards Mode of Delivery among Pregnant Women in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba'ah Study

BACKGROUND

The rate of cesarean section (CS) is growing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Pregnant women's knowledge on the mode of delivery, factors associated with lack of adequate knowledge, and preference towards CS delivery were investigated.

METHODS

Baseline cross-sectional data from 1617 pregnant women who participated in the Mutaba'ah Study between September 2018 and March 2020 were analyzed. A self-administered questionnaire inquiring about demographic and maternal characteristics, ten knowledge-based statements about mode of delivery, and one question about preference towards mode of delivery was used. Knowledge on the mode of delivery was categorized into "adequate (total score 6-10)" or "lack of adequate (total score 0-5)" knowledge. Crude and multivariable models were used to identify factors associated with "lack of adequate" knowledge on the mode of delivery and factors associated with CS preference.

RESULTS

A total of 1303 (80.6%) pregnant women (mean age 30.6 ± 5.8 years) completed the questionnaire. The majority (57.1%) were ≥30 years old, in their third trimester (54.5%), and had at least one child (76.6%). In total, 20.8% underwent CS delivery in the previous pregnancy, and 9.4% preferred CS delivery for the current pregnancy. A total of 78.4% of pregnant women lacked adequate knowledge on the mode of delivery. The level of those who lacked adequate knowledge was similar across women in different pregnancy trimesters. Young women (18-24 years) (adjusted odds ratios (aOR), 3.07, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07-8.86) and women who had CS delivery in the previous pregnancy (aOR, 1.90, 95% CI, 1.06-3.40) were more likely to be classified with a lack of adequate knowledge. Age (aOR, 1.08, 95% CI, 1.02-1.14), employment (aOR, 1.96, 95% CI, 1.13-3.40), or previous CS delivery (aOR, 31.10, 95% CI, 17.71-55.73) were associated with a preference towards CS delivery.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that pregnant women may not fully appreciate the health risks associated with different modes of delivery. Therefore, antenatal care appointments should include a balanced discussion on the potential benefits and harms associated with different delivery modes.

Inhibition of microbial growth by silver nanoparticles synthesized from Fraxinus xanthoxyloides leaf extract

AIMS

Conventional antibiotics have been failed to treat infectious diseases due to emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in some common pathogens. The current study aimed to formulate new antimicrobials from greener sources. In the midst of these efforts, nanotechnology is a newly emerged field, in which the synthesis of new nanoparticles through novel and efficient means is on the rise.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The current work has been carried out to assess the potential of Fraxinus xanthoxyloides (FX) leaf extract in biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (FX-AgNPs). This method is economical and simple one-step approach to synthesize AgNPs. Characterization of FX-AgNPs has been done by UV-Visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electronic microscope (TEM) and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The formation of FX-AgNPs has confirmed through UV-Visible spectroscopy (at 430 nm) by change of colour owing to surface Plasmon resonance. Based on the XRD pattern, the crystalline property of FX-AgNPs has established. Functional groups existing in F. xanthoxyloides leaf extract are confirmed by FT-IR spectrum. SEM and TEM authenticated morphology of the AgNPs. The newly synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated for their antimicrobial potential. Minimum inhibitory concentration was determined against Escherichia coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans by microtiter plate assay. The lowest inhibition (69%) observed against MRSA was at a concentration of 50 ppm FX-AgNPs and maximum inhibition (81%) observed was against P. aeruginosa. The biosynthesized AgNPs triggered up to 68·6% reduction of the P. aeruginosa biofilm when compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that nanoparticles could be a better alternative of antibiotics with greater efficacies and represent a valuable milestone to fight against infections caused by MDR pathogens.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study imparts a useful insight into the development of a new antimicrobial agent from a novel source.

Impact of Recurrent Miscarriage on Maternal Outcomes in Subsequent Pregnancy: The Mutaba'ah Study

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence of recurrent miscarriage (RM) and investigate the association between RM and adverse maternal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies.

Participants and Methods

This is an interim analysis of a prospective study of 1737 pregnant women with gravidity of two or more prior to the current pregnancy. These women joined the Mutaba’ah Study between May 2017 and April 2019 and were followed up until they delivered. Hospital medical records were used to extract data on past pregnancy history and the progress and outcomes of the current pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, mode of delivery, preterm delivery, and complications at birth.

Results

Amongst pregnant women with at least two previous pregnancies (n=1737), there were 234 (13.5%) women with a history of two or more consecutive miscarriages. Women with RM were slightly older, more parous, and more likely to have had previous infertility treatment (all p-values <0.05). Women with a history of RM had independently significant increased odds of cesarean section (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.81, 95% CI 1.24–2.65) and preterm (<37 weeks, aOR: 2.52, 95% CI 1.56–4.08) or very preterm delivery (<32 weeks, aOR: 7.02 95% CI 2.41–20.46) in subsequent pregnancies than women who did not have a history of RM.

Conclusion

Women with a history of RM were twice as likely to undergo cesarean section and seven times more likely to deliver prior to 32 weeks of gestation than women without a history of RM. The study findings support the need for early pregnancy monitoring or assessment units to ensure better follow-up and customized care for at-risk pregnant women with a history of RM.

Burden, associated risk factors and adverse outcomes of gestational diabetes mellitus in twin pregnancies in Al Ain, UAE

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in singleton pregnancies represent a high-risk scenario. The incidence, associated factors and outcomes of GDM in twin pregnancies is not known in the UAE.

Methods

This was five years retrospective analysis of hospital records of twin pregnancies in the city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Relevant data with regards to the pregnancy, maternal and birth outcomes and incidence of GDM was extracted from two major hospitals in the city. Regression models assessed the relationship between socio-demographic and pregnancy-related variables and GDM, and the associations between GDM and maternal and fetal outcomes at birth.

Results

A total of 404 women and their neonates were part of this study. The study population had a mean age of 30.1 (SD: 5.3), overweight or obese (66.5%) and were majority multiparous (66.6%). High incidence of GDM in twin pregnancies (27.0%). While there were no statistical differences in outcomes of the neonates, GDM mothers were older (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.06–1.4) and heavier (aOR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00 -1.04). They were also likely to have had GDM in their previous pregnancies (aOR: 7.37, 95% CI: 2.76–19.73). The prognosis of mothers with twin pregnancies and GDM lead to an independent and increased odds of cesarean section (aOR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.03–5.30) and hospitalization during pregnancy (aOR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.16–2.20).

Conclusion

More than a quarter of women with twin pregnancies were diagnosed with GDM. GDM was associated with some adverse pregnancy outcomes but not fetal outcomes in this population. More studies are needed to further investigate these associations and the management of GDM in twin pregnancies.

Au nanostar nanoparticle as a bio-imaging agent and its detection and visualization in biosystems

In the present work, we report the imaging of Au nanostars nanoparticles (AuNSt) and their multifunctional applications in biomedical research and theranostics applications. Their optical and spectroscopic properties are considered for the multimodal imaging purpose. The AuNSt are prepared by the seed-meditated method and characterized for use as an agent for bio-imaging. To demonstrate imaging with AuNSt, penetration and localization in different biological models such as cancer cell culture (A549 lung carcinoma cell), 3D tissue model (multicellular tumor spheroid on the base of human oral squamous carcinoma cell, SAS) and murine skin tissue are studied. AuNSt were visualized using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) at two-photon excitation with a pulse duration 140 fs, repetition rate 80 MHz and 780 nm wavelength femtosecond laser. Strong emission of AuNSt at two-photon excitation in the near infrared range and fluorescence lifetime less than 0.5 ns were observed. It allows using AuNSt as a fluorescent marker at two-photon fluorescence microscopy and lifetime imaging (FLIM). It was shown that AuNSt can be observed inside a thick sample (tissue and its model). This is the first demonstration using AuNSt as an imaging agent for FLIM at two-photon excitation in biosystems. Increased scattering of near-infrared light upon excitation of AuNSt surface plasmon oscillation was also observed and rendered using a possible contrast agent for optical coherence tomography (OCT). AuNSt detection in a biological system using FLIM is compared with OCT on the model of AuNSt penetrating into animal skin. The AuNSt application for multimodal imaging is discussed.

The Malay version of smartphone addiction scale: Development, factor structure and validation of a short form for Malaysian adolescents

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to validate the Malay version of the short form Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS-M-SF) and to examine its psychometric properties in a cohort of pre-university adolescents.

METHODS

We obtained the validity and reliability evidence for the SAS-M-SF using a group of 307 pre-university students in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia with a mean age of 18.4±0.2 years (70.4% female and 29.6% male). A questionnaire containing the Malay version of Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS-M), the Malay version of the short form Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS-M-SF), and the Malay version of the Internet Addiction Test (IAT-M) was administered on the adolescents.

RESULTS

The SAS-M-SF displayed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α=0.80). Using principle component analysis, we identified a 4-factor SAS-M-SF model. A significant correlation between the SAS-M-SF and the IAT-M was found, lending support for concurrent validity. The prevalence of smartphone addiction was 54.5% based on cut-off score of ≥36 with a sensitivity of 70.2% and a specificity of 72.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

The 10-item SAS-M-SF is a valid and reliable screening tool for smartphone addiction among adolescents. The scale can help clinicians or educators design appropriate intervention and prevention programs targeting smartphone addiction in adolescents at clinical or school settings.

Proteomic comparison of osteoarthritic and reference human menisci using data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry

OBJECTIVE

Recent research in knee osteoarthritis (OA) highlights the role of the meniscus in OA pathology. Our aim was to compare the proteomes of medial and lateral menisci from end-stage medial compartment knee OA patients, with reference menisci from knee-healthy deceased donors, using mass spectrometry.

DESIGN

Tissue plugs of Ø3 mm were obtained from the posterior horns of the lateral and medial menisci from one knee of 10 knee-healthy deceased donors and 10 patients undergoing knee replacement. Proteins were extracted and prepared for mass spectrometric analysis. Statistical analysis was conducted on abundance data that was log₂-transformed, using a linear mixed effects model and evaluated using pathway analysis.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 835 proteins in all samples, of which 331 were included in the statistical analysis. The largest differences could be seen between the medial menisci from OA patients and references, with most proteins showing higher intensities in the medial menisci from OA patients. Several matrix proteins, e.g., matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) (4.3 times higher values [95%CI 1.8, 10.6]), TIMP1 (3.5 [1.4, 8.5]), asporin (4.1 [1.7, 10.0]) and versican (4.4 [1.8, 10.9]), all showed higher abundance in medial menisci from OA patients compared to medial reference menisci. OA medial menisci also showed increased activation of several pathways involved in inflammation.

CONCLUSION

An increase in protein abundance for proteins such as MMP and TIMP1 in the medial menisci from OA patients suggests simultaneous activation of both catabolic and anabolic processes that warrants further attention.

Antenatal Care Initiation Among Pregnant Women in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba'ah Study

Introduction: Antenatal care (ANC) provides monitoring and regular follow-up of maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. Women with appropriate ANC tend to have better delivery and birth outcomes. This study describes the patterns of ANC utilization and factors associated with appropriate ANC initiation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the first time. Methods: Baseline cross-sectional data from pregnant women who participated in the Mutaba'ah-Mother and Child Health Study between May 2017 and January 2019 was analyzed. Participants were recruited during ANC visits and completed a self-administered questionnaire that collected socio-demographic and pregnancy-related information and assessed whether it was their first ANC appointment. Regression models assessed the relationship between socio-demographic and pregnancy-related variables and "appropriate" (≤ 4 months' gestation) vs. "late" ANC initiation (>4 months' gestation). Results: At recruitment, 841 participants reported that it was their first ANC visit and half (50.2%) of these women were late initiating their ANC. Mothers who were more educated, had previous infertility treatment or previous miscarriages were all more likely to achieve appropriate ANC initiation [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05-2.62; aOR: 3.68, 95% CI: 1.50-9.04; aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.16-2.79, respectively]. Women worrying about childbirth were less likely to achieve appropriate ANC initiation (aOR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.34-0.85). Conclusion: Half of pregnant women in this study did not achieve the global consensus guidelines on appropriate ANC initiation. Interventions among less educated women and those with previous pregnancy complications and childbirth anxiety are recommended to ensure appropriate ANC initiation.

Association of antimicrobial resistance and gut microbiota composition in human and non-human primates at an urban ecotourism site

Background

The rise of nature-based ecotourism in the past decade has introduced unprecedented challenges in managing the increasing interaction between humans and animals. The potential transmission of antibiotic resistant microbes between humans and non-human primate populations is a concern due to their genetic similarity. Malaysia is well known for hotspots of wildlife diversity where non-human primates like monkeys and orangutans have become popular tourist attractions. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of antimicrobial resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus species, and other Enterobacteriaceae in the faeces of human (HS) and two non-human primates (NHP) in Malaysia, the Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis, MF) and Silvered leaf monkey (Trachypithecus cristatus, TC). In addition, the faecal bacterial composition was profiled to evaluate the potential association between antibiotic resistant profiles and composition of gut microbiota.

Results

We tested the isolated bacteria using a selection of antibiotics. The results showed that both the number of antibiotic resistant strains and resistance level were higher in humans than NHPs. Overall, the composition of gut microbiome and pattern of antibiotic resistance showed that there was higher similarity between MF and TC, the two NHPs, than with HS. In addition, samples with higher levels of antibiotic resistance showed lower bacterial richness. Homo sapiens had the lowest bacterial diversity and yet it had higher abundance of Bacteroides. In contrast, NHPs displayed higher bacterial richness and greater prevalence of Firmicutes such as Ruminococceae and Oscillospira.

Conclusion

Higher antibiotic susceptibility in NHPs is likely related to low direct exposure to antibiotics. The lack of resistance may also suggest limited antimicrobial resistance transmission between humans and NHP. Nonetheless, continued monitoring over a long period will help mitigate the risk of anthropozoonosis and zooanthroponosis.

Maternal and birth cohort studies in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We systematically reviewed and chronicled exposures and outcomes measured in the maternal and birth cohort studies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and quantitatively summarized the weighted effect estimates between maternal obesity and (1) cesarean section (CS) and (2) fetal macrosomia.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE-PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases up to 30 June 2019. We considered all maternal and birth cohort studies conducted in the six GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates (UAE)). We categorized cohort studies on the basis of the exposure(s) (anthropometric, environmental, medical, maternal/reproductive, perinatal, or socioeconomic) and outcome(s) (maternal or birth) being measured. Adjusted weighted effect estimates, in the form of relative risks, between maternal obesity and CS and fetal macrosomia were generated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Of 3502 citations, 81 published cohort studies were included. One cohort study was in Bahrain, eight in Kuwait, seven in Qatar, six in Oman, 52 in Saudi Arabia, and seven in the UAE. Majority of the exposures studied were maternal/reproductive (65.2%) or medical (39.5%). Birth and maternal outcomes were reported in 82.7% and in 74.1% of the cohort studies, respectively. In Saudi Arabia, babies born to obese women were at a higher risk of macrosomia (adjusted relative risk (aRR), 1.15; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.10-1.20; I2 = 50%) or cesarean section (aRR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.15-1.26; I2 = 62.0%). Several cohort studies were only descriptive without reporting the magnitude of the effect estimate between the assessed exposures and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Cohort studies in the GCC have predominantly focused on reproductive and medical exposures. Obese pregnant women are at an increased risk of undergoing CS delivery or macrosomic births. Longer-term studies that explore a wider range of environmental and biological exposures and outcomes relevant to the GCC region are needed.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42017068910.

Road toward rapid-molecular point of care test to detect novel SARS-coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19): Review from updated literature

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) named by the WHO as a result of the global public health emergency. COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus named as novel coronavirus (2019-nCOV). From the first case reported in December 2019 it is now a pandemic situation and a major public health emergency. The COVID-19 transmission rate is very high, infecting two to three persons on average with contact to an already infected person. There is a need for the health system, specially in developing countries such as in Pakistan, to combat such a novel disease by rapid, accurate, and high quality diagnostic testing in order to screen suspected cases and also surveillance of the disease. A rapid, accurate and low-cost diagnostic point-of-care device is needed for timely diagnosis of COVID-19 and is essential to combat such outbreaks for compelling preventive measures against the disease spread. This review is to highlight the importance of point-of-care diagnostics device for robust and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 in physician offices and other urgent healthcare-type settings and encourage academics and stake holders towards advancement in order to control outbreaks and develop the public health surveillance system.

Plant-based oil-sorbents harbor native microbial communities effective in spilled oil-bioremediation under nitrogen starvation and heavy metal-stresses

Cultivation on selective media revealed that the oil-sorbents, wheat straw, corncobs and sugarcane bagasse harbor hydrocarbonoclastic, diazotrophic and heavy metal-resistant microorganisms. Nitrogen-free media containing 1.0% crude oil lost between 32.2 and 37.5% of this oil, after 8 months when they have been inoculated with such microorganism-loaded sorbents. The used wheat straw, corncobs and sugarcane bagasse samples, 1.0 g each, absorbed respectively, 1.9, 1.1 and 2.5 g oil samples, and lost 24.3-39.2% of these amounts, after they had been incubated for 8 months. Total genomic DNA's from culture media and sorbents revealed various nitrogenase-coding nifH-genes. Pure hydrocarbonoclastic microbial isolates tolerated certain concentrations of, Hg²⁺, Cd²⁺, Pb²⁺, AsO₄^3- and AsO₃^3-. Some of those isolates even grew excellently with up to 1000 ppm of Pb²⁺ and 36,000 ppm of AsO₄^3- also in the presence of oil. Tested strains removed the tested heavy metals, Hg²⁺, Cd²⁺ and Pb²⁺ from the media and thus, reduced their toxicity against the hydrocarbon-degraders. It was concluded that plant-based sorbents, not only remove oil physically, but also harbor microbial communities effective in spilled oil-bioremediation under multiple stresses. Although each community consisted of one to three species only, the consortia which reached in numbers millions of CFU ml^-1 enrich the oily media with fixed nitrogen, and remove heavy metals which otherwise inhibit the oil-degrading microorganisms.

Mutaba'ah-Mother and Child Health Study: protocol for a prospective cohort study investigating the maternal and early life determinants of infant, child, adolescent and maternal health in the United Arab Emirates

INTRODUCTION

Early life exposures, particularly environmental and parental lifestyle factors, have a major influence on children's health and development. Due to increasing interest in the early life developmental origins of diseases, many birth cohorts have been established. These studies constitute a repository of data which researchers use over many years to investigate emerging research questions. However, no such databank or cohort study is available in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This project aims to establish a prospective mother and child cohort study in Al Ain (Abu Dhabi, UAE) to investigate the maternal and early life determinants of infant, child, adolescent and maternal health of the Emirati population.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

During the period 2017-2021, this study aims to recruit 10 000 pregnancies at approximately 12 weeks of gestation from hospitals and clinics in Al Ain city. For each mother/newborn pair, an initial dataset will be collected including anthropometric, physiological and biochemical measurements, medical interventions, circumstances of pregnancy, delivery details and neonatal and perinatal growth and health using a combination of questionnaires, interviews and medical record extractions. Baseline data will act as the starting point from which the children will be followed up and re-surveyed at intervals throughout their life course until the age of 16 years, to explore how familial, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors interact with genetic and environmental factors to influence health outcomes and achievements later in life.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval has been granted by the United Arab Emirates University Human Research Ethics Committee and the ethical committees of the participating institutions. Results will be widely disseminated via peer-reviewed manuscripts, conference presentations, media outlets and reports to relevant authorities.

Numerical study of hydromagnetic axisymmetric peristaltic flow at high Reynolds number and wave number

The computational study of MHD peristaltic motion is investigated for axisymmetric flow problem. The developed model is present in the form of partial differential equations. Then obtained partial differential equations are transferred into stream-vorticity (ψ - ω) form. Then Galerkin Finite element method is used to find the computational results of governing problem. The current study is compared with the existing well-known results at low Reynolds number and wave number. It is revealed that the present results are in well agreement with existing results in the literature. So, it is effective for higher values of Reynolds number and wave number. The variations of streamline are present graphically against high Reynolds number. It concludes that high Reynolds number and Hartmann number increase pressure rise per unit wavelength in positive pumping region sharply.

Newborn screening for Pompe disease: impact on families

Pompe disease (PD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder causing progressive glycogen accumulation in muscles, with variability in age of onset and severity. For infantile-onset PD (IOPD), initiation of early treatment can be life-saving; however, current newborn screening (NBS) technology cannot distinguish IOPD from late-onset PD (LOPD) without clinical workup. Therefore, families of LOPD infants diagnosed by NBS may now spend years or even decades aware of their illness before symptoms appear, creating a pre-symptomatic awareness phase with which the medical community has little experience. The present study examines the effects of receiving a positive NBS result for PD on families. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with mothers of nine children (three IOPD and six LOPD) diagnosed via NBS, exploring their experiences, understanding of PD, how they are coping, and what impact diagnosis is having on family life. Interviews were coded using MaxQDA v.12 and analyzed for thematic trends. While overall opinion of NBS was favorable, it is clear many of the concerns anticipated by HCPs, patients, and families regarding NBS for late-onset LSDs are being realized to varying degrees; LOPD families are becoming patients-in-waiting. Increased fear/anxiety and living with uncertainty (regarding diagnosis, their children's future, and when to start treatment) were predominant themes, with all families voicing considerable emotional reactions and varied social and healthcare support concerns. Coping strategies and psychosocial challenges are interpreted using Rolland & Williams' Family Systems Genetic Illness model. Recommendations for improvement in delivery of service, as well as families' advice for future parents and HCPs, are discussed.

Giant cell arteritis in patients of Indian Subcontinental descent in the UK

BACKGROUND

GCA in the Indian Subcontinent (ISC) is rare. Our centre in London, UK, serves an ethnically diverse population, including a significant population of patients of ISC descent. We hypothesise that patients of ISC descent are no less likely than others to present with symptoms suggestive of GCA and therefore to undergo temporal artery biopsy (TAB).

METHOD

A retrospective audit of all TABs performed at our institution over an 8 year period, to identify ethnicity (white, black, ISC, other, unknown) and biopsy result. We compared the proportion of all patients of ISC descent attending the ED to the proportion of ISC patients undergoing TAB. We compared the proportion of positive TABs among ISC patients with positive TABs among white patients. We also compared the proportion of TAB in ISC patients with all non-ISC ethnicities combined.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients undergoing TAB who were of ISC descent (16.3% of 92) was comparable to the proportion of A&E attendances made up by ISC patients [p = 0.1339]. 3.8% (1/26) of positive biopsies were among patients of ISC descent. White patients were significantly more likely to have a positive biopsy than patients of ISC ethnicity (33% of 61 white patients vs. 7% of 15 ISC [p = 0.0456]), as were patients of non-ISC ethnicity (32.5% of 77 non-ISC patients vs. 7% of 15 ISC patients [p = 0.0464]).

DISCUSSION

At our centre, biopsy proven GCA occurs in patients of ISC descent, but rarely. Full investigation for GCA continues to be appropriate where it is suspected, regardless of ethnicity.

Increasing Trend in the Incidence of Colorectal Cancer on Malaysia

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in Malaysia (13.2%). Aim: To study the epidemiologic trend of colorectal cancer in Malaysia and to suggest the strategy in reducing the incidence of CRC in Malaysia. Methods: Total of 13,693 cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in 2007-2011 were extracted from the Malaysian National Cancer Registry (MNCR). MNCR is a population-based cancer registry which collects data from all government and private facilities (hospitals, clinics, laboratories, National Registration Department and Health Informatics, MOH) by passive notification and active case findings. The registry registers all new cancer cases among Malaysian citizen diagnosed in Malaysia into CanReg4 software. Data were explored using IARC tools and analyzed using CanReg4 software. Results: 55.8% of the colorectal cancer cases were in male and 44.2% in female. ASR was 14.6 per 100,000 population for male and 11.1 per 100,000 populations for female. The male to female ASR ratio was 1.3:1. The 5-years trend shows increasing incidence for both gender. The age-specific incidence rates of the cases were between 45 to 75 years old. The lifetime risk for males was 1 in 56 and in females was 1 in 74. Majority of the cancer were detected among Chinese followed by Malays and Indians. 66% of the colorectal cancer presented at advanced stage (stage 3 and 4) in males and 65% in female. Conclusion: The trend of colorectal cancer is increasing in Malaysia and most of the cancer cases were diagnosed at late stage. To increase the detection rate of CRC at early stage, Ministry of Health Malaysia has introduce screening program using immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) since 2013. Tremendous campaigns also being carry out in the community to create awareness on the importance of colorectal cancer screening for early detection and treatment hence improved the survival.

Osteoglycin, a novel coordinator of bone and glucose homeostasis

Objective

The skeleton, which is strongly controlled by endocrine factors, has recently been shown to also play an active endocrine role itself, specifically influencing energy metabolism. However, much less is known about this role. Therefore, we sought to identify novel endocrine factors involved in the regulation of both bone mass and whole-body glucose homeostasis.

Methods

We used transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of Y1 receptor deficient osteoblasts combined with the generation of a novel osteoglycin deficient mouse model and performed comprehensive in vivo phenotype profiling, combined with osteoglycin administration in wildtype mice and human studies.

Results

Here we identify a novel role for osteoglycin, a secreted proteoglycan, in coordinating bone accretion with changes in energy balance. Using an osteoglycin knockout mouse model, we show that at a whole body level, osteoglycin acts to suppress bone formation and modulate whole body energy supplies by altering glucose uptake through changes in insulin secretion and sensitivity, as well as by altering food intake through central signaling. Examining humans following gastric surgery as a model of negative energy balance, we show that osteoglycin is associated with BMI and lean mass as well as changes in weight, BMI, and glucose levels.

Conclusions

Thus, we identify osteoglycin as a novel factor involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis and identify a role for it in facilitating the matching of bone acquisition to alterations in energy status.

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Osteoglycin regulates insulin action, bone mass and food intake in mice.

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Osteoglycin is associated with changes in weight, BMI and glucose in obese humans.

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Osteoglycin is a downstream mediator of NPY signaling via osteoblastic Y1 receptors.

Donor-Derived Metastatic Melanoma and Checkpoint Inhibition

Donor-derived malignancy, particularly melanoma, is a rare but known complication of organ transplantation. Here we describe a case of metastatic melanoma in a deceased-donor kidney transplant recipient. After diagnosis, the patient was successfully treated with cessation of immunosuppression, explantation of the renal allograft, and novel melanoma therapies, including the mutation-targeted agents dabrafenib and trametinib and the immune checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab. These 2 new classes of melanoma therapy have revolutionized the course of metastatic melanoma, altering it from one of nearly certain mortality to one of potential cure. This case reviews the mechanisms of action of these therapies and reports our experience with them in the rare setting of donor-derived melanoma in a dialysis-dependent patient.

ntra-species profiling of Cleome viscosa growing in Swat district (Pakistan)

Intra-specific genetic variation was studied in 28 genotypes of Cleome viscosa L. growing in Swat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It was found that genotypes showed the utmost allelic variation for leaf upper and lower surface with emerald green (75%), and yellow green (75%) respectively, other leaves lower and upper surfaces were (25%) green and yellow green (26%) respectively. The majority of C. viscosa genotypes were (50%) yellow flowers while others were with (29%) white yellow colour and (21%) dull yellow. Most of the seeds were with black (46%). The protein profiling was carried out on 12% gel electrophoresis; seven reproducible bands with molecular weight ranges from 180 to 10 KDa were detected in C. viscosa, the locus contribution toward genetic disagreement (LCTGD) of C. viscosa was 57%. Notably, L-3, L-4 L-5, was monomorphic in C. viscosa and was treated as species specific. L-1, L-2, L-7 were polymorphic. These bands showed 79%, 4%, 14% and 79% variation respectively. In the current investigation the intra-specific variation was observed limited and alone SDS-PAGE did not determine the high level of intra-specific variation; however, diverse germplasm were suggested to be acquired from various sources.

Abstract PD6-04: Not presented

This abstract was not presented at the symposium.

Maternal and birth cohort studies in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: protocol for a systematic review and narrative evaluation

INTRODUCTION

Cohort studies have revealed that genetic, socioeconomic, communicable and non-communicable diseases, and environmental exposures during pregnancy may influence the mother and her pregnancy, birth delivery and her offspring. Numerous studies have been conducted in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to examine maternal and birth health. The objectives of this protocol for a systematic review are to systematically review and characterise the exposures and outcomes that have been examined in the mother and birth cohort studies in the GCC region, and to summarise the strength of association between key maternal exposures during pregnancy (ie, body mass index) and different health-related outcomes (ie, mode of birth delivery). The review will then synthesise and characterise the consequent health implications and will serve as a platform to help identify areas that are overlooked, point out limitations of studies and provide recommendations for future cohort studies.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science electronic databases will be comprehensively searched. Two reviewers will independently screen each study for eligibility, and where discrepancies arise they will be discussed and resolved; otherwise a third reviewer will be consulted. The two reviewers will also independently extract data into a predefined Excel spreadsheet. The included studies will be categorised on the basis of whether the participant is a mother, infant or mother-infant dyad. Outcome variables will be divided along two distinctions: mother or infant. Exposure variables will be divided into six domains: psychosocial, biological, environmental, medical/medical services, maternal/reproductive and perinatal/child. Studies are expected to be of heterogeneous nature; therefore, quantitative syntheses might be limited.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

There is no primary data collection; therefore, ethical review is not necessary. The findings of this review will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42017068910.

Relationship between Mastery and Caregiving Competence in Protecting against Burden, Anxiety and Depression among Caregivers of Frail Older Adults

OBJECTIVE

Studies suggest the protective effect of mastery and caregiving competence against psychological stressors of caregiving in the context of dementia, although the interplay between the two with caregiver outcomes is not well understood. This study examines the independent and moderating impact of mastery and caregiving competence on burden, anxiety and depression among caregivers of older adults with frailty-related care needs.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

This is a cross-sectional study of 274 older adults-family caregiver dyads from a hospital in Singapore. Mean ages of the older adults and their caregivers were 85 and 59 years respectively.

MEASUREMENTS

We performed hierarchical linear regression models to examine the independent influence of mastery and caregiving competence on caregiver burden, anxiety and depression. We also examined the interaction effect between mastery and caregiving competence for each outcome.

RESULTS

Mastery and caregiving competence were independently negatively associated with caregiver burden, anxiety and depression. Mastery explained more variance than caregiving competence and had a stronger correlation with all outcomes. There was a statistically significant interaction between mastery and caregiving competence for depression (interaction term beta=.14, p<0.01), but not burden and anxiety. High levels of mastery are associated with less depression. particularly among caregivers with below-average levels of caregiving competence. Likewise, high levels of caregiving competence are associated with less depression. particularly among caregivers with below-average levels of mastery.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest potential benefits adressing targeted interventions for mastery and caregiving competence of caregivers to older adults as they independently influence caregiver outcomes and moderate each other's effect on depression. Mastery-based interventions should be incorporated into current caregiver training which traditionally has focused on caregiver competence alone.