Studies on bioaccumulation patterns, biochemical and genotoxic effects of copper on freshwater fish, Catla catla: an in vivo analysis

Abstract During present study, the copper (Cu) mediated oxidative stress was measured that induced DNA damage by concentrating in the tissues of fish, Catla catla (14.45±1.24g; 84.68±1.45mm) (Hamilton,1822). Fish fingerlings were retained in 5 groups for 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84 days of the exposure period. They were treated with 2/3, 1/3, 1/4 and 1/5 (T1-T4) of 96h lethal concentration of copper. Controls were run along with all the treatments for the same durations. A significant (p < 0.05) dose and time dependent concentration of Cu was observed in the gills, liver, kidney, muscles, and brain of C. catla. Among organs, the liver showed a significantly higher concentration of Cu followed by gills, kidney, brain, and muscles. Copper accumulation in these organs caused a significant variation in the activities of enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD). The SOD activity varied significantly in response to the exposure time of Cu as 56 > 70 > 42 > 84 > 28 > 14 days while CAT activity exhibited an inverse relationship with the increase in Cu concentration. POD activity showed a significant rise with an increase in Cu exposure duration. Comet assay exhibited significant DNA damage in the peripheral erythrocytes of Cu exposed C. catla. Among four exposure concentrations, 2/3rd of LC50 (T1) caused significantly higher damage to the nuclei compared to control. Increased POD and SOD activity, as well as a decrease in CAT activity in response to Cu, demonstrates the involvement of a protective mechanism against reactive oxygen species (ROS), whereas increased ROS resulted in higher DNA damage. These above-mentioned molecular markers can be efficiently used for the biomonitoring of aquatic environments and conservation of edible fish fauna.

Association between oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, and homocysteine in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent health condition that commonly affects adolescent girls and young women. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between levels of total glutathione (TG), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine with PCOS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study employed a cross-sectional case-control design, involving a target population of 305 Sudanese females. Among them, 205 individuals were categorized as cases, and 100 served as controls. The TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine levels were measured in the serum of study participants through enzyme-linked immunosorbent essay.

RESULTS

Total glutathione (1,174.5 ± 271.4 vs. 986.1 ± 191.5, p = 0.01), GSH (801.3 ± 132.2 vs. 748.6 ± 103.1, p = 0.007), SOD (225.2 ± 57.8 vs. 195.5 ± 49.6, p = 0.009), lipid peroxidation (3.4 ± 1.1 vs. 2.4 ± 0.7, p = 0.03), and homocysteine (14.9 ± 2.1 vs. 13.5 ± 1.6, p = 0.04), showed significant differences between the two groups (cases vs. controls). A moderate positive correlation between TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, homocysteine, BMI, age, and duration of PCOS was observed. Furthermore, a strong positive correlation between BMI, age, and duration of PCOS was noted within the patient group.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that patients with PCOS have elevated levels of TG, GSH, SOD, lipid peroxidation, and homocysteine compared to the control group. These findings suggest a potential association between PCOS and oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and homocysteine pathways. Moreover, the observed positive correlation with BMI, age, and duration of PCOS indicates the importance of these factors in disease progression.

Impact of U2AF1 mutations on circular RNA expression in myelodysplastic neoplasms

Mutations in U2AF1 are relatively common in myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) and are associated with an inferior prognosis, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this are not fully elucidated. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in cancer, but it is unknown how mutations in splicing factors may impact on circRNA biogenesis. Here, we used RNA-sequencing to investigate the effects of U2AF1 mutations on circRNA expression in K562 cells with a doxycycline-inducible U2AF1^S34 mutation, in a mouse model with a doxycycline-inducible U2AF1^S34 mutation, and in FACS-sorted CD34+ bone marrow cells from MDS patients with either U2AF1^S34 or U2AF1^Q157 mutations. In all contexts, we found an increase in global circRNA levels in the U2AF1-mutated setting, which was independent of expression changes in the cognate linear host genes. In patients, the U2AF1^S34 and U2AF1^Q157 mutations were both associated with an overall increased expression of circRNAs. circRNAs generated by a non-Alu-mediated mechanism generally showed the largest increase in expression levels. Several well-described cancer-associated circRNAs, including circZNF609 and circCSNK1G3, were upregulated in MDS patients with U2AF1 mutations compared to U2AF1-wildtype MDS controls. In conclusion, high circRNA expression is observed in association with U2AF1 mutations in three biological systems, presenting an interesting possibility for biomarker and therapeutic investigation.

Effects of Non-Thermal Processing Methods on Physicochemical, Bioactive, and Microbiological Properties of Fresh Pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Merr.) Juice

Background: Pineapple juice processing is an art of preservation, and the processing technologies play important role in pineapple juice quality. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the potential impacts of non-thermal processing methods on the physicochemical, bioactive, and microbiological properties of fresh pineapple juice. Methods: Extracted juices were subjected to several non-thermal processes including microwave processing, vacuum evaporation, mild pasteurization, pulsed electric field, and ultra-sonication. Physicochemical properties including Total Soluble Solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity, and color; Total Phenolic Content (TPC); Total Anthocyanin Content (TAC); antioxidant capacity; and microbiological properties were evaluated. Data were statistically analyzed by Minitab statistical software (version: 18.1). Results: TSS, pH, acidity (%) of processed juices ranged from 11.03-12.03, 4.07-4.27, and 0.42-0.49, respectively. In terms of color properties both ultra-sonication and microwave processing showed the highest values of L (luminosity), a* (redness), and b* (yellow). The highest TPC was reported in ultra-sonication treatment 11.996±0.002 mg Gallic Acid Equivalents (GAE)/100 ml. The TAC varied from 0.179-0.235 mg Total Anthocyanin (TA)/100 ml, where ultra-sonication and mild pasteurization treatment yielded the highest and lowest contents, respectively. Conclusion: Perfect phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, retention of anthocyanin content, and attractive color in pineapple juices when treated with non-thermal techniques.

Prosthetic Aortic Valve Thrombosis: Surgery or Thrombolysis

Mechanical prosthetic valve thrombosis is a serious complication which necessitates immediate intervention. The presenting signs and symptoms of this illness are somewhat variable, but physical examination and trans-esophageal-echocardiography enable rapid diagnosis. Valve replacement or thrombolysis in the correct hospital setting must be performed to avoid life-threatening complication without delay. But it is not proven entirely which therapy is superior. For any given patient, the risks of thrombolytic therapy, including bleeding, systemic embolism and failure to restore valvular function, must be weighed against the risks of surgical intervention. In spite of aggressive therapy, morbidity and mortality from prosthetic valve thrombosis and its treatment are not less indeed. This report describes the case of a woman with aortic prosthetic valves who presents with heart failure and evidence of severe prosthetic aortic valve dysfunction after a period of suboptimal anticoagulation.

Evaluation of Methylation Panel in the Promoter Region of p16INK4a , RASSF1A, and MGMT as a Biomarker in Sputum for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the world. Effective early detection and appropriate medications can help treat this deadly cancer. Therefore, early detection of lung cancer is of utmost importance, especially in screening high-risk populations (such as smokers) with an urgent need to identify new biomarkers. The present study aimed to demonstrate the potential of using the panel of DNA methylation as a biomarker for the early diagnosis of lung cancer from sputum samples. The methylated promoter of p16^INK4a , RASSF1A, and MGMT genes was estimated by the methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction in a sample of 84 lung cancer patients (65 smokers and 19 non-smokers). Based on the results, p16^INK4a promoter methylation was significantly associated with smoking habit and lung cancer progression in terms of histological grading and patient staging. The sensitivity and specificity of the p16^INK4a gene as a biomarker for lung cancer were 71% and 90%, respectively. The methylated promoter of RASSF1A was less sensitive (48%) as a biomarker for lung cancer with 83%. The results demonstrated a strong association between promoter methylation of RASSF1A and late stages of lung cancer (P=0.0007). The sensitivity of the MGMT gene as a biomarker for lung cancer was 61% with high specificity (92%), compared to other candidate genes in this study. The epigenetic alteration in the promoter region of p16^INK4a , RASSF1A, and MGMT genes is highly associated with cancer cell development. It is suggested that the use of these candidate biomarkers can be used as an adjunct to computed tomography screening to diagnose patients at high risk for lung cancer after validation.

Abstract 841: Mutant Trp53 R172H has gain-of-function or dominant-negative effects in response to hematopoietic stressors in mice

Background: Missense mutations of the TP53 gene frequently occur in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia. The functional consequences of mutant p53 expression on hematopoiesis remain incompletely studied. Whether TP53 mutations confer a loss-of-function, gain-of-function, or dominant-negative effect in response to chemotherapies has not been fully explored. One of these hotspot mutations is a G-to-A substitution at nucleotide 525 of TP53, which codes for an Arg175His (R175H) substitution. Thus, we characterized hematopoiesis in Trp53R172H constitutive knock-in mice, corresponding to R175H TP53 mutation in patients, and compared the results to Trp53 knock-out and control mice.

Methods: Five genotypes of mice were analyzed (Trp53+/+ [WT], Trp53R172H/+, Trp53R172H/R172H, Trp53+/-, and Trp53-/-). Frequencies of peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow (BM) cells were measured by flow cytometry and fluorouracil (5-FU) and N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) were used as hematopoietic stressors.

Results: There was no change in the PB counts or lineage distribution of mature PB and BM cells in Trp53R172H/+ and Trp53R172H/R172H mice compared to WT or Trp53 knock-out mice at 8-15 weeks of age. We found that expression of Trp53R172H mutation in mice does not cause hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) expansion under basal conditions, in contrast to heterozygous and homozygous deletion of Trp53, but does confer a functional advantage to HSCs in a competitive repopulation assay. Trp53R172H HSCs expand further following ENU exposure, similar to Trp53-/- cells and consistent with a dominant-negative effect of Trp53R172H. Mechanistically, mutant p53R172H has a dominant-negative effect on p21-induced expression following ENU treatment. Repeated 5-FU injections drive proliferation of progenitors. To test the hematopoietic cell-intrinsic effects of mutant p53R172H on white blood cell count recovery, we exposed mice reconstituted with Trp53+/+, Trp53+/-, Trp53-/- or Trp53R172H/+ BM cells to a single dose of 5-FU and followed mice weekly for a month. Trp53R172H/+ mice were least affected by the 5-FU challenge and showed the fastest and largest recovery of WBC count compared to Trp53+/+, Trp53+/- and Trp53-/- mice. These results demonstrate that mutant p53R172H confers a gain-of-function property following 5-FU exposure that was not seen with deletion of Trp53.

Conclusion: Our data suggest that in vivo expression of mutant Trp53R172H has minimal effects on basal hematopoiesis. However, mutant Trp53R172H induces either a gain-of-function or a dominant-negative effect depending on the type of hematopoietic stress and hematopoietic phenotype being observed. Overall, our results indicate that the functional consequences induced by various Trp53 mutations (e.g., deletion and point mutation) are not identical, but are influenced by the type of hematopoietic stress.

Citation Format: Tuoen Liu, Tanzir Ahmed, Michael O. Alberti, Brian A. Wadugu, Jin Shao, Sarah Grieb, Grace Przybyl, Matthew Ndonwi, Matthew J. Walter. Mutant Trp53 R172H has gain-of-function or dominant-negative effects in response to hematopoietic stressors in mice [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 841.

Characterization of cytokine measurement in human serum, plasma, urine, tears, milk, CSF, and saliva with a MILLIPLEX® multiplex immunoassay

Multiplex immunoassays are valuable research tools for studying circulating cytokines. Here we evaluate the ability of the MILLIPLEX® Human Cytokine/Chemokine/Growth Factor Panel A (Cat. No. HCYTA-60K) 48-plex immunoassay to reproducibly measure cytokines in matched human serum and plasma samples from healthy donors. For comparison, three other bead-based cytokine multiplex kits, featuring many of the same analytes, were analyzed in parallel. Two different lots from each kit were tested with the same matched sample cohort and data were analyzed with Belysa® software. The HCYTA-60K kit was unique in its use of a fixed standard curve, resulting in superior consistency in curve performance between lots. Sample value ratios and correlation demonstrated remarkable consistency of serum and plasma measurement between lots of the HCYTA-60K kit.

Further, detectability of additional sample types (urine, tears, milk, CSF, and saliva) was determined with the HCYTA-60K kit. Samples from healthy donors for each biofluid were tested to determine detectability. All analytes could be measured in at least one of the additional sample types. To characterize neuroinflammation during progressive stages of neurological disease, CSF cytokines were measured in samples from mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s Disease, and healthy controls.

Our study illustrates the reliability of the MILLIPLEX® HCYTA-60K kit for reproducible measurement of cytokines in serum and plasma between different kit lots. Additionally, we characterize its ability to measure cytokines in urine, tears, milk, CSF, and saliva. These results highlight the utility and robustness of the HCYTA-60K multiplex panel for the quantification of cytokines in diverse biofluids.

U2af1 is a haplo-essential gene required for hematopoietic cancer cell survival in mice

Somatic mutations in the spliceosome gene U2AF1 are common in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes. U2AF1 mutations that code for the most common amino acid substitutions are always heterozygous, and the retained WT allele is expressed, suggesting that mutant hematopoietic cells may require the residual WT allele to be viable. We show that hematopoiesis and RNA splicing in U2af1 heterozygous knockout mice were similar to those in control mice, but that deletion of the WT allele in U2AF1(S34F) heterozygous mutant-expressing hematopoietic cells (i.e., hemizygous mutant) was lethal. These results confirm that U2AF1 mutant hematopoietic cells are dependent on the expression of WT U2AF1 for survival in vivo and that U2AF1 is a haplo-essential cancer gene. Mutant U2AF1(S34F)-expressing cells were also more sensitive to reduced expression of WT U2AF1 than nonmutant cells. Furthermore, mice transplanted with leukemia cells expressing mutant U2AF1 had significantly reduced tumor burden and improved survival after the WT U2af1 allele was deleted compared with when it was not deleted. These results suggest that selectively targeting the WT U2AF1 allele in heterozygous mutant cells could induce cancer cell death and be a therapeutic strategy for patients harboring U2AF1 mutations.

Trends and instigators among young adolescent suicide in the United States

OBJECTIVES

The present investigation examined the role of factors involved in suicide ideation and suicide attempt using a nationally representative sample of US high school students.

METHODS

Data were collected from students in Grades 9-12 as part of the Youth Behavioral Survey (n = 11,328). Logistic regression models were used to examine factors associated with suicide ideation and suicide attempt. Variables included demographic characteristics (grade, sex, and race), psychosocial factors (physical fighting, sexual violence, sports participation, bullying, and electronic bullying), and substance use (cigarette usage, marijuana usage, and alcohol usage).

RESULTS

The factor most associated with suicide ideation was bullying (either electronic or physical), whereas the factor most associated with suicide attempt was sexual violence followed closely by physical bullying.

CONCLUSIONS

The multitude of instigators and commonality among gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status give an indication of how to prevent suicide and who to target information regarding the hazards of suicide.

Mutant U2AF1-induced alternative splicing of H2afy (macroH2A1) regulates B-lymphopoiesis in mice

Somatic mutations in spliceosome genes are found in ∼50% of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a myeloid malignancy associated with low blood counts. Expression of the mutant splicing factor U2AF1(S34F) alters hematopoiesis and mRNA splicing in mice. Our understanding of the functionally relevant alternatively spliced target genes that cause hematopoietic phenotypes in vivo remains incomplete. Here, we demonstrate that reduced expression of H2afy1.1, an alternatively spliced isoform of the histone H2A variant gene H2afy, is responsible for reduced B cells in U2AF1(S34F) mice. Deletion of H2afy or expression of U2AF1(S34F) reduces expression of Ebf1 (early B cell factor 1), a key transcription factor for B cell development, and mechanistically, H2AFY is enriched at the EBF1 promoter. Induced expression of H2AFY1.1 in U2AF1(S34F) cells rescues reduced EBF1 expression and B cells numbers in vivo. Collectively, our data implicate alternative splicing of H2AFY as a contributor to lymphopenia induced by U2AF1(S34F) in mice and MDS.

Nonsense-Mediated RNA Decay Is a Unique Vulnerability of Cancer Cells Harboring SF3B1 or U2AF1 Mutations

Nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) is recognized as an RNA surveillance pathway that targets aberrant mRNAs with premature translation termination codons (PTC) for degradation, however, its molecular mechanisms and roles in health and disease remain incompletely understood. In this study, we developed a novel reporter system to accurately measure NMD activity in individual cells. A genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen using this reporter system identified novel NMD-promoting factors, including multiple components of the SF3B complex and other U2 spliceosome factors. Interestingly, cells with mutations in the spliceosome genes SF3B1 and U2AF1, which are commonly found in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and cancers, have overall attenuated NMD activity. Compared with wild-type (WT) cells, SF3B1- and U2AF1-mutant cells were more sensitive to NMD inhibition, a phenotype that is accompanied by elevated DNA replication obstruction, DNA damage, and chromosomal instability. Remarkably, the sensitivity of spliceosome mutant cells to NMD inhibition was rescued by overexpression of RNase H1, which removes R-loops in the genome. Together, these findings shed new light on the functional interplay between NMD and RNA splicing and suggest a novel synthetic lethal strategy for the treatment of MDS and cancers with spliceosome mutations. SIGNIFICANCE: This study has developed a novel NMD reporter system and identified a potential therapeutic approach of targeting the NMD pathway to treat cancer with spliceosome gene mutations.

Predicting recurrence in patients with sentinel node-negative melanoma: validation of the EORTC nomogram using population-based data

BACKGROUND

Identifying patients with sentinel node (SN)-negative melanoma who are at greatest risk of recurrence is important. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Melanoma Group proposed a prognostic model that has not been validated in population-based data. The EORTC nomogram includes Breslow thickness, ulceration status and anatomical location as parameters. The aim of this study was to validate the EORTC model externally using a large national data set.

METHODS

Adults with histologically proven, invasive cutaneous melanoma with a negative SN biopsy in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2014 were identified from the Dutch Pathology Registry, and relevant data were extracted. The EORTC nomogram was used to predict recurrence-free survival. The predictive performance of the nomogram was assessed by discrimination (C-statistic) and calibration.

RESULTS

A total of 8795 patients met the eligibility criteria, of whom 14·7 per cent subsequently developed metastatic disease. Of these recurrences, 20·9 per cent occurred after the first 5 years of follow-up. Validation of the EORTC nomogram showed a C-statistic of 0·70 (95 per cent c.i. 0·68 to 0·71) for recurrence-free survival, with excellent calibration (R2 = 0·99; P = 0·999, Hosmer-Lemeshow test).

CONCLUSION

This population-based validation confirmed the value of the EORTC nomogram in predicting recurrence-free survival in patients with SN-negative melanoma. The EORTC nomogram could be used in clinical practice for personalizing follow-up and selecting high-risk patients for trials of adjuvant systemic therapy.

Predicting sentinel node positivity in patients with melanoma: external validation of a risk-prediction calculator (the Melanoma Institute Australia nomogram) using a large European population-based patient cohort

BACKGROUND

A nomogram to predict sentinel node (SN) positivity [the Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) nomogram] was recently developed and externally validated using two large single-institution databases. However, there remains a need to further validate the nomogram's performance using population-based data.

OBJECTIVES

To perform further validation of the nomogram using a European national patient cohort.

METHODS

Patients with cutaneous melanoma who underwent SN biopsy in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2014 were included. Their data were obtained from the Dutch Pathology Registry. The predictive performance of the nomogram was assessed by discrimination (C-statistic) and calibration. Negative predictive values (NPVs) were calculated at various predicted probability cutoffs.

RESULTS

Of the 3049 patients who met the eligibility criteria, 23% (691) were SN positive. Validation of the MIA nomogram (including the parameters Breslow thickness, ulceration, age, melanoma subtype and lymphovascular invasion) showed a good C-statistic of 0·69 (95% confidence interval 0·66-0·71) with excellent calibration (R² = 0·985, P = 0·40). The NPV of 90·1%, found at a 10% predicted probability cutoff for having a positive SN biopsy, implied that by using the nomogram, a 16·3% reduction in the rate of performing an SN biopsy could be achieved with an error rate of 1·6%. Validation of the MIA nomogram considering mitotic rate as present or absent showed a C-statistic of 0·70 (95% confidence interval 0·68-0·74).

CONCLUSIONS

This population-based validation study in European patients with melanoma confirmed the value of the MIA nomogram in predicting SN positivity. Its use will spare low-risk patients the inconvenience, cost and potential risks of SN biopsy while ensuring that high-risk patients are still identified.

Impact of blanching pretreatment on physicochemical properties, and drying characteristics of cabbage (Brassica oleracea)

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is popular winter vegetables cultivated all over Bangladesh and contains essential nutrients. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pre-blanching on the preservation of cabbage by drying. In this research work, cabbage was blanched at 80°C, 90°C, and 100°C temperature for 12, 8, and 2 mins, respectively. Then the samples were dried at 60°C maintaining 60% relative humidity. The moisture and ash content of untreated and treated dried samples was in the range of 16.07±0.04 to 10.80±0.01% and 5.71±0.06 to 3.81±0.02%, respectively. The total phenolic content in cabbage was 74.47±0.63 mg GAE/100g at 100°C blanching temperature for a short time of 2 mins, which was higher compared to 61.91±0.48 mg GAE/100g at 80°C for 12 mins. It was observed that the antioxidant activity and two water-soluble vitamins-ascorbic acid and beta carotene decreased in pre-blanched dried samples in contrast with fresh ones. Blanching at higher water temperature and a short period was found useful for the retention of total phenolic content and greenness of cabbage. Blanching pre-treatments were also found to have better color retention capacity than untreated dried cabbage. A proper combination of drying time and temperature, along with the incorporation of blanching pretreatment, might be useful to preserve cabbage for a long time.

Enhancing a nutrition and self-management: An intervention program via teletherapy for teenager with ADHD. A pilot case study

Introduction

Several ADHD teenagers had difficult behavioral problems during countries closing down due to Covid-19 pandemic. One of these negative outcomes that parents cannot control children’s behavior toward desired unhealthy food and the impulsive consequences. It was a great opportunity to convention a teletherapy program as a tool of intervention seeking for help to reduce uncontrolled self- management and nutrition, which may affect all sorts of childhood growth, development, health and behavior. Furthermore, it can affects daily life and academic success.

Objectives

We tried through our study to enhance the teletherapy as a therapeutic tool, during the first and second phase of Covid-19 pandemic, trying to help parents and patient to overcome the impulsive behavior by using a specific therapy technique based on nutrition and behavioral therapy

Methods

Our case study is a young girl aged 12:4 Yrs. In middle bilingual Arabic/ American School. The therapeutic program designed via teletherapy program using multi-media and thru multi phases sessions, to increase focus attention, emotional control and reduce impulsivity.

Results

The outcomes of the enhancing nutrition and behavior teletherapy program, showed significant improvement for the specific goal. Sensible change in the girl’s impulsive behavior, more focusing, emotional control and more accepting about health nutrition habits.

Conclusions

The important finding that intensive, focused nutation and self-management techniques provided via teletherapy as solitary program brought benefits to individual’s, family and reduced impulsivity outcomes. In addition, family education to become an expert at learning simple techniques in daily life can brining a sense of pleasure for long life wellbeing.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Evaluation of the in vitro Antimicrobial Activity As well As Preservative Capacity of Several Popular Cosmetic Products Available in the Neighbouring Shops in Bangladesh

Cosmetic products are often inadequately preserved that provide favourable environment for microbial growth. These emphasize the need for regular investigation of cosmetics in terms of microbial quality and preservative capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the microbial quality, in vitro antibacterial activity and preservative capacity of several popular cosmetics collected from the neighbouring health-care stationary shops in Dhaka city from October 2019 to December 2019. Here, a total of five categories of seven different cosmetic products were subjected to evaluate microbial load, in vitro antibacterial activity and preservative capacity. Among the seven cosmetic products, the viable bacterial count in two cosmetics (All Clear and Sunsilk Shampoo) were found within the acceptable range that was <10³ CFU/ml. None of the cosmetics were found contaminated with fungus and pathogenic organisms. Conversely, three (one Mouthwash and two shampoo) products showed in vitro antibacterial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, Pseudomonas spp., Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. Only single cosmetic product (Cute coconut oil) did not meet the criteria of preservative capacity, while rest six products fulfil the requirements. Thus, our findings revealed a huge load of microorganisms in spite of having adequate preservative capacity in most of the tested products.

Sentinel node biopsy in patients with melanoma improves the accuracy of staging when added to clinicopathological features of the primary tumor

BACKGROUND

It has been claimed, without supporting evidence, that knowledge of sentinel node (SN) status does not provide more accurate prognostic information than basic clinicopathological features of a primary cutaneous melanoma. We sought to investigate this claim and to quantify any additional value of SN status in predicting survival outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data for a Dutch population-based cohort of melanoma patients (n = 9272) and for a validation cohort from a large Australian melanoma treatment center (n = 5644) were analyzed. Patients were adults diagnosed between 2004 and 2014 with histologically-proven, primary invasive cutaneous melanoma who underwent SN biopsy. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses were carried out in the Dutch cohort to assess recurrence-free survival (RFS), melanoma-specific survival (MSS) and overall survival (OS). The findings were validated using the Australian cohort. Discrimination (Harrell's C-statistic), net benefit using decision curve analysis and net reclassification index (NRI) were calculated.

RESULTS

The Dutch cohort showed an improved C-statistic from 0.74 to 0.78 for OS and from 0.74 to 0.76 for RFS when SN status was included in the model with Breslow thickness, sex, age, site, mitoses, ulceration, regression and melanoma subtype. In the Australian cohort, the C-statistic increased from 0.70 to 0.73 for OS, 0.70 to 0.74 for RFS and 0.72 to 0.76 for MSS. Decision curve analyses showed that the 3-year and 5-year risk of death or recurrence were more accurately classified with a model that included SN status. At 3 years, sensitivity increased by 12% for both OS and RFS in the development cohort, and by 10% and 6% for OS and RFS, respectively, in the validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of SN status significantly improved the predictive accuracy for RFS, MSS and OS when added to a comprehensive suite of established clinicopathological prognostic factors. However, clinicians and patients must consider the magnitude of the improvement when weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of SN biopsy for melanoma.

Modified Short Proximal Femoral Nail for Intertrochanteric Fractures of Femur in Indian Patients - our Experience

Introduction

Proximal femoral nail (PFN) is a commonly used implant for intertrochanteric fractures which is designed according to western femoral measurements. However, anthropometry of proximal femur in Indian and in general, Asian, are smaller. So a modified short PFN with smaller dimensions was developed. This study analyses the radiological and functional outcome of treatment of intertrochanteric fractures with modified short PFN.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study analysed 120 adult patients operated between 2014-2017 using modified short PFN for intertrochanteric fractures, having a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Clinical and radiological parameters including tip-apex distance (TAD), position of tip of lag screw in femoral head, lateral slide of lag screw as well as length of anti-rotation screw were measured. Final functional outcome was assessed using Barthel's index and Kyle's criteria.

Results

Good reduction was achieved in 90.83% cases and 79.16% had ideal placement of lag screw in femoral head. Intra-operative difficulties were encountered in 13.33% (n=16). Mean TAD AP (anteroposterior) was 11.8mm, TAD LAT (lateral) was 11.0mm and mean TAD TOT was 22.8mm. Overall mean lateral slide was 3.20mm and it was more in unstable fracture. We had five mechanical failures, one patient with screw breakage without loss of reduction and two peri-implant fractures after union. 81.66% returned to pre-injury levels of activity with 88.33% good to excellent outcome as per Kyle's criteria.

Conclusion

Although, not devoid of complications, modified short PFN results in good functional recovery of patients with intertrochanteric fractures of femur.

Rapid lipid bilayer membrane formation on Parylene coated apertures to perform ion channel analyses

We present a chip design allowing rapid and robust lipid bilayer (LBL) membrane formation using a Parylene coated thin silicon nitride aperture. After bilayer formation, single membrane channels can be reconstituted and characterized by electrophysiology. The ability for robust reconstitution will allow parallelization and enhanced screening of small molecule drugs acting on or permeating across the membrane channel. The aperture was realized on a microfabricated silicon nitride membrane by using standard clean-room fabrication processes. To ensure the lipid bilayer formation, the nitride membrane was coated with a hydrophobic and biocompatible Parylene layer. We tested both Parylene-C and Parylene-AF4. The contact angle measurements on both Parylene types showed very good hydrophobic properties and affinity to lipids. No precoating of the Parylene with an organic solvent is needed to make the aperture lipophilic, in contradiction to Teflon membranes. The chips can be easily placed in an array utilizing a 3D printed platform. Experiments show repetitive LBL formation and destruction (more than 6 times) within a very short time (few seconds). Through measurements we have established that the LBL layers are very thin. This allows the investigation of the fusion process of membrane proteins i.e. outer membrane protein (OmpF) in the LBL within a few minutes.

Microbiological quality analysis of different types of popular dried food items

The study was carried out to investigate the microbiological quality of dried foods which are very popular among kids. Moreover, people from all age groups like it, although adults do not take it on a regular basis, the total consumed amount among the adults are not negligible. Chips, biscuits, muesli, salted peanuts all are dried foods, and all of these can undergo microbial contamination due to the remaining water activity, environmental condition, production processing faults, humidity, temperature etc. In the current study, twenty-four samples were analyzed for microbial quality analysis. Six samples from each category of dried food were subjected to study for the presence of mesophilic organisms, coliforms, molds and other specific food pathogens. Of the samples studied, almost all were found to be contaminated with the mesophilic bacteria (104 -107CFU/g) and fungus (105 -107CFU/g). Survival of Vibrio spp. was absent and Salmonella spp. was found in only one sample. Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp. and Shigella spp. were found in many of the samples indicating the poor quality of the dried food items. Overall, the present study revealed that potato chips were highly contaminated by bacteria and fungi. Consuming such contaminated chips may cause foodborne illness that is a great threat to our health.

Metabolic maturation in the first 2 years of life in resource-constrained settings and its association with postnatal growths

Malnutrition continues to affect the growth and development of millions of children worldwide, and chronic undernutrition has proven to be largely refractory to interventions. Improved understanding of metabolic development in infancy and how it differs in growth-constrained children may provide insights to inform more timely, targeted, and effective interventions. Here, the metabolome of healthy infants was compared to that of growth-constrained infants from three continents over the first 2 years of life to identify metabolic signatures of aging. Predictive models demonstrated that growth-constrained children lag in their metabolic maturity relative to their healthier peers and that metabolic maturity can predict growth 6 months into the future. Our results provide a metabolic framework from which future nutritional programs may be more precisely constructed and evaluated.

P4627Presentation, management, and outcomes of STEMI in Egypt: results from the European Society of Cardiology registry on ST elevation myocardial infarction

Background

Apart from few small single-center studies there are limited data about STEMI patients in Egypt.

Patients and methods

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Registry on ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction is a prospective, multicenter and observational registry. Nineteen Egyptian centers (with and without PCI facilities) participated in this registry with 1356 patients who were compared to 7420 patients from other ESC countries. Patient recruitment started from March 2016 to February 2018.

Aims of the study

The aims of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients with STEMI, to assess STEMI management patterns, to evaluate in-hospital patient outcome and to compare Egyptian patients with other ESC countries.

Results

Compared to other ESC countries, Egyptian patients were younger (mean age 55.4±11.3 vs. 62.9±12.4; P<0.001 and 4.3% vs. 19.4%% were ≥75 years old; P<0.001) with fewer females (18.4% vs. 25.6%; P<0.001). Fewer Egyptian patients had history of myocardial infarction (7.9% vs. 12.6%; P<0.001), chronic heart failure (2.0% vs. 11.5%; P<0.001), but Egyptians had higher prevalence of current smoking (59.0% vs. 42.8% p<0.001), Diabetes mellitus (40.7% vs. 21.9%, p<0.001). Egypt had longer median time between symptoms onset and first medical contact: 120.0 (60.0; 240.0) vs. 100.0 (50.0; 240.0) p<0.001. Self-presentation rather than EMS presentation was the mode of admission in 86.0% in Egypt vs. 25.8% in EU countries (p<0.001). On qualifying ECG, anterior STEMI was in 57.0% in Egypt vs. 45.9% in other countries (p<0.001). Initial reperfusion therapy was 49.1%, 43.0% and 7.2% for Primary PCI, thrombolytic therapy and no reperfusion in Egypt vs. 85.4%, 7.2% and 7.8% for EU countries, respectively. Thrombolysis when given was in the CCU/ICU rather than EMS or ER in 97.2% in Egypt vs. 43.7% in other countries. Compared to thrombolytic therapy, patients who were treated with primary PCI had less Cerebrovascular accident (0.75% vs. 1.3%; P<0.001), killip Class IV (3.0% vs. 5.9%; P<0.001) or AF (2.5% vs. 3.6%; P 0.008). In hospital mortality was 4.6% in Egypt vs. 3.5% in other countries P 0.040 and was 18.7% in No reperfusion vs. 2.1% in Primary PCI vs. 4.9% in Thrombolysis (P<0.001) among Egyptians. Patients were discharged on Aspirin in 98.6%, Clopidogrel in 91.0%, Ticagrelor in 7.1%, DAPT in 97.6%, Beta Blockers in 82.8%, ACE inhibitors in 84.7%, MRAs in 10.0%, and Statins in 99.7%.

Conclusion

Egyptian STEMI patients were younger, more frequently obese, smokers and diabetics had significantly longer delay between symptoms onset and first medical contact with more self-presentation rather than the recommended EMS presentation. Primary PCI was offered to only half of the patients. In hospital mortality was significantly higher and was highest among non-reperfused patients. National plans for primary and secondary prevention are urgently needed in Egypt.

Acknowledgement/Funding

This registry was funded by the ESC. The Egyptian Society of Cardiology was given a grant of €12000 to help with the implementation of this national E

External validation of a prognostic model to predict survival of patients with sentinel node-negative melanoma

Background

Identifying patients with sentinel node‐negative melanoma at high risk of recurrence or death is important. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) recently developed a prognostic model including Breslow thickness, ulceration and site of the primary tumour. The aims of the present study were to validate this prognostic model externally and to assess whether it could be improved by adding other prognostic factors.

Methods

Patients with sentinel node‐negative cutaneous melanoma were included in this retrospective single‐institution study. The β values of the EORTC prognostic model were used to predict recurrence‐free survival and melanoma‐specific survival. The predictive performance was assessed by discrimination (c‐index) and calibration. Seeking to improve the performance of the model, additional variables were added to a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Some 4235 patients with sentinel node‐negative cutaneous melanoma were included. The median follow‐up time was 50 (i.q.r. 18·5–81·5) months. Recurrences and deaths from melanoma numbered 793 (18·7 per cent) and 456 (10·8 per cent) respectively. Validation of the EORTC model showed good calibration for both outcomes, and a c‐index of 0·69. The c‐index was only marginally improved to 0·71 when other significant prognostic factors (sex, age, tumour type, mitotic rate) were added.

Conclusion

This study validated the EORTC prognostic model for recurrence‐free and melanoma‐specific survival of patients with negative sentinel nodes. The addition of other prognostic factors only improved the model marginally. The validated EORTC model could be used for personalizing follow‐up and selecting high‐risk patients for trials of adjuvant systemic therapy.

Atomistic analysis of the thermomechanical properties of Sn-Ag-Cu solder materials at the nanoscale with the MEAM potential

Sn-Ag-Cu, commonly known as SAC, is considered to be among the most promising of all lead-free solder alloys. Research aimed at making electronic components smaller has pointed to the possible use of nanosized solder joints in the future. In this study, for the first time, molecular dynamics simulations were used to analyze the thermomechanical properties of SAC solder materials at the nanoscale. The modified embedded-atom method (MEAM) potential was utilized in the simulations of the SAC solder materials. The dimensions of the structures considered were 55 × 55 × 59 Å. Four different SAC solders were studied, with Ag percentages ranging from 1% to 4% (SAC105, SAC205, SAC305, and SAC405). Thus, the effects of the Ag percentage on the thermomechanical properties of the solder at the nanoscale were identified. The impacts of the temperature on the uniaxial tensile properties and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) values of the SAC solder materials were investigated by performing simulations of the materials at different temperatures. Results suggest that as the Ag percentage increases, the uniaxial tensile strength and CTE of the solder increase whereas the failure strain and thermal conductivity decrease. The results presented should prove useful in the electronic packaging industry.

No yield penalty under favorable conditions paving the way for successful adoption of flood tolerant rice

Flooding is one of the major constraints for rice production in rainfed lowlands, especially in years and areas of high rainfall. Incorporating the Sub1 (Submergence1) gene into high yielding popular varieties has proven to be the most feasible approach to sustain rice production in submergence-prone areas. Introgression of this QTL into popular varieties has resulted in considerable improvement in yield after flooding. However, its impact under non-flooded conditions or years have not been thoroughly evaluated which is important for the farmers to accept and adopt any new version of their popular varieties. The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Sub1 on grain yield of rice in different genetic backgrounds, under non-submergence conditions, over years and locations. The study was carried out using head to head trials in farmer’s fields, which enable the farmers to more accurately compare the performance of Sub1 varieties with their recurrent parents under own management. The data generated from different head to head trials revealed that the grain yield of Sub1 varieties was either statistically similar or higher than their non-Sub1 counterparts under non-submergence conditions. Thus, Sub1 rice varieties show no instance of yield penalty of the introgressed gene.

Evaluation of knowledge regarding gestational diabetes mellitus: a Bangladeshi study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge about gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Bangladeshi people.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

This study involving 1374 participants was conducted in 15 outpatient clinics of Diabetic Association of Bangladesh and its affiliated associations, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and four medical college hospitals in Bangladesh from August 2015 to December 2015. A pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information related to sociodemographic status, level of education, types of profession, and medical history. The questionnaire included eight questions on GDM. Level of knowledge (mean ± 1 standard deviation [SD]) was categorized as poor, average, and good. Descriptive, Chi-squared, and regression analysis were performed to express the results.

RESULTS

Of total knowledge score of 8, participants' mean knowledge score (±SD) was 2.7 ± 1.5. The levels of good, average, and poor knowledge were 26.3%, 63.1%, and 10.6%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, participants aged below 30 years (P < 0.001), male gender (P < 0.001), high-income group (P < 0.001), having university education (P < 0.001), health professionals (P < 0.001), capital Dhaka city residents (P < 0.001), those with family history of diabetes (P = 0.007), and participants with diabetes (P = 0.007) were found to be significantly associated with the good knowledge score.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants in this study had average knowledge about GDM. New innovative strategies should be developed to improve the knowledge of GDM among health professionals and general population.

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Bangladesh: results from a sentinel surveillance system

BACKGROUND

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a serious obstacle to successful TB control. The 2010-2011 Bangladesh Drug Resistance Survey (DRS) showed MDR-TB prevalence to be 7% overall, 1.4% in new and 28.5% in previously treated patients. We aimed to determine the rate of MDR-TB in selected sentinel sites in Bangladesh.

METHODS

Fourteen hospitals from the seven divisions in Bangladesh were selected as sentinel surveillance sites. Newly registered TB patients were systematically enrolled from August 2011 to December 2014. Sputum specimens were processed for culture and drug susceptibility testing by the proportion method using Löwenstein-Jensen medium.

RESULTS

Specimens from 1906 (84%) of 2270 enrolled patients were analysed. Isolates from 61 (3.2%) were identified as having MDR-TB. The proportion of MDR-TB was 2.3% among new and 13.8% among previously treated TB patients (P < 0.001). The overall proportion of MDR-TB was 3.2%:3.5% in males and 2.3% in females; by age, the MDR-TB rate was highest (5.2%) in those aged 65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The high proportion of MDR-TB among new patients found in this sentinel surveillance significantly differs from that reported in the DRS. While the sentinel surveillance sites were not designed to be nationally representative, it is worrying to observe a higher number of MDR-TB cases among new patients.

Abdominal Obesity and Mobility Disability in Older Adults: A 4-Year Follow-Up the International Mobility in Aging Study

BACKGROUND

Abdominal obesity is related to the disability process in older adults, however, little is known about this relationship when adjusted for important confounders such as depression and physical performance measures in a diverse international aged population.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the longitudinal relationship between abdominal obesity and mobility disability controlling for physical performance and depression.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Longitudinal observational study using data from the International Mobility in Aging Study (IMIAS) Study.

PARTICIPANTS

1104 out of 2002 older adults aged 64-74 years old free of mobility disability at baseline (2012) and then reassessed in 2016.

MEASUREMENTS

Mobility disability was defined as reporting difficulty in walking 400 m or climbing stairs. Activities of daily living (ADL) disability was based on any self-reported difficulty in five mobility-related ADLs. Abdominal obesity was defined as waist circumference ≥ 88cm for women or ≥ 102 cm for men. Four meters gait speed, handgrip strength and depressive symptoms (CES-D) were assessed. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and multinomial regressions were used to estimate associations between disability and abdominal obesity.

RESULTS

1104 free of disability participants were followed over 4 years, the mean age was 68.9 (±2.9) years among men and 68.7 (±2.6) years among women. Prevalence and incidence rates of mobility disability varied widely across research site and sex. The longitudinal associations between mobility disability and abdominal obesity remained significant even when adjusted by depressive symptoms, handgrip strength, gait speed, age, sex, education and research site. Participants with abdominal obesity had higher mobility disability (OR=1.68, 95% CI 1.23-1.76, p-value=0.01) and also increased risk for ADL disability (OR: 1.47, 95% CI 1.23-1.76, p-value=0.01). Abdominal obesity in baseline was also predictor of mobility disability in 2016 (OR: 1.93, 95% CI 1.17-3.17, p-value <0.01) but not for ADL disability (OR: 1.59, 95% CI 0.93-2.71, p-value =0.09) with accounting mortality.

CONCLUSION

Abdominal obesity is associated longitudinally and predicts mobility disability, even over a short period (4 years) in community-dwelling older adults from different epidemiological contexts.

ASSESSMENT OF RADIATION DOSE AND EXCESSIVE LIFE-TIME CANCER RISK FROM THE BUNAIR GRANITE, NORTHERN PAKISTAN

Natural radioactivity was measured in Bunair Granite using high purity germanium gamma-ray spectrometer and compared to world's granites and building materials to access its suitability for the construction purpose. Average gamma-activities of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were found to be 52.41, 58.41 and 1130.12 Bq kg-1, respectively. The Indoor and outdoor radiation indices including excessive life-time cancer risk (ELCR) were calculated. The average indoor ELCR was estimated as 3.49 × 10-3. The average outdoor ELCR was assessed as 0.46 × 10-3. As a basic building material Bunair Granite should be on low propriety. For flooring, facing the buildings and as Table tops, in kitchens and other utilities it is safe.

The association of monocytes and Tregs with disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition characterised by inflamed joints. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD) are ineffective in 30–40% of patients. CD169 (Siglec-1) is expressed by monocytes and correlates with disease activity in RA. It drives pro-inflammatory processes including the suppression of Tregs through its cognate ligand, CD169L. This study aims to define the relationship between CD169, CD169L and disease activity, as a potential early biomarker of treatment response.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from healthy controls and RA patients who failed DMARD treatment. FACS was used to: (i) immunophenotype CD169+ monocytes and CD169L+ Tregs, and (ii) assess levels of FoxP3 within Tregs.

Results

RA patients had a significantly higher percentage of CD169+ monocytes (28.47 ± 7.17, (mean ± SEM), n=19) compared to healthy controls (8.03 ± 1.48, n=19, p=&lt;0.01). A negative correlation was also observed between the percentage of CD169+ monocytes and CD169L+ Tregs in RA patients (r=−0.72, n=19, p=&lt;0.01). Furthermore, the ratio of CD169:CD169L percentages has a positive association with DAS28-ESR (r=0.77, n=9, p=0.02). FoxP3 is expressed at lower levels in RA patients (24.14 ± 1.87, n=25) compared with healthy controls (46.65 ± 6.16, n=13, p=&lt;0.01).

Conclusion

These results provide preliminary evidence of a relationship between CD169 and CD169L, and further define how their balance is associated with disease activity. Low levels of FoxP3 in RA patients indicates reduced Treg activation, which may cause increased disease activity. We postulate that this balance of cells is key in the immune response and could be used as a surrogate measure of disease activity.