Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy of the filtrate portions of the blood serum samples of breast cancer patients obtained by using 30 kDa filtration device

Raman spectroscopy is reliable tool for analyzing and exploring early disease diagnosis related to body fluids, such as blood serum, which contain low molecular weight fraction (LMWF) and high molecular weight fraction (HMWF) proteins. The disease biomarkers consist of LMWF which are dominated by HMWF hence their analysis is difficult. In this study, in order to overcome this issue, centrifugal filter devices of 30 kDa were used to obtain filtrate and residue portions obtained from whole blood serum samples of control and breast cancer diagnosed patients. The filtrate portions obtained in this way are expected to contain the marker proteins of breast cancer of the size below this filter size. These may include prolactin, Microphage migration inhabitation factor (MIF), γ-Synuclein, BCSG1, Leptin, MUC1, RS/DJ-1 present in the centrifuged blood serum (filtrate portions) which are then analyzed by the SERS technique to recognize the SERS spectral characteristics associated with the progression of breast cancer in the samples of different stages as compared to the healthy ones. The key intention of this study is to achieve early-stage breast cancer diagnosis through the utilization of Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) after the centrifugation of healthy and breast cancer serum samples with Amicon ultra-filter devices of 30 kDa. The silver nanoparticles with high plasmon resonance are used as a substrate for SERS analysis. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) models are utilized as spectral classification tools to assess and predict rapid, reliable, and non-destructive SERS-based analysis. Notably, they were particularly effective in distinguishing between different SERS spectral groups of the cancerous and non-cancerous samples. By comparing all these spectral data sets to each other PLSDA shows the 79 % accuracy, 76 % specificity, and 81 % sensitivity in samples with AUC value of AUC = 0.774 SERS has proven to be a valuable technique for the rapid identification of the SERS spectral features of blood serum and its filtrate fractions from both healthy individuals and those with breast cancer, aiding in disease diagnosis.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for comparison of biochemical profile of bacteriophage sensitive and resistant methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is gram positive bacteria and leading cause of a wide variety of diseases. It is a common cause of hospitalized and community-acquired infections. Development of increasing antibiotic-resistance by methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains demand to develop alternate novel therapies. Bacteriophages are now widely used as antibacterial therapies against antibiotic-resistant gram-positive pathogens. So, there is an urgent need to find fast detection techniques to point out phage susceptible and resistant strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteria. Samples of two separate strains of bacteria, S. aureus, in form of pellets and supernatant, were used for this purpose. Strain-I was resistant to phage, while the other (strain-II) was sensitive. Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) has detected significant biochemical changes in these bacterial strains of pellets and supernatants in the form of SERS spectral features. The protein portion of these two types of strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in their relevant pellets and supernatants is major distinguishing biomolecule as shown by their representative SERS spectral features. In addition, multivariate data analysis techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA) and a partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were found to be helpful in identifying and characterizing various strains of S. aureus which are sensitive and resistant to bacteriophage with 100% specificity, 100% accuracy, and 99.8% sensitivity in case of SERS spectral data sets of bacterial cell pellets. Moreover, in case of supernatant samples, the results of PLS-DA model including 95.5% specificity, 96% sensitivity, and 96.5% accuracy are obtained.

Enzyme-triggered approach to reduce water bodies' contamination using peroxidase-immobilized ZnO/SnO2/alginate nanocomposite

Enzyme immobilization on solid support offers advantages over free enzymes by overcoming characteristic limitations. To synthesize new stable and hyperactive nano-biocatalysts (co-precipitation method), ginger peroxidase (GP) was surface immobilized (adsorption) on ZnO/SnO2 and ZnO/SnO2/SA nanocomposite with immobilization efficacy of 94 % and 99 %, respectively. Thereafter, catalytic and biochemical characteristics of free and immobilized GP were investigated by deploying various techniques, i.e., FTIR, PXRD, SEM, and PL. Diffraction peaks emerged at 2θ values of 26°, 33°, 37°, 51°, 31°, 34°, 36°, 56°, indicating the formation of SnO2 and ZnO. The OH stretching of the H2O molecules was attributed to broad peaks between 3200 and 3500 cm-1, whereas ZnO/SnO2 spikes occurred in the 1626-1637 cm-1 range. SnO stretching mode and ZnO terminal vibrational patterns have been verified at corresponding wavelengths of 625 cm-1 and 560 cm-1. Enzyme entrapment onto substrate was verified via interactions between GP and ZnO/SnO2/SA as corroborated by signals beneath 1100 cm-1. GP-immobilized fractions were optimally active at pH 5, 50 °C, and retained maximum activity after storage of 4 weeks at -4 °C. Kinetic parameters were determined by using a Lineweaver-Burk plot and Vmax for free GP, ZnO/SnO2/GP and ZnO/SnO2/SA/GP with guaiacol as a substrate, were found to be 322.58, 49.01 and 11.45 (μM/min) respectively. A decrease in values of Vmax and KM indicates strong adsorption of peroxidase on support and maximum affinity between nano support and enzyme, respectively. For environmental remediation, free ginger peroxidase (GP), ZnO/SnO2/GP and ZnO/SnO2/SA/GP fractions effectively eradicated highly intricate dye. Multiple scavengers had a significant impact on the depletion of the dye. In conclusion, ZnO/SnO2 and ZnO/SnO2/SA nanostructures comprise an ecologically acceptable and intriguing carrier for enzyme immobilization.

Quantitative analysis of cephalexin in solid dosage form by Raman spectroscopy and chemometric tools

OBJECTIVE

To use Raman Spectroscopy for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of pharmaceutical formulations of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of Cephalexin.

SIGNIFICANCE

Raman Spectroscopy is a noninvasive, nondestructive, reliable and rapid detection technique used for various pharmaceutical drugs quantification. The present study explores the potential of Raman Spectroscopy for quantitative analysis of pharmaceutical drugs.

METHOD

For qualitative and quantitative analysis of Cephalexin API, various standard samples containing less and more concentration of API than commercial tablet was prepared. To study spectral differences, the mean plot of all the samples was prepared. For qualitative analysis, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and for quantitative analysis Partial Least Square Regression analysis (PLSR) was used. Both of these are Multivariate data analysis techniques and give reliable results as published in previous literature.

RESULTS

PCA model distinguished all the Raman Spectral data related to the various Cephalexin solid dosage formulations whereas the PLSR model was used to calculate the concentration of different unknown formulations. For the PLSR model, RMSEC and RMSEP were determined to be 3.3953 and 3.8972, respectively. The prediction efficiency of this built PLSR model was found to be very good with a goodness of the model value (R2) of 0.98. The PLSR model also predicted the concentrations of Cephalexin formulations in the blind or unknown sample.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate that the Raman spectroscopy coupled to PLSR analysis could be regarded as a fast and effectively reliable tool for quantitative analysis of pharmaceutical drugs.

Exclusion of Families Who Speak Languages Other than English from Federally Funded Pediatric Trials

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether individuals in the United States who speak languages other than English (LOE) are excluded from federally funded pediatric clinical trials and whether such trials adhere to the National Institutes of Health policy regarding inclusion of members of minority groups.

STUDY DESIGN

Using ClinicalTrials.gov, we identified all completed, federally funded, US-based trials inclusive of children ≤17 and focused on one of 4 common chronic childhood conditions (asthma, mental health, obesity, and dental caries) as of June 18, 2019. We reviewed ClinicalTrials.gov online content, as well as published manuscripts linked to ClinicalTrials.gov entries, to abstract information about language-related exclusion criteria. Trials were deemed to exclude LOE participants/caregivers if explicit statements regarding exclusion were identified in the study protocol or published manuscript.

RESULTS

Of total, 189 trials met inclusion criteria. Two-thirds (67%) did not address multilingual enrollment. Of the 62 trials that did, 82% excluded LOE individuals. No trials addressed the enrollment of non-English, non-Spanish-speaking individuals. In 93 trials with nonmissing data on ethnicity, Latino individuals comprised 31% of participants in trials that included LOE individuals and 14% of participants in trials that excluded LOE individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Federally funded pediatric trials in the United States do not adequately address multilingual enrollment, a seeming violation of federal and contractual requirements for accommodation of language barriers by entities receiving federal funding.

An Overview of Pulses Production in India: Retrospect and Prospects of the Future Food with an Application of Hybrid Models

Forecasts are valuable to countries to make informed business decisions and develop data-driven strategies. The production of pulses is an integral part of agricultural diversification initiatives because it offers promising economic opportunities to reduce rural poverty and unemployment in developing countries. Pulses are the cheapest source of protein needed for human health. India's pulses production guidelines must be based on accurate and best forecast models. Comparing classical statistical and machine learning models based on different scientific data series is the subject of high-level research today. This study focused on the forecasting behaviour of pulses production for India, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The data series was split into a training dataset (1950-2014) and a testing dataset (2015-2019) for model building and validation purposes, respectively. ARIMA, NNAR and hybrid models were used and compared on training and validation datasets based on goodness of fit (RMSE, MAE and MASE). This research demonstrates that due to the diverse agricultural conditions across different provinces in India, there is no single model that can accurately predict pulse production in all regions. This study's highest accuracy model is ARIMA. ARIMA outperforms NNAR, a machine learning model. Pulse production in India, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh will expand by 26.11%, 12.62%, and 0.51% from 2020 to 2030, whereas it would decline by - 6.5%, - 6.21%, and - 6.76 per cent in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, respectively. The current forecast results could allow policymakers to develop more aggressive food security and sustainability plans and better Indian pulses production policies in the future.

Functionalized graphene oxide-zinc oxide hybrid material and its deployment for adsorptive removal of levofloxacin from aqueous media

This work reports on the synthesis of aspartic acid-functionalized graphene oxide-zinc oxide, as a functional porous material, and its potential to mitigate levofloxacin (LFXN). The adsorbent was characterized by various techniques, including ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The average crystallite size of the prepared composite was about 17.30 nm. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to elucidate the adsorption process for LFXN. Different parameters, including contact time, LFXN initial concentration, adsorbent concentration, pH, temperature, and ionic strength were studied. The mechanism and kinetics were studied by fitting the data to Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models, respectively. The isotherm data was better fitted to Langmuir isotherm (R² = 0.999) as compared to the Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacity obtained at equilibrium was 73.15 mg/g. For kinetic studies, Pseudo first order was better fitted with R² = 0.87797, confirming the physisorption process. Thermodynamics parameters revealed that the process was exothermic and spontaneous at low temperatures. The adsorption mechanism was studied and the impregnation of LFXN in the adsorbent was confirmed by FTIR studies. This research proved that the designed GO/Asp-ZnO was a novel and promising adsorbent for the removal of LFXN with an efficiency of 95.12% at 30 mg/L LFXN by 0.6 g/L adsorbent in 24 h at pH = 7 and T = 25 °C.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Tazarotene 0.1% Cream Versus Clindamycin 1% Gel in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Objective: To compare the efficacy of Tazarotene 0.1% cream versus Clindamycin 1% gel in treating acne vulgaris. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of the Study: Dermatology Department, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Jul 2018. Methodology: One hundred and fifty-four patients of both genders who had moderate acne vulgaris for more than four weeks were divided into two Groups. In both Groups, patients applied one-fourth fingertip unit of Tazarotene 0.1% cream in the evening once daily and Clindamycin 1% gel over the affected area in the morning once daily for 12 weeks. The Global Acne Grading System Score (GAGS score) was used for severity and efficacy assessment. Results: The majority of the patients belonged to 13-25 years of age, i.e., 61(79.2%) and 54(70.1%) in Group-A (Tazarotene 0.1% cream) and Group-B (Clindamycin 1% gel), respectively. The efficacy of topical Tazarotene cream (0.1%) was better than topical Clindamycin 1% gel, and the difference was statistically significant with a p-value less than 0.01. GAGS score <10 was observed in 54.5% and 33.8% of patients in Group-A and Group-B, respectively. Conclusion: Topical Tazarotene cream (0.1%) was more effective than topical Clindamycin 1% gel in treating acne vulgaris.

Chitosan-based Dy2O3/CuFe3O4 bio-nanocomposite development, characterization, and drug release kinetics

Chitosan (CS)/metal oxide (MO) nano-carriers have recently attracted attention due to their great integration into several biomedical applications. Herein, CS and dysprosium oxide based bio-nanocomposites (Dy₂O₃/CuFe₃O₄/CS) were prepared using a citrate sol-gel route for biomedical settings at large and drug delivery, in particular. The chemical structure, average crystallite size, and surface morphology of Dy₂O₃/CuFe₃O₄/CS bio-nanocomposites were characterized using spectroscopic techniques, including FT-IR, PXRD, and SEM. The prepared nano composite's drug loading or release kinetics were investigated by FT-IR, zeta potential (ZP), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). In the FT-IR spectrum, the peaks in the range of 800-400 cm^-1 confirmed the formation of meta-oxides, while amide bands at 1661 and 1638 cm^-1 revealed the existence of CS in the bio-nanocomposite. The peaks at 2θ = 35.46 and 28.5, 39.4 indicated the presence and chemical interaction of Dy₂O₃ and CuFe₃O_4, respectively. The crystallite size was <20 nm. The model drug used in the loading and in vitro release assays was ciprofloxacin hydrochloride. Ciprofloxacin's CF stretch caused a modest peak to be seen at 1082 cm^-1 and changed in zeta potential value from 7.90 mV to 8.88 mV endorsing that the drug had been loaded onto the nanomaterial. The loading efficiency (%) of CIP onto the composite was from 25 to 30 %, calculated from optical density measurements. Different kinetic models, such as zero-order, first-order, Higuchi, Hixon-Crowell, and Korsmeyer-Peppas, were determined to confirm the drug release mechanism. The percent (%) of drug release from the surface of Dy₂O₃/CuFe₃O₄/CS in PBS (pH 7.4), acidic (pH 2.2) and basic (pH 9.4) dissolution media were found to be 70, 28 and 20 %, respectively. Drug kinetics showed that mainly the release is fickian type followed "Fick's law of diffusion", slightly deviated from fickian release (dissolution-dependent system). Korsmeyer-Peppas (R² 0.9773, n < 0.4) and Higuchi's (R² 0.9846) models were the best for fitting controlled drug release data. The results revealed that the Dy₂O₃/CuFe₃O₄/CS bio-nanocomposite has good potential for a controlled drug delivery system.

Evaluation of Sagittal Change in the Maxilla and Incisor Inclination Following Rapid Palatal Expansion Using Cone Beam Computerized Tomography

Objective: To measure the sagittal changes in the maxilla via angular change in point A with Sella Nasion plane and incisor to palatal plane before (T1) and after (T2) rapid palatal expansion with bonded expander. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Feb 2017 from Jan 2018. Methodology: 30 patients both male and female presenting to orthodontics department AFID between the ages of 9 and 12 years, with transverse maxillary deficiency were given a bonded hyrax appliance with an activation schedule of 2 turns per day, the retention period was 2 months followed by further retention with a removable plate. Two cone beam computerized tomography evaluations were done. One pre-expansion (T1) and the other after 2 months of retention (T2). Results: 30 children 16 males (53%) and 14 females (47%) with a mean age of 11.03 ± 0.76 years were studied showing that from pre-treatment to post-treatment Sella Nasion point A value changed insignificantly from 77.03 ± 2.81 to 77.2 ± 3.02and 1 to palatal plane changed insignificantly from 111.82 ± 5.74 to 110.8 ± 5.80. Paired sample t-test results confirmed the statistically insignificant change in Sella Nasion point A and 1to Palatal Plane. Conclusion: Following rapid palatal expansion with a bonded expander in growing patients the change in maxillary location in the sagittal dimension and the change in inclination of incisor to palatal plane following expansion was insignificantly affected statistically and hence clinically.

Frequency of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Patients of Inflammatory Bowel Disease at Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi

Objective: To determine the presence of iron deficiency anemia and assess the relationship of various factors with the presence of anemia among the patients of inflammatory bowel disease reporting to Military Hospital, Rawalpindi. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of General Medicine, Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Jan to Dec 2018. Methodology: Two hundred cases were recruited in this study, which were diagnosed as inflammatory bowel disease in medical outpatient department (OPD) by a consultant medical specialist or gastroenterologist. Iron deficiency anemia was diagnosed on the basis of hemoglobin and ferritin levels. Relationship of age, gender, duration of inflammatory bowel disease, type of inflammatory bowel disease and poly-pharmacy was taken into account with the presence of iron deficiency anemia among the patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. Results: A total of 106 patients were males and 94 were females. Most common type of inflammatory bowel disease was ulcerative colitis 118 (59%). Out of 200 patients of inflammatory bowel disease, 111 (44.5%) showed the presence of iron deficiency anemia while 89 (55.5%). Long duration of illness and poly-pharmacy had a significant correlation (p-value <0.05) with the presence of iron deficiency anemia among the patients of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Conclusion: High frequency of iron deficiency anemia was observed in the patients of inflammatory bowel disease in a tertiary care hospital of our country. Patients with long standing inflammatory diseases or using multiple pharmacological agents for the control of their disease had more risk for....

First report of Erysiphe bunkiniana from Pakistan

During August–September 2018, powdery mildew symptoms were observed on both surfaces of leaves of Isodon rugosus in the Abbottabad and Malakand districts of Pakistan. The causal agent was identified as Erysiphe bunkiniana, based on its asexual morph and chasmothecia, and its identity was confirmed by molecular data. This is the first Pakistani report of Erysiphe bunkiniana and the first sequence obtained for this powdery mildew species.

318 Monopolar Versus Bipolar TURBT: Bradford Experience

Aim

To compare the safety and efficacy of monopolar vs bipolar TURBT.

Method

This was a randomized control trial done over 18 months with patients being allotted randomly into the bipolar and monopolar arms. The study was carried out in the department of urology at BRI and YC. All consecutive patients undergoing TURBT for suspected bladder tumors were eligible for the study. The diagnosis was based on imaging and/or cystoscopy. Exclusion criteria included refusal to participate, unfitness for spinal anesthesia, and lack of tumor in the lateral wall. The primary objective was to compare the incidence of obturator jerk in monopolar and bipolar TURBT. The secondary objective was to study and compare the quality of histopathology specimen, detrusor muscle identification, and bladder perforation.

Results

A total of 95 transurethral resections were done over the study period. All these patients were eligible for inclusion in the study, 50 in monopolar and 45 in the bipolar arms, were analyzed. Both the study groups were comparable for age, sex, and tumor size. The incidence of obturator jerk was greater in the bipolar arm (8.8 %% vs 2%, P- value=2.25). The difference in the incidence of obturator jerk in the two arms was not statistically significant (Chi-Square test). There was no significant difference in either of the secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

The bipolar transurethral resection of the bladder tumor was not superior to monopolar resection concerning the obturator jerk, bladder perforation, and histopathological quality of the resected specimen.

A Rare Case of Recurrent Pneumonia in Heterotaxy Syndrome, Polysplenia/Left Isomerism

Heterotaxy syndrome (HS) or situs ambiguous refers to the abnormal arrangement of viscera across the body axis, and abnormalities arise depending on the isomerism of the right or left atrial appendage. The cause remains unexplained and is attributed to a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. It is a rare condition and may remain undiagnosed for a long time. In this report, we aim to highlight an unusual presentation and aggravation of an infection due to the underlying isomerism of the left atrial appendage. We discuss the case of a female patient who presented with symptoms of fever and cough. The patient underwent prolonged antibiotic treatment, and her recovery was slow. The presence of bilobed lungs, vertical left-bronchus, and polysplenia on CT scan explained the left-sided aspiration pneumonia. The hypofunctioning spleen (polysplenia) caused her to have a weak immunological response, necessitating prolonged antibiotic use. She was followed up over time and had a recurrence of pneumonia within a few months. The condition is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and the role of early diagnosis and reporting to prevent complications is paramount. The recurrent pneumonia observed in the patient also raises questions related to long-term antibiotic use and immunization in the case of polysplenia in this patient population.

Do sponsors and democratic government influence the flipping activity of Pakistan IPO? Evidence from developing market

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of sponsors and democratic government on the flipping activity of initial public offerings (IPOs).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the sample of 95 IPOs listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange between January 2000 and December 2019, this study used multiple cross-sectional regression to examine the relationship between sponsors and democratic government on flipping activity.

Findings

The findings indicate a significant negative association between sponsors and the flipping activity of IPOs. Sponsor(s) signal quality by trying to share accurate information about company values. As a result, the confidence of rational investors in the company’s future prospectus increases and they hold their shares for future gains, which reduces the flipping activity. Also, democratic government, along with sponsors' participation, provides investors with liquidity immediately after listing.

Practical limitations/implications

The findings of this study have implications for investors as they may assist them make informed decisions about whether or not to invest in an IPO with high sponsor(s) ownership. In addition, issuers should consider the disclosure of sponsor information(s) as such information may directly affect the first day’s trading volumes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research study that explores the correlation between sponsors and democratic government and flipping activity of IPO. This study is important for investors and issuers.

The Efficacy Of Azithromycin Plus Levamisole Vs Azithromycin Alone In The Treatment Of Moderate To Severe Acne

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris (AV) is an inflammatory disorder of pilosebaceous unit and it affects over 85% of teenagers (peak age 17 years) during some point in their lives. Of these 30% have acne severe enough to require medical treatment. The overall incidence is comparable in both genders. Objective was to compare the efficacy of azithromycin plus levamisole with azithromycin alone in the treatment of moderate to severe acne. It was a single centre randomized controlled trial, conducted at the Department of Dermatology at Military Hospital Rawalpindi.

METHODS

We selected 118 patients of acne who fulfilled the inclusion criteria from the dermatology outpatient department. Diagnosis was based on clinical features of acne and severity defined using Acne Global Severity Score. The patients were randomly assigned two treatment groups; Patients in group A received Azithromycin 500 mg per day given for 3 days a week plus oral levamisole 150 mg per day was given for 2 days a week for a total of 08 weeks. Group B patients (n= 59) received Azithromycin 500 mg per day given for 3 days a week for a total of 08 weeks. Patients were followed up fortnightly till they completed their treatment. Response to treatment was graded according to the Acne Global Severity Score. Scoring was done at first visit before therapy and after 08 weeks of therapy in both groups. Therapy was considered efficacious if the patients achieved post-therapy reduction of global score below 19 at the end of 8th week of initiation of therapy.

RESULTS

Among our 118 study cases, we had 38 male patients while 80 were female patients. The study cases had mean age of 20.10±2.65 years. Mean global severity was 31.25±3.41 while 56 (47.5%) had moderate acne and 62 (52.5%) had severe acne. Efficacy was found to be higher in patients receiving Azithromycin plus levamisole combination.

CONCLUSIONS

Azithromycin plus levamisole was observed as a more effective therapy for the treatment of acne as compared to Azithromycin alone. The study supports the administration of combination therapy for the treatment of Acne to achieve desired outcomes in patients.

Exogenous application of bio-stimulant and growth retardant improved the productivity of cotton cultivars under different planting arrangement

Optimum planting arrangement is an important attribute for efficient utilization of available resources and to obtain high yield of cotton. Application of plant growth promoter and retardant on cotton in improved planting density are the innovative techniques in the establishment of more productive cotton crop. Therefore, we planned a field study to assess the role of bio-stimulant and growth retardant in the resource utilization efficiency of cotton cultivars planted under variable row spacing at Agronomic Research Area Bahauddin Zakariya University and Usmania Agricultural Farm Shujabad during Kharif 2012. Experimental treatments consisted of cotton genotypes viz. CIM-573 and CIM-598, cultivated under conventional (75 cm), medium (50 cm) and ultra-narrow row spacing (25 cm) with foliar spray of bio-stimulant (moringa leaf extract) and growth retardant (mepiquate chloride), either sole or in combination, keeping distilled water as a control. Exogenously applied MLE alone and MLE + MC significantly enhanced the number of squares, flowers and green bolls per plant leading to higher cotton seed and lint yield of CIM 598 cultivar cultivated under conventional row spacing. While application of MC alone and MLE + MC produced maximum micronaire value, fiber strength and fiber uniformity ratio of CIM 573 cultivar cultivated under conventional row spacing. The results suggested that application of MLE is a possible approach to enhance the cotton productivity and the use of MC to enhance the fiber quality attributes under conventional row spacing.

Resource use efficiency of cotton in improved vs conventional planting geometry with exogenous application of bio-stimulant and synthetic growth retardant

Plant growth regulators and improved planting density are the innovative techniques in the establishment of more productive cotton crop. A field study was planned to assess the role of growth regulators in the resource utilization efficiency of cotton cultivars under different row spacing at Agronomic Research Area, Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan and Usmania Agricultural Farm, Shujaabad during Kharif 2012. The study was comprised of cotton cultivars viz. CIM-573 and CIM-598, cultivated under conventional (75 cm), medium (50 cm) and improved ultra-narrow row spacing (25 cm) and foliar spray of growth regulators viz. moringa leaf extract (MLE) and mepiquat chloride (MC), either alone or in combination, distilled water as a control. The application of MLE alone and in combination (MLE + MC) showed the promoting effect on crop growth rate, net assimilation rate, leaf area index, leaf area duration, sympodial branches and number of bolls leading to higher seed cotton yield of both cotton cultivars grown under conventional row spacing. While application of MC averts the plant growth without considerably improving the productivity. MLE being rich source of growth promoting hormone and nutrients showed its potential to a far greater extent under conventional row spacing in efficient utilization of available resources compared to MC and distilled water.

COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF A AND B IN PITYRIASIS VERSICOLOR

Objective: To compare the efficacy of oral fluconazole and oral itraconazole in the treatment of Pityriasisversicolor. Study Design: Comparative prospective study. Methodology: Total 72 patients of both genders with Pityriasis versicolor were included. Patients were randomly allocated into two treatment groups with 36 patients in each group: group A and group B by lottery method. Patients in group A received Cap Fluconazole 150 mg bi- weekly for two consecutive weeks while those in group B received two doses of 400 mg of itraconazole once weekly for two weeks. Patients were asked to follow-up after 4 weeks skin scrapings for microscopy using 10% KOH mount was done at follow-up. Efficacy was assessed in terms of negative fungal hyphae on microscopy. Results: In this study, age ranged from 18 to 40 years with mean age of 33.52 ± 4.12 years in group A, whereas35.055 ± 4.18 years in group B. Mean duration of disease was 4.66 ± 1.51 months in group A and 5.27 ± 1.70months in group B. Efficacy was seen in 77.8% of group A patients as compared to 50% in group B patients(p=0.014). Conclusion: Oral Fluconazole two doses of 150 mg/week (total 300mg/week) for two consecutive weeks wasfound more effective than oral itraconazole.

Role of Mass Media and Public Health Communications in the COVID-19 Pandemic

In Dec 2019, a novel pathogen emerged, and within weeks, led to the emergence of the biggest global health crises seen to date. The virus called 'SARS-CoV-2', causes coronavirus disease which was named 'COVID-19' by the World Health Organization (WHO). The speedy spread of this infection globally became a source of public worry and several unknowns regarding this new pathogen created a state of panic. Mass media became the major source of information about the novel coronavirus. Much like the previous pandemics of SARS (2003), H1N1 (2009), and MERS (2012), the media significantly contributed to the COVID-19 infodemics. In this review, we analyze the role of mass media and public health communications from December 31, 2019 to July 15, 2020, and make scientific inferences. The COVID-19 pandemic highlights multiple social, cultural, and economic issues arising from the media's arguable role. The racial prejudices linked to the origin of the virus prevented collaborations among scientists to find a solution. Media coverage of coronavirus news during geographical lockdowns, extended quarantines, and financial and social hardships induced fear and caused psychological stress. Domestic and elderly abuse upsurged. The unscientific cures and unverified medicines endorsed by the politicians and fake doctors proved harmful. The media played a worldwide role in coronavirus disease tracking and updates through live updates dashboard. The media allowed for timely interventions by the Center For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), enabling a rapid and widespread reach of public health communications. We saw an upward trend for the promotion of health and hygiene practices worldwide by adaption of safe health practices such as increased hand washing, use of face coverings, and social distancing. Media reinforced illness-preventing guidelines daily, and people were encouraged to use telehealth to meet their healthcare needs. Mass media has an imperative role in today's world and it can provide a unified platform for all public health communications, comprehensive healthcare education guidelines, and robust social distancing strategies while still maintaining social connections. It can enable equal access to healthcare, end discrimination, and social stigmatization. The role of media and public health communications must be understood and explored further as they will be an essential tool for combating COVID-19 and future outbreaks.

Analysis of iron, calcium and zinc contents in formulated fish protein hydrolyzate (FPH) complementary feeding instant powder

Complementary feeding is a transition of the baby's intake over 6 months to meet the nutritional needs in addition to breast milk. Complementary feeding should contain complete nutritional components especially in minerals. Minerals are elements needed by the body for the overall body function. Children require calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) for their body growth to prevent stunting. This study was aimed to analyse Ca, Fe and Zn content in the formulated fish protein hydrolysate (FPH) complementary feeding porridge. A total of three formulations were produced namely F1, F2 and F3 and analysed for mineral content following AOAC method 999.11. From the analysis, F3 had the highest Fe content (38.547 mg/100 g) and Zn content (5.751 mg/100 g) while F1 had the highest Ca content (65.152 mg/100 g). Overall, F3 had the best mineral content to be formulated as a suitable FPH complementary feeding instant powder.

A MEG Study of Acute Arbaclofen (STX-209) Administration

Several electrophysiological parameters, including the auditory evoked response component M50/M100 latencies and the phase synchrony of transient and steady-state gamma-band oscillations have been implicated as atypical (to various extents) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Furthermore, some hypotheses suggest that an underlying neurobiological mechanism for these observations might be atypical local circuit function indexed by atypical levels of inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. This study was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, escalating-dose, acute investigation conducted in 25 14–18 year-old adolescents with ASD. The study assessed the sensitivity of magnetoencephalography (MEG) and MEGAPRESS “GABA” magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to monitor dose-dependent acute effects, as well as seeking to define properties of the pre-drug “baseline” electrophysiological and GABA signatures that might predict responsiveness to the GABA-B agonist, arbaclofen (STX-209). Overall, GABA levels and gamma-band oscillatory activity showed no acute changes at either low (15 mg) or high (30 mg) dose. Evoked M50 response latency measures tended to shorten (normalize), but there was heterogeneity across the group in M50 latency response, with only a subset of participants (n = 6) showing significant M50 latency shortening, and only at the 15 mg dose. Findings thus suggest that MEG M50 latency measures show acute effects of arbaclofen administration in select individuals, perhaps reflecting effective target engagement. Whether these subjects have a greater trend towards clinical benefit remains to be established. Finally, findings also provide preliminary support for the use of objective electrophysiological measures upon which to base inclusion for optimal enrichment of populations to be included in full-scale clinical trials of arbaclofen.

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA): A case report

Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery (AAOCA) is a rare anomaly of the coronary artery with a considerable risk of sudden cardiac death due to ischaemia of the heart. Symptoms may include chest pain on exertion, breathlessness or dizziness. We encountered a case of a 46- year-old female who complained of exertional chest pain with a positive-stress test and subsequently diagnosed with AAOCA through CT angiography (CTA). She successfully underwent a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery using a saphenous vein graft with uneventful recovery. Right internal mammary artery (RIMA) was not used as it was flimsy and the flow was very poor.

In vitro behavior and UV response of melanocytes derived from carriers of CDKN2A mutations and MC1R variants

Coinheritance of germline mutation in cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) and loss-of-function (LOF) melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) variants is clinically associated with exaggerated risk for melanoma. To understand the combined impact of these mutations, we established and tested primary human melanocyte cultures from different CDKN2A mutation carriers, expressing either wild-type MC1R or MC1RLOF variant(s). These cultures expressed the CDKN2A product p16 (INK4A) and functional MC1R. Except for 32ins24 mutant melanocytes, the remaining cultures showed no detectable aberrations in proliferation or capacity for replicative senescence. Additionally, the latter cultures responded normally to ultraviolet radiation (UV) by cell cycle arrest, JNK, p38, and p53 activation, hydrogen peroxide generation, and repair of DNA photoproducts. We propose that malignant transformation of melanocytes expressing CDKN2A mutation and MC1RLOF allele(s) requires acquisition of somatic mutations facilitated by MC1R genotype or aberrant microenvironment due to CDKN2A mutation in keratinocytes and fibroblasts.

Canine Retraction Using a Closed Nickel Titanium Coil Spring and an Elastic Module

OBJECTIVE

To compare the mean change of tooth movement in canine retraction between elastic module and Ni Ti coil spring.

STUDY DESIGN

Comparative study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Orthodontics Department, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi, from May 2015 to January 2016.

METHODOLOGY

Thirty-two patients were inducted. After alignment and extraction of maxillary first premolars, canine retraction was started with closed Ni Ti coil spring on one side of the maxillary arch and with active tie back on the other side. The distance between the lateral incisor and the canine was measured on both sides before starting canine retraction. The same measurements were recorded after four weeks of retraction. The difference between pre and post retraction measurements was recorded. The difference in the rate of canine retraction between both modalities was compared using independent sample t-test.

RESULTS

The study included 56% females and 43% males. The mean rate of tooth movement in Ni Ti coil group and in the elastomeric module group was 1.1 mm and 0.7 mm in one month, respectively (p=0.05).

CONCLUSION

The rate of tooth movement is more rapid with Ni Ti coil spring than with the elastomeric module.

Quantifying the Effects of 16p11.2 Copy Number Variants on Brain Structure: A Multisite Genetic-First Study

BACKGROUND

16p11.2 breakpoint 4 to 5 copy number variants (CNVs) increase the risk for developing autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and language and cognitive impairment. In this multisite study, we aimed to quantify the effect of 16p11.2 CNVs on brain structure.

METHODS

Using voxel- and surface-based brain morphometric methods, we analyzed structural magnetic resonance imaging collected at seven sites from 78 individuals with a deletion, 71 individuals with a duplication, and 212 individuals without a CNV.

RESULTS

Beyond the 16p11.2-related mirror effect on global brain morphometry, we observe regional mirror differences in the insula (deletion > control > duplication). Other regions are preferentially affected by either the deletion or the duplication: the calcarine cortex and transverse temporal gyrus (deletion > control; Cohen's d > 1), the superior and middle temporal gyri (deletion < control; Cohen's d < -1), and the caudate and hippocampus (control > duplication; -0.5 > Cohen's d > -1). Measures of cognition, language, and social responsiveness and the presence of psychiatric diagnoses do not influence these results.

CONCLUSIONS

The global and regional effects on brain morphometry due to 16p11.2 CNVs generalize across site, computational method, age, and sex. Effect sizes on neuroimaging and cognitive traits are comparable. Findings partially overlap with results of meta-analyses performed across psychiatric disorders. However, the lack of correlation between morphometric and clinical measures suggests that CNV-associated brain changes contribute to clinical manifestations but require additional factors for the development of the disorder. These findings highlight the power of genetic risk factors as a complement to studying groups defined by behavioral criteria.

Usefulness of Complement C1q to Predict 10-Year Mortality in Men With Diabetes Mellitus Referred for Coronary Angiography

The complement system consists of a family of proteins that play a critical role in the innate immune system. Complement activation has been implicated in many chronic inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. However, a number of experimental studies have highlighted a beneficial role of component C1q in early atherosclerosis and in diabetes mellitus (DM). Despite these data, there have been no studies that have specifically examined the utility of plasma complement C1q as a clinical biomarker in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. In this study, baseline plasma complement C1q levels were measured in 159 men with DM who were referred for coronary angiography and who were followed up prospectively for the development of all-cause mortality for 10 years. After adjustment for baseline clinical, angiographic, and laboratory parameters, reduced plasma complement C1q levels were an independent predictor of all-cause mortality at 10 years (hazard ratio 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.52 to 0.84, p = 0.0006). In additional multivariate models that adjusted for a variety of biomarkers with established prognostic efficacy, complement C1q remained an independent predictor of all-cause mortality at 10 years. In conclusion, reduced levels of complement C1q are associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality at 10 years in patients with DM referred for coronary angiography. Furthermore, this association is independent of a variety of clinical, angiographic, laboratory variables, including biomarkers with established prognostic efficacy in the prediction of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

Usefulness of Plasma Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-4 to Predict Death and Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus Referred for Coronary Angiography

TIMP-4 is the newest member of a family of secreted proteins known as the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases that selectively inhibit matrix metalloproteases. TIMP-4 is abundantly expressed in human cardiovascular structures and has been implicated in cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, it has also been shown to be a novel target of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma in rat smooth muscle cells, suggesting a potential role in diabetes mellitus as well. However, there have been no studies that have specifically examined the utility of baseline plasma TIMP-4 levels for the prediction of long-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this study, baseline plasma TIMP-4 levels were measured in 162 male patients with diabetes mellitus who were referred for coronary angiography and followed prospectively for the development of all-cause mortality and enzymatically confirmed myocardial infarction (MI) out to 5 years. After adjustment for a variety of baseline clinical, angiographic and laboratory parameters, plasma TIMP-4 levels were an independent predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.60, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.26; p = 0.0082) and MI (hazard ratio 1.61, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.18; p = 0.0021) at 5 years. Furthermore, in additional multivariate models that adjusted for a variety of biomarkers with established prognostic efficacy, TIMP-4 remained an independent predictor of adverse outcomes. In conclusion, elevated levels of TIMP-4 are associated with an increased risk of long-term all-cause mortality and MI in patients with diabetes mellitus referred for coronary angiography. Moreover, this association is independent of a variety of clinical, angiographic, and laboratory variables, including biomarkers with established prognostic efficacy in the prediction of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

Femto-lasik: The recent innovation in laser assisted refractive surgery

Femtosecond laser has been introduced in refractive surgery to create a thin-hinged corneal flap without using any blade. The current review was planned to analyse and compare femtosecond-assisted laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK), the latest refractive procedure, with conventional techniques in refractive surgery. The analysis showed that femtosecond-assisted LASIK yielded more predictable corneal flaps, lesser ocular aberrations, better uncorrected visual acuity, lesser variations in intraocular pressure (IOP) and fewer chances of developing dry eyes. Transient light sensitivity, diffuse lamellar keratitis, opaque bubble layer, corneal haze and rainbow glare are some of the demerits of femtosecond-assisted LASIK, but these can be prevented with certain precautions. The early visual rehabilitation and preservation of corneal anatomy are added benefits in the long run. Though it is expensive currently, the competition in market is expected to cut down the cost soon.

Electrochemical determination of folic acid: A short review

Folic acid (FA) is an electroactive compound of biological origin. It helps our body to produce and maintain healthy cells. It can significantly reduce the occurrence of neural tube defects and also prevents change in DNA structure. FA deficiency can lead to various health risks. Therefore, a sensitive, specific, and reproducible way of FA detection is essential. A number of analytical methods are in practice for the quantification of FA. However, electroanalytical methods are attracting much attention because of their advantage over conventional methods, as they are fast, simple, sensitive, and cost effective. Moreover, modification of electrodes offers control over size and morphology which allows miniaturization for applicability in portable electrochemical devices.

Abstracts of the 24th international isotope society (UK group) symposium: synthesis and applications of labelled compounds 2015

The 24th annual symposium of the International Isotope Society's United Kingdom Group took place at the Møller Centre, Churchill College, Cambridge, UK on Friday 6th November 2015. The meeting was attended by 77 delegates from academia and industry, the life sciences, chemical, radiochemical and scientific instrument suppliers. Delegates were welcomed by Dr Ken Lawrie (GlaxoSmithKline, UK, chair of the IIS UK group). The subsequent scientific programme consisted of oral presentations, short 'flash' presentations in association with particular posters and poster presentations. The scientific areas covered included isotopic synthesis, regulatory issues, applications of labelled compounds in imaging, isotopic separation and novel chemistry with potential implications for isotopic synthesis. Both short-lived and long-lived isotopes were represented, as were stable isotopes. The symposium was divided into a morning session chaired by Dr Rebekka Hueting (University of Oxford, UK) and afternoon sessions chaired by Dr Sofia Pascu (University of Bath, UK) and by Dr Alan Dowling (Syngenta, UK). The UK meeting concluded with remarks from Dr Ken Lawrie (GlaxoSmithKline, UK).

LRIG1 expression during homeostasis and skin wound healing in mice

Leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobulin-like domains (LRIG)-1 belong to the family of proteins known to be expressed in skin. Ablation of LRIG1 in mice results in epidermal hyperplasia and its aberrant expression levels have been reported in pathological conditions such as psoriasis, thus evident of an indispensible role of LRIG1 in maintaining epidermal homeostasis. In order to gain insight into the homeostatic expression of LRIG1 and in various stages of cutaneous wound healing, LRIG1 expression was immunohistochemically analyzed in full thickness skin wounds in mice. The full thickness skin wounds were established on the dorsal back of Balb/c mice (n=6). LRIG1 expression at various post wounding days (1, 2, 3, 6 and 14) was determined through Immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) of the murine skin sections. The injury caused a sharp decline in LRIG1 expression in the basal epidermal cells and appendages surrounding the wound which correlates with the re-epithelialization phase of healing. LRIG1 expression remained down regulated during most of the wound healing stages. LRIG1+ cells were found to re-populate the neo-epidermis on day 14, suggesting an important homeostatic role of LRIG1 in skin.

Pregnancy outcome after electrosurgical cervical cone biopsy using Fischer cone biopsy excisor

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of all patients who underwent electrosurgical cone biopsy of the cervix between January 2000 and December 2011 and subsequently became pregnant.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

District General Hospital in the North East of England.

METHODS

Patients were identified from the local colposcopy electronic data, Hospital Episode Statistics and Maternity electronic data. Data were collected on a pro forma with two sections: (1) treatment section and (2) pregnancy section. In the treatment section, year and indication for treatment, volume of cervix removed, histological results and marginal status of specimen were documented. In the pregnancy section, time interval between treatment and pregnancy, pre-treatment obstetric history, cervical length measurements, cervical suture, gestation and mode of delivery and neonatal outcome were documented. Data were analysed using SPSS.

RESULTS

25 women achieved 47 pregnancies after electrosurgical cone biopsy treatment. Most common indication for cone biopsy was glandular neoplasia accounting for nearly half of the procedures; 21.2% of pregnancies ended in first-trimester miscarriages. The preterm delivery rate (<37 weeks) was 19.4%. Volume of cervix excised was significantly greater in women who delivered preterm compared to women who delivered at term (p = 0.028). The rate of preterm delivery was significantly higher in post treatment pregnancies when compared to pregnancies before treatment in the same women (p = 0.02). The preterm delivery in post-treatment pregnancies was not related to the time interval between treatment and pregnancy (p = 0.54). There was no significant difference in miscarriage rates in pre- and post-treatment pregnancies (p = 0.98).

CONCLUSION

Electrosurgical cone biopsy of cervix is associated with increased risk of preterm labour that is related to the volume of cervix excised.