A novel methodology for stabilization of silver nanoparticles on cotton, nylon and cotton/nylon fabrics using chitosan and triethyl orthoformate for enhanced and elongated antibacterial performance

In the present study, the commercially available three different fabrics cotton, nylon and cotton/nylon were modified by chitosan and silver nanoparticles using a crosslinker triethyl orthoformate (TEOF). Resulted cotton‑silver (Ag-Cs-Cot), nylon‑silver (Ag-Cs-Nyl) and cotton-nylon silver (Ag-Cs-Cot-Nyl) fabrics showed significant anti-bacterial activity even after 50 washing cycles. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by reducing silver nitrate through sodium borohydride at 0 °C. In FTIR spectra the peak at near 1650 cm-1 confirmed that TEOF mediated attachment of chitosan with fabrics (due to C=N) and the stretching of secondary amine near the 3375 cm-1 indicated the silver attachment to the amine group of the chitosan. In Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images smooth surfaces of fabrics without any damage by modification process were observed. The antibacterial activity was Analyzed by agar diffusion and broth dilution assays against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacterial strains and results showed 90% bacterial inhibition against E. coli and 89% bacterial inhibition against S. aureus. For testing the antibacterial durability, the modified fabrics were washed with non-ionic detergent (10g/l) for 15 minutes under aggressive stirring (100 rpm) at room temperature. The modified fabrics retained antibacterial activity over the 50 washing cycles. Finally, the commercial potential of cotton-silver fabric was evaluated by stitching it with the socks of football players and interestingly results showed that the modified fabric on the socks showed more than 90% bacterial inhibition as compared to the plain fabric after 70 minutes of playing activity.

Auxiliary-cavity-enhanced quantum estimation of optorotational-coupling strength

A scheme is proposed to achieve significantly enhanced quantum estimation of optorotational-coupling (ORC) strength by coupling a driven auxiliary cavity to a Laguerre-Gaussian (L-G) rotational cavity, where the ORC originates from the exchange of orbital angular momentum between a L-G light and rotational mirror. The results indicate that, by appropriately designing the auxiliary-cavity mechanism, the estimation error of the ORC parameter is significantly reduced, and revealing the estimation precision has a much stronger thermal noise and dissipation robustness in comparison with the unassisted case. Our study paves the way toward achieving high-precision quantum sensors.

Genomic blueprints of soybean (Glycine max) pathogen resistance: revealing the key genes for sustainable agriculture

Soybean (Glycine max ) is an important oilseed, protein and biodiesel crop. It faces significant threats from bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens, which cause economic losses and jeopardises global food security. In this article, we explore the relationship between soybeans and these pathogens, focusing on the molecular responses that are crucial for soybeans defence mechanisms. Molecular responses involve small RNAs and specific genes, including resistance (R) genes that are pivotal in triggering immune responses. Functional genomics, which makes use of cutting-edge technologies, such as CRISPR Cas9 gene editing, allows us to identify genes that provide insights into the defence mechanisms of soybeans with the focus on using genomics to understand the mechanisms involved in host pathogen interactions and ultimately improve the resilience of soybeans. Genes like GmKR3 and GmVQ58 have demonstrated resistance against soybean mosaic virus and common cutworm, respectively. Genetic studies have identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) including those linked with soybean cyst nematode, root-knot nematode and Phytophthora root and stem rot resistance. Additionally, resistance against Asian soybean rust and soybean cyst nematode involves specific genes and their variations in terms of different copy numbers. To address the challenges posed by evolving pathogens and meet the demands of a growing population, accelerated soybean breeding efforts leveraging functional genomics are imperative. Targeted breeding strategies based on a deeper understanding of soybean gene function and regulation will enhance disease resistance, ensuring sustainable agriculture and global food security. Collaborative research and continued technological advancements are crucial for securing a resilient and productive agricultural future.

Brassica oleracea L. (Acephala Group) based zinc oxide nanoparticles and their efficacy as antibacterial agent

Abstract Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized from the leaf extract of Brassica oleracea L. Acephala group (collard green) followed by their characterization using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). The antibacterial properties of zinc nanoparticles were tested against Gram-negative bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC ® 9027™), Escherichia coli (ATCC ® 8739™), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC® BAA-1705™) and Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC ® 6538™) and Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC ® 13932™), at four different concentrations (50.00 µg/ml, 100.00 µg/ml, 500.00 µg/ml and 1 mg/ml) of zinc oxide nanoparticles suspension. Results revealed that the synthesized nanoparticles exhibit strong antibacterial effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli at 500.00 µg/ml-1 mg/ml concentrations. An increase in efficacy of nanoparticles with the decrease of their size was also evident. This is a first ever report on Brassica oleracea, L. based nanoparticles which demonstrates that 500.00 µg-1 mg/ml conc. of zinc oxide nanoparticles have antibacterial activity against both Gram -ve and Gram +ve bacteria and have the potential to be considered as an antibacterial agent in future.

Tracing probiotic producing bacterial species from gut of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), South-East-Asia

Abstract Due to extensive application of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feed, antimicrobial resistance has been increased. To overcome this challenge, rumen microbiologists search for new probiotics to improve the rate of livestock production. The present study was aimed to isolate and evaluate breed-specific lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as potential animal probiotics. The current study was conducted during 10 months from July 2020 to April 2021, in which a total of n=12 strains were isolated from different samples including milk, rumen, and feces of Nilli Ravi Buffaloes. These isolates were evaluated for their antimicrobial potential against common animal pathogens (Bacillus spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp.). All the isolates were identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the phylogenetic analyses inferred that these strains showed close relations to the species of various genera; Enterococcus lactis, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Bacillus subtilis Weissella cibaria, Weissella soli, Bacillus tequilensis, Weissella bombi, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactococcus lactis, Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus ruminis, and Lactococcus lactis. NMCC-Ru2 has exhibited the enormous potential of antimicrobial activity, 28 mm, for Salmonella typhimurium;23 mm for Listeria monocytogenes 21 mm for E.coil. Highest resistance was seen in NMCC-Ru2 agasint test antbiotic, like 25.5 mm for Tetracycline. Overall results revesl that the probiotic profile of isolates was achieved using standard criteria, particularly with animal probiotic properties

Diagnosis of ''Helicobacter pylori infection of the gastric biopsy'' by rapid urease test, histopathology and Raman spectroscopy

This study aim to investigate the diagnostic potential of Raman spectroscopy in comparison with rapid urease test and histopathology in diagnosis of H. pylori infection. A comparative study was conducted at Pathology Laboratory and a total of 94 samples were collected from patients based on Rome IV criteria. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of histopathology, rapid urease test and for Raman spectroscopy were investigated. Rapid urease test showed 23 false negative results of H. pylori as compared to Raman spectroscopy and histopathology. We concluded that Raman spectroscopy showed sensitivity (94.5%), accuracy (94.0%) and specificity of (87.5%) in the diagnosis of H. pylori infection. However rapid urease test showed specificity of 92.5% while low sensitivity 75%, and 78% accuracy as compared to Raman spectroscopy and histopathology . This study illustrates the applicability of Raman spectroscopy as a potent innovative detection tool for the molecular detection of H. pylori infection in gastritis.

Quantitative ethnomedicinal study and conservation status of medicinal flora used by the indigenous peoples of Sultan Khail valley, Dir Upper, Pakistan

The present study was conducted to explore the ethnomedicinal uses, quantitative analysis and conservation status of medicinal flora of Sultan Khail valley, Dir Upper, Pakistan. The data was collected during 2017-2019 using a semi-structured questionnaire. Ethnomedicinal uses of plant species were determined and the plant species were classified based on habits, parts used, and method of preparation of remedies. Frequency of citation (FC), relative frequency of citation (RFC) and family importance values (FIV) were calculated. The plant species were assessed for their conservation status as per IUCN standard criteria. The inhabitants of the Sultan Khail valley use 88 plant species belonging to 57 families for the treatment of different human diseases. Lamiaceae was the dominant family represented with 8 medicinal species (9%) followed by Rosaceae (5 species, 6%). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves (33.1%) followed by fruits (16.1%), while the main method of remedy preparation was decoctions (33.3%). The highest RFC value was recorded for Geranium wallichianum (0.47), followed by Berberis lycium (0.44). Lamiaceae was the most cited family (FIV, 231), followed by Polygonaceae (73). Five plant species were found to be endangered, 39 species were vulnerable, 32 species were rare, and 12 species were found to be infrequent. The medicinal flora of the area is under severe biotic pressure and needs proper conservation; otherwise, they will be lost in the near future.

Arsenic fractionation and speciation in different textured soils supplied with farmyard manure and accumulation by sunflower under alkaline calcareous conditions

Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring element that is found in soil, water, and rocks. However, it can also be released into the environment through human activities. Arsenic is considered an environmental hazard because it is toxic to humans and animals and can cause serious health problems. Additionally, As-contaminated soil can limit plant growth and reduce crop yields, leading to economic losses for farmers. So, decreasing metal/metalloid solubility in soil by synthetic and organic amendments leads to better crop productivity on contaminated soils. The current study aimed to evaluate farmyard manure (FYM)-mediated changes in soil arsenic (As) behavior, and subsequent effects on achene yield of sunflower. Treatment plan comprised of two As levels, i.e., As-60 (60 mg kg-1) and As-120 (120 mg kg-1), four FYM levels (0, 20, 35, and 50 g kg-1), three textural types (sandy, loamy and clayey), and replicated thrice. Seven As fractions including water soluble-As (WS-As), labile-As (L-As), calcium-bound As (Ca-As), aluminum-bound As (Al-As), iron-bound As (Fe-As), organic-matter-bound As (OM-As), and residual-As (R-As) were determined which differed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) with FYM and soil texture. FYM supplementation decreased WS-As, L-As, Ca-As, and Al-As while increased Fe-As, OM-As, and R-As. The immobilizing effect of FYM increased with increasing its rate of application, and maximum effect was found in clayey soil. As speciation in soil also significantly (P ≤ 0.05) affected by FYM and soil texture, with a reduction in arsenate while increase in arsenite, mono-methyl arsenate, and di-methyl arsenate with increasing the rate of FYM supplementation. Bioaccumulation factor reduced with FYM addition, and highest reduction of 38.65 and 42.13% in sandy, 34.24 and 36.26% in loamy while 29.16 and 35.10% in clayey soils at As-60 and As-120, respectively, by 50 g kg-1 FYM compared with respective As treatments without FYM. As accumulation in plant parts was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced by FYM with the subsequent improvement in achene yield.

Cobalt oxide modified sulfur and phosphorus Co-doped g-C3N4 for screening of urinary human albumin

The fabrication of a heteroatom-doped nanocomposite based on cobalt oxide modified sulfur, phosphorus co-doped carbon nitride (Co3O4/SP-CN) with increased active sites is reported. The synthesized nanocomposite offers surprisingly high electrocatalytic oxidation efficacy toward human albumin (HA) despite its agglomeration. This improved efficacy of Co3O4/SP-CN nanocomposite could be attributed to its increased adsorption sites and surface defects, fast charge transportation capability, and conductivity. Additionally, morphological and compositional analysis of the fabricated Co3O4/SP-CN material has been performed  through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photon spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The fabricated electrode shows remarkable amperometric response against the HA with a limit of detection of 8.39 nM and linear range of 20-4000 nM at applied potential of 0.25 V versus Ag/AgCl in 0.1 M PBS (pH 8.2). The designed Co3O4/SP-CN electrode has been successfully applied to monitor HA in  urine samples of diabetic patient with recovery percentage from 94.1 and 92.1% and with relative standard deviation (RSD) values of 5.8 and 7.8%. According to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to use a Co3O4/SP-CN-based graphitic pencil (GP) electrode for monitoring of HA for early diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy.

A survey in the West Midlands of the United Kingdom of current practice in managing hypotension in lower segment caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Spinal anaesthesia, the most common form of anaesthesia for caesarean section, leads to sympathetic blockade and profound maternal hypotension resulting in adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Hypotension, nausea and vomiting remain common but until the publication of the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) 2021 guidance, no national guideline existed on how best to manage maternal hypotension following spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section. A 2017 international consensus statement recommended prophylactic vasopressor administration to maintain a systolic blood pressure of >90% of an accurate pre-spinal value, and to avoid a drop to <80% of this value. This survey aimed to assess regional adherence to these recommendations, the presence of local guidelines for management of hypotension during caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia, and the individual clinician's treatment thresholds for maternal hypotension and tachycardia.

METHODS

The West Midlands Trainee-led Research in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Network co-ordinated surveys of obstetric anaesthetic departments and consultant obstetric anaesthetists across 11 National Health Service Trusts in the Midlands, England.

RESULTS

One-hundred-and-two consultant obstetric anaesthetists returned the survey and 73% of sites had a policy for vasopressor use; 91% used phenylephrine as the first-line drug but a wide range of recommended delivery methods was noted and target blood pressure was only listed in 50% of policies. Significant variation existed in both vasopressor delivery methods and target blood pressures.

CONCLUSIONS

Although NICE has since recommended prophylactic phenylephrine infusion and a target blood pressure, the previous international consensus statement was not adhered to routinely.

In-situ synthesized ZIF-67 graphene oxide (ZIF-67/GO) nanocomposite for efficient individual and simultaneous detection of heavy metal ions

Heavy metals are ubiquitous in water bodies as a result of anthropogenic activities and over time they accumulate in body thus posing serious health problems. Therefore, it is essential to improve sensing performance, for determination of heavy metal ions (HMIs), of electrochemical sensors. In this work, cobalt-derived MOF (ZIF-67) was in-situ synthesized and incorporated onto the surface of graphene oxide (GO) by simple sonication method. The prepared material (ZIF-67/GO) was characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy. Afterwards, a sensing platform was made by drop-casting synthesized composite onto glassy carbon electrode for individual and simultaneous detection of heavy metal ions pollutants (Hg²⁺, Zn²⁺, Pb²⁺, and Cr³⁺) with estimated detection limits of 2 nM, 1 nM, 5 nM, and 0.6 nM, respectively, when determined simultaneously, that are below the permissible limit by World Health Organization. To the best of our knowledge, this is first report of HMIs detection by ZIF-67 incorporated GO sensor which can successfully determine the Hg⁺², Zn⁺², Pb⁺², and Cr⁺³ ions simultaneously with lower detection limits.

1146 SLEEP DEPRIVATION INDUCES AGEING-LIKE CHANGES IN ANTIGRAVITY MUSCLES OF YOUNG ADULT MALE WISTAR RATS

Introduction

Poor muscle health is associated with a series of chronic and metabolic conditions that are prevalent in individuals who chronically experience poor-quality sleep. But there is no study deciphering the role of sleep deprivation on muscle ageing. Therefore, in the present study we have measured the ultrastructure, histopathology, and oxidative stressors in soleus muscle of wistar rat after sleep deprivation and recovery sleep.

Material and Methods

The experiments were conducted in 18 rats of three groups. Group I rats had normal sleep wake cycle, Group II rats were subjected to 24 h sleep deprivation (SD) by gentle handling method1 and Group III rats had recovery sleep after 24 h SD. At the end of the sleep, sleep deprivation and recovery period, soleus muscle tissue was collected for ultrastructural, histological and oxidative stress markers. Oxidative damage was assessed by lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, reduced glutathione and nuclear labelling of 8-OHdG. The study was conducted as per the guidelines of the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (960/IAEC/16).

Results

The data demonstrated that SD leads to ultrastructural changes in soleus muscle which includes sarcolemmal and mitochondrial alterations. In case of histopathological and histomorphological changes there was signs of tissue degeneration, inflammatory infiltrate in type I fibres and muscle atrophy was observed in soleus muscles. There was significant increase in level of 8-OHdG (p=0.02) and malondialdehyde in 24h SD (p=0.02) than control and recovery sleep groups. Moreover, the catalase activity and reduced glutathione level was significantly decreased in 24h SD group (p≤0.02) than control and recovery sleep.

Conclusion

24hr sleep deprivation leads to an ageing like state in the skeletal muscle, which was recovered after sleep rebound.

Successful Pregnancy with SLE-associated Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report

Pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Risk is significantly increased when SLE pregnancy is complicated by anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). Here, we present a case of a 21 year-old multi-gravid lady with SLE- associated APS who was diagnosed as such when she presented with multisystem flare at her 16 weeks of gestation. At presentation she had fever, multiple joint pain in both upper and lower limbs, loss of hair, history of recurrent oral ulcer, skin rash over hand and feet. Physical examination and laboratory evaluation were consistent with an active SLE flare. A diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was made based on her clinical presentation and laboratory findings. The reported patient had APS secondary to SLE. She had all the risk factors that would confer a remarkably high risk of pregnancy morbidity: positive anti-SSA(RO) antibody and lupus anticoagulant, history of one neonatal death due to congenital heart block and two consecutive first trimester pregnancy loss. Multidisciplinary management approach with appropriate intervention and close monitoring can bring a successful outcome.

Cohort profile: the ESC EURObservational Research Programme Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infraction (NSTEMI) Registry

AIMS

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) EURObservational Research Programme (EORP) Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) Registry aims to identify international patterns in NSTEMI management in clinical practice and outcomes against the 2015 ESC Guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes in patients presenting without ST-segment-elevation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutively hospitalised adult NSTEMI patients (n = 3620) were enrolled between 11 March 2019 and 6 March 2021, and individual patient data prospectively collected at 287 centres in 59 participating countries during a two-week enrolment period per centre. The registry collected data relating to baseline characteristics, major outcomes (in-hospital death, acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, bleeding, stroke/transient ischaemic attack, and 30-day mortality) and guideline-recommended NSTEMI care interventions: electrocardiogram pre- or in-hospital, pre-hospitalization receipt of aspirin, echocardiography, coronary angiography, referral to cardiac rehabilitation, smoking cessation advice, dietary advice, and prescription on discharge of aspirin, P2Y12 inhibition, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), beta-blocker, and statin.

CONCLUSION

The EORP NSTEMI Registry is an international, prospective registry of care and outcomes of patients treated for NSTEMI, which will provide unique insights into the contemporary management of hospitalised NSTEMI patients, compliance with ESC 2015 NSTEMI Guidelines, and identify potential barriers to optimal management of this common clinical presentation associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Cyclophosphazene Intrinsically Derived Heteroatom (S, N, P, O)-Doped Carbon Nanoplates for Ultrasensitive Monitoring of Dopamine from Chicken Samples

A novel, metal-free electrode based on heteroatom (S, N, P, O)-doped carbon nanoplates (SNPO-CPL) modifying lead pencil graphite (LPG) has been synthesized by carbonizing a unique heteroatom (S, N, P, O)-containing novel polymer, poly(cyclcotriphosphazene-co-2,5-dioxy-1,4-dithiane) (PCD), for precise screening of dopamine (DA). The designed electrode, SNPO-CPL-800, with optimized percentage of S, N, P, O doping through the sp2-carbon chain, and a large number of surface defects (thus leading to a maximum exposition number of catalytic active sites) led to fast molecular diffusion through the micro-porous structure and facilitated strong binding interaction with the targeted molecules in the interactive signaling transducer at the electrode-electrolyte interface. The designed SNPO-CPL-800 electrode exhibited a sensitive and selective response towards DA monitoring, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.01 nM. We also monitored DA levels in commercially available chicken samples using the SNPO-CPL-800 electrode even in the presence of interfering species, thus proving the effectiveness of the designed electrode for the precise monitoring of DA in real samples. This research shows there is a strong potential for opening new windows for ultrasensitive DA monitoring with metal-free electrodes.

Diversity in Elemental Content in Selected Artemisia L. (Asteraceae) Species from Gilgit-Baltistan Region of Pakistan Based on Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometry (ICP-AES)

Diversity in eleven Artemisia species from northern Pakistan was assessed based on as per suitability of their elemental contents with thermal conductivity detection and ICP-AES procedures. Results indicated the presence of 13 major elements in the Artemisia species with varied concentrations including Carbon (45.7%, 45,7000 ppm-49.8%, 49,8000 ppm), Nitrogen (2.03%, 20,300 ppm-3.50%, 35,000 ppm), Phosphorus (0.168%, 1680 ppm-0.642%, 6420 ppm), Potassium (2.38%, 23,800 ppm-4.72%, 47,200 ppm), Sulphur (1920 ppm, 0.192%-4780 ppm, 0.478%), Boron (23.8 ppm, 0.00238%-71.7 ppm, 0.00717%), Calcium (0.733%, 7330 ppm-2.249%, 22,490 ppm), Magnesium (0.116%, 1160 ppm-0.267%, 2670 ppm), Zinc (27.7 ppm, 0.00277%-47.9 ppm, 0.00479%), Manganese (25.7 ppm, 0.00257%-93.8 ppm, 0.00938%), Iron (353 ppm, 0.0353%-1532 ppm, 0.1532%), Copper (14.1 ppm, 0.00141%-26.2 ppm, 0.00262%) and Sodium (105 ppm, 0.0105%-587 ppm, 0.0587%). Cluster analysis distributed the Artemisia species into two major groups (G1 and G2) on the basis of their elemental content where G1 contained species like, Artemisia herba alba Asso., A. tournefortiana Rachb., A. rutifolia Steph. ex Spreng., and A. vulgaris L., with the presence of all elements with the maximum amount of S, Zn, P, Ca, and Mg, while G2 contained species like Artemisia biennis Willd., A. chamaemelifolia Vill., A. capillaris, L., A. gmelinii Weber ex Stech., A. indica Willd., A. maritima L., and A. verlotiorum Lamotte., with all elements but significant concentrations of B, N, C, K, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Na. PCA analysis displayed maximum species diversity in the axes two, while axes one showed lower diversity. Additionally, the elevated levels of elements recorded as compared to the threshold levels recommended in the literature for medicinal plants require extraordinary precautionary measures before or during using Artemisia as medication to avoid metal toxicity.

Multifunctional Smart ZnSe-Nanostructure-Based Fluorescent Aptasensor for the Detection of Ochratoxin A

Herein, we present a comprehensive investigation of rationally designed zinc selenide (ZnSe) nanostructures to achieve highly negatively charged ZnSe nanostructures. A Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis method was used to synthesize three types of ZnSe nanostructures, i.e., nanorods, µ-spheres and nanoclusters, as characterized by a zeta potential analyzer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy and BET, which were labeled as type A, B and C. Three different solvents were used for the synthesis of type A, B and C ZnSe nanostructures, keeping other synthesis conditions such as temperature, pressure and precursors ratio constant. Based on two heating time intervals, 6 and 9 h, types A, B and C were further divided into types A6, A9, B6, B9, C6 and C9. ZnSe nanostructures were further evaluated based on their fluorescent quenching efficiency. The maximum fluorescence quenching effect was exhibited by the ZnSe-B6 type, which can be attributed to its highly negative surface charge that favored its strong interaction with cationic dye Rhodamine B (Rh-B). Further, the optimized ZnSe-B6 was used to fabricate an aptasensor for the detection of a food-based toxin, ochratoxin-A (OTA). The developed aptasensor exhibited a limit of detection of 0.07 ng/L with a wide linear range of 0.1 to 200 ng/L.

Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing of dopamine from COVID-19 quarantine person

The worldwide outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, is not only a great threat to the victim life but it is leaving invisible devastating negative affect on mental health of quarantined individual because of isolation, depression, bereavement, and loss of income. Therefore, the precise monitoring catecholamine neurotransmitters specifically of dopamine (DA) is of great importance to assess the mental health. Thus, herein we have synthesized Co-based zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67) through solvothermal method for precise monitoring of DA. To facilitate the fast transportation of ions, highly conductive polymer, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene; PEDOT) has been integrated on the surface of ZIF-67 which not only provides the smooth pathway for ions/electrons transportation but also saves the electrode from pulverization. The fabricated ZIF-67/PEDOT electrode shows a significant sensing performance towards DA detection in terms of short diffusion pathways by expositing more active sites, over good linear range (15-240 μM) and a low detection limit of (0.04 μM) even in the coexistence of the potentially interfering molecules. The developed ZIF-67/PEDOT sensor was successfully employed for sensitive and selective monitoring of DA from COVID-19 quarantined person blood, thus suggesting reliability of the developed electrode.

Black phosphorus nanosheets/poly(allylamine hydrochloride) based electrochemical immunosensor for the selective detection of human epididymis protein 4

In this work, an electrochemical immunosensor based on black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNS)/poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode was developed for the detection of ovarian cancer biomarker HE4. PAH has been applied to retain BPNS in its original honeycomb structure and to anchor biomolecules electrostatically on the transducer surface. The as synthesized nanocomposite was characterized by zeta potential analysis, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Subsequently, the performance of the electrochemical immunosensor was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Under the optimal condition, the developed electrochemical immunosensor permitted to detect HE4 with a linear range of 0.1-300 ng ml^-1and a detection limit of 0.01 ng ml^-1. The developed sensor exhibited good selectivity and specificity to HE4 with negligible interference effect from common biomolecules like bovine serum albumin, lysozyme, protamine, glucose, fructose, hemoglobin and fetal bovine serum. Further, practical application of developed electrochemical immunosensor was demonstrated in spiked human serum which showed satisfactory recovery percentages.

Anti-bacterial activity of essential oils against multidrug-resistant foodborne pathogens isolated from raw milk

The presence of pathogenic bacteria in food is considered as a primary cause of food-borne illness and food quality deterioration worldwide. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of five essential oils (EOs) against multidrug-resistant foodborne pathogens. In the current study Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Klebsiella) and the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus were isolated from raw milk and biochemically characterized. The anti-bacterial effect of different antibiotics and EOs (thyme, oregano, lemongrass, mint, and rosemary) was determined using the standard disc diffusion method. The antibiogram study revealed that Gram-negative bacteria were highly resistant to penicillin while Staphylococcus was resistant to streptomycin, amoxicillin, and lincomycin. Moderate resistance was observed to doxycycline, amikacin, enrofloxacin, kanamycin and cefixime. Isolates were found less resistant to gentamycin, chloramphenicol, and ciprofloxacin. EOs showed a broad range of antimicrobial activity against all bacteria except P. aeruginosa. Of these, thyme was more effective against most of the multi-drug resistant bacterial strains and formed the largest zone of inhibition (26 mm) against Escherichia followed by oregano oil (18 mm) against Staphylococcus (p<0.05). Klebsiella spp and Citrobacter spp showed resistance to mint and lemongrass oil respectively. The EOs such as lemongrass, mint and rosemary were less active against all the bacteria. The findings of the recent study suggest the use of EOs as natural antibacterial agents for food preservation.

Melamine-derived N-rich C-entrapped Au nanoparticles for sensitive and selective monitoring of dopamine in blood samples

Several neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and restless leg syndrome, majorly result from disruption in the dopamine (DA) level. Thus, useful information about the treatment and prevention of various genetic majorly mental health problems can be obtained through precise and real-time monitoring of DA. Herein, we report the fabrication of novel N-rich carbon-coated Au nanoparticles (NC@Au-NPs) by deriving from melamine-crosslinked citrate-stabilized Au NPs. NC@Au-NPs offer fast electro-oxidation efficacy towards DA, because of strong electrostatic attraction between negatively charged NC@Au-NPs and positively charged DA. The catalytic efficacy and shelf life of the designed system were further boosted by applying a mixture of polydopamine (PDA) and benzimidazolium-1-acetate ionic liquid (IL) as a sandwich between the working electrode surface (graphitic pencil electrode: GPE) and the designed nanohybrid NC@Au-NPs as a redox mediator. The results indicate that the designed novel NC@Au/PDA–IL/GPE exhibits excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility over a wide linear range (50–1000 nm) and a low detection limit of 0.002 μM ± 0.001 as well. The developed sensor was successfully applied to monitor DA in the blood of COVID-19 quarantined patients and pharmaceutical samples with high accuracy, thus suggesting a powerful tool for the diagnosis of mental problems.

Several neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and restless leg syndrome, majorly result from disruption in the dopamine (DA) level.

COMPLICATIONS OF INTRA ABDOMINAL DRAINS: A SINGLE CENTER EXPERIENCE

Objective: To compare frequency of intra-abdominal complications in drainage and non-drainage group among patents who underwent intra-abdominal surgeries. Study Design: Comparative prospective study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Surgery, Pakistan Ordinance Factory, Wah Cantt, from Mar 2018 to Jul 2018. Methodology: There were 32 patients, 16 in each group. Patients were selected through the process of consecutive sampling. Patients were randomly divided into two groups (random number table method); group A patients underwent intra-abdominal drain while group B was non-drainage group. Patients were followed up for 7 days and observed for complications. Results: Total 32 patients were included in the study. There were 14 (43.8%) males and 18 (56.3%) females. Mean age of patients was 43.2 ± 9.5 years. Drain group showed significantly low anastomosis leakage (p=0.02), wound infection (p=0.05), mortality (p=0.04), pulmonary complications (p=0.05) and bleeding (p=0.03) as compared to the non-drain group. Conclusion: Intra-abdominal drains are associated with several complications. Anastomosis leakage is the most common complication following pulmonary complications and bleeding. However, drains help in early detection of complications and timely management of such complications leads to better outcome of a surgical procedure.

Habitat selection by Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) in Siran and Kaghan Valleys, Pakistan

Asiatic black bear is present in variety of habitats like broad-leaves and coniferous forests, extending form sea level to 4300m elevation and change their habitat for food purpose seasonally. The present study was conducted at Kaghan and Siran Valleys, District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan to assess habitat of black bear. Line transect method was used for observation of bear signs. Twelve meter circular radius plots were selected for the concern vegetation's i.e. (trees, shrubs and herbs) and three to six plots were placed in each transect. At the result of sign survey, thirteen different categories of bear signs were recorded and encounter rate was calculated for each sign. A total of 1858 signs were observed during field surveys. Total (81%) coniferous species were recoded among trees, with the highest appearance of Pinus wallichiana (34.22%) and Spruce spp (27.76%), similarly broad leaves trees (18.56%) were also recoded from habitat plots. Most of the signs were encountered in bushy areas, whereas high number of Viburnum Spp (60.29%) was present. It is indicated that black bear prefers blend of Coniferous Trees, Viburnum and Ferns Species; probably because these plants provide enough food, protection, and meticulous shelter because more than 80% of habitat composed of these three species. Currently habitat destruction and increase in human population are the up-growing issues for wild animals (especially Asiatic black bear), which is highly sensitive to such problems. High levels of conservation efforts are recommended for the protection of black bear habitat and to avoid human interference in their territory.

Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan

The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). "The ''Point count Method" was used for population estimation and ''Quadrates Method" for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

HemoNet: Predicting hemolytic activity of peptides with integrated feature learning

Quantifying the hemolytic activity of peptides is a crucial step in the discovery of novel therapeutic peptides. Computational methods are attractive in this domain due to their ability to guide wet-lab experimental discovery or screening of peptides based on their hemolytic activity. However, existing methods are unable to accurately model various important aspects of this predictive problem such as the role of N/C-terminal modifications, D- and L- amino acids, etc. In this work, we have developed a novel neural network-based approach called HemoNet for predicting the hemolytic activity of peptides. The proposed method captures the contextual importance of different amino acids in a given peptide sequence using a specialized feature embedding in conjunction with SMILES-based fingerprint representation of N/C-terminal modifications. We have analyzed the predictive performance of the proposed method using stratified cross-validation in comparison with previous methods, non-redundant cross-validation as well as validation on external peptides and clinical antimicrobial peptides. Our analysis shows the proposed approach achieves significantly better predictive performance (AUC-ROC of 88%) in comparison to previous approaches (HemoPI and HemoPred with AUC-ROC of 73%). HemoNet can be a useful tool in the search for novel therapeutic peptides. The python implementation of the proposed method is available at the URL: https://github.com/adibayaseen/HemoNet.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction following the use of a supraglottic airway device during general anaesthesia: a prospective observational study

Supraglottic airway devices are commonly used to manage the airway during general anaesthesia. There are sporadic case reports of temporomandibular joint dysfunction and dislocation following supraglottic airway device use. We conducted a prospective observational study of adult patients undergoing elective surgery where a supraglottic airway device was used as the primary airway device. Pre-operatively, all participants were asked to complete a questionnaire involving 12 points adapted from the Temporomandibular Joint Scale and the Liverpool Oral Rehabilitation Questionnaire. Objective measurements included inter-incisor distance as well as forward and lateral jaw movements. The primary outcome was the inter-incisor distance, an accepted measure of temporomandibular joint mobility. Both the questionnaire and measurements were repeated in the postoperative period and we analysed data from 130 participants. Mean (SD) inter-incisor distance in the pre- and postoperative period was 46.5 (7.2) mm and 46.3 (7.5) mm, respectively (p = 0.521) with a difference (95%CI) of 0.2 (-0.5 to 0.9) mm. Mean (SD) forward jaw movement in the pre- and postoperative period was 3.6 (2.4) mm and 3.9 (2.4) mm, respectively (p = 0.018). Mean (SD) lateral jaw movement to the right in the pre- and postoperative period was 8.9 (4.1) mm and 9.1 (4.0) mm, respectively (p = 0.314). Mean (SD) lateral jaw movement to the left in the pre- and postoperative period was 8.8 (4.0) mm and 9.3 (3.6) mm, respectively (p = 0.008). The number of patients who reported jaw clicks or pops before opening their mouth as wide as possible was 28 (21.5%) vs. 12 (9.2%) in the pre- and postoperative period, respectively (p < 0.001) with a difference (95%CI) of 12.3% (6.7-17.9%). There was no significant difference in the responses to the other 11 questions or in the number of patients who reported pain in the temporomandibular joint area postoperatively. No clinically significant dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint following the use of supraglottic airway devices in the postoperative period was identified by either patient questionnaires or objective measurements.

Sleep quality mediates the relationship between risk of obstructive sleep apnea and acute stress in young adults

Intermittent hypoxia and transient arousals in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can lead to poor sleep quality and acute stress. Rising levels of obesity and increased incidence of OSA in young adults predisposes them to acute stress. We propose a mediation model to assess if risk of OSA is associated with acute stress and if the relationship between risk for OSA and acute stress is mediated by sleep quality. 493 healthy individuals (F = 237, M = 256) from 18 - 25 years of age (mean age 20.3 ± 1.53 years) were screened for OSA, sleep quality and acute stress using STOP-BANG questionnaire, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index and American Psychiatry Association's National Stressful Events Survey Acute Stress Disorder Short Scale (NSESS-S), respectively. 73 participants (17.3%) were found at an intermediate and high risk of OSA by STOP BANG questionnaire. 79 (16%) participants reported level of stress as 'None'. Mild, moderate and severe stress was present in 248 (50.3%), 109 (22.1%), 51 (10.3%) and 16 (3.2%) participants, respectively. The odds of having severe and extreme stress among those at risk of sleep apnea is 2.18 times higher than that among those not at risk of sleep apnea (OR: 2.18, 95%, confidence interval: 1.37-3.51). Sobel test established that the relationship between OSA and acute stress is mediated by sleep quality. Sleep quality mediates the relationship between risk for sleep apnea and acute stress. This highlights the importance of screening for OSA in young adults, particularly young men with high BMI, presenting with high stress levels.

Copper oxide integrated perylene diimide self-assembled graphitic pencil for robust non-enzymatic dopamine detection

Exploring a robust, extremely sensitive, cost-effective and reliable assay platform for the precise analysis of dopamine (DA) has become a big challenge predominantly at the clinical level. To participate in this quest, herein, we fabricated a perylene diimide (PDI) self-assembled graphitic surface of the graphitic pencil electrode (GPE) anchored copper oxide (CuO). The self-assembled N-rich PDI led to the fast movement of ions by decreasing the bandgap and improved the electron transport kinetics with more exposed catalytic active sites, thus resulting in the robust electrochemical sensing of DA. The designed sensor exhibited good sensitivity (4 μM⁻¹ cm⁻²), high structural stability, repeatability and excellent reproducibility with an RSD value of 2.9%. Moreover, the developed system showed a wide linear range (5 μM to 500 μM) and reliable selectivity even in the presence of co-existing interferants, such as ascorbic acid and uric acid. The fabricated nanohybrid was eventually employed to analyze DA in spiked physiological fluids and provided satisfactory recoveries. The designed PDI-CuO based interface also showed a very low detection limit of 6 nM (S/N = 3), consequently confirming its suitability for clinical and biological applications.

Exploring a robust, extremely sensitive, cost-effective and reliable assay platform for the precise analysis of dopamine (DA) has become a big challenge predominantly at the clinical level.

ISSR-Based Genetic Diversity Assessment of Genus Jasminum L. (Oleaceae) from Pakistan

The genus Jasminum L., of the family Oleaceae, includes many species occurring in the wild, or cultivated worldwide. A preliminary investigation based on inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR) was performed to assess the genetic diversity among 28 accessions, representing nine species of Jasminum from various regions, representing a range of altitudes in Pakistan. A total of 21 ISSR primers were used, which produced 570 amplified bands of different sizes, with a mean polymorphic band percentage of 98.26%. The maximum resolving power, polymorphism information content, and index values of the ISSR markers recorded for primers 6, 16, and 19 were 0.40, 12.32, and 24.21, respectively. Based on the data of the ISSR markers, the resulting UPGMA dendrogram with the Jaccard coefficient divided the 28 accessions into two main clades. At the species level, the highest values for Shannon's information index, polymorphism percentage, effective allele number, Nei's genetic variations, and genetic unbiased diversity were found in Jasminum sambac L. and J. humile L., while the lowest were observed in J. mesnyi Hance and J. nitidum Skan. Based on Nei's unbiased genetic identity pairwise population matrix, the maximum identity (0.804) was observed between J. elongatum Willd and J. multiflorum (Burm. f.) Andrews, and the lowest (0.566) between J. nitidum Skan. and J. azoricum L. Molecular variance analysis displayed a genetic variation of 79% among the nine populations. The study was aimed to established genetic diversity in Jasminum species using ISSR markers. With the help of this technique, we were able to establish immense intra- and interspecific diversity across the Jasminum species.

The effect of epidermal growth factor on performance and oxidative stress in piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K88

This study evaluated the efficacy of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K88 (ETEC). A total of 28 piglets were assigned to the following dietary treatments for 14 d: negative control (NC) (basal diet containing supernatant without EGF), PC (NC + 2.5 g antibiotic·kg−1 feed), EGF120 [basal diet + supernatant with 120 μg EGF·kg−1 body weight (BW)·d−1], and EGF180 (basal diet + supernatant with 180 μg EGF·kg−1 BW·d−1). After a 6 d acclimation period, each pig was gavaged with 6 mL (2.4 × 1013 cfu·mL−1) of ETEC on the morning of day 7. Overall, piglets fed the EGF and PC diets tended to have higher gain to feed ratio than those fed the NC diet (P = 0.063). Pigs fed EGF diets had lower rectal temperature than those fed the NC diet at 6 h after challenge (P < 0.05). Serum and ileal malondialdehyde concentrations were higher in piglets fed the NC diet compared with those fed EGF and PC diets on days 6 and 7 after challenge, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, EGF has the potential to reduce oxidative stress and body temperature elevation in piglets exposed to ETEC while supporting better feed efficiency.

Comparative palynology and taxonomic implication of Jasminum L. (Oleaceae) species from Pakistan on the bases of scanning electron microscopy

Jasminum L. is the largest genus containing ~200 species found wild mostly in the tropical regions of the world. The comparative palynological study of nine Pakistani Jasminum species with SEM showed zonocolpus, trilobate, and tricolpus pollen types with simple endocolpus apertures which are plesiomorphic and conserved in the Jasminum species. The equatorial pollen view was prolate, subprolate, and perprolate with elliptic, lobate, subcircular whereas polar view was subtriangular in all species. Few characters were specific to some species like heteropolarity in Jasminum grandiflorum and foveolate exine ornamentation with rounded heterobrochate in Jasminum angulare whereas reticulate and angular homobrochate character was common in other species. The UPGMA dendrogram based on qualitative characters did not support the phylogenetic classification of the genus Jasminum as these are highly conserved. The quantitative data showed more variation in some characters whereas few characters showed little or no variation. A greater variation in pollen size was observed among the variants of same species, for example, Jasminum humile showed highly variable polar length and equatorial diameter as compared to other species. Minimum variation was observed in colpus length which divided all species in to two groups. The large lumina were specific to Jasminum nitidum and broader muri was the prominent characteristic of Jasminum angulare. Some species like Jasminum sambac and Jasminum azoricum were unable to develop true pollen due to structural or functional disabilities. So, the quantitative characters of pollen are only suitable for palynological based grouping of Jasminum species but less suitable to infer their evolutionary relationship.

Short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy versus conventionally fractionated long-course chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer: randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The trial hypothesis was that, in a resource-constrained situation, short-course radiotherapy would improve treatment compliance compared with conventional chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer, without compromising oncological outcomes.

METHODS

In this open-label RCT, patients with cT3, cT4 or node-positive non-metastatic rectal cancer were allocated randomly to 5 × 5 Gy radiotherapy and two cycles of XELOX (arm A) or chemoradiotherapy with concurrent capecitabine (arm B), followed by total mesorectal excision in both arms. All patients received a further six cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with the XELOX regimen. The primary endpoint was treatment compliance, defined as the ability to complete planned treatment, including neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy to a dose of six cycles.

RESULTS

Of 162 allocated patients, 140 were eligible for analysis: 69 in arm A and 71 in arm B. Compliance with planned treatment (primary endpoint) was greater in arm A (63 versus 41 per cent; P = 0.005). The incidence of acute toxicities of neoadjuvant therapy was similar (haematological: 28 versus 32 per cent, P = 0.533; gastrointestinal: 14 versus 21 per cent, P = 0.305; grade III-IV: 2 versus 4 per cent, P = 1.000). Delays in radiotherapy were less common in arm A (9 versus 45 per cent; P < 0.001), and overall times for completion of neoadjuvant treatment were shorter (P < 0.001). The rates of R0 resection (87 versus 90 per cent; P = 0.554), sphincter preservation (32 versus 35 per cent; P = 0.708), pathological complete response (12 versus 10 per cent; P = 0.740), and overall tumour downstaging (75 versus 75 per cent; P = 0.920) were similar. Downstaging of the primary tumour (ypT) was more common in arm A (P = 0.044). There was no difference in postoperative complications between trial arms (P = 0.838).

CONCLUSION

Reduced treatment delays and a higher rate of compliance were observed with treatment for short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy, with no difference in early oncological surgical outcomes. In time- and resource-constrained rectal cancer units in developing countries, short-course radiotherapy should be the standard of care.

Pregnancy with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome: A Critical Case Report

Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome (KTS) is a rare congenital disease characterized by a triad of cutaneous hemangioma (port-wine stain), varicose veins and bone or soft tissue hypertrophy. Cases of pregnancy complicated by KTS are rare and are associated with an increased risk of thrombo-embolic phenomena and hemorrhage. In this case, 33 years old woman, Para 1 gravida 2 (P1G2) with history of previous cesarean section and diagnosed case of KTS was presented in labour emergency of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh at 36+ weeks of gestation with labour pain. She had also a prominent hypertrophy and multiple venous varicosities on both her lower limbs; more marked on left. Her MRI done just before pregnancy revealed few prominent veins in both adnexa particularly on the left with normal caliber ovarian veins and unremarkable other pelvic structures and excludes pelvic congestion syndrome. USG done at her 35 weeks of gestation had shown numerous dilated and tortuous vessels in the parametrium, indicating pelvic congestion. Emergency caesarean section was done under spinal anesthesia. There was no postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). She was discharged along with her baby without any complication on her 4th postoperative day. Successful management of patients with KTS requires multidisciplinary team approach.

CuO Hollow Cubic Caves Wrapped with Biogenic N-Rich Graphitic C for Simultaneous Monitoring of Uric Acid and Xanthine

Herein, we synthesized hollow cubic caves of CuO (HC) and wrapped it with N-rich graphitic C (NC), derived from a novel biogenic mixture composed of dopamine (DA) and purine. The synthesized NC wrapped HC (NC@HC) sensor shows enhanced electrocatalytic efficacy compared to unwrapped CuO with shapes including HC, sponge (SP), cabbage (CB), and solid icy cubes (SC). The shape and composition of synthesized materials were confirmed through field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), whereas interfacial surface energy was calculated through contact angle measurement. The designed NC@HC sensor shows a remarkable response toward the simultaneous detection of uric acid (UA) and xanthine (Xn) with detection limits of 0.017 ± 0.001 (S/N of 3) and 0.004 ± 0.001 μM (S/N of 3), respectively. In addition, this platform was successfully applied to monitor UA from the gout patient serum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on using such novel NC@HC materials for the simultaneous monitoring of UA and Xn.

Evaluation of chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic effect of Artemisia vulgaris extract against diethylnitrosamine induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in Balb C mice

Abstract The main objective of current study was to investigate the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activity of Artemisia vulgaris extract on diethylnitrosoamine induced hepatocarcinogenesis in Balb C mice. Diethylnitrosoamine (DEN: 0.9%) was prepared to induce hepatocarcinoma in Balb C mice. The extract Artemisia vulgaris (AV) was prepared by maceration technique. Mice were classified into four groups as follows: Group 1 a control group (N=7) received saline solution (3.5 μl/mg), group 2 (N=14) received diethylnitrosoamine (3.5 μl/mg) intraperitoneally once in a week for eight consecutive weeks, group 3 (N=7) received only plant extract (AV: 150 mg/kg (Body weight) once in a week, while group 4 (N=7) was given in combination of diethylnitrosoamine (3.5 μl/mg) and plant extract (AV: 150 mg/kg (body weight). After eight weeks of DEN administration, mice of group 2 were divided into two subgroups containing seven mice each; subgroup 1 was sacrificed while subgroup 2 was treated with plant extract only (150 mg/kg (body weight)) once in a week for eight consecutive weeks. The DEN injected mice significant decline in levels of albumin with concomitant significant elevations such as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, alpha feto protein, gamma glutamyl transferase, 5 nucleotidase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and bilirubin. The administration of A. vulgaris significantly decreased the DEN induced hepatotoxicity. Present study revealed the potential anti-cancerous nature of Artemisia vulgaris, both in case of chemopreventive and post-treatment of A. vulgaris. Further studies are needed to explore the mechanism of prevention and therapy.

Stroke in the Middle-East and North Africa: A 2-year prospective observational study of intravenous thrombolysis treatment in the region. Results from the SITS-MENA Registry

BACKGROUND AND METHODS

Intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke in the Middle-East and North African (MENA) countries is still confined to the main urban and university hospitals. This was a prospective observational study to examine outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis-treated stroke patients in the MENA region compared to the non-MENA stroke cohort in the SITS International Registry.

RESULTS

Of 32,160 patients with ischemic stroke registered using the SITS intravenous thrombolysis protocol between June 2014 and May 2016, 500 (1.6%) were recruited in MENA. Compared to non-MENA (all p < 0.001), median age in MENA was 55 versus 73 years, NIH Stroke Scale score 12 versus 9, onset-to-treatment time 138 versus 155 min and door-to-needle time 54 min versus 64 min. Hypertension was the most reported risk factor, but lower in MENA (51.7 vs. 69.7%). Diabetes was more frequent in MENA (28.5 vs. 20.8%) as well as smoking (20.8 vs. 15.9%). Hyperlipidemia was less observed in MENA (17.6 vs. 29.3%). Functional independence (mRS 0-2) at seven days or discharge was similar (53% vs. 52% in non-MENA), with mortality slightly lower in MENA (2.3% vs. 4.8%). SICH rates by SITS-MOST definition were low (<1.4%) in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous thrombolysis patients in MENA were younger, had more severe strokes and more often diabetes. Although stroke severity was higher in MENA, short-term functional independency and mortality were not worse compared to non-MENA, which could partly be explained by younger age and shorter OTT in MENA. Decreasing the burden of stroke in this young population should be prioritized.