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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease is characterized by degeneration of motor neurons and elevation of brain oxidative stress. Previous studies demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) from oxidative stress. We showed that increasing TERT expression in the brain of the Tg hSOD1G93A mouse ALS model attenuated the disease pathology and increased the survival of motor neurons exposed to oxidative stress. How TERT increased the survival of motor neurons exposed to oxidative stress is not yet clear. Here we investigated the consequence of TERT depletion in motor neuron cells under normal and oxidative stress conditions and in mouse brains of TERT knockout mice, on the expression and activity of SOD1 and catalase enzymes. Depletion of mouse TERT caused mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired catalase and SOD1 activity. Compensation with hTERT restored the activity of SOD1. SOD1 expression increased in the brain of TERT KO and in ALS mice and decreased in the brain of WT mice treated with telomerase-increasing compounds. We suggest that the ability of TERT to protect neurons from oxidative stress affects the expression and activity of SOD1, in a TERT-dependent manner, and supports the notion of TERT as a therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases like ALS.

Forensic odontology’s evolution from manual to digital methods signifies a pivotal transition. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) further this transformation by merging the physical and digital realms. This brief communication explores how AR and VR can enhance forensic odontology, offering precision, interactivity, and advanced analysis. It delves into the current landscape and envisions future possibilities, emphasizing their role in shaping precise and collaborative forensic practices. Additionally, challenges and considerations for implementing AR and VR in this field are discussed.

Kalanchoe pinnata, also known as air leaf or life leaf, is a plant used in traditional medicine in different world regions. In Mexico, it is included in the Atlas de la Medicina Tradicional Mexicana with a wide variety of applications, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antihistamine, among others. However, neither a secondary metabolite profile of the flower has been reported nor information on its possible toxicity. The latter is the purpose of this work. A phytochemical profile of extracts with solvents of different polarity (aqueous, methanol, ethanol, and ether) was carried out. In this profile, the structural compounds could be qualitatively determined by chemical reactions, and some changes in coloring or precipitation were observed. The acute toxicity test of the extracts was performed with an aquatic organism, Artemia sp, and a terrestrial organism Eisenia foetida, as well as the evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of the extracts in the organism of Eisenia foetida. The ABTS radical method and TROLOX were applied as synthetic antioxidants for the evaluation of the inhibition percentage. Most important secondary metabolites were qualitatively identified in the extracts of K. pinnata flowers. Mainly in the alcoholic extracts (methanol and ethanol) tannins, alkaloids, and flavonols were found. As mentioned above, they are reported to have toxicological effects. The toxicity and antioxidant activity tests confirm the preliminary results obtained in the identification of secondary metabolites. It is therefore concluded that the flower of Kalanchoe pinnata contains secondary metabolites that may be of great therapeutic interest.

Background and aim: Congestive heart failure is a prevalent and serious condition that poses significant challenges in the emergency department setting. Prompt and accurate management of congestive heart failure patients is crucial for improving outcomes and optimizing resource utilization. This study aims to address these challenges by developing a machine learning algorithm and comparing it to a traditional logistic regression model that can assist in the triage, resource allocation, and long-term prognostication of congestive heart failure patients.Methods: In this investigation, we used the MIMIC-III database, a publicly accessible resource containing patient data from ICU settings. Traditional logistic regression, along with the robust XGBoost and random forest algorithms, was harnessed to construct predictive models. These models were built using a range of pretreatment clinical variables. To pinpoint the most pertinent features, we carried out a univariate analysis. Ensuring robust performance and broad applicability, we adopted a nested cross-validation approach. This method enhances the precision and validation of our models by implementing multiple cross-validation iterations.Results: The performance of machine learning algorithms was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Notably, the random forest algorithm, despite having lower performance among the machine learning models still demonstrated significantly higher AUC than traditional logistic regression. The AUC for the XGBoost was 0.99, random forest 0.98, while traditional logistic regression was 0.57. The most important pretreatment variables associated with congestive heart failure include total bilirubin, creatine kinase, international normalized ratio (INR), sodium, age, creatinine, potassium, gender, alkaline phosphatase, and platelets.Conclusion: Machine learning techniques utilizing multiple pretreatment clinical variables outperform traditional logistic regression in aiding the triage, resource allocation, and long-term prognostication of congestive heart failure patients in the intensive care unit setting using MIMIC III data.

Background: Clinical practice guidelines recommend monitoring the depth of anesthesia during endoscopic examination of the gastrointestinal tract using sedation scales, despite their subjective nature, while the use of the bispectral index, an objective measure, during sedation, remains controversial. The main objective of this study was to assess the ability of bispectral index monitoring to characterize the depth of anesthesia during endoscopy.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess the performance of the bispectral index using data from a multicentre clinical trial with 180 patients undergoing scheduled colonoscopies. Sedation was monitored using the bispectral index and Ramsay Sedation Scale. Data on sedation were recorded at five-time points (t1 to t5) during the colonoscopy.Results: Bispectral values were significantly associated with Ramsay scores (rho, -0.73; p < 0.0001). In regression analysis, each unit increase in bispectral value was associated with a reduction in the risk of a high Ramsay score (> 3) at all points (OR 0.922; 95% CI: 0.865–0.979; p < 0.0001 at t1). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis found areas under the curve of 0.8272 for a bispectral index cut-off for deep sedation of 69.76 (sensitivity, 95.35%; negative predictive value, 97.53%) when reaching the colic flexure (t2) and 0.8399 for a cut-off of 69.29 (sensitivity, 96.15%; negative predictive value, 98.81%) at the end of the colonoscopy (t5).Conclusion: Bispectral index monitoring enables objective real-time reliable assessment of sedation. It enables easy continuous monitoring with a very good performance for detecting deep sedation and correlates with a clinical scale routinely used in endoscopic procedures.

Diffuse pediatric-type high-grade glioma H3-wildtype and IDH-wildtype (pHGG H3/IDH WT) is a heterogeneous entity that is currently defined by a combination of highly malignant morphology, glial or primitive neuroectodermal differentiation, and a number of molecular features. Depending on the DNA methylation profile in pHGG H3/IDH WT, three molecular subgroups are distinguished, one of which (pHGG MYCN) is characterized by amplification of the indicated gene. We report a unique case of pHGG H3/IDH WT in a 19-year-old girl with a deletion of the MYCN gene and constitutional mismatch repair deficiency syndrome.

This review article deals with quantum biology, the new tool that helps traditional biology unravel some mysteries concerning life and living organisms on Earth. We use Einstein’s famous equation to explain how an unknown energy realm creates the material universe. We demonstrate how material existence precedes living existence and elucidate how non-living atoms transition to living molecules, Francis Crick’s faded dream that comes to reality. Finally, we expose the two types of Information available inside a cell to sustain life in living organisms and elaborate on a new formulation of the biogenesis theory.

The Masquelet technique has become increasingly popular in reconstruction scenarios such as osteomyelitis, cancer, and nonunions. The procedure is a two-staged approach: first, a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement spacer is inserted to fill a bone void. The spacer induces a membrane to form around it, and 6-9 weeks later, the second stage involves carefully extracting the spacer and filling the membrane with bone graft. Most of the current literature has published either femoral or tibial involvement for Masquelet studies, with limited published data on foot reconstruction. Here, the authors used the procedure for the fourth metatarsal. Despite complications, this case proves a more excellent utility and warrants further investigation into Masquelet techniques in the foot.

Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSIs) are severe healthcare-associated complication that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream through a catheter. The risk of CRBSIs is influenced by various factors. Prolonged catheter placement increases the risk, as each day increases the potential for bacterial colonization and bloodstream infection. Proper aseptic technique and a sterile environment during catheter insertion are essential to minimize infection risk. Stringent infection control measures during insertion, including sterile gloves, thorough hand hygiene, and appropriate skin disinfection, are crucial. Inadequate catheter site care and suboptimal catheter management can contribute to CRBSIs. Regular cleaning, disinfection, and dressing changes are necessary to reduce the risk of infection. The type of catheter used also affects infection risk. Central Venous Catheters (CVCs) and arterial catheters, especially those inserted into the jugular or subclavian vein, carry a higher risk of CRBSIs compared to peripheral venous catheters. Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients, and those with HIV/AIDS, are more susceptible to CRBSIs. Patients with existing infections, like pneumonia or urinary tract infections, are at a heightened risk of acquiring CRBSIs due to potential cross-contamination. Healthcare professionals who fail to practice thorough hand hygiene before and after catheter-related procedures can introduce pathogens into the bloodstream. Leaving catheters in place when no longer necessary or using them unnecessarily elevates the risk of infection. To prevent CRBSIs, strict infection control protocols, including effective hand hygiene, sterile catheter insertion techniques, routine site care, and prompt catheter removal when no longer needed, are imperative. Healthcare facilities often implement specific protocols to mitigate CRBSI risk and enhance patient safety.

Background information: Cultural practices play an important role on the development of pathogens (Datnoff, et al. 2007). In this context, several authors have been interested in studying the effects of mineral nutrition on the resistance of vegetables and fruits to fungi during storage, especially nitrogen.The purpose of the study: In this work we tested the effects of three contrasted regimes of nitrogen supply, with nitrate concentrations in the nutrient solutions of 2 mM (low), 10 mM (normal) and 20 mM (high) on the susceptibility of Lactuca sativa L towards Botrytis cinerea (BC87) and Sclerotinia minor (SM) during storage.Once harvested, the outerleaves of the plants derived from the three nitrogen regimes were inoculated with either Botrytis cinerea (BC87) or Sclerotinia minor (SM). Data showed that the resistance to this two pathogens increase when plants were developed under low nitrogen concentration. This resistance observed is correlated with low values in oxidative stress indicators (MDA and H2O2) and high values in total phenols.

Introduction: The skills, the techniques utilized in the conization and the hemostasis directly affect the healing process of the cervix tissue. Excessively large excisions and unnecessary use of electrocautery or hemostatic sutures are examples of procedures that may negatively affect the scar cascade and wound healing. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of honey-based ferric perchloride paste (HBFPP) in reducing bleeding and infection post-conization procedure. Methods: Prospective randomized clinical trial with a sample of 142 patients randomized in two groups: 78 patients who used the HBFPP (intervention) and 64 patients who did not use the HBFPP (control). Statistical analysis was performed utilizing a significance level of 95%. The Chi-Square test and Fisher’s exact test were applied. Results: Results showed that the mean score of the amount of blood lost was lower in the intervention group compared to the control group. The main complaints reported by the two groups in the postoperative period were discomfort in the genitourinary system, heavy bleeding after surgery, and post-operative infection, but not significantly different among both groups. The control group needed further intervention due to excessive bleeding in comparison with the intervention group. Conclusion: The use of HBFPP reduced the amount of blood lost in the postoperative period of conization surgery.

It has been reported that Japanese people sleep for an average of 7 hours and 22 minutes per night, with those in their 40s and 50s sleeping the least. This is much less than in other developed countries. Aging has also been reported to decrease the total sleep time and sleep latency as well as increase wake after sleep onset (WASO). Crocetin is a carotenoid with antioxidant activity. It has been reported that 14 consecutive days of crocetin intake increases delta power during sleep and decreases WASO. However, the benefits of short-term ingestion have not been clarified. In this double-blind, randomized crossover study, we examined the effects of crocetin-containing edible films consumed for seven consecutive days on the sleep quality of healthy Japanese subjects working in management positions who were aged 45 years or older.The study participants comprised 20 subjects (12 males and 8 females; mean age 50.4 ± 4.8 years; body mass index (BMI) 22.5 ± 2.7). An electroencephalography (EEG) measuring device (InSomnograf®) was used to measure sleep objectively and a questionnaire, OSA Sleep Questionnaire MA version (OSA-MA) was used to assess sleep subjectively upon waking. The crocetin group demonstrated significantly higher values of OSA-MA Factor 3 (frequent dreaming) than the placebo group (placebo: 46.8 ± 6.9; crocetin: 49.5 ± 7.4). No differences were observed for the other four factors. No differences were observed in the sleep parameters determined with InSomnograf®.Our findings suggest a new effect of crocetin on sleep quality of frequent dreaming.

Background: The C3 glomerulopathies are a group of rare forms of glomerulonephritis with an incidence of 1-2 cases per million. It is mainly characterized by dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway. It is further classified morphologically based on electron microscopy ultrastructural findings into Dense Deposition Disease (DDD) and C3 glomerulonephritis. DDD is normally characterised by C3 Deposits. Case: We report a rare case of a young Emirati male who presented with sub nephrotic proteinuria and microscopic haematuria on routine evaluation. Renal biopsy showed features of DDD with combined C3 and C4 deposits. The retinal evaluation showed features of Drusen classically seen in DDD. Genomic study showed heterozygous mutation in c.5842G>C (p.Asp1948His) variant of uncertain significance in MYH9 gene. Discussion: C3 Glomerulopathy is a type of immune mediated disease previously classified as membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. DDD is mainly characterised by C3 deposits in the glomerular basement Membrane. Our case has both C3 and C4d deposits, which is a rare entity. It shows the activation of both classical and alternate pathways. Conclusion: Dense deposition disease is a rare complement mediated glomerulopathy. It is characterised by C3 deposits. Dense deposition disease with combined C3 and C4d deposits is a new entity. The treatment and prognosis of such cases will be different and unique compared to the normal cases of DDD.

Background: The presence of a multifaceted microbiological etiological factor of surgical infection and differentiated sensitivity to antibacterial drugs determines the need to develop more effective means and methods of influencing the purulent microflora of wounds. Physical treatment factors, in particular, low-frequency ultrasound and ionised plasma flows, should be considered promising for solving this problem.Materials and methods: The research was carried out based on the Scientific Center of Microbiology and the clinic of the Tashkent Medical Academy. Bacteriological studies of wound discharge and biopsy material were carried out. We studied the material of purulent-inflammatory diseases of soft tissues.Results: Wound-sounding through a dioxidine solution is most effective against gram-negative bacteria, and ultrasonic cavitation in combination with iodopyrone is most effective against gram-positive microorganisms. Treatment of purulent wounds with low-frequency ultrasound through a mixture of iodopyrone solution and ascorbic acid is effective against gram-positive and gram-negative microbes. Argon plasma flows have a high bactericidal effect mainly on gram-negative bacteria.Conclusion: The obtained data substantiate the need to choose a physical method of treatment of purulent wounds depending on the species composition of the wound microflora.

This review explores the evolving landscape of psoriasis treatment with a focus on the transformative impact of biologic drugs. Psoriasis, a prevalent and persistent skin condition characterized by red and scaly patches, historically relied on topical, phototherapeutic, and systemic treatments, each with limitations. The advent of biologics represents a significant advancement, offering targeted interventions by addressing specific immunologic mechanisms underlying the disease. Biologics are now considered the preferred systemic therapy for chronic moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, particularly when conventional treatments prove ineffective or present disadvantages.The review delineates the mechanisms of action for biologics targeting tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-17 (IL-17) and interleukin-23 (IL-23). Specific drugs under each category, including etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, secukinumab, ustekinumab, and others, are detailed with recommended dosages. Biologics have demonstrated substantial effectiveness, with clinical trials and real-world studies showcasing significant improvements in disease severity and patient’s quality of life. Notably, these drugs exhibit rapid action, often yielding noticeable changes within weeks.While biologics have revolutionized psoriasis treatment, the review emphasizes the importance of judicious use due to potential side effects such as injection-site reactions and respiratory infections. Serious adverse events, including infections and autoimmune reactions, necessitate careful patient selection and monitoring for safety. In conclusion, biologics offer a precise and effective approach to psoriasis treatment, promising marked symptom improvement and enhanced quality of life. The review underscores the need for responsible utilization, considering patient-specific factors, and anticipates ongoing advancements in biologics for improved control over this chronic dermatitis.

The determination of a protein structure by using X-ray diffraction encompasses a series of sequential steps (including gene identification and cloning, protein expression and purification, crystallization, phasing model building, refinement, and validation), which need the application of several methodologies derived from molecular biology, bioinformatics, and physical sciences. This article thoroughly examines the complicated procedure of elucidating protein structures within plant biology, using X-ray diffraction as the primary methodology. Commencing with the gene identification process and progressing toward crystallography, this article explores the many obstacles and achievements in acquiring diffraction pictures and their subsequent conversion into electron density maps. The ensuing phases of model construction, refinement, and structural validation are thoroughly examined, providing insight into the inherent complexity associated with each stage. The paper also discusses the critical component of understanding the resultant model and scrutinizing its biological significance. By comprehensively examining these stages, this article presents a nuanced comprehension of the intricate procedure in ascertaining protein structures within plant biology. It offers valuable insights into the obstacles encountered and the biological importance of the acquired structural data.

The intricate interplay between viral infections and cardiovascular complications has garnered significant attention from 2018 to 2023. Extensive research during this period has unveiled substantial connections between various viruses and cardiovascular diseases. Notable examples include Cytomegalovirus (CMV), coxsackievirus, influenza, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as well as coxsackievirus A and B, enteroviruses, adenovirus, and parvovirus B19. These viruses exert diverse influences on cardiovascular health through various pathways, contributing to endothelial dysfunction, inflicting direct damage on cardiac tissue, and triggering inflammatory responses. The intricate interplay between viral infections and cardiovascular health underscores the importance of considering viral pathogens within the framework of cardiovascular disease development, clinical management practices, and future research initiatives. This systematic review comprehensively scrutinizes the cardiovascular impacts stemming from various viral infections, casting a revealing light on their underlying mechanisms and associated clinical implications. These valuable insights can guide clinical management strategies, preventive measures and further investigations into the complex connection between viral infections and cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing research and vigilance in comprehending and managing these pathogen-induced cardiac manifestations.

In order to integrate and enhance the health of people, animals, and the environment, a multidisciplinary “One Health” concept has been coined. However, developing countries have frequently lagged in embracing this innovative vision. Pakistan’s ecology, human health, and animal health have all been severely jeopardized due to a lack of resources. Human health is significantly impacted by the spread and comeback of zoonotic illnesses, especially for people who live in rural regions and frequently interact with domestic or wild animals. More than 75% of zoonotic diseases were transmitted contiguously from animals to humans or indirectly through interactions among agents or vectors (including both humans and other animals). This review article gives critical insights into the most common zoonotic diseases found in Pakistan in addition to underlining the importance of the “One Health” philosophy in the management of these illnesses. Interdisciplinary research efforts are required given the current circumstances in order to politicize sustainable solutions for decreasing the disease burden in human and animal populations simultaneously.

The survey gives an in-depth examination of medicate assimilation challenges within the genital range and the improvement of vaginal medicate conveyance gadgets to overcome these challenges. It investigates the components involved in medicate discharge within the genital locale and examines commonly utilized vaginal sedate conveyance frameworks such as nanoparticles and hydrogels. The survey centers on the applications of these conveyance frameworks in controlling bacterial vaginal diseases. The plan issues related to vaginal sedate conveyance gadgets are moreover examined, highlighting the significance of considering variables such as mucoadhesion and bodily fluid porousness. The survey portrays different in vitro and ex vivo models utilized for assessing these frameworks, counting organoids and new human cervical bodily fluid. The choice of show depends on the particular objectives and characteristics of the definition. The audit emphasizes the noteworthiness of utilizing these models to pick up important bits of knowledge and make precise forecasts with respect to the execution of medicate conveyance frameworks in vivo. Moreover, grandstands progressed models utilized for other mucosal locales as a potential motivation for future models of the female regenerative framework. Generally, the audit highlights the significance of understanding organic instruments and planning compelling vaginal drug conveyance frameworks to progress sedate conveyance within the genital region. It emphasizes the require for suitable models to evaluate and anticipate the execution of these conveyance frameworks.

Background: The recruitment of experienced clinical nurses into vacant faculty positions is a global strategy for preparing, employing, and retaining competent nurse educators. As clinical nurses transition to academia, many struggle with unique challenges that affect their adaptation to the academic setting. Thus, understanding novice nurse educators’ transitional challenges is critical to addressing this threat. Aim: This study aimed to explore the challenges of novice nurse educators’ transition from clinical practice to academia in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study design was employed for this study. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit 12 novice nurse educators from three health training institutions in the Upper East Region of Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data through in-depth individual interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed.Results: Four themes emerged: poor administrative support, poor preparation, increased workload and stress, and role ambiguity. Novice nurse educators lacked formal orientation, formal mentorship, formal education in teaching, and post-graduate education. Novices were also challenged by increased workload and role ambiguity. Conclusion: Supporting novice nurse educators' transition from clinical practice would be better served by college administrators’ creation and implementation of formal orientation and mentorship programs.