Current Issues in Pharmacy and Medical Sciences Feed

Can Dexrazoxane and Carvedilol prevent Doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity?

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a cytostatic drug with a broad spectrum of anticancer activity that has been used in oncology for over 50 years. Among many adverse effects in humans, the most dangerous is late dilated cardiomyopathy, which appears even years after completion of therapy. However, in cats, the critical organ for the toxic effects of DOX is the kidney. Herein, nephrotoxicity is manifested as azotemia. The main aim of our study was to evaluate the protective effect of dexrazoxane (DEX) and carvedilol (CVD) against the nephrotoxic effects of DOX. Nephrotoxicity studies were performed in a rat model of repeated DOX administration. Analyzed blood morphological, biochemical and histopathological findings revealed that DEX has a dual effect: it positively impacts DOX-induced histological alterations and creatinine levels while negatively affecting urea concentration. Thus, the results do not support univocally recommend DEX to prevent nephrotoxicity caused by DOX in cats. However, further studies using initially lower doses of DEX are needed to assess the prevention of nephrotoxicity in cats clinically treated with DOX.

Proteostasis collapse in rat’s lung tissue as one of the effects of European adder (Vipera berus subsp. berus and Vipera berus subsp. nikolskii) envenomation

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Snakebites and their consequences are a growing concern around the globe. The mixture of enzymes, present in snake venom is a great challenge for a snakebite victim’s body. European adder (Vipera berus) is considered as not very harmful snake due to the mild clinical symptoms of envenomation and rare cases of cardiovascular or pulmonary failure. Nevertheless, at the molecular level, many details of V. berus bite (including proteostasis instability) remain unclear. This work was aimed to determine the effect of Eastern Europe typical adder species Vipera berus berus and Vipera berus nikolskii envenomation on the protein homeostasis of rat’s lung tissue. The decrease in total protein concentration, significant redistribution of main protein fractions (including proteolytically active), rise in middle-mass molecules and low molecular weight peptide concentration have been observed during V. b. berus and V. b. nikolskii envenomation, strongly indicating the proteostasis collapse and endogenous intoxication in lung tissue as an effect of European adder snakebite. Moreover, according to the results of experiments, the effect of V. b. nikolskii venom is more harmful to lung tissue protein homeostasis, comparing to V. b. berus, suggesting that the former may represent a greater danger to people. The results of this study may find applications in antivenom development and could be taken into consideration for proper snakebite treatment selection in order to avoid proteome complications in patients.

Formulation and evaluation of herbal tablet of jackfruit root for the treatment of antiasthmatic activity

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Jackfruit is a highly nutritious plant. The ancient fruit known as jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam) is commonly eaten raw. Documenting the therapeutic value of the main jackfruit parts (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) was the primary goal of this study. It contains more protein, calcium, iron, and Thiamine. Jackfruit contains many classes of phytochemicals such as carotenoids, flavonoids, volatile acids sterols, and tannins, with varying concentrations. The excellent medicinal efficacy of Artocarpus has long been recognized. Phenolic compound test. Next, using a direct comparison approach, we developed pills for asthma. After that, check evaluations such as degradability, hardness, friability, homogeneity of content, weight change, solubility, etc. The health benefits of jackfruit are attributed to its many physicochemical applications. Jackfruit is some tropical fruit rich in 4,444 nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and digestive fiber to maintain bronchial pain relief. In the case of asthma, a person suffers from bronchospasm and this herbal tablet acts as a bronchodilator. Therefore, we examined the antiasthamatic characteristics using a herbal mixture prepared from jackfruit root. Jackfruit contains vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, zinc, and niacin, among many other nutrients.

SARS CoV-2 in tumor tissue in glioblastoma patients – preliminary study

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

SARS-CoV-2 infection often causes neurological disorders. Experimental studies on an animal model have shown that SARS-CoV-2 is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Researchers have also discovered that SARS-CoV-2 can infect glial cells. Gliomas are the most common type of brain tumor. Oncological patients are at high risk of infections, including SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, their weakened immunity causes the level of antibodies after infection or vaccination to be lower than in the healthy population. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in tumor tissue collected during surgery. We also tested the level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in these patients. The obtained results indicate the tropism of the virus to tumor tissue – glioblastoma. The level of anti-SARS antibodies was higher in patients with SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected in tumour tissue.

Nutritional status of female rats after acute intoxication with ethyl alcohol and treatment with ketoprofen lysine salt or ketoprofen

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Ketoprofen lysine salt (KL) is a new non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) competing with ketoprofen (K) on the market. The former is believed to have gastroprotective properties and both to kill acute pain. In East Europe binge drinking and taking NSAIDs after is common. Some people use NSAIDs to treat the discomfort when they sober up. Vomiting after alcohol intoxication and gastritis after use of NSAIDs may produce malnutrition. The aim of the study was to compare nutritional status in female rats treated with KL or K after acute intoxication with ethyl alcohol. In this animal model we wanted to mimic human cases of NSAIDs use on the day(s) after binge drinking. The experiment was carried out on 36 female Wistar rats divided into 6 groups of 6: 1. treated with 50% etanol; 2. 0.9% NaCl; 3. 0.9% NaCl and K; 4. 50% etanol and K; 5. 0.9% NaCl and KL; 6. 50% etanol and KL.On day 7 animals were sacrificed. Their body, liver and kidney mass was recorded. The blood was obtained to measure blood morphology and biochemical parameters. K and alcohol in group 4 limited body mass gain (p<0.05 vs ethanol-group 1) and lowered albumin concentration (p<0.05 vs control-group 1). There was also a statistically significant decrease in the level of serum albumin of rats receiving KL (group 5) compared to the saline (group 2).K affects the nutritional status more than KLS after alcohol intoxication.

The impact of gut microbiota on mental health

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Microorganisms inhabit various areas of the human body, but by far the most numerous and diverse in species is the intestinal microbiota. This consists of an enormous number of microorganisms, the largest group of which are bacteria. Currently it is well known that microbiota affects the proper functioning of the brain, therefore, it has become the subject of interest in the field of mental diseases treatment. Numerous studies have shown both quantitative and qualitative disturbances in the composition of the intestinal microbiome in people suffering from depression. Psychobiotics are a category of probiotics that influence the gut microbiota and positively impact brain and nervous system function. The potential antidepressant role of psychobiotics is also indicated, however, presently, they do not have the status of drugs. It is well known that they induce various beneficial effects, such as reducing the level of cortisol and the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, as well as modulating the activity of the vagus nerve. Furthermore, the studies conducted so far allow to confirm the relationship between the composition and abundance of intestinal microflora and occurrence of various mental diseases, including: depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Serum of Interferon Lambda-1 level as a protein biomarker for the diagnosis of COVID-19 severity

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

SARS-CoV-2, which mostly affects the respiratory system, is the agent that causes COVID-19. The virus enters human cells through the ACE2 receptor, which is expressed on the surface of many different types of cells in the body. Once inside the cell, the virus begins to replicate and spread throughout the body. Interferon Lambda-1, also known as IFN-λ1, is a type of cytokine that is secreted by the immune system of the body in response to viral infections.Objective to evaluate if serum levels of Interferon Lambda-1 are associated with how severe the COVID-19 infection is, so as to determine if this cytokine may be considered as a disease marker.This study was undertaken as a case control, using a study population of one hundred and twenty COVID-19 patients (79 males, 41 females). The COVID-19 patients were divided into three groups based on the severity of the illness: critical disease (n=30), severe disease (n=30), and mild/moderate disease (n=60), with (n=60) healthy volunteers as the control group (35 males, 25 females). Between January 2022 and May 2022, the patients were collected from Al-Amal hospitals and the AL-Shefaa center in AL- Najaf City, Iraq. Basic patient clinical and demographic data was obtained, along with blood samples. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent tests (ELISA) were used to measure the blood’s concentration of interferon lambda-1. Total cholesterol, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein content were measured by colorimetric methods. Ichroma was tested for serum ferritin and D-dimer, while CBC was obtained via Swelab to ascertain if interferon Lambda-1 levels are related to the severity of the disease.Interferon Lambda-1 levels in the patient group were determined to be higher, particularly in cases with mild to moderate (64.19±18.77) pg/mL (P=0.0001), severe (236.51±63.65) pg/mL (P=0.0001), and critical (465.61±62.16) pg/mL (P=0.0001) cases, as compared to healthy controls (41.72±12.92) pg/mL groups, respectively. Our results showed a significant negative correlation between SPO2%, Lymphocyte, HDL, TC and Hb (p.value=0.001) levels in the group of COVID-19 patients. TG, VLDL-C, neutrophils, WBCs, platelets, the N/L ratio, D-dimer, CRP and ferritin all have a significant positive correlation (p.value=0.001) with Interferon Lambda-1 in the COVID-19 patients group. A cutoff value of 50.50 (ng/mL) with a sensitivity of 82.5% and a specificity of 80.9% (AUC: 0.910, 95% CI 0.870-0.950; p<0.0001) for Interferon Lambda-1 predicted severe COVID-19.In comparison to the mild/moderate patient group and healthy controls, we found that severe and critical COVID-19 patients had considerably greater serum Interferon Lambda-1 concentrations. This could be a useful sign of the disease’s severity. In order to prevent the onset of pulmonary inflammation, high blood Interferon Lambda-1 concentrations in the early stages of COVID-19 should be continuously monitored. Our work also revealed that Interferon Lambda-1 was highly associated with COVID-19 severity. We believe that Interferon Lambda-1 may be a valuable biomarker in determining the severity of the disease in COVID-19 patients.

Exploring the antihypertensive potential of natural compounds from Zygophyllum sp plant: An in-silico investigation of ACE inhibition

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Hypertension, a major contributor to global mortality, requires comprehensive management including lifestyle changes and medication. This study explores the potential of natural compounds from Zygophyllum sp as Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, a key class of antihypertensive drugs. Using molecular docking methodology, we investigated the inhibitory effects of these compounds on the ACE enzyme (PDB: 1UZF). Our work demonstrated that several molecules exhibited promising binding scores compared to established reference ligands, suggesting potential ACE-inhibiting properties. Myristic acid showed the most favorable score (-9.2454 kcal/mol), surpassing conventional reference drugs. Geranyllinalool, Pseudophytol, Methyl linoleate and Phytol also demonstrated superior scores. 1-Octadecene and linoleic acid outperformed captopril and aligned closely with other reference ligand scores. The computational scores, largely exceeding those of established drugs, indicate strong affinities between Zygophyllum sp’s chemical constituents and the ACE enzyme. This suggests potential antihypertensive properties of the plant and its bioactive components, supporting its traditional use as an antihypertensive remedy. The notable efficacy scores of select known therapeutic agents further validate this potential. However, additional in-vitro and in-vivo investigations are necessary to robustly establish the ACE-inhibitory capability of Zygophyllum sp compounds. This study provides a foundation for further research into natural antihypertensive treatments, potentially offering new avenues for managing this widespread health concern.

The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in clinical practice for the treatment of periodontitis: a narrative review

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

After dental caries, the most common multifactorial oral disease is periodontal disease. Periodontitis can result in biofilm and host dysbiosis, ultimately causing inflammation and destruction of periodontal tissues. This narrative review aimed to summarise and discuss the mechanism of action, categories and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in clinical practice in the treatment of periodontitis because of their analgesic, anti-inflammatory and reducing effects on platelet aggregation and thus bleeding. Also, this review illustrates the importance of studies demonstrating synergism between specialty drugs and their derivatives as valuable active substances. The eleven clinical trials conducted in small groups of adult volunteers (14-50) treated with various NSAIDs, e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen and tenoxicam are discussed. The results of clinical trials have shown that the use of NSAIDs together with surgical intervention in the treatment of periodontal diseases produces beneficial effects as an adjunctive treatment. It is worth noting that these studies were conducted on small cohorts of adult volunteers, with variations in the duration of treatment and doses of administered drugs. Further research on the impact of NSAIDs administration on periodontal disease may provide in-depth knowledge of patient groups with different demographics, including age, gender and comorbidities. Additional research is necessary to explore the use of NSAIDs in combination with periodontitis treatment for different patient groups.

Sternalis muscle, a rare anatomical variation with clinical implications

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The sternalis muscle is a rare variant of the anterior chest wall musculature. Although its frequency in general population worldwide has been reported from 2% to 8%, its prevalence depends on regions and populations. The aim of this paper is to describe one of the first cases of sternalis muscle found in Central Europe. An anterior chest wall of 64-year-old white male was dissected during a regular anatomy class at Department of Human Anatomy. A right unilateral sternalis muscle was revealed and described. The unilateral sternalis muscle laid between the pectoral and the superficial thoracic fascia. The muscle was long and wide. In addition, it had a massive tendon. According to the Snosek et al. Classification, it was a “simple unilateral” type. This report presents another case of the sternalis muscle among humans. Although the sternalis muscle serves a minor role in body movement, its occurrence gives several clinical implications. The awareness of variability in the thoracic region is important during diagnostic and treatment processes or in surgical operation planning.

Exploring the synergistic effect in polyherbal chewable antacid tablets: formulation and evaluation study

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Polyherbal chewable tablets of Phyllanthus emblica and Glycyrrhiza glabra were developed with the objective to formulate an effective, safe and convenient dosage form for acid-related disorders. A standard calibration curve was constructed for Polyherbal extracts through UV-Spectrophotometry, achieving an absorbance maximum at 275 nm. Compatibility between the drug and excipients was examined through FTIR studies. Various pre-compression parameters, like bulk density, tapped density, compressibility index, Hausner’s ratio and angle of repose, were assessed for the powder blend. The tablets were evaluated for post-compression parameters, such as thickness, hardness, friability, and weight variation and disintegration time. The drug release study was conducted in vitro. The acid-neutralizing capacity of the formulated batches was compared with marketed formulations. The calibration curve showed a high correlation coefficient (r2=0.9972), suggesting accuracy and reliability. FTIR analysis confirmed the compatibility between the drug and excipients. Pre-compression studies revealed an acceptable range for all parameters, indicating good flow properties. For instance, Carr’s Index for all batches varied from 14.31% to 24.41%, and the angle of repose ranged from 33.7 to 35.21 degrees. Post-compression parameters were within the standard limits with hardness between 4.9 to 6.1 kg/cm2 and friability less than 1% for all batches. In vitro drug release showed a gradual increase over time with PF9 achieving 98.63% release at 60 min. The acid-neutralization capacity was highest for the combined extract at 27.83±0.34 mEq/g and PF9 batch at 28.12±0.43 mEq/g, demonstrating their effectiveness in neutralizing acid.The study successfully formulated a Polyherbal chewable tablet with optimized pre and post-compression parameters. The tablet exhibited promising in vitro drug release and an efficient acid-neutralizing capacity. It holds potential as an effective treatment option for acid-related disorders.

Biopharmaceutical aspects of the development of transdermal forms of Lisinopril dihydrate

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension is of great importance. Improvement of existing medicines through the use of alternative routes of administration can enhance the pharmacotherapeutic characteristics of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Transdermal therapeutic systems (TTS) allow for delivery of a drug through intact skin into the systemic circulation, while minimizing side effects. The development of transdermal formulations of antihypertensive drugs, Lisinopril dihydrate in particular, has practical and scientific significance. Optimization of the algorithm for the development of transdermal drugs involves in vitro preformulation studies of the membrane permeability of APIs and the identification of factors that affect this process.The tests were performed by dialysis through a semipermeable hydrophilic membrane using a Valia-Chien diffusion device. The effect of the initial concentration of Lisinopril dihydrate on the flux rate Is was investigated. Different donor concentrations of Lisinopril dihydrate were tested at three levels, 10, 20 and 30 mg/ml, accordingly. It was noted that the permeation process of Lisinopril dihydrate under model conditions corresponds to zero-order kinetics and is characterized by a uniform speed. The correlation coefficient (R2) for all the kinetic equations was 0.999. A linear dependence of the flux velocity of Lisinopril dihydrate on the initial concentration was indicated. The concentration of Lisinopril dihydrate in the donor solution of 30 mg/ml was found to be optimal for further stages of pharmaceutical development of the transdermal formulation. The studies of Lisinopril dihydrate permeability allow to give a positive assessment of the acceptability of this API for use in the transdermal formulation and the development of TTS.

Investigation and assessment of oxidant – antioxidant status of some enzymes and vitamins in Iraqi patients with chronic myeloid leukemia

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. To investigate and assess the concentrations of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, vitamin A and vitamin C in Iraqi patients infected by chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).Material and methods. Forty-eight Iraqi patients of ages ranged between (15-75) years took part in the current study. Enzymatic antioxidants (Gpx, SOD and CAT) and antioxidant vitamins (A and C) were estimated spectrophotometrically in blood sera of all patients according to age and sex variables, and then all clinical parameters were compared with healthy individuals (control groups).Results. Evaluation of oxidant-antioxidant status. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes concentrations recorded high significant decreasing (***p <0.0001) in blood serum of CML patients according to age and sex factors. Moreover, vitamins A and C showed a high significant decreasing (***p <0.0001) in their concentrations as measured in blood serum of CML patients with diverse ages and sexes. The GPx, SOD, CAT, Vitamin A and Vitamin C in the current study, are considered excellent biochemical markers for following the acuity of CML disease depending on age and sex variables.Conclusion. The clinical significance of oxidative stress represented by lack of enzymes and vitamins in the current study was proven. Statistically significant differences were recorded and observed between patients and control groups depending on age and sex factors.

Dual amylase/glucosidase inhibition, antilipolytic and antiproliferative potential of the aerial parts of Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia lentiscus and Pistacia terebinthus on a obesity related-colorectal cancer cell line panel

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Pistacia species (P. spp) have been used as a treatment for various diseases, including diabetes and inflammation. This study aimed to identify the main components of flavonoids in Pistacia species and evaluate the effect of aqueous extracts of P. spp on pancreatic enzymes and on cancer cells associated with obesity in colon and rectum. HPLC was used to identify the major components of flavonoids. The potent inhibitory effect of Pistacia species against pancreatic α-amylase, α-glucosidase and lipase was examined. The antiproliferative efficacy of the plant extract against several colorectal cancer cell lines were then measured. The main flavonoids component found in Pistacia species are quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside, rutin, kaempferol and vitexin. The starch blockade IC50 (µg/mL) of Pistacia species in a descending order were: P. lentiscus leaves: 1.09±0.01; P. atlantica leaves: 0.96±0.09 and P. atlantica fruits: 0.48±0.02. Pistacia species exerted promising inhibition effect for pancreatic lipase (PL). Besides the aglycones of P. atlantica leaves, all the tested aqueous extracts exerted appreciably novel antiproliferative activity against the tested colorectal cancer cell lines. This study provides useful indication for the Pistacia species as a potential novel therapeutic agent against diabesity and cancer.

Risk factors and skin colonization/recolonization – a matter in the development of sternal wound infection after cardiac surgery

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiac surgeries are classified as “clean procedures” as they do not involve access to any space populated by the patient’s microbiota. Nevertheless, the development of sternal wound infection (SWI) can sometimes occur. The aim of the study was to analyze risk factors of SWI, efficacy of antiseptics procedures, skin microbiota colonization/recolonization, and their impact on infection development in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.Of 500 patients who had undergone cardiac surgery through a median sternotomy, perioperative swabs of standardized surgical cut area were taken at three-time points: ‘1’-after admission to treatment rooms, ‘2’-before incision; ‘3’-before chest reconstruction. Material was cultured and grown bacterial colonies were counted.Out of the total population, 23 patients developed SWI and 11 had suspicion of SWI while 466 were without SWI. Risk factors which had statistically significant impact of infection development were high body mass index (BMI) and use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) during operation. The most common SWI-pathogens were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) and Gram-negative bacilli. From the perioperative period, CoNS and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated. When simultaneous positive cultures in ‘swab-1 and -3’ were observed (respectively, ≥87 and ≥17 bacterial colonies), the risk of complications was higher (patients with SWI – 69.57%; without SWI – 6.71%). Regarding point ‘3’, significant differences were noted in the general level of grown colonies. About 3 times more bacterial colonies were grown in the group with healing problems and SWI. SWI development is multifactorial. The rate of skin microbiota recolonization during surgery may suggests that being more colonized in the surgical incision area was more susceptible to local complications.

Molecular alterations in mucinous ovarian tumors – a review

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Mucinous ovarian tumors (MOTs) include primary and secondary neoplasms, the latter of which contribute for 80% of all cases. The most common site of origin for secondary MOTs is the gastrointestinal tract. Proper differentiation between primary and metastatic lesions is essential for effective treatment. Currently, definitive diagnosis is made based on post-operative histopathological examination with the use of immunohistochemical markers. However, the final diagnosis presents a challenge because of the histopathological similarity between mucinous metastases and primary ovarian lesions. Generally, treatment consists of cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy, even though malignant tumors are found to be chemo-resistant. Prognosis depends on the type of the tumor, presence of metastases and patient’s general condition. Further research on the genetic background of MOTs is necessary for the better understanding of their origin and more effective treatment. This review aims to summarize recent advances in the field of the molecular features of MOTs and their implications for the diagnostic pathways and potential adjuvant therapy options. The analysis of molecular alterations might not only be an important prognostic factor, but also a useful diagnostic tool in distinguishing between primary mucinous tumors and extra-ovarian metastases or other subtypes of epithelial ovarian neoplasms. Moreover, the examination of genetic mutations seems to increase the efficiency of targeted therapy. However, more research evaluating such therapies in pre-clinical models is needed to improve the results of the diagnostics and treatment of MOTs.

Risk factors in children with recurrent urinary tract infection among patients attending Al Zahra Teaching Hospital in Iraq

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are considered one of the most common infections that occur in the pediatric age group, leading to very serious morbidity and mortality. The detection of risk factors for urinary tract infection helps in the management and prevention of the recurrence of the infection. This study attempts to review current information on UTIs and determine different risk factors in association. To study the risk factors that are associated with recurrent urinary tract infection in different age groups of childhood among children attending AL Zahra Teaching Hospital.A case-control study was conducted in AL Zahra Teaching Hospital during the period from October 1st, 2021, to July 30th, 2022. It included 76 children with highly suggestive histories, their examination, and results of the investigations (e.g. urine cultures), as well as 150 healthy children who were taken as controls. The controls were without a history of recurrent UTI and were similar to patients in age, sex and other risk factors that were mentioned in the study. A completed questionnaire was given to each child’s mother, and then the results were analyzed.The study showed that non educated mothers OR (3.2), vesicouetrerall reflux OR (3), uncircumcised male OR (2.94), female gender OR (2.7), age groups below than 6 years OR (2.4), low social class OR (2.1) and residency in rural area (OR 2.5) contributed to UTI issues.When compared to control groups, non educated mothers and vesicoureteral reflux were highly significant risk factors, and other risk factors such as female gender, uncircumcised male, age less than 6 years, low social class and rural area were significant for febrile recurrent urinary tract infection in children.

The effect of ethyl acetate extract from Atractylis flava Desf. on the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in NR8383 alveolar rat macrophage cells

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Atractylis flava Desf. (AF) is common plant that is widely used for its anti- inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the cytotoxic effect and the molecular basis of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethyl acetate extract (AFEAE) obtained from the whole plant A. flava. This was accomplished through the use of NR8383 alveolar rat macrophage cells. Cultures of alveolar rat macrophage cells were treated with AFEAE (25–800 μg/mL), and cell viability was determined via WST-1 and LDH tests. In turn, the gene expression levels of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), interleukin 1 beta (IL1-β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), mitochondrial dynamin like GTPase (OPA1), Succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit A (SDHA) and neutrophil cytosolic factor 1 (NCF1) were assessed by applying RT-qPCR. The results show that ethyl acetate extracts of A. flava have non-cytotoxic effects, and the gene expression analysis demonstrates that AFEAF extracts generate significant downregulation of NF-κB, TNFα, IL-1 β, IL-6, NCF1, OPA1 and SDHA, compared to untreated cells. This study reveals that Atractylis flava ethyl acetate extract administration may be considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for inflammatory related diseases.

The influence of military actions on the Ukrainian territory on the work of the healthсare system

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The multi-sided damages caused by the large-scale invasion of Russia has become a great challenge for the medical care system of Ukraine. This research is aimed at studying, analyzing and summarizing data from scientific publications, personal experience, and open sources of relevant information concerning changes that occur in the work within Ukraine’s healthcare system and the activity of medical staff due to the Russian invasion. Special attention has been paid to processes related to relocations of medical staff and health care establishments, field hospitals as an important tool during martial law, as well as for the different types of support provided by the international partners of Ukraine. Data concerning demographic shifts in Ukraine due to the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war are also presented. Moreover, SWOT analysis of changes in the system of health care in Ukraine during martial law has been performed.

Faecal microbiota transplantation associated adverse events

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) aims to restore intestinal microbiota balance with the objective of normalising its composition and achieve therapeutic benefits. The procedure involves the administration of fresh or frozen faecal microbes from a healthy donor into the recipient’s gastrointestinal tract with the intent to restore the proper structure and functionality of the recipient’s intestinal microbial community. Evidence showing the positive effects of FMT is abundant, however, less attention has been devoted to FMT-associated adverse events, especially in relation to liver diseases. Based on literature review, studies and reports regarding FMT-associated adverse events since the beginning of FMT use, have been analysed. The review covering the period 2010-2022 was undertaken in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.Studies conducted on the patient population suffering from various types and forms of liver disease have proven the possible effectiveness of the FMT method and reported moderate adverse events (nausea, constipation, flatulence). Severe adverse events occurring in relation to FMT were also noted. No safety issues or infection signals associated with FMT were observed in studies performed within the population suffering from cirrhosis.The present review of scientific reports, publications and literature reviews describes the adverse events reported in the literature. Faecal microbiota transplants are associated with adverse events classified as mild, moderate and severe, among others, diarrhoea, fever, infections or death. There is a need to implement a donor screening programme and personalised transplantation methods. Further research is recommended to assess and monitor FMT efficacy, benefits and risks.