Fulltext search in archive



« advanced mode »

 previous    1   2   3   4   5  6   7   8   9   10   11   ...    next 

Results 121 to 150 of 962:

CLOSTRIDIAL COLLAGENASE IMMOBILIZED ON CHITOSAN NANOFIBERS FOR BURN HEALING

Original article

Marcela Slovakova, Renata Köhlerova, Petra Dvorakova, Veronika Vanova, Martina Spackova, Marcela Munzarova

MMSL 2022, 91(4):324-334 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.012

This article describes the characterization and application of collagenase-based chitosan nanofiber membranes with rat burns. Electrospun chitosan nanofibers were functionalized with clostridial collagenase using carbodiimide chemistry. The immobilized collagenase was characterized by enzyme activity, kinetic constants, and dry storage stability measurements using a Pz-peptide substrate. The apparent kinetic constants KM and Vmax of immobilized collagenase showed a high affinity for the peptide substrate compared to the free enzyme. Drying of chitosan membranes with immobilized collagenase ensured 98 % stability of enzyme activity after rehydration. The effect of collagenase immobilized on chitosan nanofibers on the burn of the rat model was compared with a control treatment with chitosan nanofibers. The healing of the wound with both materials was terminated after 30 days at the same time, although the collagenase wound healed more rapidly during healing. The scar area size after the application of collagenase-containing chitosan nanofiber membranes was 31.6 % smaller than when only chitosan nanofibers were used.

ESTIMATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY IN COVID-19 PATIENTS, CURED PATIENTS AND PERSONS TAKING VACCINE

Original article

Bushra R Hade, Raheem Al-Mammori, Talat Tariq Khalil

MMSL 2023, 92(2):122-127 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.031

The study was designed to evaluate the medical relevance of Malondialdehyde (MDA) (a marker of oxidative stress) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) groups, cured groups, and control groups; before and after taking the vaccine. Blood samples were taken from Oncology Unit in Al-Mahaweel hospital in Hilla city. Sixteen patients, sixteen cured patients, thirty control, sixteen subjects were taken one dose of Pfizer vaccine, sixteen subjects were taken two doses of Pfizer vaccine. We found that significantly increased lipid peroxidation, measured as MDA, was demonstrated in the serum of COVID-19 patients and TAC decreased in patients when compared with the control groups. Inversely, we found the mean MDA levels decrease and increase in TAC levels in cured patients when compare with COVID-19 patients. In addition, it is found that subjects were taken one dose or two doses of the Pfizer vaccine have less MDA levels and more TAC levels than the COVID-19 vaccine for that reason the Pfizer vaccines play the important role in the activity of immune systems.

A PROMISING ROLE OF CINNAMON TOWARDS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Review article

Ammar A.Y. Almulathanon, Zena Sideek Tawffiq

MMSL 2023, 92(3):226-234 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.043

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disorder manifested by joint damage due to inflammation and autoimmunity which in turn has significant impacts on a patient's lifestyle. During disease, inflammation occurs due to activation of different immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes. Currently, the mainstay of treatment for RA is drug therapy. However, drug options are limited due to their negative effects and the possibility of reducing therapeutic benefits over time. Therefore, an effective and tolerable alternative therapy is needed. Several natural products have been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects by affecting multiple molecular targets such as transcription factors and cytokines. Cinnamon, an aromatic plant, is a popular spice used for cooking and in traditional medicine all over the world. Cinnamon is composed mostly of essential oils and various components, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol. This review demonstrates the anti-inflammatory activity of cinnamon components in various preclinical and clinical studies illustrating their potential role in the treatment of RA.

THE ASPECTS OF COMMUNICATION IN THE SOCIAL WORKER PROFESSION, WHO WORKS WITH SENIORS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA

Original article

Lukáš Stárek

MMSL 2023, 92(4):304-313 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.047

Life aspects in everyone’s life cause a human being all the time in a diverse social situation which affects everyone differently. These aspects are the people who surround us, cultures, political environment, and profession we choose to do for life. Every job should evolve and bring new needs and enquiries. This applies to social workers as well as this job reflects social and cultural attitudes towards diverse social groups such as a mother with children, foreigners, people without housing, people with disabilities, seniors, and seniors or people living with dementia.The following text points out the significant importance of communication with a focus on social workers who take care of seniors with dementia. This text includes a theoretical perspective on the problem and practical recommendations, and it presents data which were collected during a questionnaire which was part of this research. The number of respondents to the questionnaire is 262, and the participants were from across the whole Czech Republic who are in everyday contact with the target group. The main aim of the research was to discover the social worker's attitude toward communication – how and what purpose is behind the communication with people with dementia, what tools do they use during the communication, and what complications can occur during the interaction?

ACCESSIBILITY CHANGES AND THEIR PERCEPTION BY THE ELDERLY AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Original article

Petra Marešová, Lenka Komárková, Lucie Vítková, Miroslav Joukl, Zuzana Truhlářová, Jiří Horák, Ondřej Krejcar

MMSL 2024, 93(1):19-28 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.026

Introduction: Objective of this study is to describe impact of gender, age, social status, and geographic location on mobility changes during the COVID-19 pandemic within the Czechia, Hradec Kralove region, and Ostrava region.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in two regions in the Czechia: the Hradec Kralove region and the Ostrava region.Results: The age group of seniors 85 and older was more vulnerable to these alterations than other age groups. Age had a statistically significant impact on both the frequency of trips and the mode of transportation used. Seniors' shifts in mobility were more frequently impacted by urbanization, whereas the region's impact was seen in as many as five components. Transport, Route, and Time all showed the impact of urbanization. However, the region had the largest impact.Conclusion: There has been little evidence of the influence of age, gender, or social class on perceptions of changes during COVID-19. Research found conflicting evidence about older adults' physical activity throughout the epidemic.

DEVELOPMENT OF BODY TEMPERATURE AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE OVERALL OUTCOME IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Original article

Jan Sládek, Pavlína Rabasová

MMSL 2024, 93(1):29-38 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.056

Introduction: Thermoregulation is a complex process in the human body with the ability to maintain a constant optimal body temperature. Biochemical processes of the organism, as well as metabolic processes, are closely correlated with body temperature. Human temperature is determined by several laws, in particular metabolic production and heat flow between the organism and the environment. For the proper functioning of the organs in the human body, it is essential to maintain a constant optimum body temperature. This can be disturbed by inadequate internal and external factors and thermal discomfort can affect the patient's overall outcome.  Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the development of body temperature in critically ill patients in the emergency department and its effect on overall patient outcome. Design: Quasi-experiment. Methods: Direct observation was performed, including measurement and analysis of body temperature in patients with serious condition in emergency admission. Data were collected in the emergency department of a teaching hospital with a trauma center status between March and December 2021. Statistical tests were evaluated at the level of statistical significance α=0.05. Results: The study population consisted of 274 (100%) patients. Most negative readings were recorded at the time of patient admission. During the course of treatment, there was a gradual adjustment of body temperature to the physiological limit. The resulting body temperature values were within the desired or expected parameters. In terms of a more detailed description, the most significant values were identified in patients with cardiac problems. Conclusions: Knowing the direction of body temperature skew can be considered beneficial. Early correction of pathological values can have a major effect on the overall outcome of the patient.

CIRCULATING MICRORNA-22 AS A BIOMARKER RELATED TO OXIDATIVE STRESS IN HYPOTHYROID WOMEN PATIENT

Original article

Zahraa Mohammed Ali Abd, Nawal Khinteel Jabbar

MMSL 2024, 93(3):264-273 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.032

Background: Recent research has linked the spread of microribonucleic acid (miRNA) to numerous disorders, either as a stimulant or an inhibitor. One of these is miRNA-22, which research has connected to oxidative stress and thyroid issues. However, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. This study investigates the expression of miRNA-22 in hypothyroid women and its relationship to the rise in oxidative stress in the patient population.Materials and Methods: 40 women patients with Hypothyroid and 40 in this study, healthy volunteers who served as controls were included. The levels of serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured by sandwich assay, while free triiodothyronine (FT3) and thyroxine (T4) levels were measured competitive binding immunoenzymatic assay. To assess lipid profiles, an automated analyzer was employed. By enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels were measured. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), and assessed using a colorimetric technique. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the expression of serum miRNA-22.Results: Significantly more SOD and CAT activity was identified in patient groups than in the control group (P<0.05), also the patient group's AOPP and MDA concentrations were discovered to significantly outweigh those of the control group. (P< 0.05). IL-6 levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in (P<0.05) the control group. The level of miRNA-22 was higher in the sick group as compared to the control groups (P<0.05).Conclusions: The pathophysiology of oxidative stress brought on by hypothyroidism involves miRNA-22 expression, there is a reciprocal relationship between the increase in gene expression of the miRNA-22 and the increase in oxidative stress, which results in the disease's development.

A CLINICAL STUDY OF LIPOCALIN 2 AND ITS RELATION WITH OXIDATIVE AND ANTIOXIDATIVE FACTORS IN ARTHRITIS

Original article

Safa Rabea Saadon, Thikra Ali Allwsh

MMSL 2024, 93(4):335-341 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.040

Background: Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is a protein that has been associated with skeletal muscle regeneration, but details regarding its role in Arthritis remain unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate LCN2 levels of Arthritis patients and its relationship with oxidative and antioxidative factors.Methods: The study includes (125) blood samples of persons aged 20–65 years were divided into a control group (apparently healthy) consisting of 55 samples [31female, 24 males] and a Patient group consisting of 70 samples [37female, 33 males] who were attending the bone diseases consultation unit at the Ibn Sina Teaching Hospital in Mosul, Iraq. Venous blood samples (10 ml) were collected after overnight fasting. To conduct Clinical analyses: Serum LCN2 level was determined by ELISA, also Malonaldehyde, glutathione, vitamin E, vitamin C, peroxy nitrite, peroxidase, and aryl esterase were estimated.Results: The findings revealed a significant increase in the levels of LCN2 in Arthritis compared to the control group and there was a significant decrease in the concentration of vitamin C, glutathione, vitamin E and the activity of the arylesterase in serum of patients with arthritis compared with the control group. Also, a significant increase in the activity of peroxidase, concentration of peroxynitrite and malondialdehyde for patients than a control group.Conclusion: These findings imply that LCN2 may play a substantial role in iron-related oxidative stress damage in arthritis. Thus a therapeutic candidate target for treatment.

DELIRIUM AND ITS MANAGEMENT IN NURSING INTERVENTIONS

Review article

Markéta Čápová, Kateřina Horáčková, Marie Holubová

MMSL 2025, 94(3):122-131 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2024.013

Introduction: Delirium is a transient, etiologically non-specific disorder and a life-threatening condition. It is classified as a reversible qualitative disorder of consciousness with a number of symptomatologically neuropsychiatric abnormalities. The aim of the research is to summarize nursing interventions leading to the prevention or treatment of delirium. Methods: world scientific databases (Proquest, Scopus, PubMed, etc.) were searched using the EBN method. The question of efficacy, which predicts nursing interventions in the context of treatment and prevention, was chosen to compile the literature search. Fifteen studies were selected that aimed to reduce the incidence and prevalence of delirium in ICU patients, using nursing interventions.Results: Multicomponent interventions targeting several risk factors simultaneously (lighting modification, noise reduction at the patient's bedside, sleep support, family visits and correction of vision and hearing deficits) have been shown to be the most effective. The intervention of transcutaneous electrical stimulation has also been shown to be effective (statistically significant difference p= 0.039 for patients undergoing this intervention). More than half of the duration of delirium is reduced by regular exercise and mobilisation. Occupational therapy intervention is also beneficial (statistically significant effect p=0.001) and can significantly reduce the incidence of delirium. Studies demonstrate the positive impact of these interventions not only in delirium, but also in pain management and overall recovery.

DESIGN AND SYNTHESIS OF BIFUNCTIONAL FLUOROPYRIDINALDOXIME REACTIVATORS FOR NERVE AGENT-INHIBITED HUMAN ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE

Meeting abstracts

Jagadeesh Yerri, José Dias, Florian Nachon, Rachid Baati

MMSL 2018, 87(88):21

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a key enzyme of the Central Nervous System (CNS), which hydrolyzes the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.1 By targeting AChE, organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNA) and organophosphorus pesticides irreversibly inhibit the cholinergic transmission, which is leading to death if untreated.2 Over several years, our group and colleagues have been concentrating on the development a new class of non-permanently charged bifunctional reactivators, that display higher affinity for AChE and high in vitro and in vivo efficiencies compared to 2-PAM and Hi6.3 By analogy, recently, we designed bifunctional reactivators that comprise a peripheral site ligand (PSL) connected to a fluorinated reactivator function using a covalent linker. On the basis of our previous work on the synthesis of central hybrid reactivators bearing 6-alkanyl-3-hydroxy-2-pyridinadoxime moiety, and with the goal to develop reactivator with greater lipophilicity and enhanced blood brain barrier (BBB)  permeability, we decided to substitute the 3-hydroxy group, initially designed to decrease the oxime pka, with a more electronegative and electron-withdrawing group such as fluorine. Fluorine is known to modulate the pka of the proximal oxime, the conformational bias and the binding properties via molecular interactions. This structural change, compared to the known 6-substituted 3-hydroxy-2-pyridinadoxime scaffold, appeared valuable for both practical and fundamental reasons, eventually providing reactivators with increased reactivation potency and better pharmacological profiles.

DIAGNOSIS OF POISONING WITH О-ISOBUTYL-S-[2-(DIETHYLAMINO) ETHYL]METHYLPHOSPHONOTHIOATE (VR) UNDER ANTIDOTAL THERAPY WITH CARBOXIM

Meeting abstracts

Nadezhda L. Koryagina, Elena I. Savelieva, Anton I. Ukolov, Darya S. Prokofieva, Nataliia S. Khlebnikova, Tatiana I. Aliushina, Elena S. Ukolova, Andrey S. Radilov, Nikolay V. Goncharov

MMSL 2018, 87(88):29

The choice of biomarkers for establishment of exposure to organophosphorus compounds (OPs) is made based on the results of assessment of the real situation with account for such factors as the required timeframe for providing the results of expert examination, nature and volume of biosamples, available equipment, and the degree of confidence of information on the influencing factor (substance, dose, way of entry, use of antidote). We estimated the efficiency of express methods of diagnosis of exposure to OPs, specifically, Ellman’s cholinesterase activity assay, as well as GC-MS/MS and HPLC/MS/MS determination of OPs fluoride-regenerated from protein adducts and low-molecular hydrolytic metabolites of OPs, respectively. The objects of study were blood and urine samples of rats exposed to VR in a dose of 2×0.4LD50 under conditions of antidotal therapy with Carboxim {5-[[[2-[benzyl(diemthyl)ammonio]ethyl]amino]carbonyl]-2-[(hydroxyimino)methyl]-1-methylpy-ridinium dichloride}. Carboxim therapy led to AChE reactivation 3 h after exposure to VR, while in the absence of the therapy the AChE activity recovered within 3 days. Fluoride regeneration of VR from its blood plasma protein adducts was possible within 7 days after poisoning irrespective of whether the therapy was applied or not О-isobutyl methylphosphonate was detected in urine 24 h after exposure in the urine samples of animals both subjected and not subjected to antidotal therapy, whereas after 3 days it was detected exclusively in the urine samples of animals not given the antidote. It was also found that blood plasma levels of free and esterified fatty acids can serve as an additional toxicodynamic parameter of VR poisoning.

BUTYRYLCHOLINESTERASE-PROTEINS INTERACTIONS IN HUMAN BLOOD SERUM

Meeting abstracts

Jacek Jasiecki, Krzysztof Waleron, Bartosz Wasąg

MMSL 2018, 87(88):81

Blood serum proteins serve various functions, including transport of lipids, hormones, vitamins. They are responsible for maintaining acid-base balance, oncotic pressure, plasma viscosity, and functioning of the immune system. There are several hundred different proteins in the blood serum, which total concentration varies within the limits of 6.6-8.7 g/dl, but only a small amount is determined for laboratory diagnostics. One of the serum protein is butyrylcholinesterase  (BChE, EC 3.1.1.8), which exists predominantly in the form of a glycosylated tetramer (G4) with a mass of 340 kDa. Four identical subunits assemble into a tetramer by the interaction of a proline-rich peptide with the BChE tetramerization domain at the C-terminus. Our results suggest that BChE interacts with plasma proteins and form much larger complexes than predicted from mass of tetramer. In order to investigate and isolate such complexes we developed  a strategy to find protein-protein interactions by combined native size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) with affinity chromatography using resin that binds BChE. Moreover, to confirm specificity of protein complexes we performed also fractionation of blood serum proteins by density gradient ultracentrifugation followed by co-immunoprecipitation using anti-BCHE monoclonal antibodies. The proteins isolated in complexes with BChE were identified by mass spectroscopy.

CORRELATION BETWEEN GLUCOCORTICOID RECEPTOR GENE VARIATION AND RESPONSIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC BRONCHITIS TAKING ORAL PREDNISOLONE

Original article

Mohammed T. Yaseen, Dalia B. Hanna, Ali M. Hadi

MMSL 2025, 94(2):48-57 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2024.004

Chronic bronchitis is increasingly reported as a healthcare challenge in clinical settings partially due to the disease's bad prognosis and unresponsiveness to therapy, including the ineffectiveness of glucocorticoids. The ineffectiveness could have a link with genetic polymorphism of receptor genes resulting in inappropriate glucocorticoid pharmacodynamics. We sought to identify the role of gene polymorphism in the response of patients with chronic bronchitis to prednisolone therapy. To do so, a total of 60 newly diagnosed chronic bronchitis patients enrolled in the present study. Prednisolone at a dose of 30mg/day for two weeks was given and respiratory parameters [forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC were measured before and after therapy. Blood samples were withdrawn for genetic profiling of genes involved in glucocorticoids pharmacodynamics, including BCII (rs41423247), N363S (rs56149945), and ER22/23EK (rs6189/rs6190) measured for their homozygous versus heterozygous gene splice variants.Results: Gene splice variants for BCII (rs41423247), N363S (rs56149945), and ER22/23EK (rs6189/rs6190) homozygous (73.3%, 98.7%, and 95%) represented a higher percentage than heterozygous (26.7%, 1.7%, and 5%). The respiratory parameters FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC have shown significantly (p<0.05) better values at baseline in homozygous versus heterozygous, correspondingly, the responsiveness to therapy has shown significantly (p<0.05) better values in homozygous versus heterozygous.Conclusion: The study has provided a good template for genetic behaviour toward individualised medicine in our locality providing that these genes could be a cornerstone for discovering issues related to the pharmacodynamics profiling of drugs in clinical settings.

BEE VENOM – FRIEND OR ENEMY

Review article

Ludovit Pudelka, Sylva Janovska, Jiri Malis, Radek Sleha, Pavel Bostik

MMSL 2025, 94(2):79-93 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2024.006

Increasing resistance to antibiotics, adverse effects of standard anti-cancer or anti-inflammatory treatments, or tumour types resistant to these treatments are leading to a search for alternatives. One of these is the use of natural products, such as bee venom, which have the same or better effect than these standard products. Bee venom has been used to treat a number of diseases for thousands of years. However, a significant obstacle remains the risk of severe allergic reactions, which can be caused by some of the more than 100 substances contained in the venom. Therefore, intensive research is currently underway to investigate not only the actual use of bee venom or its components in the above areas, but also ways to prevent these adverse effects.

THE PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF BETA CAROTENE AGAINST AMIKACIN INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY

Original article

Muthanna T. Khalaf, Zeina A. Althanoon

MMSL 2023, 92(3):247-258 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.037

Background: The rapid loss of kidney function is known as nephrotoxicity. The harmful effects of medications may cause this. Amikacin-related nephrotoxicity is an excellent illustration of such a case. Amikacin is a synthetic aminoglycoside that works against the majority of gram-negative bacteria and, in some circumstances, can be harmful to the kidneys. One of the many methods used to prevent or decrease this toxicity is the use of antioxidant substances with amikacin. Beta carotene is an antioxidant carotenoid pigment.The aim of the current study: is to illustrate the ameliorative effect of beta carotene against the nephrotoxicity caused by amikacin when given before or during the treatment of amikacin. The study also evaluates the nephrotoxicity evoked by amikacin.Material and Methods: Five groups of animals were used (seven rats in each group): the control group, the amikacin group, the beta carotene group, the beta carotene with the amikacin group, and the group given beta carotene first, then added amikacin later together with the beta carotene.Results: The results of the current study demonstrate that when comparing the amikacin-treated group to the control group, there was a significant elevation (p ˂ 0.05) of serum creatinine and urea levels. The results also showed that when comparing the amikacin -treated group to the group treated with beta carotene during amikacin treatment for 14 days, there was a significant reduction (p ˂ 0.05) in serum creatinine and urea levels. Furthermore, in comparison of the amikacin -treated group to the group treated with beta carotene only for 9 days and continued with amikacin for 14 days, there was a significant reduction (p ˂ 0.05) in serum creatinine and urea levels. Also, there were significant decreases (near normal) in serum creatinine and urea. Histological findings confirmed these findings; there was damage to renal tissue in the amikacin -treated group, whereas groups treated with beta carotene and amikacin showed improvements in histological images.Discussion and conclusion: According to the results of renal function tests and histological findings, treatment with AMK only causes renal toxicity in rats, and when rats are treated with BC before and during AMK treatment or even only during AMK treatment, BC can prevent this renal toxicity by decreasing serum urea and creatinine levels, which, in agreement with the previous study, leads us to conclude that BC offers significant protection against AMK-induced nephrotoxicity, The results also showed the efficiency of two methods of administration of beta carotene in giving the required protection against renal toxicity (not preferring one method over the other).

MAPPING CHALLENGES, STRATEGIES, AND PREPAREDNESS NEEDS OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND FUTURE VIRAL SERVICES

Original article

Vanda Bostik, Aneta Markova, Radka Prazdna, Adela Mojzisova, Petra Bendova, Ivana Havrankova, Zuzana Truhlarova, Pavel Zikl

MMSL 2026, 95(2):48-56 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2025.005

This study is based on a detailed analysis of the challenges faced by various social services in the Czech Republic during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study took into account a combination of several different data sources and included an analysis of recommendations issued during the pandemic, data from preliminary research conducted among social service providers, a questionnaire survey, and two-phase qualitative focus group interviews. Data on residential, outpatient, and field social services in the Czech Republic were collected. The main objective of the research was to map the difficulties these services faced, their working strategies and responses during the pandemic, and their requirements for possible future crises caused by viral diseases. Based on the results of the study, we proposed a number of recommendations regarding the approach of social service providers in the event that a similar situation was to recur in the future.

NATURAL PHOSPHOR ESTER CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITORS

Letter to the editor

Georg Petroianu

MMSL 2012, 81(2):82-83 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2012.011

It was with great interest and pleasure that I read the contribution of Patocka et al. in the MMSL reviewing the literature on anatoxin-A(s) an Organophosphorus Cholinesterase Inhibitor (OP) of natural origin produced by cyanobacteria (formerly identified as algae). Anatoxin-A(s), a phosphate ester of imidazole (Figure 1), is a very interesting substance that lacking the ability to cross the bloodbrain-barrier selectively and irreversibly inhibits the cholinesterases ...

USUTU VIRUS, ANOTHER EMERGING MOSQUITO-BORNE PATHOGEN IN CENTRAL EUROPE

Review article

Jakub Vojtíšek, Radek Pečta, Romana Kejíková, Zdeněk Hubálek, Silvie Šikutová, Ivo Rudolf

MMSL 2022, 91(1):51-64 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2021.031

Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging mosquito-borne pathogen belonging to the genus Flavivirus and family Flaviviridae. This African arbovirus caused a large bird die-off near Vienna in 2001. Since then the virus spread in Central, Southern and Western Europe. USUV is a primarily pathogen of birds, highly pathogenic especially for blackbirds (Turdus merula), but with proven pathogenicity for other bird species, mainly from orders Accipitriformes and Strigiformes. However, the number of human cases of USUV infection has increased recently. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on USUV taxonomy, its genome, transmission cycle involving mosquitoes as vectors and vertebrate hosts, endemic occurrence in Africa and expansive spread in Europe, surveillance in individual European countries, pathology and clinical manifestations in vertebrates, laboratory diagnosis of infection and available treatment.

OBITUARY: Prof. WILLIAM GUNN, MD, MS, FRCSC, FRCSI (Hon), DSC (Hon), dr.h.c. (10. 2. 1926 - 1. 11. 2022)

Letter to the editor

Leo Klein

MMSL 2023, 92(1):95-96

Professor Sisvan William Aram Gunn, a world-renowned authority on disaster medicine, a pioneer in the field of emergency medical systems and humanitarian medicine, a researcher, organiser and close associate of the represe-ntatives of Czechoslovak and Czech health care, died at the age of 96 in Switzerland, on November 1st, 2022. We have thoroughly featured the Professor’s life and extensive work achievements on his ninetieth birthday (MMSL, 85,2016, (1), 44-46). This brief obituary will recount just a few of his legacy’s most prominent facets.

EVALUATION OF MALONDIALDEHYDE, HOMOCYSTEINE AND ANTIOXIDANT INFLUENCE CHEMOTHERAPY IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

Original article

Tarteel A. Hamza, Sinan Adnan Muhsin, Talat Tariq Khalil

MMSL 2023, 92(2):105-111 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.027

The study was designed to evaluate the medical relevance of total homocysteine (tHcy), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) before and after chemotherapy for women with breast cancer (BRCA). Blood samples were taken from Oncology Unit in Merjian Teaching hospital in Hilla city (Iraq). Sixty patients suffering from breast cancer (BRCA) were enrolled in this study, and twenty-one apparently healthy subjects were considered as a control group control. We found that significantly increased lipid peroxidation, measured as MDA, was demonstrated in the serum of BRCA patients who were not taken any medication was higher than in the control group (P<0.01) were (25±15) nmol/ml of MDA levels in BRCA patient and (14.5±7.9) nmol/ml of MDA levels in healthy controls. We found that treatment by chemotherapy resulted in a significant increase in MDA levels when compared with MDA levels in patients who were not taken any medication. The tHcy level in BRCA patients before and after treatment were changed. In addition, it is found that the mean serum TAC levels in BRCA patients were significantly less than in the control group. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between the activity of chemotherapy and MDA levels in the patient and the same correlation between tHcy levels and TAC levels while a negative correlation was observed between TAC levels with MDA levels in the patient group.

PEROXIREDOXIN 3 WITH TOXIC METALS IN MISSED ABORTION PATIENTS

Original article

Israʼa H. AL-Hamdani, Luay A. Al-Helaly

MMSL 2023, 92(3):272-279 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2022.050

The most vital factors that hostile health human are toxic heavy metals (THMs). Heavy metals are harmful environmental contaminants that can decrease the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and afterwards impede a healthy birth. Both paternal and maternal toxic metal exposure could influence pregnancy, So the rates of pregnancy failure are constantly rising. The current study's goal is to explore the effect of Pеrоxirеdоxin 3 antioxidant, as well as some toxic metals (TMs) such as arsenic, cadmium and mercury in missed abortion patients and compared with healthy pregnant and non˗pregnant women without a history of abortion in order to evaluate the degree of this effect on this pathological situation. Additionally, it will demonstrate the connection between these biochemical variables and gestational age. Pеrоxirеdоxin 3 (Prx3), Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury (Hg) as a (THMs) were estimated in 40 healthy non˗pregnant (HNP) women, 40 healthy prеgnаnts (HP) with no abortion history, and 20 women with missed abortion (MA). All woman participants are of reproductive age, with the maternal gestational age in the HP and MA groups being ≤ 20 weeks. Maternal gestational age was used to categorize MA and HP women into two groups (1st & 2nd trimester).Regarding to the findings of recent research, Prx3 levels declined noticeably in MA patients compared to HP and HNP groups, on other hand the difference of toxic metals which represented in this study as: (As, Cd, and Hg)  elevated statistically significantly in MA patients compared to HP and HNP groups. Within the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, the difference of Prx3 levels showed statistically significant reduction between the MA and HP groups. A statistical significance elevation was found between the two comparable gestational age of both groups in regard to blood serum (As, Cd, and Hg) levels. Lastly, the impact of gestational period within MA cases was revealed, serum (Cd) and (Hg) showing a significant variation between the first and second trimester of pregnancy, whereas Prx3 and (As)  were unaffected by pregnancy advances within the MA group.

LIVER ENZYMES AND BIOCHEMICAL FUNCTION TESTS IN T2DM: IMPACT OF DURATION, GLYCEMIC CONTROL AND SOME OTHER CO-VARIABLES

Original article

Amjad Hazim Al-Naemi

MMSL 2024, 93(2):151-160 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.017

Background and Purpose: T2DM is the most common cause of end- stage liver diseases, and different mechanisms contribute to diabetic hepatopathy’s wide spectrum presentation. In this study, we aimed to identify abnormalities in liver function tests (LFTs) for a group of Iraqi T2DM patients, determine their prevalence, and investigate the influence of some independent co-variables (duration of DM, HbA1c, BMI, age, and gender). Methods: This case-control study enrolled 43 T2DM patients alongside 40 healthy, age- and sex- matched non-diabetic subjects. After overnight fasting, blood was collected, and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), HbA1c, and serum LFTs (AST, ALT, ALP, total proteins, albumin, and bilirubin) were measured in addition to serum lipids.Results: T2DM patients exhibited significantly higher FPG, HbA1c, AST, and ALT mean values than the controls. Serum aminotransferases were increased in 30% of patients. Serum albumin and total bilirubin (TSB) decreased in 18.6 and 37.2% respectively. Diabetics with HbA1c>7.0% had significantly higher AST, ALT, ALP, and STP values and lower serum albumin and TSB. The logistic regression analysis revealed that duration, BMI, HbA1c, and age are independent co-variables significantly linked to increased ALT activity. Conclusions: LFTs (mainly aminotransferases) are altered in DM. The duration of diabetes, the age of the patient, BMI, and glycemic control influence this change. We recommend monitoring LFTs in DM and maintaining good glycemic control.

EVALUATION OF FREE THYROXINE LEVEL AND BCL11A GENE POLYMORPHISM WITH BETA-THALASSEMIA

Original article

Mayssam M. Salih, Ahmed G. Al-Ziaydi, Aalan Hadi Al-zamili

MMSL 2024, 93(2):160-166 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.018

Background: Thalassemia` is an autosomal recessive hereditary chronic hemolytic anaemia caused by a partial or total deficit in the production of β -globin chains that make up the main adult haemoglobin. Patients with the beta-thalassemia major have changes in thyroid function and result from thyroid function tests. The B-cell lymphoma /leukemia11A (BCL11A) gene is mainly located in the human chromosome 2p16.1 region; the BCL11A gene can regulate the expression of fetal haemoglobin.The aim: analysis of the association between beta-thalassemia and the BCL11A gene polymorphism in the Iraqi patient and to evaluate the effect of beta-thalassemia on the thyroid gland through the determination of free thyroxine concentration.Method: There were 150 participants in this study, split into two primary groups beta-thalassemia patients and healthy individuals. The result is measured using the ELISA for measurement of free thyroxine and polymerase chain reaction techniques for amplification of B-cell lymphoma /leukemia11A (BCL11A) gene polymorphism.Results: The findings showed a substantial drop in free thyroxine levels in beta-thalassemia patient groups as compared to the control group (P 0.01). The BCL11A gene has three alleles: homozygous CC, heterozygous TC, and homozygous TT. At (431 bais pair and 280 bais pair), (431 bais pair, 280 bais pair, and 195 bais pair), and (431 bais pair, and 195 bais pair), the bands appeared, respectively. The BCL11A rs11886868 gene is affected overall, and research into the causes of thalassemia found a substantial correlation between the BCL11A (rs 11886868) T and C-alleles and thalassemia (P-value = 0.004). The fact that these people have low serum thyroxine (T4) levels highlights the importance of routine screening to assess their endocrine function.

MICRORNA-122 AS A BIOMARKER ASSOCIATED WITH OXIDATIVE STRESS IN PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM METABOLIC DISEASES

Original article

Ruqaya S. Reda, Nawal Khinteel Jabbar

MMSL 2024, 93(2):167-175 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.020

Background: Recent evidence has shown that circulating microribonucleic acid (miRNA) has been related to many diseases either as an inhibitor or a stimulant factor, among them miRNA-122 which has proven through studies its relationship with insulin resistance, an adversative lipid profile, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome in several studies; however, the mechanisms involved are unknown. This study investigates the role of miRNA-122 expression in overweight patients suffering from metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypertension and its relationship to the development of oxidative stress in patient groups.Materials and Methods: 30 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), 30 people with hypertension (HTN), 30 patients with T2DM+HTN, and 30 healthy persons who served as controls were enrolled in this study. An ARCHITECT c4000 clinical chemistry analyzer was used to assess lipid profiles. The sandwich immunodetection approach was used to assess whole blood hemoglobinA1c. By colorimetric methodology, catalase activity (CAT), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) levels were measured. The expression of serum miRNA-122 was determined using the quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Results: The activity of SOD and CAT in patient groups was found to be substantially lower than in the control group (p < 0.05), whereas MDA and AOPP concentrations were found to be significantly higher in patient groups compared to the control group (p < 0.05). When patient groups were compared to control groups, the miRNA-122 level was higher in the patients (p< 0.05).Conclusions: miRNA-122 expression is involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM and HTN-induced oxidative stress, there is a reciprocal relationship between the increase in gene expression of the miRNA-122 and the increase in oxidative stress accompanied by a decrease in the effectiveness of antioxidant enzymes, which leads to the development of the disease.

DEOXYNIVALENOL: METABOLISM AND REGIONAL DIFFERENCES IN HUMAN EXPOSURE

Review article

Qing-Hua Wu, Guang-Xu Wu, Yun Wang, Dan Wan, Xiu-Juan Zhang, Zong-Hui Yuan

MMSL 2014, 83(3):114-119 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2014.021

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most abundant mycotoxins in contaminated food and feed worldwide. It is toxic to humans and inhibits DNA, RNA and protein synthesis. In this review, the metabolism of DON and its exposure in humans from different regions are summarized. Conjugated products DON-3-glucuronide, DON-15-glucuronide, and DON-7-glucuronide are found to be the major metabolites in humans. Human exposure of DON shows some regional differences due to the different DON levels in cereal-based foods and the food intake habits. C12,13-deepoxy metabolite, DOM-1 can be found in most French populations but is rarely detected in UK adults. Spanish exposes lower DON levels than the UK populations. A very high DON exposure is detected in South Africa and Linxian, China. Fetus is shown to expose to DON during pregnancy in human. This review will provide global information of DON metabolism and exposure in humans and facilitate the mycotoxin control strategies.

COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS OF REACTION MECHANISMS FOR OPTIMIZATION OF BUTYRYLCHOLINESTERASE-BASED CATALYTIC BIOSCAVENGERS AGAINST ORGANOPHOSPHORUS AGENTS

Meeting abstracts

Sofya Lushchekina, Bella Grigorenko, Alexander Nemukhin, Sergei Varfolomeev, Patrick Masson

MMSL 2018, 87(88):13

Catalytic bioscavengers are second generation bioscavengers. These biopharmaceuticals can be used to degrade toxic organophosphorus agents (OPs) on the skin for decontamination or in the bloodstream for pre-treatment and post-exposure treatment of OP poisoning. Because degradation has to be fast, their catalytic efficiency has be as high as possible (kcat/Km>106 M-1min-1). To be of interest, the catalytic activity of certain enzymes, in particular self-reactivating ChEs, has to be increased by several orders of magnitude. This can be reached by computer-redesign, directed evolution of existing enzymes, and combinational strategies. Rational design of novel ChE-based catalytic bioscavengers requires a better understanding of chemical mechanisms of inhibition, aging of conjugate, and spontaneous reactivation. Kinetic studies, X-ray crystallography and molecular modeling, in particular QM/MM calculations, present valuable insights into specific reaction routes, role of specific amino acids and obstacles against effective reactivation of phosphylated ChEs. Introducing new functional groups surrounding the phosphylated serine should create a stable H-bonded network susceptible to activate and orient water molecule, stabilize transition states, and intermediates. Direction of nucleophilic attack of water molecule on phosphorus atom may determine whether dephosphylation is favored over aging. Mutations of key residues surrounding human BChE active site, creating new reaction pathways, have been considered. QM/MM calculations suggest that introduction of a histidine, directing attack of water molecule from apical position competes with the aging reaction, while axial direction of water attack does not. Secondary mutations for stabilizing imidazolium upon activation of water molecule lead to lower energy barrier of reactivation reaction [1].

DOSE-RATE AS A CRITICAL ASPECT OF CELLULAR RESPONSE TO GAMMA-RADIATION

Review article

Jiřina Vávrová, Martina Řezáčová, Zuzana Šinkorová, Aleš Tichý

MMSL 2018, 87(3):119-125 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2018.016

Ionizing radiation (IR) induces various types of damage in the cellular DNA, of which the most deleterious are double strand breaks. Double strand breaks lead to activation of signaling cascade aiming to repair the damage or to transiently or permanently arrest cell cycle, and/or induce cell death. In the case of high doses of ionizing radiation with a high dose-rate (0.5-1 Gy / min) where the cell repair capacity is insufficient, cell death often occurs in response to double-strand breaks. The response to the radiation exposure depends on many factors such as the cell type, its proliferation activity, and p53 status. In tumor cells, cell death is associated primarily with apoptosis or mitotic catastrophe. In normal fibroblasts, cells accumulate in the G1 phase of the cell cycle and so-called premature senescence occurs after irradiation.In cells with functional p53 protein an increase in the p21 protein (cell division inhibitor) and accumulation of the cells in the G1 phase occurs. In the case of very low-dose rate (LDR), this accumulation is transient; after DNA damage repair, the cells continue to divide. Upon irradiation with higher doses at a LDR, accumulation in the G1 phase is irreversible; p16 protein is upregulated and the status of premature senescence is induced.  The same dose of radiation administered at LDRs results in more senescence than after an acute exposure.In the case of the use of IR for the eradication of tumor cells, the status of these cells is important in terms of p53 and proliferation. About fifty percent of tumor cells do not possess p53 protein or are mutant, and after irradiation they accumulate in the G2 phase and repair the IR-induced damage (e.g. HL-60 cells). In HL-60 cells (p53-/- human promyelocytic leukemia), G2 phase accumulation occurs during irradiation with low dose rate, and their radioresistance increases if the cells are irradiated in the G2-phase. When the dose-rate is very low, the cells enter the mitotic cycle during irradiation, and because cels in mitosis are highly radiosensitive, apoptosis is induced and thus their radiosensitivity increases as well.

HISTOLOGICAL AND HISTOMORPHOMETRIC EVALUATION OF THE SYSTEMIC METFORMIN ADMINISTRATION ON BONE HEALING IN RABBITS

Original article

Raad M. Hussein, Ghada A. Taqa

MMSL 2024, 93(1):100-111 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.011

Background: After injuries, infections, or tumor removal, endogenous healing depends on bone repair. Disorders of bone healing are difficult to treat in clinical settings. There are numerous induced methods for correcting bone abnormalities, such as the induced membrane technique, allogenic bone grafting, synthetic bone grafting, artificial joint replacement, and autologous bone grafting. However, the delivery of the bone graft and bone filling materials necessitates surgical implantation at the fracture site, which could cause edema, infection, and the development of heterotopic bone locally. Therefore, systemically administered osteogenic drugs will provide an excellent method for bone lesion healing. Aim of the study: to evaluate the systemic effect of metformin on bone healing after surgical induction of bony defect and to determine the amount of newly formed bone using histological, histomorphometric analysis, and the surface area measurement of newly formed bone. Also to study the safety of metformin administration at the administered dose for this purpose. Materials and methods: Twenty mature male New Zealand rabbits were separated into two groups, each including ten rabbits for the study. The same surgical procedure was performed on all rabbits. Two holes were made at the femur (3 mm in diameter and 3 mm in depth) and left empty. Metformin tablets were ground into a fine powder and the resultant powder was dissolved in 10ml of water to prepare a liquid dosage containing 50 mg /1ml of metformin. Metformin is administered orally to the rabbits through a feeding tube at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. Animals were euthanized at two-time intervals, 14 and 28 days. The femur was separated, sectioned preserved, and sent for histological analysis and histomor-phometry. Results: The results revealed that there is an increase in new bone formation and bone-forming cells in the metformin-treated group. Conclusion: Metformin increases bone healing by increasing the number of bone-forming cells and the surface area of newly formed bone tissues and causes less inflammatory response at the site of a bone lesion. So it possesses an osteogenic effect.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES OF RESPIRATORY DISEASES AND IMPACT ON EMPLOYEE MORBIDITY - POSSIBILITIES OF USING ELECTRONIC PLATFORMS

Review article

Klára Václavíková, Kristýna Šoukalová, Marcela Kožená, Zdeněk Brodský, Michaela Mandysová, Hana Ochtinská, Karel Šatera, Kateřina Horáčková

MMSL 2024, 93(2):206-217 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.019

Aims: Prevention is one of the most effective methods in the fight against respiratory infections. Electronic platforms can streamline care and have positive applications in the case of infectious diseases. This study was conducted to search for and describe the current scientific knowledge on prevention and the use of electronic platforms and their impact on the application of prevention strategies.Methods: A scoping review was conducted. In January 2022, a search was performed in selected licensed and free databases (EBSCOhost, Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science) based on PCC keywords using Boolean operators.Results: A total of 1927 sources were retrieved, of which 21 were subjected to critical analysis. 8 sources were included in the final review. Vaccination, social isolation, hygienic hand disinfection and respiratory protection are described as the most common and effective preventive measures. The platforms described had a positive effect on prevention and improving the quality of care.Conclusion: The effectiveness of the use of electronic platforms in prevention has been confirmed. Future research should be directed towards the development of these platforms to enable better diagnosis and treatment. Prevention-focused platforms can facilitate, simplify and improve care and access in the prevention of respiratory diseases.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SERUM MIDKINE IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS OF INVASIVE DUCTAL CARCINOMA OF THE BREAST

Original article

Noor Al-Huda J. Muhammad, Haider A. Jabbar, Nahidh R. Kazem

MMSL 2024, 93(4):342-354 | DOI: 10.31482/mmsl.2023.043

Background and Objectives: Initial diagnosis of brest cancer (BC) is important for fate and prognosis of the diseases profile, we sought to identify the correlation between Midkine (MK) as a new biomarker with cancer antigen (CA)15-3, liver function test, renal function test, blood cells parameters in individuals with invasive ductal carcinoma.Methods: The serum MK and CA15-3  of all subjects were measured by the ELISA technique, Liver enzymes were measured by colourimetric methods and neutrophils, and lymphocytes were measured by an Electrical Impedance Cell Counting method (automated machine).Results: The results of the correlation among serum MK and other parameters in invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast showed a considerable positive correlation among MK and CA15-3 and measured white blood cells. Moreover, there were a weak correlation with Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and RBC, while there is no correlation between serum MK and other liver enzymes or blood parameters. Conclusion: The study results of the correlation between serum MK and other parameters in colorectal carcinoma patients show a significant positive correlation of MK with CA15-3 markers in invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast.

 previous    1   2   3   4   5  6   7   8   9   10   11   ...    next