Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuou...Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.展开更多
Objective:Premature rupture of membranes(PROM)is a common pregnancy disorder that is closely associated with structural weakening of fetal membranes.Studies have found that formyl peptide receptor 1(FPR1)activates inf...Objective:Premature rupture of membranes(PROM)is a common pregnancy disorder that is closely associated with structural weakening of fetal membranes.Studies have found that formyl peptide receptor 1(FPR1)activates inflammatory pathways and amniotic epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),stimulates collagen degradation,and leads to membrane weakening and membrane rupture.The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and EMT inhibitory effects of FPR1 antagonist(BOC-MLF)to provide a basis for clinical prevention of PROM.Methods:The relationship between PROM,FPR1,and EMT was analyzed in human fetal membrane tissue and plasma samples using Western blotting,PCR,Masson staining,and ELISA assays.Lipopolysaccharide(LPS)was used to establish a fetal membrane inflammation model in pregnant rats,and BOC-MLF was used to treat the LPS rat model.We detected interleukin(IL)-6 in blood from the rat hearts to determine whether the inflammatory model was successful and whether the anti-inflammatory treatment was effective.We used electron microscopy to analyze the structure and collagen expression of rat fetal membrane.Results:Western blotting,PCR and Masson staining indicated that the expression of FPR1 was significantly increased,the expression of collagen was decreased,and EMT appeared in PROM.The rat model indicated that LPS caused the collapse of fetal membrane epithelial cells,increased intercellular gaps,and decreased collagen.BOC-MLF promoted an increase in fetal membrane collagen,inhibited EMT,and reduced the weakening of fetal membranes.Conclusion:The expression of FPR1 in the fetal membrane of PROM was significantly increased,and EMT of the amniotic membrane was obvious.BOC-MLF can treat inflammation and inhibit amniotic EMT.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon with an unknown etiology.Alkaline sphingomyelinase(alk-SMase)is specifically expressed by intestinal epithelial cells,and has been reported ...BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon with an unknown etiology.Alkaline sphingomyelinase(alk-SMase)is specifically expressed by intestinal epithelial cells,and has been reported to play an anti-inflammatory role.However,the underlying mechanism is still unclear.AIM To explore the mechanism of alk-SMase anti-inflammatory effects on intestinal barrier function and oxidative stress in dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced colitis.METHODS Mice were administered 3%DSS drinking water,and disease activity index was determined to evaluate the status of colitis.Intestinal permeability was evaluated by gavage administration of fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran,and bacterial translocation was evaluated by measuring serum lipopolysaccharide.Intestinal epithelial cell ultrastructure was observed by electron microscopy.Western blotting and quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the expression of intestinal barrier proteins and mRNA,respectively.Serum oxidant and antioxidant marker levels were analyzed using commercial kits to assess oxidative stress levels.RESULTS Compared to wild-type(WT)mice,inflammation and intestinal permeability in alk-SMase knockout(KO)mice were more severe beginning 4 d after DSS induction.The mRNA and protein levels of intestinal barrier proteins,including zonula occludens-1,occludin,claudin-3,claudin-5,claudin-8,mucin 2,and secretory immunoglobulin A,were significantly reduced on 4 d after DSS treatment.Ultrastructural observations revealed progressive damage to the tight junctions of intestinal epithelial cells.Furthermore,by day 4,mitochondria appeared swollen and degenerated.Additionally,compared to WT mice,serum malondialdehyde levels in KO mice were higher,and the antioxidant capacity was significantly lower.The expression of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)in the colonic mucosal tissue of KO mice was significantly decreased after DSS treatment.mRNA levels of Nrf2-regulated downstream antioxidant enzymes were also decreased.Finally,colitis in KO mice could be effectively relieved by the injection of tertiary butylhydroquinone,which is an Nrf2 activator.CONCLUSION Alk-SMase regulates the stability of the intestinal mucosal barrier and enhances antioxidant activity through the Nrf2 signaling pathway.展开更多
Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellula...Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.展开更多
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from develop...BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers.AIM To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control.METHODS We used data acquired from the Taiwan,Chinaese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017.We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for>3 months.The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for>3 months per annum during RESULTS We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017.Among these,46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM,and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group.The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers.DM patients with regular herb use had a 12%decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)=0.88,95%CI=0.80–0.97].The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers.Patients with a herb use of>5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC(aHR=0.82,P<0.05).Of patients who developed HCC,herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers(aHR=0.78,P=0.0001).Additionally,we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents.Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge(Dan Shen),and Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim.(Tian Hua Fen)were the most frequent combination of single herbs.Meanwhile,Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas.CONCLUSION This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12%in DM patients with regular insulin use.展开更多
Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Ve...Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Vernonia amygdalina(Bitter leaf).The study specifically investigates their effects on different bacterial strains associated with gastroenteritis.Methods:Four enteric bacterial isolates-Klebsiella pneumoniae,Salmonella typhi,Escherichia coli,and Proteus mirabilis-were obtained from the Medical Laboratory Unit at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State.Phytochemical screening and antibacterial testing were conducted using standard biochemical techniques and the Punch-hole agar diffusion method,respectively.Results:Qualitative phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids,glycosides,and saponin in both plants,excluding terpenoids.Alkaloids were identified only in Vernonia amygdalina.Despite these phytochemicals,neither plant displayed inhibitory effects on the tested bacterial isolates(Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Klebsiella pneumoniae,and Salmonella typhi)when tested individually or in combination.Intriguingly,combining the fresh and dried leaf extracts of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina with a standard drug resulted in smaller mean zone diameters of inhibition(Escherichia coli range:14 mm–16 mm,Proteus mirabilis range:31 mm–35 mm,Klebsiella pneumoniae range:13 mm–22 mm,and Salmonella typhi range:35 mm–38 mm)compared to the drug tested alone(16 mm–45 mm).Conclusion:Despite previous indications of antibacterial properties in various extracts of V.amygdalina and M.charantia leaves,our study presents contradictory results,prompting the need for further investigation despite the presence of significant phytochemicals.展开更多
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC develop...BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC development and progression may reveal new therapeutic strategies.Ubiquitin-specific peptidases(USPs),the largest group of the deubiquitinase protein family,have long been implicated in various cancers.There have been numerous studies on the role of USPs in CRC;however,a comprehensive view of this role is lacking.AIM To provide a systematic review of the studies investigating the roles and functions of USPs in CRC.METHODS We systematically queried the MEDLINE(via PubMed),Scopus,and Web of Science databases.RESULTS Our study highlights the pivotal role of various USPs in several processes implicated in CRC:Regulation of the cell cycle,apoptosis,cancer stemness,epithelial–mesenchymal transition,metastasis,DNA repair,and drug resistance.The findings of this study suggest that USPs have great potential as drug targets and noninvasive biomarkers in CRC.The dysregulation of USPs in CRC contributes to drug resistance through multiple mechanisms.CONCLUSION Targeting specific USPs involved in drug resistance pathways could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming resistance to current treatment regimens in CRC.展开更多
The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (AIDS) and hepatitis B virus among heavy truck drivers and their assistants has been well documented globally in correlation with their behavioral characteristics. The pr...The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (AIDS) and hepatitis B virus among heavy truck drivers and their assistants has been well documented globally in correlation with their behavioral characteristics. The present study aimed to screen for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and behavioral characteristics among heavy truck drivers in Port Sudan. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 274 heavy truck drivers and their assistants who used the highway Port Sudan-Khartoum in Port Sudan city during 2019-2021. Data on behavioral characteristics and substance use habits were collected using a structured questionnaire, and an ELISA test was used to screen for HIV and HBV infections in the study participants. The chi-square test, odds ratio, and confidence intervals were used to find the association between behavioral characteristics and seropositive HIV/HBV. Of the 274 enrolled participants, the seroprevalence rates of HIV were 2.7% and HBV was 23.7%. Ninety-four (34.3%) of them had a history of high-risk sexual behavior outside of marriage;only two (0.7%) used condoms;14.2% of participants reported alcohol use;and 1.1% reported drug use. Univariate analysis revealed that having a sex history outside of marriage with ≥1 sex partner and never using a condom with a spouse or casual partner were significant risk factors for HIV and HBV among drivers. Fortunately, we found that most of the drivers reported low alcohol and drug use. Concerning this study, the seroprevalence of HIV and HBV is highly associated with a history of having sex outside of marriage and sexual behavior among truck drivers and assistances. Additional studies are needed to further investigate other STIs and behavioral characteristics associated with factors in truck drivers/assistance in different truck stop regions in Sudan.展开更多
Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)w...Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)worldwide in 2020:8.8 million(48%)in females and 9.3 million(52%)in males,giving a male:female ratio of 10:9.5.It may be initiated by the action of biological,physical,or chemical agents that cause a non-lethal,permanent,DNA error on the cell with a consequence of altered cell metabolism.This altered cell metabolism include the Warburg effect,altered lipid and amino acid metabolism and production of various metabolites.It also results in unique metabolic dependencies that,in some cases,can be targeted with precision medicine and nutrition,including drugs that selectively target metabolic enzymes.Metabolic fingerprinting has been applied to the study of carcinogenesis and is particularly helpful in early diagnosis,staging and choice of treatment,thus improving health outcomes.This technology could therefore be harnessed effectively while combining with other omics technologies.展开更多
Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to disc...Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at i...<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at increased risk of occupational exposure. However, vaccination against HBV is not systematic among medical students in Cameroon. Thus, we sought to evaluate awareness and HBV vaccine coverage amongst medical students in Cameroon. <strong>Aim:</strong> The present study was aimed at determining the proportion of Medical and Paramedical students on internship at the Bamenda Regional Hospital (BRH) who are vaccinated and immune to hepatitis B virus (HBV). <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a hospital-based cross sectional study carried out at the BRH in Cameroon. Questionnaires were administered to 120 participants who signed an informed consent form and venous blood samples collected in dry tubes for the HBV-5 PANEL test. Data were collected within a period of two weeks. HBV vaccine status was defined as complete (3 doses), partial (1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. <strong>Results:</strong> Of 120 participants (87 females and 33 males), 56 (46.7%) were vaccinated at least once against HBV;15 (12.5%) were partially vaccinated and 41 (34.2%) completely vaccinated. Out of the 56 vaccinated individuals, only 13 (23.2%) were confirmed immunized against HBV by testing positive for hepatitis B surface antibodies. Only 3 (5.4%) students had done post-vaccination serologic test to confirm their immunized status. There was high exposure to potentially infected body fluids like blood (97.5%) and urine (87.5%). There was equally poor practice of adequate preventive measures like regular hand washing and the proper use of personal protective equipment. A prevalence of 3.1% of HBV amongst the unvaccinated group was recorded. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Only 1 in 3 medical students had completed the HBV vaccination series and only 26.8% of this cohort was confirmed immunized against HBV. This highlights the need for improved health policies aimed at increasing access and coverage of HBV immunization in high risk groups such as health workers.展开更多
Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and dir...Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.展开更多
Objectives: Rapid and accurate identification of persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19 is key to managing the pandemic. The urgent need to scale up access to COVID-19 testing in Nigeria has led to the...Objectives: Rapid and accurate identification of persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19 is key to managing the pandemic. The urgent need to scale up access to COVID-19 testing in Nigeria has led to the government’s introduction of the use of COVID-19 Ag rapid diagnostic test (RDT) across various settings in the country. However, field performance evaluation of the rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test is required to be conducted periodically and compared with the gold standard real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for diagnosis of COVID-19 cases. Design: A prospective COVID-19 screening and un-blinded verification of the performance of the STANDARD Q COVID-19 Ag test kit. Setting: The rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test, Standard<sup>TM</sup> Q COVID-19 Ag kit was compared with the RT-PCR test for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples for COVID-19 screening from persons and personnel attending a national youth camp orientation exercise during the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak (January to March 2021) in Ondo state, southwest Nigeria. Participants: Three hundred fifty-one persons and personnel were screened for COVID-19 infection. Results: Of 351 respondents screened, 68 (19.4%) were positive, and 264 (75.2%) were negative for both COVID-19 Ag RDT and RT-PCR assay. The rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test’s sensitivity and specificity were 78.16% (95% CI = 68.02% - 86.31%) and 100.0% (95% CI = 98.61% - 100.0%), respectively and the diagnostic accuracy was 94.59% (95% CI: 92 - 97). Respondents that were symptomatic had a higher test sensitivity of 78.6% (49.2 - 95.3) compared to those without symptoms 78.1% (66.9 - 86.9) (p Conclusions: Our study shows evidence that Standard<sup>TM</sup> Q COVID-19 Ag kit can be an appropriate rapid antigen test that could be used to screen for positive COVID-19 tests to guide decision-making for clinical management of persons infected with COVID-19, especially for closed settings and other clinical care settings.展开更多
Objective:The heightened prevalence of pulmonary nodules(PN)has escalated its significance as a public health concern.While the precise identification of high-risk PN carriers for malignancy remains an ongoing challen...Objective:The heightened prevalence of pulmonary nodules(PN)has escalated its significance as a public health concern.While the precise identification of high-risk PN carriers for malignancy remains an ongoing challenge,genetic variants hold potentials as determinants of disease susceptibility that can aid in diagnosis.Yet,current understanding of the genetic loci associated with malignant PN(MPN)risk is limited.Methods:A frequency-matched case-control study was performed,comprising 247 MPN cases and 412 benign NP(BNP)controls.We genotyped 11 established susceptibility loci for lung cancer in a Chinese cohort.Loci associated with MPN risk were utilized to compute a polygenic risk score(PRS).This PRS was subsequently incorporated into the diagnostic evaluation of MPNs,with emphasis on serum tumor biomarkers.Results:Loci rs10429489G>A,rs17038564A>G,and rs12265047A>G were identified as being associated with an increased risk of MPNs.The PRS,formulated from the cumulative risk effects of these loci,correlated with the malignant risk of PNs in a dose-dependent fashion.A high PRS was found to amplify the MPN risk by 156%in comparison to a low PRS[odds ratio(OR)=2.56,95%confidence interval(95%CI),1.40−4.67].Notably,the PRS was observed to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of serum carcinoembryonic antigen(CEA)in distinguishing MPNs from BPNs,with diagnostic values rising from 0.716 to 0.861 across low-to high-PRS categories.Further bioinformatics investigations pinpointed rs10429489G>A as an expression quantitative trait locus.Conclusions:Loci rs10429489G>A,rs17038564A>G,and rs12265047A>G contribute to MPN risk and augment the diagnostic precision for MPNs based on serum CEA concentrations.展开更多
Background:The immune system of insects exerts fundamentally different antiviral mechanisms than mammals.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)play vital roles in developing insect antiviral immunity.MiRNAs expression profiles of insects ...Background:The immune system of insects exerts fundamentally different antiviral mechanisms than mammals.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)play vital roles in developing insect antiviral immunity.MiRNAs expression profiles of insects changed significantly during baculovirus infection.Methods:Differential expression profiles of miRNAs in Spodoptera frugiperda were monitored by next-generation sequencing(NGS)and RT-qPCR during Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus(AcMNPV)infection.The transcription levels of genes were detected by RT-qPCR.The 50%tissue culture infective dose(TCID_(50))endpoint dilution assay was used to determine the proliferation of progeny virus.Results:NGS revealed that 49 miRNAs were differentially expressed in Sf9 cells,and 10 of them were significantly up-or down-regulated.Though RT-qPCR analysis,we observed the similar trends for the expression patterns of significantly differentially expressed miRNAs from NGS.Moreover,the transcription levels of core genes,Exportin5,Dicer1,and Argonaute1,in miRNA biogenesis pathways were significantly increased after AcMNPV infection.For five selected miRNAs,miR-34-5p could regulate the proliferation of baculovirus progeny virus and energy metabolism.Conclusion:The miRNAs biogenesis pathway in Sf9 cells plays an important role and may be stimulated to resist AcMNPV infection.This work provides evidence for the molecular mechanism of baculovirus-insect interaction and offers novel ideas and directions for green pest control technology.展开更多
The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by l...The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by low predictive potential and inability to predict which patients are at risk of developing metastatic disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the exon 4 of the KLK2 gene of subjects for changes in its nucleotide sequences (SNPs) and determine the correlation of these changes with serum PSA in an Igbo population of Nigeria. One hundred male subjects aged 40 years and above, who gave their consent, were used for the study. Their PSA determinations were done using ELISA technique while genetic studies were carried out using real-time PCR. tPSA, fPSA, and % fPSA of the subjects ranged between 0.8% - 18.30%, 0.10% - 1.60% and 0.0% - 0.7% respectively. Of the 100 subjects, 28 subjects had tPSA levels above 4.0 ng/ml with a mean of 7.10 (±3.30) ng/ml. Those with tPSA less than 4 ng/ml had a mean of 1.87 (±0.85) ng/m. 15 subjects showed SNPs with a mean tPSA of 6.87 (±4.82) ng/ml while the remaining 85 subjects without SNPs had a mean of 1.86 (±0.80) ng/ml. Results from direct DNA sequencing showed 11 SNPs. Ten subjects are curated in SNP database while one is uncurated. The Chi-square test showed significant association (p = 0.00) between tPSA levels and SNPs mutation (X<sup>2</sup> = 17.35, p = 0.00). A Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated that the positional arrangement of the SNP mutations had no effect on PSA-total or free-values (H (10) = 10.92, p = 0.28;H (10) = 10.07, p = 0.38 respectively). Two SNPs: rs6072 and rs74478031 were associated with elevated PSA levels (p < 0.05). Their presence, therefore, has the potential to serve, in conjunction with raised PSA, as biomarkers of prostate cancer in the study population.展开更多
BACKGROUND Antinuclear antibodies(ANAs)are crucial in diagnosing autoimmune diseases,mainly systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE).This study aimed to compare the performance of chemiluminescence assay(CLIA)and line immuno...BACKGROUND Antinuclear antibodies(ANAs)are crucial in diagnosing autoimmune diseases,mainly systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE).This study aimed to compare the performance of chemiluminescence assay(CLIA)and line immunoassay(LIA)in detecting ANAs in patients with autoimmune diseases,evaluate their diagnostic accuracy for SLE,and develop a novel diagnostic model using CLIA-detected antibodies for SLE.Specimens from patients with autoimmune diseases and physical examination specimens were collected to parallel detect specific antibodies.Individual antibodies'diagnostic performance and a model combining multiple antibodies were assessed.The findings provide valuable insights into improving the diagnosis of SLE through innovative approaches.AIM To compare the performance of CLIA and LIA in detecting ANAs in patients with autoimmune diseases,assess their accuracy for SLE,and develop a novel diagnostic model using CLIA-detected antibodies for SLE.METHODS Specimens have been obtained from 270 patients with clinically diagnosed autoimmune disorders,as well as 130 physical examination specimens.After that,parallel detection of anti-double-stranded DNA(dsDNA)antibody,anti-histone(Histone)antibody,anti-nucleosome(Nuc)antibody,anti-Smith(Sm)antibody,anti-ribosomal P protein(Rib-P)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome A(Ro60)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome A(Ro52)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome(SSB)antibody,anticentromere protein B(Cenp-B)antibody,anti-DNA topoisomerase 1(Scl-70)antibody,anti-histidyl tRNA synthetase(Jo-1)antibody,and anti-mitochondrial M2(AMA-M2)antibody was performed using CLIA and LIA.The detection rates,compliance rates,and diagnostic performance for SLE were compared between the two methodologies,followed by developing a novel diagnostic model for SLE.RESULTS CLIA and LIA exhibited essentially comparable detection rates for anti-dsDNA antibody,anti-Histone antibody,anti-Nuc antibody,anti-Sm antibody,anti-Rib-P antibody,anti-Ro60 antibody,anti-Ro52 antibody,anti-SSB antibody,anti-Cenp-B antibody,anti-DNAScl-70 antibody,anti-Jo-1 antibody and anti-AMA-M2 antibody(P>0.05).The two methods displayed identical results for the detection of anti-dsDNA antibody,anti-Histone antibody,anti-Nuc antibody,anti-Sm antibody,anti-Ro60 antibody,anti-Ro52 antibody,anti-SSB antibody,anti-Cenp-B antibody,anti-Scl-70 antibody,and anti-AMA-M2 antibody(Kappa>0.7,P<0.05),but showed a moderate agreement for the detection of anti-Rib-P antibody and anti-Jo-1 antibody(Kappa=0.671 and 0.665;P<0.05).In addition,the diagnostic performance of these antibodies detected by both methods was similar for SLE.The diagnostic model's area under the curve values,sensitivity,and specificity,including an anti-dsDNA antibody and an anti-Ro60 antibody detected by CLIA,were 0.997,0.962,and 0.978,respectively.These values were higher than the diagnostic performance of individual antibodies.CONCLUSION CLIA and LIA demonstrated excellent overall consistency in detecting ANA profiles.A diagnostic model based on CLIA-detected antibodies can successfully contribute to developing a novel technique for detecting SLE.展开更多
Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (...Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (Taraba, Benue and Adamawa) and Abuja. An electronic survey prepared using Google Form was used to collect information through social media such as WhatsApp. The research tool was validated by three experts in public health and the reliability test was done using Cronbach Alpha and a 0.7 co-efficient was obtained. The findings from the study revealed that 98.1% respondents have heard about telemedicine while 98.1% agreed that mobile health can help especially during emergency. However, 97.2% knew telemedicine involves Live consultation and interactive sessions from a distance. Nevertheless, 95.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to access clinical services from a distance while 93.4% were aware that telemedicine has provision for storage and forwarding, 82.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to easily reach medical specialists. On their attitudes towards telemedicine, 49.7% and 49.4% of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed respectively that telemedicine makes it easier for one to reach his doctor while 42% and 49.4% agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine helps to curb the spread of infection. However, 47% and 49.7% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine enables one to receive medical attention even at odd hours or while in remote villages. Meanwhile, 42% and 49.4% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine reduces cost. Also, 44.2% and 51.9% of the respondents respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine offers appropriate medical follow-up. Nevertheless, 43.6% of the respondents agreed while 52.8% strongly agreed that telemedicine offers medical attention while one is in the comfort of his home. Finally, 45% and 47% of the participants respectively agreed and strongly agreed that with telemedicine one does not need to waste a whole day of work just to receive medical attention. In conclusion, the knowledge of telemedicine was high (82.9%) among the Salesmen while the attitude reflected high (93.6%) acceptance. Therefore, there is a need to introduce the use of telemedicine Apps to the Salesmen and also subsidize the applications.展开更多
Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, ele...Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, elevated plasma homocysteine levels have been reported to contribute to epithelial damage leading to coronary artery disease and other metabolic syndromes. This study was aimed at evaluating the concentration of plasma homocysteine in diabetics and hypertensive patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methods: The study population included 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Hypertensivesubjectsas group (I), 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Normotensive subjects as group (II), 60 Hypertensive subjects as group (III), and 60 healthy subjects as control group within the age range of 30 - 70 years. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to quantitatively measure homocysteine in the serum sample, glycated haemoglobin were determined quantitatively using sandwich immunodetection and blood pressure was determined using mercury sphygnanometer. Statistics: The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.4.1, and statistical significance was determined by a P Results: The results showed significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensive comorbidity patients when compared to healthy controls, P Conclusion: Our result shows an increase in plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensives when compared to controls, and comorbidity instigates a higher increase in plasma levels when compared with the single morbidity.展开更多
Stains are applied to impart contrast to the tissue and identify particular features of interest. However, the use of synthetic dyes as staining reagents has been associated with significant human health challenges an...Stains are applied to impart contrast to the tissue and identify particular features of interest. However, the use of synthetic dyes as staining reagents has been associated with significant human health challenges and pollution of the ecosystem. These developments have necessitated a shift towards using natural dyes that are eco-friendlier and readily available. We investigated the staining reaction patterns of teak tree leaves (Tectona grandis) dye extracts and explored their suitability as a cytoplasmic stain in micromorphological assessments. Dye extracts were prepared using acetone, methanol, and ethanol as solvents from air-dried (under shade) teak tree young leaves. The dye extracts were applied as a counterstain and evaluated against eosin in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) bovine tissue sections at varying concentrations and different staining times. Teak tree leaves (Tectona grandis) dye extracts produced relatively varying staining intensities of reddish-brown cytoplasmic coloration when used on bovine tissue at different concentrations and staining times comparable to eosin and with blue-purple hematoxylin nuclear stain. The present study showed that Tectona grandis leaf dye extracts provide an excellent cytoplasmic staining pattern and can be used as an alternative counterstain in routine H&E staining techniques.展开更多
文摘Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.
文摘Objective:Premature rupture of membranes(PROM)is a common pregnancy disorder that is closely associated with structural weakening of fetal membranes.Studies have found that formyl peptide receptor 1(FPR1)activates inflammatory pathways and amniotic epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),stimulates collagen degradation,and leads to membrane weakening and membrane rupture.The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and EMT inhibitory effects of FPR1 antagonist(BOC-MLF)to provide a basis for clinical prevention of PROM.Methods:The relationship between PROM,FPR1,and EMT was analyzed in human fetal membrane tissue and plasma samples using Western blotting,PCR,Masson staining,and ELISA assays.Lipopolysaccharide(LPS)was used to establish a fetal membrane inflammation model in pregnant rats,and BOC-MLF was used to treat the LPS rat model.We detected interleukin(IL)-6 in blood from the rat hearts to determine whether the inflammatory model was successful and whether the anti-inflammatory treatment was effective.We used electron microscopy to analyze the structure and collagen expression of rat fetal membrane.Results:Western blotting,PCR and Masson staining indicated that the expression of FPR1 was significantly increased,the expression of collagen was decreased,and EMT appeared in PROM.The rat model indicated that LPS caused the collapse of fetal membrane epithelial cells,increased intercellular gaps,and decreased collagen.BOC-MLF promoted an increase in fetal membrane collagen,inhibited EMT,and reduced the weakening of fetal membranes.Conclusion:The expression of FPR1 in the fetal membrane of PROM was significantly increased,and EMT of the amniotic membrane was obvious.BOC-MLF can treat inflammation and inhibit amniotic EMT.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province,No.823MS046the Talent Program of Hainan Medical University,No.XRC2022007.
文摘BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon with an unknown etiology.Alkaline sphingomyelinase(alk-SMase)is specifically expressed by intestinal epithelial cells,and has been reported to play an anti-inflammatory role.However,the underlying mechanism is still unclear.AIM To explore the mechanism of alk-SMase anti-inflammatory effects on intestinal barrier function and oxidative stress in dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced colitis.METHODS Mice were administered 3%DSS drinking water,and disease activity index was determined to evaluate the status of colitis.Intestinal permeability was evaluated by gavage administration of fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran,and bacterial translocation was evaluated by measuring serum lipopolysaccharide.Intestinal epithelial cell ultrastructure was observed by electron microscopy.Western blotting and quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the expression of intestinal barrier proteins and mRNA,respectively.Serum oxidant and antioxidant marker levels were analyzed using commercial kits to assess oxidative stress levels.RESULTS Compared to wild-type(WT)mice,inflammation and intestinal permeability in alk-SMase knockout(KO)mice were more severe beginning 4 d after DSS induction.The mRNA and protein levels of intestinal barrier proteins,including zonula occludens-1,occludin,claudin-3,claudin-5,claudin-8,mucin 2,and secretory immunoglobulin A,were significantly reduced on 4 d after DSS treatment.Ultrastructural observations revealed progressive damage to the tight junctions of intestinal epithelial cells.Furthermore,by day 4,mitochondria appeared swollen and degenerated.Additionally,compared to WT mice,serum malondialdehyde levels in KO mice were higher,and the antioxidant capacity was significantly lower.The expression of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)in the colonic mucosal tissue of KO mice was significantly decreased after DSS treatment.mRNA levels of Nrf2-regulated downstream antioxidant enzymes were also decreased.Finally,colitis in KO mice could be effectively relieved by the injection of tertiary butylhydroquinone,which is an Nrf2 activator.CONCLUSION Alk-SMase regulates the stability of the intestinal mucosal barrier and enhances antioxidant activity through the Nrf2 signaling pathway.
文摘Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.
基金the National Science and Technology Council of Taiwan,China,No.NSC112-2320-B-039-045-China Medical University Hospital,No.DMR-111-013,No.DMR-111-195,No.DMR-112-004 and No.DMR-112-177Department of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy and Ministry of Health and Welfare,No.MOHW-112-CMC-03.
文摘BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers.AIM To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control.METHODS We used data acquired from the Taiwan,Chinaese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017.We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for>3 months.The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for>3 months per annum during RESULTS We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017.Among these,46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM,and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group.The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers.DM patients with regular herb use had a 12%decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)=0.88,95%CI=0.80–0.97].The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers.Patients with a herb use of>5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC(aHR=0.82,P<0.05).Of patients who developed HCC,herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers(aHR=0.78,P=0.0001).Additionally,we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents.Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge(Dan Shen),and Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim.(Tian Hua Fen)were the most frequent combination of single herbs.Meanwhile,Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas.CONCLUSION This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12%in DM patients with regular insulin use.
文摘Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Vernonia amygdalina(Bitter leaf).The study specifically investigates their effects on different bacterial strains associated with gastroenteritis.Methods:Four enteric bacterial isolates-Klebsiella pneumoniae,Salmonella typhi,Escherichia coli,and Proteus mirabilis-were obtained from the Medical Laboratory Unit at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State.Phytochemical screening and antibacterial testing were conducted using standard biochemical techniques and the Punch-hole agar diffusion method,respectively.Results:Qualitative phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids,glycosides,and saponin in both plants,excluding terpenoids.Alkaloids were identified only in Vernonia amygdalina.Despite these phytochemicals,neither plant displayed inhibitory effects on the tested bacterial isolates(Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Klebsiella pneumoniae,and Salmonella typhi)when tested individually or in combination.Intriguingly,combining the fresh and dried leaf extracts of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina with a standard drug resulted in smaller mean zone diameters of inhibition(Escherichia coli range:14 mm–16 mm,Proteus mirabilis range:31 mm–35 mm,Klebsiella pneumoniae range:13 mm–22 mm,and Salmonella typhi range:35 mm–38 mm)compared to the drug tested alone(16 mm–45 mm).Conclusion:Despite previous indications of antibacterial properties in various extracts of V.amygdalina and M.charantia leaves,our study presents contradictory results,prompting the need for further investigation despite the presence of significant phytochemicals.
文摘BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC development and progression may reveal new therapeutic strategies.Ubiquitin-specific peptidases(USPs),the largest group of the deubiquitinase protein family,have long been implicated in various cancers.There have been numerous studies on the role of USPs in CRC;however,a comprehensive view of this role is lacking.AIM To provide a systematic review of the studies investigating the roles and functions of USPs in CRC.METHODS We systematically queried the MEDLINE(via PubMed),Scopus,and Web of Science databases.RESULTS Our study highlights the pivotal role of various USPs in several processes implicated in CRC:Regulation of the cell cycle,apoptosis,cancer stemness,epithelial–mesenchymal transition,metastasis,DNA repair,and drug resistance.The findings of this study suggest that USPs have great potential as drug targets and noninvasive biomarkers in CRC.The dysregulation of USPs in CRC contributes to drug resistance through multiple mechanisms.CONCLUSION Targeting specific USPs involved in drug resistance pathways could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming resistance to current treatment regimens in CRC.
文摘The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (AIDS) and hepatitis B virus among heavy truck drivers and their assistants has been well documented globally in correlation with their behavioral characteristics. The present study aimed to screen for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and behavioral characteristics among heavy truck drivers in Port Sudan. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 274 heavy truck drivers and their assistants who used the highway Port Sudan-Khartoum in Port Sudan city during 2019-2021. Data on behavioral characteristics and substance use habits were collected using a structured questionnaire, and an ELISA test was used to screen for HIV and HBV infections in the study participants. The chi-square test, odds ratio, and confidence intervals were used to find the association between behavioral characteristics and seropositive HIV/HBV. Of the 274 enrolled participants, the seroprevalence rates of HIV were 2.7% and HBV was 23.7%. Ninety-four (34.3%) of them had a history of high-risk sexual behavior outside of marriage;only two (0.7%) used condoms;14.2% of participants reported alcohol use;and 1.1% reported drug use. Univariate analysis revealed that having a sex history outside of marriage with ≥1 sex partner and never using a condom with a spouse or casual partner were significant risk factors for HIV and HBV among drivers. Fortunately, we found that most of the drivers reported low alcohol and drug use. Concerning this study, the seroprevalence of HIV and HBV is highly associated with a history of having sex outside of marriage and sexual behavior among truck drivers and assistances. Additional studies are needed to further investigate other STIs and behavioral characteristics associated with factors in truck drivers/assistance in different truck stop regions in Sudan.
文摘Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)worldwide in 2020:8.8 million(48%)in females and 9.3 million(52%)in males,giving a male:female ratio of 10:9.5.It may be initiated by the action of biological,physical,or chemical agents that cause a non-lethal,permanent,DNA error on the cell with a consequence of altered cell metabolism.This altered cell metabolism include the Warburg effect,altered lipid and amino acid metabolism and production of various metabolites.It also results in unique metabolic dependencies that,in some cases,can be targeted with precision medicine and nutrition,including drugs that selectively target metabolic enzymes.Metabolic fingerprinting has been applied to the study of carcinogenesis and is particularly helpful in early diagnosis,staging and choice of treatment,thus improving health outcomes.This technology could therefore be harnessed effectively while combining with other omics technologies.
基金supported by a joint GUIPRS/AHEAD Scholarship and GU Postgraduate Research Scholarshipcurrently receiving funds from Cancer Australia (APP1145657)+2 种基金the National Health and Medical Research Council (APP 2002576 and APP 2012560)the Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams FoundationNIH R21 and the RBWH Foundation。
文摘Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at increased risk of occupational exposure. However, vaccination against HBV is not systematic among medical students in Cameroon. Thus, we sought to evaluate awareness and HBV vaccine coverage amongst medical students in Cameroon. <strong>Aim:</strong> The present study was aimed at determining the proportion of Medical and Paramedical students on internship at the Bamenda Regional Hospital (BRH) who are vaccinated and immune to hepatitis B virus (HBV). <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a hospital-based cross sectional study carried out at the BRH in Cameroon. Questionnaires were administered to 120 participants who signed an informed consent form and venous blood samples collected in dry tubes for the HBV-5 PANEL test. Data were collected within a period of two weeks. HBV vaccine status was defined as complete (3 doses), partial (1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. <strong>Results:</strong> Of 120 participants (87 females and 33 males), 56 (46.7%) were vaccinated at least once against HBV;15 (12.5%) were partially vaccinated and 41 (34.2%) completely vaccinated. Out of the 56 vaccinated individuals, only 13 (23.2%) were confirmed immunized against HBV by testing positive for hepatitis B surface antibodies. Only 3 (5.4%) students had done post-vaccination serologic test to confirm their immunized status. There was high exposure to potentially infected body fluids like blood (97.5%) and urine (87.5%). There was equally poor practice of adequate preventive measures like regular hand washing and the proper use of personal protective equipment. A prevalence of 3.1% of HBV amongst the unvaccinated group was recorded. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Only 1 in 3 medical students had completed the HBV vaccination series and only 26.8% of this cohort was confirmed immunized against HBV. This highlights the need for improved health policies aimed at increasing access and coverage of HBV immunization in high risk groups such as health workers.
文摘Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.
文摘Objectives: Rapid and accurate identification of persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19 is key to managing the pandemic. The urgent need to scale up access to COVID-19 testing in Nigeria has led to the government’s introduction of the use of COVID-19 Ag rapid diagnostic test (RDT) across various settings in the country. However, field performance evaluation of the rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test is required to be conducted periodically and compared with the gold standard real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for diagnosis of COVID-19 cases. Design: A prospective COVID-19 screening and un-blinded verification of the performance of the STANDARD Q COVID-19 Ag test kit. Setting: The rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test, Standard<sup>TM</sup> Q COVID-19 Ag kit was compared with the RT-PCR test for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples for COVID-19 screening from persons and personnel attending a national youth camp orientation exercise during the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak (January to March 2021) in Ondo state, southwest Nigeria. Participants: Three hundred fifty-one persons and personnel were screened for COVID-19 infection. Results: Of 351 respondents screened, 68 (19.4%) were positive, and 264 (75.2%) were negative for both COVID-19 Ag RDT and RT-PCR assay. The rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test’s sensitivity and specificity were 78.16% (95% CI = 68.02% - 86.31%) and 100.0% (95% CI = 98.61% - 100.0%), respectively and the diagnostic accuracy was 94.59% (95% CI: 92 - 97). Respondents that were symptomatic had a higher test sensitivity of 78.6% (49.2 - 95.3) compared to those without symptoms 78.1% (66.9 - 86.9) (p Conclusions: Our study shows evidence that Standard<sup>TM</sup> Q COVID-19 Ag kit can be an appropriate rapid antigen test that could be used to screen for positive COVID-19 tests to guide decision-making for clinical management of persons infected with COVID-19, especially for closed settings and other clinical care settings.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82073628,81871876 and 82173609).
文摘Objective:The heightened prevalence of pulmonary nodules(PN)has escalated its significance as a public health concern.While the precise identification of high-risk PN carriers for malignancy remains an ongoing challenge,genetic variants hold potentials as determinants of disease susceptibility that can aid in diagnosis.Yet,current understanding of the genetic loci associated with malignant PN(MPN)risk is limited.Methods:A frequency-matched case-control study was performed,comprising 247 MPN cases and 412 benign NP(BNP)controls.We genotyped 11 established susceptibility loci for lung cancer in a Chinese cohort.Loci associated with MPN risk were utilized to compute a polygenic risk score(PRS).This PRS was subsequently incorporated into the diagnostic evaluation of MPNs,with emphasis on serum tumor biomarkers.Results:Loci rs10429489G>A,rs17038564A>G,and rs12265047A>G were identified as being associated with an increased risk of MPNs.The PRS,formulated from the cumulative risk effects of these loci,correlated with the malignant risk of PNs in a dose-dependent fashion.A high PRS was found to amplify the MPN risk by 156%in comparison to a low PRS[odds ratio(OR)=2.56,95%confidence interval(95%CI),1.40−4.67].Notably,the PRS was observed to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of serum carcinoembryonic antigen(CEA)in distinguishing MPNs from BPNs,with diagnostic values rising from 0.716 to 0.861 across low-to high-PRS categories.Further bioinformatics investigations pinpointed rs10429489G>A as an expression quantitative trait locus.Conclusions:Loci rs10429489G>A,rs17038564A>G,and rs12265047A>G contribute to MPN risk and augment the diagnostic precision for MPNs based on serum CEA concentrations.
基金funded by the Natural Science Foundation of Shanxi Province,Grant No.201801D121193the Central Government Guiding Local Science and Technology Development Fund Project,Grant No.YDZJSX2022A001.
文摘Background:The immune system of insects exerts fundamentally different antiviral mechanisms than mammals.MicroRNAs(miRNAs)play vital roles in developing insect antiviral immunity.MiRNAs expression profiles of insects changed significantly during baculovirus infection.Methods:Differential expression profiles of miRNAs in Spodoptera frugiperda were monitored by next-generation sequencing(NGS)and RT-qPCR during Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus(AcMNPV)infection.The transcription levels of genes were detected by RT-qPCR.The 50%tissue culture infective dose(TCID_(50))endpoint dilution assay was used to determine the proliferation of progeny virus.Results:NGS revealed that 49 miRNAs were differentially expressed in Sf9 cells,and 10 of them were significantly up-or down-regulated.Though RT-qPCR analysis,we observed the similar trends for the expression patterns of significantly differentially expressed miRNAs from NGS.Moreover,the transcription levels of core genes,Exportin5,Dicer1,and Argonaute1,in miRNA biogenesis pathways were significantly increased after AcMNPV infection.For five selected miRNAs,miR-34-5p could regulate the proliferation of baculovirus progeny virus and energy metabolism.Conclusion:The miRNAs biogenesis pathway in Sf9 cells plays an important role and may be stimulated to resist AcMNPV infection.This work provides evidence for the molecular mechanism of baculovirus-insect interaction and offers novel ideas and directions for green pest control technology.
文摘The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by low predictive potential and inability to predict which patients are at risk of developing metastatic disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the exon 4 of the KLK2 gene of subjects for changes in its nucleotide sequences (SNPs) and determine the correlation of these changes with serum PSA in an Igbo population of Nigeria. One hundred male subjects aged 40 years and above, who gave their consent, were used for the study. Their PSA determinations were done using ELISA technique while genetic studies were carried out using real-time PCR. tPSA, fPSA, and % fPSA of the subjects ranged between 0.8% - 18.30%, 0.10% - 1.60% and 0.0% - 0.7% respectively. Of the 100 subjects, 28 subjects had tPSA levels above 4.0 ng/ml with a mean of 7.10 (±3.30) ng/ml. Those with tPSA less than 4 ng/ml had a mean of 1.87 (±0.85) ng/m. 15 subjects showed SNPs with a mean tPSA of 6.87 (±4.82) ng/ml while the remaining 85 subjects without SNPs had a mean of 1.86 (±0.80) ng/ml. Results from direct DNA sequencing showed 11 SNPs. Ten subjects are curated in SNP database while one is uncurated. The Chi-square test showed significant association (p = 0.00) between tPSA levels and SNPs mutation (X<sup>2</sup> = 17.35, p = 0.00). A Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated that the positional arrangement of the SNP mutations had no effect on PSA-total or free-values (H (10) = 10.92, p = 0.28;H (10) = 10.07, p = 0.38 respectively). Two SNPs: rs6072 and rs74478031 were associated with elevated PSA levels (p < 0.05). Their presence, therefore, has the potential to serve, in conjunction with raised PSA, as biomarkers of prostate cancer in the study population.
文摘BACKGROUND Antinuclear antibodies(ANAs)are crucial in diagnosing autoimmune diseases,mainly systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE).This study aimed to compare the performance of chemiluminescence assay(CLIA)and line immunoassay(LIA)in detecting ANAs in patients with autoimmune diseases,evaluate their diagnostic accuracy for SLE,and develop a novel diagnostic model using CLIA-detected antibodies for SLE.Specimens from patients with autoimmune diseases and physical examination specimens were collected to parallel detect specific antibodies.Individual antibodies'diagnostic performance and a model combining multiple antibodies were assessed.The findings provide valuable insights into improving the diagnosis of SLE through innovative approaches.AIM To compare the performance of CLIA and LIA in detecting ANAs in patients with autoimmune diseases,assess their accuracy for SLE,and develop a novel diagnostic model using CLIA-detected antibodies for SLE.METHODS Specimens have been obtained from 270 patients with clinically diagnosed autoimmune disorders,as well as 130 physical examination specimens.After that,parallel detection of anti-double-stranded DNA(dsDNA)antibody,anti-histone(Histone)antibody,anti-nucleosome(Nuc)antibody,anti-Smith(Sm)antibody,anti-ribosomal P protein(Rib-P)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome A(Ro60)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome A(Ro52)antibody,anti-sicca syndrome(SSB)antibody,anticentromere protein B(Cenp-B)antibody,anti-DNA topoisomerase 1(Scl-70)antibody,anti-histidyl tRNA synthetase(Jo-1)antibody,and anti-mitochondrial M2(AMA-M2)antibody was performed using CLIA and LIA.The detection rates,compliance rates,and diagnostic performance for SLE were compared between the two methodologies,followed by developing a novel diagnostic model for SLE.RESULTS CLIA and LIA exhibited essentially comparable detection rates for anti-dsDNA antibody,anti-Histone antibody,anti-Nuc antibody,anti-Sm antibody,anti-Rib-P antibody,anti-Ro60 antibody,anti-Ro52 antibody,anti-SSB antibody,anti-Cenp-B antibody,anti-DNAScl-70 antibody,anti-Jo-1 antibody and anti-AMA-M2 antibody(P>0.05).The two methods displayed identical results for the detection of anti-dsDNA antibody,anti-Histone antibody,anti-Nuc antibody,anti-Sm antibody,anti-Ro60 antibody,anti-Ro52 antibody,anti-SSB antibody,anti-Cenp-B antibody,anti-Scl-70 antibody,and anti-AMA-M2 antibody(Kappa>0.7,P<0.05),but showed a moderate agreement for the detection of anti-Rib-P antibody and anti-Jo-1 antibody(Kappa=0.671 and 0.665;P<0.05).In addition,the diagnostic performance of these antibodies detected by both methods was similar for SLE.The diagnostic model's area under the curve values,sensitivity,and specificity,including an anti-dsDNA antibody and an anti-Ro60 antibody detected by CLIA,were 0.997,0.962,and 0.978,respectively.These values were higher than the diagnostic performance of individual antibodies.CONCLUSION CLIA and LIA demonstrated excellent overall consistency in detecting ANA profiles.A diagnostic model based on CLIA-detected antibodies can successfully contribute to developing a novel technique for detecting SLE.
文摘Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (Taraba, Benue and Adamawa) and Abuja. An electronic survey prepared using Google Form was used to collect information through social media such as WhatsApp. The research tool was validated by three experts in public health and the reliability test was done using Cronbach Alpha and a 0.7 co-efficient was obtained. The findings from the study revealed that 98.1% respondents have heard about telemedicine while 98.1% agreed that mobile health can help especially during emergency. However, 97.2% knew telemedicine involves Live consultation and interactive sessions from a distance. Nevertheless, 95.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to access clinical services from a distance while 93.4% were aware that telemedicine has provision for storage and forwarding, 82.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to easily reach medical specialists. On their attitudes towards telemedicine, 49.7% and 49.4% of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed respectively that telemedicine makes it easier for one to reach his doctor while 42% and 49.4% agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine helps to curb the spread of infection. However, 47% and 49.7% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine enables one to receive medical attention even at odd hours or while in remote villages. Meanwhile, 42% and 49.4% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine reduces cost. Also, 44.2% and 51.9% of the respondents respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine offers appropriate medical follow-up. Nevertheless, 43.6% of the respondents agreed while 52.8% strongly agreed that telemedicine offers medical attention while one is in the comfort of his home. Finally, 45% and 47% of the participants respectively agreed and strongly agreed that with telemedicine one does not need to waste a whole day of work just to receive medical attention. In conclusion, the knowledge of telemedicine was high (82.9%) among the Salesmen while the attitude reflected high (93.6%) acceptance. Therefore, there is a need to introduce the use of telemedicine Apps to the Salesmen and also subsidize the applications.
文摘Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, elevated plasma homocysteine levels have been reported to contribute to epithelial damage leading to coronary artery disease and other metabolic syndromes. This study was aimed at evaluating the concentration of plasma homocysteine in diabetics and hypertensive patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methods: The study population included 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Hypertensivesubjectsas group (I), 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Normotensive subjects as group (II), 60 Hypertensive subjects as group (III), and 60 healthy subjects as control group within the age range of 30 - 70 years. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to quantitatively measure homocysteine in the serum sample, glycated haemoglobin were determined quantitatively using sandwich immunodetection and blood pressure was determined using mercury sphygnanometer. Statistics: The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.4.1, and statistical significance was determined by a P Results: The results showed significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensive comorbidity patients when compared to healthy controls, P Conclusion: Our result shows an increase in plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensives when compared to controls, and comorbidity instigates a higher increase in plasma levels when compared with the single morbidity.
文摘Stains are applied to impart contrast to the tissue and identify particular features of interest. However, the use of synthetic dyes as staining reagents has been associated with significant human health challenges and pollution of the ecosystem. These developments have necessitated a shift towards using natural dyes that are eco-friendlier and readily available. We investigated the staining reaction patterns of teak tree leaves (Tectona grandis) dye extracts and explored their suitability as a cytoplasmic stain in micromorphological assessments. Dye extracts were prepared using acetone, methanol, and ethanol as solvents from air-dried (under shade) teak tree young leaves. The dye extracts were applied as a counterstain and evaluated against eosin in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) bovine tissue sections at varying concentrations and different staining times. Teak tree leaves (Tectona grandis) dye extracts produced relatively varying staining intensities of reddish-brown cytoplasmic coloration when used on bovine tissue at different concentrations and staining times comparable to eosin and with blue-purple hematoxylin nuclear stain. The present study showed that Tectona grandis leaf dye extracts provide an excellent cytoplasmic staining pattern and can be used as an alternative counterstain in routine H&E staining techniques.
