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Background: The management of ovarian cancer remains a challenge. Because of the lack of early symptoms, it is often diagnosed at a late stage when it is likely to have metastasized beyond ovaries. Currently, platinum based chemotherapy is the primary treatment for the disease. However acquired drug resistance remains an on-going problem. As cisplatin brings about apoptosis by intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, this study aimed to determine changes in activity of platinum drugs when administered in two aliquots as against a bolus and sought to determine association with changes in GSH, speciation of platinum drugs and changes in protein expression.Methods: The efficacy of administering cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin in two aliquots with a time gap was investigated in ovarian A2780, A2780(cisR), A2780(ZD0473R) and SKOV-3 cell lines. The cellular accumulation of platinum, level of platinum - DNA binding and cellular glutathione level were determined, and proteomic studies were carried out to identify key proteins associated with platinum resistance in ovarian A2780(cisR) cancer cell line.Results: Much greater cell kill was observed with solutions left standing at room temperature than with freshly prepared solutions, indicating that the increase in activity on ageing was related to speciation of the drug in solution. Proteomic studies identified 72 proteins that were differentially expressed in A2780 and A2780(cisR) cell lines; 22 of them were restored back to normal levels as a result of synergistic treatments, indicating their relevance in enhanced drug action.Conclusions: The proteins identified are relevant to several different cellular functions including invasion and metastasis, cell cycle regulation and proliferation, metabolic and biosynthesis processes, stress-related proteins and molecular chaperones, mRNA processing, cellular organization/cytoskeleton, cellular communication and signal transduction. This highlights the multifactorial nature of platinum resistance in which many different proteins with diverse functions play key roles. This means multiple strategies can be harnessed to overcome platinum resistance in ovarian cancer. The results of the studies can be significant both from fundamental and clinical view points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sickle cell anemia patients suffer from oxidative stress due to chronic inflammation and self-oxidation of sickle hemoglobin (Hb S). Chronic oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and multiple organ damage in sickle cell disease (SCD). Thus, antioxidant medication may favorably influence the disease. Gum Arabic (GA), edible, dried, gummy exudates from Acacia Senegal tree, has been claimed to act as an anti-oxidant and cytoprotective agent, protecting against experimental hepatic, renal and cardiac toxicities in rats. We hypothesized that regular intake of GA increases anti-oxidant capacity and reduce oxidative stress. Methods: Forty-seven patients (5–42 years) carrying hemoglobin SS were recruited. Patients received 30 g/day GA for 12 weeks. Total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels were measured by spectrophotometric methods before and after GA intake. Complete blood count was measured by sysmex. Results: Gum Arabic significantly increased TAC level P < 0.001and decreased the oxidative markers MDA (P < 0.05) and H2O2 (P < 0.005). Conclusions: GA has potent anti- oxidative properties in sickle cell anemia. The anti-oxidant effect of GA may thus favorably influence the clinical condition of this and further diseases characterized by oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ovarian cancer remains an on-going challenge mainly due to the development of drug resistance and also because the cancer is likely to have metastasized at the time of diagnosis. Currently, chemotherapy based on platinum drugs such as cisplatin is the primary treatment for the disease. Copper transporter 1 is involved in the transport of cisplatin into the cell, but is also down-regulated by the drug. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, has been reported to block this platinum-induced down-regulation of CTR1, so that in the presence of bortezomib, the cellular uptake of platinum drugs may be increased. Increased platinum accumulation may result in increased platinum - DNA binding so that the platinum drug in combination with bortezomib may produce enhanced cell kill. Methods In this study the efficacy of the sequential combinations of carboplatin, oxaliplatin and a trans-platinum compound coded as CH1 with BORT on the human ovarian A2780, A2780cisR, A2780ZD0473R and SKOV-3 cancer cell lines was evaluated. The levels of cellular platinum accumulation and platinum-DNA binding were determined following the treatment with these combinations. In order to investigate the effect of the combinations of the formation of ROS, the total and oxidized glutathione levels were also determined. Results Prevention of copper transporter 1 degradation by bortezomib is found to enhance the cellular accumulation of platinum, the level of Platinum - DNA binding and increases oxidative stress especially in the resistant cell lines. Conclusions The results suggest that the prevention of CTR1 degradation by bortezomib may be playing a major role in increasing the cellular uptake of platinum drugs and platinum-DNA binding level. Furthermore, the generation of oxidative stress appears to be a major contributor to the enhanced cell kill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High levels of fetal haemoglobin (HbF) decrease sickle cell anaemia (SCA) severity and leads to improved survival. According to in vivo and in vitro studies, butyrate increases HbF production. Its utilization in clinical practice is hampered, however, by its short half-life. Serum butyrate concentrations could be enhanced by colonic bacterial fermentation of Gum Arabic (GA), edible, dried, gummy exudates from Acacia Senegal tree. We hypothesized that regular intake of GA increases serum butyrate levels, thus inducing HbF production and ameliorating symptoms of sickle cell anemia. Methods: Fourty seven patients (5-42 years) carrying hemoglobin SS were recruited from April 2014 to January 2015. Patients received 30 g/day GA for 12 weeks. HbF, blood count and erythropoietin level were measured. The main outcome of interest was the level of HbF after 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes were improvement in clinical and laboratory results. The study was ethically approved by Alneelain University IRB. Results: The study revealed significant increase in HbF level P.V0.000 [95 % CI, 0.43-1.02], MCV P.V:000 [95 % CI, 2.312-6.058] and Hematocrit level P.V:0.026 [95 % CI, 0.124-1.902]. No significant difference was encountered in platelets count P.V: 0.346 [95 % CI,-25.76-71.94], and WBCs count P.V:0.194 [95 % CI,-8.035-1.68]. Thirty seven percent of patients experienced minor side effects which resolved within a week. Conclusion: These findings reveal a novel effect of GA, which may be used to foster fetal hemoglobin production. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02467257. Registered 3rd June 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ethiopia is recognized as a significant center of origin for a wide variety of plant species, particularly those with medicinal properties. A substantial segment of the population across the nation depends on these therapeutic plants for their primary healthcare needs. Many communities, both rural and urban, engage in traditional medicine practices, passing down their knowledge orally from one generation to the next. Consequently, this study was undertaken to record the traditional medicinal plants and the related indigenous knowledge in the Yeki district of Southwest Ethiopia. Methods: Between March 2024 and August 2024, semi-structured interviews, in-person meetings, group discussions, and escorted field trips were used to gather quantitative ethnobotanical data. A total of 132 informants 100 men and 32 women were interviewed in order to gather ethnobotanical data. The informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), plant part value, preference ranking, and direct matrix ranking were among the quantitative techniques that were employed. Furthermore, the study used a variety of statistical tests, such as independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, correlation, and regression with R software version 4.3.2, to compare the ethnobotanical knowledge of various informant groups. Result: A total of 98 species of traditional medicinal plants from 81 genera and 45 plant families were identified in the current study. The Asteraceae (11 species) were the largest family used by local peoples, followed by Solanaceae (8 species). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves and roots, and the primary technique for making remedies was crushing. The respiratory systems disease categories had the second highest consensus score (ICF: 0.90), after the dermal disease category (ICF: 0.91). The number of medicinal plants reported by respondents across gender, age groups, educational level, and informant's type varied significantly (P < 0.05). Various medicinal species can be found in the area's vegetation, but they are threatened by deforestation, agricultural extension, firewood, modernization, IAS, charcoal production, and material culture. Conclusion: The results highlight the extensive variety of medicinal plants and the accompanying traditional knowledge present in the Guraferda district. The elevated ethnobotanical indices justify the need for additional phytochemical and pharmacological research. It is advisable to implement integrated conservation strategies to tackle the challenges confronting these precious plant resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of the vitamin D receptor single nucleotide polymorphism FOKI (VDR-FOKI) (rs2228570) in genetic susceptibility to type 2 diabetic kidney disease (T2DKD) remains uncertain. This study investigated the relationship between VDR-FOKI and T2DKD within the Chinese Plateau Han population and analyzed the underlying mechanisms. Methods: A total of 316 subjects were enrolled, including 44 healthy adults, 114 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and 158 patients with T2DKD. According to the 2023 American Diabetes Association Diabetes Guidelines, patients with T2DKD were categorized into low-medium-risk and high-risk groups based on estimates of glomerular filtration rate and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio. The VDR-FokI genotypes of all participants were identified using the Taqman probe and classified as homozygous mutant genotypes (C/C or FF), heterozygous mutant genotypes (C/T or Ff), and homozygous wild genotypes (T/T or ff). Plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) were assessed in T2DKD patients with FF and ff genotypes. Additionally, the levels of plasma VDR, GPX4, and P53 were determined using ELISA, while the relative expressions of VDR mRNA, GPX4 mRNA, and TP53 mRNA in whole blood were measured by RT-qPCR. Results: The T2DM patients with the ff genotype exhibited a 2.93-fold increased likelihood of developing T2DKD compared to those with the FF genotype (ORadjusted = 2.93; 95% CI: 1.142–7.513). Additionally, they were 2.01 times more likely to develop T2DKD than individuals with the FF and Ff genotypes (ORadjusted = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.008–4.006). However, no significant differences in VDR-FokI genotype distribution were observed between the healthy control group and the T2DM group, as well as between the low-medium-risk and high-risk groups of T2DKD. Furthermore, T2DKD patients with the ff genotype had significantly higher plasma levels of MDA compared to those with the FF genotype. In contrast, plasma GSH and SOD content was significantly lower in the ff genotype patients (P < 0.05). Additionally, the GPX4 concentration in ff genotype patients was significantly lower than in FF genotype patients [14.88 (11.32,22.39) vs. 12.76 (8.55,13.75), P = 0.037]. Nevertheless, no statistically significant difference was observed in the expression of VDRmRNA, GPX4mRNA, TP53mRNA, plasma VDR, and plasma P53. Conclusions: The ff genotype of VDR-FokI is a risk factor for T2DKD, and the potential mechanism may be related to ferroptosis. However, It is not associated with T2DM or the progression of T2DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibians represent a diverse group of tetrapods, marked by deep divergence times between their three systematic orders and families. Studying amphibian biology through the genomics lens increases our understanding of the features of this animal class and that of other terrestrial vertebrates. The need for amphibian genomic resources is more urgent than ever due to the increasing threats to this group. Amphibians are one of the most imperiled taxonomic groups, with approximately 41% of species threatened with extinction due to habitat loss, changes in land use patterns, disease, climate change, and their synergistic effects. Amphibian genomic resources have provided a better understanding of ontogenetic diversity, tissue regeneration, diverse life history and reproductive modes, anti-predator strategies, and resilience and adaptive responses. They also serve as essential models for studying broad genomic traits, such as evolutionary genome expansions and contractions, as they exhibit the widest range of genome sizes among all animal taxa and possess multiple mechanisms of genetic sex determination. Despite these features, genome sequencing of amphibians has significantly lagged behind that of other vertebrates, primarily due to the challenges of assembling their large, repeat-rich genomes and the relative lack of societal support. The emergence of long-read sequencing technologies, combined with advanced molecular and computational techniques that improve scaffolding and reduce computational workloads, is now making it possible to address some of these challenges. To promote and accelerate the production and use of amphibian genomics research through international coordination and collaboration, we launched the Amphibian Genomics Consortium (AGC, https://mvs.unimelb.edu.au/amphibian-genomics-consortium) in early 2023. This burgeoning community already has more than 282 members from 41 countries. The AGC aims to leverage the diverse capabilities of its members to advance genomic resources for amphibians and bridge the implementation gap between biologists, bioinformaticians, and conservation practitioners. Here we evaluate the state of the field of amphibian genomics, highlight previous studies, present challenges to overcome, and call on the research and conservation communities to unite as part of the AGC to enable amphibian genomics research to "leap" to the next level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. Method: A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. Result: The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The documentation of ethnobotanical knowledge in Sudan is restricted to specific regions, and there is a far-reaching lack of written information on the traditional use of medicinal plants in other places like Darfur State, in western Sudan. The present study was designed to document the medicinal plants used in traditional medicine of Melit area in North Darfur State. Method: Ethnomedicinal information was collected from 135 local informants through semi-structured questionnaires. Data were analysed for use value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level. Results: A total of 59 medicinal plants, belonging to 32 families and 55 genera, were recorded for their traditional uses in Melit area. Fabaceae were represented by highest number of species (13) followed by Asteraceae and Malvaceae (4 each) and Poaceae (3). Herbs comprise the main sources (50.8%) of traditional remedies. Fruits and stem bark (17.9% each) were the major plant parts used. Decoction (36.5%) is the most mode of preparation used. Geigeria alata was most commonly used species with UV of 2.37. The highest ICF values were recorded for swellings (ICF = 1.00) and respiratory system (ICF = 0.95) categories. Ten plants, namely Carica papaya, Corchorus trilocularis, Eragrostis cilianensis, Heliotropium sudanicum, Mollugo cerviana, Psiadia punctulate, Rhynchosia minima, Solanum coagulans, Solanum forskalii and Tephrosia purpurea, were cited for the first time as medicinal plants used in Sudan traditional medicine. Resins of Boswellia papyrifera, seeds of Nigella sativa, pods of Vachellia nilotica (syn. Acacia nilotica) and clove of Syzygium aromticum were used to make different preparations for the treatment of the corona virus. Conclusion: This is the first ethnobotanical survey conducted in this region which is always suffering from security issues, and results indicated that Melit area harbours high diversity of plants used traditionally to cure different health conditions. The present study aids in conserving such rich heritage, and it is recommended that the newly reported species worth further studying over their phytochemical and biological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Platinum-drugs based chemotherapy in clinic increases the potency of tumor cells to produce M2 macrophages, thus leading to poor anti-metastatic activity and immunosuppression. Lysosome metabolism is critical for cancer cell migration and invasion, but how it promotes antitumor immunity in tumours and macrophages is poorly understood and the underlying mechanisms are elusive. The present study aimed to explore a synergistic strategy to dismantle the immunosuppressive microenvironment of tumours and metallodrugs discovery by using the herent metabolic plasticity. Methods: Naphplatin was prepared by coordinating an active alkaline moiety to cisplatin, which can regulate the lysosomal functions. Colorectal carcinoma cells were selected to perform the in vivo biological assays. Blood, tumour and spleen tissues were collected and analyzed by flow cytometry to further explore the relationship between anti-tumour activity and immune cells. Transformations of bone marrow derived macrophage (BMDM) and M2-BMDM to the M1 phenotype was confirmed after treatment with naphplatin. The key mechanisms of lysosome-mediated mucolipin-1(Mcoln1) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in M2 macrophage polarization have been unveiled. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to further explore the key mechanism underlying high-mobility group box 1(HMGB1)-mediated Cathepsin L(CTSL)-lysosome function blockade. Results: We demonstrated that naphplatin induces divergent lysosomal metabolic programs and reprograms macrophages in tumor cells to terminate the vicious tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs)-MDSCs-Treg triangle. Mechanistically, macrophages treated with naphplatin cause lysosome metabolic activation by triggering Ca2+ release via Mcoln1, which induces the activation of p38 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and finally results in polarizing M2 macrophages. In contrast, HMGB1-mediated lysosome metabolic blockade in cancer cells is strongly linked to antitumor effects by promoting cytoplasmic translocation of HMGB1. Conclusions: This study reveals the crucial strategies of macrophage-based metallodrugs discovery that are able to treat both immunologically "hot" and "cold" cancers. Different from traditional platinum-based antitumour drugs by inhibition of DNAs, we also deliver a strong antitumour strategy by targeting lysosome to induce divergent metabolic programs in macrophages and tumours for cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are important effectors of the innate defense system. Cathelicidins, (CRAMP in mouse/rat, LL-37 in human) is one of the two major classes of AMPs in humans. The upregulation of LL-37 synthesis is a novel non-antibiotic approach to prevent or treat infectious diseases. Butyrate was found to induce Cathelicidin expression. Gum Arabic (GA), an exudate from Acacia senegaltree, is known for its prebiotic effects. Fermentation of GA by colonic bacteria increases serum butyrate concentrations. This study was conducted to investigate if GA supplementation can increase Cathelicidin expression in macrophages. Methods: The study was an in-vivo experiment in mice. Thirty mice were randomly divided into three groups, ten mice per group. The two intervention groups received GA dissolved in drinking water in two different concentrations (15% w/v and 30% w/v) for 28 days. The third group served as a control. Blood was collected on Day 29 to isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) which were cultured to obtain monocyte derived macrophages (MDMs). The transcription level of CRAMP was determined in MDMsby qPCR. Results: We detected a significant increase (p = 0.023) in CRAMP expression in MDMs following 28 days of 15% GA supplementation, compared to the control group, but there was no significant change in the group on 30% GA supplementation (p = 0.055). Conclusion: GAsupplementation can induce Cathelicidin expression in MDMs and the effect is dose dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The risk of losing traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and their use and conservation is very high. Documenting knowledge on distribution and use of medicinal plants by different ethnic groups and at spatial scale on a single platform is important from a conservation planning and management perspective. The sustainable use, continuous practice, and safeguarding of traditional knowledge are essential. Communication of such knowledge among scientists and policy makers at local and global level is equally important, as the available information at present is limited and scattered in Nepal. Methods: In this paper, we aimed to address these shortcomings by cataloguing medicinal plants used by indigenous ethnic groups in Nepal through a systematic review of over 275 pertinent publications published between 1975 and July 2021. The review was complemented by field visits made in 21 districts. We determined the ethnomedicinal plants hotspots across the country and depicted them in heatmaps. Results: The heatmaps show spatial hotspots and sites of poor ethnomedicinal plant use documentation, which is useful for evaluating the interaction of geographical and ethnobotanical variables. Mid-hills and mountainous areas of Nepal hold the highest number of medicinal plant species in use, which could be possibly associated with the presence of higher human population and diverse ethnic groups in these areas. Conclusion: Given the increasing concern about losing medicinal plants due to changing ecological, social, and climatic conditions, the results of this paper may be important for better understanding of how medicinal plants in use are distributed across the country and often linked to specific ethnic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum results in severe complications including cerebral malaria (CM) especially in children. While the majority of falciparum malaria survivors make a full recovery, there are reports of some patients ending up with neurological sequelae or cognitive deficit. Methods: An analysis of pooled transcriptome data of whole blood samples derived from two studies involving various P. falciparum infections, comprising mild malaria (MM), non-cerebral severe malaria (NCM) and CM was performed. Pathways and gene ontologies (GOs) elevated in the distinct P. falciparum infections were determined. Results: In all, 2876 genes were expressed in common between the 3 forms of falciparum malaria, with CM having the least number of expressed genes. In contrast to other research findings, the analysis from this study showed MM share similar biological processes with cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, NCM is associated with drug resistance and glutathione metabolism and CM is correlated with endocannabinoid signalling and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). GO revealed the terms biogenesis, DNA damage response and IL-10 production in MM, down-regulation of cytoskeletal organization and amyloid-beta clearance in NCM and aberrant signalling, neutrophil degranulation and gene repression in CM. Differential gene expression analysis between CM and NCM showed the up-regulation of neutrophil activation and response to herbicides, while regulation of axon diameter was down-regulated in CM. Conclusions: Results from this study reveal that P. falciparum-mediated inflammatory and cellular stress mechanisms may impair brain function in MM, NCM and CM. However, the neurological deficits predominantly reported in CM cases could be attributed to the down-regulation of various genes involved in cellular function through transcriptional repression, axonal dysfunction, dysregulation of signalling pathways and neurodegeneration. It is anticipated that the data from this study, might form the basis for future hypothesis-driven malaria research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The local wild edible plants (WEPs) are still used traditionally in the rural communities in Yemen, but this traditional knowledge is still undocumented and has been never reported before. Therefore, this study is the first ethnobotanical survey on WEPs conducted in Yemen. Methods: The study is based on two field surveys made in two periods 1988–1992 and 2014–2016 to document the wild plants used as edible by local indigenous peoples in 23 districts belonged to five governorates, in southern Yemen. Information data were collected by oral face-to-face interviews from 250 informants. Citations numbers were calculated for each species. Results: A total of 58 plant species belonged to 37 genera and 21 families are reported as wild edible plants consumed in southern Yemen. Apocynaceae was the dominant plant family with 18 species followed by Asteraceae (6) and Malvaceae (5). The most widely used edible parts are stem, leaf and fruit with more than 17 species for each. Herbs were reported as the most important sources (31 species), followed by shrubs (16) and trees (9). Most of reported wild edibles (48 species parts) are consumed in raw form; only 12 of them are cooked. Seven wild edible plants were collected in dry season, 16 species throughout the year and 38 in rainy season. In this study, 58 wild plants were reported for the first time as food in Yemen. Comparing the southern Yemeni findings to those from other world countries, 12 of them are new WEPs eaten only in southern Yemen, while 46 species are shared in the use in different world countries practically in East Africa and Arab countries. Conclusions: The results data reflect the strong relationship between the local peoples and the local WEPs as potential sources insure food security. The traditional use of these WEPs is attributed to food shortage, nutritional values and local cultural tradition. The study is of great importance in preserving the traditional and knowledge heritage from being lost due to the risks of time, war and immigration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia is one of the world's public health problem, especially in developing nations. The majority of women of childbearing age (15-49) are affected by anemia. Women's role in the decision-making process is significant for their health and related issues such as anemia. So far, there is no evidence of women's decision-making autonomy on anemia. Consequently, this study aimed to robustly examine both individual- and group-level women's decision-making autonomy and other determinants of anemia among married women in Ethiopia.Methods: We examined data from an Ethiopian demographic and health survey conducted in 2016. Our analysis included 9220 married women of childbearing age (15-49 years). For bivariate analysis, we applied the chi-squared (X2) test. The relationship between individual and group-level women's decision-making autonomy and anemia was assessed using multilevel binary logistic regression models while adjusting other socio-demographic and economic characteristics.Results: In this study the magnitude of anemia was 30.5% (95% CI; 29.5-31.4). According to our multilevel analysis, group-level women's autonomy was found to be negatively related with anemia than individual-level women's autonomy (AOR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.41-0.69). In addition, the indicator of women's wealth index at group level was a protective factor (AOR = 0.68, 95% CI =0.51-0.90) to develop anemia. Among individual-level indicators women's age (AOR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.60-0.89), use of contraceptive (AOR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.55-0.81), BMI (AOR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.59-0.86) and employment status (AOR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.79-0.98) were negatively related with anemia. While women who follow Muslim religion (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.32-1.97,), women who had five and above number of children (AOR = 93, 95% CI = 1.53-2.46), and who were pregnant (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.04-1.40) were positively associated with anemia. Our final model showed that around 27% of the variability of having anemia was because of group-level differences (ICC = 0.27, P < 0.001). In addition, both individual and group-level factors account for 56.4% of the variance in the in the severity of anemia across communities (PCV = 56.4%).Conclusions: Our study showed that empowering women within households is not only an important mechanism to reduce anemia among married women but also serves as a way to improve the lives of other women within the society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hematological abnormalities are common features in falciparum malaria but vary among different populations across countries. Therefore, we compared hematological indices and abnormalities between Plasmodium falciparum-infected patients and malaria-negative subjects in Kosti city of the White Nile State, Sudan.Methods: A comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Clinical Laboratory Unit of Kosti Teaching Hospital from June to December 2018. A total of 392 participants (192 P. falciparum-infected patients and 200 malaria-negative subjects) were recruited in the study. Hematological indices of hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets were measured, and their median values were statistically compared.Results: The majority of P. falciparum-infected patients (67.6%) showed a low-level parasitemia. The median values of Hb concentration, RBC count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH) and mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC) were significantly lower in P. falciparum-infected patients, while the median red cell distribution width (RDW) was significantly higher in the patients compared to malaria-negative subjects. Anemia, low MCV, low MCH, low MCHC and high RDW were significantly associated with falciparum malaria, but parasitemia level was not significantly associated with anemia severity. The median total WBC count was non-significantly higher in P. falciparum-infected patients, with neutropenia being significantly associated with falciparum malaria. The median platelet count was significantly lower in P. falciparum-infected patients, with thrombocytopenia being significantly associated with falciparum malaria.Conclusions: Falciparum malaria among patients in Kosti city of the White Nile State, Sudan is predominantly of low-level parasitemia. It is significantly associated with anemia, low MCV, low MCH, low MCHC, high RDW, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. However, parasitemia level is not a significant predictor of anemia severity. On the other hand, leucopenia is not useful to predict falciparum malaria. Further large-scale studies in community and healthcare settings and inclusion of patients with complicated or severe malaria and those with high parasite densities are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that predominantly affects individuals in sub-Saharan Africa. However, research that elucidates links between SCD pathophysiology and nutritional status in African patients is lacking. This systematic review aimed to assess the landscape of studies in sub-Saharan Africa that focused on nutritional aspects of SCD, and highlights gaps in knowledge that could inform priority-setting for future research. Methods: The study was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria comprised original, peer-reviewed research published between January 1995 and November 2020 involving individuals in Africa with any phenotypic variant of SCD and at least one nutritional status outcome. Nutritional status outcomes were defined as those that assessed dietary intakes, growth/anthropometry, or nutritional biomarkers. Databases used were Ovid Embase, Medline, Biosis and Web of Science. Results: The search returned 526 articles, of which 76 were included in the final analyses. Most investigations (67%) were conducted in Nigeria. Studies were categorized into one of three main categories: descriptive studies of anthropometric characteristics (49%), descriptive studies of macro- or micronutrient status (41%), and interventional studies (11%). Findings consistently included growth impairment, especially among children and adolescents from sub-Saharan Africa. Studies assessing macro- and micronutrients generally had small sample sizes and were exploratory in nature. Only four randomized trials were identified, which measured the impact of lime juice, long-chain fatty acids supplementation, ready-to-use supplementary food (RUSF), and oral arginine on health outcomes. Conclusions: The findings reveal a moderate number of descriptive studies, most with small sample sizes, that focused on various aspects of nutrition and SCD in African patients. There was a stark dearth of interventional studies that could be used to inform evidence-based changes in clinical practice. Findings from the investigations were generally consistent with data from other regional settings, describing a significant risk of growth faltering and malnutrition among individuals with SCD. There is an unmet need for clinical research to better understand the potential benefits of nutrition-related interventions for patients with SCD in sub-Saharan Africa to promote optimal growth and improve health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the Greater Mekong sub-region, Plasmodium vivax has become the predominant species and imposes a major challenge for regional malaria elimination. This study aimed to investigate the variations in genes potentially related to drug resistance in P. vivax populations from the China–Myanmar border area. In addition, this study also wanted to determine whether divergence existed between parasite populations associated with asymptomatic and acute infections. Methods: A total of 66 P. vivax isolates were obtained from patients with acute malaria who attended clinics at the Laiza area, Kachin State, Myanmar in 2015. In addition, 102 P. vivax isolates associated with asymptomatic infections were identified by screening of volunteers without signs or symptoms from surrounding villages. Slide-positive samples were verified with nested PCR detecting the 18S rRNA gene. Multiclonal infections were further excluded by genotyping at msp-3α and msp-3β genes. Parasite DNA from 60 symptomatic cases and 81 asymptomatic infections was used to amplify and sequence genes potentially associated with drug resistance, including pvmdr1, pvcrt-o, pvdhfr, pvdhps, and pvk12. Results: The pvmdr1 Y976F and F1076L mutations were present in 3/113 (2.7%) and 97/113 (85.5%) P. vivax isolates, respectively. The K10 insertion in pvcrt-o gene was found in 28.2% of the parasites. Four mutations in the two antifolate resistance genes reached relatively high levels of prevalence: pvdhfr S58R (53.4%), S117N/T (50.8%), pvdhps A383G (75.0%), and A553G (36.3%). Haplotypes with wild-type pvmdr1 (976Y/997K/1076F) and quadruple mutations in pvdhfr (13I/57L/58R/61M/99H/117T/173I) were significantly more prevalent in symptomatic than asymptomatic infections, whereas the pvmdr1 mutant haplotype 976Y/997K/1076L was significantly more prevalent in asymptomatic than symptomatic infections. In addition, quadruple mutations at codons 57, 58, 61 and 117 of pvdhfr and double mutations at codons 383 and 553 of pvdhps were found both in asymptomatic and symptomatic infections with similar frequencies. No mutations were found in the pvk12 gene. Conclusions: Mutations in pvdhfr and pvdhps were prevalent in both symptomatic and asymptomatic P. vivax infections, suggestive of resistance to antifolate drugs. Asymptomatic carriers may act as a silent reservoir sustaining drug-resistant parasite transmission necessitating a rational strategy for malaria elimination in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Inflammation is ongoing process among sickle cell anemia even during steady state. C reactive protein (CRP) is cardinal marker that utilized widely as inflammatory indicator. Gum Arabic (GA) is gummy exudates from Acacia senegal tree. Fermentation by colonic bacteria increases serum butyrate concentrations, so considered as prebiotic agent. Gum Arabic (GA) has anti-inflammatory activity through butyrate. Earlier we proved that regular intake of GA increased fetal hemoglobin and anti-oxidant capacity most likely through raised level of butyrate, which would ameliorate symptoms of sickle cell anemia. Best of our knowledge this is the first study conducted to investigate GA intake on inflammatory markers among sickle patients. Results: This was a retrospective study conducted on stored samples from trial of Gum Arabic and sickle cell anemia. Quantitative CRP was measured by Mindray BS 200 before and after Gum Arabic consumption for 12 weeks. Daily intake of GA significantly decreased C reactive protein level (P.V = 001) (95% CI 0.943–3.098). No correlation between CRP and age, fetal hemoglobin, hemolysis markers and white blood cells. Our findings revealed novel effect of GA as anti-inflammatory agent could be consumed as natural dietary supplement to modulate disease severity and downregulate inflammatory process. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02467257. Registered 3rd June 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Iraqi Kurdistan is a special hotspot for bio-cultural diversity and for investigating patterns of traditional wild food plant foraging, considering that this area was the home of the first Neolithic communities and has been, over millennia, a crossroad of different civilizations and cultures. The aim of this ethnobotanical field study was to cross-culturally compare the wild food plants traditionally gathered by Kurdish Muslims and those gathered by the ancient Kurdish Kakai (Yarsan) religious group and to possibly better understand the human ecology behind these practices. Methods: Twelve villages were visited and 123 study participants (55 Kakai and 68 Muslim Kurds) were interviewed on the specific topic of the wild food plants they currently gather and consume. Results: The culinary use of 54 folk wild plant taxa (corresponding to 65 botanical taxa) and two folk wild mushroom taxa were documented. While Kakais and Muslims do share a majority of the quoted food plants and also their uses, among the plant ingredients exclusively and commonly quoted by Muslims non-weedy plants are slightly preponderant. Moreover, more than half of the overall recorded wild food plants are used raw as snacks, i.e. plant parts are consumed on the spot after their gathering and only sometimes do they enter into the domestic arena. Among them, it is worth mentioning the consumption of raw wild crocus corms, also still common in Turkish Kurdistan and that of wild tulip bulbs, which was documented to be popular until the beginning of the twentieth century in the Middle East. Comparison with other ethnobotanical field studies recently conducted among surrounding populations has shown that Kurds tend to gather and consume the largest number of non-weedy wild vegetables. Conclusion: The collected data indicate robust traces of nomadic pastoralism in Kurdish traditional foraging. This finding confirms that studies on wild food plant gathering in the Fertile Crescent and Turco-Arabic-Iranic regions of the Middle East are crucial for understanding the possible evolution of wild food plant gathering through history within the post-Neolithic continuum between pastoralism and horticulturalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context The ten most important tree species (five oaks and five conifers) in Southern Spain were selected for the study. The study area, corresponding to the region of Andalusia, is located in an interesting position between Central European and North African climates. The territory also exhibits the most extreme patterns of rainfall in the Iberian Peninsula. Aims This study aims to model the potential distribution of the ten species in response to climate change, in several time periods, including the present and two future twenty-first century dates. Methods The potential distributions within the different scenarios were simulated using logistic regression techniques based on a set of 19 climate variables from the WorldClim 1.4 project. The scenarios were drawn from the RCP 2.6 and 6.0 in the CCSM4 Global Circulation Model. The resolution of the output maps was 30 arc-seconds. Results The simulation predicted increased distribution areas for Q. ilex and P. halepensis under the four future scenarios as compared to present. The eight remaining taxa suffered a severe retraction in potential distribution. Conclusion Global climate change is likely to have a significant impact on forest dynamics in southern Spain. Only two species would benefit to the detriment of the others. Logistic Regression is identified as a robust method for carrying out management and conservation programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anthemis palestina (Asteraceae) extends across the Mediterranean region, southwest Asia and eastern Africa. Although traditionally used for several applications, in vitro investigation of biological functions associated with Anthemis palestina essential oil had never been reported. Methods: The air-dried flowers of Anthemis palestina were subjected to hydrodistillation to yield the oil. The antioxidant activity of the hydrodistilled oil was characterized using various in vitro model systems such as DPPH, ferric-reducing antioxidant power and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. Antibacterial activity was tested against six bacterial species, representing both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Antifungal activity was evaluated using three Candida species. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for each examined microorganism was determined using the microdilution method. The oil’s antiproliferative effects against eight human cancer cell lines were also studied and the lethal doses that resulted in 50% reduction of cell viability (LD50) were determined. Results: The results indicate that the essential oil of Anthemis palestina exhibited substantial antioxidant activities as demonstrated with DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. In addition, a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity of the oil was revealed with better susceptibility of Gram positive bacteria towards the oil. The MIC values ranged between 6–75 μg/ml. Besides, the oil demonstrated a moderate inhibitory effect on the three Candida species examined; with MIC values ranging between 48–95 μg/ml. Potent cytotoxic activities, especially against HeLa cell line; with LD50 of 32 μg/ml, BJAB cell line; with LD50 of 57 μg/ml, and Caco-2 cell line; with LD50 of 61 μg/ml, were observed. Conclusion: The results obtained indicate high potential of Anthemis palestina essential oil as bioactive oil, for nutraceutical and medical applications, possessing antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Partial and mixed gonadal dysgenesis (PGD and MGD) are characterized by genital ambiguity and the finding of either a streak gonad and a dysgenetic testis or two dysgenetic testes. The karyotype in PGD is 46,XY, whereas a 45,X/46,XY mosaicism or its variants (more than two lineages and/or structural abnormalities of the Y chromosome) is generally found in MGD. Such mosaics are also compatible with female phenotype and Turner syndrome, ovotesticular disorder of sex development, and infertility in men with normal external genitalia. During the last few years, evidences of a linkage between Y microdeletions and 45,X mosaicism have been reported. There are also indications that the instability caused by such deletions might be more significant in germ cells. The aim of this work was to investigate the presence of Y chromosome microdeletions in individuals with PGD and in those with 45,X/46,XY mosaicism or its variants and variable phenotypes. Methods Our sample comprised 13 individuals with PGD and 15 with mosaicism, most of them with a MGD phenotype (n = 11). Thirty-six sequence tagged sites (STS) spanning the male specific region (MSY) on the Y chromosome (Yp, centromere and Yq) were analyzed by multiplex PCR and some individual reactions. Results All STS showed positive amplifications in the PGD group. Conversely, in the group with mosaicism, six individuals with MGD had been identified with Yq microdeletions, two of them without structural abnormalities of the Y chromosome by routine cytogenetic analysis. The deleted STSs were located within AZFb and AZFc (Azoospermia Factor) regions, which harbor several genes responsible for spermatogenesis. Conclusions Absence of deletions in individuals with PGD does not confirm the hypothesis that instability of the Y chromosome in the gonads could be one of the causes of such condition. However, deletions identified in the second group indicate that mosaicism may be associated with Y chromosome abnormalities detectable only at the molecular level. If patients with mosaicism and Y microdeletions reared as males decide to undergo in vitro fertilization, Y chromosomes which tend to be unstable during cell division may be transmitted to offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Escherichia coli occurs naturally in the human gut; however, certain strains that can cause infections, are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Multidrug-resistant E. coli that produce extended-spectrum β lactamases (ESBLs), such as the CTX-M enzymes, have emerged within the community setting as an important cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bloodstream infections may be associated with these community-onsets. This is the first report testing the antibiotic resistance-modifying activity of nineteen Jordanian plants against multidrug-resistant E. coli. Methods: The susceptibility of bacterial isolates to antibiotics was tested by determining their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) using a broth microdilution method. Nineteen Jordanian plant extracts (Capparis spinosa L., Artemisia herba-alba Asso, Echinops polyceras Boiss., Gundelia tournefortii L, Varthemia iphionoides Boiss. & Blanche, Eruca sativa Mill., Euphorbia macroclada L., Hypericum trequetrifolium Turra, Achillea santolina L., Mentha longifolia Host, Origanum syriacum L., Phlomis brachydo(Boiss.) Zohary, Teucrium polium L., Anagyris foetida L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Thea sinensis L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Lepidium sativum L., Pimpinella anisum L.) were combined with antibiotics, from different classes, and the inhibitory effect of the combinations was estimated. Results: Methanolic extracts of the plant materials enhanced the inhibitory effects of chloramphenicol, neomycin, doxycycline, cephalexin and nalidixic acid against both the standard strain and to a lesser extent the resistant strain of E. coli. Two edible plant extracts (Gundelia tournefortii L. and Pimpinella anisum L.) generally enhanced activity against resistant strain. Some of the plant extracts like Origanum syriacum L.(Labiateae), Trigonella foenum- graecum L.(Leguminosae), Euphorbia macroclada (Euphorbiaceae) and Hibiscus sabdariffa (Malvaceae) did not enhance the activity of amoxicillin against both standard and resistant E. coli. On the other hand combinations of amoxicillin with other plant extracts used showed variable effect between standard and resistant strains. Plant extracts like Anagyris foetida (Leguminosae) and Lepidium sativum (Umbelliferae) reduced the activity of amoxicillin against the standard strain but enhanced the activity against resistant strains. Three edible plants; Gundelia tournefortii L. (Compositae) Eruca sativa Mill. (Cruciferae), and Origanum syriacum L. (Labiateae), enhanced activity of clarithromycin against the resistant E. coli strain. Conclusion: This study probably suggests possibility of concurrent use of these antibiotics and plant extracts in treating infections caused by E. coli or at least the concomitant administration may not impair the antimicrobial activity of these antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species are tick-borne pathogens of both veterinary and public health importance. The current status of these pathogens, including emerging species such as Ehrlichia minasensis and Anaplasma platys, infecting cattle in Kenya, remain unclear, mainly because of limitation in the diagnostic techniques. Therefore, we investigated the Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species infecting dairy cattle in Nairobi, Kenya using molecular methods. Results: A total of 306 whole blood samples were collected from apparently healthy dairy cattle. Whole blood DNA was extracted and tested for presence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia DNA through amplification and sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. Sequence identity was confirmed using BLASTn analysis while phylogenetic reconstruction was performed to determine the genetic relationship between the Kenyan isolates and other annotated genotypes available in GenBank. Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species were detected in 19.9 and 3.3% of all the samples analyzed, respectively. BLASTn analysis of the sequences against non-redundant GenBank nucleotide database revealed infections with A. platys (44.8%), A. marginale (31%) and A. bovis (13.8%). All four sequenced Ehrlichia spp. were similar to Ehrlichia minasensis. Nucleotide polymorphism was observed for A. platys, A. bovis and E. minasensis. The Anaplasma species clustered in four distinct phylogenetic clades including A. marginale, A. platys, A. bovis and some unidentified Anaplasma spp. The Kenyan Ehrlichia minasensis clustered in the same clade with isolates from America and Australia but distant from E. ruminantium. Conclusion: This study provides the first report of infection of dairy cattle in Kenya with A. platys and E. minasensis, which are emerging pathogens. We conclude that cattle in peri-urban Nairobi are infected with various species of Anaplasma and E. minasensis. To understand the extent of these infections in other parts of the country, large-scale screening studies as well as vector identification is necessary to inform strategic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]