Advancements in Life Sciences (E-Journal, University of the Punjab)
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Effect of Supportive Care on Quality of Life for People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Systematic Review
Get PDFThe survival of people living with HIV (PLWH) affects physical, psychological, sexual, social, and financial circumstances during the care and treatment phase. Supportive care is an effective intervention associated with a better quality of life. The aim of this systematic study was to identify effect supportive care intervention on quality-of-life infected people. This study was a systematic review to examine the effect of supportive care in PLWH. Four databases including Science Direct, ProQuest, PubMed, and Wiley library were included to identify the relevant articles. A total of eight articles out of the 247 publications potentially met the inclusion criteria. Supportive care was grouped into four categories, including Community Based Intervention, M-Health Intervention, Social Media-Based Interventions as well as Psychosocial Interventions. The combination of all interventions showed that supportive care needs to be prescribed in line with the conditions and needs of PLWH. Conclusion, several supportive care approaches including Group Support Psychotherapy (GSP), Peer Support (PS), Run4Love WeChat, ALWH treatment strategy, effective communication, and psychosocial assessment, Mental health care pathway PASEO and combination logotherapy, ACT, as well as family psychoeducation (FPE) affected the quality of life for PLWH. This helped in characterizing the intervention and its effect on the conditions of HIV patients.Keywords: Databases; Supportive care; Psychosocial interventions; Quality of life
In Silico Identification of Novel HDAC2 Inhibitors for Reinstating Synaptic wiring in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Get PDFBackground: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an increasing incidence rate. For the treatment of ASD, several pharmaceutical approaches, dietary supplements, and behavioral therapy have been proposed, but a definitive cure remains elusive. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are critical epigenetic regulators whose molecular and pharmacological roles are being studied extensively in medically significant ailments such as neuropsychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer on a global scale. HDAC2's specific expression pattern in CNS makes it an appealing therapeutic target for neurological illnesses such as ASD.Methods: The study used PyRx software (version 0.8) to screen a library of 401 alkaloid compounds against HDAC2. In addition, the DS software was used to predict the physicochemical and DMET properties of the compound library.Results: Valaciclovir hydrochloride, Dihydrocapsaicin, Guanosine, Santacruzamate A, and 2'-Deoxyguanosine monohydrate compounds exhibited strong interactions with HDAC2. These compounds had a higher binding energy than the control compound, and they have promising drug-like properties and ADMET characteristics.Conclusion: These identified compounds could be used as HDAC2 inhibitors for the management of ASD, however, experimental research is needed to optimize them as HDAC2 inhibitors.Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Histone deacetylases; Alkaloid compounds; Drug-likeness
Predicting Leptospirosis Outcomes in Dogs with the Simplified Acute Physiology Score
Get PDFBackground: Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease affecting dogs, caused by the spirochete bacterium Leptospira. Understanding the prognosis and severity of the disease is essential for effective clinical management. This study aimed to assess the use of the PIRO and SAPS scales in predicting the outcome of leptospirosis in dogs.Methods: The study involved 24 dogs diagnosed with leptospirosis and a control group of 22 healthy dogs. Clinical assessments were conducted, and scores on the PIRO and SAPS scales were assigned within 24 hours of admission. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression, were employed to evaluate the relationship between scale scores and disease outcomes.Results: In dogs with leptospirosis, SAPS scale scores exhibited a strong positive correlation with disease outcomes, indicating a robust association. Scores on the SAPS scale were associated with the severity of the disease, with specific score ranges indicative of a moderate, severe, or fatal outcome. The PIRO scale also demonstrated a substantial correlation with SAPS scores and disease prognosis. In cases where the immune system was compromised, protective mechanisms activated with a delay, increasing the risk of fatality.Conclusion: The PIRO and SAPS scales provide valuable tools for assessing the severity and predicting the outcome of leptospirosis in dogs. These scales offer clinicians a means to promptly evaluate the risk of physiological disruptions and sepsis complications in dogs with leptospirosis, ultimately aiding in clinical decision-making and treatment planning.Keywords: Leptospirosis; Prognosis; Physiology Score; PIRO and SAPS scales
The genetic diversity of Drosophila flies based on cytochrome-c oxidase subunit I gene from North Sulawesi
Get PDFBackground: Drosophila sp. is a fruit fly species that can spread quickly worldwide. A short life cycle, small body size, and fast adaptation to new habitats allow fruit flies to live in various parts of the world. This study characterized the genetic variation of the cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) gene in Drosophila species from different North Sulawesi regions.Methods: Fruit fly samples were collected from six districts: Central Minahasa, Southeast Minahasa, South Minahasa, North Minahasa, Bolaang Mongondow, and Sitaro. DNA extracted from thoracic tissue The COI gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced by the Sanger method. Sequence characterization using BioEdit and MEGA XI programs.Result: The consensus COI gene sequence length ranged from 688 bp to 700 bp. Disparity, genetic distance, and phylogenetic analyses consistently revealed that the sample from Bolaang was the most genetically distinct, forming a separate branch from the other five monophyletic North Sulawesi samples. Genetic distance analysis showed that Bolaang's gene sequence has the farthest genetic distance. COI gene consensus alignment analysis with ClustalW showed high genetic variation. The phylogenetic construction showed that COI Bolaang had the most significant differences in sequence characteristics from the other five sequences in a monophyletic group with different nodes. Phylogenic reconstruction with the 21 most similar sequences from BLAST showed similarities in the four Drosophila species, namely D. atriplex, D. melanogaster, D. lacteicornis, and D. pandora.Conclusion: Based on the COI gene, there are significant variations in fruit flies in North Sulawesi.Keywords: Genetic diversity; phylogeny; CO1; Drosophila; Sulawesi Utara Expression of Concern20 June 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about missing record of the Turnitin Originality / AI Reports. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community of the errors as we reconcile the records.Editorial Note23 June 2025: Missing record of the Turnitin Originality / AI Reports has been reconciled by conducting fresh analyses as per the editorial policy. Show of cause notice issued to the concerned editorial team member. Expression of concern is hereby revoked.Editorial Note: You are viewing the latest version of this article having language corrections
Mavorixafor: A spotlight on the clinical aspects and prospects of the first USFDA-approved treatment for the primary immunodeficiency WHIM syndrome
Get PDFWHIM syndrome (WHIMS) is an extremely rare, severe, and potentially fatal genetic condition that affects the immune system, leading to warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections, and myelokathexis (WHIM). Effective therapy for WHIMS requires regular monitoring, medical intervention, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Due to the limited therapeutic options, addressing WHIMS is an unmet medical need. The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recently granted approval for mavorixafor as the first treatment for WHIMS. This review focuses on the pharmacological characteristics, clinical investigations, associated inventions, and prospects of mavorixafor. The literature for this article was searched on PubMed, reputable websites (USFDA and X4 Pharmaceuticals) and free patent databases like Espacenet. WHIMS is distinguished by severe neutropenia and hypogammaglobulinemia, which increases the risk of developing cancer. Mavorixafor enhances the movement of neutrophils and lymphocytes from the bone marrow (BM) to the bloodstream. Hence, it could be beneficial for managing medical illnesses characterized by a decrease in the quantity of neutrophils and lymphocytes in the bloodstream. X4 Pharmaceuticals has submitted patent applications for the utilization of mavorixafor in the treatment of diverse cancer types, inflammatory ailments, B-cell dysfunction, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, and primary immunodeficiency disorders. This suggests that mavorixafor can effectively treat various disorders either alone or when used in conjunction with other medications. It will be intriguing to observe the future approvals of mavorixafor for various disorders.Keywords: Mavorixafor; WHIM syndrome; Cancer; Immunodeficiency; Patent; Prospect
Exploring Gene Polymorphisms Associated with Otitis Media through Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTR) Region
Get PDFBackground: Otitis is an inflammation and infection of the inner lining of the middle ear. The problem known as suppurative otitis media if there are droplets and holes in the tympanic membrane due to this inflammation and infection of the mucous membrane. The present study focused on genes potentially associated with otitis media in 60 subjects clinically diagnosed with OM The study focuses on two genes, MUC5B and IL-1RN, mutations assessed through variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) regions.Methods: Variable numbers of tandem repeats (VNTR) regions were used to genotype 60 patients with otitis media and 30 healthy individuals for genotypic polymorphisms for the MUC5B and IL-1RN genes through variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) regions Blood samples were collected from participants, and three milliliters were placed directly into EDTA tubes. Subsequently, PCR products were detected by agarose gel electrophoresis and visualized by ethidium bromide staining. The size of amplified DNA fragments was determined by comparison with a 100-bp DNA ladder molecule size marker.Results: This study presents the association of gene polymorphisms with otitis media by genotyping a total of 60 patients as OM, while 30 individuals were noted to be healthy. This was to determine genotypic polymorphisms for the two genes, that is, MUC5B and IL1RN, within the VNTR region. The results showed that the carriers of allele 2 in the genotypic position had nearly a twofold increased risk of developing otitis media.Conclusion: Polymorphism of the MUC5B and IL-1RN genes can be responsible for the severity of the inflammatory process in the middle ear, complicated by otitis media or hearing loss.Keywords: Otitis media; Gene polymorphism; MUC5B; IL-1RN; VNTR Editorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language and in references section. Expression of concern is hereby revoked
Evaluation of Micro-RNA Expression Profiling Level as Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Gene Sequencing in Patients Suffering from Breast Cancer
Get PDFBackground: Human bloodstream microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as a promising predictive and diagnostic biomarker for a range of cancers, including breast cancer. Our objective was to look into new miRNA biomarkers for diagnosis in the serum of patients with breast cancer and track the expression levels at different stages using miRNA profiling.Methods: 53 breast cancer patients and 10 healthy controls had blood samples tested for three miRNAs. miRNAs were extracted from blood and evaluated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. After extracting genomic DNA, miRNA primer-produced PCR products were sequenced to discover point mutations that may contribute to the illness.Results: After examining miR195, miR200b, and miR331, breast cancer patients had a significantly lower miR195 level than healthy persons. In addition, miR200b expression levels were significantly lower in breast cancer patients than in healthy individuals. In advanced stages, miR331 expression was substantially higher than in healthy people.Conclusion: The findings of our study demonstrated a significant association between the expression of miRNAs and the prognosis of breast cancer. Additional research is necessary to study better the correlation between these circulating miRNAs and the stages of breast cancer.Keywords: Breast cancer; Circulating miRNAs; miR195; miR200b; miR331 RT PCR; Gene Sequencing
Beneficial impacts of natural antioxidants on molecular structure and parameters of human sperm
Get PDFBackground: Sexual dysfunctions are often associated with oxidative stress, DNA damage, and reduced levels of sex hormones.Methods: In this study, a combination of polyfloral honey, royal jelly (RJ), Korean ginseng, and palm pollen were tested to reduce oxidative DNA damage in semen. The study involved 25 male patients aged 22-45 years who were participating in a fertility clinic in Wasit, South-East Iraq. Surgically resolvable problems were excluded, as well as subjects who smoked.Results: Semen analysis and serum total oxidant status were used to assess the fertility potential in males, and pregnancy occurrence served as evidence of sperm ability for fertilization. Our findings indicate that consuming honey with Korean ginseng and palm pollen improved sperm count by reducing caspase-3 activity and protecting against oxidative DNA damage. In addition, forward progressive motility and morphology of the sperm were significantly improved by the treatment and also had a direct effect on mitochondrial enzymes.Conclusion: Therefore, the use of honey combined with specific herbals appears to be a promising treatment option for the improvement of sperm parameters to treat male infertility.Keywords: Antioxidants; Oxidative DNA damage; Honey; Royal jelly; Korean ginseng; Post-acrosomal lamina
Elucidating Severity of Waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan
Get PDFBackground: COVID-19 has radically changed the globe. This virus has a powerful impact on almost every country in the world. The most significant hurdle arises for the overall capacity of a disease control when the number of cases peaks during each wave of the pandemic. There are various waves that have occurred in the preceding period, each of them is characterized by a distinct variant of the virus. For a developing country like Pakistan COVID-19 ruins every sector of the country. There is a proper need for care and protection from this virus as guided by the World Health Organization (WHO). The spread rate is different in every country based on various factors. Two or more factors are required to trigger a high infection rate.Methods: The data sourced from the National Command and Operations Center (NCOC) was focused on analyzing the data from the four waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan encompassing reported cases, death and testing capacity. Utilizing the SPSS software, a comprehensive examination of these factors was performed.Results: The data of four waves has been analyzed including reported cases, no. of death, and testing capacity of the country. The data analysis reveals there is a strong correlation between these factors. By the interpretation of the data, it reveals upcoming waves are more dangerous than earlier due to new mutations.Conclusion: The virus is evolving to become more contagious and infectious in each consecutive wave. Vaccination should be considered compulsory for everyone to win the battle against the virus. Data analysis revealed a correlation between the number of cases and passage of time, showing that the new waves will emerge earlier and have a significant impact on the country.Keywords: COVID-19; Pakistan; Waves of COVID-19; Vaccinatio
Establishing a classification of the stages of progression of the novel coronavirus infection to improve and facilitate morphologic diagnosis
Get PDFBackground: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has impacted over 264 million people and caused over 5 million deaths worldwide. Symptoms often include viral pneumonia, with complications like acute respiratory distress or sepsis, as well as myocarditis and kidney damage. The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on endocrine glands, as well as to develop a classification of stages of the course of COVID-19 to improve and simplify morphological diagnosis.Methods: The studies conducted include systemic analysis of the para-clinical data of patients who died of COVID-19 (according to medical documentation); a macroscopic study assessing the size and weight of external manifestations of endocrine organ lesions in COVID-19 cases with statistical evaluation of the detected signs. Archive analysis covers para-clinical data and data on significant concomitant and background pathologies based on the medical histories of 780 deaths from COVID-19 in infectious diseases hospitals of the city of Kostanay (Kazakhstan) during the period from 2019 to 2022.Result: Using pathomorphologic data from COVID-19 autopsies, we developed a scale for semi-quantitative analysis of each case. Medical data analysis suggests that the most notable endocrine changes are elevated blood glucose and low catecholamine levels due to adrenal hemosiderosis. No significant changes in sex or thyroid hormones were observed.Conclusion: The obtained findings require further consideration, given that the studied patients make up a rather diverse group. Nevertheless, the study can serve as an additional source of information in the struggle against COVID-19.Keywords: Coronavirus infection; Endocrine glands; Stage of disease