Journal of the Asian Medical Students Association
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Unveiling The Role Of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement In The Identification Of Potential Therapeutic Drugs For Dengue Management Following Zika Infection: A Bioinformatics Analysis
No full textIntroduction: Global warming is expanding geographical range suitable for mosquito reproduction, leading to an increased incidence of arboviral infections, including dengue (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV). These virus exhibit structural similarities, developing antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) in DENV following ZIKV infection. Therefore, it is critical to understand the underlying mechanisms of ADE and find potential therapeutic drugs.
Objective: This bioinformatics analysis aimed to identify key genes and find potential therapeutic drugs of DENV following ZIKV infection.
Method: Two independent datasets from B-cells of ZIKV-infected and plasmablast of DENV-infected patients were analysed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and compared between the two groups. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and STRING databases were used to explore the functions of these genes. The search for drugs capable of reversing important gene expression changes was carried out using Library of Integrated Network-Based Cellular Signatures (LINCS) L1000 database.
Result and Discussion: DEGs analyses revealed that 28 genes were upregulated in DENV and downregulated in ZIKV, and 30 genes vice versa. Enrichment analysis of the former DEGs highlighted HLA-DRB1, HLA-DRB5, and HLA-DPA1 genes as significant modulators of the immune response. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network further proved strong connectivity between these three genes. Vorinostat and trichostatin-a were identified as potential drugs to reduce ZIKV antibody production, without compromising immune response to DENV.
Conclusion: This study successfully identified the HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DPA1 genes as potential targets for existing drugs that could mitigate the severity of the ADE phenomenon. Additionally, a list of existing drugs that could potentially be repurposed to combat ADE has been compiled. Further in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as clinical trials, will be essential to confirm our findings and the optimal timing for drug administration
Rinse to Relief: Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy of Saline Irrigation to Improve Nasal Symptoms in Children with Allergic Rhinitis
No full textIntroduction:
Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent respiratory condition that affects 400 million people worldwide, with children accounting for over 40% of cases. Due to their developing immune systems, children are especially vulnerable. Moreover, increasing air pollution from climate change has worsened nasal symptoms, making conventional treatments like antihistamines and corticosteroids less effective. This highlights the need for safe and accessible adjuvant therapies, such as saline irrigation. However, updated meta-analyses on this issue specific to children are lacking. Thus, this research aims to assess the efficacy of saline irrigation in improving nasal symptoms of children diagnosed with allergic rhinitis.
Method:
This study was done according to the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was done through PubMed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, and Scopus up to 20 October 2024. Review Manager 5.4.1 was used to conduct the statistical analysis, including the sensitivity analysis and funnel plot to examine heterogeneity. Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0. was also used to assess the studies for bias.
Results and Discussion:
Five randomised controlled trials involving 268 participants were analysed quantitatively, with saline irrigation as the intervention and corticosteroid sprays or no treatments serving as controls. The primary outcome investigated is the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS). Our study shows that saline irrigation more significantly decreases the nasal symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, as indicated by a mean difference of -1.35 (95% Cl: -1.59 to -1.11, p < 0.00001) and low-moderate risk of bias. However, heterogeneity was high (I² = 100%) due to lack of participant blinding and variability of study conditions.
Conclusion:
Saline irrigation significantly reduces nasal symptoms in children with allergic rhinitis, making it a beneficial adjuvant therapy. However, high heterogeneity suggests more rigorous studies are needed. For parents, incorporating saline irrigation into their children’s daily routines can provide additional relief alongside prescribed treatments, especially in high-pollution environments.
Keywords: allergic rhinitis, children, nasal symptoms, saline irrigatio
Developments of Respiratory, Cardiovascular, and Neurological Diseases Associated with Lithium Battery Disposal: A Cross-Sectional Study
No full textIntroduction
With the rapid increase in electric vehicle (EV) production and ownership, disposal of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries [1] has become a critical environmental challenge. These batteries contain chemicals like lithium hexafluorophosphate, and organic carbonates (e.g., ethylene carbonate) [2]. Inhalation of these substances can lead to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonitis. Long-term exposure may increase risks of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and arrhythmias as well as neurological conditions such as cognitive impairments and dementia [3][4][5]. The objective of our study is to assess disease outcomes in individuals exposed to heavy metals or toxic chemical byproducts from LFP battery recycling or disposal.
Method
Our study deploys a cross-sectional observational design to assess three health outcomes: respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological outcomes.
Study population
The exposed group includes workers in lithium battery recycling plants or living within a 3 km radius of such facilities. The control group includes individuals who have no occupational exposure and live at least 10 km away from any battery recycling or disposal facility.
Inclusion criteria:
The study includes 18-60-year-old individuals with no previous history of chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, or neurological conditions before employment or residence in or near battery recycling facilities.
Exclusion criteria:
Individuals with chronic history of respiratory, cardiovascular, or neurological diseases are excluded.
Results
Health outcomes assessment for all three systems
We use spirometry to measure FEV1 and FVC for lung function, blood pressure and electrocardiograms for cardiovascular health, and cognitive tests for neurological status.
Data analysis
Baseline characteristics are summarized for descriptive statistics. Outcome differences across groups are compared using t-tests with multivariable regression for adjusted odds ratios.
Conclusion
Our study emphasizes the need for health surveillance for individuals in proximity to lithium battery recycling
Enhancing Public health Resilience:Implementation of Heat-Related Illnesses Prevention System for the Elderly in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
No full textUnder the back drop of global warming, the frequency of heat-related illnesses has been increasing, affecting the human health.The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has a serious aging population, and high temperatures increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the elderly. In January 2024, the first Greater Bay Area Cardiovascular Research and Transformation Forum was held in Shenzhen, focusing on the latest research progress and transformation dynamics in the cardiovascular field. Meanwhile, in response to the high temperature prevention in the Greater Bay Area, Shenzhen has designed a high temperature warning system. As a result, a tripartite mutually beneficial study can be carried out for systematic implementation and promotion based on the analysis of heat wave resistance in the districts and counties of Guangdong province.Firstly,we recruit student volunteers to register the health information of the elderly, and establish a database of heat-related illnesses, improving the high temperature warning system. Secondly, the elderly with back up health information can bond closely to a health tracking system to receive timely warnings of high temperatures or extreme weather. Finally, a large amount of health information will be provided to the Greater Bay Area hospitals to promote cardiovascular medicine research in the Greater Bay Area. The study can enhance the level of scientific researches on cardiovascular diseases and promote cross-border medical information sharing in the area of medical cooperation of The Greater Bay Area
Medical students’ knowledge of the epidemiology, prevention, and treatment of malaria in a non-endemic country: Mongolia
No full textBackground:
Malaria is a serious infectious disease causing significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. It threatened nearly half the global population and caused hundreds of thousands of deaths in 2015. While Mongolia is a non-endemic country, increasing globalization and human mobility have raised the risk of exposure to malaria. Mongolian citizens traveling abroad and United Nations peacekeepers deployed to endemic regions face significant risks. This highlights the need for the Mongolian medical professionals to be prepared for malaria prevention, diagnosis, and treatment as international mobility grows.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among the medical students of Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS). 108 questionnaire surveys were collected from October to November of 2024. Descriptive analysis, chi-square test, and pearson correlation methods in the IBM-SPSS26 program were used for processing the results, and statistically significant differences were evaluated at p<0.05.
Results:
In this study a total of 108 students of MNUMS participated, 19(17.6%) were male and 89(82.4%) were female. Among 108 participants, 38% of them had medium and 60.2% of them observed to be sufficient considering the knowledge of malaria and its preventions, while no participants observed to have a lack of knowledge or a high level of knowledge. The branch schools and the students’ knowledge had a significant correlation (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
The knowledge of medical students regarding the transmission routes, symptoms, and treatment methods of malaria was found to be insufficient. Furthermore, significant variations in knowledge levels were observed among students from different branch schools. To enhance medical students' knowledge of malaria, structured lessons, targeted training sessions, and awareness events should be systematically planned and implemented
The Assessment of Future Water Quality Under Climate Change Using Artificial Intelligence Modelling
No full textIntroduction: The impact of climate change on water quality has recently emerged as a significant concern in the scientific community. Due to the crucial role of water in the life of all living creatures and its vulnerability against the climate changes The objective of the present study was to examine the impact of climate change on river water quality and to evaluate the projected future state of river water quality in the context of climate change.
Method: The historical climate data (including temperature, precipitation, humidity, and wind velocity) and water quality data were obtained from the Iran Meteorological Organization (IRIMO) and the Regional Water Organization, respectively. The impact of climate change on water quality parameters was investigated through a correlation analysis and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) in the historical period (2010-2020). The climate change parameters were forecasted by global climate models or general circulation models (GCMs) for the period between 2020 and 2100. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of the predicted river water quality index was interpolated using the ordinary kriging method.
Results: The findings of this study indicate that climate change has had an impact on water quality. Furthermore, there was a notable decline in river water quality between the years 2010 and 2100. The spatial distribution of water quality in historical and future periods demonstrated that the quality of water in the eastern parts of the study area is likely to decline in the future.
Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that climate change is affecting river water quality in Iran. The findings of this study are pertinent to the formulation of policies and strategies for the management of river water quality in arid and semi-arid regions that are experiencing the effects of climate change
3D Bioprinting: Pioneering Tissue Regeneration for Organ Transplants and Beyond
Full text linkIntroduction
Bioprinting is a cutting-edge technology that combines 3D printing with biology. It offers a precise and innovative way to create functional human tissues and organs through the precise placement of cells, biomaterials and biomolecules in spatially predefined locations within confined three-dimensional structures. The potential applications are vast, ranging from drug testing and disease modelling to regenerative medicine and organ transplantation.
Method
This paper employs a state-of-the-art review of research papers
Result
The integration of 3D bioprinting technology into internal medicine has facilitated personalized treatment strategies, precision surgical planning, and advanced medical education through the creation of patient- specific tissue constructs and anatomically accurate organ models with biomimetic properties. 3D bio- printing holds great promise for the future of medicine, offering new approaches to tissue engineering where it allows the fabrication of complex tissue structures using patient-specific cells for drug development, personalized medicine and surgical planning and training. The process of decellularizationof organs and utilizing them as scaffolds for generating new organs through recellularization is showing promising outcomes.
The key elements of the bio-printing process involve three main components: the bioprinter, the bio-ink, and the post-printing steps.
Bioprinter: This is the specialized machine used to deposit the bio-ink and create the desired structure.
Bio ink: Bio ink is the material used for printing, which typically includes living cells, biomaterials, and biochemical. It serves as the building blocks for creating functional tissues and organs
Post-printing Steps: Maturation involves providing the printed tissue with the necessary conditions to develop and mature over time like providing appropriate nutrients, oxygen, and mechanical stimulation.
Conclusion
The shortage of organs for transplant is a critical issue putting half a million patients in the waiting list and leading to increased mortality rate due to organ failure. Progress in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, particularly in 3D bioprinting of tissues and organs, is making a substantial impact. However, it is important to acknowledge that along with these advancements come important considerations regarding regulation, ethics, and safety. Collaborative efforts between researchers, clinicians, and industry partners are essential to accelerate the translation of 3D bio-printing technology into clinical practice and realize its full potential in transplantation and beyond
Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Diabetes Management
Full text linkType 1 diabetes, a prevalent health issue, poses significant challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. Traditional treatment methods often fail to effectively manage the disease, emphasizing the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. This article explores four promising approaches: gene therapy, stem cell therapy, artificial pancreas, and immunomodulators, while also assessing the general population’s awareness and understanding of these advanced diabetes treatments. A survey involving 101 participants, the majority of whom were medical students, was conducted to evaluate their knowledge and perceptions of novel therapies. The findings underscore the importance of targeted educational programs and enhanced communication between healthcare professionals and the public, including medical students, to bridge the knowledge gap in emerging therapies. Continuous research and development in these domains are crucial for achieving long-term blood sugar control and minimizing the impact of diabetes on individuals and healthcare systems globally. By addressing these needs and expectations, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers can work together to develop and implement effective strategies that can significantly improve the lives of individuals living with diabetes and contribute to the global effort to tackle this pervasive health issue
Brain Computer-Interface System – The Benefits of it for Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Full text linkPurpose
To explore and analyze how the Brain-Computer Interface aids patients with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) afflicted with Locked-In Syndrome (LIS) by enabling them in their movement and communication.
Introduction
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare terminal neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in progressive weakening and atrophy of the muscles. Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) was used as a communication method for a patient with late-stage ALS characterized by aphonia and quadriplegia, with retention of normal cognitive function. The use of the implanted device combined with automated decoding software, enabled independent communication in patients with the use of typing software.
Method
A 58 year-old female with late-stage ALS was able to communicate with her eyes with the help of an eye tracker. She is completely paralyzed and indicates a score of 2 on the ALS functional rating scale on a scale of 0 (high impairment) to 40 (low impairment). A BCI device of subdural electrode strips were implanted through burr holes over the sensorimotor prefrontal cortex by functional MRI and neuro-navigation. The elements of the BCI system also include the transmitter, receiving antenna, receiver and a tablet. After 28 weeks of implantation, the patient was asked to do computer tasks by trying to move the hand on the side opposite the implanted electrodes. The patient was also able to spell words correctly on the screen by selecting each letter.
Result
The performance of the patient doing algorithm tests and spelling on the tablet, improved over time showing a correct mean of over 90%. Consistent functional MRI activity was observed in the left sensorimotor hand area when the patient tried to move her hand. The patient was also asked to rate the visual-analogue scores for mood which consistently showed below 30% (lower limit for depression). She was able to use the system at home with minimal assistance and reported high levels of satisfaction with the device.
Conclusion
The patient, with the help of a completely implanted BCI system, was able to control a typing communication software, although at a slow rate. Hence, this system is seen to be effective in the long-term management of ALS patients
The Efficacy, Side Effect, and Cost-effectiveness of Uperio for Heart Failure: A Literature Review: A Literature Review
No full textHeart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome that results when the heart is unable to provide sufficient blood flow to meet metabolic requirements or accommodate a systemic venous return. HF is a costly condition that consumes 1–2% of the total healthcare budget. Recently, angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs; sacubitril/valsartan, Uperio®) showed a highly significant and clinically relevant reduction in mortality and heart failure hospitalizations, and improvement of quality of life when added to current standard drugs in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. (HFrEF). Sacubitril is an neprilysin inhibitor to slow down natriuretic peptide (NP) breakdown, effectively increasing their vasodilation effect. NP levels are elevated in patients with HF and other cardiac diseases for restoring normal circulatory conditions. As for valsartan, this is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II. Although Uperio has fewer side effects, more effectiveness it is considered a high-priced heart failure medication and needs further economic impact