Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a public health challenge and represents one of the major contributors to disability and mortality worldwide among all trauma-related injuries. This study aimed ...to determine a precise effect size of secretome intervention in TBI. We performed a systematic literature search through Cochrane, MEDLINE Complete, PubMed and Scopus databases for articles published until June 2021. The search terms used include cells OR stem cells OR mesenchymal stem cells AND secretome OR conditioned medium OR extracellular vesicles OR exosomes OR microvesicles AND traumatic brain injury OR head injury. Neurological deficits and neuroinflammation were the outcome measures assessed after the intervention. Thirty-one (31) studies involving mouse, rat and swine were enrolled for the meta-analysis. Secretome significantly improved structural and functional recovery when compared with control. The mean effect sizes were as follows: modified neurological severity score (mNSS) (-2.65, 95% CI: -3.42, -1.87,
p
< 0.00001), impact size (-3.02 mm
3
, 95% CI: -4.97, -1.08,
p
= 0.002) and latency to platform (-17.20 s, 95% CI: -23.91, -10.50,
p
< 0.00001). Similarly, intervention with secretome reduced neuroinflammation after TBI. The results of meta-regression showed that the source of secretome, TBI models and duration of follow-up did not influence the mNSS. Furthermore, the methodological quality of the studies was moderate as shown by the risk of bias assessment. Publication bias was observed for the mNSS. This meta-analysis provides preclinical evidence of secretome intervention in TBI, suggesting that it can be explored as a therapeutic agent for TBI and other neurological disorders in humans.
Natron consumption has been implicated in the pathogenesis of peripartum cardiomyopathy. This work evaluates the effect of natron on the antioxidant status and lipid profile of postpartum rats ...administered graded doses of natron for four consecutive weeks. After treatment, the rats were assessed for antioxidant status, malondialdehyde level, and lipid profile. The results revealed that natron caused a significant decrease (P ˂ 0.05) in the activity of catalase in rats administered with 300 mg/kg of natron compared to control. The activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase decreased in a dose‐dependent manner; however, the difference was not statistically significant when compared with control. Serum levels of antioxidant minerals were also significantly decreased (P ˂ 0.05) at higher doses of natron in comparison to control. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the malondialdehyde level in rats administered with 200 and 300 mg/kg of natron when compared with control. Natron at higher doses caused a significant increase (P ˂ 0.05) in the level of the lipid profile parameters except for high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol that decrease significantly (P ˂ 0.05). This study demonstrated that the administration of natron at high doses induced dyslipidemia and oxidative stress in postpartum rats.
Practical Application
This research reports the implication of a high intake of natron to health and to establish the relationship between natron intake and peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) using an animal model. Natron has health benefits; however, its consumption at high doses should be discouraged as it can lead to oxidative stress (OS) and dyslipidemia. The results suggest that OS due to natron may contribute to the pathogenesis of PPCM. A high concentration of natron can be used to induce an animal model of PPCM, which would be of practical application in studying the molecular basis and possible discovery of therapeutics for the disease.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been the result of neurological deficit and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the antioxidative neuroprotective property and learning and memory-enhancing ...effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in a rat model after the induction of TBI. 21 albino rats with 7 rats per group were used in this study. Group I was induced with TBI and treated with DMSO at 67.5 mg/kg orally once daily which started 30 min after the induction of TBI and lasted 21 days. Group II was induced with TBI but not treated while Group III was neither induced with TBI nor treated. Assessment of behavioral function (Learning and memory, anxiety and motor function), the level of an antioxidant enzymes and their gene expression (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), the biomarkers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) and S100B levels as well as brain tissues histological studies were conducted. Administration of DMSO to rats with induced TBI has improved learning and memory, locomotor function and decreased anxiety in Group I compared to Group II. Moreover, the level of S100B was significantly (
p
< 0.05) lower in Group I compared to Group II. Treatment with DMSO also decreased lipid peroxidation significantly (
p
< 0.05) compared to Group II. There exists a significant (
p
< 0.05) increase in CAT, SOD, and GPX activities in Group I compared to Group II. Therefore, DMSO has demonstrated a potential antioxidative neuroprotective effect through its ability to increase the level of antioxidant enzymes which they quench and inhibit the formation of ROS, thereby improving cognitive functions.
The functional properties and good quality of food materials are important factors that determine the suitability for complementary foods for children. This study evaluated the functional properties ...and storage stability of cereal-based and legume- based complementary food (CF). Nutri-survey (2007) was used to optimize and generate six composite blends designated F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6 from yellow maize (Zea mays), wheat (Triticum aestivum), millet (Pennisetumglaucum), groundnut (Arachis hypogea), soyabeans (Glycine max), and Moringa oleifera. Freshly prepared samples were subjected to analysis of functional properties. During storage, the composite blends were subjected to sensory evaluation, microbial count, moisture content, peroxide value and free fatty acid determination at 15-day intervals for a period of 60 days. Data obtained were analyzed by ANOVA and results expressed as mean and standard error of mean. Results of functional properties revealed that bulk density ranged from (0.63-0.81 g/cm3), water absorption capacity (86-90%), swelling index (0.33-1.34 cm3/g), reconstitution index (2.20-3.20) and pH (6.52-6.69). The organoleptic properties and keeping quality of the formulated complementary foods were not significantly different (P> 0.05) at baseline and end line. Therefore, this study provides a basis for the development of acceptable complementary foods with optimal functional properties and storage stability.
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Sokoto metropolis of North-Western Nigeria.
A cross-sectional community based study was carried out. Four hundred and ...ten subjects (201 males and 209 females) were recruited for the study using a multi-stage sampling technique. Demographic and the life style data was obtained from the participants. Evaluation of anthropometric variables, fasting blood sugar, lipid profiles, insulin resistance and blood pressure was performed. The classification of metabolic syndrome was based on the NCEP ATP III guidelines.
The mean (SD) age of the sample population was 39.6 (14.4) years. The mean (SD) age of the male subjects was 38.4(14.9) years and that of the females was 40.8(13.9) years (p> 0.05). The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 35.1% with the females having 42.83% and the males 27.36%. The frequencies of metabolic syndrome parameters in the study subjects were low HDL (56.1%), hypertension (46.1%), dysglycemia (32.7%), central obesity (28%), and elevated triglycerides (22.4%). Most of the women had low HDL (62.2%) and central obesity elevated (49.8%).
Metabolic syndrome is common in residents of North-Western Nigeria, commoner in the females than males. Risk factors for metabolic syndrome should be detected in normal individuals for implementing effective preventive measures.
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and secretome are promising therapies for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). This meta-analysis aimed to provide a precise estimate and compare the therapeutic ...efficacy of MSC and secretome in PAH. We searched six databases (CINAHL, Cochrane, Ovid Medline, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus) until December 2018 using search terms related to MSCs, secretome and PAH. Twenty-three studies were included for the meta-analysis. The effect size of pulmonary hemodynamics and right ventricular hypertrophy markers was estimated using random effects model. MSCs and secretome significantly improved pulmonary hemodynamics and right ventricular hypertrophy compared to control. Comparison between MSCs and secretome indicate no significant difference in reducing right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and medial wall thickening (MWT). However, treatment of PAH with secretome significantly improved mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) (p = 0.018) and right ventricular/left ventricular + septum (RV/LV+S) (p = 0.017) better than MSCs. Meta-regression shows that cell type (p = 0.034) is a predictor of MSCs to reduce RVSP in PAH. Similarly, the effect of secretome on MWT was significantly (p = 0.011) better at 4 weeks compared to 2 weeks of intervention. The overall risk of bias ranges from low to moderate; however, some of the essential elements required in reports of animal trials were not reported. There was evidence of publication bias for RV/LV+S and MWT, but not RVSP. This meta-analysis provides evidence of the therapeutic benefits of MSCs and secretome in PAH and the effect of secretome was similar or superior to MSCs.
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•MSCs and secretome are promising therapies for the restoration of pulmonary hemodynamics in PAH.•Secretome has shown similar or superior therapeutic benefits compared to MSCs.•The therapeutic benefits of MSCs are mediated through multiple secretions of bioactive molecules.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a significant public health concern worldwide, necessitating effective research models to elucidate its pathophysiology and develop therapeutic interventions. ...Animal models play a crucial role in TBI research, offering valuable insights into injury mechanisms and potential treatments. However, selecting the appropriate model can be challenging due to diverse array of available options and their respective advantages and limitations. In this comprehensive review, we examine four commonly used animal models of TBI: the weight drop, fluid percussion, cortical impact, and blast injury models. Each model is characterized by distinct injury mechanisms, allowing researchers simulate various aspects of TBI pathology. We discuss the unique advantages and disadvantages of each model, providing insights into their applications and considerations for model selection based on research objectives and outcome measures. Furthermore, we highlight emerging directions in TBI modelling, emphasizing the importance of refining and innovating models to replicate the complexity of human TBI. By critically evaluating and understanding the subtlety of different TBI models, researchers can make informed decisions to enhance the translational potential of preclinical TBI research and ultimately improve clinical outcomes for TBI patients.
Background: Difficult airway management remains one of the most challenging clinical situations encountered by anaesthetists. Aim: The study compared the effectiveness of the McGrath MAC video ...laryngoscope to the McCoy® laryngoscope in patients with difficult airway. Materials and Methods: Following the institution's ethical approval, the randomised controlled trial was conducted involving 74 adults with American Society of anaesthesiologists' physical status (ASA) grading of I-III scheduled for elective surgery. The Patients were randomised into either group MVL (McGrath MAC) or group MCC (McCoy) and intubated after preoxygenation with 100% oxygen and administration of IV propofol and suxamethonium. The Intubation Difficulty Score (IDS), success rate of intubation, time to intubation, number of optimising manoeuvres and complications was assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 computer software (IBM SPSS Statistics, IBM Corp. NY, United States). Numerical and categorical data were compared using the student's t-test and Chi square (χ2) test respectively. A value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Lower IDS scores were noted in the McGrath group; 54.1% vs. 5.4% of patients had IDS score of 0 in the McGrath and McCoy groups respectively, (P < 0.001). Overall success rate was higher in the McGrath group (100% vs. 89.1%), P = 0.040. Conclusion: Lower IDS scores and improved intubation success rate was achieved with the McGrath compared with the McCoy laryngoscope in patients with predicted difficult airway. The McGrath has proved to be useful in managing patients with difficult airway.
The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is increasing as the aging population and life expectancy increase. This calls for the development of effective therapeutics with fewer side effects that can ...manage the progression of the disease. Over the years, the only approved drugs for AD include donepezil, galantamine, memantine, and rivastigmine. Unfortunately, these treatments do not cure AD but rather alleviate symptoms of AD. Their long-term safety is not clear leaving room for the search for more therapies that would effectively prevent and manage the progression of AD. For this reason, antioxidants have been employed to target oxidative stress (OS) in AD. Oxidative stress contributes greatly to the progression of AD by increasing the accumulation of amyloid-beta, hyper-phosphorylated tau proteins forming neurofibrillary tangles, and mitochondria dysfunction. With endogenous antioxidants being overwhelmed leading to OS, exogenous antioxidants could be therapeutic options for AD. Studies conducted utilizing antioxidant vitamins C and E have been revealed to reduce cognitive impairment in animal models of AD. However, clinical trials have produced inconclusive results. One plausible explanation for the disparity is the bioavailability of these antioxidant vitamins in the brains of AD patients. Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are novel nano-delivery systems for targeted delivery of therapeutics. Hence, this review highlights the potential of PDEVs as delivery vehicles to increase the bioavailability of these antioxidant vitamins in the brain. The study emphasizes the role of oxidative stress in the pathobiology of AD and the therapeutic benefits of antioxidants. We provide an insight into isolation protocols, loading strategies, and bioengineering of PDEVs for targeted delivery of vitamins C and E. Challenges and future perspectives of these nanovesicles as platforms for drug delivery to the brain tissue are also discussed. We are optimistic that more research in this line could be explored to tackle the challenges of failed clinical trials of these vitamins as therapeutics for AD.
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•Plants are rich sources for large-scale production of ready-to-use extracellular vesicles (EVs) for drug delivery.•Plant-derived EVs contain inherent cargoes that possess therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease.•Encapsulation of vitamins C and E into EVs can increase the bioavailability in the brain.•Decoration of EVs with small molecules through bioengineering would improve the targeted delivery of antioxidant vitamins.
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