Introduction: Pyogenic infections are caused by a variety of microorganisms. Routine surveillance is essential to monitor the distribution and evolving susceptibility patterns of clinically significant pathogens over time. This study aims to highlight the bacteriological profile of pus samples and analyse their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns at a tertiary-care hospital in Eastern India. Methods: This was a retrospective study covering an eighteen months period from May 2023 to October 2024. A total of 428 pus samples were included. The samples were inoculated onto Blood, Chocolate and MacConkey agar plates and incubated. Bacteria were identified and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using an automated system. Results: Culture-positivity was 88%, in which Gram-negative (GN) bacteria (58%) outnumbered Gram-positives (GP) (42%). The highest number of samples was obtained from patients with skin and soft tissue infections (40%). Overall, Staphylococcus aureus was found to be the most prevalent pathogen (29%). Among GN, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was predominant (16.4%). GP isolates were most often susceptible to vancomycin (94%) and linezolid (88.3%). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was 44.4% and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) was 20%. Enterobacterales demonstrated a high susceptibility to colistin (80%) and tigecycline (78.5%). ESBL-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E) positivity was 48.2% and Carbapenem resistance Enterobacterales (CRE) was 44%. All isolates of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex and 33.3% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were multi-drug resistant (MDR), demonstrating maximum susceptibility to colistin. Conclusion: Emergence of resistant strains are the significant concerns of this study. Effective infection control practices and proper antimicrobial stewardship are the utmost needs of the hour. Keywords: Pus, Bacteriological profile, Antimicrobial susceptibility, Multidrug resistance, MRSA, ESBL
Background: The magnitude of acute and chronic pancreatitis is increasing with rising rates of alcohol consumption. Aim and objective: The aim of the study was to describe the effect of alcoholism in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic pancreatitis cases as well as to assess the clinical presentations and investigational findings of these cases. Methods: This observational retrospective study with cross sectional design was conducted based on records of the patients admitted with acute and chronic pancreatitis between October 2022 and October 2024 at Bankura Sammilani Medical College and Hospital. Results: Out of 348 patients, 120 had Acute Pancreatitis (alcoholic: 44; non-alcoholic: 76) and 228 had Chronic Pancreatitis (alcoholic: 172; non-alcoholic: 56). Among both types of pancreatitis cases mean age and mean bilirubin was higher among alcoholics with comparison to non-alcoholics but the mean ESR, lipase, amylase, ALP levels were higher among non-alcoholics. All the cases of acute pancreatitis presented with abdominal pain and 90.9% of those with alcoholism presented with vomiting. 95.3% alcoholic and all non-alcoholic patients with chronic pancreatitis presented with abdominal pain. While 71.4% alcoholic and 48.8% non-alcoholic with chronic pancreatitis presented with vomiting. The commonest aetiologies of acute pancreatitis were: gallstone (43.33%), alcohol (30%), idiopathic (26.66%) whereas those of chronic pancreatitis were: alcohol (71.92%), idiopathic (24.56%), gallstone (3.5%). The most common radiological features of chronic pancreatitis were pancreatic calcification and pseudocyst. Conclusion: Biochemical and haematological parameters were more elevated in patients suffering from acute and chronic pancreatitis with non-alcoholism compared to those with alcoholism. Keywords: Acute Pancreatitis, Chronic Pancreatitis, Alcoholics, Non-alcoholics
Context: Gallstones are a recurrent hepatobiliary disease seen in around 10-15% of the population. Various classification systems have been proposed for the classification of gall stones, and the widely used system utilizes the morphology and chemical content of gall stones. Aims: In this study we aim to evaluate the incidence of gall stones and to describe the clinicopathological correlation of the disease in the study population. Settings and Design: This is a retrospective, descriptive study done using the medical records of patients presented with cholelithiasis over a period of 2 years. Methods and Material: A total of 155 patients were included in the study. The histopathological diagnoses of the cholecystectomy specimens were retrieved from the archived reports, and the data was evaluated with patient details. Statistical analysis used: Data was entered in Microsoft Excel and analysed for correlation between various variables using SPSS software version 22.0. Results: The ages of the patients varied from 15 years old to 85 years old, with the mean age of the study population being 47 years. A female predominance was seen, and pigment stones were found to be the most common type. Majority of the patients (58.7%) had no coexisting comorbidities while the most common comorbidity seen in patients with pigmented stones was that of diabetes (13.3%). Among the patients with cholesterol stones 15.4% of the patients showed presence of thyroid disorder and two out of the three patients with mixed type of gall stones showed coexisting diabetes. Conclusions: Gall stones were found more commonly among women with an increased incidence in women of the reproductive age group. The most common gall stone found in the study population was that of pigment stones followed by cholesterol stones. Patients with diabetes showed an increased incidence of pigmented and mixed stones while patients with thyroid disorder showed an increased incidence of cholesterol stones. Key Messages: An increased incidence of pigmented and mixed gall stones has been observed among patients with diabetes. A larger, population based study is warranted to evaluate the underlying mechanism. Keywords: Cholelithiasis, Pigment stones, Cholesterol stones
Introduction: Waardenburg syndrome is an autosomal dominant inherited genetic condition where abnormal melanocyte distribution during embryogenesis results in areas of patchy depigmentation. The loss of pigmentary cells in skin, eyes, hair and stria vascularis of cochlea are the cause of various clinical manifestations of this syndrome. The incidence of this syndrome globally is 1/42000 live births. Case Report: One day old male baby presented with symmetrical depigmented patches over both lower legs, white forelock, hearing loss, broad nasal bridges since birth. Baby was delivered at 37 weeks period of gestation after an uneventful pregnancy through normal vaginal delivery; history of similar complaints in the father present. No h/o consanguinity among parents. On Examination: Symmetrical solitary well defined depigmented patches of size 4x5cm present over both lower legs around knee joints. White forelock present over the frontal region of head. Broad nasal bridge with heterochromia of eyes present. Sensorineural hearing loss detected after audiometry test. Hence clinically diagnosed as Waardenburg syndrome type II. Conclusion: This is a rare case of Waardenburg syndrome satisfying criteria for type II. Knowledge of this syndrome helps in its early identification and diagnosis which in turn helps in its early management. Keywords: Waardenburg Syndrome, White Forelock, Depigmented Patches
Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and Rifampicin-resistant TB (RR-TB) are man-made problems that are rising due to ignorance of MDR-TB and inadequate handling of Tuberculosis, which poses a major threat in reducing TB[1]. So, this study has been conducted to identify the efficacy “of planned health education Programme on patient understanding about MDR-TB & its management at DOTS centres of Kolar. Methods and Material: Pre-experimental single group pre-and post-test design was applied for the study. Through Purposive sampling 55 TB cases were selected. Information was gathered using structured knowledge questionnaire via interview schedule, then pre-arranged health education programme was implemented. Following eight days, post-test was given by using same questionnaire. Statistical analysis: Data was analysed using Descriptive and Inferential Statistics like mean, standard deviation and chi-square test. Results: The study results proved that, with regard to overall pre-test knowledge score, majority (89.10%) of TB patients had inadequate knowledge, 10.90 % of them were having reasonable amount of moderately adequate knowledge and none of them were having enough knowledge. The mean pre-test knowledge score was 4.29 with SD of 2.99, while the mean post-test knowledge score was 12.58 with SD of 1.64 and it was “statistically significant at 0.005 level. Conclusion: The results found that, organised health education programme helped Tuberculosis patients in improving knowledge scores. Hence more awareness studies need to be carried out among TB patients in order to prevent multi-drug resistance TB. Keywords: Effectiveness, Structured teaching programme, Knowledge, Tuberculosis, MDR-TB, TB patients
Human ancestors harbored many of the bacteria (fungi, viruses, & parasites) on their body and also within the body. These bacteria were friendly and thankful to the host. These bacteria got good shelter and nutrition from the host. Bacteria were helping our ancestors, to understand normal and friendly bacteria. Training our immune system to recognize harmful bacteria and destroy them. These bacteria were fighting with harmful bacteria for the space and nutrition. These bacteria are called commensals. If the body’s immune system comes down, these commensals may utilize the opportunity and may become pathogenic (opportunistic). To name few commensal organisms on human body are 1) Staphylococcus epidermidis in skin, 2) Cutibacterium acnes in hair follicles, 3) Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus salivarius in oral cavity, 4) Escherichia coli in GI tract, 5) Lactobacillus crispatum and Lactobacillus iners in vagina along with commensal Neisseria species (N lactamica, and N mucosa)[1]. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) species modified itself so well; initially it was a humble pathogen, susceptible to sulfonamides. Over the years, slowly it developed tricks to evade the immune attack, and developed resistance to all the antibiotics which were used to treat it. Today WHO and all researchers call such organisms “Superbug”[2]. Keywords: Gonococcus, Protein 1, Protein 2, Protein 3, Pili, OMV (Outer Membrane Vesicles)
Central nervous system (CNS) infections represent a major global health burden, often leading to significant neurological morbidity and mortality. Accurate and early diagnosis is essential for guiding effective treatment. Yet, conventional imaging modalities such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) often fail to detect subtle microstructural changes in the early stages of infection. Magnetization Transfer Imaging (MTI), an advanced MRI technique, offers improved sensitivity by detecting alterations in the macromolecular composition of tissues through the exchange of magnetization between bound and free water protons. This review explores the growing role of MTI in the detection, characterization, and monitoring of CNS infections. MTI enables visualization of early pathological changes such as demyelination, gliosis, and inflammation, which are typically invisible on routine sequences. It has demonstrated added diagnostic value in a wide range of infections, including tuberculous meningitis, neuro-AIDS, progressive multifocal leukoence- phalopathy, and fungal CNS diseases. Quantitative metrics like the magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) and pool size ratio (PSR) provide surrogate markers for tissue integrity and therapeutic response, offering clinicians a non-invasive tool for monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy. MTI also assists in differentiating infectious lesions from neoplastic and autoimmune pathologies, improving diagnostic specificity. Integration of MTI with other modalities such as diffusion tensor imaging and MR spectroscopy enhances tissue characterization and supports precision medicine approaches. Despite current limitations such as protocol variability and limited access, the ongoing refinement of quantitative magnetization transfer (qMT) techniques and standardization efforts promise to expand MTI’s clinical utility in managing CNS infections. Keywords: CNS infections, Magnetization Transfer Imaging (MTI), Magnetization transfer ratio (MTR), Neuro-AIDS, Viral encephalitis
Background: The availability of safe and high-quality blood products hinges on effective storage systems. However, extended storage of red blood cells (RBCs) leads to biochemical and hematological alterations known as storage lesions, which can compromise transfusion efficacy and patient safety. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of storage duration and blood bag type (single, double, triple, and leukofilter CPD-SAGM) on biochemical and hematological parameters of stored RBC units over 28 days. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 150 blood units collected and stored under standard conditions. Parameters including plasma sodium, potassium, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), hematocrit, and total leukocyte count (TLC) were measured at multiple intervals over a 28-day period using standardized biochemical and hematological analyzers. Results: Significant biochemical changes were observed across all bag types: plasma potassium and LDH levels increased, while sodium levels decreased during storage (p < 0.001). Hematocrit showed a significant decline in non-leukoreduced units, while leukofilter bags maintained relatively stable values. TLC dropped significantly in leukoreduced units after processing, confirming the effectiveness of leukoreduction. Leukofilter bags consistently demonstrated lower biochemical deterioration and hemolysis markers compared to non-leukoreduced counterparts. Conclusion: Red cell storage induces progressive changes that can impact transfusion safety. Leukoreduction significantly mitigates these effects, as evidenced by lower potassium and LDH levels and better preservation of hematocrit. The use of leukofilter CPD-SAGM bags is recommended to improve the biochemical and hematological quality of stored blood, particularly for high-risk patients. Keywords: Red blood cells, Blood storage, Leukoreduction, Potassium, LDH, Hematocrit, storage lesions, Transfusion safety
Breast milk is the most natural and complete source of nutrition for infants, while also strengthening the bond between mother and child. Breastfeeding, defined as feeding the baby directly from the breast rather than through bottles or substitutes, plays a vital role in infant health and survival[1]. Without breast milk, infants face reduced chances of survival and a higher risk of developing life-threatening conditions[2]. These considerations emphasize the importance of understanding breastfeeding practices and their benefits for both mother and child. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding breastfeeding, breast milk expression, and preservation. A descriptive study design was adopted, and 176 antenatal mothers attending the Antenatal Clinic at Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru, were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire. The findings revealed that 58.5% of participants had moderate knowledge, 38.6% had adequate knowledge, and 2.8% had inadequate knowledge. Knowledge scores were highest in the area of breast milk expression, followed by preservation, and lowest in breastfeeding. Statistical analysis showed no significant association between knowledge levels and selected demographic variables, except for monthly family income (p = 0.015) and source of information (p = 0.014). The study highlights the need for strengthening health education programs for antenatal mothers, with a focus on breastfeeding and breast milk preservation practices, to ensure optimal nutrition and improved health outcomes for infants. Keywords: Breastfeeding, Breastmilk expression, Breastmilk preservation, Antenatal mothers, Knowledge
Background: Breast cancer is a severe illness that significantly lowers women's mortality and quality of life globally. It is the most prevalent cause of cancer-related death in women and the fifth most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Methods: The current study was conducted among the women of reproductive age group attending OPD at Theresapuram UPHC for a period of 6 months. The exclusion criteria includes: known case of benign or malignant breast conditions, had prior breast surgery, currently antenatal and lactating mothers. Before the study was carried out, informed oral consent and approval from the ethical committee were acquired. A semi-structured questionnaire that had been developed beforehand was used to gather data. Results: 220 women between the ages of 15 and 49 who were in the reproductive age range were interviewed. 184 (83.64%) of them had heard about breast cancer at some point. The majority (76.4%) did not know enough about the risk factors for breast cancer. Only 92 (41.8%) of the ladies had heard about BSE. Just forty-five (20.4%) of the study participants regularly practiced BSE out of the total. The most frequent excuse for not performing BSE was discovered to be fear. There was a statistically significant (p<0.05) correlation between the practice of breast self-examination and socioeconomic status, occupation, and education. Conclusion: Breast cancer awareness and self-breast inspection practices are essential for early detection and improved prognosis. The incidence and death of breast cancer in women can be significantly decreased by raising awareness and promoting regular breast self-examination. Comprehensive healthcare services should incorporate educational initiatives. Keywords: Awareness, Breast Cancer, Breast Self-Examination, Reproductive Age Women
This is a report of Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Colon with Synchronous Ovarian Metastasis – Kruckenberg tumour in a young female of low socioeconomic background with deceptive presentation emphasizing the diagnostic complexity and the need for clinical adaptability in resource-constrained settings. A 36-year-old woman (G2P2L2) presented with progressive abdominal pain and a rapidly enlarging mass in the right lumbar region. An ultrasonography was consistent with a high-risk ovarian malignancy (ORADS-5). Due to financial constraints, advanced imaging modalities and tumour marker evaluation were deferred. Staging laparotomy was conducted to evaluate possible malignancy and revealed tumour deposits involving not just the ovaries but the ileum, jejunum, mesentery, and omentum too. Cytoreductive surgery was performed. Histopathology demonstrated mucinous tumour cells with signet rings in the stroma of both the ovaries, and along with immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of “Primary Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Colon with Ovarian Metastasis– Kruckenberg Tumour”. Postoperatively, the patient declined further treatment due to financial limitations. Keywords: Krukenberg Tumor, Adenocarcinoma, Mucinous, Colorectal Neoplasms, Immunohistochemistry, SATB2 Protein, Human, Developing Countries
AI-driven solutions hold immense promise in transforming healthcare delivery in rural and tribal regions of India, where disparities persist despite advancements in the sector. This scoping review examines the role of AI tools in strengthening public health systems and improving healthcare outcomes in these underserved areas. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, with studies screened using the "Covidence" tool. Thematic analysis of English-language articles published through December 2023 reveals that AI technologies can address critical gaps in healthcare access and service delivery. However, barriers such as inadequate digital infrastructure, limited technical expertise, and regulatory challenges hinder effective implementation. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and technology developers are essential to overcoming these obstacles, with a focus on enhancing digital infrastructure, workforce training, and policy support. By optimizing resources, empowering healthcare workers, and streamlining service delivery, AI has the potential to revolutionize rural healthcare. This review provides key insights and recommendations to inform stakeholders and guide future AI-driven public health initiatives. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Public health systems, Rural healthcare, Tribal regions, Healthcare equity
Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic large-vessel vasculitis predominantly affecting the aorta and its primary branches. We report three patients with atypical imaging findings diagnosed using computed tomography angiography (CTA). Case 1 (a twenty-five-year-old woman) had diffuse aortic wall thickening with an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Case 2 (a thirty-five-year-old woman) showed bilateral renal artery stenosis with left renal arteriovenous fistula. Case 3 (a thirty-eight-year-old woman) demonstrated extensive arterial calcifications, left carotid artery occlusion, and an infrarenal saccular aneurysm. CTA was invaluable in detecting wall thickening, stenosis, aneurysm formation, and calcification. These cases illustrate that atypical vascular involvement may occur in TA and emphasize the role of CTA in comprehensive disease evaluation and management. Early recognition of such atypical radiological features can guide timely management and prevent complications. Keywords: Takayasu arteritis, Large-vessel vasculitis, Computed tomography angiography, Aortic aneurysm, Vascular stenosis, Arteriovenous fistula
Objectives: The present study focused on the molecular identification and evaluation of specific gene targets for the rapid and accurate detection of Salmonella typhi from blood samples of patients diagnosed with typhoid fever. Methodology: Three representative isolates were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and their identity as S. typhi was confirmed via BLASTn analysis with 100% sequence identity and query coverage. To develop a DNA-based diagnostic tool, single gene-target PCR assays were optimized using six primer sets targeting STY2020, STY2021, STY0201, STY0307, STY0322, and STY0326. Results: Five of these assays successfully identified all S. typhi isolates with 100% sensitivity and specificity, while the STY0322 assay failed to amplify any strains. Detection limit analysis using serially diluted genomic DNA revealed that STY0307 was the most sensitive target (5.0 pg), followed by STY0201 and STY2021 (10 pg). Lower sensitivity was observed with STY2020 and STY0326 (50 pg), with only faint gel electrophoresis bands. These results indicate that STY0307, STY0201, and STY2021 are highly reliable markers for S. typhi detection. Furthermore, low expression levels of STY2020 and STY0326 during infection underscore the need for further population-based studies. Conclusion: STY0307 and STY2021 emerged as the most promising gene targets for diagnostic purposes and could be leveraged for the development of low-cost, rapid, and accurate point-of-care diagnostics suitable for use in resource-limited settings. Keywords: Diagnostic tool, Gene-specific markers, PCR assay, Salmonella typhi, Typhoid fever
Background: This study investigates the role of various echocardiographic parameters in assessing right ventricular (RV) function in patients with inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI) and RV myocardial infarction (RVMI). Aims and Objectives: The primary objective is to evaluate the use of pulmonary regurgitation pressure half-time (PRPHT) and RV global longitudinal strain (RVGLS) as indicators of RV dysfunction and prognostic markers for adverse in-hospital outcomes and the outcome at 3 month follow-up. Materials and Methods: The study is a prospective observational cross-sectional analysis conducted at the public sector apex institute in eastern India, involving 155 patients diagnosed with acute IWMI/RVMI. Patients underwent a comprehensive echocardiographic evaluation and management, followed by a 3-month post-treatment follow-up. Results: The findings suggest significant correlations between echocardiographic parameters of RV function. It was noted that patients with PRPHT values <90, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) of <10, FAC of <28%, and RVGLS value of <(−12) were able to predict in-hospital outcome in patients of IWMI/RVMI. The findings of the present study also suggest that interventions in IWMI/RVMI have good outcomes at 3-month follow-up. Conclusion: The results also indicate that PRPHT could serve as a valuable prognostic indicator in patients with PRPHT ≤100 m. It was noted that RVGLS bears no value in predicting in-hospital outcomes. The study concludes that integrating PRPHT with traditional markers viz. TAPSE, RVFAC, and RVGLS provide a comprehensive assessment of RV function, enabling better identification of patients at risk of adverse outcomes following IWMI/RVMI.
Aneurysmal bone cysts are non-malignant, tumor-like vascular lesions that can grow rapidly, inflict local impairment, and weaken bones to the point of pathologic fracture. They are more common in pediatric patients and can cause severe morbidity, particularly if they involve the development plate of bones. The present case study describes a 13-year-old girl said with a complaint of back pain for three months. Plain radiography of the AP and lateral views of the LS spine, MRI spine, CT images, Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of Aneurysmal bone cyst of vertebrae and patient underwent Posterior spinal stabilization D12-L2 vertebrae with interbody expandible cage. Patient’s symptoms improved upon regular follow up. Patient specific evaluation and meticulous surgical technique for debulking(curetting) and stabilizing the spine to reduce morbidity and recurrence of ABC. Keywords: Aneurysmal bone cyst, Bone tumor, Spine tumor
Simarouba amara is a tree species from the Simaroubaceae family, native to the rainforests, savannahs, and Caribbean regions of Central and South America. This study provides a comprehensive review of the medicinal and pharmacological profile of S. amara. The plant's leaves and bark have been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including malaria, diarrhea, and dysentery 1. Phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of quassinoids, a class of triterpenes, which are responsible for the plant's therapeutic properties. Some of them are Ailanthinone, glaucarubinone, and holacanthone which are the principle biologically active phytochemical constituents present in S. amara. It possesses therapeutic qualities; Pharmacologically have been employed as an “anthelminthic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anorectic, tonic, insecticide, antimalarial, antimicrobial, anti-amoebic, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antipyretic, antidiarrheal, anti-bacterial, gastroprotective, antileukemic, astringent, febrifuge and skin hydrator”. Keywords: Simarouba amara, Pharmacological activities, Phytochemical analysis, Medicinal value
Banana pseudo-stem, a farming waste, may contain bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties. Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-urolithiatic properties, banana pseudo-stem extracts may help manage chronic diseases, infections, and kidney stones, according to recent research A complete synthesis of research must evaluate banana pseudo-stem extract efficacy and safety. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis analyse banana pseudo-stem extracts' antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-urolithiatic properties. A risk of bias evaluation will evaluate the evidence's quality and reliability. Method: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for banana pseudo-stem extract medical studies. Randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and preclinical animal studies qualify. Two independent reviewers will examine publications, extract data, and assess bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for RCTs and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies. Pooled effect sizes will be derived from quantitative data using random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses will use extraction, dosage, and study population. We will use the I² statistic to quantify heterogeneity and conduct sensitivity experiments as appropriate. Result: Antioxidant capacity, inflammatory marker lowering, antibacterial capabilities, and anti-urolithiatic potential (e.g., urinary oxalate and crystal count) are key outcomes. Secondary outcomes of banana pseudo-stem extract treatment include safety, adverse events, and quality of life. Conclusion: This review will synthesise banana pseudo-stem extracts' therapeutic effects for future study and clinical use. Research will promote banana pseudo-stem as a plant-based therapy and identify gaps. Keywords: Banana pseudo-stem, Therapeutic potential, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antimicrobial properties, Anti-urolithiatic effects, Bioactive compounds, Herbal medicine, Chronic disease management, Sustainable healthcare, Traditional remedies
Helicobacter pylori is a pathogen that has been consistently linked to gastrointestinal cancer, particularly gastric cancer. Reports indicate that this pathogen is resistant to antibiotic treatments, necessitating the development of new treatment strategies. Here, to design a vaccine against H. pylori immunoinformatic tools were used. For this purpose, five virulence proteins including Flagellin B (FlaB), Flagellin A (FlaA), Urease subunit beta (UreB), CagA and Vacuolating cytotoxin autotransporter (VacA) were selected. Antigenicity and allergenicity were evaluated, and the epitopes with the highest scores were chosen. Linkers were used to connect the epitopes and an extracellular domain of CTLA-4 was positioned on the N-terminal. Biochemical features were predicted with the ProtParam server, and the second structure was predicted with the Prabi server, while the third structure was predicted with the Robetta, Alphafold and I-TASSER servers. VaxiJen and AllerTOP servers were used to evaluate the vaccine's antigenicity and allergenicity, respectively. After confirming the structure of the designed vaccine, molecular docking was performed with the TLR5 molecule using AutoDock Vina software. The SnapGene tool was utilized to in silico cloning of the vaccine in pET-3a vector. To evaluate the efficacy of the recombinant vaccine, the multi-epitope gene of H. pylori was cloned into the pCDNA3.1 vector, and its expression was analyzed in the spleen tissue of BALB/c mice using RT-qPCR. It has been shown in the results that the vaccine designed can bind to the TLR5 molecule on the surface of immune cells. Despite being an antigen, this vaccine didn't have any allergenic properties. Immunoinformatic is a promising tool for designing various drugs and vaccines. The results demonstrated that the expression levels of TNF-α and IFN-γ were significantly increased in the vaccine-treated group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The elevated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines indicates that the designed DNA vaccine successfully induced a cellular immune response against H. pylori. Keywords: H. pylori; Vaccine design; CTLA-4; Immunoinformatic; Gastric cancer
Introduction: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype characterized by the absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2, limiting treatment primarily to chemotherapy, radiation, and emerging immunotherapies. It is associated with a poor prognosis, a high likelihood of metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) are key contributors to TNBC progression—MMP-9 facilitates tumor invasion and blood vessel formation, while IL-8 enhances cancer cell survival, migration, and metastasis through inflammatory pathways. Increased levels of these biomarkers are linked to more aggressive disease and worse survival outcomes. This study evaluates MMP-9 and IL-8 expression in breast cancer tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and explores their association with clinicopathological features. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the NABL-accredited laboratory in the Department of Pathology, JSS Hospital, Mysuru, between January 2020 and May 2024. The study involved 29 paraffin blocks from patients who had undergone mastectomy or core biopsy following a breast carcinoma diagnosis. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, as well as immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, were performed and the findings documented. Results: The results demonstrated expression of IL-8 correlates with triple-negative breast carcinoma patients and may also serve as a prognostic biomarker for breast cancer progression. Conclusion: These observations imply a possible interaction between MMP-9 and IL-8 expression in breast cancer, where IL-8 positivity is increasingly seen in MMP-9 positive cases. The statistically significant reverse correlation between MMP-9 negative and IL-8 negative cases could suggest that IL-8 expression is dependent on the presence of MMP-9. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanistic interaction and its prognostic influence on tumor development and prognosis. Keywords: Matrix Metalloproteinase-9, Interleukin-8, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Tumor budding, Km Score, Ki 67
