SOUTHERN JOURNAL OF SCIENCES

E-selectin, as identified (CD62E), is expressed on endothelial cells after stimulation with inflammation cytokines. β-Thalassemia diseases (βT) and early diagnosis are of utmost significance in the entire world population. This study was performed in the Thalassemia Center of the Al-Zahraa Educational Hospital in Al-Najaf Province, Iraq, on sixty-nine with β-thalassemia (54 βT major and 15 βT Intermedia) aged 8-40 years who transfused blood. Compared to 20 healthy volunteers as a control group. In both βT patients and healthy groups were assessed serum E-selectin levels. It was investigated the relationship with RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC, PLT, BMI, splenic status, iron, and ferritin levels. The results revealed a significant (P<0.05) decreased values of HB, RBC, P.C.V, and BMI. In contrast, values of WBC, PLT, Iron, and Ferritin were significantly increased in βT patients as compared to the healthy control groups. A significant (P<0.05) increase in serum E- Selectin level in βT patients (20.55±0.47) ng/ml to compare with the healthy group (9.16±0.50) ng/ml. Furthermore, it was a significant decrease in groups of βT major (19.87±0.42) ng/ml more than in βT intermedia (23±1.42) ng/ml. E-Selectin revealed a significant increase (P<0.05) in progress age and associated with splenectomies and underweight groups compared to splenectomies and the normal weight groups, respectively. Also, E-Selectin levels significantly positively correlated with WBC, PLT value, iron, and Ferritin levels. However, it was no significant with RBC, PCV, Hb. As a conclusion from this study, E- Selectin is an important biomarker in β-thalassemia patients can be identified as the complications associated with iron overload, inflammatory process, and endothelial dysfunction in βT disease. 

Background: The Second Southern Science Conference (SSCON 2024) represents a significant milestone in international scientific collaboration, bringing together researchers from twelve nations across multiple continents. The conference, held in Mendoza, Argentina, and co-hosted by the University of Vassouras in Brazil, marked both the 64th anniversary of Universidad de Mendoza and the 20th anniversary of Periódico Tchê Química, demonstrating the growing importance of cross-border academic partnerships. Aim: This study aimed to document and analyze the outcomes and impact of the Second Southern Science Conference, focusing on participation metrics, collaborative patterns, and institutional contributions while highlighting the significance of the hybrid format in facilitating global scientific dialogue. Methods: The analysis involved quantitative assessment of conference participation metrics, including the number of approved papers, author distributions, and institutional representation. The study examined participation patterns across countries and institutions, analyzing collaboration trends through statistical data visualization and comparative analysis of submission rates. Results: The conference achieved significant participation metrics with 65 approved papers and 242 contributing authors, averaging 4 authors per paper. The Universidad Nacional de Córdoba emerged as the leading institution, showcasing its 4 centuries legacy of academic excellence. The analysis revealed strong representation from Latin American institutions, with Brazil and Argentina leading in submissions. Most papers involved 2-5 collaborators, indicating effective research collaboration patterns. Over 500 people participated in the event through both in-person and virtual attendance options. Discussion: The hybrid format successfully facilitated broader international participation and knowledge exchange, which is particularly beneficial for addressing contemporary global challenges. The strong showing from Latin American institutions highlights the region's growing influence in international scientific discourse. The conference's interdisciplinary nature fostered new collaborative initiatives and research partnerships. Conclusions: The conference demonstrated the effectiveness of hybrid international scientific events in fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange. Areas for improvement were identified, including extended submission timelines and establishment of a permanent management committee. The success of this edition supports the planning of future iterations, with the next edition scheduled to be held in Vassouras, Rio de Janeiro.

Background: This interview covers Dr. Peter McCullough’s medical career, experience as an editor of medical journals, and his expertise in areas such as cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, and pericarditis. Aims: The primary aim is to understand Dr. McCullough’s perspectives on various medical topics, including his journey as a cardiologist, the importance of peer review, the phenomenon of Pheidippides cardiomyopathy, the differences between myocarditis and pericarditis, and the significance of ethical principles like the Nuremberg Code and the Declaration of Helsinki. Additionally, the interview aims to explore his concerns about censorship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The interview follows a question-and-answer format, with the interviewer posing questions to Dr. McCullough on various topics related to his medical career, research interests, and ethical considerations. Results: Dr. McCullough shares his insights on topics such as cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, and pericarditis, emphasizing the importance of peer review, identifying potential biases, and balancing scientific rigor with timely dissemination of findings. He also highlights the significance of the Nuremberg Code and the Declaration of Helsinki in ensuring informed consent and preventing coercion in medical research and treatment. Discussion: Dr. McCullough expresses concerns about censorship during the COVID-19 pandemic, which he believes impacted the ability of medical professionals to freely discuss and disseminate health-related information. He also discusses the potential role of COVID-19 vaccines in causing myocarditis and the need for transparent communication about treatment options and potential complications. Conclusion: The interview provides valuable insights from Dr. McCullough’s extensive medical experience and expertise, covering a range of topics from cardiovascular conditions to ethical principles and the challenges posed by censorship during the COVID-19 pandemic.