bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using RFLP-PCR Technique in Determining Genotypes of Giardia lamblia from Diarrhea Cases in Children in AL-Diwaniyah City, Iraq
Authors: Hamza AL-Mayali Hadi M. , Abdul-Kadir AL-Ibrahim Lubna
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Giardia lamblia is one of the most prevalent intestinal protozoa in the world, which affect children in both undeveloped and developing countries. This study aimed to determine genotypes of the Giardia lamblia using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP)-PCR techniques. Additionally, the relationship between genotype patterns and their geographical distribution, gender, and age was investigated. Methods: The current study included 926 samples of faeces of children suffering from diarrhoea, who visits the internal clinics at Teaching Hospital, and Child Hospital in AL- Diwaniyah City from November 2012 - Jun 2013. For age groups of 1-12 years exclusively. The samples were examined using a direct mount wet smear, The positive samples were preserved without adding preservatives at a temperature of -20°C until the DNA extraction for G. lamblia genotyping by using PCR and RFLP-PCR technique. Results: Giardia lamblia was detected in 2.15% (20/926) of samples from diarrhea cases in children by amplification of glutamate dehydrogenase gene (gdh) using two specific primers GDHiR and GDHiF. It was revealed that 7 samples belonged to genotype A (35%) and 13 samples belonged to genotype B (65%). All genotype A samples belonged to subgenotype AII (100%), while genotype B samples belonged to subgenotypes BIII (53.61 %) and BIV (47.38 %). Genotype A was detected in children of 1-6 years of age while B genotype was detected in all age groups. Both of the genotypes have been detected in both genders (male and female) and genotype B was found in both urban and rural areas; however, its prevalence was higher in rural areas than in urban areas (100% and 30%, respectively). Conclusion: There are two genotypes of Giardia lamblia, genotype A and genotype B, each of which has secondary genetic patterns which include AII, BIII, and BIV.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii Among Pregnant Sudanese Ladies
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed Elrofai Abd Ewahid , Ibrahim Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed , Mohammed Hamad Mosab Nouraldein , Mohammed Abdurrahman Nahla Ahmed , Elawad Ali Elamin , Yasin Elmadhoun Wadie Mohammed , Abdelrahman Nassreden Khalid
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The present study aimed to find the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and assess its associated risk factors among pregnant women. Methods: This retrospective hospital-based study was carried out in the period between January 2009 and December 2010 in Eldammar, River Nile State, Sudan. Chi-square was used for trend analysis, and P value was used to declare the statistical significance between the variables. Results: A total of 383 pregnant women (age range: 16–45 years) visiting Eldammar teaching hospital and other health centers for antennal care were selected. Using latex agglutination test (LAT), 74.7% (285/383) were positive for toxoplasmosis . ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was used for IgM & IgG confirmatory, and the results showed that 26% (74/285) and 34.7% (99/285) were positive for toxoplasmosis. There was a significant correlation between serological evidence of toxoplasmosis and low education level, eating undercooked meat, and drinking raw milk (P<0.05). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women of the studied population. A positive correlation was reported between toxoplasmosis and low education level, eating undercooked meat, and drinking raw milk.
Evaluation of Tissue Changes in the Hearts of Rats Infected with Toxoplasma Gondi
Authors: Najjare-Aghdam Hamed , Khaki Arash
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that is globally widespread and infects humans and animals. Obligate intracellular parasites enter many organs and tissues through the bloodstream, where they invade and proliferate into cells, eventually destroying them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent of cardiac tissue changes in rats infected with T. gondii. Methods: Male Wistar rats (n=30) were allocated to three groups as follows: control group (n=10), T1 group that received 0.3 mL of T. gondii tachyzoite (IP) (n=10), and T2 group that received 0.6 mL of T. gondii tachyzoite (IP) (n=10). However, the control group just received an equal volume of distilled water daily (IP). Animals were kept in standard condition. Forty days after inducing toxoplasmosis, heart tissues of rat in all groups were removed and prepared for histopathological examinations of heart tissue under optical microscopy after hematoxylin and eosin staining and calculation of heart tissue weight. Results: Heart tissue weight significantly decreased in groups that received 0.3 and 0.6 mL of T. gondii tachyzoite in comparison to control groups. In histopathological studies of heart tissue under optical microscopy, atrophy and necrosis were observed in heart tissues in T. gondii groups. Conclusion: Since this parasite caused necrosis of heart cells in rats in our study, it is suggested that in preventing T. gondii infection, health measures should be taken to promote human and animal health.
A Rare Upper Gastrointestinal Leech Infestation Causes Massive Bleeding in a 17-Month-Old Boy Admitted to Keren Zonal Referral Hospital, Keren, Eritrea
Authors: W Filmon Ghebretsadik , Abakar Adam Dawoud , Mohamedahmed Khalid Abdelsamea
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Leeches are blood-sucking hermaphroditic parasites. They have been used for medicinal purposes for many decades. However, the ingestion and attachment of this parasite to the nasopharynx or upper esophagus were reported to cause constant bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not correctly diagnosed and controlled in places where the water is infested with leech. Case Presentation: In this study, a 17-month-old boy with serious gastrointestinal bleeding, epistaxis, dry cough, melena, and severe anemia causing cardiorespiratory disturbance presented to our unit has been reported. Severe normocytic normochromic anemia with leukocytosis was revealed by hematologic investigations. Initial investigations revealed no cause for it. The patient received multiple transfusions of Erythrocyte suspension along with other supportive interventions. Despite all the steps, the bleeding continued until the fourth day of entry, when a 7 cm long leech was removed from the oropharyngeal region. The bleeding ceased immediately after the removal of the leech and the patient was released from the hospital in decent health later. Conclusion: In areas where epistaxis, hematemesis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and severe anemia are of uncertain cause, leech infestation should be considered.
Ultrastructure of Human Fertile Hydatid Cysts Using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
Authors: Hamza Al-Mayali Hadi M. , Abdul Kadhim Hind A.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Echinococcosis and hydatidosis caused by the metacestode of Echinococcus granulosus are among the most important zoonotic diseases in the world. This study aims to study the ultrastructure of fertile hydatid cysts that infect humans using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: Twenty samples of human fertile hydatid cysts were collected from the human liver and lung after performing surgery operations and examined with an SEM. Results: The results of the electron microscopy with different magnifications revealed that the laminated layer (LL) consists of sheets that appeared more compact and aligned. The brood capsules appeared, consisting of a net of finger-shaped structures that emerged from bulges of various sizes and shapes. Conclusion: Under a transmission electron microscope, it was found that the LL had a coherent and flexible structure, settling on a three-dimensional microscopic network of hydrophilic fibers, with high humidity. These fibers were arranged irregularly and had a diameter of about 10 nm; therefore, the fibers adjacent to the germinal layer (GL) were possibly attached to microtriches of tegument, which reached a thickness of 1 mm in the LL.
Assessment of Cryptosporidium in Patients With Gastroenteritis by Modified Ziehl-Neelsen Staining Method in East Azerbaijan Province of Iran During 2018-2019
Authors: Javidmehr Alireza , Garedaghi Yagoob , Sioufi Amir Babak
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Cryptosporidiosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease that is caused by Cryptosporidium species and leads to acute or chronic diarrhea and vomiting in patients. Due to the suitable conditions of East Azerbaijan province for parasite transmission, the present study was performed to evaluate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in patients with gastroenteritis referred to hospitals and reference laboratories of East Azerbaijan province during 2018-2019. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on patients with diarrhea who referred to hospitals and reference laboratories of East Azerbaijan province during 2018-2019. In this study, 180 fecal samples were collected from patients with gastroenteritis by cluster-random sampling. Stool samples were stored in 10% formalin and transferred to a parasitology laboratory and examined for parasite contamination by modified acid-fast staining (Modified Ziehl-Neelsen) method. Data were analyzed by chi-square test using SPSS. Results: Out of 180 samples, the highest number of diarrhea samples belonged to the age group over 40 years (35.5%) and the lowest belonged to the age group of 10-20 years (7.7%). Additionally, 56% of subjects were male and 44% were female. Of these patients, 57.7% lived in urban areas and 42.3% in rural areas. Cryptosporidium was observed in 1.6% (3 cases) of patients with gastroenteritis. There was a statistically significant relationship between Cryptosporidium infection and the age of patients with diarrhea (P<0.05). Conclusion: In the present study, a lower prevalence of cryptosporidiosis has been determined in comparison with previous studies in East Azerbaijan province. However, Cryptosporidium and other parasitic infections in the feces of patients with diarrhea referred to hospitals or reference laboratories need to be carefully diagnosed by appropriate parasitological methods.
Prevalence of Oxyuriasis and its Relationship With Eosinophilia in Children Aged 1 to 6 Years in Marand City, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran
Authors: Esfandiyari Behrang , Hassanzadeh Khanmiri Hamidreza
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Enterobius vermicularis, commonly known as pinworm, is one of the most prevalent intestinal nematodes of humankind belonging to the Oxyuridae family. It is a small, white or transparent, threadlike roundworm. The length of the male worm is 2 to 3 mm and the female worm is 3 to 8 mm in length. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of E. vermicularis and its relationship with disease symptoms, allergic disease symptoms, and eosinophilia in children aged one to six years in Marand city of East Azerbaijan province, Iran. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 200 children were studied using systematic random sampling. Data collection method was based on a questionnaire, peripheral blood smear, and Scotch tape test. In the designed questionnaire, children’s characteristics such as gender and age and parents’ characteristics including job and level of education were recorded. Peripheral blood smear slides were obtained from each child and examined for eosinophilia by a hematologist. Scotch test samples were prepared by parents after providing the necessary training on its sampling method and then examined in the laboratory for the presence of E. vermicularis eggs by a parasitologist. Results: In this study, 64 (32%) children were diagnosed with oxyuriasis. The prevalence of oxyuriasis was 36.5% in boys and 43.7% in girls. There was no significant relationship between oxyuriasis and its symptoms. Additionally, there was no significant relationship between oxyuriasis and allergic disease symptoms. Fourteen children had eosinophilia (7%), of which 9 (64%) were infected with E. vermicularis. There was a significant relationship between E. vermicularis infection and eosinophilia (P ˂ 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of the study and the importance of the issue for the control and prevention of this disease, it is suggested that people should be provided with the necessary information about the life cycle, ways of transmission, and especially ways to prevent E. vermicularis infestation, and basic measures should be taken to improve the economic situation of the people of the region and to promote public and personal health through public education. Finally, medical treatment of patients and their families should be considered at the same time.
Evaluation of the Effects of Toxoplasmosis in Small Ruminants on the Epidemiology of Human Toxoplasmosis by Indirect ELISA in Kaleybar Region, North West of Iran
Authors: Firouzivand Yaghoub , Ahmadi Behrad Khan , Afsari Mustafa
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan that causes toxoplasmosis in humans and domestic animals. It causes abortion, especially in small ruminants. Sheep and goats have a significant role in the maintenance and survival of the parasite as well as its transmission to humans. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants in Kaleybar region, East Azerbaijan province, using Indirect ELISA. Materials and Methods: In this study, blood samples of 270 sheep and goats were collected from October 2019 to December 2019 and anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies in sera were evaluated using indirect ELISA. Data analysis was performed using chi-square test in SPSS version 24.0. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Totally, 26 of 270 (9.62%) animals had anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in their sera. Analysis showed that sheep were more susceptible to toxoplasmosis than goats and 21 (10.5%) sheep and 5 (7.14%) goats were seropositive for T. gondii; however, there was no statistically significant difference (P=0.413). The highest frequency (15.87%) of infection was observed in sheep and goats aged 3-4 years, respectively. Moreover, the rate of infection was higher in female (22/205) animals than in males (4/65); however, the relationship between gender and age and the frequency of positive samples was not significant (P=0.276 and P=0.121). Conclusions: The results of this study indicated that the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in small ruminants of the Kaleybar region (North West of Iran) is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. Further studies should be conducted on the rate of infection in definitive hosts of T. gondii in the region as a potential source of human infection.
Perianal Traumatic Myiasis in a Goat Caused by Wohlfahrtia magnifica (Schiner 1862) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) in Konya Province of Turkey
Authors: Davulcu Dilge Sila , Yilmaz Sule , Ceylan Onur , Dik Bilal
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The infestation of live humans and animals with dipterous larvae is called Myiasis. These larvae feed on the living or dead tissues, body fluids, and ingested foods of hosts at least for a certain period in myiasis cases. Case Presentation: During clinical examination, several larvae were detected in the perianal area of a goat at Selcuk University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Internal Medicine Clinics. All visible larvae were cleaned by the clinician with the help of forceps. Ivermectin administered against larvae possibly penetrated deep into the wound. A topical antibiotic was also applied, and the wound was washed with an antiseptic solution. Several larvae were preserved in tubes including ethanol (70%) and transferred to parasitology laboratory. Firstly, the larvae were incised with a scalpel and cleared in potassium hydroxide (10%). Then, they were rinsed in distilled water, put into 70% ethanol for dehydration, and stored in 99% ethanol until dissection. The larvae were morphologically examined under a stereo microscope and dissected. The larvae were identified as third instar larvae of Wohlfahrtia magnifica according to the morphological characteristics of cephalo-pharyngeal skeleton, anterior spiracles, and peritremes. Conclusion: It should be kept in mind that in myiasis cases, early diagnosis is a very important factor in preventing deep tissue loss.
International Travel With a Chronic Medical Illness – Health Risks, Practical Challenges and Evidence-Based Recommendations
Authors: Darrat Milad , Flaherty Gerard Thomas
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Primary care practitioners and travel medicine physicians are primarily responsible for identifying individuals who may be unfit for overseas travel and consulting with them pre-travel. Pre-existing medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory conditions and diabetes mellitus (DM) have the potential to complicate travel journeys. A considerable percentage of travel-associated illness may be due to the decompensation of a pre-existing medical condition. This review seeks to address the challenges faced by travellers with each of these conditions, including recently updated and evidence-based practical approaches for travel with comorbidities. Methods: Sources for this review were identified through searches of PubMed/Google Scholar for materials published between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2019, using combinations of search terms. Results: The volume of literature on travelling with a pre-existing condition exploded with more than 865 associated articles indexed on the PubMed alone as of March 2020. After screening titles, abstracts and, in some cases, the full text version of indexed articles, 121 articles were deemed relevant to the subject matter of this review. Conclusion: Rational approaches to pre-planning for travel with a medical condition will contribute to the prevention of problems while in transit as well as when at the travel destination. It is imperative for health care providers to be aware of the preventative measures and current recommendations that should be taken before and during travel to protect individuals with a chronic illness. Further research and studies should be directed to protect this vulnerable group of travellers.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2): Epidemiology and Vaccinology in Nigeria
Authors: Adesola Ridwan Olamilekan , Oladele Oluwatobi Emmanuel , Tajudeen Ahmed Oluwasegun , Moses Ogundepo Oluwatobi , Dinesh Murali
Published: July 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), confirmed as the global pandemic on March 11, 2020, by the World Health Organization (WHO), was caused by the outbreak of an emergent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was first reported in Wuhan city, China, in December 2019. Based on the previous pandemic, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) from 2002 to 2003, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in 2012. The scientific developments have fast-tracked our insights SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology, likewise vaccinology relevant for developing drugs for viral infections treatment. As there are not many detailed interventions and vaccines available for disease control, the pandemic COVID-19 poses countless threats to global public health, causing a great level of insecurity and unrest worldwide. To provide an inclusive overview to global health authorities and prospective readers worldwide, we detailed in this review the epidemiology and vaccinology of SARS-CoV-2 in Nigeria.
People’s Concerns With the Prediction of COVID-19 in Bangladesh: Application of Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model
Authors: Hossain Md. Ismail , Saleheen Ahmed Abdus Saleh , Haq Iqramul , Zinnia Maliha Afroj , Hasan Md. Rifat , Kabir Samia , Methun Md. Injamul Haq , Nayan Md. Iqbal Hossain , Talukder Ashis
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a public health concern, and behavioral adjustments will minimize its spread worldwide by 80%. The main purpose of this research was to examine the factors associated with concerns about COVID-19 and the future direction of the COVID-19 scenario of Bangladesh. Methods: The binary logistic regression model was performed to assess the impact of COVID-19 concern in Bangladesh. Based on data obtained through online surveys in November 2020 and to predict the next 40 days daily confirmed and deaths of COVID-19 in Bangladesh by applying the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. Results: The study enrolled 400 respondents, with 253 (63.2%) were male, and 147 (36.8%) were female. The mean age of respondents was 25.13 ± 5.74 years old. Almost 70% of them were found to be concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic. The result showed that respondents’ education level, knowledge regarding COVID-19 transmits, households with aged people, seasonal flu and HD/respiratory problems, and materials used while sneezing/coughing significantly influenced COVID-19 concerns. The analysis predicted that confirmed cases would gradually decrease for the ARIMA model while death cases will be constant for the next 40 days in Bangladesh. Conclusion: The current study suggested that knowledge about COVID-19 spread and education played a vital role in the decline of COVID-19 concerned. A particular program should focus on creating an awareness of the disadvantages of concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic by augmenting knowledge about COVID-19 spread, enhancing Education in Bangladesh.
Heartburn and effective herbal remedies: A systematic review study in Iranian ethnobotanical documents
Authors: Basati Gholam , Ghanadi Pardis , Shakib Pegah , Hamidi Majid , Amanolahi Baharvand Peyman
Published: July 2021

Every year, millions of people worldwide get sick with gastrointestinal diseases such as heartburn. Certain herbs contribute to the alleviation of heartburn, nausea, and improvement of digestion. Moreover, these herbs do not have as many side effects as synthetic drugs. As a health problem and one of the challenging issues in medical sciences, heartburn is common in children and adults worldwide. Hence, in the present study, we tried to report medicinal plants used in cultures and traditions of different regions of Iran to treat heartburn in children and adults. In this review study, articles of Iranian ethnobotanical sources were searched with the keywords of ethnobotanics, heartburn, children, adult, medicinal plants, and Iran. Journal articles published from 2010 to 2019 in several Iranian and International databases, including ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ISC, Magiran, were searched to find relevant articles and information.Anethum graveolens L., Punica granatum L., Mentha pulegium, Thymus kotschyanusBoiss. & Hohen.,Achillea millefolium, Ocimum basilicum, Nigella sativa, etc., are the plants used in different parts of Iran to treat heartburn.
Efficacy and safety of plant-based therapy on recurrent aphthous stomatitis and oral mucositis in the past decade: a systematic review
Authors: Wahyuni Indah Suasani , Sufiawati Irna , Nittayananta Wipawee , Puspitasari Irma Melyani , Levita Jutti
Published: July 2021

Oral mucosal inflammation is one of the oral diseases causing pain and reducing the quality of human life. The types of oral mucosal inflammation that commonly found were recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) and oral mucositis (OM). Anti-inflammatory drugs, both synthetic and plant-based, have been used to treat RAS and OM. Plant-based drugs have been attracted the attention of some researchers to minimize the side effects of synthetic drugs. However, a comprehensive review addressing the use of plant-based drugs for RAS and OM therapy, including drug formulation and species of plant, has not yet been reported. Here, we reported the article review of 9 publications derived from the databases of PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and other additional relevant works, in order to find the effectiveness and safety of plant-based drugs for RAS and OM therapy. This review was written by following the PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias of the articles was evaluated using the Oxford Quality Scoring System. It was found that the effective and safe drugs for RAS therapy contained acemannan from Aloe vera and curcumin from Curcuma longa, both in an oral gel formulation. For OM therapy, drugs contained curcumin from Curcuma longa; licorice from Glycyrrhiza glabra; Aloe vera and black mulberry from Morus nigra, in soft tablet, mouthwash solution or mucoadhesive film formulation. In conclusion, the most effective and safest plant-based therapy for RAS is Acemannan 0.5% in oral gel, whereas for OM is Licorice root extract 0.18 mg in mucoadhesive film.
Antidiarrhoael and antimicrobial effects of ethanol root bark extract from Salacia lehmbachii
Authors: Akuodor Godwin Christian , Essiet Grace Akanimo , Ekenjoku John Azubuike , Udoh Francis Vincent , Ogiji Emeka Donald , Ibiam Gideon Ama , Nnorom Friday Onyemazuwa
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The roots of Salacia lehmbachii are used in Nigerian folklore medicine without scientific basis. The present study was aimed to investigate the antidiarrheal and antimicrobial activities of the ethanol extract of S. lehmbachii root bark. Methods: The antidiarrheal activity was examined using castor oil induced diarrhoea method. The ethanol root bark extract effects on intestinal transit time and enteropooling were also evaluated in rats, while antimicrobial activity was conducted on selected microorganisms. The acute toxicity test and phytochemical screening of the extract were also carried out. Results: The extract produced significant (P < 0.05) dose dependent protection on rats against castor oil induced diarrhoea. The extract inhibited intestinal transit time and caused significant dose related inhibition of castor oil induced enteropooling in rats, comparable to the standard drug, atropine (P < 0.05). The root bark extract significantly and dose dependently delayed the onset of castor oil induced diarrhoea, reduced the frequency of defecation and decreased the severity of diarrhoea in rats. S. lehmbachii ethanol root bark extract significantly and dose dependently decreased the volume of intestinal fluid accumulation in the castor oil induced enteropooling. The extract also significantly inhibited the growth of test organisms. The acute toxicity test produced no lethality in rats, whereas the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, resins and balsam. Conclusion: The results of this study confirm the ethnomedicinal use of S. lehmbachii root bark as a valuable natural agent for the treatment of diarrhoea and microbial infections.
Amelioration of oxidative stress, inflammation and liver function by nutraceuticals in rat model of hepatic cancer initiation induced by N-nitrosodiethylamine
Authors: Al-Okbi Sahar Y. , Mohamed Doha A. , Elbakry Hagar F.H.
Published: July 2021

Introduction:Nutraceuticals might serve as protective agent against liver cancer induced by pro-cancerous chemicals that initiate high oxidative stress, inflammation and affect DNA integrity. The aim of the present research was to study the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma initiation induced by N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) through treatment by nutraceuticals.Methods:Two nutraceuticals were prepared; the first (NI) was a mixture of different extracts of green tea, wheat germ and tomato, the second one (NII) was composed of extracts mixture of broccoli, hazelnuts and carrot. Total flavonoids and flavonols were determined in the nutraceuticals. Four groups of rats were run; the first served as control normal, the other three groups were treated by intraperitoneal injection of NDEA, one of these groups was designated as control NDEA, the other two groups (test groups) were treated daily with oral doses of NI and NII, respectively. The experiment continued for 8 weeks. Plasma transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and catalase activities, total protein, albumin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) along with liver MDA level and catalase activity were assessed.Results:NI showed higher flavonoids and lower flavonols than NII (P< 0.05). High oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, liver dysfunction, reduced plasma albumin and total protein were demonstrated in control NDEA compared to control normal (P< 0.05). Test groups showed significant improvement in all parameters (P< 0.05) compared to NDEA control. NI was superior in improving plasma transaminases and catalase activities, MDA and TNF-α levels and liver catalase activity compared to NII (P< 0.05).Conclusion:Both NI and NII might prevent liver cancer initiation during exposure to carcinogenic agents, NI being superior to NII.
Safety monitoring of herbal medicines in Nigeria: worrying state of pharmacovigilance system based on WHO core pharmacovigilance indicators
Authors: Balogun Sulayman Tunde , Okon Kenneth Okwong , Akanmu Ayodele Oluwasoji , Paul Leonard Mela , Sodipo Olufunke Adebola
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Herbal medicines (HMs) have shown therapeutic and toxicological potentials. Thus, the WHO expanded the pharmacovigilance (PVG) scope to include HMs. This study appraised the state of PVG system in Nigeria for the safety monitoring of HMs using WHO core PVG indicators. Methods: Between January and June 2019, 39 PVG experts were requested to independently appraise the PVG system in Nigeria for safety monitoring of HMs using WHO PVG core structural (CSIs), process (CPIs) and outcome (COIs) indicators. The 27 indicators (CSIs = 10, CPIs = 9 and COIs = 8) were scored 3, 2, 1 and 0 for adequate, fairly adequate, inadequate and uncertain states, respectively. CSIs index (CSII) was determined by dividing the summation of CSIs mean score by total obtainable score (30) and expressed in percentage. This was applied to CPIs and COIs to obtain CPIs index (CPII) and COIs index (COII), respectively. Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of participants’ age was 43.6 ± 10.3 years with mean ± SD work experience of 15.3 ± 9.3 years. Majority had doctoral degree (35.9%; 14/39; P >0.05) and were medical doctors (28.2%; 11/39; P > 0.05). Twelve of the 27 indicators scored at least 2.0 and CSIs, CPIs, and COIs accounted for 75.0% (9/12), 0.0% (0/12) and 25.0% (3/12), respectively (P < 0.05). The total mean score was 27.3 ± 0.2 for CSIs as against 8.0 ± 0.3 for CPIs and 11.2 ± 0.4 for COIs (P < 0.05). The CSII, CPII and COII were 91.0%; 29.6% and 46.7%, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Most of the structural elements are in place for safety monitoring of HMs in Nigeria. However, the process and outcome of PVG indicate an inadequate state. Thus, deliberate efforts are required to ensure the realization of PVG objectives.
Effect of hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Dracocephalum kotschyi on bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Hosseini-Sharifabad Ali , Sadraei Hassan , Hashemnia Mohammad , Sajjadi Seyed Ebrahim , Mirdamadi Zahra
Published: July 2021

Introduction:
Dracocephalum kotschyi is an Iranian traditional medicine with anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. The objective of this research was to investigate the preventive effect of D. kotschyi extract in bleomycin induced fibrosis. Methods: Fibrosis was induced by intratracheal administration of a single dose of bleomycin (5 mg/kg) in rat. One group received daily administration of normal saline. Other groups were treated daily with oral administration of either hydroalcoholic or aqueous extract of D. kotschyi (20, 40, & 80 mg/kg). Another group was treated with pirfenidone (100 mg/kg). After 4 weeks daily treatments, the animals were sacrificed and the whole lungs were dissected out for biochemical and histopathological examinations. The biochemical examination included assessment of hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde levels. Results: The lung tissues in bleomycin treated groups showed severe tissue injuries. However, lung tissues in the groups that received hydroalcoholic or aqueous extracts of D. kotschyi showed mild to moderate tissue injuries. Intratracheal instillation of bleomycin significantly increased hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde biomarker levels compared with the sham group. In the positive control group treated with pirfenidone, there was a marked reduction in both hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde levels. Both hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of D. kotschyi significantly prevented the elevation of hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde levels at the above oral doses in comparison to the vehicle treated control group. Conclusion: Prevention of hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde elevation levels in this experiment indicates that D. kotschyi extract might be a suitable remedy for the treatment of respiratory fibrosis induced by drugs such as bleomycin.
Efficiency of a formulated condiment (duqqa) in mitigation of diabetes and its complications induced by streptozotocin-nicotinamide in rats
Authors: Mohamed Rasha S. , Abdel-Salam Ahmed M.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Duqqa is a condiment, consisting of black pepper, cumin, sesame, coriander and high amount of salt. Reducing salt and adding other beneficial items to traditional duqqa can make it suitable dietary supplement for diabetes management. The current study aimed to assess the effect of a modified duqqa on diabetes and its complications in diabetic rats. Methods: The modified duqqa was formulated by mixing grounded fermented wheat, sesame, coriander, cumin, chicory leaves, cinnamon, turmeric and date seeds powder and studied in diabetic rats which were developed by streptozotocin-nicotinamide injection. Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups (n = 8) including non-diabetic, diabetic control and the other two groups fed on balanced diet supplemented with either 10 or 20% of duqqa prior the induction of diabetes (for one week) to the end of the experiment (8 weeks). Results: The dietary supplementation with 10 and 20% of the formulated duqqa prior the induction of diabetes did not delay the onset of diabetes in rats but produced reduction (32.56% and 50.47%, respectively) in the glucose levels of diabetic rats. Also, diabetic rats fed on the formulated duqqa showed insulin concentrations higher than that of diabetic control rats. Feeding diabetic rats on the formulated duqqa reversed the elevation of kidney lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide, limited the disturbance in the lipid profile as well as liver and kidney functions and elevated both serum and femur magnesium concentrations. Conclusion: The results indicated the hypoglycemic effect of the formulated duqqa and its efficiency in delaying diabetes complications.
Protective effects of black bamboo leaves on the glucose-induced toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Park Eun Hye , Kim Hong Jun , Cha Dong Seok
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Previous studies have suggested that high glucose (HG) condition shortens the lifespan of worms by increasing glycolytic flux followed by accelerating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, termed glucose toxicity. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of the leaves of black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra var. henosis) on the HG-induced toxicity using Caenorhabditis elegans model system. Methods: To determine the effect of black bamboo leaf extract (BLE) against HG-induced toxicity, lifespan assay was carried out with wild-type and daf-16 null mutant worms under 2% glucose condition. The involvement of DAF-16 was further confirmed by observing fluorescence signal of transgenic mutant carrying DAF-16::GFP transgene. ROS levels and glucose concentration of worms were analyzed using fluorescent probe H2DCF-DA and glucose meter, respectively. Nile-red staining was carried out to evaluate the lipid storage of worms. Intercellular lipid accumulation was measured using Oil-Red O staining method. Results: BLE strongly extended the lifespan of worms under not only normal culture condition but also HG condition. Our additional studies suggested that DAF-16 activation was responsible for BLE-mediated longevity and protective action against glucose toxicity. In addition, HG-fed worms showed increased ROS generation, and it was completely normalized by BLE treatment. Moreover, BLE reduced body glucose concentration and lipid accumulation in HG-fed worms. We further confirmed the inhibitory effect of BLE on lipid storage under HG condition using 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Conclusion: These therapeutic values of BLE on glucose toxicity raise the possibility that BLE might have beneficial effects on the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus.
Gastroprotective effect of mucilage fraction from Solenostemma argel via cytoprotection and attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: El-Shiekh Riham A. , Salama Abeer , Al-Mokaddem Asmaa K. , Abdel-Sattar Essam A.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Polysaccharides have numerous therapeutic values including immunity stimulation, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition, wound healing, anti-diabetic and cytotoxic activities, in addition to their potent anti-oxidant properties. This work examined the gastroprotective and ulcer healing potential of mucilage fraction isolated from Solenostemma argel (Delile) Hayne (MFA) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Methods: Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=8); normal control (I), ethanol control (II), 20 mg/kg Antodine pretreated rats (III), 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg MFA pretreated rats, respectively (IV & V). All rats in groups II-V received single intragastric dose of ethanol (5 mL/kg) to induce gastric ulcer. Gastric mucosal injuries were assessed by stomach gross examination as well as histopathology, and immunohistochemistry of apoptotic markers. Also, several biochemical parameters including oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, cytoprotective and cell proliferative biomarkers were measured. Results: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of MFA revealed its composition of glucose, D-fucose and N-acetyl glucosamine as monosaccharaides, in addition to glucuronic and galacturonic acids. The data showed that MFA, 200 mg/kg had potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, cell proliferative, and antiapoptotic activities which were better than Antodine. Conclusion: This study revealed that MFA had significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric injuries and could be a promising adjuvant therapy for ulcer treatment.
Neuropharmacological studies of ethanolic extract of Vaccinium corymbosum on Alzheimer’s type dementia and catatonia in Swiss albino mice
Authors: Jayasingh Chellammal Hanish Singh , Menon Bama VV , Hasan Mizaton Hazizul , Azil Afiq , Bin Suhaimi Muhammad Taufiq , Chandarasekaran Pavithiraa , Murugan Yasothini
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Neuroactive herbal drugs enriched with antioxidants are valuable in treating neurocognitive dysfunction and Vaccinium corymbosum, enriched with antioxidant phytochemicals, is used for treating memory disorders. Hence, the present study evaluated the neuroprotective effects of ethanolic extract of Vaccinium corymbosum (EEVC) on aluminium chloride(AlCl3)-induced Alzheimer’s type of dementia and haloperidol-induced catalepsy-associated behavioural changes. Methods:In vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated using 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS). The total phenolic content (TPC) was quantified. For in vivo studies, AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) was orally administered for 42 days, whereas the EEVC was administered on the 21st day until the 42nd day in two doses (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg). In the haloperidol-induced group, EEVC was treated for 21 days, and haloperidol (1 mg/kg) was administered to induce behavioural changes. Open-field, Y-Maze and traction tests were performed, and the mice brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme was determined. Results: IC50 values in DPPH and ABTS assays were 85.5 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL, respectively and the total phenolic content of EEVC was found to be 0.166 mg. In a behavioral study, animals treated with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of EEVC exhibited a neuroprotective impact on AlCl3-induced neurodegeneration and haloperidol-induced behavioral changes with significant inhibition (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) in acetylcholinesterase enzyme. Conclusion: The neuroprotection by EEVC postulated that it is a promising therapeutic agent for treating behavioral and cognitive dysfunctions. Further investigations on pro-inflammatory cytokine and neuroendocrine regulation in transgenic Alzheimer’s disease (AD)models complement the therapeutic value of V. corymbosum.
Phytochemical profile, acute dermal toxicity and wound healing activity of Guettarda calyptrata A. Rich
Authors: Gutiérrez Gaitén Yamilet Irene , Melissa Norden Jennifer , Scull Lizama Ramón , Felipe González Alejandro , Oruña Sánchez Loida , Baeza Fonte Alen Nils , Ocanto Torres Zuleira
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The leaves and barks of Guettarda calyptrata have been attributed to the property of healing wounds on the skin and mucous membranes. However, the scientific information about the phytochemical composition and biological properties is scarce. This research evaluates the chemical composition, dermal safety, and wound healing properties of a hydroalcoholic extract of G. calyptrata. Methods: Hydroalcoholic extract of G. calyptrata was obtained from leaves. The phytochemical profile was analyzed by phytochemical screening, thin layer chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and quantification of phenols and flavonoids by Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. An acute dermal toxicity test was performed in rats, and the healing activity was evaluated using the excision wound model at 100 mg/kg of the extracts. Statistical significance (P < 0.05) was determined by an analysis of variance followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test. Results: The presence of alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, rutin, and quercetin flavonoids, among others, was suggested. The extract did not cause toxicity at the dose of 2000 mg/kg and was able to reduce the size of the wounds during the seven days of the test, with a healing effect comparable to the silver sulfadiazine cream used as a positive control, favoring collagen deposition and re-epithelialization. Conclusion: This work makes an important contribution to the chemical composition and provides the first findings on the efficacy in the healing of topical wounds, which justify the use of G. calyptrata in traditional Cuban medicine.
Hypotensive effect of Cichorium intybus extract in rats
Authors: Sedighi Mehrnoosh , Cheraghi Mostafa , Faghihi Mahdieh , Rahimi-Madiseh Mohammad , Kiani Ali Asghar , Dehghani Mostafa , Rasoulian Bahram , Nazari Afshin
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Oxidative stress is involved in many diseases, including hypertension, kidney failure, and heart disease. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic Cichorium intybus extract on blood pressure in rats. Antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid contents of the plant extract were also evaluated. Methods: In this study, 32 male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were divided into four groups of eight each. Animals in the control group were administered with normal saline and in the C. intybus groups with extract at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg for two weeks. Then, the homodynamic parameters were examined by the Power lab. The phenolic and flavonoid contents were also evaluated by a spectrophotometer and the rate of free radical scavenging activity was measured by the diphenyl-1-picyryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical method. Results: The free radical scavenging activity of C. intybus extract was obtained 47.85% of DPPH, and flavonoid and phenolic contents were 8.21 and 27.19 mg/g of dry extract, respectively. Meanwhile, median (MAP), systolic (SAP) and diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) significantly decreased in the 50 mg/kg extract-treated group compared to the control and 200 mg/kg extract-treated groups. Conclusion: Ethanol extract of C. intybus plays a protective role against hypertension, which, in part, might be due to antioxidant compounds of the plant against free radicals.
Comparison of the Effect of Er,Cr:YSGG Laser and Halita Mouthwash on Oral Malodor in Patients With Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Poormoradi Banafsheh , Gholami Leila , Fekrazad Reza , Hooshyarfard Amirarsalan , Noorani Ali Reza , Loft Haghpanah Zahra , Farhadian Maryam
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Periodontal disease and tongue coatings are among the major factors associated with oral malodor. The present study, comparatively evaluated the effects of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser and Halita mouthwash as adjunctive treatments to nonsurgical periodontal debridement on oral malodor reduction in chronic periodontitis patients. Methods: Sixty patients with stage II and III chronic periodontitis and bad breath. The patients were randomly divided into two groups (n=30). After conventional scaling and root planing, patients in group 1 underwent Er,Cr:YSGG laser (Waterlase; Biolase, San Clemente, CA, USA) irradiation of the internal surface of the pockets ( 1.5 W, 30 Hz, 20% A, 40% W) and the dorsum of the tongue (1 W, 30 Hz, 20% A, 40% W) immediately after SRP and on the third and seventh days. Group 2 patients were asked to use Halita mouthwash twice daily for one week. Baseline, 1 and 3-month post-treatment measurements of plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP) and organoleptic assessment of Halitosis severity were performed. Results: Significant improvement in all parameters was noted in both groups after 1 and 3 months, compared with baseline (P<0.05). The two groups had significant reductions which occurred in PPD, CAL and BOP levels and the organoleptic score in 1 and 3 months after the intervention (P<0.05). Conclusion: Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation and Halita mouthwash as adjuncts to non-surgical periodontal therapy are both effective in the treatment of oral malodor and improvement of periodontal parameters.
Management of Mucocele of the Glands of Blandin-Nuhn With a High-Intensity Laser: A Case Report
Authors: Kato Rayla Bentes , Jácome-Santos Humberto , Couto Ana Paula Guerreiro Rodrigues , Abreu Lucas Guimarães , Mesquita Ricardo Alves , Kato Camila Nazaré Alves de Oliveira
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The glands of Blandin–Nuhn are mucous and serous salivary glands situated on both sides of the midline of the ventral surface of the tongue. In this area, a mucocele generally results from trauma. The diagnosis of mucoceles is based on clinical and histopathological examinations and the recommended treatment is surgical excision. Case Report: This report describes a case of mucocele of the glands of Blandin-Nuhn (MGBN) affecting a 20-year-old male. Oval-shaped swelling with a smooth and bright surface of soft consistency was observed on the ventral surface of the individual’s tongue. The diagnostic hypothesis was mucocele. Surgical excision was performed in a single session with a diode laser. A histopathological examination revealed mucus extravasating into connective tissue, with foamy macrophages and granulation tissue. Conclusion: The high-intensity laser was a safe and effective tool for treating MGBN. No need for a suture, minimal or no intraoperative bleeding, and a minimal report of pain and edema by the patient were observed. A diode laser may be a helpful tool because it is less invasive and it is safe and effective.