bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Purification Glycyrrhizic acid and Determination of the Biological Activate Against Microbial Pathogens
Authors: Al-Kubaise Ayat Abdaljabar , Al-Shahwany Ayyad W.
Published: May 2024

Background: The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the world's population uses plant extracts or their active components in traditional therapies. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in the quest for new antioxidant and antibacterial plant-based medications. Additionally, Glycyrrhiza glabra is a popular food flavoring and sweetening ingredient.Methods: This work was to isolate and purify licorice root's glycyrrhizin acid (GA) and investigate its antimicrobial properties against S. aureus and K.  pneumoniae were isolated from urine , blood, wounds, ear water, sewage, soil, and water, totaling 12 isolates of each kind, Analytical method for the measurement of Glycyrrhizic acid  from the root extract that has been suitably supported by a mass spectroscopic analysis.Results: The result showed the effects of GA with different concentrations on S. aureus and. K. pneumoniae. Obviously, the MIC range value was in concentration between 18.75 to 37.5 % for S. aureus isolates, and 4.68 to 75 for K. pneumoniae isolates. The result indicated that GA reduced the metabolic activity of cells in biofilm on S. aureus and K. pneumoniae with an inhibition percentageConclusion: GA may have an effect on cell membrane permeability, biofilm formation, and efflux activity, which inhibits bacterial growth.Keywords: Glycyrrhizin acid; Staphylococcus aureus; Klebsiella pneumoniae; Antibiotic; Biofilm
Immobilization of lipase enzyme extracted from thermophilic Bacillus licheniformis 14T local isolate
Authors: Khudhair Saad Hussein , Mohammed Melad Khalaf , Jabbar Ahmed Darweesh
Published: May 2024

Background: Currently, lipase enzymes are considered important bio-catalysts in many industries due to their unique properties in catalyzing various types of reactions in aqueous solutions.  By targeting hydrocarbons in the oil, lipase enzymes contribute to the breakdown of hydrocarbons, reducing the environmental impact of oil spills and facilitating the remediation of contaminated areas.Methods: A thermostable lipase from local isolate Bacillus licheniformis 14T has been immobilized on four different supports that include the inactivated chitosan beads, activated chitosan beads with glutaraldehyde, inactivated chitosan-alginate beads, and activated chitosan-alginate beads with glutaraldehyde.Results The purified free lipase enzyme exhibited the highest enzymatic activity at 34.6 units/ml, surpassing all immobilized enzymes. Specific activity increased to 96.25 and 79.03 unit/mg protein for activated chitosan beads and activated chitosan-alginate beads, while decreasing to 52.95 and 46.05 unit/mg protein for inactivated chitosan beads and inactivated chitosan-alginate beads compared to the free enzyme. Optimal conditions for the immobilized enzyme differed, with the highest enzyme activity achieved after 60 minutes at 60°C and pH 8, reaching 48.6, 70.23, 43.12, and 61.2 units/ml on various supports, contrasting with the free enzyme's peak activity after 30 minutes at 50°C and pH 7.Conclusions: Immobilizing the lipase enzyme increases the specific activity of the immobilized enzyme on the supports of activated chitosan beads with, also the immobilization process led to a change in the optimal conditions for the activity of the immobilized enzyme compared with the optimal conditions of free enzyme.Keywords: Lipase; Bacillus licheniformis; Immobilization; Chitosan; Alginate
Microbial Contamination and Antibiotic Resistance in Food and Water: Assessing the Threat of Staphylococcus aureus in Lahore Metropolitan
Authors: Pervaiz Gulnaz , Samra Zahoor Qadir , Hussain Amina , Hussain Aroosha , Javaid Fareeha
Published: May 2024

Background: The research project in Lahore, Pakistan, seeks to detect S. aureus in drinking water, raw milk, and yogurt samples due to health concerns. S. aureus is a pathogenic bacterium with potential risks if present in food and water sources.Method: In this study, 300 samples of raw milk, yogurt, and drinking water were collected in Lahore. The presence of S. aureus was determined through morphological, microscopic, and biochemical methods. The biochemical analysis included testing for specific features of S. aureus. Disk diffusion technology was employed to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates, following the recommendations of the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute. Molecular confirmation was achieved through 16S rRNA sequence analysis using universal and specific primers.Results: The investigation uncovered that 6% of drinking water samples, 9% of yogurt samples and 58% of raw milk samples were tainted with S. aureus. These findings were further validated through 16S rRNA sequence analysis, affirming their reliability. S. aureus exhibited notable resistance rates, with 100% resistance to penicillin and 95% resistance to erythromycin. Conversely, resistance to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin was lower, at 10% and 5% each, indicating the potential efficacy of these antibiotics in treating S. aureus infections.Conclusion: The study emphasizes the risk of S. aureus infection from raw milk consumption in Lahore, Pakistan, due to inadequate sanitary practices. It stresses the necessity of implementing stricter measures in dairy production and water treatment to ensure public safety and reduce multidrug-resistant bacteria prevalence. Continuous monitoring and preventive actions are vital for safeguarding public health.Keywords: S. aureus; Antibiotic resistance; Food and water; Lahore, Pakistan; Sanitary measures
Hematological effects for rabbits immunized by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis sonicated antigen
Authors: Razook Basil R. F. , Abdulkareem Mariam Hamdi , Mohammed Ansam Khalid
Published: May 2024

Background: Analyzing Hematological parameters is usually in use to monitor various circumstances such as infection, inflammation and anemia. For that we studied blood parameters which are in touch with immunized laboratory animals (rabbits) after immunizing these animals with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis then used an adjuvant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to stimulate the immune response cells after 2 to 3 weeks of immunization. Different concentrations were used to examine the effect on the animals’ blood parameters changing.Methods: Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis bacterium was used at current study for evaluating the effect of immunizing laboratory rabbits with two different immune stimulators working together as adjuvant on the blood picture with the aid of 12 breed rabbits from different genders, dividing them at the base of inoculation with pre-killed and sonicated cells of bacteria (antigens) onto 4 categories as following: the group-1 members of rabbits were injected with the antigen, group-2 and group-3 included rabbits injected with the two inoculations at various concentrations; final group, group-4 was the control group.Results: Thus, white blood cells known to be our main line of defenses act firstly in our body towards different infecting microorganisms, their count always was increased through the immunization correlated with other measured parameters. From the results we can see that the lymphocytes percentage had no alteration between the infected and the immunized compared to control group, while the percentage of MID that refers to the monocytes was at the same range in both infected and the immunized control rabbit’s groups. Granulocyte cells percentage, which is including heterophilic, basophilic and eosinophilic cells, was significantly decreased (P>0.05) compared with control at all groups.Conclusion: We conclude that C. pseudotuberculosis might function as a potent immunogen to notice the complete blood picture variations.Keywords: Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Sonicated antigen; Blood parameters; Blood picture; Adjuvant
Evaluation of the effectiveness of coniferous-phytogenic feed additives in case of eimeriosis infestation in calves
Authors: Korotkiy Vasily , Skornyakova Olga , Leukhina Victoria , Sadykov Evgeny , Ryzhov Viktor
Published: May 2024

Background: Eimeriosis in calves, often treated with harsh chemicals, leads to significant health and economic burdens. This study explores natural coniferous-phytogenic feed additives as an innovative solution, focusing on their efficacy against Eimeria bovis and Eimeria ellipsoidalis, two common eimeriosis pathogens in calves.Methods: The authors conducted experiments to analyze the therapeutic and preventive effectiveness of the use of a coniferous-phytogenic immunomodulator in the diet of calves from 5-7 days of age and a coniferous and salicylic acid feed additive from 28-30 days of age in case of eimeriosis infestation at a dose of 5.0, 10.0, and 15.0 ml, once a day, in courses of 2 weeks without intervals with a small amount of warm water.Results: The extensivity of the coniferous and salicylic acid feed additive against the eimeriosis infestation in calves caused by E. bovis showed maximum result. Both preparations were willingly consumed by calves and eliminated the signs of diarrheal dyspeptic syndrome and gastroenteritis. The inclusion of coniferous-phytogenic feed additives in the calves' diet from 5-7 days of age once a day, in courses of 2 weeks without intervals, contributed to 100% effectiveness against E. bovis and E. ellipsoidalis.Conclusion: The study concludes that coniferous-phytogenic feed additives are highly effective in treating and preventing eimeriosis in calves, showing 100% effectiveness against the targeted pathogens. These additives also contribute to the overall health and well-being of the animals by alleviating related symptoms.Keywords: Calves; Calf Pen; Eimeriosis; Coniferous-Phytogenic Feed Additives; Efficiency
Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Pathogenesis of Bronchial Asthma and Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Systematic Review
Authors: Ismailov Imetkul , Kalmatov Romanbek , Abdurakhmanov Baktyiar , Mirza Ali Munir , Chaurasia Jitendra Kumar
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma and obstructive pulmonary diseases. The review follows a structured approach beginning with a comprehensive search of electronic databases, then findings from the included studies were summarized and used to draw comprehensive conclusions. The authors state that increased activity of oxidative processes and insufficient activity of the antioxidant system lead to the accumulation of ROS in the respiratory tract. This leads to direct damage to epithelial cells, activation of inflammatory cells, and stimulation of inflammatory mediators. ROS also activate transcription factors that increase inflammation and airway obstruction. Thus, maintaining the balance of the oxidant-antioxidant system is an important strategy for the treatment of these diseases.Keywords: Reactive oxygen species; Bronchial asthma; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Oxidative stress; Antioxidant system
First report of Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (a bipartite begomovirus) from round gourd plant in Swat region of Pakistan: its phylogenetic and biogeographic analysis
Authors: Bibi Chand , Khan Raham Sher , Rahat Murad Ali , Ullah Asad , Zahoor Muhammad , Sher Hassan , Hussain Khadim , Akbar Fazal , Al-Saleh Mohammed Ali
Published: May 2024

Background: The family Geminiviridae contains plant viruses commonly referred to as geminiviruses, which cause diseases in numerous important plants. Geminiviridae is one of the most important family of plant-infecting viruses that has been divided into fourteen recognized genera.  Amongst these, the genus Begomovirus is the largest and economically most important one, viruses of the genus are further categorized into bipartite (two genomic components called DNA-A and DNA-B) and monopartite (single genomic component or DNA-A) begomoviruses.Method: The genomic DNA was extracted from symptomatic plant samples and both the DNA-(B and A) components of a bipartite begomovirus were amplified via rolling circular amplification (RCA) and PCR. The amplified DNA-A and DNA-B were cloned and sequenced by Primer walking, Sanger sequencing, and Illumina sequencing methods. The phylogenetic and biogeographic analyses of both components were performed by various bioinformatics tools.Results: DNA-A (accession number MW722701) and DNA-B (accession number MW722782) of begomoviruses that were sequenced shared >95% sequence similarity with the bipartite begomovirus known as Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi virus (TLCuNDV). Phylogenetic and biogeographic analyses proposed several possible ancestors, and multiple dispersal and vicariance events may be involved in the evolution of this virus. Conclusions: This is the first time a bipartite begomovirus has been found to infect a plant in the study area (District Swat, Pakistan). The existence of ToLCNDV may pose a major danger to other important crops in the region.Keywords: Bipartite Begomoviruses; Phylogeny; Biogeography; BLAST; S-DIVA; BBM; DEC
Effects of Acetaminophen and Vitamin C Combination on Clinical Vital Signs and Behavioral Traits of Heat-Stressed Dairy Buffalo
Authors: Sangor Wisam K. Salih , Al-Kanaan Adnan Jabbar J. , Khudhair Nameer A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Heat stress (HS) presents significant challenges to water buffalo breeding, particularly in harsh environments like southern Iraq. HS adversely impacts physiological and behavioral aspects in dairy buffaloes, leading to economic losses in productivity and welfare. Interventions such as acetaminophen and vitamin C supplementation have been suggested to alleviate HS impacts due to their anti-stress and anti-inflammatory characteristics.Methods: This study was conducted in Al-Chibayish Marshes southern Iraq and aimed to evaluate the effects of acetaminophen and vitamin C combination (AVC) on heat-stressed dairy buffalo. Sixteen lactating buffaloes were divided into four treatments. One treatment received regular water (control), while other treatments were given water mixed with AVC at a dose of 500g/1000 liters for 3, 5, and 7 consecutive days per week, respectively, over 30 days. Environmental (temperature, humidity, and THI) and physiological data (body temperature, respiration rate, and pulse rate) were recorded daily, while feed and water consumption were recorded weekly.Results: Buffaloes experienced significant HS, with temperatures reaching up to 53.2°C and corresponding THI values ranging from 88.05 to 99.31. AVC administration for 5 consecutive days led to increased feed intake by 1.15 kg daily per treatment and decreased water consumption by 16.43 liters daily per treatment compared to the control. Additionally, rectal temperature, respiration rate, and heart rate showed progressive improvement during the second and third weeks, with the most notable improvement observed in the fourth week of the study. These improvements in vital signs and behavioral traits indicate the ability of AVC to improve thermoregulation and reduce heat stress impact.Conclusion: The investigation highlights the potential of AVC supplementation showing a promise in alleviating HS effects on dairy buffaloes by positively influencing physiological and behavioral parameters. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize supplementation strategies for enhancing buffalo welfare and productivity under heat stress.Keywords: Acetaminophen; Vitamin C; Physiological; Behavioral; Heat stress; Buffalo
The effect of inflammatory cytokines on occurrence of retained placenta in cattle
Authors: Dhaher Nawaf Nooraldeen , Eesa Manar Sabah , Al-Mutar Hayder A. H. , Ismaeel Maythem Abdulealah
Published: May 2024

Background: In simple terms, retained placenta is a common issue after parturition in cattle that can affect their reproductive ability. In pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (FGR), the placenta has low anti-inflammatory cytokines and high pro-inflammatory cytokines. By looking at variations in cytokine levels in the blood, we can diagnose the condition. The focus of a recent study was to examine the role of some interleukins  (Interleukins -10, Interleukins -6, Interleukins -1β), C-reactive protein (CRP) and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α, in retained placenta occurrence in cattle.Methods: The study involved 40 cows, aged 3-8 years in the Salah-Din province. Each animal suffered from retained placenta also eleven healthy cows served as the control group in a period of January to August 2022. The blood serum was analyzed using enzyme immunoassay techniques (ELIZA) to measure the levels of IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β, CRP and TNF-α.Results: Serum levels of IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β, CRP and TNF-α showed a significant increase in cows experiencing retained fetal membranes compared to healthy cows (2.31±0.11 vs 1.41 ±0.07) (10.48±0.24 vs 5.40±0.19), (13.6±2.1 vs 4±0.9), (0.9±0.02 vs 0.32±0.04) and (60.1 ± 12.79 vs 29.5 ± 16.58) respectively.Conclusion: from the present study we conclude that IL10, IL6, IL1β and TNFα play an essential component in retained placenta incidence, and  the estimation levels of these parameters in serum may be considered good indicator for occurrence in cattle. RT-PCR revealed increased expression of SDHA genes in the maternal compartment of the placenta.Keywords: Retained placenta; Cytokines; C-reactive protein
Association between vitamin D levels and insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Abdulmajeed Arif Muntaha , Kamal Rasheed Manal , Ismaeel Ammar Adil
Published: May 2024

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is a major contributor to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is associated with various metabolic disorders. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been linked to an increased risk of T2DM, but the relationship between vitamin D status and IR in T2DM patients remains unclear. This study explores this association in a male population with T2DM in Baghdad, Iraq.Methods: A case-control study was conducted on 190 male participants: 40 healthy controls and 150 patients categorized into different groups; 40 diabetic patients, 55 with coronary artery disease (CAD) and T2DM (CAD+DM), and 55 with only CAD. Physicians diagnosed them, and they were evaluated by physical and full medical history. All the sample set parameters were measured in the fasting state for each group. The biochemical tests included body mass index (BMI), vitamin D levels, insulin levels, fasting tests glucose (FBG), and HbA1c were measured. Insulin resistance was calculated using the HOMA-IR model.Results: Vitamin D levels were significantly lower in all diabetic groups (DM, CAD+DM) compared to the control group (p<0.001). All diabetic patients had insulin resistance. BMI was significantly higher in the CAD and CAD+DM groups compared to controls (p<0.00001, p<0.004). FBG, HbA1c, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR were all significantly higher in diabetic patients compared to controls (p<0.001 for all). Furthermore, increased HbA1c, fasting insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were associated with CAD progression in T2DM patients (p < 0.001).Conclusion: This study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to insulin resistance in male T2DM patients in Baghdad, Iraq. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels may be beneficial in diabetes management in this population. Incorporating vitamin D screening into routine check-ups for T2DM patients could aid in early detection and prevention of insulin resistance-associated complications.Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; Insulin resistance; Vitamin D; Coronary artery disease
Changes of Serum Midkine as a Dynamic Prognostic Factor in Detection for Thyroid Cancer and Comparison with Fine-Needle Aspiration
Authors: Al-Rubaiawi Hadel Kareem , Mohamed Raid J. , Alhelfy Sajid H. , Yones Marwah S.
Published: May 2024

Background: Midkine plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of malignant and other diseases since it is involved in a number of physiological processes, including development, reproduction, and repair. Different types of cells express this protein. Thus, in healthy conditions, significant MDK expression is observed in lymphocytes, the epidermis, and the bronchial epithelium. The sample obtained during fine needle aspiration can help in the diagnosis of or rule out disorders like cancer. Blood is the most practical and least likely bodily fluid to pollute while diagnosing illnesses. Finding successful prognostic markers in patients with well-defined thyroid cancer was the goal of the current investigation.Methods: Midkine level was measured in serum samples by using Elisa technique for 80 patients (40 patient was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma and another 40 with benign thyroid goiter), Age (25-55) from Iraqis people.Results: The current study revealed highly significant difference the median serum level of medkine in the TC patients was much higher than that of BTT patients with a highly significant difference The sensitivity and specificity of the test at cut off value of medkine=129 pg/ml were 90% for both. While FNA result, the sensitivity and specificity of FNAC was 80.77% and 89.66% respectively.Conclusions: The thyroid cancer group's serum MDK result was noticeably higher than that of the healthy control groups. proposed that the midkine might serve as a biochemical marker for thyroid cancer early identification and diagnosis.Keywords: Thyroid cancer; Papillary thyroid carcinoma; Midkine; ELISA; FNA
Whole genome sequence of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain HA9 isolated from conventional Iraqi cheese: First report
Authors: Al-kaabi Hasanain Qasim Mezaal , Chelab Rahman Laibi
Published: May 2024

Background: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is a renowned probiotic known for its ability to enhance health when ingested in sufficient quantities. While L. plantarum typically exhibits unique characteristics, variations in strains and environments can occur. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct genetic identification of the strain before incorporating it into products or administering it for health benefits.Methods: After being isolated from classic artisanal milk cheeses, the bacterial DNA extraction kit from GENEAID, Korea, was used, and strain HA9's genomic DNA was isolated. Then, the highly conserved section of ribosomal RNA was amplified with universal primers. The results were confirmed by a blast analysis of the NCBI database. The genome of HA9 was sequenced using the Illumina and PacBio Sequel II technologies (HN00194138; Psomagen/USA). The Prokaryotic Dynamic Programming Gene-Finding Algorithm software was applied to forecast coding genes. The Pathosystems Resource Integration Center constructed the L. plantarum genome.Result: According to the findings, the genome of the L. plantarum HA9 strain has a length of 3,321,986 bp and a GC percentage of 44.40. This assembled genome contained a total of 1,420 coding proteins and 82 contigs, as discovered by the Comprehensive Genome Analysis. The isolate had been submitted to the NCBI and received the HA9 genome sequence (accession ID: JAUTDL000000000.1).Conclusion Microbes' whole-genome sequencing plays a crucial role in clarifying their probiotic properties and enables accurate identification down to the strain level. The authors argue that further research should be done on probiotics' whole genomes, with a special emphasis on second-generation strains.Keywords: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum; Probiotics; Whole genome sequencing
Bacteriophage Endolysins Antibacterial Effect against S. mutans Isolated from Dental Caries: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Ali Huda Mohammad Hasan , Al-Zubaidy Adeeb Ahmed kadhim , Abdulamir Ahmed Sahib
Published: May 2024

Background: Many bacterial infections including dental caries that caused by Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) were difficult to be treated due to the unavailability of effective antibiotics. Therefore, it requires to focus the attention on endolysin as an antibacterial agent. This study was designed to evaluate the In-vitro  effectiveness of specific bacteriophage endolysins against S. mutans isolated from dental caries.Methods: Twenty-five isolates of S. mutans were collected from patients with dental caries attended to Al-Imamain Al-Kadhimain, Medical City Hospital, and AL-Ameen Health Center, during the period from December 2021 to May 2022. The S. mutans isolates were identified by culturing them on their specific mitis salivarius sucrose bacitracin tellurite media (MS-SBT agar), morphological characteristics, gram staining, biochemical tests and VITEK 2 compact system. Seven of these S. mutans isolates were used for the in-vitro study.Results: The bacteriophage endolysin enzyme extracted from the corresponding S. mutans isolate was effective as In-vitro  antibacterial agent with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) ranging between (13.63 – 17.83) µg/ml and (17.04-22.28) µg/ml respectively.Conclusion: The endolysin was effective as antibacterial agent against multi-drug resistant (MDR) S. mutans upon growing and testing on culture media.
In Silico Identification of Novel HDAC2 Inhibitors for Reinstating Synaptic wiring in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Alharbi Samir Abdulkarim
Published: May 2024

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an increasing incidence rate. For the treatment of ASD, several pharmaceutical approaches, dietary supplements, and behavioral therapy have been proposed, but a definitive cure remains elusive. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are critical epigenetic regulators whose molecular and pharmacological roles are being studied extensively in medically significant ailments such as neuropsychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer on a global scale. HDAC2's specific expression pattern in CNS makes it an appealing therapeutic target for neurological illnesses such as ASD.Methods: The study used PyRx software (version 0.8) to screen a library of 401 alkaloid compounds against HDAC2. In addition, the DS software was used to predict the physicochemical and DMET properties of the compound library.Results: Valaciclovir hydrochloride, Dihydrocapsaicin, Guanosine, Santacruzamate A, and 2'-Deoxyguanosine monohydrate compounds exhibited strong interactions with HDAC2. These compounds had a higher binding energy than the control compound, and they have promising drug-like properties and ADMET characteristics.Conclusion: These identified compounds could be used as HDAC2 inhibitors for the management of ASD, however, experimental research is needed to optimize them as HDAC2 inhibitors.Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Histone deacetylases; Alkaloid compounds; Drug-likeness
Assessing the Diagnostic Precision of Chosen Equational Scores in Detecting Steatosis through Elastography
Authors: Alhaidari Sajid , Charfeddine B , Hadi Talal
Published: May 2024

Background: Several non-interventional imaging studies, scoring systems, and biochemical markers are widely used nowadays to urgently diagnose stage and manage cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to avoid potential complications. The current study aimed to compare the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values (PPR) of some widely used NAFLD-induced steatosis scoring systems.Methods: Fifty patients confirmed with fatty liver by ultrasonography were recruited in this study. All patients underwent steatosis staging using FibroScan. For all patients, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), platelet count, and body mass index were measured for the calculation of aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and AST/ALT equations. Sensitivity, specificity, and PPR for the three scoring systems were calculated compared to FibroScan scoring results as the standard validating system where S0 and S1 scores were considered negative while S2 and S3 scores were considered positive for hepatic steatosis.Results: Sensitivity results were 45, 87.8, and 45.9%; specificity results were 30, 22.2, and 69.2%; and PPR results were 72, 83.7, and 82.9% for APRI, HSI, and AST/ALT ratio scoring equation, respectively.Conclusion: Among the three steatosis scoring systems studied in the present study, the HSI was the most sensitive scoring system, and the AST/ALT ratio was the most specific scoring system compared to the FibroScan as the standard steatosis scoring system.Keywords: Equational Scores; Steatosis; Elastography; AST/ALT; APRI
Study the Teratogenic Effect of Antimony on The Histological Changes of the Liver in the Adult Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Abd Ali Ibtisam Khalaf , Salman Saba Dawod , Ibrahim Thekra Atta , Abbas Mohammed Nsaif
Published: May 2024

Background: Heavy elements such as antimony greatly affect the environment and living organisms. Antimony is discharged into the environment by mining and industries that use it as pesticides and flame retardants. This activity can lead to environmental pollution, water and soil contamination. Antimony can also accumulate in living organisms and cause negative health effects, such as damage to the respiratory system and skin, and growth abnormalities of animals and plants.Methods: The primary objective of this investigation was to explore the teratogenic impact of the antimony heavy metal on histological structure of the liver in adult rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The study included 21 adult white rabbits divided into several groups: the first one is the control group injected with physiological saline (0.09% NaCl), the other group injected with 20 mg/kg antimony, and the last injected with 30 mg/kg antimony over a 30-day period. Following this, postmortem procedures were conducted to extract and fix the liver organ, and tissue sections were prepared.Result: The results revealed significant histological changes, including distortion and rupture in Glisson’s Capsule, leading to the formation of a sub-capsular space due to its separation from hepatocytes. Additionally, alterations in the radial organization of hepatocytes and pyknosis in the nuclei were observed, characterized by a dark color and reduced size. Karyolysis, where nuclei completely disappeared, and hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes with swollen appearance and dark nuclei due to fluid accumulation were noted. Moreover, an increase in Kupffer cells and blood congestion in the central vein, resulting in dilation compared to the control group, were observed.Conclusion: Overall, the treatment with antimony at 20 and 30 mg/g doses for 30 days show profound teratogenic effects on the histological structure of the liver in adult rabbits. These effects are represented by the destruction of various parts of liver, in addition to changes in arrangement, and distortion and rupture of the cells. Furthermore, an increase in Kupffer cells and blood congestion were also recorded.Keywords: Antimony; Liver; Rabbits; Kupffer cells; Glisson’s capsule; Environmental effects
Simultaneous detection of phylogroups and ESBL genes in E. coli using Multiplex PCR
Authors: Patoli Bushra B. , Patoli Atif A. , Begum Iram Nabi , Majeed Zarafshan
Published: May 2024

Background: Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains harbor various allelic versions of beta lactamase genes and their identification using conventional phenotypic tests is a tedious and time consuming task. In the present study, multiplex PCR is performed for the simulatanoues detection of E. coli phylogroups and extended-spectrum β-lactamase- (ESBL) genes.Methods: A total of 128 E. coli isolates from urine samples were screened for antibiotic resistance and expression of ESBL activity using phenotypic and genotypic methods. Uniplex and multiplex PCRs were used to detect E. coli phylogroup detrminants and blaCTX-M-15, blaOXA-1 and TEM1 genes. Chi Square test of independence was employed for evaluating significant levels at P value < 0.05. Results: Phylogroup B2 was detected as the predominant group (36%) followed by group D (30%), A (25%) and B1 (9%). The highest resistance was seen against nalidixic acid (100%) and the lowest against amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (55%). Significant P values were observed for resistance against cefotaxime and cefepime in the phylogroup B2 while resistance against cefoxitin, sulfamethoxazole and fosfomycin was significantly associated with group D. Combination disc diffusion test (CDDT) showed ESBL activity in 42% E. coli isolates. A significant association of blaCTX-M-15 gene was observed for phylogroup B2 (P = 0.007). Moreover, a combination genotype of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 was also found statistically prevalent in phylogroup B2 (P = 0.006).Conclusion: The study highlights the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance and delineates B2 a predominant phylogoup with a high prevalence of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 genes in urinary E. coli isolates.Keywords: UTI; E. Coli; Phylogenetic groups; ESBL genes; Multiplex PCR
Healing of Wounds by use of Spider threads in comparison with healing by Tetracycline ointment, an Experimental Analytical Study
Authors: Nasir Najla Siddig , Hafez Abdelrahman Ranya , Abass Fadul Monzer , Fadul Ali Fatima , Bushara Mohamed Osman Elamin , Siddig Nasir Omer , A. Natto Hatim , M. Badri Hatim , A. Khan Wahaj , A. Osman Ahmed , Mubarek Hassan Nazik , Aldomini Muath
Published: May 2024

Background: Spiders are distributed worldwide except in Arctic and Antarctica. More than 45,700 species of spiders and 114 families have been identified. Spiders produce silk in order to capture their prey. reported that people of the Carpathian Mountains used spider webs from Atypus spiders as bandages. Experiments showed that silk from spider house is bio-degradable, non-antigenic and non-inflammatory. These are ideal properties for healing wounds. We aimed to identify the effect of spider threads on healing wounds and injuries compared to healing of wounds by application of tetracycline ointment.Methods: This is an experimental analytical study in which we investigated ten participants tested in three groups. Group A participants were treated with tetracycline and group B were treated with spider threads. wooden rulers used to collect spider silk threads along with sterilizer, tissue, paper, bandages, and Tetracycline ointment. Silk was collected from four types of spiders: Cellar Spider, Salticidae Spider, Venatoria Hetropoda, and Galeodes Arabs.  These spiders are the mostly distributed in Sudan. Silk was collected by using wooden rulers from cracks and corners of walls at Alzaiem Alazhari University and then placed on clean, soft tissue paper.Results: revealed that spider threads heal surface injuries without leaving scars in 90% of participants. The healing process with spider threads lasts between 8 -24 hours. The comparison between three tests showed that the percentage of wound healing was highest by 70% by using spider threads in comparison with tetracycline and self-healing.Conclusion: It was observed that healing of injuries by using spider threads was 70% faster than healing by using tetracycline ointment. Self-healing was observed to be faster than healing by use of tetracycline ointment.Keywords: Spider threads; Healing; Injuries; Tetracycline
Enhancement of oil biodegradation by using the biosurfactant produced from local Bacillus subtilis isolate
Authors: Mohammed Melad Khalaf , Khudhair Saad Hussein , Jabbar Ahmed Darweesh
Published: May 2024

Background: Oil contamination poses a significant threat to the global environment and has attracted widespread attention in recent years. Given its significance, further exploration of biodegradation options for this contamination has never been more crucial than it is today. Therefore, the objective of the study was to improve the biodegradation of oil by utilizing local bacterial isolates alongside a biosurfactant produced by a Bacillus subtilis isolate. Twenty-two bacterial isolates were collected from four samples of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil. These isolates underwent screening to assess their effectiveness in degrading crude oil using two distinct methods.Methods: Soli samples were collected from two contaminated sites with oil pollutants in Baghdad city. Biodegradation ability was tested on liquid Bushnell Haas medium (BH), pH 7 supplemented with 1% of crude oil and then screened primarily using the 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol method to determine the ability of isolates to degrade the crude oil. All isolates were identified morphologically and biochemically. Biosurfactants was extracted from Bacillus subtilis previously isolated.Results: Isolate SCS1 has appeared the highest ability reaching 52.6% compared with other isolates, also, the results of secondary screening confirmed that isolate SCS1 has given the best biodegradation reaching 53.8%. The isolate SCS1 was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, this isolate was used to study the effect of biosurfactant on crude oil biodegradation. Results exhibited a high biodegradation efficiency reaching 85.1% in culture broths supplemented with 100 mg/100. It was noted that the use of 150 and 200 mg of biosurfactant led to a decrease in the biodegradation of crude oil.Conclusion: The use of biosurfactant led to an increase in the degradation rate by up to 61.7% of crude oil by Pseudomonas aeruginosa when using 25-100 mg of crude biosurfactant that produced by local isolate Bacillus subtilis.Keywords: Biodegradation; Biosurfactant; Bacillus subtilis; Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Geospatial Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 Variants during the Fifth Wave of COVID-19 in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Beig Muhammad Mubashar , Ali Muhammad Asad , Javed Hasnain , Yaqub Tahir , Mehmood Asim Khalid , Nawaz Muhammad , Raza Sohail , Ashraf Muhammad Adnan , Shabbir Muhammad Abu Bakar , Mukhtar Nadia , Najeeb Muhammad Imran , Aziz Waqar , Mehmood Adnan , Raza Hamza , Masud Awais , Basharat Rida , Anjum Aftab Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Background: The study was conducted in the various districts of Punjab, Pakistan, to ascertain the incidence and epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in the population during the fifth wave of COVID-19.Method: A total of 9603 nasopharyngeal swab samples of suspected patients were collected from the different districts of Punjab from December 2021 to April 2022. In the BSL-3 facility, an auto-extractor (Uni-medica) was used to extract the RNA genome. Viral detection and quantification were performed using real-time reverse transcriptase PCR. Multiplex PCR was used to target different mutations of the spike protein in order to identify SARS-CoV-2 variants.Results: 711 samples were found to be positive from a total of 9603. The Omicron variant of concern (VOC) was the predominant lineage of SARS-CoV-2 circulating at the time of sampling. Ninety-one percent proportion of COVID-19 was caused by the Omicron, followed by the wild variant (3.80%) and Delta (68.11%). Men were found to have a greater Omicron prevalence (47.96%) than women (42.05%). Furthermore, compared to older individuals (32.07%) and younger kids (10.55%), adults had the higher percentage of Omicron (47.39%).Conclusion: This study brought attention to the Omicron variant's circulation in Punjab Province, Pakistan, during the COVID-19 fifth wave.Keywords: Coronavirus; Omicron; Delta; Variant of Concern; Multiplex PCR; Punjab; Pandemic
Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of First Aid Management of Epistaxis among the General Population in Najran Region: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alshehri Ali Abdullah , Al Sulaiman Ibrahim Nasser , Asiri Shuruq Talea , Aldughar Sarah Saeed , Alqarni Nisreen Oudah , Nour Mohamed Osama
Published: May 2024

Background: Nasal bleeding, epistaxis, is a common emergency. Few Saudi studies exist on epistaxis awareness and first aid management. We aimed to assess knowledge and attitude of adults in Najran, Saudi Arabia towards epistaxis first aid management, as well as their association with sociodemographic factors.Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was carried out involving general adults of Najran, Saudi Arabia, using a snowball sampling method. A pretested questionnaire was utilized for data collection. Knowledge and attitude scores were categorized as good/positive or poor/negative.  Both descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out with odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and logistic regression analysis to investigate factors associated with knowledge and attitude towards epistaxis first aid management using SPSS Software.Results: The study included 518 participants with 58.9% experienced nosebleeds. Common causes were hypertension (24.5%) and nose injuries (23.7%). Factors as nasal dryness, blood thinner use, and tumors/nasal polyps were also identified. Around 60.2% believed first aid was necessary and 59.5% had good knowledge about epistaxis first aid management. Participants with university/higher education, employed in health sector, and with previous experience with nosebleed were more knowledgeable, more likely to have positive attitudes, and showed significantly higher ORs for knowledge and attitude scores compared to others.Conclusion: The study showed fair knowledge and attitude of Najran adults towards epistaxis first aid management with sociodemographic variables showing varying associations. Educational initiatives are needed especially for those with lower education, non-health sectors, and not experienced nosebleeds, to improve public first aid knowledge and attitudes.Keywords: Epistaxis; Knowledge; Attitude; First aid management; Saudi Arabia
Identification of Novel STAT3 Dimerization Inhibitor Through Structure-Based Virtual Screening for Cancer Management
Authors: Aloqbi Akram Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Background: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor that controls cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and immunological responses. In many human malignancies, abnormal STAT3 activation promotes tumor growth via oncogenic gene expression, resulting in tumor malignancy. Many drugs with clinically authorized analogues that are used as STAT3 inhibitors for cancer therapy have several drawbacks in terms of stability and toxicity.Methods: This study used PyRx 0.8 tool to screen the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database of about 32,364 commercially available natural compounds in order to identify new STAT3 inhibitors. Physicochemical and ADME properties of selected compounds were estimated using Datawarrior and SwissADME.Result: The top 20 compounds were initially chosen based on their strong binding affinities with STAT3. Lipinski and Vaber tools were used to filter the top 20 compounds, yielding the top 6 compounds. The compounds ZINC85542844, ZINC4098720, ZINC85543599, ZINC85593523, ZINC85593528, and ZINC85593537 were passed through these filters. These compounds were found to interact with active site STAT3 residues and have several amino acid interactions in common with the control compound (STX0119).Conclusion: This study suggests that the compounds ZINC85542844, ZINC4098720, ZINC85543599, ZINC85593523, ZINC85593528, and ZINC85593537 could be used as a lead for the development of novel STAT3 inhibitors. However, further experimental validation is required to optimized them as STAT3 inhibitors.Keywords: STAT3; Transcription factor; Natural compounds; Cancer; Virtual screening
Alleviation of heat stress by ACC Deaminase and Exopolysaccharide Producing Plant-Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria in Solanum melongena L.
Authors: Sami Hannachi , Karim Nagmouchi , Angelo Signore
Published: May 2024

Background: The current study was carried out to assess the alternative role of high temperature tolerant plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in alleviation of heat stress adverse effect in eggplant.Methods: PGPR was assessed for PGP potentialities and investigated for1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate (ACC deaminase), and exopolysaccharide under normal and high temperature environment. The impact of PGPR application on plant physiology and biochemistry was investigated under normal and high temperature environments and plant growth regulators were evaluated using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).Results: A significant impediment for morphological and physiological parameters of eggplant cultivars was observed during heat stress in absence of PGPR inoculation. The results showed that ACC‐deaminase produced by PGPR boosted up significantly the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) accumulation, conversion of ACC into α‐ketobutyrate and ammonia, and reduce consequently the impact of high temperature on eggplant development.Conclusion: PGPR inoculation showed an alternative strategy to improve eggplant growth and development under high temperature condition in order to preserve agriculture sustainability and healthy crops.Keywords: ACC‐deaminase; Extracellular polymeric substances; Heat stress; PGPR; Solanum melongena
Current advances on single or multi-omics analysis of esophageal cancer
Authors: Kasimu Kaidirina , Cui Wenwen , Wang Yihan , Li Xin , Wang Hongbo , Yu Xiaotong , Ren Fu
Published: May 2024

Esophageal cancer is associated with high mortality rates and is one of the cancers with the worst prognosis. Its incidence has significant regional specificity, particularly in China where it is much higher than in other countries. Moreover, effective diagnostic markers, therapeutic targets, and molecular subtyping biomarkers are currently lacking for esophageal cancer. Nevertheless, large-scale omics studies have identified dozens of robust genetic risk loci and prognosis-related loci, drawn genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic maps of esophageal cancer at multiple molecular levels, and described significant differences between esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These studies are of great significance for exploring the occurrence and development mechanism of esophageal cancer, guiding clinical treatment, and improving patient prognosis. This review, from the perspective of multi-omics, discusses the analytical strategies employed in these studies and summarizes their core findings. It emphasizes that the integration and analysis of multi-omics data is a key focus and development trend in the precise medical research of esophageal cancer, and has broad research and application prospects.Keywords: Esophageal cancer; GWAS; Precision medicine; Biomarker
El papel de la educación intercultural en la promoción del respeto y la diversidad
Authors: Guacho Tipán Isabel
Published: May 2024

La educación intercultural desempeña un papel fundamental en la promoción del respeto y la diversidad en las sociedades contemporáneas. A través de una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura académica, se evidencia que este enfoque educativo es crucial para abordar los desafíos que plantea la diversidad cultural en entornos educativos y más amplios. Los resultados obtenidos resaltan la necesidad de implementar estrategias interculturales en el currículo escolar, así como de fortalecer la formación del profesorado en competencias interculturales. Además, se destaca la importancia de fomentar la colaboración entre la escuela, la comunidad y otras instituciones para promover una educación intercultural efectiva. La participación activa de todos los actores involucrados es fundamental para crear ambientes de aprendizaje inclusivos donde se valore y respete la diversidad cultural. Asimismo, se evidencia la necesidad de continuar explorando y desarrollando estrategias pedagógicas innovadoras que promuevan la educación intercultural de manera efectiva. Estos hallazgos subrayan el potencial transformador de la educación intercultural en la construcción de sociedades más inclusivas, justas y respetuosas de la diversidad, lo que resalta su importancia como un componente esencial en el panorama educativo contemporáneo.