bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pembangunan Manusia melalui Optimalisasi Lembaga Pengelolaan Zakat
Authors: Setiawan Adi , Wardy Putra Trisno , Hariyadi Rizky
Published: February 2021

This study aims to reveal a conceptual strategy regarding the existence of zakat institutions as Islamic philanthropic institutions. The focus of this research concerns zakat and community development. This study intends to determine the role of zakat in enhancing development and strategies for zakat in overcoming community problems, especially economic welfare problems that have not been resolved. This research uses library research method, which examines various literatures or references related to zakat and community development by linking with existing theories and research as a form of accuracy of library research. The results of the discussion indicate that zakat is closely related to community development. The zakat strategy in overcoming community problems, namely: 1) increasing the number of property owners and changing the condition of most poor and poor people to become well-off people, or it can also be termed an economic migration from mustahiq to muzakki, 2) eliminating the nature of begging (chirity) ), 3) eliminating envy and enmity between Muslims, 4) coping with disasters, 5) repeating celibacy, 6) helping refugees.
Miedo al delito en jóvenes mexicanos
Authors: Reyes Sosa Hiram , Álvarez Montero Francisco , Puente Martínez Alicia
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: En este artículo se analizan las propiedades psicométricas de la escala de miedo al delito de corte psicosocial.

Metodología: Se realizó un Análisis Factorial Exploratorio (AFE) y un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (AFC). La muestra estuvo conformada por 443 estudiantes universitarios del Estado de Sinaloa, México. La edad media de los participantes fue 21.32 años (DT = 2.23).

Resultados: Se exploró mediante dos modelos confirmatorios la estructura teórica del constructo miedo al delito: uno de primer orden y otro de segundo orden. La escala presentó índices satisfactorios de fiabilidad y de bondad de ajuste.

Conclusiones: Los resultados confirman un modelo de segundo orden para la explicación de la construcción psicosocial y polisémica del miedo al delito.
Factores que dificultan la inseminación artificial en ovinos, y su impacto en las tasas de fertilidad, preñez y parto
Authors: Cáceres Bautista Daniela , Mogollón W Edgar Mauricio
Published: February 2021

Introducción: la creciente importancia de la producción ovina en Colombia, su inventario nacional de 1.578.684, la producción en toneladas de carne/año y el incremento de su consumo per cápita de 350 a 500 gramos por persona/año, demanda intervenciones para mejorar los indicadores reproductivos de la especie, con el apoyo, entre otros, del uso de las biotecnologías reproductivas. Por esto es pertinente identificar los factores que dificultan la inseminación artificial (IA) en ovinos, con el fin de intervenir sobre ellos y contribuir a la mejora de sus indicadores reproductivos y el bienestar de los productores.

Metodología: se realizó una revisión sistemática de literatura para identificar los principales factores reportados, que dificultan la preñez vía inseminación artificial en ovinos. Para la selección de artículos, se tuvo en cuenta su carácter de acceso abierto, y se consultaron productos de investigación relacionados con los parámetros morfométricos, técnicas que de IA que atraviesan el cérvix (IAV, IAC, IATC) e IA laparoscópica, formas de conservación del semen (fresco, refrigerado y congelado-descongelado) y protocolos de sincronización de celo, que incluyeran dentro de sus resultados tasas de fertilidad, preñez o partos. Se excluyeron artículos escritos en idiomas diferentes al español, portugués e inglés, especies diferentes a la ovina, lo mismo que resultados que no incorporaban protocolos de sincronización, la presentación del semen, el tipo de técnica de IA utilizada, las tasas de fertilidad, preñez o partos.

Resultados: se seleccionaron 44 artículos los cuales cumplían con los criterios de inclusión, de los cuales 15 se relacionaban con los parámetros morfométricos, formas del orificio cervical y su correlación con la edad, y 29 se relacionaron con las técnicas de IA, los tipos de conservación del semen, protocolos de sincronización y su correlación con las tasas de fertilidad, preñez y partos.

Conclusiones: este trabajo mostró que los principales factores que dificultan la preñez por IA en ovinos son: la edad de los animales, los parámetros morfométricos del cérvix, el tipo de técnica de IA y la presentación del semen.
Effect of science camp for enhancing STEM skills of gifted young scientists
Authors: MOHD ZAHIDI Azizah , SY ING Ong , YUSOF Rolinda , KANAPATHY Suganty , ISMAIL Md Jaıs , YOU Huay Woon
Published: February 2021

Programs and educational practices that enable gifted students to conduct science activities and develop themselves in engineering fields are rapidly increasing in Malaysia. One of them is the science camp to improve STEM skills. This study investigates the effectiveness of science camp (Junior Science Camp) towards young children’s understanding and knowledge about science. One hundred and three children aged four to six years old participated in the three-day camp. Mixed research model was used in this research. Data were collected by Junior Science Camp Scientist Test (JSCST) as pre and post-test, parent evaluation of the camp. Questions in the pre and post-test wereon the content in the five camp modules: I am an engineer, I am a scientist, I am a chemist, I am a forensic scientist, and I am a natural scientist. Data from the open-ended question in the survey (parent evaluation) were used to triangulate the quantitative data from the pre and post-test. Findings showed that the camp was effective in enhancing the young children’s (preschoolers’) understanding about science and increasing their knowledge about science and STEM fields. Implications of this study are related to the design of future science camps and also the methodology and instruments of future research.
Protocols for "The genome analysis of Tripterygium wilfordii reveals TwCYP712K1 and TwCYP712K2 responsible for oxidation of friedelin in celastrol biosynthesis pathway" v1
Authors: Pei Tianlin , Yang Jun , Zhao Qing
Published: February 2021

Tripterygium wilfordii is a vine from the Celastraceae family that is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The active ingredient celastrol is a friedelane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid with putative roles as antitumor, immunosuppressive, and antiobesity agent. Here, we report a reference genome assembly of T. wilfordii with high-quality annotation by using a hybrid sequencing strategy, obtaining a 340.12 Mb total genome size, a contig N50 reaching 3.09 Mb. We successfully anchored 91.02% of the sequences into 23 pseudochromosomes using Hi-C technology and the superscaffold N50 reached 13.03 Mb. In addition, we annotated 31,593 structural genes, and a repeat percentage of 44.31%. Comparative evolutionary analyses showed that T. wilfordii diverged from species of Malpighiales approximately 102.4 million years ago. Based on integration of the genome, transcriptome and metabolite analyses, as well as in vivo and in vitro enzyme assays of the two CYP450 genes TwCYP712K1 and TwCYP712K2 the second biosynthesis step of celastrol was investigated. Syntenic analysis revealed that TwCYP712K1 and TwCYP712K2 were derived from a common ancestor. These results provide insights for further investigating pathways related to celastrol andvaluable information to aid the conservation of resources. In addition, they helped us understand the evolution of Celastrales.
Punctuation Relevance in Subtitle: The Foreign Audience Example
Authors: Nwike Christopher Chinedu
Published: February 2021

This study looked at punctuation mark and their relevance in written information although; the objective of the study is to discover the relevance of punctuation mark in subtitle: The Foreign audience example and to re-echo the need to have a well punctuated write-up in literary genres. The study sees language as a system of human communication. The problem of the study sets in from lots of poor and wrongly applied punctuations, as various forms of signs are seen to be used in some of the movies of the entertainment industry – Nollywood, which in turn, gives rise to wrong interpretation to the foreign audience of that language, and as such, the foreign learner of a particular language, the Igbo example will not enjoy the supposed information. The study adopted the framework of Vinay and Darbelnet principles and strategies as a guide to solving the problem as one of its principles – equivalence was used to relate the movie wrong punctuated subtitles to their supposed target language. The methodology of explication is equally adopted while the study concludes that punctuation errors are involved with wrong application of punctuation mark to written discourses on where it is not supposed to be since punctuation occurs only in written discourses and not spoken.
Analysis of diagnostic value of cytological smear method versus cell block method in body fluids with clinical and biochemical correlation: study of 150 cases
Authors:   Professor, Department of Pathology, Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubballi, Karnataka, India., Chandan Dr. Rajesh h. , Pawar Dr. Sumana ,   Post graduate student, Department of Pathology, Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubballi, Karnataka, India, Redd Dr Purushotham ,   Professor and Head of the department of Pathology, Department of Pathology, Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubballi, Karnataka, India.
Published: February 2021

Background: Aspiration of serous cavities is a simple and relatively non-invasive technique toachieve diagnosis. Cytological evaluation of body cavity fluid is diagnostically challenging. Especiallyin malignant effusions, helps in staging, prognosis and management of the patients. Aims: Toassess the utility and sensitivity of cell block method over conventional smear technique incytodiagnosis of the serous effusions. And to assess the utility and sensitivity of cytologicalevaluation of body fluids with biochemical and clinical correlation. Methods: A total of 150 fluidspecimens were examined for conventional cytological smear (CS) and cell block method (CB). Outof 150 fluids, 96 were pleural fluid, 48 were ascitic fluid, 04 fluid from pouch of Douglas and 01 wasfrom synovial fluid. Results: In this study, the utility of the CB method in the cytodiagnosis ofmalignant effusions was found to be highly significant as compared to the CS method. The additionalyield of malignancy was 12% more as was obtained by the CB method. Conclusion: For the finalcytodiagnosis of body fluid, there is statistically significant difference between the two techniques. Inother words, CB is superior to CS method. It gives more information about the architecturalarrangement and the likely source of primary. More important is that diagnostic material in cellblocks is available for special studies for Immunohistochemistry which can further supplement ourknowledge about the primary source of metastasis.
Városi kormányzás történeti perspektívában? – A dualizmuskori Bécs és Budapest példája
Authors: Hilbert Bálint
Published: February 2021

A városi kormányzás (urban governance) szemléletmódjának 1970-es években történt meghatározó jellegű fordulópontja óta számos városi esettanulmány látott napvilágot a nemzetközi és hazai geográfia és közigazgatás-tudomány területén. Amellett, hogy a kutatások többsége angolszász (vagy „nyugati”) városokra koncentrál, időben sem igazán tekintenek vissza a modern (polgári) városi kormányzás kialakulásának kezdeteire, csupán a második világháború lezárulta utáni időszakot tekintik a szemléletváltás előzményeként. A 19. századi polgári állami és városi kormányzás jogszabályi alapjainak megteremtése, a demokratizálódási folyamat egy adott város kormányzási rendszerét – államonként eltérő formában – hosszabb időtávra determinálhatta. Az újfajta városi kormányzás kialakulásának és városonként eltérő jellegű megjelenésének megértéséhez szükséges feltárni annak történeti oldalát.

A városi kormányzás történeti aspektusának vizsgálatára az Osztrák–Magyar Monarchia két fővárosa egyszerre tűnik kihívásnak, de ugyanakkor kutatási eredmények sokféleségét ígérő kísérletnek is. A Monarchia államjogi és közigazgatási strukturális szempontból is paradoxonnak volt tekinthető, ahol egy egységesnek tekinthető állami térben a két birodalomrész egymástól nagyrészt független közigazgatási szisztémát működtetett. Bécs és Budapest városi kormányzásának vizsgálata ezáltal különösen sokatmondó, amelyeket a tanulmányban a birodalomrészi közigazgatásba ágyazottsága, állami és tartományi felügyelete, valamint belső szervezetrendszerük felépítése és választási rendszere alapján vettem vizsgálat alá. A két főváros kormányzási rendszerének helyenként markáns eltérésből arra következtethetünk, hogy a városi kormányzás történeti perspektívában is igen sokféleképpen jelenhet meg akár egy államon belül is, ami a jelenlegi kutatások számára is hasznos eredményekkel szolgálhat.
The relationship between creative tourism and local development: a bibliometric approach for the period 2009-2019
Authors:   Federal University of Itajubá, Institute of Management and Production Engineering, Brazil, Pimenta Carlos A. Máximo , Ribeiro J. Cadima ,   University of Minho, School of Economics and Management and NIPE, Portugal, Remoaldo Paula ,   University of Minho, Department of Geography and Lab2PT, Portuga
Published: February 2021

The aim of this investigation is to identify the relationship which can be found in the literature between creative tourism and local development, using a bibliometric inventory made in scientific databases (Academia.edu, Econlit, Google Scholar, CAPES Journals, Redalyc, Scielo.org, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, among others) as research method. In general, it was possible to verify that there is a concern of the authors of the papers analysed in establishing a link between creative tourism and local/regional development, without, however, going very far on this relationship, or, at least, when it came to identifying the impacts of economic, cultural, social and environmental nature. This being said, it seems to be relevant that future research takes a deeper look at the hypothesised relationship between the proposals of creative tourism and the benefits it can bring to local communities.
Understanding tourist mobile hotel booking behaviour: Incorporating perceived enjoyment and perceived price value in the modified Technology Acceptance Model
Authors:   Universiti Teknologi Mara Cawangan Terengganu, Malaysia, Mohamad Mohamad Amiruddin , Radzi Salleh Mohd ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Hanafiah Mohd Hafiz ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: February 2021

This study examines how mobile technology adoption influences customers' intention to book hotel rooms via smartphone. This study empirically incorporated perceived enjoyment and perceived value in the modified Technology Acceptance Model (m-TAM) and tested it as a unified model. Partial Least Square-Structural equation modelling (PLSSEM) was applied to estimate the proposed research framework based on the survey data collected from 386 travellers who booked hotels via their smartphones. The structural model confirms perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, and perceived price value significantly influence consumers' behavioural intentions toward mobile hotel booking. This study confirms that TAM can be extended and employed to predict and explain the acceptance of the new technologies in service industries. This study also provides valuable theoretical contributions in developing and testing related theories and practical implications to hotel operators, online travel agencies (OTAs), and hospitality technology suppliers.
The effect of the cyberloafing behaviors of tourism business employees on business motivations and organizational identification
Authors:   Sinop University, Turkey, Kaptangil Kerem , Asan Kübra ,   Sinop University, Turkey, Kinay Aysun Gargaci ,   Sinop University, Turkey
Published: February 2021

With the development of communication technologies, cyberloafing, which means the use of tools such as telephone, tablet, or Internet for business or individual purposes, has become a subject of debate. From this point of view, the cyberloafing behavior of employees in tourism enterprises was examined. It was aimed to investigate the effects of cyberloafing on business motivations and organizational identification in tourism businesses. For this purpose, field research was conducted on hotel management employees in the cities of Sinop and Samsun in Turkey. The data collected through questionnaires were analyzed by factor analysis and Partial Least Squares Structural Modeling (PLS). Findings indicate that cyberloafing has partially and relatively low impact on job motivation and organizational identification. The results of the study contribute to the literature of organizational behavior in the context of cyberloafing, and offer suggestions for hotel managers.
Prescribing pattern of antidiabetic drugs in tertiary care hospital
Authors: P. Anil Kumar , K. Raj Kumar
Published: February 2021

Background: The aim of the current study was to investigate the prescribing pattern of anti-diabetic drugs in diabetic patients attending tertiary care teaching hospital in Kurnool.Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, observational survey was carried out in 100 patients of diabetes mellitus attending diabetes outpatient/medicine outpatient departments, to assess their prescribing pattern of anti-diabetic drugs.Results: Average number of anti-diabetic drugs per prescription was 1.4. Metformin (biguanide) was the commonest prescribed individual drug among oral hypoglycemic agents. Fixed dose combination of biguanide and sulfonylurea was prescribed commonly. Monotherapy dominated over polytherapy and there was a higher percentage of use of insulin in type 2 diabetics.Conclusions: OHAs still dominate the prescribing pattern, but there was a shifting trend toward the use of insulin preparations in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Intensification of current drug treatment as well as planning multiple drug interventions with lifestyle modification is necessary.
A prospective study on prescribing pattern of drugs in geriatric patients in the department of medicine in a tertiary care center
Authors: B. N. Priya Mohan , Jayaram Suma
Published: February 2021

Background: India stands at 3rd position with large elderly population in the world. Elderly population has special problems related to health, social support, and economic security. Comorbidities in elderly people are frequent, which require use of multiple medications which increases the number of inappropriate medications    noncompliance, economic burden, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and drug interactions. The overall incidence of ADR is two to three times higher due to physiological and pharmacological variations. Currently used screening tools for inappropriate prescription in old age are: Beers criteria and inappropriate prescribing in the elderly tool (IPET).Methods: A prospective observational study of elderly patients of either sex admitted in the medicine ward, conducted from May 2019-November 2019. A total of 102 prescriptions were collected and analysed. Data was analysed using Microsoft excel.Results: In this study most of the patients (67 out of 102) were in the age group 65-70 years with male population (73%) dominance. Most of the patient were admitted due to cardiovascular (35.84%) and respiratory system (14.15%) disorder. Anti-diabetics (17.64%) followed by anti-microbials (14.24%) were the most commonly prescribed medicines in this study. Our study revealed poly pharmacy in geriatric patients with an average number of drugs per prescription being 6.07. According to BEER’s criteria 3.47% of total drugs prescribed were inappropriateConclusions:  In this study most of the patients had co morbid conditions, cardiovascular disease and diabetes being the common cause led to polypharmacy. A high number of potential prescription errors were found.
Literature review: manifestation of skin lesion on COVID-19
Authors: Firmansyah Yohanes , Tan Sukmawati Tansil , Elizabeth Jessica , Lauren Christopher
Published: February 2021

New cases of pneumonia, which spread rapidly and are deadly, have spread throughout the world. This disease is known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with a viral etiology in the form of novel coronavirus 2019 (2019-nCoV). This disease has extensive clinical manifestations starting from the lungs, hematology system, heart, nerves, reproduction, and the skin. The thing to be aware of is that the skin manifestations in the form of atypical lesions are often found in COVID-19. Common skin manifestations on COVID-19 are erythema-edema with vesicles or pustules (pseudo-chilblain), vesicular eruption, maculopapular rash, urticaria, and livedo lesion. This literature review discusses comprehensively what kind of skin lesions can be suspected of being part of a COVID-19 infection. This literature review is useful for increasing the awareness of doctors about COVID-19 infection and may help in early diagnose of COVID-19 infection and prevent further transmission.

 
Comparison of the Effect of Epidural Bolus and Continuous Infusion of Lidocaine %1 on Pain, the Progress of Vaginal Delivery and Motor Function in Labor Epidural Analgesia
Authors: Manouchehrian Nahid , Kimiaei Asadi Hossein , Rabiei Soghra , Moradi Abbas , Nosrati Mansoure
Published: February 2021

Background: The pain of childbirth is the most severe pain that a woman experiences. This study aimed to compare the effect of epidural bolus and epidural continuous infusion of lidocaine %1 on pain and progress of vaginal delivery and motor function in labor epidural analgesia.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 50 pregnant women aged between 18-45 years. They were randomly assigned into two groups of bolus injections of lidocaine1% and continuous infusion using an epidural approach. The evaluated variables included systolic and diastolic blood pressures, mean arterial pressure, pain score, heart rate, satisfaction rate, nausea, vomiting, itching, the progress of delivery, and the level of motor and sensory block. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software (Version 21). P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Two groups were similar in age. There were no significant differences between two groups in terms of mean diastolic blood pressure, incidence of hypotension and C/S rate (P> 0.005). Mean arterial pressure, sedation score and neonatal Apgar scores in the first and fifth minutes in the continuous group were significantly lower than the bolus group. Pain score (VAS) in the bolus group) 2.55±1.04 (was significantly lower than infusion group (5.22±2.50). The length of the first and second stages of labor in the bolus group (42.28 and 34.12) was less than continuous infusion (47.04 and 47.00) (P< 0.005).
Conclusion: In women undergoing epidural analgesia, epidural bolus injection of lidocaine 1% is associated with greater analgesia and satisfaction than continuous infusion.
Comparison of Dexamethasone Composition with Bupivacaine and Dexmedetomidine with Bupivacaine and Bupivacaine alone in a Supraclavicular Block with Low Volume
Authors: Moshari Mohammadreza , Hosseini Behnam , Seyed Alshohadaei Seyed Mohammad , Baghizadeh Fereshteh
Published: February 2021

Background: Regional blocks is a good alternative to general anesthesia in upper extremity surgeries. Supraclavicular is a kind of regional block which can be used to treat nerve block in the upper extremity. The ancillary drugs are nowadays used to enhance the quality and quantity of sensory and motor block. The present study has attempted to investigate the effect of three prescription drugs (composition Dexamethasone with Bupivacaine and Dexmedetomidine with Bupivacaine and Bupivacaine alone) on supraclavicular block.
Methods: This parallel Design study was conducted in 2017 as a clinical trial at Ayatollah Taleghani Hospital in Tehran. For this purpose, 60 patients over the age of 18 and in class I, II of the American Anesthesiology Association (ASA) who were candidates for upper limb elective surgery, were enrolled. Patients included in the study (60 patients) were randomly divided into three equal groups (n= 20). Anesthesia procedure was performed for all patients in three equal groups. However, to evaluate the efficacy of selected drugs, different drugs were injected into each group. After completing the design and recording the results of the variables under study, the ttest was used to compare quantitative variables between the two groups. All statistical tests were performed in two domains (5% significance level) and SPSS 21 software was used for data analysis.
Results: In the levels of intraoperative factors in the comparative conditions of the BB1 with BDexa2 and BB with BDex3 groups. However, Duration of Sensory Block (P=0.004) and Duration of Movement Block (P=0.001) were significantly different in BD and BDex groups.
Conclusion: What can be clearly seen in the results are the significant changes of Duration of Sensory Block and Duration of Movement Block compared to the BDexa and BDex groups. Based on these results, in both cases we find a significant decrease in the measured duration in the BDexa group compared to the opposite group. Use of Bupivacaine + Dexamethasone has a more positive effect on Supraclavicular block compared to Bupivacaine + Dexmedetomidine and Bupivacaine alone.
Laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19: current status and challenges
Authors: J. Mathew1 Bijina , Vyas Ashish Kumar , Khare Prashant , Gupta Sudheer , Nema Ram Kumar , Nema Shashwati , Gupta Sudipti , Chaurasiya Shivendra K. , Biswas Debasis , K. Singh Anirudh
Published: February 2021

The magnitude and pace of global affliction caused by Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) is unprecedented in the recent past. From starting in a busy seafood market in the Chinese city of Wuhan, the virus has spread across the globe in less than a year, infecting over 76 million people and causing death of close to 1.7 million individuals worldwide. As no specific antiviral treatment is currently available, the major strategy in containing the pandemic is focused on early diagnosis and prompt isolation of the infected individuals. Several diagnostic modalities have emerged within a relatively short period, which can be broadly classified into molecular and immunological assays. While the former category is centered around real-time PCR, which is currently considered the gold standard of diagnosis, the latter aims to detect viral antigens or antibodies specific to the viral antigens and is yet to be recommended as a stand-alone diagnostic tool. This review aims to provide an update on the different diagnostic modalities that are currently being used in diagnostic laboratories across the world as well as the upcoming methods and challenges associated with each of them. In a rapidly evolving diagnostic landscape with several testing platforms going through various phases of development and/or regulatory clearance, it is prudent that the clinical community familiarizes itself with the nuances of different testing modalities currently being employed for this condition.
Effect of azithromycin and phenylalanine-arginine beta-naphthylamide on quorum sensing and virulence factors in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Elsheredy Amel , El-Soudany Ingy , Elsherbini Eglal , Metwally Dalia , Ghazal Abeer
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a problematic opportunistic pathogen causing several types of nosocomial infections with a high resistance rate to antibiotics. Production of many virulence factors in P. aeruginosa is regulated by quorum sensing (QS), a cell-to-cell communication mechanism. In this study, we aimed to assess and compare the inhibitory effect of azithromycin (AZM) and EPI- PAβN (efflux pump inhibitor- Phenylalanine-Arginine Beta-Naphthylamide) on QS system and QS-dependent virulence factors in P. aeruginosa clinical isolates.
Materials and Methods: A total of 50 P. aeruginosa isolates were obtained from different types of clinical specimens. Isolates were investigated for detection of QS system molecules by AHL cross-feeding bioassay and QS-dependent virulence factors; this was also confirmed by detection of QS genes (lasR, lasI, rhlR, and rhlI) using PCR assay. The inhibitory effect of sub-MIC AZM and EPI PAβN on these virulence factors was assessed.
Results: All the P. aeruginosa, producing QS signals C4 HSL, failed to produce C4 HSL in the presence of sub-MIC AZM, In the presence of EPI PAβN (20 µg/ml) only 14 isolates were affected, there was a significant reduction in QS-dependent virulence factors production (protease, biofilm, rhamnolipid and pyocyanin) in the presence of either 20 µg/ml EPI or subMIC of AZM with the inhibitory effect of AZM was more observed than PAβN.
Conclusion: Anti-QS agents like AZM and EPI (PAβN) are useful therapeutic options for P. aeruginosa due to its inhibitory effect on QS-dependent virulence factors production without selective pressure on bacteria growth, so resistance to these agents is less likely to develop.
Insight into population structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in the multiethnic province of Alborz, Iran
Authors: Sadat Farnad Morassa , Momtaz Hassan , Mosavari Nader , Khosravi Yahya , Tadayon Keyvan
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Genetic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates from tuberculosis patients in the multiethnic province of Alborz, Iran was assessed.
Materials and Methods: A total of 17 isolates in the period of 2012-2013 were collected and subjected to a Multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) consisted of 6 variable numbers of tandem repeats (VNTRs) including ETR-A, ETR-B, ETR-C, ElTR-D, ETR-E, ETR-F, 5 Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units including MIRU10, MIRU16, MIRU26, MIRU39, MIRU40, and 1 Queen University of Belfast locus, QUB11.
Results: This classified all isolates into 17 distinct MIRU-VNTR types, a reflection of a highly heterogenic population. Within the 12 used VNTR loci, ten proved highly or moderately discriminant according to the calculated HGDI scores. No cluster of isolates was identified in the study panel, giving a clustering rate of 0%, several events of SVL (N=5) and DVL (N=4) and TVL (N=3) were detected.
Conclusion: The greater heterogeneity observed here by MLVA-VNTR analysis is most likely due to limited background data in the study region rather than a genuine more heterogeneous population compared to other provinces of the country.
Bovine subclinical mastitis-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, selective genotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates in Kurdistan province of Iran
Authors: Khazaie Fereshteh , Ahmadi Elham
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is frequently involved in bovine subclinical mastitis worldwide. Besides, the methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) carrier state of animals is a matter of worrisome. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of MRSA, discriminatory geno-analysis and antibiotic resistance scheme of the strains isolated from bovine subclinical mastitis in Kurdistan province of Iran.
Materials and Methods: A total of 283 samples were collected and analyzed for S. aureus phenotypically and molecularly. SCCmec and coa types, and pvl gene were evaluated using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Finally, the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) patterns of coa types and the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates were assessed.
Results: Among the 95 isolates of S. aureus, 11 (11.57%) strains were recognized as MRSA. Six, one, and four SCCmec types represented for IVa, IVc, and V were determined, respectively, among which an individual IVa and V determinant harboured pvl gene. Restriction digestion products of 490 bp, 680 bp, and 730 bp of coa bands were generated. Tobramycin, mupirocin, fusidic acid, clindamycin, and chloramphenicol were the most effective drugs against the MRSA isolates.
Conclusion: The detrimental involvement of S. aureus in bovine subclinical mastitis is proved herein. Besides, the contribution of MRSA and potential contamination of milk and dairy products with the bacterium may impose a serious public health risk. This demands serious and long-lasting efforts to control the infection. The results may be effective in the implementation of accurate controlling strategies.
Antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of Satureja hortensis essential oil against Escherichia coli and Salmonella isolated from poultry
Authors: Haji Seyedtaghiya Mohammad , Nayeri Fasaei Bahar , Peighambari Seyed Mostafa
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Escherichia coli and some Salmonella serovars cause various disease manifestations in poultry leading to significant economic losses. The widespread and imprudent use of antibacterial agents in poultry flocks have increased resistant to many antibacterial agents which has become a major public health concern. Some medicinal plants may be alternative to antibacterial agents. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of summer savory essential oil against E. coli and Salmonella isolated from poultry.
Materials and Methods: The essential oil was extracted using a Clevenger apparatus and subsequently its compounds were determined using GC-MS. Antibacterial properties of essential oil were determined by disc diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). To evaluate the anti-biofilm properties the Microtiter plate test was used. Herbal essential oil was extracted and its compounds were identified correctly.
Results: The major components of Satureja hortensis essential oil were thymol (41.28%), γ-terpinene (37.63%), p-cymene (12.2%) and α-terpinene (3.52%). The inhibition zone diameter in the disc diffusion test for E. coli and Salmonella were 32 ± 3 and 38 ± 4 mm, respectively, which was confirmed by MIC and MBC values. Regarding anti-biofilm activity, the MIC/2 concentration of S. hortensis significantly inhibited biofilm formation of E. coli. However, inhibition of biofilm formation of Salmonella was shown at concentration of MIC/2 and MIC/4.
Conclusion: Based on our results, S. hortensis essential oil showed the growth inhibition and bactericidal activity against E. coli and Salmonella. Moreover, this study demonstrated anti-biofilm activity of S. hortensis essential against both tested bacteria.
The antibacterial effect of Magnolia mouthwash on the levels of salivary Streptococcus mutans in dental plaque: a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ghorbani Fateme , Haghgoo Roza , Aramjoo Hamed , Rakhshandeh Hassan , Amel Jamehdar Saeid , Zare-Bidaki Majid
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases around the world. Inhibitory effects of Magnolia Grandiflora bark extract has been proved on tooth decay both in vitro and by using free sugar chewing gum. This research aimed to examine the effect of Magnolia Grandiflora bark mouth-wash on the prevalence of Streptococcus mutans in dental plaque.
Materials and Methods: This crossover, placebo-controlled, clinical trial study, was performed on a total of twenty participants (aged 18 to 35 years) in both control and intervention groups and four phases. The prevalence of S. mutans was measured in a certain volume of volunteer’s dental plaque at the beginning of the project (phase 1), after the first prescription (phase 2), following the washout period (phase 3) and finally after the second prescription (phase 4) by culture on bacteriology medium. Plaque index and saliva sampling were carried out in follow-up visits by a dentist. The data were analyzed using T-Test (paired and independent) quantitatively.
Results: There was a significant difference in S. mutans frequency in dental plaque between when the participants used Magnolia mouthwash and when they washed out or used a placebo (p<0.005). Results also showed a significant difference between Magnolia and Placebo groups in the mean count of saliva bacterial colony counts after oral administration in the first and second time (P<0.001 and P<0.004, respectively).
Conclusion: The current trial showed that Magnolia Grandiflora %0.3 mouthwash tends to decrease the number of S. mutans in dental plaque significantly. Therefore, its mass production and release to the oral health community are suggested. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and varying treatment are required to substantiate the findings of this study.
Antibacterial effect of carbon nanotube containing chemical compounds on drug-resistant isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Banihashemi Kamelia , Amirmozafari Nour , Mehregan Iraj , Bakhtiari Ronak , Sobouti Behnam
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Acinetobacter baumannii is recognized as an important pathogen responsible for serious infections causing episodes of hospital infection. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have recently emerged as superior materials against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In this study, a new chemical compound was designed in order to combat A. baumannii infections. Subsequently, the effect of this novel carbon nanotube coated with an antibacterial compound on Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR), Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Pan-Drug-Resistance (PDR) strains of A. baumannii was investigated.
Materials and Methods: A total of 122 clinical isolates of A. baumannii were cultured from burn patients and their susceptibility to antibiotics were checked using disk diffusion method and Minimum inhibitory concentration. Antimicrobial effects of the coated carbon nanotube were evaluated on XDR, MDR and PDR isolates of A. baumannii. Cell viability was determined using tetrazolium reduction assay (MTT) on human fibroblast cell line (HDFa). Wound healing processes were assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.
Results: Of the 50 A. baumannii isolates, 38 (76%) were found to be MDR and 12 (24%) were XDR. No PDR strains were detected. Results indicated that the carbon nanotube combined with mercury had antibacterial effect against different A. baumannii species and it also was able to increase the expression of epidermal growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor A mRNA levels which are involved in wound healing.
Conclusion: The engineered carbon nanotube compound can potentially be used for treatment of burn related infections. This can potentially give clinicians a new tool for treating A. baumannii infections.
Subcutaneous progesterone versus vaginal progesterone for luteal-phase support in frozen-thawed embryo transfer: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Aflatoonian Abbas , Mohammadi Banafsheh
Published: February 2021

Background: Luteal-phase support is a complex and controversial issue in the field of reproductive management.
Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of low-dose subcutaneous progesterone with the vaginal progesterone for luteal-phase support in patients undergoing rozenthawed embryo transfer.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, information related to 77 women that had frozen-thawed embryo transfer was reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups based on the route of progesterone administration used as a luteal-phase support. When the endometrial thickness reached ≥ 8 mm, in one group progesterone (Prolutex) 25 mg/ daily subcutaneous and in another group, vaginal progesterone (Cyclogest®) 400 mg twice or (Endometrin®) 100 mg thrice daily, were administrated and continued until menstruation or in case of clinical pregnancy for 8 wk after the embryo transfer when the fetal heart activity was detected by ultrasonography.
Results: The patient’s characteristics were matched and there was no significant difference. The chemical and clinical pregnancy rate was higher in the vaginal progesterone group compared to the prolutex group, but statistically unnoticeable, (40% vs. 29.6%, p = 0.367) and (28% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.581), respectively. C
Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that the new subcutaneous progesterone can be a good alternative for intramuscular progesterone in women that dislike and do not accept vaginal formulations as luteal-phase support in assisted reproductive technology.
Key words: Progesterone, Subcutaneous, Vaginal, Pregnancy.
Association between a marker of sperm DNA damage and sperm indices in infertile males in Benin City, Nigeria: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yusuf Ilyas , Abiodun Emokpae Mathias
Published: February 2021

Background: Studies have shown oxidative DNA damage is associated with male infertility.
Objective: This study determines the levels of 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and some markers of oxidative stress in seminal fluid of males investigated for infertility and men of proven fertility in Benin City, Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: Semen samples produced by self or assisted masturbation were analyzed by microscopic technique according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Thereafter, samples were centrifuged and seminal fluid plasma separated and stored at -20°C prior to assay for 8-OHdG and oxidative stress biomarkers. Based on the sperm concentration/count, the overall samples were grouped into the following categories: normospermia (n = 20), oligozoospermia (n = 30), and azoospermia (n = 20). The control group comprised of 30 age-matched males of proven fertility. The seminal fluid 8-OHdG, total antioxidant status, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assayed through ELISA and spectrophotometric methods, respectively.
Results: Seminal plasma level of 8-OHdG and MDA were significantly higher (p = 0.01) in infertile subjects than controls. The mean levels of 8-OHdG and MDA in infertile subjects were higher in azoospermia than oligospermia than normospermia and so, was least in the normospermia. Conversely, the mean levels of total antioxidant status and superoxide dismutase were significantly lower (p = 0.01) in infertile than fertile the control male subjects with levels higher in normospermia than oligospermia and least in azoospermia. Moreover, the seminal 8-OHdG correlated negatively with sperm count (r = -0.359, p = 0.01), percent motility (r = -0.388, p = 0.04), and percent morphology (r = -0.327, p = 0.02).
Conclusion: The assessment of sperm DNA damage in addition to routine seminal fluid analysis may play an important role in specific diagnosis and management of male infertility.
Key words: Male, Semen, Antioxidants, Sperm count, DNA damage.
Y chromosome microdeletion and cytogenetic findings in male infertility: A cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Arumugam Meenakshi , Prashanth Shetty Deyyanthody , Shanker Kadandale Jayarama , Nalilu Kumari Suchetha
Published: February 2021

Background: Infertility affects about 15% of couples worldwide, and the male factor alone is responsible for approximately 50% of the cases. Genetic factors have been found to play important roles in the etiology of azoospermia and severe oligospermia conditions that affect 30% of individuals seeking treatment at infertility clinics.
Objective: To determine the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities and Y chromosome microdeletion in infertile men.
Materials and Methods: A total of 100 infertile men with abnormal semen parameters were included in this study from 2014 to 2018. Chromosomal analysis was carried out using standard G-banding using Trypsin Giemsa protocol. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the Y microdeletion frequency.
Results: All participants were aged between 22 and 48 yr with a mean and standard deviation of 35.5 ± 5.1. Of the 100 subjects included in the study, three had Klinefelter syndrome-47,XXY, one had balanced carrier translocation- 46,XY,t(2;7)(q21;p12), one with the balanced carrier translocation with inversion of Y chromosome 45,XY,der(13;14)(q10;q10),inv(Y), one had polymorphic variant of chromosome 15, one had Yqh-, and another had an inversion of chromosome 9. Y chromosome microdeletion of Azoospermia factor c region was observed in 2% of the cases. To the best of our knowledge, the current study is the first reported case with unique, balanced carrier translocation of chromosome 2q21 and 7p21.
Conclusion: The present study emphasizes the importance of routine cytogenetic screening and Y microdeletion assessment for infertile men, which can provide specific and better treatment options before undergoing assisted reproductive technology during genetic counseling.
Key words: Chromosome aberrations, Infertility, Chromosome deletion, Polymerase chain reaction, Sequence tagged sites.
Effects of monosodium glutamate on testicular structural and functional alterations induced by quinine therapy in rat: An experimental study
Authors: Kianifard Davoud , Maysam Mousavi Shoar Seyyed , Fallah Karkan Morteza , Aly Ahmed
Published: February 2021

Background: Quinine (QU) as an anti-malarial drug induces alterations in testicular tissue. Toxic effects of monosodium glutamate (MSG) on the male reproductive system have been recognized.
Objective: To investigate the impact of MSG administration on the intensity of gonadotoxicity of QU.
Materials and Methods: Sixty eight-wk old Wistar rats weighing 180-200 gr were divided into six groups (n = 10/each): the first group as a control; the second and third groups received low and high doses of MSG (2 & 4 gr/kg i.p.), respectively, for 28 days; the fourth group received QU for seven days (25 mg/kg); and in the fifth and sixth groups, QU was gavaged following the MSG administration (MSG + QU) from day 22 to day 28. Serum testosterone and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Testes samples were prepared for tissue MDA levels, histomorphometry, and immunohistochemistry of p53. Sperm analysis was performed on cauda epididymis.
Results: Serum and tissue MDA levels were increased in treated groups compared to the control group. This increment was higher in the MSG + QU groups. The testosterone levels were reduced significantly (p < 0.0001) in all treated groups. In addition, histomorphometric indices and tubular epithelium population were reduced significantly (p < 0.0001) in QU, MSG + QU, and consequently in high-dose MSG, QU, MSG + QU groups. All spermatogenic indices were reduced in the treated groups, particularly in the MSG + QU groups. Sperm motility and viability indices were reduced significantly (p = 0.003) in the MSG + QU groups. Finally, the overexpression of p53 was observed in the MSG + QU groups.
Conclusion: The administration of MSG before and during QU therapy may intensify testicular tissue alterations.
Key words: Male reproductive system, Monosodium glutamate, Quinine hydrochloride, Rat.