Journal of Advanced Biotechnology and Experimental Therapeutics

456-472

Authors: Asmaa Abdel-Motleb, Mohamed Abdel-Aziz, Mosad Ghareeb, Maha El-Shazly

Fungal extracts are considered a promising source of bioactive compounds that represent the basic core of the drug industry. This study aimed at exploring the antimicrobial, antioxidant and larvicidal activities of three ethyl acetate extracts of three fungal isolates Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicilluim griseofulvum. These fungi were isolated from sediment samples collected in water courses of three Egyptian governorates; Giza, Qalubeya and Gharbeya, during a year from January to December 2019, molecularly identified using 18Sr RNA technique and were grown on rice medium for 14 days and extracted with ethyl acetate. GC-MS examination of the extracts led to identification of 15, 29 and 24 compounds, respectively. Hexadecanoic acid was detected as a main component in the investigated extracts. Moreover, in Folin-Ciocalteu’s assay, the tested fungal extracts showed noticeable total phenolic contents (TPCs) values of 115.84, 88.24 and 73.22, respectively for Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium griseofulvum and Fusarium oxysporum. Additionally, Aspergillus fumigatus extract exhibited strong total antioxidant capacity (TAC) value of 409.46 mg AAE/g dry extract, followed by Penicillium griseofulvum and Fusarium oxysporum extracts with TAC values of 299.28 and 281.31 mg AAE/g dry extract, respectively. All extracts exhibited antimicrobial activities against Staphylococcus aureus (G+ve bacterium), Escherichia coli (G-ve bacterium), Candida albicans (yeast) and Aspergillus niger (Fungus). Also, the extracts showed high larvicidal activity against miracidia and cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni. In conclusion, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicilluim griseofulvum are excellent sources of bioactive compounds which have multiple biological effects.

487-496

Authors: Shumona Akter, Gobindo Kumar Paul, Shafi Mahmud, Md. Shamim Hossain, Md. abu Abu Saleh, Shahriar Zaman, Md. Salah Uddin

At a concentration of 4 g/L, an enteric polymer is utilized to target drug release in the small intestine and causes considerable toxicity in cells. Our ecology and ecosystem are also harmed by their non-biodegradable qualities. We isolated and identified polymer-degrading bacteria from industrial effluent in this work. The isolated strain’s morphological, biochemical, and antibiotic sensitivities were also examined. The isolated strain was found to be gram-negative, round-shaped, and non-motile in morphological tests, while biochemical tests revealed it to be negative in starch agar and TSI but positive in methyl red, mannitol salt, simmon citrate, urea agar, and catalase test. The isolated strain was highly resistant to ciprofloxacin and vancomycin. The isolated bacterium was identified as Acinetobacter sp. by 16S rRNA sequencing. Additionally, Acinetobacter sp. strains of Escherichia coli and Brevibacillus sp. were used separately to observe the degradation of five synthesized non-biodegradable polymers (maleic acid propane-1,2 diol glycerol co-polyester, maleic acid phthalic acid propane-1,2 diol glycerol co-polyester, maleic acid phthalic acid butan-1,4 diol glycerol co-polyester, phthalic acid succinic acid propane-1,2 diol glycerol co-polyester, and phthalic acid succinic acid buten-1,4 diol glycerol co-polyester. The capacity of all three strains to degrade the above-mentioned polymers was greater than 75%. E. coli, for example, had a rapid disintegration rate but was responsible for human gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections. As a result, our isolated Acinetobacter sp. can be employed to degrade synthetic polymers.

510-522

Authors: Shahnaz Siddiqua, Biswajit Sikder, Anayet Ullah, Farzana Akhter Sumi, Nasrin Akhter, Md Nurul Islam, Md Ashraful Alam

Angiotensin-II is considered as a peptide responsible for the vascular dysfunction and complications in various tissues including liver through inducing free radicle mediated oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ramipril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor), on oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in the liver of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. In this investigation, rats were divided into four groups (six rats in each group): control, control +ramipril, alloxan, and alloxan+ ramipril. A single dose (90 mg/kg) of alloxan was given intra-peritoneally to induce type two diabetes. After the induction of diabetes, ramipril (10 mg/kg) was administered to each animal for 21 days. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed. All animals were sacrificed at the end of the study. Blood and liver tissues were collected from each animal and stored for further biochemical studies. Liver marker enzymes and oxidative stress parameters were also assayed followed by histological examination in the liver. Alloxan administration in rats showed oral glucose intolerance and increased fasting blood glucose levels. Ramipril (10 mg/kg) treatment in alloxan administered rats improved the OGTT and lowered fasting blood glucose level. This study also revealed the elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymes activities in the alloxan administered rats which were attenuated by ramipril treatment. Oxidative stress parameters such as advanced protein oxidative products (APOP), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were also increased in alloxan administered rats which were diminished by the treatment of ramipril. Moreover, alloxan administration increased inflammation and fibrosis in the liver, which was further prevented by ramipril treatment. In conclusion, ramipril alleviated oxidative stress and fibrosis in the liver by suppressing oxidative stress. This investigation suggests that ACE inhibitors may be useful for treating diabetic complications and liver injury in alloxan-administered rats.

537-552

Authors: Rajeswari Gunasekaran, Samuel Jacob

A copious amount of rigid Aloe vera leaf rind (AVLR) has been produced from the aloe gel processing industries are majorly disposed as wastes since it has no commercial value. The cell wall compositional analysis revealed that significant quantity of cellulose (46% ± 0.76, w/w) and hemicellulose (18.5% ± 0.24, w/w) which justifies as potent source for bioethanol production. However, high lignin content (13.95% ± 0.45, w/w) hinders depolymerization of polysaccharides into fermentable sugars and subsequent fermentation for ethanol production. In the present study, microwave-assisted alkali (MAA) pretreatment of AVLR was performed by varying the power level (160 W, 320 W and 480 W) which showed a maximum delignification (66.38%) at 320 W. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) based characterization were performed to study the extent of delignification in AVLR biomass. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed for the liquid hydrolysate obtained after MAA pretreatment at 320 W indicated that the hydrolysate contained more of oxidized phenolic hydrocarbons that can be potentially utilized for other value-added product synthesis. A comparison of saccharification efficiency was performed using two different cellulase producers namely Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus sp. A 2.8-fold increase in sugar yield was achieved by Aspergillus sp., with a maximum saccharification of 68.5% ± 0.34 on comparing with untreated AVLR biomass. This indicates the feasibility of MAA pretreatment for AVLR biomass in order to improve the accessibility of fermentable sugars available for ethanol production.

562-576

Authors: Noor J. Al-Musawi, Suhayr Aesa Al- Qaysi , Suha J. Witwit

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous genetic disorder categorized by hyperandrogenism that affects early reproductive age in females. KISS1 has played role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis. It also plays a key role in human reproductive function. Imbalance-of-function mutations is often found KISS1 gene of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Blood samples were collected from 120 patients (60 control are divided into 30 normal weight and 30 obese) and (60 PCOS) females are divided into 30 normal weight and 30 obese. DNA was extracted and genotyped for KISS1 variants by HRM-PCR and measured the level of kisspeptin by ELIAS, while LH, FSH, DHEA and free testosterone by CLIA. The value of LH, Testosterone, DHEA-S and kisspeptin is elevated in the patient group, while the decline of FSH in serum level patients value, rs372790354 G > A and rs4889 G>A was associated with PCOS in dominant, recessive, co-dominant (P-value< 0.05), rs37279054 AA was not found the effect of obese group and linked with normal weight PCOS put present study no effect on the parameters, rs4889 GG/GA was the effect on all subgroups except the genotype GA not effected on obese female, the highly significant ( P-value<0.05) of rs4889 GA influenced on measured of WHR, LH/FSH ratio and DHEA-S in the patient compared to control, rs4889 GG/AA was influenced on normal-weight patient compare to an obese patient, the WHR was higher in an obese patient in both genotype. While the level of kisspeptin in normal weight with genotype AA was higher level compared to obese and (P-value<0.05). We concluded that the KISS1 levels were higher in PCOS females compared to controls and decreased with increasing BMI, KISS1 polymorphism rs372790354 G>A and rs4889 G>A may be associated with the pathophysiology of PCOS and lead to increased serum level of LH that due to hyperandrogenism.

590-604

Authors: Hayder Talib Mahdi, Rashad Fadhil Ghadhban

Chitosan nanoparticles are important materials that are widely used in many biological, engineering and food industries and are also used as plant growth stimulants as well as use as vectors for drug delivery to target cells. Whereas L-carnitine (LC) is a water-soluble compound that contributes to the transport of long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membranes and the oxidation of β-lipids. 60 male rats (Rattus Rattus) were divided into six equal groups. The first group (control group) received orally distilled water. The second group received 1ml lead acetate orally at a dose of 30 mg/kg of body weight daily for 30 days. Third group received 1ml lead acetate (30mg/kg B.W) + L-carnitine (100mg/ kg B.W. /daily). The fourth group received 1ml lead acetate (30mg/kg B.W.) + Nano L-carnitine (100mg/ kg B.W./ daily). The fifth group received 1ml of L-Carnitine orally at a dose of 100mg/ kg B.W /daily. The sixth group received 1ml of L-Carnitine-NPs orally at 100mg/ kg B.W /daily. Our findings demonstrated that exposure to lead acetate caused a significant increase in liver enzymes aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and renal function (creatinine and urea) in the lead acetate group. Whereas lead treatment increased oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Histopathological study showed significant changes in the brain (cerebellum) that disrupted the normal arrangement of the three layers, with large distances between the Purkinje cell layer and the molecular or granular layer. According to the study, we can conclude that the Nano L-Carnitine had a greater role in protecting against the effect of lead at the hematological parameters and a clear role in the protection against histopathology change of lead poisoning. L-Carnitine and Nano L-Carnitine had an active role in protecting against lead acetate toxicity.

615-622

Authors: Irawati, La Sara, Muliddin, Asriyana

This study aimed to analyze the distribution of phytoplankton abundance and its relationship with water quality in Lasolo Bay waters. The study was conducted during the West season 2020. The sample consisted of 9 stations located near the mouth of the Lasolo River (station A), coastal waters (station B) and the center part of Lasolo Bay (station C). Phytoplankton sampling was using plankton nets with 25 µm mesh size. Identification of phytoplankton used microscope and the abundance calculation by using Sedgwick Rafter Counting Cell. The results showed that there are 23 phytoplankton genera from 5 classes found, namely 12 genera of Bacillariophycea class, 5 genera of Dinophyceae class, 3 genera of Chlorophyceae class, 2 genera of Cyanophyceae class and 1 genera of Coscinodiscophyceae class. By abundance, phytoplankton compositions of the class Bacillariophyceae predominate with a percentage of 57%. The type of phytoplankton that has the highest abundance is Nitzschia sp. of 2,407 cells/l and the lowest abundance of Amphidium sp. of 1,368 cells/l. Phytoplankton abundance at station A is 41,093 cells/l, station B is 14,234 cells/l and station C is 14,735 cells/l. The distribution of phytoplankton abundance is also influenced by physical and chemical factors such as turbidity, TSS, Nitrate, and Phosphate.

634-641

Authors: Hiba Ghanem Hussain, Mohammed Isam Hasan Agha

Melia azedarach is a plant of the Meliaceae family, used worldwide in various medical fields. Because of the widespread incidence of thrombosis worldwide, especially during the coronavirus epidemic, this study was conducted to evaluate the in vitro thrombolytic effect of methanolic extracts of Melia azedarach leaves and fruits. Series of dilutions starting from 2 mg/ml to 20mg/ml were prepared from the methanolic extracts. The results showed that thrombolysis rates were between (18.7%-29.3%) for fruit extract in distilled water, (18.3%-30.1%) in phosphate buffer, (19.3%-35%) for leaves extract in distilled water and (20%-32.3%) in phosphate buffer for dilutions from 2 mg/ml to 20mg/ml. The streptokinase (positive control) had a thrombolytic effect of 47.54 % in distilled water and 44.36 % in phosphate buffer, compared to negative controls of 5.94 % and 6.34 %, respectively. Phytochemical screening found flavonoids and coumarins in leaves extract and only flavonoids in fruit extract, suggesting that the increase in thrombolytic effect may be attributed to these flavonoids and coumarins. The total phenolic content was 15.78 (mg GAE\1g) in leaves extract and 3.64 (mg GAE\1g) in fruit extract, while the total flavonoid content was 0.813 (mg QE\1g) in leaves extract and 0.17 (mg QE\1g) in fruit extract. In conclusion, these results showed that Melia azedarach has a thrombolytic effect.

654-666

Authors: Helen M. Kiti, Cromwell M. Kibiti, Cosmas N. Munga, Josiah O. Odalo, Paul M. Guyo, Samuel M. Mwamburi

The advent of resistant pathogenic bacteria and fungi across the globe is threatening the efficacy of antibiotic drugs. Thus, microbial infections are becoming a threat to life. Endophytic fungi remain a viable source of secondary metabolites with unique spectra of biological activities. This study isolated and characterized endophytic fungi from selected mangrove species of coastal Kenya and further ascertained their activities. A total of 18 fungal endophytes selected from mangrove species were investigated for antimicrobial activity against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Escherichia coli. Potato dextrose agar and potato dextrose broth were used for isolation, purification, and fermentation at 28oC for 7–15 days. Extraction of fungal metabolites was achieved using ethyl acetate (1:1 v/v) and ethyl acetate in 10% methanol (9:1 v/v). Solvents were recovered in a fume hood and extracts were dissolved in 1 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide. Molecular characterization completely identified 9 species, namely: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tubingensis, Aspergillus oryzae, Rhizophora nomius, Aspergillus awamori, Aspergillus aculeatus, Aspergillus bravionivious, and Aspergillus welwitchiae. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ethyl acetate crude extracts of the most active fungal isolate, A. flavus (MT447532.1), was 0.91 ± 0.05 mg/ml and 0.82 ± 0.052 mg/ml against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. Results showed that some crude extracts of mangrove fungal endophytes from coastal Kenya are effective against bacteria, hence a promising source of novel organic natural metabolites with a possible wide range of biological activities.

676-686

Authors: A N M Rezvi Kaysar Bhuiyan, Md. Mubarack Hossain, Md. Naim Uddin, Md. Nurul Haider

Pangasius catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is popular among fish farmers of Bangladesh due to its hardy characteristics, fast growth, and its ability to survive in high densities. Many consumers love to buy this fish, especially as live condition, due to its low market price and delicious fleshy meat. Bacterial outgrowth in transport water is frequent consequence including some enteric groups like Salmonella spp. and E. coli. The study attempted to know the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and E. coli in water used during live transportation of Pangasius catfish in Bangladesh. Water samples were collected from three different Pangasius catfish transportation channels at 2 h interval on-board transportation vehicle. The collected waters were then plated onto SS and EMB agar plates and 15, 20, and 17 suspected isolates were obtained from channel 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The isolates were confirmed through PCR techniques; Salmonella spp. was found only in channel 1 while E. coli were found in all 3 sampling channels under investigation. Among the suspected isolates, 13 isolates were positive for E. coli in channel 1, while 16 in both channel 2 and 3. Among the suspected isolates, 86.54% was E. coli positive, 1.92% was Salmonella positive, and 11.54% isolates were unidentified. The results indicated that the fishes were contaminated with Salmonella spp. and E. coli species either in the culture systems or during handling and live transportation.

702-711

Authors: Tania Afrin, Md. Nazmul Haque, Md. Mohibbullah, Md. Afzal Hossain, Md. Golam Mortuza, A K M Mominul Islam, Raju Dash, Md Jamal Uddin, Il Soo Moon, Md. Abdul Hannan

In Ayurvedic system of medicine, a variety of medicinal herbs are being prescribed for brain disorders, including mental dysfunction, indifference, and memory impairment. Neuropharmacological mechanisms of these herbs are poorly understood. A total of nineteen indigenous medicinal herbs of Bangladesh were investigated for their neuropharmacological potentials, including antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and neurotrophic activities. The antioxidant activity of plant ethanolic extracts was determined based on their DPPH free radical scavenging capacity. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity was determined by the colorimetric assay based on Ellman’s method. The neurotrophic activity of plant extracts was measured based on their capacity to promote neurite outgrowth in a primary culture of hippocampal neurons. Of the herbs, Camellia sinensis, Terminalia chebula, Cinnamomum tamala, Terminalia bellirica, Phyllanthus emblica, and Curcuma longa exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity with IC50 values of <100 µg/mL. The highest anticholinesterase activity was shown by C. longa (IC50 9.37 µg/mL) followed by C. sinensis (IC50 86.01 µg/mL) and C. tamala (IC50 86.37 µg/mL). Notably, C. tamala showed the highest neurotrophic activity (an increase in the length of primary neurites by 82% compared to control), whereas C. sinensis and C. longa showed moderate activities. The neurotrophic activity of C. tamala was reported for the first time. The present findings indicate that these indigenous herbs, particularly C. tamala, C. sinensis, and C. longa possess a remarkable neuropharmacological potential and suggest that these neuroactive herbs could be used in disease-modifying therapies for brain disorders.

721-726

Authors: Abnoos Mokhtari, Roza Hasanizadeh

Gestational diabetes mellitus is a key pregnancy problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to compare the level of globulin binding hormone sex (SHBG) between diabetic pregnant women and healthy pregnant women in Kerman. This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on diabetic pregnant women where diabetes was confirmed by a 2 h blood glucose tolerance test using 50 g and 100 g glucose. After completion of demographic information and midwifery records blood samples were collected from the patients and the blood glucose levels were measured. Also, SHBG was measured and finally all collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. The serum levels of SHBG were significantly lower in diabetic pregnant women as compared to the control group. However, this level reduction of SHBG in diabetic pregnant women was not significantly associated with other underlying factors and midwifery factors. Therefore, it is suggested that the serum SHBG levels can be used as an early factor in diagnosing the gestational diabetes.

269-282

Authors: Sashini Umasha Kuruppuarachchi, Varuni Karunika Gunathilake

The present study investigates the zoo-chemical profiling, anti-inflammatory, and radical scavenging activities of Luffariella herdmani marine sponge extract. The sponge crude extract (SCE) was prepared by methanol/dichloromethane extraction, followed by rotary evaporation. The percentage yield was calculated, and the zoo-chemicals were investigated by standard methods, while anti-inflammatory activity was tested by protein denaturation assay. Radical scavenging activity of the SCE was tested against 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) and peroxide radicals, while in vivo toxicity was evaluated by the Artemia salina lethality assay. The results indicated the presence of terpenoids, alkaloids, anthraquinones, unsaturated sterols, sterols, and saponins in the SCE while flavanoids, quinones, tannins, and phenols were absent. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity against protein denaturation with IC50 of 58.54 µg/ml was evidenced while radical scavenging activity was not reported. The SCE was toxic to A. salina larvae with LC50 of 14.34 µg/ml. In conclusion, L. herdmani sponge extract possesses in vitro anti-inflammatory, in vivo toxic properties, yet radical scavenging activity was absent. The presence of terpenoids, alkaloids, anthraquinones, unsaturated sterols, sterols, and saponins with reported anti-inflammatory properties is suggestive of the use of L. herdmani sponge extract as an anti-inflammatory drug lead.

292-306

Authors: Mrunali Patel, Priti Patel

Pigments are a type of coloring component which are utilized by humans to enhance colors in their lives. Using synthetic pigments for the purpose of coloring food, clothes, fruit juices, paints are accepted worldwide previously, but due to hazardous impact of synthetic colors on environment, and on human health made to go for alternative sources of the pigments which are safe to use. Isolation of natural pigment is another preference that will increase the supply of pigment from natural sources while minimizing environmental and health risks. Thus, there is a growing necessity for biocolor derived from natural sources that can substitute synthetic colors. Natural colorants are commonly found from plants, animals, and microorganisms. Plant pigments have several benefits, so it seems much of prominence for pigment production. Bixa orellana and Beta vulgaris were isolated for yellow, orange, and red color pigments from natural ecological source. Pigment extraction from plants requires extract preparation and then isolation of pigments using different solvents. Extracted pigments were analyzed by preliminary screening techniques such as phytochemical assay and various confirmation tests. We found positive results for flavonoid, tannin, carbohydrate, protein, saponin and alkaloid using phytochemical assays. HPTLC fingerprinting was done for each extract and found positive result for alkaloid and phenolic compounds. Thus, it was aimed to develop the extraction analytical methods for determination of Bixa Orellana and Beta Vulgaris spp. by HPTLC fingerprint approach.

320-333

Authors: Salauddin Al Azad, Sharmin Ahmed, Partha Biswas, Md. Abdur Rashid Mia, Mithila Farjana, Farzana Alam Arshe, Sabrina Jahan Mily, Ananya Baidya Ankhi, Mahdi Mubin Shaikat, Sabeeha Sultana, Kashfia Mawa, Zannatul Naim, Md. Ataur Rahman, Bonglee Kim

Anemia and thyroid disorders are global health issues that affect all ages but are more apparent in women. In this case, some serological components responsible for iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) downregulation in women have been found actively regulated through a complex vitamin D3 mediated mechanism. This research has been investigated the correlation between activated vitamin D3 and the serological components responsible for IDA and dysregulation of TSH in childbearing and non-child-bearing women of different health conditions. Experimental sampling from 482 women suffering from both IDA and TSH dysregulation was taken, aged between 0 and 70 years. Serological parameters, such as iron, total ironbinding capacity, and ferritin, were assessed for IDA profiling, whereas thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxin were for TSH profiling based on the individual’s serum vitamin D3 concentration. The resulting serological data were interpreted using sophisticated computer programming language and algorithms for quantitative biochemical analysis. The study resulted in a significant correlation between FT4 and vitamin D3 (p < 0.0001) for all age groups. TSH also showed strong interactions with the fluctuation of vitamin D3 levels (p < 0.0001), except for the children aged below 10 years (p < 0.063). The iron, TIBC, TSH, and FT4 showed phenomenal regulation with the steroidal-vitamin D3 concentration for congenital patients. Unlike the others, ferritin has a substantial connection with activated Vitamin D3 (p < 0.0064) fluctuation in the serum. To ratify, the concentrations of TSH, FT4, iron, TIBC, and ferritin were found to be significantly interconnected in terms of serum vitamin D3 concentration in women suffering from IDA and TSH downregulation simultaneously. In addition, the BMI condition of the patients can be a major factor in terms of correlating vitamin D3 with the regulatory factors of IDA and thyroid TSH as resulted in this research. To understand the accuracy and efficacy of the serum vitamin D3 in IDA and TSH downregulation, some other inflammatory markers and parathyroid hormone analysis of many samples can be conducted in continuation of this study.

347-357

Authors: Yasir Haider Al-Mawlah, Mohammed Zuhair Naji, Mustafa Jawad Al-Imari, Hadi Sajid Abdulabbas

Body fluids are frequently recovered by forensic investigators from crime scenes, and their identification is an important aspect of forensic case analysis. Determining the type and origin of human fluids recovered at a crime scene will give essential information for crime scene reconstruction by establishing a link between sample donors and actual criminal activity. The expression levels of microRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR-10b, miR135b, miR-16, miR-126, miR-124-3p, and miR-372 in seminal fluids, blood, vaginal fluid stains, and their mixture, were measured using a quantitative real-time PCR technique. Using SNORD-47 as a reference gene, the target genes' identification and stability were assessed. miR-10b and miR-135b were expressed at higher levels in seminal fluids stains than in vaginal secretion stains; miR-124-3p and miR-372 were expressed at higher levels in vaginal stains than in seminal fluids stains; miR-16 and miR-126 were expressed at a higher level in bloodstains than in both seminal fluids and vaginal stains, and six miRNAs were expressed in seminal fluids/vaginal/blood mix stains. In conclusion, the results indicate that the expression levels of miR-10b and miR-135b (seminal fluids), miR124-3p and miR-372 (vaginal secretion), and miR-16 and miR-126 (blood) were higher in these samples compared to the housekeeping gene SNORD-47.

381-393

Authors: Duaa Hassan, FrialAbd, Lubna Albayati

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is one of the most promising nanoparticles due to its mono-metallic oxide group, High melting point, no toxicity issues, high hardness, and high purity. For those reasons, these materials were used in many fields including medicine, agriculture, electronics, energy, and environmental protection. Leuconostoc spp. was used as a facility to biosynthesize MgO nanoparticles, then optimized pH and Mg (NO3)2.6H2O concentration for its antibacterial activity and cellular immunity reactions including skin sensitivity through studying Interleukin 1-Beta (IL-1β), Interleukin 17 (IL-17) and Interleukin 2 (IL-2) responding. The study shows that the optimum pH for Magnesium Oxide (MgO) biosynthesis was 12, optimum Mg (NO3)2.6H2O concentration was 0.1 M, while antibacterial activity shows a high effect on Gram-negative bacteria with 125 µg/ml as minimum inhibiting concentration (MIC) and 500 µg/ml as minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), the immunity study appeared that the MgO nanoparticles (MgONPs) altered the immunity response in skin test duration and diameter of MgONPs as 1.31±0.55, 9.33±1.15, 11.33±1.75 and 8.33±0.75 mm after 4,24,84 and 72 hours, respectively. IL-1β, IL-17 and IL-2 show significant differences compared to the control group at P-value ≤ 0.05 as 82.305±13.38, 101.444±16.943 and 49.781±5.264, respectively. MgONPs can be used as an alternative treatment for multidrug resistance MDR bacteria due to their high effectiveness against bacterial growth, MgONPs induced the cellular immunity response in rabbit tissues as delivery of immunogen.

408-416

Authors: Linh Dieu Vuong , Ha Hoang Chu, Quang Ngoc Nguyen

The MAPK-ERK, as well as PI3K-AKT signaling transduction pathway, represents a pivotal function in tumorigenesis. Genetic alterations of potential tumor-driven genes, for instance, KRAS, BRAF, NRAS, and PIK3CA can result in uncontrolled cell proliferation and progression. The main aims of the study were not only to identify the prevalence of KRAS, BRAF, NRAS, PIK3CA molecular modifications but also to evaluate the relationship between gene changes and clinical and/or pathological characteristics of 251 Vietnamese colorectal cancer. Genetic abnormalities on KRAS, BRAF, NRAS, and PIK3CA were detected through the utility of Realtime PCR, Pyrosequencing, and Direct sequencing methods, respectively. The frequency of KRAS, BRAF, NRAS, and PIK3CA mutations were 34.3%, 6.4%, 7.2%, and 17.5%, in turn. KRAS mutation was mutually exclusive against that of NRAS and BRAF mutations in CRC. BRAF, as well as RAS/RAF mutations, were more usual in older age. A significant association between PIK3CA mutations and age together with differentiation of CRC was determined. In addition, PIK3CA mutation tended to coexist with KRAS but not with NRAS and BRAF mutation. Our results indicate the information of molecular markers that contribute to selfsufficient oncogenic mechanisms in the carcinogenesis of CRC.

433-444

Authors: Nilufa Yasmin Poly, Sabrina Mamtaz, Mohammad Mehedi Hasan Khan, Md. Najmol Hoque, Abul Kalam Azad, Mahmudul Hasan

The microbiological use of cellulose is a significant aspect in achieving the highest possible material flow in the environment. This study aimed at isolation, identification, and biochemical characterization of bacteria with cellulase activity from cellulose samples. Cellulase enzyme has wide applications in various industries including food industry, agriculture, textile, detergent, pulp and paper, biofuel production, brewing and biorefinery. In the present study, cellulolytic bacterium Pseudomonas sp. was isolated from rumen fluid of cattle was collected from slaughter house. This bacterial isolate was identified by morphological, biochemical, and physiochemical characteristics. Cellulase production by the bacteria was optimized. Optimum cellulase was produced by Pseudomonas sp. which was observed under different pH, temperature, and incubation period. The highest production of cellulase enzyme by this bacterium was monitored at pH 7.0 for 48 hours under 3 days of cultivation at 40°C. The enzyme activity was observed at pH 7.0 with cellulosic filter paper for 5 days incubation and its maximum activity was noted at 48 hours. The result of study shows that the Pseudomonas sp. is a good producer of extra cellular cellulase enzyme which can be also beneficial for the degradation of cellulosic pollutants of environment.

115-125.

Authors: Md. Mirajul Islam, Md. Fahim Israk, Md. Shoykot Jahan

Many countries have been seen two wave patterns of reported cases of coronavirus diseases. Still, a limited number of studies compared the epidemiological attributes of the first wave and second wave of coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. This study was carried out to compare the epidemics of two waves in Bangladesh. This observational study data of suspected cases was collected from June 2020 to April 2021 from a local authorized diagnostic center. From June 27, 2020, to July 27, 2020, was considered as the first wave and from March 20, 2021, to April 20, 2021, was considered a second wave. This period was determined because of observing the highest number of positive cases during that period. Out of 21,359 cases, including 2429 (11.37%) individuals in the first wave and 4989 (23.36%) individuals in the second wave had RT-PCR test for disease confirmation. Among them, 315 people in the first wave and 630 in the second wave were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Male were more vernalized to the positive case, including 204 (64.8%) and 421 (66.8%) during the first and second waves, respectively. People under 41 found 56.2% positive cases during the first wave while it was 65.6% in the second wave. We also found 128 positive cases among international travelers. In conclusion, a large extent of different epidemiological attributes was found in the second wave compared to the first wave of the outbreaks.

136-147

Authors: Utari Satiman, Max Tulung, Jantje Pelealu, Christina Salaki, Beivy Jonathan Kolondam, Trina Ekawati Tallei, Talha Bin Emran, Arthur Pinaria

Spodoptera exigua (Hübner, 1808) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a significant agricultural crop pest in Indonesia, causing significant economic losses in recent years. This species’ ability to survive on a wide variety of host plants provides an adaptive advantage for survival in the environment, which is facilitated by its high mobility, fecundity, and capability to acquire resistance to a broad spectrum of chemical pesticides. It is well-established that knowledge of diversity and evolutionary origins facilitate the development of pest management strategies. In the present study, we report the morphology, diversity and phylogeny analysis of S. exigua from North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The specimen from Rurukan have a body size and other segments that are longer than in Langowan and Modoinding. Dendrogram analysis shows that the similarity distance based on morphology ranges from 1-25%, which forms four clusters, where the specimen from Rurukan is separated from the rest of the specimens. The phylogeny of S. exigua from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, based on CO1 (Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) gene fragment, which is juxtaposed with CO1 data of the allied species from many geographical locations. A total of twenty-five isolates representing Indonesia, Japan, Germany, Thailand, India, UK, USA, Spain and Australia were compared. Nineteen sequences of S. exigua retrieved from GenBank were selected as references based on previous published phylogenic trees. The twenty-four isolates were scattered in two distinct clades indicating S. exigua is polyphyletic, but S. exigua from North Sulawesi, Indonesia is monophyletic.

163-175

Authors: Goutam Ghosh, Rabi Prasad Bodroth, Basabjit Dutta

Production of therapeutic proteins like Biosimilars uses a complex cell based fermentation and purification process. There are chances of errors in these complex production processes due to complexities in the molecular pathway that every protein follows. Therefore to produce a desired therapeutic protein that elicit the correct immunological response in the patient, one need to ensure that it must have correct sequence, size, structure so that they are recognized by the specific receptors. The quality of these therapeutic proteins is characterized through standard assays and methods such as SDS PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis), IEF (Isoelectric focusing), Western Blot and other methods those are based on HPLC, Mass spectrometry and capillary electrophoresis to conform the desired molecular size, purity and identity of proteins. Thus in the process of validation of a method, equipment plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and safety of a biopharmaceutical product. It is always necessary to generate scientific data and information such as IQ (Installation qualification), OQ (Operational qualification) and PQ (Performance qualification) protocol and reports for each instrument employed in the process at the beginning and before the actual testing of the desired product. It is only after the completion of these activities, the product under different manufacturing steps can be characterized. Involvement of a software in conjunction to an equipment is also common and it is important that the software is in use with the equipment also meets the requirements of the CFR 21 FDA (Code of Federal Regulations, 21 Part 11 of US Food and Drug Administration), which is a legal requirement in a modern manufacturing process and hence it is important to comply with these rules as set of guidelines that will help to ensure the integrity and safety of data.

189-197

Authors: Trina Ekawati Tallei, Siti Marfuah, Abdul Hawil Abas, Andi Amelia Dwi Putri Abram, Nelsyani Pasappa, Putri Sri Anggini, Agus Supandi Soegoto, Fatima Wali, Talha Bin Emran

In recent years, the general public’s perception of modern diets and human health has shifted dramatically. Changes in lifestyle make people prefer fast food that is poor in nutrients, especially dietary fiber. Lack of dietary fiber is one of the contributions to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as hypercholesterolemia and cancer, among the public. For this reason, efforts to introduce fiber-rich functional foods need to be encouraged. Nata, which is a high-fiber food made from organic plant sources, can be used as an alternative source of fiber for the community. It is hoped that this article will provide some insight into alternative sources of dietary fiber that can be produced by members of the community on their own.

218-228

Authors: Md. Chayan Ali, Anjumana Jannati Nur, Rizone Al Hasib, Rubaeit All Rakib, Mst. Shanzeda Khatun, Md Mafizur Rahman, Md. Shahedur Rahman, Md. Khasrul Alam, Md. Abdullah Al Mashud, Mohammad Abu Hena Mostofa Jamal

SARS-CoV-2, a new and fast circulating coronavirus strain, infected over 214 countries and territories worldwide and caused global health emergencies. The absence of appropriate medicines and vaccinations has further complicated the condition. SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) is crucial for its propagation, and it is considered a striking target. This study used several computational approaches to determine the probable antagonist of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro from bioactive phytochemicals of Syzygium aromaticum. A total of 20 compounds were screened through in silico approach. The molecular dynamics simulation studies were then carried out for further insights. We found crategolic acid, oleanolic acid, and kaempferol have considerable binding affinity and important molecular contacts with catalytic pocket residues, His41-Cys145. The pharmacological properties through ADMET analysis also showed that these compounds could be used as safe drug candidates. The molecular dynamics simulation study further confirmed these compound’s stability with Mpro. However, further detailed in-vitro and in-vivo analyses are compulsory to evaluate the real potentiality of identified compounds.

241-246

Authors: Dinh-Toi chu, Nhat Le Bui, Yen-Vy Nguyen Thi, Suong-Mai Vu Ngoc

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread rapidly and caused significant damage to global public health as well as the economy. While the race of vaccine development witnessed a spectacular breakthrough with the introduction of highly effective vaccines such as BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, or AZD1222, no specific drug for COVID-19 treatment has been discovered yet. Recently, repurposing drugs classified into three main groups of mechanisms, including antivirus, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, and immunomodulators, are investigated. As a result, Remdesivir and six other drugs are authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat patients infected by the SARS-CoV-2. This work aims to highlight that, besides vaccines, COVID-19 drugs should get more attention and be considered as one of the most promising strategies to safely coexist with the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the new normal status and for the mutations of the virus, such as the omicron variant.