Journal of Advanced Biotechnology and Experimental Therapeutics

541-551

Authors: Afrina Mustari , Mahabub Alam , Mohammad Alam Miah , Khaled Mahmud Sujan , A.G.M.Sofi Uddin Mahamud , Emdadul Haque Chowdhury

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a potentially hazardous substance and is extensively used in manufacturing industries as a plasticizing agent. The current research intended to determine the revival actions of zinc (Zn) and folic acid (FA) on hematological parameters and hepatorenal function in BPA-exposed male albino mice. A total of 75 adult male mice, aged 25 to 28 days, were split into 5 groups. Group A (control group) received a normal diet, while a daily dosage of 50 mg BPA/kg body weight (BW) in the diet was provided to groups B–E. Groups C, D, and E received daily supplementation of 10 mg Zn/kg BW, 3 mg FA/kg BW, or both in the feed. After 12 weeks of treatment, serum was prepared by collecting blood, and the kidney and liver were taken for a histotexture study. The results demonstrated that hematological values dropped significantly (p< 0.05) in the BPA-treated group and increased following Zn and FA supplementations, while no significant alterations in erythrocyte indices were observed among control and treated groups. The BPA group used to have significantly (p< 0.05) higher liver and kidney biomarkers levels, which were restored by Zn and FA. The effects of BPA administration included severe hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis, as well as renal tubule epithelium loss, all of which were improved by Zn and FA. Hence, the findings suggest that combination of Zn and FA could be potential preventative agents against BPA-induced toxicity.

564-574

Authors: Sayedatun Nesa Sumaia , Riyan Al Islam Reshad , Fawzia Tabassum , Sabrina Khan Mim , Mohammad Golam Rob Mahmud , Chowdhury Muhammad Omar Faruque , Gokul Chandra Biswas , Md. Faruque Miah

Newborn screening (NBS) plays a crucial role in identifying and managing congenital disorders, ultimately leading to improved infant health outcomes. This study aims to assess the current practices of newborn screening in Bangladesh, focusing on the perspectives of healthcare professionals, and identifying potential implications for enhancing infant health. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with healthcare professionals involved in newborn care across various healthcare settings. Findings indicate that newborn screening practices in Bangladesh face several challenges, including limited awareness among healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure and resources, and the absence of a comprehensive national screening program. Furthermore, financial constraints, cultural beliefs, and social barriers contribute to the low utilization of screening services by families. The perspectives of healthcare professionals shed light on potential strategies to address these challenges and improve newborn screening practices in Bangladesh. These strategies include enhancing healthcare professionals' knowledge and skills through training programs, increasing public awareness about the importance of newborn screening, strengthening healthcare infrastructure and accessibility, and implementing a comprehensive national screening program. The implications of improving newborn screening practices are significant. Early detection of congenital disorders through NBS enables timely interventions, leading to reduced morbidity, mortality, and long-term disabilities in infants. Enhanced screening practices can also contribute to reducing the burden on healthcare systems by preventing complications associated with undiagnosed conditions and enabling more cost-effective management. This study highlights the need for comprehensive efforts to address the challenges faced in newborn screening practices in Bangladesh. By incorporating the perspectives of healthcare professionals, policymakers can develop targeted interventions to enhance newborn screening programs, thereby improving infant health outcomes and ensuring a healthier future for Bangladesh's newborn population.

584-596

Authors: Tasbir Amin , Fahd Bin Zahed

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is one of the major heterogeneous clinical manifestations of severe respiratory failure developing in response to pathogenetic mechanisms and several inflammatory insults. The translocation of gut microbiota has a crucial impact on the pathogenesis of ARDS. Hence, a deeper understanding of the interplay of the gut microbiota would allow shedding valuable insights into both the pathogenesis of ARDS and the development of effective therapeutic interventions. Moreover, the modulation of gut-lung axis could also play a pivotal role in minimizing the lung dysbiosis with gut microbiota. There is little question that greater study of the gut-lung axis in critically ill patients is required to establish causal links between the shifted microbiota, infections, inflammation, and acute lung damage. It is worth mentioning that the lack of effective preventative measures is one of the main reasons for the increased mortality rate of 30-40% in ARDS patients. Some antibiotics and nanosized drugs showed positive results in ARDS management to some extent in pre-clinical or even first stages of clinical trials but large-scale results had been controversial. However, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) showed hopeful results in ARDS patients by facilitating both systemic and endothelial integrity. Numerous investigations have shown the immunological connection between the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory system. As the SphKs /S1P /S1PL metabolic pathway is associated with a wide variety of human illnesses (including respiratory diseases), it should come as no surprise that influencing intracellular S1P levels would have therapeutic promise in reducing the severity of lung diseases like ARDS.

610-621

Authors: Jaloliddin Abdurakhmanov , Sobirdjan Sasmakov , Shukhrat Khasanov , Oybek Ashirov , Farkhod Eshboev , Khayotjon Dolimov , Saodat Gaynazarova , Tulkin Sadullaev , Oygul Yarilkaganova , Khusan Nasriddinov , Asadali Baymirzaev , Artyom Makhnyov , Shakhnoz Azimov

Purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) is an enzyme involved in biosynthetic pathway of purine nucleosides. Purine nucleoside phosphorylase catalyzes the cleavage of the glycosidic bond of ribo- or deoxyribonucleosides to form the purine base and deoxyribose- or ribose-1-phosphate. The reversible reaction catalyzed by recombinant PNP of E. coli (EcPNP) has been successfully used for the synthesis of nucleoside analogues. The aim of this study was to clone and expression of recombinant PNP in Pichia pastoris. For expression of recombinant EcPNP in Pichia pastoris, a new recombinant plasmid DNA pPICZαA-PNP (4256 bp) containing the deoD gene (720 bp) amplified from E. coli strain RKMUz-221 has been cloned. The substrate specificity of the recombinant EcPNP expressed in yeast cells was studied by hydrolysis of inosine (9-beta-D-ribofuranosylhypoxanthine) to hypoxanthine and 2-deoxy-β-D-ribofuranosyl. The fraction containing the obtained recombinant EcPNP (≈28 kDa, as determined by SDS-PAGE) demonstrates significant hydrolytic activity, resulting in up to a 51% hydrolysis of inosine within a 5 h timeframe. These findings suggest that the recombinant enzyme holds a promise for applications in enzymatic transglycosylation of purine-type nucleosides.

638-647

Authors: Rand Farhad , Eman Saadi Saleh , Ahmed Zuhair Alsammarraie

Excision repair cross-complementing group 2 gene (ERCC2) polymorphisms have been linked as being a risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC) emergence. However, data from several studies are contradictory. To validate genetic biomarkers of the CRC, the impact of the following ERCC2 polymorphism (rs1799793 and rs238406) was examined on CRC susceptibility among sample of Iraqi population. A total of 126 subjects were enrolled in this case control study; 78 CRC patients and 48 apparently healthy individuals who are matched for age, gender, smoking status, and BMI. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for genotyping, followed by sequencing then the association between genetic polymorphisms and CRC risk was investigated. No associations were detected between ERCC2 genotypes or haplotypes and CRC susceptibility. Even though there was strong linkage disequilibrium (D′=0.82). After stratification according to demographics of the participants, no effects were observed for age, gender, smoking status, and body mass index (BMI). Taken together, the results suggest that ERCC2 polymorphisms do not influence CRC development.

659-672

Authors: Tuli Samayeta Sarkar , Shehreen Saadlee , Khan Abira , Akhteruzzaman Sharif , Sajib Abu Ashfaqur

The rise in popularity of non-caloric sweeteners (NCS) among obese and diabetic patients is due to their ability to provide a sweet taste without any caloric input. However, NCS consumption may be linked to metabolic disorders. The mechanisms behind these adverse effects are still unclear, which suggests that NCS may alter the metabolic activity of the gut microbiome, leading to enteric environmental perturbation and resulting in physiological anomalies in the host. This study investigates how Escherichia coli, a common gut microbe, reacts to three NCS, two of which come from nature (glycyrrhizin and stevioside) and one that is made artificially (sucralose). To assess the impact of these NCS, this study investigated the growth, gene expression, and metabolic pathways of E. coli under different sweetener loads. Compared to the untreated control, low amounts of glycyrrhizin made E. coli grow faster, while similar amounts of sucralose and stevioside had no or a less noticeable effect. At higher concentrations, these sweeteners slowed down or inhibited the growth of the bacteria. Thus, NCS may have dose-dependent impacts on gut microbes. After treatment with amounts that corresponded to the acceptable daily intake, the expression of key metabolic genes showed altered expression, which may potentially affect their metabolism. At different concentrations of the NCS, there were clear differences in the global metabolomic profile between the control and the different NCS treatments. Under in vitro conditions, glycyrrhizin and sucralose appeared to have a less divergent impact on E. coli growth, gene expression, and metabolism, which may suggest that these are relatively safer sugar substitutes for humans.

686-700

Authors: Dilruba Afrin , Milad Ahmed , Anik Banik , Md. Nazmul Islam Bappy , Md. Salman Sayem , Md. Masudur Rahman , Shamsunnahar Mukta , Kazi Md. Ali Zinnah , Mohammad Mehedi Hasan Khan , Sudeb Saha

The occurrence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria is concerning the scientific community since it confers multiple drug resistance (MDR). The study investigated the prevalence of MDR-ESBL-producing Salmonella strains from shrimp in, Bangladesh. A total of 165 shrimp samples were processed from 55 shrimp specimens from different retail shops. The presence of Salmonella was confirmed by standard methods followed by antibiotic susceptibility testing. Isolates exhibiting resistance to third-generation cephalosporin were considered as Salmonella positive isolates which was later proven by the double disc synergy test. Out of the total of 39 isolates tested, 18 were found to be Salmonella positive and originated from 7 departmental stores. The remaining 21 positive isolates were obtained from the local market. The body had the highest rate of positive samples (30.91%), followed by the head (23.63%), and the tail (16.36%). Additionally, isolated Salmonella were resistant to rifampicin and cefixime but 100% susceptible to co-trimoxazole, ofloxacin, streptomycin, nalidixic acid, and chloramphenicol, while ciprofloxacin showed intermediate resistance. Among the drugs tested, vancomycin, cephalexin, ampicillin, and colistin exhibited extreme resistance. Finally, while 6 of the tested isolates demonstrated resistance against the recommended cephalosporin, three of them (7.69%) were Salmonella ESBL positive in the double disc synergy test. In conclusion, the rising incidence of MDR and the developing prevalence of ESBL-positive Salmonella may put a burden on the healthcare system by limiting access to effective antibacterial drugs.

711-727

Authors: Rony Ibne Masud , Naeem Ahammed Ibrahim Fahim , Md. Liton Rana , Md. Saiful Islam , Md. Tanvir Rahman

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), also known as antibiotic resistance, is a global health crisis. Many people die from diseases caused by multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens. Artificial intelligence (AI) involves creating computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. AI has been successfully used in various fields, from single-cell study to space science. There is huge potential for using AI in medical science, including fighting against MDR to combat AMR. In this review, we have highlighted some of AI’s successful uses and potentiality to combat AMR for the betterment of the human race, including the basic principles of AI, available AI resources, use and scope, advantages and limitations. In addition, in this review, we also have highlighted new research areas such as AMR detection, new drug development etc. to control of AMR.

316-325

Authors: Nisreen Waleed Mustafa , Ola Abdul Shaheed Naser , Zaid Nabeel Elia , Sanaria Fawzi Jarjes

Progranulin (PGRN), is a multifunctional protein with profound expression in epithelial and immune cells in which plays a crucial role in controlling host-defense signaling pathways during infection and inflammation. The current study was carried out to evaluate the efficiency of PGRN as a predictive inflammatory marker for a group of diseases with different etiologies that cause acute and chronic inflammations. A total of 120 participants with various diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Helicobacter pylori infection, burn wound, hepatitis B, and prostate cancer, and 20 healthy people were enrolled in this study. The levels of serum PGRN and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were detected. Elevated serum PGRN levels have been reported in all patient groups when compared with those in healthy controls (P > 0.05). Likewise, increased serum hsCRP and IL-6 levels were seen in all patient groups. However, for some patient groups, the differences in hsCRP and IL-6 levels did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05) in comparison with control group. Furthermore, serum PGRN levels exhibited positive correlation with hsCRP in H. pylori and RA patient groups. As well as, with IL-6 only in RA patient group, whereas no significant correlations were found with the rest of studied diseases. This study concluded that PGRN is an effective nonspecific inflammatory indicator of acute and chronic inflammations. It had also a higher predictive efficiency than hsCRP and IL-6 which are commonly used as inflammatory predictive markers.

337-349

Authors: Spora Aloyce Mavanza , George Isanda Omwenga , Mathew Piero Ngugi

Bacterial infectious diseases account for thousands of deaths worldwide. Despite their side effects, synthetic antibiotics are currently utilized to treat bacterial infections. There has been an effort to identify alternative medicines of plant origin. Thus, the current study determined in vitro antibacterial activities of Syzygium guineense barks and seeds of Mangifera indica ethanol extracts, as well as their phytochemical profile. The tested bacteria included Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. Plant samples were collected from Morogoro region, Tanzania and transferred to Kenyatta University for preparation and extraction. In vitro antibacterial activities were determined by disk diffusion, MIC, and MBC methods. Selected phytochemicals of ethanol extracts were determined qualitatively. The highest antibacterial effects were observed in M. indica extract against B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli and S. typhi with zones of inhibition of 20.00 mm, 18.00 mm, 17.67 mm, and 15.67 mm, respectively. Antibacterial effects observed in S. guineense extract against B. subtilis, S. aureus, S. typhi and E. coli produced zones of inhibition of 15.00 mm, 14.33 mm, 10.67 mm, and 9.33 mm, respectively. The extracts showed better antibacterial effects against Gram positive bacteria than Gram negative bacteria. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extracts revealed alkaloids, quinones, flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, tannins, and glycosides. This study indicates that the ethanol extracts of the plants could be used to develop alternative remedies for treating bacterial infections. The study also suggests that the plant extracts should be subjected to in vivo studies.

359-374

Authors: Md Tamzid Hossain Tanim , Sabrina Samad Shoily , Tamim Ahsan , Kaniz Fatema , Sarah Umaymah Mahdiyah , Abu Ashfaqur Sajib

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGFA) is a glycoprotein that mediates various biological processes, including angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and cellular migration. Aberrant VEGFA signaling is also one of the hallmarks of many types of cancer and has been implicated in various ophthalmological conditions such as diabetic macular edema and age-related macular degeneration. Consequently, a number of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAb) targeting VEGFA have been developed and are widely used to treat these conditions. Bevacizumab (BVZ) and Ranibizumab (RBZ) are two such antibodies that are commercially available and used to treat various cancers and ophthalmological conditions. Nevertheless, a very high rate of non-responsiveness to these mAb treatments has been reported. Therefore, it is important to predict the response to these therapeutic mAb treatments in patients in a personalized approach. This study was aimed at analyzing the impacts of missense variants in the respective VEGFA epitopes for these two therapeutic anti-VEGFA mAbs (BVZ and RBZ) on their interaction with VEGFA through the use of multiple in silico tools. Three missense variants (VEGFAR82W, VEGFAR82Q, and VEGFAG92R) in VEGFA epitopes appear to significantly destabilize VEGFA-BVZ interaction, while only two variants (VEGFAR82W and VEGFAR82Q) affect the interaction of VEGFA with RBZ. The VEGFAR82W variant may be pathogenic as well. These missense variants may play roles in the observed heterogeneous response to anti-VEGFA mAb treatments in patients and, therefore, may be used as pharmacogenetic markers for the prediction of responses before administration, and thus for the improvement of therapeutic outcomes.

386-402

Authors: Manoj Kumar , Zahoor Abbas , Priyanka Siwach , Jyotsna Sharma , Anita Rani , Shashi Sharma , Pallvi Aggarwal , Pau-Loke Show , Shafiul Haque , Vivek Kumar Garg , Hardeep Singh Tuli

The review of the literature demonstrated that the diverse properties of the organotin (IV) attributed to the various moieties contained inside the molecule account for the functions and utility of the organotin (IV) complexes. Furthermore, the capacity of organometallic compounds to stabilize complexes with unique stereochemistry is well documented. Due to their robust coordination chemistry, consistency, and varied molecular structures, these complexes exhibit a wide spectrum of biological activity. This article provides an overview of complexes’ arrangement and geometry, spectroscopic research, and physical, chemical, and biological properties. This review also focuses on recent developments in conventional chemistry, practical synthesis methods, and the diverse functions of organotin (IV) complexes.

412-418

Authors: Linh Dieu Vuong , Quang Ngoc Nguyen

Mutation profiles of oncogenes play essential roles in cancer therapy, but data on the prevalence of lung cancer oncogenic driver mutations in Vietnamese patients are limited. This study aims to evaluate the mutation status of EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET, and MET genes and analyze the association of gene mutations with clinicopathological characteristics of lung adenocarcinoma. A total of 179 tumors were collected from lung adenocarcinoma patients. The mutation frequencies of EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET and MET genes were 44.6, 7.9, 3.0, 3.0 and 2.0%, respectively. EGFR, ALK, ROS1 and RET alterations tended to be higher in females. Moreover, rearrangements of ALK, ROS and RET were more prevalent in younger lung adenocarcinoma but skipping at exon 14 MET was more frequent in male and older patients. Stages III and IV seem to accumulate more ALK, RET and MET abnormalities. These findings identified the variation of frequencies of Vietnamese lung adenocarcinoma with different clinicopathological characteristics and established the pioneer data for oncogenic diver mutation of lung cancer in Vietnam.

429-435

Authors: Ghufran Mohammed Hussain , Maytham Ahmed Abdullah , Nibras Yahya Hussein

Changes in liver enzymes and bilirubin in patients with thalassemia depend on genetic changes and the association of other genetic determinants. Iron overload is associated with increased morbidity in both transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients. The main objective was to evaluate hepatic enzymes, bilirubin, and plasma proteins in beta-thalassemia major (βTM) patients and to study the correlations of these parameters with serum hemoglobin and ferritin concentrations in βTM patients. To achieve these, the study had two groups, the first is case group includes 39 patients with βTM and the second control group includes 34 subjects. Serum ALT, AST, total bilirubin, albumin, and total protein concentrations were measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometer, while the concentration of serum ferritin was measured by ELISA Kit. Our results showed that there were highly significant differences between βTM and ferritin, furthermore, there were highly significant differences between βTM and liver enzymes such as AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, and total bilirubin. In addition, our findings showed that there was correlation between serum ferritin concentrations and liver function parameters in βTM patients, where there are highly significant differences between βTM and ALT, while the correlation between serum hemoglobin concentration and liver function parameters showed highly significant differences between βTM and AST. The study concluded that the increase in serum liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and total bilirubin concentrations in patients with βTM are indicator to liver dysfunction that is correlated to iron overload.

445-457

Authors: Md. Khayrul Basher , Sumon Sarkar , Md. Hosne Mobarak , Md. Rashedul Islam

Arsenic is a potentially toxic agent for human health due to its widespread presence in the environment. Arsenic poisoning from drinking contaminated groundwater has become one of Bangladesh’s most difficult healthcare problems. However, there is a lack of understanding of the detrimental impact of arsenic toxicity on children of arsenic-exposed parents. This study evaluates the effect of arsenic toxicity on body growth, blood parameters, and organ development of F1 mice. In this study, adult female mice were exposed to sodium arsenite from gestation day 12.5 until parturition, and then the postnatal growth, blood indices, and organ development were assessed. The result showed that from birth to weaning offspring of the sodium arsenite-treated group exhibited significant and weaning to sexual maturity of female offspring significantly slower increase in final body weight, total body weight gain, and rate of body weight gain than that of the offspring of the control group. Hematological tests revealed a significant reduction in RBC and WBC count while significant elevation in platelet count, MCV, MCH, and MCHC in offspring of sodium arsenite exposed female mice than the offspring obtained from control female mice. RBS and triglycerides levels were significantly higher, while alkaline phosphatase level was significantly lower in the offspring of sodium arsenite-exposed female mice than in the offspring obtained from control female mice. In terms of organ-to-body weight ratio, the female F1 mice from the exposed group demonstrated a significantly lighter kidney and heart as compared to that of the female F1 mice from the control group. Visual inspection of the organ morphology showed a slightly affected liver, lungs, and testes. Overall, the study suggests that inorganic arsenic exposure of the parent mice exerts harmful effects on the body growth, hematological, and biochemical parameters, and organ morphology of the offspring.

468-482

Authors: Md. Hazrat Ali , Riyan Al Islam Reshad , Md Muhibur Rahman , Md. Faruque Miah

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing public health concern globally, with the threat of a post-antibiotic era, where common infections can become fatal, a very plausible reality. Despite ongoing efforts to control AMR, both mortality and expenses have increased. To combat this threat, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms and the driver behind this issue needs to be known. The key mechanisms of resistance are modification or destruction of antimicrobials, reduction of access to the target, and alteration of the target. These mechanisms may be present in the microorganisms naturally or may have been acquired from other microorganisms. As AMR jeopardizes the successful prevention and treatment of many infectious diseases, this article looks at the causes of AMR, along with the possible mechanisms of resistance development, and suggests control strategies to deal with the problem conclusively.

495-509

Authors: Mohammed Rasheed , Maysoon MNM Saleem , Thorria R. Marzoog , Malaa M. Taki , Dikra Bouras , Israa A. Hashim , Mustafa Nuhad Al Darraji , Raad Rasheed , Mohammed Abdulhadi Sarhan

Caffeine boosts metabolism and the neurological system. When extreme weakness or sleepiness occurs, it is used recreationally and medicinally to reduce physical and mental fatigue. Caffeine initially stimulates the central nervous system, increasing intellect, speed, accuracy, focus, and coordination. The aim of the study was to evaluate how caffeine nanoparticles affect potassium, calcium, zinc, and magnesium levels, in addition, the anti-bacterial activity of the samples has been measured. Eighteen male albino rats were divided into 3 separate groups. The first group (G1) was made up of 6 animals that served as a control group. The second group (G2) was made up of 6 animals that were given caffeine, and the third group (G3) was made up of 6 animals that were given silver nanoparticles from a caffeine solution. The particle size and structural morphology of caffeine and silver nanoparticles were analyzed using Brookhaven Instruments Corp., XRD and SEM, respectively. The structural results showed that after addition, caffeine was tube-shaped, and silver was spherical granular. Caffeine has more silver nanoparticles than caffeine solution. Caffeine solution affects potassium, calcium, zinc, and magnesium levels. Additionally, the solution has antibacterial activity against the following bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus (Gram +ve), E. coli (Gram –ve), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-ve), but it has no effect against yeast (Candida albicans). It is concluded that caffeine-synthesized Ag NPs has significant biological effects on zinc, magnesium, calcium, and potassium levels in male albino mice and this also is antibacterial against Staphylococcus.

527-540

Authors: Chrakhan Salh Rahman , Twana Ahmed Mustafa

The fourth deadliest reason for cancer-related deaths worldwide was found to be colorectal cancer. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been researched for biomedical applications due to their demonstrated anticancer, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. The cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are produced when photosensitizers (PSs) are activated by light, which in turn cause cancer cell death, and photodynamic treatment (PDT) causes selective cytotoxicity to malignant cells. The cytotoxic effect of different concentrations of nanoparticles and laser wavelengths was studied on colorectal cancer cell line (CaCo2), while the use of combination therapy had clear effects on early apoptosis. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of nanoparticles for the cells was evaluated. The proper IC50 for CaCo2 cells was 20 ug/ml Zinc oxide nanoparticle and Diode laser power is 5 j/cm2. The percentage of cells that decreased in the G2 phase of the cell cycle relative to the S and G1 phases was significantly different when the combination of laser and zinc nanoparticles was used. Combined use of a diode laser and ZnO2 significantly inhibited the spread of cancer by boosting the expression of the p53 gene. Bax, a central cell death regulator, was expressed significantly in combined treatments. However, combined use of the laser and ZnO2 did not reveal any substantial differences in the Bcl2 gene. In conclusion, this study suggests that combination therapy was cytotoxic to CaCo2 cells in vitro and there is a possibility of developing it as an effective therapeutic agent.

01-08

Authors: Bulla Humpy, Swetha Senthil Kumar, Sahabudeen Sheik Mohideen

Hermetia illuciens, commonly known as black soldier fly (BSF) can convert organic biomass into manure and insect biomass into protein and fat. Currently, in the waste management industry, BSF larvae are predominantly used to convert valorized organic substrates into fertilizer and to produce biogas. They are also alternatively used as viable protein substitutes for animal feed as well as human consumer products. The treatment of organic wastes before BSFL consumption indicated a positive stimulation in the biomass conversion rate, larval growth rate and overall larval performance parameters. The current study was designed to analyze the effect of the bio-stimulation-based pre-treatment strategy of the feed on performance parameters, such as larval weight, larval survival rate, substrate reduction by pre-treatment of biowaste for better growth, efficient performance, and good biomass composition in BSFL. In our study, we noticed significant up- and downregulation of several larval parameters by assessing substrate composition, larval growth parameters and substrate reduction rate. The bio-stimulated waste showed larval weight gain when compared to larvae grown in control feed. The heat pretreated waste was not suitable for larval growth as the parameters assessed were observed to be declined. Further investigations are needed to comprehend how BSFL reared on pretreated substrates enhances the nutritional composition of larvae.

17-24

Authors: Aghras Sabah Nawar, Zeena Hadi Obaid, Qaiser Ibrahim Sheikh

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common types of endocrine syndromes in women, where the disease is described as chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism, which was characterized by the formation of small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries. This study was carried out to introduce knowledge when plasma and erythrocytes portions were chosen to compare the antioxidant and oxidant status of PCOS patients treated or without treatment with metformin. Samples included 75 women diagnosed with PCOS according to Rotterdam criteria. The control group included healthy volunteers with regular menstrual cycles and with no symptoms of hyperandrogenism. Total antioxidants capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), and Cu\Zn SOD enzyme activity were examined in both plasma and erythrocytes. The activity of the Cu\Zn SOD enzyme was determined based on the ability of the enzyme to inhibit the autoxidation of pyrogallol. Body mass index (BMI), hormonal tests (LH and FSH) showed significant differences in PCOS patients as compared to control. In both plasma and erythrocyte, TAC levels were significantly decreased in PCOS patients. Though the activity of superoxide dismutase was significantly higher in plasma and erythrocytes in patients. On the other hand, PCOS patients showed significantly higher levels of TOS in plasma, while erythrocytes did not show any significant differences. In addition, metformin treatment significantly decreased levels of TAC, TOS and SOD1 activity in PCOS patients. Considering all, it is concluded that both TOS and SOD1 activity introduce the same pattern in blood samples, TAC displays a different line of responses which can be due to the crucial role of SOD1 as an antioxidant factor.

35-43

Authors: May K. Ismael, Lubna M. Rasuol, Yasir Basim Qaddoori

SARS-CoV-2 stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Matrix metalloproteinases- 9 (MMP-9) performs a crucial physiological role. In addition to its role in the molecular basis of lung fibrosis, this enzyme may also play a part in the “cytokine storm,” which may represent one of the potential scenarios during coronavirus infection. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) are well-known for their ability to regulate MMP activity during remodeling of the extracellular matrix. As cytokines, they are also thought of as signaling molecules that impact on a wide range of biological processes. This study aimed to investigate the link between each of MMP-9 and TIMP-1, and COVID19 disease. A total of 58 COVID-19 patients and 30 apparently healthy adults enrolled in this study. The ORF1ab, E and N genes of SARS-CoV-2 were detected using multiplex real-time PCR, while the ELISA technique was used to estimate the level of serum MMP-9, TIMP-1, and C-reactive protein (CRP). The study results demonstrated higher concentrations of MMP-9 in COVID-19 patients (2810 ± 1160 pg/ml) compared to controls (2110 ± 850 pg/ml), with non-significant differences (p=0.002). Unlike, TIMP-1, showed considerably higher levels in the patient’s group (541.53 ± 201.42 pg/ml) than in controls (276.33 ± 67.26 pg/ml) with high significant differences (p ≤ 0.001). Considering this study, TIMP-1 in COVID patients most likely play an important role in inflammatory response. Its clinical utility as a biomarker may be insufficient, but it provides a useful data in the diagnosis of COVID‐19.

58-66

Authors: Md Faruk Hasan, Jannatul Ferdous, Amit Kumar Dutta, Fahmida Begum Mina, Sumon Karmakar, Biswanath Sikdar

Anthracnose is one of the most devastating fungi causing twig dieback and postharvest fruit decay. Present study was aimed to identification of anthracnose fungus. Infected leaves of Citrus limon were collected and cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA) media for pathogenic fungus isolation. The isolated fungal pure culture was characterized by physiological and morphological characterization methods. Biological control measures of the fungus were evaluated by disc diffusion methods. The highest growth and development of isolated fungus was detected in PDA media at pH 7 in fructose as the best carbon source and 0.05gm NaCl concentrations at 37°C. Pathogenicity potency of isolate was performed on lemon, orange and malta, and showed typical anthracnose symptoms after incubation at 25°C for 5 days. For antifungal activity, 200µgm/disc methanolic extract of Psidium guajava showed 14.33±0.66 mm inhibition zone against the isolated fungus. From the present investigations, identified anthracnose causing fungus and it’s controlling techniques may help for further research for the isolation of drugs related compound for controlling this disease.

84-93

Authors: Dwi Wahyuning Asih, Agung Dwi Wahyu Widodo, Rebekah Juniati Setiabudi, Sulistiawati, Wiwiek Tyasningsih, Manik Retno Wahyunitisari

Biofilms are composed of more than one species and are often called polymicrobial biofilms, so research is needed on the formation of polymicrobial biofilms, especially between fungi and bacteria. This study aimed to analyze the total biomass and metabolic activity of biofilms formed from the interaction of fungi (Candida tropicalis) with various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. Bacterial and fungal cultures were suspended in tryptic soy broth (TSB) medium, and biofilm was cultivated in two 96-well microplates for 48 hours at 37°C. The crystal violet assay was used to detect the total biomass biofilm, and the tetrazolium salt (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, or MTT) assay was used to obtain the metabolic activity of biofilm with the optical density (OD) value using an ELISA reader. The results of this study obtained significant data from both parameters. The highest average value was found in the C. tropicalis treatment group (2,412 ± 0.825 on the biomass test results; 1,525 ± 0.473 on the metabolic activity test results), while the lowest was seen in the S. aureus treatment group (0.512 ± 0.224 in the biomass test results; 0.978 ± 0.349 in the metabolic activity test results). In conclusion, it was confirmed that biofilm biomass could be generated strongly in each treatment in the total biomass parameter, while metabolic activity data suggested that each treatment could carry out cell proliferation.

109-122

Authors: Ayilya Bakthavatchalam Loganathan, Nazeer Rasool Abdul

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease that is certainly preventable and treatable and is caused due to the continuous exposure to noxious substances and toxic gases and is characterized by airflow limitation and chronic inflammation in the lungs coupled with persistent symptoms in the respiratory tract leading to obstructive bronchiolitis and parenchymal emphysema. The incidence and progression of COPD is a complicated pathological phenomenon, and the overall severity is due to its exacerbations and comorbidities in individuals. Further, COPD is a major contributor to the global years of life lost and by 2030 it would be the third leading causes of mortality in the world. Also, knowledge on COPD, its associated conditions, and the clinical understanding of the disease date back to the 16th century. The prevalence, morbidity and mortality may vary across the globe based on their exposure to smoking, tobacco, occupational pollutants, indoor pollution, outdoor air pollution, gender, age, and genetic inheritance. Considering the continuous exposure to toxic substances and aging of the general population, the burden and prevalence of COPD are estimated to increase substantially in the coming years. Furthermore, COVID-19 patients with pre-existing COPD conditions suffer from severe disease progression and delay in recovery.

133-139

Authors: Yance Kaitana, Nia Kurnia, Max Tulung, Josef Sem Berth Tuda, Juliet Merry Eva Mamahit, Trina Ekawati Tallei

Aedes spp. are the primary vectors of arboviruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. To date, neither an approved vaccine nor a drug that can definitively prevent or treat these diseases. Vector control continues to be an essential method of disease prevention. Plant-based insecticides are an alternative to chemical insecticides because they are less toxic to non-target insects and degrade more quickly. The Papuan people have used Pangi leaves for generations as a potent natural chemical against head lice and mosquito larvae. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of pangi (Pangium edule) leaf extract as a biolarvicide and mosquito repellent. Fresh pangi leaves were extracted with water by using a blender to pulverize the leaves. One-way ANOVA was used to examine the variance in mortality rates, and the LC50 value was calculated for probit analysis. Dead larvae were identified and counted. In addition to testing the effectiveness of the extracts as biolarvicide, the extract was also tested as potential insect repellents. The findings demonstrated that pangi leaf extract can kill mosquito larvae. The concentration of the extract affected larval mortality. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated its effectiveness as an insect repellent. Pangi leaf extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenolic compounds, and cyanide compounds, with alkaloids being the most abundant. The study found that there was a direct correlation between the concentration of the insecticide and the number of dead Aedes spp. larvae. The LC50 probit test revealed that pangi leaf extract belongs to the category of toxic substances. Several compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and cyanide, may be responsible for the toxicity of pangi leaf extract. Thus, pangi leaf extract might be established as a means of overcoming numerous health issues caused by mosquito vectors.

149-160

Authors: Rana H. K. Al-Rubaye; Rakad M. Kh AL-Jumaily

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor in women and the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. This work was conducted to estimate the roles of oxidative stress, vitamin B12, homocysteine (HCY), and DNA methylation in BC disease progression. Sixty BC patients (age range 33–80 years) and 30 healthy controls were recruited for this study. Patients with BC were split to group 1 consisted of stage II BC women (low level), and group 2 consisted of patients in stages III and IV (high level). Malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), HCY, and vitamin B12 levels in the study groups were measured. Also, the 5-methylcytosine (5mC) global DNA methylation levels were evaluated. The results showed a significant increase in HCY, and MDA in BC patients compared to healthy controls, with evident increases observed in those with advanced-stage BC (stages III and IV). They were accompanied by significantly reduced levels of 5mC, with a positive correlation between 5mC and the different stages of BC. Also, patients in advanced stages and those with a poor prognosis were exposed to low levels of vitamin B12 and GPX3 (except for the patients in stage IV, which showed increased GPX3 levels). The findings of this study suggest that the differences in global DNA methylation levels at the various phases may be used as a risk factor for developing BC, which indicates the involvement of GPX3 and HCY in BC progression.

172-183

Authors: Md. Hakimul Haque, Md. Zohurul Islam, Md. Lovelu Miah, Sunny Kumar Das, Subir Sarker

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the leading cause of hospitalization due to bacterial infection, and the frequency of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli isolates from these infections is increasing worldwide. The current study aims to isolate and characterize antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli and their antibiogram typing from urine samples of humans. From April to December 2019, a total of 60 human urine samples were collected aseptically and treated to primary isolation by propagation in nutrient broth followed by culture on various agar media. Gram’s staining, string techniques, biochemical characterization, PCR, and Sanger sequencing were performed to confirm E. coli. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique was used to test the susceptibility of all bacterial strains to thirteen typically prescribed antibiotics. The overall prevalence of E. coli in UTI was 66.67%. Three variations were noted in E. coli, all of which were single substitutions (A>T, C>T, and T>A). Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA revealed that the E. coli discovered in this study belonged to the genus Escherichia but was distinct from those identified in other countries. The antibiograms revealed that all the isolates (100%) were resistant to penicillin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin; 94.87% to doxycycline; 79.16% to gentamycin; 75.48% to ciprofloxacin; 73.07% to erythromycin; 71.66% to levofloxacin; 47.36% to ceftriaxone; and 46.66% to tetracycline. In contrast, all E. coli strains were sensitive to amikacin (95%), vancomycin (92.50%), and azithromycin (92.50%). People with a UTI often have multidrug-resistant E. coli in their urine samples, which calls for a one-health strategy to deal with this rapidly changing condition.

198-209

Authors: Anindya Das, Ahmed Faisal Sumit

The food consumers and stakeholders of Bangladesh have limited knowledge and perception over genetically modified (GM) foods. As no studies have been done regarding this among the Bangladeshi educated people on a large scale, hence this study aims to determine the level of knowledge and attitude regarding GM foods; and to explore the related factors as well. A cross-sectional survey was done with a close-ended questionnaire in the four largest divisions of Bangladesh where respondents were above 18 years of age and completed at least higher secondary level education. It was observed that among the total 614 respondents, 24.8% had no acquaintance with GM food. Of the remaining 462 respondents, 41.8% had better knowledge and 30.7% had positive attitude. The level of knowledge significantly varied with respondents’ gender, occupation, monthly income, educational status, and discipline studied where male, pharmaceutical workers, respondents with monthly income of 50001-100000 BDT, science studied respondents had significantly better knowledge than their counterparts. Similarly, respondents’ attitude on GMOs significantly differed with gender, occupation, monthly income, and education in which positive attitude were shown by respondents with better knowledge. Finally, logistic regression analysis showed that female and business studied respondents had significantly less likely to have better knowledge and positive attitude than reference group, while respondents with monthly income between 50001-100000 BDT had more likely to have better knowledge and positive attitude, and NGO workers had more likely to have positive attitude than references. Thus, this study will help the policymakers of Bangladesh to perceive the current scenario of public demands on GM foods.

222-230

Authors: Sunao Wada, MH Mahbub, Natsu Yamaguchi, Ryosuke Hase, Yuki Nakagami, Hidekazu Takahashi, Hiroyuki Saito, Junki Shimokawa, Rie Watanabe, Tsuyoshi Tanabe

Exercise training has the potential for inducing enhancements in peripheral circulation, which can play important preventive and therapeutic roles in peripheral circulatory diseases. However, the relevant published studies show conflicting and inconclusive results. Furthermore, useful or optimum ambient temperature for this purpose has not yet been established. Therefore, we investigated the acute responses in peripheral circulation from exposure of healthy subjects to treadmill exercise under different ambient temperatures; A total of 12 young adult volunteers (males 6, females 6) randomly underwent three sessions of treadmill exercise for 30 min under three different ambient temperatures (10°C, 20°C, and 30°C), at a predetermined exercise intensity. Before and after the intervention, leg skin blood flow (SBF) was measured by laser speckle flowgraphy and hand skin temperature (ST), by digital thermometry; After the cessation of treadmill exercise, compared to the corresponding baseline values, a significant increase in SBF was observed under all ambient temperature conditions (P<0.005). During intervention, ST showed a significant decrease at 10th min of intervention under all ambient temperatures (P<0.005) with a subsequent increasing trend in it. After intervention, a significant increase in ST was observed under 20°C condition only (P<0.05). Also, after intervention, the observed increase in systolic blood pressure was less significant under 20°C condition; Treadmill exercise appears to be a useful intervention modality in inducing improvements in peripheral circulation. However, exposure to treadmill exercise at or near 20°C ambient temperature might be recommended for the purpose.

243-253

Authors: Supavinee Sukcharoen, Paphada Watcharapo, Kanokkorn Vichitsakul, Jiraporn Arunpanichlert, Pichayanoot Rotkrua, Boonchoy Soontornworajit

Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), a multifunctional growth factor secreted by platelets, endothelial and cancer cells, functions as an efficient and accurate biomarker. PDGF- BB has been employed in various therapeutic applications. Tuning its bioactivity via a specific binding ligand could enhance the PDGF-BB functionality. Aptamer, a single-stranded oligonucleotide that exhibits a selective binding to PDGF-BB, is the molecule of our interest. This research aims to evaluate the PDGF-BB aptamer binding by growth factor-coated particles. PDGF-BB-coated particles were confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and aptamer binding evaluation was investigated by flow cytometry. To optimize the condition for binding evaluation, the washing cycle and concentration of PDGF-BB, polystyrene particle (PS) and aptamer were studied using flow cytometer. Based on the flow cytometry results, the concentration of PDGF-BB showed an optimal level on the number of fluorescent particles. The percentage of fluorescent particles increased when the washing cycle was reduced, and the particle concentration was decreased. The percentage of fluorescent particles also increased proportionally with the aptamer concentration. Using a flow cytometer to detect fluorescent signal from growth factor-coated particle is a promising strategy to study biomolecular binding.

265-275

Authors: Sumaiya Islam, Md. Eftakhar Jahan Bhuiyan, Md. Golzar Hossain, Md. Eliusur Rahman Bhuiyan, Sharmin Akter

At relatively low concentrations in the diet, molasses is extensively used as a vital energy supplement to improve growth, meat quality, and general health condition. However, there is little information on feeding molasses to steers: that’s why the study sought to determine the effects of urea molasses supplementation on growth performance and hemato-biochemical parameters. Twenty Sahiwal steers between 1.5 and 2 years old were divided into two groups (n=10); steers of group A received untreated straw (Control), while steers of group B received urea molasses straw (UMS). The body weight of the steers was measured at every 15 days intervals, and after 90 days of the experimental period blood samples were collected and serum was prepared for hemato-biochemical analysis. The result revealed that body weight of the UMS-treated steers increased significantly from day 15 to day 90 of the experiment compared to the untreated control. UMS induced a significant increase in hematological parameters such as TEC (p<0.01), Hb (p<0.01), and PCV (p<0.05), whereas there were no alterations in TLC and DLC values. Further, UMS treated group showed no significant changes in biochemical parameters such as AST, ALT, and lipid profile (TC, TG, HDL, LDL) while urea and creatinine levels increased significantly (p<0.05). Therefore, it could be suggested that UMS had beneficial effects on growth performance and hemato-biochemical parameters in Sahiwal steers.

286-300

Authors: Md. Moniruzzaman, Mst. Merina Mostari, Shirmin Islam, Mst. Maskera Jinnah, Jui Biswas, Suvro Biswas, Shahriar Zaman, Md. Abu Saleh, Md. Salah Uddin

Rumex dentatus is a medicinal plant with a variety of bioactive components that can be used to treat infections and multidrug-resistant (MDR) microbes. Infections caused by MDR microbes may pose a real threat and the available antibiotics can no longer be used to control or kill those bacteria. Thus, the study aimed to ascertain the antibacterial activity of Rumex dentatus leaf extract and identify a potent compound that can be used as a drug developmental agent may against Staphylococcus aureus. Disc diffusion method, mortality assay of brine shrimp, and DPPH free radical scavenging assay were carried out for in vitro analysis. Standard computational tools and servers such as Pymol, PyRx, and Discovery Studio were used for carrying out the in-silico studies. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the infected area of eczema sufferers and identified through morphological, biochemical, and 16SrRNA sequence analysis. Rumex dentatus leaf extract was diluted with methanol and it showed the maximum zone of inhibition (14.33 ± 0.68 mm) after applying it against Staphylococcus aureus at the dose of 150µg/disc. Furthermore, the extract revealed remarkable antioxidant activity and the death rate of brine shrimp and leaf extract concentration were positively connected. Finding pharmacological targets with a high affinity for the FosB (4nb2) protein, which controls antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus aureus, was done via molecular docking. 1-alpha-18O-1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (CID-5280453), androstan-3-ol, 9-methyl-(3 beta,5 alpha) (CID-22215820), phenylacetaldehyde (CID-998), and benzenepropanoic acid, 3,5-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-hydroxy- methyl ester (CID-62603) substances had binding energies of -6.8 Kcal/mol, -6.6 Kcal/mol, -5.6 kcal/mol, and -5.5 kcal/mol, respectively. As an organic source of medicines, Rumex dentatus leaf extract could be used to combat the antimicrobial-resistant pathogen.