International Journal of Advanced Biological and Biomedical Research
Volume:12 Issue: 3, Summer 2024

Antibiotic resistance is becoming more prevalent, which presents as an urgent risk to world-wide well-being, necessitating an urgent exploration of its mechanisms, implications, and potential mitigation strategies. This review provides an overview of the growing antibiotic resistance phenomenon within the realm of gram-positive bacteria, with a specific focus on three major pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus spp., and Streptococcus pneumoniae. These pathogens, once susceptible to conventional antibiotics, have displayed remarkable adaptability to develop resistance, rendering standard treatment regimens ineffective. This review outlines the objectives of understanding the mechanisms underlying the emergence of resistance, deciphering the clinical impact of resistance development, and highlighting the potential interventions to mitigate the crisis. This review also highlights a comprehensive exploration of the interaction between these pathogens and the selective pressure of antibiotics, horizontal gene transfer, and genetic mutations are central themes elucidated in this study. The clinical implications of these emerging resistance mechanisms, including treatment failure, increased morbidity, and mortality, emphasize the urgency of addressing this escalating concern.Furthermore, this review underscores the importance of alternative strategies, such as combination therapies, synergistic approaches, and the revival of older antibiotics, in combating gram-positive bacterial resistance. The study aims to provide insights into the novel strategies that hold promise for the treatment of gram-positive bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics.The review aims to contribute to the global efforts in curbing the antibiotic resistance crisis.

Globally Human immune-deficiency virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic, originating in the 1980s and since then, it has continued to pose a significant public health challenge most especially in Sub-Sahara Africa and particularly in Nigeria. Despite advancements, challenges persist, including disparities in treatment access and emerging issues like the intersection with the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemic. This study focuses on determining HIV pervasiveness in Wukari, Taraba State, North East, Nigeria, given its historical burden and progress. The study, conducted in Wukari Town, Southern Taraba, had 100 (35 Males and 65 Females) individuals aged 11-60 participating. HIV rapid test kit was used for the analysis of blood samples collected from participants using standard serological techniques. The results obtained indicated an overall HIV prevalence of 18%, with females (12%) showing higher rates than males (6%). The age group 21-30 had the highest number of positive cases, representing 10% for both males and females. Comparisons with previous studies suggest evolving prevalence patterns, raising concerns about potential underdiagnosis. Gender disparities reflect global trends, emphasizing the vulnerability of women, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding age-specific risks is crucial, with the 21-30 age group requiring targeted interventions. The absence of cases in the 51-60 age group prompts an examination of the effectiveness of prevention measures. This study accentuates the dynamic nature of HIV prevalence, advocating for ongoing research to inform tailored interventions and adapt strategies based on evolving demographic landscapes. This research study further re-affirms the need for routine baseline screening for this serological marker, as it is a major consideration in the commencement and choice of highly active anti-retroviral therapy. Hence, the results of the study implies that patients should be encouraged to go for screening and know their status for proper management and take steps to avoid infecting other individuals. Also, for those that are seropositive, early diagnosis and treatment are recommended measures. Finally, there is need for vigorous awareness campaigns on the routes of transmission of these infections and to educate people living in developing regions as to the deadly effect of these infections.

Biocompatible implants are a suitable option in the reconstruction and repair of damaged bone and can be considered instead of bone grafting. However, the materials used to produce such substitutes may not have sufficient bioactivity in the body. Boric acid (BA) is a weak acid of boron with water solubility, semi-conductivity, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also stimulates bone formation in the body. The aim of this study was to produce a bone substitute composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and BA using a 3D-printer and analyse its effect on the proliferation and bone differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs). PCL scaffolds containing different concentrations of BA were produced using a 3D printer and were characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In addition, the proliferation and bone differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) on the PCL-BA scaffolds were evaluated using MTT assay, alizarin red staining, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) measurement. BA was gradually released from the 3D scaffolds and PCL-BA scaffolds have a suitable three-dimensional structure for cell attachment and proliferation. According to the MTT results, PCL-BA scaffolds did not cause any toxicity to hBMSCs. Although PCL-BA scaffolds had significant osteoinduction potential, scaffold containing lower concentrations of BA had a better effect on osteogenesis. BA incorporation enhanced the bioactivity of PCL scaffolds; however, the BA concentration was a determining factor in the direction of bone differentiation of hBMSCs.

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bert.) is an important source of natural sugar, for the use of people, especially those with diabetes. However, there is no data on the growth of stevia under drought conditions affected by plant growth regulators (PGR). A two-year experiment using 5 kg pots was conducted under field conditions. The objective was to determine the morphological properties of stevia affected by the foliar use of iron (FeSO4, 4 mg/L), zinc (ZnSo4, 3 mg/L), and salicylic acid (1 mM) under different levels of drought stress including control (field capacity, 0.5 atm), 3.5, 6.5, and 10 Atm. Soil water potential was investigated during the experiment using an eco-tensiometer, set with a computer. Different plant morphological properties including plant height (PH), number of leaf per plant (NLP), number of stem per plant (NSP), aerial part fresh weight (AFW), aerial part dry weight or biological yield (ADW), leaf dry weight (LDW), stem dry weight (SDW), and the ratio of LDW/ SDW were determined. Stress, PGR, and their interactions significantly affected the measured parameters. Accordingly, drought stress significantly decreased stevia growth, and there was not much of difference among different growth-related factors, under the stress, as they followed a similar trend of growth. The reduction of different growth parameters at the highest level of stress was in the range of 57-76%, related to the control. However, the use of PGR, especially the combined treatments, significantly increased the growth of the stressed plants related to the control treatment, with an increase range of 9.14-22.61% by the triple treatment. Among the single treatments, the iron treatment, and among the combined treatments, the combination of the three PGR, followed by Fe+Zn was the most effective ones. It is possible to increase stevia growth under drought stress using the PGR including Zn, Fe and salicylic acid tested in this research.

Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is one of the most destructive pests for many agricultural crops. Since quickly develops resistance in FAW to most classes of pesticides, more effective and safer biological ways to control the pest are needed. Laboratory studies investigated the interaction between the fungal entomopathogen Beauveria bassiana, diatomaceous earth (DE) with chlorantraniliprole or emamectin benzoate when applied to 2nd instar FAW larvae. The biological parameters of B. bassiana (germination rate and average daily mycelia growth) were not inhibited by chlorantraniliprole and DE treatments, on the contrary the effect of emamectin benzoate. Interaction of B. bassiana (1 × 108 conidia/mL), chlorantraniliprole and DE exhibited maximum larval mortality (55–100%), while B. bassiana (1 × 104 conidia/mL) alone showed minimum larval mortality (5–29%) recorded at intervals 2–10 days. The results indicated the activities of mixed function oxidase (MFO), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and total esterase (EST) in FAW larvae were significantly lower than that of the control groups at different intervals post-treatment, indicating the inhibitory effect of the all-treated applications. B. bassiana combined with chlorantraniliprole and DE had better inhibition effects than applications alone.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a high-prevalent disease. The prevalence of this disease in Iran is reported between 10% and 15%. Rasasinex, a nasal spray solution is an herbal solution that contains black seed extract (Nigella Sativa) and olive oil (Olea Oil). Due to the high prevalence of AR and excessive use of anti-histamine compounds, we aimed to assess the effect of Rasasinex, which is a combination of black seed and olive oil, in the treatment of childhood AR. This is a retrospective study conducted on records of children with mild and persistent AR who were divided into two groups of 50. In group 1, records of patients who received oral antihistamine treatment with Rasasinex were assessed. On the other hand, group 2 was treated routinely with only oral antihistamine treatment. The symptoms and signs were recorded in a checklist. In this study, 37 (74%) patients in group 1 and 33 (66%) patients in group 2 were boys. The mean age in group 1 was 6.1 ±0.28 years and in group 2 was 6.8±0.34 years. Our results showed a significant difference in the improvement of AR symptoms in children treated with Rasasinex compared to children treated with antihistamine (p<0.0001). The mean duration of symptoms in the first group was 4.27 days and in the second group was 14.05 days. Therefore, in the first group, more children had symptom improvement on the same day of starting the drug, and the lack of improvement in group 1 was less than in the second group. Besides, most of the children taking Rasasinex had improvement in symptoms within less than three days of taking the drug. The use of Rasasinex for four weeks has been significantly effective in reducing and improving the AR symptoms in children so most of the patients reported improvement of symptoms up to three days. Therefore, it seems that it can be used in these patients.

Diabetes, specifically gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), has become a global concern, impacting one out of every ten pregnancies. While previously more prevalent in developed nations, GDM is now increasingly common in developing regions, presenting a growing public health challenge. Despite often resolving after delivery, GDM raises the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies and elevates the long-term risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes for both the mother and child.

This narrative review consolidates global recommendations and diverse guidelines on GDM management. It underscores the importance of a multidimensional approach, focusing on lifestyle modifications tailored to individual needs. Aerobic and resistance training, combined with personalized dietary adjustments, emerge as effective interventions. Pharmacotherapy may be necessary for about one-third of GDM cases where optimal glycemic control proves challenging.

The review highlights the primary strategy of GDM management, emphasizing lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise adjustments. It also discusses the role of pharmacotherapy when needed for glycemic control.

By providing comprehensive insights into diverse treatment approaches, this review aims to benefit healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. The holistic approach advocated ensures optimal care for individuals with GDM, addressing immediate needs and safeguarding the long-term health of both mother and child. This synthesis contributes to a nuanced understanding of GDM management, aiding informed decision-making and policy formulation in maternal healthcare.

Medicinal plants are the most easily accessible health resource for the community and frequently the people’s preferred option. Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is a member of the Cucurbitaceous plant used as a vegetable and in traditional medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of water extract of Momordica charantia leaves on male Balb/c mice with acute ulcerative colitis. 28 male mice were acclimatized and equally divided into four groups. The control group was given normal saline; the dextran sulphate sodium group (DSS) received 3% Dextran sulfate sodium in drinking water for seven days; the water extract of Momordica charantia + dextran sulphate sodium group (WEMC+DSS) received water extract of Momordica Charantia for seven days before dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) was administered; the water extract of Momordica charantia group (WEMC) received water extract of Momordica charantia (150mg/kg b.wt.) for 14 days. The mice were daily weighed and sacrificed on the 15th day of the experiment. Their colon and brain were collected for evaluation of disease activity indices (DAI) of colitis, and oxidative and inflammatory damage via biochemical and histological assessments. Results obtained showed no significant difference at (p<0.05) in DAI among the groups. The WEMC+DSS when compared with the DSS group had significantly higher catalase (272.9±54.8, 175.1+12.5, and 200.2±29.7), superoxide dismutase–SOD (347.7±37.5, 223.9±13.1, and 254.9±38.8), and glutathione peroxidase –GPx (28.6±2.20, 27.3±1.24, and 27.8±1.57) activities, and SOD/ (catalase+GPX) ratio (0.01±0.00, 0.003±0.00, and 0.01±0.002) and reduced hydrogen peroxide concentration (7.63±0.54, 4.33±1.28, and 5.71±0.75) in both colon and brain cytosolic fractions, respectively. Histological examination showed transmural inflammation in the DSS group as against mild mucosal inflammation in WEMC+DSS. This result shows that water extract of Momordica charantia has the potential to reduce colitis-induced oxidative damage and inflammation. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the water extract of Momordica charantia leaves has the potential to mitigate oxidative damage and inflammation induced by ulcerative colitis in male Balb/c mice. Although there was no significant difference in disease activity indices among the groups, the group treated with the water extract of Momordica charantia before DSS administration showed significantly higher levels of antioxidant enzyme activities and lower levels of hydrogen peroxide concentration in both colon and brain cytosolic fractions compared to the DSS group.