Archives of Razi Institute
Volume:79 Issue: 3, May-Jun 2024

Trichomonas gallinae is a flagellated protozoan parasite that affects numerous avian species worldwide, causing a range of diseases collectively termed trichomonosis. This review study aimed to present a comprehensive analysis of the prevalence of T. gallinae in birds of Iran, along with an exploration of its associated pathological findings. Through an extensive search of published studies, scientific databases, and relevant literature, we identified several studies conducted in Iran that focused on the prevalence of T. gallinae in different bird populations as well as their pathological effect. These studies utilized a variety of techniques, including direct microscopic examination, culture methods, and molecular tools to detect and identify the presence of this parasite. This review study indicates that T. gallinae infections are prevalent among various bird species in Iran, including Domestic pigeons, Zebra Finches and Turkey. The prevalence rates reported showed significant differences among various regions and bird species, ranging from as low as 2.5% in zebra finches to as high as 70% in pigeons. The clinical signs of infected birds varied from no clinical signs to visible yellowish-white masses of caseous necrotic material, hyperplasia of mucous cells and significant congestion of lung. These findings underline the importance of T. gallinae as a significant pathogen affecting avian populations in Iran. Using at least two techniques such as culture or PCR in addition to direct smear is recommended for better diagnosis of infection. The study highlights the need for further epidemiological studies to better understand the risk factors associated with T. gallinae transmission and to develop effective prevention and control strategies.

There is always a concern about the quality of cell-based products in terms of the contamination of the cells and their lack of efficiency. Therefore, it is very important to ensure these cells' identity, purity, efficacy, and suitability for the production of biological products and diagnostic uses. So, cells must be identified, evaluated, documented, and stored to be used consistently and efficiently. With these conditions, vaccine manufacturers have a suitable reserve of efficient and valuable cells for the production and quality control of biological products.In this review article, a strategic plan for cell-substrate well-characterization and identification according to scientific principles, the author's work experience, and regulatory guidance for the optimal use of that cell in research and diagnostic studies especially for the biological product production process have been drawn. For this purpose, all aspects of cell identification, cell evaluation, and cell characterization are discussed. Because of the importance of cell identity in the competence of a cell substrate, in the cell identification section, all aspects of cell identification, including general cell information, and specific cell characteristics, especially in terms of cell passage history, cell storage conditions, and cell coding and labeling were studied. In the part of cell evaluation and determination of cell characteristics, all tests necessary to determine cell characteristics from various aspects including determination of cell identity, cell growth conditions, cell quality, and efficiency, and the possibility of cell contamination with adventitious agents, including cellular, viral, bacterial, mycoplasma, and mycobacterial agents were introduced. Due to the importance of endogenous virus contamination, this topic is specially discussed. Also, the stability of the cell both from the aspect of genetic stability and from the aspect of stability of cell efficiency, were discussed.In the end, while reviewing the necessary documents to be under the control of the cell for use in the laboratory, based on the studies conducted, the certificate of the cell has been compiled.Therefore, on this basis, the studied cell can be used for research and diagnostic studies of virology, and especially for the production and quality control of biological products.

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent commonly used for the treatment or prevention of bleeding. Indications for TXA are diverse, including heavy menstrual bleeding, trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, and surgical site bleeding. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2 or COVID-19) originated in Wuhan, China has spread at an alarming pace throughout the world and declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The air droplet spread of SARS-CoV2 which is potentially fatal is of great global health concern. Various drugs and treatment modalities have been tried to date but none has been found to be definitive. Tranexamic acid commonly used in pigmentary disorders in Dermatology due to its ability to reduce the melanocyte tyrosinase activity also possesses anti-fibrinolytic and anti-inflammatory properties which have been observed to suppress the cytokine storm and modulate coagulopathy in patients suffering from COVID19. Tranexamic acid when administered early has been effective in decreasing the severity of symptoms in patients of COVID-19 but on the contrary, has also been associated with life-threatening thrombosis if given as a single drug.

Nature exists as a golden spot and supplies the remedies to treat all diseases of mankind. Plant kingdom stand for plethora of natural compounds, well known for utilized in therapeutic applications and might act the way for expansion of novel mediators having decent efficiency in many pathological disorders in future. In India and throught the world herbs becoming principle and popular medicine. Recognized green medicines are better than synthetic one with less side effects. From ancient periods plants have been intended for their medicinal properties for treating various health ailments because of their lesser side effects, availability of the agent, their cost and potential effectiveness. Medicinal value of plants comes from various vegetative parts of the plant including flowers, fruit, bark, roots, leaves, seeds and its modified parts. The Indian forests are the major repository of remedial and aromatic medicinal plants, which are composed for production of plethora remedies against various diseases. Butea monosperma is one of traditional ayurvedic medicinal plant considered as rich source of ingredients which can be used in drug development as home remedies to treat various diseases such as diarrhea, constipation, hypertension, dehydration, bronchial asthma, leucorrhea, infection, liver, stomach disorders including cancer. The seed powder known for having specific pharmaceutical and insecticidal activities. This study highlights the traditional ayurvedic importance of a eminent medicinal plant Butea monosperma, with its active chemical constituents, pharmacological importance, environmentally sustainable, ecological, and economical importance of the plant. This plant can be planted everywhere to make use of its versatile applications.

Honey is a sweet and nutritious product of Apis mellifera bees. It contains glucose, fructose, water, minerals, vitamins, organic acids, phenolic compounds, and enzymes . Honey has various functional properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, prebiotic, and anticancer, which are essential for human health [4]. Because of its unique properties, honey is known not only as a nutritious spice but also as a medicine with healing properties. Honey is a high-dense sugar solution; it can produce coarse crystals by changing the conditions (such as glucose level, humidity, temperature, impurity, and ecology) and lead to quality loss . This study aimed to determine the effect of ultrasound at two different frequencies of 30 and 42 kHz on the physical, biochemical, anti-oxidant, and antimicrobial properties of industrial Iranian honey. All samples (except control) were treated using ultrasound at 30 or 42 kHz for 1, 5, or 10 minutes at 20 or 45 °C. Then the following parameters were measured: HMF content, pH, acidity, proline, total count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, diastase, moisture, sucrose, fructose, glucose, the ratio of fructose to glucose, ABTS, osmophiles, phenol, reducing sugars and total sugars on days 1, 30, 90, and 180. In both treatment groups exposed to ultrasound, there were changes in these parameters. The group treated with 42 kHz ultrasound showed a decrease in moisture, pH, acidity, fructose-to-glucose ratio, total sugars, clostridium, total microbial count, mold, osmophiles, HMF, and an increase in diastase, proline, and phenol. The changes were more significant on days 90 and 180. Ultrasound at 42 kHz for 10 minutes at 45 °C could lead to an increase in the quality and shelf life of industrial honey. In conclusion, this technique can be used in the food industry to provide a higher quality product as well as a more successful export.

Mycotoxins are the toxins produced by various types of fungi, including Fusarium, which can produce different types of mycotoxins such as Deoxynivalenol (DON), Zearalenone (ZEN), T-2 toxin, and Fumonisins (FUM). Mycotoxins have the potential to reduce the quality of crops and pose health risks to both humans and animals. This can result in reduced animal production and substantial economic consequences on a global scale. Extensive research has been carried out to investigate the high incidence of contamination in grains by Fusarium fungi. In this study, 80 samples of maize from silos of dairy farms in Fars province, Iran were taken and examined for fungal contamination by Fusarium and potential production of DON and FUM. For this purpose, identification using specific primers for different genes was carried out by PCR test and gel electrophoresis with agarose (1%). Among different counties, the silos in Kharameh with 47.05% and Jahrom with 46.15% had the highest contamination rate, and the lowest contamination rate belonged to Kazeroon with 27.27%. Out of the 30 positive samples contaminated by Fusarium, 21 produced FUM, four produced DON, and five produced both toxins. Fusarium species that contaminated the maize samples were also identified, including 13, 10, and 7 samples contaminated by F. proliferatum, F. verticillioides, and F. graminearum, respectively. As a conclusion, the findings of the study indicate that 37.5% of the corn samples from dairy farm silos in Fars province were contaminated with the Fusarium fungus, which had the potential to produce the toxic mycotoxins, deoxynivalenol and fumonisins.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a viral disease caused by some H5 and H7 subtypes of influenza virus type A in most species of birds, especially poultry. HPAI viruses are amongst the most challenging viruses that threaten both human and animal health. Consequently, various strategies such as the use of vaccines have been proposed to control the disease. After a catastrophic pandemic and the failure of conventional methods (elimination and extermination) in Iran, multiple vaccines has been used to control the disease. This study investigates the immunogenicity of two recombinant inactivated commercial vaccines of H5N1 and H5N3 subtypes in laying pullet flocks in Tehran Province, Iran. From 32 halls in 6 breeding units of laying pullets, 3200 sera and 800 tracheal and cloacal swabs were collected. After collecting the samples, Serum neutralisation (SN) and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) tests were conducted on sera to determine the serum titers of H5 specific antibody obtained from vaccine inoculation in three steps: before, after first vaccination and after the second vaccination (booster). SN and HI tests were carried out by the alpha and beta methods on the pooled samples by the vaccine type (as antigen for HI and SN), and the results were compared. The PCR was performed on the tracheal and cloacal swab samples to possibly detect the HA (H5)virus in the studied flocks. The HI test results showed that both vaccines had a Serum antibody titre above 5 (log2) after two vaccination rounds, indicating a desirable immunogenic response. The SN test results also showed a neutralisation index above 104.5 for both vaccines, indicating more than 50% reduction in antigenicity of the virus. The PCR results were negative. This study was the first investigation of immunogenicity following two-time vaccination against H5 subtype vaccines in Iranian poultry flocks, indicated suitable antibody titer against the influenza virus in vaccinated flocks.

AbstractThis study aims to determine the prevalence rate of intestinal protozoan infection among children, in Duhok Province, North of Iraq, during the period between October 2022 to May 2023. A cross-sectional study was done among 740 children attending Hevi Pediatric Hospital, Duhok Province, Iraq. First, all collected stool samples were examined directly by preparing a wet stool smear for detection of the vegetative stage (Trophozoite) of both E. histolytica and G. lamblia. Then, all stool samples were preserved at - 22°C till used for identification of cysts of protozoa and oocysts of C. parvaum by the Telmman concentration stool method. The average child’s age was between 1-14 years in the current study. Out of the 740 stool samples collected, 205 (27.7%) were positive for intestinal protozoan infections, as follows: 160 children (78.0%) tested positive for E. histolytica, 35 children (17.1%) were positive for C. parvum, and only 10 (4.9%) were positive for G. lamblia. However, the results indicate a statistically significant difference between the prevalence of E. histolytica, C.parvum, and G. lamblia infections across different age groups. This result is significant at a P value < 0.05. The highest infection rates of intestinal protozoa, including E.histolytica, C. parvum, and G.lamblia, were reported in age groups between 5-9 years (53.75%, 25.0%, and 60.0%) respectively, then followed by age groups between 1-4 years (28.75%,20.0% and 30.0%) respectively, and finally followed by age group between 10-14 years (17.55, 8.6%, and 10.0%) respectively. The prevalence of amoebaisis and cryptosporidiosis was reported higher than in the other studies done in Iraq, while the prevalence of giardiasis was reported at a lower rate than the rate reported before in Iraq and Duhok mainly. These infections continue to pose a difficult public health issue and necessitate the implementation of stronger and more effective preventative measures.

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic nematode that lives in the mucosa of the small intestine and causes strongyloidiasis in humans. Mazandaran is one of the endemic areas of this parasite in Iran. For detecting S. stercoralis larvae in stool samples various types of techniques such as PCR technique have been used. The present study was conducted to determine the molecular characteristics of S. stercoralis collected from residents of Mazandaran, northern Iran. From April to September 2017, a number of 2195 samples of human feces were collected from different regions of Mazandaran province. First, all stool samples were tested using the formalin-ether method. Then, S. stercoralis positive stool samples and 300 random samples were selected for molecular study. A set of primer pairs for conventional PCR was used in a PCR reaction to amplify the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (Cox1) gene. To confirm the results of PCR, positive samples were sent for sequencing. The sequence was compared with reference sequences from GenBank. Phylogenetic relationships of the Cox1 gene of S. stercoralis inferred by the maximum likelihood algorithm. According to our results, in the stool test with the formal ether method, 21 stool samples (0.95%) were found to be positive for S. stercoralis and 162 samples (38.7%) were positive for other parasites . All 21 positive samples were confirmed as S. stercoralis by PCR method. The sequence of the samples overlapped 99% with S. stercoralis in the Genbank. Our results showed that conventional PCR could detect all samples that were microscopically positive.

This research seeks to investigate the factors related to the nature of the organization and its role in brand identity. The research was conducted in the field of biological industry. Razi Institute is the leader of the vaccine industry in terms of a variety of products and production of more than 70% of the country's market needs and is a propitious case for studying this industry. The model from the results of the qualitative method was examined using the structural equation modeling method. Because of the exploratory nature of the model and the non-normal distribution of the variables, variance-based methods were employed to predict the results of the hypotheses. The statistical population consisted of 1,870 individuals including sales representatives, inoculation centers, and veterinarians. A 40-item questionnaire was distributed among 270 participants, with a response rate was 82%. The adequacy of this tool was confirmed using Bartlett's sphericity test. The variables of the model included 8 exogenous latent (independent) variables, 2 endogenous latent (dependent) variables, 2 moderating variables, and 1 mediating variable. A total of 15 hypotheses related to relationships between variables were examined in various internal and external model analysis tests. In the end, the hypotheses were checked through factor loadings and impact factors. The variables of the model with a coefficient of determination of 0.731 could predict the model at a close-to-strong level. The obtained fit (goodness-of-fit=0.593) showed that the model had high reliability and tested the hypotheses with 97% precision. Finally, while confirming the obtained model, relationships were measured in structural equations, and in the results, in addition to examining the hypotheses of its influence, it was also analyzed, and the reasons for its influence and its average were also seen based on each analytical variable.

In this study, the nano chitosan particles were produced by ionotropic gelation between sodium tripolyphosphate and chitosan. The effect of nano chitosan with or without sodium lactate coating was evaluated on physicochemical (pH, TBA, i.e., thiobarbituric acid, total volatile basic nitrogen and peroxide), microbial (total mesophilic and psychrotrophic viable counts, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, and molds) and sensorial properties of beef burgers within 24 days of storage at 4 ° C. The solutions of 1% nano chitosan (T1), 2% nano chitosan (T2), 2.5 % sodium lactate (T3), 1% nanochitosan +2.5 % sodium lactate (T4) and 2% nanochitosan+2.5% sodium lactate (T5) were used for the coating. The results showed the increment of microbial growth of all treatments during storage time while the T4 and T5 samples had the lowest microbial counts which shows the synergistic effect of sodium lactate and nano chitosan. The pH of all samples was in acidic to neutral status (5.48 - 7.15) and increased during 24 days of storage and the pH value of T4 and T5 samples increased with a lower slope. On the other side, the evaluation of peroxide and TBARS values exhibited that nano chitosan had more efficient preservative effect than sodium lactate and both of them in alone form had lower antioxidant activity than their combined form. Furthermore, among all treatments, T4 and T5 samples have the best sensorial scores. These results indicated that nano chitosan and sodium lactate have synergistic effect and can be effectively applied to expand the shelf life of beef burgers.

The Newcastle disease (ND) is among the most common and deadly poultry diseases worldwide. Thermostable Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccines have been used widely to protect village chickens against Newcastle disease, due to their decreased dependence on cold chain for transport and storage. The Newcastle Disease V4 Heat-Resistant (NDV4HR) vaccine is an Apathogenic heat-resistant live vaccine that can induce immunity in chickens. A total of 60 one-day-old Arain local hybrid broilers divided into three groups of 20. Group A had the usual vaccination program in broiler flocks (7 Days old: B1 type by eye drop+ ND Killed vaccine by IM; 18 and 28 days old: Lasota strain orally), group B did not receive any vaccine, and Group C received orally the NDV4HR vaccine six times from the first day to the 35th day of rearing. All groups were nasally challenged with acute Newcastle virus (genotype VIId) on the 35th rearing day. Regarding HI serum antibody titer of the birds after the challenge, group B had the highest (7.12 ± 1.05), and Group C (6.37 ± 1.31) had a higher titer than Group A (6 ± 1.22). After the challenge with the Newcastle virus, the necropsy findings and clinical symptoms of the disease were almost similar in groups A and C. Group B showed the most signs with higher casualties than other groups. Regarding weight gain, Group C had the most weight at the end of the study (2204 ± 106). On the second day after the challenge, groups A and B had virus shedding through the trachea and cloaca; however, group B shed the virus only through the trachea. Furthermore, on the 7th day after the challenge, group A shed the virus through the cloaca, and group B through the trachea and the cloaca. At the same time, there was no virus shedding in group C. This study showed that V4HR vaccine provokes an antibody response that protects the birds against virulent virus challenge.

Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) were one of the major initiatives under the National Rural Health Mission. These MMUs help in reaching the unreached. It helps people in remote, underserved areas to access healthcare at affordable prices at their doorstep. In this study, we aim to assess the morbidity profile of the patients attending Mobile Medical Unit camps in Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district between April 2022 to December 2022. This is a record-based study. MMU is run by department of Community and Family Medicine, AIIMS, Bibinagar in six selected villages of Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district. (Fig.1). A register is maintained for recording the details of patients visitingthe MMU camp. Patient’s name, age, gender, place, mobile number, height, weight, blood pressure (BP), glucometer based Random Blood Sugar (GRBS), diagnosis, and details of medication dispensed were entered in the register. Diabetes was diagnosed using the WHO criteria , hypertension using the Eighth Joint National Committee guidelines , obesity using the WHO Asia Pacific guidelines. Mobile Medical Unit camp data is entered into excel database at the end of every month. As it is a record-based analysis, we used data between April 7th 2022 to December 31st, 2022 for analysis. A total of 1494 patients were treated in the MMU camps during this period. Among them 89.4% were adults & 10.6 % were children (less than 18 years). Among 1336 adult patients, majority of the study participants suffered from osteoarthritis followed by non-communicable diseases. The mean systolic BP of the adult population was 131 (±21) mmHg and diastolic BP of the population was 77 (±13) mm Hg. The mean random blood glucose levelof the adult Population was 150 (±74) mg/dl. A total of 158 children were less than 18 years, out of which 78 participants were males and 80 participants were females. Majority suffered from upper respiratory tract infections among males (23.1%) and females (25%) respectively. The study further suggests that NCD epidemic is spreading to rural areas where necessary health infrastructure is insufficient. MMUs can bring a significant change in the public health system, which needs to re-orient its priorities.

In the present study, the mechanisms involved in scopolamine-induced memory impairment have been investigated. The molecular events that take place during memory mostly include mechanisms that are seen in the acquisition phase. Results show that one of the mechanisms of memory destruction caused by scopolamine, in addition to weakening the cholinergic system, is the indirect effect of scopolamine on other neurotransmitter systems, including the glutamatergic system. Scopolamine injection increases dopamine by inhibiting M2/4 muscarinic auto receptors. These auto receptors are located on dopaminergic presynaptic neurons, and their activation reduces the release of dopamine. Therefore, blocking these auto receptors by scopolamine can increase the release of dopamine. Both D1 and D2 receptors are involved in the process of learning and memory. In general, stimulation of dopamine D1 receptors follows an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve, meaning that both insufficient and excessive amounts of dopamine cause memory impairment. Therefore, one of the mechanisms of scopolamine-induced memory impairment can be an indirect effect on the dopaminergic system. Effect on cell membrane potential, effect on neuron plasticity and interaction with acetylcholine. Serotonin plays a complex role in memory and learning. Serotonin receptors (5-HT2A) also play a role in memory function through their effect on calcium transport. This action is similar to dopamine receptors and other G-protein-coupled receptors, which activate phospholipase C, enter calcium into the cell, and activate calcineurin. Activation of 5-HT2A receptors as well as 5-HT4 receptors by specific agonists of these receptors enhances LTP, which plays a very important role in memory. On the other hand, specific 5-HT3 receptor antagonist improves LTP. 5-HT6 receptor antagonist can improve memory function. Therefore, different serotonin receptors have different roles on memory function, and the interaction between scopolamine and these receptors needs further study. It has been shown that histamine increases the secretion of acetylcholine in the hippocampus and postsynaptic H1 and presynaptic H3 receptors play an important role in memory and learning, but whether scopolamine can cause memory impairment through interaction with histamine receptors, not reviewed.

Prolonged utilization of antiretroviral agents has been explicitly associated with nephrotoxicity, suggesting deterioration in renal function among patients receiving Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). The current investigation aimed to explore the therapeutic efficacy of resveratrol (RV) for the management of renal impairment resulting from antiretroviral drug toxins. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats weighing 70–90 g were divided into four groups and subjected to the following treatments: Control A (distilled water), B (HAART), C (RV-2.5 mg/kg), and D (RV- 2.5 mg/kg) + HAART. The assessment included renal histological examination; renal functional indicators such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen; serum electrolyte levels including sodium, chloride, potassium, and bicarbonate; and oxidative stress biomarkers such as malondialdehyde, catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase. The detrimental effects of HAART include adverse histological modifications, such as tubular atrophy, vacuolization, tubular granular degeneration, and abnormalities in glomerular capillaries. Compared to the other treatment cohorts, there were significant increases in the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), sodium, chloride, and malondialdehyde (MDA), while antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels were notably decreased. The renal structure remained predominantly unchanged following RV administration, exhibiting a degree of recovery in histological abnormalities. Visible improvements, including decreased inflammation, reduced necrosis, diminished vacuolization, and enhanced tubule and glomerular configuration, were also noted. Additionally, RV notably increased antioxidant enzyme levels (SOD, CAT, and GSH) and reduced BUN, serum creatinine, and MDA levels. RV helped mitigate structural abnormalities and kidney dysfunction induced by HAART, while improving kidney morphology. However, further investigation into these mechanisms is necessary.

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) has a variety of serotypes that cause many problems in the poultry industry. Two H120 and H120-D274 live vaccines were evaluated against strain IS/1494/06 (variant 2) infectious bronchitis virus challenge. The study aimed to determine whether it is possible to achieve success in controlling disease symptoms and pathological lesions and reducing virus shedding by combining two types of vaccines against different severities of the Poultry Infectious Bronchitis Virus. After random selection of 100 SPF chickens, four 25 chicks/group experimental groups were arranged in the H120 (IB-H120, Intervet®; Serial No: **** at 1st day + Booster 14th day + Challenged with IS/1494/06- 14 DPV), H120-D274 (Poulvac® IB Primer at 1st day + Booster 14th day + Challenged with IS/1494/06- 14 DPV), Control (No vaccine and No Challenge), and Challenged (No vaccine + Challenge). After euthanasia of the animals on the 42nd day of the research, serum neutralization (days 14, 28, and 42), ELISA (14 days after the booster vaccine and before challenged), Ciliostasis (7 days after the booster vaccine and seven days after challenged) and pathological lesion scores were evaluated on day 14 after being infected with IS/1494/06 type 2 strain (day 42). Also, the virus shedding was monitored by real-time RT-PCR. Infection with the IS/1494/06 variant2 strain showed high to moderate ciliostasis and pathologic scores. All groups that received the IB-H120-D274 vaccine had fewer lesions relatively. The IB-H120-D274 vaccinated groups showed the highest protection rates and high protection scores (70.3) compared to the IB-H120 vaccine groups (24.4). The virus shedding was significantly reduced in groups that received the H120-D274 vaccine compared to those that received the IB-H120 vaccine. In conclusion, the homologous IB-H120-D274 vaccine showed superior results compared to the IB-H120 vaccine.

Intestinal protozoan parasitic infections are considered one of the most frequent types of infection caused by these parasites and remain a major health problem for communities. This study aims to detect the frequency of intestinal protozoan infections infection among Zakho general population from October 2018 to June 2022. This study was performed as a cross-sectional study among 2118 patients referring to private medical diagnostic laboratories in Zakho City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Samples of faecal matter were collected and subjected to analysis using two different techniques: direct observation under the microscope (wet mount) and formalin-ether concentration methods. Morphological characteristics of trophozoites and cysts were used to identify E. histolytica using microscopical examination. Out of 2118 recruited samples, 1155 (54.53%) were male and 963 (45.47%) were female. The mean age of participants was 20.41 (±19.12) with ages ranging from 1-63 years. The overall prevalence of protozoan infections was 395/2118 (18.65%). Out of these, Entamoeba histolytica was the predominant pathogenic protozoa infection 271 (68.61%), followed by Giardia lamblia 100 (25.31%). A significant association was seen between Entamoeba histolytica and age groups (p=0.003) and gender (p=0.004). The highest infection rate was reported among the age group <15 years (55.72%). We also found a higher rate of Giardia infection among age group <15 years (46%) with significant differences (p=0.002) and a higher rate of Giardia seen in females (55%) with significant association (p=0.014). The frequency of Giardia lamblia and E. histolytica infections in our study was higher than other studies reported in Iraq and other countries, and these infections continue to pose a difficult public health issue and necessitate the implementation of stronger and more effective preventative measures.

Cancer as a threat to human life disease is considered by the disturbance of the normal cell cycle, which results in the spontaneous growth of cell growth, the lack of differentiation, and consequently malignant growths. Nowadays, various synthetic agents are applied for cancer therapy; nevertheless, the reports confirmed that these chemical agents are related to various adverse complications. This experimental study was designed to assess the anti-tumor activities of zinc nanoparticles (ZnNP) green synthesized by the Astragalus maximus against the Ehrlich solid tumors (EST) in mice. To induce the EST model, 0.2 ml of cell suspension was intramuscularly injected into the right thigh of the mice. Five-day post-injection, the mice were allocated into five groups (containing 8 mice/each group) including EST mice treated with normal saline, EST mice orally treated ZnNP 10 mg/kg/day, EST mice orally treated ZnNP 25 mg/kg/day, and EST mice orally treated ZnNP 50 mg/kg/day for 14 days. Then, the volume of the tumor, tumor growth inhibition, body weight, the tumor markers, oxidant/antioxidant markers, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha level (TNF-α), were assessed in tested mice. Our results showed that after the treatment of EST mice with CYC and ZnNPs at 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg, the volume of tumor and serum amount of tumor markers of AFP and CEA were significantly reduced (p<0.001). We found that ZnNPs at 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg markedly declined the oxidative markers and increased the level of antioxidant enzyme of SOD and GPx in comparison with the control group received normal saline (p<0.001). To conclude, we reported the unveiling of the anti-tumor activity of ZnNPs green synthesized by A. maximus extract mainly at the doses 50 mg/kg against Ehrlich solid tumors (EST) in mice; however, further supplementary studies are required to clear all anti-tumor aspects of these nanoparticles.

Gastrointestinal dysfunction is a severe and common complication in diabetic patients. Some evidence shows that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate contribute to diabetic gastrointestinal abnormalities. Hence, we examined the impact of prolonged treatment with insulin and magnesium supplement on the expression pattern of GABA type A (GABA-A), GABA-B and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors as well as nitric oxide synthase 1 (NOS-1) in the stomach of type 2 diabetic rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomized to 4 groups (6 rats each): 1) control, 2) type 2 diabetes: rats fed with a high fat diet for 3 months + low dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg), 3) type 2 diabetes + magnesium, and 4) type 2 diabetes + insulin. The expression of NOS-1 as well as GABA-A, GABA-B, and NMDA receptors was detected using western blotting. NOS-1 expression was substantially diminished (p<0.01) while the expression of GABA-A (p<0.001), GABA-B (p<0.001), and NMDA (p<0.001) receptors was enhanced in the stomach of diabetic rats relative to control. Treatment with magnesium and insulin improved NOS-1 expression in diabetic rats, although this effect was greater in magnesium treatment alone. Magnesium also restored the expression of GABA-A and GABA-B receptors in diabetic rats to control values. Moreover, insulin treatment improved GABA-A receptor expression in diabetic rats (p<0.05). No considerable alterations were detected in NMDA receptor level in the treatment groups. The results suggest a significant role of magnesium and insulin in improving gastric motility and secretory disorders associated with diabetes through modifying the expression of GABAergic receptors.

Serum levels of vitamin D (VD) are inversely correlated with the incidence or severity of COVID-19. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of inactivated COVID-19 virus (ICoV-19) immunization on vitamin D (VD) levels, as well as biochemical and hematological parameters in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. We randomly divided twenty rats into two groups of ten: the control group (Group I) and the ICoV-19-receiving group (Group II). We administered hydroxide aluminum (HA) and a single dose of ICoV-19 (107 TCID50 of the HB02 strain of COVID-19 virus) subcutaneously to rats in groups I and II, respectively. After three weeks (day 21), we administered booster doses to both groups. Blood samples were collected from the rats of both groups primarily for the experiment and 14 days after the second administration (35th day), and then samples were stored frozen until analysis. We found no significant differences in VD levels between the two groups on day 0, but on day 35, VD levels in group II rats had significantly decreased compared to group I rats (P<0.05). Additionally, group II rats had higher concentrations of fibrinogen, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), and lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH) than group I rats (P<0.05). Group II rats also showed a significant increase in neutrophils (N %) and neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio (N/L) after 35 days (P<0.05), while lymphocytes (L %) decreased. These findings suggest that vitamin D may play a role in preventing COVID-19 and be a potential candidate for managing and controlling of the disease.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a clinical syndrome which can observe because of acute and chronic liver disorders such as hepatitis, liver failure caused by alcohol or drugs, autoimmune diseases, metabolic diseases, cirrhosis, types of tumors and infections. We aimed to investigate the effects of different doses of β-myrcene on the improvement of hepatic encephalopathy caused by thioacetamide (TAC) in male rats. In order to induce liver failure and acute damage in the studied animals, thioacetamide was administered to rats with a dose 100 mg/kg of body weight as an intraperitoneal (IP) injection with 24 h intervals and for seven consecutive days. After oral treatment of rats with β-myrcene at doses of 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg/day for 7 days, the cerebral edema (brain water content, BWC), the serum level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT) and alkaline transferase (ALP), total protein (TP), bilirubin (TB), and ammonia as well as the level oxidant-antioxidant factors of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase enzymes (SOD) were evaluated. β-myrcene dose dependently reduced the BWC in Thioacetamide-induced acute hepatic encephalopathy in rats. Treatment of the TAC rats with β-myrcene especially at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg significantly (p<0.001) moderated the serum level of these liver enzymes and ammonia compared to the untreated TAC mice. The analysis of the obtained data revealed that the treatment of the TAC rats with β-myrcene especially at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg markedly (p<0.001) reduced the oxidative stress of MDA, whereas significantly (p<0.001) increased antioxidant enzymes of SOD, CAT, and GPx. Therefore, we can conclude that the treatment of the TAC rats with β-myrcene especially at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg markedly reduced the oxidative stress of MDA, whereas significantly increased antioxidant enzymes and subsequently improved the thioacetamide-induced acute hepatic encephalopathy in rats.

HIV, HBV, and HCV are known as the most common blood-borne viral infections worldwide. Individuals referring to drop-in centers (DICs) are considered as high-risk people exposed to infection with theses blood-borne viruses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections among women referred to DICs in the western province of Lorestan, Iran. During the present cross-sectional study, after obtaining informed consent and a questionnaire, two blood samples were collected from 118 women referred to Lorestan DICs to be evaluated for HIV, HBV, and HCV infections. Accordingly, the samples were first screened by using the most common serological methods, and then by Real Time-PCR to detect viral genomes. The results were analyzed using Chi-square statistical test and binary logistic regressions. Out of the studied 118 blood samples, 8 (6.8%), 4 (3.4%), and 10 (8.5%) subjects tested positive for HIV, HBV, and HCV infection, respectively. Furthermore, our study showed that 5 (4.2%) subjects were positive for HCV/HIV coinfection, and 3 (2.5%) cases for HBV/HCV coinfection. Moreover, our data revealed that incarceration and STDs were the most important risk factors for HIV (OR=15.27 (95% CI; 3.74 - 62.89); P value=0.01) and HBV (OR=16 (95% CI; 1.57 - 42.34); P value=0.018) infections, respectively. Our results suggest that women referring to DICs are at risk of infection with blood-borne viruses such as HIV, HBV, and HCV, due to risky behaviors. Thus, precise diagnostic testing and implementation of preventive methods against blood and sexually transmitted infections are urgent in these high-risk groups.

Alzheimer's is an advanced nervous disorder related to aging. This research aims to determine the effect of eight weeks of aerobic training and linalool, cineole, and β-Bourbonene on preventing and improving Alzheimer's disease. Mice randomly divided into 8 groups: Control group, Mice induced Alzheimer's disease treating with β-amyloid (Alzheimer group), Alzheimer's mice were treated with bioactive compounds of herbal medicine (Linalool with a concentration of 25 mg/kg, Cineol with a concentration of 100 mg/kg, β-Bourbonene with a concentration of 0.20 μg by gavage for 8 weeks, Alzheimer+Biocompounds group), Alzheimer's mice treated with aerobic exercise with a moderate intensity treadmill for 8 weeks (Alzheimer's+Training group), Alzheimer's mice treated with bioactive compounds of herbal medicine and aerobic exercise for 8 weeks (Alzheimer+Biocompounds+Training group), Healthy mice were first treated with the bioactive compounds of the herbal medicine, and then were induced with Alzheimer's (Biocompounds+Alzheimer group), Healthy mice were first treated with aerobic exercise using a treadmill with moderate intensity for 8 weeks and then induced Alzheimer's disease (Training+Alzheimer group), Healthy mice were first treated with the bioactive compounds of the herbal medicine and aerobic exercise for 8 weeks and then induced Alzheimer's disease (Biocompounds+Training+Alzheimer group). Compared to other groups, the IL1β/CASP3/PSEN1/APP level improved in mice first treated with aerobic exercise and biocompounds. Oxidative capacity was improved by exercise training and bioactive compounds. In addition, exercise training and bioactive compounds regulated the miRNA-210 in the hippocampus of the mice with Alzheimer's. We could conclude that consuming biocompounds and aerobic training can manage and prevent Alzheimer's.

The present experimental study was designed to evaluate the in vitro wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) green synthesized by the methanol extract Ferula macrecolea Boiss, as a plant with various pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects in traditional and modern medicine. The precipitation approach was used to green synthesis of CuNPs through mixing the methanol and copper sulfate solution. Cell viability and fibroblast proliferation assay were performed by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) assay. The migration abilities of fibroblasts cells were evaluated using a cell scratch in vitro wound healing assay. Effects of CuNPs on iNOS expression genes were also performed by Real-time PCR. In vitro antibacterial susceptibility test of CuNPs was carried out according to the standards protocol of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS). The analysis of SEM revealed that the green synthesized CNP exhibited a globular shape with a size ranging from 15-90 nm; while their majority were at 40-60 nm. The results of the MTT assay showed that the calculated CC50 value of green synthesized CuNPs was 236.3 μg/mL. The optimum concentrations of the CuNPs which were selected based on the 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) value; whereas dose-dependently increased the proliferation of fibroblast cells. The CuNPs dose-dependently increased the rate of wound closure after 16 and 24 h. The results of the Real-Time PCR showed that CuNPs causes an upregulation in expression level of gene of nitric oxide synthesis (iNOS) in RAW 264.7 cells. CuNPs showed the promising antimicrobial effects against S. aureus, S. epidermidis and Ps. aeruginosa. The present study showed the high potency of CuNPs green synthesized by F. macrecolea for wound healing through their antimicrobial, proliferation of fibroblast cells, and provoking iNOS.

Today, the current chemical agents for pain control have relatively many complications. They are associated with the occurrence of disorders in the digestive system, kidney damage, or addiction, which has caused people to find newer drugs that, in addition to removing side effects, are cheap and available. The present in vivo survey aimed to assess the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of Ferula elaeochytris Korovin methanolic extract (FEME) in male Swiss mice. After obtaining the methanolic extract through the maceration process, the antinociceptive efficacy of FEME at doses of 25 to 100 mg/kg was assessed by the tail-flick, hot-plate, and formalin tests. In addition, anti-inflammatory evaluation was performed by the Carrageenan-induced paw edema model. We found that in the tail-flick and hot plate test, FEME mainly at the dose of 100 mg/kg significantly reduced the latency time as well as better the time of the observance of licking or jumping in comparison with normal saline (P<0.001). We reported that FEME at 50, and 100 mg/kg considerably declined the pain behaviors in the acute and chronic phase in comparison with normal saline (p<0.001). FEME markedly (p < 0.05) declined paw edema in a dose- and time-dependent response, so a significant difference was observed in paw edema followed by treatment with FEME at 50 and 100 mg/kg (p<0.001). To conclude, this study reported the potent analgesic and inflammatory effects of F. elaeochytris methanolic extract to control peripheral and central pain. However, additional experiments are mandatory to clear the accurate mechanisms of action of this plant.

AbstractScorpion stings pose a significant public health concern in Iran, resulting in approximately 45,000-50,000 cases and 19 deaths annually. Scorpions, belonging to the Arachnida class, are venomous arthropods found in all continents except Antarctica. They are of particular concern in tropical and subtropical regions. The Khuzestan and Hormozgan provinces have the highest reported incidence, with an estimated 36,000 cases each year. This study focused on modeling the time series data of scorpion stings specifically in Shoushtar city from 2017 to 2022. Our objective was to investigate the presence of seasonality and long-term trends in the incidence of scorpion stings by utilizing advanced analytical techniques such as the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. We applied the Seasonal ARIMA model to fit a univariate time series of scorpion sting incidence. This study revealed a significant seasonal trend and an overall increase and decrease in scorpion sting cases during the study period. The best-fitting model for the available data was a seasonal ARIMA model in the form of ARIMA (0,0,1) (1,1,1)12. This model can forecast the frequency of scorpion sting cases in Southwestern Iran over the next two years. As a result, Time series analysis can provide valuable insights into the patterns and trends of Scorpion sting incidents, allowing for better planning and allocation of healthcare resources. By understanding the seasonal variations, proactive measures can be implemented to address the growing issue of Scorpion stings in Iran effectively.Keywords: Scorpion stings; Time series analysis; ARIMA modeling; Box Jenkins model; Southwestern Iran

Lipases belong to a class of triacylglycerol hydrolases possessing a lot of potential applications due to their various physical properties. Most of the lipase producers are extracellular in nature are produced using solid-state fermentation and submerged fermentation methods. The fungal, mycelial, and the yeast lipases are produced using various solid substrates through solid-state fermentation method. This method is cost effective and hence widely used in industries to produce lipase using fungi. Whereas lipases from bacteria, were produced using submerged fermentation. The optimization of media is a main requirement for increasing the quantitative yield by overproduction of enzymes. The optimization of media is a main requirement for increasing the quantitative yield by overproduction of enzymes. Different parameters such as pH, temperature, agitation speed, inoculum size, incubation time, carbon and nitrogen sources have been of great importance for the researchers to design economical media. The OFAT is a one-dimensional approach that is laborious and time-consuming and does not consider interactions between the factors. The limitations of OFAT method can be reduced by employing techniques such as Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). The PBD is a method to screen the variables that influence the production and remove the non-significant factors to attain a lesser and manageable set of factors. Subsequently, the chosen significant factors are optimized by RSM that assists to study the interactions of different factors. The RSM comprises of central composite design (CCD) to fit a second-order polynomial equation. In this study, the effect of temperature, tryptone, inoculum size and incubation time on the lipase production were analysed by Plackett-Burman design screening experiments. The experiments were designed using four variable Central composite design of RSM using Design Expert software. This model predicted optimal activity of lipase of 58.53 U/mL at 1.5% tryptone, 10 mL inoculum size, incubated for 48 hrs at 34℃. This experiment was further validated and optimal activity of lipase of 57.85 U/mL was observed. Thus, RSM model enhanced the production of lipase and can be applied for the maximum yield of lipase.

The present study was conducted from December 2021 until April 2023 at the College of Health and Medical, Al-Bayan University, Iraq, in Baghdad province, to detect the infection of Toxoplasma gondii in humans and identification by serological methods. Field studies were conducted from 1500 sera samples from hospitals and private medical laboratories. The sera samples were separated and examined by indirect ELISA IgG for the human kit to detect the infection with Toxoplasma gondii serologically. The serological results showed that 62% were positive. The present study recorded a high rate of infection in pregnant women at 70.4% (526/747) and then non-pregnant women at 53.6% (404/753). The serological results in males showed 57%, while the females showed 65.1%. It was noted non-significant difference. According to age groups 30-39 years, the high rate of infection was 90.2% (415/460), whereas the lowest infection among age groups < 20 years was 25.1% (83/330). However, serologically tested sera samples were positive for Echinococcus granuloses; 7.8% of 192 sera samples from humans were tested. Regarding the age group, the rate of infection was 10.2% (5\49) from <20 and >29 years, while from >30 to >39 years was 6.6% (3\45) and >40 years was 14% (7\50) with a high significant difference with Echinococcus. According to gender, the percentage of infestation in males was 5.7% out of (6\104) sera samples, while in females was 10.2% out of (9\88) sera samples with a highly significant difference (P≤0.01). Finally, regarding the months, the peak infection rate was recorded in March.

In this case report, we present a 63-year-old man with a history of diabetes mellitus and kidney transplantation who was diagnosed with nasal myiasis. The patient presented with symptoms of nasal myiasis infestation, including epistaxis, nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, and the presence of larvae. The patient had risk factors for poor wound healing, such as hyperglycemia, and the presence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and kidney transplantation indicated the presence of predisposing factors for myiasis. The myiasis was observed subsequent to the traumatic insertion of a nasogastric tube. The patient exhibited symptoms of myiasis infestation in the nasal region, including epistaxis, nasal obstruction, and nasal discharge, along with the presence of larvae. Our findings highlight the occurrence of nasal myiasis in a patient with a complex medical history, and emphasize the need for clinicians to remain vigilant for this infection. After the insertion of the nasogastric (NG) tube, 3-5 mm cream-colored larvae were removed from his nose, mouth, and eyes. Despite continued medical treatment the patient died 48 hours after removing the larvae.Axial CT scan showed no mucosal thickening, and T1 weighted cervical MRI showed no abnormal signal intensity, except for spondylopathy and modic changes. Diffusion Weighted-MRI (DWI) revealed no abnormal signal in the brain parenchyma. Our findings highlight the importance of clinicians being vigilant for nasal myiasis in patients with predisposing risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus and kidney transplantation. Managing nasal myiasis can be challenging, particularly in patients with multiple conditions. The management of nasal myiasis can be challenging, particularly in patients with multiple comorbidities.