Archives of Razi Institute
Volume:76 Issue: 6, Nov-Dec 2021

This study described the interactions of different nutritional components with the immune system. A detailed search was carried out on Google Scholar and PubMed databases to find out the relevant research studies using different keywords, such as "Nutrients", "Micronutrients", and "Immune system and micronutrients". Only those papers that discussed the interactions between nutrients and the components of the immune system were included in the study. This research outlined the impact of different vitamins, trace elements or metals, amino acids, and fatty acids on different immune system components. It was found that vitamins, such as vitamin A, D, and C, tend to help immune cell differentiation and enhance the expression of different cytokines. Vitamins also contribute to the proliferation of T and B cells and impact the production of white blood cells. Similarly, trace elements or metals act as enzyme cofactors and control different immune response cycles by controlling the expression of cytokines, chemokines, and other signaling molecules. Moreover, different essential and non-essential amino acids play important roles in immune system development as they are primarily involved in protein synthesis. Amino acids, such as arginine, glutamine, and alanine, modulate the expression of cytokines and also control the migration and transmigration capabilities of macrophages. They also enhance the phagocytic properties of macrophages and neutrophils. In a similar way, fatty acids act as anti-inflammatory agents since they can decrease the expression of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) and MHC-II. Furthermore, they inhibit the secretion of different inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, all the components of our daily diet are associated with the development of the immune system, and understanding their interactions is important for future immune therapies and drug development.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) or goat plague is considered a leading, highly contagious, and most lethal infectious viral disease of small ruminants affecting the worldwide livestock economy and international animal trade. Although sheep and goats are the primarily affected, the PPR Virus (PPRV) host range has expanded to other livestock (large ruminants) and wildlife animals over the last few decades, resulting in serious concern to the ongoing PPR global eradication program, which is primarily optimized, designed, and targeted towards accessible sheep and goat population. A systematic review and meta-analysis study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and spill-over infection of PPRV in large ruminants (bovine and camel) and wildlife. Published articles from 2001 to October 2021 on the "PPR" were searched in four electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Science direct, and Google Scholars. The articles were then selected using inclusion criteria (detection/prevalence of PPRV in bovine, camel, and wildlife population), exclusion criteria (only sheep or goats, lack of prevalence data, experimental trial, test evaluation, and reviews written in other languages or published before 2001), and the prevalence was estimated by random effect meta-analysis model. In the current study, all published articles belonged to Africa and Asia. The overall pooled prevalence of PPR estimates was 24% (95% CI: 15-33), with 30% in Asia (95% CI: 14-49) and 20% in Africa (95% CI: 11-30). The overall estimated pooled prevalence at an Africa-Asia level in bovine and camel was 13% (95% CI: 8-19), and in wildlife, it was 52% (95% CI: 30-74) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 97%) in most pooled estimates with a high prevalence in atypical hosts and wildlife across Asia and Africa. Over the last two decades, the host range has increased drastically in the wildlife population, even for prevalent PPR in the unnatural hosts only for a short time, contributing to virus persistence in multi-host systems with an impact on PPR control and eradication program. This observation on the epidemiology of the PPRV in unnatural hosts demands appropriate intervention strategies, particularly at the livestock-wildlife interface.

Citrobacter freundii is one of the most important nosocomial opportunistic pathogens, which causes sepsis, as well as different gross and histopathological lesions in various internal organs in humans and animals, especially dogs and fish. This study aimed to investigate the hematological parameters, immunological responses, and pathological effects of the infection induced by the virulent strain of C. freundii on rabbits. A total of 42 rabbits (local breed; male and female), with a mean weight of 1.5-2 kg, were housed under controlled environmental conditions (20±2°C, 14:10 h light: dark cycle) and allowed ad libitum access to food and water. After two weeks of adaption, the rabbits were divided randomly into three groups of 14 animals per group. Group one (G1) received 3×108 CFU/ml of the virulent isolate (intraperitoneally [IP]) of C. freundii. Group two (G2) was injected subcutaneously (SC) with 3×108 CFU/ml of the virulent strain of C. freundii, while group three was IP injected with phosphate buffer saline and considered a negative control group. Results showed the variable gross pathological effects which included hemorrhage, edema, and congestion of visceral organs. Furthermore, the microscopic lesions showed pneumonia due to inflammatory cells infiltration, mainly neutrophils, macrophages, plasmacytes, and lymphocytes, severe interstitial and intra-alveolar edema, extensive pulmonary hemorrhage, emphysema, and atelectasis. The recorded data from the liver samples revealed hepatitis which was characterized by perivascular and periportal leukocyte cuffing, marked centrilobular with periportal necrosis, extensive hepatic edema, and periportal edema in addition to extensive fibrosis in interlobular septa and periportal fibrosis with severe interstitial hemorrhage. In the kidneys, there were severe renal edema, mixed inflammatory exudation, mainly neutrophils, macrophages, plasmacytes, lymphocytes, fibroblast infiltration in renal parenchyma and renal cortex, extensive renal hemorrhage, edema, as well as fibrosis and severe renal tubular necrosis. In addition, enteritis appeared in the intestine with mucosal edema, especially in lamina propria; moreover, necrosis of entire villi, epithelial necrosis, mucosal and submucosal hemorrhage, and fibrosis were observed. The present study revealed a significant increase in total leukocytes count and the concentration of TNF-α in the infected groups. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is considered the first attempt aimed to detect the pathological effects of C. freundii on visceral organs in rabbits. It is concluded that this bacterium could induce a significant pathological, hematological, and immunological changes in the infected animals.

Tween 80 is a well-known non-ionic emulsifier which is used in pharmaceutical and food industries. Due to its widespread applications it is needed to understand how it affects bacteria. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of Tween 80 on the fatty acid content of bacteria.  Three bacterial isolates were used in this study: two isolates of Serratia marcescens and one isolate of Acinetobacter baumannii. The analysis of fatty acid components of bacterial lipids was performed, followed by the assessment of the effect of Tween 80 on fatty acid content by adding it to the culture medium in three concentrations: 0.1%, 0.5% , and 1.0 % .The results indicated that the Tween 80 has the ability to change the fatty acid content present in these bacteria by the appearance and disappearance of three fatty acids, including Elaidic acid 18.1 trance 9, Oleic acid 18.1 cis 9, and erucic acid 22.1, which belong to Mono-Unsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA), in the presence of different concentrations of Tween 80.  The results also demonstrated that the p-value was significant in two situations, the first belonged to S. marcescens at 0.5 % concentration for all groups of FAs (Saturated fatty acids, Monounsaturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids), and the second was for S. marcescens just in MUFA in all concentrations of Tween 80.

Mastitis is a complex and multifactorial disease that leads to chemical, physical, and bacteriological changes in milk, which is associated with great economic losses. This study was carried out on lactating cows to investigate the effect of subclinical mastitis (SCM) on milk production through the estimation of immunological and biochemical characteristics of milk. Therefore, a total of 200 apparently-healthy lactating cows were randomly selected from different areas in Baghdad and Maysan provinces in Iraq from April to July 2021, and 100 ml of fresh milk was directly collected from each cow. Milk samples were examined by the California mastitis test (CMT), and IgG concentration in milk was estimated by the ELISA method. Moreover, the changes in biochemical parameters and enzymatic parameters were analyzed to determine the prevalence of SCM. Based on the results of the CMT test, the prevalence of SCM was 41.5% with a significant increase in a mild degree of severity (61.45%). IgG antibodies increased significantly in positive cows (4.92± 0.21 µg/ml). Significant prevalence of infection was observed among cows ≥5 years old compared to those <5 years, crossbred ones compared to natives, and those with lower milk production without udder/milk abnormalities, compared to cows with normal milk production. However, a significant difference was observed between the two regions under investigation (i.e., Baghdad and Maysan provinces of Iraq). Results of biochemical and enzymatic parameters showed significant increases in the concentration of Cl, FFA, and Na, and a reduction in LAC and TP, though not in Ca and K. The pH of mastitis milk was significantly higher. Although no significant difference was observed in the values of ALT and LDH, AST was increased in mastitis milk. In conclusion, this study is one of the first reports on the estimated concentration of IgG in mastitis milk samples in Iraq. Increases in the concentration of SSCs and IgG in milk can apply to the detection of intra-mammary infections.

Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease) is a remitting and relapsing disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In the intestine, homeostasis between repair and signaling of the proinflammatory of the immune system is needful for the upkeep of intestinal balance. The recent evidence has highlighted the dysfunction of the immune system, particularly toll-like receptors (TLRs)-mediated immune system dysfunction, in the ulcerative colitis pathogenesis. The main objective of the current study was to analyze the expression level of TLR5 at the mRNA in ulcerative colitis patients and investigate the impacts of the TLR5 gene as genetic factors that contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis. The paraffin-embedded blocks were retrospectively collected from 25 patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and 25 cases with normal colonic tissue. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction method was employed for the estimation of TLR5at the mRNA level. The analysis of the data of TLR5 gene expression revealed that the expression of this gene is downregulated in ulcerative colitis cases, as compared to that in normal colonic tissue. As evidenced by the results of this study, TLR5 may play a role in the development of ulcerative colitis; therefore, it should be introduced in the management of ulcerative colitis.

A comprehensive investigation into drug candidates with nootropic activity using a proper and high throughput yet economical model organism is an important issue to consider. This proof-of-concept study was carried out to determine whether Drosophila melanogaster can be used as an in vivo screening platform to assess the nootropic activity of certain candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. To test this, caffeine was used as a nootropic compound and a Drosophila mutant line lacking PGRP-LB with hyperactivation of NF-κB leading to early death with neurodegenerative phenotype was used as a model organism. Caffeine was orally administered via food to the PGRP-LB mutant of D. melanogaster at different concentrations (0.4 mM, 0.08 mM, 0.016 mM) prior to phenotypical observations of the survival and locomotor activity, as well as gene expression analysis, to assess the expression level of sod1, sod2, and cat genes. The results pointed out that the lifespan of D. melanogaster treated with 0.016 mM caffeine was dramatically increased; nonetheless, no changes were observed in the locomotor activity. Phenotypical analysis using a T-maze vial test demonstrated a good cognitive improvement in response to caffeine administration. Molecular analysis revealed that caffeine at a concentration of 0,016 mM induced the expression of the endogenous antioxidant genes sod1 and cat, but not sod2, signifying that the increased lifespan may be associated with a marked improvement in cytoplasmic antioxidant function. In general, the findings of the present study are in line with those previously observed in the mammalian model organism. Therefore, it can be concluded that D. melanogaster can be used as a model organism in preliminary investigation and screening of nootropic candidates prior to further testing in its mammalian counterparts.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can cause infections in both human and animal groups, which is a serious threat to public health worldwide. Attachment and colonization are the first steps for S. aureus pathogenesis, and biofilm-mediated infections have a significant negative impact on human and animal health. The MRSA can adapt to different environments and give rise to different strains of human and animal MRSA, causing transmissions of the disease between humans and animals. This study aimed to investigate biofilm production in vitro, and the presence of icaABCD genes in MRSA isolates in both human as well as the disease transmission between human and animal strains. In total, 39 human and 35 livestock isolates were evaluated by the Congo Red Agar method. The presence of mecA and icaABCDR genes were assessed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and finally, the PCR products were examined by agarose gel electrophoresis. The results showed that the mecA gene frequency in human and animal isolates was 64.1% and 36.1%, respectively, and there was a significant relationship between mecA and icaAD in human isolates. In addition, significant relationships were found between icaA and Rifampicin and also between icaC and Chloramphenicol and Penicillin in human isolates. In animal isolates, there was a significant relationship between mecA and Trimethoprim as well as between icaR and Rifampicin. It was concluded that all operon ica genes were involved in biofilm production, but icaA and icaD genes in MRSA were more closely associated with mecA. Both animal and human strains can be involved in disease transmission, but this conclusion should be made cautiously.

The current study aimed to isolate and identify the bacteria associated with burn wounds and investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern against a group of most commonly prescribed antibiotics. In total, 105 burn wound swabs were collected from burn patients admitted to the burn unit of Al-Sadr Teaching Hospital in Misan City, Iraq. The swabs had been cultured on different media; the colonies were diagnosed based on the phenotypic and culture characteristics. The bacteria were identified through cultural characters and Gram staining diagnosed by VITEK® 2 Compact Automated Systems. In total, there were nine distinct bacterial isolations, of which, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common pathogen [20%] followed by Staphylococcus aureus [17.14%], Enterobacter spp.[16.19%], Proteus vulgaris [13.33%], Proteus mirabilis [10.47%], Escherichia coli [7.6%], Klebsiella pneumoniae [6.6%], and at last, Staphylococcus lentus and Aeromonas sobria, which had the same percentage [4.7%].Most isolates showed high resistance to Tobramycin, Trimethoprim, Cephalothin, and Imipenem while isolates mostly had high susceptibility to Amikacin, Cefotaxime, and Ciprofloxacin. Wound burn infection still represents a serious problem for burn patients with many bacteria developing different degrees of resistance to most known antibiotics.

The continuing bacterial contamination in hospitals operating units and theaters has an important role in the spread of hospital infections. The current study evaluated the level of bacterial contamination in the operating theatres at Al-Hussein Teaching Hospital in Al-Samawah, Iraq. For the purpose of sample collection from surgical equipment surfaces, the swab plate method conducted by nurses and laboratory workers was used to collect the samples in the operating theater. The samples were then transferred to the laboratory unit for diagnosis by standard methods. The present study found different rates among operating theatres. According to bacterial contamination rate, especially for the operating theatre in emergency wings with 334 contaminated isolates, the highest rates of contaminated bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis (n=171; 26.1%), Bacillus species (spp.) (n=118; 18%), S. aureus (n=111; 16.9%), Klebsiella spp. (n=92; 14%), Enterobacter spp. (n=82; 12.5%), P.aurogenosa (n=24; 3.7%), and Escherichia coli (n=23; 3.7%). Despite the use of all methods of sterilization among the hospital wards, especially the surgical halls in the hospital wards, bacterial contamination is still widespread among these units. It was noted that the bacteria isolated in this study posed a risk as pathogenic bacteria.

Campylobacter is a major public health problem, leading to foodborne diarrhea in the world. The current study aimed to isolate Campylobacter in different sources of poultry and determine antimicrobial susceptibility. A total of 150 fecal and 29 cloacal swabs were obtained from poultry farms (84 cloacal swabs) and live bird markets (LBMs), respectively, and 37 cecal swabs were also acquired from a local slaughterhouse located in the middle Euphrates region. Campylobacter Species (spp.) was first isolated and characterized by conventional bacteriological methods. Secondly, the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates was investigated by disc diffusion method. The overall prevalence of Campylobacter spp. isolated from fecal cloacal and cecal poultry samples was 24% (36 out of 150). All strains were resistant to Nalidixic acid and Ciprofloxacin (100%), with high resistance to Tetracycline (88.8%), Ampicillin (83.3%), Sulpha/Trimethoprim (80.5%), Erythromycin (50%), and Ceftriaxone (50%), but less resistant to Gentamicin (30.5%), Amoxi-Clav (27.7%), and Chloramphenicol (22.2%). The majority of isolates (97.2%) scored a multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index of 0.3 or more, and 35 (97.2%) isolates were resistant to three or more antibiotic classes. Particularly, 61.1% of the isolates were multidrug resistance (MDR), 36.1% of the isolates were extensively drug resistant, and 2.8% of the isolates were Pan drug resistant. Moreover, the current study detected 24 multiple resistance patterns from 36 isolates of Campylobacter spp., and most of the isolates (27 out of 36) displayed an important route of resistance to Nalidixic acid, Ciprofloxacin, and Tetracycline. Based on the results, increased resistance rates to commonly used antibiotics in Campylobacter were recovered from poultry farms, LBMs, and local slaughterhouses. The majority of strains were MDR to commonly used antimicrobials with elevated MAR indices, requiring implementation of a national strategy to improve husbandry practice and the effective use of antibacterial agents, alternatives, and vaccines.

Pertussis (whooping coughalso called100-day cough) is an extremely infectious bacterial illness caused by Bordetella pertussis. B. pertussis spreads by coughs and sneezes of sick patients. The present study aimed to investigate the pertussis incidence, and thereafter, decide whether it is necessary to import a vaccine for this disease in Anbar province, Iraq. This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed by using the electronic archives of Pertussis patients in Anbar Governorate hospitals during a period of 10 years from 2009 to 2019. The incidence rate of pertussis has been calculated by dividing the annual cases number of infections by the size of the population at risk multiplied by 100,000. From 608 patients with pertussis registered at Anbar province hospitals, 315 (51.8%) and 293 (48.2%) of them were males and females, respectively, with an average age of 11.1±3 years old. The incidence rates of pertussis in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 were 0.014, 2.770, 1.427, 1.375, 3.421, 0.228, 0.00, 0.00, 21.321, 4.242, 0.604 in 100,000 people per year. The annual incidence ratio was 13.620/100,000 people per year. There was no statistically significant difference between males and females (P-value =0.130). There was one peak in the annual incidence rate of pertussis from 2009-2019 which happened in 2017. Lack of pertussis incidence during 2015-2016 was due to population displacement. Incidence of pertussis was more prevalent in the age group of 1-4 years old, compared to the1-year-old group. The incidence of pertussis decreased sharply during the last 2 years in Anbar province.

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an intracellular protozoan parasite that multiplies within the host cell and causes the disease toxoplasmosis. T. gondii is distributed worldwide and is capable of infecting almost all warm-blooded animals. The current study was conducted in several urban and rural regions in AL-Najaf province of Iraq from September 2020 to April 2021. In total, 190 blood samples were collected and screened for T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using Rapid Diagnostic immunochromatographic test and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These two tests were performed on 5 ml of blood samples. The results of the ICT test showed that 80 (42.1%) samples were positive for IgG; however, no IgM positive sample was recorded. The results of ELISA revealed that 27 (33.7%) and 4 (5%) samples were positive for T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. The estimated incidence of toxoplasmosis increased significantly in the 21-30 years age group and females (P<0.05), compared to other groups. The wide prevalence of toxoplasmosis was observed in Iraq, especially in Najaf province, which was reflected in the results of the study after taking random samples from different places with no symptoms of the disease. Therefore, all members of the community should undergo periodic examinations to diagnose possible infection through the most accurate tests.

Enhancement of the production and productivity in animals is possible by improving the environment and changing the genetic structure of the herd which is done through selection. The present study aimed to investigate the efficiency of using genetic resources in the population of South-Kazakh merino sheep breed to improve and enhance the quality of wool productivity by determining a combination of phenotypic traits, morphobic and chemical parameters, as well as immunogenetic factors. Wool productivity was studied and accounted for by cutting each animal's wool during the period of shearing with an accuracy of 0.1 kg. At the age of 14 months, samples of wool were taken from 10 ewes of each group to study the yield of pure wool using physical and technological indicators. The value of reproducibility coefficients was determined by conducting correlation analysis. The value was estimated from 0.439 to 0.871 and 0.331 to 0.776 for the live weight and wool cutting, respectively. The number of woolens per 1 mm2 of skin positively correlated with pure wool cutting (0.276±0.135) and woolliness factor (0.293±0.134), while it negatively correlated with the live weight of sheep (-0.055±0.140), staple length (-0.146±0.139), and toner wool (-0.180±0.138). This negative correlation implies that the most densely woolly sheep will not necessarily have a breeding advantage for the herd improvement on a combination of signs. However, the outstanding wool density as a separate indicator of sheep woolen productivity has a great breeding advantage; therefore, in the merino population, it is necessary to create a small factory line of sheep with a very large wool density. A variety of sheep productivity indices in each age had a high correlation with a variety of maximum productivity levels of animals bred in the conditions of "Batay-Shu" LLP.

On the genetic improvement of animals, the need for decision-making takes place at the strategic, tactical, and operational levels. At the strategic level, this means defining a breeding goal, selecting a breeding system (selection or crossbreeding), as well as crossbreeding patterns, breeds, and lines. The current study aimed to analyze the breeding and genetic parameters of the dairy cattle in the Republic of Kazakhstan and introduce modern methods for assessing the breeding value of domestic and imported breeds of dairy cows. Research data were collected from primary zootechnical and breeding accounting (from the information and analytical system [IAS]), as well as experimental studies, visual assessment, measurements, and control milking of animals. In addition, biochemical studies of milk were conducted in this study. All animals were in the same conditions of feeding. The average milk yield per cow was 5,712±97 kg, with an average fat content of 3.83±0.02%, protein content of 3.28±0.01%, with the content of 339.6±54 thousand somatic cells. However, these data are obtained based on quarterly quality indicators of milk (fat content, protein, and the number of somatic cells), which raises doubts about the reliability of the results. It was found that the average index of the total estimated breeding value (EBV) for all breeds was 81. Among all breeds, the highest EBV was estimated at 84 in the Holstein cows (imported to the country).

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) has been widely employed as a model to study multiple sclerosis (MS). Interleukin-27 (IL-27) inhibits Th17 activity and breaks the normal activity of effector T cells which cause autoimmunity. Bee venom (BV) has been used as a form of medicine from the time of ancient Greece and China. BV and BV-derived active components might have potent therapeutic effects on refractory immunological and neurodegenerative diseases, such as MS. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Iranian honey bee venom on the progression of EAE in mice. Initially, EAE  was induced in 12 female C57BL/6 mice through immunization with an emulsion of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35-55 (MOG35-55) in Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), followed by administration of pertussis toxin (PTx) in phosphate buffer. Following the appearance of clinical signs, the mice were treated intraperitoneally with BV.  Histopathological and immunological studies were investigated, and EAE was induced in animals within 9-14 days. Results revealed a significant reduction in IL-27 levels following EAE induction in mice. However, BV-treated mice showed a significant increase in IL-27, compared to controls. Histopathology results revealed that the number of inflammatory cells was reduced in the brain parenchyma following BV treatment. Based on the results obtained in the present study, BV may be a suitable candidate for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as MS.

The present study aimed to assess the probable impact of the central histaminergic and melanocortin systems on leptin-induced hypophagia in neonatal layer chickens. In experiment 1, the chickens received intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections of the control solution, 250 nmol of α-FMH, 10 µg of leptin, and α-FMH+leptin. Experimental groups 2-8 were injected the same as experiment 1. Nonetheless, the chickens in experiments 2-8 received ICV injections of 300 nmol of chlorpheniramine (H1 receptor antagonist), 82 nmol of famotidine (H2 receptor antagonist), 300 nmol of thioperamide (H3 receptor antagonist), 0.5 nmol of SHU9119 (M3/M4 receptors antagonist), 0.5 nmol of MCL0020 (M4 receptor antagonist), 30 µg of astressin-B (CRF1/ CRF2 receptors antagonist), and 30 µg of astressin2-B (CRF2 receptor antagonist), instead of α-FMH, respectively. Food was provided for the birds immediately following the injection, and 30, 60, and 120 min after the injection, cumulative food intake (g) was measured. The findings pointed out that the ICV injection of leptin diminished food intake in neonatal chickens (P<0.05). The co-administration of M3/M4 receptor antagonist+leptin significantly decreased the hypophagic effect of leptin (P<0.05). A significant decrease was also detected in the hypophagic effect of leptin following the co-administration of the M4 receptor antagonist and leptin (P<0.05). Moreover, the co-injection of the antagonists of CRF1/CRF2 receptors and leptin significantly mitigated the hypophagic effect of leptin (P<0.05). The co-injection of CRF2 receptor antagonist and leptin led to a decrease in the hypophagic effect of leptin. As evidenced by the results of the current study the hypophagic effect of leptin is mediated by the receptors of H1, H3, M3/M4, and CRF1/CRF2 in neonatal layer chicken.

The present current study aimed to assess the protective effect of the aqueous extract of Laurus noboilis L. leaves against the toxic effects of aluminum chloride on liver tissue. A number of 36 male albino rats (Wistar) were randomly assigned to six groups (n=6) and treated for 30 days: Group 1 was regarded as the control group, Group 2 received Aluminum Chloride 90 mg/kg body weight orally by gavage, Group3: normal rats received aqueous extracts of Lurus Nobilis L. leaf  150 mg/kg body weight, Group 4: normal rats received aqueous extracts of Lurus Nobilis L. leaf 200 mg/kg body weight, Group 5: normal rats received aqueous extracts of Lurus Nobilis L. leaf 150 mg/kg body weight after a period of 4 h following treatment by Aluminum Chloride 90 mg/kg body weight, Group 6: normal rats received aqueous extracts of Laurus nobilis L. 200 mg /kg after a period of 4 h following treatment by Aluminum chloride with 90 mg/kg body weight. All the experimental animals were sacrificed, and sections of their liver were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin for histological evaluations. Moreover, the liver enzymes and immune cytokines, such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were measured. As evidenced by the results of the current study, treatment with aqueous extract of Lurus Nobilis L. leaves at a dose of 150 and 200 mg/kg body weight orally contributed to the mitigation of the toxic effects of Aluminum Chloride in albino rats by reducing the damage and inflammation in the hepatocytes. The study suggested that the aqueous extract of Lurus Nobilis L. enhances the protective effect against liver toxicity.

One of the main causes of acute kidney injury is ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI). Inflammatory response, apoptotic damages, and oxidative stress-related injuries are all involved in the pathogenesis of IRI. Toll-like receptors (TLR) are strongly associated with IRIs, especially TLR4, which is markedly induced in response to IRI. Accordingly, the current study aimed to investigate the potential renoprotective effect of ultrapure lipopolysaccharide from Rhodobacter sphaeroides (ULPS-RS) at two doses in an animal model of bilateral IRI. A total of 30 adult male rats were divided randomly into five equal groups of control (laparotomy plus bilateral renal IRI), vehicle (same as the control group, but pretreated with the vehicle), sham (laparotomy only), ULPS-RS (same as the control group, but pretreated with 0.1 mg/kg of ULPS-RS), and ULPS-RSH (same as the control group, but pretreated with 0.2 mg/kg of ULPS-RS). Subsequent to 30 min of ischemia and 2 h of reperfusion, serum samples were collected for measuring urea, creatinine, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin. Afterward, tissue samples were obtained from all animals to measure inflammatory mediators (interleukin 6, interleukin 1β, and tumor necrosis factor α), oxidative stress marker (8-isoprostane), apoptosis mediators (B cell lymphoma 2 [Bcl2]), and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax). In the control group, all of the measured parameters were significantly elevated in response to IRI, except for Bcl2, which decreased significantly. On the other hand, exactly opposite effects were observed in the ULPS-RS treated groups indicating the nephroprotective effect of this compound against IRI at both tested doses. The findings reveal for the first time that ULPS-RS has the therapeutic potential of attenuating the renal dysfunction induced by IRI.

The current experiment aimed to assess the effect of the synthetic antioxidants ethoxyquin (EQ) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) on the liver function tests, hematological parameters, and liver histoarchitecture in rats. A total of 50 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups of 10 animals per group. The first group served as the control and did not receive any treatments, and the second group served as the vehicle control and was orally administrated 1 ml of corn oil day after day for consecutive 45 and 90 days. The third group (EQ) was orally administered 1 ml of EQ dissolved in corn oil day after day for consecutive 45 and 90 days in a dose of 1/5 LD50, and the fourth group (BHT) was orally received 1 ml of BHT dissolved in corn oil day after day for consecutive 45 and 90 days in a dose of 1/5 LD50. The fifth group (combination group) was orally administered both EQ and BHT at the same doses and durations described above. The present results showed that the final body weight was significantly decreased in the EQ- or BHT-treated group particularly at 90 days of exposure to both compounds.  Furthermore, the liver weight was significantly elevated in EQ, BHT, and co-exposed groups at 45 and 90 days of exposure, compared to the control group. Moreover, EQ, BHT, and their co-exposure caused a significant elevation in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes, as well as total bilirubin at 45 and 90 days of exposure. On the other hand, there was no significant change in the total albumin. Hemoglobin value, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and differential leucocyte count at 45 and 90 days of exposure were significantly decreased. Histopathological significant findings in the liver were observed as vascular congestions, vacuolations, hydropic degenerations, lipidosis, and swelling, particularly in the co-exposed group for 90 days. These findings confirmed the hepatotoxic potential of EQ and BHT; therefore, it is recommended to control and limit the utilization of such chemicals.

Regarding the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects of Salvia officnalis (S. officinalis) extracts and the use of medicinal herbs as an alternative to chemical drugs, this study aimed to evaluate the enzymatic changes and reduction of hepatocyte damage in mice poisoned with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) after treatment with aqueous and alcoholic extract of Salvia officnalis. A total of 40 adult male mice were divided into eight groups including six experimental, one negative, and one positive control group, which were exposed to CCl4 at the concentration of 2.3 mg/kg. The active compounds in the alcoholic and aqueous extracts of S. officinalis were obtained using high-performance liquid chromatography. Subsequently, S. officinalis extract in 100, 200, and 300 mg /kg doses were fed orally to mice for six days. The enzymes (GST, ALP, ALT, AST, and MDA) were determined in mice serum. The study results showed that enzyme activity was significantly decreased in the group treated with S. officinalis extract, and the concentration of 300mg/kg proved to be most effective. In addition, it was indicated that the alcoholic extract had a higher effect than the aqueous extract, which might be due to the greater amount of active compounds in the alcoholic extract. The improving effects of S. officinalis can be attributed to the bioactive components with antioxidant properties that inhibit the damaging effects of free radicals, chemical drugs, and tissue damage.

Current experiment was carried out in factorial 2×2 arrangement to study the effects of stress (with or without dexamethasone administration) and addition of dietary selenium (with or without selenium supplementation in the diet) in male broiler breeder on the quality of frozen-thawed sperm under oxidative stress induced by dexamethasone. A total of 24 broiler breeder roosters with the age of 28 weeks were used based on a completely randomized design with four therapeutic approaches (factorial 2×2) and six birds in each approach. The experimental treatments were: 1) basal diet without selenium supplementation and injection of saline (CON), 2) basal diet with dexamethasone injection (4 mg/kg BW, three times every other day for one week), (DEX), 3) without dexamethasone injection and supplementation with 0.3 mg/kg selenium (Sel-Plex), and 4) dexamethasone injection and basal diet supplemented with 0.3 mg/kg of diet selenium (Sel-Plex+Dex). Sperm samples were collected from roosters. Motility, progressive motility, plasma membrane integrity, viability, malondialdehyde concentration and antioxidant parameters were evaluated in fresh and frozen-thawed semen. In spite of non-significant interaction effects, factorial analysis indicated the significant effect of every factor on different experimental parameters in fresh and frozen-thawed semen (P<0.05); The results revealed that total and progressive motility, plasma membrane integrity and viability were lower in DEX group when compared with other treatments (P<0.05). On the other hand, malondialdehyde concentration was higher in DEX group in comparison with Con, Sel-Plex and Sel-Plex+DEX groups (P<0.05). Moreover, total antioxidant capacity, level of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were lower in DEX group as compared with other treatments (P<0.05). Our findings indicated that administration of selenium in dexamethasone-receiving roosters (Sel-Plex+DEX) improved the parameters of fresh and frozen-thawed sperm; but the best results were observed in Sel-Plex treatment. Therefore, selenium supplementation in the diet of roosters without dexamethasone injection improved total motility, progressive motility, membrane integrity, viability, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase pre- and post-freezing. It can be concluded, selenium in organic forms in stressed and non-stressed rooster's diet might improve all motility and antioxidant parameters in fresh and frozen-thawed sperm.

This research examined the influence of the addition of L-carnitine (LC) to cooling medium on bulk’s semen quality during cooling storage periods at 4oC. Semen samples were collected, diluted, assigned into four groups, and received LC (0, 1, 5, and 10 mM LC). The samples were then chilled to 4oC and stores for 48 h. Sperm total motility, progressive motility, viability, lipid peroxidation, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial activity were examined at 0, 24, and 48 h of cooling storage. At time 0 of cooling storage, different treatments showed no impact on the quality of sperm samples (P>0.05). During 24 and 48 h of chilling periods, the supplementation of cooling medium with 5 mM LC presented greater motility, viability, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial activity (P≤0.05), compared to the other groups. Moreover, the treatment of 5 mM LC caused lower lipid peroxidation (P≤0.05) than the other treatments at 24 and 48 h storage times. In conclusion, the supplementation of bulk’s cooling storage medium with 5 mM LC is a suitable way to protect bulk spermatozoa during 24 and 48 h storage against cold-induced structural and functional damages.

The present study aimed to assess the effect of Apremilast on experimentally induced hypertrophic scars in rabbits. A total of 40 healthy male New Zealand White rabbits between 6 and 12 months of age were assigned to four groups (n=10). Group I consists of apparently healthy control rabbits, in group II, the rabbits with an induced hypertrophic scar received no treatment, except for base gel. In group III, the rabbits with induced hypertrophic scar were treated with triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) 0.1% as standard medication. In group IV, rabbits with induced hypertrophic scars were treated with Apremilast 5%. On the first day, four surgical incisions were made using an 8-mm biopsy punch on the ventral surface of the rabbit ear down to cartilage. The TAC and Apremilast were topically administered to the developed scars on day 31. The results included an examination of skin histopathology, the level of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1), and collagen III in skin tissue. In the treatments, the inflammatory score, scar index, as well as immunological scores of TGFβ1 and collagen III, significantly decreased, compared to the hypertrophic induced scar group (P≤ 0.001). Moreover, there was a significant reduction in fibroblast count, compared to the group of induced hypertrophic scars (P<0.05). Apremilast was efficacious in the treatment of hypertrophic scars due to its ability to reduce inflammations and fibroblast counts and scar index. Nonetheless, the reduction of immunological scores was almost comparable to that of topical TAC.

One of the main factors which played a key role in the prevention of liver disorders such as hepatic inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis would be the vitamin D axis. Therefore, the current research was designed to evaluate the role of Vitamin D (Vit D)   as a protective agent against liver damage caused by Thioacetamide (TAA). In the current study, 18 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into three equal groups (n=6): in group 1(G1) the animals were considered as the control group and did not receive any supplement in drinking water; in group 2 (G2) TAA was administrated to the drinking water at a dose of 300 mg/L; in group 3 (G3) TAA was administrated to the drinking water at a dose of 300 mg/L plus vitamin D at a dose of 0.5 mg/100g body (intraperitoneal) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed and the liver was dissected and removed for histopathology. Histopathological evaluations were used to evaluate the possible adverse effects of TAA on the liver. Several hepatic damages were observed in the G2 group such as lobular disorder, some degrees of degeneration in hepatocytes and enlargement of the hepatic capillaries, and focal necrotic areas. Hepatic fibrosis was observed around portal areas and central veins. Bridging fibrous septa were formed between portal veins. The recorded data in this study showed that Vit D has some beneficial effects in protecting the liver from fibrosis and toxic damages. The recorded data showed that liver damages in the G3 group were partially prevented or cured. In conclusion, it is evident that the Vit D played a pivotal role as an antioxidant and anti-fibrotic agent, therefore it would be the best supplement for liver protection against damages due to toxin entrance into the animal's body.

Low-income countries (LICs) and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) are still deprived of the optimum doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines for their population, equal access and distribution, as well as mass immunization roadmaps to be implemented for achieving herd immunity and protection from the ongoing pandemic. In this short report, we are interacting with the world public health experts, as well as national and global leaders for warranting the mass vaccination drive to be more progressive against COVID-19 with equitable access of vaccines to LICs or LMICs to save the lives of the poorest country people and refugees. From several scientific databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, as well as national and international news websites, the data were collected data by utilizing appropriate keywords regarding the topic. Bangladesh might be exemplified in this brief communication as the representative of LMIC. As of October 14, 2021, 48% of the world's people have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. In contrast, only 2.5% of people from LICs have come in under COVID-19 vaccination for at least a single shot. Both LICs and LMICs need far more vision and ambition, including political, administrative, and diplomatic progress along with enhancing the vaccination drive for their population to be immunized through simultaneous mass vaccination progress of other countries with implementing public health safety measures against the COVID-19 pandemic.