BioScientific Review

Antibacterial Susceptibility Patterns of UTI Pathogens among Different Age Groups in Lahore, Pakistan

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:03:51 +0000

Background. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a significant health problem. They affect individuals across all age groups globally, with a higher prevalence among women and patients with chronic disorders such as diabetes.

Methodology. The current study was performed in the Department of Urology at The University of Lahore to explore the susceptibility of UTIs across different age groups in this region. For this purpose, 157 patients presented with the symptoms of frequent urination and pain during urination were considered. These also included some patients admitted in The University of Lahore Teaching Hospital. Midstream urine samples were collected from patients and cultured. Bacterial colonies of positive cultures were identified through morphological characteristics and serological tests such as Lancefield grouping. Additionally, biochemical tests and API 20E were used to identify members of the Enterobacteriaceae family. The data was analyzed using SPSS (version 25.0).

Results. In this study, the overall prevalence of UTIs was 53.5%, with the highest incidence of UTIs occurring in patients aged 25 to 45 years. The frequently identified isolates comprised Escherichia coli which accounted for 46 (54.8%) cases, followed by Enterococcus species accounting for 11 (13.1%) cases, Klebsiella species accounting for 07 (8.3%) cases, and Staphylococcus aureus accounting for another 07 (8.3%) cases. Furthermore, it was found that gram-negative bacteria showed a high level of resistance with 73.3% for cefixime, 73.2% for ceftriaxone, 73.0% for ceftazidime, and a relatively low level of resistance against fosfomycin (15.9%) and nitrofurantoin (16.3%). On the other hand, gram-positive isolates showed a higher level of resistance against penicillin (66.7%). Whereas, all isolates were found to be sensitive to gentamycin (100%).

Conclusion. Routine antimicrobial susceptibility testing prior to antibiotic prescription is recommended. Aminoglycosides, fosfomycin, and nitrofurantoin proved to be the most effective drugs of choice against these bacteria.

Persistency of Lactation, Lactation Yield, and Lactation Length in Thari Cattle at Thari Cattle Farm, Umerkot, Sindh

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:33:23 +0000

Background. The current study was carried out to determine the persistency of lactation in Thari cattle, in view of the impact of heritability and seasons.

Method. The data on lactation length and lactation yield of Thari cattle (based on their 6 lactations) were collected for the period 2007-2017. To observe the effect of seasons on lactation persistency, the seasons were categorized as summer (April to September) and winter (October to March) for calved cows. The cows were grouped into four categories (A, B, C, and D) based on their sires to analyze the genetic effect on lactation persistency. The data were collected and analyzed using SAS software.

Results. The results for the persistency of lactation revealed that it was higher in 3^rdlactation (51.43± 3.85 and 57.00±3.33%) and lower in 1^st lactation (39.73± 7.26 and 43.67±5.78%) of summer and winter calvers, respectively. Similarly, sire-wise persistency of milk yield and lactation length was higher in Sire D daughters (1114.33±133.11, 216.4±3.54, and 73.09±7.60) and lower in Sire A daughters (1050.87±66.24, 193.8±7.56, and 58.62±8.10), respectively. Age-wise, it was higher in Sire D daughters 81-25 (61.81 ± 6.31) and lower in Sire A daughters 73-21 (37.39 ± 7.23), respectively. The heritability estimates for milk yield, lactation length, and persistency of lactation were observed as 0.22, 0.21, and 0.11, respectively.

Conclusion. The study found that the season of calving and lactation number significantly affect lactation yield, length, and persistency. On the other hand, there was no significant difference observed with reference to paternity. Lactation yield and length were higher in the 3^rd lactation for both summer and winter calvers, while lower in the 1^st lactation for both seasons. The heritability of milk yield, lactation length, and persistency was low, suggesting that improvements can be made through better management and by avoiding inbreeding.

Metabolic and Morphological Analysis of DOF1 Transgenic T2 Wheat Lines under Nitrogen Stress

Zulekha Zameer, Kauser A Malik, Asma Maqbool — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 09:18:56 +0000

Background. Over the last century, the increased crop production has largely been attributed to rampant input of nitrogen fertilizers causing environmental deterioration. There is a need to engineer crops that require minimal fertilizer input. A transcription factor ‘Triticum aestivum Dof1 (TaDof1)’ is known to improve the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of crop plants, by regulating the activity of multiple genes, involved in carbon and nitrogen metabolism, when plants are grown under nitrogen-limiting conditions. Previously, transgenic wheat plants, overexpressing TaDof1, were developed.

Methods. The main objective of the current study was to compare the T₂ generation of six different transgenic wheat lines transformed with TaDof1-namely, F1, G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5-with respect to their metabolic, biochemical, and morphological traits under normal and nitrogen-deficient conditions. BASTA assay and conventional PCR were used to screen out the positive plants. The expression of TaDof1 in aforementioned transgenic lines along with the four genes (Glutamine synthetase, nitrite reductase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and pyruvate kinase) associated with TaDof1 in carbon and nitrogen metabolism were quantified through RT-PCR and real-time PCR.

Results. The T₂ generation of TaDof1 transgenic wheat lines overexpressed the transcription factor TaDof1 along with the other regulated genes. The expression of TaDof1 gene ranged from 0.68-7.61 folds, with the highest fold recorded in line G2. Protein, soluble sugars, phosphorous, chlorophyll, and relative water content were enhanced in almost all transgenic lines.

Conclusion. Overall, galaxy transgenic lines, specifically-G1, showed better metabolic profile as compared to Faisalabad transgenic line under nitrogen stress.

Clinical Significance of Molecular and Blood Biomarkers in Assessing the Severity of Dengue Infection in Peshawar, Pakistan

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:23:53 +0000

Objective. The current study was aimed to evaluate the impact of molecular and blood biomarkers on the severity of dengue fever.

Method. This study was conducted at the Center for Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan from June 2022 to November 2022. A total of 2,400 individuals exhibiting prominent signs and symptoms of dengue fever were enrolled. These subjects were screened for the presence of NS1, IgG, and IgM antibodies, as well as molecular biomarkers, using PCR.

Results. Out of the 2,400 suspected cases, 801 (33.37%) were confirmed for dengue fever based on NS1 antigen (33.37%), as well as IgG (3.37%) and IgM (11.25%) antibodies, with RT-PCR demonstrating 98.2% sensitivity. The DENV-3 serotype was identified as the most prevalent (61.18%). The highest infection rate was observed in men (56.05%), as compared to women (43.95%). The most affected age group was 16-30 years (46.19%). Common symptoms among the patients included fever (100%), muscle pain (100%), headache (69.78%), vomiting (49.2%), and skin rash (35.08%). The study found a significant association (p < 0.05) between hematological parameters and dengue infection, highlighting a significant decrease in total leucocyte count (TLC), eosinophils, neutrophils, and platelets, as well as a significant increase in monocytes and lymphocytes. Additionally, mild cases exhibited fewer clinical signs as compared to severely infected cases.

Conclusion. Based on the current report, it was concluded that climate change, rapid urbanization, and the emergence of different serotypes may escalate dengue outbreaks in District Peshawar, KPK, Pakistan. This highlights the critical necessity for extensive insect-control operations, public education campaigns, and climate-responsive strategies to successfully prevent future dengue epidemics.

Impact of Parental Vaccination Status on Yellow Fever Vaccination in Children Aged 0–1 Years in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Mixed Sequential Explanatory Study

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 04:24:30 +0000

Background. Yellow fever occurs in the intertropical regions of Africa and South America. Vaccination is a simple, effective, and inexpensive means to reduce morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. Presently, the world is witnessing a decrease in the number of children vaccinated each year in low-income countries and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This scenario is leading towards concrete consequences and even a resurgence of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases.

Methodology. This is a sequential and explanatory study conducted using a mixed-method approach. The quantitative component, of the retrospective, multicenter, analytical type, was carried out using data from the post-campaign yellow fever coverage study in 8 concerned provinces. Whereas the qualitative component, of the descriptive phenomenological type, was carried out through semi-directive interviews held with the heads of household of children aged 0-1 year in Tshuapa Province. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS (version 25) and qualitative data was analyzed using ATLAS-Ti 22 software.

Results. Quantitative analysis showed that there was a statistically significant influence of the household head's vaccination status on the routine vaccination of children aged 0–1 year, with a chi-square test indicating χ2=62.706 and p=0.000. This means that children whose parents are immunized are more likely to be immunized as well. Despite this positive influence, the study revealed that 27.7% of immunized children had parents who were themselves immunized. This figure raises concerns about the effectiveness of awareness campaigns and parental decision-making on immunization. Qualitative analysis highlighted several factors influencing parental decision to vaccinate including parents' knowledge of vaccination, their positive experiences with it, and their sense of parental responsibility.

Conclusion. These results highlight not only the importance of household heads' vaccination status in the child immunization process, however, also the need to address concerns related to immunized children, even in households where parents are immunized. Therefore, national authorities must develop effective strategies to improve immunization coverage and raise family awareness regarding the importance of vaccination.

Impact of Varying Protein Levels on the Growth Rate of Labeo rohita Reared in Glass Aquaria

Huma Shafique, Aqeela Ashraf, Umara Nuzhat, Naira Nuzhat — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 09:59:47 +0000

Objectives. Aquaculture is an important technique used worldwide for the production of aquatic species. In this study, a monoculture experiment was performed to estimate the growth performance of Labeo rohita fingerlings under the influence of varying protein feeds used in various combinations in an intensive rearing system. It was found that different dietary protein levels significantly affected the growth rate of the above fish species, with an optimal protein level resulting in the highest growth performance. Previous studies showed that protein levels in the diet of Labeo rohita can influence growth, food conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, survival, and body composition. For instance, a diet containing 35% protein was found to significantly enhance growth, as compared to diets with lower or higher protein levels.

Methodology. Feeding trials were conducted to estimate the efficacy of the varying concentrations of dietary protein on the growth of Labeo rohita fingerlings in a glass aquaria for 75 days. The stocking density was 20 fish/aquarium. Diets containing 25%, 30%, and 35% protein were tested against a control containing 12% crude protein. The experiment was performed in the triplicate aquaria of glass. Fish were given feed at the rate of 4% of their body weight twice a day. Their growth performance was evaluated by measuring mean body weight gain (BWG), mean length gain (LG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate (SR) in different treatment groups. The proximate analysis of fish meat samples was conducted at the end of experiment.

Results. In the aquaria, fish fingerlings fed with 35% diet showed significantly greater weight gain (9.09 ± 0.09 g) as compared to those on other diets and control diet (6.8 ± 0.20). Simultaneously, a substantial increase in length gain was observed in fingerlings at 35% diet (8.2 ± 0.05), while the lowest weight gain (3.5±0.24g) was noted in those on control group diet. On the other hand, water quality variables, such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and electric conductivity remained constant.

Conclusion. It was concluded that a higher level of protein in the feed of Labeo rohita is directly related with the increased growth rate of fish.

Investigating Camel Superoxide Dismutase 1: A Computational Analysis of Potential Key Player in Heat Stress Adaptation

Muhammad Abrar Yousaf, Muhammad Asjad Khan — Fri, 02 May 2025 03:57:20 +0000

Background. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) is crucial for cellular defense against oxidative stress induced by superoxide radicals, particularly in challenging conditions, such as elevated temperature and humidity. This study investigated SOD1 in Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus), Wild Bactrian camel (C. ferus), and Arabian camel (C. dromedarius) to understand its role in heat tolerance.

Methodology. The current study employed bioinformatics analysis to assess the genomic features including GC% content. It also investigated the structure and location of the SOD1 gene on the chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to elucidate the evolutionary relationships based on SOD1 protein sequences. Structural analyses encompassed secondary and tertiary structure predictions, emphasizing stability and potential functional implications. Subcellular localization of the SOD1 protein was also explored.

Results. C. dromedarius displayed the highest GC% in its genome, indicating improved thermostability. With the exception of C. bactrianus whose chromosomal location was unknown, all other species contained SOD1 gene on their first chromosome. Based upon SOD1 protein sequences, phylogenetic investigation emphasized the close evolutionary link within the Camelidae family. Structurally, all three species of camel shared an acidic, globular, and thermally-stable SOD1 protein having high glycine content and lack of cleavage sites. Analysis of secondary structure indicated a frequency of random coils, highlighting the adaptability and evolutionary conservation of protein. Predictions of tertiary structure verified that SOD1 was stable in all species. The protein is predominantly found in cytoplasm although, also present in nucleus, extracellular region, and mitochondria.

Conclusion. This inclusive analysis of SOD1 in three different species of camel highlighted their strong adaptation to desert environment by elucidating their genomic and proteomic stability. Further research is necessary to investigate the biochemical mechanisms behind camels’ extraordinary ability to thrive in desert conditions and respond to the challenges posed by climate change.

Environmental and Genetic Etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fazal Shan, Muhammad Ibrahim Rashid, Shah Faisal Jamal, Irshad Ahmad — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 03:33:28 +0000

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting joints, characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Through a meticulous evaluation of recent studies, this review explores emerging molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying RA pathogenesis. Although RA is idiopathic, several factors such as environmental influences, diet, the microbiome, gut microbiota, and genetic variations play a significant role in its pathogenesis. The involvement of various genetic factors, including HLA alleles and specific SNPs in genes such as PADI4, REL, RUNX1, FCGR2A, and CD40, has been identified in RA susceptibility. Additionally, the dysregulation of various genetic molecules, such as lncRNAs and miRNAs and proteins including IL-1 and CD28 contributes to inflammation and disease progression. Understanding the disease causing molecular and cellular mechanisms helps to identify therapeutic targets and guide personalized treatment strategies for RA.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Anticancer and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Oridonin in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Ome Kalsoom Afridi, Abdus Salam, Habib Ullah Jan, Abid Ali Khan, Johar Ali — Tue, 06 May 2025 04:57:42 +0000

Background. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) constitutes one of the most common pathological forms of oral cancers. Oridonin is an ent-kaurane diterpenoid compound isolated from Rabdosia rubescens. Recently, the anticancer potential of Oridonin has been extensively studied in breast, osteosarcoma, myeloma, neuroblastoma, lymphoma, pancreatic, colon, leukemia, and esophageal cancers. The anticancer potential of Oridonin is largely unexplored in OSCC.

Method. This study aimed to provide insights into the multifunctional anticancer activities of Oridonin in OSCC. We carried out an extensive and critical literature survey on research related to the importance of medicinal plants in various cancers, role of Oridonin as potential anticancer agents in OSCC up to 2025 using keywords apoptotic proteins, antitumor activities, cell cycle arrest, diterpenoid, inflammasomes, Notch signaling pathway, natural products, Oridonin, oral squamous cell carcinoma, and oral cancer treatment.

Results. Oridonin induces cell apoptosis in oral cancer cells (OCC) by regulating mitochondrial and ROS-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK, acting as cell cycle blocker at the G2/M phase pathways, and increasing the expression of γH2AX. Oridonin plays an essential role in OSCC tumorigenesis by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. Blocking Notch signaling dysregulation and specific inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome are the other cellular mechanism by which Oridonin can exhibit its antitumor activities.

Conclusion. Oridonin can serve as a potential anticancer drug in OSCC due to its involvement in multiple cellular signaling pathways.