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Water and contaminated hospital surfaces have been reported as major causes of Hospital acquirеd (nosocomial) infections (HAIs), a significant global safety problem for both patients and medical staff. However, the frequency of Intensive Care Units (ICU)-HAIs has been reported to be at least 2-3 times greater in low- to middle-income countries, particularly in Zimbabwe, than in high-income countries. Thus, this study aimed at determining the presence of pathogenic bacteria in water and surfaces from selected high-risk areas within the intensive care units of three hospitals (A, B, and C) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Water and surface samples were collected and processed within 24 hours of collection. The water samples were tested for the presence of microbial indicators using standard methodology of microbial plating. The surface swabs were also investigated using microbial plating. The organisms that were found to be present in surface samples were then identified using biochemical tests and 16S polymerase chain reaction (16S PCR). The results showed no bacteria present in any of the water samples tested during the study. However, using morphological characteristics, six different types of bacteria were identified in surface samples. The bacteria identified to be present on surfaces were Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Streptococcus. Hospital A surfaces may be the major cause of some bacterial infection outbreaks, hence, there is a need for better ways of reducing contamination of surfaces in the intensive care units.

Detection and identification of microorganisms are the first steps to guide susceptibility testing and enable clinicians to confirm diseases and guide therapy. The faster the pathogen identification is determined, the quicker the appropriate treatment can be started. In the clinical microbiology laboratory, multiple methodologies can be used to identify organisms, such as traditional biochemical testing or more recent methods like MALDI TOF MS and nucleic acid detection/identification assays. Each of these techniques has advantages and limitations, and clinical laboratories need to determine which methodology is best suited to their particular setting in terms of clinical needs, availability of technical expertise and cost. This article presents a concise review of the history, utilization, advantages and limitations of the main methods used for identifying microorganisms in microbiology laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol consumption is an important risk factor for illness, disability, and mortality. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms have a significant health concern for individuals with alcohol dependence. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of withdrawal symptoms and liver function test abnormalities in this population and also to identify the factors associated with the severity of withdrawal symptoms. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care facility involving 100 patients seeking treatment for alcohol dependence. Data collection included structured interviews and assessments using standardized scales and biochemical tests. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and chi-square tests were employed to analyse the data. Individuals exhibiting mild/moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms in this study displayed several distinctive features. They were more likely to have attained at least a high school education, their average alcohol consumption was notably lower, Importantly, their blood parameters, including RBC count, platelet count, total bilirubin levels, and liver enzyme levels (AST and ALT), generally exhibited fewer deviations from normal ranges. Family history of alcohol dependence and nicotine dependence was common among the participants. This research highlights the need for a holistic approach to address alcohol dependence, taking into consideration sociodemographic factors, clinical markers, and the diverse nature of this condition. The findings provide important insights for healthcare professionals to identify individuals at higher risk and guide treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Although antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures, they can cause renal and hepatic damage. Several preclinical studies have indicated that Emblica officinalis Gaertn (AMLA) exerts an anticonvulsant effect related to its tannin and polyphenol content. Objective: We aim to evaluate the anticonvulsant effects of chronic oral AMLA administration and its impact on biochemical and hematological parameters in rats. Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats (250 to 300 g) were divided into four experimental groups (n = 7): vehicle (purified water), AMLA (500 and 700 mg/kg), and carbamazepine (CBZ) (300 mg/kg) as the pharmacological control of anticonvulsant activity. Treatments were administered orally every 24 hours for 28 days, while carbamazepine was administered every 48 hours for 5 days before the behavioral, biochemical, and hematological test. On day 29, Status epilepticus (SE) was induced using the lithium-pilocarpine model (3 mEq/kg, i. p. and 30 mg/kg, s. c.), after which the behavioral and biochemical effects were evaluated. Results: The AMLA 500 mg/kg and CBZ 300 mg/kg groups presented fewer phase V seizures than the vehicle group did. None of the treatments modified biochemical or hematological parameters. Conclusion: AMLA could be considered as a potential alternative therapy for the treatment of epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A new approach to overcome or reduce these toxicities is by using antioxidants. Ribociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor used in the treatment of breast cancer, has been linked to hepatotoxicity and may contribute to the development of Hepatocellular carcinoma in rats. This Study aims to assess hepatoprotective effect of chamomile oil and olive leaf extracts against ribociclib-induced Hepatotoxicity in rats. A total of 40 adult male albino rats aged 9-10 weeks were utilized in this experiment. These rats were divided into four groups, (N=10). Group A (control) comprised normal rats administered 1 ml (10 ml/kg/day) of normal saline daily. Conversely, group B rats were administered 5 mg/kg Ribociclib (n = 10), while group C was administered 5 mg/kg Ribociclib with a 500 mg/kg/day dose of chamomile oil. Group D was given 5 mg \kg Ribociclib in combination with 200 mg/kg/day of olive leaves. After the trial, the animals were sacrificed, blood samples were collected for biochemical tests, and the liver tissue was processed for histological examination. The results of histology, and biochemistry parameter analysis, indicated that co-administration of Ribociclib and chamomile oil plays a decisive role in mitigating the hepatotoxicity result from Ribociclib-induced liver injuries in rats as demonstrated by histological and biochemical parameters.The levels of cholesterol and LDL in the blood were significantly lower (P < 0.01) after administering chamomile oil compared to the control group. The results of the current study demonstrated that the simultaneous use of chamomile oil and olive leaf extract significantly reduced the liver damage caused by Ribociclib and improved the lipid profile in Albino rats. Additionally, the use of chamomile extract notably lowered urea levels (p < 0.01), indicating a protective effect on the kidneys.

Background:Vaginal infection is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain. A specific kind of vaginal inflammation known as bacterial vaginosis is roughing on by an overabundance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, which throws the body’s delicate equilibrium out of whack. Vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection that affects the vagina and the vulva, the tissues at the vaginal opening, causing irritation, discharge, and severe itching.Objectives:Isolation, identification, and partial purification of bacteria and fungi that cause vaginal infection.Materials and Methods:In this study, 150 vaginal samples were collected from women aged 15–55 who did not have any chronic diseases in the city of Hilla, Iraq. Cultivation of samples of bacteria on MacConkey, mannitol salt, and Eosin-methylene blue culture media and fungi on potato dextrose agar medium and chromo agar for Candida and conducting diagnostic tests for them.Results:The samples were culture on different medium. Bacteria have a percentage (55.3%) and fungi percentage (54.7%). Types of bacteria that appeared are Escherichia coli 24.3%, Klebsiella 20%, and Staphylococcus aureus 55.7%. Fungi are Candida albicans 52.6%, Candida glabrata 23.7%, and Candida krusie 23.7% have all been identified as fungi in clinical cases. Biochemical tests were performed for each sample, whether bacteria or fungi and included an examination (indol, citrate, urease, catalase, oxidase, coagulase, and H2S).Conclusion:Through results appeared S. aureus papered was found to be more common than bacteria species and fungi in clinical cases. C. albicans was found to be more common than other Candida species.

Abstract Background Bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BGC) is caused by Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis (Cfv) including its biovar intermedius (Cfvi). This sexually transmitted disease induces early reproductive failure causing considerable economic losses in the cattle industry. Using a collection of well-characterized isolates (n = 13), C. fetus field isolates (n = 64) and saprophytic isolates resembling Campylobacter (n = 75) obtained from smegma samples of breeding bulls, this study evaluated the concordance of the most used phenotypic (H2S production in cysteine medium and 1% glycine tolerance) and molecular (PCR) methods for the diagnosis of BGC and assessed possible cross-reactions in the molecular diagnostic methods. Results Characterization at the subspecies level (fetus vs. venerealis) of C. fetus isolated from bull preputial samples using phenotypic and molecular (PCR targeting nahE and ISCfe1) methods showed moderate concordance (κ = 0.462; CI: 0.256–0.669). No cross-reactions were observed with other saprophytic microaerophilic species or with other Campylobacter species that can be present in preputial samples. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of discrepant isolates showed 100% agreement with PCR identification. For the differentiation of Cfv biovars, comparison of the H2S test (at 72 h and 5 days of incubation) and a PCR targeting the L-cysteine transporter genes showed higher concordance when H2S production was assessed after 5 days (72 h; κ = 0.553, 0.329–0.778 CI vs. 5 days; κ = 0.881, 0.631–1 CI), evidencing the efficacy of a longer incubation time. Conclusions This study confirmed the limitations of biochemical tests to correctly identify C. fetus subspecies and biovars. However, in the case of biovars, when extended incubation times for the H2S test (5 days) were used, phenotypic identification results were significantly improved, although PCR-based methods produced more accurate results. Perfect agreement of WGS with the PCR results and absence of cross-reactions with non-C. fetus saprophytic bacteria from the smegma demonstrated the usefulness of these methods. Nevertheless, the identification of new C. fetus subspecies-specific genes would help to improve BGC diagnosis.

Background: Bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BGC) is caused by Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis (Cfv) including its biovar intermedius (Cfvi). This sexually transmitted disease induces early reproductive failure causing considerable economic losses in the cattle industry. Using a collection of well-characterized isolates (n = 13), C. fetus field isolates (n = 64) and saprophytic isolates resembling Campylobacter (n = 75) obtained from smegma samples of breeding bulls, this study evaluated the concordance of the most used phenotypic (H2S production in cysteine medium and 1% glycine tolerance) and molecular (PCR) methods for the diagnosis of BGC and assessed possible cross-reactions in the molecular diagnostic methods. Results: Characterization at the subspecies level (fetus vs. venerealis) of C. fetus isolated from bull preputial samples using phenotypic and molecular (PCR targeting nahE and ISCfe1) methods showed moderate concordance (κ = 0.462; CI: 0.256–0.669). No cross-reactions were observed with other saprophytic microaerophilic species or with other Campylobacter species that can be present in preputial samples. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of discrepant isolates showed 100% agreement with PCR identification. For the differentiation of Cfv biovars, comparison of the H2S test (at 72 h and 5 days of incubation) and a PCR targeting the L-cysteine transporter genes showed higher concordance when H2S production was assessed after 5 days (72 h; κ = 0.553, 0.329–0.778 CI vs. 5 days; κ = 0.881, 0.631–1 CI), evidencing the efficacy of a longer incubation time. Conclusions: This study confirmed the limitations of biochemical tests to correctly identify C. fetus subspecies and biovars. However, in the case of biovars, when extended incubation times for the H2S test (5 days) were used, phenotypic identification results were significantly improved, although PCR-based methods produced more accurate results. Perfect agreement of WGS with the PCR results and absence of cross-reactions with non-C. fetus saprophytic bacteria from the smegma demonstrated the usefulness of these methods. Nevertheless, the identification of new C. fetus subspecies-specific genes would help to improve BGC diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High yield of pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants on genetic testing for metabolic cause of DEE. • Best yield noted in electroclinical phenotypes of progressive myoclonus epilepsies and unclassified DEE phenotypes with focal/multifocal seizures. • Genetic testing can pre-date or guide specific metabolic tests in DEE and render the diagnostic pathway more cost effective. • Promising variants of uncertain significance noted to have significant phenotypic correlation. Drug-resistant epilepsy is seen in patients with inborn errors of metabolism and metabolic dysfunction in neurons is crucial to brain disorders associated with psychomotor impairment. Diagnostic rates of metabolic causes of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) using next generation sequencing have been rarely studied in literature. A prospective hospital study was carried out in 384 children with DEE, who underwent genetic testing. Metabolic disorders were evaluated with biochemical blood/urine assays and when required CSF estimations performed. A total of 154 pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in 384 children were identified. Out of 384 children, 89 were clinically suspected to have probable or possible metabolic disorders. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in metabolic genes were identified in 39 out of 89 (43.8 %) and promising VUS in 28 (31.4 %). These included variants for progressive myoclonus epilepsies (21; 53.8 %), DEE with focal/multifocal seizures (8; 20.5 %), generalized epilepsy (5;12.8 %), early myoclonic encephalopathy (2; 5.1 %), LGS (1; 2.6 %) and West syndrome (2; 5.1 %). Our cohort demonstrates for the first time from the Indian subcontinent that identification of metabolic variants can guide investigations and has therapeutic implications in patients with variable DEE phenotypes. A high utility is noted with regard to diagnosis and prognostication, given the low yield of available biochemical tests, indicating cost-effectiveness of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and contaminated hospital surfaces have been reported as major causes of Hospital acquirеd (nosocomial) infections (HAIs), a significant global safety problem for both patients and medical staff. However, the frequency of Intensive Care Units (ICU)-HAIs has been reported to be at least 2-3 times greater in low- to middle-income countries, particularly in Zimbabwe, than in high-income countries. Thus, this study aimed at determining the presence of pathogenic bacteria in water and surfaces from selected high-risk areas within the intensive care units of three hospitals (A, B, and C) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Water and surface samples were collected and processed within 24 hours of collection. The water samples were tested for the presence of microbial indicators using standard methodology of microbial plating. The surface swabs were also investigated using microbial plating. The organisms that were found to be present in surface samples were then identified using biochemical tests and 16S polymerase chain reaction (16S PCR). The results showed no bacteria present in any of the water samples tested during the study. However, using morphological characteristics, six different types of bacteria were identified in surface samples. The bacteria identified to be present on surfaces were Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Streptococcus. Hospital A surfaces may be the major cause of some bacterial infection outbreaks, hence, there is a need for better ways of reducing contamination of surfaces in the intensive care units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted biochemical assays on shrimp and prawn samples in Bangladesh, revealing the presence of both harmful and beneficial bacteria. Pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Vibrio cholera, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella typhimurium, Shigella flexneri, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus were detected in these samples, with Escherichia coli being the most prevalent. Additionally, we identified three potential probiotic bacteria - Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus spp., and Enterobacter aerogenes. These probiotics can enhance immunity, support survival, and have minimal environmental impact. Shrimp and prawn farms in Bangladesh may be susceptible to harmful microorganisms due to contaminated water sources and subpar sanitation during post-harvest handling and processing. Our use of biochemical characterization proves a dependable method for distinguishing pathogenic and probiotic bacteria in shrimp and prawns, offering valuable insights for future disease research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenotypic identification of bacteria by staining technique and biochemical tests. This practical was carried out to identify Proteus vulgaris using biochemical test, this test includes, citrate utilization, indole, carbohydrate fermentation, methyl red, voges Proskauer, motility, production of hydrogen sulphide, catalase, and oxidase tests. Results obtained shows that Proteus vulgaris was positive to indole, motility, methyl red and urease. Proteus vulgaris was unable to utilize citrate for carbon and energy, and does not synthesis the enzyme amylase to break down starch. The bacteria fermented glucose to produce acid and gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the antioxidant activity and physiological properties of Clematis ispahanica from different habitats of Semnan province were investigated. Three natural habitats of this plant were identified in Semnan province (Cheshmeh Ali, Dibaj and Mojen) and leaf were sampled from plants. Chlorophyll, carotenoid, anthocyanin, proline, protein, phenol, flavonoid, reducing sugars, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, catalase and guaiacol peroxidase activities were measured. Also, the antioxidant properties of plants were investigated using DPPH radical scavenging capacity. Soil analysis of all three habitats was also done. The experiment was carried out as a completely random design with 3 repetitions and comparison of the average data using Duncan's test at a probability level of 5%. The results showed that the amount of plant metabolites, including soluble sugars, phenolic compounds and flavonoids, catalase enzyme activity and antioxidant properties was the highest in Cheshmeh Ali habitat and the lowest in Mojen habitat. On the other hand, the amount of plant defense compounds including proline, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde and guaiacol peroxidase enzyme activity was the lowest in Cheshmeh Ali habitat and the highest in Mojen habitat. The amount of chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanin and protein was also the lowest in the Dibaj habitat with the highest altitude above sea level. The results of this research showed that the Cheshmeh Ali habitat with the highest amount of metabolites and the lowest amount of defense compounds is the least stressful habitat, and conversely, the Mojen habitat is the most stressful habitat for C. ispahanica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional medicine has been a fertile source of revealing lead novel molecules which are then subjected to investigations using the techniques of the modern drug discovery. The objective of the study was to evaluate variations in serum biochemical parameters of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Asparagus laricinus roots. The powdered plant roots material was dissolved in distilled water to prepare 2%, 10% and 20% concentration. For the second extraction. the material was also dissolved in ethanol and the increasing concentrations were controlled by varying the volumes of the solution administered. 54 Sprague Dawley rats (180g - 250g), were divided into two groups of 24 and 30 rats for aqueous and ethanolic extracts respectively. The aqueous group was further divided into four subgroups of 6 rats which were exposed ad libitum for eight weeks to 0%, 2%, 10% and 20% extracts. The ethanolic group was divided into five subgroups of 6 rats which were exposed for two weeks (via gavage) to increasing doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg/day extracts and a control (unexposed) group. Ethanol extracts were administered daily over a period of two weeks through gavage and the control group was administered water through gavage as well. Blood samples were collected from the rats for biochemical testing. Biochemical tests were done for CHOL, BUN, CREA, ALP, AST and ALT as indicators of any possible damage to the tissue of organs, including the liver, kidney and spleen. Comparison of treatment groups (n=6) and controls (n=6) across all ethanol extracts showed significant differences in the starting median change in weight at the 200g/kg/day dosages as well as weight at 400g/kg/day, even though AST and ALT have high SEM values. The median change in weight remained slightly below 50g over the entire two-week period of experimentation. Biochemical results could not show any patterns in abnormalities although we observed statistically significant results on few parameters. In conclusion, the toxicological evaluation of Asparagus laricinus extracts may be considered relatively safe when given orally, as it did not produce any remarkable biochemical adverse effects in both the male and female Sprague Dawley rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis E is an RNA virus causing chronic diseases with detrimental effects, such as liver cancer and cirrhosis. Various biochemical tests exist for its diagnosis, but low sensitivity and cross-reactivity led the focus toward improved serological methods: immunoglobulin-based and enzyme immunodetection. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of improved enzyme immunodetection methods in hepatitis E virus laboratory diagnosis compared with other diagnostic methods. A systematic literature review was conducted over secondary source databases: Google Scholar, Web of Science, Springer, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. The study followed a Preferred Reporting of Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis checklist for conducting the systematic review. Abstracted and full)text peer-reviewed articles were selected, published in English in 2015-2022. The study employed keywords and set publication dates to search for the most relevant articles. However, these studies were assessed using the risk of bias tools: the Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled design and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for non-randomized controlled design. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist was also used to assess the quality of the studies that cannot be assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. After the selection, the data were synthesized using a qualitative approach to present the results. About 10 articles were identified, including randomized, cohort, qualitative, and diagnostic studies. They found the specificity of an immunoassay to achieve a significantly high specificity (98.3%) and sensitivity (89.5%) for immunoglobulin G-based hepatitis E virus detection. However, they reported that immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M detection in the suspected hepatitis E virus patients and exposed groups gave potential results for detecting hepatitis E virus. The method was found as efficient as can be designed as non-invasive and with low risks and challenges. The results showed that the improved enzyme immune-detective method can assist in providing a reliable, easily accessible, and error-free hepatitis E virus diagnostic method. Thus, future research must focus on exploiting these methods and strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prospection of the endosphere of the native plant Fragaria chiloensis subsp. chiloensis f. patagonica from the foothills of the Chilean Andes led to the isolation of two strains of the genus Coniochaeta. We addressed the taxonomic placement of these strains based on DNA sequencing data using the ITS and LSU genetic markers, morphological features, and biochemical traits. One of these strains was identified as Coniochaeta hansenii, for which the anamorph and teleomorph states were described. The second strain did not seem to match any of the currently described species of this genus; therefore, we propose the name Coniochaeta fragariicola sp. nov.

The isolation and characterization of bacteria from the Arpa River water (Bilaspur, India) could give a better knowledge of their variety, distribution, and possible influence on antibiotic usage. Several species of bacteria were found and their potentiality against antibiotics was determined as a result of this research. Isolation entails collecting sample water and cultivating the microbial culture in a suitable medium. Bacteria were separated from microbial cultures and subjected to biochemical assays, antibiotic susceptibility tests, and microbial evaluation studies. The goal of the research is to determine the types of microorganisms found in the Arpa River as well as to expand our understanding of the river. The potential of microorganisms is assessed in this study. The antibacterial activity of isolated microorganisms was tested using five drugs. The bacterial colony exhibits a zone of inhibition against various antibiotics, including amoxicillin, ofloxacin, streptomycin, and ciprofloxacin, but not against Cefixime & L.A. The antibacterial activity of five different oils and extracts from plants were determined using the well diffusion method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In our study, we aimed to examine the relationship between laboratory tests with sleep and quality of life in patients using depot antipsychotics as monotherapy for the last three months. Materials and Methods: Patients with schizophrenia and receiving monotherapy depot antipsychotic form were included in our study. Calgary Depression in Schizophrenia Scale (CSS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Pitssburg Sleep Quality Index (PUKİ), Scale of Short Form-36 (SF-36) were administered. The laboratory parameters of the participants were evaluated. Results: Sixty one to study; 80.3% male and 19.7% female patients were included. The mean age of all patients was 36.40±9.96, and the mean body mass index was 24.49±5.18. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of PSQI subscales and total scores (p>0.05). Only the social functioning score for SF-36 was worse than the other two groups of patients using zuclopenthixol depot (p=0.049). There was no difference between the groups in SF-36 other subscale scores (p<0.05). Prolactin value and other laboratory parameters were also not different between groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results we have obtained, general functionality levels such as sleep and quality of life of the patients should be considered while determining the depot antipsychotic forms. In order to generalize and interpret the findings of our study, there is a need to conduct studies involving larger sample groups and different periods of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research work was undertaken for the isolation and identification of the bacterial agents, which are commonly present in the respiratory tract of broilers and layers. A total of 100 samples were collected from infected and healthy chickens (broilers and layers) from various locations in Bareilly district, Uttar Pradesh, India. The samples were tracheal swabs/tracheal tissue. Bacterial species isolated from the respiratory tract were E. coli 64 (69.56%), Salmonella spp. 6 (6.52%), Staphylococcus spp. 2 (2.17%), Klebsiella 16 (17.39%), Pasturella 3 (3.2%), and Pseudomonas 1 (1.08%) species. The samples were analyzed by culturing in different media such as nutrient broth (NB), Nutrient Agar (NA), MCA (MacConkey), Blood agar, Mannitol salt agar (MSA) and Hektoen enteric agar (HEA). Isolation and identification were done by observing colony morphology, and standard cultural and biochemical tests viz. indole test, Methyl red (MR) test, Voges-Proskauer (VP) test, Triple sugar iron (TSI) test and catalase. Our findings give the prevalence of different bacterial organisms associated with respiratory distress in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to investigate the effect of the predictive value of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and several routine laboratory tests on mortality in patients with positive Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) tests who were treated at Istanbul Training and Research Hospital. Routine laboratory data of patients with positive COVID-19 Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results were obtained via the hospital information system. The laboratory tests included ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydroge­nase (LDH), aspartate transaminase, creatinine, urea, D-dimer, neutrophil, and lymphocyte count. The number of patients was 2774 and they were admitted to Istanbul Training and Research Hospital between March 10 and June 10, 2020. The statistical data were obtained using SPSS 17.0 version. The patients were divided into two groups, one for mortality (n= 74 patients) and the other for non-mortality (N=2700 patients). In both mortality and non-mortality groups, the ratio of males was higher than females and the difference was not significant (p>0.05). 87.8% of those who lost their lives were treated in the intensive care unit (p [Med-Science 2022; 11(4.000): 1511-5]

Infertility is a problem that affects one out of seven couples and is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy despite unprotected intercourse for 1 year. One of the most important enemies of infertile patients is time. In order to reveal the possible causes of infertility, importance should be given to the systematic, rapid, and cost-effective evaluation, and the evaluation should be started with the least invasive examinations. In the evaluation of an infertile woman, a detailed medical history, reproductive history, family history, and physical examination are required to reveal the anatomical and physiological causes of infertility. This evaluation process is also the most suitable period for giving pre-pregnancy counseling, providing necessary counseling for preventive medicine practices, and conducting genetic research and consultations if necessary. In the evaluation of infertility, the presence of ovulation, the structure and function of the female genital system, and semen analysis in the male partner should also be evaluated. During all these evaluation processes, the psychological morbidity caused by the inability to have children should also be taken into consideration and the couples should also be supported in this respect. In this review, it was aimed to present the steps to be followed in the evaluation of an infertile woman in the light of current literature.

Prospection of the endosphere of the native plant Fragaria chiloensis subsp. chiloensis f. patagonica from the foothills of the Chilean Andes led to the isolation of two strains of the genus Coniochaeta. We addressed the taxonomic placement of these strains based on DNA sequencing data using the ITS and LSU genetic markers, morphological features, and biochemical traits. One of these strains was identified as Coniochaeta hansenii, for which the anamorph and teleomorph states were described. The second strain did not seem to match any of the currently described species of this genus; therefore, we propose the name Coniochaeta fragariicola sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although current guidelines recommend not drinking coffee prior to phlebotomy, our hypothesis is that drinking coffee does not affect the clinical interpretation of biochemical and haematological test results. Materials and methods: Twenty-seven volunteers were studied in basal state (T0) and 1h after (T1) drinking coffee. Routine haematological (Sysmex-XN1000 analyser) and biochemistry parameters (Vitros 4600 analyser) were studied. Results were compared using the Wilcoxon test (P < 0.05). A clinical change was considered when mean percent difference (MD%) was higher than the reference change value (RCV). Results: Coffee intake produced statistically, but not clinically, significant: i) increases in haemoglobin (P = 0.009), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (P = 0.044), neutrophils (P = 0.001), albumin (P = 0.001), total protein (P = 0.000), cholesterol (P = 0.025), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.007), uric acid (P = 0.011), calcium (P = 0.001), potassium (P = 0.010), aspartate aminotransferase (P = 0.001), amylase (P = 0.026), and lactate dehydrogenase (P = 0.001), and ii) decreases in mean cell volume (P = 0.002), red cell distribution width (P = 0.001), eosinophils (P = 0.002), and lymphocytes (P = 0.001), creatinine (P = 0.001), total bilirubin (P = 0.012), phosphorus (P = 0.001), magnesium (P = 0.007), and chloride (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Drinking a cup of coffee 1 hour prior to phlebotomy produces no clinically significant changes in routine biochemical and haematological test results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on Actinomycetes has proven highly beneficial to society, particularly in the development of product-oriented solutions for disease cures through the utilization of their compounds, commonly known as drugs. This study focused on screening and identifying actinomycete strains derived from the root nodules of Cissus quadrangularis and Alpinia officinarum cultivated in Chennai. The research began with serial dilution and enumeration of soil samples, followed by screening and isolation procedures aimed at discovering novel species. The study yielded 13 Actinomycete strains identified based on Gram staining, colony morphology, and biochemical tests, all of which exhibited Gram-positive characteristics with varying colony morphologies and biochemical profiles. Primary screening determined antibacterial isolates and identified the range of microorganisms sensitive to the antibiotics. A secondary screening was conducted to validate the results. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed to determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to potential antibiotics. The qualitative method determined the range of sensitive microorganisms, while the quantitative approach provided insights into the expected antibiotic yield when the organisms were cultured in ISP2 broth. All experimental measurements were conducted in triplicate, and the results were expressed as averages of three analyses. Among the isolates, I5, MS1005F, and MS1005E demonstrated high activity, while MS100E exhibited relatively lower activity against pathogenic bacterial strains. Notably, isolate I5 displayed the highest activity against MS1005F. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of essential oils from Catha edulis Forsk collected in the Day Forest of the Republic of Djibouti. Additionally, in vivo toxicity studies, biochemical profiling, and hematological tests were conducted to determine the biological activity of the investigated essential oils. Finally, in vitro tests were performed to investigate the antibacterial activity of the essential oils. The essential oils were obtained at yields of 0.75%. Chromatographic analysis identified 39 compounds, of which cathinone (81.4%) and cathine (10.55%) were determined as the two major components, representing 91.95% of the total composition. Catha edulis essential oil had a rat LD50 of 2500 mg/kg, indicating very low toxicity. Chronic exposure studies revealed that use of the essential oil in rats resulted in persistent stimulant action at dosages of 100 and 200 mg/kg, whereas the weight gain of control rats was faster than that of the essential oil-treated rats. Hematological parameters showed a significant increase in red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets in treated rats, which could indicate blood hyperviscosity that may increase the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the investigated essential oil exhibited antimicrobial activity against several bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pullorum disease (PD) is one of the most common diseases in the world, with devastating consequences. In the chicken sector, there have been financial losses. It is brought on by Salmonella enteric subspecies serovar Gallinarum biovar pullorum; definitive detection requires culture followed by biochemistry analysis and serotyping. This study aimed to verify the presence of bacteria by culture, biochemical characterization, PCR assay, and sequencing. One hundred samples were collected from 12 broiler chicken flocks of different ages for 8districts of Baghdad province, including cloacal swabs (65), visceral organs (15), and dropping (20). Salmonella colonies were identified by selective culture broth and agar with biochemical description for 75% of the total samples, with a higher incidence in visceral organs than dropping and cloacal swabs. ،The Sequencing and phylogenetic tree analysis of 16S rRNA gene for representative Salmonella isolates. The presence of Salmonella pullorum isolates in global genetic strains; was revealed a matching NCBI isolates similarity of 99.02% with (MF445124.1) and 98% with (MH352164.1), respectively. In the current state of molecular and genetic research, phlyogentic research announced the real presence of Salmonella pullorum in Baghdadprovince's broiler chicken, also showing the phylogentic characteristics and links to some global isolates. The detection of Salmonella pullorum in broiler flocks of the current study extent of health risks to other uninfected birds present in the free range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disorder 2019 (COVID-19) has been a unique virus due to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that initially appeared in Wuhan and is subsequently extended globally. In severely affected cases, COVID-19 has a high fatality rate. Objective: The aim of the current study was to identify the medical and biochemical characteristics predictors for severe COVID-19. Patients and Methods: A total of 150 admitted patients at Marjan Hospital, Babylon were enrolled in the current study. The recruited patients were divided into 3 groups: Health control with no COVID-19 (n=50), non-diabetic patients with COVID-19 (n=50), and diabetic patients with COVID-19 (n=50). Laboratory investigation for all participants included ALT, AST, CRP, D-dimer, glucose, and serum albumin. The diagnosis and severity of COVID-19 was confirmed by CT scan. Results: The mean age of the healthy control was 55.31 (SD 0.32) years, meanwhile the mean age of nondiabetic patients with COVID-19 was 54.23 (SD 0.21) years, with no statistical significant difference. Non-diabetic patients with COVID-19 had higher levels of AST, ALT, total bilirubin, ALP and CRP compared with the health control groups with P-value <0.001. Compared with the health control, diabetic COVID-19 patients had statistical significant increase in serum urea, serum creatinine, serum glucose and CRP. Conclusion: Age >52 years and high C-reactive protein, AST, ALT, ALP, D-dimer, or albumin are predictors for the development of COVID-19 to severe state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial spot, caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae, is a disease that has limited the cultivation of passionfruit in various orchards in Brazil. The objective of this work is to characterize and evaluate the variability of 29 strains of X. axonopodis pv. passiflorae from different municipalities producing yellow passionfruit in the state of Pará. The characterization was performed by the biochemical methods of KOH solubility, oxidase and Bactray, and the molecular methods of Xapas-F, Xapas-Ri and Xapas-Ro primers. The variability was evaluated by pathogenicity test and RAPD (randomly amplified polymorphic DNA). The strains of X. axonopodis pv. passiflorae were Gram-negative and oxidasenegative, and tests with the Bactray kit showed no relation between the collection municipality and group composition. The Xapas-F/Ri/Ro primers were specific for the strains. The primers used amplified 118 polymorphic bands in the RAPD reactions and the highest genetic similarity was between the strains PA15 and PA16. As the pathogenicity test evidenced a pathogenic variability, the strains PA2.1, PA4.5, PA14, PA4.2, PA4.1, PA4.6, PA3.4 and PA4.3 present the highest severity values for the disease. The strains of X. axonopodis pv. passiflorae show characteristics typical of the species, and genetic and pathogenic variability among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne pathogens have become a major concern not only due to the diseases they cause, but also because of the rise of antibiotic resistant strains in human and animals. The purposes of this study were to determine the occurrence of Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli and their antibiotic resistance profiles in wild birds, chickens, humans, and the environment in Malay villages in Malaysia. Three Malay villages in Kota Setar, Kedah were chosen. Three hundred nine (309) samples were collected in this study including wild birds (38), chickens (71), humans (47), and the environment (153). Subsequently, the C. jejuni and E coli isolates were tested against antibiotics using the disc diffusion method. Campylobacter jejuni was found positive in 17 (37.8%) flies and 8 (11.3%) chickens. Also, E. coli was found positive in 89.4% of human, 47.4% of bird, 44 62% of chicken and in 71.2% of the environmental samples. Ten antibiotics were used to determine the susceptibility of the isolates. Eighty four percent (84%) of C. jejuni and 100% of E. coli isolates were found to show resistance towards at least one antibiotic. The isolates showed high resistance to cefpodoxime and tetracycline.

Background: One of the most common arboviral diseases affecting large populations globally, is Dengue fever. Increased outbreaks of Dengue are reported in the subtropical and tropical regions on the annual basis. Dengue affects a large population in India with a considerable mortality rate. However, the data concerning the biochemical, hematological, and clinical profile of dengue subjects in India are scarce which is vital for appropriate management. Aim: The present study aimed to assess the biochemical, hematological, and clinical profiles of the subjects affected by the dengue virus in India. Methods: The present study assessed subjects affected by the dengue virus in India. For all participants, blood samples were collected and assessed for IgM antibodies specific against dengue using ELISA. Biochemical and hematological parameters were recorded along with the clinical features of included subjects. Results: The most common clinical feature was fever seen in 100% (n=204) study subjects followed by headache in 87.25% (n=178) study subjects, myalgia in 80.39% (n=164) study subjects, nausea and vomiting in 69.60% (n=142) study subjects, abdominal pain in 59.80% (n=122) study subjects, mucosal bleeding and eye pain in 37.25% (n=76) study subjects. Platelet counts were <140,000 cells/cu mm in 59.80% (n=122) of study subjects. raised lymphocyte counts were seen in 1.96% (n=4) subjects and neutrophil counts were higher ≥1500 cells/cu mm in 84.31% (n=172) study subjects. AST levels were higher with >37 IU/L in 45.09% (n=92) subjects with dengue and the ALT levels were >42 IU/L in 17.64% subjects with dengue infection Conclusions: The present study, considering its limitations, concludes that assessing the laboratory profile and clinical features in the dengue viral infection-affected area can help physicians assess the likelihood of the infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to investigate the effect of the predictive value of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and several routine laboratory tests on mortality in patients with positive Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) tests who were treated at Istanbul Training and Research Hospital. Routine laboratory data of patients with positive COVID-19 Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results were obtained via the hospital information system. The laboratory tests included ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydroge nase (LDH), aspartate transaminase, creatinine, urea, D-dimer, neutrophil, and lymphocyte count. The number of patients was 2774 and they were admitted to Istanbul Training and Research Hospital between March 10 and June 10, 2020. The statistical data were obtained using SPSS 17.0 version. The patients were divided into two groups, one for mortality (n= 74 patients) and the other for non-mortality (N=2700 patients). In both mortality and non-mortality groups, the ratio of males was higher than females and the difference was not significant (p>0.05). 87.8% of those who lost their lives were treated in the intensive care unit (p<0.05). All parameters were statistically significant between mortality and non-mortality groups (p<0.05). In patients with mortality, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), malignity, kidney failure, immunosuppressive treatment, and COVID-19-associated computerized tomography findings were higher (p<0.05). By the univariate analysis outcomes, all research parameters were significantly associated with mortality (p<0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis demonstrated that NLR, CRP, and LDH had predictive values for mortality in multivariate analysis (p<0.05). It is prominent that the NLR, CRP, and LDH were discrete from all other parameters and had a high predictive value among the values at the time of admission to the hospital in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:- Diabetic foot ulcers, the aim of the study for determine some types of microorganisms from diabetic foot ulcers that causes inflammation and long-term complications and activity study of ZnO NPs biosynthesis by Aspergillus niger against isolated bacteria, collected from infected patients at general Al -Hashimiya hospital in Babylon Governorate. Methods:-collected 100 swabs, cultured it, bacteria was diagnostic by morphological and microscopic, standard biochemical tests and Vitec, the isolates identified by molecular diagnosis by extraction of DNA, using specific universal primer 16SrRNA (1239bp) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), study biosynthesis, characterization of zinc Oxide Nanoparticles to inhibited bacterial growth. Results:-The results were (26 aerobic bacterial isolates positive) present such as Gram positive Staph aureus, as regards the aerobic Gram negative bacilli, Klepsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, The zinc oxide nanoparticles created by Aspergillus niger were spherical in shape with size 13.5nm that used as antibacterial. Discussion:-Through determination of MIC were concentrations of ZnO NPs (31.25, 62.5μg/ml, 125μg/mL, 250μg/ml, 500μg/ml), (31.25, 62.5μg/ml) not prevent growth and not inhibition while 125μg/mL determine as MIC, two best concentrations are 250μg/ml, 500μg/ml both give inhibition zones. Conclusion:- Gram negative bacteria was predominantly for diabetic foot ulcers, Aspergillus niger was shown to be a stabilizer capable of producing spherical ZnO nanoparticles, due to is very suitable candidate to carry out antimicrobial operation, as a result to its small size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is responsible for serious economic losses in poultry industry in Pakistan. The present study was designed to evaluate the molecular and immunological cross reactivity among MG isolates recovered from broiler birds. For this purpose a total of four hundred and thirty-four (n=434) specimen samples were taken from suspected broilers as well as environmental samples of forty commercial poultry (broiler) farms from DIK, Tank, Peshawar, Abbottabad and Mansehra districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These samples were inoculated and serially passage into Modified Frey's broth. One hundred and nine (25.1%) samples showed turbidity and were further processed through biochemical tests (Catalase production, Tetrazolium reduction, Phosphatase production, Film and spot Assay and Glucose fermentation). Typical fried egg colonies on Frey's agar were purified. Biochemical tests indicated Mycoplasma species as 2.5% of total specimen samples. The PCR results confirmed (185 bp) three MG isolates (MG-I, MG-II and MG-III) with 0.7% prevalence in total specimen samples. All three antigens (Formalin inactivated and Montanide adjuvanted) were subcutaneously inoculated @ 0.5 ml into rabbits and booster on 7 days post first inoculation. Sera samples collected after 14 days post booster shot, were processed for antibody titration using Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test with homologous and heterologous antigens. The immunological cross reactivity indicated all three MG isolates as distinctly separate from each other. The immunological cross reactivity was existing with 66 to 87.18% among all three isolates. The results showed high homologous GMT titers as compared to heterologous for each MG isolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat milk presents interesting characteristics to consumers, but the production of this food faces several challenges that influence its quality. Process failures from milking to processing and commercialization can expose milk to contamination by pathogenic microorganisms, including the coagulase-positive Staphylococcus group. Although Staphylococcus aureus is the most relevant species in mastitis and food poisoning, other species in this group are also important, especially those related to food poisoning. This study aimed to identify the coagulase-positive Staphylococcus species in goat milk using biochemical tests, determine the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance using the disc diffusion test, and investigate enterotoxin-producing genes, sea, seb, sec, sed, see, seg, seh, and sei by multiplex PCR. A total of 384 coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains obtained from raw goat milk collected from nine farms in Paraná during four seasons of the year were studied. Biochemical tests showed that 85.69% of the 384 strains were S. aureus, followed by 9.38% of S. intermedius, 4.17% of S. hyicus and 0.78% of S. delphini. For the antimicrobial resistance test, up to three strains of each species identified as coagulase-positive Staphylococci were chosen from each farm, with a total of 74 strains. Of these, 27% (20/74) showed resistance to at least one antibiotic, and among all penicillin-resistant strains, 45% (9/20) also presented resistance to tetracycline. In the search for staphylococcal enterotoxin-producing genes, 49 S. aureus strains were studied; among them, 40.81% (20/49) presented enterotoxin-producing genes. The highest prevalence was detected for the sec gene, which was present in 22.44% (11/49) of the strains, followed by the seh gene in 18.36% (9/49), and the see gene was detected in 4.08% (2/49). It was concluded that S. aureus was the predominant species in raw goat milk, with a high prevalence of penicillin- and tetracycline-resistant Staphylococci and a significant number of strains with staphylococcal enterotoxin-producing genes. The strains studied carried enterotoxin-producing genes involved in food poisoning in humans, indicating that goat milk is a possible source of contamination and, therefore, a potential danger to public health.

In some developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, rapid population growth is a complicated problem, and thus, it is necessary to raise the efficiency of foodstuff production to preserve human life. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effect of fish oil supplementation on male rabbits' productivity, as well as their biochemical and physiological characteristics. This experiment was conducted in the Animal House of the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad (Baghdad, Iraq) for eight weeks. Twenty-four local male rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (each containing eight rabbits) as follows: the control group that was fed with a basal diet only, the first treated group in which each animal received fish oil orally at a dose of 0.75 ml every day, and another treated group in which each animal received fish oil orally at a dose of 1.5 ml every day. Both treated groups received the treatment for 60 days. Blood samples were collected from cardiac veins by cardiac puncture at the beginning of the experiment (Zero time). On day 60 of the experiment, samples were collected again to analyze potential changes in blood characteristics, including white blood cells count, hemoglobin, and red blood cells count. These blood samples recorded a significant decrease in cholesterol in the two treatment groups, compared to the control. In conclusion, the current findings recommend daily oral administration of fish oil at a dose of 0.75 mg/ml or 1.5 mg/ml to rabbits for 60 days before conception to improve performance trials, as well as biochemical and hematological results. These alterations, however, have a small impact on these features, compared to higher doses administered to rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tempe is a popular fermented food in Indonesia, one of the important things in the process of making tempeh is the tempe incubation container. The purpose of this study was to prove the quality of tempe products made using the tempe mold innovation suitable for production, to analyze the comparison between the quality of tempe products made using a tempe incubation tool and without using the tool. Experimental research with Completely Randomized Design (CRD), applying a tempe incubator and without using a tool as a control. Test methods used include testing water content, hygiene, number of mold colonies and protein content. Based on the results of the study, tempe products made using a tempe printer contain a moisture content of 51.4 - 56.2%, protein content 17.92 - 18.58%, the number of mold colonies 3.65 x 105 untill 4.08 x 105 cell/gr and negative Escherichia coli. Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that the tempe products made using the tempe mold innovation tool had met the biological and chemical quality standards based on SNI 3144:2015 and had an overall quality test result that was superior to the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe shrimp disease outbreaks have a destructive impact on shrimp aquaculture and its associated downstream food processing industries. Thus, it is essential to develop proper methods for shrimp disease control, which emphasizes the importance of food safety. In this study, we performed biochemical tests and gut microbiome analysis using uninfected control and VpAHPND‐infected Penaeus monodon samples. Biochemical tests were performed to assess the phenoloxidase (PO) activity, respiratory Burst (RB) activity, nitrite concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, total hemocyte count (THC), and total protein concentrations. Overall, upregulations were detected in these biochemical tests, which showed the activation of the immune response in P. monodon during acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) infection, especially at 6 hpi and 12 hpi. Besides that, shrimp gut samples were collected and pooled (n = 3), followed by DNA extraction, PCR amplification targeting the V3/V4 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) region, next‐generation sequencing (NGS), and bioinformatics analysis. Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum in both samples. The Rhodobacteraceae family and Maritimibacter genus were proposed to be vital forshrimp health maintenance. VpAHPND bacterial colonization and secondary Vibrio infections were postulated to have occurred based on the higher abundances of Vibrionaceae family and Vibrio genus in the VpAHPND‐infected sample. Firmicutes phylum together with Photobacterium and Aliiroseovarius genera were inferred to be pathogenic or related factors of AHPND infections. In conclusion, physiology (immune response activation) and gut microbiome changes of disease tolerant P. monodon during AHPND infection were identified. Both biochemical tests and 16S rRNA analysis are proposed as a combined strategy for shrimp health diagnosis for ensuring shrimp health maintenance, disease control, and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella spp are characterized as rod-shaped, motile, gram-negative bacteria which has the ability to infect animals and human. Salmonella spp occasionally causes sickness while in most cases not lead to severe symptoms. Analyzing milk for Salmonella spp. is not routine but traditional culture methods are used to evaluate the health condition of the dairy products. However, the antibody-based and nucleic-acid-based methods are practical for identifying Salmonella spp. Therefore, this research was designed to evaluate the use of traditional culture methods and PCR in detection of the presence of Salmonella spp. in raw milk samples in, Maysan Iraq. A total number of 130 raw milk samples collected from Maysan Iraq. All the samples were analyzed for the presence of Salmonella spp. using traditional culture method and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The culture method used in this experiment were done by using pre-enrichment, enrichment, selective plating and biochemical tests. The results of this traditional technique were compared with the results obtained from PCR method. The PCR was performed using a 284bp sequence of the invA gene. The results showed that 8 (7.07%) of samples were identified as salmonella positive using traditional culture technique but 14 (12.3%) samples were detected as salmonella positive by PCR method. The results of the current research revealed that the traditional culture based methods are generally time costuming and labor intensive but the development of new rapid methods including DNA based methods such as PCR are more sensitive and have dramatically decreased the time necessary for the detection of bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomarkers may be useful endophenotypes for genetic studies if they share genetic sources of variation with the outcome, for example, with all-cause mortality. Australian adult study participants who had reported their parental survival information were included in the study: 14,169 participants had polygenic risk scores (PRS) from genotyping and up to 13,365 had biomarker results. We assessed associations between participants' biomarker results and parental survival, and between biomarker results and eight parental survival PRS at varying p-value cut-offs. Survival in parents was associated with participants' serum bilirubin, C-reactive protein, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and uric acid, and with LDL cholesterol for participants' fathers but not for their mothers. PRS for all-cause mortality were associated with liver function tests (alkaline phosphatase, butyrylcholinesterase, gamma-glutamyl transferase), metabolic tests (LDL and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid), and acute-phase reactants (C-reactive protein, globulins). Association between offspring biomarker results and parental survival demonstrates the existence of familial effects common to both, while associations between biomarker results and PRS for mortality favor at least a partial genetic cause of this covariation. Identification of genetic loci affecting mortality-associated biomarkers offers a route to the identification of additional loci affecting mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne pathogens have become a major concern not only due to the diseases they cause, but also because of the rise of antibiotic resistant strains in human and animals. The purposes of this study were to deter-mine the occurrence of Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli and their antibiotic resistance profiles in wild birds, chickens, humans, and the environment in Malay villages in Malaysia. Three Malay villages in Kota Setar, Kedah were chosen. Three hundred nine (309) samples were collected in this study including wild birds (38), chickens (71), humans (47), and the environment (153). Subsequently, the C. jejuni and E coli isolates were tested against antibiotics using the disc diffusion method. Campylobacter jejuni was found positive in 17 (37.8%) flies and 8 (11.3%) chickens. Also, E. coli was found positive in 89.4% of human, 47.4% of bird, 44 62% of chicken and in 71.2% of the environmental samples. Ten antibiotics were used to determine the susceptibility of the isolates. Eighty four percent (84%) of C. jejuni and 100% of E. coli isolates were found to show resistance towards at least one antibiotic. The isolates showed high resistance to cefpodoxime and tetracycline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infertility is a problem that affects one out of seven couples and is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy despite unprotected intercourse for 1 year. One of the most important enemies of infertile patients is time. In order to reveal the possible causes of infertility, importance should be given to the systematic, rapid, and cost-effective evaluation, and the evaluation should be started with the least invasive examinations. In the evaluation of an infertile woman, a detailed medical history, reproductive history, family history, and physical examination are required to reveal the anatomical and physiological causes of infertility. This evaluation process is also the most suitable period for giving pre-pregnancy counseling, providing necessary counseling for preventive medicine practices, and conducting genetic research and consultations if necessary. In the evaluation of infertility, the presence of ovulation, the structure and function of the female genital system, and semen analysis in the male partner should also be evaluated. During all these evaluation processes, the psychological morbidity caused by the inability to have children should also be taken into consideration and the couples should also be supported in this respect. In this review, it was aimed to present the steps to be followed in the evaluation of an infertile woman in the light of current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactococcus garviea is a gram positive, facultative anaerobic, oxidase and catalase negative that belong to the lactic acid group bacteria. This bacterium is the cause of Lactococcosis, an acute disease with hemorrhagic septicemia in rainbow trout and causes a lot of economic damage to the aquaculture industry. In this study, 10 diseased rainbow trout were bacteriologically sampled from head kidney and brain in one of fish farms of Khuzestan province, Located in Masjed Soleyman. The obtained isolates were further evaluated by biochemical tests and molecular method (with 16S rRNA specific primers). Samples were also taken from different organs and fixed in formalin 10% for pathological examination. To investigate the lesions, sections were prepared from 5 μm and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin. The results of bacterial culture, biochemical tests and PCR confirmed the presence of Lactococcosis in the studied farms. Macroscopic examination revealed lesions in the liver, kidneys and intestine of affected fish. The liver was pale and the kidneys were relatively swollen. No other complications or lesions, including abdominal discharge, were observed in affected fish. In histopathologic examination of liver, degeneration, and focal necrosis were seen. In kidneys, tubules degeneration and melanomacrophage cells accumulation were seen. In intestines, moderate inflammation and inflammatory cells aggregation was seen. According to the confirmation of the presence of lactococcosis, it is necessary to take measures to prevent lactococcosis (especially vaccination). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 11 March 2020, when COVID-19 was declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, the number of cases has increased all over the world and this uncontrolled increase has created a great burden on health systems. Strict measures such as quarantine have been taken for billions of people all over the world to prevent the spread of the disease. This, in particular, has adversely affected the economy and health systems of countries and continues to do so. In particular, due to the high rates of asymptomatic COVID-19 cases, the measures taken remain insufficient and make it difficult to combat the pandemic. Nucleic acid amplification test is the gold standard method in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, due to the long duration of giving results and the false negativity rate of up to 40%, the rapid screening of the patients and the initiation of treatment are delayed. Accelerating the diagnosis and treatment of patients by evaluating them with biochemical tests in the early period is important both in terms of early control of the disease and control of the spread of the epidemic and the correct and efficient use of resources during the epidemic. With this review; it is aimed to summarize the biochemical tests used in the diagnosis, follow-up of the disease, in the regulation of appropriate treatment for the patient, and the biochemical tests used in the risk prediction scores created to determine the prognosis of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]