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Volume 14 (4); December 25, 2024

Review  

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J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(2): , 2024; pii:S225199392400004-13

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2023.4

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Research Paper

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J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(2): 35-41, 2024; pii:S225199392400005-13

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Volume 14 (3); September 25, 2024

Research Paper 

Anti-methanogenic effect of pyrogallol in Spirulina platensis – molecular docking and dynamics simulation on methyl-coenzyme M reductase

Sadid MM and Anam MS.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14 (3): 45-53, 2024; pii:S225199392400005-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.5 

Abstract

Methane, along with carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, is a key greenhouse gas contributing significantly to the global concern over climate change. This study investigated the anti-methanogenic properties of pyrogallol in Spirulina platensis using molecular docking and dynamics simulation on methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR). The Swiss ADME web server was used to identify pyrogallol's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties. Molecular docking studies were conducted using UCSF Chimera with the Vina script as the executor. The docking results were further analyzed through molecular dynamics simulation using Gromacs-2024. ADME analysis indicated that pyrogallol meets Lipinski’s Rule of Five. Docking studies revealed that pyrogallol has a binding affinity of 4.6 kJ/mol with 2 hydrogen bonds and 1 hydrophobic interaction. Additionally, the MCR-pyrogallol simulation results showed fluctuating root mean square deviation (RMSD) values that stabilized at t = 26,200 until the end of the simulation with an average value of 2.50 nm. Moreover, the hydrogen bonds formed during the simulation fluctuated, with no bonds observed for more than 75% of the simulation time. The energy released during the simulation reached –300.24 kJ/mol with an average of –5.19 kJ/mol. In conclusion, the pyrogallol compound in Spirulina plantensis can potentially inhibit the MCR enzyme, thereby reducing methane production and mitigating the impact of climate change.

Keywords: Anti-methanogenic, methyl-coenzyme M reductase, molecular docking, pyrogallol, Spirulina platensis

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Review 

Current vaccine candidate of toxoplasmosis

Woldegerima E, Getachew F, Misganaw M, Mesfin Y, Belete D, Sisay T, Berhane N.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14 (3): 54-67, 2024; pii:S225199392400006-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.6

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite belonging from the phylum Apicomplexa, known for causing toxoplasmosis. The disease has a global presence, affecting about one-third of the world’s population. The parasite infects various intermediate hosts, including humans and other warm-blooded mammals, with cats serving as the definitive hosts. Its life cycle is complex, featuring a sexual phase in the definitive host and an asexual phase in intermediate hosts. Toxoplasmosis can leads severe neurologic, ocular, and systemic diseases in neonates and immunocompromised individuals. In immunocompetent individuals, the infection is typically asymptomatic, forming dormant tissue cysts in immune-privileged sites such as the muscles and brain. During pregnancy, toxoplasmosis poses significant health risks, potentially causing severe birth defects or miscarriage, and a major concern for immunocompromised hosts. Current control measures are inadequate, highlighting the need for effective vaccines. The initial host defense against T. gondii occurs at the intestinal mucosa, where cytokines and chemokines released by intestinal epithelial cells facilitate the migration of inflammatory cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. Developing a vaccine that can enhance this mucosal immunity is crucial for preventing toxoplasmosis. Therefore, the development of vaccines against T.gondii is a promising alternative mechanism to prevent toxoplasmosis. This review aims to present the current status of vaccine candidates against Toxoplasma gondii.

Keywords: Vaccine, Candidate, Toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma gondii

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Research Paper 

Maternal outcomes in pregnant women with COVID-19: impact of disease severity, timing of intervention, and SARS-CoV-2 variants

Alimova KP, Ibadov RA, Tyan TV, and Ibragimov SK.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14 (3): 68-76, 2024; pii:S225199392400007-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.7 

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze maternal outcomes in pregnant women infected with COVID-19, focusing on the impact of disease severity, timing of medical intervention, and the effect of different SARS-CoV-2 variants. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 9,288 pregnant women diagnosed with COVID-19. Disease severity was classified as mild (30%), moderate (52%), severe (17%), and critical (2%). The study also examined the timing of medical care, with 41.6% of women seeking care within 7 days of symptom onset and 58.4% after 7 days. The average gestational age was 271.8 days, with the majority (93.8%) at full-term pregnancy. Results indicated that 88.2% of women continued their pregnancies during treatment, while 11.9% experienced pregnancy termination, including preterm deliveries and miscarriages. The study found a significant (p<0.01) association between COVID-19 severity and adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth and maternal mortality. Severe and critical cases demonstrated increased risks of uteroplacental insufficiency (52.1% and 85.5%, respectively), the need for intensive respiratory support, and ICU admission. The differences in outcomes between the Delta and Omicron variants are also highlighted. The Delta variant was associated with more severe disease and higher rates of complications, including a higher need for cesarean sections, compared to the Omicron variant. The overall 30-day survival rate was 98.05%, with a noticeable drop to 43.59% in critically ill patients. This study underscores the importance of early medical intervention and continuous monitoring in managing COVID-19 in pregnant women. The findings also emphasize the need to consider the variant-specific effects of SARS-CoV-2 on maternal and neonatal outcomes, which can guide clinical decision-making and improve the prognosis for both mother and child.

Keywords: COVID-19, pregnancy, maternal outcomes, SARS-CoV-2 variants, preterm birth, uteroplacental insufficiency, respiratory support, intensive care, maternal outcomes

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Review 

Resistance gene detection database for antimicrobial resistance investigations emphasizing on genomics and metagenomics techniques

Alemnew M, Gelaw A, Nibret K, Getu A, and Berhane N.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14 (3): 77-86, 2024; pii:S225199392400008-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.8

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance poses a grave threat to global health where bacteria become resistant to antimicrobials, rendering them ineffective against infections. It leads to increased illness, death, and healthcare costs. The overuse and inappropriate use of antibiotics in both human medicine and animal agriculture are the primary drivers of antimicrobial resistance. Methods for identifying antimicrobial resistance genes include culturing bacteria with antimicrobial susceptibility test, polymerase chain reaction, and whole genome sequencing for genomics and Metagenomics samples. Newer methods like whole genome sequencing are faster and more accurate. Metagenomics is a powerful tool that can be used to study antimicrobial resistance in various environments. It can study culturable and non-culturable bacteria and used to study samples from humans, animals, and the environment. Resistance gene detection databases serves as a centralized repository of knowledge about resistance genes, mechanisms, and trends of antimicrobial. Databases categorize resistance information by genetic factors, mechanisms, specific drugs, and drug families. This review focuses on powerful and updated databases for detecting resistance genes, including: CARD, ResFinder with pointFinder, ResFinderFG v2.0, MEGARes v3.0 and NDARO. This review aims to examine the significance of antimicrobial resistance databases and techniques in combating antimicrobial resistance. It compares the advantages and disadvantages of different databases for storing and techniques for identifying antimicrobial resistance genes. Additionally, it inform researchers in evaluating antimicrobial resistance study methodologies and database choices based on antimicrobial resistance factors such as microorganism type, study setting, data type, resistance gene nature, resistance focus and novelty of resistance mechanisms. The primary aim of this review is to compare different powerful databases and techniques for identifying ARGs, an issue that hasn't been thoroughly covered in other reviews. These databases provide valuable resources for researchers studying antimicrobial resistance, offering a comprehensive collection of resistance gene sequences and annotations. This knowledge is essential for developing innovative strategies to combat AMR and ensure the ongoing effectiveness of antibiotics.

Keywords: Antimicrobial Resistance, Database, Metagenomics, Resistance, Resistance gène

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Volume 14 (4); December 25, 2024

Research Paper

Molecular characterizations of Toxoplasma gondii among pregnant women attending antenatal care at central Gondar zone public hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

Meressa EW, Atanaw MB, Bicha MM, Eshetu MA, Abebe FK, Admasu AE, Kebede ML, Melese TS, and Tessemma NB.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(4): 87-98, 2024; pii:S225199392400009-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2022.9 

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii parasite that causes severe clinical problems such as congenital toxoplasmosis is a major public health problem that affects one-third of the world’s populationand is also associatedwith a high socioeconomic impact for pregnant women. Molecular characterizations for genotyping using PCR for the detection of T. gondii genotyping were grouped into three subtypes, designated I, II, and III, based on polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).This study aimed to determine molecular characterizations of T. gondii among pregnant women attending Anti-Natal Care (ANC) at Central Gondar Zone Public Hospitals (CGZPH), Northwest Ethiopia. Between 2022 and 2024, a cross-sectional study design was conducted to determine the molecular characterizations of T. gondii among pregnant women attending ANC at CGZPH. In this study, We determined the B1 and Surface antigen 2(SAG2) genotypes of T. gondii in pregnant women using PCR-RFLP. The genotyping data were coded for all genetic loci. Our research provides baseline information essential for planning and implementing control and prevention strategies, thereby enhancing the knowledge and epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. The study revealed that the T. gondii population in the Central Gondar Zone is predominantly represented by type II strains, which are most commonly associated with human toxoplasmosis. The use of PCR-RFLP at the SAG2 and B1 loci proved to be efficient method for rapid genotyping.

Keywords: Toxoplasma gondii, Molecular characterization, Pregnant women, Ethiopia

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Review

Horizontal gene transfer: the hidden hazards of genetic engineering

Meressa EW and Tseha BA.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(4): 99-108, 2024; pii:S225199392400010-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.10 

Abstract

Horizontal or lateral gene transfer involves to the movement of genetic material between organisms in a manner that is not associated with traditional reproduction. This process can occur through direct methods or via vectors, and it contrasts with vertical gene transfer, where genes are passed to offspring. Genetic engineering often utilizes artificial constructs to cross species barriers and integrate in to genomes, facilitating unregulated horizontal gene transfer. These constructs which typically include genetic elements, can naturally mediate horizontal gene transfer. This can lead to the spread of diseases, antibiotic resistance, and even cancer in mammalian cells. Given these risks, it is crucial to establish effective regulatory measures to prevent the release of these constructs into the environment and to consider the continuation of potentially hazard experiments. This review aims to highlight the current status and implications of horizontal gene transfer facilitated by genetic engineering, emphasizing the need for stringent regulatory measures to mitigate associated risks.

Keywords: Antibiotic resistance, artificial vector, dormant viruses, CaMV promoter, naked DNA, transgenic DNA

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Research Paper

Assessment of long-term hemodynamic changes following balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonary artery stenosis

Zufarov MM, Umarov MM, and Ibadov RR.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(4): 109-115, 2024; pii:S225199392400011-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.11

Abstract

Pulmonary artery stenosis (PAS) is a common congenital heart defect with a significant impact on the cardiovascular health of affected patients. Despite advancements in interventional cardiology, the long-term hemodynamic outcomes following balloon valvuloplasty (BV) for PAS remain insufficiently studied, especially in varying clinical and demographic subgroups. This knowledge gap necessitates further investigation. To assess long-term hemodynamic changes in patients with PAS after BV and analyze factors contributing to unsatisfactory outcomes. This single-center retrospective cohort study included 180 patients with PAS who underwent BV at the RSPPMCS named after Acad. V. Vakhidov between 2010 and 2022. Patients were categorized based on PAS type and baseline right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP). Hemodynamic parameters were assessed using echocardiography and CT angiography. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis evaluated the durability of good and satisfactory outcomes. Statistical comparisons were made using t-tests and multivariate regression analysis, with p-values reported to three decimal places. Among the 180 patients, 144 (80.0%) had isolated valvular PAS, 27 (15.0%) had combined valvular-subvalvular PAS, and 9 (5.0%) had valvular-supravalvular PAS. Initial mean RVSP was 93.4±6.7 mmHg, which decreased significantly to 25.3±3.2 mmHg immediately post-BV (p<0.001). Long-term follow-up was achieved in 58 patients over five years, with mean RVSP stabilizing at 26.2±2.4 mmHg. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that 81.0% of patients maintained good outcomes at five years. Predictors of poor outcomes included inadequate balloon-to-annulus ratio (<1.2) and residual gradients ≥50 mmHg. Repeat BV improved outcomes in 100% of re-treated cases. BV demonstrates high efficacy in the long-term management of PAS, with sustained improvement in hemodynamics observed in most patients. Optimal balloon sizing remains critical to reducing residual gradients and ensuring long-term success. Further studies should explore additional predictors of restenosis to refine patient selection and procedural strategies.

Keywords: Pulmonary artery stenosis; balloon valvuloplasty; hemodynamic outcomes; congenital heart defects; long-term follow-up.

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Research PaperCOVID-19

Evaluating the sensitivity and specificity of a rapid antigen screening test against real-time polymerase chain reaction for COVID-19 detection in northern Ethiopia

Abebe B, Birhane N, Girmay G, Belete D.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(4): 116-127, 2024; pii:S225199392400012-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.12

Abstract

Early diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19-positive patients are crucial to limiting complications and transmission. Despite real-time PCR being considered a gold standard for the diagnosis of COVID-19, its availability is still limited. There is a paucity of studies that show the sensitivity and specificity of rapid antigen tests (RAT) in Ethiopia. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of rapid antigen tests for the diagnosis of sever acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type-2 (SARS-COV-2 among COVID-19 suspected patients. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on COVID-19-positive and negative individuals in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from December 26, 2022, to April 30, 2023. Socio-demographic, behavioral, and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. All nasopharyngeal or throat swabs were tested using the Panbio^TM COVID-19 rapid antigen test and the BIO-RAD CFX connect^TM reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Sensitivity, specificity, Kappa, and positive and negative predictive values were analyzed using the online Medcalc statistical tool to determine the diagnostic performance of the rapid antigen test using the RT-PCR reference method. Out of 120 participants, 53.3% were female. In this study, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the Panbio^TM rapid antigen test were 98.36%, 100%, and 98.33%, respectively The positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 99.17%, respectively. The Kohen’s kappa statistic was 0.983 at 50% estimation of the disease prevalence. Panbio^TM rapid antigen test resulthowed outstanding agreement with RT-PCR using a nasopharyngeal or nasal swab from symptomatic patients. The RAT affordable and provides immediate outcome with in short period of time. In order to quickly identify the positive cases and put isolation and infection control measure in place, this test can be used in regions where the numbers SARS-CoV-2 cases is fast increasing.

Keywords: COVID-19, diagnostic performance, Panbio^TM, rapid antigen test

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Volume 14 (1); March 25, 2024

Research Paper

Enhancing metabolic health and exercise performance with zinc-enriched postbiotic supplementation: a nutritional intervention study

Cune J, Tintore M, Marti L., De Lecea C, and Marti A.

J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(1): 01-08, 2024; pii:S225199392400001-14

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.1

Abstract

In recent years, the focus on improving well-being through natural solutions, such as dietary adjustments to improve the composition and functionality of the microbiota, has gained prominence. This study explored the effects of a zinc-enriched postbiotic of whole-cell yeast strains (Saccharomyces boulardii ABB S3, Kluyveromyces marxianus ABB S8, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae ABB S6) on metabolic health and gastrointestinal well-being in resistance-training individuals. Over a 30-day period, 18 participants who experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and were not using other dietary supplements underwent evaluation. The intervention aimed to assess changes in serum zinc levels, protein metabolism indicators, and gastrointestinal health, using a repeated measures design for comprehensive data analysis. Results showed a significant increase in serum zinc levels and improvements in protein metabolism markers, alongside reduced gastrointestinal discomfort. These findings underline the efficacy of zinc-enriched postbiotic supplementation in enhancing metabolic health, and suggest that such targeted nutritional interventions can significantly benefit exercise performance and general well-being. The study's outcomes support the potential of incorporating postbiotics into dietary strategies for health maintenance, offering a promising direction for future research in nutritional science and the management of exercise-induced gastrointestinal symptoms.

Keywords: Dietary Supplements, Gastrointestinal Microbiome, Metabolic Diseases/prevention & control Postbiotics, Zinc/metabolism, Exercise Performance

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Research Paper

Comparing healthcare service utilization in insured vs. noninsured households in Rural Atsbi Womberta, Ethiopia

Abdelkadir KS and Hagos BS.
J. Life Sci. Biomed., 14(1): 09-29, 2024; pii:S225199392400002-14

DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jlsb.2024.2

Abstract

Community-based health insurance schemes (CBHI) in Africa are gaining attention due to high healthcare costs in developing nations, affecting 6% of individuals in extreme poverty. The World Health Organization emphasizes the need for sustainable health funding schemes to ensure access to health services. Ethiopia faces poor healthcare funding, making it one of the world's poorest nations. Tigray implemented community-based insurance as a pilot study in 69 rural communities since 2010. The objective of this study was compare differences in healthcare service utilization between community-based health insurance among insured and non-insured households in rural Atsbi-Wemberta district. A community-based comparative cross-sectional study with a qualitative approach was conducted on 172 households. Data was analyzed using SPSS, and inferential statistics were used to measure factors' association with outcome variables. A study in Kebelle revealed that the majority of respondents were female-headed, engaged in both insurance schemes, and had higher education levels. Marital status was also significant, with 89% living with their families. The majority were married, with 91.8% insured and 86.0% uninsured. Family size and income were significant factors, with high-salary households less likely to be members of the CBHI scheme. The study found that most participants considered themselves intermediate healthcare providers, with limited service due to affordability and segregation. The study suggests increasing healthcare service utilization by introducing CBHI to improve access to healthcare and promote good governance. However, the study faces criticism for unfairness and insufficient benefits for non-insured participants. Household were enrolled in CBHI (56.2%) were more probable to use health care service than households who were not enrolled (43.8%) (χ2=21.359, p<0.001). Community Benefits Insurance (CBHI) has increased healthcare utilization among insured households due to reduced illness costs and increased healthcare professional involvement. Factors like income, family size, and travel time contribute to higher utilization. However, challenges include lack of knowledge and community awareness.
KEYWORDS: Community, health insurance, health care service utilization, rural, Atsbi-Womberta.

Keywords: Enset, Bacterial wilt, Incidence, Prevalence, Severity

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