Immunoaffinity-based mass spectrometric characterization of immunoreactive proteins of Salmonella Typhi.

Salmonella Typhi, a human-restricted Gram negative enterobacteriaceae, is the causative agent of typhoid fever in human being. The available serodiagnostic tools for the diagnosis of typhoid fever lack sensitivity and/or specificity. This study aimed to identify the immunoreactive proteins of S. Typhi that could help to develop improved diagnostic tools. Here, we performed immunoaffinity-based proteomic approach that uses charged columns to retrieve IgG and IgM antibodies from the plasma of typhoid patients followed by capture of S. Typhi proteins. These proteins were then characterized by mass spectrometry and bioinformatics tools. Using this approach, we identified 28 immunoreactive proteins of S. Typhi, in which 14 proteins were captured by IgG charged column and 4 proteins were captured by IgM column. We also identified 10 proteins (hlyE, rfbH, dapD, argI, glyA, pflB, trxB, groEL, tufA and pepD) captured by both columns. The prediction of antigenicity and immunogenicity resulted that 22 proteins were antigenic while 6 were non-antigenic on the scale of 0.4 threshold value of VaxiJen. These proteins successfully simulated the immune system in silico and in response higher amount of antibodies' titers were recorded in C-IMMSIM, confirming the immunogenic nature of these proteins. The identified proteins are of diverse nature and functions including those involved in virulence and pathogenesis, energy metabolism, cell development, biosynthesis of amino acids, regulatory functions and biosynthesis of cofactors. The findings of this study would be helpful in the development of improved vaccines and diagnostic tools for typhoid fever.

Seroprevalence of IgM and IgG Against SARS-CoV-2 after Two Doses of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in Women with Breast Cancer.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the seroprevalence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG) antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 after two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccination from women with breast cancer in Jazan city Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, antibody detections were performed one month and three months after the administration of the second dose. METHODS: Overall, 103 breast cancer patients were included. Individuals who had had two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, patients who were earlier diagnosed with COVID-19 infection, had not finalized immunization plan, or who received the second dose recently were excluded from the study. The antibodies detection test was run according to the manufacturer's directions of Viva Diag™ SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG Rapid Test (COVID-19 IgM/IgG Rapid Test). RESULTS: This study included 62 (60.2%) and 41 (39.8%) patients with invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma, respectively. The age, median and interquartile range (IQR) was 54.0 (26) years. Regarding reactivity of antibodies, after one month IgM antibody showed 64 (62.1%) positive and 39 (37.9%) negative while IgG antibody showed positive results in all patients. After three months IgM antibody showed 44 (42.7%) positive and 59 (57.3%) negative, while IgG showed 87 (84.5%) positive and 16 (15.5%) negative. There were significant differences in the IgM and IgG seropositivity. There were 19.3% patients with ductal carcinoma who were positive and then turned negative versus 17.7% who were positive and then turned negative, respectively (p < 0.001). There were significant differences in IgM antibody positivity among different age groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results recommend the importance of screening for an antibody response for breast cancer patient after immunization in order to reveal persons who need early and late extra enhancing vaccine dose. Upcoming studies recommended to estimate different methods that raise cancer patients' immune response.

Relation of Hypoxia Inducible Factor, Dyslipidemia and CAD Saudi Patients With Type 2 Diabetes.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a metabolic condition associated with an increased risk of death, morbidity, and vascular problems. This study investigated the association of HIF-1α and dyslipidemia with the incidence of coronary artery disease in Saudi patients with T2DM. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study included 100 Saudi patients aged 40-60 years who were attending King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital in Taif, as well as 50 healthy controls. All were divided into three groups of 50 subjects each: control, patients with T2DM, and patients with T2DM with coronary complications. Serum levels of HIF-1α, fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c %), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were estimated. RESULTS: Serum HIF-1α, FBG, HbA1c %, TC, TG, and LDL-C levels were significantly increased in both groups of patients with diabetes (p<0.001) relative to the control group. Among patient groups, their levels were significantly increased in patients with coronary complications as compared to patients with diabetes (p<0.001). Serum HDL-C levels in both groups of patients with diabetes were significantly lower (p<0.001) than those in the control group. When HDL-C levels were compared between the two patient groups, its levels in patients with diabetes with coronary complications were significantly lower (p<0.001). Significant positive correlations were observed between serum HIF-1α and each of FBG, HbA1c %, TC, TG, and LDL-C levels, whereas negative correlations were observed with HDL-C in both groups of patients with diabetes. CONCLUSION: Increased serum HIF-1α levels are linked to dyslipidaemia in Saudi patients with T2DM, particularly those with coronary artery disease.

Evaluation of CD4+:CD8+ Ratio in Patients With Cervical Cancer and the Levels of Inflammatory Markers.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern. The ratio of CD4+:CD8+ T-cells is used to evaluate the immune system function. This study aimed to explore the CD4+:CD8+ T-cell ratio in relation to the glycemic status, inflammatory markers, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 in patients with early diagnosed cervical cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. Blood samples were collected for flow cytometry analysis. Information regarding Papanicolaou (Pap) smears and colposcopy investigations were collected from 152 women with type 2 diabetes admitted to East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2018 and January 2021. RESULTS: Patients with early cervical carcinoma and a higher CD4+:CD8+ ratio (>1.2) had a higher C-reactive protein (CRP) level than those with a lower CD4+:CD8+ ratio (Mean±SD=13.75±13.3 vs. 10.85±8.1; p-value=0.034). Patients with early cervical carcinoma, diabetes, and higher CD4+:CD8+ ratio (>1.2) had a higher blood HbA1c percent than those with a lower CD4+:CD8+ ratio. CONCLUSION: A high CD4+:CD8+ T-cells ratio was associated with an increased HbA1c% and CRP levels in women with diabetes diagnosed with early cervical carcinoma, which can induce inflammation in early diagnosed patients with cervical cancer.

Novel Exopolysaccharide from Marine Bacillus subtilis with Broad Potential Biological Activities: Insights into Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Cytotoxicity, and Anti-Alzheimer Activity.

In the presented study, Bacillus subtilis strain AG4 isolated from marine was identified based on morphological, physiological, phylogenetic characteristics and an examination of 16S rRNA sequences. Novel exopolysaccharide (EPSR4) was extracted and isolated from the Bacillus subtilis strain as a major fraction of exopolysaccharide (EPS). The analysis of structural characterization indicated that EPSR4 is a ß-glycosidic sulphated heteropolysaccharide (48.2%) with a molecular weight (Mw) of 1.48 × 104 g/mole and has no uronic acid. Analysis of monosaccharide content revealed that EPSR4 consists of glucose, rhamnose and arabinose monosaccharide in a molar ratio of 5:1:3, respectively. Morphological analysis revealed that EPSR4 possess a high crystallinity degree with a significant degree of porosity, and its aggregation and conformation in the lipid phase might have a significant impact on the bioactivity of EPSR4. The biological activity of EPSR4 was screened and evaluated by investigating its antioxidant, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory, and anti-Alzheimer activities. The antioxidant activity results showed that EPSR4 has 97.6% scavenging activity toward DPPH free radicals at 1500 µg/mL, with an IC50 value of 300 µg/mL, and 64.8% at 1500 µg/mL toward hydrogen peroxide free radicals (IC50 = 1500 µg/mL, 30 min). Furthermore, EPSR4 exhibited considerable inhibitory activity towards the proliferation of T-24 (bladder carcinoma), A-549 (lung cancer) and HepG-2 (hepatocellular carcinoma) cancer cell lines with IC50 of 244 µg/mL, 148 µg/mL and 123 µg/mL, respectively. An evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity revealed that EPSR4 has potent lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitory activity (IC50 of 54.3 µg/mL) and a considerable effect on membrane stabilization (IC50 = 112.2 ± 1.2 µg/mL), while it showed cyclooxygenase (COX2) inhibitory activity up to 125 µg/mL. Finally, EPSR4 showed considerable inhibitory activity towards acetylcholine esterase activity. Taken together, this study reveals that Bacillus subtilis strain AG4 could be considered as a potential natural source of novel EPS with potent biological activities that would be useful for the healthcare system.

Migratory birds as the vehicle of transmission of multi drug resistant extended spectrum ß lactamase producing Escherichia fergusonii, an emerging zoonotic pathogen.

The acquisition of multi-drug resistance (MDR) genes by pathogenic bacterial bugs and their dispersal to different food webs has become a silent pandemic. The multiplied use of different antibacterial therapeutics during COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the process among emerging pathogens. Wild migratory birds play an important role in the spread of MDR pathogens and MDR gene flow due to the consumption of contaminated food and water. Escherichia fergusonii is an emerging pathogen of family Enterobacteriaceae and commonly causes disease in human and animals. The present study focused on the isolation of E. fergusonii from blood, saliva, and intestine of selected migratory birds of the Hazara Division. The sensitivity of isolated strains was assessed against ten different antibiotics. The isolation frequency of E. fergusonii was 69%. In blood samples, a high rate of resistance was observed against ceftriaxone (80%) followed by ampicillin (76%) whereas, in oral and intestinal samples, ceftriaxone resistant strains were 56% and 57% while ampicillin resistance was 49% and 52% respectively. The overall ceftriaxone and ampicillin-resistant cases in all three sample sources were 71% and 65% respectively. In comparison to oral and intestinal samples, high numbers of ceftriaxone-resistant strains were isolated from the blood of mallard while ampicillin-resistant strains were observed in blood samples of cattle egrets. 16S rRNA-based confirmed strains of E. fergusonii were processed for detection of CTX-M and TEM-1 gene through Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) after DNA extraction. Hundred percent ceftriaxone resistant isolates possessed CTX-M and all ampicillin-resistant strains harbored TEM-1 genes. Amplified products were sequenced by using the Sanger sequencing method and the resulted sequences were checked for similarity in the nucleotide Database through the BLAST program. TEM-1 gene showed 99% and the CTX-M gene showed 98% similar sequences in the Database. The 16S rRNA sequence and nucleotide sequences for TEM-1 and CTX-M genes were submitted to Gene Bank with accession numbers LC521304, LC521306, LC521307 respectively. We posit to combat MDR gene flow among the bacterial pathogens across different geographical locations, regular surveillance of new zoonotic pathogens must be conducted.

Isokinetic Assessment of Shoulder Joint Strength Ratios in Male Recreational Weightlifters: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Isokinetic strength imbalance is a risk factor for movement dysfunctions and injuries related to shoulder complex. The effects of recreational weightlifting on developing the imbalances between the shoulder muscles are not yet known. Objectives: To investigate the isokinetic concentric shoulder muscle strength values (peak torque normalized to body weight) in recreational weightlifters (RWL) and to compare the shoulder muscles agonist/antagonist ratios with nonweightlifters. Methods: Thirty male RWL with mean age, weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) of 21.56 years, 84.25 kg, 175.34 cm, and 26.51 kg/m2, respectively, matched with nonweightlifters served as a control group. The normalized concentric peak torque values of shoulder flexors, extensors, abductors, adductors, and internal and external rotators were measured at angular velocity 120°/sec by using Biodex isokinetic system. Moreover, the agonist/antagonist strength ratio for all muscle groups were calculated. Results: The normalized peak torques of RWL group were significantly greater than the control group (p < 0.05). The abductor/adductor and external rotator/internal rotator ratios of the RWL were significantly lower than the control group (p = 0.008 and 0.009, respectively). Conversely, there was no significant difference between both groups in relation to the flexor/extensor ratio (p = 0.259). Conclusion: These results suggested that the recreational weightlifting exercises place trainees at risk of muscle imbalances. Therefore, the restoration of a normal concentric abductor/adductor and external rotator/internal rotator strength ratios may decrease the risk of possible shoulder injury.

Genetic improvement of peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) genotypes by developing short duration hybrids.

Peanut, the only cash crop of rainfed areas of Pakistan, is facing immense challenges due to global warming. Climatic factors particularly the temperature fluctuations and rain pattern shift significantly impact the production and yield of peanut and unavailability of resilient varieties exacerbate this impact. To deal with the cropping pattern change and yield losses, due to climate vagaries, a study was conducted to develop early maturing hybrids using line into tester mating design. The F1 hybrids from the parental lines were produced in the year 2018 using Line × Tester mating design and then grown in the field in the year 2019 for further evaluation. The hybrids were evaluated based on the early maturity and yield-related attributes in comparison with the parental lines. Based on the general combining ability estimate, line V-3 (Golden), was found as best parent with highly significant values for plant height, days to peg formation, days to maturity, number of pegs per plant, number of pods per plants, number of seeds per plant, 100 pod weight 100 seed weight. Similarly, tester V-7 (PI 635006 01 SD) showed highly significant results of GCA for days to germination, day to 50% flowering, plant height, days to peg formation, days to maturity, number of pegs per plant, number of pods per plants, number of seeds per plant, 100 kernel weight, shelling percentage. All the combinations were evaluated for specific combining ability and significant results were observed for V-3 × V-4 (Golden × PI 619175 01 SD) and V-1 × V-6 (BARI-2000 × PI 564846 01 SD) by developing or maturity and yield-related attributes. The hybrid combinations V-3 × V-5 (Golden × PI 635006 01 SD) followed by V-3 × V-6 showed highly significant results for mid parent heterosis and better parent heterosis for days to 50% flowering, plant height, days to peg formation, number of pegs, days to maturity, number of mature seeds per plant, shelling ratio, 100 pod weight and 100 kernel weight. These parents and hybrid combinations with early maturity genes and high yield attributes can further be used for the development of short duration variety.

Genetic diversity of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) ecotypes from Pakistan using Simple Sequence Repeats.

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a legume crop grown all over the world and is a very important food of mountain population of Pakistan for protein intake. The Western Himalayan Mountains are rich in biodiversity including unexplored landraces of the common bean crop. Unfortunately, very little attention has been given to this valuable crop in Pakistan, and it is being exported, majorly from Ethiopia, to meet the country's requirements. The exploitation, utilization, preservation and multiplication of existing germplasm within the area are very important for sustainable production of the crop and enhancing the nutrition value for the local community in mountain regions. A research study was conducted for evaluation of biological diversity of common bean landraces from Azad Kashmir and Northern areas of Pakistan using morpho-physiological and molecular markers. Thirty-five common bean ecotypes along with one check variety were collected from different altitudes of Azad Kashmir and Northern Pakistan and screened for biological diversity. Morphological characterization revealed high genetic diversity in parameters including stem anthocyanin, growth type, days to flowering, pods/plant and 100 seeds weight. Genomic characterization using SSR markers, for allelic diversity evaluation among germplasm, also provided diverse profile with 83.3% polymorphism in banding pattern. The bulk of gene pool diversity evaluated within bean landraces may help to initiate breeding program for common bean improvement.

Effect of Application of Treadmill Training on Metabolic Control and Vitamin D Level in Saudi Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus type 2 and vitamin D deficiency are both prevalent in the Saudi Arabia. Vitamin D deficiency treatment with supplements carries a risk of intoxication. AIM: The present study is aimed at elucidating the effect of exercise on modulation of metabolic status and vitamin D level in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: A sum of 110 type 2 diabetic patients were voluntarily enrolled for the present investigation by dividing them into two separate groups (55 individuals for each group), the diabetic study group and diabetic control group. The diabetic study group was engaged in the training program using treadmill exercise. Laboratory parameters were monitored before and after the training program. RESULTS: There were significant elevation in the diabetic study group compared to diabetic control group regarding postexercise vitamin D level, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p value ≤ 0.001, 0.045; respectively). In addition, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C), and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were significantly decreased (p value < 0.001 for all mentioned parameters). Moreover, there were significant higher level in postexercise parameters as compared to preexercise level in the diabetic study group. CONCLUSION: The exercise training program improved the metabolic control and vitamin D level after three months of intervention.

Therapeutic Potential of Selected Medicinal Plant Extracts against Multi-Drug Resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi.

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi is Gram negative, rod shaped, facultative anaerobic bacterium, belongs to enterobacteriaceae family that causes typhoid fever in humans. This bacterium has become a super bug due to acquisition of multi drug resistance. Bacteria is transmitted through food and water contaminated with human feaces. Present study reports the screening of Adhatoda vasica, Amaranthus hybridus and Aloe barbadensis and their evaluation against multi-drug resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi. Qualitative analysis of ten phytochemicals was conducted using chemical method and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS). Antibacterial activity of plants was carried out by agar well diffusion method on Mueller Hinton agar. Total tannins, total alkaloids and total flavonoids of different parts of three plants were estimated through spectrophotometer. Total tannins content in different parts of plants was present in the given order Amaranthus hybridus leaf > Aloe barbadensis leaf > Adhatoda vasica leaf > Adhatoda vasica flower > Adhatoda vasica stem. Whereas, the order of total flavonoid concentration was Amaranthus hybridus leaf > Aloe barbadensis leaf > Adhatoda vasica leaf > Amaranthus hybridus seed. Total alkaloids have order, Adhatoda vasica leaf > Amaranthus hybridus leaf > Adhatoda vasica flower > Amaranthus hybridus seed > Aloe barbadensis leaf. Results of phytochemical analysis suggested that plants have strong profile of antioxidants, total phenolic contents and various enzymes proposing them best alternate to cure bacterial infections. GC-MS analysis further confirmed stronger phytochemical profile that can be utilized as antagonists to Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi.

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Mycoplasma Species, Pasteurella multocida, and Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Calves with Respiratory Manifestations.

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a complex syndrome associated with high mortality in young calves and causes severe economic losses in the cattle industry worldwide. The current study investigated the prevalence and molecular characterization of common bacterial pathogens associated with respiratory symptoms in young calves from Sadat City, one of the largest industrial cities in Menoufiya Governorate, Egypt. In between December 2020 and March 2021, 200 mixed-breed young calves of 6-12 months were examined clinically. Of them, sixty (30%) calves showed signs of respiratory manifestations, such as coughing, serous to mucopurulent nasal discharges, fever, and abnormal lung sound. Deep nasal (Nasopharyngeal) swabs were collected from the affected calves for bacteriological investigation. Phenotypic characterization and identification revealed Mycoplasma bovis, Mycoplasma bovigenitalium, Pasteurella multocida, and Staphylococcus aureus in 8.33%, 5%, 5%, and 5% of the tested samples, respectively. The PCR technique using species-specific primer sets successfully amplified the target bacterial DNA in all culture-positive samples, confirming the identity of the isolated bacterial species. Partial gene sequencing of 16S rRNA gene of M. bovigenitalium, P. multocida, and S. aureus, and mb-mp 81 gene of M. bovis revealed high nucleotide similarity and genetic relationship with respective bacterial species reported from Egypt and around the world, suggesting transmission of these bacterial species between animal host species and localities. Our study highlights the four important bacterial strains associated with respiratory disorders in calves and suggests the possible spread of these bacterial pathogens across animal species and different geographic locations. Further studies using WGS and a large number of isolates are required to investigate the realistic lineage of Egyptian isolates and globally.

Prediction of mortality in hospitalized Egyptian patients with Coronavirus disease-2019: A multicenter retrospective study.

We aimed to assess the epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory characteristics associated with mortality among hospitalized Egyptian patients with COVID-19. A multicenter, retrospective study was conducted on all polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 cases admitted through the period from April to July 2020. A generalized linear model was reconstructed with covariates based on predictor's statistical significance and clinically relevance. The odds ratio (OR) was calculated by using stepwise logistic regression modeling. A total of 3712 hospitalized patients were included; of them, 900 deaths were recorded (24.2%). Compared to survived patients, non-survived patients were more likely to be older than 60 years (65.7%), males (53.6%) diabetic (37.6%), hypertensive (37.2%), and had chronic renal insufficiency (9%). Non-survived patients were less likely to receive azithromycin (p <0.001), anticoagulants (p <0.001), and steroids (p <0.001). We found that age ≥ 60 years old (OR = 2.82, 95% CI 2.05-3.86; p <0.0001), diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.14-2.19; p = 0.006), hypertension (OR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.22-2.36; p = 0.002), chronic renal insufficiency (OR = 3.15, 95% CI 1.84-5.38; p <0.0001), tachycardia (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.22-2.23; p <0.001), hypoxemia (OR = 5.69, 95% CI 4.05-7.98; p <0.0001), GCS <13 (OR 515.2, 95% CI 148.5-1786.9; p <0.0001), the use of therapeutic dose of anticoagulation (OR = 0.4, 95% CI 0.22-0.74, p = 0.003) and azithromycin (OR = 0.16, 95% CI 0.09-0.26; p <0.0001) were independent negative predictors of mortality. In conclusion, age >60 years, comorbidities, tachycardia, hypoxemia, and altered consciousness level are independent predictors of mortality among Egyptian hospitalized patients with COVID-19. On the other hand, the use of anticoagulants and azithromycin is associated with reduced mortality.

Attenuating effect of Prosopis cineraria against paraquat-induced toxicity in prepubertal mice, Mus musculus.

Several herbicides, especially paraquat, are persistent organic pollutants which cause damage to humans and animals through reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce exhibits antioxidant activity and can effectively manage tremors. Therefore, the present research assessed the preventive effect of Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce ethanolic extract (PCDE) against paraquat-induced toxicity in prepubertal mice. The plant extract was chemically characterized by a high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The PCDE was orally administered to prepubertal mice for continuous 21 days, 2 h before paraquat exposure (2 mg/kg for consecutive 3 days per week for 3 weeks). The changes in behavior, motor coordination, memory, muscle movement, anxiety, and neurotransmitter levels in the brain were assessed. Histopathology and estimation of oxidative stress parameters in the brain, liver, kidney, and heart tissues were also carried out. HPLC-DAD analysis showed a high amount of quercetin, kaempferol, and ellagic acid derivatives in the plant extract. The PCDE showed improved muscle coordination, muscle movement and memory, and reduced anxiety in prepubertal mice. Moreover, levels of dopamine and noradrenaline were increased in the brain. It successfully ameliorated the oxidative stress in different organs by increasing the level of glutathione and superoxide dismutase and by reducing malondialdehyde. The histopathological assessment showed the plant extract effectively mitigated paraquat-induced pathological lesions in the neurons, neuroglia, hepatocytes, and kidney tissues. It is concluded from the present study that the treatment with PCDE had prevented the paraquat-induced toxicity in the brain, liver, kidney, and heart through the reduction of oxidative stress possibly due to the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids.

Posthatching ultrastructural development of the oropharyngeal cavity roof in five age-stages of Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758).

Recent literature has demonstrated only adult avian palate, albeit there has been only limited focus on the postnatal development of the avian oropharyngeal cavity roof. Hence, the current investigation was designed to obtain the full ultrastructure postnatal description of the oropharyngeal roof during the five developmental age-stages of Coturnix coturnix by employing assessments using gross morphometric analysis and stero and scanning electron microscopy. The elongated triangular oropharyngeal roof has a spoonful rounded beak tip. The palate region is subdivided into the rostral ridged area and the choanal area. The palate has eight longitudinal palatine ridges (seven nonpapillated and one papillated median) and four transverse papillary rows (one slightly oblique row and three transverse papillary crests). The median palatine ridge continuous caudally and is then divided into three ridges: one median and two paramedian ridges (forming the lateral boundaries of the choanal field). The choanal field had three regions (rostral, middle, and caudal). The finger-like projection papillary region has five papillae. The choanal cleft has two unequal parts (rostral and caudal). The rostral nonpapillated short choanal part is subdivided by transverse papillary row into rostral narrow straight and caudal diamond portions. The caudal wide papillated choanal part is further divided by a second transverse crest into rostral long (encircled by interdigitated papillae) and caudal short wider part (not encircled by interdigitated papillae). The infundibular cleft is not bordered by any papillae, while the pharyngeal region has numerous papillae and openings of the salivary glands. Moreover, the morphometric analysis revealed a higher value with increasing age for all dimensions. Our findings indicated a higher degree of functional adaptation between the five developmental age stages of quail. Our observations suggest that adaptations such as these may increase the efficiency of food prehension with increasing age.

Relation between Cytokine Levels and Pulmonary Dysfunction in COVID-19 Patients: A Case-Control Study.

Aim: The study aimed to assess the relationships between serum cytokine levels and pulmonary dysfunctions in individuals with COVID-19. These correlations may help to suggest strategies for prevention and therapies of coronavirus disease. Patients and methods: Fifty healthy participants and one hundred COVID-19 patients participated in this study. COVID-19 participants were subdivided into moderate and severe groups based on the severity of their symptoms. In both patients and healthy controls, white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes counts and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-18, and IL-35 levels were estimated. All the patients were examined by chest computed tomography (CT) and the COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS) score was assessed. Results: All COVID-19 patients had increased WBCs count and CRP, IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, IL-18, and IL-35 serum levels than healthy controls. Whereas WBCs, CRP, and cytokines like IL-6 showed significantly higher levels in the severe group as compared to moderate patients, IL-4, IL-35, and IL-18 showed comparable levels in both disease groups. Lymphocytes count in all patient groups exhibited a significant decrease as compared to the heathy controls and it was significantly lower in severe COVID-19 than moderate. Furthermore, CO-RADS score was positively connected with WBCs count as well as CRP and cytokine (IL-35, IL-18, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-1ß) levels in both groups. CO-RADS score, also demonstrated a positive correlation with lymphocytes count in the moderate COVID-19 patients, whereas it demonstrated a negative correlation in the severe patients. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-18, and IL-35 were fair (acceptable) predictors for COVID-19 in moderate cases. Whereas IL-6 was good predictor of COVID-19 in severe cases (AUC > 0.800), IL-18 and IL-35 were fair. Conclusion: Severe COVID-19 patients, compared to individuals with moderate illness and healthy controls, had lower lymphocyte counts and increased CRP with greater WBCs counts. In contrast to moderate COVID-19 patients, severe COVID-19 patients had higher levels of IL-6, but IL-4, IL-18, and IL-35 between both illness categories were at close levels. IL-6 level was the most potent predictor of COVID-19 progress and severity. CO-RADS 5 was the most frequent category in both moderate and severe cases. Patients with a typical CO-RADS involvement had a higher CRP and cytokine (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-4, IL-18, and IL-35) levels and WBCs count with a lower lymphocyte number than the others. Cytokine and CRP levels as well as WBCs and lymphocyte counts were considered surrogate markers of severe lung affection and pneumonia in COVID 19 patients.

Effect of Application of Different Exercise Intensities on Vitamin D and Parathormone in Children with Down's Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Children with Down's syndrome are more liable to vitamin D deficiency. Treating this deficiency with supplements is associated with the risk of intoxication. AIM: The study is aimed at comparing the effect of two exercise intensities on the modulation of vitamin D and parathormone levels in children with DS. METHODS: Forty-four DS male children aged from 8 to 12 years participated in the study. They were assigned randomly into two equal groups. Group I received high-intensity treadmill aerobic exercises, and group II received moderate-intensity T-AE, three times per week for three months. The blood samples were collected from both groups before the intervention, after one month of intervention, then after three months of intervention to assess serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels. RESULTS: Repeated measure MANOVA revealed that the high-intensity T-AE induced a significant increase in 25(OH)D after one month and after three months while it significantly decreased PTH only after three months. Moderate-intensity T-AE had a nonsignificant effect on both hormones. CONCLUSION: The current study concluded that the high-intensity T-AE improved both vitamin D and parathormone serum levels after three months of intervention.

The relationship between exercise and Physical Fitness towards Economic Survival: A Comparative Study of Gender discrimination / La relación entre el ejercicio y la aptitud física para la supervivencia económica: un estudio comparativo de la discriminación de género

Everyone's health is critically important. Managing health problems is just as critical as surviving economically. Any country's economic survival is entirely contingent upon its economic strategy. The study of the relationship between exercise and fitness and its impact on economic survival has as its primary objective educating us about the significance and necessity of exercise and physical fitness in our lives. Exercise and physical activity have unquestionable health benefits. The comparative study of differences in physical fitness and activity between men and women. The study's independent variables include exercise and physical fitness, while the dependent variable is economic survival. The data analysis was performed using AMOS 26v. Because this study contained three hypothesis statements, the results suggested a positive and significant link between the variables.(AU)

Clinical Findings of COVID-19 Patients at High and Average Altitudes in Saudi Arabia.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), also known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), became a global health issue that influenced the lives of billions of people all over the world. The goal of this study was to investigate the clinical findings and routine laboratory evaluations of COVID-19 patients in both average- and high-altitude settings in Saudi Arabia. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> A comparative study to explore the clinical characteristics and Laboratory tests results of COVID-19 patients at both high and average altitudes in Saudi Arabia has been conducted. The study included a total number of 103 patients (53 patients comprising the high-altitude group living in Taif, Saudi Arabia and 50 patients comprising the average-altitude group living in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia) were included in the study. Patients were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2-positive by PCR test. Clinical characteristics, laboratory test results and symptoms of adult patients were collected and expressed as mean and standard deviation. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software to compare between both groups and significance was considered when the p-value is less than 0.05. <b>Results:</b> Approximately 55.3% of the total cases were male with a mean age of 40.16±12.47 years. There were highly statistically significant differences between the groups in age, heart rate (p<0.001). There were also statistically significant differences between the groups in temperature, SpO₂, fever, myalgia, shortness of breath and loss of smell and taste. <b>Conclusion:</b> The current study provides an understanding of the clinical and laboratory investigations of COVID-19 patients in two regions (high altitude and average altitude) in Saudi Arabia.

Agronomical traits associated with yield and yield components of winter wheat as affected by nitrogen managements.

Nitrogen fertilizer is one of the key elements to increase the yield and significance of winter wheat. The experiment was established in the split zone design and was repeated three times. The nitrogen application level is set to 4 treatments, 75, 150, 225 and 300 kg ha-1 are arranged in the main plot, and different nitrogen application ratios are arranged in the sub-plots, respectively 5:5 (50%+50%) and 6: 4 (60%) + 40%). Nitrogen fertilizer was applied before sowing, jointing stage, flowering stage and filling stage. The experimental plot is 12 m2 (3 m × 4 m). The results showed that under the conditions of 225 kg/hm2 nitrogen application and 60%+40% nitrogen application rate, the yield of Jintai 182 was the highest compared with other treatment groups. With the increase of nitrogen application rate, the number of ears, grains per ear, thousand-grain weight and grain yield all increase first and then decrease. Each factor reached the highest 225 N kg / hm2, 417.17, 30.74, 40.96 g and 6182.11 kg / hm2. Compared with 75 kg/hm2 topdressing fertilizer, 225 kg/hm2 is a more suitable nitrogen fertilizer application rate for winter wheat. Within a reasonable range of nitrogen fertilizer application, there is a significant positive correlation between nitrogen content and winter wheat yield. By studying the amount of nitrogen fertilizer and a reasonable ratio of base fertilizer to topdressing, the utilization rate of nitrogen fertilizer can be maximized and excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer can be avoided.