The H5N1 and H9N2 subtypes of the avian influenza virus (AIV), part of the Orthomyxoviridae family, induce one of the most severe zoonotic diseases. The harmful impacts of H5 and H9 avian influenza viruses can affect avian and mammalian species, including human health, and result in economic loss and public health hazards. It has been isolated from several avian species and humans throughout all continents, except Antarctica. The incidence of avian influenza fluctuates based on regional and temporal variables of various avian species and humans. The AIV subtypes are categorized into low-pathogenic and high-pathogenic according to their virulence. H9N2 was classified as low pathogenic, whereas H5N1 was deemed highly pathogenic. Molecular diagnostic tests, such as real-time polymerase chain reaction and conventional polymerase chain reaction, are used to identify avian influenza viruses. The most common serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and hemagglutinin inhibition, are used to detect antibodies against influenza A and B viruses. AIV subtypes and host species affect the severity, clinical manifestations, and fatality rates of AIVs. Avian and swine infections are the primary vectors for the transmission of AIV to humans, presenting a considerable public health risk. An adequate surveillance system, a robust vaccination approach, and a segregation and culling protocol for avian influenza-infected birds are urgently required to eliminate avian influenza viruses. This comprehensive study provides a framework for understanding the risks associated with AIV subtypes H5 and H9. The goal is to avoid and control the disease, as it can spread into a major pandemic.
Freezing and thawing are common preservation methods for extending the shelf life of meat, but these processes can alter its physicochemical and nutritional qualities. This study evaluated the impact of freezing and thawing on the physical, chemical, structural, and nutritional properties of white meat from chicken and fish. Ninety samples (45 chicken and 45 fish) were divided into three groups: fresh (control), frozen (–20°C), and thawed (22–25°C). Parameters such as pH, water-holding capacity, color, histology, and proximate composition were analyzed using standard AOAC methods, and data were evaluated using ANOVA (p < 0.05). Results revealed that freezing and thawing had a significant impact on meat quality. Chicken samples exhibited a notable pH reduction (from 6.09 to 5.25, p = 0.02) and higher purge and drip losses (p < 0.001), indicating a decrease in water-holding capacity. Fish exhibited milder pH variation but similar moisture losses. Color analysis showed increased lightness and yellowness, with reduced redness due to pigment oxidation. Histological evaluation indicated muscle fiber disruption in frozen and thawed samples compared to fresh meat. Moisture content decreased (chicken: 73.8% to 63.5%; fish: 74.3% to 70.1%), while protein denaturation increased significantly (p < 0.001). Fat and mineral contents were largely unaffected. Overall, freezing and thawing led to quality deterioration through water loss, pigment oxidation, and structural damage, with more pronounced effects in chicken than in fish. Optimizing preservation conditions is essential to maintain the nutritional and sensory integrity of white meat.
Foodborne pathogens pose a serious public health threat, causing widespread illness and severe consequences. A major challenge in their control is the formation of biofilms on surfaces in food production environments, enhancing bacterial survival, antimicrobial resistance, and persistence. This review investigates biofilm formation strategies employed by key pathogens like Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes, emphasizing the pivotal role of biofilm management in addressing food safety concerns. The study explores the genetic, molecular, and environmental factors influencing biofilm development, which are crucial for devising effective control measures. Strategies employed by bacteria, such as quorum sensing, adhesion mechanisms, and extracellular polymeric substance production, are detailed. This review also discusses current control measures, including chemical and physical interventions, novel approaches like bacteriophages and biofilm-disrupting enzymes, and considerations in surface material design to minimize biofilm formation. In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of biofilm formation strategies and effective control measures is essential for ensuring food safety. This review provides insights into managing biofilm-associated risks in the food industry, contributing to innovative and sustainable approaches for mitigating the impact of foodborne pathogens.
Bovine brucellosis, a prevalent zoonotic disease, is caused by the bacterium Brucella abortus, which can infect both humans and animals. This review article aims to provide a full explanation of the causes, historical background, occurrence, development, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, spread, variables that increase the risk, importance to public health, economic impact, treatment, and methods of controlling bovine brucellosis. Bovine tuberculosis primarily affects cattle although it can also affect other animals. Bovine brucellosis is a global illness that occurs in all regions of the world, with the exception of Antarctica. Cattle afflicted with bovine brucellosis may suffer from persistent and incapacitating illness. The main techniques used to identify Brucella infection are serological assays, such as the Rose Bengal plate test, milk ring test, serum agglutination test, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The prevalence of Brucellosis exhibits significant variation as a result of disparities in the precision and efficacy of serological tests. Brucella abortus can be found in various physiological fluids and tissues, such as milk, urine, feces, vaginal secretions, semen, bones, joints, male reproductive organs, placenta, and the fetuses of pregnant women. This condition commonly decreases cow productivity and can negatively impact the financial performance of livestock businesses, particularly dairy sectors. The most effective initial treatment for brucellosis is isoniazid, doxycycline, and streptomycin. The vaccine strains most frequently employed to protect cattle against Brucella infection and related abortions are strains 19 and RB51. Research has shown that bacteriophage lysates are effective for treating bovine brucellosis. Adopting a One Health strategy can help effectively treat this illness by considering the health of both animals and humans.
Background:Moringa oleifera is a nutrient-rich plant widely explored for its potential as a natural feed additive in poultry due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. Incorporating Moringa leaf meal into laying hen diets may influence feed efficiency (FCR), egg quality, and immune-metabolic responses, warranting comprehensive in vivo and ex vivo investigations. Aim:This study investigated the impact of incorporating M. oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) into the diets of laying hens on egg productivity, egg characteristics, antioxidant capacity, immune response, and tissue morphology. Methods:Over an 8-week period, 40 30-week-old Hy-Line Brown layers were randomly distributed into four dietary groups (10 birds per group) and received nutritionally balanced diets with MOLM supplementation levels of 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, or 7.5%. The key performance indicators, including feed intake, egg production, egg weight, and FCR, were recorded weekly. Egg quality traits and antioxidant parameters in liver and intestinal tissues were assessed along with pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and histopathological scoring. Results:Inclusion of 7.5% MOLM significantly improved egg production (86.5%), egg weight (60.1 g ± desert), and FCR (2.04), compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Egg quality traits, including shell thickness, yolk pigmentation, Haugh unit, and albumen height, were enhanced in the MOLM-supplemented groups, particularly at 7.5.0% inclusion. A marked increase (p < 0.01) in the activity of key antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) was observed in liver and intestinal tissues, accompanied by a decline in malondialdehyde levels, reflecting an improved oxidative state. Furthermore, MOLM supplementation resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). The greatest reduction was observed at the 5.0% inclusion level. Histopathological evaluations corroborated these findings, revealing significantly reduced inflammation and oxidative damage scores, particularly in the group with 7.5% MOLM. Conclusion:Incorporating MOLM into the diet significantly improved laying hens' performance, enhanced egg quality, boosted antioxidant capacity, and positively influenced immune responses. These findings highlight the value of MOLM as a natural phytogenic additive with potential benefits for enhancing poultry productivity and overall health.
Background and Aim: The re-emergence of monkeypox (mpox) as a global public health concern necessitates assessing awareness and preparedness, particularly among educated youth who can act as health knowledge multipliers. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding mpox among undergraduate and postgraduate students at Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to March 2025 among 443 university students selected through a simple random sampling method. A structured, prevalidated questionnaire was used to assess knowledge (18 items), attitudes (8 items), and practices (10 items). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to identify associations between demographic factors and KAP domains, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Most participaints were male (75.2%) and from urban areas (58.0%). Overall, 94.6% recognized mpox as a viral disease, while 77.7% identified it as a zoonotic disease. However, misconceptions persisted; only 55.8% acknowledged airborne transmission and 47.2% recognized possible reverse zoonosis. Concern about contracting mpox was expressed by 53.3% of students, and 61.6% were willing to receive vaccination. Knowledge levels were significantly associated with academic year (p = 0.003) and major (p = 0.010), with medical students demonstrating better knowledge (55.0%) compared to their non-medical peers (25.4%). Gender significantly influenced attitudes (p < 0.001) and practices (p = 0.025), with females showing lower positive attitudes and practice scores. Common preventive behaviors included handwashing (93.9%) and seeking medical attention (84.9%), while only 34.1% were vaccinated. Conclusion: Although awareness about mpox was high among Gomal University students, notable gaps existed regarding the transmission and prevention of the disease. Gender, academic discipline, and study year had a significant influence on knowledge and attitudes. Integrating zoonotic disease education into university curricula, campus health promotion, and social media-based awareness programs could strengthen students’ preventive practices and outbreak preparedness.
Background: Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Aloe vera and Vitamin E (Evion®) are well-known for their wound-healing properties because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and collagen-promoting effects. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of Aloe vera leaf extract, Vitamin E, and their combined application on wound healing in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Methods: Twenty male rabbits were divided into four groups: control (treated with saline), Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Combined (Aloe Vera + Vitamin E). Full-thickness wounds were created on the dorsum of each rabbit, and treatments were applied daily for 14 days. Wound closure rates were measured on days 0, 4, 7, 10, and 14 followed by histopathological and biochemical analyses. Results: By day 14, the combined treatment group demonstrated the most significant wound closure, reducing the wound area by 75% compared with 50% in the Aloe Vera group, 55% in the Vitamin E group, and 35% in the control group. Histopathological analysis showed near-complete re-epithelialization, dense granulation tissue, and enhanced collagen deposition in the combined treatment group. The biochemical results indicated that the hydroxyproline levels were highest in the combined group (6.0 mg/g tissue) and that the antioxidant enzyme activity was elevated. Conclusion: These findings suggest a synergistic effect between Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, leading to accelerated wound healing and improved tissue repair. The combination treatment has the potential to be a superior therapeutic approach for wound management.
This study investigated the impact of a fortified whey protein enteral nutrition intervention on cytokine responses, nutritional biomarkers and infection rates in patients who were following breast cancer surgery. The randomized controlled experiment had 180 patients, who were allocated into two groups: intervention group received enteral nutrition enriched with whey protein, intended to augment immune function and boost nutritional status, while the control group received normal postoperative care. The intervention yielded substantial impacts on immunological and nutritional markers. Levels of cytokines, including IL-2, IL-4, IL-17 and IFN-gamma, as well as nutritional markers such as serum albumin and total protein, were evaluated at three time points: baseline, day 15 and day 30 after the surgery. The intervention group demonstrated significant elevations in cytokine levels, suggesting a strong improvement in the immune response. The nutritional indicators also showed notable enhancements, indicating improved overall nutritional well-being, which is essential for successful recuperation. Furthermore, the intervention resulted in a substantial decrease in both the frequency and intensity of surgical site infections, demonstrating its efficacy in enhancing therapeutic results. The findings indicated that the use of enriched whey protein enteral nutrition can have a substantial positive impact on the recovery of patients undergoing surgery. This is achieved by improving immune responses and raising nutritional status.
Mutton is widely recognized for its excellent nutritional value, containing essential components such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of subzero storage on the freshness and quality of mutton. To evaluate the attributes of frozen and stored mutton, we employed fresh control samples that underwent standard freezing procedures at -18°C. Determining the quality and freshness of the product required the evaluation of numerous parameters over a five-month storage period. Drip loss (comprising boiling and thawing loss), water-holding capacity (WHC), texture profile analysis (TPA), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and total volatile basic nitrogen encompassed these parameters. Temperature influenced leak loss and water holding capacity (WHC), with severe freezing resulting in a reduction in moisture loss during frozen storage in comparison to standard freezing conditions. Extremely low-temperature freezing and subsequent storage of lamb resulted in a notable enhancement in tenderness when compared to standard freezing conditions. More precisely, sheep that underwent freezing at temperatures below -60℃ exhibited a tenderness akin to that of recently slaughtered mutton. Following a five-month period, frozen samples of mutton exhibited no indications of lipid oxidation, irrespective of temperature. The storage temperature of the samples, nevertheless, had an impact on the TVBN (total volatile basic nitrogen) concentration. In conclusion, our research indicates that mutton can maintain its freshness for a period of five months through the utilization subzero temperatures. A temperature of -60℃ is determined to be the most favorable condition for freezing and storing frozen mutton, taking into account both economic and qualitative considerations.
Background: Globally urinary tract infections are present predominantly and mostly UTIs are present or noticed in the developing countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh etc. There are multiple factors in spread of UTIs like microbes, taking certain medicines, sexual activities, poor hygiene, not taking enough water etc. Objectives: The prevalence of UTIs and development of resistance against the antibiotics is due to unjustified use of antibiotics. Methodology: We performed a study in a remount area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa i,e Dera Ismail Khan. We conducted a research study consist of a three months duration. Hundred (100) urine samples were collected from the patients who visited District Head Quarter (DHQ) teaching hospital Dera Ismail Khan. Patients having different age groups were included in study, Results: After processing samples, the number of samples having E.coli i,e positive samples were 73 in number, which were confirmed on the basis of different tests. The prevalence of UTIs due to E. coli organism was noticed increased in female patients (69 %) as compared to male patients and its prevalence was 31%.When the isolated E. coli strain were tested against different antibiotics, showed that those strains which were isolated from urine samples of the male patients of age group 61 to 80 years showed higher sensitivity against PTZ, NF, FOS, AK, IMP, and SCF, while in female high rate of sensitivity against PTZ, NF, FOS, AK, IMP, and SCF antibiotics was observed against E. coli strains which were isolated from the patients having age from 21 to 40 years Likewise E.coli isolates were sensitive against Imipenem, Peracillin + Tazobactam, Cefoperazone + sulbactam, Fosfomycin, Amikacin, Nitrofurantoin, Peracillin and Tambactam irrespective of age of the patients from which bacteria were isolated. Conclusion: Furthermore, present study also revealed, that the E. coli has developed resistance against commonly used antibiotics which is a serious concern to worry about and serious steps should be taken by the authorities to stop frequent use of antibiotics without proper prescription to avoid this issue.
Background: Different strategies are present which allow identification of bacteria in different environments. The current gold standard is to culture the bacteria and identify them based on their morphological and metabolic characteristics. Objectives: The present study was designed to isolate bacterial strains having environmental role to degrade various pollutants from Akra soil samples, District Bannu, KPK, Pakistan. Microbial biodegradation is important phenomenon and has attracted attention of the researcher. Methods: Total 6 bacterial strains designated IOM-40, IOM-41, IOM-42, IOM-43, IOM-44 and IOM-45 were isolated. The isolated organisms were identified based on morphological, physiological and genetic characteristics. The isolated organisms were able to grow on T5, TSA, and nutrient agar media. Results: Optimum growth was recorded at 37–45°C, NaCl concentrations (0-0.5%) and at pH 7.0–7.2. Temperature 45°C and medium T5 were best for isolation of bacteria from arid environment of Akra soil. Strains IOM-41 and IOM-45 were rod-coccus shaped and Gram-staining-positive. Bacteria IOM-40 and IOM-43 were Gram-staining-positive and rod shaped. Organisms IOM-42 and IOM-44 were Gram-staining-negative and rod shaped. Conclusion: Organisms IOM-41, IOM-44 and IOM-45 were found possessing biodegradation properties. Isolation of bacteria from such arid environment could be used to mitigate environmental pollution.
The danger of a global pandemic caused by zoonotic influenza viruses is increasing as the frequency of human illnesses caused by avian and swine flu viruses rises. Global pandemic preparedness initiatives have largely concentrated on H5N1 avian influenza virus. In this review, we compile the research on H5N1 virus prevalence and risk assessment, and we augment this with an overview of recent molecular evaluations of important markers of mammalian adaptation found in haemagglutinin and polymerase proteins (PB2, PB1 and PA). There is increasing evidence that H5N1 viruses circulating among various species in Indonesia (Indonesian and Eurasian lineages) are constantly adapting, resulting in the emergence of new strains with high affinity to the alpha 2,6 receptor and enhanced polymerase function in mammalian cells. The pandemic risk presented by this virus subtype is further exacerbated by higher prevalence rates of particular mammalian adaptation markers and the increased transmission of particular viruses in mammalian animal models.
Aim/Purpose: The aim of this research was to assess the influence of water-based herbal infusions, beneficial bacteria, and SIGANUS LURIDUS on indicators of liver and kidney function in broiler chickens. Methods: We organized 105-day-old broiler chicks into seven equal groupings, labeled A through G. Each of the initial six groups received a unique water-based herbal infusion alongside their fundamental diet. Aloe vera, Ginger, Siganus luridus, Garlic, Probiotic (Dahi), and Turmeric were given to Groups A through F, correspondingly. Group G served as a control group and was only provided with the basic diet. Every group, comprised of fifteen chicks subdivided into three sets of five, was given their specific herbal infusion (0.2%) two times daily from the 11th day till the conclusion of the study on the 39th day. Serum samples were gathered on the 18th, 25th, 32nd, and 39th days. Results: The study revealed that ginger (Zingiber officinale) considerably influenced the normalization of urea levels compared to other herbs, signifying that ginger (Zingiber officinale) significantly enhanced kidney function. The Feed conversion ratio was also significantly different for chicks consuming ginger (Zingiber officinale) compared to other groups. The effect of other herbal infusions and probiotics on the serum level of urea in broiler chicks was not significant. Summarizing, the results of this study exhibit a significant relationship between the use of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and improved kidney and liver functions
Insect gut microbes represent a rich source of enzymes and metabolic pathways that can be harnessed to advance renewable energy production. This review explores the potential of insect gut microbiota in the context of biomass degradation and biofuel production. Insects, particularly wood-feeding species like termites and beetles, harbour complex microbial communities in their guts that efficiently break down lignocellulosic materials into simple sugars. These sugars can then be fermented into biofuels such as ethanol and methane. Recent research has focused on identifying key microbial species and enzymes involved in this process, as well as on engineering these microbes to enhance their efficiency and substrate specificity. Additionally, the ecological roles of these microbes in insect digestion and their potential for biotechnological applications beyond biofuel production are discussed. Overall, understanding and harnessing insect gut microbes holds great promise for advancing sustainable and renewable energy solutions.
Abstract. Saddiqua A, Ullah S, Khan MS, Rehman S, Abubakar AA, Safdar K, Ali S, Javaria S, Kanwal A, Batool SN, Bhatti F, Sucipto TH, Ansori ANM. 2024. Therapeutic use of biologically produced sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. Biodiversitas 25: 2348-2354. Food spoilage is a significant issue since foodborne illnesses affect millionsworldwide. The main root cause of food spoilage is the presence of microbes, some of which show resistance to commercially available antibiotic drugs. Therefore, it is essential to search for fresh and effective antibacterial medications. Nanotechnology can give solutions to fight against foodborne pathogens. Sulfur nanoparticles show many beneficial and effective results as antimicrobial agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of biologically synthesized sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum to inhibit antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. The green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles was done by combining plant leaf extract with sodium sulfide. This study used the plant Allium fistulosum to make sulfur nanoparticles. The characterization of SNPs was done through a scanning electron microscope, UV spectrophotometer, fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Then, the antimicrobial properties of the bioengineered sulfur-based nanoparticles against foodborne pathogens were checked alone and in combination with market-available antibacterial agents. Aspergillus flavus and Salmonella typhi were among the foodborne pathogens against which SNPs' in-vitro antibacterial activity was tested. Sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum had 291 nm absorption spectra showing to be almost 100 nm in size and had a spherical shape. The strongest antibacterial efficacy against S. typhi was observed by SNPs (24 mm). Synergistic antibacterial action was seen when nanoparticles were combined with antibiotics of commercial importance. A noticeable antifungal effect against A. flavus was observed by combining SNPs with amphotericin B. The findings of in vitro studies prove that novely designed sulfur nanoparticle have profound impacts on microorganisms. It was also observed that the effect of antibiotics like ampicillin and amphotericin B was enhanced when coupled with nanoparticles.
Background: There has been an increase in interest in studies for the extraction of biologically active compounds from natural sources during the past decade. The Oleaeuropaea L. tree, occasionally referred to as the olive, is one of the members of the Oleaceae family and is very significant historically and economically, particularly in Mediterranean countries. Olive leaves have a lofty phenolic compound, which offer them antioxidant properties and a decreased risk of illness. Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the bioactive compounds (polyphenol, flavonoids) and antioxidant activities of the different olive leaves extracts. Methods: The percentage yield of various extract of olive leaves was measured and the polyphenols was determined by Folin Ciocalteu reagent while the bioactive compounds flavonoids was estimated by using aluminum chloride method. The antioxidant activities of various extract of olive leaves were measured by DPPH and reducing power assay. Results: In this study the olive leaves extracts' maximum recovery yield (32.70%) of was found in methanol extracts and the total phenol concentrations varied from 3.64±0.11–135.70±8.2 (mg GAE/g) and flavonoids 1.20±0.07 26.35±1.20 (mg QE/g). Our results revealed that methanolic extract shown outstanding % Inhibition (DPPH) and reducing power activity. The capacity to lower the DPPH was in this order: methanol > water: methanol>water>chloroform > hexane extract at the same concentration. Similarly, methanolic extract, showed higher reducing power activity with absorbance which increases from 0.5701 to 1.0204 at concentration 0.1-0.5 mg/mL. Conclusions: This concluded that the olive leaves were a potent source of bioactive compounds and its ability to scavenge free radicals and its reducing power is largely attributed to their phenolic compounds. However, more in-depth research is needed to identify the active compounds in these extracts that are responsible for these effects.
In order to assess the cytotoxic effects of the cryoprotectant helix Antarctic yeast-orientated antifreeze peptide Afp1m on normal mouse skin fibroblasts, an in vitro model was developed for cytotoxicity assessment. In order to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of Afp1m, the cells of M. dunni (Clone III8C) were subjected to various amounts of Afp1m. The cell viability was assessed using MTT Assay (Tetrazolium dye MTT 3-(4, 5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-10 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) against the positive control cells (Clone III8C) that were cultured with 10% FBS (Foetal Bovine Serum) using an Elisa reader and in medium containing various amounts (10, 5, 2, 1 and 0.5 mg/mL) of Afp1m, the control group (10% FBS) displayed varying survival percentages (78.86 ± 10.17%, 88.38 ± 3.19%, 88.75 ± 7.19 %, 90.61 ± 7.11%, 91.19 ± 4.52%, and 100.00 ± 0.0 %) throughout 24 hr. At 72 hr of treatment, the cell viability scores of Afp1m at 5, 2, 1, and 0.5 mg/mL were significantly higher (p<0.05) than those of 10mg/mL, which showed 86.73 ± 6.92 % viability of cells (103.9 ± 6.56 %, 104.3 ± 5.13%, 100.9 ± 1.71%, 102.8 ± 1.24%, and 100.00 ± 0.0%). At 24, 48, and 72 hr, retarded development was noted in 10 mg/mL Afp1m. Development was observed, albeit more slowly than in the positive control and treated with lesser concentrations. The findings of this work indicate that Afp1m exhibits cryoprotective properties without inducing toxicity when used for the cryopreservation of M. dunni (Clone III8C) cells.