World Journal of Experimental Biosciences
All articles in the World Journal of Experimental Biosciences are published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) ( (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Antibacterial Activity of Gaultheria procumbens, Thymus vulgaris, Peganum harmala, and Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Essential Oils against Enterococcus raffinosus Isolated from Urinary Tract Infections
The discovery of alternative antimicrobial agents against resistant bacteria has been a major target for microbiologists and physicians, especially in recent years, because the resistance to antibiotics has increased. No previous study has investigated the antibacterial effects of essential oils prepared from Gaultheria procumbens, Thymus vulgaris, Peganum harmala, and Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) against Enterococcus raffinosus. The present study aims to investigate the antibacterial activity of the essential oils of the above medicinal plants against E. raffinosus in vitro. In the present study, essential oils were extracted from the above four medicinal plants. For evaluating the antibacterial effect of the essential oils, three isolates of E. raffinosus were isolated from 44 urine samples collected from patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs). Only one isolate was multidrug-resistant (MDR) to commonly used antibiotics. The microdilution method on microtiter plates and the agar diffusion method were used to check the susceptibility of E. raffinosus to the essential oils. The study showed that the essential oil of T. vulgaris showed the highest antibacterial activity against E. raffinosus, followed by P. harmala. The present study showed a moderate antibacterial effect of G. procumbens essential oil against E. raffinosus. The present study showed no antibacterial effect of the essential oil of Bergamot against E. raffinosus. It can be concluded from the study that the antibacterial effect of the essential oils prepared from G. procumbens, T. vulgaris, and P. harmala against MDR-E. raffinosus, that is why these oils can serve as a novel antibacterial agent against E. raffinosus infections.
Antibacterial effect, Enterococcus raffinosus, Essential oil, Urinary tract infections.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Antagonism and Antibiofilm Activity of Sterile Microbiota Growth Medium against Klebsiella pneumoniae In Vitro
The metabolic bacteria extraction, Sterile Microbiota Growth Medium (SMGM), may play a role as an antibacterial and antibiofilm agent, reducing the virulence of pathogenic bacteria in vitro and in vivo. These extracts can be used to treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacterial isolates. The present study aims to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of SMGM extracted from non-Staphylococcus aureus growth media on the virulence of Klebsiella pneumoniae, as assessed by biofilm formation and bacterial growth rate. In the current study, 25 skin swabs were collected from healthy volunteers to isolate non-S. aureus isolates (S. epidermidis). From these isolates, SMGMs were prepared aseptically from 10 isolates of S. epidermidis by collecting the overnight growth (Nutrient broth) and preparing cell-free growth media after centrifugation and passing through Millipore filters. The microdilution method on a microtiter plate was used to evaluate the antibacterial effect of SMGM. Moreover, the microtiter plate and crystal violate method was used to assess the antibiofilm effect of different dilution of SMGM on the ability of K. pneumoniea to form biofilm in vitro. The results showed that all dilutions of SMGM ½, ¼, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, and 1/64 reduced biofilm formation of K. pneumoniae (P<0.05). The study also demonstrated that SMGM reduced the growth rate of K. pneumoniae (P<0.05) at different time intervals (up to 48 h). It can be concluded from the current study that SMGM reduces the ability of K. pneumoniae to form biofilms and decreases the growth rate of planktonic cells.
Antibiofilm, Antagonism, Biofilm, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Microbiome
Study the level of microbial and chemical pollutants in the soil of some densely populated areas of Baghdad
The problem of environmental pollution with heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms, especially soil contamination, is considered one of the most important public health threats. The current study aims to evaluate the levels of soil contamination in densely populated areas of Baghdad with heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms and evaluate the incidence of skin infection with different microorganisms in the study areas. Fifty soil samples were collected from different regions of Al-Sadr City and the areas east of the canal. The atomic absorption spectrometer was used to measure the level of heavy metals [Cooper (cu), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (cd), and Mercury (Hg)]. Routine microbiological techniques were used to evaluate the levels of soil contamination with different microorganisms, and the same methods were used to isolate and identify the microorganism causing skin infection in 75 skin swabs collected from outdoor patients of the same study's area. The results of the current study showed that heavy metal levels in the soil samples were below the permissible limits by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) document. The study also showed that most soil samples were contaminated with microorganisms, particularly normal flora bacteria, at high levels, followed by actinomycetes, whereas contamination with coliform bacteria was very low. The results of microbial examination of the skin showed that the fungal infection was followed by a bacterial infection (Staphylococcal infection), whereas infection with Escherichia coli was the lowest. The current study concludes that soil contamination levels in densely populated areas of Baghdad are within acceptable limits. The study also showed that microbial contamination with fecal microorganisms was low.
Heavy metals, Microorganism, Pollution, Skin infection
Bacteriocin Produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus Exhibits Antagonistic Activity Against Uropathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae
Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a major problem facing the health system worldwide. The ability of bacteria to form biofilms enhances their resistance to antibiotics. Finding alternative antimicrobial agents is a crucial approach in the global fight against infectious diseases caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. In this study, yogurt samples were cultured on Man–Rogosa–Sharpe agar (MRS) to isolate Lactobacillus acidophilus. Fifty urine samples were collected from patients with urinary tract infections (UTI). Eleven isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae were obtained from these samples. The bacteriocin was extracted from L. acidophilus grown in MRS broth. Ammonium sulfate at 70% saturation was used for the partial purification of the bacteriocin. The gel diffusion method evaluated the antibacterial effect of both crude and partially purified bacteriocin on MDR-K. pneumoniae, which produced the highest level of biofilm. The ability of the 11 isolates of K. pneumoniae to produce biofilm was assessed using the microdilution method in a polystyrene microtiter plate. The results showed that out of eleven isolates, eight were MDR. All isolates produced biofilm at different levels. Both crude and partially purified bacteriocin (at dilutions 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, and 1/32) inhibited the growth of Kp9. The partially purified bacteriocin was more effective than the crude form in inhibiting Kp9 growth. Sub-MICs (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16 MICs) of both crude and partially purified bacteriocin inhibited biofilm formation of Kp9. The bacteriocin from L. acidophilus has the ability to inhibit MDR-K. pneumoniae and its capacity to prevent biofilm formation in vitro.
Antibiofilm, Antagonism, Bacteriocin, Klebsiella pneumoniae, UTI.
From Definition to Therapy: A Comprehensive Article Review of Galactosemia
Galactosemia is a medical disorder that affects the body's ability to metabolize galactose. After infants ingest galactose from breast milk or formula, those with the condition can develop a life-threatening illness accompanied by feeding problems. Infants with galactosemia can be identified through newborn screening programs (NBS) or by symptoms that appear in the first weeks after birth. If untreated, infants may suffer kidney and liver damage, develop cataracts, and experience severe infections. Some countries offer newborn screening programs to help with the early detection and treatment of galactosemia. This article review aims to define galactosemia, its types, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and ways it can be prevented or managed.
Galactosemia, Metabolic Disease, Genetic Disorder, Newborn Screening Programs, Therapeutic Strategies
Molecular Frontiers in Modest Labs: Phage Research in Low-Income Settings
The establishment of the World Journal of Experimental Biosciences marks a significant milestone for researchers worldwide. For those of us working in low-income countries, it offers a rare platform to voice not only our scientific findings but also the silent struggles behind them. As a former PhD student in India and now a mentor in Ethiopia (Africa), I write this editorial to reflect on the challenges and quiet triumphs of conducting molecular microbiology, especially phage research, in modest laboratories.
Variations in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Formation Influence Virulence and amoxicillin Resistance
Inhibition of adherence pathogenic bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, to the surfaces is one important approach that is employed by antibiotics against bacterial infectious diseases. The present study is aimed at determining the involvement of sub-inhibition concentrations of amoxicillin (AMX) in the modulation of P. aeruginosa capacity to produce the biofilm. The approach was to expose the P. aeruginosa to various sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of amoxicillin (AMX) and thereafter test the resultant biofilm formation by the bacteria under these exposure conditions. The research also determined the effect that sub-MICs of AMX have on surface hydrophobicity and bacterial aggregation. The findings were that sub-MICs of AMX influenced varying forms of biofilm formation. High sub-MIC of AMX (½ MIC) lowered the formation of the biofilm, while low sub-MICs enhanced the capacity for the bacteria to develop polystyrene microtiter plate biofilms. The influence that sub-MICs of AMX have on surface hydrophobicity and bacterial aggregation detection were similar to what they showed on the production of the biofilm. Low level sub-MICs concentrations of AMX (1/16, 1/32, and 1/64) enhanced surface hydrophobicity, while on the other hand ½ MIC AMX lowered the surface hydrophobicity of the bacteria. Sub-MICs of AMX (1/8, 1/16, 1/32, and 1/64) also enhanced the rate of bacterial aggregation for P. aeruginosa. The study concludes that sub-MICs of AMX improve the capacity for P. aeruginosa to produce biofilms by enhancing surface hydrophobicity and bacterial aggregation.
Aggregation, Amoxicillin, Biofilm, Hydrophobicity, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Copyright (c) 2025 Farah Mohommed Saleh, Huda Abbas Mohammed (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Antibacterial effect of Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil against Ceftazidime-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis
Enterococcus faecalis is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. It is associated with biofilm-related infections and increasing resistance to various antibiotics, including cephalosporins. In this study, eleven E. faecalis isolates were obtained from 101 catheter samples collected from patients with severe urinary tract infections (UTIs). All isolates were tested for susceptibility to ceftazidime and Thymus vulgaris essential oil using the microdilution method. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined using microtiter plates. Biofilm formation was quantified with a crystal violet-based spectrophotometric method. The results showed high-level resistance to ceftazidime (MICs: 1000–4000 µg/mL). Conversely, T. vulgaris essential oil exhibited strong antibacterial activity, with MICs ranging from 1/40 to 1/640 (v/v). All isolates produced biofilms to varying extents, with isolate Ef1 generating the highest biomass. The study confirmed that E. faecalis produces a substantial amount of biofilm and is resistant to ceftazidime. Additionally, the findings highlight the promising antibacterial effects of T. vulgaris essential oil against ceftazidime-resistant E. faecalis.
Biofilm, Ceftazidime, Enterococcus faecalis, MDR, Thymus vulgaris essential oil.
Copyright (c) 2025 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from an infected wound in Iraq
The infected wound with multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria represents one of the big issues for public health. Klebsiella pneumoniae, especially MDR, is responsible for infecting different human organs, particularly wound infections. This current study aims to investigate the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of K. pneumoniae isolates that are responsible for wound infection. In the present study, the samples were collected from Al-Fallujah General Hospital, Al-Anbar, Iraq. A total of 89 wound swabs were collected from patients aged 15 to 65 years, following ethical standards. The microbiological methods were followed for isolation and identification of K. pneumoniae, e.g., culture on selective media, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. The Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method was used to evaluate susceptibility against eight antibiotics, and results were interpreted using CLSI 2024 guidelines. From 89 wound swabs, 12 isolates of K. pneumoniae were identified, with an infection incidence rate of 13.48%. The antibiotic susceptibility analysis showed a high prevalence of MDR in the isolates. The highest resistance rate was observed against ceftriaxone, followed by cefepime and aminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin). Imipenem showed high antibacterial efficacy, with four isolates showing susceptibility and one intermediate response. Levofloxacin also showed high effectiveness, with five sensitive isolates. Several isolates exhibited extensive drug resistance, with susceptibility to only one or two antibiotics. The study is highlighting the alarming emergence of MDR K. pneumoniae in wound infections, emphasizing the need for continuous surveillance and rational antibiotic use. Imipenem and levofloxacin remain among the most effective agents that need gene molecular characterization.
Antibiotics, Klebsiella pneumoniae, MDR, Wound.
A review of problems of bacterial biofilm on contact lenses
Contact lenses are a widely used and effective means of vision correction, offering relief to around the world use contact lenses. But these lenses can sometimes get colonized by microorganisms, which might lead to infections and inflammation on the eye’s surface. A major concern in this context is the formation of bacterial biofilms on contact lenses, which can cause significant complications, including ocular discomfort and more serious eye conditions. This study aims to discuss how bacterial biofilms can cause eye infections related to contact lenses. Without proper treatment, these infections can lead to vision loss or, in severe cases, loss of the eye. In conclusion, biofilms are a key factor contributing to contact lens-related ocular infections and inflammation.
Contact lenses, Keratitis, Microbial Biofilm, Ocular infections.
Long-term impacts of Newcastle disease virus infection on fertility and clutch viability in racing pigeons (Columba livia domestica)
This study investigated the impact of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) on the reproductive efficiency of racing pigeons (Columba livia domestica). A total of 160 pigeons (1–3 years old, 400–550 g) were selected based on clinical signs of NDV, confirmed by RT-PCR. Birds were divided into four groups: G1 (control, 20 healthy females and 20 healthy males), G2 (20 recovered females and 20 recovered males), G3 (20 healthy females and 20 recovered males), and G4 (20 recovered females and 20 healthy males). Behavioral analysis revealed significant differences in reproductive parameters. Hatchability rates were 95%, 20%, 65%, and 55% for G1, G2, G3, and G4, respectively, with incubation periods of 18 ± 1.2 to 18 ± 2.1 days. Squab acceptability among parents remained stable (~75% in all groups), and squab survival and flight ability were unaffected. However, parental care ability was significantly lower in recovered groups (55% in G2 vs. 100% in G1). Mating efficiency in G1 (100%) was significantly higher than in recovered pigeons (30%–85%). Histopathological examination of the reproductive organs in recovered pigeons revealed degeneration of ovarian follicles, including shrinkage, necrosis, and granulosa and theca cell disintegration. Testicular tissue exhibited seminiferous tubule collapse and detachment of spermatogonia from the basement membrane, compromising sperm production. These findings indicate that NDV infection causes long-term histopathological damage to reproductive tissues, reducing fertility in recovered pigeons. Further research is needed to explore potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects. diseases.
Newcastle disease, reproductive performance, racing pigeons.
Copyright (c) 2025 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Emerging Patterns of Meropenem Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Burn Patients: Epidemiological Data from Central Iraq
Infected burns are among the most serious clinical cases with high mortality rates, especially when infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in burns significantly contributes to the high mortality associated with bacterial burn infections. This study aimed to conduct a bio-surveillance of burn cases infected with P. aeruginosa and their resistance to meropenem. A total of 305 burn cases were examined, with samples collected from the burn and wound hospital in Baghdad. Of these, 180 samples came from skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) associated with systemic sepsis, 100 from SSTIs, and 25 from minor burn injuries. P. aeruginosa was isolated and identified using biochemical methods. The Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method was used to assess the response of the bacterial isolates to meropenem. Results showed that out of 82 P. aeruginosa infection cases. The percentage of isolates resistant to meropenem was 62.19%, sensitive was 34.14%, and those with intermediate response was 3.6%. The highest resistance to meropenem was observed in SSTIs with systemic sepsis. The study concludes that the incidence of P. aeruginosa infection is high, and resistance to meropenem is correlated with the severity of the infection.
Antibiotics, Burn, Meropenem, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Copyright (c) 2024 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Biofilm Formation on Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli
Escherichia coli is a main nonpathogenic bacterium naturally present in the human gut. However, certain strains have adapted to cause infections, leading to illnesses in the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, or central nervous system, even in otherwise healthy individuals. The study focused on the role of biofilm formation on resistant isolate of E. coli. Biofilms can be defined as groups of microorganisms attached to a surface. In this study 25 strains of E. coli have been used, the isolates have been detected by using Gram-stained, biochemical test and VITEC 2 system, As for antibiotic resistance, six antibiotics have been used, nitrofurantoin, piperacillin, amikacin, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol, and Vancomycin. The concentrations have been used according to the clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI). Biofilm Assay Protocol was used. All isolates exhibited sensitivity to nitrofurantoin and chloramphenicol, but they were resistant to piperacillin (100%), vancomycin (100%), and ceftriaxone (50%), followed by amikacin (50%). Biofilm production of 25 E. coli isolates showed that 25 isolates were able to form a biofilm, 11 isolates indicated a strong reaction, 6 were medium and 8 of them were weak biofilm production. Among isolations creating biofilm more than 44 % of bacteria exhibit strong biofilm production, 24% moderate, and less than 32 % weak biofilm production.
Antibiotic resistance, Biofilms, Escherichia coli, Urinary tract infection, Virulence Factors.
Some Toxic Effects of Sio2 NPs on Thyroid Gland Function with Histological Changes and Ovary Function in Female Rats
The study investigated the effects of Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) on female rats' thyroid glands and ovaries. Three groups were randomly selected, and two treatment groups were given different SiO2 NPs (25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of body weight). The animals were divided into three experimental groups. The thyroid (T3, T4, and TSH), and ovarian (E2 and progesterone) function hormones were measured. The histological study was studied. It was found that significant decrease in T3 levels in the rats group treated with SiO2 NPs doses over 10 days as compared with the control group. The significant decrease in T4 levels was also found in the treated rats groups (10, 20, and 30 days) as compared with the control group. However, a significant elevation in TSH was seen in treated groups as compared with the control group. The current study showed that exposure to SiO2 NPs caused thyroid tissue alteration, with certain follicles filled with colloidal scalloping activity. When exposed to 100 mg/kg of SiO2 NPs for 10 days, more scalloping formation was observed. When treated with 25 mg/kg of SiO2 NPs for 20 days, few follicles filled with colloidal were observed. When treated with 100 mg/kg of SiO2 NPs for 20 days, empty follicles with necrotic cells were observed. In conclusion, SiO2NPs produced structural, functional, and ovarian effects at different concentrations. In the thyroid gland, they decreased T3 and T4 hormone levels and increased TSH levels. In the ovary, they caused structural, functional, and decreased E2 and progesterone levels.
Estradiol (E2), female rats, T3,T4, TSH,, Histological change, ovary, progesterone, Sio2NPs, thyroid gland.
Study the Effect of Lemongrass and Rosemary Extracts against Bacterial Pathogens
The study aims to study the antibacterial effects of lemongrass and rosemary extracts against different types of bacteria. According to studies, rosemary extract has antibacterial properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Bioactive substances including rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid are responsible for the antibacterial properties of rosemary extract. Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus cereus are just a few of the microorganisms that lemongrass extract has been shown to have antibacterial activity against. Citral a significant part of the essential oil, is the main cause of lemongrass's antibacterial qualities. It has also been discovered that combining the extracts of lemongrass and rosemary has a synergistic effect that increases the antibacterial action against specific bacteria. It is thought that the various modes of action of the bioactive substances included in these extracts are what cause this synergistic impact. All things considered, the data that is now available points to the possibility of using extracts of rosemary and lemongrass as natural antibacterial agents against a range of harmful microorganisms.
Antibacterial effect, Lemongrass, Medicinal Plants, Rosmarinus officinalis L.
Exploring the Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide on Biofilm Development and Antibiotic Susceptibility
Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most important chemical compounds that affect the formation of biofilm of microorganisms and response to antimicrobial agents which can be used in war against pathogenic microorganisms in healthcare institutions. The current study aims to highlight the mechanism of the effect of H2O2 on biofilm formation, in addition to the possibility of using it to enhance the ability of antimicrobials to reduce the outbreak of infectious disease. In this review article, the impact of hydrogen peroxide on the susceptibility of pathogenic bacteria to antibiotics will be screened through the role of H2O2 in reducing biofilm formation. Here, the mechanism of the effect of H2O2 on the body of pathogenic bacteria through oxidation stress, eradication of biofilm, destruction of microbial membrane, and inhibition of microbial enzymes. The effect of hydrogen peroxide on biofilm formation depends on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide and the duration of exposure of microorganisms. In some time the low concentrations of H2O2 induce biofilm formation and high concentrations may reduce the biofilm formation (and that may be dependent on the species of microorganism). The effect of H2O2 on biofilm formation is through reducing initial attachment as well as interfering with the maturation and maintenance of biofilm. Hydrogen peroxide has an important role in enhancing antibacterial agents and this may contribute to redrawing the therapeutic strategy in the future. It can be concluded from the present study that H2O2 has a role in reducing the outbreak of infectious diseases and helps in enhancing the antibacterial war, which contributes to enhancing public health.
Antibiotics, Bacterial susceptibility, Biofilm, Developing antibacterial agents, Hydrogen peroxide.
Antagonistic Interactions Between Soil-Isolated Actinomycetes and Pathogenic Bacterial Strains
Bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics for treating infections is the biggest challenge facing clinicians. Previous research on antibiotic-producing actinomycetes has been limited. This study aims to explore the potential of identifying actinomycete isolates that may produce antibiotics more effective than current treatments for bacterial infections. Fifty soil samples were collected from various regions in central Iraq to isolate actinomycetes. Ten clinical bacterial isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis, which were resistant to multiple antibiotics, were obtained and maintained for use in experiments. The double-layer of agar and spot assay was used to detect antagonistic interactions between actinomycete and pathogenic bacterial isolates (ten isolates). The Kirby-Bauer method was employed to evaluate the response of these isolates to four different antibiotics (ofloxacin (OF), gentamicin (CN), amoxicillin (AX), vancomycin (VA). The experiments demonstrated successful isolation of actinomycetes and validated the effectiveness of the employed method. The results indicated that the clinical isolates were highly resistant to the antibiotics tested. Nine out of ten isolates showed antagonistic reactions to actinomycete bacteria. This suggests that soil-derived actinomycetes can be isolated and possess strong antagonistic activity against bacteria resistant to various antibiotics. Such isolates could potentially be used to develop more effective antibiotics than those tested in this study.
Actinomycetes, Antagonism, Antibiotics, Clinical pathogenic bacteria.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Enterococcus faecalis Isolated from Urine Samples of Iraqi Women with Urinary Tract Infections
Enterococcus faecalis is one of the most important pathogens associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women. The literature on the incidence of UTI infections caused by E. faecalis in Iraq is limited. The increasing antibiotic resistance of this bacterium is one of the main challenges facing clinicians. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of E. faecalis UTIs in Iraq and to assess the response pattern to three commonly used antibiotics in Iraq: nitrofurantoin, ampicillin, and ceftriaxone. A total of 83 urine samples were collected from women suffering from UTIs. Morphological and biochemical methods were used to identify the isolates, and VITIK II technology was employed to confirm bacterial identification. The microdilution in microtiter plates was used to measure the susceptibility of E. faecalis to the three antibiotics. The results showed that the rate of UTI caused by E. faecalis was moderate, at 12.04%. The resistance to ampicillin was 100%, while resistance to nitrofurantoin was 50%. The response to ceftriaxone was also moderate. In conclusion, the study found that the incidence of UTI with E. faecalis among patients was moderate, and the effectiveness of nitrofurantoin was 50%.
Ampicillin, Ceftriaxone, Enterococcus faecalis, Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations, Nitrofurantoin, UTIs.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Burn Wound Infections
Multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the biggest challenges facing public health. The ability of these bacteria to develop resistance mechanisms makes it essential to routinely monitor their resistance to antibiotics. The current study aimed to investigate the incidence of burn infections caused by P. aeruginosa and to evaluate the susceptibility of these bacterial isolates to several antibiotics commonly used in the treatment of infected wounds. One hundred and fifty swabs were collected from infected burn samples. These swabs were cultured on various differential and selective media. The biochemical tests were used to identify the isolates. The VITIK 2 system was used to confirm the species of isolated bacteria. The Kirby–Bauer method was also used to determine the susceptibility of P. aeruginosa isolates to several antibiotics, including amoxicillin (AX), tobramycin (TOB 10), levofloxacin (LEV5), amikacin (AK10), gentamycin (CN10), and cefepime (FBP10), by measuring the diameters of inhibitory zones. The study revealed that the incidence of infected burn wounds caused by P. aeruginosa was 20%, and all isolates were resistant to amoxicillin. The highest susceptibility rate was to tobramycin, followed by levofloxacin. The number of bacteria sensitive to gentamicin, amikacin, and cefepime was 13, 11, and 11, respectively. It can be concluded from the current study that the incidence of burn infection with P. aeruginosa was 20%, and the highest sensitivity of P. aeruginosa was to tobramycin. Thus, we suggest that tobramycin may be a suitable choice for treating infected burn wounds caused by P. aeruginosa.
Antibiotics, Burn Wound Infections, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Susceptibility.
Indication of Heavy Metals and Coliform Bacteria in Tap Water of Al-Karkh Side Hospitals-Baghdad, Iraq
The correlation between the quality of drinking water provided to healthcare facilities and the quality of healthcare services rendered to individuals is crucial. The objective of this present investigation is to assess the presence of heavy metals and coliform bacteria (indicating contamination with pathogenic bacteria from fecal matter) in the tap water distributed to the Al Karkh area of Baghdad. Specifically, tap water samples were collected from four hospitals situated in the Al Karkh region of Baghdad, namely Al Karama Teaching Hospital, Albishara private hospital, Al-karkh private hospital, and Karkh Hospital For Childbirth. The levels of heavy metals, including copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd), were evaluated, as well as the presence of coliform bacteria (a marker for pathogenic contamination). The findings revealed that the levels of heavy metals complied with the standard values in all hospitals under study, except Cd, which exceeded the standard level in the tap water collected from Albishara private hospital and Karkh Hospital for Childbirth. Moreover, no coliform bacteria were detected in any of the tap water samples obtained from the hospitals investigated. As such, it can be inferred that the quality of water, in terms of heavy metal levels, supplied to these four hospitals adhered to the standard regulations, and all samples were free from coliform bacteria, which indicates the absence of fecal contamination in the water provided to these healthcare facilities.
Al Karkh/side, Coliform, Drinking water, Heavy metals, Hospitals, Pathogenic bacteria.
Copyright (c) 2024 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Change Induces Shifts in Infectious Disease Dynamics: Emerging Global Threats
Climate change and infectious diseases have been topics of interest for professionals such as Environmental Scientists, Ecologists, Public Health professionals, and Social Psychologists. The relationship between climate change and infectious diseases is complex, affecting the environment, social and economic conditions, and human health. It affects pathogens, vectors, transmission routes, and the human population's susceptibility to diseases. Infectious diseases like malaria, dengue fever, cholera, and influenza are sensitive to climate change, and scientists are focusing on better modeling, preemptive warnings, and new technologies like biosurveillance, artificial intelligence, and vaccine development to reduce the consequences of climate change for new and re-emerging diseases. A combination of multi-level and multi-sectoral efforts and a global approach is required to monitor and respond to future outbreaks. This paper will explore effective measures in preventing diseases related to climate change and the existing scientific evidence to prove its impact on infectious diseases.
CCHF, Climate changes, Infectious diseases, Vector-Borne Diseases, Waterborne Diseases.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preparing Burn Mouse Model Infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa: a Histopathological Study
The infection of burn injuries by Pseudomonas aeruginosa represent a biggest challenges facing doctors. Therefore, treating infected burns area requires finding an animal model that helps standardize the treatment protocols used to treat infected burns, as well as to test appropriate medications. The current study aims to prepare a model of burnt ears as well as those infected with P. aeruginosa. In the present study, the posterior portion of mice back was burned using an iron bar heated with boiling water (100 oC). After one hour, the burn area was contaminated with a standard dose of P. aeruginosa (50 µl of 108 c.f.u./ml). The changes that occur in burned skin and bacteria contamination were observed with the neck eye, in addition to collect skin pieces (after 48 h) from infected area and put them in 10 % of formalin for histological examination. The results of the histological examination showed damage to the tissues that were burned and that were exposed to the standard dose of P. aeruginosa, where the destruction of epithelial layer and damage to the dermis layer was observed, in addition to the appearance of edema, as well as the infiltration of leukocytes. As for tissues taken from mice that were subjected to burning (posterior portion) without contamination with bacteria, minor changes were observed and they quickly returned to their normal status. It can be concluded that the method used was effective in preparing a model of burned mice infected with bacteria, and this will help in conducting experiments to standardize the protocol of treatments.
Burn mouse model, Histopathology, Leukocytes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, second-degree burn.
Copyright (c) 2023 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Antimicrobial Effect of Soil Microorganisms’ Products against Different Clinical Bacterial Isolates
Finding an effective antibacterial against a wide spectrum of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a major challenge for scientists. The current study aims to investigate microorganisms that produce antibacterial agents in soil. In the present study, 65 soil samples were collected from different areas of Baghdad. Microorganisms were grown in nutrient broth to collect the extracellular secretions of these microorganisms. The effect of substances secreted by microorganisms in each sample into the growth media against four species of pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterobacter spp) was estimated using well diffusion method. The study showed that 9.1% of soil samples produced antibacterial substances against four pathogenic bacteria, but with different levels and effectiveness. The highest effect of these secretions was against S. aureus and E. coli, as the study showed that 8 samples produced anti-S. aureus substances. Five samples containing microorganisms that produce anti-E. coli. While the study showed that the microorganisms present in one sample produced anti-S. pneumoniae and Enterobacter spp. Aspergillus and Penicillium represent the highest percentage of microorganisms in the soil samples, followed by Saccharomyces. It can be concluded from the current study that there is a large percentage of microorganisms that can produce antibacterial substances, and this opens the door to the possibility of obtaining new antibiotics that can help treat diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Aspergillus, Antibacterial agents, Pathogenic bacteria.
Histopathological Effect of Extracellular Products of Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on Mice Lungs.
The bacterial secretions into the growth medium that are produced as a result of the dynamics of growth and death of bacteria such as proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides stimulate inflammatory response. The effect of extracellular bacterial secretions that are released by bacteria during growth on inflammatory response as well as the body's tissues is not clear. The current study aims to highlight the effect of sterile bacterial secretion (IBS) of clinical isolate Pseudomonas aeruginosa on lung tissue. Here, P. aeruginosa was isolated from urine and grown on Luria-Bertani (LB) broth for a day, and IBSs were collected after filtration using a Millipore filter. These materials were administered to the experimental mice intranasally (i.n.). The tissue sections of the mouse lungs and the number of leukocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were examined. The histological sections showed an increase in the leukocyte infiltration into the alveoli cavity and walls was seen as early as 4 h post-installation, and this continued until the second day. However, at 72 post instillation, it was found that the lung tissue had almost completely recovered and returned to its normal shape. The study also showed an increase in the number of Leukocytes number in BAL of mice that were given the IBS as early as 4 h post instillation this increase continued until 72 h. The results showed the effect of IBS in stimulating a safe inflammatory response in the lungs of mice, and this could help in the possibility of using these materials in the future to increase the immunostimulation of weak immunostimulatory antigens.
Histopathology, leukocytes, Lungs, Mice, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Lipopolysaccharide Stimulates Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis to Produce IL-10 in vitro
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plays an important role in stimulating the pro-inflammatory immune response, especially in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Production of IL-10 in the host plays an important role in reducing the effect of the pro-inflammatory immune response. The role of LPS of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in stimulating IL-10 in patients with RA is not clear in the literature. The current study aims to determine the ability of the lymphocytes of patients with RA to produce IL-10 after being stimulated with LPS of P. aeruginosa in vitro. The human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) were isolated from patients with RA (test group A) and healthy cohorts (HC) (test group B), and they were cultured in vitro and stimulated with 1 µg of LPS of P. aeruginosa and PBS. The folds of the IL-10 gene expression of IL-10 were estimated in the PBLs, while the concentration of IL-10 was measured in the cell culture supernatants. The results of the folds of the gene expression and the concentrations of Il-10 of test groups were compared with control groups [PBLs of patients with RA (control groups A) and HC (control groups B) stimulated with PBS]. The significant elevations of IL-10 gene expression and IL-10 concentrations were seen in the PBLs cultures of test group A as compared with control groups A and B. The results showed no significant difference in the IL-10 gene expression and IL-10 concentrations of cell culture of test group B as compared with control groups A and B. It can be concluded that the LPS stimulates the lymphocytes of patients with RA to produce IL-10 and help in balance of the effect of pro-inflammatory immune reaction.
Interleukin-10, Lipopolysaccharide, Peripheral blood lymphocytes, Tissue culture.
One of the most important factors affecting public health is the use of antibiotics to treat infectious diseases. It is the most important medical discovery of the twentieth century, as antibiotics contributed to controlling many bacterial epidemics in addition to treating infectious diseases. The overuse of antibiotics, especially in developing countries, has a negative impact on public health. Therefore, many organizations have worked to establish strict policies for the use of antibiotics. The current study highlights the main types of antibiotics their mechanism of action against bacteria and their role in public health. Those who understood the One Health approach contributed to developing a policy and action plan to reduce the misuse of antibiotics as well as control bacterial resistance to these antibiotics. International organizations and research centers developed important policies and initiatives to limit the increase in bacterial resistance to antibiotics. The most important strategies used to confront antibiotic-resistant bacteria are to find alternative treatments, as well as developing health education fields, and provide warning curricula that highlight the danger of the decreased efficiency of antibiotics in treating diseases and epidemics. The ambitions for the future are great in this field, especially by supporting scientific research that relies on the use of alternatives to antibiotics in treating infectious diseases, in addition to setting clear policies that restrict unnecessary uses of antibiotics. It can be concluded from this study that the optimal and scientific use of antibiotics reflects positively on public health by reducing the outbreak of infectious diseases and that focusing on alternative antibacterial medicine will create hope for a better future against infectious diseases.
Alternative medicine, Antibiotics, Public health, Resistance to antibiotics.
Role of Lipopolysaccharide in Stimulating Rheumatoid Arthritis Leukocytes to Produce IL-1β in vitro
The pro-inflammatory response plays an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which is considered one of the most common autoimmune diseases around the world. The role of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in stimulating the pro-inflammatory response in patients with RA requires further clarification. The current study aims to determine the role of LPS in stimulating leukocytes in patients with RA to produce interleukin (IL-) 1 beta (β) in vitro. Here, LPS was extracted from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and used in stimulating the cultures of leukocytes isolated from patients with RA and cultures of leukocytes isolated from healthy control (HC) people with LPS. Two control groups were employed, first, cultures of leukocytes isolated from patients with RA from HC people, and stimulated with phosphate buffer saline (PBS). The level of IL-1β was measured at the protein in supernatants of cell cultures and at the gene expression in leukocytes. The results showed the effect of LPS in stimulating leukocytes of patients with RA and HC people to produce IL-1β higher than the production of IL-1β in cultures of control groups (leukocytes of RA and HC exposed to PBS). The results also showed that leukocytes of patients with RA stimulated with LPS produced IL-1β (in terms of protein production and gene expression) higher than the production of IL-1β by leukocytes isolated from HC people and stimulated with LPS (P<0.05). It can be concluded that LPS stimulates leukocytes in RA patients to produce a high level of IL-1β and that plays a role in pro-inflammatory response in RA.
Interleukin 1 beta, Leukocytes, Lipopolysaccharide, Rheumatoid arthritis.
Effect of Polyhydroxybutyrate Nano-Particles (PHB-NPs) in Mice Kidney Tissues: Histopathological Investigation
Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is a promising substance as it enters different applications such as medical, industrial, and food sectors. It is a safe material to prepare the PHB-nanoparticles (NPs) that are required to pass different chemo-physical reactions that may change its structure. That is why the PHB-NPs are required to assess their toxicity. The objective of the present investigation is to evaluate the cytotoxicity of PHB-NPs in vivo by examining the impact of PHB-NPs and other forms of this compound on kidney tissue. Within the confines of this study, PHB-NPs were synthesized in the laboratory through the application of ultrasound waves to PHB under varying pH conditions. The generation of PHB-NPs was estimated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Four cohorts of mice were intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 mg of PHB, PHB-NPs, PHB-cefotaxime (CTX), and CTX. The control group consisted of mice that were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline. The mice were subsequently dissected, and kidney slides from each group were prepared for histopathological examination. The method used in the current study is effective in producing PHB-NPs with diameters ranging from 20 to 35 nm. Furthermore, there was no discernible alteration in the kidney tissues of the mice in the four cohorts when compared to the kidney tissues of the control group. Thus, the present study concludes that there is no observed toxicity or any other adverse effects associated with the administration of PHB, PHB-NP, PHB-NP+CTX, and CTX on the histological characteristics of the experimental animals.
Cefotaxime Kidney, Mice, Polyhydroxybutyrate, PHB-nanoparticles, Scanning electron microscope.
Comparison Study between Clinical and Environmental Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in terms of Pro-inflammatory Cytokines Production in Mice Lungs
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most widespread bacteria. It causes infectious diseases and at the same time is found in soil and water. It stimulates the pro-inflammatory immune response. The study aims to compare the role of P. aeruginosa isolated from infected burned wounds and that isolated from fresh water in terms of stimulating the pro-inflammatory response of the respiratory tract. In the current study, P. aeruginosa isolates were isolated from infected burned wound swabs (PAC) and from freshwater (PAE). Laboratory mice were stimulated by giving them intranasal (i.n.) standard inoculum of pathogenic and environmental isolates of P. aeruginosa (PAC and PAE respectively). The levels of interleukin (IL-) 1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha (α) were measured in the homogenized mice lungs. The study demonstrated that both isolates (PAC and PAE) stimulated the respiratory system to secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α). Both isolates significantly (P<0.05) increased the level of IL-1β and TNF-α at the first-hour post-administration, and the highest level was observed at the fourth hour after administration with PAC and PAE. After that, the level of cytokines decreased dramatically over time. At 48 hours after administration, it was found that a significant increase of IL-1β and TNF-α was seen only in the lungs of the mice that were given the pathogenic isolates. It can be concluded that both isolates of P. aeruginosa (PAC and PAE) stimulate respiratory system cells to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, but PAC stimulates mice lungs to produce IL-1β and TNF-α in a higher level and for a longer period as compared with stimulation of mice lungs with PAE.
Clinical isolates, Environmental isolates, Interleukin 1, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Tumor necrosis factor.
Bioremediation of crude oil pollutants in the soil by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other soil microorganisms
Soil pollution with oily residues is one of the biggest challenges facing the environment. Microorganisms, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa play an important role in decomposing oil in soil. The current study aims to highlight the role of P. aeruginosa and the synergistic effect of other microorganisms in cleaning the soil from oily residues. Here, nine isolates of P. aeruginosa were isolated from soil contaminated with oil. Use biochemical methods and VITIK II technology in identifying the isolates. An oil-contaminated soil model was established in the laboratory, and eight experimental groups were used in the current study; group a, sterilized soil mixed with crude oil and P. aeruginosa (OD600: 0.8); group b, soil mixed with crude oil and P. aeruginosa (OD600: 0.8); group c, sterilized soil mixed with crude oil; group d, soil mixed with 5 ml of crude oil; group e, sterilized soil mixed with waste cooking oil (WCO) and P. aeruginosa (OD600: 0.8); group f, soil mixed with WCO and P. aeruginosa; group g, sterilized soil mixed with WCO; group h, soil mixed with WCO. The results showed that the highest percentage of decrease in WCO and crude oil was found in the soil group that was not sterilized in the presence of P. aeruginosa. A moderate rate of decomposition was also found in soil that had not been sterilized, and also in sterilized soil in the presence of P. aeruginosa. The sterilized soil (only) did not show any significant decrease in the WCO and crude oils. It can be concluded that P. aeruginosa is capable of decomposing WCO and crude oils and the presence of other soil microorganisms has increased the rate of decomposition of oil in the soil, which confirms the synergistic role of microorganisms and P. aeruginosa in decomposing WCO and crude oils.
Bioremidation, Crude oil, Waste cooking oil, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.