Al-Shatrah Veterinary and Biological Sciences Journal
Veterinary Medicine, Biology, Agriculture
College of Veterinary Medicine University of Shatrah
Detection of blaVIM-M and blBbKPC genes in Streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from sputum samples in Iraqi patients
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is one of the leading causes of community-acquired pneumonia, as well as a major cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Of these carbapenemase genes, blaVIM and blaKPC are of great clinical significance and have been frequently described in various Gram-negative pathogens, whereas little work has been done on pneumococcal isolates. The aim of the present study was to detect the presence of blaVIM and blaKPC genes in S. pneumoniae isolated from sputum samples of Iraqi patients suffering pneumonia and confirm the association of these genes with antimicrobial resistance patterns. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Sadr Medical City Hospital, Najaf, Iraq, extending from June 2024 to January 2025. We included 96 patients with clinical diagnosis of pneumonia. Sputum specimens were collected in sterile containers and then cultured according to standard microbiological procedures. Identification of S. pneumoniae was based on the basis of colony morphology, gram staining and biochemical tests. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing against ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, and meropenem was performed by the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for the molecular detection of blaVIM and blaKPC genes. Antimicrobial resistance rates to the tested antibiotics were variable, but they were highest for gentamicin and ciprofloxacin, and the carbapenems retained relatively higher activity. Molecular analysis indicated that blaVIM and blaKPC genes were found in 11.5% and 7.3% of the isolates, respectively. The presence of both genes was significantly associated with resistance to imipenem and meropenem (p<0.001). On the other hand, the non-β-lactam resistance showed no significant correlation with the carbapenemase gene carriage. These findings highlight the need for ongoing molecular surveillance, rational use of antibiotics and improved infection control measures to contain the spread of carbapenem resistance from one respiratory pathogen to another
Seroprevalence and hematological alterations associated with toxoplasmosis in women of reproductive age in Kirkuk province, Iraq
Toxoplasma gondii infection poses a significant public health risk in women of childbearing age because of the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcome and possible hematological changes. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and determine the modifications of hematological and iron status in pregnant and non-pregnant women in Kirkuk Province, Iraq. This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and late June 2025and included 152 women (106 pregnant and 46 non-pregnants). Blood samples were examined using anti-Toxoplasma IgG/IgM ELISA, complete blood count (CBC) and iron biomarkers (serum iron, TIBC, transferrin, and ferritin). The levels of seropositivity higher in non-pregnant women (IgG: 41.3%, IgM: 34.8%) compared to pregnant women (IgG: 20.0%, IgM: 21.0%). Hematological anomalies, such as microcytic anemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytopenia were also observed in seropositive women. The patterns of iron deficiency particularly evident among Igm-positive cases. These outcomes are significant to the necessity to combine serological and hematological screening into the prenatal care plan to alleviate maternal and fetal complications.
In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Activity of Albizia lebbeck L.Ethanolic Extract against Keratinophilic Fungi and Its Genoprotective Potential Using Comet Assay
Keratinophilic fungi are one of the most significant skin diseases affecting both humans and animals. Despite the availability of numerous treatments against these fungi, their symptoms and the long duration of treatment may prevent complete recovery in a short period of time. Therefore, there is a request to search for plants from nature that can be used as alternatives to antibiotics and chemical treatments. The results demonstrated the inhibition of three types of plant extracts (petroleum ether, chloroform, and ethanol), showing that these extracts have the ability to inhibit keratinophilic fungi (Trichophyton Schoenleinii, Microsporum canis, and Aspergillus flavus) on Mueller-Hinton agar at the four concentrations used in the experiment, indicating the efficiency of the plant for use in treating cutaneous diseases caused by fungi. The highest rate of inhibition was also recorded using the extract of Ethanol at concentration 4 which is the highest concentration used in the experiment. The comet assay is used as an applied analysis to measure broken DNA strands resulting from chemical and oxidative stress. It was used in this study before and after treatment to demonstrate the efficiency of the alcoholic extract in treating fungal skin infections. Regarding the experimental animals, the apparent results from the five groups taken from male mice, with each group containing 6 mice, showed that all the mice developed cutaneous lesions by scratching method ranging from mild to moderate after two weeks of exposure to the pathogen. After two weeks, the animals were treated with an ethanolic extract from the Albizia Lebbek plant at a concentration of 4 ml/liter, which showed inhibitory efficacy against keratinophilic fungi. Using the comet assay, the extract demonstrated its efficacy and ability to not harm living cells, in addition to the therapeutic potential of the extract
Association of ABO Blood Group with COVID-19: A Review on Effectiveness and Severity.
COVID-19 is related to the blood type ABO system and vulnerability to COVID-19 infection. The ABO system comprises the B, A, and O alleles, which impact the antigen expression on red blood cells, and the presence of naturally occurring antibodies in plasma. People with type A blood may now be more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. On the other hand, type O may indicate a decreased risk of serious viral consequences. One theory aims to explain the relationship between blood type and risk of infection. In individuals with blood types B and O, anti-A antibodies may prevent the virus's spike protein from adhering to human cells. This could reduce the likelihood that the virus will infiltrate when issues are not only protected by these protections but also by similar ones. IgG versions of anti-A antibodies, which are frequently produced by people with type O blood, seem to be more efficient at preventing the virus than the IgM forms, which are typically produced by people with type B blood. When things go wrong in the body during bad cases of COVID, those changes are tied to what happens early on. Not far behind comes a detail about TMPRSS2 - this protein opens the door for the virus, yet blood type may dial its activity up or down. Studies confirm this: your blood group can change your chances of getting an infection and the severity of the disease. This evidence explains the variation in outcomes across people; one person recover it easily, while another fights a much worse strain. Genetic factors may play a role in determining a person's fate on this scale
The Prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. in Patients of Some Basrah Hospitals Using Microscopy and Evaluation of Associated Epidemiological Factors.
In the current study, stool samples collected from patients at various hospitals in Basrah governorate such as Al-Fayhaa Teaching Hospital, Al-Zubair General Hospital, and Al-Sayyab Hospital. These samples were examined for infection with Cryptosporidium from December 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025. The study was focused on detection of Cryptosporidium sp. In different areas of Basrah (Rural and Urban), gender, age groups and intensity of infection. A total of 193 stool samples were collected from people in Basrah governorate, of different ages, genders, and locations. The overall infection rate was 64.8%. Significant differences were mostly observed in the months of study. The infection rate was highest in March (76.9%) and lowest in December (37.1%), with a significant difference at P ≤ 0.009. The highest infection rate was seen in rural areas, while the lowest was in urban areas, with a significant difference at P ≤ 0.009. The collected samples after staining were examined microscopically using modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN) stain for detection Cryptosporidium oocysts. The numbers and dimensions of the oocysts were recorded under the microscope and photographed using a camera mounted on a Leica microscope. The results were statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test at a probability level of P ≤ 0.05.
Epidemiological Study of Bacterial Contamination in Operation Rooms at Al-Nasiriyah City, Iraq
Bacterial contamination in operating rooms is a critical element in the transmission of illnesses within hospitals, especially hospital-acquired infections. It is regarded as one of the most severe and life-threatening sources of nosocomial infections. This study examined the diagnostic outcomes of 1,832 bacterial culture swabs obtained from the Bacterial Contamination Unit at Al-Nasiriya Teaching Hospital. The collection comprised specimens collected from ten operating theaters from October 2023 till January 2024, facilitating a thorough evaluation of microbial prevalence across diverse surgical departments. The findings indicated that the predominant contamination occurred in general surgery and orthopedic surgery rooms, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) at 40.9%, followed by Enterobacter spp. at 29.5% and Staphylococcus aureus at 23.9%. The least prevalent pathogen was Klebsiella spp (1.2%). The current study underscores the significance of infection control systems in preventing the cross-transmission of nosocomial infections, which can lead to contamination and infection in critically sick patients.
TLR7 Gene Responses in HIV-Infected Humans vs. Livestock: An In Silico Exploration
The Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an essential to the immune response against viral infections, mainly HIV. This study examines the amino acid interactions between TLR7 and HIV across three species: humans, cows, and sheep, concentrating on binding distances and docking scores as indicators of interaction strength. In humans, the most favorable interactions include 330A (Lysine, LYS) with 540A (Arginine, ARG) at a distance of 1.642 Å and a docking score of -316.27, indicating strong electrostatic interactions. The second best interaction, 242A (Asparagine, ASN) and 269B (Glutamine, GLN), displays a distance of 2.516 Å, likely involving hydrogen bonding for enhanced specificity. In cattle, the interaction between 561A (Glutamic Acid, GLU) and 1B (Proline, PRO) is remarkably the strongest across species, with a distance of 1.439 Å and a docking score of -235.19. In sheep, the interaction 559A (Glutamine, GLN) with 96B (Histidine, HIS) at 2.181 Å reflects effective binding with a score of -295.91. Generally, these interactions expose critical insights into the structural dynamics of TLR7's recognition of HIV, highlighting the significance of binding affinities in immune response strategies. This analysis can guide the progress of therapeutic approaches to improve TLR7-mediated responses to HIV across various species.
Histopathology-Based Molecular Subtyping and Immune Microenvi-ronment Heterogeneity in Invasive Breast Carcinoma
This study examined the relationship between immunohistochemistry-defined molecular subtypes of breast carcinoma and the tumour immune microenvironment. A total of 500 invasive breast carcinoma cases were retrospectively analysed using routine histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Tumours were classified into luminal A, luminal B, HER2-enriched, basal-like, and unclassified subtypes based on surrogate markers. Immune cell infiltration was assessed using CD8 and CD68 immunohisto-chemistry in a subset of cases, and immune-related gene expression was analysed by quantitative real-time PCR in selected CD8-dominant and CD68-dominant tumours. Basal-like tumours showed higher CD8 infiltration, while unclassified triple-negative tumours more frequently demonstrated macrophage-dominant immune profiles. Gene expression analysis showed higher expression of cytotoxic and T-cell–associated genes in CD8-dominant tumours compared with CD68-dominant tumours. These findings highlight immune heterogeneity across breast cancer subtypes and support the value of combining routine immunohistochemistry with targeted molecular analysis of invasive breast cancer
Study the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin resistance in Nasiriya
This observational clinical study was performed by collection of data from unit of hormones and clinical immunology in Al-Habbobi hospital (Nasiriya city). 100 patients with poly cystic ovary (PCOS) were evaluated after a written informed consent was obtained from the center. Patients were labeled as having PCOS. All the examined women were classified into insulin resistant (IR) and non-insulin resistant(non-IR) and divided into three groups:), T1 (≤ 20 years), T2 (21-30 years) and T3 (> 30 years). A previous procedures were conducted at this center for all patients such as clinical presentation and ultrasound to detect PCOS, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA) was applied for insulin resistant diagnosis and estimation of the of some biomarkers of the participants to confirm the diagnosis of PCOS, which include Serological levels of testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin. 20 samples were collected from healthy women and consider as control. Experiment extended from October 2024 to march 2025. Results reveal a notable relationship between IR and PCOS in patient women in Nasiriya considerable increase in levels of LH, testosterone were observed in patients with PCOS..
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Attenuates Paraquat -Induced Thyroid, Renal and Hepatic Dysfunction in a Rat Mode
Exposure to paraquat interfere with serious metabolic processes, initiating structural injury to various organs, including the liver, kidney and thyroid. The main attention of this study was to evaluate the impacts of NMN contrary to paraquat toxicity in albino rats. Fifty female albino rats were splitting into 5 collections: Control group. Paraquat group, in which rats were intra-peritoneal injected with paraquat pesticide at a concentration of 0.25 ml daily for 30 days. NMN group, in which rats administrated NMN at a dose of 1 ml orally via stomach tube for 30 days. Protective group, in which rats were treated with NMN for 30 days and then with the paraquat for another 30 days. Therapeutic group in which rats were treated with the paraquat for 30 days and then with NMN for another 30 days. Paraquat exposure lowered T4, T3, total protein while increasing TSH, ALT, AST, total bilirubin, urea, creatinine. The activities of antioxidants enzymes, including SOD and GPx were reduced following paraquat administration. Nevertheless, NMN treatment reduced all paraquat stimulated injuries in the liver, kidney and thyroid of rats due to its ability for enhancing NAD+ levels.
A study of the Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Cats in Some Region of Nasiriyah City, Southern Iraq.
Abstract This study aimed to determine infection rate of Toxoplasma gondii in Al-Nasiriyah / Iraq, in some regions. A total of 100 fecal samples were collected from cats , including samples from cats shelters and local domestic cats. Oocysts were identified using standard laboratory methods, including the direct wet smear method and flotation technique. According to the findings, the infection rate was 30% of all samples, but it climbed to 35.71% in February without being statistically significant. The infection rate was higher in female cats (33.96%) than in male cats (25.53%). The cats shelters had a higher infection rate than local domestic cats 32.5% vs 28.33%, respectively, which not statistically significant. The study concludes that conventional method for diagnosing T. gondii in cats was efficient, and the infection of T. gondii in cats was increased in moderate and cold months
Exploring the co-occurrence of Entamoeba histolytica and Escherichia coli infection in diarrheal patients from Al-Rifai and Al-Nasiriyah in Thi-Qar province
Abstract Enteric infections, whether accompanied by apparent diarrhea or not, significantly impact gastrointestinal absorption, nutrition, childhood development, and global mortality rates. This study attempts to answer the question (Is there co infection between E. histolytica and E. coli in diarrheal samples?). This study, conducted from October 2024 to January 2025 in Al-Rifai and Al-Nasiriyah in Thi-Qar, province the possible co-infection of E. histolytica and E. coli in 130 diarrheal patients. The samples were examined by direct examination. The findings reveal a correlation between the parasite and the bacterium in Al-Rifai and Al-Nasiriyah districts.The infection prevalence of E. histolytica was 66 out of 130 (50.76%). Conversely, 54 out of 130 (41.53%) E. coli showed positive culture growth confirmed by morphological characteristics. However, 28/130 (21.53%) were found to be positive for both pathogens. It is clear that the co-existence of these two pathogens follows the same trend (both were highly prevalent in the age group (> 20 years old), the coexistence of the two pathogenesis was higher in Al-Refai than in Al-Nasiriyah (28.94% vs.71.06%). Conclusions, there is co infection between E. coli and E. histolytica in the two districts.
CRISPR-CAS9: discovery and future therapeutic
Abstract CRISPR_Cas9 technology has quickly evolved into one of the most powerful tools in molecular biology, enabling precise and efficient genome editing with a wide ranging of biomedical applications. Its ability to selectively target and modify specific DNA or RNA sequences has new avenues in the treatment of cancer, inherited disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and viral infections. In malignant study, CRISPR has been employed to disrupt oncogenic drivers like KRAS and MYC, restore tumor suppressor pathways involving TP53 and BRCA1, and optimize immunotherapy strategies through engineered CAR-T cells. Similarly, in genetic disorders like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Leber congenital amaurosis, CRISPR-mediated exon skipping and targeted repair approaches have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential. In the field of neurodegenerative diseases, the system has shown promise in modulating genes implicated in Alzheimer disease, particularly APP, BACE1, and APOE, offering novel insights into disease modification. Furthermore, CRISPR-based RNAtargeting systems like Cas13 have been successfully applied in controlling viral pathogens, including HIV and SARS-CoV- 2, not only for therapeutic interventions but also for rapid and sensitive diagnostics through platforms like SHERLOCK and SHINE. Overall, CRISPR represents a transformative advance in precision medicine. While challenges such as off-target effects, efficiency of delivery, and ethical considerations remain, continuous progress in optimizing the technology supports its future integration into clinical practice as a versatile therapeutic and diagnostic platform.
Highly Prevalence Of Feline Toxoplasmosis Sounds The Alarm In Iraq : A Review
Abstract Despite the substantial progress witnessed in the medical science and communicable diseases management, toxoplasmosis persists as a critical challenge facing global public health. this study attempted to provide an overview of the reality of the spread of this disease among cats and its implications for public health in Iraq .In this review, data collected from a total of 23 studies executed in different parts of Iraq from 2002 to 2025 about feline toxoplasmosis. The reviewed studies demonstrate high rates of infection with Toxoplasma gondii among Iraqi cats. stray cats showing higher prevalence than owned cats in most provinces. Furthermore, in some of these studies, a high infection rates documented among human coinciding with the high prevalence rates in cats especially among those who have direct contact with these animals .The results underscore the need for standardized diagnostic protocols, larger and more representative sampling, and integrated control programs to mitigate the zoonotic risk posed by this disease
A comparative study of Prevalence and Antibiogram of Uropathogens in Patients with Urinary tract infection and Renal Stones in Al - Nasiriyah general Hospital
Abstract Aims: This study compared the prevalence, diversity, and antibiotic resistance profile of uropathogens in patients with UTI and patients with renal stones. . Material and Method: mid stream urine spacemen were collected from 150 patients (75 with UTI and 75 with UTI and renal stone). Urine samples were collected from January 2024 to February 2025 from patients attending the Urology department in Al-Nasiriyah General Hospital. Mid-stream urine samples were inoculated directly on MacConkey and Blood agar and then incubated at 37°C for 24 hr Bacterial colonies were determined by standard culture and biochemical characteristics, and their susceptibility to different antibiotics was identified by the disk diffusion method. Results: The mean age ± SD of the entire population 38.8±14.6, ranging from 13 to 68 years. Bacteriological investigation revealed that only 53 (35.3%) showed positive bacterial growth on culture media., statistical analysis showed no significant difference (P-value =0.494) in the overall bacterial recovery rates between UTI and stone former patients . . Six bacterial species were successfully identified, with E.coli being the most prevalent, 30.19%, followed by K pneumoniae, 22.6%, then P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, 16.9% and 15.09% respectively. E. Faecalis was the lowest prevalent, 5.66%. In conclusion, no unique microbial signature is strongly associated with the formation of renal stones. and both urease-positive and negative can be isolated from UTI with renal stone
Biochemical Identification and Antibiotics Resistance of Citrobacter freundii Isolated from Diarrheal Cases in Thi-Qar Province, Iraq
Abstract Citrobacter freundii is an opportunistic pathogen associated with gastrointestinal infections in children, particularly in areas with limited healthcare and inadequate antimicrobial management. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, resistance patterns, and colony traits of C. freundii in stool samples from children under two years old admitted to Al- Husain Teaching Hospital in Thi-Qar Province, Iraq. A total of 100 stool samples were collected and cultured. Among the Gram-negative isolates, C. freundii made up 3%. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed complete resistance (100%) to first- and second-generation cephalosporins (cefazolin and cefuroxime), as well as the third-generation cephalosporin ceftriaxone. There was moderate resistance (60%) to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. In contrast, all isolates were fully susceptible to carbapenems, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones. These results confirm that the VITEK 2 Compact system is a quick and accurate method for identifying C. freundii and determining its susceptibility to antibiotics. Additionally, the high resistance to cephalosporins underscores the urgent need for regular monitoring of antimicrobial resistance and for informed choices about antibiotic use in managing pediatric diarrhea caused by multidrug-resistant C. freundii .
Comparative Study: Conventional and Real-Time PCR of enterovirus 70 and 71 as causative agents of eye infections in Thi Qar province
Abstract. Enteroviruses EV70 and EV71 are important viral pathogens; EV70 is primarily associated with acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, while EV71 is linked to hand-foot-and-mouth disease with occasional ocular involvement. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of conventional PCR and real-time PCR in detecting these viruses from conjunctival swabs in Thi-Qar Province. A total of 120 conjunctival swabs were collected from patients suspected of viral eye infections, and viral RNA was extracted and tested using both conventional PCR and real-time PCR. All samples were negative by conventional PCR, whereas real-time PCR detected infections mainly in children aged 1–10 years, with EV70 being the predominant virus. These findings suggest a potential association of EV70 and EV71 with pediatric eye infections and emphasize the importance of sensitive molecular diagnostics for early and accurate detection
Comparative Study of Oxidative Stress and Some Enzymatic Parameters in All serotypes of FMD Infected Calves in Thi-Qar Province
Abstract Foot-and-mouth disease is a contagious disease that impacts up to 70 species of cleft hoofed mammals. There are 7 different serotypes of FMDV, O, A, C, Asia1, SAT1, SAT2 and SAT3. Antioxidant mechanisms in mammalian bodies eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS), that produces free radicals during stress factors such as viral diseases. Liver enzymes are highly affected by liver dysfunction that caused by viral infection. This study aimed to detect the effects of infection with FMD virus on antioxidant status and liver enzymes. This study applied on 80 calves (cow) from different regions, ages and sexes of Thi-Qar province during the period of December (2024) to March (2025). Blood samples were gained from 60 affected calves with (FMD virus) as well as other 20 samples from healthy calves -as control. Sera was classified after detecting the serotypes by Conventional PCR technique. Results reviled that SOD levels in groups A, O serotypes were significantly reduced when compared with those of mixed group (A&O), (MDA) levels were highly and significant rise in all afflicted categories compared to the healthy group. also a significant elevation in (ALT) and (AST) levels in groups of calves of serotype O. G.G.T levels were significantly increased in animals affected with serotype A as compared with others groups including control. In conclusion FMDV pathogenesis causes oxidative stress, with single serotypes (A/O) causing more severe antioxidant suppression and profound hepatocellular damage linked to serotype O infections.
Antibiotic susceptibility testing of bacterial Isolates Associated with Urinary Tract Infection in the northern region of Thi-qar Province
Abstract Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most prevalent infectious diseases, affecting millions worldwide and incurring significant healthcare costs. The study aimed to assess antibiotic resistance to commonly used antibiotics among bacterial pathogens linked to UTIs. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method and in accordance with CLSI guidelines (2024).After identification and isolation, only 43 samples were positive for bacterial urinary tract infections (28.7%). The predominant uropathogen was Escherichia coli 15 (34.9%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae 11 (25.6%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8 (18.6%), Proteus mirabilis 5(11.6) and Staphylococcus aureus 4 (9.3%). E. coli isolates showed variable resistance rates to Cefotaxime (60%), Ciprofloxacin (53.3%), Tetracycline (66.7%), Trimethoprim (73.3%) and Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (66.7%). K. pneumonaie isolates were high resistant to Ciprofloxacin (63.63%), Tetracycline (100%), Tobramycin (63.63%), Trimethoprim (81.8%) and Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (63.63%). Most of P. aerugenosa and P.mirabilis were resistance to Trimethoprim (100% for each) and Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (100% and 80%, respectively). All P.aerugenosa isolates were resistant to Nitrofurantoin (100%). Isolates of S.aureus were significantly resistant to Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (75%), Tobramycin (100%), Erythromycin (100%) and Tetracycline (75%).
Identification of Klebsiella Species From Pregnant Women Suffered From Urinary Tract Infection in Thi-Qar Province.
Abstract Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections in pregnant women and are often caused by opportunistic uropathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. This study aimed to isolate and identify uropathogenic K. pneumoniae from pregnant women with UTIs in Thi-Qar Province, Iraq, and to determine their antibiotic susceptibility patterns. A total of 22.72% of the isolates were identified as K. pneumoniae using the VITEK 2 automated system. The highest infection rate was recorded among women aged 18–27 years-old . Notably, the third trimester showed the highest prevalence of infection (50%). Urban residents exhibited a higher rate of K. pneumoniae isolation compared to rural residents. Regarding antibiotic susceptibility, high resistance rates were observed against Amoxicillin (50%) and Fosfomycin (40%), while strong sensitivity was recorded for Gentamicin (100%), Amikacin (90%), and Imipenem (80%).These findings highlight the importance of early detection using reliable automated systems such as VITEK 2 and support the need for proper antibiotic selection to manage UTIs effectively and reduce the spread of resistant strains.
Effect of Heat and Cold Stress on Incidence of Retained Placenta in Cows in Thi-Qar Province
Abstract The present study appeared effect winter season on increase retained placenta cases comparative with other seasons that recorded about 38.89 in winter while recorded about 5.56% in summer, also this study recoded the effect of the geographical area to spread retained placenta, the north of thi- qar recorded 63.89% higher than other area west and south recorded about 5.56% and 11.11% respectively, the present study showed the effect of temperature degree to spread retained placenta cases . The low temperature degree between (11 to 20) appeared significant increase of retained placenta cases (52.78%) comparative with high temperature (40 to 50) degree about 2.68%. this study conclude increase of retained placenta cases in north region of Thi-Qar province in winter comparative with south region in summer.
Effects of Some Chemical Compounds on the Growth of Fusarium Species
Abstract Fusarium species was isolated from soil of the Basra Province, South of Iraq, and cultured at 27C° for 5 days on three media were (Czapek Dox agar, CDA, malt extract agar, MEA, and potato dextrose agar, PDA). These media appeared different coonies of this fungus were whitish gray with pink center, white with concavely center, and white possessed pink center, respectively. In addition, no exudates were produced. Using lactophenol cotton blue stain, conidia were crescent with pointed ends and some of them are septate. Different chemical compounds were tested on a growth of the Fusarium species revealed a highest growth was noticed in potato dextrose broth (PDB) amended with aspartic acid followed by potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate and magnesium chloride. In addition, no growth in a presence of the ammonium acetate, potassium acetate, zinc chloride and zinc sulfate.
Effect of Grind Seeds of Rhus Coriaria and Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzymes Supplementation in Ration on Some Haemobiochemical Parameters of Awassi Male Lambs
Abstract Curent study desgned to assess the influence of grind seeds of Rhus Coriaria and exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) on some haemobiochemical parameters of Awassi male lambs. 24 Awassi male lambs weighing (21.50-60.77) Kg at 3 4 months of age, and they were equally divided into four groups based on body weight. G1 (control) was fed a concentrate diet at a rate of 2.5% body weight with alfalfa hay everyday and was regarded a control group. G2 was fed the same food as the control group and received 15 g/head of dried grind Rhus Coriaria seeds daily with feed. The same food as in G1 was offered to G3 together with 5 g/head of exogenous fibrolytic enzyme (EFE). The same diet as G1 was used to feed G4, which included 5 g of EFE and 15g of dry ground Rhus Coriaria seeds daily. The results of glucose concentration showed G2, G3 and G4 significance p<0.05 decrease from the 2nd month to the end of experiment compared with control group. Values of total protein showed G4 significance p<0.05 surpass at the 3rd month of trial. Results of Albumin exhibited G2, G3 and G4 significance p<0.05 exceed at the 1st, 2nd and 4th months of experiment. Values of Globulin showed G2 and G3 significance p<0.05 exceed G1 at the 3rd month of experiment. Values of GGT showed G2, G3 and G4 significance p<0.05 decrease from the 2nd month toward the end of experimentation. Urea blood concentration values indicated a significant decline in G2, G3, and G4 from the second month until the conclusion of the investigation. It can be established that grind seeds of Rhus coriaria and EFE can be used in combination or alone as an effective feed additive to improve some haemobiochemical parameters in Awassi male lambs
Molecular Study of Adenovirus Associated with eyes infections in Iraq
Abstract The current study included the examination of 180 samples of eye swabs for ophthalmitis patients of all ages, and their association with some demographic factors, including age, gender, clinical symptoms, recurrence of infection and chronic diseases by means of viral transmission (VTM), which included 120 samples of patients and 60 normal samples in Iraq From October 2020 until January 2021 . Samples were collected from patients from a consultant ophthalmologist. The samples were classified into five groups according to the age group (1-15), (16-30), (31-45), (46-60) and (over 60) years old. Current study involved collection and storing samples at -20°C, extracting DNA from eye samples using the Viral DNA Kit in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, analyzing the samples using PCR technology, and performing an electrophoresis to analyze the results of the PCR reaction and separate the DNA from the agarose and depending on the size of the DNA. Adenoviruses were discovered using the PCR method, and the analysis' findings indicated that there were no adenoviruses.
The Role of Beta Sitosterol on MCF7, local AMJ13 cell lines and Staph. Aureus
Abstract: Phytosterols are biological active compounds which are naturally present in plant with chemostructure similar to the eucayotic cell- derived cholesterol. They are highly available in lipid-rich plant foods such as nuts, seed, and olive oil. - Sitosterol, as a single agent used in breast cancer cells MCF-7 cells and AMJ13 showed treated with the following different concentrations: 0, 1, 10, 100, 1000, 10000, 100000 nm of -sitosterol .The inhibition of viability showed much higher in MCF7 cell line than in AMJ13in - Sitosterol 10000,100000nm, the data showed that - Sitosterol has controversial effect compared with previous studies . This study explained simply the importance of - Sitosterol on MCF7 cell line compared with AMJ13 Furthermore, It clarified the antimicrobial activity of - Sitosterol on Staphalococus aureus. This led that -Sitosterol may be used as a promising candidate drug for anti-cancer in further medical researches
Genotyping Investigation of Ciprofloxacin Resistance Genes (ParC and ParE) in Clinical Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Isolates
Abstract Pseudomonas aeruginosa appeared with burn patients is considered as one the most important opportunistic pathogen. This study aimed to determine the mutation within genes (parC and parE) encoded for topoisomerase IV which related to the Ciprofloxacin resistance. The distribution of P. aeruginosa among different types of specimens showed that highest percentage, 46 (66.7%) was for burn samples. Antibiotics susceptibility showed that 34 (73.9%), 36 (78.3%), 30 (65.2%) and 29 (63.04%) of P. aeruginosa isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, and ceftazidime, respectively. The gyrB gene was detected in all 21 (100%) of P. aeruginosa isolates with product size (~510 bp). The parC and parE genes were detected in all the examined isolates. The presence of mutations in specific region (FRDR) in these genes were screened by sending a DNA extract for genetic sequencing. The mutations in the parC and parE genes play anessentil role in resistance to Ciprofloxacin in clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa.
Pathogenic Effect of C. Freundii in Rats
Abstract: This study was conducted to investigate pathological effect caused by Citrobacter freundii in rats, to achieve this goal; faecal samples were collected during the period from December/ 2020 to March/ 2021 different region in Baghdad City. The sample was cultured on different media, biochemical tests, Vitek2 system were applied. A total of 20 rats distributed into 2 group first group received 1x106 the second group received 1 ml PBS and considered a negative control group after that animals were sacrificed after one week post infection results showed no gross lesions were seen in the examined organs (lung, liver, spleen, intestine and brain) of both groups especially infected group. Histopathological changes of intestine, lung, liver, spleen and brain showed severe histopathological changes in the infected group compared with the negative control groups manifested by massive sloughing of intestinal epithelial lining with severe distension of lamina propria due variable cell types infiltration, severe multifocal vacuolar degeneration of hepatocytes with nuclear pyknosis of adjacent hepatocytes with focal inflammatory cells, white pulp depletion with congestion of red pulp in spleen. The lung shows moderate lymphoid depletion of BALT with necrosis of bronchial mucosa accompanied with polymorphonuclear and few lymphocytes infiltration in mucosa and sub-mucosa.
Serological Study of Prevalence Toxoplasmosis in Different Animals in Basra Province
Abstract The study is designed to identify Toxoplasma gondii at animals of Basra province / Iraq a total of 73 blood samples were randomly obtained from four species of animals include (sheep n=42, goats n=19, cows n=6, and cats n=6) at Basra province were tested using a serological test (Onsite Toxo IGG / IGM rapid Test Cassette, USA, catalog number Ro 234C-2Rev. E3.0) to the identification of anti-Toxoplasmosis antibodies in animals during beginning of October 2022 until the end of April 2023. The highest rate observed in cats, sheep and goats (33%) of cats, (21%) of sheep and goats.
Detection of Eimeria Spinfectin Rates in Sheep of Some Regions of Thi-Qar Province
Abstract One of the most significant parasitic diseases in domestic animals that results in financial losses is coccidiosis. In order to determine the prevalence of infection (Eimeria spp.) This research was carried out on sheep in a specific region of the Thiqar the province. A total infction rate was 26.74% from 86 sheep was obtained in the study utilizing the direct wet smear approach and the flotation method. for the period from November 2022 to the end of January 2023. Males had infection rates of 29.62%, while females ha infection rates of 25.42%. According to the study, there were non-significant differences in the infection rates between the adult and young age groups (25.45%) and adults (29.03%). There was a significant difference between the Al-Rifai region and the other study regions in terms of the infection rate, which was documented as being 30%.
Study the effect of Daily Treatment of Olive Oil in Male Rabbit on Blood Glucose level
Abstract The current research aimed to reveal the influence of daily administration of the Olive Oil orally on level of serum glucose in local male rabbit. Nine male rabbit used in this research, divided into 3 groups. First group dosed normal saline orally and considered as control group, the second group administered 2 ml of olive oil orally and pointed as G1 group, the last group considered G2 and given 4 ml of olive oil orally. The treatment continue for 14 days with estimation of blood glucose daily. The results of study appeared significant fall in blood glucose concentration in treated groups when compared before and after treatment in G1 and G2 groups. At same time, there was non-significant changes in blood glucose concentration in control group after 14 days of administration of olive oil. The level of blood glucose in G2 group decreased significantly as compared with G1 group after 14 days of treatment. The Olive Oil has strong and rapid effect in reducing the concentration of blood sugar in short period