Advancements in Life Sciences (E-Journal, University of the Punjab)
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RETRACTED ARTICLE: Sainfoin (Onobrychis arenaria) Productivity Depending on Organic and Mineral Fertilizers
Get PDFBackground: Numerous experiments in Russia and abroad indicate that the productivity of natural hayfields and pastures is high enough only if legumes are present in the herbage. It is also of great importance to increase their productivity by applying mineral fertilizers, which often define the final productivity of the herbage. To determine the effect of organic and mineral fertilizers on the productivity of sainfoin.Methods: The main method used in the study was a field experiment combined with laboratory analysis. Measurements of plant density were carried out in the spring before each harvesting of cover crops and sainfoin. In the course of the study, phenological and morphological observations, accounting, and evaluation of the quality of sainfoin were carried out. The structure of the herbage was evaluated according to the following indicators: plant density, plant height, leafiness, and the area of the assimilation surface of grasses. Measurements were carried out in spring before each harvesting of grasses. Height measurements were based on the phases of plant development.Results: Final yield data show that fertilizers have a significant impact. Thus, the yield of sainfoin and cover crops in 2019 (in the first year of the experiment) was: 4.7 t/ha for variant 8 and 4.5 t/ha for the control variant. In 2020 and 2021, the yield of experimental variant 8 exceeded that of the control variant. Statistical processing of the results of the experiment confirms the positive effect of fertilizers on the yield.Conclusions: The best results were achieved with the use of 30 t/ha of organic fertilizers + N60 P60 K40.Keywords: Sainfoin; Organic Fertilizers; Mineral Fertilizers; Yield, Survival Retraction Note27 Nov 2025: The Editor-in-Chief has approved retraction of this article on the following grounds.The paper's text and tables report completely different data for the same outcomes.Contradiction 1 (Primary Yield): The paper's main finding (yield) is reported with three different sets of numbers.Abstract: Claims 2019 yield was 4.7 t/ha (Variant 8) and 4.5 t/ha (Control).Results Text: Repeats the same incorrect numbers: 4.7 t/ha (Variant 8) and 4.5 t/ha (Control).Table 6 (Actual Data): Shows the yield as 5.5 t/ha (Variant 8) and 2.2 t/ha (Control). The abstract and discussion are based on data that is not present in the results tables.Contradiction 2 (Methodology): The methods and results describe different experimental treatments.Methods: Defines Variant 8 as "30 t/ha of organic fertilizers (manure) + N60P60K40".Results: Describes Variant 8 as "30 t/ha of organic fertilizers (manure) + N30P30K50". The paper analyzes a different fertilizer concentration than what is defined in the experimental design.Contradiction 3 (Productivity): The text in the results section contradicts the data in Table 7.Text: Claims the highest productivity was in Variant 7 ("2.9 t/ha of feed units" and "0.18 t/ha" of protein).Table 7: Shows Variant 7's productivity was 3.4 t/ha of feed units and 0.33 t/ha of protein.Text: Claims the control's productivity was "1.6 t/ha and 0.07 t/ha".Table 7: Shows the control's productivity was 1.7 t/ha and 0.13 t/ha.Contradiction 4 (Leaf Surface Index): The text reports data that is not in the corresponding table.Text: Claims the leaf surface index was "2.3 in the control variant and 4 in variant 8".Table 5: Shows the control's index was 1.2 / 1.4 and Variant 8's was 1.8 / 2.5. The numbers "2.3" and "4" are not present.Table 5 (Index of the leaf surface) reports a value of "22.6" for Variant 4 (First harvest). All other values in this table range from 1.2 to 2.5. This massive outlier is unexplained and appears to be a typesetting error that corrupts the data.The authors have not responded to the retraction notice
Exploring the Characteristics of Aerva javanica and Acacia tortilis as Promising Candidates for Sustainable Industrial Fiber
Get PDFBackground: Green composites, or Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites, have emerged as promising alternatives to synthetic polymers due to their biodegradability, renewability, ease of processing, low density, cost, and energy consumption. Natural fibers are created from plants, animals, and minerals, offering higher structural advantages and better performance due to higher cellulose content and microfibril arrangement. The goal of this research is to evaluate the feasibility of using Acacia tortilis bark and Aerva javanica flowers (natural visible fibers) as a composite by extracting and characterizing their chemical composition and physical characteristics.Methods: The experiments have been done using standard techniques, including gravimetrical analysis and calculations.Results: The initial phase of our studies has shown that Acacia tortilis fibers can have competitive chemical composition and tensile properties compared to standard natural fibers, as well as Aerva javanica, which is lighter, less dense, and has promising possibilities for utilizing its fiber in developing green composites.Conclusion: The preliminary findings indicate that Acacia tortilis fibers show competitive properties, surpassing standard natural fibers and Aerva javanica, making them a promising candidate for green composite development. However, further extensive research is required for conclusive insights.Keywords: Plant-derived fibers; green-composites; gravimetrical analysis; Aerva javanica; Acacia tortilis; FujairahEditorial Note: You are viewing the latest version of this article having language and data presentation corrections
Risk factors for Beta-lactam and carbapenem-resistant bacteria causing post-burn infections
Get PDFBackground: Burn patients are predisposed to infection because of the loss of skin barrier protection and low immunity. This study aims to evaluate the risk factors of post-burn infections due to beta-lactam and carbapenem-resistant bacteria (CR) isolated from a major burn unit.Methods: The descriptive study was conducted at Jinnah Hospital Lahore’s Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre (JB & RSC) and the Institute of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG), University of the Punjab, Lahore. The clinical specimens of wound swabs, including the age, gender, socio-economic status, residence, occupation, hospital stay, wards, burn degree, total burnt surface area (TBSA%), etiology of burn, and other factors were recorded. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), ESBL and CR screening (Beta- lactam and carbapenem resistant bacteria) were performed using CLSI guidelines 2017.Results: The most dominant strain was Pseudomonas spp. 26.5% (n=106), followed by 15% (n=60) Klebsiella spp., and 7.5% (n=30) Acinetobacter spp. with ESBL-producing strains. Compared to nosocomial infections, community-acquired infections were observed in 314 (78.5%) patients with more ESBL production. There was a significant relation between burnt people having an age of ≤ 29 years with ESBL (p=0.985) and carbapenemases (p=0.694) infections. None of the other factors, like low socioeconomic status and more hospital stays had a significant correlation (p > 0.05).Concluded: It has been concluded that MDR gram-negative strains play a serious role in burn infections and demand suitable methods to decrease their number. Pseudomonas spp. was the most common post-burn infection causing bacteria. Unfortunately, a high frequency of burn infections was observed in the patients at a young age.Keywords: Post burn infections; Gram negative; MDR; Beta- lactam; Carbapenem resistant
Correlation of SNR Value on DPOAE Examination with HSP70 Levels in Blood and HSP70 Expression in Cochlea of Noise Model Rattus norvegicus as an Indicator of Inner Ear Damage
Get PDFBackground: Cellular stress caused by noise-induced hearing loss can be observed through the damage of cochlear hair cells, mechanically and metabolically. SNR value on the DPOAE examination assesses the sensory function of cochlear outer hair cells. HSP70 as marker of cellular stress can be identified from its levels in blood and its expression in the cochlea.Methods: Three groups of rats were used for the noise intervention: Group 1 was the control group, Group 2 had a noise exposure of 100 dB, and Group 3 received a noise exposure of 110 dB. DPOAE examination was then conducted, blood samples from rats’ tail were collected after a noise treatment, followed by the measurement of HSP70 levels by ELISA readings. Rats were terminated afterwards and immunohistochemical examination of the cochlear organ of Corti was performed to calculate the expression of HSP70. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS.Results: A decrease occurred in the values of SNR and an increase occurred in HSP70 levels in blood along with its expression in the cochlea of noise model Rattus norvegicus, and there is a correlation between the three.Conclusion: The decrease in SNR values, increase in HSP70 levels in blood, and increase in HSP70 expression in the cochlear organ of Corti of Rattus norvegicus, proves that noise-induced hearing loss triggers the production of HSP70 as a cytoprotective agent in preventing inner ear damage.Keywords: DPOAE; Rattus norvegicus; NIHL; Heat Shock Protein 70
Phytochemical Screening of leaves of Polyalthia sclerophylla using Classical Methods and GC-Mass Spectroscopy: Cytotoxicity and Antibacterial Activities
Get PDFBackground: Polyalthia sclerophylla (P. sclerophylla) is a member of the Annonaceae family, with a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical regions. In traditional Chinese medicine, various members of this genus have been employed as medicinal plants to address refractory ailments. The current study aims to extract the leaves of Polyalthia sclerophylla (TLPS) and determine their chemical contents using GC-MS and standard phytochemical techniques.Methods: The antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities of TLPS were used to evaluate its bio-medical characteristics. In that sequence, three solvents were used to extract TLPS to produce three samples: MTLPS, DTLPS, and HTLPS.Results: Phytochemical analysis indicated terpenoids and glycosides in all prepared models, but no alkaloids were observed. The GC-MS data showed twenty-one chemical compounds. Pyridine, 2-Undecanol, 2-methyl-2-oxiranyl- and cyclobutanone were observed with higher percentages, while the 2(5H)-Furanone, 5-methyl, 1,1,3-Trimethylcyclopentane and 1,6-Heptadiene were observed with lower rates. The cytotoxicity study of TLPS was performed using Alamar blue assay using MG-63 cells. However, results show no detrimental influence at any dosage as cell availability increased. MTLPS, DTLPS and HTLPS were treated with six bacteria pathogens, and all of them showed significant effects against these bacteria to inhibit the growth of the bacteria. The extract of methanol (MLPS) was more effective in inhibiting the development of the bacteria compared with the DTLPS and HTLPS.Conclusion: The current work has shown that the chemical composition of crude TPLS varies, leading to notable chemical, biological, and medicinal features, and their non-toxic impact.Keywords: Polyalthia sclerophylla; GS-Mass; Antibacterial; Cytotoxicity activity Editorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language. Expression of concern is hereby revoked
Clinical and Molecular Detection of Trichomonas gallinae in Domestic Pigeons in Basrah Province, Iraq
No full textBackground: The current study aimed to employ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for validating the initial clinical diagnosis. Additionally, the research utilized wet microscopic smear sequence analysis and constructed phylogenetic trees to investigate trichomoniasis in domestic pigeons in Basrah province, Iraq.Methods: After screening dozens of cases attending local clinics, we selected the suspected cases for additional tests and verification. Furthermore, all cases were inspected for postmortem changes and samples were collected from mouth and pharynx for microscopic examination and DNA isolation. We selected fifteen clinically suspected cases that have shown positive microscopic results. DNA samples were PCR amplified for the ITS-rDNA region, followed by sequencing and Phylogenetic analysis.Results: Our research unveiled consistent manifestations among all positively diagnosed cases. Direct examination through wet mount smears revealed the presence of the parasite. Sequence analysis and phylogenetic investigation identified the B strain of the T. gallinae parasite in domestic pigeons within Basrah province, Iraq. This strain exhibited only two haplotypes in the region, haplotype 1 and haplotype 2. Furthermore, our study documented the prevalence of the B genotype of T. gallinae in domestic pigeons across various countries, including China, Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia.Conclusion: The verification of T. gallinae infection in domestic pigeons was achieved through a PCR technique that utilized the ITS rDNA region as a genetic marker. Furthermore, the application of haplotype network analysis provided evidence supporting the categorization of the T. gallinae parasite in domestic pigeons as belonging to the B strain.Keywords: Trichomonas gallinae; Pigeons Canker; Sequence Analysis; Phylogenetic
Clinical study of common bacterial, fungal and parasitic skin diseases in cats
Get PDFBackground: The skin is a large, metabolically active organ that requires significant nutrients and protein in its body. The study pointed high significant infection with fungal, scabies, alopecia, bacterial and wounds in the white color cats more than the others because it is represented the better color choice for the families then the orange and grey colors while the black color is the less in number of domestic cats. The aim of present study was investigated of some skin disease in cats in Basrah, Iraq.Methods: The present study includes two hundred animals of both sexes with different ages, colors, weights and sizes were studied clinically in Basrah veterinary hospital and the private veterinary clinics in Basrah. The study extended from October 2022 to March 2023 during the winter season. Clinical signs were reported carefully, and the initial diagnosis of skin diseases was confirmed by apparent lesions on the skin, the skin samples of the cases were collected for laboratory diagnosis in veterinary medicine college ̸ Basrah University and Basrah veterinary hospital laboratories to confirmed diagnosis.Results: Clinical signs were reported carefully and the initial diagnosis of skin diseases. The two hundred sample cases were divided according to cases in Basrah veterinary hospital and Basrah private clinic: 60 Cases fungal infection, 40 cases scabies, 10 case alopecia, 50 cases of bacterial infection and 40 cases of wound. Conclusion: The present study shows the fungal diseases were common causes for skin diseases in Cats follow by Bacterial, Parasitic and Alopecia respectively.Keywords: Cat infection; Skin diseases in cat; Scabies; Fungal diseaseEditorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language. Expression of concern is hereby revoked.
Current advances on single or multi-omics analysis of esophageal cancer
Get PDFEsophageal cancer is associated with high mortality rates and is one of the cancers with the worst prognosis. Its incidence has significant regional specificity, particularly in China where it is much higher than in other countries. Moreover, effective diagnostic markers, therapeutic targets, and molecular subtyping biomarkers are currently lacking for esophageal cancer. Nevertheless, large-scale omics studies have identified dozens of robust genetic risk loci and prognosis-related loci, drawn genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic maps of esophageal cancer at multiple molecular levels, and described significant differences between esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These studies are of great significance for exploring the occurrence and development mechanism of esophageal cancer, guiding clinical treatment, and improving patient prognosis. This review, from the perspective of multi-omics, discusses the analytical strategies employed in these studies and summarizes their core findings. It emphasizes that the integration and analysis of multi-omics data is a key focus and development trend in the precise medical research of esophageal cancer, and has broad research and application prospects.Keywords: Esophageal cancer; GWAS; Precision medicine; Biomarker
Simultaneous detection of phylogroups and ESBL genes in E. coli using Multiplex PCR
Get PDFBackground: Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains harbor various allelic versions of beta lactamase genes and their identification using conventional phenotypic tests is a tedious and time consuming task. In the present study, multiplex PCR is performed for the simulatanoues detection of E. coli phylogroups and extended-spectrum β-lactamase- (ESBL) genes.Methods: A total of 128 E. coli isolates from urine samples were screened for antibiotic resistance and expression of ESBL activity using phenotypic and genotypic methods. Uniplex and multiplex PCRs were used to detect E. coli phylogroup detrminants and blaCTX-M-15, blaOXA-1 and TEM1 genes. Chi Square test of independence was employed for evaluating significant levels at P value < 0.05. Results: Phylogroup B2 was detected as the predominant group (36%) followed by group D (30%), A (25%) and B1 (9%). The highest resistance was seen against nalidixic acid (100%) and the lowest against amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (55%). Significant P values were observed for resistance against cefotaxime and cefepime in the phylogroup B2 while resistance against cefoxitin, sulfamethoxazole and fosfomycin was significantly associated with group D. Combination disc diffusion test (CDDT) showed ESBL activity in 42% E. coli isolates. A significant association of blaCTX-M-15 gene was observed for phylogroup B2 (P = 0.007). Moreover, a combination genotype of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 was also found statistically prevalent in phylogroup B2 (P = 0.006).Conclusion: The study highlights the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance and delineates B2 a predominant phylogoup with a high prevalence of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 genes in urinary E. coli isolates.Keywords: UTI; E. Coli; Phylogenetic groups; ESBL genes; Multiplex PCR
Exploring Natural Compounds Targeting the Bacterial SHV Protein to Combat Antibiotic Resistance: A Biocomputational Study
Get PDFBackground: Antibiotic-resistant (AR) bacteria are rapidly spreading worldwide, posing a serious threat to antibiotic efficacy. Bacterial infections have emerged as a persistent threat following decades of antibiotic use. Sulfhydryl variable (SHV) is a well-known bacterial enzyme linked to AR. SHV has a high degree of genetic diversity, resulting in the existence of numerous distinct variants. Methods: The PyRx AutoDock VINA was used to conduct in-silico screening of a natural compound library to assess their interaction with the SHV-1 protein. SwissADME web tools were used to predict the physicochemical, drug-likeness, and ADMET properties of the selected compounds.Result: The compounds PSCdb00708, PSCdb00149, PSCdb00698, and PSCdb00175 bind strongly to the SHV-1 protein and interact strongly with the SHV-1 active site residues, as well as having several amino acid residue interactions in common with avibactam. These compounds exhibited higher binding affinity values than avibactam. Furthermore, these compounds demonstrated no violation of drug-likeness.Conclusion: The compounds PSCdb00708, PSCdb00149, PSCdb00698, and PSCdb00175 can be employed as SHV-1 inhibitors in the management of AR. However, experimental validation is required to optimize them as SHV-1 inhibitors.Keywords: Antibiotic-resistant; Antibiotic; Virtual screening; AutoDock; SHV-1 protein Editorial Expression of Concern:20 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about Plagiarism / AI generated content. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community of the incidence of possible plagiarism / AI content as we examine the concerns and rerun the analysis.Editorial Note:28 May 2025: Reference to the above 'editorial expression of concern', this manuscript has been reanalysed through Turnitin for both similarity index and AI generated content. Similarity index was found well within permissible limit along with AI content having 'higher likelihood of false positive'. Therefore, the concern has been revoked