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CLONALITY AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDIES OF E. COLI STRAIN COLLECTED FROM ABU DHABI EMIRATE USING NGS AND BIOINFORMATIC TOOLS
Get PDFIn the current landscape, where antibiotic resistance in bacteria is steadily rising, the role of bacterial genomics has assumed increasing significance. Therefore, it is necessary for microbiologists to acquire proficiency in the utilization of these methods and tools to harness their potential in gaining valuable insights into bacterial genomes. This can facilitate the development of innovative strategies for managing and treating bacterial infections. Here we present the power of the whole-genome sequencing technology in characterization of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli isolates. Fourteen Escherichia coli isolates were selected for this study. Following the standard microbiological techniques to confirm the sample identification, the genomic DNA from each isolate was extracted and sequenced using Illumina NovaSeq machine. The sequencing of the 14 isolates yielded an average of 100,079,168 high-quality reads which assembled to an average of 188 contiguous sequences longer than 200 bp. The draft genomes were then OH serotyped and MLST sequence typed. The common serotype and sequence type was O102:H6 (4/16, 42.8%) and ST648 (4/14, 28.6%), respectively. Antimicrobial resistant analysis characterized blaNDM gene in all isolates (13 carried blaNDM-5 and 1 carried blaNDM-1) which comfort resistance to carbapenem antibiotics. Of these, 8 isolates also carrying blaCTX-M-15 and 7 carrying blaCMY-42 making them multidrug-resistant E. coli producing extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes and carbapenemases. Furthermore, the isolates contained a range of resistance genes related to aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, sulphonamides and macrolides. Noteworthy, all isolates retain their susceptibility to colistin and tigecycline. Whole-genome sequencing serves as a sophisticated and cutting-edge approach for precisely predicting antibiotic resistance patterns in complex and highly resistant E. coli isolates, particularly those exhibiting carbapenem resistance and ESBL production. It empowers researchers and clinicians with invaluable insights into the genetic basis of resistance, ultimately aiding in the development of more tailored and efficacious therapeutic interventions
ROLE OF B CELL MEDIATED IMMUNE RESPONSES DURING SKIN ‘ATOPIC DERMATITIS’ DISEASE
Get PDFAtopic dermatitis (AD) is the most prevalent non-infectious skin allergies with approximately 10-30% adults and 40% children being affected worldwide. It is clinically characterized by eczema tic lesions and elevated IgE levels and is a multifactorial disease that is heterogeneous in nature. AD results in a dominant Th2 polarized immune response. Until date, there is no cure for this disease. B cells are key players of humoral immune responses and contribute significantly to allergic responses through IgE secretion. However, recently a subset of B cells termed regulatory B cells (Bregs) were discovered that were shown to have a protective role by secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Furthermore, NFATc1 is a transcription factor that functions through a calcium dependent calcineurin/calmodulin pathway to exert its effects on target genes. Nfatc1 has an important role in the development and function of the immune system. Previous studies suggested that NFATc1 can inhibit IL-10 by binding to its gene in association with HDAC1. Hence the aim of this research was to study the role of B cells during allergic responses using AD as a model for skin allergies. To achieve this, we used transgenic mouse lacking Nfatc1 in B cells (Nfatc1f/f x mb1cre) and wild-type (WT) mice to induce AD model and study the outcome of the lacking NFATc1 in B cells responses during allergies. AD was induced by calcipotriol, a vitamin D3 analogue, on mouse ears by a method that was previously established. The calcipotriol induced AD response was evaluated through ear thickness to measure inflammation followed by histological examination. IgE levels in serum were also determined by ELISA. The ear draining lymph nodes (dLNs) were then used to study the various immune cell populations through immunophenotyping by flow cytometry. Finally, B cells were isolated from dLNs, and RNA sequencing was performed to study in detail the mechanisms that were involved in B cells during such immune responses at a transcriptome level. It was seen that Nfatc1f/f x mb1cre AD mice exhibited a diminished AD phenotype compared to WT AD mice displaying weaker ear swelling and lower epidermal thickening and cellular infiltration in histological analysis and no change in IgE levels at the start and end of calcipotriol mediated AD induction. Further the Nfatc1f/f x mb1cre AD mice showcased a higher percentage of IL-10 producing B220+CD5+CD1d+ Breg cells supporting the fact that lack of NFATc1 promoted B cells to differentiate into Bregs producing more anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and hence alleviated the AD symptoms. At the transcriptome level, compared to WT AD mice, Nfatc1f/f x mb1cre AD mice demonstrated genes that were expressed differently which promoted B cell development and enhanced its response to stress and stimulus. This research sheds light on the possibility of developing NFATc1 as a potential molecular target to alleviate AD responses without compromising B cell functions and by promoting higher endogenous production of anti-inflammatory IL-10. However further research is required on models of human cells and strategies to manipulate NFATc1 in-vivo to establish this putative molecular target
ANTICANCER ACTIVITY OF CAPPARIS SPINOSA EXTRACT AGAINST COLORECTAL CANCER
Get PDFColorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the world. Plants are becoming a rich source of new anticancer compounds with novel targets. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer effects of Capparis spinosa on two CRC cell lines. HCT-116 and HT-29 CRC cells treated with various concentrations of C. spinosa leaf extract (CSLE) demonstrated inhibition of proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. Additional analyses such as Western blot analysis, colony forming assay, and wound healing assay were performed to elucidate the mechanisms and pathways involved. The results revealed that non-cytotoxic concentrations of CSLE significantly inhibited the migration of the HCT-116 cells as shown by the wound-healing assay—the inhibition of the β-catenin pathway and downregulation of TNF-α encumbered cell migration. We also observed an accumulation of DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) as evidenced by increased levels of H2A.X. DSBs can trigger apoptosis and autophagy. Hence, we assessed the expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3, p62, and Beclin-1, revealing Beclin-1-independent autophagy. We also observed the induction of apoptosis evidenced by PARP cleavage with the subsequent activation of caspases 3/7. Moreover, CSLE also induced cell cycle arrest at the G1/S phase, concomitated with cyclin D1, cyclin E1, CDK2, and PCNA downregulation. Our findings identify C. spinosa as a promising chemo-preventive and therapeutic candidate that could modulate CRC growth and metastasis
EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY OF LOSS, PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT, AND PRIOR ANXIETY LEVELS IN PREDICTING DEATH ANXIETY AMONG INDIVIDUALS WHO EXPERIENCED THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE
Get PDFThe study explores the relationship between preceding anxiety, perceived social support, and death anxiety, particularly following bereavement. Death anxiety is a significant psychological issue, especially after the loss of a loved one, and is linked to various mental health disorders. Despite the known importance of social support in mental health, its role in mitigating death anxiety remains underexplored. This study aimed to: (1) examine how bereavement impacts death anxiety; (2) investigate whether perceived social support mediates the relationship between bereavement and death anxiety; and (3) assess the influence of preceding anxiety on death anxiety. A cross-sectional design was utilized, with 305 participants aged 18 and above, who used self-report measures including the Death Anxiety Beliefs and Behaviors Scale (DABBS), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (GAD-7). Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, ANOVA, correlational, and mediation analyses. Findings showed no significant difference in death anxiety between bereaved and non-bereaved individuals. However, a positive correlation between preceding anxiety and death anxiety suggests that higher pre-existing anxiety predicts increased death anxiety post-loss. Perceived social support was not significantly linked to either variable, and did not mediate their relationship. The study highlights the role of preceding anxiety in death anxiety development, highlighting the need for early interventions, while challenging assumptions about social support’s protective role
EXPLORING THE PHENOMENON OF CODE-SWITCHING IN IMMERSIVE ESL KINDERGARTEN IN THE UAE
Get PDFThis thesis explores the phenomenon of code-switching among those learning English as second language in an immersive kindergarten setting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There is a lack of research on code-switching practices, specifically among kindergarten students in immersive language programs in the UAE. They argue that this gap in research is particularly concerning, given the growing number of young learners who are enrolled in such programs in the UAE.The main objective of this study is to identify when kindergarten students switch from English to Arabic their L1 during their immersive English language classes, intending to understand the purposes and motivations behind this linguistic behavior, and analyze how teachers react to these instances of code-switching with an explicit rule in the research site that prohibits the use of L1 in L2 classes.In addition, the study investigates how students employ code-switching as a tool for communication, social interaction, and identity expression. It also seeks to reflect on policies pertinent to immersive English school settings in the UAE.A qualitative phenomenological case study research method was implemented in this study. An observation checklist was developed to collect data using field notes and videos. The checklist was designed to systematically capture code-switching instances while categorizing the purposes behind and the teachers’ reactions to each instance. The checklist discusses the three purposes of the following: communication, social interaction, and identity. This study showed that code-switching occurs in many instances during several activities, such as classroom discussions, group work, peer work, role play, reading activities, writing activities, and classroom center activities. It often happened during interactive activities that required communication and interaction between students, such as group work and playtime.Furthermore, the results showed that teachers mainly corrected students’ codeswitched language instead of ignoring it, as observed 22 times, while they ignored codeswitching only five times
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION IN ORANGE-SPOTTED TREVALLY (FLAVOCARANX BAJAD) FROM TWO COASTAL LOCATIONS IN ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Get PDFThis study investigates concentration of heavy metals in the Orange-spotted Trevally (Flavocaranx bajad) from two distinct coastal location in Abu Dhabi Emirate, Sila and Abu Dhabi. Heavy metal pollution poses a significant risk to both marine ecosystems and human health, thus it is vital to conduct comprehensive assessments to heavy metal contaminations in aquatic life. The main aim of this study is to quantify the levels of heavy metals and assess the extent of metal pollution in samples from both sites. The samples were prepared and analyzed using microwave digestion system and ICP Optical Emission Spectrometer to determine metal concentrations. The Metal Pollution Index (MPI) and Fulton’s Condition Factor (K) were calculated, and the Principal Component Analysis was used to further interpret the results and visualize it. The results revealed that the locations differ from one another, in terms of heavy metal concentrations, and both locations had MPI indicating no toxicity, even though there were slight exceedences with some maximum permissible limits. This study contributes to the understanding of the extent of metal pollution in Abu Dhabi’s marine environment and aquatic life. Moreover, it emphasizes on the importance of continuous monitoring and the need to develop effective regulatory frameworks that will contribute to safeguarding the marine environment and its resources, ensure public health, and eliminate direct discharge containing metal pollution
GEOTECHNICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SALINE SABKHA SOIL OF ABU DHABI, UAE, AND ITS STABILIZATION USING STEEL SLAG AND SODIUM SILICATE
Get PDFSaline sabkha soil is widely distributed across the Abu Dhabi coastal regions of the UAE. These soils are associated with geotechnical problems that principally emerge from the heterogeneous nature of the soil and its high soluble salt content. Upon exposure to fresh water, the soluble salt dissolves, resulting in loss of the bond that once cemented the soil particles. In addition, the volume occupied by the salt minerals becomes part of the voids between the particles. This process results in a weak and loose soil structure of lower bearing capacity that is ready to collapse upon being subjected to loads. Moreover, sabkha soil cannot also be used as an engineering fill material for the same reasons discussed above. In this research, the characteristics of sabkha soil collected from Abu Dhabi city coast were investigated. The physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of Abu Dhabi sabkha soil will be compared to those of other coastal sabkhas within the Middle East. Furthermore, a stabilization testing program was carried out on the soil to improve its properties such as compressibility, shear strength, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and durability. Two types of chemical additives are proposed to be mixed with the soil which are Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) and sodium silicate. When slag was combined with sodium silicate and water, a chemical reaction occurred that initiated the geopolymerization process. The sodium silicate acted as an alkaline activator, dissolving the aluminosilicate content in the slag. This dissolution released silicates and aluminates into the solution, allowing them to interact with each other. As water was added, these dissolved components began to polymerize, forming a gel-like structure that gradually solidified into a hardened material. During curing, the geopolymer network continued to develop, enhancing its mechanical strength and durability. The resulting geopolymer exhibited high compressive strength and durability Several mixed proportions, from 0 to 40% of each agent, were used and curing durations of up to 28 days were adopted. For each mix, the amount of total dissolved salt (TDS) in the treated soil was measured and compared to that of the untreated soil. The reduction in the TDS is an important measure for the effectiveness of the treatment under the corresponding curing time. A mineralogical and microstructural analysis were performed as well on the plain soil and treated samples in order to examine the chemical and morphological changes due to the chemical reactions resulting from mixing the soil with slag and sodium silicate. That was achieved by conducting Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) analyses. The results showed that the examined sabkha soil falls under the classification of silty sand (SM) or clayey sand (SC) according to the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and is additionally categorized as clayey soils (A-7) according to the AASHTO M145-91. The utilization of slag alone demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the total dissolved solids (TDS) in the sabkha, with up to a 21.4% reduction in TDS when 30% slag was added, close to the 22.4% reduction achieved with 40% slag addition. The addition of sodium silicate to the Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) as an alkaline activator significantly influenced the TDS. The Sodium Silicate (SS) addition was in percentage of the dry weight of slag (S), and their percentages presented as S%-SS% throughout the report. The highest reductions recorded at 92.6% and 93.3% for sabkha treated with 30% slag and 40% Sodium Silicate, and 40% slag with 40% Sodium Silicate, respectively. The study also revealed a consistent increase in the maximum dry density with rising slag content in sabkha soil, while the addition of sodium silicate as a binder resulted in a reduction in the maximum dry density of the stabilized soil. The highest compressive strength, reaching 670 kPa with a 950% improvement to the plain sabkha, was achieved with the addition of 40% slag. Also, the higher sodium silicate ratios also notably increased compressive strength, with maximum average UCS of 38.04 MPa and 41.22 MPa for S40-SS30 and S40-SS40 mixtures, respectively. Moreover, the introduction of slag and sodium silicate positively impacted the soil durability, which mainly represented by mass loss after wet-thaw cycles. It was noted that the lowest mass losses recorded at 3.56% and 2.65% for S40-SS30 and S40-SS40, affirming the efficacy of the proposed stabilization agents in preserving sabkha soil integrity and strength. The mineral composition of Abu Dhabi\u27s sabkhas is diverse, featuring notable elements like gypsum, halite (rock salt), and calcium carbonate. Mineralogical analysis identified the main reaction product of alkali-activated slag with sabkha as sodium aluminosilicate hydrate (N-A-S-H) gel, demonstrating its crucial role in influencing the strength and durability performance of the blended geopolymer. Beyond construction implications, sabkhas in Abu Dhabi play a pivotal role in local ecosystems, influencing plant life, hydrological dynamics, and ecological resilience. As these landscapes undergo continued study, their significance in the broader context of environmental science, geology, and sustainable land use planning becomes increasingly apparent. Overall, the study will assist in evaluating the geotechnical and chemical characteristics of Abu Dhabi sabkha soil. Also, the proposed stabilization technique is believed to be highly effective in improving the soil and therefore it will contribute to the futuristic sustainability visions and plans that UAE is seeking to maintain the natural and economical resources
VASCULAR BRAIN DIGITAL TWINS FOR MEDICAL TRAINING AND EDUCATION IN METAVERSE
Get PDFThis study addresses the need for innovative educational tools in the field of anatomy, specifically focusing on brain anatomy. The objective is to develop a virtual reality application and a 3D visualization that offer immersive and interactive learning experiences for students. The VR application, developed using Unity and designed for the Oculus Quest 2 headset, creates an immersive virtual laboratory environment. This environment includes interactive elements such as a table with buttons for displaying brain models and a whiteboard for user interaction. Users can manipulate and explore different brain structures, enhancing their understanding of complex anatomical features. Additionally, we integrated the Normcore plugin for multiplayer functionality, enabling collaborative learning experiences.
In parallel, the application incorporates MRI and MRA images to provide realistic and detailed representations of brain structures, enhancing the educational value of the VR experience and developing a 3D visualization featuring stations that focus on various aspects of brain anatomy. Each station offers interactive features, such as buttons to access information about brain lobes or fiber tracts. The visualization provides a visually engaging and informative experience, allowing users to learn about the brain interactively and engagingly. This study demonstrates the potential of VR and 3D visualization in education, offering immersive and interactive platforms for learning about intricate anatomical structures. These applications can enhance traditional teaching methods, providing students with hands-on learning experiences that promote engagement and retention of knowledge. Overall, VR applications and 3D visualization offer innovative tools for education in anatomy, providing new avenues for learning and exploration in the field
PERSPECTIVES OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS ON THE TRANSITION OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNIVERSITY
Get PDFPost-secondary transition is a significant phase in the life of high school students with special needs. Special education teachers play a crucial role in supporting students in this process. This study aims at exploring the perspectives of special education teachers on transitioning high school students with special needs into university. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four special education teachers in Al Ain city in the United Arab Emirates. The teachers were asked questions on four themes: their skills on postsecondary transition, their post-secondary transition planning, the barriers they face during post-secondary transition, and finally the facilitation of smooth post-secondary transition for students with special needs. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the findings of the interviews. Findings revealed that special education teachers use different planning methods in practicing post-secondary transition in their schools such as organizing handson experiences, and meeting with the school personnel. They teach students certain skills during the transition stage, for example; independent living, and constant selfdevelopment. Special education teachers put in mind many considerations when planning post-secondary transition for instance; school grades, and personal preferences. They face many barriers in transitioning students including lack of skills on post-secondary transition, lack of supply of post-secondary materials by schools, and lack of students’ discipline. Participants recommended that special education teachers need to work on developing their skills on post-secondary transition regardless of the availability of school support. The participants recommended students to work on building their self-confidence. In addition, parents are suggested to be honest while providing feedback to the special education teachers for the benefit of their children
STUDY ON THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF ESSENTIAL OIL EXTRACTED FROM HORWOODIA DICKSONIAE GROWING IN THE UAE
Get PDFPlant-derived substances including essential oils, secondary metabolites and other chemical substances are gaining attention due to their broad spectrum use in different fields. Native medicinal plants can play a key role in the healthcare field in any country. Horwoodia dicksoniae is a native endangered plant in UAE. The current study is about the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of H. dicksoniae’s essential oil as well as the evaluation of growth of this native endangered plant under different environmental conditions. For this purpose, the first step included confirmation of the viability of seeds obtained from a seed bank following the germination of seeds in different media. During a growth period of two to three months, different growth parameters such as plant height, leaf density and chlorophyll content were measured. The essential oil was extracted using steam distillation method and it’s chemical composition was evaluated using different laboratory techniques. Results of the study showed that red sand (native soil of UAE) is the best medium for growth of H. dicksoniae showin 90% more growth compared to other media. Total phenolic content and photosynthetic pigments were found to be in moderate quantity depicting proper growth of plant. The essential oil showed remarkable antioxidant properties. The study aimed to contribute to a broader comprehension of the indigenous plant, H. dicksoniae, in UAE, with the exploration of sustainable cultural practices and potential application of essential oil in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. By conducting a meticulous analysis of the essential oil extracted from H. dicksoniae, this research endeavors to shed light on the untapped natural treasures within the botanical landscape of the UAE