Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences最新文献

Background

Chrysomya bezziana (Villeneuve, 1914), the screw-worm fly, is a significant parasitic blow fly species that causes obligatory myiasis in livestock and, in some cases, in humans. Its ability to infest wounds and cause extensive tissue damage makes it a significant concern in the veterinary and public health sectors. Accurate and timely identification of C. bezziana is critical for managing outbreaks and implementing control measures. This study confirms the occurrence of C. bezziana in Egypt through both morphological and molecular identification, as only a few studies have reported its presence in Egypt so far. Adult samples of C. bezziana were collected using meat-baited traps situated in the cemeteries of two localities in Egypt (Port Said and El-Sharkia Governorates). DNA was extracted from the specimens for molecular identification using the cytochrome oxidase I (cox1) gene.

Results

Morphologically, C. bezziana adult flies were identified by a row of hairs on the dorsal surface of the wing's stem vein, blackish anterior spiracles, and the most distinctive characteristic, a white calypter with a whitish-yellow distal end, which differentiates this species from the most closely related species, Chrysomya megacephala. Genetically, it was found that based on a 703 bp fragment of the cox1 gene, C. bezziana was accurately identified, and further phylogenetic analysis confirmed the DNA-based identification of adult specimens of C. bezziana examined. This finding confirms the presence of C. bezziana and expands our knowledge of its distribution in Egypt.

Conclusion

This study is the first to report the occurrence of C. bezziana in Egypt using an integration of molecular and morphological methods.

Background

Pediatric drug delivery faces significant challenges owing to children’s unique physiology and limitations of conventional dosage forms. There is a growing need for age-appropriate, safe, and effective alternatives.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the challenges in selecting pediatric pharmaceutical dosage forms and to evaluate the potential of microneedles (MNs) as an innovative solution, capturing perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and parents.

Methods

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted: (1) a survey for pediatricians (n = 154) on dosage form challenges, and (2) a survey of HCPs and parents (n = 386) on perceptions of MNs for pediatric drug delivery. Responses were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results

Pediatricians identified key barriers: unsuitable formulations (53%), injection distress (38%), and inadequate strength availability (29%). Cost (59%), therapeutic efficacy (60%), and administration route (53%) dominated prescribing decisions. Anti-infectives (69%) and analgesics (47%) were top candidates for reformulation. Respondents (85%) acknowledged needle phobia as a major issue, and 84% expressed willingness to use MNs, peaking at 93% for children aged 1–3 years. MNs’ perceived advantages included reduced needle phobia, improved compliance in chronic diseases, and self-administration potential. Primary concerns included practicality in emergencies (59%), drug-loading capacity (46%), and dosing accuracy.

Conclusions

Significant unmet needs persist in pediatric drug delivery. MNs demonstrate strong potential to address core challenges, particularly needle aversion and formulation unsuitability, with high acceptance among stakeholders. Translation requires overcoming barriers in manufacturing scalability, regulatory clarity, and user-centered design. Coordinated efforts in education, targeted formulation development, and policy advocacy are essential for clinical integration.

This study aims to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized in Aloe vera leaf extract (AV-AgNPs) administrated to Sprague Dawley rats  that fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for up to 12 weeks. AV-AgNPs were recognized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering. The in vitro study investigated the antioxidant ability, effects on coagulation time, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxicity of AVLE and AV-AgNPs and cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay for genotoxic effects. When the in vivo experiment is completed, different parameters such as body weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), serum lipid levels, white adipose tissue (WAD) oxidative stress markers and adipokines were evaluated. Green AV-AgNPs were spherical with sizes of 19.4–25.9 nm as revealed using TEM. The sizes and zeta potentials of AV-AgNPs presented particle stability up to 70 days. AV-AgNPs had a high in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities with no significant effects on partial thromboplastin time and the prothrombin time. In vitro CBMN assay indicated no significant genotoxic effects of AVLE or AV-AgNPs at low concentration (25 µg/ml). AV-AgNPs and AVLE showed significant decline in body FPG and lipid profile in HFD-fed rats with no apparent effects on normal pellet diet (NPD)-fed ones. In addition, oxidative stress markers, size of subcutaneous adipocytes and micro-vesicular steatosis of hepatocytes in the HFD group were significantly reduced after AVLE and AV-AgNPs administration. Finally, WAD analysis of M2 interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10 was significantly elevated with AVLE and AV-AgNPs supplementation. Further, both significantly lowered M1 pro-inflammatory cytokines as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β and IL-6 in the WAD of HFD-fed group. In terms of body weight, adiposity and hepatic steatosis, the anti-obesity properties of AV-AgNPs were significant (34.4–35.17% weight reduction) compared to whole AVLE (13.9–18.36% weight reduction). The biochemical and immunological effects were comparable and mediated by amelioration of oxidative stress and induction M2 polarization in WAD.

Arthritis is a common and debilitating health condition affecting millions worldwide and placing a significant burden on healthcare systems. Among its many forms, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are particularly prevalent, requiring effective and innovative treatment approaches. Traditional therapies often suffer from limitations such as poor drug retention in joints, low bioavailability, systemic side effects, and the need for frequent dosing, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes and reduced patient adherence. This review explores the potential of biodegradable polymer-based delivery systems to overcome these challenges. These systems include microparticles, nanoparticles, films, implants, hydrogels, and nanofibers designed to improve the administration of commonly used arthritis medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying agents (both conventional and biological). We begin by outlining the major drug classes used in arthritis treatment and the specific compounds within each category. We then examine natural and synthetic biodegradable polymers commonly used in developing advanced drug delivery systems tailored for arthritis management. A brief overview of various formulation strategies highlights how these systems can enhance drug targeting, reduce systemic exposure, and prolong therapeutic effects. Finally, we discuss preclinical evidence demonstrating the efficacy of these delivery platforms in reducing inflammation and improving joint function. Special emphasis is placed on targeted delivery to inflamed tissues and the potential for combining drugs with synergistic compounds to further enhance therapeutic outcomes. In conclusion, biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery systems offer a promising direction for the treatment of arthritis. By addressing the limitations of conventional therapies, these advanced formulations hold the potential to improve drug efficacy, minimize side effects, and enhance patient quality of life.

Background

Herein, we report the development of a novel nanogels (NG) system loaded with Azadirachta indica (A. indica) Adrien-Henri de Jussieu (A. Juss.), commonly known as neem, for possible topical treatment of wound infections.

Methods

To develop A. indica extract-loaded NG, first, extract-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) were produced using poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) as the nanocarrier polymer. Secondly, the NPs were entwined in chitosan (CS) hydrogel loaded with the extract of A. indica to prepare the loaded NG system. Blank NG was produced without the extract. The developed NG was characterized, and its antibacterial effect was evaluated.

Results

Phytochemical screening of ethanolic extract of A. indica leaves indicated the presence of saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, and anthraquinones. The characterization data revealed that the developed NG formulations are nanosized in the ranges of 140–440 nm and 190–610 nm for blank NG and A. indica extract-loaded NG, respectively, and have mostly spherical structures. The developed NG formulation displayed pH-dependent swelling and erosion that are in direct proportion to the change in pH. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed various characteristic bands of A. indica and formulation excipients, confirming the encapsulation of the extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the loaded NG was found to be 0.250 ± 0.05 mg/ml, 0.625 ± 0.15 mg/mL, and 0.250 ± 0.07 mg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Salmonella typhi (S. typhi) strains of bacteria, respectively. The NG formulation exhibited significant bacterial inhibition zones which were recorded as 8 ± 2.0 mm (p < 0.05), 16 ± 3.0 mm (p < 0.05), and 6 ± 1.0 mm (p < 0.05) for S. typhi, E. coli, and S. aureus, respectively, as compared with that produced by the crude extract.

Conclusions

An A. indica extract-loaded NG was successfully developed, and it demonstrated good formulation features, stability under refrigerated and room temperature conditions, as well as useful antibacterial activity that could be used for potential wound infection treatment.

Graphical abstract

Background

Latin America and the Caribbean region are currently faced with the challenges of drug and substance use leading to violence and crime, especially among the younger populations. The complex nature of substance use disorder (SUD), the cost and adverse effects of conventional therapies, the deeply rooted cultural practices of medicinal plants usage, and the abundance of rainforest flora and fauna in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are incentives for exploring bioactive compounds in managing SUDs. This review presented native medicinal plants traditionally used for managing SUD in LAC.

Main body.

Articles indexed with Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science, PubMed, PubMed Central, and LILACS databases and gray literature like PAHO, WHO, and CICAD were searched for medicinal plants used in drug addiction. Medicinal plants native to LAC or naturalized and cultivated in the region were included in the study. Twelve medicinal plants belonging to 10 families were identified with potential mechanisms for SUD management and described in this review. The families and plants include Acoraceae (Acorus calamus L.), Malpighiaceae (Banisteriopsis caapi [Spruce ex Griseb.]), Hypericaceae (Hypericum perforatum L.), Asteraceae (Mikania glomerata Spreng; Matricaria recutita L.), Passifloraceae (Passiflora caerulea L.), Piperaceae (Piper methysticum L.f.), Crassulaceae (Rhodiola rosea L.), Lamiaceae (Scutellaria lateriflora L.; Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R.Br.), Turneraceae (Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult.), and Zingiberaceae (Zingiber officinale var. officinale). Most plants produce their ethnopharmacological effects through GABergic activity, opioid receptor interaction, neurotransmitter modulation, NMDA receptor antagonism, antioxidant/anti-inflammatory activity, or through the enhancement of neuroplasticity—pathways for mitigating substance use disorders.

Conclusion

The abundance of rich rainforest medicinal plants in LAC makes them cost-effective alternatives in managing SUD, especially since they are easily accessible and have traditionally proven effective with fewer adverse effects. Reviewed preclinical and clinical studies reveal that select medicinal plants such as B. caapi and H. perforatum may modulate addiction-related neurochemical pathways, curb cravings, and mitigate withdrawal symptoms among substance addiction populations. However, clinical validation of the medicinal plants remains limited, revealing a disconnect between traditional ethnomedical use and current scientific evidence.

Background

The lungs serve a critical function in air transport and gas exchange, presenting an appealing route for noninvasive drug administration. However, the unique physiology and anatomy of the lungs influence the efficacy and safety of pulmonary drug delivery. A comprehensive approach combining both an optimized pharmaceutical formulation and an appropriate delivery device is essential for effective pulmonary therapies.

Main body

Pulmonary drug delivery can achieve both local and systemic effects. During pulmonary drug delivery, several factors viz. particle size, electrostatic charge, inhalation parameters, airway functionality, disease state, and proper use of delivery device must be considered. Current advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of innovative nanocarriers tailored for pulmonary administration. These nanocarriers offer benefits such as targeted deposition in specific areas of the tracheobronchial tree, controlled drug release, protection of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) from lung clearance mechanisms, and cell-specific targeting. Research on nanomedicine for pulmonary delivery has progressed significantly, resulting in the development of several (nano)formulations, devices, and products in various stages of clinical development, with some already commercially available. Recent studies have focused on improving inhalation device testing, aerosol formulation development, and the application of in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo, and in silico models to better understand pulmonary drug deposition and disposition.

Conclusion

This review highlights the anatomical and physiological features of the lungs, recent advances in nanocarrier design and inhalation technologies. In addition, the applications in respiratory and systemic disease management have also been included. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in optimizing pulmonary drug delivery systems, necessitating further research to address these complexities and enhance the therapeutic outcomes.

Background

The significant increase in infectious bacterial diseases over the past two decades presents a serious global health threat, compounded by the limited efficacy of current therapeutic options. This has created an urgent need to explore novel antibacterial compounds. Traditional preclinical animal models used to evaluate drug candidates are often costly and require lengthy testing periods. The previous studies have shown Drosophila melanogaster to be an effective model organism for antibacterial drug discovery. In this study, we evaluated the in vivo antibacterial effects of metformin and aspirin against Staphylococcus aureus using a Drosophila infection model.

Results

Our findings demonstrated that treatment with both metformin and aspirin significantly increased the survival of D. melanogaster infected with S. aureus. Additionally, both compounds inhibited bacterial growth in infected flies, as evidenced by reduced bacterial counts, indicating a direct antibacterial effect. Treatment also led to the downregulation of immune response-related genes, suggesting that the antibacterial activity occurred without immune system activation. Furthermore, metformin and aspirin reduced cell stress induced by bacterial infection, and these effects were validated in immunodeficient mutant flies, proving their efficacy independent of innate immune responses.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the potential for repurposing metformin and aspirin as antibacterial agents. Using a high-throughput, cost-effective, and efficient Drosophila model, this study provides strong evidence supporting the viability of these compounds as treatments against bacterial infections.

Background

Soy-based diets are commonly used not only by humans but also by laboratory and domesticated animals. Recently, there has been much argument around soybeans and their products, mostly due to their phytoestrogen (PE) content. Intestinal microflora digests soybean isoflavones to produce estrogenic compounds such as genistein, daidzein, and equol, which can bind with estrogen receptors (ERs). In recent years, the consumption of soybean-formulated diets has increased significantly. Our study is designed to evaluate the effects of soybean-formulated diets exposure from perinatal to puberty on the fertility of male mice.

Methods

Thirty pregnant dams are classified into three groups: the control group (CG);soy-free group is fed on a casein-based diet, while the second and third groups are fed on diets containing 20% and 30% soy in both low and high soy groups(LSG and HSG), respectively, from gestational day (GD) 12 till postnatal day (PND) 21 (weaning day). Male offspring are isolated and fed on the same diet groups from PND 21 to 56 (killing day).

Results

Male mice fed on soy-based diets showed a significant reduction in body and testes weights, as well as reproductive performance. Additionally, there was a decrease in sperm count, viability, and motility, while sperm abnormalities increased. Serum total testosterone levels and total antioxidant capacities (TAC) also decreased. Conversely, levels of follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) increased, along with sperm DNA fragmentation. The diameters of seminiferous tubules and the heights of the seminiferous epithelium were reduced. Furthermore, the soy-based diet affected testicular histology.

Conclusions

These observations indicate that soybean-based diets during perinatal and postnatal exposures negatively impact male fertility.