Scopus Research — Zahraa Ibraheim Jawad Shubber

OBJECTIVE: Aim: This study was performed to investigate the potential nephroprotective effect of Tangeretin on bilateral renal I/R injury in male rats. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: Forty male rats were split into four groups of ten (sham, control, DMSO, and Tangeretin). The sham group underwent a median laparotomy under anaesthesia without inducing ischemia/reperfusion; the control group underwent clamping for thirty minutes on the bilateral renal artery, followed by two hours of reperfusion; the vehicle group received DMSO one hour before induction of ischemia; and the Tangeretin group received 5 mg/ kg of Tangeretin one hour before ischemia. Biochemical parameters (KIM1, IL-1β, and TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, GSH, and caspase-3) were measured using an ELISA approach. Furthermore, histological alterations were examined, and the Notch/Jagged1 signalling pathway was assessed using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: Results: Tangeretin pre-treatment reduced kidney damage molecules (KIM1, IL-1β, and TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, GSH, and caspase-3) while increasing antioxidant indicators and decreasing inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Improving histological outcomes and significantly decreasing Notch1 and Jagged-1 gene expression in kidney tissues during renal ischemia/reperfusion injury. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Tangeretin has significant nephroprotective advantages in renal IRI by decreasing the Notch pathway and exhibiting anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: This study was performed to investigate the Dibenzazepin potential nephroprotective effect on bilateral renal ischemia/reperfusion injury in model of male rats. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: Male rats (number 40) were classified into four groups' n=10: first sham, second control, third DMSO, and fourth DBZ, the sham group had a median laparotomy under anaesthesia without induction of ischemia/reperfusion; the control group underwent clamping for thirty minutes on the bilateral renal artery, after that two hours of reperfusion; the vehicle group received DMSO one hour before induction of ischemia; and the DBZ group received 2 mg/kg of DBZ one hour before ischemia. Biochemical parameters (Kidney injury molecules KIM1, IL-1β, TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, GSH, and caspase-3) were assessed by ELISA technique. Furthermore, histological changes were investigated, and the Notch signalling pathway was evaluated using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: Results: IRI caused a significant increase in renal tissues of kidney injury molecules (KIM1), IL-1β, TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, and caspase-3) with significant decreased the level of GSH, DBZ pre-treated mitigated these effects by significant enhancing antioxidant markers and decreased inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Improving histological results and significant decrease the Notch1 and Jagged-1 gene expression in kidney tissues after renal ischemia/reperfusion damage. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: DBZ (γ-secretase inhibitor) has considerable nephroprotective benefits in renal IRI via inhibiting the Notch pathway, anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effect.

Melissa officinalis L., commonly known as lemon balm, is recognized for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties against various pathogenic bacteria, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for treating infectious diseases. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of M. officinalis extract on human pathogenic bacteria and to assess its ability to prevent bacterial biofilm formation and adhesion. The antibacterial activity of the aqueous extract of M. officinalis was evaluated using disc-diffusion and agar-well diffusion methods. The antimicrobial efficacy of the extract was compared with that of standard antibiotics. Additionally, tests for adherence and biofilm formation were conducted. The M. officinalis extract demonstrated inhibitory zones ranging from 25 to 35 mm against all tested microorganisms. While some bacterial isolates were susceptible to imipenem, the majority exhibited resistance. Notably, certain isolated bacteria displayed strong adhesion and biofilm formation in response to the extract, whereas most Gram-negative bacteria showed moderate adherence and biofilm activity. The findings indicate that M. officinalis extracts are highly effective against a range of clinical isolates, including those associated with urinary tract infections. This suggests that these extracts may offer a more effective alternative to conventional antibiotics, particularly in combating bacterial adhesion and biofilm development. © 2012 Iranian Society of Medicinal Plants. All rights reserved.

Background: Atherosclerosis is a prevalent pathological disorder considered a leading cause of death globally. The pathological process is characterized by fat deposition in the blood vessels, ultimately developing plaques. The atherosclerotic plaque was the final result of the inflammatory reaction and oxidative pathway. Dabagliflozine is a member of hypoglycemic drugs that are classified based on their action as Na-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. Dabagliflozine, besides its blood glucose-lowering effects, may also exhibit cardiovascular protection by reducing oxidative damage. Our research aimed to evaluate how the drug (dabagliflozine) interacted with inflammation and oxidative processes to impact atherosclerosis. Materials and Methods: In this study, eighteen male mice were split into three groups: one fed a regular diet, one fed a cholesterol-rich diet, and one fed a cholesterol-rich diet with dapagliflozin. Blood samples were taken regularly over twelve weeks to analyze serum markers such as TNF-α, endothelin-1, and lipid levels. Results: Initially, there were no significant differences in serum markers among the groups. However, after twelve weeks, the mice treated with dapagliflozin showed notable reductions in TNF-α and endothelin-1 levels (though statistically insignificant). Moreover, there were significant improvements in HDL (the "good" cholesterol) levels, and significant decreases in VLDL and TG (triglycerides) levels (P<0.05). Total cholesterol (TC) and LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) levels also decreased, although not significantly. Conclusion: In conclusion, dapagliflozin demonstrated promising protective effects against atherosclerosis in mice by regulating inflammatory cytokine production and improving lipid profiles. These findings suggest that dapagliflozin may have potential therapeutic benefits in managing cardiovascular disease by targeting both inflammation and lipid metabolism. However, further research is needed to validate these results and explore the drug's effectiveness in humans. © 2019 ANGIOTHERAPY, a publication of Eman Research Ltd, Australia.

Reinfection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been documented all over the world. Currently, limited evidence exists concerning the protection afforded by the COVID-19 vaccination against reinfection with SARS-CoV-2. This case-control study was per-formed in order to assess the association between COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in the Babil Province; the study used an electronic questionnaire. The infected patients were 115 (aged ≥18 years) and were confirmed by a positive PCR and/or a CT scan, they were either fully vaccinated or not with a second dose of a (Pfizer, AstraZeneca, or Sinopharm) vaccine before the reinfection date, and they were compared with 300 control partici-pants. The study’s findings revealed that the unvaccinated individuals had 4.5 times the odds of reinfection compared to those who were fully vaccinated, without preference for the manufacturer of the vaccine. The conclusion suggests that getting fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can significantly reduce the likelihood of reinfection, can enhance overall protection, and can minimize the risk of future infections. © 2024 by the authors.

This article provides an extensive examination of the phytochemical composition and the various health benefits associated with pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). Pumpkin, a versatile plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, is recognized for its climbing and creeping growth patterns. It is classified as a fruit and offers a rich source of essential nutrients, including water, protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. The bioactive substances found in pumpkin seeds have gained significant attention for their potential in medicinal and functional food products. The study highlights the diverse advantages linked to pumpkin consumption, such as immune system enhancement, eye health maintenance, antioxidant activity, vitamin A source, antiglycemic effects, and properties that help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Additionally, pumpkin exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antitumor activities, making it a promising candidate for various therapeutic applications. The role of carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, in pumpkin's biological effects is emphasized. The article also delves into the quantification of carotenoids using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technology and discusses the concentration of carotene in yellow and red pumpkin pulp. Furthermore, the article outlines the quantitative extraction and analysis of phenols from pumpkin seeds. Overall, this comprehensive review provides valuable insights for researchers, industries, and health-conscious individuals interested in harnessing the potential of pumpkin for various applications in nutrition and healthcare. © RJPT All right reserved.