Electronic Journal of University of Aden for Basic and Applied Sciences

DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE AND RISK FACTORS OF HEAD AND NECK SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA IN NATIONAL ONCOLOGY CENTER IN ADEN, YEMEN: PROSPECTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abdullateef Mohammed Atef — 2024-09-30

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a significant health concern in Yemen, with a notable impact on the population. Major risk factors for HNSCC in this region include qat chewing, cigarette smoking, and tobacco. The goal of our study was to analyze the correlation between demographic profiles, affected anatomical sites, and risk factors. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using data extracted from the medical records of patients diagnosed with HNSCC at the National Oncology Center (NOC) in Aden, Yemen, covering the period from January 2023 to December 2023. Information on patient demographics, primary tumor locations, family history, and exposure to risk factors such as qat chewing and cigarette smoking was collected through a structured questionnaire. The study included 100 patients, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.45:1. The mean age of the patients was 53.2 ± 14.7 years, with a significant portion (41%) falling in the 36–54 age group and (40%) falling in the 55–73 age group. The most commonly affected site was the nasopharynx, accounting for 48% of cases. Qat chewing was the predominant risk factor among patients (74%), followed by cigarette smoking (50%) and tobacco (28%). Middle-aged individuals, particularly men aged 36–54 and 55–73 years, are disproportionately affected by HNSCC in Yemen. The nasopharynx emerges as the most prevalent site of cancer. Qat chewing stands out as a prevalent risk factor among patients, followed by cigarette smoking and tobacco. Public education on the risk factors associated with HNSCC is essential for effective disease management and prevention efforts in Yemen.

EFFECTS OF HUMAN CYTOMEGALOVIRUS ON SOME HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND LIVER FUNCTION IN PREGNANT WOMEN, YEMEN

Ali Ahmed Al-Halani — 2024-09-30

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection is a common congenital infection that affects approximately 0.7%–1% of all live births worldwide. Approximately 11% of newborns who are infected show symptoms at birth, and of these, between 30% and 40% are at a risk of experiencing long-term neurological complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of HCMV on hematological parameters and liver function in pregnant women in Hajjah governorate, Yemen. This study is a cross-section study that conducted in the Hajjah governorate of Yemen during a period of March to June 2023. A total of 108 blood specimens were collected from participants; 78 from patients group and 30 health group. Hematological parameters, such as total red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (HB), platelet count (PLT), and white blood cells (WBC), as well as liver function tests, such as total protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin, were measured. Majority of participant patients aged between 16–21 years 27 (34.7%), studied at secondary schools (46.2%), in their second trimester 51 (65.4%), those with multigravida 54 (69.2%), and those with no history of congenital diseases 60 (76.9%). Compared with the control group, the mean WBC levels were significantly lower in HCMV patients (P < 0.05), whereas PLT levels were higher among HCMV patients (P < 0.05). Additionally, the mean levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, SGOT, ALP, and albumin were significantly lower in patients with HCMV than in HC (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the patient and healthy groups in terms of HB, RBC counts, SGPT, and total protein (P > 0.05). It can be concluded that HCMV infection had a statistically significant effect on WBC, PLT, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, SGOT, ALP, and albumin levels in pregnant women. Consequently, further studies are needed to define the role of HCMV in liver disorders.

MODELING OF THE GEOMETRY AND ELECTRONIC BANDGAP STRUCTURE OF CHIRAL SINGLE WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES

Abdul Jabbar Rashad — 2024-09-30

Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) are one-dimensional nanostructured materials that will play a key role in future electronics. All properties of the carbon nanotubes are determined by its electronic structure. The main focus of this study has been to investigate the basic electronic bandgap structure of the chiral single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). A simple algorithm is presented in order to model the geometry of the chiral single-walled CNTs with any desired structure. The electronic bandgap structure of the chiral single-walled carbon nanotubes has been studied by employing an extended tight binding model (TBM). The changes in the energy band gap due to the chirality effect in case of metallic (6, 3) SWCNT and in the semiconducting (12, 7) SWCNT are discussed here. The value of the SWCNTs diameter is calculated also. The computed results indicates that the bandgap depends inversely on the diameter of the tube. The present results were found to be in consistent with those reported in the literature and indicated the correctness of the process of simulation technique process.

SEROPREVALENCE OF TOXOPLASMA GONDII AMONG CANCER PATIENTS IN AL-AMAL CENTER FOR TREATMENT OF CANCER PATIENTS IN TAIZ CITY, YEMEN

Mohammed Abdo Al-Taj — 2024-09-30

The current study was done in Taiz city during the period from March 2019 to march 2020, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among cancer patients and to determine the association of T. gondii seropositivity in cancer patients with gender, age and number of chemical doses in Al-Amal Center for Treatment of Cancer Patients in Taiz governorate, Yemen, using serological test by rapid devise Toxo-kits method. A total of 368 blood samples from cancer patients were collected and examined for anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG and IgM antibodies. The overall T. gondii seroprevalence, including both Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) positive individuals was 42.12% (155/368). The seroprevalence rate of IgG and IgM antibodies was 41.58% (153/368) and 14.13% (52/368), respectively. Regarding sex, no statistically significant difference was found, with 65 seropositive out of 148 (43.92%) in males and 90 out of 220 (40.91%) in females (P>0.05). The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was high in all age groups, especially in younger and older cancer patients (aged from 1-10 and >80 years old), (50.00%) in each; while the lower seroprevalence (25.81%) was detected in cancer patients aged 21 to 30 years old, but the differences were not significant (P> 0.05). Moreover, the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was higher in individuals treated with chemotherapy (43.07%) than those not used chemotherapy (39.60%), with no significant difference (P>0.05). T. gondii infection remains a major threat to cancer patients, and it needs proper screening, diagnosis and treatment.

VITAMIN D STATUS AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS IN FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY OF ADEN- YEMEN

Dhekrah Saif Ali Shaif — 2024-09-30

Vitamin D deficiency is not only associated with rickets and osteomalacia, but with several chronic diseases, such as cancer, ischemic heart disease and type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent across all age groups in epidemic proportions. Worldwide, an estimated one billion people suffer from vitamin D deficiency. One of the major reasons for the worldwide spread of this disorder has been deficient awareness about the importance of vitamin D, its benefits on health, and prevention of deficiency state across different populations. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among female medical students regarding the importance of vitamin D and to determine its correlates among female students in Aden, Yemen. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 70 adult female students aged 19-30 years enrolled in Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Aden in the period April to October 2019. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information for participants data such as age, place of residence (urban or rural), skin color (pigmentation) and applying of sun protection creams. Blood samples were taken to investigate serum 25-(OH)D3 level for all participants through laboratory examination using Roche Cobas e 411 Automatic Analyzer, after recruiting their sociodemographic, health and lifestyle. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were classified as normal (>30 ng/ml), insufficiency (10-30 ng/ml) and deficiency (<10 ng/ml). The data statistically analyzed using SPSS version 24. The mean age (SD) of participants 22.4 ± 2.01years. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among all participants was 34.3% while 65.7% had vitamin D insufficiency. low concentrations of serum vitamin D is highly prevalent among female medical students. It is advisable to increase their consumption of foods rich in vitamin D. the incidence of VDD among growing girls is concerning and necessitates preventive intervention. Importantly, health strategy plan requires considerations of more promotion of safe sun exposure practice, sufficient vitamin D supplements and vitamin D fortification of foods.

CUTANEOUS LEISHMANIASIS AMONG ATTENDING HOSPITALS AND HEALTH CENTERS IN AMRAN GOVERNORATE, YEMEN

Mohammed Ali Alshahethi — 2024-09-30

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a broad spectrum of diseases. There is no published data on the epidemiology or risk factors of leishmaniasis in Amran Governorate. This study aimed to scrutinise the prevalence and behavioural risk factors associated with CL among visitors to hospitals and health centres in Amran Governorate. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected from 68 patients with lesion clinically suggestive of CL. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, risk factors, and influence factors of CL. Sixty-eight cutaneous leishmaniasis were recorded during the month December 20 (29.4%), and the Jabal Yazid District was more infected area with the parasite 14 (20.6%). The majority were from males 45 (26.2%), individuals with age groups of 0–20 years old 34 (50%), single individuals 52 (76.5%), and those who come from rural areas 38 (55.9%), with a significant difference (P <0.05), and the major risk factors were by bite of female sandfly 55 (80.9%), with a significant difference (P <0.05). Cutaneous leishmaniasis was highly prevalent in Amran Governorate among children (0-20). Our study showed that the risk factor associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis could help the ministry of health in the establishment of an effective program.

IMPACT OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS ON C REACTIVE PROTEIN (HS-CRP) AND NEUTROPHIL LYMPHOCYTE RATIO (NLR)

Huda Ahmed Salem — 2024-09-30

Many studies showed the association between inflammation and Hypertension. Inflammatory markers may highlight the state of inflammation in hypertensive patients. This study aimed to investigate impact of antihypertensive drugs on high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR). A comparative cross sectional study was conducted on 86 hypertensive patients attending cardiology outpatient clinic in Al-Gamhuoria Modern General Hospital, Aden, in the period from October to December 2023. Participants were divided into three groups: patients treated with mono-therapy from inhibitors of renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAASI), patients treated with mono-therapy antihypertensive not acting on RAAS (NRAASI) and patients treed with combination of them (drug combination). Data on Age, Sex, BP level, BMI, duration of hypertension (HTN), family history of HTN, and medications used were collected. Blood samples for measuring HsCRP, neutrophils, lymphocytes were drawn. Descriptive statics and chi-square tests were used for data analysis. Almost equivalent distribution for males and females between groups, with a large proportion of the patients within each group laid in the age group 35-55 years. The median values of hypertension duration were 36, 48, and 54 months for RAASIs, NRAASIs and drug combination group, respectively. The target BP was obtained by 46.9% 45.5% and 50% of patients treated with RAASIs, NRAASIs and drug combination respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between SBP and DBP in patients with controlled BP and those with uncontrolled SBP levels and treated by different drug regimens (P=0.000 for each Bp level). There were significant differences between values of hs-CRP of patients with controlled (P=0.000) or uncontrolled (P=0.046) BP and treated with different modalities. The median differences in NLR between the groups were statistically significant; including groups of all patients P=.032, of patients having controlled BP P=0.014 as well as uncontrolled BP P=0.038. Comparing the uncontrolled of BP of the three groups we found the highest prevalence (9.3%)of patients with uncontrolled BP and had the lower level hsCRP (≤3mg /l) was in RAASIs group, while those with higher prevalence (11.6%) of uncontrolled BP and higher level of hs-CRP ( >3mg/l) was in drug combination group. In conclusion, hypertensive patients treated with RAASI, NRAASI and drug combination and reached BP target showed significant reduction in hsCRP and NLR. Patients with uncontrolled BP treated with RAASIs revealed slightly lower hs-CRP than other groups. Careful selection of antihypertensive drugs may affect risks of CVD. This study recommends further prospective studies exploring the anti-inflammatory effect of antihypertensive drugs to ameliorate possible risks of cardiovascular disease.

MONITORING OF BENZOIC ACID LEVELS IN SOFT DRINKS CONSUMED IN ADEN, YEMEN

Naser Abdulrb Al-halmi — 2024-09-30

Benzoic acid is widely used as a food preservative due to its effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of yeast and mold. The undissociated form of benzoic acid is the most potent. In acidic beverages like soft drinks, benzoic acid can react with additives such as ascorbic acid to release benzene, which can pose health concerns. This study aimed to determine the levels of benzoic acid in soft drink samples commonly consumed in Aden, Yemen. Eighteen soft drink samples were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography with a UV detector. The highest benzoic acid concentration was found in a FIFA orange sample at 173.87 ppm, while the lowest was 8.40 ppm in a DREAM red sample. Some samples, including MIRINDA orange, FANTA apple, and DILSI red, had no detectable levels of benzoic acid, despite their labels indicating its presence. Overall, the benzoic acid concentrations in all tested samples were within the permissible limits set by local, regional, and international standards.

SITAGLIPTIN AMELIORATES ATORVASTATIN INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN RATS

Adnan A. Hazem — 2024-09-30

Atorvastatin (ATOR) is the most widely used statin for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, which is the most common cause of severe liver injury. Sitagliptin is a selective dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4-I) used clinically as oral anti-diabetic agent. This study aimed to identify the effect of sitagliptin (SITA) pretreatment against Atorvastatin (ATOR) induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Twenty-five rats were divided into five groups (5 rats in each); normal control, ATOR, SITA and two sitagliptin groups, which pretreated with sitagliptin 10 and 20 mg/kg/day in combination with ATOR 20mg /kg / day for eight consecutive days prior to ATOR. The results revealed that ATOR induced noticeable hepatic injury in the form of moderate Hepatoportal + sinusoidal congestion, all Zonal changes, moderate Cloudy swelling + hydropic degeneration, moderate Fatty change and mild Apoptosis. Biochemical analysis exposed a significant rise in the serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase in ATOR group. Increased Proinflammatory TNF-alpha, Oxidative stress MDA and depressed antioxidant system of GSH were evident in ATOR group. On the other hand, sitagliptin pretreatment significantly ameliorated all of the above mentioned biochemical, histopathological changes induced by ATOR. In conclusion, sitagliptin ameliorated the hepatotoxicity induced by atorvastatin. This effect was probably based through suppression of inflammatory, oxidative stress and apoptotic processes. Sitagliptin might exert beneficial effect on diabetic hepatic disorders which mandate further clinical research.

CLINICAL PATTERNS AND OUTCOMES IN CIRRHOTIC YEMENI PATIENTS WITH ACUTE-ON-CHRONIC LIVER FAILURE

Gamil Gamal Mohammed El-Sayed — 2024-09-30

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a clinical condition of abrupt hepatic decompensation in chronic liver disease patients that is associated with extra-hepatic organ failures and a higher mortality rate. This study aimed to identify the clinical patterns and outcomes in cirrhotic Yemeni patients with ACLF. This prospective cohort study was carried out on 160 cirrhotic patients admitted between May 2023 and May 2024 to the Internal Medicine Department in Al-Sadaqah General Teaching Hospital in Aden governorate, Yemen. Based on the European Association for Study of Liver's Chronic Liver Failure Consortium EASL-CLIF criteria, patients were divided into Group A: 54 patients with ACLF. Group B: 106 patients without ACLF. The prevalence of ACLF is 33.8%. The mean age was 41.54± 8.11 years in ACLF and 39.22± 8.14 years in non-ACLF patients. The proportion of males in ACLF was 51.9% vs. 57.5% in non-ACLF patients. The most common causes of cirrhosis were cryptogenic (58.8%) and autoimmune hepatitis (25.6%). A significant correlation was found between prior hospitalization, decompensation, and the increased risk of developing ACLF. The most common complications were jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, renal failure, signs of bacterial infection, ascites, and gastrointestinal bleeding, respectively. The main precipitating events for ACLF were bacterial infection, especially SBP (48.1%), GIT bleeding (24.1%), and no identified precipitating events (24.1%). The most common organ failures were renal (70.4%), liver (42.6%), and cerebral (31.5%). ACLF patients showed higher levels of WBCs, bilirubin, and serum creatinine. Mortality rates were significantly higher in ACLF patients compared to non-ACLF at both 28 days (33.3% vs. 5.7%) and 90 days (685% vs. 23.6%). This study demonstrated that ACLF patients have worse prognoses, higher mortality rates, increased ICU admission, lower survival, and higher rates of organ failure than non-ACLF patients.

EXPLOITING ECO-FRIENDLY NATURAL DYES FROM PLANT SOURCES: EXTRACTION AND DIVERSE APPLICATIONS

Adel A. M. Saeed — 2024-09-30

Natural pigments extracted from plant sources offer eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants. In this study, pigment samples were obtained through aqueous extraction from beetroot (S1), red cabbage (S2), and turmeric (S3). Their physicochemical properties and potential applications were thoroughly evaluated. The research problem addressed in this study is the need to overcome the limitations of natural dyes, such a slower color fastness, reduced reproducibility, and limited color range, in order to promote their wider adoption in various industries as sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants. The pigment extracts were assessed for their suitability in textile dyeing, paper pH indicators, food coloring, ink production, and natural stamp pad formulations. Cotton and wool fabrics were dyed by adding traditional mordants, and the pigment-treated textiles exhibited distinctive color changes and varying levels of color fastness. The pigment samples demonstrated the ability to act as effective acid-base indicators, displaying characteristic color transitions in response to varying pH levels. When used as natural food colorants, the extracts imparted attractive hues to rice and cream without altering their flavor profiles. The feasibility of incorporating these plant-derived pigments in ink manufacturing and stamp pad production was also explored. Beetroot pigment exhibited superior color retention and fastness properties, while red cabbage and turmeric extracts displayed effectiveness in selected applications. The findings of this comprehensive study highlight the viability of these plant sources as natural substitutes for synthetic colorants in diverse fields. The observed performance characteristics and the eco-friendly nature of the pigments underscore their potential to serve as sustainable alternatives in various industries.

RISK FACTORS FOR SUBSTANCE USE AMONG MALE SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ADEN GOVERNORATE, YEMEN

Shadia Musarrg — 2024-09-30

Substance use among secondary school students is a growing concern with significant implications for public health. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with substance use in a community of secondary school students in Aden Governorate, Yemen. A cross-sectional study was conducted among secondary school students in Aden governorate, using a structured questionnaire to collect data on potential risk factors for substance use. The questionnaire included measures of Peer Pressure, Academic Performance (GPA), Parental Monitoring, as well as self-esteem towards drug use. The Self-esteem among secondary students was measured using Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to identify significant risk factors. A total of 280 male students from 10 secondary schools (both section) of Aden governorate participated in the study, with a mean age of 17.37± 1.42 years. Risk factors associated with substance use included peer pressure (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.56-3.42), poor academic performance (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.23-2.81), lack of parental supervision (OR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.09-2.37), and low self-esteem (OR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.01-2.11). The findings highlight the complex interplay of social, familial, and individual factors in contributing to substance use among secondary school students. These results can inform targeted interventions and preventive strategies to address the identified risk factors in the community. This study identified several key risk factors for substance use among secondary school students in the community. Understanding and addressing these risk factors is vital for the development of effective preventive interventions and support systems to mitigate the impact of substance use on the health and well-being of young individuals.

KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF URBAN AND RURAL MOTHER IN AL MUKALLA CITY ABOUT VACCINATION, 2023

Maysa Saeed Al-Noabn — 2024-09-30

Vaccination is a critical public health strategy for preventing infectious diseases in children, yet vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge, particularly among mothers who influence their children's health decisions. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of mothers in urban and rural areas of Al-Mukalla, Yemen, regarding childhood vaccinations. A total of 581 women with at least one child under five participated, with data collected on their knowledge, sources of information, and attitudes towards vaccination. Results indicated that urban mothers had a higher level of awareness regarding the importance of vaccination compared to their rural counterparts, with 76% of rural mothers lacking knowledge about its significance. Urban mothers primarily relied on media (71%) and doctors (56%) as information sources, while rural mothers depended more on societal channels. Moreover, urban mothers demonstrated a more positive attitude towards vaccination, in contrast to the skepticism observed among rural mothers, influenced by cultural beliefs and misinformation. The findings highlight a critical need for targeted educational interventions to address knowledge gaps and enhance vaccine uptake, particularly in rural communities, ultimately aiming to improve child health outcomes in the region.

Front Cover

Abdulrahman Ahmed Mohren — 2024-09-30