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Potential of tadalafil and tadalafil-cellulose nanocomposite in preventing postsurgical abdominal adhesions in a rat cecal abrasion model

Research Abstract

The formation of postoperative intra-abdominal adhesions is a significant challenge in veterinary practice worldwide. Thus, several attempts have been made to identify agents that prevent the occurrence of these postsurgical adhesions. However, finding an ideal and effective agent remains a challenge. Herein, we investigate the potential of tadalafil and tadalafil/cellulose composite as promising therapeutics for preventing postsurgical intra-abdominal adhesions. A cecal abrasion model was established in 30 rats, which either left untreated or treated with tadalafil, cellulose, or tadalafil/cellulose. After 2 weeks, the adhesion formation was evaluated based on gross appearance, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, histopathological analysis, and immunohistochemical staining. Compared to the adhesion group, gross and histopathological findings revealed that both the tadalafil and cellulose groups significantly decreased adhesion formation, with better results observed after tadalafil treatment. Importantly the tadalafil/cellulose treatment completely prevented adhesion formation. Additionally, the treated groups showed reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), while increasing the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) compared to the adhesion group. Furthermore, the treated groups reduced the expression of macrophage markers. These findings suggest that the intra-abdominal application of tadalafil and tadalafil/cellulose following abdominal surgery holds promise as a clinical strategy to prevent postsurgical intra-abdominal adhesions, with tadalafil/cellulose demonstrating superior efficacy.

Research Authors
Ahmed Abdelrahiem Sadek, Mahmoud S. Sabra, Marwa F. Ali, Hani Nasser Abdelhamid & Kamal Hussein
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
scientific reports
Research Pages
31210
Research Publisher
Nature
Research Vol
15
Research Website
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-14894-0#citeas
Research Year
2025

Neurobehavioral toxicity of Cold plasma activated water following oral gavage in mice

Research Abstract

Cold plasma-activated water (PAW) is a novel technology that was recently used in biomedical research; Despite its potential, PAW's safety remains inadequately assessed. The study explores the impact of PAW on behavioral responses and brain tissue histopathology in mice. Ten-week-old female albino mice were divided into three groups each containing 10 mice (5 replicates, 2 mice/cage) and received either distilled water (DW), or distilled water exposed to cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) for 3 min (PAW-3), or 15 min (PAW-15) by oral gavage in a dose of 200 μL/mice (3 times/week) for four weeks. PAW exhibited altered physicochemical properties compared to DW. Mice exposed to PAW demonstrated reduced burrowing activity, marble burying ability, and novel object recognition compared to controls, indicating potential neurobehavioral alterations. PAW-treated groups displayed notable histological …

Research Authors
Ghada Abd El-Reda, Usama T Mahmoud, Fatma Abo Zakaib Ali, Fatma M Abdel-Maksoud, Manal AM Mahmoud, FM El-Hossary
Research Date
Research Member
Research Website
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161813X24001037
Research Year
2024

Morphological and Immunohistochemical Differentiation of Neuronal and Glial Cells of the Vascular and Avascular Regions of the Donkey’s Paurangiotic Retina

Research Abstract

Introduction: Ocular diseases pose a significant health
concern for donkeys. However, studies examining the microanatomy
and cell populations of the donkey retina are
scarce. The current study aimed to describe the vascular
pattern of the donkey retina and document its cellular
components. Methods: The donkey retina specimens were
obtained from different retinal regions and prepared for
semithin sectioning and immunohistochemistry. Results:
The donkey has a paurangiotic retina in which retinal vessels
are confined to a narrow area around the optic disc. Glial
cells coexist with the blood vessels being very numerous in
the vascular region and become scanty in the avascular
ones. S-100-positive astrocytes could be observed in these
avascular areas. Ganglion cells are organized in a single layer
with the least population existing in the peripheral retina.
Acidic fibroblast growth factor (AFGF) is immunoreactive in
amacrine and ganglion cells. A subpopulation of amacrine
cells reacted strongly to tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and
others reacted positively to S-100 protein. Ganglion cell
nuclei exhibited a strong immunoreactivity to S-100 protein
as well. Furthermore, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is
used to identify Müller cells that extend their processes
across the retina from the inner to the outer limiting
membrane. Conclusions: In conclusion, our findings provide
novel insights into the normal retinal organization. The
donkey retina shows the characteristic expression of immunohistochemical
markers for the major cell types. In
addition, the distribution of glial cells is comparable between
the vascular and avascular regions.

Research Authors
Wafaa Gabera Manal T. Husseinb Khaled H. Alyc Fatma M. Abdel-Maksouda
Research Date
Research Journal
Cells Tissues Organs
Research Member
Research Website
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38320535/
Research Year
2024

Temporospatial dynamics of the morphogenesis of the rabbit retina from prenatal to postnatal life: Light and electron microscopic study

Research Abstract

The retina consists of various cell types arranged in eight cell layers and two membranes
that originate from the neuroectodermal cells. In this study, the timing of differentiation
and distribution of the cellular components and the layers of the rabbit
retina are investigated using light and electron microscopy and immunohistochemical
techniques. There were 32 rabbit embryos and 12 rabbits used. The rabbit retina
begins its prenatal development on the 10th day of gestation in the form of optic
cup. The process of neuro- and gliogenesis occurs in several stages: In the first stage,
the ganglionic cells are differentiated at the 15th day. The second stage includes the
differentiation of Muller, amacrine, and cone cells on the 23rd day. The differentiation
of bipolar, horizontal, and rod cells and formation of the inner segments of the
photoreceptors consider the late stage that occurs by the 27th and 30th day of gestation.
On the first week of age postnatally, the outer segments of the photoreceptors
are developed. S100 protein is expressed by the Muller cells and its processes
that traverse the retina from the outer to the inner limiting membranes. Calretinin is
intensely labeled within the amacrine and displaced amacrine cells. Ganglionic cells
exhibited moderate immunoreactivity for calretinin confined to their cytoplasm and
dendrites. In conclusion, all stages of neuro- and gliogenesis of the rabbit retina occur
during the embryonic period. Then, the retina continues its development postnatally
by formation of the photoreceptor outer segments and all layers of the retina
become established.

Research Authors
Sara MM El‐Desoky, Ruwaida Elhanbaly, Abdalla Hifny, Nagwa Ibrahim, Wafaa Gaber
Research Date
Research File
Research Journal
Microscopy Research and Technique
Research Member
Research Pages
774-789
Research Publisher
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Research Vol
87 (4)
Research Website
DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24466
Research Year
2024

Morphological and Immunohistochemical Differentiation of Neuronal and Glial Cells of the Vascular and Avascular Regions of the Donkey’s Paurangiotic Retina

Research Abstract

Introduction: Ocular diseases pose a significant health concern for donkeys. However, studies examining the microanatomy and cell populations of the donkey retina are scarce. The current study aimed to describe the vascular pattern of the donkey retina and document its cellular components.

Methods: The donkey retina specimens were obtained from different retinal regions and prepared for semithin sectioning and immunohistochemistry.

Results: The donkey has a paurangiotic retina in which retinal vessels are confined to a narrow area around the optic disc. Glial cells coexist with the blood vessels being very numerous in the vascular region and become scanty in the avascular ones. S-100-positive astrocytes could be observed in these avascular areas. Ganglion cells are organized in a single layer with the least population existing in the peripheral retina. Acidic fibroblast growth factor (AFGF) is immunoreactive in amacrine and ganglion cells. A subpopulation of amacrine cells reacted strongly to tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and others reacted positively to S-100 protein. Ganglion cell nuclei exhibited a strong immunoreactivity to S-100 protein as well. Furthermore, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is used to identify Müller cells that extend their processes across the retina from the inner to the outer limiting membrane.

Conclusions: In conclusion, our findings provide novel insights into the normal retinal organization. The donkey retina shows the characteristic expression of immunohistochemical markers for the major cell types. In addition, the distribution of glial cells is comparable between the vascular and avascular regions.

Research Authors
Wafaa Gaber, Manal T Hussein, Khaled H Aly, Fatma M Abdel-Maksoud
Research Date
Research File
Research Journal
Cells Tissues Organs
Research Pages
368-381
Research Publisher
S. Karger AG
Research Vol
213 (5)
Research Website
DOI: 10.1159/000537688
Research Year
2024

New Findings in Developmental Studies of Laryngeal Mound With a Reference to Its Attached Structures in Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix Japonica)

Research Abstract

The laryngeal mound (LM) formed the caudal part of the pharyngeal floor, which varied in position, shape, and length at different ages. This work aimed to study the morphogenesis of the LM in the embryonic and post hatching periods grossly, histologically, and by scanning electron microscopy using forty-eight Japanese quails. The LM primordia appeared on the 8th day of incubation as a raised elevation carried on a deep median symmetrical sulcus (glottis primordium). As a result of rapid differential LM parts growth, LM took different shapes with advanced ages, finally ending in a heart shape. Internally, LM was supported by hyaline laryngeal cartilages; a C-shaped cricoid cartilage that had two wings, paired fork-like two arytenoids, and a comma-shaped procricoid that had four articulations. The glottis appeared as a central longitudinal opening on the 13th day of incubation. With age advancing, it was characterized as a wide rostral commissure and a caudal narrow one that was supported on either side by arytenoid cartilages. Additionally, on the 13th day, a bilateral sagittal row to the glottis developed, consisting of 8–9 small caudally directed papillae. At that time, rostral and caudal transverse laryngeal papillary rows appeared. LM had compound tubuloalveolar submucosal laryngeal glands that were situated between M. dilator glottidis and cricohyoideus and opened on the dorsal surface of LM. Histochemically, the early post-hatching stages of the glandular secretion were PAS-positive while late post-hatching ages had alcinophilic reactions. In conclusion, the LM had rapid morphological developmental events in the early ages other than the adult ages.

Research Authors
Mahmoud Osman Khalifa, Wafaa Gaber, Abdelmohaimen Mostafa Saleh
Research Date
Research File
Research Journal
Microscopy Research and Technique
Research Pages
1292-1313
Research Publisher
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Research Vol
88 (5)
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1002/jemt.24735
Research Year
2025

Detection of MUC1+/MUC2 and MUC5AC− Membrane-Associated Mucins in the Intraepithelial Surface Mucous Cells of the Developing Rabbit Esophagus

Research Abstract

Introduction: Mucins are polydisperse molecules created to perform a variety of functions at the mucosal surface of the adult gastrointestinal tract. Two main groups of mucins could be identified: the membrane-associated mucins (MUC1, MUC4, MUC13, and MUC16), those bound to the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells, and the secreted mucins (MUC2, MUC5AC, MUC5B, and MUC6), those secreted from the goblet cells. Little is known about the types and distribution patterns of mucins in prenatal life. Methods: We detected mucin-secreting cells in the developing rabbit esophagus though these cells are absent in the adult one. In order to identify the content and possible functions of these cells, we investigated the histochemical and immunohistochemical characteristics of their mucins. Results: Starting at 16th day of pregnancy, periodic acid Schiff (PAS), alcian blue (AB) pH (2.5), and PAS-AB combination intensely stained the mucous content, demonstrating both acidic and neutral mucopolysaccharides. Some blebs could be recognized on the free surface of the esophageal epithelium. Also, the mucous cells and some basal cells strongly immunoreacted with MUC1, but not MUC2, nor MUC5AC antibodies. Conclusion: Collectively, these data suggest that surface mucous cells are modified epithelial cells, not goblet cells, and may originate from the basal layer of the epithelial cells. A possible regulatory role for these MUC1-positive mucins in esophageal epithelial and mesenchymal cell differentiation and late organogenesis is suggested. However, future functional studies are recommended.

Research Authors
Dalia Mohamedien, Wafaa Gaber, Makoto Hirayama, Mahmoud Awad
Research Date
Research File
Mucins.pdf (3.6 MB)
Research Journal
Cells Tissues Organs
Research Pages
245-257
Research Publisher
S. Karger AG
Research Vol
214 (4)
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1159/000541836
Research Year
2025

Light microscopical and parasitological analyses revealed the beneficial effects of silver nanoparticles and various myrrh extracts against Trichinella spiralis infection in mice

Research Abstract

Trichinella spiralis infection is a food-borne zoonotic disease caused by nematodes that dwell in the tissues, presenting a significant public health concern. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different treatments including silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), myrrh biosynthesized AgNPs “AgNPs synthesized using plant-based green technologies”, myrrh extract, and myrrh essential oil, as alternative treatments against T. spiralis infection. Parasitological, histopathological, and cytotoxicity assessments were conducted to investigate the effects of various concentrations of these treatments in reducing the populations of adult worms and larvae during both the intestinal and muscular phases of T. spiralis-infected mice. The results showed that the highest antihelminthic efficacy against the intestinal phase of T. spiralis was achieved by myrrh extract (86.66%), followed closely by AgNPs (84.96%) and myrrh AgNPs (82.51%) at higher concentrations (800 mg/kg for myrrh extract, 40 μg/mL for AgNPs, and 40 μg/mL for myrrh AgNPs). While the group treated with myrrh essential oil showed the lowest percentage of adult reduction (78.14%). However, all treatments demonstrated comparable effects in reducing the larvae population in the muscle phase. Histopathological examination of the tissues revealed compelling evidence of the effectiveness of AgNPs, particularly when prepared with myrrh. Additionally, a comprehensive assessment of the cytotoxicity of AgNPs indicated low toxicity levels. This study supports that AgNPs synthesized using plant-based green technologies hold therapeutic potential for the treatment of T. spiralis infection.  These findings present a promising avenue for the development of novel antiparasitic drugs that are both effective and safe.

Research Authors
Nahed A. Elossily 1 | Salwa M. Abd-ELrahman2 | Abeer A. Khedr3 | Ahmed K. Dyab1 | Abeer E. Mahmoud1 | Shaymaa M. Mohamed4 | Ahmed M. Abd Elrahman5 | Fahd M. Alsharif 6 | Reem M. Alsaadawy7 | Ramy K. A. Sayed8 | Mervat M. Khalifa1
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Microscopy Research and Technique
Research Member
Research Pages
1566-1575
Research Publisher
Wiley
Research Rank
Q2
Research Vol
87
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1002/jemt.24542
Research Year
2024

Detection of Bartonella henselae in feline erythrocytes in Egypt by using Giemsa staining, transmission electron microscopy, and polymerase chain reaction

Research Abstract

Bartonella species (Bartonella spp.) have gained recognition as a significant human pathogen, implicated in a wide range of diseases. Among these, Bartonella henselae infection has been extensively studied for its primary occurrence in cats and its role in the development of cat-scratch disease in humans. While light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have traditionally played crucial roles in identifying causative agents of infectious diseases, including Bartonella spp., the accuracy of these methods in identifying Bartonella spp. remains undefined. Therefore, this study aims to bridge this gap by employing both light microscopy and TEM to detect Bartonella in feline blood samples and to confirm B. henselae with polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Examination of blood smears stained with Giemsa and toluidine blue semithin sections by using light microscopy revealed the presence of intraerythrocytic corpuscles, suggesting Bartonella infection in six out of 33 examined cat blood samples. TEM findings corroborated these observations, showcasing the engulfment of bacteria by the erythrocyte membrane, along with the presence of some Bartonella spp., adhering to the erythrocyte wall. PCR-based molecular detection confirmed the presence of B. henselae in these six samples. It is concluded that light microscopy and TEM are considered valuable in the screening of cats' blood for the potential presence of Bartonella. However, further molecular techniques are essential for precise identification and confirmation of specific Bartonella spp

Research Authors
Reem M. Alsaadawy1 | Amal S. M. Sayed1 | Magda M. Ali2 | Sary Kh. Abd-Elghaffar3,4
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
. Microscopy Research and Technique
Research Pages
279-285
Research Publisher
wily
Research Rank
Q2
Research Vol
88
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1002/jemt.24685
Research Year
2025

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Aeromonas hydrophila isolated from freshwater fishes at Middle Upper Egypt

Research Abstract

Aeromonas hydrophila is a common fish pathogen and a significant foodborne pathogen of increasing public health concern. This study was conducted in Middle Upper Egypt to determine the prevalence of A. hydrophila among the diseased Oreochromis niloticus (n=100) and Clarias gariepinus (n=100) at Assiut and Sohag Governorates. A. hydrophila isolates (n=44) were assessed for antimicrobial susceptibility and biofilm production. Moreover, PCR was performed to analyze the incidence of some genes in 20 isolates of A. hydrophila. The results showed that 24% and 20% of the examined O. niloticus and C. gariepinus were infected with A. hydrophila respectively, with all (100%) showing a variety of clinical signs of septicemia. A. hydrophila isolates were all biofilm producers, with varied degrees of biofilm production. 79.5% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant and had a high multiple antimicrobial resistance index > 0.2. PCR analysis revealed that all isolates carried act and blaTEM genes but not carried int2 gene. Additionally, sul1, aer, tetA, int1, and qnrA genes were present in 75%, 60%, 55%, 55% and 45% of them, respectively. This study highlights the high incidence of multidrugresistant pathogenic A. hydrophila in the infected fishes, posing a serious risk to humans and fish

Research Authors
Usama H.Abo-Shama1, Amany A. Abd El Raheem1, Reem M.Alsaadawy2 & Haitham H. Sayed1
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Scientific Reports
Research Member
Research Pages
5920
Research Publisher
nature
Research Rank
Q1
Research Vol
15
Research Website
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-89465-4
Research Year
2025
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