Universal Journal of Pharmaceutical Research

HEMATOLOGIC INFLAMMATION IN OVARIAN CANCER: INTEGRATING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND BIOMARKERS FOR EARLY DETECTION

2026-07-08T11:04:00+00:00

Ovarian cancer continues to be a primary reason for gynecologic cancer deaths, primarily because of late diagnosis and the lack of effective screening methods. Hematologic inflammation, indicated by systemic markers like the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet indices, and C-reactive protein, is crucial in the development and advancement of tumors. These readily obtainable inflammatory markers have demonstrated potential in forecasting disease presence and outcomes, but their clinical usefulness for early detection is still limited by low specificity and variability among patient groups. Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) present transformative opportunities to address these challenges by combining intricate biomarker data with clinical and imaging details. Machine learning algorithms can detect intricate, nonlinear trends in hematologic inflammation markers associated with early ovarian cancer, improving diagnostic precision over conventional techniques. This integration allows for tailored risk evaluation and ongoing monitoring, potentially allowing for earlier actions that enhance survival rates. This review examines the biological foundations of hematologic inflammation in ovarian cancer and assesses the developing role of AI-enhanced biomarker integration for early detection.

Peer Review History:

Received 8 April 2026; Reviewed 13 May 2026; Accepted 9 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Nuray Arı, Ankara University, Turkiye, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Francis Adou Yapo, Felix Houphouet Boigny, University of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, [email protected]

Dr. Evren Alğin Yapar, Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency, Turkiye, [email protected]

PERFORMANCE OF AI-GENERATED DRUG–DRUG INTERACTION ALERTS VERSUS PHARMACIST ASSESSMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

2026-07-08T11:21:08+00:00

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in the medicine administration and drug–drug interaction (DDI) screening domain in healthcare. However, its reliability in comparison with the pharmacist review is unknown. This systematic review aimed to compare the effectiveness of DDI alerts generated by AI to DDI alerts generated by pharmacists.

Methodology: This review was done in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251153581). The publications since 2022 were obtained from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, IEEE Xplore, and arXiv. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018 was used to evaluate the quality of the studies.

Results: Fourteen studies of AI systems like ChatGPT, Gemini, Bing AI, and Claude were selected. AI models performed well in general drug information retrieval and were found to have significant shortcomings when it comes to clinical DDI screening. Low accuracy, inconsistent responses, severity and onset not assessed and clinically important interaction not included were common problems. Pharmacist review and validated databases like Lexicomp and Micromedex were more reliable to assess DDI.

Conclusion: AI systems can provide support for drug information and may be suitable but are currently not sufficient for autonomous drug information screening. However, pharmacist oversight will remain essential to patient safety, and additional studies are required to develop customizable AI systems for pharmacies that incorporate trusted clinical decision support tools.

Peer Review History:

Received 9 April 2026; Reviewed 11 May 2026; Accepted 13 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Sally A. El-Zahaby, Pharos University in Alexandria, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Esther Marguerite Chase DJANGA, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Department of Public Health. University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon. [email protected]

Dr. Dennis Amaechi, MrsFoluBabade Mini Estate , Flat 5 by Old Soldiers Quarter, Sabongari/Bwari, Abuja- Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. [email protected]

EPIGENETIC ALTERATIONS IN MYELOID MALIGNANCIES: LINKING CHROMATIN REMODELING TO DISEASE PROGRESSION

2026-07-08T16:27:37+00:00

Myeloid cancers, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), develop from the clonal alteration of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Apart from genetic mutations, epigenetic dysregulation has become a key factor in disease onset, advancement, and resistance to treatment. Anomalies in DNA methylation, histone changes, and chromatin rearrangement interfere with normal blood cell differentiation, promote clonal growth, and create diverse malignant cell populations. Alterations in essential epigenetic regulators like DNMT3A, TET2, IDH1/2, ASXL1, and EZH2-collaborate with oncogenic alterations to facilitate leukemogenesis and resistance to treatment. These epigenetic changes act as prognostic indicators and offer targetable weaknesses, such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and therapies aimed at mutant IDH or EZH2. This review compiles existing information on the epigenetic features of myeloid tumors, emphasizing its importance in disease advancement and treatment strategies.

Peer Review History:

Received 3 April 2026; Reviewed 12 May 2026; Accepted 7 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Fátima Morales Marín, University of Murcia, Spain, [email protected]

Dr. Francis Adou Yapo, Felix Houphouet Boigny, University of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, [email protected]

GENETIC VARIATION AND ITS ROLE IN HEALTH AND PHARMACOLOGY: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

2026-07-08T16:34:14+00:00

Human genetic variation plays a fundamental role in determining differences among individuals in disease susceptibility, clinical characteristics and responses to medical treatments. Advances in genomic technologies have significantly improved our ability to identify and characterize genetic differences, including single nucleotide variants, insertions and deletions, copy number variations and larger structural changes within the genome. These variations influence biological processes and contribute to both health and disease outcomes, making them essential to the development of precision medicine. This review examines the major forms of human genetic variation and their impact on disease development and pharmacological responses. It explores how genetic variants arise, their distribution across populations, and their involvement in monogenic, oligogenic and polygenic disorders. The review also highlights the importance of gene–environment interactions and epigenetic factors in shaping disease risk and progression. In addition, the paper discusses the growing field of pharmacogenomics, which investigates how genetic differences affect drug metabolism, efficacy and toxicity. Particular attention is given to clinically important variants in drug-metabolizing enzymes, transport proteins, and therapeutic targets that contribute to variability in treatment outcomes among patients. By linking disease genetics with pharmacogenomics, genetic information can be used both to predict disease risk and to guide individualized treatment strategies.

Peer Review History:

Received 5 April 2026; Reviewed 11 May 2026; Accepted 9 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Muhammad Zahid Iqbal, AIMST University, Malaysia, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Hasniza Zaman Huri, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, [email protected]

Dr. Hayriye Eda Şatana Kara, Gazi University, Turkey, [email protected]

ADVANCES IN FDM 3D PRINTING FOR ORAL DOSAGE FORMS: A REVIEW OF TUNABLE DRUG RELEASE STRATEGIES

2026-07-08T16:44:46+00:00

Three-dimensional printing (3D printing) has recently gained significant attention as an innovative technology in pharmaceutical sciences, particularly for the development of oral dosage forms. Among additive manufacturing approaches, fused deposition modeling (FDM) is among the most promising techniques due to its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential for personalized drug delivery. This review discusses the fundamental principles, commonly used materials, and recent technological advancements in FDM-based production of oral pharmaceutical dosage forms. Central to this discussion is FDM's ability to tailor drug release, enabling immediate, controlled, and delayed profiles by manipulating formulation composition and printing parameters. We critically evaluate polymer selection, formulation strategies, and process variables that govern release kinetics. Potential advantages, including patient-specific dosing, improved drug stability, and cost-effectiveness, are discussed alongside persistent challenges related to regulatory approval and manufacturing scalability. By synthesizing current evidence, this review aims to clarify the role of FDM-based 3D printing in advancing personalized oral dosage forms.

Peer Review History:

Received 8April 2026; Reviewed 13 May 2026; Accepted 11 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Essam Mohamed Eissa, Beni-Suef University, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Mrinal Kanti Bhoumik, Jubilant Cadista Pharmaceutical Inc., [email protected]

Dr. Nada Farrag, Misr International University, Egypt, [email protected]

CHARACTERIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS TARGETING LUNG, PANCREATIC, AND COLORECTAL CANCERS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

2026-07-15T09:06:06+00:00

Due to high incidence, aggressive progression, and limited therapeutic efficacy, lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer represent a significant share of cancer-related deaths. Cancer remains a major cause of global morbidity and mortality. Despite considerable progress in traditional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, challenges like drug resistance, systemic toxicity, tumor heterogeneity, and recurrence continue to hinder long-term success. Therefore, the identification, study, and creation of new chemical compounds have become a promising approach to improving cancer treatment outcomes. By integrating current knowledge on chemical compound development and mechanistic insights across these three major cancer types, this review identifies existing research gaps, summarizes recent therapeutic advances, and outlines future directions for the rational design of safer and more effective anticancer agents. The findings presented herein are expected to support researchers and clinicians in advancing precision oncology and developing next-generation therapeutics for improved patient outcomes. With cancer being the rising cause of morbidity and mortality in the world today challenges the global health systems. Cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages and possesses poor prognosis due to cancer having high metastatic potential and limited response to treatment therapies. The process of oncology despite extensive advancement such as chemotherapy regimens faces issues of drug resistance, systemic toxicity and lack of ability to detect tumor specificity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the development of chemical compounds targeting lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. It discusses the structural diversity, biological activities, and molecular mechanisms of natural products, synthetic molecules, and semisynthetic derivatives with demonstrated anticancer potential. Particular emphasis is placed on their interactions with key signaling pathways involved in tumor initiation and progression.

Peer Review History:

Received 7 April 2026; Reviewed 11 May 2026; Accepted 9 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Prof. Cyprian Ogbonna ONYEJI, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Fátima Morales Marín, University of Murcia, Spain, [email protected]

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, [email protected]

Message

2026-07-07T11:30:30+00:00

In the current landscape of health innovation, one is increasingly prompted to ask a simple question: who is making the drugs? A striking shift is underway, as growing numbers of medical doctors, across specialties from internal medicine and surgery to dermatology, are now formulating and, in some cases, manufacturing natural-based products that are presented as scientifically substantiated supplements. The pace of this transition is rapid, and it feels as though a “giant” has been awakened; perhaps it has. Four decades ago, such clinician engagement with phytomedicines and herbal products was far less common. It was often difficult to persuade physicians to engage seriously with presentations on natural products research, let alone to participate in development activities. Today, the tables have turned. Clinicians increasingly collaborate with pharmacists, pharmacologists, analytical chemists, and other scientists to develop these same categories of products.

Yet the language and regulatory classification of these preparations remain inconsistent worldwide. Depending on the country, an identical formulation may be regulated as a medicine, a dietary supplement, a food with health claims, or even a cosmetic. In many cases, the label applied reflects the pathway needed for market entry rather than the strength of clinical evidence supporting safety and efficacy. This variability has consequences: it shapes manufacturing standards, permissible claims, post-market surveillance expectations, and ultimately the degree of protection afforded to patients and consumers.

Concurrently, public and professional discourse is being reshaped by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI). AI-enabled tools now influence multiple stages of pharmaceutical and natural products research. As AI touches more of the development pipeline, questions of authenticity, accountability, and trust become more prominent. Will patients hesitate to use a product developed with AI-assisted methods? The answer may be complex, but current signals in mainstream media and public commentary suggest a persistent expectation: human expertise must remain visible and accountable in sensitive, high-stakes domains such as drug development, clinical decision making, and medical technology.

For pharmaceutical science, this moment represents both opportunity and responsibility. On the opportunity side, AI can compress early discovery timelines, reduce experimental redundancy, and support quality-by-design approaches that improve reproducibility. In natural products research specifically, computational methods can enhance dereplication, chemoinformatics, and rational prioritization of extracts and compounds, helping investigators move more efficiently from complex mixtures to plausible leads. If used responsibly, these tools can strengthen, not weaken, the evidence base and improve decision-making across the research pipeline.

However, acceleration must not outpace rigor. “Natural” is not synonymous with safe, and “supplement” is not synonymous with effective. Persistent challenges include variability in raw material sourcing, the risk of adulteration, batch-to-batch inconsistency, and claims that extend beyond the available data. Where regulatory frameworks permit market access with limited preclinical characterization or minimal clinical substantiation, the burden shifts to researchers, professional bodies, and journals such as UJPR to insist on higher standards of method and reporting.

In this context, the Universal Journal of Pharmaceutical Research (UJPR) remains committed to publishing and promoting rigorous pharmaceutical research across all areas of the discipline and related interdisciplinary fields.

As this “giant” awakens, the central task is not merely to produce more products, but to produce better science. The credibility of our field will be determined by whether we can pair innovation with accountability: clear definitions, sound methodology, ethics, and claims that are aligned with data. This is the standard UJPR has been championing, and it is the conversation this issue invites now and in the future.

POSTOPERATIVE ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN PATIENTS AFTER CARDIAC SURGERY AMONG YEMENI PATIENTS AT MILITARY CARDIAC CENTRE

2026-07-07T11:52:50+00:00

Background and aims: The most frequent side effect following heart surgery is postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF).This study investigates the prevalence of atrial fibrillation among Yemeni patients at the Military Cardiac Centre from January 1 to June 30, 2024. It aims to identify the timing and predisposing factors of AF post-surgery and evaluate postoperative outcomes, including mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke, in patients with POAF compared to those without.

Patients and methods: A descriptive retrospective study was conducted at the Military Cardiac Centre in Sana’a, Yemen, from January 1 to June 30, 2024. The study focused on patients who underwent cardiac surgery and developed new onset atrial fibrillation (POAF) during their hospitalization. Inclusion criteria required patients to have POAF, while those with prior atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias were excluded. A structured questionnaire was used, alongside patient consent and clinical evaluations, including electrocardiography and blood tests.

Results: Current study of 107 cases at the Heart Centre over six months revealed a 26% prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) post-cardiac surgery. Most patients were aged 40-50 (36%) and 60+ (35%), with a significant correlation between age and AF (p=0.030). Males made up 70% of the cases, predominantly from rural areas (57%). Postoperative metrics such as left atrial volume, ejection fraction, and creatinine levels showed significant variations (p=0.003 to 0.007), as did complications like bleeding and infections between AF and non-AF cases.

Conclusions: In conclusion, key care outcomes, including reintubation, respiratory support, and extended ICU and hospital stays, are linked to postoperative atrial fibrillation, which increases resource utilization. Implementing strategies to identify at-risk patients and modifying risk factors through preventive measures and surgical technique adjustments may help reduce the incidence of atrial fibrillation and lower morbidity and mortality rates in cardiac surgery patients.

Peer Review History:

Received 6 April 2026; Reviewed 11 May 2026; Accepted 8 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Indonesia, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, [email protected]

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, [email protected]

PREVALENCE AND CORRELATES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE AMONG HIGH-PERFORMANCE ATHLETES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

2026-07-07T12:13:28+00:00

Background and aims: Periodontal disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gingiva and supporting dental tissues, which can impair oral function, nutrition, and general health. Athletes are exposed to risk factors such as intensive training, high carbohydrate consumption, dehydration, and oral trauma. The study was done to determine the prevalence of periodontal disease among high-performance athletes and identify associated demographic, behavioural, and functional factors.

Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 192 athletes. Periodontal examinations were performed by trained dental professionals using standardized clinical criteria. Participants completed a structured questionnaire capturing demographic, behavioural, and parafunctional variables. The dependent variables were gingivitis and periodontitis. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and associations were assessed using chi-square and likelihood ratio tests and modified Poisson regression with robust variance was used to obtain adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs). The population was predominantly female (57.8%), with most athletes aged 15–19 years (54.2%).

Results: The prevalence of gingivitis and periodontitis was 23.6% and 23.1%, respectively. Gingivitis was significantly associated with sport discipline (LR p=0.016) and educational level (LR p=0.035). Mouth breathing (OR 4.22; 95% CI: 2.12–8.39) and tobacco use (aPR 2.14; 95% CI: 1.40–3.26) were strongly associated with periodontal outcomes. Periodontitis was significantly related to sport type (LR p=0.008), age group (LR p=0.001), and onychophagia (OR 2.65; 95% CI: 1.16–6.02).Periodontal disease is common among high-performance athletes.

Conclusion: Modifiable behavioral and functional factors appear to play a major role. These findings highlight the need to integrate targeted oral health prevention strategies into athlete health programs.

Peer Review History:

Received 2 April 2026; Reviewed 8 May 2026; Accepted 13 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, [email protected]

Dr. Ogbonna B. Onyebuchi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, [email protected]

PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF Microtermes nigeriensis OIL ON LIPID PROFILE, FASTING BLOOD GLUCOSE AND ATHEROGENIC RISK PREDICTORS IN HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIC RATS

2026-07-07T17:54:46+00:00

Background and Objectives: Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, prompting interest in alternative dietary interventions with lipid-lowering properties. Edible insects are emerge as functional foods due to their rich nutrients and bioactive composition. This study evaluated the protective effects of Microtermes nigeriensis oil supplementation on lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and atherogenic risk indices in hypercholesterolemic Wistar rats.

Methods: Oil was extracted from M. nigeriensis using Soxhlet extraction with n-hexane, yielding 19.86%. Thirty male albino rats were divided into five groups: normal control, hypercholesterolemic control, hypercholesterolemic + 5% oil, hypercholesterolemic + 10% oil, and 15% oil only. Hypercholesterolemia was induced using egg yolk-enriched diet for 21 days. Serum lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, body weight, and atherogenic indices were determined using standard methods.

Results: The oil was rich in oleic acid (55.16%) with total unsaturated fatty acids of 62.94%. Supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-C while improving HDL-C. The 15% oil group showed the greatest effect, reducing total cholesterol by 36.29%, lowering LDL-C to 59.54 mg/L, and increasing HDL-C to 50.56 mg/L. Fasting blood glucose and atherogenic indices also improved significantly.

Conclusion: Microtermes nigeriensis oil demonstrated hypolipidemic, glucose-lowering, and anti-atherogenic effects, suggesting potential as a functional dietary intervention against dyslipidemia.

Peer Review History:

Received 9 April 2026; Reviewed 13 May 2026; Accepted 10 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, [email protected]

Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, [email protected]

CORRELATION BETWEEN TISSUE DOPPLER IMAGING AND LEFT VENTRICULAR SYSTOLIC FUNCTION AMONG YEMENI PATIENTS AT MILITARY CARDIAC CENTRE

2026-07-07T18:04:12+00:00

Background and objective: High rates of morbidity and mortality are associated with heart failure, and these rates rise as the population ages. The purpose of the study was to compare left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) using Simpson's technique and systolic myocardial velocity (Sm) using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in Yemeni patients with heart failure (HF).

Method: This study was conducted at the Military Cardiac Centre in Sana'a, Yemen, offering diagnostics, therapeutics, and surgical services to the Yemeni population. It was a 1:2 unmatched case-control study conducted from April 1 to September 30, 2025, involving a total of 180 participants (60 cases with an ejection fraction < 55% and 120 controls with an ejection fraction > 55%). Participants provided verbal consent and underwent clinical examinations, including electrocardiography.

Results: The study compares ejection fraction (EF) results across different measurement methods, showing mean EF values of 42.25 (M mod), 37.41 (Simpson), and 38.33 (eyeballing), with a significant p-value (<0.001) between cases and controls. In systolic left ventricle (LV) parameters, case means for S med (6.6) and S lat (7.26), along with MAPSE M (9.41) and MAPSE I (11.44), were recorded with a significant p-value (<0.001). Correlations were noted for S med (0.62) and S lat (0.60), with odds ratios (26.17–17.70) and confidence intervals (CI=3.59–2.99).

Conclusions: This study finds a strong positive correlation between TDI-derived S′ velocity and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), identifying S′ as a reliable marker of systolic function. It also supports MAPSE as an effective and clinically relevant marker, especially in low-resource settings.

Peer Review History:

Received 5 April 2026; Reviewed 8 May 2026; Accepted 10 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, [email protected]

Dr. Gülay B Anadolu, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey, [email protected]

ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE PATTERNS OF ESCHERICHIA COLI ISOLATED FROM THE URINARY TRACT OF PATIENTS ATTENDING ENUGU STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL PARKLANE ENUGU, NIGERIA

2026-07-08T04:37:52+00:00

Background and objectives: Antimicrobial resistance among uropathogenic Escherichia coli represents a growing therapeutic challenge worldwide. This study investigated the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of E. coli isolated from patients presenting with urinary tract infections (UTIs) at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT-TH), Enugu, Nigeria, and examined socio-demographic factors influencing antibiotic use.

Subjects and methods: A total of 200 patients participated in this study, comprising 59 (29.5%) males and 141 (70.5%) females, predominantly aged 18 – 25 years (46.5%). E. coli isolated from the 200 urine samples were 45, representing a prevalence of 22.5%. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method and high resistance rates were observed against ceftriaxone (84.4%), amoxicillin (84.44%), streptomycin (77.78%), chloramp-henicol (75.56%), ofloxacin (71.11%), meropenem (66.67%).

Results: Moderate resistance was recorded for ciprofloxacin (55.56%) and nitrofurantoin (57.78%) while gentamicin demonstrated the highest susceptibility (77.78%). Chi-square bivariate analysis revealed that though all respondents had used antibiotics, significant associations existed between gender and knowledge of antibiotics (p=0.028), previous UTI (p=0.010), and prior antibiotic treatment (p=0.012).

Conclusions: The findings highlight substantial resistance to routine antibiotics and emphasize the need for periodic antimicrobial susceptibility testing, strengthened antibiotic stewardship and enhanced public health education to improve UTI management.

Peer Review History:

Received 11 April 2026; Reviewed 8 May 2026; Accepted 14 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Prof. Dr. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, [email protected]

Dr. Ogbonna B. Onyebuchi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, [email protected]

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS PREVALENCE AMONG CANCER PATIENTS UNDERGOING CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIOTHERAPY AT THE NATIONAL ONCOLOGY CENTRE IN SANA'A, YEMEN

2026-07-08T06:30:16+00:00

Background and aims: Among the most prevalent bacterial infections are UTIs, especially in cancer patients with compromised immune systems. The patients' vulnerability to infection and antibiotic resistance frequently worsen these infections, making empirical treatment challenging. In order to improve the empirical treatment of UTIs with antibiotics, the study is carried out to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of UTI bacteria among cancer patients at the National Oncology Centre.

Methods: An ongoing prospective follow-up research was conducted at the National Oncology Centre in the city of Sana'a, Yemen, from October to December 2025, involving 290 cancer patients (157 females and 133 males) aged 2 to 76, with a mean age of 32.7 years. Data on clinical, demographic, and factors influencing urinary tract infections (UTIs) were collected, followed by midstream urine samples to culture potential UTI pathogens on blood and MacConkey agar.

Results: The largest group of cancer patients is aged 26-35 years (24.1%), with a majority female representation (54.1%). Breast cancer is the most prevalent, constituting 26.9% of cases, followed by Hodgkin's lymphoma and other types at 10.7% each, with leukemia and head and neck cancer at 10%. Pathogenic strains like Escherichia coli and S. saprophyticus were the dominant causes of UTI. Antibiotic susceptibility, revealing E. coli shows 100% resistance to cefixime, while imipenem and meropenem maintain high sensitivity at 68.4%. S. saprophyticus has high sensitivity to vancomycin (95.7%) and linezolid but significant resistance to cefixime (78.3%) and augmentin (56.5%).

Conclusions: The results highlight two primary health concerns: a high prevalence of cancer among young adults (particularly females with breast cancer) and a widespread crisis of beta-lactam antibiotic resistance in UTI-causing bacteria. Overall, significant resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics was noted among isolates.

Peer Review History:

Received 3 April 2026; Reviewed 9 May 2026; Accepted 6 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Emmanuel O. Olorunsola, Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Uyo, Nigeria, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Bilge Ahsen KARA, Ankara Gazi Mustafa Kemal Hospital, Turkey, [email protected]

Prof. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, [email protected]

THREE-DIMENSIONAL EVALUATION OF FACIAL ASYMMETRY AMONG A SAMPLE OF YEMENI POPULATION: A CBCT STUDY

2026-07-12T17:51:51+00:00

Background and aims: Facial asymmetry is an easily identifiable observation but is of great importance for both esthetics and function. In orthodontic and surgical planning a correct assessment of facial asymmetry is therefore indispensable. Aim of the present study was to measure three-dimensional skeletal facial asymmetry in the Yemeni population using CBCT and to analyze it by skeletal class and gender.

Methods: This is a retrospective study involving 62 Yemeni patients (22 males, 40 females) aged 14-40 years. Skeletal classification was according to ANB angles (Class I-III). Using the Slicer 3D software, 16 craniofacial landmarks were identified. 3D Slicer, as well as automated scripts in python was used for the determination of angular, linear and asymmetry indices. T-tests, ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests were performed for comparisons with significance set at p< 0.05.

Results: Mean skeletal asymmetry was found to be 3.46±1.01 mm, the mandible contributing to it largely in the gonial (4.04±1.94 mm) and antegonial (3.87±1.80 mm) regions and showing the minimum deviation in the maxilla. Higher values were observed for Menton deviation, gonial index, antegonial index, and overall skeletal asymmetry in Class III than Classes I and II (p<0.05). Higher mandibular dimensions and jugal asymmetry were evident in males than in females, although the global facial asymmetry did not show any significant sexual dimorphism.

Conclusions: The Yemeni population exhibited noticeable skeletal facial asymmetry where the mandible constituted the majority of it. The orthodontic assessment and surgical planning were highlighted by significant correlation between class III malocclusion and greater skeletal asymmetry.

Peer Review History:

Received 8 April 2026; Reviewed 4 May 2026; Accepted 10 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Gehan Fawzy Abdel Raoof Kandeel, Pharmacognosy Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Prof. Cyprian Ogbonna ONYEJI, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, [email protected]

Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim Mostafa Elseidy, Helwan University, Egypt, [email protected]

MOLECULAR MODELING AND VIRTUAL SCREENING FOR COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN OF HCV NS5B POLYMERASE INHIBITORS

2026-07-08T17:20:09+00:00

Aims and objectives: This study aims to design new inhibitors for the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Non-Structural Protein 5B (NS5B) polymerase, an enzyme essential for viral replication. The research addresses an urgent public health issue affecting 71 million people and causing approximately 242,000 deaths annually.

Methodology: The research follows a computer-aided rational design approach. A Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) model was developed using 24 quinazolinone derivatives (QDs) to correlate Gibbs free energy with experimental inhibition constants. The bound conformations of the ligands were used to construct a 3D-QSAR pharmacophore (PH4) model. A virtual library of 168,750 QDs was generated and filtered using ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) criteria and PH4 screening. Conformational stability was evaluated through 200-ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Binding free energy variations were quantified using the Molecular Mechanics - Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-GBSA) approach on MD trajectories, calculating molecular mechanics energy, solvation energy, and surface area contributions under the OPLS2005 force field.

Results: The QSAR model showed high predictive power and the PH4 model achieved an R² of 0.85. Screening identified 39 potent analogues. The lead candidate, 3-6-4-45, exhibited a predicted inhibitory concentration of 0.62 nM, approximately 96 times more active than the best reference ligand (60 nM). MD simulations confirmed stability with RMSD values between 1.5 and 3 Å. MM-GBSA binding energies converged with predicted complexation energies, validating the computational reliability.

Conclusion: The integration of molecular modeling and in silico screening successfully identified six potent candidate inhibitors of the HCV NS5B polymerase with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. These analogues represent high-affinity candidates for future therapeutic development.

Peer Review History:

Received 5 April 2026; Reviewed 13 May 2026; Accepted 10 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Iman Muhammad Higazy, National Research Center, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Sarfaraz Ahmed, Global Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kashipur, Uttarakhand, India, [email protected]

Prof. Amani S. Awaad, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj. KSA., [email protected]

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND MANAGEMENT MODALITIES OF MANDIBULAR FRACTURES IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS IN SANA'A CITY, YEMEN: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

2026-07-12T18:30:07+00:00

Background and objectives: Mandibular fractures in children patients present strong challenges due to costant growth and development. While facial fractures in children are lesser than in adults, their management requires careful consideration to prevent long-term complications such as growth disruption, ankylosis, and malocclusion. This retrospective study to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics and management modalities of mandibular fractures in pediatric (under 13 years) at major governmental hospitals in Sana'a City, Yemen, over a four years period (2022-2026).

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 80 patient records from Al-Thawra, Al-Jumhouri, and Al-Kuwait hospitals. Data on demographics, etiology, fracture site, and treatment were analyzed using SPSS v25.

Results: The study included 80 patients (72.5% male). Falls (52.5%) were the primary cause. The parasymphysis (29.1%) was the most common fracture site. ORIF was used in 40.0% of cases, while closed reduction was used in 37.5%.

Conclusion: Pediatric mandibular fractures in Sana'a are predominantly caused by falls and affect males more frequently. Management favors ORIF and closed reduction depending on severity.

Peer Review History:

Received 8 April 2026; Reviewed 11 May 2026; Accepted 9 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Jennifer Audu-Peter, University of Jos, Nigeria, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Bilge Ahsen KARA, Ankara Gazi Mustafa Kemal Hospital, Turkey, [email protected]

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, [email protected]

BIOPROSPECTING HONEY-DERIVED BACILLUS SPP. FROM BURKINA FASO AS A POTENTIAL SOURCE FOR ANTIMICROBIAL PEPTIDES

2026-07-08T17:07:43+00:00

Backgrounds and objectives: Honey is increasingly recognized as a promising reservoir of beneficial microorganisms with activity against plant pathogens. However it is poorly documented that in the literature. This study contributes to explore the diversity of AMPs genes produced by Bacillus spp. isolated from honey in Burkina Faso in order to propose a biological solution against biodiversity loss, water soil pollution and pest resistance caused by chemicals pesticides.

Methods: Methodology was based on isolation and preliminarily characterization of 40 presumptive Bacillus spp. followed by their survival under thermal stress, salt tolerance and AMPs related genes identification.

Results: Data from PCR analysis revealed that all isolates belonged to the genus Bacillus. In total, 70% of strains carried at least one AMP gene, in which 50% carried one gene. Regarding AMPs-gene associations, 25% carried two genes, 14.3% carried three genes, 7.1% carried four genes, and 3.6% carried five of the six targeted AMP-genes.

Conclusions: These data indicate that honey produced in Burkina Faso could be used to isolate Bacillus strains with genetic potential for broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. This efficacy could be tested in future studies to confirm these findings.

Peer Review History:

Received 6 April 2026; Reviewed 12 May 2026; Accepted 9 June; Available online 15 July 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Marwa A. A. Fayed, University of Sadat City, Egypt, [email protected]

Reviewers:

Dr. Fatehalrahman F. Magbool, University of Khartoum, Sudan, [email protected]

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, [email protected]