Electronic Journal of University of Aden for Basic and Applied Sciences

Front Cover

2026-01-03T08:09:15+00:00

EVALUATION OF BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AND AIR POLLUTION TOLERANCE INDEX (APTI) AS A TOOL TO MONITOR AIR POLLUTION IN SELECTED PLANT SPECIES GROWING IN AL-DHALE GOVERNORATE

2026-01-03T08:29:27+00:00

To examine the effect of air pollutants emitted from electric generators, vehicle exhausts, and factories on biochemical characteristics and to estimate the air pollution tolerance index of plants (APTI) There for present study was conducted in Al Dhale' Governorate during the years (2023-2024) on seven plants species vis: Acacia nilotica Azedarach indica Albizia lebbek Delonix regia Inga dulcis Nerium oleander Ziziphus spina-Christi, growing in polluted site and non-polluted site. The results or this study showed that: Plant species varied significantly in leaf ascorbic acid content, total chlorophyll content, leaf pH, and leaf moisture content in both seasons. The highest readings were in the non-pollutant-free site, with the exception of the Azedarach indica where an increase in leaf ascorbic acid content was observed by (43.90%) in the polluted site. The air pollution tolerance index (APTI) varied among the plant species under study, ranging from (8.27 to 15.87). A significant decrease occurred in the polluted site which, ranging from (3.02 to 19.36%) with and the exception of Azedarach indica whose (APTI) increased in the polluted site, ranging from (9.99 to 13.50%) The results indicate that the species under study are moderately to highly resistant to air pollutants.

EVALUATION OF GAMMA AND FAST NEUTRON SHIELDING PROPERTIES OF YEMENI BUILDING MATERIALS

2026-01-03T08:55:56+00:00

This study evaluated the gamma radiation shielding properties of eight Yemeni rock samples (A0, A1, A2, B0, B1, R0, R1, and R2) across photon energies from 0.015 to 15 MeV. Key nuclear shielding parameters—including mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), half-value layer (HVL), mean free path (MFP), and effective atomic number (Z_eff)—were calculated. Among the samples, A0 and R1 exhibited the best shielding performance, with MAC values reaching 21.0 and 21.4 cm²/g at 0.015 MeV, surpassing conventional materials such as ordinary concrete and commercial glasses Rs-360 and Rs-253 G18. Corresponding HVL values were as low as 0.045 cm for A0 and 0.042 cm for R1, indicating effective attenuation with minimal thickness. Low MFP values further confirm the high gamma photon interaction efficiency of these samples. Their Zeff values peaked near 20 at low energies, reflecting significant elemental contributions to photon absorption. Collectively, these results demonstrate that rock samples A0 and R1 offer superior gamma radiation shielding, requiring thinner layers to achieve comparable protection relative to traditional materials. Additionally, Macroscopic removal cross-section (ΣR) values ranged from 0.034 to 0.075 cm⁻¹, with sample A1 showing superior fast neutron shielding efficiency. Interestingly, ΣR decreased as sample density increased. This highlights their potential as cost-effective, naturally sourced shielding materials suitable for nuclear safety and construction applications.

CLINICAL CHARACTERISTIC AND PROGRESSION OF ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME IN YOUNG PATIENTS IN ADEN-YEMEN 2024-2025

2026-01-03T09:22:18+00:00

The prevalence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been rising in the younger population worldwide. Although less common than in older populations, is a serious condition with unique risk factors and presentations. This linked to the growing prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors among younger people, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and hyperlipidemia, which have led to a rise in atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD). Additionally, emerging research points to the influence of less traditional risk factors, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, drug use, psychosocial factors, and novel biomarkers in the early onset of CAD. These factors collectively contribute to the rise in premature CAD, highlighting the need for improved prevention strategies and public health efforts focused on younger populations. The study aims to assess the characteristics and outcomes of ACS in young patients. A hospital- based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 104 patients who were diagnosed and treated as ACS at private cardiac units of Aden-Germany Hospital in the period between April 2024 and January 2025 were studied with reference to clinical profile and risk factor analysis based on cardiac enzyme biomarkers and cardiac invasive and non- invasive assessments. The mean (± SD) age was) 28.8 ±09) years, 100 patients (96.2%) were male, 4(3.8%) were female. Smoking were with 56 (53.8%) and 48 (46.2%) were with Khat and shamma chewing risk factors. A high percentage of patients 90 )86.5% (presenting with chest pain, with vast majority being non- diabetic 79 (98.8%). 57 (95%) of myocardial infarction (MI) patients with elevated ST segment (STEMI) were male. Elevated troponin level was highly significance (p value = 0.001). Most patients were with mild left ventricular ejection fraction and single coronary artery vessel affected (35.6%, 60.8% respectively). Killip class I represent the majority (61.5%) with a significance proportion (66.7%) were under the age of 30 and had non-elevated ST- segment (79.5%). The majority of the patients were male. Smoking, Kat and shamma chewing presumed risk factors. Killip class I and elevated ST segment quite common.

KHAT CHEWING AND LONG SLEEP DURATION ARE ASSOCIATED WITH ALTERED COAGULATION AND PLATELET PROFILES IN YOUNG YEMENI ADULTS: A MULTI-CENTER CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

2026-01-03T09:42:58+00:00

The hematological effects of khat chewing, a widespread habit in East Africa and Yemen, remain inadequately characterized, particularly regarding coagulation. Similarly, evidence linking sleep duration to hematological markers in young, healthy populations is limited. In a cross-sectional study of 600 Yemeni university students, we assessed khat chewing frequency, sleep duration. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and complete blood count were measured. Multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for age, gender, and BMI. Weekly khat chewers had significantly higher odds of abnormal PT (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.05–5.08, p=0.037) and abnormal APTT (aOR = 3.78, 95% CI: 1.55–9.22, p=0.003) compared to never-users. A non-linear dose-response was observed, with weekly users showing the most pronounced coagulation abnormalities. Participants reporting long sleep duration (>8 hours) had over four times the odds of abnormal platelet counts (aOR = 4.12, 95% CI: 1.62--10.49, p=0.003) compared to the reference group (7-8 hours). Khat chewing is independently associated with significant coagulation abnormalities, suggesting potential interference with both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Furthermore, long sleep duration is a novel predictor of platelet count disturbances in this young cohort. These findings highlight potential public health risks, calling for greater clinical awareness of the hematological sequelae of khat use and suboptimal sleep patterns in this population.

HEMATOLOGICAL AND BONE METABOLISM ABNORMALITIES IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH Β-THALASSEMIA MAJOR

2026-01-03T09:59:22+00:00

β-thalassemia major (TM) is a transfusion-dependent hemoglobinopathy characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis and progressive iron accumulation. Despite improvements in transfusion and chelation regimens, metabolic bone disease remains a common and debilitating complication in young patients. To evaluate hematological indices and biochemical markers of bone metabolism in children and adolescents (≤21 years) with β-thalassemia major attending the Pediatric Department at the National Oncology Center, Aden, during January–December 2022. A cross-sectional analytical study of 40 transfusion-dependent TM patients was performed. Patients underwent complete blood counts and biochemical testing including serum ferritin, 25-OH vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium and phosphorus. Descriptive statistics and categorical distributions versus reference ranges were analyzed. The cohort demonstrated severe chronic anemia (mean Hb 6.72 ± 1.77 g/dL; mean Hct 21.7 ± 6.1%) with microcytosis (mean MCV 73.5 ± 6.54 fL) and marked anisocytosis (RDW-CV 21.61 ± 7.00%). Median leukocyte count was 10.8 ×10³/µL with 60% of patients exhibiting leukocytosis; mean platelet count was increased (463.47 ± 281.4 ×10³/µL). Iron overload was profound (mean serum ferritin 3718.9 ± 2453.8 ng/mL), with 92.5% of patients above the normal ferritin range and 77.5% classified as high or severe (≥2000 ng/mL). Vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency was highly prevalent (mean 25-OH vitamin D 23.85 ± 9.96 ng/mL; 47.5% deficient, 27.5% insufficient, 25% adequate). Biochemical evidence of disturbed mineral homeostasis included hypocalcemia in 55% of patients, low PTH in 40%, and hyperphosphatemia in 45%. Together, these findings indicate a strong association between iron overload, endocrine dysfunction, and impaired bone mineral metabolism. Children and adolescents with β-thalassemia major in this cohort exhibit severe anemia, overwhelming iron accumulation, high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and frequent disturbances in calcium-phosphate-PTH axis—factors that collectively predispose to metabolic bone disease. Early, integrated strategies—including vigilant iron management, routine endocrine assessment, vitamin D optimization, and targeted bone health monitoring—are essential to mitigate long-term skeletal morbidity in this population.

EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVE THERAPY ACCORDING TO WHO AND ACC/AHA GUIDELINES AMONG HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS ATTENDING OUTPATIENT CLINICS IN ADEN, YEMEN

2026-01-03T11:18:35+00:00

Hypertension remains a major global health challenge and is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite significant advances in pharmacological treatment, lifestyle-related factors such as physical inactivity, obesity, excessive dietary sodium intake, and tobacco or alcohol use continue to play a major role in the increasing burden of hypertension. Regular physical activity, including structured exercise programs, has been shown to improve vascular function and promote better blood pressure control. However, the optimal role and dose–response relationship of resistance training in the management of hypertension are not yet fully defined. Improved understanding of these relationships is essential for developing effective non-pharmacological interventions that complement pharmacological therapies. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between April and May 2025 among hypertensive outpatients attending randomly selected clinics in Aden, Yemen. A total of 422 patients were recruited using simple random sampling from clinic registration lists. Eligible participants were adults aged 18 years or older who had been receiving antihypertensive therapy for at least one year. Pregnant women and patients with irregular medication adherence were excluded. Data were collected using a structured, pretested, and validated Arabic questionnaire adapted from prior studies. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive analysis and chi-square tests were used for categorical variables, and a P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 422 hypertensive patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 57 years, and males constituted 53.8% of participants. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was high (35.8% and 32.9%, respectively). Cigarette smoking was reported by 25.2% of patients, while 40.1% reported qat chewing, and only 9.7% engaged in regular physical exercise. Diabetes mellitus (37.9%) and heart disease (27.7%) were the most common comorbidities, followed by dyslipidemia (23.5%) and chronic kidney disease (9.2%). Calcium channel blockers (34.1%) and diuretics (30.8%) were the most commonly prescribed antihypertensive drug classes, followed by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (each 24.4%). According to both WHO and ACC/AHA guidelines, no antihypertensive class demonstrated statistically significant superiority in achieving blood pressure control (P > 0.05). Blood pressure control among hypertensive outpatients in Aden, Yemen, remains suboptimal. Although calcium channel blockers and diuretics were the most frequently prescribed medications, no single antihypertensive drug class was superior in achieving optimal blood pressure control. Lifestyle-related risk factors, particularly smoking, physical inactivity, and excess body weight, were highly prevalent, and comorbid conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease further compounded the disease burden. These findings underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive lifestyle modification programs, smoking cessation interventions, and patient education into routine hypertension management strategies to improve clinical outcomes.

EFFECT OF CONSUMPTION PATTERN OF YEMENI DATES ON GLYCEMIC INDEX AND GLYCEMIC LOAD

2026-01-03T11:54:17+00:00

Date consumption is deeply rooted in Yemeni culture, yet its effect on glycemic response remains underexplored. This quasi-experimental study examined the impact of portion size and Basmala recitation on the Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) of Yemeni Sagai dates in 12 healthy adults. Participants consumed 2–6 dates, with or without Basmala, and postprandial glucose was measured at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. GI and GL were calculated using incremental area under the curve (iAUC) values with a 50 g glucose reference. Results revealed a non-linear relationship between portion size and GI, with smaller portions (2–3 dates) producing unexpectedly high or moderate GI values, while larger portions did not always increase glycemic response proportionally. GL analysis showed moderate values for 2–3 dates and high values for 4–6 dates, highlighting the importance of portion control. Consumption with Basmala significantly reduced GI (63.3 vs. 78.4) and GL (39.9 vs. 49.4) compared to no recitation (P < 0.05), suggesting that mindful or spiritual practices may influence glucose metabolism. These findings align with Islamic teachings advocating moderate, odd-numbered consumption of dates with Basmala and emphasize a holistic approach integrating cultural, spiritual, and nutritional guidance.

FIFTH-RECURRENT GBK-FINSLER GEOMETRY AND ITS ENGINEERING RELEVANCE TO GEOMETRIC CONTROL AND ROBOTIC MOTION STABILITY

2026-01-03T12:10:21+00:00

This paper investigates the geometric structure of generalized BK-fifth recurrent Finsler spaces and analyzes the behavior of the associated curvature tensors under higher-order Berwald covariant derivatives. Using the Kulkarni–Nomizu product, several recurrence conditions are established for curvature expressions involving the K-, R-, H-, W-, and P-tensors. The results show that, under the condition λ_m=1/2, the fifth-order Berwald derivative of these tensors coincides with the fourth-order derivative, indicating a strong form of high-order geometric invariance. From an engineering perspective, such invariance provides a rigorous mathematical foundation for Finsler-based modeling in geometric control and robotic motion planning, where stable curvature structures enhance robustness in nonlinear stabilization, trajectory tracking, and anisotropic path optimization.

TOXOPLASMA GONDII INFECTION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN MUKALLA CITY, HADHRAMOUT, YEMEN: FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SEROPREVALENCE

2026-01-03T12:26:05+00:00

Toxoplasmosis is one of the protozoan diseases caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) which infects a wide variety of hosts, including human population with cats being the definitive host. Congenital transmission can occur, which may result in fetal, neonatal death, or severe malformations. In this study, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of T. gondii infection among pregnant women in Mukalla city/Hadhramout, Yemen. We conducted cross-sectional and analytical study from March to June 2022 in Mukalla city, Hadhramout. Pregnant women aged 13 to 40 years old attending the gynecological and obstetric clinics were enrolled in the study. For each participant, socio-demographic, predisposing factors, and clinical data were collected through a questionnaire. Serological test (immunochromatographic assay) was performed for the detection and avidity determination antibodies of the latent toxoplasmosis (IgG) and active toxoplasmosis (IgM). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with seropositivity. Out of 104 participants, 46.2% were positive for specific anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies and 10.6% had IgM antibodies suggestive of recent primary infection. The participants aged 20 to 30 years showed the highest IgG and IgM seroprevalence. The univariate logistic regression analysis showed that eating raw foods (OR = 4.449, CI: 1.311-15.093, p = 0.017), being often in contact with cats (OR = 3.929, CI: 1.143-13.502, p = 0.030) and being often in contact with cat feces (OR = 2.858, CI: 0.967-8.449, p = 0.058) were significantly associated with seropositivity. Multivariate analysis confirmed that eating raw foods (Adjusted OR = 4.428, CI: 1.249-15.698, p = 0.021) was significant predictor factor of T. gondii seroprevalence among the studied participants. Our findings suggest that T. gondii is widespread in the local area, resulting in a high exposure risk of pregnant women. Occupational predisposing factors appear to play a significant role in the transmission of toxoplasmosis. To avoid the potentially serious consequences to the fetus, there is an urgent need for systematic screening during antenatal care and the gynecological clinics visits and awareness health campaigns.

RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SEROPREVALENCE OF TOXOPLASMA GONDII AMONG RENAL FAILURE PATIENTS

2026-01-03T12:46:45+00:00

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most prevalent zoonotic opportunistic parasitic infections in the world. The current study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and to identify the risk factors among renal failure patients undergoing hemodialysis in Artificial Kidney Center in Mukalla, Hadhramout/Yemen during a period from December 2021 to March 2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 95 hemodialysis patients 68(71.58%) were males and 27(28.42%) were females. Data regarding to associated variables were collected using a structured questionnaire, and the samples of serum were collected and investigated for T. gondii specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and M (IgM) by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay ELISA. Data was analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 24 and a P value<0.05 was taken statistically significant. The results revealed that 92(96.84%) patients had anti-Toxo IgG, 1(1.05%) patients had anti-Toxo IgM. Toxo IgG was detected in a higher rate in males than that in female 69.5% and 28(4%) respectively. there was significantly association of T. gondii infection when detected by IgG antibody test with hemodialysis number >3 (COR=22.250, CI 95%= 1.168-423.952, P=0.039), and with blood transfusion (COR=17.600, CI 95%=0.954-324.568, P=0.054). However, the gender, age groups, Marital status, education, occupation, residence, household size, water source, cat contact, cat feces contacting, eating raw meat, eating restaurant food, smoking, washing vegetables, duration of hemodialysis, transplantation, family history of T. gondii, surgery operation and history of disease were not significantly associated with seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG. The prevalence of T. gondii infection among HD patients in Mukalla city was high. Therefore, we recommend monitoring these patients for T. gondii infection to minimize the spreading of toxoplasmosis via treating the seropositive patients with the available commercial drugs.

HEPATORENAL FUNCTION AND GLUCOSE BALANCE AMONG BETA-THALASSEMIA PATIENTS IN MUKALLA CITY, YEMEN

2026-01-03T12:55:56+00:00

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder arising from defective synthesis of globin chains, leading to varying degrees of hemolytic anemia. This study aimed to assessing the certain alterations in kidney and liver functions, as well as glucose balance in beta- thalassemia patients. A cross-sectional study at the Sadan Foundation in Mukalla city, Hadhramout Governorate, during the period from December 2021 to March 2022. The study involving 55 participants (35 with beta-thalassemia patients and 20 healthy controls), aged 6 months to 23 years. Blood samples (5 ml) were drawn from volunteers, to measure liver and kidney functions as well as glucose level using the Cobas Integra 400 Plus analyzer, following the diagnostic kits and protocols provided by Roche. The obtained data were analyzed by the statistical program SPSS v24.0. The results indicated significant renal dysfunction, characterized by a significant increase in serum creatinine and uric acid levels, alongside a significant decrease in urea levels (P < 0.05). Regarding liver function, a significant elevation in liver enzymes [Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)] was observed. Furthermore, there was a non-significant increase in albumin levels and a non-significant decrease in total protein levels in patients compared to the control group. As well as, blood glucose level was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in patients group. Beta-thalassemia significantly impacts kidney and liver function, necessitating regular monitoring of these functions in patients.

OMEGA 3 FATTY ACID AND SIDER HONEY ATTENUATE SODIUM VALPROATE -INDUCED LIVER INJURY IN FEMALE ALBINO RATS

2026-01-03T13:02:42+00:00

Sodium valproate (SVP) is one of the most widely prescribed antiepileptic drugs; however, its clinical use is frequently limited by hepatotoxicity, which is primarily associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of Omega 3 (O3) and Sider honey (SH) against SVP-induced liver injury in female rats. Thirty female albino rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=6): group I (control) received distilled water; group II received SVP 300mg/kg/day; group III received SVP +O-3 (300mg/kg/day); group IV received SVP +SH (5g/kg/day); and group V received SVP + O-3+ SH. All treatments were administered orally for 14 consecutive days. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver function enzymes (ALT, AST, and ALP) were assessed. The results revealed that SVP administration significantly increased serum MDA levels compared to the control group (p ˂0.004). On other hand, group III, IV and V showed a significant reduction in serum MDA compared to SVP group. The liver enzymes (ALT, AST, and ALP) also were significantly increased by SVP (p < 0.001). Co-treatment with Omega-3, Sider honey, or their combination resulted in a significant reduction in liver enzyme levels compared to the SVP-treated group (p < 0.05). The combined treatment demonstrated the most pronounced hepatoprotective effect. Omega 3 and Sider honey effectively attenuated Sodium valproate-induced hepatotoxicity, possibly through the suppression of oxidative stress and improvement of liver enzymes. These findings suggest that Omega 3 and Sider honey may serve as hepatotoxicity protective agent, warranting further clinical research.