Volume & Issue: Volume 14, Issue 2, March and April 2026, Pages 146-250 
Number of Articles: 8

Evaluation of Pineapple (Ananas Coniosus) Crown for Nutritional and Medicinal Applications

Pages 146-159

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2064415.1624

Hawawu Alake Olorunoje, Julius Gbenga Omosebi, Ogobuchi Nwovu, Omotola Mary Afuwape

Abstract The pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Merr.) is a tropical fruit in the Bromeliaceous family, with a short stem and thin, stiff leaves that grow into medium- to large-sized fruit. The pineapple has special qualities, and only the fruits are eaten because of how sweet they are. The plant’s other components are frequently discarded, representing a substantial loss of potential value. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the proximate and phytochemicals of pineapple crown to ascertain their compositions utilizing conventional analytical procedures. Proximate analysis revealed that the pineapple crown is a rich source of carbohydrates (52.45%) and die-tary fiber (25.54%), alongside appreciable levels of protein (8.86%), ash (5.08%), and moder-ate fat content (4.63%), yielding an energy value of 286.91 kcal/100g. These findings show its suitability for nutritional applications, such as animal feed supplementation or as a functional food ingredient. The screening of phytochemicals showed that tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenoids were present while steroids, phenol and cardiac glycoside were absent. Quanti-tative analysis further elucidated significant concentrations of these compounds, with alkaloids at 6.23%, saponins at 4.68%, and flavonoids at 1.66%. The presence of these phytochemicals highlights the crown’s promising medicinal attributes, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The findings show that pineapple crown contains different levels of nutritional components. The presence of medicinally important bioactive constituents in the crown is a potential source of metabolites for pharmacological, functional dietary, and medici-nal uses.

Surface Functionalization and Plasma-Based Approaches in Microfluidic Models of Leukocyte Adhesion in Atherosclerosis

Pages 160-170

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2064200.1623

Shehla Inam, Muhammad Waqar, Sehrish Ikram

Abstract Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by endothelial dysfunction, with leukocyte adhesion primarily driven by interactions between P-selectin and PSGL-1, which play a crucial role. Capturing these rolling interactions under physiological shear stress is essential for understanding disease progression. However, traditional in vivo models and static assays often fail to replicate the dynamic blood flow conditions. Microfluidic platforms have become valuable tools, enabling real-time studies of leukocyte behaviour under precisely controlled flow environments. A major challenge remains achieving stable and functional protein immobilization on microchannel surfaces. This review thoroughly examines both covalent and non-covalent surface functionalization techniques designed to incorporate reactive chemistries that boost ligand retention, reduce detachment, and maintain biological activity. When combined with protein micropatterning, these methods allow spatial control over adhesion molecules, better mimicking the complex heterogeneity of endothelial surfaces. Despite their promise, current approaches still face issues with reproducibility, long-term stability, and application in complex biological systems, such as live-cell rolling assays or synthetic leukocyte models using nanoparticles. Nonetheless, plasma-assisted microfluidic platforms present an exciting, largely unexplored opportunity for high-fidelity modelling of cardiovascular inflammation and leukocyte–endothelial interactions.

Determinants and Interventions for Vaccine Hesitancy in Rural Communities: A Global Narrative Review of Socio-Cultural, Institutional, and Infrastructural Barriers

Pages 171-190

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2065686.1634

Micheal Abimbola Oladosu, Moses Adondua Abah, Shola David Omoseeye, Zakka Musa, Patra Chisom Ezeamii, Patrick Chimuanya Etus, Joseph Oteng, Oluwadamilola Zainab Yakub, Emmanuel Obia Ginika, Olaide Ayokunmi Oladosu

Abstract The objective of this study is to synthesize global evidence on vaccine hesitancy determinants in rural communities and evaluate intervention strategies for improving immunization coverage in underserved populations. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from January 2005 to December 2024. Search terms included "vaccine hesitancy," "rural immunization," "healthcare access," and related terms. Two independent reviewers screened 1,247 articles using predefined inclusion criteria. Studies focusing on rural or underserved communities, socio-political determinants of vaccine hesitancy, and intervention strategies were included. Thematic analysis was conducted using established vaccine hesitancy frameworks, with quality assessment performed using appropriate tools for different study designs. Rural vaccine coverage consistently lags behind urban areas globally, with disparities ranging from 18 to 25 percentage points. Five primary determinants emerged: psychological barriers (fear of adverse effects in 45% of hesitant individuals), religious and cultural beliefs (particularly influential in 23% of rural communities studied), institutional mistrust (affecting 35% of minority populations), socio-economic constraints (transport costs averaging $15-50 per vaccination visit), and misinformation exposure (reaching 67% of rural populations through social media). Evidence-based interventions showed varying effectiveness: community engagement programs (65% improvement in uptake), mobile vaccination services (40% coverage increase), and culturally tailored education (30% hesitancy reduction). Vaccine hesitancy in rural communities requires multi-level, culturally sensitive interventions addressing structural, informational, and trust-related barriers. Successful strategies integrate community leadership, improved access, transparent communication, and sustainable healthcare system reforms. Future research should prioritize randomized controlled trials of integrated intervention models and develop context-specific frameworks for diverse rural populations.

Investigating Genetic Diversity and Determining Inbreeding Rates Using Pedigree Information in Iranian Kurdish Horses

Pages 191-199

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2071531.1657

Reza Seyed Sharifi, Sajad Badbarin, Mohammad Heydari, Jamal Seifdavati, Nemat Hedayat-Evrigh, Abdolfattah Zeidan Mohammad Salem

Abstract The present study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity and determine inbreeding rates in Iranian Kurdish horses, a vital genetic reserve for the country’s equine population, utilizing pedigree information. There are over 60,000 horses in the country, of which over 20,000 horses have been counted in the fields of sports, jumping and beauty. Of these, about 4,000 horses have also been registered as Kurdish horses. For this comprehensive study, registered data for over 4,000 horses served as the basis for the analyses. The primary objective of this research was to accurately estimate key population parameters of the Kurdish horse. These parameters included genetic diversity, pedigree completeness, genetic conservation index, effective population size, effective number of founding animals, effective number of ancestors, generation interval, individual inbreeding coefficient, and average kinship coefficient. Investigating these factors represents a crucial step toward a deeper understanding of the genetic status and strategic planning for the conservation of this valuable breed. The generation interval was estimated at 7.94 years, representing the average age difference between parents and their offspring. Concurrently, average kinship was calculated to be 0.37%. The overall average inbreeding level across the study population was 0.11%, which suggests a relatively low incidence of inbreeding within this breed.Further analyses yielded an effective population size of 405.08, derived from methods tracking individual inbreeding increases and maximum generation depth. This indicates a healthy genetic diversity. The effective founder size was also examined at 150, pointing to a balanced reproductive contribution from the foundational animals. Complementing this, the effective founder number (fe) was 150, and the effective ancestor number (fa) was 136. The resulting fe/fa ratio of 1.10 further supports the notion of a low impact from past genetic bottlenecks. Given that diminished genetic diversity and increased homozygosity can negatively impact performance traits, it is vital to implement proactive strategies. By continuing to monitor genetic diversity and carefully managing parent-offspring pairings to avoid close relatives, this valuable breed can be safeguard from future declines in performance and preserve its unique genetic heritage.
 

Identification of Probiotic Strains from Adesmia Cancellata Microbiomes for Vitamin B6 Production: A New Approach to Developing Functional Foods

Pages 200-214

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2068455.1647

Ali Rahnama, Shamsozoha Abolmaali, Shakiba Darvish Alipour Astaneh

Abstract Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that produce specific metabolites and influence the host's health. Isolates from the intestinal microbiome of Adesmia cancellata were evaluated for probiotic properties. Then, quantitative and qualitative analyses of vitamins B2, B3, and B6 production in the cell-free supernatants (CFS) of probiotic strains from gut microbiota, local dairy products, and human breast milk were conducted using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), spectrophotometry, spectrofluorophotometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, the probiotic strains effects on eukaryotic cells were examined to assess toxicity against human alveolar basal epithelial adenocarcinoma cells (A549) and their ability to adhere. Among the eight strains, DDMiCC12c, DDMiCC2Bk, and DDMiCC2D showed notable probiotic function in gut microbiota. DDMiCC2Bk demonstrated the strongest biofilm formation and the highest co-aggregation against Salmonella typhimurium. DDMiCC12c was the most resistant to acidic and bile conditions and exhibited co-aggregation with Bacillus subtilis. DDMiCC2D showed the highest auto-aggregation and co-aggregation against Staphylococcus aureus. Spectrofluorophotometric analysis confirmed the production of vitamin B2 in CFS, ranging from 5 to 10 mg/ml, while vitamin B6 concentrations were 15 to 20 mg/ml. HPLC analysis revealed the highest production of vitamin B6 in DDMiCC2D. SUBCC57 was the producer of vitamins B2 and B3. The selected probiotic strains maintained high viability for A549 cells, with SUBCC57 showing the lowest adhesion and SUBCC2 showing the highest adhesion to A549 cells. Incorporating probiotics into food products is a promising strategy to enhance both health and innovation in the food industry.
 

Effects of Isoniazid on Expression and Acquisition of Tolerance to High-Dose Morphine-Induced Hyperlocomotion in Male Mice

Pages 215-226

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2070107.1651

Amir Abbas Barzegari, Maryam Azaddar, Kamran Shahabi

Abstract Isoniazid, a hydrazine derivative, can influence the GABAergic system, which plays an important role in modulating morphine tolerance. This study aimed to assess how isoniazid effects on both the expression and acquisition of tolerance to morphine-induced hyperlocomotion in mice. Nineteen groups of male mice (n=8 per group) were used. The locomotor activity of the animals was measured for a duration of 20 minutes using an actimeter after administration of morphine (1-30 mg/kg, s.c.) or isoniazid (25-75 mg/kg, i.p.). Tolerance was induced by administering morphine (30 mg/kg) twice daily for three consecutive days. The same dose on the fourth day served as a challenge to assess tolerance development. To investigate how isoniazid affects tolerance expression and acquisition, mice were divided into eight groups. Four groups received saline or isoniazid one hour before the final morphine dose (expression test). The remaining four groups were administered isoniazid prior to each morphine injection during the tolerance induction phase (acquisition test). Morphine produced two distinct effects on locomotor activity: at a low dose (1 mg/kg, s.c.) it reduced locomotion in mice (P<0.05), while at a high dose (30 mg/kg, s.c.) it increased locomotor activity (P<0.01). Isoniazid administration one hour before the test significantly increased locomotor activity. Isoniazid administration before morphine suppressed both the expression (P<0.01) and the acquisition (P<0.01) of morphine-induced hyperlocomotion. However, isoniazid’s effect on tolerance expression may be due to its ability to increase locomotor activity. Isoniazid could be a promising candidate for attenuating morphine tolerance development.

Effect of Vitamin E –Selenium Administered During Estrus Synchronization on Antioxidant Activity, Hormonal Profile, and Lamb Rearing of Moghani Ewes

Pages 227-238

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2071894.1664

Vahid Vahedi, Morteza Behroozlak, Nemat Hedayat

Abstract The study was conducted with 200 mature, non-lactating ewes aged 2–5 years and weighing about 70 kg, during the non-breeding season under natural photoperiod conditions. In the control group, only estrus synchronization was performed. The second group received two intramuscular injections (5 mL total) of E-Se (selenium as sodium selenite at 0.5 mg/mL and vitamin E as DL-α-tocopheryl at 50 IU) on the days of sponge insertion and sponge removal. Estrus synchronization involved placing intravaginal sponges for 14 days, followed by 400 IU eCG at sponge withdrawal. Two days after sponge withdrawal, ewes were mated with fertile rams. Three weeks after ram exposure, 20 ewes from each group were randomly selected for blood sampling. Hormone concentrations and antioxidant activity were measured. After parturition, reproductive traits were recorded for each group. The results showed that there was no significant effect of E-Se on the Lamb body weight at birth, body weight at 90 days, total weight gain and average daily gain. In E-Se treated group, number of lambs/ewe was significantly different (P < 0.05) compared with control. Progesterone concentration in E-Se groups was greater (P < 0.05) than the control. E-Se supplementation exerts a significant (p < 0.05) increasing effect on serum triiodothyronine (T3) concentration and the ratio of T3/T4. Total antioxidant capacity 3 weeks after ram exposure was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in E-Se than control. A significant (p < 0.05) increase in serum glutathione peroxidase concentration was observed in ewes supplemented with E-Se compared with the control group. Selenium concentration of serum was significantly higher in group receiving E-Se three weeks after mating (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in serum malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and hemoglobin concentrations between the E-Se and control groups. In summary, administering vitamin E-Se enhanced reproductive efficiency, antioxidant status, and serum progesterone levels in estrus-synchronized Moghani ewes during the non-breeding season.

Estimate Residual Feed Intake (RFI) in Iranian Dairy Cows Using Multitrait Stochastic Regression Framework

Pages 239-250

https://doi.org/10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2072349.1666

Fatemeh Ala Noshahr, Reza Seyed Sharifi, Jamal Seifdavati, Nemat Hedayat, Abdolfattah Zeidan Mohammad Salem

Abstract In the dairy industry, nutritional efficiency is typically assessed using the residual feed intake (RFI) method. The traditional application of this method relies on linear regression, which inherently overlooks how the components of RFI change over time, leading to potential inaccuracies in the findings. By employing a multitrait stochastic regression framework, the relationships were explored between milk production, live weight, intake of dry matter (DMI), and body condition score (BCS) throughout the lactation period. Furthermore, at each measurement point, an animal effect was estimated for intake through a matrix regression analysis based on the variance covariance matrix and the animal effects of the three predictor traits. By comparing this predicted effect with the actual intake effect, an estimate was derived for the RFI. The model was evaluated using historical data collected from the Iranian National Breeding Centre from 2008 to 2023, encompassing 1,852 lactations from 870 cows. The analysis revealed strong positive correlations between various animal effects, particularly for milk production and intake of dry matter (DMI), as well as between body weight and DMI. These correlations peaked around mid-lactation and remained stable over time, averaging around 0.4 for body weight and BCS. Additionally, the correlations for milk and weight, DMI and BCS, as well as milk and BCS, showed a gradual decline as lactation progressed. On the Legendre polynomial coefficient scale, the correlations were measured with high precision, indicated by an average standard error of 0.04, with minimum and maximum values of 0.02 and 0.05, respectively. The estimated animal effect for feed intake consistently demonstrated a strong correlation with milk production and, for most of the lactation period, also with body weight. However, the correlation with BCS was only moderate and turned negative during the latter half of lactation. The relationship between the average RFI throughout lactation and RFI at individual time points was consistently positive, exceeding 0.5, with peak correlations observed mid-lactation, exceeding 0.9. This suggests a robust and reliable model for understanding the dynamics of nutritional efficiency and its relationship with milk production and other physiological parameters in dairy cows.