Search published articles
Elaha Rasouli Jokar, Saeid Shamlou Kazemi, Homa Naderifar,
Volume 17, Issue 2 (5-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 2 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: High blood pressure and increased lipid profile are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. To improve cardiovascular health, lifestyle changes should be considered as a guide to reduce people’s inactivity and modify healthy eating patterns. Spirulina is a green alga and has been considered as a food supplement for the treatment of various diseases. This study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of spirulina supplement and eight weeks of combined exercises on blood pressure and lipid profile in women with high blood pressure.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted as a clinical trial in 40 women with high blood pressure (50-60 years old). People were included in the study in 4 intervention and control groups. The data were collected during two stages of pre-test and post-test in terms of changes in blood pressure and lipid profile. The supplement intervention group consumed 4.2 grams of spirulina supplement daily and had an exercise intervention of 8 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance exercises. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 23), one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc test at level 0.05.
Results: The results of ANOVA showed that there was a significant difference between systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and VLDL, after the test, in the study groups (P-value<0.05). The highest mean±standard deviation (SD) of systolic blood pressure (141.90±9.85), and total cholesterol (213.30±28.93), after the test, was observed in combined exercise group and the mean± SD of VLDL after the test (34.60±6.46) was observed in the control group. Also, the results of Tukey’s post hoc test showed that there was a significant difference between the mean blood pressure in the control groups-spirulina supplement, control-combined exercises, spirulina supplement-spirulina supplement and combined exercises, and combined exercises-spirulina supplement and combined exercises. Also, there was a significant difference between the mean of total cholesterol and VLDL in combined exercises-spirulina supplement, combined exercises, and control-spirulina supplement groups, respectively (P<0.05).
Conclusion: It seems that the use of spirulina supplement and eight weeks of combined exercises may have beneficial effects on blood pressure and lipid profile in women with high blood pressure.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted as a clinical trial in 40 women with high blood pressure (50-60 years old). People were included in the study in 4 intervention and control groups. The data were collected during two stages of pre-test and post-test in terms of changes in blood pressure and lipid profile. The supplement intervention group consumed 4.2 grams of spirulina supplement daily and had an exercise intervention of 8 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance exercises. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 23), one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc test at level 0.05.
Results: The results of ANOVA showed that there was a significant difference between systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and VLDL, after the test, in the study groups (P-value<0.05). The highest mean±standard deviation (SD) of systolic blood pressure (141.90±9.85), and total cholesterol (213.30±28.93), after the test, was observed in combined exercise group and the mean± SD of VLDL after the test (34.60±6.46) was observed in the control group. Also, the results of Tukey’s post hoc test showed that there was a significant difference between the mean blood pressure in the control groups-spirulina supplement, control-combined exercises, spirulina supplement-spirulina supplement and combined exercises, and combined exercises-spirulina supplement and combined exercises. Also, there was a significant difference between the mean of total cholesterol and VLDL in combined exercises-spirulina supplement, combined exercises, and control-spirulina supplement groups, respectively (P<0.05).
Conclusion: It seems that the use of spirulina supplement and eight weeks of combined exercises may have beneficial effects on blood pressure and lipid profile in women with high blood pressure.
Zeynab Arbabi, Abdolali Banaiefar, Sajjad Arshadi, Hamid Tabatabaei,
Volume 17, Issue 2 (5-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 2 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Metabolic syndrome refers to a set of metabolic disorders related to obesity, such as abdominal obesity, increased body fat mass, lipid disorders, hypertension, increased blood glucose, and insulin resistance. The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of 8 weeks of CXWORX exercises combined with inulin consumption on some indicators of oxidative stress in obese women with metabolic syndrome.
Materials and Methods: Forty eight obese women with metabolic syndrome in the age range of 30 to 40 years were randomly divided into Control, inulin, CX exercise and combined groups were included. Subjects were present in the laboratory environment and 5 cc of blood was taken from their brachial vein. Blood sample was taken to measure malondialdehyde and xanthine oxidase (pre-test). Then the aforementioned interventions were performed on the studied groups for a period of 8 weeks. Finally, blood sampling was done again to measure the variables (post-test).
Results: The results of the correlated t-test revealed that in all three groups, the intervention led to a significant decrease in malondialdehyde compared to the pre-test; However, xanthine oxidase variable did not change significantly in the exercise group and significantly decreased in the inulin and combined groups compared to the pre-test. ANOVA results revealed that compared to the control group, the amount of malondialdehyde is significant only in the combined group (P≤0.05). The amount of this variable in the combined group decreased significantly compared to the exercise and inulin group (P≤0.05). No significant difference was observed between the exercise and inulin groups (P>0.05). Amount of xanthine oxidase, a significant difference had between the inulin and combination groups with the control group (P≤0.05). No significant difference was observed between the exercise and inulin groups (P>0.05). Despite this, a significant difference in xanthine oxidase levels was observed between the combined group with the exercise and inulin groups (P≤0.05).
Conclusion: Based on the available findings, it is concluded that the implementation of CX exercises combined with the use of inulin reduces the oxidative stress function more than the application of each of them alone in women with metabolic syndrome.
Materials and Methods: Forty eight obese women with metabolic syndrome in the age range of 30 to 40 years were randomly divided into Control, inulin, CX exercise and combined groups were included. Subjects were present in the laboratory environment and 5 cc of blood was taken from their brachial vein. Blood sample was taken to measure malondialdehyde and xanthine oxidase (pre-test). Then the aforementioned interventions were performed on the studied groups for a period of 8 weeks. Finally, blood sampling was done again to measure the variables (post-test).
Results: The results of the correlated t-test revealed that in all three groups, the intervention led to a significant decrease in malondialdehyde compared to the pre-test; However, xanthine oxidase variable did not change significantly in the exercise group and significantly decreased in the inulin and combined groups compared to the pre-test. ANOVA results revealed that compared to the control group, the amount of malondialdehyde is significant only in the combined group (P≤0.05). The amount of this variable in the combined group decreased significantly compared to the exercise and inulin group (P≤0.05). No significant difference was observed between the exercise and inulin groups (P>0.05). Amount of xanthine oxidase, a significant difference had between the inulin and combination groups with the control group (P≤0.05). No significant difference was observed between the exercise and inulin groups (P>0.05). Despite this, a significant difference in xanthine oxidase levels was observed between the combined group with the exercise and inulin groups (P≤0.05).
Conclusion: Based on the available findings, it is concluded that the implementation of CX exercises combined with the use of inulin reduces the oxidative stress function more than the application of each of them alone in women with metabolic syndrome.
Ali Mawla Gawwam Al Meyyah, Hamid Jaddoa Abbas, Reza Afrisham, Nahid Einollahi,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by an elevated blood glucose level, resulting from impairments in insulin action, insulin secretion, or both; which causes abnormalities in the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and lipids. Chronic hyperglycemia is associated with long-term damage, dysfunction, and failure of various organs. Adropin and irisin are newly described proteins that can be an essential component in the pathophysiological pathways of diabetes mellitus. The current study was designed to evaluate Irisin and Adropin biochemical markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and their correlation with risk factors.
Materials and Methods: A case control study, that included 90 patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus and 90 healthy individuals, who matched for both age and sex with patients. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, serum insulin, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG), irisin and adropin were measured at the chemistry laboratory of AL-Faihaa teaching Hospital by standard methods.
Results: Serum irisin (8.154±1.642 vs. 14.06±3.916 ng/ml) and adropin (25.39±8.897 vs. 59.43±8.768 pg/ml) levels were significantly lower in the patient group than in the control cases, respectively (P.value<0.0001). Serum adropin levels were significantly and positively correlated with age (r=0.236, P=0.025) and negatively with BMI (r=-0.209, P=0.048). While, serum irisin levels were significantly and negatively correlated with TG (r=-0.248, P=0.018). Based on ROC analysis, the AUC for irisin was 0.937 (95% CI: 0.906-0.969), which showed a sensitivity of 91.1% and a specificity of 80.0% at the cut-off of 9.715 (P<0.0001). In addition, the AUC for adropin was 0.991 (95% CI: 0.980-1.00), which showed a sensitivity of 100.0% and a specificity of 91.1% for this biomarker at a cut-off of 37.945 (P<0.0001).
Conclusion: Our findings showed that the serum levels of irisin and adropin were lower in the patient group than in the control group. Probably, the reduction of adropin and irisin may be used as a biomarker to predict the risk of T2DM, which requires more studies in this regard.
Erfan Amiri, Hossein Hooshyar, Hossein Nazemorraaya, Mohammadreza Shiee, Sima Rasti, Gholam Abbass Moosavi,
Volume 17, Issue 5 (12-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 5 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is one of the important food-borne parasitic pathogens that infect humans and a wide range of warm-blooded animals. Consumption of poultry meat, especially chicken, is a potential risk of transmission of toxoplasmosis to humans. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection in industrial broilers referred to the Kashan poultry abattoir, Iran, in 2023.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 114 brain and heart samples of industrial broilers were randomly collected from Kashan poultry abattoir. Two prepared direct smears from each sample were stained with Giemsa stain and examined microscopically for the presence of tissue cysts of T. gondii. The genomic DNA was extracted using a commercial kit. PCR method was used for detection of the B1 genome of T. gondii using specific primers. The PCR product was evaluated by electrophoresis on a 1.5% agarose gel. The results were analyzed with descriptive statistics using SPSS software.
Results: Of 114 chicken samples, 65 (57%) and 49 (43%), were male and female respectively. Totally, 12 samples (10.5%) were positive for T. gondii infection. T. gondii DNA fragments were detected in 8 (7.06%) of the samples. Microscopy examination revealed T.gondii in 6 (5.26%) samples. All infections were related to brain samples, and no infection was detected in heart muscle samples.
Conclusion: Infection with T. gondii is considerable in broilers in the Kashan region. Therefore, preventive measures such as training people to properly cook meat before consumption and avoiding eating raw or under‑cooked poultry meat products are recommended to prevent human infection to T. gondii. In order to stop life cycle of this parasite, avoiding using raw bird meat for feeding pets such as cats is recommended.
Seyedeh Nasim Mirbahari, Sina Salari, Shabnam Shahrokh, Mohammadreza Zali, Mehdi Totonchi,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Oncolytic viruses, as novel and advanced tools in the field of treating various types of cancer, have played a very important role in medical developments. The term “oncolytic” refers to the ability of these viruses to destroy and damage cancer cells while preserving the surrounding healthy cells.
Materials and Methods: To conduct this study, a total of 270 initial results were collected through searching in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2024. The primary researcher reviewed 68 relevant articles, extracted and summarized the contents, and finally compiled the findings.
Results: The findings from this review study demonstrate that cancer cells possess distinct characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells, including continuous growth signaling, resistance to anti-growth signaling, evasion of apoptosis, increased angiogenesis, and invasion into other body parts. Oncolytic viruses utilize these distinctive features to selectively target and infect cancer cells. Most oncolytic viruses directly eliminate host tumor cells, resulting in viral replication and induction of host antiviral responses. Moreover, these viruses can destroy cancer cells through the production of specific proteins. The cytotoxic potential of oncolytic viruses depends on viral type, genetic manipulation, optimal virus dosage for injection, natural and induced viral tropism, and cancer cell sensitivity to various forms of cell death. The mechanism driving the selective replication of oncolytic viruses in cancer cells likely relates to defects in signaling pathways specific to tumor cells. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in the treatment outcomes of various cancers, including head and neck cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and bladder cancer, through the use of H101 (Oncorine), T-Vec, ECHO-7, and Teserpaturev (Delytact) viruses.
Conclusion: Oncolytic viruses are constructed from various types of viruses and are currently being evaluated in laboratory, preclinical, and clinical stages. The use of these viruses for the treatment of cancer as a new and targeted approach has been proposed, which requires further investigation and achievement of more precise mechanisms for their better performance.
Materials and Methods: To conduct this study, a total of 270 initial results were collected through searching in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2024. The primary researcher reviewed 68 relevant articles, extracted and summarized the contents, and finally compiled the findings.
Results: The findings from this review study demonstrate that cancer cells possess distinct characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells, including continuous growth signaling, resistance to anti-growth signaling, evasion of apoptosis, increased angiogenesis, and invasion into other body parts. Oncolytic viruses utilize these distinctive features to selectively target and infect cancer cells. Most oncolytic viruses directly eliminate host tumor cells, resulting in viral replication and induction of host antiviral responses. Moreover, these viruses can destroy cancer cells through the production of specific proteins. The cytotoxic potential of oncolytic viruses depends on viral type, genetic manipulation, optimal virus dosage for injection, natural and induced viral tropism, and cancer cell sensitivity to various forms of cell death. The mechanism driving the selective replication of oncolytic viruses in cancer cells likely relates to defects in signaling pathways specific to tumor cells. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in the treatment outcomes of various cancers, including head and neck cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and bladder cancer, through the use of H101 (Oncorine), T-Vec, ECHO-7, and Teserpaturev (Delytact) viruses.
Conclusion: Oncolytic viruses are constructed from various types of viruses and are currently being evaluated in laboratory, preclinical, and clinical stages. The use of these viruses for the treatment of cancer as a new and targeted approach has been proposed, which requires further investigation and achievement of more precise mechanisms for their better performance.
Maliheh Javadi-Arjmand, Elia Damavandi, Hamid Choobineh, Majid Kabuli, Mohsen Ghadami,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Follicle stimulating glycoprotein hormone (FSH) exerts its functions through its receptor (FSHR). In women of reproductive age, this hormone causes the growth and development of follicles in the ovary during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. This hormone is widely used in the treatment of infertility. Several polymorphisms have been reported so far in the FSHR gene, which are effective in the ovarian response, but the FSHR gene has two very common single nucleotide polymorphisms at positions 680 and 307 in exon 10. One of them at position 307 changes the amino acid threonine to alanine and the other at position 680 changes asparagine to serine. The polymorphism at position 307 of exon 10 is in the extracellular region of the receptor and the binding site of the hormone, which can be affected in response to internal and external FSH stimulation. These two SNPs have been reported to be associated with various ovarian responses and IVF outcomes in different populations. Different studies have particularly focused on rs6166 (p. Asn680Ser), but this study was conducted to investigate the possible association between rs6166 and rs6165 (p. Thr307Ala) and the IVF outcome.
Materials and Methods: After blood sampling and DNA extraction, the two polymorphisms in exon 10 of FSHR gene were analyzed using PCR-RFLP method in 120 women randomly assigned to two equal groups including IVF successful and IVF unsuccessful infertile women. The selection of patients to enter the study as well as the criteria for successful IVF are described in the text. In order to confirm the results, DNA sequencing was done for some selected samples. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: No significant differences were found in either SNPs between successful IVF and unsuccessful IVF patients in allelic frequencies (P-value>0.05).
Conclusion: Despite the different results of the studies conducted regarding the effect of FSHR gene polymorphisms (rs6165 and rs6166) in different populations, considering the lack of significant difference in the frequency of the above polymorphisms in the studied population, it is concluded that these two polymorphisms cannot be used to predict the outcome of IVF in Iranian infertile women.
Materials and Methods: After blood sampling and DNA extraction, the two polymorphisms in exon 10 of FSHR gene were analyzed using PCR-RFLP method in 120 women randomly assigned to two equal groups including IVF successful and IVF unsuccessful infertile women. The selection of patients to enter the study as well as the criteria for successful IVF are described in the text. In order to confirm the results, DNA sequencing was done for some selected samples. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: No significant differences were found in either SNPs between successful IVF and unsuccessful IVF patients in allelic frequencies (P-value>0.05).
Conclusion: Despite the different results of the studies conducted regarding the effect of FSHR gene polymorphisms (rs6165 and rs6166) in different populations, considering the lack of significant difference in the frequency of the above polymorphisms in the studied population, it is concluded that these two polymorphisms cannot be used to predict the outcome of IVF in Iranian infertile women.
Maryam Poormehdi, Nooshin Khandandezfully, Kumarss Amini,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Thermophilic bacillus is a type of thermophilic bacillus, carries various genes and biosurfactants, microbial surfactants are surface active molecules produced by various microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi. Biosurfactants are able to reduce the surface energy between phases and create electrostatic barriers, thus preventing the integration of particles. The aim of the present study was the molecular isolation of the srf gene from thermophilic soil bacilli and its cloning in susceptible cells for industry use.
Materials and Methods: Fifteen samples from different regions of Kerman were collected and screened to isolate Bacillus strains. Morphological and biochemical studies were done to identify the strains. After biochemical examination of isolated microbial isolates and confirmation of Bacillus strains, DNA extraction was done. Then, the srf gene was identified by PCR method from these isolates. The amplified fragment was inserted into pTG19 vector by TA cloning method. Then, the recombinant vector was transformed into E.coli origami bacteria and cloning was confirmed using common methods. The housekeeping gene 16S rRNA was used as the internal control of the test. The analysis of the gene expression level was performed by measuring the relative expression of mRNA as compared to the negative control that E.coli bacteria lacked the srf gene.
Results: A total of 12 isolates of thermophilic bacilli were obtained from soil samples. As result, the PCR reaction for the srf gene with the designed primers was found to be positive in 1 isolate (8.3%). The presence of srf gene and the expression of this gene were checked by real time PCR test. Examining the white and blue colonies, M13 primer, junction location and determination of the 16S rRNA gene sequence confirmed the correctness of the cloning of the mentioned gene in the host bacteria.
Conclusion: As a result of the present study, it was possible to identify the native thermophilic bacillus carrying the srf gene, which can be used to obtain biosurfactant enzyme widely, conveniently and economically, for use in industrial and agricultural purposes, removing oil pollutants and reducing environmental surface tension, etc. which can be advantages.
Materials and Methods: Fifteen samples from different regions of Kerman were collected and screened to isolate Bacillus strains. Morphological and biochemical studies were done to identify the strains. After biochemical examination of isolated microbial isolates and confirmation of Bacillus strains, DNA extraction was done. Then, the srf gene was identified by PCR method from these isolates. The amplified fragment was inserted into pTG19 vector by TA cloning method. Then, the recombinant vector was transformed into E.coli origami bacteria and cloning was confirmed using common methods. The housekeeping gene 16S rRNA was used as the internal control of the test. The analysis of the gene expression level was performed by measuring the relative expression of mRNA as compared to the negative control that E.coli bacteria lacked the srf gene.
Results: A total of 12 isolates of thermophilic bacilli were obtained from soil samples. As result, the PCR reaction for the srf gene with the designed primers was found to be positive in 1 isolate (8.3%). The presence of srf gene and the expression of this gene were checked by real time PCR test. Examining the white and blue colonies, M13 primer, junction location and determination of the 16S rRNA gene sequence confirmed the correctness of the cloning of the mentioned gene in the host bacteria.
Conclusion: As a result of the present study, it was possible to identify the native thermophilic bacillus carrying the srf gene, which can be used to obtain biosurfactant enzyme widely, conveniently and economically, for use in industrial and agricultural purposes, removing oil pollutants and reducing environmental surface tension, etc. which can be advantages.
Saeed Pirmoradi,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: One of the ways to control high blood pressure is to deactivate the renin-angiotensinogen-aldosterone RAAS system. Renin, also known as angiotensinogenase,It is a type of enzyme that is produced in the afferent arterioles of the kidney by special cells called juxtaglomerular cells and secreted into the bloodstream and converts angiotensinogen protein into angiotensin type 1, which is very effective in causing high blood pressure. Inhibition of renin as the rate-limiting step of this cycle is an effective way to stop it, which plays a role in the treatment of some diseases related to the heart and blood vessels and blood pressure. The purpose of this study is to use new and different methods based on software to discover newer medicinal compounds with less side effects and cost and in a shorter time to discover based on a reference drug for the treatment and control of blood pressure disease.
Materials and Methods: By selecting the inhibitory reference compound of renin enzyme by bioinformatics tools such as PHARMIT, ZINCPHARMER during virtual search through the structural and pharmacophoretic properties of the reference inhibitory compound, a number of new ligands were obtained. Then the docking process was performed and the selected top ligands in terms of toxicity, allergy, toxicity and ADME prediction were examined with the help of tools such as molsoft, PKCSM, way2drug and swiss ADME.
Results: Among the four final top ligands obtained, one of the ligands had the most interaction with different residues and with a higher docking binding energy (vina score=-9.7) than the others, and then the other two ligands had a favorable binding energy.Among the effective interacting residues, Asp215, Asp32 and Leu114 were bound to renin enzyme in superior ligands, such as the reference compound.
Conclusion: In general, the selected inhibitory ligands showed a good ability to interact with residues involved in substrate selectivity and catalytic activity and inhibition of renin enzyme activity according to the analysis of bioinformatics tools and their confirmation requires clinical studies.
Materials and Methods: By selecting the inhibitory reference compound of renin enzyme by bioinformatics tools such as PHARMIT, ZINCPHARMER during virtual search through the structural and pharmacophoretic properties of the reference inhibitory compound, a number of new ligands were obtained. Then the docking process was performed and the selected top ligands in terms of toxicity, allergy, toxicity and ADME prediction were examined with the help of tools such as molsoft, PKCSM, way2drug and swiss ADME.
Results: Among the four final top ligands obtained, one of the ligands had the most interaction with different residues and with a higher docking binding energy (vina score=-9.7) than the others, and then the other two ligands had a favorable binding energy.Among the effective interacting residues, Asp215, Asp32 and Leu114 were bound to renin enzyme in superior ligands, such as the reference compound.
Conclusion: In general, the selected inhibitory ligands showed a good ability to interact with residues involved in substrate selectivity and catalytic activity and inhibition of renin enzyme activity according to the analysis of bioinformatics tools and their confirmation requires clinical studies.
Mona Konkuri, Yousef Erfani, Sharmin Kharrazi, Setareh Haghighat,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (2-2025)
Volume 18, Issue 6 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen that is often found in patients with cystic fibrosis, burn wounds, immunodeficiency, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. In addition, P. aeruginosa is also considered one of the most important pathogens causing hospital infections, widely found in medical devices (ventilation), because they tend to grow on moist surfaces. Considering the importance of cystic fibrosis treatment and the ability of P. aeruginosa to form biofilms, this study examines the effect of nano zinc oxide particle on the expression of genes associated in biofilm formation in isolated P. aeruginosa from cystic fibrosis patients.
Materials and Methods: Sputum and throat samples from 150 patients with cystic fibrosis were cultured on MacConkey agar culture medium. After an overnight incubation, the grown colonies were determined and confirmed by biochemical tests. An antibiotic sensitivity test by disk diffusion method (Kirby –bauer) were used to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Zinc nanoparticles were synthesized following established protocols and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The multi-antibiotic-resistant strains were inoculated with 16 µg/ml of 2 nm ZnO nanoparticles and inhibition zone were meseared. The impact of these nanoparticles on the expression levels of gas, retS, lasR, and rhlR genes was assessed using Real-Time PCR. The relative gene expression level was determined using the gene expression method: (ΔΔCt-2).
Results: Of the total 150 samples, 73 (48.66%) isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa. All P. aeruginosa isolates were resistant to selected antibiotics. SEM evaluation indicated that the synthesized nanoparticles had an average size of approximately 4 ± 0.44 nm. The results from the Real-Time PCR tests showed a decrease in the expression of the gacA, retS, lasR, and rhlR genes in the presence of the zinc nanoparticles in P. aeruginosa strains. The most significant reduction in gene expression was observed for the rhlR gene, whereas the least reduction was noted for the retS gene.
Conclusion: The use of nano zinc oxide can eliminate Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection by preventing biofilm formation and providing better treatment results for cystic fibrosis patients with lung infection.
Materials and Methods: Sputum and throat samples from 150 patients with cystic fibrosis were cultured on MacConkey agar culture medium. After an overnight incubation, the grown colonies were determined and confirmed by biochemical tests. An antibiotic sensitivity test by disk diffusion method (Kirby –bauer) were used to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Zinc nanoparticles were synthesized following established protocols and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The multi-antibiotic-resistant strains were inoculated with 16 µg/ml of 2 nm ZnO nanoparticles and inhibition zone were meseared. The impact of these nanoparticles on the expression levels of gas, retS, lasR, and rhlR genes was assessed using Real-Time PCR. The relative gene expression level was determined using the gene expression method: (ΔΔCt-2).
Results: Of the total 150 samples, 73 (48.66%) isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa. All P. aeruginosa isolates were resistant to selected antibiotics. SEM evaluation indicated that the synthesized nanoparticles had an average size of approximately 4 ± 0.44 nm. The results from the Real-Time PCR tests showed a decrease in the expression of the gacA, retS, lasR, and rhlR genes in the presence of the zinc nanoparticles in P. aeruginosa strains. The most significant reduction in gene expression was observed for the rhlR gene, whereas the least reduction was noted for the retS gene.
Conclusion: The use of nano zinc oxide can eliminate Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection by preventing biofilm formation and providing better treatment results for cystic fibrosis patients with lung infection.
Zhila Maghbooli, Solaleh Emamgholipour, Majid Ramezani, Mohammad Ali Sahraian,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD) is an uncommon disorder of the central nervous system mainly affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord. NMOSD is associated with IgG antibody binding to aquaporin-4 (AQP4) that triggers astrocyte and axon loss. Aquaporin 4 is also expressed skeletally and affects bioenergetic regulation pathways and calcium (Ca²⁺) translocations.
The aim of this study was the association between AQP4 and bone loss in NMOSD patients.
Material and Methods: In this study, 32 NMOSD patients were enrolled as the case group, and 37 age-matched individuals without a history of neurological disorders or other acute or chronic conditions served as the control group. Patients with NMOSD were diagnosed based on the criteria established by Wingerchuk et al. Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to assess bone mineral density (BMD) at three bone sites: the total hip, femoral neck, and spinal lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4). Bone status was defined based on the Z-score in these regions, with a Z-score less than -2 classified as severe bone loss.
Results: Among patients with NMOSD, 15.6% exhibited severe bone densitometry loss in at least one area (total hip, femoral neck, or spine), compared to 5.4% in the control group (P=0.01). Bone densitometry results showed that the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was significantly lower in individuals with NMOSD compared to the control group (P<0.05). In NMOSD patients, the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was considerably lower in aquaporin-4 positive patients compared to the control group (P<0.05). In the regression model, after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and history of vitamin D supplementation, patients with aquaporin-4 had lower bone mass (P=0.02).
Conclusion: The study results indicate that aquaporin-4 may play a mediating role in the bone status of patients with NMOSD.
The aim of this study was the association between AQP4 and bone loss in NMOSD patients.
Material and Methods: In this study, 32 NMOSD patients were enrolled as the case group, and 37 age-matched individuals without a history of neurological disorders or other acute or chronic conditions served as the control group. Patients with NMOSD were diagnosed based on the criteria established by Wingerchuk et al. Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to assess bone mineral density (BMD) at three bone sites: the total hip, femoral neck, and spinal lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4). Bone status was defined based on the Z-score in these regions, with a Z-score less than -2 classified as severe bone loss.
Results: Among patients with NMOSD, 15.6% exhibited severe bone densitometry loss in at least one area (total hip, femoral neck, or spine), compared to 5.4% in the control group (P=0.01). Bone densitometry results showed that the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was significantly lower in individuals with NMOSD compared to the control group (P<0.05). In NMOSD patients, the Z-score in the femoral neck and hip regions was considerably lower in aquaporin-4 positive patients compared to the control group (P<0.05). In the regression model, after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and history of vitamin D supplementation, patients with aquaporin-4 had lower bone mass (P=0.02).
Conclusion: The study results indicate that aquaporin-4 may play a mediating role in the bone status of patients with NMOSD.
Sam Torabinejad, Mohadeseh Ostovari Deilamani, Farhad Nikkhahi, Reza Bigverdi, Fatemeh Fardsanei,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a non-fermentative Gram-negative bacillus and the third most common cause of hospital-acquired infections. Treatment of infections caused by this bacterium has not always been successful due to its high potential for multiple resistance to a wide range of antibiotics and the formation of biofilms. Obviously, accurate and timely diagnosis of bacterial agents causing hospital-acquired infections and determination of the microbial susceptibility pattern of isolates can make a significant contribution to infection control in hospitals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the frequency of Stenotrophomonas in different clinical samples and to determine the biofilm production rate and microbial susceptibility of isolates.
Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, non-fermentative Gram-negative isolates suspected of being Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolated from different clinical samples from teaching hospitals in Qazvin province were collected and examined from April to March 2023. After phenotypic and molecular confirmation of the isolates using standard methods, the microbial susceptibility pattern of the isolates and the amount of biofilm production were examined using the microplate titer method.
Results: In this study, out of 50 isolates collected, the highest number of isolates were isolated from blood culture (33 isolates) and the lowest number of isolates were isolated from urine samples (1 isolate). Also, the highest frequency of samples was reported from the emergency department with 32 samples (63.8%) and the lowest frequency was reported from the ENT and oncology departments, each with 1 sample (0.8%). All isolates were 100% resistant to imipenem and meropenem due to the inherent resistance of this bacterium to carbapenems, which was a confirmation in the identification of this bacterium. The highest sensitivity to the antibiotics levofloxacin, minocycline and cotrimoxazole was observed with a frequency of 90%, 88% and 84%, respectively. The highest resistance to the antibiotic ceftazidime was observed, which was reported as 88%. In this study, 70% of the strains produced strong biofilms.
Conclusion: In this study, we saw an increase in hospital infections caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in clinical samples of Qazvin hospitals. Knowledge of the frequency of opportunistic pathogens causing hospital infections and the microbial sensitivity of isolates leads to control of infections caused by these pathogens, proper treatment of infections and reduction of mortality in hospitalized patients. Fortunately, in this study, the isolates had high sensitivity to fluoroquinolone family antibiotics and antimetabolites.
Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, non-fermentative Gram-negative isolates suspected of being Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolated from different clinical samples from teaching hospitals in Qazvin province were collected and examined from April to March 2023. After phenotypic and molecular confirmation of the isolates using standard methods, the microbial susceptibility pattern of the isolates and the amount of biofilm production were examined using the microplate titer method.
Results: In this study, out of 50 isolates collected, the highest number of isolates were isolated from blood culture (33 isolates) and the lowest number of isolates were isolated from urine samples (1 isolate). Also, the highest frequency of samples was reported from the emergency department with 32 samples (63.8%) and the lowest frequency was reported from the ENT and oncology departments, each with 1 sample (0.8%). All isolates were 100% resistant to imipenem and meropenem due to the inherent resistance of this bacterium to carbapenems, which was a confirmation in the identification of this bacterium. The highest sensitivity to the antibiotics levofloxacin, minocycline and cotrimoxazole was observed with a frequency of 90%, 88% and 84%, respectively. The highest resistance to the antibiotic ceftazidime was observed, which was reported as 88%. In this study, 70% of the strains produced strong biofilms.
Conclusion: In this study, we saw an increase in hospital infections caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in clinical samples of Qazvin hospitals. Knowledge of the frequency of opportunistic pathogens causing hospital infections and the microbial sensitivity of isolates leads to control of infections caused by these pathogens, proper treatment of infections and reduction of mortality in hospitalized patients. Fortunately, in this study, the isolates had high sensitivity to fluoroquinolone family antibiotics and antimetabolites.
Keivan Keramati, Sina Adib, Mahmood Ahmadi Hamedani, Leila Mohammadnejad Nasrabadi,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: BronchoT.D is an Iranian herbal drug manufactured for human consumption and has anti-cough and expectorant properties. Isoproterenol is a non selective agonist of beta-adrenergic receptors that although has been used as a drug in cases such as bradycardia, but based on the results of some studies, it has been determined that isoproterenol can also lead to tissue damage and hematological changes. The aim of this research was hematological evaluation of the interaction of BronchoT.D® with isoproterenol.
Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study. Eighteen male wistar rat were used in 3 experimental groups (each group 6 rats) including control, recipient of isoproterenol and normal saline and recipient of isoproterenol and BronchoT.D. There was no intervention in the control group. Isoproterenol was administered via twice injection and normal saline and BronchoT.D were administered five times orally. Finally, blood was collected from the rats and White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Hematocrit (Hct), Hemoglobin (Hgb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Platelets (Plt) were measured. Statistical analysis of data was performed through one-way analysis of variance using SPSS software.
Results: In terms of WBC, the difference between the experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group had a significant increase in terms of RBC, Hct, Hgb and Plt as compared to the control group. The difference between the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group was not significant in terms of RBC, Hct and Plt as compared to the control group. In terms of Hgb and MCHC, the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group had a significant increase as compared to the control group. In term of MCV, the difference between experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group did not differ significantly in comparison with the control group in term of MCHC.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that BronchoT.D not only prevents some hematological changes caused by isoproterenol, such as an increasing of RBC and plt, but can also increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood through a significant increase in Hgb and MCHC. BronchoT.D probably causes such effects by counteracting oxidative stress or by directly affecting the bone marrow, although additional researches are necessary to investigate such probablities.
Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study. Eighteen male wistar rat were used in 3 experimental groups (each group 6 rats) including control, recipient of isoproterenol and normal saline and recipient of isoproterenol and BronchoT.D. There was no intervention in the control group. Isoproterenol was administered via twice injection and normal saline and BronchoT.D were administered five times orally. Finally, blood was collected from the rats and White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Hematocrit (Hct), Hemoglobin (Hgb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Platelets (Plt) were measured. Statistical analysis of data was performed through one-way analysis of variance using SPSS software.
Results: In terms of WBC, the difference between the experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group had a significant increase in terms of RBC, Hct, Hgb and Plt as compared to the control group. The difference between the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group was not significant in terms of RBC, Hct and Plt as compared to the control group. In terms of Hgb and MCHC, the isoproterenol and BronchoT.D receiving group had a significant increase as compared to the control group. In term of MCV, the difference between experimental groups was not significant. The isoproterenol and normal saline receiving group did not differ significantly in comparison with the control group in term of MCHC.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that BronchoT.D not only prevents some hematological changes caused by isoproterenol, such as an increasing of RBC and plt, but can also increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood through a significant increase in Hgb and MCHC. BronchoT.D probably causes such effects by counteracting oxidative stress or by directly affecting the bone marrow, although additional researches are necessary to investigate such probablities.
Nabeel Taher Jameel Alghanim, Hamed Jadooa Abbas, Hamid Choobineh, Ziba Majidi, Nasrin Dashti,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: This study investigated the biochemical profiles of individuals with different stages of kidney disease, including those with kidney disease without hemodialysis, chronic kidney disease without hemodialysis, and individuals with renal failure undergoing hemodialysis treatment, to clarify the role of mineral markers, inflammation, and kidney function in the complications of this disease.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted with 180 participants aged 18 to 81 years in Iraq. Participants were divided into four groups: the case group (including individuals with kidney disease not on dialysis, chronic kidney disease not on dialysis, and kidney failure treated with dialysis) and the control group, which included healthy individuals. Blood levels of urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D3, parathyroid hormone (PTH), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and cystatin C were measured.
Results: The results showed that the levels of blood urea, calcium, vitamin D3, cystatin C and hs-CRP were significantly different between the different groups. The mean creatinine in the non-dialysis kidney disease group (3.98±1.77 mg/dL) and non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (4.59±1.63 mg/dL) was different from the dialysis kidney failure group (11.03±3.35 mg/dL) (P=0.001), but there was no significant difference between the two groups of kidney disease without dialysis and chronic kidney disease without dialysis. The phosphorus concentration was significant in all groups (P=0.001) and the highest value was observed in the dialysis kidney failure group. The PTH level was not significantly different between the two groups of non-dialysis, but there was a significant difference compared to the dialysis kidney failure group (P=0.001). Cystatin C was not significantly different in the two non-dialysis groups, but was significantly higher (P=0.001) compared with the renal failure group on dialysis (7.06±1.61 mg/dL).
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that regular monitoring of biochemical biomarkers is essential for the timely diagnosis and effective management of kidney disease. It also highlights the importance of paying attention to metabolic and inflammatory abnormalities in patients with kidney disease (especially in patients on dialysis), including extensive changes in biochemical, hormonal, and inflammatory factors levels that often occur due to severe impairment of kidney function and the dialysis process.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted with 180 participants aged 18 to 81 years in Iraq. Participants were divided into four groups: the case group (including individuals with kidney disease not on dialysis, chronic kidney disease not on dialysis, and kidney failure treated with dialysis) and the control group, which included healthy individuals. Blood levels of urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D3, parathyroid hormone (PTH), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and cystatin C were measured.
Results: The results showed that the levels of blood urea, calcium, vitamin D3, cystatin C and hs-CRP were significantly different between the different groups. The mean creatinine in the non-dialysis kidney disease group (3.98±1.77 mg/dL) and non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (4.59±1.63 mg/dL) was different from the dialysis kidney failure group (11.03±3.35 mg/dL) (P=0.001), but there was no significant difference between the two groups of kidney disease without dialysis and chronic kidney disease without dialysis. The phosphorus concentration was significant in all groups (P=0.001) and the highest value was observed in the dialysis kidney failure group. The PTH level was not significantly different between the two groups of non-dialysis, but there was a significant difference compared to the dialysis kidney failure group (P=0.001). Cystatin C was not significantly different in the two non-dialysis groups, but was significantly higher (P=0.001) compared with the renal failure group on dialysis (7.06±1.61 mg/dL).
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that regular monitoring of biochemical biomarkers is essential for the timely diagnosis and effective management of kidney disease. It also highlights the importance of paying attention to metabolic and inflammatory abnormalities in patients with kidney disease (especially in patients on dialysis), including extensive changes in biochemical, hormonal, and inflammatory factors levels that often occur due to severe impairment of kidney function and the dialysis process.
Abdolahad Nabiolahi, Nasser Keikha,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Point of Care Tests (POCTs) are a laboratory diagnostic system that can be performed at the patient care location and help diagnose diseases quickly. Due to the increase in population, the prevalence of contagious diseases, none access of society members to laboratories, the global need for the availability of modern diagnostic and health technologies at the place of patient care, the aim of research was to explore new aspects of the application of Point of Care Tests to patients as well as the process of developing these technologies in the field of healthcare.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Related Websites
Site Keywords
Health Information Management, Health Care Management, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Medical Library & Information Sciences, Radiation Biology (Radiobiology and Radiation Protection), Operating Room, Anesthesiology
Site Statistics- Registered users: 3343 users
- Online users: 0 users
- Guest users: 484 users
- All visits: 6277044 visits
- Visits in 24 Hours: 9485 visits
- Total articles: 3227 articles
- Published articles: 831 articles
© 2026 , Tehran University of Medical Sciences, CC BY-NC 4.0
Designed & Developed by: Yektaweb