Showing 108 results for Research Article: Research Article
Sina Jalili Rasti, Sadegh Cheragh Birjandi, Mohammad Amin Younessi Heravi, Ali Yaghubi,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of four weeks of selected endurance training on neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and tropomyosin receptor kinase C (TrkC) gene expression in hippocampal areas of rats with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Methods: In this experimental study, the rats were separated into six equal groups. First, the animals were put under general anesthesia and had their SCI. Then, for four weeks, they were subjected to two kinds of endurance training programs. However, the control injury group received no intervention or training. Following the completion of the training regimes, molecular tests were done using the qRT-PCR technique to evaluate changes in the gene expression of NT-3 and TrkC from the animals' hippocampus.
Results: The expression of NT-3 and TrkC genes were significantly reduced in the SCI model compared to the healthy control group, but it was increased in the SCI + exercise 1 and SCI + exercise 2 groups compared to the SCI group. NT-3 levels did not vary significantly between the SCI + exercise 1 and SCI + exercise 2 groups, although alterations in TrkC levels altered.
Conclusion: In addition to enhancing locomotion in animals with SCI, the endurance training regimens in this research were effective on the expression of NT-3 and TrkC genes and may play a role in axonal development and neuronal survival in SCI recovery.
Samin Zamani, Sima Besharat, Nasser Behnampour, Armina Behnam, Negar Asgari, Nazanin Mortazavi,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a long-term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) caused by abnormal immune responses, leading to inflammation and scarring in the large intestine. The bacteria Prevotella melaninogenica, found in the intestine and mouth, may contribute to UC. This study focuses on the detection of P. melaninogenica in the saliva of UC patients and compares them with the healthy control (HC) group.
Methods: The present study was a case-control study including 40 UC patients and 40 healthy controls (HCs) with an average age of 43.0 3± 10.3. This study used a real-time PCR test to investigate the frequency and average number of P. melaninogenica from the 16S rRNA gene sequence of P. melaninogenica in both groups.
Results: P. melaninogenica was more frequent in UC patients (77.5%) than HCs (45%) (p = 0.003). The patient group had more bacteria (339.31 ± 1082.29) than HCs (61.29 ± 154.03) (p = 0.005). Women in the UC group had more P. melaninogenica (492.35 ± 1427.61) than the control group (56.98 ± 123.50) (p = 0.0342). Similarly, men in the UC group (262.85 ± 664.97) had more bacteria than the control group (72.62 ± 222.76) (p = 0.015).
Conclusion: The current study showed that dysbiosis in P. melaninogenica, a bacterium in human saliva, could be important in the development of UC. Further investigation is needed to evaluate its use as a potential biomarker in the UC.
Seyed Sadegh Baniaghil, Fardin Balochi , Alireza Ahmadi,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: The understanding of blood group phenotypes is currently limited to the ABO and Rh blood group systems. This study aimed to determine the frequency of Rh system antigens (D, C, c, E, e) and the phenotypes of the system in blood donors. Identifying the blood group phenotypes of donors in any population is important for improving healthcare services and better serving patients.
Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on 575 donors (Turkmen and Fars) in blood transfusion centers in Golestan Province, Iran. A cell suspension (3-5%) from each sample was prepared in normal saline and exposed to Rh system antisera using the haemagglutination technique. The Rh phenotype was then determined based on the most common genotype.
Results: For the Rh system, the antigen frequencies of D, C, c, E, and e were 87.76%, 73.6%, 72.1%, 30.83%, and 93.59%, respectively. The most common phenotypes among the Turkmen and Fars donors were R1R1, R1r, and rr, respectively, while the least common phenotypes were R2Rz and ryry. The phenotypes r'r' and ryry were not detected in the Turkmen donors, and the phenotype r''r' was not identified in the Fars donors.
Conclusion: Identifying the prevalence of blood group antigens in donors from each region is crucial for organizing negative antigen blood units, preparing compatible blood for multitransfused patients, and preventing the development of alloantibodies in these patients.
Toukam Michel, Voundi-Voundi Esther, Bole Bernard, Mviena Nyimbe Louise, Sahmo Simon Stevensen, Nogue Raissa, Kasia Jean Marie,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: Syphilis has serious consequences for human health and poses challenges for biological diagnosis. Techniques such as chemiluminescence are still poorly known in our context. Our objective was to compare chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays with immunoblot as a reference test for detecting anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies.
Methods: Anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies were detected in serum samples. Comparison of chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays was carried out with immunoblot as the reference test, based on sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and kappa statistic, using IBM-SPSS version 24 software. The significance level was set at 5%.
Results: A total of 600 participants were recruited, with a prevalence of syphilis infection of 3%. Sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 96.2% for chemiluminescence, and 93.8% and 100% for hemagglutination, respectively. Cohen's kappa statistic between the two tests showed satisfactory agreement (0.768). Cohen's kappa agreements between chemiluminescence/immunoblot and plate hemagglutination assay/immunoblot were greater than 0.8, indicating excellent agreement with the reference test (p<0.0001).
Conclusion: Chemiluminescence is more sensitive but less specific than hemagglutination. The use of chemiluminescence as a first-line test for the diagnosis of syphilis should be considered.
Reyhaneh Shafieian, Alireza Ebrahimzadeh-Bideskan, Esmail Ranjbar,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: The purpose of tissue processing is to strengthen the tissue and place it in a suitable environment for slicing without causing damage. In routine histopathology, decalcification of calcified tissues is a principal step before tissue processing. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of several decalcifying agents on morphological and antigenic preservation in canine mandibular tissue.
Methods: Four different decalcifying solutions, including 5% nitric acid (NA), 10% and 20% formic acid (FA), and 10% ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), were employed to remove mineral salts from specimens harvested from mandibular osseous tissues of four healthy Mongrel dogs (32 samples). The solutions were compared regarding the decalcification time, ease of tissue slicing, morphological organization after Alizarin red S staining, and osteocalcin antigenic preservation.
Results: Considering the short decalcification time and ease of sectioning, 5% NA) yielded better results than 10% and 20% FA and 10% EDTA (pH 7.4). In terms of the preservation of morphology and antigenicity of the tissue samples, 10% EDTA was found to be the most optimal solution, followed by 10% and 20% FA and 5% NA.
Conclusion: Our findings support EDTA as a highly preferred choice for the decalcification of canine osseous tissue when aiming for immunohistochemistry, despite its time-consuming nature. However, for general histological staining procedures, 20% FA and 5% NA are preferred.
Deep Rajendrabhai Kothari, Nilesh Dutt, Palak Prajapati, Pankaj Garg, Mamta Patel,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: The sputum smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is a diagnostic challenge for physicians. It has been shown that adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity increases in various body fluids of patients with tuberculosis (TB). A prospective clinical trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness of ADA activity in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in subjects who have sputum smear-negative PTB.
Methods: A total of 29 patients (M/F: 15/14), mean age (36.8 years), were enrolled in our study from October 2021 to August 2022 after providing written consent. The mean duration of symptoms was 41.66 days. Out of 29 patients, 21 patients had BAL ADA 4.81±1.68 unit??, for whom AKT treatment was started and cured, while four patients with BAL ADA 4.50±2.86 unit? did not improve, and four patients with BAL ADA 6.52±1.16 whose AKT treatment is ongoing at present but clinically improved. The sensitivity of BAL ADA with the outcome of 29 patients is 75%, while for BAL CBNAAT, it is 80%. When we apply a formula for combined sensitivity for the parallel test, then it comes to 95%, which indicates a great number of patients gets the benefit when we apply both tests simultaneously.
Results: We conclude that ADA activity was significantly increased in BAL.
Conclusion: BAL ADA is a useful and effective investigation for the diagnosis of PTB.
Deepa Devhare, Sae Pol,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) has become a growing concern in healthcare settings as a major cause of many nosocomial infections worldwide. Risk factors associated with VRE are important to study. High-risk patients need to be screened and isolated to prevent the spread of infection and colonization. The present study aims to investigate the clinical spectrum, risk factors, and source of transmission of VRE in infected and colonized patients.
Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out for 1 year. A total of 200 Enterococcus species isolated from clinical samples such as urine, pus, blood, sterile body fluids, and stool from 200 patients without infection were included in the study. Stool samples were screened to measure the prevalence of VRE colonization. All samples were screened for vancomycin resistance using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Vancomycin MIC was detected using the macrobroth dilution method. Demographic and clinical history of the patients were recorded.
Results: Vancomycin resistance was detected in 7 (3.5%) of 200 enterococci isolates from clinical samples. Urinary tract infection (n = 5, 71.4%) was the most common clinical illness caused by VRE. Gut colonization was found in 12 (6%) out of 200 patients screened for VRE. A history of previous antibiotic exposure was a significant risk factor in the current study and was associated with VRE infection and colonization. Endogenous bloodstream infection caused by VRE was found in one patient with VRE colonization.
Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the significant burden of VRE on patients, both those infected and colonized. The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria in healthcare settings, a consequence of inappropriate antibiotic use, is a serious concern that warrants further research and our continued attention.
Mahsa Shad, Ayeneh Hagieh Pangh, Farideh Tohidi,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: Soil contamination with parasites poses a significant and concerning risk for the transmission of parasitic infections to humans and animals. Considering the crucial role of soil as a potential source of parasite transmission, this study aimed to investigate the presence of helminth and protozoan parasites in the soil of public parks in Gorgan City.
Methods: In this study, a total of 80 soil samples were collected from 16 public parks in Gorgan City in 2022. The soil samples were collected from various areas within the parks, including flower-making, children's play areas, walking paths, sitting areas, and garbage dumps. To isolate the parasites from the soil samples, a saturated solution of sodium nitrate was utilized. The samples were carefully examined under a microscope, and all isolates were stained and subjected to further investigation using special acid-fast stain.
Results: Toxocara eggs were the most commonly detected parasite, present in 40% of the samples (n=32). Coccidia oocysts were found in 12.5% of the samples (n=10), which could potentially be Sarcocystis or Toxoplasma oocysts. Mites were also detected in 12.5% of the samples (n=10). Additionally, Cryptosporidium oocysts were identified using Ziehl-Neelsen's modified staining method, and they were found in 10% of the samples (n=8).
Conclusion: Health education plays a vital role in raising awareness about preventive measures. Collecting reservoirs of parasites (Such as dogs and cats) and planning for the proper disposal of human waste also play an important role in prevention of this disease.
Hadi Yarahmadi , Mehdi Mogharnasi , Roya Askari , Akram Arzani ,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of ten weeks of combined training on the gene expression of nuclear factor-κB and sirtuin 1 in fast and slow twitch muscles of aged male rats.
Methods: Sixteen rats, each 24 months old, were randomly divided into two groups: combined training and control (Eight rats per group). Combined exercises were performed four sessions per week, including two days of endurance and two days of resistance. The exercises took place in a container measuring 50x50x100 cm, filled with water maintained at 30±1°C. On the first day, the animals swam for five minutes in water at a height equal to 100% of their body length, without weights. On the second and third days, the rats swam for 10 minutes with the water height equal to 120% of their body length. On the fourth and fifth days, they swam for 15 minutes with the water height at 140% of their body length, which remained constant during the study period. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance with SPSS version 22 software, with the significance level at P≤0.05.
Results: After ten weeks of combined training, a significant difference was observed in the gene expression of nuclear factor-κB and sirtuin 1 between the training and control groups (P=0.001 for both).
Conclusion: According to the results of this research, performing combined exercises in water with appropriate intensity and duration can regulate inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways, thereby strengthening muscles and reducing muscle wasting and atrophy in the elderly.
Mohammadreza Sheikh Sajjadieh , Ali Ajami , Leila Haghshenas ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Immunofluorescence and serology analysis are the most common laboratory methods for diagnosing antinuclear antibodies in autoimmune diseases and are paramount for screening and therapeutic purposes. This study aims to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of antinuclear antibodies measured by automated indirect immunofluorescence and enzyme-linked immunoassay in patients at risk for autoimmune diseases.
Methods: Serum antinuclear antibodies in 3020 patients suspected of autoimmune diseases at Nobel Medical Laboratory, Esfahan, IRAN, were measured from 2017 until 2020 with automated indirect immunofluorescence and enzyme-linked immune assay methods. The sensitivity, specificity, prevalence, positive and negative predictive value, and likelihood ratio were calculated for each technique. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was analysed as a statistical method for assessing the diagnostic accuracy of these tests.
Results: The immunofluorescence method demonstrated low sensitivity and high specificity compared with the enzyme-linked immunoassay. For the automated indirect immunofluorescence method, sensitivity and specificity were 88% and 62%, respectively, whereas this number for the ELISA method was determined as 89.6% and 28.5 %, respectively.
Conclusion: It is crucial to choose a suitable method for detecting autoantibodies for diagnostic purposes. ANA analysis by a sensitive test, such as an enzyme-linked immunoassay, should be used for screening. In contrast, a highly specific test, such as an indirect immunofluorescence assay, should be used to confirm the result and monitor dynamic treatment.
Amir Shapoori , Habib Asgharpour , Parvin Farzanegi , Neda Aghaei Bahman Beglou ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: One of the causes of infertility is azoospermia. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of swimming exercise, cell therapy, and laser therapy on the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial dynamics in the testicular tissue of azoospermic rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 40 rats (6-8-weeks old) were randomly assigned to 8 groups: 1) Healthy control, 2) patient, 3) sham, 4) laser, 5) exercise, 6) cell, 7) cell + laser, and 8) cell + exercise. The azoospermia model was induced using busulfan at a dose of 40 mg. Stem cells were transplanted once into the vas deferens at a concentration of 1000000 cells per rat. One week after cell transplantation, laser therapy was applied in three repetitions throughout the study period, with an interval of once a week, and after wound healing, the rats swam for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for 8 weeks. To investigate the expression of the studied genes, tissue analysis was performed by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique.
Results: Azoospermia significantly reduced the expression of mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) and significantly increased the expression of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 (Murf1) in testicular tissue. The use of interventional methods increased the expression of Mfn2, and significantly reduced the expression of Murf1.
Conclusion: Based on the findings, the best changes were observed in the exercise + laser group. Therefore, it can be said that in rats using the azoospermia model, the simultaneous use of regular exercise interventions and laser therapy is the most effective.
Mahsa Aghaei , Leila Asadpour , Amir Arasteh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common agents of nosocomial infection worldwide. Methicillin-resistant and biofilm-associated infections of this bacterium have become a clinical concern in patients. This research aimed to identify biofilm-forming ability and accessory gene regulator (Agr) - specific group of clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in Northern Iran.
Methods: In 2021, a total of 200 clinical isolates were identified as S. aureus by biochemical tests. The disk diffusion method was used to examine the antibiotic resistance of isolates and the microplate method was applied to investigate the biofilm production capability. In addition, the PCR method was used to determine the frequency of biofilm-associated genes and Agr typing of MRSA isolates. P £ 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Overall, 62.5% of isolates were methicillin-resistant and 75% were multiple antibiotic-resistant. Biofilm-forming ability was detected in 99 (79.2%) methicillin-resistant isolates in which icaA and icaD were found in 85% and 78% of biofilm-producing isolates, respectively. Type 1 of the Agr gene was the most common type among methicillin-resistant isolates. The frequency of biofilm-associated genes showed a significant association with MDR phenotype and the presence of Agr locus (P £ 0.05).
Conclusion: The present findings indicate a high frequency of biofilm and antibacterial resistance in methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates in Guilan Province. These findings suggest reliable and rapid identification of biofilm-forming MRSA strains to prevent the spread of these bacteria.
Ebrahim Mohammed Abed Ahamid Ahmed, Babker Ahmed Mohamed , Bakri Yousf Mohamed Nour, Babiker Saad Almugadam ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Acute ischemic stroke occurs when blood clots obstruct blood vessels within the brain. Platelets (Plts) are integral to the pathophysiology of stroke. This research aimed to explore the relationship between Plt quality and Plt indices in the context of acute ischemic stroke.
Methods: This cross-sectional investigation involved 100 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke at Kosti Teaching Hospital and Alyammama Hospitals. The diagnosis was confirmed using brain CT imaging and electrocardiography (ECG). Blood samples were collected in EDTA-containing tubes within 24 hours following the commencement of treatment and were subsequently analyzed for Plt count, mean Plt volume (MPV), Plt distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT) utilizing a hematological analyzer. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software.
Results: Platelet counts negatively correlated with PDW [r=-0.074, P=0.459; R=-0.023, P=0.815], MPV [r=-0.130, P=0.194; R=-0.081, P=0.417], and diastolic blood pressure [r= -0.023, P=0.818; R= -0.024, P=0.805]; and positively correlated with PCT [r= 0.103, P=0.308; R=0.143, P=0.155] and diastolic blood pressure [r=0.022, P=0.823; R= 0.008, P=0.932]. Moreover, PDW positively correlated with systolic blood pressure [r=0.105, P=0.298; R= 0.147, P=0.148] and diastolic blood pressure [r=0.146, P=0.145; R=0.173, P=0.084]. Based on Spearman but not Pearson correlation, PDW showed a negative correlation with PCT [r=-0.005, P=0.959; R=0.010, P=0.929].
Conclusion: The study shows a correlation between Plt count and indices in ischemic stroke patients. The research also presented evidence concerning the relationship between diastolic and systolic blood pressure and Plt counts and indices.
Zaid Faris Hasan , Umut Safiye Şay Coşkun,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) has emerged as the predominant etiological agent responsible for bloodstream infections among hospitalized patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate antibiotic resistance in A. baumannii isolates identified from blood cultures.
Methods: A retrospective cohort evaluation was conducted on 117 A. baumannii isolates obtained from blood cultures collected between 2018 and 2019 at the Microbiology Laboratory of Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University Hospital (Türkiye). The blood culture samples were incubated using the BACT-ALERT 3D system (bioMérieux, Durham, NC, USA). Microorganism identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed using the VITEK 2 (bioMérieux, France) automated system.
Results: Of the 117 samples, 59.8% were obtained from males and 40.2% from females. A total of 90.6% of blood culture samples were collected from the intensive care unit, and 88.9% of isolates were identified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). The highest resistance was observed against meropenem (99.1%), while the lowest resistance was noted for colistin (17.1%) and tigecycline (27.3%). Resistance to amikacin was 74.4%, while resistance levels to gentamicin, tobramycin, cefoxitin, and cefotaxime were within the range of 80–90%. Resistance to imipenem, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ampicillin/sulbactam, ceftazidime, cefepime, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, meropenem, and ertapenem exceeded 90%.
Conclusion: The increasing number of MDR A. baumannii isolates poses a significant threat to all hospitalized patients. However, colistin and tigecycline remain preferable options for the treatment of MDR A. baumannii infections. Considering the increasing prevalence of MDR A. baumannii isolates, periodic analysis of epidemiological data in healthcare centers is important for managing resistance to colistin and tigecycline.
Sujata Lall , Vivek Bhat, Sanjay Biswas, Navin Khattry ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Tigecycline susceptibility testing and reporting remain enigmatic due to the lack of established guidelines. Disc diffusion, as a method of performing susceptibility testing, is more widely accepted worldwide due to its ease of use. Limited published literature is available from India on the utility of this method, especially in a cancer care setting. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the performance characteristics of disc diffusion by comparing its results with those of the VITEK-2 COMPACT, considering the latter as the standard.
Methods: Disc diffusion was performed using Kirby-Bauer’s method on Mueller-Hinton agar with a HiMedia 15 mcg TGC disc, following FDA and EUCAST breakpoints. According to CLSI criteria, disc diffusion breakpoints can be considered acceptable when categorical agreement is ≥ 90%, the very major error is ≤ 1.5%, and the major error is ≤ 3%.
Results: Using Cohen’s kappa coefficient, the kappa value was 0.328, with a p-value of <0.05. The agreement percentage observed was 60.84%. Two strains reported as resistant by VITEK-2 COMPACT were misclassified as sensitive by disc diffusion, resulting in a very major error rate of 0.76%. A major error rate of 9.5% and a minor error rate of 27.7% were noted, as 25 strains reported as susceptible were identified as resistant.
Conclusion: Since poor agreement was observed, exceeding the acceptable performance rate, the disc diffusion method was unacceptable according to CLSI criteria. There is a gap in uniformity and a lack of streamlined, harmonized TST, which might become an alarming cause for concern.
Sudhanshu Subrat , Manohar Lal Prasad , Kavya Varshney , Kanika Bansal , Mayank Mahajan, Anindya Chowdhury ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Stroke is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Various studies have examined the neuroprotective effects of magnesium and potassium ions through their effects on the glutamate receptor and the endothelium, achieved by lowering blood pressure and through their anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. The objective of our study was to determine the prognostic significance of serum magnesium and serum potassium levels in acute stroke.
Methods: An observational study was conducted at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, for 18 months on 150 adults in patients with acute stroke, enrolled within 72 hours after applying appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria. Correlations between the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge and the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at admission with serum levels of magnesium and potassium were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 27.0.
Results: Two groups were formed based on serum magnesium levels: <1.5 mg/dL and >1.5 mg/dL. Similarly, two groups were created based on serum potassium levels: <3.5 mEq/L and >3.5 mEq/L. A significant correlation was found, using Spearman’s coefficient test, between serum potassium and magnesium levels and the GCS score at admission, as well as the mRS score at discharge (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Lower concentrations of magnesium and potassium are associated with increased cerebral arterial contraction and greater neurological damage.
Mohammed Fabin, Jayakrishnan Jayakumar, Swathy Shanker,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder whose pathophysiology has been linked to various genetic and environmental factors. The main mechanism of the development of complications has been implicated as inflammation-mediated. Various blood cell parameters are being used as early indicators of inflammation-mediated endothelial dysfunction; thereby predicting the severity or prognosis of DM. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting glycemic control in patients with DM.
Methods: This is a retrospective, hospital-based study conducted from August 2023 to December 2023. A total of 134 patients were included in the study. The hematological and biochemical reports of the study population were retrieved, and the data obtained was analyzed using SPSS software version 16.0.
Results: In this study, it has been found that PLR is significantly increased in patients suffering from DM with poor glycemic control compared to those patients with good glycemic control (P<0.001). In concordance with other studies, a positive association was observed between PLR and disease severity.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study, PLR may be used as a predictive marker in assessing the severity and prognosis of DM; however, the exact cut-off value is yet to be determined.
Israa Elgaily, Abdelkarim A. Abdrabo,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Various analytes are used to assess glycemic control in laboratory medicine. Glucose measurements show current glucose levels, but sample stability can be influenced by diet and stress. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is the best marker for long-term control but can be affected by elevated urea levels. This study compared glycated albumin (GA) and HbA1c in diabetic patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample size of 280 volunteers. Among these, there were 115 diabetic patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), 95 diabetic patients without ESRD, and 75 non-diabetic patients with ESRD. Laboratory measurements included HbA1c, GA, urea, and creatinine, assessed using standard laboratory techniques. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS statistical software.
Results: Levels of HbA1c were lower in diabetic patients with ESRD compared to diabetic patients without ESRD. In contrast, GA levels were higher in diabetics with ESRD. A significant negative association was observed between HbA1c levels and urea levels. However, creatinine levels were not associated with either HbA1c or GA.
Conclusion: The estimation of glycated hemoglobin levels can be affected by high blood urea. Therefore, GA may be a better glycemic indicator for diabetic patients with ESRD.
Syed Majid Ali, Jalila Qayoom, Talat Masoodi, Azhar Shafi, Arshi Syed,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Post-operative wound infection has been a problem since surgery was started as a treatment modality and is the third most common cause of nosocomial infections with a reported incidence rate of 14-16%. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, isolate and identify aerobic pathogenic bacteria from surgical site infections (SSI) and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) pattern of pathogenic bacteria.
Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology SKIMS-Medical College, Bemina Srinagar, over a period of six months from November 2021 to April 2022. In the study, 210 samples from patients with SSI were included. Isolation, identification, and AST of the isolates were performed by standard microbiological techniques.
Results: Out of 210 SSI samples, 163 bacterial isolates were recovered and infection rate was more in 21-30 years age group (24.2%). Gram-negative bacteria were isolated in 50.4% (82/163) cases and E. coli was the most common organism (59.75%, 49/82). Gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to imipenem and none were resistant to polymyxin-B and colistin. E. coli was mostly resistant to cefoperazone, Acinetobacter and Klebsiella species were resistant to ceftazidime, Pseudomonas and Citrobacter were resistant to ceftriaxone. Gram-positive bacteria constituted 49.6% (81/163) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was a frequently isolated species (66.6%, 54/81). MRSA- and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) were mostly sensitive to amikacin, gentamycin, and tetracycline. Moreover, none of the Gram-positive isolates were resistant to linezolid, vancomycin, and teicoplanin. Enterococcus spp was mostly resistant to gentamycin.
Conclusion: This study developed an insight into post-operative wound infections and their incidence, organisms’ prevalence, and their antibiogram. Culture positivity in suspected cases of SSI was high (77.6%). MRSA and E. coli were frequently isolated from Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Afrooz Daneshparvar , Iman Jamhiri , Vahid Razban, Jafar Fallahi , Nasrin Hamidizadeh , Behnam Moghtaderi , Mehdi Dianatpour ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: A rare heterozygous DYRK1B mutation (R102C) recently linked to a familial form of metabolic syndrome prompted this study to introduce the R102C mutation into the mouse DYRK1B gene, utilizing recombinant lentiviruses for long-term gene expression.
Methods: In the present fundamental study, the DYRK1B R102C mutation was generated via Overlap Extension-PCR (OE-PCR) and inserted into the LeGO-iG2 transfer vector with a GFP marker. Recombinant lentiviruses were produced by co-transfection of the transfer vector carrying DYRK1B R102C, psPAX2 (Packaging vector), and pMD2 (Envelope vector) into HEK-293T cells.
Results: The accuracy of the intended mutation was confirmed through OE-PCR and sequencing. Expression of DYRK1B and successful gene transfer were visualized using a fluorescence microscope to detect the GFP marker. Lentiviral titer was quantified using flow cytometry, with an infection efficiency of 108 TU/ml in HEK-293T cells.
Conclusion: DYRK1B plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome, central obesity, early-onset coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and adipogenesis, suggesting its potential as a target for therapeutic interventions. Lentiviruses carrying the DYRK1B R102C mutation offer significant advantages for both in vitro and in vivo research on metabolic syndrome. This study showcases the successful application of recombinant lentiviral vectors for gene transfer into eukaryotic cells.
