Showing 108 results for Research Article: Research Article
Tejas Atulbhai Contractor , Himali Parsotambhai Thakkar, Anupama Ishwar Dayal, Sandesh Omprakash Agrawal , Hani Kamleshbhai Patel ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Upper gastrointestinal (GI) lesions are significant contributors to morbidity, with endoscopy serving as a crucial minimally invasive tool for their visualization and biopsy. This study explores the demographic patterns of upper GI lesions by age, sex, and biopsy site, comparing the prevalence of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions across the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, while underscoring the importance of early detection and management.
Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Gujarat, India, from July 2019 to October 2021. A total of 104 upper GIT biopsies were included and categorized based on age, sex, site, endoscopic findings, and histomorphology. Histopathological analysis involved routine processing, staining, and microscopic examination by a histopathologist.
Results: Out of the 104 endoscopic biopsies, the majority were from the 46-55 age group, followed by the 66-75 age group, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.7:1. Esophageal biopsies were the most common (48%). Non-neoplastic lesions (52.8%) were predominant, with duodenitis (48%) and celiac disease (33.3%) being the most frequent. Neoplastic lesions (47.1%) were prevalent in the esophagus (36.5%), primarily squamous cell carcinoma. Gastric biopsies showed more benign lesions, such as gastritis, than malignant ones, with adenocarcinoma being the most common. Endoscopic findings included thickening, scalloping, nodularity, polyps, and fragile growths, emphasizing the diversity of upper GIT lesions and the need for early detection and treatment.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the crucial role of biopsies in promptly diagnosing esophageal malignancies and identifying premalignant conditions like Barrett's esophagus for timely intervention. It reaffirms the pivotal role of endoscopic biopsy in clinical management, stressing the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach.
Sharabeh Hezarkhani , Khosro Ghojoghi , Sara Hosseinzadeh , Naser Behnampour , Farshid Fathabadi , Zahra Hesari , Hamid Reza Joshaghani ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Leptin and adiponectin, two members of the adipokine family, play roles in increasing lipid metabolism and inhibiting lipogenesis. Reduced levels of these cytokines are associated with obesity and insulin resistance. This study aimed to determine the serum levels of leptin and adiponectin in type-2 diabetic patients with and without metabolic syndrome compared to a control group.
Methods: Three groups of individuals participated in this study: 47 type-2 diabetic patients with metabolic syndrome (DM+MetS), 25 type-2 diabetic patients without metabolic syndrome (DM-MetS), and 40 individuals with no history of diabetes or metabolic syndrome (Control group). Fasting blood samples were collected, and serum levels of fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol were measured using the enzymatic method. Blood pressure, height, and weight were recorded using stadiometers, while leptin and adiponectin levels were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Results: A significant difference was observed between the DM+MetS group and the DM-MetS group in serum leptin (p = 0.004) and adiponectin (p < 0.001) levels. In patients with type-2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, serum leptin (p = 0.530) and adiponectin (p < 0.001) levels were lower compared to the control group.
Conclusion: A decrease in the serum levels of key adipokines, such as leptin and adiponectin, in type-2 diabetic patients may serve as a predictor of metabolic syndrome.
Elmira Shah Cheraghi, Mozhgan Ghiasian ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a common causative agent of hospital-acquired infections and exhibits resistance to many antibiotics, including beta-lactams. One of the mechanisms of resistance to beta-lactams is the MexAB-OprM efflux pump. This study investigated the genetic pattern of resistant P. aeruginosa strains concerning the presence of the gene encoding the MexAB-OprM efflux pump
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted between 2022 and 2023 in Isfahan, and 110 strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from various clinical samples were identified. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of the isolates was conducted using the disk diffusion method, and strains producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) were identified using the double disk diffusion method. The gene encoding the MexAB-OprM efflux pump in these strains was investigated using polymerase chain reaction.
Results: A significant proportion of the 101 P. aeruginosa isolates originated from the emergency department and ICU-2, highlighting the clinical significance of this pathogen in these settings. Meropenem demonstrated a high resistance rate (74%), while gentamicin exhibited lower resistance (33.33%). Resistance rates to amikacin, levofloxacin, cefepime, ceftazidime, tazocin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone were 40.4%, 68%, 65.34%, 66.33%, 57.42%, 71.42%, and 50%, respectively. The prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) was 29.7%, and the MexAB-OprM efflux pump gene was identified in 80% of ESBL-producing strains, suggesting a potential role in multidrug resistance.
Conclusion: Our findings reveal a strong association between the presence of the MexAB-OprM efflux pump and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production in P. aeruginosa. This observation suggests that the MexAB-OprM efflux pump plays a pivotal role in the development of multidrug resistance in this pathogen. Future studies should focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation and function of this efflux system to inform the design of novel antimicrobial agents and combination therapies.
Tahereh Panahi , Leila Asadpour , Najmeh Ranji ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Infections caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) are a serious concern in hospitals around the world. Many β-lactamase genes are carried by integrons. This study was conducted to investigate the frequency of β-lactamase genes and characterize class 1 integrons in multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa strains in Guilan, northern Iran.
Methods: A total of 110 P. aeruginosa isolates were collected from different hospitals in 2021 and identified using standard microbiological methods. The isolates were studied for their antibacterial susceptibility and ESBL-producing ability by disk diffusion. All ESBL-producing isolates were investigated for the presence of β-lactamase resistance and integron genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Gene cassette screening was done based on sequence analysis of class 1 integrons.
Results: Based on antibiotic susceptibility testing, 40 isolates (37.4%) were ESBL producers. The frequency of β-lactamase genes, including VIM, SIM, IMP, SPM, and OXA2, was 10.3%, 1.9%, 20.6%, 14%, and 4%, respectively. GIM and OXA 10 genes were not found in any of the strains. Furthermore, the int1 gene was identified among 37 isolates (34.6%). The sequencing results of int1 showed 12 different types of gene cassettes among 13 strains. In this assay, blaOXA-2 was the only bla gene identified in int1.
Conclusion: The integrons carrying multidrug resistance genes are highly prevalent in P. aeruginosa isolates, and ESBL genes were also observed in these strains. Therefore, constant monitoring of drug resistance, especially ESBL producers, is critical to disease management in clinical settings.
Zahra Askari, Zeynab Mirzapour, Tooba Shafighi, Reyhaneh Ghorbanpour,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) represent a significant global health concern. Virulence factors (VFs) expressed by UPEC strains play a crucial role in promoting bacterial pathogenicity within the urinary tract. Effective treatment of these infections is frequently complicated by the high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance exhibited by Escherichia coli. The objective of this study was to investigate the VFs and antibiotic susceptibility profiles of UPEC strains isolated in the northern region of Iran.
Methods: One hundred and five urine specimens were collected from female patients diagnosed with UTIs in Rasht, located in the north of Iran. These samples underwent culturing on both Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) agar and MacConkey agar. Following a 24-hour incubation period at 37°C, pure bacterial isolates were identified through Gram staining and a battery of standard biochemical assays. The prevalence of six VF genes - papC, sfa/foc, fimH, afa, ibeA, and neuC - within UPEC strains was determined utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently confirmed via direct sequencing. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was conducted using the disk diffusion method, adhering to the guidelines established by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI M02).
Results: The study identified 65.71% of the isolates as Escherichia coli. Among the virulence genes examined, fimH exhibited the highest prevalence (100%), while afa was the least frequent (1.44%). Antibiotic resistance analysis revealed the highest rate against Cefazolin (66.66%) and the lowest against Gentamicin (24.63%). Notably, the prevalence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) was determined to be 73.91%.
Conclusion: This study underscored the significance of localized surveillance of UPEC isolates. This emphasis stems from the pathogen's considerable capacity for genetic mutation, coupled with the influence of environmental variables and individual patient characteristics. Understanding these dynamic factors at a local level is crucial for formulating the most effective strategies to combat UTIs.
Supriya Gulajkar , Rajni Shivkar , Sanjyoti Panchbudhe , Charushila Kadam,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Quality control (QC) is a crucial tool in the clinical laboratory for error identification and correction. While the Internal Quality Control (IQC) ensures daily precision and accuracy, the External Quality Assurance Scheme (EQAS) ensures long-term accuracy by providing external verification. The objective of this study was to evaluate our laboratory’s performance in the EQAS program services and assess the impact of corrective actions implemented, where necessary, to enhance EQAS performance.
Methods: This retrospective observational study was undertaken in a tertiary care hospital. The biochemistry department of the laboratory participated in the monthly clinical chemistry EQA program administered by CMC Vellore EQAS. Nineteen parameters were assessed using a structured approach to analyze deviating EQAS results. Monthly performance was analyzed in terms of the Standard Deviation Index (SDI) and variance index score (VIS) from October 2019 to September 2021.
Results: Among the nineteen parameters assessed in the EQAS program, most showed ‘excellent’ performance between October 2019 and September 2021 based on mean SDI. Some improvement was observed in the SDI values between the two cycles after implementing a structured approach to root cause analysis, indicating an enhanced level of performance in the EQAS program. The VIS analysis revealed that 89.47% of parameters in the October 2019 to September 2020 period and 94.73% in the October 2020 to September 2021 period achieved scores classified as ‘very good’ performance.
Conclusion: Adopting a structured approach to analyze deviating EQAS results enables the evaluation of laboratory performance and offers opportunities for improvement. Consequently, EQAS plays a significant role as a cornerstone in the accreditation process.
Maryam Rezaeian, Laleh Hoveida,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Infections caused by bacteria transmitted from food, including carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), and Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii), are spreading, and this has caused concerns in treatment. This study investigated the frequency of carbapenem resistance genes in Enterobacteriaceae, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii, isolated from raw chicken meat.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 samples of raw chicken meat were collected from Isfahan. Bacterial contamination was evaluated and confirmed using biomedical tests. Antibiotic sensitivity tests were performed using disc diffusion for Enterobacteriaceae, P. aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. The frequency of carbapenem resistance genes (OXA-181, OXA-48, VIM, NDM, IMP, and KPC) was determined through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis.
Results: Out of 100 samples, 70 were positive for bacterial infection, of which 30 were infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli), 14 samples with Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), 9 samples with Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), 11 samples with P. aeruginosa, and 6 samples with A. baumannii. The highest levels of antibiotic resistance were estimated to be tetracycline, cotrimoxazole, gentamicin, trimethoprim, and streptomycin, and the lowest levels were azithromycin and rifampin. Among genes encoding resistance to carbapenem, NDM and OXA-48 genes were the most commonly expressed, with a frequency of 60% and 28.24%, respectively.
Conclusion: This study found significant bacterial contamination, especially for Enterobacteriaceae, with notable antibiotic resistance to tetracycline. Carbapenem resistance genes NDM and OXA-48 were prevalent, indicating the urgency of addressing antibiotic resistance.
Parineeta Shelke , Preeti Doshi , Amit Nisal , Abdulrahaman Momin , Ravindra Nimbargi ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hemoglobinopathies are a group of inherited disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin structure or synthesis, primarily classified into thalassemia syndromes and structural hemoglobin variants. Recognized as a global health priority, these disorders necessitate accurate diagnostic approaches. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has emerged as a reliable method for their detection. This study aimed to analyze the spectrum of hemoglobinopathies using HPLC in a population from Western Maharashtra, India.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth (DTU) Medical College, Pune, over three years. A total of 1,455 specimens from individuals of both genders were analyzed using the VARIANT™ II β-Thalassemia Short Program based on ion-exchange chromatography. Hematological parameters were assessed for all subjects, and the prevalence of hemoglobinopathies, along with their subtypes, was documented.
Results: The mean age of the study population was 26.91 ± 7.06 years, with a female predominance. The overall incidence of hemoglobinopathies was 8.78%, with β-thalassemia minor being the most prevalent, followed by β-thalassemia major, Hb S trait, and Hb S disease. Rare variants included two cases of Hb D Punjab heterozygosity and one case of Hb E heterozygosity. The Mentzer index exhibited a positive correlation with Hb F and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and a negative correlation with hemoglobin levels, Hb A, and red cell distribution width (RDW-C).
Conclusion: The study revealed an 8.78% prevalence of hemoglobinopathies in the region, with β-thalassemia trait (Heterozygous) being the most common. Notably, co-inheritance of Hb E with β-thalassemia exacerbated anemia severity. These findings underscore the importance of HPLC-based screening for early diagnosis and management of hemoglobinopathies in high-risk populations.
Moushmi Shinde, Bharati Dalal, Meera Modak,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Introduction:
Dermatophytes are group of fungi that cause superficial infections via enzymes that degrade keratin in human skin, hair and nails. Several factors, including, gender, age, lifestyle, human migration, cultural habits, and socioeconomic status influence the prevalence of dermatophyte infections. Hot and humid climate in tropical and subtropical countries like India makes Dermatophytosis a very common superficial fungal infection.
Aim/objective:
To isolate & identify dermatophytes from clinically diagnosed cases of Dermatophytosis.
Methods:
Samples from 100 clinically diagnosed cases of Dermatophytosis were processed by KOH mount and fungal culture.
Results:
Out of 100 clinically diagnosed cases, Tinea corporis 42 (42%) was the commonest clinical type followed by Tinea cruris 25 (25%), Tinea unguium 21 (21%). Out of 100 samples, 53 were culture positive. Out of 53 dermatophytes isolated, T. rubrum 16 (30%) was the commonest followed by T. mentagrophytes 11 (20%) and T. violaceum 7 (13.3%). Out of 53
isolates, 49 (92.45%) dermatophytes were isolated on SDA and 51 (96.22%) dermatophytes were isolated from Dermatophyte test medium (DTM).
Conclusion:
Isolation and identification of etiological agents of Dermatophytosis is essential for the correct diagnosis as it is important to initiate appropriate treatment and also important for epidemiological purposes. Accurate assessment of the prevalence and etiological agents is desirable to estimate the size of therapeutic problem and prevent the transmission of such infection.
Dr Pius Omoruyi Omosigho, Miss Guobadia Precious Oghogho, Ms Ugiagbe Victory Osayekewmen, Mr Olalekan John Okesanya, Dr Janet Mosunmola Oladejo, Dr Uyigue Paulinus Osarodion,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Candida species are known to be the most frequently encountered fungal pathogens in humans. There has been a noticeable rise in the occurrence of human infections caused by Candida over the past few decades. This cross-sectional study aimed to characterize the epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida species isolated from clinical specimens in a tertiary hospital in Benin, Edo state, Nigeria.
Methods: A total of 104 Candida isolates were obtained from various clinical specimens using a simple random sampling technique. The isolates were cultured on Chromagar Candida and identified based on characteristic color production. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method for Amphotericin B, ketoconazole, fluconazole, and Nystatin. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0.
Results: Candida albicans was the most prevalent species, accounting for 72.1% of isolates, followed by Candida krusei (17.3%), Candida tropicalis (7.7%), and Candida glabrata (2.9%). High vaginal swabs showed the highest frequency of Candida isolates (46.2%). Females exhibited a higher preponderance of candidiasis (81.3%) compared to males. Candida albicans showed significant resistance to Amphotericin B and fluconazole, while other species demonstrated mixed susceptibility patterns. The antifungal susceptibility testing indicated variations in resistance patterns among different Candida species.
Conclusion: The study revealed a predominance of Candida albicans in clinical specimens, with emerging cases of non-albicans species. Antifungal resistance to clinically available agents raised concerns, necessitating continuous surveillance and monitoring of susceptibility patterns. The results underscore the importance of developing targeted strategies to combat the
Roohollah I Mohammadi Mirzae, Hamid Malekshahi , Halimeh Vahdatpoor ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a metabolic and vascular disorder characterized by endothelial dysfunction. Physical activity, particularly intermittent exercise, may offer therapeutic benefits. This study examined the effects of six weeks of intermittent exercise on serum nitric oxide (NO), insulin resistance, and lipid profiles in male diabetic rats.
Methods: Sixty Wistar rats (8 weeks old, 200 ± 20 g) were divided into six groups (n=10): healthy control, sham, interval training, interval training + saline, diabetic control, and diabetic + interval training. Diabetes was induced via nicotinamide-streptozotocin injection. The exercise groups underwent treadmill training (5 sessions/week for 6 weeks). Post-intervention, glucose, insulin, NO, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol were measured.
Results: Diabetes induction significantly increased glucose and insulin resistance while reducing insulin and NO levels compared to controls (P < 0.001). After six weeks, the diabetic + exercise group showed significant reductions in glucose and insulin resistance (P < 0.001) and increased NO levels (P < 0.001) versus the diabetic group. Insulin levels did not differ significantly among the groups (P = 0.11). Lipid profiles (LDL, HDL, triglycerides, cholesterol) remained unchanged (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Six weeks of intermittent exercise improved glucose metabolism and vascular function in the diabetic rats by reducing insulin resistance and increasing NO levels, suggesting its potential as a non-pharmacological therapy for diabetes-related endothelial dysfunction.
Seyed Abdollah Hashemvarzi, Behrooz Mohammadnezhad,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Inflammation plays a major role in the development and progression of diabetes. Vitamin D deficiency and physical inactivity can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Combined therapeutic strategies are promising approaches for the treatment and prevention of diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of resistance training, vitamin D3 supplementation and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation on tumor necrosis factor-beta level in the cerebral cortex of diabetic rats.
Methods: Eighty male Wistar rats (weighing 290±19 g) were randomly divided in to 10 groups: healthy control, sham, diabetes, training, vitamin D, MSC, training+vitamin D, MSC+training, MSC+vitamin D and training+MSC+vitamin D. Training groups were subjected to a resistance training program on ladder. MSC groups received 1.5 × 106 MSCs and vitamin D supplementation groups received 1 microgram/kilogram vitamin D3 eight times. Cortical TNF-β level and fasting serum glucose levels were measured.
Results: After 6 weeks, the combination of resistance training with vitamin D3 supplementation and MSC transplantation (P=0.018) as well as the combination of resistance training with MSCs (P=0.024) significantly reduced diabetes-induced elevation of TNF-β level.
Conclusion: Resistance training with appropriate intensity, duration and recovery between exercise sessions, combined with MSC transplantation and vitamin D3 supplementation has profound anti-inflammatory effects on the cerebral cortex tissue of diabetic rats. This type of intervention, especially the transplantation of MSCs, may be a promising protective strategy against some complications of diabetes.
Jithu Jacob, Swapna C Senan, Ramani Bhai,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The global distribution of Klebsiella pneumoniae that produce carbapenemase has been gradually increasing.This present study aimed to investigate the molecular characterization of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from various clinical samples. Materials and Methods: In this study, 401 bacteria of Klebsiella isolates were isolated from various clinical samples according to standard protocol. The twelve carbapenem-resistant genes of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were detected using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for identifying Class A β-lactamases producers (KPC), Class B β-lactamases producers (NDM), and Class D β-lactamases producers (OXA-48) were done. It was noted that 10 isolates expressed KPC followed by one isolate expressed NDM and one isolate expressed OXA-48. Conclusion: In the present study conclude that CP-CRK is a major health problem in the coming years and hence it is necessary to take all adequate measures to identify the resistant strains. Continuous monitoring of these resistant mechanisms is required to establish the changes in the prevalence and sensitivity pattern of MDR Klebsiella isolates. Urgent infection control measures coupled with antibiotic stewardship and strengthening of the healthcare infrastructure are to be instituted in our setting to prevent the spread of these Carbapenem-resistant genes of Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC). Larger multicenter studies are required to thoroughly assess risk variables and historical trends in order to comprehend the dynamics of spread and efficient management strategies.
Dr Adedeji Atere, Ms Elizabeth Ehuine, Dr Yekeen Kosamat, Dr Ilesanmi Ige,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Menopause, characterized by the cessation of menstrual periods, often leads to bone diseases due to hormonal changes, particularly affecting calcium metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate bone-associated biomarkers and their correlation with parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in postmenopausal women, shedding light on potential osteoporosis risks.
Methods: Sixty postmenopausal (PMP) women, along with 20 premenopausal (PRM) and 20 reproductive-age (RWA) women as controls, were included in this cross-sectional study. Blood samples were analyzed for PTH, vitamin D, uric acid, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and estradiol levels.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher levels of ALP and phosphorus, and lower levels of calcium, PTH, vitamin D, uric acid and estradiol in PMP and PRM groups compared to RWA (p<0.05). Moreover, PTH exhibited a significant negative correlation with ALP, and phosphorus, but a positive correlation with calcium, vitamin D, and estradiol in PMP women. ALP demonstrated a superior area under the ROC curve (AUROC) compared to other bone markers.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the reduced bone marker levels in postmenopausal women, potentially increasing the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
Dr. Eliz Thomas, Dr. Nidhya Ganesan, Dr. Lawanya Gunaseelan, Dr. Subbarao Tadury,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Objective: To analyse the haematological parameters in pregnant women who are COVID-positive in a tertiary care hospital and to observe if there is an association between the findings and disease severity.
Methods: This was a retrospective study which included 64 COVID-positive pregnant patients who were admitted in our hospital, under obstetrics department, in the study period. The haematological parameters of these women during the third trimester were assessed and the outcome of the pregnancy was recorded.
Results: Among 64 COVID-positive pregnant women, 14 complained of the usual symptoms like fever, cough or headache. 1 complained of increased breathlessness. After haematological work-up, 46 (72%) patients were recorded to have anemia and 38 (59%) showed leukocytosis. Neutrophilia was seen in 34 patients. The platelet count was within normal limits for all. 49 of them underwent caesarean section for various reasons; most common reason being previous caesarean section. 62 deliveries were done at term. Only one of the babies delivered had anemia at birth. The 1 and 5 minutes APGAR scores recorded for all the babies were 7 to 9. 15 babies delivered underwent RT-PCR testing and were found to be negative.
Conclusion: The laboratory parameters most commonly seen amongst the COVID-19 pregnant women were anemia, leukocytosis and neutrophilia, which is comparable to the physiologic changes in pregnancy. There was no adverse outcome observed in any of the pregnancies and all the fetuses were normal. There was no incidence of vertical transmission of the virus amongst the tested neonates.
Raouf Moradian, Amir Haji Ghasem, Saleh Rahmati, Lida Moradi,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a highly prevalent and chronic liver disease, is characterized by a diverse range of conditions that span across a broad spectrum. Engaging in consistent physical activity has proven to be a successful method in effectively managing NAFLD, as it has demonstrated the ability to enhance crucial elements implicated in the development of the condition
Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: 1) NAFLD, 2) NAFLD + resistance training (RT), 3) NAFLD + RT + atorvastatin (ATO). The groups received high fat/fructose diet (HFFD) to induce NAFLD and it was confirmed through evaluation of histopathological analysis (H&E staining) and measurement of aminotransferase enzymes. ATO was administrated at the dose of 2 mg/kg/day. The interventions were done for eight weeks.
Results: Triglyceride (TG), Alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were significantly reduced in the NAFLD + RT + ATO. Also, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) had lower level in NAFLD + RT in compared to NAFLD + RT + ATO. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was reduced in both NAFLD + RT and NAFLD + RT + ATO groups compared to NAFLD. There was no significant difference in weight between the groups except first, second, and forth week.
Conclusion: RT in combination with the administration of ATO can be deemed as an efficacious and supplementary strategy for the purpose of effectively controlling and addressing NAFLD.
Zeinab Siahmargoie , Mohammad Taher Hojjati , Hadi Bazzazi , Khodaberdi Kalavi , Mana Zakeri , Hadi Joshaghani ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by the overactivity of erythroid progenitors, leading to excessive red blood cell (RBC) production. More than 90% of PV cases harbor a Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene mutation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of JAK2 mutations in individuals with elevated hemoglobin (Hb) levels referred to the laboratory by physicians.
Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, genomic DNA from 72 patients was analyzed for JAK2 mutations using a TaqMan-specific probe.
Results: Of the 72 patients, 24 (33.3%) were women and 48 (66.6%) were men. JAK2 mutations were detected in 33 cases (45.5%), while 39 (54.2%) were negative. Notably, 15 of 24 female patients (62.5%) tested positive for the JAK2 mutation, compared to 18 of 48 male patients (37.5%).
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that screening for JAK2 mutations is particularly important in women with above-normal Hb levels.
Dr Mazhar Khan, Dr Akash Sarkate, Dr Poonam Wade, Dr Sushama Mailk,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Objective: The aim of the work is to study the effect of phototherapy on serum calcium level in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia .
Methods: It was an observational study, conducted in the NICU of BYL & T.N. Medical college, Mumbai over a period of 12 months after obtaining permission from institutional ethics committee . This study was performed on 100 neonates (>34 weeks of gestational age) with hyperbilirubinemia managed with phototherapy. A sample of blood was sent to the laboratory for serum calcium level before initiating phototherapy and after completion of phototherapy. All the neonates were clinically assessed for clinical features of hypocalcemia . All the data were recorded in the preformed proforma. Data was analysed using SPSS version 27. P value <0.05 was taken as significant.
Results: The mean age of the neonates was 3±1.2 days .Mean gestational age at the time of birth was 37±1.2 weeks. Mean duration of jaundice was 2.8±1.10 days. The median serum calcium (mg/dL) level before phototherapy was 8.6 (8.49–8.61). After phototherapy, the median serum calcium (mg/dL) levels were reduced to 7.35 (7.33–7.50), which was significant (p<0.001). Hypocalcemia was defined as a serum calcium level of 8 mg/dL, and the incidence of hypocalcemia in the study population was 16%. 60% of new-borns with hypocalcemia experienced mild symptoms like jitteriness or irritability.
Conclusion: The Incidence of hypocalcemia is significant in the jaundiced neonates treated with phototherapy. One needs to be watchful in dealing neonates in NICU while serial monitoring for hypocalcemia and its complications.
Adedeji Okikiade, Chidinma Kanu, Oluwadamilare Iyapo, Ololade Omitogun,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Pregnancy-induced hypertension is a spectrum of multi-systemic dysfunction in pregnancy, usually seen in the third trimester in approximately 6–8% of pregnancies in the United States, according to the National High Blood Pressure Education Program (NHBPEP). The World Health Organization reported that this multisystem disorder accounts for 16% of maternal deaths in developed countries and 1.8%-16.7% in most developing countries.
The spectrum can progress from Preeclampsia to Eclampsia with short- and long-term complications that may impact significantly on the quality of life of both the fetus and the mother. Though the pathogenetic mechanisms remain unclear, evidence supporting the roles of genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors is rapidly evolving. Preeclampsia, an initial spectrum of the disorder, begins with abnormal placentation with failure of adaption, inflammatory changes, permanent vascular and metabolic damages, and increasing risk of cardiovascular, renal, endocrine, neurological, hematological, and socioeconomic complications. Regardless of the postulation, oxidative stress, placenta ischemia hypoxia with release of toxic substances, and endothelial dysfunction are essentially pivotal to multiple organ damage. American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends starting treatment for Preeclampsia when the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is above 105–110 mm Hg. This article describes the proposed pathophysiological mechanism associated with the spectrum of maternal complications in Pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Parisa Hasanein , Fahime Javadi Hedaiat Abad, Mousa Bohlooli , Mostafa Khajeh , Sedigheh Esmaielzadeh Bahabadi , Neda Poormolaei ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: DNA glycation, a process where Glc non-enzymatically binds to DNA, is implicated in various detrimental effects, including strand breaks, mutations, and altered gene expression. This damage is considered a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Consequently, there has been increasing interest in identifying antiglycation agents as a strategy for preventing and mitigating these complications. Prior research has indicated that extracts from Tamarix aphylla (T. aphylla) leaves possess antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the impact of T. aphylla extract on Glc-mediated DNA glycation.
Methods: DNA samples were incubated with Glc over a four-week period. Subsequently, the modulatory effects of T. aphylla on Glc-induced DNA structural alterations were investigated employing a range of analytical techniques. These methodologies encompassed ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results: The results obtained from UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that T. aphylla extract led to a reduction in the formation of DNA-advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Furthermore, CD spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis analyses indicated that the structural alterations of glycated DNA were diminished in the presence of T. aphylla extract.
Conclusion: Based on the evidence presented, T. aphylla demonstrates protective properties against DNA glycation. Consequently, pending further rigorous investigation, it may represent a potentially valuable therapeutic agent for mitigating the detrimental consequences of glycation, particularly in environments characterized by elevated Glc concentrations and hyperglycemic states.
