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Zahra Eslamirad,
Volume 21, Issue 3 (6-2018)
Volume 21, Issue 3 (6-2018)
Abstract
| Toxocariasis is human infection caused by larval stage of Toxocara helminthes. The adult Toxocara helminthes live in intestine of dog and cat, but if the human accidentally ingests the egg, the larva is released into the intestine and then penetrating to mucosal capillaries and by blood stream migrates to various organs. Considering to the larva of parasite cannot be adult in human body and finally is destroyed, but its placement in the organs leads to irritation and inflammation of the tissue and appearance of signs and symptoms. The parasite affects liver, lung and central nervous system more than other organs. The most obvious symptoms of this disease are irregular fever, liver enlargement and sever eosinophilia. Other symptoms depend on the final location of the parasite, for example, respiratory symptoms (similar to asthma) will occur at the time of parasite settling in the lung and nervous disorder when the parasite is deployed in the nervous system (1). Sever clinical symptoms due to the disease is more common in 2 to 7 years old children, because of contacting with polluted playground soil or stray dog and cat, that the chance of them getting disease is increased (2). In developing countries including Iran, the diagnosis of the disease is done by collecting signs and symptoms, evaluating risk factor and laboratory results. Laboratory results which is considered on this disease containing eosinophilia, hypergammaglobulinemia and increasing of isohemagglutinin A and B. The serological test by ELISA technique was used for diagnosis of anti-parasite antibody in European countries and USA, the sensitivity and specificity of this test was 78 and 98%, respectively. There is no definitive guideline to the treatment of the disease but the most common treatment plan is 400 mg albendazole and 100 to 200 mg mebendazole, twice a day for 5 days (1). In recent years the number of dogs and cats in the human environment has been increased in our country and consequently the rate of soil contamination to eggs of Toxocara has been increased. The consequence of this phenomenon is an increasing chance of human contact the egg of this parasite and onset of toxocariasis. The studies in Iran is reported the rate of soil contamination to this parasite is minimum 3.9% (Urmia) to maximum 63.3% (Khoramabad), while the rate of contamination in soil of Arak parks is 26.6% (3-5). In addition, the results of serological study showed that the prevalence of toxocariasis in 5 to 15 years old asthmatic patients was 1.8%, in Arak (6). But the results of a review study showed that the prevalence of toxocariasis in general population of Iran was 15.8% and this rate is increasing (7). Changes in Ecosystem and abundance of garbage in Iranian cities have led to overabundance of dogs and cats in human environment. On the other hand, accepting some of cultural western lifestyle such as keeping pets, apart from their social and legal responsibility has been caused increasing risk of infectious disease transmitted by animals such as toxocariasis. Due to the relatively high prevalence of Toxocara infection among dogs and cats in Iran, the need to pay attention to the disease caused by this parasite is felt as a potential medical and health hazard in the country. In this condition, holding workshops for remembering of symptoms, diagnosis method, treatment and prevention of the disease for clinician associate with infected patients, would has an important role for quick diagnosis and remedy of the patients and would reduce the corporal and psychological load of them. Also, performing the research studies would help to know current epidemiological situation and changes that have taken place in various parts of Iran. In the other side, encouraging scholars for isolation, purification and examine excretory-secretory antigens of this parasite that used for producing the serological diagnostic kits could increase accuracy and reduce cost of diagnosis test of disease and finally improve the level of health in community. |
Ali Reza Morad Abadi, Mohammad Arjomandzadegan, Navid Emami, Manijeh Kahbazi, Azam Ahmadi, Saeed Falahat, Seyyed Hossein Hosseini, Mehdi Kargaran, Parisa Khosravi,
Volume 21, Issue 4 (8-2018)
Volume 21, Issue 4 (8-2018)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Ziehl Nelson staining, fluorescent and also culture are the standard methods for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. In this study, the performance of conventional cultivation methods was compared with Flash PCR.
Materials and Methods: A total of 56 sputum samples from patients with suspected tuberculosis in Tuberculosis Center of Arak city were collected and Ziehl–Neelsen and culture in Löwenstein–Jensen medium were accomplished. Moreover, DNA from all of the 56 sputum samples was extracted by Chelex100 method. Molecular evaluation was accomplished by Flash PCR kit containing probes and primers for gene amplification IS6110. Positive and negative controls together with samples were used in a MTC410 apparatus for amplification. FD-12 apparatus was used to evaluate the results. In addition, electrophoresis on agarose was used for confirmation of the results.
Findings: From 56 sputum samples of suspected TB patients, 20 samples were positive and 36 samples were negative on microscopic evaluation and culture methods. FLASH-PCR molecular analysis showed that all of 20 positive samples were positive in molecular methods, too. On the other hand, three of sputum samples that were negative by culture and staining were positive in FLASH-PCR method. One of these 3 patients, received Isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol antibiotic by responsible medicine. All results were confirmed using conventional electrophoresis.
Conclusion: In some negative samples, possibly because of the small number of bacteria in sample or a defect in the sampling, the Flash PCR may due good advantages. Therefore, due to the low cost, this method is recommended for routine use.
Materials and Methods: A total of 56 sputum samples from patients with suspected tuberculosis in Tuberculosis Center of Arak city were collected and Ziehl–Neelsen and culture in Löwenstein–Jensen medium were accomplished. Moreover, DNA from all of the 56 sputum samples was extracted by Chelex100 method. Molecular evaluation was accomplished by Flash PCR kit containing probes and primers for gene amplification IS6110. Positive and negative controls together with samples were used in a MTC410 apparatus for amplification. FD-12 apparatus was used to evaluate the results. In addition, electrophoresis on agarose was used for confirmation of the results.
Findings: From 56 sputum samples of suspected TB patients, 20 samples were positive and 36 samples were negative on microscopic evaluation and culture methods. FLASH-PCR molecular analysis showed that all of 20 positive samples were positive in molecular methods, too. On the other hand, three of sputum samples that were negative by culture and staining were positive in FLASH-PCR method. One of these 3 patients, received Isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol antibiotic by responsible medicine. All results were confirmed using conventional electrophoresis.
Conclusion: In some negative samples, possibly because of the small number of bacteria in sample or a defect in the sampling, the Flash PCR may due good advantages. Therefore, due to the low cost, this method is recommended for routine use.
Komeil Amini, Kamran Mansouri,
Volume 21, Issue 5 (10-2018)
Volume 21, Issue 5 (10-2018)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a prevalent, life-threatening disease and cause of cancer among women. Therefore, in recent years, developing novel anti-HPV agents is highly regarded. The study was planned to bioinformatic screening for E1 and E2 potential inhibitors of HPV serotypes including 16,18,31,33 and 45 types from medicinal plants.
Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive-analytic study. In the first step, three-dimension structure of phytochemicals were retrieved from PubChem database and then the cell cytotoxicity and mutagenesis potential of them were evaluated. In the next step, the amino acid sequences of two key proteins of mentioned types of HPV including E1 and E2 were obtained from Uniprot database. Furthermore, the conserved and variable regions of the protein sequences were predicted using multiple sequence alignment method. Finally, the three-dimension structure of mentioned proteins was determined by homology modeling method and potential interactions of the phytochemicals with the proteins were investigated using molecular docking method through Autodock 4.2.6 software.
Findings: The results demonstrated that ursolic acid has no cytotoxicity and mutagenesis potential with appropriate physicochemical properties. Results also showed that mentioned compound had strong interaction with both E1 and E2 of all studied serotypes. Furthermore, the evaluation of ursolic acid and E1 and E2 interactions showed that amino acid is involved in conserved regions of mentioned serotypes.
Conclusion: Based on the obtained results of present study ursolic acid could be good candidate for more in vitro and in vivo studies of its anti HPV activity.
Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive-analytic study. In the first step, three-dimension structure of phytochemicals were retrieved from PubChem database and then the cell cytotoxicity and mutagenesis potential of them were evaluated. In the next step, the amino acid sequences of two key proteins of mentioned types of HPV including E1 and E2 were obtained from Uniprot database. Furthermore, the conserved and variable regions of the protein sequences were predicted using multiple sequence alignment method. Finally, the three-dimension structure of mentioned proteins was determined by homology modeling method and potential interactions of the phytochemicals with the proteins were investigated using molecular docking method through Autodock 4.2.6 software.
Findings: The results demonstrated that ursolic acid has no cytotoxicity and mutagenesis potential with appropriate physicochemical properties. Results also showed that mentioned compound had strong interaction with both E1 and E2 of all studied serotypes. Furthermore, the evaluation of ursolic acid and E1 and E2 interactions showed that amino acid is involved in conserved regions of mentioned serotypes.
Conclusion: Based on the obtained results of present study ursolic acid could be good candidate for more in vitro and in vivo studies of its anti HPV activity.
Masoomeh Sofian,
Volume 21, Issue 5 (10-2018)
Volume 21, Issue 5 (10-2018)
Abstract
| Hepatitis C is one of the important causes of liver disease in the world. It seems that HCV will emerge as the leading cause of viral hepatitis-related advanced liver diseases and death in the near future. There are approximately 71 million chronically infected individuals worldwide, many of whom are unaware of their infection (1). It has been estimated that the prevalence of HCV in the Iranian general population is less than 0.5%. In Iran, the average prevalence of HCV is among thalassemia patients (16.6%), hemophilia patient (54%), individuals under dialysis (8.3%) and among injection drug users (51.4 percent). After screening of blood donors for HCV in Iran, the burden of HCV infection decreased significantly in hemophilia, thalassemia and patients on hemodialysis. Unfortunately, injecting illicit drugs still continues to be a major source of infection in Iran (2, 3). Iran has the lowest prevalence for HCV infection in the Middle East. Countries such as Pakistan and Azerbaijan with high prevalence of HCV infection are neighbors of Iran (2). The main populations at risk of HCV infection in Iran include intravenous drug users (IDUs) followed by people with tattoos, use of common razor, multi partner, homosexuality, receiving blood, and patients on hemodialysis (2). Clinical care for patients with hepatitis c infection has advanced considerably thanks to an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease and because of developments in diagnostic procedures and improvement in therapy and prevention, and HCV elimination has been considered by the World Health Organization till 2030 (2,3). Screening and treating patients is necessary to eradicate HCV, So, EIA test is used for initial screening and detecting antibody against hepatitis C. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) using serum, plasma, finger stick, whole blood or saliva as matrices can be used for initial screening. If anti-HCV antibodies are detected, the presence of HCV RNA or alternatively HCV core antigen in serum or plasma should be determined to identify patients with ongoing infection. Although the sensitivity of the core antigen assay is less than HCV RNA assay, but because of low cost and good sensitivity, it is a valuable test for HCV. The positive Anti HCV by EIA and negative PCR may be occurred by following reasons: 1-false positive 2-spontaneous viral clearance 3- treatment –induced viral clearance, 4- low levels of virus DNA in the Blood that is not determined by PCR. Following spontaneous or treatment –induced viral clearance, anti HCV antibodies may be persist lifelong. Thus, the follow of treated patient use of PCR or core Ag is necessary (1). HCV has a high rate of genetic heterogeneity (1-7 genotype), therefore, no vaccine to prevent this infection today. Genotype 1a and 3a are the most prevalent genotypes in Iran. HCV reinfection can occur after spontaneous or treatment induced viral clearance, essentially if patient at high risk of infection and re exposure (4). Strategies to promote diagnosis, screening, and treatment should be targeted to high-risk groups rather than the general population. Annual screening is recommended for Individuals with a history of injecting illicit drug. In the past, treatment of HCV was interferon and ribavirin for 24 to 48 weeks. This treatment regimen associated with low response to treatment, high drug complication and high drug cost. In 2011, protease inhibitors, the first generation of DAAs (Telaprevir and Boceprevir), were emerged as the third component of the standard of care. These drugs had a lot of complications such as drug-drug interactions, severe skin rashes/pruritus and anemia. In 2013, Sofosbuvir, a new DAA, was introduced for treatment of HCV infection. SOF-containing regimens had a shorter duration of therapy, with fewer side effects in comparison with protease inhibitor-based triple therapy (5). At present, in Iran, the basis of treatment is sofosbovir 400 milligram that combined with second drug daclatasvir (60 mg) or velpatasvir in pan genotype and or ledipasvir (90 mg) in genotype 1a. These drugs exist in separated or combination form with different brand names. In fact, the patient with hepatitis C in both treatment-naive and non-cirrhotic, taking a combination pill daily for 12 weeks associated with high treatment response. However, in cirrhotic patients or patients with previous treatment experience, treatment prolongs 24 weeks or ribavirin (1000 -1200 mg, 5-6 200mg tablets) is added to 12 weeks of treatment according patient weight. Accurate assessment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis is essential for predicting prognosis and for planning treatment duration and adding RBV to the standard therapy of patients with chronic HCV infection. So, percutaneous liver biopsy or elastography non-invasive methods have been considered as the gold standard for assessing hepatic fibrosis. If biopsy or elastography not available, platelet count, liver sonography and liver enzyme level is helpful for determination of liver fibrosis (6). In EASL Recommendations on Treatment of Hepatitis C 2018, other drugs of DAAs like pibrentasvir, glecaprevir, elbatasvir and grazoprevir are recommended. Also 8, 16 and 28 weeks of treatments are suggested in special cases and treatment without sofosbovir is mentioned (1). Determination of viral load by quantitative PCR and genotyping of HCV recommend before the treatment, if viral load and genotyping is not available, qualitative PCR without genotyping is sufficient for treatment with pan genotyping drugs (1, 5). New treatments are free-INF and these drugs have low cost and low adverse effect (5, 7). Todays, HCV is treated very simply by consuming only one pill daily for 12 weeks. Sustained viral response (SVR) that defined negative PCR 12-24 weeks after discontinuing treatment occurred in more than 90% of patients (1, 4). In patients with cirrhosis, despite SVR, sonography of liver and αFP level test for screening of liver malignancy is recommended every 6 months (1). It seems that the best strategy for HCV prevention in the community is increasing case finding and therapy with the ultimate goal of stopping the vicious cycle in the community. Todays, there is no vaccine for HCV prevention yet. The incidence of HCV infection should be reduced by providing safe blood transfusion and medical procedures in hospitals and out-patient clinics, increasing people awareness and public education regarding the risks of exposure such as unsafe tattooing and unsafe sexual contacts and finally implementation of harm reduction for IDUs (1, 5). |
Behnoush Sadat Khalili, Javad Hamedi, Setareh Haghighat,
Volume 21, Issue 7 (2-2019)
Volume 21, Issue 7 (2-2019)
Abstract
| Background and Aim: The widespread use of antibiotics has been led to increased emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria and high mortality and morbidity rates due to infectious diseases. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most important causes of nosocomial infections, which shows high resistance to a wide range of antibiotics. So, finding new and effective antimicrobial compounds in order to overcome antibiotic resistant infectious diseases is so critical. Screening of native actinobacteria can be an effective strategy to find novel antimicrobial compounds. The aim of current study was isolation, screening and identification of rare actinobacteria to find the strains which produce antimicrobial compounds against P. aeruginosa. Material and Methods: Thirty samples of water and sediments were collected from Persian Gulf and Oman Sea and used for isolation of actinobacterial strains. After isolation of actinobacteria, their metabolites were extracted and their anti-P. aeruginosa activities were investigated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the most efficient extract was determined using broth microdilution method. Finally, the most efficient strain was identified. Ethical Considerations: In this study, all principles of biosafety and bioethics have been considered. Findngs: Fifty actinobacteria were isolated from water and sediments. Five isolates had considerable antimicrobial activity. MIC value of the most efficient extract against P. aeruginosa was 100 µg/ml. Molecular analysis of 16SrRNA showed that the most effective fermentation broth extract belongs to Micromonospora and has 99.8% similarity to M. chalcea. Conclusion: The current study revealed that the water of southern Iran and their sediments are promising sources of potent rare Actinobacteria in the production of antimicrobial compounds against P. aeruginosa. |
Mahmoud Bahreloloum Tabatabai, Mohammad Mirjalili, Fatemeh Yazdiyan, Seyedhossein Hekmatimoghaddam,
Volume 22, Issue 1 (4-2019)
Volume 22, Issue 1 (4-2019)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the applied characteristics of wound covers containing nanoliposomic essential oil of ajwain, with suitable antimicrobial properties and lack of cytotoxicity.
Materials and Methods: Liposomal formulations of the ajwain essential oil containing DSPE-PEG, cholesterol, span60 and SPC80 were prepared using a thin layer method. The rooting and spray methods on a cellulose fabric were used to produce skin wound cover. In addition to in vitro intracellular penetration and measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration of the product, textile characteristics, antimicrobial activity and 96 hours release of the essence in the wound cover were studied.
Ethical Considerations: In this study, all principles of research ethics were considered.
Findings: The loading efficiency of the liposomal formulation was more than 85%. The small particle dispersion index (PDI = 0.02) in the form of the PEGylated formulation indicates optimal dispersion of the particles which reduces the buildup of the drug in the cutaneous application. The standard AATCC microbial test showed inhibitory effect of the wound cover on bacteria, especially E. coli. Textile tests indicated acceptable properties of the produced wound cover, too.
Conclusion: Altogether, this wound cover showed acceptable features in combating the two selected bacteria responsible for infectious skin ulcers.
Materials and Methods: Liposomal formulations of the ajwain essential oil containing DSPE-PEG, cholesterol, span60 and SPC80 were prepared using a thin layer method. The rooting and spray methods on a cellulose fabric were used to produce skin wound cover. In addition to in vitro intracellular penetration and measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration of the product, textile characteristics, antimicrobial activity and 96 hours release of the essence in the wound cover were studied.
Ethical Considerations: In this study, all principles of research ethics were considered.
Findings: The loading efficiency of the liposomal formulation was more than 85%. The small particle dispersion index (PDI = 0.02) in the form of the PEGylated formulation indicates optimal dispersion of the particles which reduces the buildup of the drug in the cutaneous application. The standard AATCC microbial test showed inhibitory effect of the wound cover on bacteria, especially E. coli. Textile tests indicated acceptable properties of the produced wound cover, too.
Conclusion: Altogether, this wound cover showed acceptable features in combating the two selected bacteria responsible for infectious skin ulcers.
Masoomeh Sofian, Elahe Eghbal, Ehsanollah Ghaznavi-Rad, Amitis Ramezani, Pegah Mohaghegh,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (9-2019)
Volume 22, Issue 4 (9-2019)
Abstract
Background and Aim Clostridium difficile is the main cause of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD) in the hospital setting. Today, the use of probiotics for the prevention and treatment of AAD and colitis is increasing. In this study, we investigated the effect of probiotic yogurt on the frequency of Clostridium difficile.
Methods and Materials In this randomized clinical trial study, 132 elderly patients admitted to the infectious ward of Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Arak, who were under antibiotic treatment, were randomly divided into two groups, case (yogurt probiotic, 200 mg/d for 8 days) and control group (common yogurt). All patients were trained about the signs of colitis. We evaluated the colitis signs and the presence of Clostridium difficile by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and compared them between the groups. The obtained data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests in SPSS V. 16.
Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: 10-165-93). Also, it was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Code: IRCT2016092229915N1).
Results Clostridium difficile was detected in 4 (6.1%) patients of the case, and 1 (1.5%) patient of the control group, at the beginning of the study. There was no significant difference between the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome between two groups at the end of the study (P>0.05).
Conclusion Probiotic yogurt has no significant effect in reducing the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome in our study.
Methods and Materials In this randomized clinical trial study, 132 elderly patients admitted to the infectious ward of Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Arak, who were under antibiotic treatment, were randomly divided into two groups, case (yogurt probiotic, 200 mg/d for 8 days) and control group (common yogurt). All patients were trained about the signs of colitis. We evaluated the colitis signs and the presence of Clostridium difficile by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and compared them between the groups. The obtained data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests in SPSS V. 16.
Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: 10-165-93). Also, it was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Code: IRCT2016092229915N1).
Results Clostridium difficile was detected in 4 (6.1%) patients of the case, and 1 (1.5%) patient of the control group, at the beginning of the study. There was no significant difference between the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome between two groups at the end of the study (P>0.05).
Conclusion Probiotic yogurt has no significant effect in reducing the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome in our study.
Fatemeh Amiri, Ghodrat Roshanaei, Meysam Olfati Far, Rasoul Najafi, Jalal Poorolajal,
Volume 24, Issue 2 (5-2021)
Volume 24, Issue 2 (5-2021)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), is a chronic and potentially life-threatening disease. Numerous factors affect its development and progression. Therefore, the present study attempted to identify characteristics impacting the prognosis and progression of AIDS using multistate models.
Methods & Materials: The present retrospective study consisted of 2185 patients affected with HIV referring to Behavioral Disease Counseling Centers in Tehran City, Iran, from 2004 to 2013. We considered multiple states of AIDS, tuberculosis, and tuberculosis/AIDS in the natural history of the disease (from the onset of HIV disease until death occurred). Then, we applied the multistate models, to examine the effect of contextual demographic and clinical variables on survival time; subsequently, the transition probabilities of HIV.
Ethical Considerations: This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Hamadan University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.UMSHA.REC.1396.117).
Results: HIV-Related deaths in individuals with an incarnation history were 2.40 times higher than in those without the prison history. Death risk was also 1.70 and 1.80 times higher in those aged 25-44 and 44 years, respectively, compared to the individuals aged less than 25 years. An inverse relationship was also found between CD4 levels and the risk of death in our participants.
Conclusion: Antiretroviral therapy, CD4 count, age, and history of imprisonment were the main factors in the progression of the disease and subsequent death in HIV patients. Thus, preventing the further spread of the disease to the community and controlling the disease in the patients requires targeted educational and therapeutic interventions; accordingly, the community will be familiarized with transmission routes and the preventing principle of disease. Furthermore, we can encourage patients to visit the healthcare centers early.
Farangis Ghanipour, Razieh Nazari, Seyed Soheil Aghaee, Parvane Jafari,
Volume 24, Issue 6 (1-2022)
Volume 24, Issue 6 (1-2022)
Abstract
Background: and Aim Acinetobacter baumannii causes various nosocomial infections and has a high antibiotic resistance. Probiotics can produce metabolites with antimicrobial properties. This study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial ability of probiotics against nosocomial pathogens by inhibiting the ompA gene expression effective in biofilm formation in Acinetobacter baumannii.
Methods & Materials: The antimicrobial properties of probiotics against nosocomial pathogens were evaluated phenotypically. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to identify the ompA gene in Acinetobacter baumannii. After treatment with Bacillus licheniformis supernatant, the ompA gene expression was compared before and after treatment with real-time PCR technique.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of Islamic Azad University, Qom branch (Code: IR.IAU.QOM.REC.1398.004).
Results: Among the study probiotics, Bacillus licheniformis supernatant had the best antimicrobial properties against nosocomial isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii A52, Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC19606, Kelebsiella pneumonia ATCC70063, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Bacillus licheniformis supernatant also significantly reduced the biofilm formation and ompA gene expression in Acinetobacter baumannii.
Conclusion: Bacillus licheniformis can produce substances with antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties. It can be used for controlling the causative agents of nosocomial infections.
Methods & Materials: The antimicrobial properties of probiotics against nosocomial pathogens were evaluated phenotypically. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to identify the ompA gene in Acinetobacter baumannii. After treatment with Bacillus licheniformis supernatant, the ompA gene expression was compared before and after treatment with real-time PCR technique.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of Islamic Azad University, Qom branch (Code: IR.IAU.QOM.REC.1398.004).
Results: Among the study probiotics, Bacillus licheniformis supernatant had the best antimicrobial properties against nosocomial isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii A52, Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC19606, Kelebsiella pneumonia ATCC70063, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Bacillus licheniformis supernatant also significantly reduced the biofilm formation and ompA gene expression in Acinetobacter baumannii.
Conclusion: Bacillus licheniformis can produce substances with antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties. It can be used for controlling the causative agents of nosocomial infections.
Nadia Fakhri, Naser Nazari, Tooran Nayeri,
Volume 25, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Volume 25, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim This study aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratory characteristics of hydatid cyst disease in patients admitted to Imam Reza, Imam Hossein, and Bisotoon hospitals in Kermanshah City, Iran, from 2014 to 2018.
Methods & Materials In this descriptive study, we studied and analyzed the medical records of 350 patients with hydatid cysts who were hospitalized and underwent surgical treatment in Kermanshah hospitals from 2014 to 2018. Also, the demographic characteristics of patients, including gender, age, occupation, place of residence, and affected organs, were extracted and recorded.
Ethical Considerations The Ethics Committee of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: IR.KUMS.REC.1398.366).
Results In total, 350 patients with a Mean±SD age of 43.2±19.7 in women and 43.3±20.7 in men were admitted with a diagnosis of hydatid cyst. The highest and lowest prevalence of hydatid cysts were in the age groups of 41-50 (16.5%) years and 1-10 (4.8%) years, respectively. The prevalence was 181 (51.7%) in women and 169 (48.2%) in men. The organs mostly infected with hydatid cysts were the liver, lung, and brain, with 241 cases (68.8%), 55 (15.7%), and 24 (6.8%), respectively.
Conclusion This study shows that hydatid cyst disease is an important disease, especially in rural areas of Kermanshah Province, Iran.
Gholamreza Shookohi, Naser Hatami, Omid Mojarad, Ahmad Abolghazi,
Volume 25, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Volume 25, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim Acanthamoeba is one of free-living amoebas, which are very abundant in nature. As a free-living amoeba, this parasite has a very high lethality, especially in people with underlying diseases, so researchers are always looking for a way to combat it. Drug plants are a good way to fight Acanthamoeba species. In this study, we aimed to investigate the lethal effect of the extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala alcoholic extract on Acanthamoeba.
Methods & Materials In this study using the extract from an extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala with concentrations of 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/ml to investigate the lethal effect of this extract. The plant was treated with Acanthamoeba amoebae after three times (24, 48, and 72) hours.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jahrom University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.JUMS.REC.1398.029).
Results The present research showed that using different concentrations at three times (24, 48, and 72) hours the effect of the extract on trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba was shown. The highest lethality is related to the concentration of 20 mg/ml using a combination of both extracts at the time 72 hours and the lowest lethality is related to the concentration of 1.25 mg/ml of Oliveria decumbens vent at the time 24 hours.
Conclusion Observations indicate that the alcoholic extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala had a perfect effect both separately and in a combination of both extracts. These two extracts had a synergistic effect on the lethal effect of Acanthamoeba amoeba.
Methods & Materials In this study using the extract from an extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala with concentrations of 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/ml to investigate the lethal effect of this extract. The plant was treated with Acanthamoeba amoebae after three times (24, 48, and 72) hours.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jahrom University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.JUMS.REC.1398.029).
Results The present research showed that using different concentrations at three times (24, 48, and 72) hours the effect of the extract on trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba was shown. The highest lethality is related to the concentration of 20 mg/ml using a combination of both extracts at the time 72 hours and the lowest lethality is related to the concentration of 1.25 mg/ml of Oliveria decumbens vent at the time 24 hours.
Conclusion Observations indicate that the alcoholic extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala had a perfect effect both separately and in a combination of both extracts. These two extracts had a synergistic effect on the lethal effect of Acanthamoeba amoeba.
Ahmad Sahabzamani, Dr. Maryam Sadrnia, Dr. Majid Akbari, Dr. Sasan Saki,
Volume 25, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Volume 25, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim The efflux pump in Pseudomonas aeruginosa inhibits the effect of ciprofloxacin by releasing quinolones out of the cell. It is important to find compounds to inactivate or inhibit its activity to continue using the antibiotics. The present study was done to investigate using sertraline as an efflux pump inhibitor in P. aeruginosa to reduce antibiotic resistance.
Methods & Materials P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from clinical sources and identified by routine microbiological methods. Resistance of the isolates to ciprofloxacin was evaluated by Kirby–Bauer test. Resistance breakdown was investigated by adding sertraline to the Moller Hinton agar medium and determining the zone of inhibition of ciprofloxacin. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by microplate dilution method and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) by culture and MTT method were done for the isolates and ATCC 27853. The presence of the efflux pump was evaluated by the phenotypic method using sertraline and serial dilution method of the liquid medium in a microplate, on ciprofloxacin-resistant strains. The presence of the producing gene of this pump was determined by the genotyping method in resistant strains by performing PCR. The standard PAO1 strain of P. aeruginosa was used as a positive control.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Islamic Azad University, Brojerd Branch (Code: IR.IAU.B.REC.1401.011).
Results Based on Kirby–Bauer test results, three strains were considered resistant to ciprofloxacin. MIC of drug-resistant strains was between 32 and 64 mg/ml and MBC was between 16 and 32 mg/ml. By performing electrophoresis on the PCR products, it was determined that the tested strains contained the mexA gene encoding the efflux pump. In the agar medium without sertraline, the zone of inhibition around the ciprofloxacin disc was zero, but after adding sertraline, the diameter of the halo increased to 25 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin in the isolates before adding 25 µg of sertraline was 128 µg/ml and after adding sertraline, it was 4 µg/ml.
Conclusion It was concluded that sertraline inhibited the efficiency of the efflux pump in resistant P. aeruginosa isolates and reduced ciprofloxacin resistance.
Methods & Materials P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from clinical sources and identified by routine microbiological methods. Resistance of the isolates to ciprofloxacin was evaluated by Kirby–Bauer test. Resistance breakdown was investigated by adding sertraline to the Moller Hinton agar medium and determining the zone of inhibition of ciprofloxacin. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by microplate dilution method and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) by culture and MTT method were done for the isolates and ATCC 27853. The presence of the efflux pump was evaluated by the phenotypic method using sertraline and serial dilution method of the liquid medium in a microplate, on ciprofloxacin-resistant strains. The presence of the producing gene of this pump was determined by the genotyping method in resistant strains by performing PCR. The standard PAO1 strain of P. aeruginosa was used as a positive control.
Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Islamic Azad University, Brojerd Branch (Code: IR.IAU.B.REC.1401.011).
Results Based on Kirby–Bauer test results, three strains were considered resistant to ciprofloxacin. MIC of drug-resistant strains was between 32 and 64 mg/ml and MBC was between 16 and 32 mg/ml. By performing electrophoresis on the PCR products, it was determined that the tested strains contained the mexA gene encoding the efflux pump. In the agar medium without sertraline, the zone of inhibition around the ciprofloxacin disc was zero, but after adding sertraline, the diameter of the halo increased to 25 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin in the isolates before adding 25 µg of sertraline was 128 µg/ml and after adding sertraline, it was 4 µg/ml.
Conclusion It was concluded that sertraline inhibited the efficiency of the efflux pump in resistant P. aeruginosa isolates and reduced ciprofloxacin resistance.
Ali Moradpoor Shamami, Dr Masumeh Anvari, Seyedeh Tooba Shafighi, Hadi Sedigh Ebrahim-Saraie,
Volume 25, Issue 5 (12-2022)
Volume 25, Issue 5 (12-2022)
Abstract
Introduction: Considering the importance of urinary tract infections caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) in the medical field, this study aimed to investigate serogroups O25 and O16 and the pattern of antibiotic resistance among UPEC isolates obtained from hospitalized patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) in Rasht hospitals.
Methods: A total of 110 urine samples were collected from patients with UTIs referred to selected hospitals in Rasht. The disk diffusion method, as recommended by the CLSI, was used to determine the pattern of antibiotic susceptibility. Serogroups O25 and O16 were detected using specific primers.
Results: Among the studied samples, 36.4% (40/110) were men and 63.6% (70/110) were women. Based on the antibiotic susceptibility pattern, a high level of antibiotic resistance was observed against nalidixic acid (81.8%) and co-trimoxazole (78.2%), while the most effective antibiotics were amikacin (85.5%) and nitrofurantoin (83.6%). In addition, multi-drug resistant phenotype was found in 72.7% (110/80) of UPEC isolates. According to PCR results, the frequency of serogroups O25 and O16 was 36.4% and 17.3%, respectively. Both serogroups had the highest resistance to nalidixic acid and co-trimoxazole, while the lowest resistance in serogroup O25 to nitrofurantoin (20%) and amikacin (14.3%) and in serogroup O16 to imipenem (5.3%) and nitrofurantoin (10.5%).
Conclusions: This study showed that the high prevalence of MDR strains among UPEC strains is very worrying and professionals should be very careful in prescribing antibiotics for patients. Like most studies, the frequency of serogroup O25 was high, and probably, this serogroup can play a role in causing urinary tract infections and antibiotic resistance of UPEC strains.
Behrooz Ghanbari, Mojtaba Hedayat Taghavi, Behamin Astani, Mahmoud Bakhtiari, Mohsen Yadegari, Yazdan Shafikhani,
Volume 26, Issue 0 (8-2023)
Volume 26, Issue 0 (8-2023)
Abstract
Abstract:
Background
CAP ( community acquired pneumonia ) is one of the most common infectious diseases that leads to hospitalization of patients. Also, the effects of vitamin D deficiency on the functioning of the immune system and its association with infectious diseases such as CAP have received much attention in recent years. Therefore, we decided to investigate the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and the incidence and severity of CAP pneumonia in this study.
Methods
In this case-control study, 75 patients with CAP and 75 healthy individuals were evaluated and serum levels of vitamin D in these two groups were measured and compared.
Results
The present study shows that for each unit increase in serum vitamin D level, the need for hospitalization in the ICU according to the IDSA criterion is reduced by seven percent and according to the CURB65 criterion, the need for hospitalization in the ward and ICU is reduced by fifteen percent. Vitamin D deficiency also increases the chance of developing community-acquired pneumonia by 3.08 times. And for every unit increase in vitamin D, the chance of developing community-acquired pneumonia decreases by 4 percent. And in people with vitamin D deficiency, the chance of being admitted to the ICU according to IDSA is 2.05 times and according to CURB65 is 2.84 times.
Conclusions
Overall, based on the results of this study, it is concluded that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased incidence as well as a greater severity of community acquired pneumonia.
Hosein Sarmadian, Nader Zarinfar, Masoud Bahrami, Mohammad Matin Arjmandzadegan, Dr Roham Sarmadian, Yasamin Zarinfar,
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: The Symptoms of Omicron are still unknown. Primary data show that the Omicron symptoms are mainly related to the respiratory system, including runny nose, sore throat, headache, fatigue, and sneezing. Based on the need for more evidence about Omicron symptoms, this study was conducted to investigate the symptoms of this COVID serotype.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed for 6 months in Arak city on 160 definitively diagnosed patients with Omicron. For all patients who entered the study, the information evaluation checklist, including demographics and symptoms (24 symptoms), was completed. Disease diagnosis was done by PCR.
Results: The disease of 55% of people was mild, 35% moderate, and 10% severe. Fifty-one people (31.9%) mentioned a history of previous infection with COVID-19. Pulmonary involvement, the type of drug used, and anxiety at the time of infection were related to the severity of the disease (P < 0.05). The five most common symptoms of Omicron (%) were sore throat (86.3), cough (82.5), weakness and lethargy (76.3), headache (72.5) and dry mouth (62.5). There was also a relationship between old age with dry mouth and headache, underlying disease with sneezing, anxiety during illness with joint pain and chest pain, and smoking with abdominal pain (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: The most common symptoms included sore throat, cough, weakness and lethargy, headache, and musculoskeletal pain. However, reduced smell and taste, night sweats, fever, and joint pain, common in the previous serotypes, were among the less frequent symptoms of Omicron.
Contact Information
Journal of Arak University Medical Sciences
Journal Office, Payambar Azam High Education Complex, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Basij Sq., Sardasht, Arak, Iran.
URL: http://jams.arakmu.ac.ir/
Email: amujournal@gmail.com, jams@arakmu.ac.ir
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