Showing 50 results for Age
M Qureshi, M Zangiabadi, A Ebrahimzadeh,, M Rezaee Firoozabadi, M Rood Bari,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2007)
Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Airborne fungi have been proposed as the most common cause of some adverse health effects such as skin, eye and respiratory disorders therefore, we carried out an aerobiological study to determine fungal seasonal frequency in the air of Zahedan, Iran. Materials and Methods: The air samples (n=1080) of this descriptive cross sectional study were obtained, in different hours, from different urban places of zahedan in 2001, and studied via sabouraud dextrose agar(S.D.A). Results: 1917 colonies were found in the 1080 studied plates and indicated that the most Common fungi were aspergillus(41%), penicillium(33%) and rhizopus(6.8%), based on chi square, The fungal frequencies in the evening(39.3%), at noon(38.2%) and in the morning(22.5%) were not statistically different . Highly contaminated area was down town (Bazar) and then hospitals. There was significant correlation (p<0.001) between fungal frequency and the seasons- winter (15.9%) and summer (31.4%). Conclusion: Based on the results, we suggest strongly improving environmental hygienic condition of the buildings and passages and rapid waste material disposal. It seems that the most effective strategy in decreasing fungal disorder is performing some educational programs. Keywords: Fungal agents, air, Zahedan.
F Amirkhizi, F Siassi, Sm Ahmadi, M Jalali, S Institute, A Rahimi,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (4-2008)
Abstract
Abstract Background and Objectives: Women of reproductive age are at risk of Iron deficiency. Some Studies reported That There is a relationship between Body indices and iron. Iron overload is also harmful. It enhances the risk of cardiovascular disease which is due to increased Lipid peroxidation. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between obesity and iron status in women of reproductive age. Material and Methods: In this case-control study, the relationship between iron status and obesity in women of reproductive age was studied in 35 obese (BMIِ≥30kg/m²) and 35 non-obese (BMI=19-25kg/m²) women matched by age. Demographic data was gathered by a questionnaire. Body weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated for each subject. After taking Venous blood samples and separating plasma, we investigated iron status by measuring hemoglobin, hematocrit, and plasma iron and ferritin concentrations. Results: Although no difference is observed in plasma iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), the results of obese group show significant higher hemoglobin (137 ± 8 versus 129 ± 7 g/L, p<0.05), hematocrit (0.41 ± 0.02 versus 0.38 ± 0.03, p<0.05), and plasma ferritin concentrations (49.3 ± 32.2 versus 28.6 ± 19.7µg/L, p<0.001). In addition, BMI was positively correlated with hemoglobin (rho=0.29, p<0.001), hematocrit (rho=0.28, p<0.001), and plasma ferritin concentrations (rho=0.39, p<0.0001). Conclusion: we conclude that obese women of reproductive age have higher iron stores than the non-obese women. Therefore, obese- reproductive women are at low risk of depleting iron stores. On the other hand, systematic iron-fortification programs may enhance the prevalence of iron overload in these subjects. Keywords: Obesity, iron status, reproductive age women
K Ghazisaidi, F Fateminasab, Sh Vatani, Y Azimi, S Bakhshandeh Nosrat, M Mohamadi,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (4-2008)
Abstract
Abstract Background and objectives: Ureaplasma urealyticum is one of the most important causes of Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) and non-specific urethritis (NSU) in men. Also Mycoplasma hominis has a role in causing NGU and NSU. The aim of this study was the detection of Mycoplasma hominis & Ureaplasma urealyticum in men suffering from NGU and NSU by prostatic massage method and first- void Urine samples. Material and Methods: Urethral secretion samples, taken after prostatic massage and first-void urine, of 75 patients referred to department of bacteriology of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were examined for ureaplasma and mycoplasma by culture method in 2004-2005 Results: In prostatic samples, 19 and 11 samples are positive for ureaplasma and Mycoplasma, retrospectively. In first-void urine samples, 17 and 9 samples are positive for ureaplasma and Mycoplasma, retrospectively. Conclusion: The results show that if it is impossible to obtain urethral sample via prostatic massage , we can use first- void urine instead. Key words:Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum,Nongonococcal urethritis, Nonspecific urethritis, prostatic massage, first voided Urine
M Sattari, Aa Imani Fooladi, Gh Godarzi,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (4-2009)
Abstract
Abstract Background and objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa as an opportunistic pathogen can establish lethal infections in immunocompromised patients or those exposed to predisposing factors. This bacterium contains a single polar flagellum causing motility, chemotaxis and colonization in acute phase of infection. The flagella filament is made up of a structural protein called flagellin. This study was aimed at determining The frequency of fliC gene in Clinical Samples. Material and Methods: In this study, a pair of specific primer for types of flagellin (a, b type) was designed and by using PCR method its structural gene (fliC) was recognized and amplified in clinical strains. Results: This original primer has appropriate efficiency in diagnostic of pseudomonas aeroginosa flagellum. Our study shows that 85% of the Clinical Samples have a fliC gene. Conclusion: This method can be applied to recognizing of the motile strains, and their antigenic typing, and complete amplification of fliC sequence in order to cloning and expression of recombinant flagellin. Key words: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, flagellin, fliC, PCR
M Bokaeian, H A Khazaee, M Javadi Mehr,
Volume 4, Issue 1 (4-2010)
Abstract
Abstract Background and objectives: Colonization of nasopharynx by Streptococcus Pneumoniae can lead to pneumococcal disease. This study was performed to determine the carriage rate of nasopharyngeal S.pneumoniae in adolescents and their antibiotic susceptibility and serotype prevalence in Zahedan, Iran Material and Methods: Nasopharyngeal specimens were obtained from 865 adolescents aged 10-19 years old of eight schools in Zahedan and then assessed by standard procedures to isolate S. Pneumoniae. The serotyping was carried out by latex agglutination test, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of penicillin, as well as other commonly used antibiotics, was determined by a broth-dilution method. Results: Pneumococci were Isolated from 15.7% [136/865, 95% confidence interval (CI) 12.3-18.9] of total samples. Of 136 samples, 119 isolates are typified by the available antisera which the most frequent ones are 1, 19A, 15C, 9V, 11A and 19F. Ninthythree pneumococcal isolates are sensitive to penicillin. The MIC values of antibiotics tested are (μg/ml): penicillin 0.01-4, cefotaxime 0.01-4, ceftriaxone 0.02-128, chloramphenicol 0.08-32, ciprofloxacin 0.06-16, erythromycin 0.01-128, tetracycline 0.08- 128 and vancomycin 0.02-1. Conclusion: A clear diversity is seen in the serotype distribution of the S. Pneumoniae isolates and most of the antibiotic resistant strains belonge to a few serotypes. Healthy adolescents in Zahedan commonly show pneumococcal carriage and antibiotic resistance. Keywords: Streptococcus Pneumoniae, nasopharyngeal carriage, penicillin resistance, serotype
M Dastmardi, S Ghazinoory, R Assadifard, A Ebrahimi,
Volume 4, Issue 2 (10-2010)
Abstract
Abstract Bachground and objectives: Improvement of the effectiveness of services is one of the most important strategies in many clinical and research laboratory centers. The increased client satisfaction (researchers or patients), resource development innovation efficacy, continuity of services and income are also the important strategies of these centers. For achieving these strategies, we combined the qualitative and the quantitative approaches to evaluate the effective model based on frameworks of the Balance Scorecard (BSC) and the Laboratory Quality Management Systems (LQMS). Material and Methods: This paper describes the basic steps required for designing and developing of a model for performance measurement in laboratory centers. For model validation, the relationship between the criteria, the strategies and the strategic objectives was evaluated using both the AHP method and the evaluation by the experts. Results: Implementation of the above mentioned model, conducted in one of the largest Laboratory centers, has resulted in a remarkable enhancement in the efficiency (22%), profit (33%), and level of quality of service (27%) and in the clients' satisfaction (4%). Conclusion: This research model is a valuable tool for effective evaluation and continuous improvement of the clinical and research laboratory centers. Applying this model leads to increased resource productivity as well as the clients and community satisfaction from the laboratories services. Key words: Laboratory Centers, Performance Management, Balance Scorecard (BSC), Laboratory Quality Management Systems (LQMS)
Sadeghi D (msc), Mosavari N (phd), Rafiee B (msc), Mohamad Taheri M (msc), Dashtipour Sh (bsc), Zare A (phd), Ghahremanlo E (msc), Tebyanian M (phd),
Volume 6, Issue 1 (4-2012)
Abstract
Abstract Background and objectives: Tuberculin is the proteins existed in tuberculosis culture medium which precipitated by trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or ammonium sulfate. Tuberculin is used for diagnosis of Tuberculosis. The aim of this study is to compare the human tuberculin produced by Razi Institute and Mycobacterium tuberculosis Culture Filtrate Protein. Material and Methods: Initially By biphasic medium, Bacteria from Lowenstein–Jensen solid medium was transferred to a Dorset−Henley Liquid medium. After 6 weeks of growth, the bacteria were isolated from liquid medium containing secretory proteins by the 0, 22 micron filter and the solution containing secretory proteins was precipitated by TCA and ammonium sulfate, separately. Then, using spectrophotometer and kjeldahl protein assay, the presence of protein in solution was confirmed. At the end, the precipitated proteins are compared with the human tuberculin by Coomassie-Blue stained SDS-PAGE Results: The protein samples precipitated by TCA have more bands in the limit of higher than 20 kDa, but the protein samples by ammonium sulfate have more bands in the limit of less than 20 kDa. Human tuberculin proteins are like smear and their weight is less than 16 kDa. Conclusion: It seems that ammonium sulfate is more suitable for low molecular weight proteins than TCA for precipitation. Key words: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, SDS-PAGE, tuberculin
Bazzazi, H., Govahi, M., Jahazi, A., Alizadeh, Sh., Naeimi Tabiee, E, Mokaram, R., Davarpanah, M R,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (10-2012)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and objectives: Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is one of the most common reproductive disorders, generally considered to be the loss of three or more pregnancies before viability. One of the causes of this disorder is the immunological factors such as autoantibodies associated with anti-phospholipid syndrome.
Material and Methods: this case-control study was conducted on 80 pregnant women divided into two equal groups of healthy and RM women in Gorgan. The subjects were asked to fill out a questionnaire and examined by a gynecologist to distinguish their condition, healthy or RM. The blood samples were kept at -20c and assessed by both ELISA 96 and automated ELISA processor with single dose ready-to-use test to measure β2GP1 autoantibodies of IgM and IgG.
Results: the results indicate that % 7.5 of RM patients are seropositive for Anti-β2GP1 IgG, and % 5 for Anti-β2GP1 IgM , but in healthy pregnants , % 7.5 are seropositive for Anti-β2GP IgG , and %7.5 for Anti-β2GP1 IgM. Family history of abortion in RM group (33.5%) is significantly higher than healthy one (17.5%).
Conclusion: based on the results, the difference between the level of Anti-β2GP1 IgM and Anti-β2GP IgG in case and control groups is not significant, but the production of this autoantibody is associated with pregnancy.
Key words: Autoantibody, Antiphospholipid syndrome, Recurrent Miscarriage
Aa Jafari, P Saadat, S Gharachaeii, H Jafari,
Volume 7, Issue 4 (1-2014)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: Laboratory personnel have always accidental exposure to clinical samples, which can cause the transmission of infection. This threat can be prevented and controlled by education for the use of safety instruments. The purpose was to determine the frequency of accidental exposure to laboratory samples among Yazd laboratory personnel in 2011.
Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 of Yazd clinical laboratory personnel. The data was collected, using a valid and reliable questioner, via interview and analyzed by means of SPSS software.
Results: Eighty-six percent of the subjects reported an experience of accidental exposure to clinical samples, such as blood, serum and urine. The causes were carelessness (41%) and work overload (29%). Needle- stick was the most prevalent injury (52%) particularly in sampler workers (51%) and in their hands (69%). There wasn’t significant relationship between accidental exposure to laboratory samples and the variables such as private and governmental laboratories (p=0.517), kind of employment (p=0.411), record of services (p=0.439) and academic degree (p=0.454). The subjects aged 20-29 (p=0.034) and worked in sampling unit had the highest accidental exposure.
Conclusion: Based on the results, inexperience of the personnel especially in sampling room, overload at work and ignorance of applying safety instruments are known as the most important reasons for accidental exposure to clinical samples.
Keywords: Contamination Accidental Exposure Infectious Agents Laboratory Personnel
A Nazemi, N Vaseghi, M Khatamineja, A Nasrollahi Omran, M Eskandari,
Volume 7, Issue 5 (2-2014)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: Recognizing and using of isolated phytase in the soil microorganisms are paramount importance to produce the Phytase enzyme utilized commercially in different industries. This study was conducted to recognize different bacillus species which are Phytase producers and detection of the gene that can produce this enzyme.
Material and Methods: Soil samples were gathered through different parts of mountainous areas. The early isolation of bacillus was carried out in Bacillus Medium Agar. After isolating the bacteria and genome extraction, the responsible gene of enzyme producer recognized and amplified by PCR method. The size of this protein and the optimal production situation in supplemental exploitation such as SDS-PAGE and the enzymatic activity of its size were evaluated.
Results: Of 40 samples, one bacterium secreting Phytase enzyme was isolated. This bacterium was sequenced and recognized Bacillus Sobtlis species that is classified in STR Genus. The size of protein phytase produced by this gene was about 45 KD and the enzyme activity at 55 degrees was measured about 5.65 in wavelength of 415 NM. The phytase gene with the size of 1200 bp was propagated.
Conclusion: the microorganisms, in natural conditions, produce Phytase enzyme in limited amount and with the quality appropriate to microorganisms. Thus, isolating the bacilli producing Phytase enzyme and purifying this protein are highly significant.
Key words: Bacillus Subtilis Phytase SDS-PAGE Enzymatic Activity Polymerization Chain Reaction
M Rasouli Nasab, Sh Habibnia, P Heidarieh, Mr Pourmand, M Fatahi, Ss Eshraghi,
Volume 7, Issue 5 (2-2014)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: The Isolation of Nocardia species is complex and time-consuming, which is due to rapid growth of adjacent bacteria. Because of the importance of a specific medium with the ability of controlling intrusive microorganisms, this study aimed at comparing three laboratory methods to introduce the reliable isolation technique for Nocardia species.
Material and Methods: The soil samples were collected from different regions of Tehran province, Iran, and carefully transferred to the laboratory. The samples were cultured in three different media including Paraffin Baiting,Humic acid vitamin B agar and Paraffin agar, and incubated for 3-4 weeks at 35 °C.
Results: Of 110 soil samples, 31 Nocardia isolates (28.18%) were obtained from the media including Paraffin Baiting, (19 17.27%), Humic acid and vitamin B agar (4 3.63%), and Paraffin agar, (8 7.27%).
Conclusion: because of high rate of isolation, low cost and the clearance of colonies suspected nocardia, Paraffin Bait technique is more reliable and efficient compared to the other methods.
Key words: Nocardia Soil Paraffin Baiting Humic Acid Vitamin B
Sadeghian, M, Habibipour, R, Asghar Seif,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (7-2015)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Due to the unique absorption and antibacterial properties of nanoparticles, their use in water and wastewater treatment to remove bacteria is spreading. This research aimed to study the effect of silver nanoparticles in the removal of Enterococcus faecalis isolated from industrial sewage.
Material and Methods: after preliminary studies, field studies including sampling of industrial wastewater was conducted. First, Fecal Coliform, total coliform and Enterococcus faecalis of industrial Sewage were measured by standard methods of microbiology, then the effect of concentrations of 500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, 15.62, 7.81, and 3. 9 PPM of isolated nanoparticles serial dilution method on Enterococcus faecalis and standard (PTCC 1339) was determined. Next, and the turbidity of tube (OD), which represents growth of bacteria, was read at 600 nm with a spectrophotometer. After that, all tubes were cultured on solid medium and the results were analyzed using SPSS 22.
Results: fecal and total coliform contamination of industrial Sewage from slaughter and textile plant were approved and Enterococcus faecalis was isolated. The growth of isolates and standard bacteria was not controlled by any of these concentrations. None of the concentrations was able to remove the bacteria but the increase of concentration led to higher effect of nanoparticles, and in accordance with the type of bacteria, it was different, but the difference was not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Although silver nanoparticles ,according to the concentration, affect the Streptococcus faecalis, they cannot completely remove bacteria. Therefore, the economic factors and other involved factors need to be considered in the application of nanoparticles.
Keyword: Silver nanoparticles, Enterococcus faecalis, industrial Sewage
Gharahjeh, S, Nowzari, A, Azarhoush, R, Fuladi Nejad, M, Nematollahi, N, Aryaei, M, Mohammadi, R,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (7-2015)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Neonatal sepsis is a remarkable factor in mortality, morbidity, neonatal and perinatal complications. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the primary cause of invasive disease in infants and pregnant women. This study aimed to determine the relationship between antimicrobial resistance of the bacteria colonized in the vagina and rectum of pregnant women and early neonatal infection.
Material and Methods: In this prospective study conducted on 282 pregnant women, bacterial sensitivity to ampicillin, cefazolin, erythromycin, vancomycin, gentamicin, amikacin was measured. Furthermore, the relationship between rectal and vaginal colonization of mothers and early neonatal sepsis was evaluated.
Results: Of 98 positive rectal cultures, 49 (50%) were Gram-positive cocci and 49 (50%) E.coli. of 143 positive vaginal cultures, 136 (95.1%) were Gram-positive cocci, 7 (4.9%) were E.coli and two were positive GBS. We could find definitive neonatal sepsis. Significant correlation was found between a history of urinary tract infection and the mother's positive rectal culture (P =0. 03).
Conclusion: Clinical sepsis in neonates is correlated with positive rectal culture (P =0. 001) and the positive E.coli vaginal cultures is associated with suspected neonatal sepsis (P =0.007). Gram-positive cocci were resistance to ampicillin and gentamicin, and E.coli was resistant to ampicillin, erythromycin and vancomycin. Because of resistance to ampicillin, we recommend cefazolin due to its sensitivity to organisms and safety in pregnancy.
M Pourhajibagher , A Karami ,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (9-2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: Biological weapons, like other weapons of mass destruction such as chemical, nuclear and radiological are very dangerous. In recent years, they are employed in biotterrorist attacks by many countries because of some properties such as: the ability to make massive injury, having latent period, creating a prolonged illness, potential outbreaks and epidemics and more important because of having nonspecific symptoms and difficulty in diagnosing.
Material and Methods: The objective of this study was to describe the role of microbiology laboratories and their experts in the interventions of bio-passive defense. In this study, we use CDC, Medline, Google Scholar, Pubmed and World Health Organization (WHO).
Result: Detection of biological agents is difficult and sometimes impossible due to features such as lack of odor, color and other physical characteristics. The most important measures for defense against biological agents are rapid detection and intervention. Thus, the laboratories should highly be equipped and the personnel be extremely sophisticated to deal with the crisis.
Conclusion: Regarding the presence of highly advanced molecular procedures, Microbiology laboratories have to be updated to deal with the potential threats .in addition, the Laboratories professionals must be trained for the latest guidelines and specific diagnostic techniques to work with biological agents.
Keywords: Bioterrorism; Biological Warfare Agents; Biological Defense; Clinical Medical Laboratory
Hashemi, M, Amin Zare, M, Naghibi, S, Raeisi, M, Hasanzad Azar, H,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (9-2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate chemical composition, antibacterial and antifungal effect and antioxidant property of Salvia officinalis, Mentha piperita and Mentha Longifolia.
Material and Methods: At first, chemical analysis of essential oils was determined using GC/MS. Then the antibacterial and antifungal effect of tested essential oils on L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, S. typhimurium and E. coli and two fungal strains including A. niger and A. flavus were determined using disk diffusion agar and broth microdilution methods. The antioxidant property of essential oils was evaluated using DPPH assay.
Results: Linalool (14.38%), l. menthone (19.03%) and δ-terpinene (21.78%) were the major components of Salvia officinalis, Mentha piperita and Mentha Longifolia, respectively. all tested essential oils had antibacterial effect on foodborne pathogens, which was comparable with tetracycline’s effect. In addition, all essences had appropriate antioxidant potential compared with BHT.
Conclusion: based on the results, Salvia officinalis, Mentha piperita and Mentha Longifolia can be introduced as appropriate natural preservatives.
Keywords: Salvia officinalis; Mentha piperita; Mentha Longifolia, Antibacterial Agents.
Shima Akbari Rad , Hamid Reza Joshaghani, Masoud Khoshnia , S.mehran Hosseini ,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (7-2016)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Esophageal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in Iran. Studies on water, soil, grains, waste and sediments in Golestan Province have shown that the environmental concentrations of antimony and strontium are increased in areas with high incidence rate for cancer. The carcinogenic effects of strontium have been reported, but carcinogenicity of antimony is still unclear. Since there is not enough information regarding the relationship between the concentration of strontium and antimony and prevalence of esophageal cancer in the province, this study aimed to evaluate serum levels of these elements in patients with esophageal cancer using atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Methods: This study was performed on 30 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and 30 healthy matched controls. After sampling, concentrations of strontium and antimony were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Results: Half of the esophageal cancer patients and control participants were male. The mean age of patients and controls was 66 ± 13 and 64 ± 8 years, respectively. The mean serum concentration of strontium in patients and controls was 24.18 ± 1.62 and 24.08 ± 1.46 μg/L, respectively. The mean serum concentration of antimony in patients and controls was 18.61 ± 1.48 and 18.98 ± 1.93 μg/L, respectively. No statistically significant difference was observed between the serum concentrations of the two elements in patients and controls.
Conclusion: There is no difference between serum levels of strontium and antimony in cancer patients and healthy controls, which could be due to tissue accumulation.
Keywords: Antimony, Strontium, Esophageal Neoplasms.
Younes Anzabi, Arash Khaki,
Volume 10, Issue 6 (11-2016)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Many species of Ziziphora have been used in traditional medicine in the Azarbaijan region, northwest of Iran. This study aimed to determine antibacterial activity of essential oil and methanol extract of Ziziphora tenuior on some pathogenic bacteria isolated from urogenital tract infections.
Methods: The essential oil and methanol extract of Z. tenuior were obtained by Clevenger and maceration methods. Under sterile conditions, the required amount of urine was taken from patients referred to a number of clinics in Tabriz during 2014. After identification of the isolates using standard microbiological methods, antimicrobial effects of the essential oil and methanol extract of the plant on the isolates were evaluated by determining minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration, and antibiogram test.
Results: The MIC for essential oil of Z. tenuior was 250µg/mL for most Gram-negative bacteria except Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, the MIC for Staphylococcus aureus was 250µg/mL and 500µg/mL for other strains of Staphylococcus.
Conclusion: Comparison of the inhibitory and bactericidal effects of the essential oil and methanol extract of Z. tenuior showed that the essential oil is able to inhibit growth of the bacteria tested even in low concentrations. Further studies are required in this regard using animal models.
Keywords: Antibacterial Agents, Ziziphora tenuior, Plant Extracts, Urinary Tract Infection.
Mahsa Taherizadeh , Masoud Khoshnia , Sedighe Shams , Hamidreza Joshaghani ,
Volume 11, Issue 2 (3-2017)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: The incidence rate of esophageal cancer (EC) is high in north and northeast of Iran. Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid with a wide range of vital biological functions. The aim of this study was to compare plasma levels of taurine between patients with EC and healthy controls.
Methods: Plasma samples from 36 recently diagnosed cases of EC and 36 healthy adults were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Data analysis was done using SPSS (version 16). The t-test was used to evaluate significant differences in the level of taurine between the two groups. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: Patients with EC had significantly higher levels of plasma taurine compared with the controls (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Patients with EC have significantly higher levels of plasma taurine compared with healthy individuals. This finding suggests that the measurement of plasma taurine in patients with EC could be useful for the early diagnosis of the disease.
Keywords: Esophageal Cancer, Taurine, HPLC.
Nima Shaykh Baygloo , Majid Bouzari , Fateh Rahimi ,
Volume 11, Issue 3 (5-2017)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Prophage sequences are major contributors to interstrain variations within the same bacterial species. Acinetobacter baumannii is a gram-negative bacterium that causes a wide range of nosocomial infections, especially in intensive care unit inpatients. Prophage sequences constitute a considerable proportion of several sequenced complete genomes of A. baumannii. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of prophage sequences in A. baumannii strains isolated from burn patients, and compare the results with other studies.
Methods: Presence of eight prophage sequences was investigated in the genome of ten multi-drug resistant A. baumannii isolates obtained from burn sites of 10 burn patients in a hospital in Isfahan, Iran. PCR and sequencing were performed to detect the prophage sequences. The presence of the eight prophage sequences in the genome of A. baumannii strains from other studies was investigated by BLAST analysis of whole nucleotide sequence of prophage sequences.
Results: The isolates in the present study had different prophage sequence profiles. Two isolates did not contain any of the sequences, while two isolates contained three and two of the prophage sequences. Other isolates contained only one sequence. The prophage sequence profiles observed in this study were not found in A. baumannii isolates from other studies.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the prophage sequences profile can be useful for studying the epidemiology of A. baumannii strains.
Keywords: Acinetobacter baumannii, genome, prophage sequences.
Katayoon Nofouzi , Alaleh Rakhshanpoor, Reza Asadpour,
Volume 11, Issue 4 (7-2017)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus is a widely distributed disease in cattle, goats and sheep. The infection is often subclinical in cattle, leading to reduced milk production and quality, but acute catarrhal or even gangrenous inflammation may also occur. The aim of this study was to investigate resistance of S. aureus isolates from bovine subclinical mastitis to a number of antibiotics.
Methods: Milk samples were collected from 120 cows in different regions of Tabriz, Iran. Milk samples were cultured and bacteriological identification was performed. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was assessed by determining minimum inhibitory concentration. Plasmid DNA was extracted by an alkaline lysis method.
Results: The highest frequency of resistance was observed against gentamicin (100%) and β- lactam antibiotics including amoxicillin (96%), ampicillin (40%) and penicillin (96%). The isolates mostly contained large plasmids, which might harbor acquired antibiotic resistance.
Conclusion: The results confirm the high frequency of antibiotic resistance among staphylococci isolated from bovine subclinical mastitis.
Keywords: Anti-infective Agents, Cattle, Staphylococcus Aureus, Mastitis, Plasmids.
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