Showing 265 results for Ari
Abazar Yari , Morteza Ahmadi , Mahdieh Mehrpouri ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2024)
Abstract
Background: Thyroid hormones play a critical role in hematopoiesis, and thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect blood parameters. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of thyroid dysfunction on various blood parameters.
Methods: This case-control study included 194 subjects who were classified into three groups based on TSH levels: hypothyroid (n=70), hyperthyroid (n=56), and control (n=68). Conditions that affect blood parameters, including pregnancy, inherited or acquired red blood cell abnormalities, chronic inflammatory diseases, evidence of nutritional deficiencies, and underlying diseases such as cancer, as well as patients unwilling to participate in the study, were excluded. Hematological parameters were measured using a cell counter, and the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: The results showed that 78% of the participants were female and 22% were male, aged 4 to 89 years. The analyses revealed that RBC, Hb, HCT, WBC count, and WBC differential count were significantly different between the three groups (P-value <0.05), but the differences were not significant for MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, PLT, and MPV (P-value >0.05). Correlation analysis indicated a significant correlation between TSH and Hb, HCT, WBC, PLT, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Since thyroid hormones play a critical role in hematopoiesis, thyroid dysfunction can affect many hematological parameters. Therefore, the management of patients with thyroid disease should include the CBC test. In addition, patients with poor responses to anemia treatment may have an underlying thyroid disorder.
Qudsiya Ansari , Anisha Jain, Kailas Randad, Vinaya Singh, Akash Sarkate,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2024)
Abstract
Osteoporosis-pseudoglioma syndrome (OPPG) is a rare disorder characterized by severe osteoporosis and vision impairment, due to mutations in the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) gene. This autosomal recessive disorder is characterized by fractures, bone fragility, and pseudoglioma with blindness in infancy. Herein, we present a rare case of OPPG syndrome in an infant who, at 80 days of life (DOL), exhibited multiple fractures without any ophthalmic findings at the time of presentation. This is relatively earlier presentation of the symptoms as fractures are more commonly seen after two years of life.
Aradhana Harrison , Aswathy Prabha , Karishma Krishna , Vejay Viknesh Marudhadurai , Jahnavi Chikkegowda, Rajshree Choudhary ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2024)
Abstract
Background: β-thalassemia trait (BTT) can be screened by several discriminator indices (DIs) using complete blood counts (CBC). These DIs can help differentiate BTT from other causes of anaemia, thus reducing the financial burden of laboratory testing. At standard cut-off values, statistical analyses traditionally used to compare the diagnostic competence of these DIs give variable results. This study establishes new optimal cut-off values to improve the applicability of these DIs for BTT screening.
Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted on anaemic adults whose high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and CBC results achieved over the past 6 months were reviewed. Based on HPLC reports, patients were categorised into BTT and non-BTT groups, with each group comprising 25 age- and sex-matched patients. Discriminator indices, including Mentzer’s Index (MI), Green and King Index (GKI), Sehgal Index (SI), Shine and Lal Index (SLI), Srivastava Index (SrI), and England and Fraser Index (EFI), were calculated for both groups. Statistical analysis was performed respective to standard cut-off values to establish new optimal cut-off values with the highest sensitivity and specificity.
Results: According to the results, SrI emerged as the best index, offering high sensitivity, specificity, Youden’s Index, accuracy, and odds ratio. On the other side, SLI and GKI were observed to be poor indices with low sensitivity and specificity. The new optimal cut-off values for the best performance of each DI for BTT screening were as follows: SrI ≤3.5, MI ≤11.4, GKI ≤59.7, SI ≤709.4, SLI ≤941.1, and EFI ≤1.91.
Conclusion: The performance of DIs at standard cut-off values was poor to screen BTT. New optimal cut-off values provided maximal sensitivity and specificity thereby enhancing their performance as screening parameters for BTT in regions with a high-prevalence of the condition. Further studies are warranted to substantiate the new cut-off values for BTT screening.
Noori Noha Alsharifi , Mahin Gholipur , Somayeh Ghorbani , Fatemeh Mohammadzadeh , Safoura Khajeniazi ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2024)
Abstract
Background: Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is a 17 kDa, an important soluble pro-inflammatory cytokine, which is involved in some tissue dysfunctions, including thyroid and liver tissue. In spite of its role in thyroid and tissue damage separately, the relationship between this factor and these two disorders has not been clarified. The aim of the present study was to evaluate liver biochemical parameters and TNFα in hypothyroid patients compared to euthyroid subjects.
Methods: To achieve this purpose, samples were transferred into tubes without anticoagulants and then centrifuged immediately to separate the serum. All markers in the serum were measured using commercial kits, including T3, T4, TSH, and TNFα, which were detected using the ELISA method. Liver function tests, including albumin, total bilirubin, and total protein were measured by spectroscopy and the colorimetric method, respectively. In addition, AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT were detected using enzymatic methods.
Results: Our results showed that the level of TNFα in hypothyroid patients was significantly higher than that in normal individuals (P = 0.009). TNFα had a significantly positive correlation with TSH and T3 but a negative correlation with T4. Furthermore, AST, ALT, and GGT had a positive correlation with TSH and a negative correlation with albumin, total protein, and total bilirubin. These correlations were insignificant (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: According to our data, the positive correlation of TSH with both TNFα and liver function tests may indicate a relationship between thyroid and liver function with each other.
Fariba Rasannezhad , Asieh Abbassi Daloii, Javad Ziaolhagh , Ahmad Abdi ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (Nov-Dec 2024)
Abstract
Background: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of aerobic exercise and psilocybin after methamphetamine induction on the gene expression of certain cerebral cortex semaphorins in female Wistar rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 40 female rats were placed into five groups: control (C), amphetamine (A), amphetamine-aerobic (AA), amphetamine-psilocybin (AP), and amphetamine-psilocybin-aerobic (AAP). Methamphetamine was injected at a dose of 15 mg/kg for 5 days in the morning. Psilocybin was administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg. The aerobic training program included running on a treadmill at 20–25 m/min, three days a week for eight weeks. After eight weeks, gene expression was measured using the Real-Time PCR method. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test at a significance level of P < 0.05.
Results: The results showed that the average gene expression of semaphorin 3A, semaphorin 4A, and semaphorin 7A in the cerebral cortex of the A group had a significant increase compared to the C group (P = 0.001). The AA, AP, and AAP groups showed a significant decrease in the average expression of semaphorin 3A and semaphorin 4A genes compared to the A group (P = 0.001). The AAP group had a significant decrease in the average expression of the semaphorin 3A gene compared to the AA and AP groups (P = 0.001). In addition, the AAP group showed a significant decrease in semaphorin 7A expression compared to the AP group (P = 0.007).
Conclusion: According to the results, aerobic training and psilocybin supplementation can help reduce semaphorin expression in the cerebral cortex of rats induced with methamphetamine.
Mahshad Paziraee , Habib Asgharpour , Asra Askari , Reza Rezaei Shirazi , Neda Aghaei Bahman Beglo ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (Nov-Dec 2024)
Abstract
Background: Running and starvation can have a positive effect on the reticulophagy of the liver tissue. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of running and starvation interventions on the atherogenic index and Xbp1 gene change in the liver endoplasmic reticulum of non-alcoholic fatty liver rats (NAFLD).
Methods: Thirty obese male Wistar rats aged 18-20 weeks with an average body weight of 348 ± 25.53 grams, after one week of familiarization with the laboratory environment, were randomly divided into six groups (n=5 per group): 1) starvation, 2) three days of training, 3) five days of training, 4) three days of training plus starvation, 5) five days of training plus starvation, and 6) the control group. All fatty liver animal models had free access to water and standard food pellets (10 gr per 100 g of mouse body weight). The statistical test of one-way analysis of variance was used at a significance level of less than 0.05, and the LSD post-hoc test was used to compare research groups.
Results: According to the experimental results and statistical analyses (One-way analysis of variance), a significant decrease was noticed in the ratio of lipoproteins (VLDL/HDL and LDL/HDL) in all experimental groups compared to the control group. Also, a significant decrease was observed in the expression of XBP1 and CHOP genes in animals doing 3 and 5 days of exercise alone or along with starvation.
Conclusion: Regular exercise for 3 and 5 days per week with starvation can possibly reduce the activity of the genes involved in endoplasmic reticulum stress in NAFLD patients.
Sharabeh Hezarkhani , Khosro Ghojoghi , Sara Hosseinzadeh , Naser Behnampour , Farshid Fathabadi , Zahra Hesari , Hamid Reza Joshaghani ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (Nov-Dec 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.
Fatemeh Livani , Faramarz Koohsar , Farideh Tohidi, Mitra Sharbatkhori , Roghiyeh Faridnia , Ganesh Yadagiri , Ayeneh Hajieh Pangh , Mehdi Khoshrou , Hamed Kalani ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 2025)
Abstract
Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a prevalent infectious zoonotic disease between humans and animals. Golestan Province is one of the important centers of CL in Iran. The current method for detecting Leishmania parasites in patients is Giemsa-stained direct smear from skin ulcers; however, PCR is a strongly recommended method for epidemiological studies. This study aimed to investigate Leishmania species in negative ulcer smears from patients suspected of having CL referred to Aq Qala Health Center using the multiplex nested PCR method.
Methods: This study was performed on 72 negative ulcer smears from patients suspected of having CL referred to Aq Qala Health Center, Golestan Province, northeastern Iran, from August 2019 to April 2020, using the multiplex nested PCR method to detect Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica species.
Results: Out of 72 samples, 4 (5.55%) samples were positive by multiplex nested PCR. Moreover, all positive samples are related to Leishmania major species.
Conclusion: The multiplex nested PCR method is strongly recommended for detecting Leishmania species in negative ulcer smears from patients suspected of having CL.
Zahra Askari, Zeynab Mirzapour, Tooba Shafighi, Reyhaneh Ghorbanpour,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 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.
Shalaleh Ganji, Iraj Mobedi, Azim Rezamand, Farshid Ardabili, Pooya Yari, Majid Khanmohammadi ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 2025)
Abstract
Background: Enterobius vermicularis is the most important intestinal parasite in children worldwide. When this parasite migrates unexpectedly, the larvae move out of the intestine and enter organs such as the appendix, and can cause health risks.
Case presentation: An 8-year-old boy was admitted to the oncology clinic of Tabriz Children’s Hospital, complaining of fever of 39-40°C with abdominal pain, cramps, loss of appetite, weakness, and fatigue, associated with cervical lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly, axillary mass, abdominal upper thigh, maculopapular rashes, and tiny petechiae on the chest and abdomen.
Results: On CT examination of the chest, moderate mediastinal and mesenteric lymphadenopathy was noted. The patient was hospitalized with a definitive diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. On the seventh day of hospitalization, the patient developed additive colic pain (Contraction and cramping) around the umbilicus and concomitantly developed pain downward and rightward into the abdomen. Based on the clinical findings, the patient was thought to have acute appendicitis. Pathological examinations showed that E. vermicularis was the cause of the appendicitis.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that this parasite may be associated with inflammation of the appendix in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A screening program is still required in patients with immunodeficiency or those taking immunosuppressive drugs.
Zahra Eslami , Shayan Marhamaty, Seyyed Mehdi Jafari , Mohadese Khorasani , Mehdi Sheikh Arabi , Hamidreza Joshaghani ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 2025)
Abstract
Background: Bivalent minerals function as crucial cofactors that participate in a multitude of metabolic pathways within the organism. Specifically, zinc (Zn) assumes catalytic, structural, and regulatory roles in numerous biological processes. A severe deficiency in Zn can lead to disruptions in nucleic acid and protein synthesis, impaired cellular proliferation, increased apoptosis, and heightened lipid peroxidation of cellular membranes, a phenomenon associated with a reduced lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs). The objective of this study was to investigate the correlations between Zn status and various erythrocyte indices in a cohort of anemic patients, in comparison to a control group.
Methods: A cohort of 563 participants was enrolled in this investigation. Serum Zn concentration was quantified using a BT-3500 autoanalyzer, while hematological indices were determined via a Sysmex KX21N cell counter. Following confirmation of data normality, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was employed to analyze the relationship between serum Zn levels and RBC indices.
Results: The mean serum Zn concentration was 102.8 ± 17.6 mg/dL. Serum Zn levels exhibited a weak correlation with RBC and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations in healthy women, as well as a weak correlation with mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in anemic men (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the results indicated significantly higher serum Zn levels, RBC, Hb, hematocrite (HCT), and MCHC in men (p < 0.01), while mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was significantly higher in women (p < 0.01). Notably, in individuals with serum Zn levels < 30 mg/dL, MCHC (p < 0.01) and RBC (p < 0.05) were elevated, whereas Hb (p < 0.05), HCT, MCV, and MCH (p < 0.01) were higher than 30.
Conclusion: Considering the potential impact of varying Zn concentrations on erythrocyte indices, including Hb and MCHC, in both healthy and anemic individuals, careful regulation of its dosage is warranted.
Parineeta Shelke , Preeti Doshi , Amit Nisal , Abdulrahaman Momin , Ravindra Nimbargi ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 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.
Saeid Anvari , Setare Kheyrandish , Fatemeh Sotudeh , Hossein Mirpour Hasankiadeh , Korosh Khanaki , Esmaeil Shahabi Satlsar,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 2025)
Abstract
Chronic basophilic leukemia (CBL) is a rare disorder and according to the published data, few cases have been reported as primary CBL. Morphologic findings in CBL mostly mimic chronic eosinophilic leukemia and basophils have unusual and dysplastic morphology. A 47-year-old patient was referred to the hospital with gastrointestinal symptoms and bloating. Complete blood count (CBC) showed leukocytosis and marked eosinophilia. After evaluating the peripheral blood smear (PBS), abnormal leukocytes with hypersegmented nuclei along with an increase in eosinophils were observed. For further investigation, the patient was referred to the hematology clinic and underwent bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. After the morphological examination, flow cytometry was performed on the aspiration sample to accurately diagnose the disease. Flow cytometric findings were in favor of CBL. Since morphological findings are unreliable for basophil detection and definite diagnosis, flow cytometry is a reliable method for the precise detection of basophils, especially in CBL.
Saif Karim, Mahdi Zahedi , Zeinab Mohammadi , Nahid Poursharifi , Mehdi Khorami , Mohsen Tatar ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 2025)
Abstract
Background: Smoking is recognized as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), yet its influence on blood levels of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 is not well understood. This study aimed to explore how smoking affects these biochemical markers in patients with CVD.
Methods: The study included 88 participants diagnosed with CVD, who were categorized into smokers (n=44) and non-smokers (n=44). Serum concentrations of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 were assessed using ELISA. Additionally, blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic) and body mass index (BMI) were recorded.
Results: Smokers showed significantly lower levels of folic acid (22.41 ± 5.95 ng/mL) compared to non-smokers (28.05 ± 4.13 ng/mL, p = 0.000). No significant differences were observed in homocysteine (p = 0.958) or vitamin B12 (p = 0.578) levels between the two groups. A negative correlation was found between folic acid and systolic blood pressure in smokers, while no significant associations were noted among folic acid, vitamin B12, and homocysteine.
Conclusion: In patients with CVD, smoking is linked to significantly lower folic acid levels, which may lead to increased systolic blood pressure. These results underscore the need to monitor folic acid levels in smokers who are at risk for cardiovascular issues.
Parisa Hasanein , Fahime Javadi Hedaiat Abad, Mousa Bohlooli , Mostafa Khajeh , Sedigheh Esmaielzadeh Bahabadi , Neda Poormolaei ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 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.
Mahsa Mahdizadeh, Zeinab Mohammadi, Seyyed Mehdi Jafari,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2025)
Abstract
Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most widespread gastrointestinal tumors worldwide, with mortality rates among the highest. Globally, we face more than one million newly diagnosed stomach cancer patients every year. Various factors are closely associated with the formation of GC. One of these factors is the change in the level of components of the extracellular matrix in the microenvironment of the stomach tumor. Fibulins are one of the secreted glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix, known as matrix organizers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in fibulins in gastric tumor tissue compared to control samples.
Methods: In this systematic review, a search was conducted on June 21, 2024, in alignment with the guidelines set forth by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched for articles that examined FBLN gene family and protein expression in patients with GC and GC cell lines.
Results: A total of 853 GC tumor samples, ranging from 8 to 197 per study, were analyzed across eight studies published between 2008 and 2023, all conducted in China. Several GC cell lines were also included, such as AGS, Kato III, MKN28, MKN45, SNU1, SNU16, NCI-N87, MGC-803, BGC-823, SGC-7901, and HGC27. Tumor size was reported in four studies, while histopathological grade and lymph node metastasis were each evaluated in four studies.
Conclusion: The downregulation of Fibulin-1 and Fibulin-2 supports their potential tumor-suppressive roles in GC, while the upregulation of Fibulin-5 is associated with tumor progression and worse prognosis, making it a candidate biomarker for aggressive disease.
Neema Tiwari , Richa Sharma , Prachi Saxena ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2025)
Abstract
Background: Nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs) are immature erythrocytes whose production is thought to be driven primarily by the interplay of hypoxia and erythropoietin synthesis. Neonatal sepsis is classified as early-onset (occurring within the first 24 hours of life) or late-onset (Occurring after 48-72 hours). The aim of this study was to analyze the cause for the presence of nRBCs in the peripheral blood of neonates sent for routine workup in the Hematology Laboratory of the Department of Pathology, SMSR, Sharda University.
Methods: Retrospective analysis of 27 complete blood counts and peripheral blood smears of neonates was conducted over one month. Smears had been prepared and stored for examination, and reports had been dispatched. Clinical details (As available from clinicians), parameters for neonatal sepsis (NLR, PLR, IG), platelet counts, and nRBC counts were recorded and tabulated. For result tabulation, neonatal samples were divided into two groups: 0-1 day and 2-30 days.
Results: The neonates included 17 males and 9 females. Assessment of NLR, PLR, and IG indicated higher values in the 2-30-day group compared to the 0-1-day group. Moreover, nRBCs were also elevated in the 2-30-day group.
Conclusion: The presence of nRBCs in peripheral blood smears is an important indicator of neonatal stress, including sepsis, jaundice, and hypoxic sepsis.
Azam Shareh , Behnoush Khasheii , Tayebeh Faraji , Masoud Khoshnia , Shaghayegh Anvari , Ailar Jamalli ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2025)
Abstract
Background: Antibiotic resistance in Helicobacter pylori infections can lead to treatment failure. This study aims to evaluate the antibiotic resistance to metronidazole, clarithromycin, and fluoroquinolone in H. pylori strains isolated from gastric biopsy specimens.
Methods: This study was conducted between 2016 and 2017 on 80 biopsy specimens obtained from Golestan province. Resistance to metronidazole (rdxA) and fluoroquinolones (gyrA) was determined using PCR. Mutations in the loci of the 23S rRNA gene associated with clarithromycin resistance were analyzed using PCR-RFLP with the BsaI and BbsI enzymes.
Results: In this study, 25% of H. pylori strains showed resistance to clarithromycin. Mutations in the A2143G locus (65%) and the A2142G locus (35%) were detected in these strains. Resistance to fluoroquinolones (27.5%) was observed, with the most common mutations being at the 91 amino acid position of aspartate (63.63%) and the 87 amino acid position of asparagine (36.36%). Resistance to metronidazole was not observed in any of the strains of this study, and concomitant resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones was observed in 13.75% of H. pylori strains.
Conclusion: According to our study, in Iran, the resistance of H. pylori to clarithromycin is increasing, which may lead to treatment failure. The mechanism of clarithromycin resistance is related to mutations in the A2143G and A2142G positions, and a mutation in the gyrA gene causes resistance to fluoroquinolones, which often occurs in the 91 amino acid position.
Zarifeh Akbari, Dara Dastan, Mohammad Fallah, Amir Hossein Maghsood, Mohammad Matini,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Trichomonas vaginalis causes human trichomoniasis, a common type of protozoan vaginitis. Due to the increasing incidence of drug-resistant trichomoniasis, new pharmacological research is needed. The aim was investigation of the activity of Ferula pseudalliacea against T. vaginalis, and preliminary phytochemical analysis of its extracts.
Methods: Essential oil and various extracts of F. pseudalliacea roots, including n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol, were obtained. Susceptibility testing of the plant products was done on five T. vaginalis isolates by using microtiter plate method. Minimum lethal concentration (MLC) and growth inhibitory percent (GI%) of sub-MLC concentration were reported, after 24 and 48 hours’ exposures. Phytochemical screening of the extracts was done using standard procedure.
Results: Antitrichomonal effect of the plant products depended on time and concentration. The greatest effect was observed in 48-hour exposure. The essential oils and n-hexane extract of F. pseudalliacea demonstrated a remarkable activity with MLC of 250 µg/ml and following by the ethyl acetate (MLC=500 µg/ml) and methanol extract (MLC=1000 µg/ml), with GI% 92.8, 50.6, 85.2, and 42.8, respectively. The bioactive constituents of the extracts were coumarins, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, tannins and glycosides.
Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated in vitro antitrichomonal properties of F. pseudalliacea. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the potential of the antitrichomonal activity of its bioactive constituents.
Bizhan Hooshmand Moghadam, Parisa Pournemati, Maryam Dalirani,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: The present study aimed to investigate and compare the impact of two methods of training, forward and backward running, on changes in body composition, lipid profiles, cardiovascular function, and some physical fitness indices in young men. Method: Thirty eligible young men were selected and put into two homogeneous groups of forward and backward running. Both groups performed interval running training four days a week for eight weeks (2 minutes of training with 60 to 85 percent of the maximum heart rate and 1 minute of active rest with 35 to 50 percent of the maximum heart rate). The interval training programs of both groups were exactly similar and only in opposite directions. Results: There was a significant difference between effects of two training methods on body fat percentages, waist-hip ratio, anaerobic power, agility, triglyceride and HDL-C (P<0.05), while they had no significant difference in terms of weight, body mass index, aerobic power, velocity, glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, heart rate (HR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and Rate Pressure Product (RPP) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Results of the present study indicated that eight weeks of backward interval running improved some factors of physical fitness, body composition and lipid profiles in young men compared with the forward interval running.