Showing 101 results for Mir
Mohammad-Ali Mohaghegh, Roghayeh Norouzi, Abolghasem Siyadatpanah, Farzaneh Mirzaei, Ali Fatahi Bafghi, Seyed-Reza Mirbadie,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2021)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Soil contamination with Toxocara spp. eggs is the main source of human toxocariasis. The aim of this study was to determine rate of soil contamination with Toxocara spp. eggs in Yazd, central Iran.
Methods: During September 2014 to February 2015, a total of 220 soil samples were collected from public parks, primary schools, green areas, kindergartens, suburban areas, streets, residential complexes, backyards and a bus terminal in the city of Yazd, Yazd Province. Soil samples were investigated for the presences of Toxocara eggs by flotation technique using sucrose solution (1.2 g/cm3) and using light microscopy. Data analysis was carried out by SPSS (version 23) software package.
Results: A total of 220 soil samples from nine different places were examined. Of these samples, 51 (23.2%) were contaminated with Toxocara spp. eggs. The contamination rate was 26.3% in public parks, 19.2% in primary schools, 28.6% in green areas, 22.2% in kindergartens, 24% in suburban areas, 8.3% in streets, 18.8% in residential complexes, 19% in backyards and 28.6% in the bus terminal. There was no significant difference in the soil contamination rate with Toxocara spp. eggs between different sampling places (χ2 = 3.096, d.f = 8 and P= 0.92) and sampling areas (χ2= 2.289, d.f = 2 and P= 0.318).
Conclusion: The high rate of soil contamination with Toxocara spp. eggs in Yazd emphasize on the need for preventive measures, such as improving sanitation, providing public health education and controlling stray dogs and cats near children play areas.
Noosha Amiri, Mahtab Moazzami, Ali Yaghoubi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2021)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the centralnervous system that can be tracked through biomarkers of disease status. The present study aimed to examine effect of eight weeks of resistance training on serum levels of neurofilament light chain and tau protein in women with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Methods: The study population consisted of 24 women with MS (aged 25 to 40 years) in Bojnourd (Iran) with expanded disability status scale score of 2-5. Patients were randomly divided into two groups of resistance training (n=12) and control (n=12). The training group performed 45-60 minutes of resistance training, three sessions a week for eight weeks. The control group did not partake in sports activity. Blood samples were taken 24 hours before the first session and 48 hours after the last training session. Analysis of covariance was used to analyze data at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: The eight-week resistance training intervention significantly decreased serum level of tau protein but had no significant effect on serum level of neurofilamet light chain.
Conclusion: According to the research results, eight weeks of resistance training could have favorable effects on serum level of tau protein in MS patients.
Saba Bahrevar, Amir Abbas Barzegari, Shiva Khezri, Vahid Nejati,
Volume 15, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2021)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Safety is a key criterion for assessment of probiotics. The objective of this study was to evaluate safety of a new Iranian Lactobacillus paracasei IBRC-M 11110 strain as a candidate probiotic.
Methods: Eighteen male and 18 female Wistar rats were divided into two experimental and a control group. The experimental groups received the bacterium at two doses of 6 × 108 CFU/day and 6× 109 CFU/day for 28 days through oral gavage. The control groups received normal saline. On day 29, blood, serum and tissue samples were taken for analysis.
Results: Administration of the bacterium did not affect the general health and body weight of the rats during the study period. No significant change was observed in the blood parameters of rats in the experimental groups except for a significant decrease in mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin of male rats. Serum analysis showed a significant increase in the alanine transaminase and a significant decrease in aspartate transaminase in the experimental groups of male and female rats, respectively. In both male and female rats, a significant decrease in urea and a significant increase in creatinine were observed in the experimental groups. However, the above parameters were all within the normal range. Histopathological analysis of liver and kidney tissues also showed no abnormality.
Conclusion: The results confirm that L. paracasei IBRC-M 11110 was safe in the subacute toxicity test in Wistar rats.
Fatemeh Bagherian, Alireza Nikoonejad, Abbas Allami, Samira Dodangeh, Layla Taha Yassen, Bahram Hosienbeigi,
Volume 15, Issue 6 (Special issue (Nov-Dec) 2021)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge that affects both individuals and the health system in many ways. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic resistance pattern in isolates from patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Qazvin, Iran.
Methods: This descriptive and retrospective study was performed on urine and blood samples collected from 1318 ICU patients in the Velayat Hospital of Qazvin (Iran) during 2017-2019. Data were collected from patients’ medical records. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (version 25).
Results: Based on the findings, 65.2% of the samples were related to urinary tract infections and 34.7% to bloodstream infections. Escherichia coli (68.6%) and Stenotrophomonas (41.0%) were the most common bacteria isolated from urinary tract infections and bloodstream infections, respectively. Moreover, the rate of antibiotic resistance was higher among Acinetobacter, Escherichia coli, Stenotrophomonas, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas isolates.
Conclusion: The rate of drug resistance in isolates from ICU patients is alarmingly high and requires immediate attention. It is recommended to modify antibiotic prescriptions in the hospital based on the results of antibiotic resistance pattern, particularly for treatment of infections caused by E. coli and Stenotrophomonas.
Mohammad Hassan Jokar, Fatemeh Mohamadkhani, Maliheh Moradzadeh, Samira Beygi, Ashraf Mohamadkhani,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET) nanofibers have become an important part of human life, with a continuous increase in their production and consumption. Herein, the antibacterial activity of nickel nanoparticles/recycled polyethylene terephthalate nanofibers (NiNP/RPET NF web) was evaluated by analyzing alginate expression in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as an opportunistic microorganism.
Methods: NiNPs were synthesized and NiNP/RPET NF was produced by adding 25 μg/ml of NiNP to 10% solutions of RPET at a weight ratio of 3%. After exposing P. aeruginosa (PA01) to NiNP/RPET NF, the biofilm-forming capacity was determined and real-time PCR was performed to measure algD expression.
Results: Treatment with 25 μg/ml of NiNP/RPET NF reduced growth of P. aeruginosa on Mueller Hinton agar but did not result in complete inhibition. The biofilm optical density (550 nm) was 0.464 ± 0.021 after treatment with NiNP/RPET NF and 0.082± 0.011 in the absence of NiNP/RPET NF. This indicates the significant reduction of biofilm formation after exposure to NiNP/RPET NF (p=0.01). In addition, a 0.6-fold (p=0.03) reduction in alginate expression was detected by real-time quantitative real-time PCR.
Conclusion: Our results indicate the potential of NiNP/RPET NF for application in nano-based antibacterial medical systems.
Seyed Zanyar Athari, Mir Alireza Nourazar, Mohammadreza Nasirzadeh,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Increased oxidative stress and altered antioxidant levels play an essential role in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus. Menopause is associated with increased food intake, weight gain, metabolic disorders, and increased level of inflammatory and oxidative stress factors. This study evaluated effects of oleuropein extract on brain tissue and serum oxidative status in ovariectomized diabetic rats.
Methods: In this study, 40 female Wistar rats weighing 250±20 grams were randomly divided into four groups: control, sham (surgery without ovariectomy), ovariectomy+diabetes, and ovariectomy+diabetes+oleuropein supplementation. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. The rats in the treatment group received 60 mg/kg of oleuropein for 30 days by oral gavage. Finally, blood glucose, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and malonaldehyde levels were evaluated in serum and brain tissue samples.
Results: Weight, blood glucose level, and antioxidant enzymes activity increased significantly in the ovariectomy+diabetes group compared to the control group.
Conclusion: This study suggested that the administration of oleuropein extract has beneficial effects on blood glucose level and antioxidant status in serum and brain tissue of ovariectomized diabetic rats.
Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini, Amene Barjaste Yazdi, Rambod Khajeie, Amir Rashidlamir,
Volume 16, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: In recent years, exercise immunology studies have focused on key components of immune function, such as immune cells, immunoglobulins, and messenger molecules, as well as the effects of environmental and exercise factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of 8 weeks of selected training on serum levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and motor performance in elite water polo players.
Methods: For this purpose, 20 male water polo players (mean age: 23 years) were randomly divided into an experimental group (n=10, selected water polo training) and a control group (n=10, traditional water polo training). The selected water polo training was performed for 8 weeks, 6 sessions per week. The intensity of training was controlled using maximum heart rate (80-100%) and increased by 5% every week. Water polo performance tests included a record of 50 meters swimming, 100 meters high swimming, 200 meters’ breaststroke, 6 ×50 meters swimming, and 400 meters swimming. To evaluate the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-4, venous blood (5 ml) was taken in the pretest and posttest stages. The serum levels of IL-4 and IL-6 were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mean values were compared using the t-test, at significant level of 0.05.
Results: The selected water polo training significantly changed IL-4 levels in elite water polo players (p<0.05). However, IL-6 levels and performance of the subjects did not change significantly.
Conclusion: The selected swimming exercises could relatively improve swimming stagnation of water polo players. However, due to the limited knowledge in this regard, there is a need for further research.
Ali Reza Nasiri, Amir Reza Karamibonari,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 2023)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used in the treatment of Gram-negative bacterial infections. One of the side effects of this antibiotic is nephrotoxicity. In this study, the protective effect of Melissa officinalis L. extract on diabetes- and gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity was studied.
Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group received distilled water, and the second group received M. officinalis L. extract (100 mg/kg) for 28 days. The third group received streptozocin (60 mg/kg) for 18 days, and then received gentamicin (80 mg/kg) on day 20 for 8 consecutive days. The fourth group received streptozocin, gentamicin, and M. officinalis L. extract for 28 days. Serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, glucose, and amylases were measured. The right kidney was maintained in 10% formalin for hematoxylin and eosin staining, and oxidative stress markers in the left kidney were assessed.
Results: In the third group, serum BUN, creatinine, glucose, amylase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased, while glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities decreased significantly compared to the other groups (P<0.05). The extract of M. officinalis L. significantly inhibited the enhancement of serum creatinine, BUN, glucose, amylase, and MDA (P<0.05). Histological examinations showed that diabetes and gentamicin could lead to kidney damage by inducing necrosis and inflammation. Finally, the extract of M. officinalis L. could significantly reduce the adverse effects of both gentamicin and diabetes (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The extract of M. officinalis L. improves biochemical parameters and histological lesions in diabetic rats treated with gentamicin.
Hossein Nikkar, Amir Rshidlamir, Rambod Khajei, Amene Barjaste, Mohsen Vazifedoost,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb 2023)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is a surgical procedure used to treat coronary heart disease. The present study aimed to investigate effects of 8 weeks of combined rehabilitation training on plasma levels of leptin, adiponectin, and resistin in middle-aged men who have undergone CABG.
Methods: The present research was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design. The statistical population included all patients who have undergone CABG in Mashhad, Iran. Overall, 26 middle-aged men who have undergone CABG were enrolled in the study. The subjects were divided into a training group (n=14) and a control group (n=12). Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 21) using analysis of covariance and paired t-test at significance level of 0.05.
Results: Plasma levels of leptin did not change significantly (p=0.709), adiponectin increased significantly (p=0.001), and resistin decreased significantly (p=0.005) after the training intervention.
Conclusion: As a non-pharmacological intervention, the rehabilitation training has cardioprotective effects on patients who undergone CABG.
Farzane Maryam, Poozesh Vahid, Atefe Amirahmadi, Fatemeh Salimi,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2023)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Foodborne pathogens can significantly affect the public health and cause medical, social, and economic burden. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, and Yersinia enterocolitica are important foodborne pathogens that can cause various diseases. Plant-derived compounds are promising bioactive substances with inhibitory effects against bacteria. Perovskia abrotanoides Kar. is a medical plant with broad therapeutic activities. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of P. abrotanoides extracts against some foodborne pathogens.
Methods: Flowering branches of P. abrotanoides were collected in 2018 and 2019 from three different habitats in the eastern Alborz Mountains, Iran. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was evaluated using the agar well diffusion test. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extracts were determined against L. monocytogenes, S. enterica, and Y. enterocolitica. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was investigated by the DPPH test.
Results: The lowest MIC (200 µg/ml) and MBC (400 µg/ml) values against Y. enterocolitica were related to the ethyl acetate extract of plants collected from habitat 1 in 2019. The lowest MIC (50 µg/ml) and MBC (400 µg/ml) values against L. monocytogenes were related to the dichloromethane extract of plants collected from habitat 1 in 2019. All extracts showed antioxidant properties. Results of one-way ANOVA indicated that the DPPH scavenging activity of extracts from plants collected in 2019 was greater than that of those collected in 2018. In most cases, the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts showed more radical scavenging potential.
Conclusion: It seems that P. abrotanoides is a rich source of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds with great potential for use in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Faranak Balaghi Inaloo, Roya Askari, Amir Hossein Haghighi, Kaveh Kashani, Paul Friedemann,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2023)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Studies have reported contradictory results regarding the relationship between serum neurofilament light chain (NFL) and fatigue severity. The aim of our study was to investigate serum NFL and fatigue severity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) after home-based and outdoor Pilates training.
Methods: The study population consisted of 44 women with MS (aged 25 to 40 years) with an expanded disability status scale score of 2-5. The patients were randomly divided into three groups: home-based training (HPT, n=15), outdoor training (OPT, n=15), and a control group (n=14). The training groups performed Pilates exercises for 8 weeks individually at home and under the sun. Blood samples and completed Fatigue Severity Scale forms were taken 48 hours before the first session and after the 8-week intervention.
Results: The results showed that OPT caused a more notable increase in serum vitamin D (32.76±5.13, p<0.001) and a decrease in NFL (15.98±2.26, p <0.001) and FSS score (2.51±0.35, p<0.001) compared with HPT. Also, HPT lowered NFL (18.01±2.28, p<0.001) and FSS score (3.84±0.98, p<0.001) compared with the control group.
Conclusion: Pilates training can reduce NFL levels and FSS scores in women with MS. In addition, OPT is more effective than HPT in reducing NFL and FSS and increasing vitamin D levels.
Shadmehr Mirdar, Monireh Khalili , Neda Aghaei Bahmanbeglou ,
Volume 17, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2023)
Abstract
Background: Exercise and dietary supplements can partially mitigate the negative effects of cadmium. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of swimming and silymarin on placental growth factor (PLGF) in pregnant mice exposed to cadmium.
Methods: Seventy-two 8-week-old pregnant Wistar rats (weighing 20 ± 200 g) were divided into 9 groups, with 8 rats in each group. Cadmium chloride at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight was fed to rats by drinking a water solution. Silymarin (100 mg/kg body weight) was injected subcutaneously 3 times a week. The exercise program during pregnancy consisted of 60 minutes of swimming per day, conducted for 5 days a week. The microscopic sections of samples were taken 2 days after birth using the usual method of tissue sectioning. A 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post hoc test at the error level of 0.05 were used to analyze the data.
Results: The PLGF index in the cadmium group showed a significant decrease (P < 0.001) compared to the cadmium + silymarin and cadmium + silymarin and swimming groups. However, swimming training alone had no effect on PLGF index (P = 0.162).
Conclusion: Cadmium significantly reduced PLGF levels in neonatal lung tissue, and regular swimming endurance exercises and silymarin supplementation inhibited the effects of cadmium chloride.
Amir Shapoori , Habib Asgharpour , Parvin Farzanegi , Neda Aghaei Bahman Beglou ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2024)
Abstract
Background: One of the causes of infertility is azoospermia. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of swimming exercise, cell therapy, and laser therapy on the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial dynamics in the testicular tissue of azoospermic rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 40 rats (6-8-weeks old) were randomly assigned to 8 groups: 1) Healthy control, 2) patient, 3) sham, 4) laser, 5) exercise, 6) cell, 7) cell + laser, and 8) cell + exercise. The azoospermia model was induced using busulfan at a dose of 40 mg. Stem cells were transplanted once into the vas deferens at a concentration of 1000000 cells per rat. One week after cell transplantation, laser therapy was applied in three repetitions throughout the study period, with an interval of once a week, and after wound healing, the rats swam for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for 8 weeks. To investigate the expression of the studied genes, tissue analysis was performed by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique.
Results: Azoospermia significantly reduced the expression of mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) and significantly increased the expression of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 (Murf1) in testicular tissue. The use of interventional methods increased the expression of Mfn2, and significantly reduced the expression of Murf1.
Conclusion: Based on the findings, the best changes were observed in the exercise + laser group. Therefore, it can be said that in rats using the azoospermia model, the simultaneous use of regular exercise interventions and laser therapy is the most effective.
Mahsa Aghaei , Leila Asadpour , Amir Arasteh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2024)
Abstract
Background: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common agents of nosocomial infection worldwide. Methicillin-resistant and biofilm-associated infections of this bacterium have become a clinical concern in patients. This research aimed to identify biofilm-forming ability and accessory gene regulator (Agr) - specific group of clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in Northern Iran.
Methods: In 2021, a total of 200 clinical isolates were identified as S. aureus by biochemical tests. The disk diffusion method was used to examine the antibiotic resistance of isolates and the microplate method was applied to investigate the biofilm production capability. In addition, the PCR method was used to determine the frequency of biofilm-associated genes and Agr typing of MRSA isolates. P £ 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Overall, 62.5% of isolates were methicillin-resistant and 75% were multiple antibiotic-resistant. Biofilm-forming ability was detected in 99 (79.2%) methicillin-resistant isolates in which icaA and icaD were found in 85% and 78% of biofilm-producing isolates, respectively. Type 1 of the Agr gene was the most common type among methicillin-resistant isolates. The frequency of biofilm-associated genes showed a significant association with MDR phenotype and the presence of Agr locus (P £ 0.05).
Conclusion: The present findings indicate a high frequency of biofilm and antibacterial resistance in methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates in Guilan Province. These findings suggest reliable and rapid identification of biofilm-forming MRSA strains to prevent the spread of these bacteria.
Elmira Shah Cheraghi, Mozhgan Ghiasian ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (Nov-Dec 2024)
Abstract
Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a common causative agent of hospital-acquired infections and exhibits resistance to many antibiotics, including beta-lactams. One of the mechanisms of resistance to beta-lactams is the MexAB-OprM efflux pump. This study investigated the genetic pattern of resistant P. aeruginosa strains concerning the presence of the gene encoding the MexAB-OprM efflux pump
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted between 2022 and 2023 in Isfahan, and 110 strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from various clinical samples were identified. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of the isolates was conducted using the disk diffusion method, and strains producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) were identified using the double disk diffusion method. The gene encoding the MexAB-OprM efflux pump in these strains was investigated using polymerase chain reaction.
Results: A significant proportion of the 101 P. aeruginosa isolates originated from the emergency department and ICU-2, highlighting the clinical significance of this pathogen in these settings. Meropenem demonstrated a high resistance rate (74%), while gentamicin exhibited lower resistance (33.33%). Resistance rates to amikacin, levofloxacin, cefepime, ceftazidime, tazocin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone were 40.4%, 68%, 65.34%, 66.33%, 57.42%, 71.42%, and 50%, respectively. The prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) was 29.7%, and the MexAB-OprM efflux pump gene was identified in 80% of ESBL-producing strains, suggesting a potential role in multidrug resistance.
Conclusion: Our findings reveal a strong association between the presence of the MexAB-OprM efflux pump and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production in P. aeruginosa. This observation suggests that the MexAB-OprM efflux pump plays a pivotal role in the development of multidrug resistance in this pathogen. Future studies should focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation and function of this efflux system to inform the design of novel antimicrobial agents and combination therapies.
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.
Roohollah Mohammadi Mirzaei, Hamid Malekshahi , Halimeh Vahdatpoor ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 2025)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a metabolic and vascular disorder characterized by endothelial dysfunction. Physical activity, particularly intermittent exercise, may offer therapeutic benefits. This study examined the effects of six weeks of intermittent exercise on serum nitric oxide (NO), insulin resistance, and lipid profiles in male diabetic rats.
Methods: Sixty Wistar rats (8 weeks old, 200 ± 20 g) were divided into six groups (n=10): healthy control, sham, interval training, interval training + saline, diabetic control, and diabetic + interval training. Diabetes was induced via nicotinamide-streptozotocin injection. The exercise groups underwent treadmill training (5 sessions/week for 6 weeks). Post-intervention, glucose, insulin, NO, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol were measured.
Results: Diabetes induction significantly increased glucose and insulin resistance while reducing insulin and NO levels compared to controls (P < 0.001). After six weeks, the diabetic + exercise group showed significant reductions in glucose and insulin resistance (P < 0.001) and increased NO levels (P < 0.001) versus the diabetic group. Insulin levels did not differ significantly among the groups (P = 0.11). Lipid profiles (LDL, HDL, triglycerides, cholesterol) remained unchanged (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Six weeks of intermittent exercise improved glucose metabolism and vascular function in the diabetic rats by reducing insulin resistance and increasing NO levels, suggesting its potential as a non-pharmacological therapy for diabetes-related endothelial dysfunction.
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.
Raouf Moradian, Amir Haji Ghasem, Saleh Rahmati, Lida Moradi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2025)
Abstract
Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a highly prevalent and chronic liver disease, is characterized by a diverse range of conditions that span across a broad spectrum. Engaging in consistent physical activity has proven to be a successful method in effectively managing NAFLD, as it has demonstrated the ability to enhance crucial elements implicated in the development of the condition.
Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: 1. NAFLD, 2. NAFLD + resistance training (RT), and 3. NAFLD + RT + atorvastatin (ATO). The groups received high-fat/fructose diet (HFFD) to induce NAFLD and it was confirmed through evaluation of histopathological analysis (H&E staining) and measurement of aminotransferase enzymes. ATO was administrated at a dose of 2 mg/kg/day. The interventions were carried out over eight weeks.
Results: Triglyceride (TG), Alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were significantly reduced in the NAFLD + RT + ATO group. Additionally, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were lower in NAFLD + RT group than NAFLD + RT + ATO group. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was reduced in both NAFLD + RT and NAFLD + RT + ATO groups compared to NAFLD. There was no significant difference in weight between the groups except the first, second, and fourth weeks.
Conclusion: Resistance training in combination with the administration of ATO can be deemed as an efficacious and supplementary strategy to effectively control and address NAFLD.
Zarifeh Akbari, Dara Dastan, Mohammad Fallah, Amir Hossein Maghsood, Mohammad Matini,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (11-2025)
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.
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