Showing 147 results for Ph
Mahsa Aghaei , Leila Asadpour , Amir Arasteh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
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.
Ebrahim Mohammed Abed Ahamid Ahmed, Babker Ahmed Mohamed , Bakri Yousf Mohamed Nour, Babiker Saad Almugadam ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Acute ischemic stroke occurs when blood clots obstruct blood vessels within the brain. Platelets (Plts) are integral to the pathophysiology of stroke. This research aimed to explore the relationship between Plt quality and Plt indices in the context of acute ischemic stroke.
Methods: This cross-sectional investigation involved 100 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke at Kosti Teaching Hospital and Alyammama Hospitals. The diagnosis was confirmed using brain CT imaging and electrocardiography (ECG). Blood samples were collected in EDTA-containing tubes within 24 hours following the commencement of treatment and were subsequently analyzed for Plt count, mean Plt volume (MPV), Plt distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT) utilizing a hematological analyzer. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software.
Results: Platelet counts negatively correlated with PDW [r=-0.074, P=0.459; R=-0.023, P=0.815], MPV [r=-0.130, P=0.194; R=-0.081, P=0.417], and diastolic blood pressure [r= -0.023, P=0.818; R= -0.024, P=0.805]; and positively correlated with PCT [r= 0.103, P=0.308; R=0.143, P=0.155] and diastolic blood pressure [r=0.022, P=0.823; R= 0.008, P=0.932]. Moreover, PDW positively correlated with systolic blood pressure [r=0.105, P=0.298; R= 0.147, P=0.148] and diastolic blood pressure [r=0.146, P=0.145; R=0.173, P=0.084]. Based on Spearman but not Pearson correlation, PDW showed a negative correlation with PCT [r=-0.005, P=0.959; R=0.010, P=0.929].
Conclusion: The study shows a correlation between Plt count and indices in ischemic stroke patients. The research also presented evidence concerning the relationship between diastolic and systolic blood pressure and Plt counts and indices.
Mohammed Fabin, Jayakrishnan Jayakumar, Swathy Shanker,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder whose pathophysiology has been linked to various genetic and environmental factors. The main mechanism of the development of complications has been implicated as inflammation-mediated. Various blood cell parameters are being used as early indicators of inflammation-mediated endothelial dysfunction; thereby predicting the severity or prognosis of DM. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting glycemic control in patients with DM.
Methods: This is a retrospective, hospital-based study conducted from August 2023 to December 2023. A total of 134 patients were included in the study. The hematological and biochemical reports of the study population were retrieved, and the data obtained was analyzed using SPSS software version 16.0.
Results: In this study, it has been found that PLR is significantly increased in patients suffering from DM with poor glycemic control compared to those patients with good glycemic control (P<0.001). In concordance with other studies, a positive association was observed between PLR and disease severity.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study, PLR may be used as a predictive marker in assessing the severity and prognosis of DM; however, the exact cut-off value is yet to be determined.
Syed Majid Ali, Jalila Qayoom, Talat Masoodi, Azhar Shafi, Arshi Syed,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Post-operative wound infection has been a problem since surgery was started as a treatment modality and is the third most common cause of nosocomial infections with a reported incidence rate of 14-16%. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, isolate and identify aerobic pathogenic bacteria from surgical site infections (SSI) and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) pattern of pathogenic bacteria.
Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology SKIMS-Medical College, Bemina Srinagar, over a period of six months from November 2021 to April 2022. In the study, 210 samples from patients with SSI were included. Isolation, identification, and AST of the isolates were performed by standard microbiological techniques.
Results: Out of 210 SSI samples, 163 bacterial isolates were recovered and infection rate was more in 21-30 years age group (24.2%). Gram-negative bacteria were isolated in 50.4% (82/163) cases and E. coli was the most common organism (59.75%, 49/82). Gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to imipenem and none were resistant to polymyxin-B and colistin. E. coli was mostly resistant to cefoperazone, Acinetobacter and Klebsiella species were resistant to ceftazidime, Pseudomonas and Citrobacter were resistant to ceftriaxone. Gram-positive bacteria constituted 49.6% (81/163) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was a frequently isolated species (66.6%, 54/81). MRSA- and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) were mostly sensitive to amikacin, gentamycin, and tetracycline. Moreover, none of the Gram-positive isolates were resistant to linezolid, vancomycin, and teicoplanin. Enterococcus spp was mostly resistant to gentamycin.
Conclusion: This study developed an insight into post-operative wound infections and their incidence, organisms’ prevalence, and their antibiogram. Culture positivity in suspected cases of SSI was high (77.6%). MRSA and E. coli were frequently isolated from Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Noori Noha Alsharifi , Mahin Gholipur , Somayeh Ghorbani , Fatemeh Mohammadzadeh , Safoura Khajeniazi ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
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 (11-2024)
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.
Fasahath Jahan Uzma , Shilpa L, Prathima S,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer has seen a significant decline in death rates due to early diagnosis and treatment. The Pap test remains valuable but exhibits limitations, such as false positives and false negatives, with the former associated with atrophy-related changes. This article aims to bring attention to cervical carcinoma screening, focusing on the interpretation of atrophy-related changes in Pap smears and minimizing intervention.
Methods: This retrospective study, conducted at a tertiary care center, evaluated cases with intra-epithelial abnormalities or malignancies in Pap smears.
Results: A total of 11,680 cervical cytology smears received in the Department of Pathology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, over 7.5 years (From January 1, 2016, to June 30, 2023), were reviewed. Of these, 56 cases exhibited epithelial abnormalities and were categorized as follows: 1. Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, 2. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, 3. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and 4. Malignancy. Among the 56 smears, 40 (71%) showed co-existent atrophy. Biopsies were available for 22 smears, and atrophy with epithelial abnormalities co-existed in 16 (28%) of these cases. Of these 16 cases, only eight (50%) were found to have abnormalities greater than Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia II dysplasia. This results in the positive predictive value of cervical cytology smears detecting epithelial abnormalities in cases with co-existing atrophy-related changes being only 50%.
Conclusion: The article emphasizes the importance of cautious interpretation of Pap smears in the presence of atrophy.
Shalaleh Ganji, Iraj Mobedi, Azim Rezamand, Farshid Ardabili, Pooya Yari, Majid Khanmohammadi ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
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.
Adedeji Okikiade, Chidinma Kanu , Oluwadamilare Iyapo , Ololade Omitogun ,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hypertensive disorders, particularly preeclampsia (PE), complicate 2–8% of pregnancies and significantly contribute to maternal and perinatal mortality. PE disproportionately affects low-resource regions, accounting for 26% of maternal deaths in Latin America and 9% in Africa and Asia. Risk factors include extreme maternal age, chronic hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and racial disparities (Higher incidence in Black and Hispanic populations). The exact cause remains unclear, but angiogenic imbalance and immune dysregulation play key roles. This review focuses on the role of cytokines and chemokines in developing preeclampsia (PE).
Methods: A narrative review was conducted to examine studies on the immunological and vascular mechanisms of preeclampsia, with a focus on recent systematic reviews and high-impact research.
Results: The results highlighted a critical imbalance between pro-inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-10) cytokines in PE pathogenesis. Notably, reduced second-trimester IL-10 levels served as an early predictive biomarker. Endothelin-mediated vasoconstriction and Th1/Th2 immune imbalance further exacerbated endothelial dysfunction, a central feature of PE. While human and animal studies support these findings, precise mechanistic pathways remain elusive.
Conclusion: Cytokine and endothelin can serve as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets for PE. Early IL-10 detection may improve risk prediction, but no causal links have been confirmed yet. Gaining a better understanding of these mediators could improve clinical strategies and help minimize complications. Future longitudinal research should focus on biomarkers and explore anti-inflammatory treatments for PE prevention.
Mohit Kumar , Jayaprakash C S , Athira K P,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) represents a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative malignancies with unique presentation and treatment response. This study was intended to assess the histomorphology of non-Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes and correlate with clinicopathological and immunohistochemical findings.
Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on all specimens diagnosed as NHL by histopathological analysis, with immunohistochemical correlation in the pathology department, for two years. Clinical details such as age, gender, site of the lesion, and Nodal / extranodal presentation were recorded. Histopathological analysis was performed, and Immunohistochemical (IHC) reports were obtained. Further histopathological findings were correlated with IHC results. Statistical analysis was done based on the frequency distribution.
Results: This study includes 48 cases. Most cases are 61 to 70 years old, with a male predominance (56.25 %). The most common clinical diagnosis was lymphoma (79.17 %). Most of the lesions were of lymph nodal origin (60.42 %). The cervical group (35.42 %) is the most common lymph node affected, followed by the axillary nodes. The most common extranodal sites are the retroperitoneum and stomach. On histopathological evaluation, the most common diagnosis was NHL (68.75 %) without further subtyping. Among cases where subtyping was done, the most common lesion were follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). On IHC evaluation, B cell neoplasms (85.42%) were common compared to T cell neoplasms (14.58 %). The most common subtype was DLBCL (52.08 %), followed by follicular lymphoma (16.67 %).
Conclusion: Our study found diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) as the most common type of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Cervical lymph nodes were found to be the most common site of involvement. But the involvement of rare sites like the testis and palate was also found. Hence the probability of NHL in these rare sites should always be considered.
Parineeta Shelke , Preeti Doshi , Amit Nisal , Abdulrahaman Momin , Ravindra Nimbargi ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hemoglobinopathies are a group of inherited disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin structure or synthesis, primarily classified into thalassemia syndromes and structural hemoglobin variants. Recognized as a global health priority, these disorders necessitate accurate diagnostic approaches. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has emerged as a reliable method for their detection. This study aimed to analyze the spectrum of hemoglobinopathies using HPLC in a population from Western Maharashtra, India.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth (DTU) Medical College, Pune, over three years. A total of 1,455 specimens from individuals of both genders were analyzed using the VARIANT™ II β-Thalassemia Short Program based on ion-exchange chromatography. Hematological parameters were assessed for all subjects, and the prevalence of hemoglobinopathies, along with their subtypes, was documented.
Results: The mean age of the study population was 26.91 ± 7.06 years, with a female predominance. The overall incidence of hemoglobinopathies was 8.78%, with β-thalassemia minor being the most prevalent, followed by β-thalassemia major, Hb S trait, and Hb S disease. Rare variants included two cases of Hb D Punjab heterozygosity and one case of Hb E heterozygosity. The Mentzer index exhibited a positive correlation with Hb F and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and a negative correlation with hemoglobin levels, Hb A, and red cell distribution width (RDW-C).
Conclusion: The study revealed an 8.78% prevalence of hemoglobinopathies in the region, with β-thalassemia trait (Heterozygous) being the most common. Notably, co-inheritance of Hb E with β-thalassemia exacerbated anemia severity. These findings underscore the importance of HPLC-based screening for early diagnosis and management of hemoglobinopathies in high-risk populations.
Saeid Anvari , Setare Kheyrandish , Fatemeh Sotudeh , Hossein Mirpour Hasankiadeh , Korosh Khanaki , Esmaeil Shahabi Satlsar,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
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.
Sadeghali Azimi , Bahareh Bashardoust , Mohammad Hadi Tajik Jalayeri ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Bronchopulmonary lophomoniasis, an emerging yet frequently overlooked respiratory infection, is caused by the flagellated protozoan Lophomonas blattarum (L. blattarum). Although predominantly observed in immunocompromised individuals, its occurrence in immunocompetent hosts, particularly within high-risk settings like correctional facilities, is uncommon.
Case Presentation: This report details the case of a 47-year-old male prisoner from Golestan Province, Iran, who presented with a four-month history of chronic cough, dyspnea, and purulent sputum. The initial diagnostic workup, including blood and sputum cultures, yielded no evidence of bacterial or fungal infection. However, microscopic examination of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid revealed L. blattarum trophozoites, leading to a definitive diagnosis of lophomoniasis. Of particular interest was the elevated serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) level (387 kU/L; normal range <160 kU/L), which may indicate an underlying allergic predisposition or a concurrent parasitic infection. The patient's symptoms resolved completely after a four-week regimen of metronidazole.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering lophomoniasis in the differential diagnosis of chronic respiratory symptoms, especially in settings with poor hygiene. For accurate diagnosis in similar patient populations, a heightened clinical suspicion combined with BAL microscopy are essential.
Mazhar Khan , Akash Sarkate , Poonam Wade , Sushma Mailk ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common clinical abnormality in newborns during the first week of life. Phototherapy is the standard treatment but may cause complications, including hypocalcemia, a lesser-known yet significant adverse effect. This study investigated the impact of phototherapy on serum calcium levels in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia.
Methods: This observational study was conducted in the NICU of BYL and T.N. Medical College, Mumbai, over 12 months after ethical approval. We included 100 neonates (> 34 weeks gestational age) with hyperbilirubinemia receiving phototherapy. Serum calcium levels were measured before and after phototherapy, and neonates were monitored for clinical hypocalcemia. Data were recorded in a pre-formatted proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 27 (p <0.05 was considered statistically significant).
Results: The mean age of neonates was 3±1.2 days, the mean gestational age was 37±1.2 weeks, and the mean jaundice duration was 2.8±1.10 days. Median serum calcium levels decreased significantly from 8.6 mg/dL (8.49-8.61) pre-phototherapy to 7.35 mg/dL (7.33-7.50) post-phototherapy (p <0.001). Hypocalcemia (serum calcium ≤7 mg/dL) occurred in 16% of neonates, with 60% exhibiting mild symptoms like jitteriness or irritability.
Conclusion: Phototherapy significantly reduces serum calcium levels in jaundiced neonates, with a notable incidence of hypocalcemia. Clinicians should monitor calcium levels and watch for symptoms during phototherapy to prevent complications. Further studies are needed to establish preventive strategies.
Parisa Hasanein , Fahime Javadi Hedaiat Abad, Mousa Bohlooli , Mostafa Khajeh , Sedigheh Esmaielzadeh Bahabadi , Neda Poormolaei ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: DNA glycation, a process where Glc non-enzymatically binds to DNA, is implicated in various detrimental effects, including strand breaks, mutations, and altered gene expression. This damage is considered a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Consequently, there has been increasing interest in identifying antiglycation agents as a strategy for preventing and mitigating these complications. Prior research has indicated that extracts from Tamarix aphylla (T. aphylla) leaves possess antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the impact of T. aphylla extract on Glc-mediated DNA glycation.
Methods: DNA samples were incubated with Glc over a four-week period. Subsequently, the modulatory effects of T. aphylla on Glc-induced DNA structural alterations were investigated employing a range of analytical techniques. These methodologies encompassed ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results: The results obtained from UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that T. aphylla extract led to a reduction in the formation of DNA-advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Furthermore, CD spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis analyses indicated that the structural alterations of glycated DNA were diminished in the presence of T. aphylla extract.
Conclusion: Based on the evidence presented, T. aphylla demonstrates protective properties against DNA glycation. Consequently, pending further rigorous investigation, it may represent a potentially valuable therapeutic agent for mitigating the detrimental consequences of glycation, particularly in environments characterized by elevated Glc concentrations and hyperglycemic states.
Moushmi Shinde, Bharati Dalal, Meera Modak,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Introduction:
Dermatophytes are group of fungi that cause superficial infections via enzymes that degrade keratin in human skin, hair and nails. Several factors, including, gender, age, lifestyle, human migration, cultural habits, and socioeconomic status influence the prevalence of dermatophyte infections. Hot and humid climate in tropical and subtropical countries like India makes Dermatophytosis a very common superficial fungal infection.
Aim/objective:
To isolate & identify dermatophytes from clinically diagnosed cases of Dermatophytosis.
Methods:
Samples from 100 clinically diagnosed cases of Dermatophytosis were processed by KOH mount and fungal culture.
Results:
Out of 100 clinically diagnosed cases, Tinea corporis 42 (42%) was the commonest clinical type followed by Tinea cruris 25 (25%), Tinea unguium 21 (21%). Out of 100 samples, 53 were culture positive. Out of 53 dermatophytes isolated, T. rubrum 16 (30%) was the commonest followed by T. mentagrophytes 11 (20%) and T. violaceum 7 (13.3%). Out of 53
isolates, 49 (92.45%) dermatophytes were isolated on SDA and 51 (96.22%) dermatophytes were isolated from Dermatophyte test medium (DTM).
Conclusion:
Isolation and identification of etiological agents of Dermatophytosis is essential for the correct diagnosis as it is important to initiate appropriate treatment and also important for epidemiological purposes. Accurate assessment of the prevalence and etiological agents is desirable to estimate the size of therapeutic problem and prevent the transmission of such infection.
Sarah Hasan, Waad Raoof, Khaled Ahmed,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Bachground:Carbapanenems are β-lactam antibiotics that have multiple bactericidal activities. These antibacterial are usually considered to be the last-choice drugs in treating infections with multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Carbapenemase producing organisms (CPOs) are associated with serious health care-associated infections, making the mortality rate higher.
Methods:250 samples were collected with sterile cotton swabs; from wounds and burn wounds patients (140 wound swabs and 110 burn swabs). These swabs were cultured on MacConkey agar and cetrimide agar. Cultures were incubated at 37°C for 18–24 hrs. The appearance of the colonies was evaluated by colour, shape, and overall morphology. BD Phoenix™ M50 device is used in identifying and making sensitivity test with BD RAPIDEC® CARBA NP assay in detecting carbapenemase enzymes.
Results:27(38.02%) isolates were carbapenemase producing and multi-drug resistance , distributed as following : 12 Carbapenemase producing Pseusomona aeruginosa multi-drug resistance, 9Carbapenemase producing Escherichia coli multi-drug resistance, 5carbapenemase producing Enterobacter cloacae multi-drug resistance and one isolate of Carbapenemase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae multi-drug resistance. The current study reported CP-Pseudomonas aeruginosa and CP-Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates as pathogens with the highest number of antibiotics resistance (resist 15 different antibiotics from seven classes of antibiotics).
Conclusion: In current study ,the carbapenemase producing organisms (CPOs) were highly MDR against most classes of antibiotics due to misuse or overuse of antibiotics,
one of the most urging topics to follow is to recognize and develop modern drugs to combat the carbapenem resistant organisms with multi-drug patterns that are known to cause higher morbidity and mortality among patients globally.
Maryam Enshaei Mojarad, Hajar Abbaszadeh, Parvin Farzanegi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a period of intense functional training on some markers of m2 macrophages (IL-10, Dectin-1, IL-1Ra) in prediabetic obese women so that the effect of this type of exercise training on some markers of m2 macrophages in women check pre-diabetic obesity.
Methods: 30 eligible female volunteers aged 35-40 years were selected. Based on individual characteristics, the subjects were homogeneously divided into two groups: 1) the control (15 people) and 2) the training group (15 people). In this research, for High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) based on CrossFit training protocols, squat, deadlift, press, barbell, dumbbell, medicine ball exercise, fixed bar, rotating kettlebell, and aerobic exercises (such as running, rope pulling) Weight-bearing exercises (such as horizontal pull-ups, squats) and weight-lifting exercises (such as front squats, kettlebell swings) were used on a WOD (workout of the day) basis.
Results: The results showed that High-Intensity Functional Training causes a significant decrease in Dectin-1 and a significant increase in IL-10, and IL-1Ra in prediabetic obese women.
Conclusion: It seems that in the present study, 16 weeks of high-intensity functional training improved the secretion and function of m2 macrophage markers (IL-10, Dectin-1, IL-1Ra) in prediabetic obese women.
Dr Priyadarshini Kumaraswamy Rajeswaran, Dr Preethi Muthusamy Sundar, Dr Prasanna Nedungadi Kumar, Dr Karthikeyan Shanmugam,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Several haematological indicators have been linked to the intensity and course of COVID-19 infection, including platelets, white blood cell total count, lymphocytes, neutrophils (as well as the neutrophil-lymphocyte and platelet-lymphocyte ratios), and hemoglobin. The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of cell population data (CPD) of lymphocytes and monocytes parameters in the early diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Methods: The baseline complete blood count examination for 222 patients with proven COronaVIrus Disease of 2019(COVID-19) (case group) and 161 patients with negative for COVID-19 investigations (control group). Lymphocyte and monocyte CPD were calculated in both the groups. The independent t-test was used to compare the mean values between the two groups Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to evaluate the discriminating capacity of the individual parameters.
Results: The analysis revealed that Standard Deviations of Monocyte Volume (SDMV) and Lymphocyte Conductivity (SDLC) showed highest significance in predicting SARS-CoV-2 infection. SDMV had a sensitivity of 93.7% and SDLC had a sensitivity of 80.6% at cut-off values of 22.25 and 10.9, respectively. In the case group, 49 of the 222 patients were treated in the intensive care unit showed higher SDMV when compared with the remaining 173 patients who were asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic (p-value <0.03).
Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that SDMV and SDLC can serve as reliable and cost-effective markers for early prediction of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, SDMV shows potential as a prognostic biomarker. These findings highlight the potential utility of CPD parameters in COVID-19 diagnosis and prognosis.
Sahar Siddiqui , Mohd Suhail Lone , Umar Amin Qureshi , Rayees Khanday ,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a virulent bacterium responsible for a spectrum of infections, from superficial dermatological issues to severe, life-threatening sepsis. The emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, encompassing both hospital-acquired (HA) and community-acquired (CA) variants, presents significant challenges to effective treatment, especially in pediatric sepsis cases. This research endeavored to characterize S. aureus sepsis in pediatric patients, differentiate between cases caused by CA S. aureus (CA-SA) and HA S. aureus (HA-SA), and evaluate patterns of antibiotic resistance.
Methods: This study, conducted between January 2021 and December 2022 at the Postgraduate Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital, Srinagar, Kashmir, J&K, investigated patients aged 1 month to 18 years with suspected S. aureus sepsis or disseminated disease. Standard methods (BacT Alert and Vitek II Compact) were employed for culturing various samples. Continuous data are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD), while categorical variables are expressed as proportions.
Results: Out of 56 patients, CA-SA was observed in 66.1% of cases, while HA-SA accounted for the remaining 33.9%. The cohort primarily consisted of males (62.5%) and individuals residing in rural areas (71.43%). Localized musculoskeletal symptoms were a prominent feature, present in 91.9% of patients (P ≤ 0.05). Pleuropulmonary disease showed an association with HA-SA, whereas necrotizing soft tissue infections were linked to CA-SA. Common clinical manifestations included pneumonia and abscesses. Complications (such as septic shock, respiratory failure, and multi-organ dysfunction) were more frequently encountered in patients with HA-SA. Among 50 culture-confirmed cases, 96% were identified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Survival rates differed between the two groups, with 94.6% for CA-SA patients and 89.5% for HA-SA patients.
Conclusion: The current study reveals a high prevalence of MRSA in pediatric sepsis, emphasizing the critical need for urgent antimicrobial stewardship. The observed distinct clinical profiles of CA-SA and HA-SA further underscore the necessity for tailored management strategies, particularly in resource-limited environments.
