Medical Laboratory Journal

Biofilm Formation in Staphylococcus Aureus and its Relation to Phenotypic and Genotypic Criteria

EA Ghaemi

Abstract Background and Objective: Bioﬁlm is a complex microbial community embedded in a self-produced extracellular polymeric matrix. We aimed to study the extent of biofilm formation by S. Areas isolates and its relation to some phenotypic and genotypic criteria. Material and Methods: One hundred-fifty strains of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Gorgan were studied. Microtiter plate assay method was used for investigation of biofilm formation.The biofilm formation of strains were recorded and its relation to accessory gene regulator (agr) and antibiotic resistance were assessed by X2 test. Results: Eighty-four isolates (56%) were able to form biofilm. The strength of biofilm formation in agr group I was more than that of other groups. The biofilm formation among S. Areas isolated from the wound and urine (both with 75 %) had the highest capability. Methicillin-resistant isolates had a greater ability to biofilm formation. Conclusion: Methicillin resistant isolates had a greater ability to biofilm formation. Given the importance and treatment related problems of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) especially Community Acquired-Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA), it is a necessity to control or remove the biofilm formation alongside antibiotic treatment. Keywords: Staphylococcus Aureus, Biofilm, Microtiter Plates Assay, PCR

Designing, Optimization and Construction of Myelin Basic Protein Coding Sequence Binding to the Immunogenic Subunit of Cholera Toxin

Y Yazdani

Abstract Background and Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. Mucosal feeding of myelin basic protein binding to the cholera toxin B subunit can reduce the intensity of the immune response in MS patients. Expression system, the domain composition of the fusion protein, accessibility of two domains, codon adaptation index (CAI) and GC contents are very important for the large scale production of fusion protein. Material and Methods: we used DNA2, PSIPRED and ProtParam softwares for designing the best form to produce fusion protein. Moreover, the correct open reading frame of myelin basic protein was also considered. First the coding sequence was verified and then synthesized. For confirmation of the recombinant vector, PCR test was carried out using T7 primers. Finally it was inserted into the cloning site of pET28 expression vector. Results: After coding optimization, the CAI rate was increased from 64 % to 80% and GC content from 41 % to 49%. The presence of a band near 700bp resulted from PCR amplification test demonstrates the correct cloning of recombinant vectors in the cloning site of pET28 expression vector. Conclusion: According to software and experimental analysis, the designed sequence probably in the best form could be used for production of recombinant protein. Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis, Cholera Toxin, Myelin Basic Protein

Antibacterial Effects of Extract of Alloe Vera and Stachys Inflata on Gram Positive and Negative Bacteria in In Vitro

R Habibipour

Abstract Background and objective: Antimicrobial and antiviral effects of Alloe Vera and Stachys inflata have been proved. We aimed to investigate the effects of extract of Alloe Vera and Stachys inflate on the growth of some bacteria to take the place of chemical drugs. Material and Methods: the extracts of both plants were prepared by maceration method different concentrations were prepared using Mueller Hinton agar medium and tested by Disc diffusion. Furthermore, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by the Microdilution method. Results: The effect of Alloe Vera extract was significant on Staphylococcus aureus. MIC and MBC of Aloe Vera extract on Bacillus subtilis were obtained in 230 and 410 mg/ml, respectively, which were 500 and 714 mg/ml for Haemophilus influenza. The extract of gel of Alloe Vera had no effect on Bacillus subtilis. The extract of leaf and gel of Alloe Vera had an inhibitory effect on Haemophilus influenza and Pseudomonads aeraginosa. The extract of Stachys inflata had an inhibitory effect on Haemophilus influenza, but it did not have any on Pseudomonads aeraginosa. The Extract of Stachys inflata had no effect on Bacillus subtilis, while showing significant effect on Staphylococcus. Among antibiotics, Ofloxacin had an effect on Haemophilus influenza. The extract of both plants did not show any effect on Klebsiella pneumonia. Conclusion: Given the effect of Alloe Vera and Stachys inflata in laboratory conditions, we hope that these extracts will be used instead of chemical substances for making nutritional supplements to control human diseases. Key words: Alloe Vera, Antibacterial, Stachys Inflata, Extract

Lipid Profile and Leptin Levels in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

R Esmaeili

Abstract Background and Objective: Metabolic syndrome called a cluster of several metabolic disorders is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Genetic differences in leptin receptor gene are related with the concentration and activity of leptin in that these discrepancies can influence lipid levels. We aimed to determine the association between the leptin receptor gene polymorphism on serum lipid profile and leptin activity in metabolic syndrome patients. Material and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 200 patients with metabolic syndrome and 200 healthy individuals. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (RFLP) were used to determine genotypic distribution and allelic frequencies of polymorphisms, respectively. The plasma leptin activity was measured by a kit in a fluorescence spectrometer, and Lipid concentration by routine biochemical and enzymatic assays. Results: Two groups had significant differences in all measured factors such as lipid profiles, fast blood sugar, waist circumference, blood pressure and leptin concentration (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Given that the two groups had significant differences in blood and body measurements, no role of K656N polymorphism was observed. Overall, Lys656Asn (K656N) polymorphism of leptin receptor gene is not associated with serum lipid profile and leptin activity with metabolic syndrome. Keywords: Metabolic Syndrome, Leptin Receptor Gene, PolymorphismK656N

Biosorption of Lead and Copper by Heavy Metal Resistance Bacterium using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (FT IR)

M Mohseni

Abstract Background and Objectives: Contamination of environment to lead and copper is rising due to human activities. One of the best methods to remove heavy metals from the environment is bacterial remediation. This study aimed to isolate bacteria and investigate the mechanism of lead and copper bioremediation. Material and Methods: Heavy metal resistant bacteria were isolated from contaminated wastewater samples. The isolates with high resistance to lead and copper were selected for further studies and bioremediation was assessed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. To determine the functional groups to remove metals, FT-IR was employed. In addition, plasmid curing was studied to determine the location of the genes that are resistance to heavy metals. Results: Ten bacterial isolates that are resistance to heavy metals were isolated. Among these, MKH3 with the highest remediation activity removed %90 lead and %92 copper from the growth medium. The absorption mechanism of MKH3 indicated that the functional groups such as carboxyl, amide, carbonyl and hydroxyl were most effective for removal of heavy metals from the growth medium. The results revealed that heavy metal resistant genes may be located on plasmid DNA. Furthermore, molecular identification demonstrated that MKH3 was similar to Enterobacterhormaechei with 98% homology. Conclusion: Bacterium isolated from a contaminated site showed the ability to remove a high amount of lead and copper. Thus, MKH3 could be useful for the bioremediation of heavy metals, particularly lead and copper, from industrial wastewater and contaminated sites. Keywords: Biosorption, Bacteria, Lead, Copper, FT-IR

Evaluation of Electromagnetic Field Effect on Oxidative Stress Level, Testosterone Hormone and Sexual Behavior in Male Rat Treated with Omega 3

A Zahedi

Abstract Background and Objective: Omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids that cannot be synthesized by human body and should be obtained from foodstuff. This study aimed at evaluating the beneficial effect of Omega-3s ,exposed in Electromagnetic Field (EMF), on sexual behavior ,Serum total testosterone level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level and total antioxidant capacity(TAC) in male rats. Material and Methods: 32 Wistar rats (males=24, females=8) were allocated to four groups of Control, EMF, omega 3 and omega 3 & EMF. Estradiol benzoate was injected to the female rats subcutaneously. Then after taking biopsy from epididym and testis of each groups, tissue preparation was performed to look through via light microscope on 28th day of study. Serum MDA, TAC and Testestrone were measured in male rat by Radio Immune Assay (RIA) method. Results: The highest degree of testicular tissue destruction and MDA level were observed in electromagnetic field group and the lowest in omega 3 group. The sexual behavior, testosterone hormone and TAC level were lowest in electromagnetic field group and highest in omega 3 group. Conclusion: Based on the Results, administration of omega 3 can significantly lower the adverse effects of EMF and have beneficial influences on sexual behavior in male rat. KeyWords: Electromagnetic Field Effect (EMF), Rat, Omega 3, Sexual Behavior

Effect of Endurance and Resistance Training on Parameters Related to Sexual Function in Men

AL Barari

Abstract Background and Objective: The hormonal responses are different, according to type, intensity and the duration of training. We aimed to compare the effect of endurance and resistance training in untrained men on the level sexual hormone including testosterone, estradiol, and on sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Material and Methods: this study was conducted on male Student Volunteers divided randomly into three groups of eight members, including endurance, resistance and control. To measure the variables, we performed sampling before and after the training program. Results: the levels of testosterone and estradiol, in both groups have a significant (p<0.05) increase and decrease respectively. SHBG level was significantly increased only in endurance group (p<0.05), But LH level was meaningfully increased only in the resistance group (p<0.05). Conclusion: The endurance and resistance training can increase the production of testosterone .Increased testosterone and decreased estradiol in men lead to sperm production and improve fertility. Keywords: Endurance training, Resistance Training, Testosterone, Estradiol

Cytomegalovirus Active Infection in Persons Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

A Tabaraei

Background and Objective: Cytomegalovirus (CMV), one of the most common opportunistic pathogens in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), can cause the diseases such as encephalitis, pneumonia, and chorioretinitis. This study aimed at molecular studying of CMV infection in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. Material and Methods: In this study, 50 venous blood samples from HIV-infected individuals were taken. Patients were divided into two categories: patients under treatment with and without antiretroviral drugs. Plasma were separated from blood samples and examined for the presence of cytomegalovirus genome by PCR. Material and Methods: this study was conducted on 50 blood samples from HIV-infected individuals, and plasma was separated and examined for the presence of cytomegalovirus genome by PCR. Patients were divided into two group of under treatment with and without antiretroviral drugs. Results: Of 50, 28 (% 56) were men and 22 (% 44) were women. CMV genome was identified in 8 samples (16%), and the molecular prevalence of CMV infection was 21.4% (n= 6) in males and 9.1% (n = 2) in females. Conclusion: Given the frequency of Cytomegalovirus Active Infection in HIV-infected individuals under antiretroviral therapy, we should be careful about the treatment of Cytomegalovirus Active Infection. Keywords: Active Infection, Cytomegalovirus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Shiraz, PCR

Prevalence of aac(3)-IIa, aph(3)-Ia and ant(2)- Ia Genes among Uropathogenic Escherichia Coli Isolates

GH Goudarzi

Abstract Background and Objective: Escherichia coli, one of the most common causative agents of urinary tract infections (UTIs) acquired from community and hospital, has developed multiple resistances to various antibiotics such as aminoglycosides. The main resistance mechanism to aminoglycosides is inactivation of these drugs by a variety of acetyltransferase, nucleotidyltransferase, and phosphotransferase enzymes. this study aimed to assess the prevalence of resistance to some important aminoglycosides as well as the distribution of aph(3)-Ia, aac(3)-IIa and ant(2)-Ia genes among uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates obtained from patients suffering UTIs. Material and Methods: Using the disk diffusion method, the antimicrobial susceptibility of 200 uropathogenic E. coli isolates collected from outpatients and inpatients was investigated to nine antibiotics. Then, the distribution of aac (3)-IIa, aph (3)-IA and ant (2)-IA genes was determined by PCR method. Results: Thirty-nine percent of E.coli isolates obtained from inpatients (n=100) and 19% of those from outpatient (n=100) demonstrated resistance to at least one of the tested aminoglycosides (i.e. 58 isolates). Among the isolates examined (n=200), 19.5%, 13%, 7.5% and 4.5% were resistant to gentamicin, kanamycin, neomycin and amikacin, respectively. The most prevalent gene among the strains resistance to at least one of the aminoglycosides (n=58) was aac (3)-IIa (65.5%), followed by aph (3)-IA (25.8%). Also, the ant (2)-IA gene was not seen in any isolates. Conclusion: The presence of aac (3)-IIa gene is significantly associated with gentamicin resistance (100%, p<0.05). Because of relatively high distribution of the aac (3)-IIa gene among uropathogenic E.coli, the use of aminoglycosides such as amikacin to treat UTI in clinical setting is recommended. Keywords: Escherichia Coli, Urinary Tract Infections, Aminoglycoside-Modifying Enzymes (AMEs)

Prevalence of Onychomycosis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

N Shahini

Abstract Background and Objective: Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection causing ulcers, diabetic foot and enhance nail infection. This study was designed to evaluate the prevalence of onychomycosis in type II diabetes. Material and methods: This descriptive-analytic study was conducted on 300 diabetic patients selected randomly among those referred to Panje Azar endocrinology clinic. They were examined for peripheral vascular disease, Skin lesions, diabetic foot and Peripheral neuropathy. The Laboratory tests such as FBS, HbA1c, Direct smear and fungal culture were used. Results: The patients with onychomycosis were 19 (6.3%) their mean age was 53.65±1.04 the youngest was 28 and the oldest 84. The male to female infection ratio was of 1.08 that was not statistically significant. There was no significant difference in regards to ethnicity, age, BMI, FBS, HbA1C. The location of the infection was 16 on feet (29.6%), and three on both hands and feet (P = 0.000) Conclusion: The prevalence of fungal infection was less frequent than that of other studies. Given that there was no significant relationship between different demographic data and its prevalence, further studies with larger sample size are needed. Keywords: Prevalence, Fungal Infections, Diabetes

Relationship between Turbidity and Residual Chlorine and Microbial Quality of Drinking Water

N Amanidaz

Abstract Background and Objective: Safe drinking water is essential for health and health promotion is dependent on providing safe water. We aimed to determine the relationship between turbidity & residual chlorine and microbial quality of drinking water in Agh ghala. Material and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 2079 water samples were collected from water networks of 78 villages and urban network using census sampling during two years. Both sampling and tests were performed on the basis of standard methods. Results: In more than 96 percent of the villages (N =75), above 90% of the samples hadn’t any fecal coliform bacteria except three villages that had the index in the range of 85 to 88 percent. Residual chlorine had significant relationship with coliform and fecal coliform (P ≤ 0.05) while the relationship between turbidity and coliform contaminants, fecal coliform and residual chlorine was not significant. Conclusion: Total coliform and fecal coliforms were reducing by increasing residual chlorine in the water supply networks. It has been suggested that the officials reduce the water turbidity and annual washing of the water network to increase the effect of residual chlorine and decrease bacterial contamination. Keywords: Agh Ghalla, Fecal Coliform, Coliform, Residual Chlorine

Parasitic Contamination of Consumed Vegetables in Golestan Province, 2012

M Fakhar

Abstract Background and Objective: The Outbreak of human parasitic diseases associated with the consumption of raw vegetables often occurs in both developing and developed countries. This study aimed to evaluate parasitic contamination of edible vegetables in Golestan Province. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the cities of Golestan Province for six months, 2012. The samples (N = 100) were randomly chosen among different vegetables (parsley, lettuce, radish, and cress), and examined for the presence of helminthic and protozoan parasitic contaminations following washing, centrifuging and sedimentation. Results: Thirty-seven (37%) were found to have parasitic contamination, and of these 30 (81.1%) and 7 (18.9%) were helminths and protozoa, respectively. The highest rate of contamination was detected in parsley (37.9%), and the lowest in radish (12.0%). Moreover, free living larva with 58.6% and Hymenolepis nana ova with 5.1% were the highest and lowest contaminated rates, respectively. Conclusion: Based on our results, consumed vegetables in Golestan Province is considered as a potential risk for some human parasitic infections. Keywords: Vegetable, Parasite, Parasitic Infections, Golestan Province

Parasitic Contamination of Consumed Vegetables in Golestan Province, 2012

A Kazemi

Abstract Background and Objective: Nowadays, effective human resources management plays an important role in success of organizations. In order to achieve high efficiency of limited resources, managers of organizations try to allocate the best possible human resources for every section. This kind of decision is one of the challenges that human resource managers are facing with. Material and Methods: Using analytic hierarchy process and considering qualitative and quantitative criteria, we carried out the most suitable allocation in a medical laboratory and selected the best possible team of experts for each section. Results: Regarding specific attributes eight experts were allocated to three sections of a medical laboratory. Conclusion: Analytic hierarchy process is a suitable method for allocating human resources to different sections of a company. Keywords: Human Resources, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Medical Laboratory

Relationship between High-Density Lipoprotein and C-reactive Protein in Patients with Atherosclerosis

M Samadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease mostly caused by oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDLs) while High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) oppose atherosclerosis by inhibiting the oxidation of LDLs. Serum concentration of C- reactive protein (CRP) also increases as an acute phase protein in inflammatory conditions like atherosclerosis. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of HDL and CRP in patients with atherosclerosis disease. Material and Methods: CRP and HDL in 45 patients as a case and 45 healthy individuals as a control group were measured in the central laboratory of Yazd city. The CRP was measured by turbidometric quantitative method and HDL by colorimetric method. Results: In case group, the CRP level was 7.62 ± 4.08 mg/l and the HDL level was 45.29 ± 9.41mg/dl, which are inversely correlated (P-value: 0.001, Pearson correlation: -0.700), while the correlation in control group was not significant (P-value: 0.88, Pearson correlation: 0.023). Conclusion: Based on the resuls, there is a significant inverse correlation between CRP and HDL in atherosclerotic patients. Keywords: Atherosclerosis Disease, CRP, HDL

Isolation and Characterization of Burkholderia Cepacia Strains from Hospitalized Patients in the Hospitals of West Guilan Province

M Faezi Ghasemi

Abstract Background and Objective: Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) is a plant pathogen that is an important mortality factor in immune-compromised and hospitalized patients. We aimed to Isolate and Characterize the Burkholderia Cepacia Strains from Hospitalized Patients in the Hospitals of West Guilan Province. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on 90 saliva and blood samples obtained from patients with blood infection, pneumonia, asthma, patients connected to the monitoring and ventilator systems, and immune-compromised patients in different sections of hospitals such as the pediatrics, internal section, ICU and CCU. Primary screening was performed by cultivating the samples on Burkholderia cepacia selective agar (BCSA) Sensitivity to antibiotics was tested by Kirby-Bauer and Muller-Hinton Agar (MHA) and the separated isolations were recognized by strengthening the gene rec A. Results: Of 90 isolated samples, only one strain suspected B. cepacia was isolated from 24-year old women with asthma. This strain was resistant to bacitracin, pipracillin and ciprofloxacin antibiotics. Conclusion: The incidence of B. cepacia is rare in western part of Guilan province, which is congruent with the results of overall incidence in Iran.

Prevalence of Trichomonas Vaginalis in Diabetic Females

MA Rahimi

Abstract Background and Objective: Trichomonas vaginalis is a pathogenic agent known worldwide and affects about 180 million annually. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis in diabetic patients referred to diabetic research center. Material and Methods: In this descriptive-analytic study, 215 women referring to the Diabetic Center in Kermanshah Province were investigated for Trichomonas vaginalis. After collecting the data by a questionnaire, the samples were obtained from posterior fornix by sterile swabs and sent for assessing by direct microscopy and Dorset medium. Results: Totally, 1.3 percent of the women were confirmed to be infected with T. vaginalis. Conclusion: The range of blood sugar cannot remarkably affect the prevalence of T. vaginalis. Given the limitations of this study and low prevalence compared to similar studies, we recommend further comprehensive research for better understanding. Keywords: Trichomonas Vaginalis, Diabet, Prevalence

A Review on Environmental Mycobacteria in Iran

Ghaemi, EA

Abstract Mycobacterium genus, including pathogenic and environmental species, is called non-tuberculosis mycobacteria. In this review, we assessed the research about the frequency of non-tuberculosis mycobacteria in Iran. The analyses showed that there are 16 and 28 mycobacterial species isolated in water and soil samples, respectively. The most frequent mycobacterial species in water were M. fortuitum (25.4%) and M. chelonae (25.4%), and in soil it was M. fortuitum (19.7%). The most frequent species in clinical samples was M. fortuitum, too. The frequency of non-tuberculosis mycobacteria in various clinical samples was various, and on average 1.1% of the suspected tuberculosis clients referred to the healthcare centers have non-tuberculosis mycobacteria. Keywords: Environmental Mycobacteria, Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria, Iran, M. fortuitum