Showing 56 results for Per
Ameneh Elikaei , Hossein Vazini, Fatemeh Javani Jouni , Jaber Zafari,
Volume 13, Issue 5 (9-2019)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and objectives: Esophageal cancer is the eighth most common type of cancer in the world. Considering the adverse effects of anticancer drugs and the emergence of chemotherapy resistance, plant-derived extracts and their constituents could be a valuable source of novel anticancer drugs. In this study, we investigated cytotoxic effects of Juniperus excelsa leaf extract on esophageal cancer cell line KYSE-30 and healthy fibroblast cells (HU02 cells).
Methods: KYSE-30 cells and HU02 cells were cultured in DMEM medium. The cells were treated with different concentrations (1, 10, 100, 500 μg/ml) of the J. excelsa leaf extract for 24 and 48 hours. The cytotoxic effects of the extract were assessed using the MTT assay. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 19) and GraphPad Prism 5.
Results: According to results of the MTT assay, the Juniperus excelsa’s leaf extract exerted significant cytotoxic effects on esophagus cancer cell line (KYSE-30) and healthy fibroblast cells (HU02) in a time- and dose-dependent manner (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The J. excelsa leaf extract has cytotoxic effects against KYSE-30 esophageal cancer cells while causing lesser toxicity on healthy fibroblast cells. Our findings suggest that the potential anticancer effects of this extract should be further exploited in future studies.
Keywords: Cytotoxic, MTT, Hu02, Kyse-30, Juniperus excelsa.
Ahmadreza Meamar, Nahid Jalallou, Leila Masoori, Maryam Alipour,
Volume 13, Issue 6 (11-2019)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Strongyloides infection is usually asymptomatic in healthy individuals; however, immunocompromised patients are subject to potential hyperinfection involvement. Hereby, we report disseminated and hyperinfection strongyloidiasis in two immunosuppressed patients from north of Iran, an endemic region for Strongyloides stercoralis.
Case description: After assessment of clinical symptoms, disseminated strongyloidiasis was identified in the first case with pemphigus vulgaris by the presence of abundant larvae in direct stool smears and gastric biopsy. The second patient had metastatic carcinoma and was hospitalized with complicated symptoms. The infection was diagnosed by detection of numerous first-stage larvae in wet mount stool smears and agar plate analysis. Despite antiparasitic treatment, both patients died during the hospitalization.
Conclusion: Delayed diagnosis of active strongyloidiasis in immunosuppressed patients can lead to hyperinfection syndrome. Thus, screening for S. stercoralis infection in these patients is recommended in endemic regions to reduce mortalities.
Keywords: Strongyloides stercoralis, Disseminated strongyloidiasis, Hyperinfection.
Mohtaram Yazdanian, Mahtab Moazami, Mohammad Shabani, Sadegh Cheragh Birjandi,
Volume 13, Issue 6 (11-2019)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Cerebral ischemia causes irreversible structural and functional damage in certain areas of the brain, especially in the hippocampus. The aim of this study was to examine effects of exercise preconditioning on neuronal cell death and expression of neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) in the hippocampal CA1 region following transient global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rat.
Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats (weighing 250-300 g) were randomly divided into three groups (control+healthy, control+ischemia and exercise+ischemia). The rats in the exercise group ran on a treadmill five sessions a week for eight weeks. Ischemia was induced by occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 45 minutes. Cresyl violet staining was performed to assess cell death, and real-time PCR was carried out to evaluate expression of NT-4 and TrkB.
Results: Cerebral ischemia was associated with significant neuronal death in the hippocampal CA1 region (P<0.05). Exercise significantly decreased the ischemia-induced cell death (P<0.05). NT-4 expression was significantly lower in the control+ischemia group and in the exercise+ischemia group compared to the control+healthy group (P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between the control+ischemia group and the exercise+ischemia group in terms of NT-4 expression (P˃0.05). Moreover, TrkB expression did not differ significantly between the groups (P˃0.05).
Conclusion: When used as a preconditioning stimulant before the induction of cerebral ischemia, exercise could have neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia-induced cell death, but it has no significant effect on NT-4 and TrkB expression.
Keywords: Exercise Preconditioning, Ischemia/Reperfusion, NT-4, TrkB, Cell death.
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Cerebral ischemia causes irreversible structural and functional damage in certain areas of the brain, especially in the hippocampus. The aim of this study was to examine effects of exercise preconditioning on neuronal cell death and expression of neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) in the hippocampal CA1 region following transient global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rat.
Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats (weighing 250-300 g) were randomly divided into three groups (control+healthy, control+ischemia and exercise+ischemia). The rats in the exercise group ran on a treadmill five sessions a week for eight weeks. Ischemia was induced by occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 45 minutes. Cresyl violet staining was performed to assess cell death, and real-time PCR was carried out to evaluate expression of NT-4 and TrkB.
Results: Cerebral ischemia was associated with significant neuronal death in the hippocampal CA1 region (P<0.05). Exercise significantly decreased the ischemia-induced cell death (P<0.05). NT-4 expression was significantly lower in the control+ischemia group and in the exercise+ischemia group compared to the control+healthy group (P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between the control+ischemia group and the exercise+ischemia group in terms of NT-4 expression (P˃0.05). Moreover, TrkB expression did not differ significantly between the groups (P˃0.05).
Conclusion: When used as a preconditioning stimulant before the induction of cerebral ischemia, exercise could have neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia-induced cell death, but it has no significant effect on NT-4 and TrkB expression.
Keywords: Exercise Preconditioning, Ischemia/Reperfusion, NT-4, TrkB, Cell death.
Zahra Mirshekar, Nasser Behnampour, Abolfazl Amini, Ghazal Alizad, Ghorban Mohammad Kouchaki, Farhad Niknejad,
Volume 14, Issue 4 (7-2020)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Aspergillosis is a widely distributed infectious disease, which is difficult to manage. According to recent studies, the prevalence of resistant Aspergillus fumigatus has increased from 3.3% to 6.6%. Acquired triazole resistance in Aspergillus species is an evolving global health challenge, which has made the control of diseases caused by Aspergillus a concern. This study was performed to investigate prevalence of azole resistance in Aspergillus isolates from environmental samples.
Methods: In this study, 316 soil samples were collected from three hospitals and a university campus in Gorgan (Iran) from July to September 2017. Two grams of each sample were suspended in 5 ml of 0.2M NaCl with 1% Tween 20. Then, 100 µl of the suspension was plated on sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) supplemented with chloramphenicol, SDA supplemented with chloramphenicol and voriconazole (VOR, 1 mg/L) and SDA supplemented with chloramphenicol and itraconazole (ITC, 4 mg/L). The plates were incubated at 37 °C and examined for growth after 24, 48 and 72 hours.
Results: We detected Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus nidulans isolates in 187(59.2%), 84(26.6%), 147(46.5%) and 65(20.6%) samples, respectively. We found no VOR resistant isolate. However, 21 (25%) A. flavus and 16 (8.6%) A. fumigatus isolates were intermediate for VOR. In addition, seven (8.3%) A. flavus, 68 (36.4%) A. fumigatus, 41 (27.9%) A. niger and three (4.5%) A. nidulans isolates were resistant to ITC.
Conclusion: We were able to detect A.fumigatus, A. flavus, A. niger from all four sampling sites in Gorgan, North of Iran. A. fumigatus is the most prevalent and most resistant isolate in the studied area. History of previous agriculture activity and use of pesticides in the proximity of sampling sites may have affected the rate of ITC resistance.
Hamid Karami, Amin Farzaneh Hesari, Parvin Farzanegi,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (3-2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Hypertension is associated with vascular remodeling, which is supported by the protein disulfide isomerase A1 (PDIA1). Exercise training has beneficial effects on vascular function in subjects with hypertension. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful biological antioxidant. However, the role of exercise training and ALA on PDIA1 are not well understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate effects of training with different intensities and ALA supplementation on PDIA1 expression in cardiomyocytes of hypertensive rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 35 male Wistar rats (age: eight weeks, weight: 190-220 g) were randomly divided into seven groups: control, hypertensive, hypertensive+ALA, hypertensive+high intensity interval training (HIIT), hypertensive+moderate-intensity training (MIT), hypertensive+HIIT+ALA, and hypertensive+MIT+ALA. Hypertension was induced by three weeks of L-NAME administration (40 mg/kg/day). The HIIT and MIT protocols was performed five days a week for six weeks. The HIIT protocol consisted of 10 bouts of four minute-running at 80–85% of Vmax, and the MIT protocol consisted of 13 bouts of four minute-running at 55–60% of Vmax. In the supplementation groups, 20 mg/kg of ALA was administered orally once a day. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to study protein expression.
Results: Induction of hypertension significantly decreased PDIA1 expression compared to the control group (p=0.001). Moreover, PDIA1 expression increased significantly in the hypertensive+ALA (p=0.023), HIIT (p=0.001), MIT (p=0.007), MIT+ hypertensive+ALA (p=0.0001) and HIIT+ hypertensive+ALA (p=0.0001) group compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Hypertension is associated with decreased cardiac PDIA1 level, and both HIIT and MIT along with ALA supplementation are effective in increasing cardiac PDIA1 expression in hypertension.
Mark Aihiokhai, Augustine Okpiabhele,
Volume 16, Issue 5 (9-2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Piper guineense (African black pepper) is a widely consumed spice in some parts of Central and Western Africa, especially Nigeria, due to its nutritional and medicinal properties. This study investigated biochemical effects of extract of P. guineense seeds on lipid profile, renal function parameters, and antioxidant status of Cavia porcellus.
Methods: Forty guinea pigs (weighing 200–300g) were equally divided into a control group and three experimental groups. Animals in the control group received 1 mL of distilled water daily for 28 days, while animals in the experimental groups 1, 2, and 3 received 0.5 mL of distilled water along with 10, 20, and 20 mg/100 g body weight powered seeds daily for 28 days.
Results: Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and calcium. The median lethal oral dose of the aqueous extract of P. guineense seeds was greater than 5,000 mg/kg, indicating a high degree of safety. The extract at dose of 30 mg/100 g body weight had the most beneficial effects on lipid profile, renal function parameters, and antioxidant status of guinea pigs when compared with other groups.
Conclusion: Given the beneficial effects of P. guineense on lipid profile and renal function parameters, the plant can be incorporated in daily diets to ensure receiving adequate amount of essential vitamins, phytochemicals, and other nutrients present in the plant.
Ashwini Suruthy, Seema Bijjaragi, G V Neethu,
Volume 16, Issue 6 (11-2022)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a public health emergency. This study aimed to investigate a possible correlation between COVID-19 severity and mortality and serum levels of ferritin and C-reactive protein (CRP).
Methods: This retrospective descriptive study was conducted on 75 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in a tertiary care hospital in Central Karnataka (India) from April 2021 to June 2021. Demographic details as well as clinical and laboratory parameters were retrieved from hospital records.
Results: Of 75 patients, 50 were survivors and 25 were non-survivors. Serum ferritin levels were significantly associated with mortality (p<0.040). There was no significant association between CRP level and COVID-19 severity or mortality (p>0.05).
Conclusion: This study revealed that serum ferritin levels can be used as a prognostic marker for COVID-19 patients.
Ali Jabbari, Reza Afghani, Ayesheh Enayati,
Volume 17, Issue 2 (3-2023)
Abstract
Background: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a multisystem disorder characterized by progressive renal cysts formation and extra-renal manifestations. Infection within the cysts and abscess formation are rare but life threatening if left untreated. We present a rare case of peritonitis presentation due to intraperitoneal rupture of an infected cyst in a woman with polycystic kidney disease.
Case description: A 42-year-old woman presented with constant progressing abdominal pain and vomiting. She complained of abdominal distention, bloating, and a change in bowel habits from two days ago. On physical examination, bilateral enlarged masses of flanks, generalized tenderness, and distention of the abdomen were found. The patient received conventional therapy. After appropriate fluid and electrolyte management and rescue care, appropriate antibiotics were prescribed, and laparotomy was performed. The rupture of an infected cyst of the right polycystic kidney into the peritoneal cavity was the cause of peritonitis in this patient. She successfully underwent a right radical nephrectomy (32×21cm, and 3,300 gr). The postoperative period was uneventful and the patient was discharged from the hospital after a week.
Conclusion: Antibiotic therapy is the first step in the treatment of renal cyst infection. When primary antibiotic therapy fails, drainage of the infected cyst is recommended. In medically fit patients for surgery and patients who present with complications of the infected cyst, radical surgery and nephrectomy is the procedure of choice. The best outcome is achieved after nephrectomy.
Sajad Jafari, Mohammad Fathi, Masoud Rahmati,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Endurance exercise causes fatigue due to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of taurine supplementation on lipids peroxidation and antioxidant activity during endurance activities.
Methods: Twenty-four male volunteers aged 27 ± 1.8 years and weighting 74.9 ± 5.9 kg were randomly divided into three groups: taurine supplementation (n=8), placebo (n=8), and control (n=8). The subjects completed a 28-day endurance training protocol. Biochemical parameters such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (8 hours before the first session and 8 hours after the last session) and maximum rate of oxygen consumption, were measured to evaluate the antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, and VO2 max status respectively. Finally, data were analyzed by SPSS software at a significance level of <0.05.
Results: Taurine supplementation significantly increased SOD (p=0.001) and GPX (p=0.001) but significantly decreased MDA (p=0.001). However, it had no significant effect on the VO2 max.
Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate that taurine has antioxidant effects against endurance exercise-induced oxidant stress and lipid peroxidation.
Smita Bhide, Dr. Rupali Lahane,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background: Gastrointestinal tract complaints are prevalent among individuals in rural settings, encompassing all age groups. This study aimed to examine histopathological lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract through endoscopic biopsy and determine the frequency of various upper gastrointestinal lesions in relation to age, sex, and site.
Methods: The specimens included in our study comprise endoscopic biopsies of the upper gastrointestinal tract during October 2018 to October 2020. A total of 70 biopsies from the upper gastrointestinal tract were analyzed using endoscopy. All specimens were fixed in 10% formalin and processed following routine hematoxylin and eosin (HE) examination. Special stains were employed when necessary.
Results: Among the 70 upper gastrointestinal endoscopic biopsies studied during this period, 25 (35.71%) were from the esophagus, 35 (50.0%) were from the stomach, and 10 (14.29%) were from the duodenum. Of the 70 upper gastrointestinal endoscopic biopsies, 34 displayed inflammatory lesions, while 36 exhibited neoplastic lesions. There was a male predominance among the cases examined. Non-neoplastic lesions were observed in individuals aged from the second to the fifth decade, while neoplastic lesions were more prevalent in older age groups.
Conclusion: This research highlights the stomach as the predominant location for inflammatory and neoplastic lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The study reveals a notable occurrence of gastric carcinoma among malignant upper gastrointestinal lesions. Thus, early detection and management of upper gastrointestinal lesions necessitate endoscopy and subsequent histopathological evaluation.
Jincy W,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are common in patients with hypothyroidism, and are also observed in thyrotoxicosis. Creatine kinase (CK) is present in the muscles and is involved in energy metabolism. This study aimed to estimate the serum CK levels in patients with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and healthy individuals. Moreover, the correlation of CK levels with markers of thyroid function is assessed.
Methods: A total of 120 patients with hypothyroid and 120 with hyperthyroid were compared with 120 healthy individuals aged 20-60 years. The thyroid status was assessed by determining the serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) using chemiluminescent immunoassay. Serum CK was measured the by kinetic method. Statistical analysis was performed by analysis of variance and Pearson’s correlation to investigate the correlations between CK and thyroid hormones.
Results: A significant increase (P<0.0001) and a significant decrease (P<0.0001) in serum CK were observed in hypothyroid patients (253.98±129.04 IU/L) and in hyperthyroid patients (34.68±13.15 IU/L), respectively, compared to the control group (72.9±29.01 IU/L). A negative correlation was found between fT4 and CK (r: -0.4253, P<0.0005).
Conclusion: It could be concluded that CK activity in serum may be a useful additional test in thyroid disorders.
Amir Shapoori , Habib Asgharpour , Parvin Farzanegi , Neda Aghaei Bahman Beglou ,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
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.
Piyushkumar Mansinh Pargi , Manish Barvaliya , Bhargav Purohit,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Although the anti-diabetic effects of various Ficus species have been investigated in animal models, research on the blood glucose-lowering potentials of Ficus lacor Buch Ham bark remains sparse. This study evaluated the blood glucose-lowering potentials of an aqueous extract derived from Ficus labor bark in a diabetic rabbit model.
Methods: Diabetes was induced in rabbits through intravenous administration of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg). 36 rabbits were divided into six groups, each consisting of six animals. Control groups included a non-diabetic control (Distilled water) and a diabetic control (Distilled water). Two experimental groups received Ficus lacor extract at doses of 100 mg/kg (Low-dose) and 200 mg/kg (High-dose) orally for six weeks. Metformin was used as an active control. A non-diabetic group (Extract control) was also administered Ficus lacor extract at 200 mg/kg. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and post-prandial blood sugar (PP2BS) levels were measured weekly over the 6 weeks. The percentage reduction in blood glucose levels was calculated and compared for each group.
Results: The administration of both low-dose and high-dose Ficus lacor extracts resulted in significant reductions in FBS and PP2BS levels in diabetic rabbits. After six weeks, the low-dose extract group exhibited an average reduction of 38.3% in FBS and 40.5% in PP2BS, whereas the high-dose extract group showed average reductions of 35.3% in FBS and 36.3% in PP2BS.
Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Ficus lacor bark demonstrates substantial glucose-lowering activity, indicating its potential utility as a therapeutic agent in diabetes management.
Abazar Yari , Morteza Ahmadi , Mahdieh Mehrpouri ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Thyroid hormones play a critical role in hematopoiesis, and thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect blood parameters. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of thyroid dysfunction on various blood parameters.
Methods: This case-control study included 194 subjects who were classified into three groups based on TSH levels: hypothyroid (n=70), hyperthyroid (n=56), and control (n=68). Conditions that affect blood parameters, including pregnancy, inherited or acquired red blood cell abnormalities, chronic inflammatory diseases, evidence of nutritional deficiencies, and underlying diseases such as cancer, as well as patients unwilling to participate in the study, were excluded. Hematological parameters were measured using a cell counter, and the results were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: The results showed that 78% of the participants were female and 22% were male, aged 4 to 89 years. The analyses revealed that RBC, Hb, HCT, WBC count, and WBC differential count were significantly different between the three groups (P-value <0.05), but the differences were not significant for MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, PLT, and MPV (P-value >0.05). Correlation analysis indicated a significant correlation between TSH and Hb, HCT, WBC, PLT, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Since thyroid hormones play a critical role in hematopoiesis, thyroid dysfunction can affect many hematological parameters. Therefore, the management of patients with thyroid disease should include the CBC test. In addition, patients with poor responses to anemia treatment may have an underlying thyroid disorder.
Tejas Atulbhai Contractor , Himali Parsotambhai Thakkar, Anupama Ishwar Dayal, Sandesh Omprakash Agrawal , Hani Kamleshbhai Patel ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Upper gastrointestinal (GI) lesions are significant contributors to morbidity, with endoscopy serving as a crucial minimally invasive tool for their visualization and biopsy. This study explores the demographic patterns of upper GI lesions by age, sex, and biopsy site, comparing the prevalence of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions across the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, while underscoring the importance of early detection and management.
Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Gujarat, India, from July 2019 to October 2021. A total of 104 upper GIT biopsies were included and categorized based on age, sex, site, endoscopic findings, and histomorphology. Histopathological analysis involved routine processing, staining, and microscopic examination by a histopathologist.
Results: Out of the 104 endoscopic biopsies, the majority were from the 46-55 age group, followed by the 66-75 age group, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.7:1. Esophageal biopsies were the most common (48%). Non-neoplastic lesions (52.8%) were predominant, with duodenitis (48%) and celiac disease (33.3%) being the most frequent. Neoplastic lesions (47.1%) were prevalent in the esophagus (36.5%), primarily squamous cell carcinoma. Gastric biopsies showed more benign lesions, such as gastritis, than malignant ones, with adenocarcinoma being the most common. Endoscopic findings included thickening, scalloping, nodularity, polyps, and fragile growths, emphasizing the diversity of upper GIT lesions and the need for early detection and treatment.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the crucial role of biopsies in promptly diagnosing esophageal malignancies and identifying premalignant conditions like Barrett's esophagus for timely intervention. It reaffirms the pivotal role of endoscopic biopsy in clinical management, stressing the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach.
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.
Adedeji Okikiade , Chidinma Kanu , Oluwadamilare Iyapo , Ololade Omitogun,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a multi-system disorder affecting 6-8% of pregnancies in the U.S. and contributing significantly to maternal mortality, accounting for 16% in developed countries. It progresses from preeclampsia to eclampsia, leading to multi-organ damage through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, placental ischemia, and endothelial dysfunction. While the exact pathogenesis remains unclear, genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors are implicated. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends initiating treatment when diastolic blood pressure exceeds 105-110 mmHg.
Methods: This narrative review examines existing literature on PIH, including epidemiological data, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical management guidelines, and associated complications such as abnormal placentation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction.
Results: This study demonstrates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) significantly impact maternal and fetal health, particularly in developing countries with limited healthcare access. Early detection and continuous monitoring play a key role in reducing complications. Additionally, HDP is associated with increased long-term cardiovascular and metabolic risks, highlighting the importance of postpartum follow-up.
Conclusion: HDP poses a serious threat to maternal and fetal health, with potential long-term consequences. Effective management requires early diagnosis, close monitoring, and postpartum follow-up. Global implementation of risk assessment and targeted care strategies can help reduce the burden of this condition. Strengthening healthcare systems and increasing awareness among healthcare providers and patients are essential steps toward improving outcomes.
Atere Adedeji David , Ehuine Elizabeth Efe , Kosamat Yekeen Adebisi , Ige Ilesanmi Paul ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Menopause, characterized by the cessation of menstrual periods, often leads to bone diseases due to hormonal changes, particularly affecting calcium metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate bone-associated biomarkers and their correlation with parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in postmenopausal women, shedding light on potential osteoporosis risks.
Methods: Sixty postmenopausal (PMP) women, along with 20 premenopausal (PRM) and 20 reproductive-age (RWA) women as controls, were included in this cross-sectional study. Blood samples were analyzed for PTH, vitamin D, uric acid, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and estradiol levels.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher levels of ALP and phosphorus, and lower levels of calcium, PTH, vitamin D, uric acid, and estradiol in PMP and PRM groups compared to RWA (p <0.05). Moreover, PTH had a significant negative correlation with ALP, and phosphorus; however, it had a positive correlation with calcium, vitamin D, and estradiol in PMP women. ALP demonstrated a superior area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) compared to other bone-associated markers.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the reduced bone-associated biomarker levels in postmenopausal women, potentially increasing the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
Dr Roshita Devi Kshetrimayum, Dr Ajitkumar Singh Yanglem, Dr Sangeeta Naorem, Dr Victoria Kshetrimayum, Dr Sunie Laishram, Dr Niketa Ashem,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy affects 10% of pregnancies causing both maternal and foetal complications. It may be associated with complications like visual disturbances, oliguria, eclampsia, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, thrombocytopenia, pulmonary edema and fetal growth restriction. Lactate dehydrogenase is an intracellular enzyme and is increased when there is increased cellular death. As preeclampsia leads to cellular death, serum LDH level may reflect the severity of preeclampsia and its level may serve as a guide in the management of the patient.
Methods: This is a cross sectional study, conducted in the Department of Biochemistry in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, RIMS, Imphal. The study population consist of 100 participants:50 diagnosed cases of preeclampsia and 50 non preeclamptic women attending RIMS hospital.
Results: The study shows that serum LDH level was significantly higher (p value < 0.05) in preeclamptic women (510.10±184.26)IU in comparison to the pregnant women without preeclampsia (284.38±97.35)IU. Serum LDH levels were found to be positively correlated with increase in blood pressure.
Conclusions: This study shows that serum LDH level is higher in patients with preeclampsia than the non preeclamptic women. LDH level is found to be positively correlated with higher blood pressure. Therefore, detection of serum LDH level may help in detection of preeclampsia so that it may help in close monitoring, prompt and early management of preeclamptic women.
Aneesha Asok Kumar, Subaida A K, Anandan K R, Feroze M,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Covid-19 is a global pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). So far different clinical and hematological findings that can predict disease severity have been identified. This study explores the role of Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and Neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR) in predicting the severity of Covid-19 infection.
Methods: After obtaining Ethics committee clearance, patients with laboratory confirmed Covid-19 infection admitted during their first two weeks of illness were included in this prospective study. NLR, PLR and NPR were derived from the CBC reports. These ratios were compared in each clinical category groups to assess the severity.
Results: The total number of cases was 160. The mean age at diagnosis was 56 years. Proportion of males were slightly higher (54.4%) than that of females (45.6%). The proportion of Category C patients (66.9%) were more than Category B (25%) and Category A (8.1%) patients. It was found that the NLR, PLR and NPR ratios has statistically significant association with severe Covid-19 infection and hence these can be used to differentiate between Category C from Category A or B. NLR is the better parameter in predicting the severity of Covid-19 disease than PLR and NPR.
Conclusions: NLR, PLR and NPR ratios can be used as predictive markers of disease severity in Covid-19 infection. Among these ratios, NLR has the highest predictive value for disease deterioration.
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