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Correlation between Electrodiagnostic Findings and Cerebrospinal Fluid Changes in Children with Guillain-Barre syndrome
Full text linkObjectivesGuillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) involves the peripheral nervous system developed by infections or immune conditions. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and electrodiagnostic tests are essential diagnostic methods for GBS. However, limited data are available on how the findings from these methods relate to each other. This study aimed to evaluate changes in CSF analysis and electrodiagnostic tests in pediatrics with GBS.Materials & MethodsThe present study retrospectively evaluated electrodiagnostic tests and CSF changes in pediatrics with GBS who were admitted to Tabriz Hospital, Iran, from 2010 to 2020 due to CBS. Patients’ data, including age, gender, CSF analysis, and electrodiagnostic test results, were recorded from the patients’ files. Electrodiagnostic data included pace and amplitude of tibial, median, peroneal, sural, ulnar nerves, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), F-wave, and motor unit action potential (MUAP). The significance level was considered less than 0.05.ResultsThe mean age of patients was 4.83±2.72 years, and 54.6% were boys. The most common type of GBS involvement was demyelinating type. No gender differences were found between involved nerves unless the ulnar nerve was significantly more involved in girls (P-value: 0.012). The obtained findings indicated no significant relationship between electrodiagnostic tests and CSF protein (P-value: 0.439).ConclusionNo association was observed between electrodiagnostic results and CSF changes in pediatrics with GBS
Analyzing Morphometrics of Sella Turcica, Foramen Magnum and Mastoid Processes Using Head and Neck Computed Tomography for Sex Determination in Egyptian Adults
Full text linkBackground: Recognition of unknown individuals is an essential element in forensics. This study aims to analyze the morphometrics of the sella turcica, foramen magnum (FM), and mastoid process in adult sex determination. In addition, to identify from the previously mentioned parts which is the most efficient single parameter in adult sex determination. In addition, we look forward to correlating the significant efficacy of the previously mentioned parts in sex determination using two or all of them together compared to using one bony part alone.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 60 Egyptian adults (30 men and 30 women) with multislice computed tomography (MSCT) bone window scans of the head and neck obtained for different purposes were included to obtain cranial measurements of the sella turcica, FM, and mastoid triangle area.Results: The Sella turcica anterior-posterior (A-P) diameter of the adult male cases had a Mean±SD of 14.015±2.15 mm compared to 12.851±1.904 mm among adult female cases. The mean maximum FM width (FMW) of men was 32.183±2.126 mm, while that of women was 30.169±2.530 mm. The men’s FM area (FMA) had a Mean±SD of 885.606±124.665 mm2; In women, the Mean±SD were 784.179±140.997 mm2. The mastoid triangle area’s Mean±SD were 778.559±87.218 mm2 among men compared to a mean of 645.215±88.733 mm2 among women. Conclusion: This study determined that sella turcica A-P diameter, mastoid area, FMW, FMA, the maximum length of the right and left occipital condyle (LROC), and length of the left occipital condyle (LLOC) showed significantly higher measures in adult Egyptian males. The best single parameter determining the adult sex was the mastoid triangle area with a cut-off level of 647.22 mm2. The sella turcica A-P diameter, LLOC, and mastoid triangle area represent the best combination of all measured parameters for determining sex in adults. A predictive formula was performed using the best combination in adult cases with an accuracy of 87% in sex determination
Photobiomodulation Therapy in Improving Quality of Life in Kindler Syndrome: A Case Study: PBM therapy for trismus
No full textIntroduction: Kindler syndrome (KS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by skin fragility, acral blister formation, diffuse cutaneous atrophy, photosensitivity, palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, pseudosyndactyly, and alopecia. Oral manifestations include limited mouth opening, which adversely affects oral hygiene, chewing, and swallowing, significantly impacting the quality of life of affected individuals.Methods: A 26-year-old male with KS was referred for the management of reduced mouth opening, presenting with an interincisal distance of 19 mm. This was a critical concern for facilitating prosthetic rehabilitation. The patient underwent Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy as a non-invasive treatment modality aimed at improving trismus.Results: Following PBM therapy, the patient’s mouth opening improved significantly from 19 mm to 23 mm. This enhancement allowed for the initiation of prosthetic rehabilitation.Conclusion: PBM therapy is a promising treatment for managing trismus in KS by breaking down abnormal collagen deposits and reducing collagen synthesis, effectively addressing the underlying pathology. It offers significant improvements in mouth opening, which can enhance oral hygiene, nutritional intake, and overall quality of life. This non-invasive approach provides a viable option for patients with KS who require prosthetic rehabilitation
Therapeutic Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Rat Spinal Cord Injury: Analysis of Inflammatory Markers and Testicular Function: Therapeutic effects of low-level laser therapy on rat spinal cord injury
No full textIntroduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe condition often leading to lasting neurological impairment and associated reproductive health issues in males. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) during the inflammatory phase of SCI to prevent oxidative damage, reduce inflammation, and mitigate potential damage to testicular function.Methods: Eighteen male rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group A (laminectomy only), group B (contusion), and group C (contusion + PBMT). Thirty minutes post-injury, group C received PBMT for two weeks. Histological and stereological analysis was evaluated using the hematoxylin and eosin test (H&E). ELISA and real-time PCR were performed for eight weekspost-SCI to assess testosterone and inflammatory and apoptotic changes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test, and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.
Results: The SCI group exhibited significant reductions in sperm count (mean ± SD: 14.2 ± 86.1), motility (34.8 ± 72.8), and viability (26.12 ± 43.9), with increased levels of inflammatory markers (IL-1 β: 4.4 ± 71.6, TNF-α: 3.14 ± 66) and damage to testicular structure. In contrast, animals treated with PBMT showed significant improvements in sperm parameters (sperm count: 48 ± 34, motility: 57.2 ± 18.5, viability: 52 .3 ± 88.2) and a marked reduction in inflammation (IL-1 β: 3.09 ± 14.2, TNF-α: 2.67 ± 74.1) compared to untreated SCI animals (P < 0.001). Additionally,PBMT-treated animals demonstrated significant improvements in testosterone levels (1.57 ± 44.8) and a reversal of testicular cell loss (P < 0.001).Conclusion: These findings suggest that PBMT mitigates the negative effects of SCI on testicular tissue by reducing inflammation and preserving cellular integrity, thus supporting its use as a dual therapeutic approach to aid neurological recovery and maintain reproductive health
نقش ابن جزّار در توسعه دانش پزشکی و داروسازی مغرب اسلامی
No full textBackground and Aim: Muslims studied medical sciences in the third century AH After translating the works of other peoples and each land in their vast territory contributed to the growth and development of this scientific heritage. The Islamic Maghreb, which extended from the west of Egypt to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, played a major role in cultivating great physicians and pharmacists and presenting the works and results of their efforts to humanity. This study aims to explain Ibn Jazzar’s role in the development of medical knowledge and pharmacy in Islamic Maghrib.
Methods: The method is descriptive-analytical, library and based on historical data and statements. After reviewing historical sources and references, the materials was categorized, data analyzed and the article was written.
Ethical Considerations: The ethical aspects of library research, including the originality of texts, honesty and trustworthiness, have been observed.
Results: The findings show that Ibn Jazzar, a famous Moroccan physician and pharmacist, in addition to practicing medicine, paid attention to producing medical knowledge through studying and comparing the medical works of Greek predecessors and writing numerous works in the fields of medical knowledge, botany and pharmacy.
Conclusion: The results which were obtained through answering the research questions show that Ibn Jazzar Maghrib grew up in the stable conditions of the Fatimid era and his family profession, which was medicine, led him to this profession. In addition to medicine, he also paid special attention to pharmacy, which provided the basis for the separation of these sciences. Ibn Jazzar left behind valuable works in the fields of medicine and pharmacy and played an important role in expanding the scientific and civilizational boundaries of Islam in the field of medical sciencesزمینه و هدف: مسلمانان پس از ترجمه آثار اقوام دیگر، مطالعه علوم پزشکی را از قرن سوم قمری آغاز نمودند و هر سرزمینی از قلمرو پهناور آنان به سهم خود در رشد و بالندگی این میراث علمی کوشید. سرزمین مغرب اسلامی که از غرب سرزمین مصر تا سواحل اقیانوس اطلس را دربر میگرفت، در پرورش پزشکان و داروسازان بزرگ و تقدیم آثار و نتایج زحمات آنان به بشریت سهم عمدهای داشت. هدف از این پژوهش تبیین نقش ابن جزّار در توسعه دانش پزشکی و داروسازی مغرب اسلامی است.
روش: روش این تحقیق توصیفی ـ تحلیلی، کتابخانهای و مبتنی بر دادهها و گزارههای تاریخی است و پس از فیشبرداری از منابع و مأخذ تاریخی، به دستهبندی مطالب، تحلیل دادهها و نگارش مقاله اقدام شده است.
ملاحظات اخلاقی: در پژوهش حاضر جنبههای اخلاقی مطالعه کتابخانهای شامل اصالت متون، صداقت و امانتداری رعایت شده است.
یافتهها: یافتههای تحقیق نشان میدهد که ابن جزّار، طبیب و داروساز معروف مغربی، ضمن طبابت اهتمام فراوانی به تولید دانش پزشکی از طریق مطالعه و مقایسه آثار پزشکی متقدمین یونانی و تألیف آثار متعدد در حوزه دانش پزشکی، گیاهشناسی و داروسازی داشته است.
نتیجهگیری: نتایج این پژوهش که از طریق پاسخ به پرسشهای تحقیق حاصل شده است، نشان میدهد که ابن جزّار مغربی در اوضاع باثبات عصر فاطمیان رشد و نمو یافت و پیشه و حرفه خانوادگیاش که طبابت بود، او را به سوی این حرفه سوق داد. او ضمن طبابت، به داروسازی نیز به صورت تخصصی توجه داشت و موجبات تفکیک این علوم را فراهم آورد. ابن جزّار آثار ارزشمندی در زمینههای پزشکی و داروسازی از خود بر جای گذاشت و نقش مهمی در گسترش مرزهای علمی و تمدنی اسلام در حوزه علوم پزشکی داشت
Biofilm Formation of Foodborne Pathogens and Strategies of Its Prevention and Biocontrol: A Review
Full text linkBackground and Objective: Foodborne pathogens and cross-contamination of food products pose a serious risk to the food industry as many outbreaks are associated with biofilm formation, which increases post-processing contaminations and risks to public health. This review aimed to study the biofilm formation of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria in foods and on food contact surfaces, which subsequently represent serious challenges to the food industry and may decrease shelf life and increase transmission of diseases.
Results and Conclusion: Chemical and physical methods (e.g. sanitizing with chemicals and heat treatment) are not sufficiently applicable for biofilm removal in food sectors due to the increase of bacterial resistances, ingredient damages and possible residues in food matrix. During meat processing, the environment is filled with complex multispecies communities of microorganisms, majorly connected to the surface forming biofilms that are difficult to treat. Furthermore, bacterial cell relationships between various genera and species play a key role in the attachment process and formation of strong biofilms, as well as in the resistance of the biofilm community members against antimicrobial treatments. Thus, control of these biofilms are difficult in food industries since the biofilm cells secrete exopolymeteric substances that include preventing barrier or lessening contact with environmental stresses such as antimicrobial agents as well as the host immune system. Biofilms are highly resistant to conventional antimicrobial therapies and lead to persistent infections. Hence, there is a high need for novel strategies other than conventional antibiotic therapies to control biofilm-based infections. Bacterial biofilm formation and its problems in the food industry were discussed in this study in addition to various safety strategies aiming to provide novel insights into biofilm control in the food industry for improving food quality and safety.
Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Introduction
A biofilm is a complex community of microorganisms that adhere to a surface, forming multiple layers that protect their growth, proliferation and survival [1]. It can lead to antibiotic resistances, nosocomial infections and food-borne illnesses. However, biofilms benefit the microbes by helping them in adhesion, metabolite exchange, quorum sensing and drug resistance [2]. Microbial biofilms are composed of diverse bacteria surrounded by their exopolysaccharides and typically attached to biotic and abiotic surfaces, resulting in food poisoning with diarrhea, vomiting, enteritis, stomach discomfort and headaches in humans [3, 4]. Presence of biofilms in food-processing environments, food contact surfaces, processing equipment such as stainless steel, rubber, plastic and Teflon and completed products increases danger of spoiling, diminishes shelf life and increases possibilities of infectious disease outbreaks associated with foods [5]. Search for efficient ways to control microbes and their biofilms still needs further efforts [6]. This review covered topics associated with particular microorganisms that create biofilms in the food sector, illustrating the biofilm formation process, stages of development, interactions between microorganisms and various novel methods and strategies of biocontrol.
Results and Discussion
Biofilm Formation
Several factors affect biofilm formation, including metabolism, signaling molecules, culture media, matrix and variations in cellular and genetic makeup [7]. Generally, biofilm formation consists of four common steps (Figure 1), initially produced on biotic or abiotic surfaces through reversible and irreversible adhesion, using adhesive proteins, lipopolysaccharides, flagella and pili [8]. Furthermore, biofilm maturation occurs in two stages of cell-to-cell communication and production of auto-inducer molecules. These molecules primarily consist of proteins, exopolysaccharides, DNA, RNA, enzymes, microbial cells and water with water being the major component responsible for nutrient movement within the biofilm matrix. Exopolysaccharides serve as a protective shield, enhancing microbial adhesion within biofilms, ensuring their structural integrity and facilitating nutrient acquisition [9,10,11].
1.1 Formation of Biofilm in Food Industry
In the food industry, surfaces and equipment that come into contact with foods are often occupied by microorganisms that can form biofilms [12,13]. Bacterial biofilms in foods pose severe hazards to human health, leading to systemic diseases, food intoxication and gastroenteritis and presence of bacterial biofilms on tables, staff gloves, animal carcasses, water, milk and other liquid pipelines has been documented [14].
1.2 Biofilm Resistance to Antimicrobial Agents
Bacteria living in biofilms show 10 to 1000-fold increases in drug resistance, compared to their planktonic stages. Various multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria such as Salmonella spp., methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) have been linked to foodborne outbreaks, presenting a significant public health threat [15]. Based on the estimates, biofilm matrix and EPS prevent bacteria from antibiotic exposure, providing them an adaptive advantage by preventing chemical stressors from penetrating deeper biofilm regions [16]. In biofilms, quorum sensing and horizontal gene transfer are the most commonly observed mechanisms [17]. Biofilm awareness in fight against MDR bacteria needs further discussion and persistence of biofilms in foods creates an ideal environment for resistance mechanism exchange; hence, greater awareness of these dangers is necessary.
1.3 Quorum Sensing System
Quorum sensing system is a communication system between the cells that allows them to send chemical signals, enabling cooperative gene expression, which leads to increased population density, enhanced biofilm formation and increased production of extracellular polymeric substances [18]. Recent studies have shown that Gram-negative bacteria produce acylated homoserin lactones (AHLs) as autoinducers, while Gram-positive bacteria use peptides (AIPs) [19].
1.4 Horizontal Gene Transfer
Horizontal gene transfer is a widely recognized mechanism; through which, bacteria adapt and spread resistance to antimicrobial agents using mobile genetic elements (MGEs), which pose a significant threat to global public health [20]. Release and transfer of bacterial DNA play a role in biofilm synthesis and contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance. Resistance plasmids can spread through the conjugation process, promoting development of resistant biofilms within the densely populated structure of biofilms. Over time, drug resistance leads to the preferential expression of certain genes, resulting in increased productions of proteins associated with virulence and antibiotic resistance, which can alter characteristics of biofilm resistance.
1.5 Common Foodborne Pathogens Forming Biofilms
Bacterial pathogens can contaminate meats because meats are rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins and include high water contents (75%) and acceptable pH ranges [21, 22]. The greatest dangers to food safety worldwide are environmentally hazardous microorganisms that can infect cattle during various processing procedures and foodborne illnesses associated with uncooked meats. These pollutants are challenging to clean off and disinfect, putting customers' health at major risks. A variety of bacterial pathogens can cause meat-borne diseases, by infecting animals or contaminating meat during meat processing such as Salmonella spp., E. coli, Campylobacter spp., L. monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, Brucella spp., Mycobacterium bovis, Bacillus anthracis and toxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium spp. and B. cereus [23]. Meat-borne diseases can be categorized into infections, intoxications, allergies, metabolic food disorders and idiosyncratic illnesses [24]. Harmful bacteria can build up on various equipment and biotic and abiotic surfaces and eventually create biofilms whereas over 90% of bacteria live. They create biofilms on gloves and surfaces of silicon, rubber plastic, glass and stainless steel [25]. Significance and effects of biofilms on the food industry have been demonstrated in several studies, where a variety of pathogens such as L. monocytogenes, Y. enterocolitica, C. jejuni, B. cereus and E. coli O157:H7 frequently cross-contaminate these food products [26]. Available studies have shown that the coexistence of multiple bacterial species could increase biofilm development and enhance pathogen persistence by promoting EPS production. Examples of these relevant biofilm-forming pathogens in the food industry are briefly described.
1.5.1 Gram-negative Bacteria
Approximately 80% of the available foods in Saudi Arabian markets are imported with 15.71% of these imports are meat-based. Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa include several important virulence factors, form biofilms and easily contaminate meats. However, handling and consuming animal-derived products contaminated with E. coli biofilms can pose health risks while Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli are important enteric pathogens linked to outbreaks and severe gastroenteritis. Verotoxigenic E. coli produce verotoxins while E. coli O157:H7 is a human pathogen responsible for outbreaks of bloody diarrhea and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and can be transmitted through raw milks, drinking waters, fresh meats and vegetables. A major element affecting production of E. coli biofilms is temperature. For example, after 7 d of incubation at 15 °C, quantity of adhering and planktonic cells increased on beef surfaces, which included a serious issue for meat processing plants [27]. Isolates with a higher capacity for mature biofilms showed resistance to sanitization [28].
Salmonella spp. propagate at 35–37 °C and includes two species of S. bongori and S. enterica, the most prevalent pathogens in the food industry and the causative agent in several foodborne outbreaks [29, 30]. Salmonella enterica is commonly associated with refrigerated poultry products stored on shelves during food processing or in supermarkets. Three various types of Salmonella are important for human health, including non-typhoid Salmonella, S. typhi and S. paratyphi. Fresh poultry and meat are highly prone due to their nutrient-rich content, high water activity and near-neutral pH (5.5–6.5), creating optimal environmental conditions for Salmonella spp., which are not spore-formers and can easily be destroyed by heat at 60 °C for 15–20 min. Furthermore, growth of most isolates was inhibited below 7 °C and pH 4.5, while nontyphoidal salmonellosis in the US is nearly 1.35 million illnesses per year [31]. Because many people reside in Saudi Arabia during haj and umrah seasons, a significant prevalence of Salmonella infection occurs [32]. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is wide spread on meat surfaces and in low-acid dairy products and affecting more than 2 million individuals and killing roughly 90,000 of them annually [33]. Because of its adaptability, P. aeruginosa may grow at temperatures lower than 7°C and contaminate fresh meat sold in stores, causing its spoilage via lipolytic, saccharolytic and proteolytic processes [34]. In addition, the microorganism secretes extracellular enzymes that cause breakdown of foods and includes a high degree of medication resistance, which can result in serious acute and chronic infections in immunocompromised people. Human infections usually affect the respiratory tract (RT), soft tissues, blood vessels, urinary tract (UT) and wounds [35]. Carbapenem-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa pose a hazard to public health [36]. Due to the abundance of EPS, cells can adhere to stainless-steel surfaces and create biofilms alone or with other pathogens and produce multispecies biofilms, increasing their stability and resistance [37].
1.5.2 Gram-positive bacteria
Listeria monocytogenes is a rod-shaped, non-spore-forming, facultative-anaerobic Gram-positive bacterium. It causes human infections of listeriosis, a serious illness that includes septicemia and meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and is capable of growing at temperatures ranging 3–45 °C with the optimal temperature of 30–37 °C [38]. Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful foodborne microorganism that is killed by pasteurization. Consumption of dairy products, meats, fishes, fruits, soft cheeses, ice creams and poultries has been linked to listeriosis epidemics [39]. It can form biofilms on surfaces commonly detected in the food industry and is resistant to treatments with heat up to 60 °C [40]. It can thrive in a broad range of conditions, including high salinities (10%), cold temperatures (4 °C), low water activities (< 0.9) and wide pH ranges (4.1–9.6) [41]. Post-processing contamination with Listeria spp. may be resulted from inadequate cleaning and poor separation techniques between ready-to-eat and raw foods [42]. In addition, L. monocytogenes is one of the most significant pathogenic microorganisms due to its high mortality rates (15.6%) and one of the major causes of hospitalizations and deaths in the US [43].
Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP) and produces enterotoxins within the temperature range of 10–46 °C. Staphylococcus genus includes more than 50 recognized species; of which, S. aureus is commonly detected in food products and reaches foods through raw materials and grows best on meat, poultry and egg products. In food production chain, it may develop biofilms on living and non-living surfaces, resist desiccation and thrive on a variety of surfaces. Furthermore, strains of S. aureus that produce enterotoxins have been identified in a variety of food samples. [44]. Other Gram-positive bacteria such as Brochothrix thermosphacta and Carnobacterium spp. can form biofilms in the meat-processing environment [45].
1.6 Strategies for Controlling Biofilm Formation in the Food Industry
Pathogenic bacteria that form biofilms create strong defenses against antibiotics and are difficult to treat. Removing these biofilms is a critical challenge due to the severe effects on public health [46, 47]. Chemical and physical methods have been used to inhibit bacterial biofilms in the food industry. Chemical treatments can help; however, mechanical treatments such as clean-in-place are not effective. The most reliable way to prevent bacterial biofilm growth is through aseptic processing, routine disinfection and equipment sterilization. Various disinfectants and novel biofilm elimination methods of the food industry are briefly summarized (Figure 2).
1.6.1 Chemical and Physical Treatments
Biofilms can be treated with concentration and time-dependent chemical sanitizers. Decreasing bacterial populations to human-safe levels is the goal of sanitation. Sanitizing food-processing equipment is necessary to avoid cross-contamination between batches of foods. Stages of general cleaning methods for places that handle and manufacture foods include physical pre-cleaning, detergent washing, rinsing, sanitation, final rinsing and drying. Spraying detergents in form of foam or aerosol spray is possible as long as the right doses and time are used for surface contact. Alkaline and acidic chemicals are widely used as detergents in the food industry. A majority of disinfectants are safe to use on non-food-contact surfaces; nevertheless, food-contact and occasionally non-contact surfaces should be rinsed with high-quality water. The most popular sanitizer in the food industry is aqueous ClO2, which acts well against B. cereus endospores in biofilms on steel surfaces [48]. In the food industry, chlorine-based sanitizers are most frequently used; nevertheless, several microorganisms have developed resistance to chlorine treatments. Food factories frequently use sodium hypochlorite or NaOCl [49]. Moreover, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and NaClO were successful in removing biofilms of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa; however, aqueous ClO2 was more effective than NaOCl in eliminating E. coli O157:H7 biofilms [50]. In the food industry, H2O2 is a powerful oxidizing disinfectant that is often used. When it is exposed to biofilms, H2O2 produces free radicals that kill the bacteria at concentrations of 0.08–5%, without harmful side effects. Quaternary ammonium compounds are frequently used as sanitizers, removing biofilms and leading to bacterial lysis [51]. Steam heat treatment is a method used to decrease number of harmful bacteria and biofilm populations in production areas [52]. Non-thermal plasma is a partially ionized gas with low temperature and promising antibacterial characteristics. It can destroy bacterial biofilms of Pseudomonas spp., S. enterica and Bacillus spp. Ozone breaks down the cellular envelopes of a variety of microorganisms, including viruses, bacterial biofilms and protozoans.
1.6.2 Elimination of Biofilms Using Biological Strategies
In recent years, a more efficient and ecologically friendly control method for the elimination of or managing growth of dangerous biofilms is use of enzymes, bacteriophages, bacteriocin and plant extracts, which have been discussed based on safe and green approaches to control pathogen biofilm formation.
1.6.2.1 Enzyme against bacterial Biofilm
Enzymes or proteins are biologically active macromolecules against biofilm formation since proteases or other degrading enzymes have shown the ability to inhibit biofilm formation [53]. Enzymes are detected to include therapeutic functions in removal of pathogenic biofilms and can widely be used in detergents of food industries. In recent times, a variety of enzymes enriched products have been commercialized that include tablets, rinsing solutions, chewing gums for dental treatments and denitrifies containing enzymes such as lysins, dextranase, mutants that can serve to play an effective role in disintegration of the biofilm matrix [54]. The most often used enzyme types vary depending on the makeup of the biofilm as proteases, cellulases, polysaccharide depolymerases, alginate lyases and dispersin B [55]. Proteinase K and lysozyme have been verified to include promising antibiofilm activities [56]. The α-amylase enzyme includes potential to operate as an antibiofilm agent against bacterial species that produce biofilms, including S. aureus and P. aeruginosa [57]. Protease formulations were effective in eliminating S. aureus biofilms from polystyrene surfaces; however, combinations of protease, amylase and cellulase were needed to eradicate biofilms of P. aeruginosa. Cellulase effectively inhibited biomass and microcolony formation by P. aeruginosa on glass surfaces in partial [58].
1.6.2.2. Bacteriophages against Biofilm
Bacteriophages (phages) are bacterial viruses, acknowledged as the most diverse and abundant entities. Bacteriophages are mostly used in primary production to ensure food safety, biosanitization and biopreservation [59]. Phages can break down biofilms spread through developed biofilms and then show their antimicrobial characteristics inside them. Phage treatments are injected directly into food products during the biopreservation processes to extend the food shelf life and used in biosanitization to avoid biofilms on equipment surfaces [60]. Bacteriophages can create enzymes that break down the biofilm structure and presence of phage receptor sites such as endolysins and depolymerases. Use of phages as biocontrol agents in foods is affected by various factors, including the food matrix, surface area and structure, bacterial species, inhibitory compound and phage dose [61]. A commercial product, LISTEXTM, has been developed from the bacteriophage P100, which uses an enzymatic process to cause cell lysis and EPS breakdown. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved use of this natural, non-toxic phage product. It is effective against L. monocytogenes. Additionally, it seems that L. monocytogenes biofilms are susceptible to phage biocontrol. Phage Guard Listex, which uses phage P100, effectively removes biofilms from stainless steel surfaces. A user of Listeria phage P100 (under the commercial name of Listex P100) is a biological agent, formed to remove the biofilms in processed meat products [62]. In addition, a phage cocktail was used for 1 h to destroy and decrease pathogen populations of E. coli O157:H7 on stainless steels, ceramic tiles and high-density polyethylene coupons [63]. Endolysin is the second kind of enzyme produced by phages that include potential uses for sanitization. During the final stage of their lytic cycle, they release progeny of virions through the breakdown of the cell wall, which were active against Gram-positive bacteria [64]. Depolymerases are types of enzyme that may prevent production of biofilms and break down capsular polysaccharides in Gram-negative bacteria [65].
1.6.2.3 Bacteriocins against biofilms
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are used to produce fermented foods and the most important genera in controlling spoilage and pathogenic microbes are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium due to the production of bacteriocins and acids. Bacteriocins from LAB are used as alternatives to chemical food preservatives. They can spread through cell membranes and release internal components such as K+ and inorganic phosphate or they can prevent production of proteins, RNA and DNA [66]. Due to its safety in the gastrointestinal system, bacteriocin has extensively been
Assessment of the Phytochemical Profile, Free Radical Scavenging and Antibacterial Effects of Pilea symmeria from Mizoram, India: Therapeutic properties of Pilea symmeria
No full textAntibacterial and free radical scavenging properties of Pilea symmeria, a traditional medicinal plant from Mizoram, India, have been examined in this study. Chloroform, ethanol, and aqueous were used to extract the plant components. Extracts were phytochemically analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The extracted sample were tested for their ability to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis-(3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) ABTS, and superoxide anion (O2•(-)) radicals. An antibacterial susceptibility test was performed against the bacterial strain Escherichia. coli, Bacillus subtilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae using disc diffusion method. The broth microdilution method determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Plating samples from a well of MIC and above concentrations on a new agar plate determined minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Various phytochemicals, including terpenoids, tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, alkaloids, saponins, and phlobatannins, were present in the various extracts of P. symmeria. Phytochemical analysis by LC-MS revealed the presence of 34 major compounds having various biological activities. The most potent radical scavenger was ethanol extract, which contains the highest overall phenolic and flavonoid content with the lowest IC50 value. The various extracts also suppressed the tested organisms' growth in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, our results suggested that P. symmeria extracts contain various phytochemicals with anti-radical and anti-bacterial activities and can potentially develop into novel phytomedicines
طراحی هستیشناسی سرطانهای شغلی
No full textBackground and Aims: Occupational cancers pose a serious challenge in the field of occupational health. This study aimed to develop an initial ontology model for organizing and analyzing data related to this disease. This ontology can serve as a foundation for building knowledge-based decision support systems, improving early diagnosis, and providing more effective treatment solutions.
Materials and Methods: The statistical population of this research consisted of terms and phrases related to occupational cancers published in reputable scientific publications and sources such as the International Labour Organization. Utilizing knowledge engineering methods, particularly modern methods and McGuinness, concepts and semantic relationships were extracted. Finally, Protégé software was used to construct and implement the initial ontology model. Ethical considerations were observed at all stages of the study.
Results: The ontology design results indicated the identification of 1 superclass, 6 classes, and 94 instances. This ontology was developed in seven stages, focusing on five main features of the entities. Feedback from a panel of experts in related fields, such as occupational health and occupational medicine, was obtained to assess the ontology’s validity, which led to the confirmation of its structure and content.
Conclusion: The results of this study led to the design of a preliminary ontology model for occupational cancers. By providing a common language to describe concepts and relationships, this ontology can contribute to improving research and management processes for these diseases. However, further development of the ontology, considering more complex relationships and higher hierarchical levels, could enhance its accuracy and comprehensiveness.زمینه و اهداف: سرطانهای شغلی به عنوان چالش جدی در سلامت شغلی مطرح هستند. این مطالعه با هدف توسعه یک الگوی اولیه هستیشناسی برای سازماندهی و تحلیل دادههای مرتبط با این بیماری انجام شد. این هستیشناسی میتواند به عنوان مبنایی برای ساخت سیستمهای تصمیمگیری مبتنی بر دانش، بهبود تشخیص زود هنگام و ارائه راهکارهای درمانی کارآمدتر مورد استفاده قرار گیرد.
مواد و روشها: جامعه آماری این پژوهش شامل اصطلاحات و عبارات مرتبط با سرطانهای شغلی منتشر شده در منابع علمی معتبر مانند سازمان بینالمللی کار بود. با بهرهگیری از روشهای مهندسی دانش، بهویژه روشهای نوین و مکگینس، مفاهیم و روابط معنایی استخراج شدند. در نهایت، از نرمافزار پروتژه برای ساخت و پیادهسازی الگوی اولیه هستیشناسی استفاده گردید. رعایت ملاحظات اخلاقی در تمام مراحل اجرای مطالعه درنظر گرفته شد.
یافتهها: نتایج طراحی هستیشناسی حاکی از شناسایی 1 سرکلاس، 6 کلاس و 94 نمونه بود. این هستیشناسی در هفت مرحله و با تمرکز بر پنج ویژگی اصلی موجودیتها توسعه یافت. نظرات پنلی از خبرگان حوزههای مرتبط مانند بهداشت حرفهای و طب کار برای ارزیابی روایی هستیشناسی اخذ شد که منجر به تأیید ساختار و محتوای آن گردید.
نتیجهگیری: نتایج این پژوهش منجر به طراحی یک الگوی اولیه هستیشناسی برای سرطانهای شغلی شد. این هستیشناسی با ایجاد یک زبان مشترک برای توصیف مفاهیم و روابط، میتواند به بهبود فرایندهای تحقیق و مدیریت این بیماری کمک کند. با این حال، توسعه بیشتر هستیشناسی با در نظر گرفتن روابط پیچیدهتر و سطوح سلسله مراتبی بالاتر، میتواند به ارتقای دقت و جامعیت آن کمک کند
Constipation in Children with Cerebral Palsy: Prevalence, Clinical Manifestations, and Polyethylene glycol vs. Lactulose Efficacy: Constipation with cerebral palsy and polyethylene glycol combination with lactulose
No full textObjectives
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder causing impaired movement control. Constipation is a common issue among these patients, with the prevalence ranging from 26% to 74%. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of constipation, examine associated symptoms, and compare the effects of commonly used drugs, including Lactulose and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), in children with CP. These drugs can improve constipation management in this population and prevent serious complications, such as intestinal obstruction and bleeding.
Materials & Methods:
The present research was a prospective cross-sectional study of 48 children and adolescents aged 1 to 15 with CP. According to our definition of constipation based on the ROME IV criteria, the prevalence of constipation in children with CP was calculated. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group 1 received treatment with PEG, while Group 2 received treatment with Lactulose. The patients were followed up one month later and then every three months to assess treatment response and monitor clinical symptoms.
Results:
At both 12 and 24 weeks following the initiation of the treatment, a significant increase in the frequency of defecation per week was observed, accompanied by a notable decrease in the frequency of fecal incontinence in both groups. After 24 weeks of treatment, the defecation frequency increased from 1.5 to 6.3 in Group 1 (PEG group) and 1.6 to 5.7 in Group 2 (Lactulose group). Fecal incontinence reduced from initial values of 1.8 and 1.9 to 1.2 and 1.5 in Groups 1 and 2, respectively.
Conclusion:
This study confirms that constipation is a common problem among children with CP. According to the obtained findings, PEG appeared to be more effective than Lactulose in managing constipation in children with CP
Electrodiagnostic Findings in a Case of Pyle’s Disease: A Case-Report
Full text linkPyle’s disease (PD), also known as metaphyseal dysplasia, is a rare genetic skeletal disorder characterized by a specific radiologic feature known as the Erlenmeyer-flask deformity, the expansion of trabecular metaphyses, specifically in the distal aspects of long bones. The main pathophysiology of this disease is caused by mutations in the Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 (SFRP4) gene. This case report aims to discuss the electrodiagnostic findings of an 8-year-old girl diagnosed with PD. This evaluation revealed normal sensory nerve action potentials (SNAP); however, compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) showed minimal amplitudes with increased latencies and profound reductions in nerve conduction velocities (NCVs), particularly in the lower limbs. These features are consistent with peripheral motor polyneuropathy with a mixed axonal and demyelinating pattern. This case is reported because PD is an uncommon disorder, and until now, there has been no literature describing the electrodiagnostic features of this disease