Journal of Microbiota

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In Collaboration with Semnan University of Medical Sciences

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Journal of Microbiota aims to serve as a premier platform for the dissemination of significant, cutting-edge research and developments in the expansive field of microbiota. This journal is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective on the complex interactions and impacts of microbiota across various scientific domains.

The Journal of Microbiota is committed to advancing scientific understanding and innovation in the field of microbiota, fostering interdisciplinary research, and promoting global collaboration. It welcomes submissions from researchers, academics, and practitioners worldwide, aiming to create a dynamic and inclusive platform for sharing knowledge and driving forward the frontiers of microbiota research.

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Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis in Allergic Health Workers Patients with COVID-19 Infection
(Brieflands, 2024-12-18) Samaneh Arab; Seyed Ali Seyedinia; Raheleh Shokouhi Shoormasti; Parnia Tarahomi; Fatemeh Paknazar; Farhad Malek; Samira Asgharzade; Akram Alizadeh
Background: After a case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was reported in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019, the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was soon recognized as a global public health emergency. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of allergic healthcare workers (HCWs) confirmed to have COVID-19. Methods: This study included 30 HCWs with confirmed COVID-19 at Kosar Hospital in Semnan, Iran, from February to June 2020 (15 allergic and 15 non-allergic individuals). Demographic data, clinical manifestations, and laboratory findings of the subjects were recorded. Results: Total IgE, allergen-specific IgE, and anti-SARS-CoV IgG were measured in the patients' serum. The average age of the allergic and non-allergic HCWs with COVID-19 was 33 years, and 80% were female. Malaise (76.6%), fever (60%), weakness (60%), and dry cough (56.7%) were the most common symptoms. The clinical findings showed a significantly lower percentage (33.3%) of dry cough in subjects with allergic diseases. Apart from the observed difference in the mean value of total IgE between the two groups, no significant differences were found with respect to age, duration of disease, O2 saturation, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. Conclusions: Coronavirus disease 2019 symptoms did not become severe in patients with atopic diseases. Moreover, dry cough and weakness were reported by a lower percentage of allergic HCWs.
Effects of Three Retrograde Filling Materials on Production of Inflammatory Cytokines and Resorbing Mediators
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Samaneh Arab; Marjan Bahraminasab; Masoumeh Motamedi; Jamshid Hadjati; Alaviye Vahid
Root-end filling materials are typically used following endodontic surgeries, and due to their different chemical compositions, they have varying effects on the survival and differentiation of tissues around the root apex. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of three retrograde filling materials—ProRoot MTA, Super ethoxy benzoic acid (EBA), and Geristore—on the production of pro-inflammatory and resorptive cytokines (RANK, RANK-L, OPG, IL-1β, and TNF-α). After mixing and setting, the experimental materials were exposed to UV rays and then applied to the prepared cells.
Study the Antifungal Effects of Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles on the Aspergillus niger, Microsporum canis, and Candida albicans
(Brieflands, 2024-09-30) Mohammad Mehdi Asgari Pirbalouti; Shahrzad Shahbazi; Somayeh Shahrokh Shahraki; Somayeh Reiisi; Azam Mokhtari
The increasing prevalence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens and the limitations of current antifungal therapies underscore the need for novel alternative treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effects of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on three clinically significant fungi: Aspergillus niger, Microsporum canis, and Candida albicans. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using plant-based extracts to ensure eco-friendly production methods. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using UV spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Characterization assays revealed spherical particles with colloidal stability, an average size of approximately 80 nm, a Polydispersity Index of 0.4, and a surface charge of 62.3 mV. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values demonstrated effective suppression of fungal growth at low nanoparticle concentrations. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential of green-synthesized Ag NPs as a promising alternative to conventional antifungal agents, emphasizing their significant advantages in biocompatibility and eco-friendliness. These findings could pave the way for a new era in treating fungal infections, particularly those caused by drug-resistant strains.
The Interplay of Microbiota, Long COVID, and Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Leila Simorgh; Rozita Hedayati; Mina Sadat Mirshoja; Masoomeh Salmani
Context: Long COVID, a condition that persists after the acute phase of COVID-19, poses a significant burden, with 10 - 45% of recovered patients experiencing persistent symptoms. Among these, approximately 46% report musculoskeletal pain. This narrative review explores the potential connections between gut microbiota, Long COVID, and musculoskeletal pain, aiming to introduce new therapeutic avenues and preventive strategies for managing musculoskeletal symptoms in Long COVID patients. Evidence Acquisition: A comprehensive search was conducted using Google Scholar, Lens.org, and ConnectedPaper.com to identify relevant articles published between 2019 and 2024. Keywords related to microbiota, Long COVID, and musculoskeletal pain were used. Articles were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and their quality was assessed. Data from the selected articles were synthesized to provide an overview of the interplay between microbiota, Long COVID, and musculoskeletal pain. Results: Recent research highlights the significant role of gut microbiota in modulating immune responses and systemic inflammation. Dysbiosis has been linked to the severity and progression of COVID-19 and the persistence of Long COVID symptoms. Individuals with Long COVID often experience new-onset musculoskeletal manifestations, such as joint pain, myalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Additionally, gut dysbiosis has been associated with conditions like lower back pain and knee osteoarthritis. This suggests that the relationship between gut dysbiosis and musculoskeletal problems in general may also extend to musculoskeletal pain in Long COVID patients, indicating broader implications for musculoskeletal outcomes. Therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary interventions, have shown promise in managing these symptoms and improving overall health outcomes. Conclusions: The evidence underscores the importance of understanding the microbiota-musculoskeletal nexus in Long COVID. Gut dysbiosis contributes to systemic inflammation, exacerbating musculoskeletal symptoms in Long COVID patients. The associations between gut dysbiosis and other musculoskeletal conditions emphasize the need for microbiota-targeted therapeutic strategies. Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms linking gut dysbiosis to musculoskeletal pain, exploring the gut-brain axis, and developing personalized approaches to modulate the microbiota. Advancing our understanding of this nexus can pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies to address the complex health challenges posed by Long COVID and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Effects of Three Retrograde Filling Materials on Production of Inflammatory Cytokines and Resorbing Mediators
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Samaneh Arab; Marjan Bahraminasab; Masoumeh Motamedi; Jamshid Hadjati; Alaviye Vahid
Root-end filling materials are typically used following endodontic surgeries, and due to their different chemical compositions, they have varying effects on the survival and differentiation of tissues around the root apex. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of three retrograde filling materials—ProRoot MTA, Super ethoxy benzoic acid (EBA), and Geristore—on the production of pro-inflammatory and resorptive cytokines (RANK, RANK-L, OPG, IL-1β, and TNF-α). After mixing and setting, the experimental materials were exposed to UV rays and then applied to the prepared cells.
Glycemic Management and Lipid Profile in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes During The COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study
(Brieflands, 2024-12-31) Nazanin Daneshpour; Saeb Keshavarz Motamedi; Sajjad Rahimi Pordanjani; Atousa Najmaldin
Background: The global outbreak of COVID-19 has raised concerns about its potential impact on the management of chronic health conditions, particularly diabetes. Objectives: This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the effect of COVID-19 on blood sugar control and lipid profiles in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Methods: This cross-sectional study gathered and analyzed data from 61 diabetic patients between March 2021 and March 2022. Data collected included demographic information, HbA1c levels, and lipid profiles, all obtained from the files at the Endocrine and Metabolism Clinic of Kowsar Hospital. Results: Among the 61 patients with complete data, 12 (19.7%) tested positive for COVID-19. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between the COVID-19 positive and negative groups in terms of age (P = 0.759), HbA1c level (P = 0.209), total cholesterol level (P = 0.841), triglyceride levels (P = 0.876), HDL (P = 0.504), LDL (P = 0.191), or duration of diabetes treatment (P = 0.779). However, significant differences were found between male and female diabetic patients in age (P = 0.030) and total cholesterol levels (P = 0.030), with women being older and having higher total cholesterol. No significant differences were observed between groups treated with oral medication and insulin in terms of age (P = 0.789), HbA1c level (P = 0.584), total cholesterol level (P = 0.263), triglyceride levels (P = 0.162), HDL (P = 0.718), LDL (P = 0.463), or duration of diabetes treatment (P = 0.545). Conclusions: The findings indicate that COVID-19 did not significantly affect glycemic control or lipid profiles in the studied diabetic population. The observed associations between demographic and clinical factors offer valuable insights into the complex relationship between diabetes and COVID-19.
A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Tehran, Iran, Analyzed the Typical Patterns of Primary Lung CT Scans in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients Using a Semi-Quantitative Scoring System
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Mohammad Torabi; Masoomeh Raoufi; Shahram Sayadi; Sara Salarian
Background: Given the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic and the potential for respiratory failure in several COVID-19 patients, early diagnosis and timely treatment are of paramount importance. Objectives: In this context, we aimed to investigate the role of initial chest computed tomography (CT) in predicting the severity of COVID-19. Methods: The study, conducted at Imam Hossein Hospital between March 6, 2020, and May 6, 2020, was cross-sectional in nature. All patients diagnosed with severe to critical COVID-19 underwent high-resolution chest CT (HRCT), and the findings of the chest CT were meticulously analyzed using a semi-quantitative scoring system. Results: Out of 47 patients with severe to critical COVID-19, 72.4% were male, with a mean age of 62 ± 14 years. The most common chest CT findings were ground-glass opacity (55%) and consolidation (30%). Bilateral involvement was observed in all patients, with the most frequently affected areas being the peribronchovascular distribution (76%) and peripheral distribution (74%). Most patients had pulmonary involvement across all five lobes, with scores ranging from a minimum of 3.25 to a maximum of 21.25 (CI: 12 - 15; mean: 13.25). Conclusions: This study suggests a relationship between the initial chest CT scan findings and the severity of respiratory disease in COVID-19 patients. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Antibacterial Activities of Phytosterol Extracted from Kernels and Fresh Green Hulls of Pistacia vera L., Damghan Varieties
(Brieflands, 2024-12-31) Sajedeh Kouhnavard Delijan; Negin Chinjoo; Elham Hashemi; Maliheh Safavi; Arezou Rezaei; Shefa Mirani Nejad; Avisha Samimiazad
Background: Phytosterols (PSs) are plant-derived steroids known for their health-promoting effects, including anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Previous studies have demonstrated that ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts from various parts of Pistacia vera L. (e.g., leaves and fruit) possess antioxidant properties. The consumption of nuts, including pistachios, appears to contribute to improved intestinal microbial composition. Furthermore, evaluations of key sterols such as campesterol, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and epicoprostanol against a range of bacteria have shown notable antibacterial properties. Objectives: This is the first study to report on the antibacterial activities of PSs extracted from the kernel and pistachio green hull (PGH) of three Damghan pistachio cultivars. Methods: The Soxhlet method was employed to extract total PSs from the kernel and PGH of the Abbasali, Akbari, and Khanjari cultivars of Damghan pistachios, sourced from Damghan Gardens. The antibacterial activities of the extracted PSs were tested against Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (gram-negative) bacteria in duplicate. Statistical analysis of the antioxidant activity results was conducted using SPSS software (version 27). Results: The extracted PSs showed no antibacterial activity at concentrations ranging from 1.6 to 10,000 mg/mL. Conclusions: In contrast to previous reports, no antibacterial effect was observed for the extracted total PSs. Further investigation is recommended to explore the reasons behind this discrepancy.
Comparative Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Five Species of Astragalus (Fabaceae) Collected from Southeast of Iran, Kerman
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Leila Malekpourzadeh; Arman Shokooh Saljooghi
Background: The antimicrobial properties of certain plants against five microorganisms have been investigated and compared. Objectives: In this research, we collected, dried, and identified five perennial (chamaephyte) species of Astragalus (Fabaceae) from a mountainous region (Takht-e-Sartashtak) with an average elevation of 3600 meters in southeastern Iran. The species include Astragalus cemerinus, Astragalus dactylocarpus, Astragalus glaucacanthus, Astragalus rhodosemius, and Astragalus siliquosus. Methods: The methanolic extracts of these plant species were tested to evaluate their antimicrobial activity against five pathogenic microorganisms, including one fungus (Candida albicans), two gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli), and two gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus). The tests were conducted using Mueller Hinton Agar culture media and the agar-well diffusion method. Results: The antimicrobial activity of these five species was compared. It was found that the plant species displayed different antimicrobial activities. Astragalus glaucacanthus was active against four of the five microorganisms and was the only plant active against Escherichia coli. Astragalus siliquosus showed no activity against any of the microorganisms. Conclusions: Most of the antimicrobial activity was observed with Astragalus rhodosemius against Staphylococcus aureus. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of the plant extracts were almost similar.
The Efficiency of Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains Isolated from Cottage Cheese (Khiki) to Aflatoxin M₁ Reduction in Milk
(Brieflands, 2024-06-30) Ashkan Jebelli Javan; Negin Rasouli; Mahnoosh Parsaeimehr; Anna Abdolshahi
Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a hepatic hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B1 that is found in the milk of lactating animals fed contaminated diets. Efficient and safe strategies for the degradation or detoxification of AFM1 in contaminated milk are rare. Given that probiotic bacteria are known for their ability to bind aflatoxins, the present study aimed to evaluate the potential of lactic acid bacterial strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus paracasei isolated from a cottage cheese named Khiki, for the reduction of AFM1 in PBS and milk. The results showed that all selected strains had a significant AFM1-binding ability. The highest AFM1 reduction was achieved by Lactobacillus paracasei in PBS (71.35%) and in milk (68.53%). The assessment of AFM1 reduction over contact time (1 to 48 hours) with Lactobacillus paracasei and contaminated milk showed a reduction of 67% to 71.2%, with most adsorption occurring within the first 12 hours. Since the studied probiotic strains were able to reduce AFM1 in milk, their use in the dairy industry could be recommended as a safety enhancement approach.
Evaluation of Antifungal Effect of Allium jesdianum Bacterial Endophytes on Rhizopus stolonifer, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes
(Brieflands, 2024-03-31) Reza Ameri; Somayeh Shahrokh Shahraki
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microbes to survive and grow in the presence of antimicrobial drugs. Bacterial endophytes, which reside within plants, can promote plant growth and other essential activities. Endophytes have the potential to produce novel and unique products for use in modern medicine, agriculture, and industry. They may hold the key to combating drug-resistant strains by providing new antimicrobial compounds, potentially leading to the development of new medications. In this study, bacterial endophytes of Allium jesdianum were extracted and characterized. The antifungal effect of these endophytes on Rhizopus stolonifer, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes was evaluated. Various parts of the plant were used to isolate ten bacterial endophytes to assess their antifungal properties. Universal eubacterial primers were used to amplify a 1500 bp region of the 16S rRNA gene. The resulting partial nucleotide sequences were compared with sequences available from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and EzBioCloud Database. Subsequent comparisons determined their similarity. Each isolated endophyte was cultured with equal amounts of R. stolonifer, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and T. mentagrophytes. This study measured the level of antagonism by assessing the extent of potential interactions. Ten bacterial endophytes, primarily cocci and bacilli, were extracted from different parts of A. jesdianum. The isolates were identified as Staphylococcus warneri AJB1, Staphylococcus succinus AJB2, Pseudomonas thivervalensis AJB3, Bacillus subtilis AJB4, Acinetobacter lwoffii AJB5, and Pantoea brenneri AJB6. AJB1 and AJB3 showed no antagonistic activity. AJB2, AJB5, and AJB6 displayed antagonistic action against R. stolonifer. Only AJB4 showed strong antagonistic activity against Penicillium. Further research is necessary to determine whether these endophytes possess antibiotic activity and can be used for food preservation.
Bifidobacterium and the Immune System: A Key Player Against Gastrointestinal Cancers
(Brieflands, 2024-09-30) Nazanin Daneshpour
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers pose a significant global health challenge, with rising incidence and mortality rates. Recent studies suggest that gut microbiota, particularly Bifidobacterium, plays a crucial role in modulating immune responses and influencing cancer progression. Understanding how Bifidobacterium interacts with the immune system may offer novel therapeutic strategies. A comprehensive review of recent literature was conducted, focusing on the role of Bifidobacterium in defending against GI cancers. The findings indicate that Bifidobacterium enhances the immune response by promoting regulatory T-cell activity and modulating cytokine production. Specific strains of Bifidobacterium have been shown to induce apoptosis in cancer cells and improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, alterations in gut microbiota composition, particularly the presence of Bifidobacterium, are associated with reduced tumor growth and improved patient outcomes in various cancer models. In conclusion, Bifidobacterium emerges as a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in GI cancers, with the potential to enhance immune responses and treatment efficacy. However, further research is needed to elucidate its specific mechanisms of action and to optimize the use of Bifidobacterium strains in clinical settings. Future studies should focus on personalized approaches and the integration of Bifidobacterium into existing cancer treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes.
Response to Botulinum Toxin Type-A in Patients with Refractory Chronic Migraine
(Brieflands, 2024-12-31) Hamidreza Hematti; Shahrzad Izadi; Amir Molaei
Background: Due to its debilitating nature, refractory chronic migraine (RCM) is primarily associated with a poor quality of life. However, controversy remains regarding the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin for treating RCM. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in patients with RCM. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2016 and March 2021, RCM patients who were resistant to conventional therapies and received BTX-A injections were followed for 7 and 14 days after the injection. The outcome variables included the frequency, duration, and severity of migraine episodes, the need for painkillers, adverse events, and the patient's perceived improvement. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: In total, 52 RCM patients with a mean age of 31.84 years participated, of whom 69.2% were female. The frequency of migraine episodes decreased from a baseline of 9.84 to 3.94 and 1.25 at 7 and 14 days after injection, respectively (P < 0.001). The duration of migraine episodes dropped from 3 hours at baseline to 1.74 and 1.17 hours at 7 and 14 days post-BTX-A injection, respectively (P < 0.001). The severity of migraines alleviated from 8.07 at baseline to 6.48 and 3.38 at the respective follow-up times (P < 0.001). The need for painkillers also decreased at follow-ups (P < 0.001). Males achieved better treatment outcomes regarding the frequency of migraine episodes and the need for medications compared to females following BTX-A treatment (P < 0.05). Frontotemporal and frontotemporal-occipital headache distributions showed fewer migraine episodes, shorter duration, less severity, and lower need for painkiller consumption compared to other migraine types (P < 0.05). The most common adverse event was localized pain (42.3%), followed by itching (25.0%). A considerable number of patients felt improvement. Conclusions: According to our findings, BTX-A is a safe and well-tolerated treatment for patients with RCM. Validation of these results requires adequately precise studies investigating the effect of BTX-A in detail.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of General Dentists Towards Tele-dentistry
(Brieflands, 2024-12-31) Samira Behrad; Ehsan Hafezi; Raheb Ghorbani; Pegah Hosseinzadeh
Background: Considering the growing importance of tele-dentistry and its potential to enhance the delivery of dental services, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of private dental offices towards this technology. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included 50 general dentists practicing in Semnan city, selected based on entry criteria through the enumeration method. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire (including gender and years since graduation) and a 15-item researcher-made questionnaire designed to assess their KAP towards tele-dentistry. Results: Among the participants, 54% (27 participants) were female, and 46% (23 participants) were male, with an average age of 30.2 ± 6.48 years. The mean number of years since graduation was 7.74 ± 5.13 years. The mean and standard deviation of KAP scores were 5.96 ± 1.07 (knowledge), 34.32 ± 3.41 (attitude), and 1.44 ± 0.50 (practice), respectively. Men scored significantly higher in knowledge compared to women (7.26 ± 0.91 vs. 6.70 ± 1.14; P = 0.037). There was a significant inverse correlation between knowledge scores and years since graduation (r = -0.292; P = 0.032). Additionally, 52% (26 participants) reported having used tele-dentistry, while 96% (48 participants) expressed an intention to use it in the future. Conclusions: The findings suggest that knowledge regarding tele-dentistry was notably higher among men and those with fewer years since graduation. Health policies should prioritize training programs to enhance general dentists' knowledge and practice of tele-dentistry, supporting its effective implementation in dental care.
Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic Acid (AKBA) Ameliorates Histopathological and Oxidative Stress Brain Disorders in the Experimental Model of Cuprizone-induced Demyelination
(Brieflands, 2024-09-30) Setayesh Sameni; Maryam Gholizadeh Khalsara; Hamid Reza Sameni
Background: Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that destroys the myelin sheath (demyelination) and neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), with several factors contributing to its development. Objectives: This study investigated the impact of administering acetyl 11-keto-beta boswellic acid (AKBA) in an animal model of cuprizone-induced demyelination. Methods: Thirty-two C57BL/6 female mice (WT; 20 - 25 g, 8 - 10 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups: (1) Control (CO), (2) Cuprizone-treated (CPZ, 0.3%), (3) AKBA + CPZ (50 mg/kg, pre-treatment), and (4) CPZ + AKBA (50 mg/kg, post-treatment). At the end of the study, the weight and movement balance of the animals were assessed using the rotarod test. After sampling the brain, the extent of the demyelination area in the corpus callosum was measured with Luxol Fast Blue staining, the number of oligodendrocyte cells was determined by immunohistochemistry, and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as oxidative stress factors in the brain tissue were measured. Results: The use of acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid in the cuprizone-induced demyelination model prevented weight loss, increased animal resistance in the rotarod test, and reduced the demyelination rate in the corpus callosum. Additionally, AKBA elevated the number of oligodendrocytes and total antioxidant capacity levels while reducing malondialdehyde levels in brain tissue. Pretreatment with AKBA exhibited a more significant effect. Conclusions: This study showed that acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid, an important active substance of the frankincense plant, likely protects the nervous system and neurons in the cuprizone-induced demyelination model by preventing the decrease in the number of oligodendrocytes, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing the destruction of myelin.
Effects of Bacteriocin Extracted from Lactobacillus plantarum on Treatment-Resistant Escherichia coli Bacteria Isolated from Humans and Livestock
(Brieflands, 2024-09-30) Mastaneh Ghasemi Amirlo; Mansour Bayat; Alireza Iranbakhsh; Mahshad Khalilian
Background: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are among the most common probiotics and play a significant role in promoting health within the human intestinal microbiota. Their protective functions in the intestine include producing antimicrobial compounds, regulating the balance of the intestinal microbiome, and more. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial effects of bacteriocin extracted from Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains that cause treatment-resistant urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans and mastitis in livestock. Methods: Twenty E. coli isolates were obtained from patients with UTIs and cows with mastitis. After culturing the samples on Eosin-methylene blue, McConkey agar, and blood agar, the strains were identified using biochemical tests. Bacteriocin produced by L. plantarum ATCC8014 was extracted, and its concentration was measured using the Bradford method. The antimicrobial effect of the bacteriocin was assessed using the broth microdilution method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Additionally, the bacteriocin's antimicrobial activity was evaluated through three repetitions of disk diffusion and agar well diffusion methods. Results: The findings revealed that the MIC and MBC concentrations for all human and animal strains were 13.38 μg/mL and 26.76 μg/mL, respectively. Notably, two animal samples (No. 3 and No. 10) and one human sample (No. 6) showed lower MIC and MBC concentrations compared to the other samples and the standard E. coli sample. However, all strains were resistant to bacteriocin in the disk diffusion and agar well diffusion methods. Conclusions: The data indicate a high risk of increasing treatment-resistant E. coli strains in UTIs and livestock, which could pose a significant threat to public and animal health. Therefore, it is essential to further investigate the effects of different bacteriocins on these resistant strains, in conjunction with antibiotic therapies.
Phytase-Producing Fungi from Processed Cheese: Isolation, Screening, and Optimization of Production Parameters
(Brieflands, 2024-03-31) Mojtaba Heydari-Majd; Hamed Milani; Leila Monjazeb Marvdashti; Marzie Kamali
Phytic acid is a prevalent anti-nutrient in human and animal diets, neutralized effectively by the enzyme phytase. This enzyme, extensively used in the food industry and livestock production, was the focus of our study to identify phytase-producing fungal species among contaminants in ultra-refined white cheeses. We evaluated the enzymatic activity of each isolate in phytase screening medium (PSM) and Luria bertani Broth (LB) media, determining optimal production conditions such as temperature and pH for the isolate with the highest activity. Initial screening from 110 mold isolates, representing 10 different species, identified 28 isolates across 6 species capable of producing phytase. These included Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Penicillium commune, Penicillium chrysogenum, Paecilomyces variotii, and Cladosporium cladosporioides, discernible by halo zones around their colonies. The highest activity levels were recorded for P. commune (133.76 U/mL) and P. variotii (216.7 U/mL) in PSM and LB media, respectively. Remarkably, this study is the first to document phytase production by P. variotii, showcasing the highest activity among the isolates and presenting a new opportunity for industrial phytase production. The enzyme isolated from P. variotii demonstrated stability and optimum activity at temperatures from 20°C to 70°C and pH 4.0 to 7.0, peaking at 50°C and pH 6.0. Its unique properties suggest significant potential for industrial applications, positioning it as a novel candidate for further exploration in industrial phytase production.
Metformin-Insulin Combination Therapy Ameliorates Hyperglycemia in a COVID-19 Type-1 Diabetic Child with Insulin Resistance: A Case Report
(Brieflands, 2024-03-31) Parisa Tajdini; Arezoo Akhlaghi Aski
Introduction: Recent studies have indicated that COVID-19 may be linked with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children. It has been observed that not only is there a potential risk of new-onset pediatric T1DM associated with COVID-19, but numerous cases also present with insulin resistance, necessitating prompt management. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 9-year-old girl with a history of T1DM who was admitted with hyperglycemia (blood sugar > 750 mg/dL) and subsequently diagnosed with COVID-19. The co-administration of metformin and intravenous insulin successfully resolved subcutaneous insulin resistance, allowing the patient to be discharged in good health. Conclusions: Insulin resistance is a recognized complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and metformin combined with intravenous insulin has proven effective in managing hyperglycemia and improving insulin resistance in this context. Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and develop optimal therapeutic strategies.
Function and Application of Some Active and Antimicrobial Packaging in the Food Industry: A Review
(Brieflands, 2024-03-31) Mir-Michael Mousavi; Mansour Mahmoudpour
Context: Active packaging (AP) is an innovative approach employed in the food industry with the objective of satisfying consumers' elevated expectations concerning the safety, nutritional value, and overall excellence of food products. Objectives: Various methods and technologies are used to control the release of active agents. Biodegradable polymers are, at present, a viable option for replacing non-biodegradable plastics in AP. Results: Nanotechnology has been used to improve the functionality and storage shelf life of food packaging systems. This integration uses metal nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and biomaterials to create smart packaging systems with antibacterial properties, indicator capabilities, and degradation. This aligns with the clean-label trend in the food industry, where consumers look for products with fewer ingredients and natural production methods. The use of AP technology extends product shelf-life by using absorption and diffusion systems for carbon dioxide, oxygen, and ethanol. Conclusions: This manuscript reviews the latest advancements in advanced packaging technologies for the food industry. This text presents a detailed analysis of cutting-edge innovations in AP techniques, including scavengers, diffusion systems, and antimicrobial packaging.
Hand Scrub Methods and Their Effect on Bacterial Flora
(Brieflands, 2024-09-30) Majid Eslami; Shahrzad Ahmadpanahi; Mohamad Reza Asgari; Ali Asghar Ghods
Background: Hand disinfection is a critical component of infection control in surgery. Various solutions and techniques are used for hand scrubbing, but these often produce conflicting results. Objectives: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of four different hand scrubbing techniques in reducing hand bacterial colonies. Methods: A total of 30 participants were selected through convenience sampling based on specific criteria. They were randomly assigned to perform one of four hand scrub techniques: (1) Iodine scrub alone; (2) Decocept alone; (3) a combination of iodine scrub followed by Decocept; and (4) a combination of Decocept followed by an iodine soak. Microorganism cultures were taken before, immediately after, and one hour after scrubbing. Staff satisfaction was measured after each method using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: The study examined the effectiveness of the four scrubbing techniques in reducing skin microorganism levels. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most frequently detected microorganism, appearing in the majority of cases, with no significant variation between the groups. While all scrubbing methods reduced microbial counts, no statistically significant differences were found between the techniques. Conclusions: The use of Decocept alone may be considered a viable alternative to other hand scrubbing methods in operating rooms.

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