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Cobalt oxide nanoparticles were prepared via green chemistry route and fully characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses; the CoO and Co3O4 nanoparticles, in sheet-shaped cobalt oxide form, ensued simultaneously in one step. The varying concentrations of NPs were analyzed via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test on the cancer cell line (U87) which revealed that with increasing concentration of cobalt oxide nanoparticles, the survival rate of U87 tumor cells decreases; IC50 of nanoparticles being ~ 55 µg/ml−1.

The encapsulation of ascorbic acid within chitosan nanoparticles (CHNs), embedded in a fibrous structure of a dexamethasone (Dex)-loaded PCL scaffold, provides a new plan for osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. This electrospun PCL fibrous scaffold can release Dex, as bone differentiation initiator, and ascorbic acid, as bone differentiation enhancer, in an approximately sustained release pattern for about 2 weeks. Ascorbic acid-loaded CHNs were prepared by electrospraying a mixture of chitosan and ascorbic acid, and Dex-containing PCL fibers were prepared by electrospinning a mixture of PCL and Dex. The final PCL/chitosan bilayer scaffolds were obtained by the sequential employment of electrospinning and electrospraying methods. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed that the CHNs were successfully incorporated into the fibrous PCL matrix. The improved proliferation of hMSCs cultured on the PCL/chitosan scaffolds was also verified. Osteogenic assays showed an increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and mineral deposits. The expression of bone-specific genes also confirmed the osteogenic differentiation of cells cultured on these PCL/chitosan bilayer scaffolds. Dual-drug-loaded PCL/chitosan scaffold enhanced the osteoblast differentiation of hMSC cells and can be served as a potential scaffold for bone tissue engineering.

Background Regeneration of articular cartilage poses a tremendous challenge due to its limited self-repair capability and inflammation at the damaged site. To generate the desired structures that mimic the structure of native tissue, microtissues with repeated functional units such as cell aggregates have been developed. Multicellular aggregates of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be used as microscale building blocks of cartilage due to their potential for cell-cell contact, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Methods Chondrogenic microtissues were developed through incorporation of kartogenin-releasing poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (KGN-MP) within the MSC aggregates. The chondrogenic potential of KGN-MP treated MSC aggregates was proven in vitro by studying the chondrogenic markers at the RNA level and histological analysis. In order to address the inflammatory responses at the defect site, the microtissues were delivered in vivo via an injectable, anti-inflammatory hydrogel that contained gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) loaded with curcumin (Cur). Results The KGN-MPs were fabricated to support MSCs during cartilage differentiation. According to real-time RT-PCR analysis, the presence of KGN in the aggregates led to the expression of cartilage markers by the MSCs. Both toluidine blue (TB) and safranin O (SO) staining demonstrated homogeneous glycosaminoglycan production throughout the KGN-MP incorporated MSC aggregates. The curcumin treatment efficiently reduced the expressions of hypertrophy markers by MSCs in vitro. The in vivo results showed that implantation of chondrogenic microtissues (KGN-MP incorporated MSC aggregates) using the curcumin loaded GelMA hydrogel resulted in cartilage tissue regeneration that had characteristic features close to the natural hyaline cartilage according to observational and histological results. Conclusions The use of this novel construct that contained chondrogenic cell blocks and curcumin is highly desired for cartilage regeneration. Graphical abstract

Objective Bone tissue engineering (BTE) faces a major challenge with cell viability after implantation of a construct due to lack of functional vasculature within the implant. Human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) have the potential to undergo transdifferentiation towards an endothelial cell phenotype, which may be appropriate for BTE in conjunction with the appropriate scaffolds and microenvironment. Hypothesis and methods We hypothesized that slow delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by using nanoparticles in combination with osteogenic stimuli might enhance both osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation of angiogenic primed hBMSCs cultured in an osteogenic microenvironment. Therefore, we developed a new strategy to enhance vascularization in BTE in vitro by synthesis of smart temperature sensitive poly(N‑isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) nanoparticles. We used PNIPAM nanoparticles loaded with collagen to investigate their ability to deliver VEGF for both angiogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Results We used the free radical polymerization technique to synthesize PNIPAM nanoparticles, which had particle sizes of approximately 100 nm at 37 °C and LCST of 30–32 °C. The cumulative VEGF release after 72 h for VEGF loaded PNIPAM (VEGF-PNIPAM) nanoparticles was 70%; for VEGF-PNIPAM loaded collagen hydrogels, it was 23%, which indicated slower release of VEGF in the VEGF-PNIPAM loaded collagen system. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) and inverted microscope visualization confirmed endothelial differentiation and capillary-like tube formation in the osteogenic culture medium after 14 days. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) also confirmed expressions of collagen type I (Col I), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and osteocalcin (OCN) osteogenic markers along with expressions of platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31), von Willebrand factor (vWF), and kinase insert domain receptor (KDR) angiogenic markers. Our data clearly showed that VEGF released from PNIPAM nanoparticles and VEGF-PNIPAM loaded collagen hydrogel could significantly contribute to the quality of engineered bone tissue.

Objectives The present study was conducted to examine antidiabetic effects of Artemisia absinthium ethanolic extract [A. absinthium] and to investigate its effects on oxidative stress markers and the expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the kidney of STZ-induced diabetic rats. Methods Thirty six rats (weight 200–250 g) were randomly divided into diabetes and control groups. Induction of diabetes was performed using STZ (55 mg/kg.bw). Biochemical parameters and oxidative stress markers (SOD and MDA) were measured using spectrophotometry after 60 days of treatment. The expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and Bcl-2 were analyzed by real-time PCR. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post hoc test were used to compare the data. Results Diabetes significantly impairs the serum fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, urea, creatinine and albumin. At the end of treatment with A. absinthium extract, these parameters were close to the normal range. The results showed that the A. absinthium extract significantly decreased the kidney expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and increased the expression of Bcl-2 and improved oxidative stress markers (SOD and MDA) in the kidney tissues of treated rats. Also, all of these beneficial effects of the A. absinthium were dose-dependent. Conclusions The extract of A. absinthium possesses antidiabetic effects. A. absinthium decreased the expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and increased the expression of Bcl-2 and improved oxidative stress. Therefore, this herbal extract can be used as an adjuvant treatment for diabetic complications.

Nanogel based drug delivery systems have been broadly used for cancer treatment. In this research, octadecylamine was grafted to chondroitin sulfate using three different mole ratios (10, 20, and 30) and named CS-ODA1, 2, and 3, respectively. The amide bond formation between chondroitin sulfate and octadecylamine was confirmed by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance (HNMR) in the CS-ODA3 sample; therefore, further analysis was performed on this sample. Curcumin was loaded at defined Cur/CS-ODA ratios (5, 10 and 15%) and CS-ODA3 with 10% curcumin was selected for further experiments due to more entrapment efficiency (79.56% ± 5.56). In vitro release profile of the curcumin loaded nanogels showed >80% release after 70 h. In addition, the results of MTT analysis on the MCF-7 cell line showed almost no toxicity toward blank nanogels, while curcumin-loaded nanogels induced significant death after 24 h. In the end, analysis of the cell cycle using MCF-7 cells also confirmed the cytotoxicity of curcumin loaded nanogels. This study also showed that the presence of curcumin loaded chondroitin sulfate nanogels could successfully increase cellular uptake in comparison with free curcumin. The synthesized nanogels containing curcumin are expected to be effective for further studies in cancer treatment.

Background: Jaundice can be observed in two-thirds of infants. Bilirubin prevents damage to the DNA from the oxidative stress of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, bilirubin has anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic roles in addition to antioxidant properties. Objectives: We decided to compare pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) in physiologic and pathologic jaundice. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated 171 infants more than 35 weeks of gestational and > 2 days of postnatal age who were admitted to the Ghaem Hospital with jaundice from 2017 to 2019. Infants with bilirubin levels less or equal to 14 mg/dL on the jaundice meter were put in the physiologic jaundice group and infants with bilirubin higher than 15 mg/dL on the jaundice meter were entered into the study as the pathologic jaundice group. A questionnaire containing data regarding neonate’s characteristics and the mother’s medical history was filled out for each infant. Bilirubin levels, hematocrit, direct and or indirect Combs, reticulocytes, and PAB were evaluated in the case group. Results: The average age of the enrolled neonates was 7.3 ± 4.11 days and 52.4% of them were male. Between two groups of physiologic and pathologic jaundice, gestational age (P = 0.010), parity (P = 0.001) and PAB (P = 0.000) were significantly different. Overall, the amounts of the mentioned parameters in the pathologic jaundice group were less than the physiologic jaundice group. Conclusions: A pathological increase in bilirubin levels irrespective of its neurotoxic properties can change the pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance in favor of antioxidants. It seems that neurotoxic mechanism of bilirubin in pathological amounts differ with its antioxidant effects.

Mesenchymal stem cells with differentiation ability to diverse cells play a crucial role in tissue engineering. Tracking the fate of these cells during the regeneration of tissue helps to obtain more information about their function. In this study, histidine conjugated β-cyclodextrin as a cell-penetrating carrier with drug loading ability was attached to QDs nanoparticle (QD-βCD-His) for stem cell labeling. Traceability of QD-βCD-His labeled human adipose stem cells (hASCs) was monitored in 2D cell culture and 3D temperature-sensitive chitosan hydrogel scaffold. Dexamethasone (Dex) as an osteoinductive drug was loaded into QD-βCD-His nano-carrier (QD-βCD-His@Dex) to induce bone differentiation of labeled cells. Overall results indicated that QD-βCD-His@Dex is a promising dual-purpose nano-carrier for stem cell labeling with osteoinductive potential in cell therapy as well as tissue engineering scaffolds.

In this study, the Ta and Ta/TaN films were deposited on AISI 316L stainless steel (SS) using pulsed-DC plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) method to simultaneously improve its corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. The results showed that the deposited Ta/TaN films represents a uniform and flawless microstructure with better adhesion to substrate compared to single layer Ta due to the enhancement of Ta nucleation suppressed by TaN interlayer and also lower lattice mismatch between Ta and TaN. The Ta and Ta/TaN films showed the better surface wettability compared to the bare SS owing to the different hydrophilic nature of their spontaneously formed oxide layers. The Ta/TaN film exhibited the excellent corrosion resistance which is mainly attributed to its dense and flaw-free microstructure. The cell viability observations revealed that due to lower corrosion rate, the adhesion and also proliferation of cells on Ta/TaN film are meaningfully higher than that of bare SS and single layer Ta. After biofilm removal, the Ta/TaN film exhibited a higher integrity and adhesion to substrate compared to the single layer Ta.

Introduction: Newborns have a limited amount of antioxidant protection. Exchange transfusion may affect Prooxidant-Antioxidant Balance (PAB). The present study is conducted to investigate the effect of the exchange transfusion on PAB in newborn jaundice. Methods: The present study is based on a clinical trial which is conducted at Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad, Iran during 2015-2016 that involved sampling on 22 jaundiced newborns (high bilirubin of 17 mg/dL) over a course of 35 weeks. Data collection for the study questionnaire included maternal blood group, neonatal characteristics (age, sex, weight, gestational age, Apgar score, etc.), and laboratory assessment (bilirubin, hematocrit, direct and indirect Coombs testing, reticulocytes, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and PAB). The amount of PAB and serum total bilirubin (STB) of newborns before, after and 6 hours after the exchange transfusion were investigated. Data analysis was performed via statistical tests (paired t-test) using SPSS version 19. Results: The average bilirubin before the exchange transfusion was 22.02±5.80 mg/dL, after the exchange transfusion was 11.56±3.95 mg/dL, and at 6 hours after the exchange transfusion was 14.99±4.20 mg/dL. The average PAB before the exchange transfusion was 19.06±11.91 HK units, after the exchange transfusion was 29.40±17.70 HK, and at 6 hours after the exchange transfusion was 40.82±18.79 HK. Conclusion: The results of the study show that the Prooxidant-Antioxidant balance in the exchange transfusion changes in favor of prooxidants and also intensifies even up to 6 hours after the exchange transfusion.

Badab Sourt travertine-depositing springs in the north of Iran, naturally create a unique surreal landscape containing a range of stepped travertine terraces, similarly found only in a few other places on earth. This site comprises of three travertine saline springs with different values of salinity and discharge (SP1 , SP2 , and SP3 ) and one non-travertine fresh karstic spring (SP4 ) within a distance of about 300 m. The etiology behind this salinity and the water origin are the main research's dilemma that were investigated using geological, hydrochemical, and stable isotopic techniques. Based on the topography and isotopic results, the carbonate formations in northern (Khoshyeilagh and Mobarak) and southern (Cretaceous limestone) parts of the springs potentially provide the initial hydraulic gradient for deep circulation of the water and CO2 . However, geological studies indicate that the hydraulic connectivity of the Cretaceous formation to the travertine springs is interrupted by impermeable geological formations. Based on the proposed conceptual hydrogeological model and mass balance calculations, the SP4 spring is locally recharged from the nearby karstic area of Khoshyeilagh formation through shallow, short and steep groundwater flow circulation that is completely different from the travertine springs. The travertine spring (SP1 ) is recharged from more distant areas having higher altitudes on Mobarak and Khoshyeilagh limestone and circulate more deeply before emerging on the surface. The SP2 and SP3 springs can derive from the mixing of the saline water (SP1 ) and fresh water (SP4 ). The dissolution of interlayers of halite in Shemshak formation is concluded as the main source of salinity. This is the first research article in detail to survey hydrogeology of the travertine springs in Iran.

Cu(salpn), [salpn = N,N′-bis(salicylidene)-1,3-propanediimine], nanorods, and microtubes were successfully fabricated by template free hydro/solvothermal approach. Elemental analysis and FT-IR spectra confirmed the composition of Cu(salpn) complex and characteristic bands of this compound exactly. XRD pattern was well matched with X-ray diffraction simulated data. The SEM and TEM images revealed the nanorod morphology in hydrothermal process. The effect of various solvents (methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, acetonitrile, and tetrahydrofuran) on the morphology of the products indicated that the microtubes Cu(salpn) just prepared in ethanol. Based on the growth process with respect to the morphological structure, the possible formation mechanism of Cu(salpn) nanocomplex has been proposed as a sequential two-step growth mechanism, heterogeneous complex nucleation, and directional growth processes. The nanorods of Cu(salpn) complex is the result of the faster growth rate along direction. Probably, the dissolution–recrystallization process can proceed as favorable mechanism for microtube fabrication. Adjusting reaction times can selectively control the formation of microtubes and microrods.

One of the major problems associated with the electrospun scaffolds is their small pore size, which limits the cellular infiltration for bone tissue engineering. In this study, the effect of increasing the pore size on cellular infiltration was studied in poly‌caprolactone (PCL)/nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) electrospun scaffolds, which were modified using ultrasonication, co-electrospinning with poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO), and a combination of both. Ultrasonic process was optimized by central composite design (CCD). The ultrasonic output power and time of the process were considered as the effective parameters. The pore ​​size of the scaffolds was evaluated by scanning electron microscope. The optimum conditions, according to the pore area and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were selected, and finally the groups that had the highest pore size and mechanical strength were selected for the combined method. Increasing the pore size enhanced the cellular proliferation, extension and infiltration, as well as the osteodifferentiation of stem cells. At the optimum condition, the average cellular infiltration was 36.51 µm compared to the control group with no cellular infiltration. In addition, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP activity) and the expression of osteocalcin) OCN (and collagen I (COL I) were respectively 1.86, 2.54, and 2.16 fold compared to the control group on day 14. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

A simple, efficient and high-yielding one-pot protocol for the synthesis of novel functionalised 4H-chromenes and chromene carboxylic acids has been developed using multi-component domino coupling reactions of anil-like compounds with 1,3-diketones and indole in the presence of formic acid catalyst under solvent-free conditions. The protocol avoids the use of expensive catalysts, toxic solvents and chromatographic separation.

In the present study, preparation of blend hydrogels of tyramine conjugated gum tragacanth and poly (vinyl alcohol) was carried out by electron beam irradiation, and modification of hydrogel properties with poly (vinyl alcohol) was demonstrated. Gel content, swelling behavior, pore size and mechanical and rheological properties of hydrogels prepared at 14, 28 and 56 kilogray (kGy) with different ratios of polymers were investigated. Gel content increased from 67 ± 2% for pure tyramine conjugated gum tragacanth hydrogel to >92% for blend hydrogels. However, the corresponding equilibrium swelling degree decreased from 35.21 ± 1.51 to 9.14 ± 1.66 due to the higher crosslink density of blend hydrogel. The mechanical strength of the hydrogels with interconnected pores increased significantly in the presence of poly (vinyl alcohol) and increasing irradiation dose up to 28 kGy with a twenty-fold enhancement of stress fracture and excellent elastic recovery in cyclic compression analysis. The equilibrium swelling degree of blend hydrogel containing 3% w/v tyramine conjugated gum tragacanth and 2% w/v poly (vinyl alcohol) prepared at 28 kGy was 16.59 ± 0.81. The biocompatibility of hydrogels was tested in the presence of rabbit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. The viability of cells exposed to hydrogel extract was >92% after 7 days of culture and indicated hydrogel biocompatibility with potential biomedical applications.

Background: The excessive use of pesticides for crops by farmers, their destructive effects on beneficial organisms, such as bees, have become a big problem today. This study was designed to find out if the honey bee (Apis mellifera) and the honey be affected by diazinon. Methods: Six hives were purchased, 3 hives in Bandar-Abbas and remaining were considered for Meshkinshahr. Plants around the hive were sprayed with diazinon at a concentration of 2/1000. Sampling took place 15d after spraying, and diazinon residue was measured by the HP TLC. The study was conducted in 2017–2018. Results: The amount of diazinon residue in honey and honey bee was measured and compared with existing studies. The amount of diazinon residue in honey bee was found to be 0.017mg/kg in Bandar Abbas, and 0.005mg/kg in Meshkinshahr hives. There was nothing in honey. Conclusion: Honey is safe for consumers.

Background: VitaminDdeficiency is associated with prematurity, respiratory problems and infections. These are important causes of death in premature neonates. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the vitamin D level in the blood of preterm live neonates discharged with those neonates who did not survive. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 335 premature infants (less than 34 weeks of gestation) were discharged and 48 infants died. We examined their umbilical cord blood for vitamin D. Results: Eighty-eight percent of our premature neonates had vitamin D deficiency. The mean of vitamin D in the survived neonates was 14.87±10.94 and in thosewhosuccumbed their prematurity it was 9.4±6.52 ng/mL (P< 0.01). There was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the type of delivery, Apgar score of first and fifth minutes, duration of oxygen therapy and gestational age (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study showed that most premature neonates have a severe vitamin D deficiency, and this deficiency wasmorepronounced in the dead neonates than in those that survived, despite eliminated the role of gestational age. Measurement of cord blood vitamin D level may help predict the prognosis for premature neonates. © 2019, Kowsar Medical Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

A novel method was developed for synthesizing a series of new three dentate Schiff base ligands starting from hydroxynaphthalidene pyrimidinyl amines with o-phenylenediamines or o-aminophenol or 2-amino-3-hydroxy-pyri-dine in the presence of formic acid catalyst under solvent-free conditions. In these reactions [1+1] condensation product as half-unit ligand was obtained. Moreover, the reaction of hydroxynaphthalidene pyrimidinyl amines with 3,4-diamino-pyridine and 1,8-naphthalenediamine lead to the formation of C2-naphthylated imidazopyridine and dihydropyrimidine, respectively. The attractive features of this protocol are: use of inexpensive catalyst, operationally simple, short reaction times, easy handling, and good yields.

There are a number of reports demonstrating a relationship between the alterations in DFF40 expression and development of some cancers. Here, increased DFF40 expression in T-47D cells in the presence of doxorubicin was envisaged for therapeutic usage. The T-47D cells were transfected with an eukaryotic expression vector encoding the DFF40 cDNA. Following incubation with doxorubicin, propidium iodide (PI) staining was used for cell cycle distribution analysis. The rates of apoptosis were determined by annexin V/PI staining. Apoptosis was also evaluated using the DNA laddering analysis. The viability of DFF40-transfected cells incubated with doxorubicin was significantly decreased compared with control cells. However, there were no substantial changes in the cell cycle distribution of pIRES2-DFF40 cells incubated with doxorubicin compared to control cells. The expression of DFF40, without doxorubicin incubation, had also no significant effect on the cell cycle distribution. There was no DNA laddering in cells transfected with the empty pIRES2 vector when incubated with doxorubicin. In contrast, DNA laddering was observed in DFF40 transfected cells in the presence of doxorubicin after 48 h. Also, the expression of DFF40 and DFF45 was increased in DFF40 transfected cells in the presence of doxorubicin enhancing cell death. Collectively our results indicated that co-treatment of DFF40-transfected cells with doxorubicin can enhance the killing of these tumor cells via apoptosis. Thus, modulation of DFF40 level may be a beneficial strategy for treatment of chemo-resistant cancers.

OBJECTIVE: To compare newborns fed exclusively on human milk with those fed sugar water along with the mother's milk. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study conducted on selected newborns through sampling available at the clinic and neonatal ward and the emergency department of Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad, Iran, during 2014-2018. The data collection tool was a questionnaire developed by researchers that included laboratory data, maternal information, and neonatal characteristics. The data was analyzed with t for Student and c2. RESULTS: Of 445 neonates, 324 (72.8%) were exclusively breastfed, and 121 (27.2%) were fed breast milk along with sugar water. A significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of maternal age (p = 0.001), breastfeeding frequency (p = 0.002), feeding duration (p = 0.013), urination frequency (p = 0.001), weight on admission (p = 0.001), daily weight loss (p = 0.001), daily weight loss percentage (p = 0.001), and serum levels of sodium (p = 0.001), potassium (p = 0.019), urea (p = 0.001), creatinine (p = 0.001), and platelet (p = 0.001). Moreover, lethargy, irritability, mucosal dryness, hyperthermia, apnea, loss of consciousness, mother’s breast problems, and inappropriate breastfeeding position were more common in newborns who were fed sugar water along with breast milk, compared to exclusively breastfed newborns. CONCLUSION: All indications are that nutritional and maternal breast problems, laboratory abnormalities and neonatal complications increased when sugar water was added to human milk.

Background: Resistance to ciprofloxacin as the most common antibiotic for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is increasing. In this study, the role of gyrA and qnrA genes among ciprofloxacin resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates from UTIs was evaluated. Methods: During September to March 2014, urine samples were collected from patients with UTIs of Imam Khomaini hospital of Tehran. Bacterial identification was done based on standard tests. The antibiotic sensitivity test was performed based on the clinical and laboratory standards institute (CLSI) 2014 protocol and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ciprofloxacin was determined by E-test strips. DNA was extracted by the boiling method and assessment of gyrA (DNA gyrase (type II topoisomerase)) and qnrA genes was done by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Further sequencing was done for PCR confirmation and blasting. Results: All isolates were susceptible to carbapenems (100%) and 98.7% were susceptible to nitrofrontain. The highest resistance was towards piperacillin 85%, ampicillin 83.8%, sulfamethoxazole trimethoprim (SXT) 78.7%, ciprofloxacin 77.5%, and 75% tetracycline. Around 80% of the E. coli isolates were identified as multi drug resistant (MDR). All isolates with MIC of ≥ 4 μg/mL for ciprofloxacin were the candidates for DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing. The gyrA and qnrA genes were detected in 100% and 39% of isolates, respectively. Mutations were found in the sequence analysis, yet the mean full change was related to change of serine to leucine at position 83 (S 83 L). Conclusions: Finally, contribution of both mutated chromosomal gyrA genes and plasmidic qnrA resistance genes in some of the high ciprofloxacin resistant bacterial strains was found in this study, besides the overuse of antibiotics, which can increase the emergence of resistant strains.

Introduction: Carbapenems are a broad-spectrum class of beta-lactam antibiotics, which are used in treatment of multi-drug resistant infections. Unfortunately, global emerging and spreading of carbapenemase, especially New Delhi metallo β lactamase 1 (blaNDM-1), is a concern in the treatment of multi drug-resistant agents. Here, we report the appearance of blaNDM-1producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) in Iran for the first time. Case Presentation: In this study, 2 blaNDM-1producing E. coli strains were isolated from 2 burn wounds of patients in the Motahari hospital, Tehran. The isolates were resistant to carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem and ertapenem) and other common antibiotics except nitrofurantoin. Combined Disk Test showed that the isolates could not produce blaAmpC and blaKPC carbapenemase, whereas they can produce metallo-β-lactamases (MBL). However, genetic detection using Polymerase Chain Reaction amplification with specific primers for blaKPC, blaIMP, blaVIM-1, blaVIM-1 – blaVIM-37, and blaNDM-1genes showed that only the blaNDM-1gene is amplified from the resistant isolates. Further sequencing of PCR products confirmed the presence of the blaNDM-1gene in these isolates. Conclusions: The emerging of blaNDM-1producing E. coli is a new threat for to the health system in Iran, due to the spreading of the blaNDM-1gene among pathogenic bacteria, which resulted in the emergence of multi drug resistant photogenes. Therefore, early identification of these isolates is mandatory.

The study area, the Fasa Plain, is situated in the semiarid region of Fars Province in the south of Iran. The Salloo diapir is a salt dome that crops out in the northwest of the study area. Isotopic and hydrochemical analyses were used to examine the water and how the origin of salinity and the diapir affect the quality of the groundwater quality in the study area. Groundwater was sampled from 31 representative pumping wells in alluvial aquifer and five springs in order to measure their stable isotope compositions, bromide ion concentration, and physical and chemical parameters. The alluvial aquifer was organized into two main groups based on the chemistry, with Group 1 consisting of low-salinity well samples (544–1744 µS/cm) with water type Ca–Mg–HCO3–SO4 which were taken in the center and north of the area, and Group 2 consisting of high-salinity samples (2550–4620 µS/cm) with water type Ca–Mg–Cl–SO4 which were taken from the wells in the south and southwest of the area. A saline spring near the salt dome with an EC of 10,280 µS/cm has water type Na–Cl, while the compositions of the water in the other karstic springs is comparable to the fresh groundwater samples. All groundwater samples are undersaturated with respect to gypsum, anhydrite, and halite and are supersaturated with respect to calcite and dolomite. Stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) differentiated four water types: saline springs, freshwater spring, fresh groundwater, and saline groundwater. The results indicate that meteoric water is the main origin of these water resources. Halite dissolution from the salt dome was identified as the origin of salinity. The Na/Cl and Cl/Br ratios confirmed the results. Groundwater compositions in the southwestern part of the area are affected by the intrusion of saltwater from the salt dome. The average saltwater fraction in the some water wells is about 0.2%. In the south and southwestern part of the area, the saltwater fraction is positive in mixed freshwater/saltwater (Group 2). Different processes interact together to change the hydrochemical properties of Fasa’s alluvial aquifer. The main processes that occur in the aquifer are mixing, gypsum dissolution, and calcite precipitation.

Alterations in expression of the DFF40 gene have been reported in some cancers. This study is an in vitro study of the therapeutic effects of gene transfer that lead to elevation in DFF40 expression within T-47D cells in the presence of sulfonamide drugs. In this study, we have constructed a eukaryotic expression vector for DFF40 and transfected it into T-47D cancer cells. We used real time RT-PCR to detect the expression of DFF40 and the MTT assay to determine effects of the sulfonamide drugs acetazolamide, sulfabenzamide, sulfathiazole and sulfacetamide on cell viability in the presence of increased and normal DFF40 levels. Cell cycle distribution was assessed by propidium iodide (PI) staining and the rates of apoptosis by annexin V/PI staining. The DNA laddering analysis was employed to evaluate apoptosis. We observed that overexpression of DFF40 was only effective in decreasing viability in cells incubated with acetazolamide and sulfabenzamide. There was enhanced apoptosis in these groups, particularly with acetazolamide. The cell cycle distribution analysis showed that in the presence of sulfonamide drugs there were no substantial changes in empty-vector or DFF40-transfected cells, except for those cells treated with sulfabenzamide or sulfathiazole. There was no DNA laddering in cells that expressed the empty vector when incubated with sulfonamide drugs. In contrast, we observed DNA laddering in cells that expressed DFF40 in the presence of acetazolamide. Our results have demonstrated that combinatorial use of some sulfonamides such as acetazolamide along with increased expression of DFF40 can potently kill tumor cells via apoptosis and may be beneficial for treatment of some chemoresistant cancers.

Heliotropium bacciferum is One of the plants belonging to the family Boraginaceae , which is Restricted distribution in the south of Iran. It is used for Hypotension, fever, stomach ulcers in traditional medicine. In this study, the antibacterial effects of extracts and fractions of chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous, aerial parts of Heliotropium bacciferum Forssk was evaluated against five bacterial strains. The methanol extract were prepared using the percolation method. Fractions of chloroform, Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous respectively by Liquid - Liquid fractionation of the total extract were prepared. The antibacterial activity against two Gram positive bacteria, three Gram negative bacterial using Minimum inhibitory concentration in microplate and well plate method. Results showed that H. bacciferum extracts exhibited a significant activity against strains Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E.coli, Salmonella enteritidis. MIC and well plate is between 7.6-125 µg/ml. The results of this study indicate that extracts of the plant H.bacciferum has a antimicrobial effect against strains are listed And among the extracts, aqueous part is that most antibacterial effect of the other fraction and then methanolic extract has the greatest effect.

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) microspheres are of great interest due to their high stability and osteoinductive properties at specific compositions. However, the need for optimal performance at a unique composition limits their flexibility for tuning drug release by modulation of bulk properties and presents the question of engineering surface topography as an alternative. It is necessary to have a facile method to control surface topography at a defined bulk composition. Here, we have produced BCP microspheres with different surface topographies that have the capability to be used as tunable drug release systems. We synthesized calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) microparticles by precipitating calcium and phosphate ions onto ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) templates. The morphology and surface topography of CDHA microparticles were controlled using process parameters, which governed nucleation and growth. These parameters included template concentration, heat rate, and stirring speed. Under low heat rate and static conditions, we could obtain spherical microparticles with long and short nanosheets on their surfaces at low and high EDTA concentrations, respectively. These nanostructured microspheres were subsequently crystallized by thermal treatment to produce EDTA-free BCP microspheres with intact morphology. These biocompatible BCP microspheres were highly effective in loading and prolonged release of both small molecule [dexamethasone (Dex)] and protein [bovine serum albumin (BSA)] models. This strategy has enabled us to control the surface topography of BCP microspheres at defined compositions and holds tremendous promise for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications.

This study evaluated the potential for prepared chitosan-plasmid DNA (pDNA) nanoparticles to transfer an exogenous gene into human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).Chitosan-pDNA nanoparticles were synthesized by the complex coacervation method. We used 18, 50 and 136 KD chitosan at concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.5% and 1%, in addition to a pTracer-CMV2 plasmid that contained the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene. To examine the complexation, samples were run through an agarose gel. The sizes and zeta potential of the nanoparticles were measured by a nanosizer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging was used to observe the nanoparticle morphology. MSCs were prepared from human bone marrow and transfected with chitosan-pDNA nanoparticles. The cultures transfected by lipofectamine(2000) were taken as the control. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay and transfection efficiency by flow cytometry.The smallest size of complexes was obtained with 18 KD chitosan (211 nm) and the highest zeta potential was observed with 136 KD chitosan (29.61 mV). The best transfection rate (18.43%) was achieved with the 0.1% concentration of 18 KD chitosan nanoparticles versus 40.57% for commercial lipofectamine (p0.01). The MTT assay indicated an average of 95.5% cell viability for 0.1% concentration of 18 KD chitosan compared with approximately 60% of Lipofectamine(2000).Nanoparticles produced by 18 KD chitosan at the 0.1% concentration and pDNA may be a promising gene delivery system for human marrow-derived MSCs. Although transfection efficiency of such nanoparticles is lower than that of Lipofectamine(2000), however comparatively they possess less cytotoxic effects.

A novel merwinite/ Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) nanocomposite was synthesized by a solvent casting/salt leaching technique with varying merwinite contents from 10 to 30% (w/w). Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) /merwinite foams with a co-continuous structure of interconnected pores were formed. The microstructure of the pores and the walls was controlled by varying the merwinite content. The pore structure becomes more and more irregular with increasing merwinite content. Pore sizes ranging from several microns to a few hundred microns were obtained. The degradation assessment of the scaffolds is performed in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution at 37°C. Weight loss during storage at 37°C in PBS (pH 7.4) was determined for the scaffolds. Weight loss increased from pure to high content during incubation time. The prepared merwinite/ (Polylactic-co-glycolic) nanocomposite with uniform microstructure may be used in bone tissue engineering applications.

In this paper, a new nano-hydroxyapatite / poly ( l -lactide acid) (nHAP/PLLA) composite scaffold comprising needle-like nHAP particles was prepared. In the first step, the identification and morphology of chemically synthesized HAP particles were determined by XRD, EDX, FTIR and SEM analyses. The needle-like nHAP particles with an average size of approximately 30–60 nm in width and 100–400 nm in length were found similar to needle-like bone nano apatites in terms of chemical composition and morphology. In the second step, nHAP and micro-sized HAP (mHAP) particles were used to fabricate HAP filled PLLA (HAP/PLLA) composites scaffolds using solid–liquid phase separation method. The porosity of scaffolds was up to 85%, and their average macropore diameter was in the range of 64–175 µm. FTIR and XRD analyses showed the presence of molecular interactions and chemical linkages between HAP particles and PLLA matrix. The compressive strength of nanocomposite scaffolds could high up to 8.46 MPa while those of pure PLLA and microcomposite scaffolds were 1.79 and 4.61 MPa, respectively. The cell affinity and cytocompatibility of the nanocomposite scaffold were found to be higher than those of pure PLLA and microcomposite scaffolds. Based on the results, the newly developed nHAP/PLLA composite scaffold is comparable with cancellous bone in terms of microstructure and mechanical strength, so it may be a suitable alternative for bone tissue engineering applications.

Background: The first report of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) carbapenem resistant strains, and especially the Metallo-Beta-Lactam (MBL) producers was from Japan, however, further reports were global. Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the frequency of vim and imp genes among P. aeruginosa MBL producer isolated from Children Medicinal Center during from 2011 to 2012. Materials and Methods: In the current descriptive study, 90 P. aeruginosa strains were collected from different clinical samples of children referring to Children’s Medical Center of Tehran, Iran. All the isolates were identified and confirmed by the standard tests. Their resistance against common antibiotics was determined by disk diffusion method based on Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) 2010 protocol. The MBL producers were screened by Combined Disk Diffusion test (CDDT) and using imp-imp/Ethylen Ediamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA), and increasing of 7 mm≤ the diameter of inhibiting zone. The frequency of vim and imp genes was determined by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Results: Based on standard tests including Triple Sugar Iron Agar and Oxidation- Fermentation (OF) media and disability of the bacteria for glucose fermentation, 90 P. aeruginosa strains were confirmed. Their resistance against the following antibiotics was evaluated by disk diffusion method: 36.6% to cefotaxim, cefpodoxim and ticarcillin 33.3%, meropenem and aztreonam 32.2%, amikacin 28.8%, ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxon 27.7%, ceftazidime 22.3% and imipenem 15.5%. By PCR the frequency of imp gene with its 328 base pair band was (3.3%). The vim gene was not detected among the tested strains. Conclusions: Despite of high resistance of P. aeruginosa, the resistance rate of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from children in the current study was not high. Then accurate prescription of antibiotics can decrease the speed of resistance creation.

Background: Increased microbial resistance to conventional medicines and their side effects have led to studying the effect of herbal extracts on microorganisms. Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating the antimicrobial activity of total extract and fractions of chloroform, methanol, and aqueous of aerial parts of Salvia aegyptiaca. Methods: The plants were collected from Bandar Abbas, Iran, in April 2015. The methanol extract of aerial parts, in addition to chloroform, methanol, and aqueous fractions, were prepared by the maceration method from S. aegyptiaca. The antimicrobial activity of fractions were determined by cup plate and further micro-dilution methods based on the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) 2013 against some Gram-positive and -negative bacteria as well as Candida albicans. Statistical analysis was conducted by t test. Results: Significant results were obtained regarding the tested microorganisms only by micro-dilution method. Conclusions: There were no significant results in plant extract and its fractions against the tested microorganisms in the cup plate method, which may be due to the inability of agar diffusion. In contrast, by excluding the agar’s hindrance property, verified results of micro-dilution method were deleted.

To determine the amount of azinphos methyl and diazinon residues in two river fishes, Liza aurata and Cyprinus carpio, in the north of Iran.This study was done during 2006-2007. In this survey, 152 water and fish samples from Gorgan and Qarasu rivers, north of Iran, were investigated. Sampling was done in three predetermined stations along each river. Organophosphorus compounds (OPs) were extracted from the fishes and the water of rivers. After extraction, purification and concentration processes, the amount and type of insecticides in water and fish samples were determined by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC).There was a significant difference in the residue of the insecticides in the water and fish samples between summer and other seasons in the two rivers. The highest amount of insecticides residue was seen during summer. In both rivers, the amount of diazinon and azinphos methyl residues in the two fishes was more than 2 000 mg/L in summer. There was no significant difference in insecticides residue between the fishes in two rivers. The diazinon residue was higher than the standard limits in both rivers during the spring and the summer, but the residual amount of azinphos methyl was higher than the standard limits only during the summer and only in Qarasu River.It can be concluded that the amount of OPs in the water and the two fishes, Liza aurata and Cyprinus carpio, is higher than the permitted levels.