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Abstract Background Adhesion formation poses a significant challenge for both patients and hand surgeons following tendon repair. One common strategy to prevent adhesion formation is the use of physical barriers. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of extensor tendon repair with and without the application of the OrthoWrap® bioresorbable Sheet, specifically in terms of adhesion prevention. Methods This triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on patients with trauma to the extensor zone VI tendons. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups. In the intervention group, OrthoWrap® bioresorbable Sheet was applied in addition to the standard tendon repair protocol. Over a three-month follow-up period, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, extension lag, and metacarpophalangeal joint flexion were assessed. Additionally, the mobility of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints was evaluated using the Strickland classification. Results A total of 42 patients in the OrthoWrap® group and 43 in the control group were evaluated over the three-month period. Both groups showed a significant reduction in mean extension lag at the metacarpophalangeal joint over time. No significant condition-by-time interactions were found for MP joint flexion or VAS scores (p > 0.05). However, significant improvements in MP joint flexion and VAS scores were observed over time. The OrthoWrap® group demonstrated significantly more favorable outcomes compared to the control group. Conclusion The clinical application of OrthoWrap® in extensor tendon repair demonstrated statistically significant but modest improvements in extension lag (2.5°). While patients treated with OrthoWrap® showed better outcomes in Strickland’s classification, the clinical significance of these small differences and their impact on patient function requires further investigation. Trial registration IRCT, IRCT20180627040252N3. Registered 20,220,617, Https//irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/56,652.

Background and purpose: Hepatic cholestasis is a primary cause of liver failure and can lead to complications in other organs, including the kidneys. Kidney damage resulting from liver dysfunction is known as cholemic nephropathy. Oxidative stress is a key mechanism in causing this damage. Oxidative stress occurs when the ratio of free radicals to antioxidant enzymes is imbalanced, with free radicals prevailing. Medicinal plants are often used to treat and prevent diseases due to their antioxidant properties. Rutin (ROT), a bioflavonoid with antioxidant properties found in certain foods, may offer protective effects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective effect of rutin on kidney damage following hepatic cholestasis in rats. Materials and methods: This experimental study included 50 Wistar rats, randomly divided into 5 experimental groups (n=10). Cholestasis was induced by ligating the common bile duct. Rutin was administered daily via gavage in different doses (30, 60, and 120 mg/kg) to the affected rats for 14 days. At the end of the intervention, the animals were anesthetized, tissue samples were collected, and serum and urine samples were obtained for further testing. Antioxidant enzyme activities, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were measured in kidney tissue homogenates using an ELISA kit, following the manufacturer’s instructions. For assessing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, 500 mg of kidney tissue was homogenized in 5 ml of cooled KCl solution. The protective effects of rutin were evaluated by analyzing serum biochemical factors (BUN and creatinine), urine parameters (glucose and protein), oxidative stress markers (ROS and MDA), and antioxidant enzyme activities (GPx, SOD, and CAT). Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad software, with one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test. Results: The study results showed that, following cholestasis induction, urinary biochemical factors (glucose and protein) significantly increased. However, rutin treatment significantly reduced urinary glucose and protein excretion (P

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Mounting evidence have implicated that rs1801131 and rs1801133, located in the Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, may emerge as novel biomarkers for coronary artery disease (CAD). The Synergy between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score is also an appropriate predictor for revascularization strategy in patients with complex CAD. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between rs1801131 and rs1801133 with the severity of coronary lesions in patients with ST‑Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and Non‑ST‑Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) based on the SYNTAX score. Methods This retrospective cross‐sectional study included 96 patients diagnosed with STEMI and NSTEMI from Razi University Hospital between April and September 2019. Ninety‐six patients were diagnosed with STEMI (N = 43) and NSTEMI (N = 53) were recruited from South Khorasan, Iran. The angiographical characteristics of CAD were defined by the SYNTAX score. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood and genotyped for rs1801131 and rs1801133 using the TaqMan real‐time PCR method. Results The results of the one‐way analysis of variance indicated that there is no association between rs1801131 and rs1801133 with the severity of coronary lesions in patients with STEMI (p = 0.44) and NSTEMI (p = 0.91). However, the two‐way analysis of variance comparison and post‐hoc test demonstrated that rs1801133 in the presence of rs1801131 is correlated with the SYNTAX score in NSTEMI (p = 0.03) and total patients (p = 0.03). Conclusion In conclusion, our study reveals a significant association between the MTHFR polymorphism rs1801133 and CAD severity, particularly in NSTEMI patients. While rs1801131 showed no correlation, rs1801133 may serve as a valuable genetic biomarker for assessing CAD severity. Further research with larger populations is needed to confirm these findings.

Abstract An array of metallic nanoparticles can diffract or concentrate the incident electromagnetic wave and behave as an antenna. In this paper, the effects of the inner sub-wavelength structure of nanoparticles are studied on the directivity of the plasmonic nanoantenna, which is coated on the output of a waveguide. Three 5*5 element configurations are analyzed: nanocubes, nanoshells, and nanoframes array. Numerical results are obtained using the 3D FDTD technique. The results show that structured nanoantennas can improve the antenna's directivity due to the plasmonic properties and hybridization mechanism. Between the three configurations investigated in the 250–800 nm wavelength range, the nanoshell array exhibits maximum and minimum amounts of its directivity at 321.5 nm and 591 nm, respectively. At 558 nm, nanoframes and nanoshells' arrays show the same amount of directivity, and from the wavelength greater than 558 nm, the nanoframe array has the best performance. The results may help design and fabricate directive optical fiber endcaps.

Background and purpose: Paraquat is one of the chemical herbicides with high toxicity. In case of incorrect consumption, this chemical causes fatal poisoning in people, especially those active in the field of agriculture. Nowadays, using compounds of natural origin to improve or reduce the harmful effects of agricultural pesticides is one of the important issues that has attracted the attention of researchers in this field. Quercetin as a natural flavonoid is found in large quantities in fruits and vegetables. As a kind of natural antioxidant, this compound has great power in removing free radicals. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the protective effects of quercetin on ovarian toxicity caused by paraquat in rats. Materials and methods: To conduct this experimental research, 30 adult Wistar rats with an average age of 6 to 8 months and a weight range of 160 to 180 gr were randomly divided into 5 experimental groups including 6 rats in each group. Paraquat (1.25 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was injected into mice. Then quercetin was injected intraperitoneally in concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. The negative control group received only normal saline. After 24 hours, the animals were sacrificed and their ovaries were evaluated for changes in oxidative stress indices. Results: The results showed that paraquat significantly increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein carbonyl, and lipid peroxidation, and significantly decreased glutathione content and survival of ovarian tissue cells when compared with the control group (P

Nanofibrous scaffolds have emerged as promising candidates for localized drug delivery systems in the treatment of cutaneous cancers. In this study, we prepared an electrospun nanofibrous scaffold incorporating 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and etoposide (ETP) for chemotherapy targeting melanoma cutaneous cancer. The scaffold was composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS), prepared via the electrospinning process and loaded with the chemotherapeutic agents. We conducted relevant physicochemical characterizations, assessed cytotoxicity, and evaluated apoptosis against melanoma A375 cells. The prepared 5-FU/ETP co-loaded PVA/CS scaffold exhibited nanofibers (NFs) with an average diameter of 321 ± 61 nm, defect-free and homogenous morphology. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed successful incorporation of chemotherapeutics into the scaffold. Additionally, the scaffold demonstrated a hydrophilic surface, proper mechanical strength, high porosity, and efficient liquid absorption capacity. Notably, sustained and controlled drug release was observed from the nanofibrous scaffold. Furthermore, the scaffold significantly increased cytotoxicity (95%) and apoptosis (74%) in A375 melanoma cells. Consequently, the prepared 5-FU/ETP co-loaded PVA/CS nanofibrous scaffold holds promise as a valuable system for localized eradication of cutaneous melanoma tumors and mitigation of adverse drug reactions associated with chemotherapy.

Brain oxidative damage and neurodegeneration by ethanol (ETH) are considered as important factors that triggered by oxidative stress. Recently, the abuse of diazepam (DZM) has increased by alcoholism-addicted patients. The present study evaluated the effects of combination treatment of ETH with DZM on oxidative damage induced in brain mitochondria of the mice. Only ETH (0.3, 0.6, and 2.5 g / kg) and ETH+ DZM (2.5 mg / kg) were administered intraperitoneally (ip) to the mice. Pathological changes and oxidative stress biomarkers including ROS, lipid peroxidation, carbonyl protein, mitochondrial function, and glutathione content were evaluated in brain mitochondria after 42 days. Results indicated that co-treatment of DZM and ETH significantly reduced mitochondrial toxicity, oxidative damage, pathological changes and increased level of glutathione. Subchronic ETH administration induced brain oxidative damage, mitochondrial disruption, and serious damage to the brain cells. Whereas, combination treatment improved oxidative damage, mitochondrial function, and pathological changes in brain cells after intoxication by ETH. These findings suggest antioxidant effect of DZM in combination with ETH and can be considered in reducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage attenuation in the brain. Combination therapy may be a better therapeutic candidate for prevention of brain oxidative damage induced by ETH.

Introduction: Coronary artery anomalies (CAAs) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including sudden cardiac death, especially in young people. A different prevalence has been reported based on the USED diagnostic modality. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and type of these anomalies using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Methods: This single-center retrospective study was performed on 3016 consecutive cases who underwent CCTA for cardiac symptoms from March 2015 to August 2020 and the prevalence and types of CAAs were evaluated. Results: 38 cases (overall prevalence of 1.26%) including 21 men (55.3%) and 17 women (44.7%) were retrospectively diagnosed with CAAs. The most common anomalies were the Anomalous origin of LCX from the right coronary sinus (11 cases, 28.9%), Anomalous origin of RCA from the left coronary sinus (11 cases, 28.9%), and Anomalous origin of LM from the right coronary sinus (6 cases, 15.8%). There was no difference in the prevalence of CAAs in terms of patient’s gender (P value=0.16) and age (P value=0.61). Conclusion: The prevalence of CAAs among patients who underwent CCTA was 1.26%. The most common anomalies observed were the anomalous origin of the LCX arising from the right coronary sinus, the anomalous origin of the RCA arising from the left coronary sinus, and the anomalous origin of the LM arising from the right coronary sinus. These findings emphasize the importance of CCTA in detecting and characterizing coronary artery anomalies, which may have clinical implications for patient management and treatment decisions.

Background and purpose: Ellagic acid is a natural polyphenol compound with potential antioxidant properties that is present in most fruits, seeds, and vegetables. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effects of ellagic acid administration on the liver damage model caused by thioacetamide in rats. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 60 male Wistar rats weighing approximately 200 grams were randomly divided into six groups (n=10). Liver damage was caused by a single dose (100 mg/kg) administration of thioacetamide for three consecutive days. Different doses of ellagic acid (10, 25 and 50 mg/kg) were administered to the sick mice as a single dose for three consecutive days. Finally, 24 hours after the last injection, biochemical factors (ALP, AST, ALT, LDH, bilirubin, total protein), oxidative stress markers (LPO, ROS, FRAP, GSH), ammonium ion concentration, and movement activity of the mice were examined. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Thioacetamide led to a significant increase in serum biochemical factors and oxidative stress markers in the studied groups (P

Background and purpose: Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites of fungi that have carcinogenic effects. Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a highly toxic mycotoxin that can contaminate wheat grains and flour under various conditions of production, storage, and maintenance. Considering the carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of this toxin, it is necessary to monitor the contamination of wheat flour used in bakeries and to prevent this product from entering the bread supply chain. The aim of this study was to identify and determine the amount of OTA in wheat flour consumed by bakeries in Sari, during 2017 using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Materials and methods: In this study, 30 samples of flour used in the preparation of lavash, barbari and sengak bread were collected from five different geographical areas of Sari (Mazandaran province) in 2017. The concentration of OTA was finally determined using HPLC device and through purification with an immunoaffinity column. Results: No concentration of OTA was observed in any of the tested samples. The results were in compliance with the mentioned reference values of OTA concentration in bakery products based on the Iranian National Standard Organization. Conclusion: Based on the results, the flour used in breads is safe in terms of OTA. This amount is in accordance with the permissible limits set by the Iranian National Standard Organization and is acceptable for consumption.

Background: Unrecorded alcoholic beverage consumption is a health problem in Iran. Extensive use of pesticides in agricultural products may lead to the presence of residues of these compounds in hand-made alcoholic beverages. There are claims that the producer of hand-made alcoholic beverages adds some drugs to increase efficiency. The objective of this study was to assess the presence of methamphetamine, methadone, tramadol, diazinon, phosalone, trichlorfon, mancozeb, and penconazole in homemade alcoholic drinks. Methods: Thirty hand-made alcoholic beverages were analyzed in this study. Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) and liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) were selected for samples' pretreatment. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify diazinon, phosalone, trichlorfon, mancozeb, and penconazole and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to identify tramadol, methadone, and methamphetamine. Results: This study showed that diazinon was detected in three samples (10% of the total samples) at 10.8 to 16.5 μg/L and Penconazole was detected in two samples (6% of the whole samples) at a range of 78.5 to 810.6 μg/L. However, Mancozeb, trichlorfon, and phosalone were not in alcoholic beverages. In addition, methadone, tramadol, and methamphetamine were not detected in any samples. Conclusion: The results of our research showed that hand-made alcoholic beverages contain pesticide residues, and the use of these beverages causes diseases in the body.

Abstract Background and Aims Electrocardiography (ECG) is a widely accessible, noninvasive, and cost‐effective diagnostic instrument used to evaluate patients with suspected heart failure (HF). The aim of this study is to investigate electrocardiographic changes in patients with different stages of HF in a random population of Yazd city. Methods This prospective cross‐sectional study included 319 individuals, randomly selected, aged 40 years and more, registered in the Yazd Health Study was conducted from March 2022 to May 2023 at Afshar Hospitals. In accordance with the AHA/ACC guidelines, HF was classified into four stages (A, B, C, and D). Results The 159 individuals were classified in the stage 0 group, 77 were in Stage A, 65 were in Stage B, and 18 were in Stage C of HF. In the Stage 0, the PR interval (PRi) was 130.5 ± 18.1 ms, while in Stage C, it was 143.3 ± 21.9 ms, with a significant difference (p = 0.047). Similarly, the QRS interval (QRSi) increased with HF staging (p = 0.001). The frequency of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), hyperlipidemia (HLP), chronic heart disease, alcoholism, and PRi, QRSi, QT interval levels were independent predictors of HF stage in multivariate regression analysis. Conclusion The prevalence of HF stages, as classified by the AHA/ACC guidelines, was observed, with significant correlations between ECG parameters and HF progression. abnormal rhythms, left bundle branch block, ischemia, hypertrophy, and left atrial enlargement increased with higher HF stages. Major risk factors like DM and HTN exhibited a heightened prevalence in advanced HF stages, accentuating their pivotal role in the progression of HF.

Background. Horizontal ridge augmentation surgeries are common procedures in periodontics. Histological changes in soft tissues affect the success of surgery in many ways. Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) increases interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and causes inflammation modulation. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of ACS on histological changes and gene expression of soft tissues after horizontal ridge augmentation surgeries. Methods. This double-blind split-mouth clinical trial was performed on patients needing implants with horizontal ridge augmentation (n=21). The control and intervention groups were considered split-mouth in two areas of the patients’ oral soft tissues. A collagen membrane impregnated with ACS was used on the test side, and only a collagen membrane was used on the control side. After four months, histological changes in soft tissues, such as the amount of connective tissue collagen, fibroblast and inflammatory cell counts, and expression of the IL-1β gene, were evaluated. Results. The fibroblast counts in the ACS group were significantly higher than in the control group. In addition, ACS caused a significant increase in the amount of collagen in the soft tissues compared to the control group (P0.05). IL-1β gene expression was not significantly different between the case and control groups. Conclusion. Under the limitations of the present study and based on the results of histological examinations, ACS increased the number of fibroblasts and the amount of collagen in soft tissues without affecting inflammatory cells (P=0.562).

Reza Valizadeh1, Hamidreza Mohammadi2, Ali Ghaffarian Bahraman3, Mohsen Mohammadi4, Javad Ghasemian Yadegari5 1 Pharmacy Student, Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran 2 Assistant Professor, Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran 3 Assistant Professor, Occupational Environment Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran 4 Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hepatitis Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoramabad, Iran 5 Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran In the article published in volume 33, issue 221, 2024, the image number 1 was published incorrectly and has been corrected.

Background and purpose: Acute liver failure is caused by several factors including drugs. Isoniazid, which is used as an effective drug in treatment of tuberculosis, is considered a strong toxic agent for the liver. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cinnamon extract on isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 60 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups. Liver damage and oxidative stress were induced by administration of isoniazid (300 mg/kg/day) for 14 consecutive days. Different doses of cinnamon extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were administered by gavage. Liver damage caused by isoniazid was evaluated by examining serum biochemical factors, amount of reactive oxygen species, glutathione, antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidation, and histopathological changes in liver tissue. Data analysis was performed in Prism software applying one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test. Results: Isoniazid at 200 mg/kg caused liver damage and significantly increased liver damage biomarkers (biochemical biomarkers, oxidative stress indices, and histopathological changes) (P

Background: Extensive application of zinc oxide nanoparticles has increased the likelihood of its release into the environment and subsequent human exposure and toxicity. The toxicity is thought to be a combined effect of intracellular particles and the release of dissolved zinc ions. Objectives: This review outlines the possible mechanisms of zinc oxide toxicity in biological organs through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Methods: We reviewed articles published between 2001 and 2021. In this way, we did a manual search of Google Scholar and scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase, with keywords such as “zinc oxide nanoparticles”, “toxicity mechanism”, and “in vivo and in vitro studies”. The other qualified papers contained the history of identifying zinc oxide nanoparticles, the toxicity of metallic nanoparticles, and physical, chemical, and biological side effects with topical and systematic approaches. Results: The main mechanism suggested for zinc-based nanoparticles-induced cell damage is via the induction of increased levels of reactive oxygen species, which are oxidative stress markers. This mechanism has also been found to be a key mechanism for the cytotoxicity of other metal nanomaterials. Zinc-based nanoparticles were found to induce oxidative DNA damage, inflammation, progressive degenerative cell changes, cell cycle arrest, cytogenetic alterations, and ROS-triggered mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in human organs. Conclusion: This review sheds light on the full understanding of in vitro and in vivo toxicity assessment of zinc oxide nanoparticles, highlighting the health concerns from the perspective of ZnO nanoparticles release to the ecosystem after their increasing application.

Background. Bone deficiency in different areas is problematic in implant placement. Changes in histological, histomorphometric, and radiographic properties of hard tissues in the implant placement area affect many parameters of implant success. Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) is a blood product with high levels of IL1- receptor antagonists. Augmentation surgeries are required in many cases because implant placement in the edentulous areas requires a sufficient amount of bone. Therefore, this study radiographically evaluated the effect of autologous conditioned serum after horizontal bone augmentation. Methods. In this prospective RCT, 21 patients eligible patients were evaluated. The patient underwent horizontal ridge augmentation surgery in the area. The ACS-impregnated graft was in direct con­tact with the bone. The control side underwent the same surgical protocol without using ACS. Four months after surgery, a CBCT radiograph was taken, and radiographic changes in the two areas were calculated using the differences in the amount of bone formed in the horizontal dimension as well as the Hounsfield unit (HU). The data were reported using descriptive statistical methods, including means (standard deviations) and frequencies (percentages). According to the results of the Kolmog­orov-Smirnov test, the data had a normal distribution (P>0.05); therefore, paired t-test was used to compare the means of the parameters between the two groups. Results. IRadiographic examinations showed that the horizontal dimension of bone before surgery was similar between the two groups. However, after surgery in the ACS group (33.13±6.1), it was significantly higher than in the control group (62.1±86.4) (P>0.05). Also, the rate of horizontal dimension increase (the difference before and after surgery) in the ACS group was significantly higher than in the control group. Bone density before surgery was similar between the two groups. However, after surgery, there was a significant increase in the ACS group (75.56±330.42 HUs) compared to the control group (38.35±292.38 HUs) (P>0.05). Also, the rate of density increase (the difference before and after surgery) in the ACS group was significantly higher than in the control group. Conclusion. Radiographic evaluations of hard tissues showed a significant increase in the horizontal dimension of bone and density of newly formed bone using ACS compared to the control group.

Liver injury is a severe clinical complication associated with various diseases or xenobiotics exposure. Hence, finding safe and clinically applicable hepatoprotective agents have great value. Several naturally-derived chemicals have gotten attention for their biological functions. Polysaccharides are bioactive and safe chemicals produced by a variety of microorganisms. Several exciting features, including radical scavenging and antioxidative properties, have been attributed to polysaccharides. Recently we found that the exopolysaccharide derived from Pentoea sp. BCCS 001 GH (Pentoan exopolysaccharide; PEPS) revealed significant antioxidant and radical scavenging properties in an in vitro model. Hence, the current study was designed to evaluate the in vivo hepatoprotective effects of PEPS. Bile duct ligated (BDL) rats received PEPS (0.05 and 0.1% w: v in drinking water), and serum biomarkers of liver injury, liver tissue histopathological alterations, and hepatic markers of oxidative stress were monitored. Severely elevated serum biomarkers of liver injury and histopathological changes, including inflammatory cell infiltration, necrosis, bile duct proliferation, and tissue fibrosis, were evident in BDL animals. Moreover, a significant amount of reactive oxygen species, increased level of lipid peroxidation, and defects in tissue antioxidant capacity were apparent in BDL rats. It was found that PEPS significantly improved liver function, blunted hepatic pathological changes, and counteracted oxidative stress in the liver tissue. The radical scavenging and antioxidant properties of PEPS seem to play a fundamental role in its hepatoprotective properties. Please cite this article as: Seyyed Vahid Niknezhad, Younes Ghasemi, Ali Khalili Gashtroudkhani, Hamidreza Mohammadi, Reza Heidari. The exopolysaccharide produced by Pantoea sp. BCCS 001 GH provides hepatoprotection in a rat model of bile duct obstruction. Trends in Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2022;8(4):211-222. doi: 10.30476/tips.2022.95246.1143

Background and purpose: Cancer is one of the causes of mortality worldwide. Evidence suggests that iron depletion by a chelator agent suppresses the development of some cancer cells. Deferasirox is shown to have anticancer properties. This research aims to synthesize and evaluate the effects of deferasirox nanoparticles on human breast cancer cells (SKBR3) and mouse breast cancer cells (4T1) compared with the drug form. Materials and methods: Deferasirox nanoparticles were synthesized by Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) moiety with emulsion formation and solvent evaporation. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay and their 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) were assessed in SKBR3 and 4T1. Results: Findings showed that IC50 of nano-deferasirox for SKBR3 and 4T1 were 9.09±0.011 µg/ml and 6.6±0.032 µg/ml, respectively and the IC50 of the deferasirox drug form for SKBR3 and 4T1 IC50 were 21.07±0.003 µg/ml and 11.08±0.013 µg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The anticancer effects of deferasirox were confirmed on the cell lines, and the improved properties and efficacy were also confirmed on two cancer cell lines. Nanoparticle delivery systems improve absorption and drug properties and increase the effectiveness of the drug.

Background. After periodontal surgery, in most cases, the surgical area is covered with a surgical pack. It has been suggested that these packs might minimize complications. This study aimed to compare the effects of Diplen LX membrane and Coe-Pak on pain, wound healing, and patient preference after a periodontal flap surgery in patients with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis. Methods. In this randomized clinical trial, 26 patients were evaluated. Pain scores were assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) on the 3rd and 7th days postoperatively and compared between the two dressings. On the 7th and 14th days after both flap surgeries, surgical site healing was evaluated using the wound healing index (WHI). Results. The mean age of the patients was 31. It was observed that the severity of pain in the studied patients on the 3rd and 7th days postoperatively was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group. It was also observed that the value of WHI in the studied patients on the 7th and 14th days postoperatively was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Conclusion. The pain was less severe in both groups using periodontal dressing and also lower in the Diplen LX membrane group. In addition, based on WHI, wound healing score in patients was also higher and more favorable in the Diplex LX membrane group. Due to the above factors, the majority of patients preferred the use of the Diplen LX membrane.

Objective: An outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) occurred in late 2019. A better understanding of this disease will help us in preventing and managing it. This study evaluated the risk factors and clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients admitted to Shahid Sadoughi hospital in Yazd with a diagnosis of COVID-19. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with the diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to Shahid Sadoughi hospital in Yazd in May 2020, Iran. Patients’ clinical information, including their symptoms at admission, history of smoking or drug/ alcohol abuse, history of Td (tetanus, diphtheria) vaccine, radiographic/computed tomography (CT) scan findings, and blood oxygen saturation, was recorded. The patients were also asked about their previous history of diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune disorder, and cancer or history of diseases in heart, lung, liver, and thyroid. Laboratory findings, height, weight and body mass index of the patients were also recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 21. Results: The mean age of 86 patients enrolled in the study was 61.40±17.37 years, of which 56 (65.11%) had mild pulmonary involvement and 30 (34.89%) had severe pulmonary involvement, according to CT scan results. Also, 26 (30.2%) of all patients had diabetes and about 30 (36%) had high blood pressure, but current smokers (6%) were rare. In patients with severe pulmonary involvement, the level of neutrophil, creatinine, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was higher than patients with mild pulmonary involvement. Out of 56 patients with mild pulmonary involvement, 47 patients had a history of Td vaccination in the last 5 years. Only one patient in the severe group had a history of Td vaccination. Conclusion: A lower percentage of blood lymphocytes as well as higher levels of neutrophils, creatinine, and LDH were observed in patients with severe pulmonary involvement. Numerous factors, especially more prominent laboratory abnormalities, determine the severity of the disease, and a better understanding of these factors can help physicians know the severity of the disease and its prognosis. These findings help us to further clarify the characteristics of COVID-19. Also, the effect of Td vaccine should be investigated in future studies.

Background. This clinical trial evaluated the effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation along with scaling and root planing (SRP) on periodontal and gingival indices in controlled diabetic patients. Methods. Forty-two diabetic patients (controlled type), referred to the Department of Periodontics with chronic periodontitis and eligible for the study, were included in the study. Patients suffering from chronic periodontitis with a probing pocket depth of ≥5 mm in different quadrants of the oral cavity with radiographic evidence of bone loss were included in the present randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The subjects were instructed to take one capsule of coenzyme Q10 or a placebo every day for 30 days following SRP. Clinical parameters, i.e., plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL), and probing pocket depth (PPD), were recorded at baseline and four weeks after treatment by two masked and calibrated examiners. The study results were reported as (mean ± standard deviations) and frequencies (percentages). Results. One month after the intervention, PPD, CAL, BOP, and PI indices in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group. One month after the intervention, the GI was similar in both groups. A significant decrease was observed in the GI in both groups after the intervention. Conclusion. The results of the present study showed that Q10 orally with scaling and root planing in patients with controlled diabetes with chronic periodontitis might accelerate the treatment process and significantly reduce the pocket depth.

Background. Inferior alveolar nerve damage can lead to mild to severe paresthesia and even facial pain. One of the treatments considered today for the reconstruction and treatment of damaged peripheral nerves is the use of vitamin supplements. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin B complex supplementation on pain and sensory problems following mandibular implant placement surgery. Methods. In this single-blind clinical trial, 46 patients applying for implant placement, who were eligible for the study, were evaluated. All the patients were examined for sensory facial injury and inferior alveolar nerve injury within 24 hours after implant placement. The nerve damage was recorded by AI (asymmetry index) in the initial examination. Patients who reported clinical and radiographic signs of nerve damage due to implant or drill impingement of the nerve canal were excluded from the study and promptly treated with anti-inflammatory protocols. Then the patients were randomly divided into control (n=23) and intervention (n=23) groups. Patients in the control group received routine treatment after implantation, and patients in the intervention group received vitamin B complex pills in addition to routine treatment. A placebo was used to eliminate the inductive effect of the drug in the control group. Follow-up of patients was performed at intervals of 14 days and 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 24 and Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon, and chi-squared tests. Results. In both groups, a decreasing trend in pain intensity was observed for up to three months. There were no significant differences between the mean pain intensity in the intervention and control groups at all the follow-up intervals. In both groups, a decrease in the rate of paresthesia was observed during the 3-month follow-up. The mean of paresthesia in the two groups was not significantly different at any follow-up interval. Conclusion. Vitamin B complex might not affect pain intensity and paresthesia after implant surgery.

Background: Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic material with antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In this study, we attempted to assay antiproliferative and apoptotic properties of polymeric micelles of curcumin on two colorectal cancer cell lines and normal human fibroblast cells. Method: In this experimental study, cancer cells HT29, HCT116 and normal human fibroblast cells (HGF) were subjected to concentrations of Nano- curcumin (1, 50, 100, 250, and 500 μg/ml). After incubation for 48 hours, cell viability was assessed with "MTT"(3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. Annexin V-FITC and Propidium iodide staining were done with flow cytometry for evaluation of apoptosis. The results were shown as mean ± standard deviation. Statistical significance was assessed utilizing ANOVA and Dunnetts t-test (P < 0.01). Results: According to MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay results, IC50 value of Nano- curcumin in HT29, HCT116, and HGF were 70.63, 123.9, and 168.53 μg/ml, respectively. We also discovered that Nano-curcumin can make indicative apoptosis in cancer cells, which could be compared with cisplatin

Sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4) is an inorganic sodium salt, a bleaching agent that has a reducing agent role and is generally used as food additive or preservative in the production of diverse foods and beverages. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of Na2S2O4 on cardiac mitochondria damage and biochemical parameters in male mice. Na2S2O4 were administered orally at doses of 10, 20, 50 and 100 mg/kg to male mice for 45 days. Heart mitochondria were isolated for the evaluation of oxidative stress biomarkers such as mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl (PC) content, catalase activity (CAT) and glutathione content (GSH). Blood samples were collected and Creatine phosphokinase (CPK), Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and Troponin I were quantified in the serum. Mitochondrial function was significantly (P

Background and aim: Cholestasis-associated renal injury or cholemic nephropathy (CN) is a serious clinical problem. Previous studies mentioned that oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment play a role in CN. There is no specific pharmacological intervention for CN. Metformin is an anti-diabetic drug administered for decades. On the other hand, novel pharmacological properties have emerged for this drug. The effect of metformin on oxidative stress parameters has been well-recognized in different experimental models. It has also been found that metformin positively affected mitochondrial function. The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of metformin in an animal model of CN. Methods: Rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) and were treated with metformin (250 and 500 mg/kg) for 14 consecutive days. Two weeks after the BDL operations, urine, serum, and kidney samples were collected and analyzed. Results: Markers of oxidative stress, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, depleted antioxidant capacity, and decreased glutathione (GSH) levels were detected in BDL animals. Moreover, mitochondrial indices, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, dehydrogenase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, and mitochondrial permeability, were impaired in the kidney of cholestatic rats. Renal histopathological alterations in cholestatic animals included tubular degeneration and interstitial inflammation, cast formation, and fibrosis. It was found that metformin significantly alleviated oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial indices in the kidney of cholestatic rats. Tissue histopathological alterations were also mitigated in metformin-treated groups. Conclusions: Metformin could be a candidate for managing CN. The nephroprotective role of metformin is primarily associated with its effects on oxidative stress parameters and mitochondrial function.

Pica is one of the disorders with a high potential to induce numerous damages such as poisoning, impaction of gastrointestinal tract, botulism and weight loss in ruminant farms. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of intramuscular injection of cyanocobalamin-iron dextran (Cyanoferrin) on the initial parameters of haemogram and serum minerals in 20-day-old goat kids with Pica. The study was performed on 10 heads of 20-day-old mixed breed goat kids without Pica and 10 heads of 20-day-old mixed breed goat kids with Pica. The Pica unaffected group received isotonic saline treatment (one intramuscular injection, 3 ml) and the Pica affected group received Cyanoferrin treatment (one intramuscular injection, 3 ml). Before treatment and 10 days after treatment, blood samples were collected from all goat kids to determine CBC (complete blood cell count) and serum minerals. Data were analyzed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA and Post-hoc Tukey test at 95% confidence level. In goat kids with Pica, blood PCV, Hb and MCV and serum iron were significantly lower than goat kids without Pica (p

Background: Acetone or propanone is a volatile liquid that can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation, and dermal routes, and is distributed throughout the body. Case Presentation: This study presented a case of an employee of the Emergency Medical Center of North Khorasan Province, Iran, who died due to acetone poisoning. He was last seen alive approximately 4 hours before his body was found. Thus, the deceased was found 4 hours after death. He was a 25-year-old unmarried male nurse. He had a history of smoking for the last 4 years and reported diarrhea and nausea on the day before death. There was no history of diabetes or alcoholism as well as no other definite causes. According to interviews with his colleagues and family, he had no history of depression. A postmortem examination was performed to define the cause of death. Postmortem quantitative toxicological analysis with Gas Chromatography with Flame-Ionization Detection (GC-FID) presented acetone in the vitreous (35 mg/dL), blood (28 mg/dL), and urine (77 mg/dL) samples. Furthermore, in postmortem pathological analysis, highly microvascular changes and the diffuse necrosis of hepatocytes were reported. Other pathological changes in the brain and lungs were observed. No other definite medical cause of death was found. The cause of death was determined to be acute acetone intoxication. Conclusion: Contrary to public opinion, acetone is a toxic and dangerous substance; thus, it is necessary to improve and implement public safeguards concerning acetone usage, as well as its handling, and disposal. Organ toxicity due to acetone can be a major cause of death. Other alcohol-related poisoning deaths, such as acetone and other metabolites, should be considered.

Recent advances in the use of magnetite nanoparticles for biomedical applications have led to special attention to these nanoparticles. The unique properties of magnetite nanoparticles such as superparamagnetism, low toxicity, and the ability to bond with biological molecules, are suitable for drug delivery, diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches. The aim of this study was to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles with different biocompatible coatings and investigate their cytotoxicity. Magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation method and the cytotoxicity of these nanoparticles was investigated with Hepatoma G2 cell using the MTT assay. Treated cells, did not showed any evident cell cycle arrest. The Fourier Transmission Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X- ray powder Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were evaluated. The results of XRD showed the coated magnetite nanoparticles were 10−12 nm and this size also achieved with TEM images. Synthesized magnetite nanoparticles with SiO2 and oleic acid coatings had lower cytotoxicity than other coatings.

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2). The outbreak was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Objectives: This review gives a bird’s-eye view of the COVID-19 pandemic and its various effects on human society. Since knowledge about this virus is rapidly evolving, readers are urged to update themselves regularly. Methods: In this review, our searching was performed on international databases of Embase, ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (ISI) from October 2019 to June 2020. Results: Most patients infected with COVID‑19 have mild symptoms. Approximately 15% of patients have severe pneumonia, and about 5% acute distress syndrome or organ failure. In the absence of definitive treatment and vaccines, the most effective measure is to prevent infection, particularly in those at high risk of taking the severe form of the disease with adverse outcomes. Pharmacotherapy is essentially supportive; the role of antiviral agents is yet to be established. The commonest drugs used in treating this viral disease are tocilizumab, remdesivir, favipiravir, and camostat mesilate. Also, drugs related to malaria, AIDS, and Ebola, such as hydroxychloroquine, are widely used. Based on physical examinations alone, it is impossible to comment with certainty in mild cases of the disease. Accordingly, a wide range of methods is used for diagnosing and treating the disease. Various variables in reducing the severity of the epidemic and the effects of the virus require special management at the national, regional, and global levels. Conclusion: This review summarizes the latest findings in safety, management, and public services related to the COVID-19 virus epidemic.

Abstract In this study, the effect of the plasmon hybridization mechanism on the performance and refractive index (RI) sensitivity of nanoshell, nanocage and nanoframe structures is investigated using the finite-difference time-domain simulation. To create nanocage structure, we textured the cubic nanoshell surfaces and examined the impact of its key parameters (such as array of cavities, size of cavities and wall thickness) on the nanocage's RI-sensitivity. Synthesis of the designed nanocages is a challenging process in practice, but here the goal is to understand the physics lied behind it and try to answer the question “Why nanoframes are more sensitive than nanocages?”. Our obtained results show that the RI-sensitivity of nanocage structures increases continuously by decreasing the array of cavities. Transforming the nanocage to the nanoframe structure by reducing the array of cavities to a single cavity significantly increases the RI-sensitivity of the nanostructure. This phenomenon can be related to the simultaneous presence of symmetric and asymmetric plasmon oscillations in the nanocage structure and low restoring force of nanoframe compared to nanocage. As the optimized case shows, the proposed single nanoframe with aspect ratio (wall length/wall thickness) of 12.5 shows RI-sensitivity of 1460 nm/RIU, the sensitivity of which is ~ 5.5 times more than its solid counterpart.

Objective(s): Nowadays, iron ions intoxication is the center of attention of interest in the management and treatment of thalassemia and different sorts of anemia associated with regular blood transfusions. Due to the major side effects of current drugs, they should be replaced with safer alternatives. Thus, in this study, functionalized hybrid silver nanoparticles, as an emerging perspective, were investigated for absorbing excess iron ions and their removal in an animal thalassemia model. Methods: The silver nanoparticles were green-synthesized using the Myrtus communis leaf methanolic extact (MC-AgNPs). The produced hybrid nano-Sorbents based on hydrolyzable tannin matrix loaded with silver nanoparticles were delivered for trying out in vivo iron chelation in thalassemia model mice in which iron-overload was imposed. MC-AgNPs and desferral were injected intraperitoneally four times a week for one month in mice with excess iron load. The total iron and Fe3+ content of serum was evaluated with the aid of plasma-atomic spectrometry microscopy and a Fe3+ ion measurement kit, respectively. Also, liver enzyme levels were evaluated by an auto-analyzer. Also, hepatic enzyme levels were appraised by using an auto-analyzer based the corresponding kits. Morphological transformations of the liver tissue were investigated by way of Prussian blue staining. Results: The mice treated with the MC-AgNPs demonstrated a significant reduction in serum iron content when compared with the iron-overload mice. MC-AgNPs revealed satisfying effectiveness to chelate excess iron in mice. Conclusions: This method could be considered as a competitive option for lowering the level of excess iron in vivo.

Background and purpose: Diazinon is an organophosphate insecticide that binds to the acetylcholinesterase enzyme after metabolization causing its inactivation. Galic acid is a polyphenolic compound with nucleophilic properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of gallic acid on reactivation of acetylcholine and butyrylcholinesterase inhibited by diazinon in mice and human serum and erythrocytes. Materials and methods: The animals were divided into seven groups, including a control group that received corn oil as a solvent and other groups that received diazinon (80 mg/kg), atropine (20 mg/kg), and pralidoxime (20 mg/kg). Gallic acid was injected intraperitoneally at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. Cholinesterase levels (acetylcholine and butyrylcholinesterase) were evaluated after 3 and 24 h of intoxication in mice serum and erythrocytes. In addition, in vitro studies were done in human serum and RBCs. Results: Activities of cholinesterase in serum and erythrocytes significantly decreased after 3 and 24 hours of poisoning in diazinon-treated group compared to control group in vivo and in vitro. Co-treatment with atropine and gallic acid (at all doses) significantly increased cholinesterase activity compared to the diazinon group in vitro and in vivo (P< 0.0001). Conclusion: Combination therapy with gallic acid (at different doses) and atropine reduced inhibition of cholinesterase activity caused by diazinon and improved its reactivation. Gallic acid reactivates cholinesterase activity which might be due to hydroxyl groups in its compounds.

Objective(s): The use of silver nanoparticles in the field of biomedicine is increasing day by day, but less attention has been paid to its toxicity. In this paper, the ability of the silver nanoparticles produced by a green synthesis procedure to protect the liver and its effects on liver function in male mice was investigated in a sub-chronic toxicity study. Methods: The silver nanoparticles functionalized the hydrolyzable tannin fraction of Myrtus communis (MC-AgNPs) were used for testing in vivo sub-chronic toxicity in mice model. The MC-AgNPs and Ag+ were intraperitoneally injected with different doses 5 times a week over 90 days. The biochemical, hematological factors were determined using an autoanalyzer following the routine procedures. In addition, histopathological test of liver tissue in laboratory mice were examined through haematoxylin & eosin staining. Results: The obtained results showed that liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP) were decreased. The mean value ± standard deviation of white blood cells, lymphocytes, red blood cells and Hb were increased, while red blood cells and hemoglobin decreased. Histopathological investigations indicated no obvious effect on hepatic cyto-architecture in the group receiving silver nanoparticles (50 mg/kg), and mild inflammation in the port space. In the groups receiving silver nanoparticles (100 and 200 mg/kg), mild inflammation, and moderate inflammation were observed in the port space and pre portal, respectively. Conclusions: The findings indicated that AgNPs could be safe even for long-term use in a therapeutic period if hybridized with active biomolecules.

Background: The Deming model is an effective method for comprehensive quality management. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of inclusive quality management on the educational accreditation results of the educational hospitals in the Mazandaran Province, Iran. Methods: This interventional study was conducted in 5 hospitals. In this study, the Deming cycle validation model was employed. This model, which is based on the checklist for the educational centers of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, has 91 benchmarks for 81 standards. Descriptive statistical methods (Wilcoxon and Friedman nonparametric tests) were used to analyze the data. Results: A significant difference was observed among the accreditation scores of the hospitals before and after the intervention (P

Objective(s): Active species used in bio-chemical for synthesizing nanoparticles is poly phenolic compounds. The ability of flavonoids (e.g. quercetin) to dissolve in water is low and the production of metallic nanoparticles from them in the aqueous medium is hard. Previous studies recommend that quercetin was not capable of reducing Ag+ to Ag0. The current research aimed at synthesizing quercetin-mediated silver nanoparticles (Q-AgNPs) and evaluate the antioxidant and anticancer activities of Q-AgNPs in vitro. Methods: The green synthesis of Q-AgNPs in an aqueous medium has been demonstrated. The resultant nanoparticles were characterized by several analytical techniques of imaging and spectroscopic. The improved antioxidant activity of Q-AgNPs (DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging and iron chelating assay) was determined by the colorimetric method. Possible biomedical applications such as antioxidant and anticancer activities of Q-AgNPs have been assessed. Results: The DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity of Q-AgNPs was found to be (IC50=46.47±1.79 and 30.64±3.18μg/mL, respectively). Q-AgNPs exhibited better iron chelating activity than standard EDTA (IC50=3.12 ±0.44μg/mL). Significant anticancer activity of Q-AgNPs (IC50=57.42μg/mL) was found against HepG2 cell lines after 24-hour exposure. Furthermore, the antifungal activity (MIC = 4, 8 and > 64 μg/mL) was found against Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis and Aspergillus fumigatus, respectively. Conclusions: The present method is a competitive option to produce multifunctional nanoscale hybrid materials with higher efficiency and using natural sources for diverse biomedical applications such as antioxidant and anticancer activities.

Pica is one of the disorders that has high potential for inducing various damages such as poisoning, digestive accumulation, botulism, weakening of the immune system, weight loss, etc. in ruminants farms and for years, the researcher has encountered this problem in lambs. The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Microvit supplementation and Ferrodrop oral drops on the primary parameters of homogram and serum minerals in 20-days-old healthy and with Pica lams. This clinical trial was performed on 10-headed 20-days-old lambs mixed-breed without Pica and 10-headed 20-day-old lambs mixed-breed with Pica. Both groups received 2 types of oral therapy including Microvit supplementation (7 days, 0/5 g / l of consuming water) and oral furuderap drops (4 days, 300 mg/day in consuming milk). Before starting treatment and after each treatment, blood and serum samples were taken from lambs and sent to the laboratory for determination of CBC and serum mineral elements. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software using repeated measures ANOVA at 95% confidence level. In patients with Pica blood Hb, MCV and MCHC and serum iron was less than nonpatients (p0/05), and Pica was not treated in patients (p>0/05). Treatment with furuderap increased the blood Hb, MCV and MCHC and serum iron levels, significantly and Pica was treated in patients (p

It has been well documented that cirrhosis is associated with the intestinal injury. Intestinal injury in cirrhosis could lead to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation to the systemic circulation. It has been found that high plasma LPS is connected with higher morbidity and mortality in cirrhotic patients. Therefore, finding therapeutic approaches to mitigate this complication has great clinical value. Several investigations mentioned the pivotal role of oxidative stress in cirrhosis-associated intestinal injury. It has been well-known that the redox balance of enterocytes is disturbed in cirrhotic patients. In the current study, the effects of thiol-reducing agents N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (0.5 and 1% w: v) and dithiothreitol (DTT) (0.5 and 1% w: v) on biomarkers of oxidative stress, tissue histopathological alterations, and LPS translocation is investigated in a rat model of cirrhosis. Bile duct ligation (BDL) surgery was used to induce cirrhosis in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals (n ​= ​48; 8 animals/group) were supplemented with NAC and DTT for 28 consecutive days. Significant changes in ileum and colon markers of oxidative stress were evident in BDL rats as judged by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and protein carbonylation along with decreased antioxidant capacity and glutathione (GSH) content. Blunted villus, decreased villus number, and inflammation was also detected in the intestine of BDL animals. Moreover, serum LPS level was also significantly higher in BDL rats. NAC and DTT administration (0.5 and 1% w: v, gavage) significantly decreased biomarkers of oxidative stress, mitigated intestinal histopathological alterations, and restored tissue antioxidant capacity. Moreover, NAC and/or DTT significantly suppressed LPS translocation to the systemic circulation. The protective effects of thiol reducing agents in the intestine of cirrhotic rats could be attributed to the effect of these chemicals on the cellular redox environment and biomarkers of oxidative stress.

Objective(s): Nowadays, examining the toxicity of nanoparticles including the synthesized and functionalized iron nanoparticles using methods like green synthesis is highly considered, due to their increasing usage in various fields of medicine, biology, industrial, and pollution removal. Hence, in this study, the toxicity of the zero valent iron nanoparticles synthesized by plant-Myrtus communis (MC-ZVINP) was investigated. Methods: Human normal Foreskin Fibroblast (HFF) cells were used for cytotoxicity examination using MTT method. Also, biochemical factors such as liver enzymes level, and factors such as the number of white and red globules, lymphocytes, platelets, amount of blood hemoglobin, and histopathological test of liver tissue in laboratory small rats were examined after intraperitoneal injections of the MC-ZVINP with different concentrations daily and a duration of 3-month, with the groups receiving trivalent iron, the extract of plant-case, and normal saline. Results: Cytotoxicity concentration of iron-case nanoparticles was obtained for 50% of HFF cells (CC50=149.23±4.45μg/mL). The results obtained from the blood factors examination showed a decreased the serum level of liver enzymes as well as an increase in the number of red and white globules and hemoglobin rate in mice receiving iron nanoparticles compared to the trivalent iron receiving group. Receiving the concentrations of 100 and 200 mg/kg/bw of iron nanoparticles have caused the incidence of mild and moderate inflammation in the liver of mice. Conclusions: Generally, it can be concluded that, the MC-ZVINP have shown no significant toxicity on the levels of blood cells, enzymes, and liver tissue.

Taurine (TAU) is the most abundant free amino acid in the human body. High concentrations of this amino acid are found in tissues such as the skeletal muscle, brain, and kidney. Recently, a focus has emerged on the effects of TAU on cellular mitochondria. It has been found that TAU could positively affect this organelle by enhancing mitochondrial membrane potential, increasing ATP levels, and mitigating mitochondria-mediated ROS formation. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of a wide range of TAU concentrations (0.01 mM-1000 mM) on mitochondrial function. Mice liver mitochondria were isolated and exposed to different concentrations of TAU (30 min). Several indices, including mitochondrial depolarization, dehydrogenases activity, permeabilization, and ATP content, were monitored. It was found that TAU supplementation significantly enhanced parameters such as mitochondrial ATP levels and mitochondrial membrane potential in comparison with the control group. Moreover, TAU prevented Ca2+-induced mitochondrial permeabilization. This amino acid revealed no significant adverse effect on isolated mitochondria even at very high and supra-physiological concentrations (e.g., 100, 250, and 500 mM). These data suggest TAU as an ideal and safe agent to protect mitochondria against toxic insults or regulating cellular function in different mitochondria-linked disorders.

Abstract Background Diabetes mellitus affects male reproductive system that is known to cause male infertility. Objective The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of L-carnitine (LC) on sperm parameters, apoptosis of spermatogenic cells and testis histopathology in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic Rats. Materials and Methods The study was carried out on 36 male Wistar adult rats (220 ± 30 gr) randomly divided into six groups (n = 6/each). 1 (Control); 2 (LC 100 mg/kg); 3 (Diabetic); 4, 5, and 6 (Diabetic + LC 50 or 100 or 200 mg/kg, respectively). Daily injections were administered intraperitoneally for 48 days. Then, rats were sacrificed, left testis and epididymis were harvested for sperm analysis and histopathology, morphometric and spermatogenesis assessments, and Tunnel assay. Results L-carnitine in group 6 significantly decreased blood glucose level (p < 0.01) in comparison with group 3. L-carnitine in groups 5 and 6 significantly (p < 0.001) and dose-dependently increased the count, motility, viability, maturity, and chromatin quality of sperm and decreased the abnormal morphology of sperm in comparison with group 3. In groups 4, 5, and particularly 6, in comparison with group 3, there has been a significant difference in the increase of seminiferous tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height (p < 0.001), maturity quality of the seminiferous tubules (p < 0.001), decrease apoptosis of spermatogenic cells (p < 0.001), and testis tissue histopathological complications. Conclusion The data obtained from the present study suggest that in the diabetic rats, LC decreases serum glucose level, improves the diameter and thickness of the epithelium of spermatogenic cells, reduces germ cells' apoptosis, and improves epididymal sperm parameters. Therefore, it seems that LC plays an effective role in diabetes-induced infertility.

Background and purpose: Diazinon (Dz) is a widely used insecticide. It can cause nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity by induction of oxidative stress. Edaravone is a drug with antioxidant effect that is used in treatment of acute infraction disorders. In this study we used edaravone for ameliorating diazinon induced kidney and brain damage. Materials and methods: Twenty four male Wistar rats were divided into the following groups: Control (normal saline), Dz (150mg/kg) and edaravone (10mg/kg and 20mg/kg) that were injected 30min before Dz. After 24 hr, the animals were anesthetized and the brain and kidney tissues were separated. Then oxidative stress factors were evaluated. Blood serum samples were also taken to determine the levels of BUN, creatinine, and nitric oxide. Results: Dz significantly increased oxidative stress markers such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, and glutathione oxidation in kidney and brain tissues. Also, the levels of BUN, creatinine and nitric oxide increased after Dz injection. Interestingly, ederavone administration significantly decreased ROS production in rats’ kidney and brain tissues (p

Enterotoxin-producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus can cause food poisoning through the consumption of contaminated dairy products. Essential oil (EO) of Zataria multiflora Bioss. contains components with antibacterial and antifungal properties. The present study was conducted to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Z. multiflora Boiss. EO on S. aureus isolated from raw milk. Extraction and gas isolation of the EO was provided and analyzed by Chromatography/mass spectrometry. A total of 84 samples of raw milk from a dairy farm in Semnan were analyzed for the presence of S. aureus. Fourteen S. aureus strains were isolated from raw milk. The chemical composition of hydrodistilled EO of Z. multiflora Boiss was analyzed by Chromatography/mass spectrometry. A total of 25 compounds representing 98.59% of the oil were identified: carvacrol (50.53%), thymol (14.7%), p-cymene (7.9%), Carvacryl acetate (3.85%) and Trans-caryophyllene (3.4%). The MIC of Z. multiflora Boiss. Using broth microdilution method, MIC of EO on all of the S. aureus isolates was estimated at 0.0001-0.004. Based on results, the EO ofZ. multiflora Boiss possesses antibacterial activity on S. aureus isolated from raw milk.

The xenobiotics-induced liver injury is a major clinical complication. Hence, finding hepatoprotective agents could have clinical value. Herbal medicines are a major source of biologically active chemicals which could be applied as hepatoprotective agents. The current study was designed to assess the hepatoprotective properties of Avicennia Marina (AM) extract and its different fractions. In vivo, the hepatoprotective effect of AM total extract against CCl4-induced acute liver injury was evaluated in rats, and a series of histopathological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters were monitored. In vitro, the protective effect of AM extract fractions (Petroleum ether, Chloroform, Ethyl acetate, and Ethanol) was evaluated on human liver hepatoma cells (HepG2). Severe elevation in serum level of liver injury biomarkers, along with liver tissue histopathological changes, lipid peroxidation, and liver tissue glutathione depletion were detected in CCl4-treated rats. On the other hand, CCl4-induced toxicity was evident in vitro by significant cell death. It was found that AM extract provided significant protection against CCL4 toxicity in vivo by decreasing serum biomarkers of liver injury and tissue markers of oxidative stress. In vitro, the protective effect of AM extract fractions (Chloroform, Ethyl acetate, and Ethanol) was evident as these fractions significantly decreased CCl4 cytotoxicity. As AM extract exhibited significant suppression of oxidative stress markers, its antioxidant effect could play a significant role in its hepatoprotective properties.

Background and purpose: Today, medicinal plants are of great importance in treatment of different cancers. Trigonella foenum graecum L. (fenugreek) is a herbaceous plant with phenolic compounds that has received attention in cytotoxicity studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of Trigonella foenum graecum L. (TFG) against cytotoxicity induced by cyclophosphamide on ovarian cancer (SKOV3) and normal cell lines. Materials and methods: We conducted an experimental study in which TFG aqueous extract was prepared by percolation method. Ovarian cancer cells (SKOV3) and normal cell lines (rats) were treated with cyclophosphamide and TFG aqueous extract in different concentrations (1, 10, 50, 100, 200 μg/ml) for 72 hr. Cells viability were then evaluated using MTT assay. Data analysis was done applying ANOVA. Results: In this study, inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the extract and cyclophosphamide on SKOV3 and normal cell lines were determined 5.992±0.013 and 30.66±0.032 μg/ml, respectively. The IC50 values in cell lines treated with cyclophosphamide alone were 1.839±0.003 and 7.332±0.011 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: Compared with cyclophosphamide alone, the IC50 values from TFG aqueous extract and cyclophosphamide on SKOV3 and normal cell lines were increased which could be due to high antioxidant activity caused by bioactive components such as flavonoids and alkaloids of the TFG aqueous extract.

Objectives: Organophosphate (OP) pesticides inhibit both red blood cell (RBC) and plasma cholinesterases (ChEs). Oximes, especially pralidoxime (2-PAM), are widely used as antidotes to treat OP poisoning. In addition, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is sometimes used as an adjuvant antidote. The current study aimed to assess the feasibility of using NAC as a single therapeutic agent for OP poisoning in comparison to in vitro 2-PAM. Methods:This study was carried out at the Razi Drug Research Center of Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, between April and September 2014. A total of 22 healthy human subjects were recruited and 8 mL citrated blood samples were drawn from each subject. Dichlorvos-inhibited blood samples were separately exposed to low and high doses (final concentrations of 300 and 600 μmol.L-1, respectively) of 2-PAM, NAC and cysteine. Plasma and RBCs were then separated by centrifugation and their ChE activity was measured using spectrophotometry. Results: Although cysteine—and not NAC—increased the ChE activity of both plasma and RBCs over those of dichlorvos, it did not increase them over those of a high dose of 2-PAM. Conclusion:These results suggest that the direct reactions of 2-PAM and cysteine with dichlorvos and the reactivation of phosphorylated ChEs occurr via an associative stepwise addition-elimination process. High therapeutic blood concentrations of cysteine are needed for the elevation of ChE activity in plasma and RBCs; however, both this agent and NAC may still be effective in the reactivation of plasma and RBC ChEs.

Omeprazole (OMP) and ketoconazole (KTZ) have been shown to activate the AHR signaling pathway in spite of the fact that they bind to the receptor with low or no affinity. The aim of this study was to investigate whether KTZ and OMP can act as indirect activator of AHR. In order to evaluate the effects of KTZ and OMP on AHR signaling, we measured cytochromes p450 (CYP1A1) enzyme activity by ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) assay as endpoint. FICZ, at 1nM concentration, caused a transient elevation in the catalytic activity of CYP 1A1. KTZ and OMP were found to be inducer of CYP1A1 at concentrations above 50 µM. At early time of incubation (3hr), a dose-dependent inhibition of FICZ-induced EROD activity was seen. When OMP or KTZ were added together with FICZ, a prolonged activation of CYP1A1 was observed at later time of incubation (24h). Taken together, our findings support the earlier observation that we shown that CYP 1A1 inhibitors can act as an AHR activator though inhibition of metabolic degradation of FICZ.