Transition nuclear protein 1 as a novel biomarker in patients with fertilization failure / 대한생식의학회지

Objective@#Although intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a way to deal with in vitro fertilization failure, 3% of couples still experience repeated fertilization failure after attempted ICSI, despite having sperm within normal parameters. These patients are a challenging group whose sperm cannot fertilize the egg during ICSI. Unfortunately, no test can predict the risk of fertilization failure. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) and transition nuclear proteins (TNPs) are essential factors for chromatin packaging during sperm maturation. This study aimed to assess PLCζ1 and TNP1 expression in the sperm of patients with fertilization failure and the correlations among the DNA fragmentation index, PLCζ1 and TNP1 gene and protein expression, and the risk of fertilization failure. @*Methods@#In this study, 12 infertile couples with low fertilization rates (<25%) and complete failure of fertilization in their prior ICSI cycles despite normal sperm parameters were chosen as the case group. Fifteen individuals who underwent ICSI for the first time served as the control group. After sperm analysis and DNA fragmentation assays, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analyses were performed to compare the gene and protein expression of PLCζ and TNP1 in both groups. @*Results@#DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in the fertilization failure group. The qRT-PCR and Western blot results demonstrated significantly lower PLCζ and TNP1 gene and protein expression in these patients than in controls. @*Conclusion@#The present study showed that fertilization failure in normozoospermic men was probably due to deficient DNA packaging and expression of TNP1.

The Associations between Bone Mineral Density and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women / 가정의학회지

Background@#Oxidative stress plays an essential role in bone health among postmenopausal women. This study aimed to compare the oxidative stress biomarkers among postmenopausal women aged 50–65 years with normal bone mineral density, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. @*Methods@#In this observational study, 120 women with normal bone mineral density, 82 with osteopenia, and 86 with osteoporosis were selected based on the densitometry data obtained from the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry method. The serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured using biochemical methods. A binary logistic regression model adjusted for confounders was used to estimate the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis. The P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. @*Results@#There were significant differences between the three groups in age, menopausal age, body mass index, and education (P<0.05). According to the binary logistic regression model, higher SOD activity and serum TAC levels were associated with a lower risk of osteoporosis (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.991; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.986 to 0.996; and aOR, 0.373; 95% CI, 0.141 to 0.986, respectively). MDA was a significant risk factor for osteopenia in postmenopausal women (aOR, 1.702; 95% CI, 1.125 to 2.576). @*Conclusion@#Higher SOD activity and serum TAC levels in the studied postmenopausal women were associated with a significantly lower risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, the risk of osteopenia increased significantly with higher serum MDA levels.

The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Counseling on Blood Glucose and Perceived Stress in Women with Gestational Diabetes / O efeito do aconselhamento para redução do estresse baseado na atenção plena sobre a glicose no sangue e o estresse percebido em mulheres com diabetes gestacional

Abstract Objective Gestational diabetes can cause maternal and neonatal morbidity. Psychological factors, especially stress, play a meaningful role in diabetes management. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction counseling on blood sugar and perceived stress in women with gestational diabetes. Methods The present quasi-experimental interventional study was performed on 78 women with gestational diabetes. In the intervention group, a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction counseling program was conducted by the researcher in 8 sessions of 90 minutes twice a week. The Cohen stress questionnaire was filled in both groups. Also, fasting blood sugar and 2-hour blood sugar levels were measured in both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent T-Test, the paired T-Test, the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon Tests using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 20 version (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results The mean age of pregnant women in the intervention group was 28.84 ± 6.20 years old and 29.03 ± 5.42 years old in the control group. There was a significant mean difference between the fasting blood sugar score (p= 0.02; - 6.01; and - 11.46) and the 2-hour fasting blood sugar score (p< 0.001;12.35; and - 5.3) and the perceived stress score (p< 0.001; 35.57; and - 49.19) existed between the intervention and control groups after the intervention. Conclusion The results of the present study showed that mindfulness-based stress reduction counseling is effective in reducing blood sugar levels and reducing perceived stress in women with gestational diabetes treated with diet.

Cell kinetic markers in cutaneous squamous and basal cell carcinoma of the head and neck / Marcadores cinéticos celulares em carcinomas espinocelulares e basocelulares cutâneos de cabeça e pescoço

Abstract Introduction: Proliferation markers play a significant role in the biologic behavior of tumors. Geminin is a known inhibitor of the cell cycle and DNA replication and has not been previously reported in cutaneous basal and squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. Objectives: We aimed to investigate proliferation markers ki67, MCM2, and geminin in head and neck cutaneous basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Methods: Forty cases of each tumor were immuostained with ki67, MCM2, and geminin followed by assessment of labeling indices (LIs). MCM2/ki67- and geminin/ki67-ratios were also determined; t-test was used for statistical analysis (p<0.05). Results: There was no significant difference in ki67 (p = 0.06) and MCM2 (p = 0.46) between cutaneous basal and squamous cell carcinomas; however, geminin LI was significantly higher in squamous cell carcinomas compared to cutaneous basal cell carcinomas (p < 0.001). Only geminin/ki67 showed a significant difference between the two tumors with the ratio showing significantly higher numbers in squamous cell carcinomas (p = 0.015). Conclusions: Geminin could be regarded as an effective factor in the pathogenesis of head and neck cutaneous cutaneous basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas and may be one of the responsible elements in the difference between the biologic behavior of these tumors. © 2020 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Resumo Introdução: Marcadores de proliferação têm um papel significativo no comportamento biológico dos tumores. A geminina é um inibidor conhecido do ciclo celular e da replicação do DNA e não foi relatada anteriormente em carcinomas basocelulares e espinocelulares cutâneos de cabeça e pescoço. Objetivo: Investigar os marcadores de proliferação ki67, MCM2 e geminina em carcinomas basocelulares e espinocelulares cutâneos de cabeça e pescoço. Método: Foram submetidos 40a casos de cada tumor à imunocoloração com ki67, MCM2 e geminina, seguida pela avaliação do índice de marcação.Também foram determinadas as razões MCM2/ki67 e geminina/ki67 e o teste t foi usado na análise estatística (p < 0,05). Resultados: Não houve diferença significativa no ki67 (p = 0,06) e no MCM2 (p = 0,46) entre carcinomas basocelulares e espinocelulares; no entanto, o índice de marcação da geminina foi significativamente maior no carcinomas espinocelulares em comparação ao carcinomas basocelulares (p < 0,001). Somente a razão geminina/ki67 mostrou diferença significativa entre os dois tumores, a razão mostrou números significativamente mais altos nos carcinomas espinocelulares (p = 0,015). Conclusões: A geminina pode ser considerada um fator efetivo na patogênese dos carcinomas basocelulares e espinocelulares cutâneos de cabeça e pescoço e pode ser um dos elementos responsáveis pela diferença entre o comportamento biológico desses tumores.

Effects of human chorionic gonadotropin-producing peripheral blood mononuclear cells on the endometrial receptivity and implantation sites of the mouse uterus / 대한생식의학회지

Objective@#This research investigated the effects of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)-producing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) on the implantation rate and embryo attachment in mice. @*Methods@#In this experimental study, a DNA fragment of the HCG gene was cloned into an expression vector, which was transfected into PBMCs. The concentration of the produced HCG was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Embryo attachment was investigated on the co-cultured endometrial cells and PBMCs in vitro. As an in vivo experiment, intrauterine administration of PBMCs was done in plaque-positive female mice. Studied mice were distributed into five groups: control, embryo implantation dysfunction (EID), EID with produced HCG, EID with PBMCs, and EID with HCG-producing PBMCs. Uterine horns were excised to characterize the number of implantation sites and pregnancy rate on day 7.5 post-coitum. During an implantation window, the mRNA expression of genes was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction. @*Results@#DNA fragments were cloned between the BamHI and EcoRI sites in the vector. About 465 pg/mL of HCG was produced in the transfected PBMCs. The attachment rate, pregnancy rate, and the number of implantation sites were substantially higher in the HCG-producing PBMCs group than in the other groups. Significantly elevated expression of the target genes was observed in the EID with HCG-producing PBMCs group. @*Conclusion@#Alterations in gene expression following the intrauterine injection of HCG-producing PBMCs, could be considered a possible cause of increased embryo attachment rate, pregnancy rate, and the number of implantation sites.

Expressão estromal e epitelial de syndecan-1 em tumores de glândulas salivares benignos e malignos: qual delas reflete melhor o comportamento? / Stromal and epithelial syndecan-1 expression in benign and malignant salivary gland tumors: which is more reflective of behavior?

Resumo Introdução: Tumores de glândulas salivares são um grupo diversificado de lesões, com várias origens e comportamentos extremamente diferentes, resultam em distintos desfechos para os pacientes. Portanto, a necessidade de descobrir novos marcadores com a capacidade de predizer o comportamento de neoplasias de glândulas salivares benignas e malignas é crucial. O syndecan-1 é uma proteína da superfície celular com papéis significativos em vários aspectos da função tumoral. Sua expressão nas neoplasias das glândulas salivares, especialmente seu componente estromal, ainda não foi investigada. Objetivos: Avaliar a imunopositividade do syndecan-1 nos componentes epiteliais e estromais das neoplasias de glândulas salivares e compará-la entre os subtipos benigno e maligno, além de avaliar sua correlação com os parâmetros clínico-patológicos. Método: Foram corados 133 tumores de glândulas salivares imuno-histoquimicamente com syndecan-1 e a intensidade e porcentagem dessa proteína foram determinadas, comparadas entre as lesões e correlacionadas com fatores clínico-patológicos. Resultados: A análise estatística das lesões com tamanho amostral suficiente mostrou diferenças significantes em porcentagem e intensidade entre os componentes epiteliais e estromais de todos os tumores (p < 0,05). As comparações pareadas demonstraram uma porcentagem de coloração significantemente maior das células epiteliais (p = 0,02) no tumor de Warthin em comparação com o adenoma pleomórfico e o carcinoma adenoide cístico. Da mesma forma, foram observadas intensidades de coloração e/ou percentagens significantemente maiores no carcinoma mucoepidermoide e no carcinoma adenoide cístico em comparação ao adenoma pleomórfico e ao tumor de Warthin (p < 0,05). Dos fatores clinico-patológicos, houve apenas uma correlação negativa significante entre o percentual estromal de carcinoma mucoepidermoide e a idade; e uma diferença significante entre a intensidade estromal + porcentagem de carcinoma adenoide cístico e sexo (p < 0,05). Conclusões: De acordo com nossos achados, o syndecan-1 estromal se correlaciona com o comportamento maligno de tumores de glândulas salivares, demonstra uma expressão mais alta, indica um papel para o syndecan-1 na invasão e metástase tumoral.

TGF-β1 role in uterine leiomyoma and endometrial polyp: an insight to drug-based treatment instead of surgical techniques

Objective@#Considering the high prevalence of leiomyoma and endometrial polyps, investigating the contributing factors and determining the pathophysiology of these lesions are essential. Target therapy is now an acceptable method for the treatment of some diseases. We aimed to determine the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in endometrial polyps and leiomyomas to discover a drug-based method to overcome surgical treatments. @*Methods@#In this cross-sectional study, 55 patients with leiomyoma and 55 patients with polyps were included. Prepared slides from leiomyoma and adjacent myometrium or polyp lesions and adjacent endometrium were obtained and investigated for TGF-β1. Then, data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 22. @*Results@#The mean age of participants was 40.6±5.8 years. Based on their reports, 88.2% (n=97) of patients in the study population had abnormal uterine bleeding with similar distributions among both groups. In contrast, 63.5% of the leiomyoma group did not express TGF-β1. However, in normal myometrium, 23.6% had the highest degree of TGF-β1 expression. Polyp tissue did not show staining for TGF-β1 in any patients. Additionally, 89.1% of non-polypoid endometrium did not express TGF-β1. Normal tissue had a significantly greater amount of TGF-β1 compared to leiomyoma and endometrial polyps. @*Conclusion@#TGF-β1 is expressed more prominently in normal myometrium with mostly high-intensity features compared to leiomyoma. Additionally, polyps showed no staining for TGF-β1, while normal endometrium showed a low-density staining pattern.

Comparison of post-operative nausea and vomiting with intravenous versus inhalational anesthesia in laparotomic abdominal surgery: a randomized clinical trial / Comparação entre anestesia intravenosa e inalatória na náusea e vômito pós-operatórios em laparotomia: estudo clínico randomizado

Abstract Background: Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) is a multifactorial surgical complication with an unclear underlying cause. Anesthetic methods, patients' characteristics and the type of surgery are considered as factors affecting PONV. This study was designed to compare the effect of inhalational and intravenous anesthesia in abdominal surgery on the incidence and severity of PONV. Methods: A single-blinded prospective randomized clinical trial on 105 patients aged 18 − 65 years was carried out. Patients were divided into two groups of Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA) and inhalational anesthesia. The incidence and the severity of PONV were examined at 0, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours after the surgery. The use of a rescue antiemetic was also evaluated. Results: 50.9% of the patients in the inhalation group and 17.3% of the patients in the intravenous group developed PONV (p < 0.001). The incidence of vomiting was reported in 11.3% of the inhalational group and 3.8% of the TIVA group (p = 0.15). 24.5% of patients in the inhalation group and 9.6% of patients in the intravenous group needed an antiemetic medication (p = 0.043). Conclusion: The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and the need for administration of an antiemetic rescue drug and the severity of nausea in patients were significantly lower in the TIVA group.

Resumo Justificativa: Náusea e Vômito no Pós-Operatório (NVPO) é uma complicação multifatorial com etiologia não esclarecida. A técnica anestésica, as características dos pacientes e o tipo de cirurgia são considerados fatores que afetam a NVPO. O presente estudo foi desenhado para comparar o efeito da anestesia inalatória com anestesia intravenosa na incidência e gravidade de NVPO na cirurgia abdominal. Método: Foi realizado estudo clínico mono-cego prospectivo randomizado com 105 pacientes com idades de 18 − 65 anos. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos, Anestesia Total Intravenosa (TIVA) e anestesia inalatória. A incidência e gravidade de NVPO foram avaliadas em cinco momentos: 0, 2, 6, 12 e 24 horas pós-cirurgia. O uso de antiemético de resgate também foi avaliado. Resultados: NVPO ocorreu em 50,9% dos pacientes no grupo inalatória e 17,3% dos pacientes no grupo TIVA (p< 0,001). A incidência de vômitos relatados foi 11,3% no grupo Inalatória e 3,8% no grupo TIVA (p = 0,15). Necessitaram de medicação antiemética 24,5% dos pacientes no grupo Inalatória e 9,6% dos pacientes no grupo TIVA (p = 0.043). Conclusão: A incidência de náusea e vômito no pós-operatório, a necessidade de administração de droga antiemética de resgate e a gravidade da náusea foram significantemente mais baixas no grupo TIVA.

Effects of curcumin on cardiovascular risk factors in obese and overweight adolescent girls: a randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Obese adolescents are at higher risk of development of cardiovascular risk factors and obesity in later life. Dietary intake of antioxidants, particularly curcumin, as an active ingredient of turmeric extract, may have noticeable effects on obesity and its important complications such as cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of curcumin supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors among overweight and obese female adolescents. DESIGN AND SETTING: Randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial; Pediatric Cardiovascular Research Center, Isfahan, Iran. METHODS: 60 adolescent girls (aged 13-18 years) were randomly assigned to receive either placebo or intervention. The adolescents were asked to consume one 500 mg tablet per day, containing either standardized 95% turmeric extract or placebo, and to undergo a weight maintenance or a mild weight loss diet for 10 weeks. Anthropometric and biochemical indices were assessed at the baseline and the end of the intervention. RESULTS: Curcumin supplementation had beneficial effects on body mass index (P = 0.019), waist circumference (P = 0.008), hip circumference (P = 0.030), high-density lipoprotein levels (P = 0.042) and triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein ratio (P = 0.021). However, in univariate analysis of covariance, no significant differences were found between the intervention and placebo groups after 10 weeks of supplementation (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Prescription of curcumin supplementation along with use of a slight weight loss diet might have beneficial effects on some cardiovascular risk factors among overweight and obese female adolescents. Larger clinical trials with higher curcumin doses and longer duration are needed to confirm the results from the current study. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT20171107037302N1

Study of capability of nanostructured zero-valent iron and graphene oxide for bioremoval of trinitrophenol from wastewater in a bubble column bioreactor

BACKGROUND: Bioremoval of phenolic compounds using fungi and bacteria has been studied extensively; nevertheless, trinitrophenol bioremediation using modified Oscillatoria cyanobacteria has been barely studied in the literature. RESULTS: Among the effective parameters of bioremediation, algal concentration (3.18 g·L−1 ), trinitrophenol concentration (1301 mg·L−1 ), and reaction time (3.75 d) were screened by statistical analysis. Oscillatoria cyanobacteria were modified by starch/nZVI and starch/graphene oxide in a bubble column bioreactor, and their bioremoval efficiency was investigated. Modifiers, namely, starch/zero-valent iron and starch/GO, increased trinitrophenol bioremoval efficiency by more than 10% and 12%, respectively, as compared to the use of Oscillatoria cyanobacteria alone. Conclusions: It was found that starch/nano zero-valent iron and starch/GO could be applied to improve the removal rate of phenolic compounds from the aqueous solution.

Comparison of skeletal changes related to patients with chronic kidney disease and healthy individuals in digital panoramic radiography

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition affecting bone metabolism. Bone changes in CKD patients also known as renal osteodystrophy happen due to disorders in the regulation of water and electrolytes caused by the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the bone changes of CKD stages 3–5 patients without dialysis using digital panoramic radiography. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, panoramic radiographs were obtained from 30 patients with CKD stages 3–5 and 30 age and gender matched healthy individuals. The mean values of quantitative parameters such as mental index (MI), panoramic mandibular index (PMI), and antegonial index (AI) were measured and qualitative parameters such as mandibular cortical index (MCI) and trabecular bone pattern (TP) were recorded based on Kelemetti and Lindh calcifications, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test, Chi-square, and Mann–Whitney test (α = 0.05). Results: The mean values of MI, PMI, and AI in the two groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). MCI and TP were significantly different between the two groups. MCI showed more defects in mandibular cortex of CKD patients (6.7% of patients vs. 0% of control group were C3, P = 0.038), and TP showed more porosity in mandibular bone of CKD patients (10% of patients vs. 0% of control group were sparse, P = 0.001). Conclusion: The amount of MI, PMI, and AI were not related to CKD. While MCI and TP were significant parameters that showed mandibular cortical situation and trabecular bone pattern, they assess osteoporosis level in a more reliable manner in CKD stages 3–5 patients without dialysis.

The role of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy in improving attachment patterns, defense styles, and alexithymia in patients with depressive/anxiety disorders / O papel da psicoterapia psicodinâmica de longo prazo na melhora de padrões de apego, estilos de defesa e alexitimia em pacientes com transtornos depressivos e de ansiedade

Abstract Introduction Long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy (LTPP) emphasizes the centrality of intrapsychic and unconscious conflicts and their relation to development. Although there is evidence supporting the efficacy of LTPP in mental disorders, little research has been published on the efficacy of LTPP for depressive and anxiety disorders. Objective To examine whether patients with anxiety and depressive disorders demonstrate improvement in their attachment styles, defense styles, psychiatric symptoms, anxiety/depressive symptoms, and alexithymia with LTPP. Methods In this retrospective, descriptive study, the psychological outcomes of patients who were treated at the psychoanalytic clinic of Babol University of Medical Sciences were assessed. Fourteen patients diagnosed with depressive or anxiety disorder participated in the study of LTPP using the self-psychology approach. The Beck Depression Inventory II, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Adult Attachment Scale, 40-item Defense Style Questionnaire, and the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale were administered at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 6-month follow-up. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze changes in psychological outcomes after each of the three assessments. Results The mean scores of depression and anxiety and secure attachment improved significantly after LTPP with self-psychology approach from baseline to post-treatment and follow-up. Also, the mean scores of neurotic and immature defenses, difficulty in identifying feelings, difficulty in describing feelings, externally oriented thinking, and total alexithymia scores decreased significantly from baseline to post-treatment and follow-up. Conclusion Symptoms of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, insecure attachment styles, alexithymia, and neurotic/immature defense styles improved after the LTPP with self-psychology approach. Moreover, the improvements persisted at the 6-month follow-up.

Resumo Introdução A psicoterapia psicodinâmica de longo prazo (PPLP) enfatiza a centralidade dos conflitos intrapsíquicos e inconscientes e sua relação com o desenvolvimento. Apesar da evidência em favor da eficácia da PPLP em transtornos mentais, há poucos dados sobre a eficácia da PPLP em transtornos de depressão/ansiedade. Objetivo Examinar se pacientes com transtornos de depressão/ansiedade demonstram melhora em seus estilos de apego, estilos defensivos, sintomas psiquiátricos, sintomas de ansiedade/depressão e alexitimia com PPLP. Métodos Neste estudo retrospectivo, descritivo, os desfechos psicológicos de pacientes tratados na clínica psicanalítica da Babol University of Medical Sciences foram avaliados. Quatorze pacientes com diagnóstico de transtorno de depressão ou ansiedade participaram do estudo sobre PPLP com abordagem de psicologia do self. O Inventário de Depressão de Beck II, o Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck, a Escala de Apego do Adulto, o Questionário de Estilo de Defesa-40 e a Escala de Alexitimia de Toronto-20 foram administrados antes e após o tratamento e no seguimento de 6 meses. Equações de estimação generalizadas foram usadas para analisar mudanças nos desfechos psicológicos após cada avaliação. Resultados Os escores médios de depressão/ansiedade e apego seguro melhoraram significativamente após PPLP com abordagem de psicologia do self do início do estudo ao pós-tratamento e seguimento. Além disso, os escores médios de defesas neuróticas e imaturas, dificuldade em identificar sentimentos, dificuldade em descrever sentimentos, pensamentos orientados externamente e escores totais de alexitimia diminuíram significativamente do início do estudo ao pós-tratamento e seguimento. Conclusão Sintomas de transtornos de ansiedade, transtornos depressivos, estilos de apego inseguro, alexitimia e estilos de defesa neuróticos/imaturos melhoraram após PPLP com abordagem de psicologia do self. Além disso, as melhoras persistiram no seguimento de 6 meses.

Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract modulates expression of lipid metabolism-related genes in HepG2 cells

Objective: To investigate anti-dyslipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, and 4-OH-Ile on HepG2 cell line. Methods: HepG2 cells were treated with hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, 4-OH-Ile, and orlistat. IC

Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract modulates expression of lipid metabolism-related genes in HepG2 cells

Objective: To investigate anti-dyslipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, and 4-OH-Ile on HepG2 cell line. Methods: HepG2 cells were treated with hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, 4-OH-Ile, and orlistat. IC20 was calculated using the MTT method. The cells were then pre-treated with IC20 concentrations for 24 and 48 h. Real time PCR was employed to measure expression of liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1C (SREBP-1C), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Results: The results showed that LXRα (P=0.003, P<0.001), SREBP-1C (P<0.001, P<0.001), ACC (P=0.002, P=0.006), and FAS (P<0.001, P<0.001) were downregulated significantly, while FGF21 (P<0.001, P<0.001), PPARγ (P=0.004, P<0.001), and LDLR (P<0.001, P<0.001) were upregulated significantly in HepG2 cells treated with the IC20 of hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, 4-OH-Ile, and orlistat in 24 and 48 h, respectively. Conclusions: Hydroalcoholic fenugreek seed extracts, diosgenin, and 4-OH-Ile significantly modulate the expression of some important lipid metabolism related genes, which is similar to orlistat. Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract or its derivatives should be further investigated for their dyslipidemia effects and its complications.

Anacardic acid reduces acetylation of H4K12 in mouse Oocytes during vitrification

Objective: Over the last years, vitrification has been widely used for oocyte cryopreservation, in animals and humans; however, it frequently causes minor and major epigenetic modifications. The effect of oocyte vitrification on levels of acetylation of histone H4 at lysine 12 [AcH4K12], and histone acetyltransferase [Hat] expression, was previously assessed; however, little is known about the inhibition of Hat expression during oocyte vitrification. This study evaluated the effect of anacardic acid [AA] as a Hat inhibitor on vitrified mouse oocytes

Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 248 mouse oocytes at metaphase II [MII] stage were divided in three experimental groups namely, fresh control oocytes [which were not affected by vitrification], frozen/thawed oocytes [vitrified] and frozen/thawed oocytes pre-treated with AA [treatment]. Out of 248 oocytes, 173 oocytes were selected and from them, 84 oocytes were vitrified without AA [vitrified group] and 89 oocytes were pretreated with AA, and then vitrified [treatment group]. Fresh MII mouse oocytes were used as control group. Hat expression and AcH4K12 levels were assessed by using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction [PCR] and immunofluoresce staining, respectively. In addition, survival rate was determined in vitrified and treatment oocytes

Results: Hat expression and AcH4K12 modification significantly increased [4.17 +/- 1.27 [P.0.001] and 97.57 +/- 6.30 [P<0.001], respectively] in oocytes that were vitrified, compared to the fresh oocytes. After treatment with AA, the Hat mRNA expression and subsequently H4K12 acetylation levels were significantly reduced [0.12 +/- 0.03 [P.0.001] and 89.79 +/- 3.20 [P.0.05], respectively] in comparison to the vitrified group. However, the survival rate was not significantly different between the vitrified [90.47%] and treatment [91.01%] groups [P>0.05]

Conclusion: The present study suggests that AA reduces vitrification risks caused by epigenetic modifications, but does not affect the quality of vitrification. In fact, AA as a Hat inhibitor was effective in reducing the acetylation levels of H4K12

Design and development of modified mRNA encoding core antigen of hepatitis C virus: a possible application in vaccine production

Introduction: Hepatitis C virus [HCV] is a ?blood-borne pathogen, resulting in liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Despite of many efforts in development of treatments for HCV, no vaccine has been licensed yet. The purpose of this study was ?to design and prepare a specific mRNA, without 5' cap and poly [A] tail transcribed in vitro capable of coding core protein and also to determine its functionality

Methods: Candidate mRNA was prepared by in vitro transcription of the designed construct consisting of ??5' and 3' untranslated regions of heat shock proteins 70 [hsp70] mRNA, T7 promoter, internal ribosome entry site [IRES] sequences of eIF4G related to human dendritic cells [DCs], and the ?Core gene of HCV. To design the modified mRNA, the ??5' cap and poly [A] tail structures were not considered. DCs were transfected by in vitro-transcribed messenger RNA [IVT-mRNA] and the expressions of green fluorescent protein [GFP], and Coregenes were determined by microscopic examination and Western blotting assay

Results: Cell transfection results showed that despite the absence of ??5' cap and poly [A] tail, the structure of the mRNA ?was stable. Moreover, the successful expressions of GFP and Coregenes were achieved

Conclusion: Our findings indicated the effectiveness of a designed IVT-mRNA harboring the Core gene of HCV in transfecting and expressing the antigens in DCs. Considering the simple and efficient protocol for the preparation of this IVT-mRNA and its effectiveness in expressing the gene that it carries, this IVT-mRNA could be suitable for development of an RNA vaccine against HCV

Association of angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism with recurrent pregnancy loss: a meta-analysis of 26 case-control studies

Abstract Objective Previous studies investigating the association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) risk has provided inconsistent results. The aim of our study was to assess the association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and risk of RPL. Methods All studies published up to January 30, 2018 on the association of ACE I/D polymorphism with RPL were identified by searching the PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Google scholar databases. Results A total of 26 case-control studies with 3,140 RPL cases and 3,370 controls were included in themeta-analysis. Overall, there was a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and RPL risk under the allele model (I versus D: odds ratio [OR] = 0.538, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.451-0.643, p 0.001), the homozygote model (II versus DD: OR = 0.766, 95% CI = 0.598-0.981, p = 0.035) and the recessive model (II versus ID + DD: OR = 0.809, 95% CI = 0.658-0.994, p = 0.044). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed that there was a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and increased risk of RPL in Caucasian and West-Asian populations, but not in East-Asians. When stratified by number of recurrent miscarriages (RMs), a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and increased risk of RPL was detected in the group of studies with ≥ 2 RMs, but not in studies with ≥ 3 RMs. Conclusion Themeta-analysis suggests that ACE I/D polymorphism is associated with increased risk of RPL. The ACE I/D polymorphism may be a risk factor for RPL in Caucasian and West-Asian populations, but not in East-Asians.

Evaluation of diagnostic accuracy of 3-D endoanal ultrasound in perianal fistula in comparison with intraoperative findings / Avaliação da precisão diagnóstica da USE 3D endoanal em casos de fistula perianal, em comparação com os achados cirúrgicos

ABSTRACT Objective: Perianal fistula is a common and debilitating disease. The definite treatment is surgery, identifying of primary and secondary tract, internal opening of fistula has important role in planning of surgical techniques. This study's goal was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of 3-D ultrasound in perianal fistula in comparison with intraoperative findings. Materials and methods: This study is a cross-sectional study. Adult patients (18-85 years old) with anal fistula have been selected. 3-D EUS was done for all patients by gastroenterologist. Then surgery was done. Check lists filled by endoscopist and surgeon was studied and data analysis was done. Results: The study examined 76 patients, in according to results for kappa coefficient there was a perfect agreement between 3-D ultrasound results and surgery in internal opening that was 96% (p < 0.001) and concordance was 0.974. In extension tract the agreement was 0.973 and concordance was 0.987 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: There was perfect agreement between 3-D ultrasound and surgical findings in internal opening, primary tract and trunk expansion. 3-D ultrasound shows a high diagnostic accuracy when compared with surgery to assessment of perianal fistula before surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: A fistula perianal é doença comum e debilitante. O tratamento definitivo é cirúrgico. A identificação dos tratos primário e secundário e de abertura interna da fístula desempenha papel importante no planejamento das técnicas cirúrgicas. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a precisão diagnóstica da USE 3D em casos de fístula perianal, em comparação com os achados cirúrgicos. Materiais e métodos: Este é um estudo transversal. Foram selecionados pacientes adultos (18-85 anos) com fístula anal. Todos os pacientes foram examinados por USE 3D realizada por um gastroenterologista. Em seguida, procedeu-se à cirurgia. O endoscopista e o cirurgião estudaram as listas de verificação, com análise dos dados. Resultados: Nesse estudo foram examinados 76 pacientes. De acordo com os resultados para o coeficiente kappa, foi observada perfeita concordância entre os resultados da USE 3D e cirurgia para IO, de 96% (p < 0,001), com concordância de 0,974. Na extensão do trato a concordância foi 0,973 e concordância de 0,987 (p < 0,001). Conclusão: Foi observada concordância perfeita entre USE 3D e os achados cirúrgicos em abertura interna, trato primário e expansão do tronco. USE 3D demonstra elevada precisão diagnóstica, quando comparada com a cirurgia, para avaliação da fístula perianal antes da operação.

Effect of crocin carotenoid on BDNF and CREB gene expression in brain ventral tegmental area of morphine treated rats

Objective: To investigate the effect of crocin carotenoid on BNDF and CREB gene expression in the brain ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the serum level of BDNF in morphine-treated rats compared to control. Methods: In this study, 40 male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were used in 5 experimental groups: 1) non morphine treat rats (control); 2) non morphine-treated rats with 25 mg/kg crocin carotenoid (i.p., for 21 d); 3) morphine treated rats (10 mg/kg twice a day, s.c., 21 d); 4 and 5) morphine-treated rats with 12.5 and 25 mg/kg crocin carotenoid, respectively. By the end of research, BDNF and CREB expression was determined by real-time-PCR method. ELISA analysis was also applied for assessing the serum BDNF level. Results: The data indicated that morphine treatment could cause a significant decrease in BDNF and CREB gene expression (P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively) in brain VTA as well as serum level of BDNF (P<0.01) in comparison to control group. Treatment with 25 mg/kg crocin carotenoid caused a significant enhancement in BDNF and CREF gene expression (P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively) and serum level of BDNF (P<0.01) in morphine-treated rats in comparison to morphine-treated group. Conclusions: Regarding to obtained results, crocin carotenoid can inhibit unfavorable effects of morphine on the neural system to some extent through enhancing BDNF and CREB gene expression in brain VTA and serum level of BDNF.

Educational needs on palliative care for cancer patients in iran: a swot analysis

Background: By acceptance of palliative care as a part of health system of each country and due to increasing prevalence of cancer, special focus on stakeholder's educational needs is of vital importance so that palliative care services are improved and the quality of life of patients is enhanced. This study was conducted to explore the educational needs of stakeholders of palliative care for cancer patients in Iran

Methods: This qualitative study with 20 semi-structured interviews was conducted from August 2016 to February 2017 in Shohadaye Tajrish and Emam Khomeini Hospitals of Tehran. Participants were selected through purposive sampling and included cancer patients and their family caregivers as well as healthcare providers, experts and policy-makers. The data were analyzed through Conventional Content Analysis of Landman and Graneheim using MAXQDA10 software. Statements of each main category of the study were summarized in SWOT categorizes

Result: A total of 546 codes were extracted from the analysis of the interviews and four main categories and four subcategories were identified. The four main identified categories included:"academic education planning", "workforce education", "public awareness", and "patient and caregiver empowerment" that contained our subcategories as follows: "strengths", "weaknesses", "opportunities" and "threats" [SWOT].

Conclusion: Meeting the educational needs of the stakeholders of palliative care requires policymakers to identify the factors leading to strategies that are based on the use of opportunities, the removal of weaknesses, and coping with the threats to which the organization is faced