Improving trigonelline production in hairy root culture of fenugreek [Trigonella foenum-graecum]

Background: Trigonella foenum-graecum L. commonly known as fenugreek is a rich source of important medicinal metabolite, i.e. trigonelline

Objective: In this study, hairy roots culture as a novel method for trigonelline production was evaluated

Methods: For optimizing the hairy roots culture of Trigonella foenum-graecum, three strains of Agrobacterium rhyzogenes [ATCC15834, MSU440 and K599] via two inoculations methods including scotch and vacuum pump were used to agro-infiltration. Two elicitors including methyl jasmonate [0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 micro M] and chitosan [0, 50, 100, 150 and 200mgl[-1]] were added to liquid medium as abiotic and biotic elicitors in various concentrations, respectively

Results: The trigonelline content was increased via elicitation by methyl jasmonate and chitosan against control condition. The maximum trigonelline [36.7 and 37.3 mM/g D.W] were observed in 100 micro M of methyl jasmonate and 150 mg/l of chitosan, respectively

Conclusion: All parts of the seedling [crown, stem and leaf] were able to produce the hairy roots. Also, the highest dry weight of hairy root was obtained by A. rhizogenes strain 15834. The transformation of fenugreek using Agrobacterium rhizogenes to form hairy root cultures has the potential benefits of fast growth and rates of secondary metabolite production equal to or greater than that found for the intact plant

[Molecular study of Clostridium difficile isolated from beef in Isfahan, Iran]

Background: clostridium difficile [C. difficile] infection is one of the most important diseases in healthcare facilities and community. Ribotypes 027 and 078 are known as hyper- virulent strain of C. difficile in molecular study. PCR-ribotyping is a suitable method to interpret the relation of C. difficile isolated from food and hospital

Objectives: in the present study, the clostridim difficile binary toxin [cdtB] and ribotype pattern evaluated in toxigenic C. difficle isolated from beef

Methods: detection of cdtB in 12 toxigenic C. difficile [encoding tcdA and tcdB gene] isolated from 100 beef samples was determined through PCR. Afterwards, PCR-ribotyping was performed to examine the ribotype patterns of C. difficile

Results: cdtB gene was not detected in any positive isolate. Ten different patterns were observed in 12 toxigenic isolates. No similarity existed in the ribotypes of our study with ribotypes 027 and 078

Conclusions: albeit ribotyp 027 and 078 were not found in our study, the isolation of toxigenic C. difficile with new ribotypes in Iran may indicate the probable hazard of this bacterium in public health. Comprehensive research about C. difficile in different food sources is recommended on a national level

study of hematological changes in sheep naturally infected with Anaplasma spp. and Theileria ovis: Molecular diagnosis

Ovine anaplasmosis and theileriosis are important tick-borne diseases of sheep and goats which are dis-tributed in the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. This study was performed to assess hematological status in sheep naturally infected with Anaplasma and Theileria spp. to clarify the pathogenic aspects of various species involved in ovine anaplasmosis and theileriosis in Ahvaz region. 109 sheep were sampled, and blood parasite infections were diagnosed by microscopic examination and PCR. The blood samples were also subjected to hematologic assessment. PCR analysis revealed A. ovis infection in 86.2% of sheep, while mixed infections with A. marginale were also detected in 53.2% of them. However, Anaplasma inclusion bodies were only observed in 32.1% of the tested animals. T. ovis were found in 88% of the inspected sheep by PCR, and 67.8% of them were detected microscopically, as well. Hematologic assessment showed that mean RBC, PCV, Hb, and MCHC were significantly lower, whereas MCV and RDW were higher in the animals with mixed infections of'Anaplasma with parasitemia and Theileria, compared to the uninfected sheep and groups with single infection or without parasitemia. In brief, it seems that Anaplasma can be activated and induce its pathogenesis in the presence of other infective agents in the carrier or asympthomatic animals. It can also be concluded that mixed infections of Anaplasma with parasitemia and Theileria may induce a regenerative anemia which is most likely attributable to a combined effect of the two

[Relationship of conicity index, waist circumference, body mass index and physical activity with lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus]

Cardiovascular diseases are the main causes of death in diabetic patients and lipid disorders are among the main risk factors for these diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of Conicity index [CI], body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC] and physical activity [PA] with lipid levels and to determine the best anthropometric measurement predictor of lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes. A cross sectional study was conducted on 700 patients with type 2 diabetes. Measurements including weight, height, WC, BMI, CI and PA were obtained for each subject and fasting serum triglycerides [TG], total cholesterol [TC], HDL-cholesterol [HDL-C] and LDL-cholesterol [LDL-C] were documented. Overall, 97% of men and 95% women had abnormal CI. About 84.5% of participants had BMI over 25 [kg/m2]. In addition, 55.3% of men and 88.5% of women had abdominal obesity based on WC. There was significant increases in TG, TC and LDL-C and reduction of HDL-C with increasing CI quartiles. BMI showed significant and positive correlation to LDL-C. The correlation between WC and TG and LDL/HDL were also significant. PA showed a positive and significant correlation to HDL-C and negative correlation to BMI, WC, CI, and LDL / HDL in all subjects. CI, BMI, WC and PA have significant correlations to blood lipid disorders in type 2 diabetic patients and can be used in screening and predicting the risk of lipid disorders in type 2 diabetic patients. None of the measurements however showed a stronger relationship to these disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes

Effect of alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa seed on alpha motor neurons density of spinal cord following sciatic nerve compression in rats

Compression or sciatic axotomy induces neuronal death in spinal cord alpha motor neuron. This study was carried out to determine the effect of Nigella sativa seed alcoholic extract on spinal motor neuron density in anterior horn after sciatic nerve compression in rat. In this experimental study 24 wistar rats were divided into four groups A: control, B: compression, C: compression+treatment with 75 mg/kg alcoholic extract, D: compression+treatment with 50 mg/kg alcoholic extract. In control group muscle was exposed without any injury to sciatic nerve. In compression and treatment group, the right leg sciatic nerve compressed for 60 sec. After four weeks of post operation, L2-L4 and S1, S2 and S3 segments of spinal cord were sampled, processed, serially sectioned and stained with toluidine blue. The number of alpha motor neurons was counted using dissector method. Neuronal density in compression group [650 +/- 32] significantly decreased in comparison with control group [1803 +/- 24]. Neuronal density in C treated group [1581 +/- 47] and D treated group [1543 +/- 49] significantly increased compare to compression group [P<0.001]. Alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa seed increased the density of alpha motor neurons in spinal cord after sciatic nerve compression in rats

Molecular detection and identification of Anaplasma species in sheep from Ahvaz, Iran

Ovine anaplasmosis is a tick-borne rickettsial disease, widespread in tropical and subtropical areas. In the present study, a PCR-RFLP method based on major surface protein 4 [MSP4] gene, was utilized for the detection of Anaplasma infection in 119 sheep blood samples collected from different parts of Ahvaz in the southwest of Iran. PCR identified Anaplasma infections in 87.4% [104/119] of the samples in contrast to the routine blood smear examination, which revealed inclusion bodies in only 33.6% [40/119] of samples. RFLP assessment revealed that all PCR positive samples were A. ovis, while for the first time in Iran, a mixed infection with A. marginale was seen in 50% [52/104] of Anaplasma infected samples. These results suggest higher sensitivity of PCR method over the conventional microscopic technique for diagnosis of anaplasmosis, particularly in carrier animals. It also revealed that ovine anaplasmosis caused by A. ovis and A. marginale is present and highly prevalent in Ahvaz and appears to be the first report from this region

[Comparison between dexamethasone and tranexamic acid on postoperative edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty operation]

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgery in the world. Edema and ecchymosis are two expected consequences after any planned injuries such as surgery that extend time and cause to distress for the patients and their families. Several drugs [e.g. corticosteroid and eranexamic acid] and herbal extracts [e.g. arnica] are suggested for resolving this problem but there is no comparison between them yet. This study was undertaken to compare the potential benefits of dexamethasone with tranexamic acid on postoperative edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty. Determination of dexamethasone and tranexamic acid efficacy on edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty. This was a clinical trial cross sectional double blind study. Seventy rhinoplasty candidates were randomized in two groups. In addition to routine management and cold compress after operation, one group received dexamethasone and another group received tranexamic acid injection for both groups 1 dose of drug before and 3 doses per 8 hours after rhinoplasty. For measurement of edema and ecchymosis, we took digital photos from patients' face third day of postoperation. Then three colleagues who were blinded to assigned groups, scored edema and ecchymosis level with using 0-4 point standard scale. The alpha<0.05 is considered significant statistically. Nineteen men and fifty one women were enrolled. On postoperative day 3, there was no significant difference in the rating of preorbital ecchymosis among two intervention groups [p<0.15]. Also there was no significant difference for the edema rating among two intervention groups [p<0.12]. According to our results, no significant difference in postoperative edema and ecchymosis was detected among two groups. In regard to similar efficacy of both drugs to decrease edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty, we must select one of them according to the other effects of drugs

Effects of low intensity pulsed ultrasound on healing of denervated Tibial fracture in the rabbit

Low intensity pulsed ultrasound [LIPUS] has been shown in healing of fractures. This study investigates the effect of LIPUS as a fracture-healing adjunct on the denervated tibial fractures in rabbit model. Twenty four male Dutch rabbits were randomly divided into four groups including two control and two ultrasound-treated [US-treated] groups. A standardized mid-tibial osteotomy was performed in the right tibia. Ipsilateral sciatic nerve was cut two centimeter above the right knee. After three days, the rabbits of US-treated groups received the therapeutic dose [100 mW/cm[]] of ultrasound for 15 minutes per day until the 6th and 8th week and the control groups did not receive any treatment. The rabbits were sacrificed at weeks 6th and 8th post surgery and the external fixator and tibia were carefully removed. Radiographs were taken by lateral and anteroposterior views. Mechanical testing of rabbit's tibiae was used. The specimens were taken from callus of fracture for histomorphometric study of trabecula in the fractured area. Immunohistochemical staining for ki67 was used to evaluate cellular proliferation. Radiographs showed the callus was visible indicating the ossification of the callus tissue without any significant difference between US- treated and control groups. Biomechanical, histomorphic and immunohistochemical evaluations had no significant difference between control and US-treated groups after 6 and 8 weeks postoperation. These finding suggest that ultrasound therapy with features which applied in this study had no significant effect on denervated tibial fracture repair in rabbits

Serum zinc levels in children and adolescents with type-1 diabetes mellitus

There have been very few studies, with contradictory results, on the zinc status of children and adolescents with type-1 diabetes mellitus. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine zinc status based on the serum zinc concentration in type-1 diabetic children and adolescents and compare it with that of healthy controls. Thirty children and adolescents with type-1 diabetes mellitus, aged 6 to 18 years, and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls participated in the study. Serum zinc, fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A[1c] and serum albumin were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, enzymatic colorimetry, ion-exchange chromatography and colorimetry using bromocresol green methods, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found in the mean serum zinc concentration between diabetic patients and healthy controls [111.0 +/- 3.1 and 107.1 +/- 3.8 mg/dl respectively, P= 0.4]. No correlations were found between the serum zinc levels and fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A[1c], or the duration of the disease in the patients. The zinc levels of diabetic children and adolescents are not noticeably different compared to those of healthy controls and are independent of glycemic control and the duration of the disease

[Assessment of glycoconjugates terminal sugars expression during rat skin morphogenesis]

This study was conducted in order to determine distributions and changes of glycoconjugates terminal sugars during skin morphogenesis. Using lectin histochemistry technique, 10% formalin fixed, paraffin embedded rat embryonic sections for days 12, 14, 16 of gestation [1SN30] were incubated with different HRP-lectins from Lotus tetragonolobus [LTA], Maclura pomifera[MPA] and Arachis hypogaea or Peanut [PNA] that are specific for terminal alpha-L Fuc, Gal[beta1->3] GalANC and D-Gal[beta1->3]DGalNAC respectively. On the basis of colonmetery data that was determined by blind's method, sections were graded. SPSS statistic soft ware and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric statistical test were used to compare different embryonic stages. Our results demonstrated that the reaction of ectodermal cells with LTA observed from gestational day 12 [E12] was weak. This reaction increased E14 significantly [p=0.0001] and then decreased. Extracellular matrix [ECM] of mesenchyme did not react with LTA lectin. Ectodermal cells as well as ECM of mesenchyme reacted with PNA on El2 was fairly weak. It increased E14 [p=0.009]. From E14 to E16 intensity staining remain the same in ectodermal cells but decreased in ECM mesenchyme [p=0.0001]. Ectodermal cells and ECM of mesenchyme reacted with the MPA lectins from E12 to E16. According to our result, it is suggested that the distributions and changes of glycoconjugates with terminal sugars L-Fuc [alpha2-4] GlcNAC, Gal [[beta 1->3] GalNAC and D-Gal [brta1->3] DGalNAC be stage - regulated during rat skin morphogenesis

[Maternal nexposure on collagen type IV pulmonary changes in mouse offspring's]

In this study we evaluated the effect of maternal nicotine administration during pre and postnatal period on collagen IV changes in lung of mouse newborns. Female Balb/C mice were mated and finding vaginal plug was assumed as day zero of pregnancy. Pregnant mice, were divided into 2 experimental and 2 control groups. Experimental group 1, received 3 mg/kg nicotine intrapritoneally from day 5 of gestation to last day of pregnancy. Experimental group 2 received the same amount of nicotine during the same gestational days as well as the first two week after birth [lactation]. The control groups received the same volume of normal saline during the same periods. At the end of exposure time, all of newborns [experimental and control] were anesthetized and their lungs were removed and immunohistochemical study for tracing collagen were carried out. Our finding indicated that collagen reaction in the bronchial basement membrane [BBM] and extra cellular matrix [ECM] of lung parenchyma in experimental increased significantly in comparison to control groups. Cell necrosis definition in lung parenchyma of experimental group 2 were the other finding that our investigation achieved. These data indicate that maternal nicotine exposure may induce a noticeable increasing collagen reasonable in BBM and ECM of respiratory system of next generation. The lungs of these animals which were exposed to nicotine via the placenta and mother's milk, are more susceptible to damages such as abnormal collagen synthesis and cell necrosis

[Identification of total and fecal coliforms and heterotrophic to Microbiological method and E.Coli O157:H7 to immunological, and real time PCR methods in Isfahan water treatment plant]

Total and Fecal coliforms [TC and FC], heterotrophic plate count [HPC], were counted by microbiological method and E.coli O157:H7 were detected through immunological and Real time PCR methods in water intake and all of units of Isfahan water treatment plant [IWTP]. The microbial profile including TC, FC, and HPC, were monitored and turbidity and total organic carbon were analyzed in 8 locations of water intake, and unit operation and processes of IWTP, including, inlet, sedimentation, ozonation, and filtration and finished water. Immunological method through anti-serum kits and molecular method of RT-PCR were used to detect E.coli O157:H7 in the 8 locations and also the sludge of the sedimentation basin and filters backwash water of IWTP. Survival of E.coli O157:H7 in sludge sample of sedimentation basin was indicated by formation of agglutination particles in immunological method and through indicator probes in the RT-PCR method. However, E.coli O157:H7 was not detected in water samples of other units of IWTP. The removal percent of TC, FC, and HPC were: 59.5, 49, and 54.8% in sedimentation basin; 66, 45.8, and 57% in ozonation;: 98.8, 98, and 78.8 in the filtration; and 96, 100, 91% in disinfection, respectively. This study approved the existence of the pathogenic coliform, E.coli O157:H7 in the sludge of sedimentation basin. Absent of E.coli O157:H7 in the finished water indicates that the existing units of IWTP could eliminate these pathogenic bacteria, before reaching the final units of the plant, including the filters and disinfection

[ key role of type IV collagen in developing retinal basement membrane in mouse]

Basement membranes are specialized extracellular matrices serve as development, proliferation and substrates for migration. Collagen fibers specially type IV, are the most important part of this area. As retina is one of the target organs in diabetes mellitus and diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy are major cause of end stage - renal and retinal diseases and resulting in increased in morbidity and mortality of effected individuals, therefore early diagnosis leads to better treatment. Investigation the appearance and distribution of collagen IV during gestational days and early postnatal period. 24 intact female Balb/c mice were kept under normal nutrition and environment condition. After mating, vaginal plug was assumed as zero day of pregnancy. From [13[th]-18[th]] days, gestation pregnant mice were sacrified and their embryos as well as pups from 1st to 5th days were collected. For histochemichal studies, the head of specimens were fixed, histological preparation was done and by using monocolonal antibody against for tracing of collagen type IV were carried out. Our finding revealed that amount of collagen IV in internal limiting membrane [ILM] and extra cellular matrix [ECM] of the retina appearance on embryonic 16[th] day and increase continuously until end stage of embryonic life. In addition, strong labeling was observed until 3rd day of postnatal period but these reactions did not increase significantly after these periods. These findings indicate that retinal development is dependent on different proteins by special regards specially collagen IV

[ relation between serum ferritin and glycemic status in patients with type 2 diabetic and healthy individuals]

Alghough some studies report an association between ferritin and glycemic status, data from Iran is limited. This study was designed to assess the relation between serum ferritin and glycemic status in type 2 diabetic and healthy individuals, aged 45-60 years, in Tehran. This cross-sectional study was performed on 54 type 2 diabetic patients and 53 healthy subjects, aged 45-60 years. The diabetic patients were members of the diabetes society in Tehran and healthy subjects were employees of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Serum ferritin, fasting blood glucose [FBS], HbA1C, serum insulin and insulin resistance were analyzed in all participants. Statistical analyses were done using regression and independent sample t-test. Serum ferritin levels were within normal range in both groups. Positive correlations between ferritin and FBS, HbA1C, insulin and insulin resistance were found, which were significant in diabetic patients and non-significant in healthy subjects. There was significant correlation between insulin resistance and serum ferritin in diabetic patients; however the correlation was non-significant in healthy subjects. There were positive correlations between ferritin with serum insulin and insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes and the positive correlation was present even in normal ranges of serum ferritin. Since ferritin has a wide normal range, it may be better to reassess it, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes

[Evaluation of satisfaction rate of patients and physician from closed reduction of nasal fracture]

Nasal bone fracture is the most common facial fracture and the third most common fracture of the human skeleton. The diagnosis and proper treatment of the nasal bone fracture are based on physician's findings and skill. The way to manage the nasal bone fracture ranges from closed reduction to open reduction. Insufficient reduction caused secondary deformity after the swelling subside, and lead to requests of other surgical procedures. To evaluate satisfaction rate of patients and physician from outcome of closed reduction 1 month later nasal fracture. The descriptive study reviewed patients with nasal fracture and treated by closed reduction at Amir-al-momenin hospital [Rasht] in 2007-2008 years. According to physical examination and radiologic findings, nasal fractures were classified. Demographic data, time of injury, mechanisms and severity of fracture were recorded on data sheet. Patients were followed up 1 month later of nasal fracture and their satisfaction upon Likert scale was recorded. The physician described satisfaction as good, fair, poor. In this study from 67 patients 76.1% were male and 23.9% were female. Mean age of patients was 30.17 +/- 13.45 years. The major cause of the nasal fractures was attributed to fighting [43.3%]. B-type, U-type and F-type fractures composed 70.1%, 25.4% and 4.5% respectively. 26.9% of patients had soft tissues damages and 3% had fracture in other facial bone. 36 patients [53.7%] were satisfied, 17 patients [25.4%] were very satisfied and 14 patients [20.9%] were unsatisfied. None of them were very unsatisfied. Physician evaluated outcome as good, fair, and poor in 65.7% [44 cases], 23.9% [16 cases] and 10.4% [7 cases] respectively. Although, there isn't statistically significant difference between different type of fracture or presence of soft tissue damage and patients' satisfaction rate, there is statistically significant difference between them and physician's satisfaction rate [P=0.02 and P=0.049]. The results showed that in cases with severe fracture [F-type] and presence of soft tissue damage, closed reduction should be considered carefully as the choice of treatment

Effects of dietary omeg-3 fatty acid supplementation on HbA1c, total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in type-2 diabetic patients: a randomized clinical trial

Essential fatty acid deficiency has been found in diabetic patients. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation could be beneficial in alleviating diabetes complications and glycemic control. However, it may increase oxidative stress. In this study the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplements on glycemic control, total antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase and catalase] activities were investigated. In a double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial, 81 type-2 diabetic patients were divided into 2 groups. The experimental group took 2714 mg/day omega-3 fatty acids [1548 mg EPA, 828 mg DHA, and 338 mg other omega-3 fatty acids], and the control group took sunflower oil as a placebo, for 8 weeks. Dietary intakes were assessed by a 24h dietary recall, before and after intervention, and analyzed using food processor II. In addition, fasting blood samples were collected for analysis and height and weight were measured, initially and at the end of the trial. At the start of the study there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups with regard to mean weight, height, body mass index [BMI], daily intakes of energy, carbohydrate, protein, total fat, polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins A, B, C, E, folate, cobalamine, zinc, or biochemical parameters. Neither were there any difference in weight, BMI and dietary intakes before and after intervention in either group. The supplementation brought about a significant decrease [P < 0.00] in HbA1c% in the experimental group, while in the control group the HbA1c level actually increased [p < 0.02]. Furthermore, the magnitudes of HbA1c changes were significantly deferent between the two groups [P < 0.00]. Changes in the fasting blood sugar [163.88 +/- 10 vs. 165.6 +/- 7.9 mg/dl], total antioxidant capacity [3.79 +/- 0.07 vs. 3.62 +/- 0.7 mg/dl], and activities of super oxide dismutase [449.22 +/- 14.14 vs. 417.16 +/- 11.9 U/gHb] and catalase [150.72 +/- 9.6 vs. 151.86 +/- 12.6 k/gHb] were not statistically significant. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may be helpful in glycemic control in type-2 diabetes, but it has no significant effect on the antioxidant enzyme activities

Rapid monitoring of indicator coliforms in drinking water by an enzymatic assay

Coliform group has been extensively used as an indicator of drinking water quality and historically led to the public health protection concept. Multiple tube fermentation technique has been currently used for assessment of the microbial quality of drinking water. This method, however, has limitations. Enzymatic assay constitute an alternative approach for detecting indicator bacteria, namely total coliforms and E.coli in various aquatic environments. This study compared the performance of LMX broth as an enzymatic assay with the standard methods multiple tube fermentation technique and presence-absence test, for the detection of indicator coliforms in drinking water samples. In addition, the potential effect of water quality on the microbial detection method was assayed through measurement of some physicochemical parameters. From the 50 drinking water samples tested, 8 [16%] and 7 [14%] contained total coliforms and E.coli as indicated by all three techniques. Although on average the LMX recovered more total coliforms and E.Coli numbers comparing to multiple tube fermentation, but there was no significant difference. A significant difference existed between the level of residual chlorine for positive and negative samples. In conclusion, enzymatic assay showed a rapid and less labor method, allowing the simultaneous detection of total coliforms and E.coli. The method is particularly useful in the early warning of fecal pollution of drinking water

[ effect of HCG on in vitro maturation of human immature oocytes and rate of 8 cell embryos mediated by ICSI]

The infertility treatment by using in vitro matured oocyte has many potential applications. It minimizes the risk of ovarian hyper stimulation and is an alternative treatment for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who may have problems regarding stimulation for IVF. This method may prove important for subjects in need of fertility preservation and also provides information about the final stage of oocyte maturation. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of HCG on the rate of in vitro matured oocyte and 8 cell embryos mediated by ICSI. This experimental study was done in Montaserieh IVF center and Islamic Azad University at Mashhad. One hundred sixty eight immature oocytes aspirated from women undergoing IVF cycles were divided into 3 equal groups and allocated for maturation in 3 medium cultures. All of 3 culture groups contained G1 medium supplemented with HSA 10% [Human Serum Albumin]. Control group had no gonadotropin, but the first experimental group contained HCG 10 ILJ/ml and the second experimental group contained HCG 5 ILJ/ml. Matured oocytes were fertilized by ICSI and numbers of 8-cell embryos were investigated 72 hours after fertilization by invert microscope. The results showed that both of the HCG concentrations significantly increased the rate of matured oocytes and also the rate of 8-cell embryos with respect to control group [p<0.05]. No significant differences were found in rate of matured oocytes between the two experimental groups [p>0.05] while the number of 8-cell embryos was significantly higher in HCG 5IU/ml with respect to HCG 10 IU/ml and control group [p<0.05]. The results suggests that both of the HCG concentrations increase the rate of maturation of immature oocytes and the rate of 8-cell embryos but HCG [5IU/ml] has more effect on the number of 8-cell embryos mediated by ICSI

[Effects of omega 3 on serum level of malondialdehyde and homocysteine in type 2 diabetic patients]

Diabetes is regarded as a serious condition for both the individual and the society. One of the most important mortality reasons in diabetic patients is atherosclerosis. Many epidemiological studies have shown that the total homocysteine concentration is a risk indicator for cardiovascular disease. Malondialdehyde [MDA] also is a highly toxic by-product formed in part by lipid oxidation derived free radicals. Many studies have shown that its concentration increases considerably in diabetes mellitus. Epidemiological data indicate that the consumption of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids [O3FA] leads to a reduction in cardiovascular disorders may protect against metabolic diseases. In recent years, numerous researches on omega-3 fatty acids have been done but it cannot be used as a confident additive. So in order to evaluate and compare the effects of omega 3 on malondialdehyde [as fat peroxidation indicator] and homocysteine on diabetic type 2 patients, this research was carried out in Tehran University. A randomized double blind placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted on 81 type 2 diabetic patients, 45-85 years old with diabetes for at least 2 years. Diabetic patients were randomly assigned to one of the case or control groups, each subject received 3 capsules per day of omega-3 or placebo for a period of 2 months. 10 ml blood was collected from each subject at the beginning and at the end of a 2-month trial. Serum MDA was determined with Tiobarbituric acid for more sensitivity and homosystein was measured by Hitachi autoanalyzer with Enzymatic Cycling method. Nutrients intakes were estimated using 24 h dietary recall questionnaire at the beginning and at the end of the 2-month trial for 2 days and analyzed by FPn. T-test also was used to compare groups. Comparing the meant +/- S.D of BMI and food intake in both groups showed no significant differences. MDA level degreased 0.72 nmol/ml in case group but the difference with the control group was not significant but the differences of homosystein level in case [3.10 micro mol/lit] and control [0.126 micro mol/lit] groups were significant. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation [3 gr/per day] in capsul form can decrease the serum level of homocysteine in diabetic patients without inducing any changes in MDA level and lipid peroxidation

[ effect of formaldehyde on somniferous tubules of Balb/c mice]

To examine the effect of formaldehyde on somniferous ducts of laboratory animals. This study investigated 24 male Balb/c mice 20 days old that randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The Experimental group was administered every other days at the rate of 0.25 mg/kg formaldehyde intrapritoneally for 20 days. The control group received the same volume of normal saline during the same period of times. At the end of exposure time, the sample of both groups were anesthetized and Transected. Their removed testies were processed, serially sectioned and histochemically studied. Our findings showed that the mean of internal diameter of somniferous tubules decreased significantly in experimental group compared to control group while the mean of external diameter was the same in both groups. Furthermore the prolifration rates of I and II spermatocytes were decreased significantly in experimental group compared to control group. The findings indicate that administration of formldehyde can influence the structure of male reproductive system and affect on spermatogenesis procedure