Effect of alcoholic extract of Ginger during fetal life and breastfeeding on serum level of testosterone, LH, FSH and spermatogenic cells line in male mature offspring rats

Background and Objective: Ginger as a medicinal herb is used as a food flavoring and thraphy of many diseases including infertility and male sexual disabilities. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of alcoholic extract of Ginger during fetal life and breastfeeding on serum level of testosterone, LH, FSH and spermatogenic cell lines in male mature offspring rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 72 female adult mice were r and omly allocated into the 9 groups, including: control group [no treatment], sham groups including neonatal and perinatal groups which were received normal salin [0.5 ml daily] and 6 interventional groups. Animals in interventional groups were received doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/bw of alcoholic extract of Ginger, during neonatal and perinatal period, orally. After puberty eight male rats from each group were sacrified. Serum level of testosterone, LH, FSH were measeared and then by isolating testes, the cell numbers of leydig, sertoli, spermatogonia, spermatocyte and spermatid were counted. Results: The extract of Ginger dose-dependently significantly increased the level of testosterone [P<0.05] and the number of spermatogenic cells in compared to controls [P<0.05]. The dosage of 100 and 200 mg/kg/bw of alcoholic extract of Ginger significantly reduced the FSH and LH in compared to controls [P<0.05] Conclusion: The oral consumption of Ginger during pregnancy and lactation dose-dependently increase the level of testosterone and the number of spermatogenic cells

[Effect of 8 weeks of aerobic training on serum level of visfatin and TNF- alpha in non-athletic young women]

There are controversial reports about the effect of training on serum level of visfatin and TNF- alpha Cytokine .This study was done to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of aerobic training on serum level of visfatin and TNF- alpha in non-athletic young women. In this quasi-experimental study, thirty non-athletic healthy women were non-randomly based on the weight, height, BMI index and body fat percentage divided into two control and training groups. In the training group 8 weeks of aerobic exercise on a stationary bicycle 3 times a week was performed. Serum level of visfatin and TNF- alpha was measured using ELISA method, prior and at the end of 8th week of training while the subjects were fasted for 12-14 hours. At the end of 8 weeks of aerobic exercise, serum level of visfatin and TNF- alpha significantly reduced in the training group in comparison with controls [P<0.05]. Eight weeks of aerobic training reduces visfatin and TNF- alpha serum level in non-athletic healthy women

Prevalence of thalassaemia, iron-deficiency anaemia and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency among Arab migrating nomad children, southern Islamic Republic of Iran

This study investigated the prevalence of iron-deficiency anaemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase [G6PD] deficiency and beta-thalassaemia trait among Arab migrating nomad children in southern Islamic Republic of Iran. Blood samples were analysed from 134 schoolchildren aged < 18 years [51 males, 83 females]. Low serum ferritin [< 12 ng/dL] was present in 17.9% of children [21.7% in females and 11.8% in males]. Low haemoglobin [Hb] correlated significantly with a low serum ferritin. Only 1 child had G6PD deficiency. A total of 9.7% of children had HbA2 >/= 3.5 g/ dL, indicating beta-thalassaemia trait [10.8% in females and 7.8% in males]. Mean serum iron, serum ferritin and total iron binding capacity were similar in males and females. Serum ferritin index was as accurate as Hb index in the diagnosis of iron-deficiency anaemia. A high prevalence of beta-thalassaemia trait was the major potential risk factor in this population

Tissue engineering using human mineralized bone xenograft and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells allograft in healing of tibial fracture of experimental rabbit model

Bone healing and its reconstruction in fractures, especially in long bones are of particular importance in regenerative medicine. This study compares the bone healing rate after a human xenograft of mineralized bone and together with an allograft of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells [MSCs] in an experimental tibial bone fracture rabbit model. In fall 2009, twenty New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 2 equal groups. In both groups, a 5 mm segmental defect was created in the right tibia. In group A, a scaffold pin was seeded with allogenic rabbit MSCs and was placed in the defect area and in group B, the defect was filled with an unseeded pin human mineralized bone xenograft. An untreated defect was induced in the left tibia of all animals serving as the control. After 4-8 weeks, the segmental defects were histologically evaluated and also by a compressive test. In groups A and B, healing and formation of new bony tissue were significantly more than the control group and with a significant less inflammation. Tissue engineering of mineralized bone xenograft and MSCs allograft may be significant steps in bone healing and regenerative medicine

Thioacetamide-Induced acute hepatic encephalopathy in rat: behavioral, biochemical and histological changes

As a serious neuropsychiatric disease, hepatic encephalopathy [HE] is a clinical condition with several types regarding chronicity and clinical diversity that can develop as a complication of both acute and chronic liver failure. This study evaluates changes in thioacetamide [TAA]-induced acute hepatic encephalopathy [AHE] in rat as an animal model. Both genders of C57BL6, BALB/C mice and Sprague Dawley rats; [10 animals in each group] were compared for induction of AHE to clarify which animal and gender were appropriate. The animals [10 male rats in each group] were categorized in 4 groups according to the dose of the TAA administered [200, 300 and 400 mg/kg of TAA at 24 h intervals for 4 days]. A control group was treated with solvent of TAA which was water [5 ml/kg/day]. The behavioral, biochemical markers of hepatic failure and histological aspects of thioacetamide [TAA] induced AHE and the correlation between the clinical severity and liver failure biomarkers were evaluated. Rat was shown to be an animal model of choice for AHE while the optimum dosage of TAA to induce AHE was 300 mg/kg/day at 24 h intervals for 4 days. The behavioral score was partially correlated with the rising of some biomarkers and pathological findings. Rat can be introduced as the animal of choice for AHE to study the pathophysiology, pharmacology and the survival rate of disease in liver transplant patients

healing effect of bioglue in articular cartilage defect of femoral condyle in experimental rabbit model

The full-thickness articular cartilage defects of knee have a poor healing capacity that may progress to osteoarthritis and need a knee replacement. This study determines the healing effect of bioglue in full-thickness articular cartilage defect of femoral condyle in rabbit. Forty-eight male rabbits were randomly divided into four equal groups. In group A, 4 mm articular cartilage defects were created in the right and left medial femoral condyles. Then a graft from xiphoid cartilage was transferred into the defect together with a designed bioglue and the knees were closed. In group B, an articular cartilage defect was created identical to group A, but the defect size was 6 mm. In group C, 4 and 6 mm articular cartilage defects were created in the right and left medial femoral condyles respectively. The graft was transferred into the defect and the knees were stitched. In group D, articular cartilage defects were created similar to group C, just filled with bioglue and closed. The rabbits were euthanized and subgroups were defined as A1, B1, C1 and D1 after 30 days and A2, B2, C2 and D2 after 60 days. The cartilages were macroscopically and histologically investigated for any changes. Microscopic and macroscopic investigations showed that bioglue had a significant healing effect in the femoral condyle. Addition of bioglue can effectively promote the healing of articular cartilage defects

effect of calendula officinalis in therapy of acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis in dog as an animal model

In patients with ulcerative colitis [UC], the repeated cycle of injury and repair of intestinal mucosa has been reported to increase the risk of colon cancer. So, a safe and efficient therapy is required for the treatment and prophylaxis for the disease. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of Calendula officinalis extract in treatment of experimentally induced ulcerative colitis in dog animal model. During fall 2010, 10 out-bred female German dogs [1-2 years old; weighs of 20-25 kg] were enrolled. Ulcerative colitis was induced with 6% acetic acid as enema and method of treatment was retrograde [via enema] too by C. officinalis. Loose stools, diarrhea, gross bleeding and loss of body weight happened after administration of acetic acid and crypt damage, loss of epithelium, infiltration of inflammatory cells and depletion of goblet cells were noticed histologically. C. officinalis could successfully resolve the damages of UC. Treatment with C. officinalis can broaden the current therapy options for UC

Prevalence of dyspepsia and its correlation with demographic factors and lifestyle in Shiraz, Southern Iran

Dyspepsia is a common disorder that can present many clinical dilemmas in patient management. Although not life-threatening, the symptoms are long-lasting, interfere with daily activities and have a significant impact upon quality of life. The aim of this study was to determine prevalence of dyspepsia and its relationship with demographic and socioeconomic factors, and lifestyle in an apparently healthy population in Shiraz, southern Iran. In a population-based study, 1978 subjects aged 35 years or older were interviewed from April to September 2004. A questionnaire consisting of demographic factors, lifestyle data and gastrointestinal symptoms was completed for each participant. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were determined. The prevalence of dyspepsia was 29.9%. The dyspeptic patients were classified as having ulcer-like [27.9%], dysmotility-like [26.2%] or unspecified dyspepsia [45.9%]. The prevalence was higher in females, water-pipe smokers, NSAIDs users, and in those with psychological distress, recurrent headache, anxiety, nightmares and past history of gastrointestinal disease. Dyspepsia had an inverse relationship with consumption of pickles, fruits and vegetables, and with duration of meal ingestion. Subjects with dyspepsia symptoms were more likely to restrict their diet, take herbal medicine, use over-the-counter drugs, consult with physicians and consume medication advised by their friends. This study reveals that dyspepsia has a high prevalence in Shiraz, southern Iran and is associated with several demographic factors, lifestyle and health-seeking behavior

possibility of differentiation of human endometrial stem cells into neural cells

In the last few decades, the idea of being able to repair the brain by introducing new cells to repair the damaged areas has become an accepted potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. The stromal cell fraction of many tissues and organs has shown in vitro neurogenic differentiation; however, these cell types are limited by availability, invasiveness of extraction and in some cases limited proliferative capacity. Human endometrial adult stem cells have many clinical advantages over the other stem cells. Here, we propose the hypothesis that endometrial adult stem cells may be induced into neural cells

Thalassemia, iron and G6PD deficiency in Lor migrating nomad children, Southern Iran

Ferropenia and consequent iron deficiency anemia [IDA], beta-thalassemia, and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase [G6PD] deficiency are three main common hematologic problems in Iran. This study was conducted on the prevalence of these problems in Lor migrating nomads ethnic group in southern Iran. From June to October 2006, the blood samples of 79 Lor migrating nomadic children including 53 [67.1%] male and 26 [32.9%] female were checked for iron indices and G6PD deficiency. The family history of favism, thalassemiaand, signs and symptoms in relation to anemia of participants were evaluated. RBC count, different types of Hb, Hct, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, SI, TIBC and SF were determined immediately after blood sampling. Fourteen [17.7%] children had SF<12 ng/mL while the prevalence of this low serum ferritin was higher in females than males [19.2% vs. 17%]. The low hemoglobin [Hb] level had statistical correlation with the low serum ferritin level. Among all participants, the prevalence of G6PD deficiency was 10.1%, and all of them were male children. The prevalence of beta-thalassemia was 2.5% and all were male. The prevalence of IDA was 17.7%. Although IDA figure is less than those reported in other developing countries [25-35%]; but it shows that Lor tribes in southern Iran are still behind the health status of developed countries [5-8%]. Even the prevalence of beta-thalassemia is not very high, but regarding the devastating potential risk of Cooley's anemia; a careful performance of Iranian thalassemia program is recommended. It seems that G6PD deficiency is prevalent in Lor nomads, so establishment of educational programs and investigation on their dietary habits seem to be a good way to prevent the favism occurrence

effect of exam stress on serum IL-6, cortisol, CRP and IgE levels

Stress has determining effects on the immune response. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of exam stress on serum IL-6, cortisol, CRP and IgE levels of medical students. Thirty five university medical students in Southern Iran were enrolled. Two blood samples were provided from each participant one month [first stage] and one hour [second stage] before the exam at 1.00 PM. The students completed the SpielBerger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI] questionnaire. IL-6, cortisol, CRP and IgE changes were determined in these students. The mean age of the students was 21 years. The exam stress resulted in a significant decrease in the IgE level and a significant increase in the cortisol level. The exam stress can result in a decrease in the IgE level and a significant increase in the cortisol level. So, these changes may indicate the alterations of immunological status and presence of stress in an immunosuppressed individual, affecting his/her health

Prevalence of the HFE gene mutation in the liver transplanted and primary hemochromatosis patients in the southern Iran

Primary hemochromatosis is an inherited disorder. Mutation in this gene is accompanied with iron overload in the body leading to organ failure that primarily affects liver. Individuals with homozygote HFE gene mutation are prone to developing the end stage liver disease. Concomitance heterozygote HFE mutation with the other hepatic risk factors may accelerate hepatic damage, leading to cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to find out the spectrum and frequency of the HFE gene mutations in the liver transplantation [end-stage liver disease [ESLD]] candidate groups. Totally, 170 individuals were studied for HFE gene mutations including 87 ESLD patients with various etiologies from Division of Liver Transplant in Nemazee Hospital affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Seventy four randomly selected healthy blood donors were evaluated as the control group, and 9 hemochromatosis patients who referred to our lab for genetic analysis due to their high serum ferritin levels and clinical diagnosis were surveyed in a period of one year. HFE gene mutation was found in 57 [approx 33%], 14 [approx 9%], and 15 [approx 83%] chromatids of the ESLD group, control sample, and hemochromatosis patients, respectively. The allele frequency of H63D is about 0.085 among these people. The HFE mutation H63D in the ESLD is significantly higher than that of the control group [W/H63D: odds ratio 5.70, 95%Cl= 2.6-12.55; H63D/H63D: odds ratio 6.39, 95% Cl= 0.77-53.1]. In compliance with our previous report, the C282Y mutation is very uncommon in the southern population. This prevalence could be due to a significant aggravating effect of H63D for liver disease in these patients and may contribute to the poor liver transplantation outcome

Are endometrial stem cells novel tools against ischemic heart failure in women? A hypothesis

Recently stem cell therapy has suggested novel therapeutic strategies for management of heart failure and myocardial infarction. Our aim was to show that endometrial stromal cells produce a higher overall clonogenicity with a high angiogenesis potential. In addition, they may be converted into osteoblasts, odentoblasts, chindroblasts, neuroblasts and myoblasts and can be used for cell therapy as autologous and heterologous transplantations in future studies

Helminthic infections of laboratory animals in animal house of Shiraz University of medical sciences and the potential risks of zoonotic infections for researchers

Different parasitic diseases may be transfered from laboratory animals to human [zoonoses]. The current study was designed to determine the helminthic infections in animal house of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences to prevent the possible transmission of zoonotic ones from laboratory animals to the staff and researchers. Sixty laboratory animals including mouse, rats, Guinea pigs and rabbits were randomly selected and examined for any helminthic infections. 83.33% rats were infected with Syphacia muris and Aspiculuris tetraptera, 100% of Guinea pigs were infected with Paraspidodera uncinata, rabbits were infected with Passalurus ambiguous [40%], inbred BALB/C mice were infected with Hymenolepis nana [50%], Aspiculuris tetraptera [90%] and Syphacia obvelata [90%], outbred BALB/C mice were infected with Hymenolepis nana [50%], Aspiculuris tetraptera [90%], Syphacia obvelata [90%] and C57BL/6 mice were infected with Hymenolepis nana [66%], Aspiculuris tetraptera [100%] and Syphacia obvelata [100%]. Our study was revealed minimum and maximum infection frequency in rabbits and guinea pigs respectively. It seems that low and unsuitable space of infected animals in mentioned research center was the main cause of distribution of infection among rats and mice in Animal House of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

potential of human endometrial stem cells for osteoblast differentiation

The endometrial stem cells were shown to have an excellent pluripotency potential. Human endometrium contains a small population of mesenchymal stem cells [MSC] that may be responsible for its cyclical growth and may provide a readily available source of MSC. However, endometrial stromal cells are easier to isolate and expand with less technical problems compared to bone marrow MSCs. Here we hypothesized that endometrial stem cells may differentiate into osteogenic cells as one of the most important issues in orthopedic surgery associated with bone loss in traumas, infections, tumors or congenital disorders

Survival models in breast cancer patients

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among Iranian women. Five and ten year survival is one of the indicators used for evaluation of the quality of care after surgery. In this study, we used several survival models to determine risk factors, survival times and life expectancies of different types of surgery. This study was performed on 310 patients who underwent surgery during a ten years period. Logistic regression and Cox regression models were used to analyze the factors leading to death. The Kaplan-Meier method [non-parametric] was used to estimate the survival rate. The log-rank test was used to compare survival in different groups. To compare life expectancy of different types of surgery, we used the actuarial life table method. Logistic regression showed that stage, grade, age and history of benign malignancy had significant relationship with death. Log-rank test showed that there was a significant difference between survival for patients with different stages, age and history of benign tumors. Cox regression model demonstrated that the variables of stage, grade, age and benign problems were the major risk factors. Actuarial life table model showed that the life expectancy for all patients was 10.03 years. This life expectancy in early stages of breast cancer for mastectomy and lumpectomy were 8.99 and 8.35 years, respectively, which was not significant. It can be concluded that the higher stage, grade, age and history of benign tumor were, the most important risk factors were correlated to mortality in breast cancer patients. This study showed that there was no significant difference between life expectancies of mastectomy and lumpectomy surgery

Prevalence and quality of life in Qashqai migrating nomads with irritable bowel syndrome in southern Iran

Irritable Bowel Syndrome [IBS] is an important public health problem, owing both to its high prevalence and its impact on the quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of IBS and its relationship to life style in Qashqai migrating nomads with a different lifestyle in Fars province, southern Iran. In summer 2006, 748 Qashqai migrating nomads aged 25 years or more were enrolled, using a multiple-stage stratified cluster random sampling method. A questionnaire consisting of demographic data and IBS symptoms was completed for each subject. For about 50% of them, SF 36 questionnaire was also completed. The prevalence rate of IBS was 11.8% and there was a close relationship between IBS and the life quality. The prevalence of IBS in Qashqai migrating nomads was higher than the urban population in the area with a close relationship to the life quality