Background: The release of dopamine (DA) has certain roles in the induction of conditioned place preference (CPP) and motor learning in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The aim of this study was to investigate the excitatory effects of DA through DA-D1 agonist (SKF38393) and elimination of the inhibitory effects of DA through DA-D2 antagonist (eticlopride) into the VTA and its synergistic effects with an ineffective dose of morphine in the induction of CPP. Materials and Methods: Morphine (2.5 mg/kg; s. c.) did not induce a significant CPP, without any effect on the locomotor activity during the testing phase. SKF38393 (0.125, 0.5, and 1 μg/side) and eticlopride (0.5, 1, and 2 μg/side) individually or simultaneously were microinjected bilaterally into the VTA. Results: The administration of SKF38393 (1 and 2 μg/rat) with ineffective morphine and also without morphine caused CPP on test day, while eticlopride (2 μg/rat) caused CPP with morphine only. Locomotor activity increased in groups receiving D1 agonist and D2 antagonist that presumed to be caused by the reinforcing effect. In addition, the concurrent administration of ineffective doses of D1 agonist and D2 antagonist into the VTA with ineffective morphine caused CPP but not with saline. Conclusions: This study showed that there was a need for morphine to activate the reward circuit through the D2 receptor in the VTA while the administration of the D1 agonist could independently activate the reward circuit. In addition, there was a probable synergistic effect using ineffective doses of D1 and D2 receptors, in the acquisition of morphine-induced CPP.

Background: Molgramostim, a nonglycosylated version of recombinant granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), can be produced in a high level by Escherichia coli. However, overexpression of GM-CSF in bacterial cells usually leads to formation of inclusion bodies and insoluble protein aggregates which are not biologically active. The aim of the present study was to improve the expression of soluble and biologically active GM-CSF in periplasmic space of E. coli BL21 (DE3). Materials and Methods: The codon-optimized GM-CSF gene was subcloned into pET-22b expression vector, in frame with the pelB secretion signal peptide for periplasmic secretion. Cultivation conditions including as isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) concentration, incubation temperature, and presence of sucrose were optimized to improve periplasmic expression of GM-CSF. The expressed protein was purified using Ni-NTA affinity column. Biological activity of GM-CSF on HL-60 cells was evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results: The amount of soluble protein for periplasmic expression was more when compared with one of the cytoplasmic expressions. The optimum condition for periplasmic expression of GM-CSF was expression at 23°C, using 1 mM IPTG as inducer and in the presence of 0.4 M sucrose. The biological activity of purified GM-CSF on HL-60 cell line was assessed by MTT assay, and the specific activity of produced GM-CSF was determined as 1.2 × 10⁴ IU/μg. Conclusion: The present work suggests that periplasmic expression and optimization of cultivation conditions could improve soluble expression of recombinant proteins by E. coli.

Background: Fatty liver disease is a common hepatic disorder that remains undiagnosed due to the high number of asymptomatic patients and lack of a proper noninvasive diagnostic tool. Liver biopsy, the gold standard of liver steatosis diagnosis, is an invasive method that can be replaced by fibroscan. Fibroscan can detect liver steatosis with high sensitivity and specificity, but it is not accessible around the world. In this study, we compared ultrasonography (US) as a cheap and accessible device with fibroscan method in detecting patients with liver steatosis. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 77 patients in this study. US and fibroscan were done in each patient at a single day. Liver steatosis stages were recorded using US and fibroscan. The diagnostic performance of US was calculated, using fibroscan as the reference method. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of US in detecting fatty liver disease using fibroscan as a standard method were 73% and 69%, respectively. Conclusion: Based on sensitivity and specificity achieved from US, this study suggests that ultrasound is a suitable method for detecting patients with liver steatosis obviating liver biopsy and fibroscan.

Background: One of the most common problems in the intensive care unit (ICU) is the incidence of pressure ulcer or bedsore. This research was conducted with the aim to compare the effect of henna and olive on pressure ulcer grade one in ICU patients hospitalized in the selected hospitals of Isfahan University of Medical Science in 2016. Materials and Methods: This study conducted on 108 ICU patients with pressure ulcer. Patients were randomly divided into three groups. The two intervention groups were treated with olive oil and henna oil, respectively, and the third group was the control group. Data were collected using a demographic information questionnaire, Braden pressure ulcer risk assessment scale, and a table for daily record of the skin temperature before and within 1 week of the study. Data were analyzed in SPSS 22 using independent t-test, repeated-measures ANOVA, and Fisher's exact test. Results: The results showed a significant difference between the two henna and olive groups in the mean score of pressure ulcer measured through the pressure ulcer scale for healing tool (P < 0.05). The mean area of the ulcer on days 4 and 7 in the henna oil group was lower than that in the olive oil and control groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that both henna and olive oils were effective in healing the pressure ulcer. However, henna oil showed better results in reducing the area of pressure ulcers over time.

Background: Melatonin has anxiolytic and potential analgesic effects. Several studies have indicated the sedative and anti-anxiety effects of melatonin when used as premedication before surgery. Hence, we assessed the efficacy of melatonin premedication in tourniquet-related pain and analgesia in patients receiving intravenous regional anesthesia (IVRA). Materials and Methods: Fifty patients undergoing elective hand surgery under IVRA were randomly divided into two groups (25 patients each) to receive either melatonin 6 mg (melatonin group) or placebo (control group) as oral premedication. IVRA was achieved with lidocaine, 3 mg/kg, diluted with saline to a total volume of 40 mL. Anxiety scores, sensory and motor block onset and recovery times, tourniquet pain, and 24-h analgesic requirements were recorded. Results: The onset of motor and sensory block was statistically significantly shorter in Group M (P < 0.001), and recovery of motor and sensory block was statistically significantly longer in Group M (P < 0.001). The time of starting tourniquet pain was longer in Group M (P < 0.001). The mean anxiety score in the study group was 3 ± 0.81 and in the control group was 4.20 ± 1.04 (P = 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in the need for opioids between the two groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Melatonin is an effective premedication before IVRA because it reduces patient anxiety, decreases tourniquet-related pain, and improves perioperative analgesia.

Background: Diabetes, a major metabolic disorder, seems to affect the fertility rates of women in various ways. Due to the uncertainty of the effects of diabetes along with superovulation treatment on the infertility, we investigate the effects of ovulation induction treatment as therapeutic approach on the expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) as two main factors which are involved in the implantation in the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Type 1 diabetes was induced by injections of STZ in Wistar rats. The animals were kept in diabetic conditions for 4 weeks, while some were treated with insulin for treatment. After treatment, the ovulation was induced by human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The rats were then sacrificed and the expression of LIF and VEGFA was checked by immunohistochemistry staining method, and the relative expression of LIF and VEGFA was measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting methods. Results: It was observed that diabetes and insulin treatment for diabetes altered the expression of Lif and VEGFA in both mRNA and protein levels. However, superovulation treatment seems to ameliorate this alternation for both factors. Conclusion: According to our results, diabetes and insulin therapy could alter the expression of Lif and VEGFA genes and proteins that are effective in endometrial receptivity and implantation process. It seems in diabetic cases, the effect of hCG and hMG therapy by itself could regulate the level of expression and presence of these two genes and proteins.

Background: Reteplase is a nonglycosylated derivative of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, a thrombolytic agent, which can be easily expressed in Escherichia coli. However, overexpression of reteplase in E. coli usually leads to accumulation of insoluble and inactive aggregates and inclusion bodies. In the present study, we aimed to optimize chemical additives of lysis buffer to avoid the initial aggregation and formation of inclusion bodies of reteplase at cell disruption step. Materials and Methods: After protein expression in E. coli BL21 (DE3), the bacterial cells were disrupted in different lysis buffers using microsmashing. Eleven chemical additives at two concentration levels were combined based on a Plackett–Burman design to prepare 12 different lysis buffers used at cell disruption stage. Then, three additives with the most positive effect on improvement of solubility of reteplase were chosen and used for the second screening based on Box–Behnken model. Results: The primary screening results showed that among 11 additives, arginine, K₂PO_4,and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) had the most positive effect on solubility of reteplase. Our final results based on 14 runs of Box–Behnken design showed that the optimum buffer additive condition is 0.005 mg/ml CTAB, 0.065 mg/ml arginine, and 0.026 mg/ml K₂PO₄. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis and Western blotting of soluble and total fraction of samples confirmed that these additives significantly improved soluble production of reteplase compared with control. Conclusion: Our study indicates that the application of chemical additives in cell lysis can improve the solubility of reteplase. Further studies are still required to understand the exact mechanism of chemical additives as a chemical chaperone during cell lysis.

Backgrounds: Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injuries occur in a variety of clinical conditions, which lead to kidney damage. Most of the tissue damages after IR are due to the activation of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS). Hence, in this study, the interaction of sex hormones and RAS in ovariectomized (OV) rats subjected to IR induction has been studied. Materials and Methods: The animals were divided into different groups. Groups 1 (OV + E, OV rat + estradiol) and 2 (OV rat) each one consisted of three separate IR-induced subgroups treated with losartan, angiotensin 1–7 (Ang 1–7), and their combination, Group 3, as control and Group 4, as sham. Next, 72 h after IR, blood samples were collected, the right kidneys were homogenized, and left kidneys were fixed in 10% formalin. Results: Findings show that serum blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and kidney tissue damage score levels increased significantly with induction of IR (P < 0.05). Mean serum levels of these factors in OV + E groups are higher than those of the OV. The presence or absence of estradiol did not affect the levels of antioxidants in the different groups receiving Los, Ang 1–7, and their combination. Los, Ang 1–7, and their combination reduced serum and kidney malondialdehyde levels in both OV and OV + E groups. Conclusion: Estrogen not only fails to improve renal functioning but it can also exacerbate it. While the treatments used in this study, in the absence of estradiol, it had a better effect on kidney damages and improved its functions.

Background: Overweight and obesity are major problems with increasing rates among adult populations. Nutritional behaviors and physical activity are the most important influencing factors. In this article, we conducted a survey on the nutritional behaviors and physical activities among normal-weight and overweight/obese adults. Materials and Methods: We conducted a survey on some of the nutritional behaviors and physical activities of 729 middle-aged adults. Data regarding desirable or undesirable use of fruits, fish, dairy products, oil, fast foods, and carbonated drinks and the intensity and duration of physical activities were collected from our data bank and analyzed using the SPSS software. Results: Our results indicated that overweight/obese people had an improper usage of fruits, oil, fast foods, and carbonated drinks and had lower physical activity. There was also a significant increase in intensity, duration per day, and weekly days of physical activity in healthy groups. Logistic regression analysis of nutritional behaviors, physical activities, and obesity also indicated that undesirable usage of oil, fast foods, and carbonated drinks and undesirable physical activity are associated with risks for overweight/obesity (odds ratio [OR] =10.70, OR = 7.45, OR = 7.48, and OR = 2.16, respectively) (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This article puts emphasis on the role of proper nutritional behaviors and higher physical activities in decreasing the risks of developing obesity, and we suggest that further interventions could be made based on the results of our study.

Background: Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by an intracellular parasite of Leishmania and is transmitted through the female sandflies bite and may lead to severe skin lesions. Although drugs such as antimony compounds are available, their side effects such as toxicity, low efficacy, and emergence of resistance have raised the importance of effective replacement. Imatinib, as an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase (TK) of Leishmania, stops abnormal function of TK such as Bcr-Abl through assembling into transmembrane pores in a sterol-dependent manner. Hence, the evaluation of killing effects of different concentrations of imatinib against Leishmania major amastigotes and promastigotes in vitro were the objectives of the present study.Materials and Methods: The killing effects of different concentrations of imatinib (25, 50, and 100 μg) and 25 μg amphotericin B (as positive control) were evaluated against RPMI 1640-cultured promastigotes and the amastigote/macrophage model by MTS cell proliferation assay kit (ab197010) and Giemsa staining method during 24, 48, and 72 h. Results: The results showed anti-Leishmania effect of imatinib in concentration and time-dependent manner. The lowest number of live promastigotes and amastigotes were obtained due to treat with 100 μ/ml imatinib at 72 h. Furthermore, 100 μg concentration of imatinib had the same effect as 25 μg amphotericin B on both L. major promastigotes and amastigotes (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The anti-Leishmania effect of imatinib was confirmed by MTS and direct microscopy. Further study is recommended for evaluating possible therapeutic effects of imatinib on leishmaniasis in vivo.

Background: Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii can cause complications in antibiotic therapy and increase the rate of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Patients with ventilator and burns are two specific groups at high risk for A. baumannii infections. This study aimed to determine antibiotic susceptibility patterns associated with biofilm production in A. baumannii and to assess its molecular epidemiology by random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD PCR) in A. baumannii isolated from ventilator-associated pneumonia and burn wound colonization. Materials and Methods: In this study, 79 isolates of A. baumannii (32 ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP] 47 burns) were collected in two teaching hospitals in Tehran, Iran, in 2018. Conventional biochemical and microbiological methods were used to identify bacteria. Antibiotic susceptibility was detected by disc diffusion methods according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute 2018. Tube test was examined for the detection of the biofilm formation rate in collected strains. The most prevalent carbapenemase genes were detected by PCR and molecular typing by RAPD PCR. Results: All of bacteria were extensively drug-resistant (XDR) except for two isolates. The results of tube test indicated that only 36% of XDR strains were in weak rate of biofilm formation group. Two major clonal genetic groups were found in VAP and burn strains. Oxa-23 was the most prevalent carbapenemase in collected A. baumannii. Conclusion: The presence of XDR strains of A. baumannii is considerable significant problem in hospitals. Further, similar genetic clonal identified in them indicated the nosocomial infection origin. Hence, these results are very important for control of nosocomial infection committee in health-care systems.

Background: Early puberty (EP) is due to the activation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator in lower ages; EP may be a potential cause for impairment of adult height, leading to short stature. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of GnRH analog (GnRHa) and GnRHa plus recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment on final height in healthy girls with EP. Materials and Methods: Fifty EP girls (sexual maturity rating: 2–3) with chronological age (CA) 9.22 ± 0.56 and bone age (BA) 9.74 ± 0.59 years were treated with GnRHa (Triptorelin) at a dose of 100 μg/kg body weight (BW) as intramuscular every 28 days for 2.82 ± 0.57 years; 45 EP girls with CA 9.84 ± 0.57 and BA 10.14 ± 1.02 years were also treated with the same GnRHa plus rhGH (Norditropin) at a dose of 0.1 unit/kg BW daily for 6 days in a week for 2.55 ± 0.6 years. In the control group, 33 EP girls followed for the same period without treatment. Height, weight, and body mass index of girls and parents were assessed. Predicted adult height (PAH) at the start and the end of the study and target height were assessed.Results: PAH at the end of the study in the GnRHa group was not different with untreated girls. PAH at the end of the treatment in GnRHa plus rhGH group was significantly higher than both untreated and GnRHa group. PAH at the end of therapy in GnRHa plus rhGH group was significantly more than their target height. Conclusion: GnRHa therapy has a benefit effect in achievement of target height. Combination therapy with GnRHa plus rhGH increased their PAH more than both untreated and GnRHa groups.

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease which is characterized by infiltration of inflammatory cells, crypt abscesses, distortion of the mucosal glands, and goblet cell depletion. The existence of neutrophil-rich inflammation in colon tissues of patients with UC is one of the most significant histological features of this disease. Nonetheless, the expression of CXCR chemokine receptors which appear as the main chemical mediators governing the migration of neutrophils into the mucosal tissue of patients with UC has not been well clarified. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the UC model was induced in Wistar rats by administration of 2 ml 4% acetic acid into the large colon through the rectum. Animals were anesthetized after 48 h; their colon tissue samples were isolated for macroscopic and histopathological examination. The expression of receptor_1-7of CXC chemokine was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique. Results: Heavy infiltration of neutrophils, coagulative necrosis, and ulcers were observed in H and E staining, which pathologically proved the UC model. qRT-PCR results indicated that CXCR2 as one of the important ELR⁺ chemokine family receptors bears the highest expression in the UC group (32 fold) than the control group (P ≤ 0.05). In addition, other CXCRs of this group including CXCR1 did not possess any change (P > 0.05). In contrast, RLR negative chemokine family receptors did not show any changes with the normal group. Conclusion: The results showed that CXCR2 is the only receptor for CXCL family which was remarkably upregulated in experimental UC and that CXCR2 might play a significant role in the pathogenesis of UC.

Background: Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diabetes characterized by noninsulin-dependent, autosomal-dominant disorder with strong familial history, early age of onset, and pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction. Mutations in at least 14 different genes are responsible for various MODY subtypes. Heterozygous mutations in the hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha (HNF1A) gene are responsible for the MODY3 subtype, which is a common subtype of MODY in different studied populations. To date, more than 450 different variants of this gene have been reported as disease causing for MODY3. This study was carried out to evaluate HNF1A mutations in Iranian diabetic families fulfilling MODY criteria. Materials and Methods: Polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing were performed. All the ten exons of the HNF1A gene were sequenced in ten families, followed by cosegregation analysis and in silico evaluation. Computational protein modeling was accomplished for the identified mutation. Results: MODY3 was confirmed in two large families by detecting a mutation (p.G253E) in coding regions of HNF1A. Compound heterozygous state for two common variants in HNF1A (p.I27 L and p.S487N) was detected in affected members of 5 families, and in one family, a rare benign variant in the coding sequence for Kozak sequence was detected. Two new nonpathogenic variants were found in noncoding regions of HNF1A. Conclusion: It seems that HNF1A mutations are a common cause of MODY in Iranian diabetic patients. Identified common variants in heterozygous state can cause diabetes Type II in earlier ages. The role of rare variant rs3455720 is unknown, and more investigation is needed to uncover the function of this variant.

Background: Dyspepsia is one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) problems and is more prevalent in adults. Environmental hypersensitivity and anxiety and depression are among the factors that can cause this disease. In this regard, gabapentin as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analog used in the treatment of neuropathic pain and may be effective in controlling the symptoms of GI disorders. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of oral gabapentin on the improvement of GI symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) resistant to conventional treatments. Materials and Methods: In a double-blind clinical trial, 126 patients with FD resistant to conventional treatments, referred to gastroenterology clinic of Hajar Hospital of Shahrekord in 2017–2018, were randomly assigned to two groups; patients in the control group received omeprazole alone, and the case group received omeprazole plus gabapentin. The severity of GI symptoms was recorded and evaluated by the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire before and after treatment (4 weeks). Results: GSRS total score in the group who received gabapentin (16.89 ± 6.89) was significantly lower than controls (20.00 ± 9.31) (P = 0.036). It also found that gabapentin, as an adjunctive drug, plus omeprazole could play a significant role in GI symptom improvement, such as pain, reflux, and indigestion. Conclusion: Gabapentin as an adjunctive drug could be more effective in reducing the severity of GI symptoms in patients with dyspepsia, especially neurological symptoms (such as pain, reflux, and indigestion).

Background: Cancer initiation and progression depends on genetic and epigenetic alterations such as DNA methylation and histone modifications. Hypermethylation and deacetylation of the CIP/KIP family (p21, p27, and p57) lead to tumorigenesis. Our previous study indicated that DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors can inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR) in comparison to valproic acid (VPA) and trichostatin A (TSA) on HDAC1, DNMT1, and CIP/KIP family (p21, p27, and p57) genes expression, cell growth inhibition, and apoptosis induction in colon cancer SW480 cell line. Materials and Methods: The effect of the compounds on the cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The expression of HDAC1, DNMT1, and CIP/KIP family (p21, p27, and p57) genes was evaluated by real-time quantitative reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). For the detection of cell apoptosis, apoptotic cells were examined by the Annexin V-FITC/PI detection kit. Results: The results of MTT assay indicated that 5-Aza-CdR, VPA, and TSA significantly inhibited cell growth (P < 0.002,P < 0.001, andP < 0.001, respectively). The results of real-time RT-PCR demonstrated that all compounds significantly down-regulated DNMT1 and HDAC1, and up-regulated p21, p27, and p57 genes expression. The result of flow cytometry assay revealed that all agents induced apoptosis significantly. Conclusion: 5-Aza-CdR, VPA, and TSA can significantly downregulate DNMT1 and HDAC1 and up-regulate p21, p27, and p57 genes expression through which enhance cell apoptosis and cell growth inhibition in colon cancer.

Background: Radiation toxicity is one of the major concerns for patients with gastrointestinal cancers that undergo radiotherapy. Duodenum is one of the most radiosensitive parts of gastrointestinal system that may be exposed to a high dose of radiation during radiotherapy for some cancers. The development or identification of appropriate radioprotectors with less toxicity is an interesting aim in radiobiology for clinical radiotherapy applications. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the radioprotective effect of melatonin and metformin combination in rat's duodenum. In addition, we compared our results with the radioprotective effect of melatonin, when administered alone. Materials and Methods: Thirty male rats were divided into six groups: control, melatonin treatment, melatonin plus metformin treatment, whole-body irradiation, irradiation with melatonin treatment, and irradiation with melatonin plus metformin treatment. Irradiation was performed with 10 Gy cobalt-60 gamma rays, while 100 mg/kg of melatonin and metformin were administered 24 h before to 72 h after irradiation. After 3.5 days, their duodenum tissues were removed for histopathological evaluation. Results: Irradiation of rats led to mild-to-moderate mucositis signs, infiltration of inflammatory cells, necrosis, and damage to Brunner's glands and reduction of goblet cells. Melatonin was able to alleviate these damages, while melatonin plus metformin could reduce some radiation toxicity signs. Conclusion: Administration of melatonin plus metformin could reduce mucositis in duodenum. However, the administration of melatonin is more effective for mitigation of duodenal injury compared with melatonin plus metformin.

Background: Ankle fracture–dislocation with a syndesmotic injury has been treated with syndesmotic screw fixation. There are little evidences about the safety and efficacy of syndesmotic screw removal on the syndesmotic malreduction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of syndesmotic screw removal of distal attachment of the fibula and tibia bones on the syndesmotic reduction and also impact of syndesmotic screw removal on the final functional score of ankle joint. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent syndesmotic screw fixation for diagnosed syndesmosis injury during internal fixation surgery for ankle fractures from April 2017 to March 2018 were assessed for enrollment in our study. During open reduction and internal fixation for ankle fracture, existence of syndesmosis injury was evaluated using the Cotton test and external rotation stress test. Appropriate rehabilitation including short leg cast and nonweight bearing have been accomplished for a duration 12 weeks before removing of syndesmotic screws. At 12 weeks, screws were removed. After 1-month weight bearing, bilateral axial computed tomography (CT) scan and single-leg weight-bearing X-ray for injured ankle were obtained. Results: Of all 60 participants, 42 cases (70%) were male and 18 cases (30%) were female. Postoperative ankle radiographies were normal except one case with increased medial clear space. It was interesting findings that from total 60 cases, 18 patients (30%) had evidence of syndesmosis malreduction on postoperative initial CT scan, and after removing of syndesmotic screws (12 weeks) and a period of weight bearing and rehabilitation (4 weeks), there is evidence of appropriate reduction in 13 cases (of 18 patients [72.2%]) on final CT scans.Conclusion: Syndesmotic screw removal and weight bearing may be advantageous to achieve final anatomic reduction of the syndesmosis. Syndesmotic screw removal at appropriate time could not improve foot functional outcomes; however, more studies with the larger sample size are required to confirm the results of the study.

Background: The Vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms are the candidate genetic variants for susceptibility to different disease including autoimmune disorders. In the present study, we aimed to assess the association between VDR polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) susceptibility in Southeast Iranian population. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty-seven patients with SLE and 139 controls were genotyped for VDR rs2228570, rs731236, and rs7975232 polymorphisms using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results: The VDR rs2228570 polymorphism was associated with higher risk of SLE in codominant, dominant, and overdominant models. Moreover, higher risk of SLE was observed in individuals with VDR rs731236 polymorphism in codominant, dominant, overdominant, and allelic models. The tAf haplotype of rs731236/rs7975232/rs2228570 polymorphisms was associated with higher risk of SLE. Conclusion: In conclusion, VDR rs2228570 and rs731236 polymorphisms and tAf haplotype were associated with SLE risk.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is rated as the second cause of cancer death worldwide. Selenium (Se) has antioxidant activity and antitumor effect, especially in colon cancer. This important role occurs through selenoproteins. Low Se intake or low plasma Se and selenoproteins concentrations are associated with higher risk of CRC. rs7579 polymorphism in 3' untranslated region of the SEPP1 gene can effect on selenocysteine incorporation during protein synthesis and also effect on microRNA -messengerRNA interaction and sequentially change in SEPP1 expression. rs34713741 polymorphism as a promoter variant in selenoprotein S (SELS) gene can effect on SElS expression and finally lead to increased CRC risk. Methods: A case-control study using 60 CRC patients and 74 noncancerous counterparts were undertaken in order to determine rs7579 and rs34713741 genotypes using real-time polymerase chain reaction high-resolution melting method. Results: We found an association of borderline statistical significance between allele A for rs7579 in SEPP 1 and CRC risk (adjusted odds ratio = 1.63; confidential interval = 0.99-2.07; P = 0.05). The frequency of genotypes rs34713741 of the mentioned polymorphisms was not significantly different between case and control groups (P = 0.23 and P = 0.93, respectively). Conclusions: The results suggest that these polymorphisms probably has not a substantial role in Iranian CRC risk and is not a serious potential factor in risk assessment of mentioned disease among Iranians.

Background: The aim of this study was to design an algorithm for the calculation of monitor unit (MU) in a short time and high precision for different radiotherapy (RT) fields. Materials and Methods: The algorithm for calculating MU for the stated patients was designed in MATLAB software. To investigate the efficiency of this algorithm, 11 regular chest fields with the sizes of 7 cm × 7 cm up to 17 cm × 17 cm were considered, and the obtained MUs were compared with MUs of 13 patients which were calculated with a “hand calculation” which is used in some RT centers for the aforementioned fields. Results: The maximum percentage of calculation errors of regular fields at the depths of 4 and 10 cm were 1 and 0.8, respectively. The maximum and minimum percentage of calculation errors in irregular fields was 3 and 0.9, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum and minimum errors were 8.8 and 0.14, respectively. In addition, relative percentages of the MUs for irregular fields of chest and supraclavicular were 1.63 and 1.01, respectively. Conclusion: Calculation of MUs is suggested to be performed with the novel proposed algorithm, due to reduce the treatment time, and also provide high accuracy and precision compared to hand calculation.

Background: Diabetes is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. Diabetes and hyperglycemia are leading causes for cardiovascular diseases, chronic infections, and other serious problems. The use of smartphone is dramatically increasing, and as such, it is sensible to use an application for management of hospitalized patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia. We designed a software for physicians by use of which they educate to take appropriate decisions in management of patients with diabetes and evaluated the quality of the application using a questionnaire. Materials and Methods: Application is designed in a cascade framework to help in management of patients with diabetes and hyperglycemia. The treatment protocols presented in the program were extracted from diabetes management guidelines and valid review articles. Furthermore, we developed a questionnaire to assess the quality of the program. Physicians (n = 36) used this program for 1 week after which they completed the questionnaire. Results: The physicians described the application to be useful and understandable. Conclusion: A high percentage of physicians and health providers are aware of the problems when it comes to hospitalized patients with diabetes and our application was designed to resolve the associated difficulties.

Background: Rapid rise in petrol pump filling station is seen in the last decade, and air pollution had increased drastically. Air pollutants and components in petrol may have delirious effect on respiratory health. Petrol pump workers are exposed to both factors, whereas auto-rickshaw drivers are exposed mainly to air pollutants. In the present study, respiratory function in petrol pump workers was compared with auto-rickshaw driver and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: This was the cross-sectional study done on petrol pump workers, auto-rickshaw drivers, and healthy volunteers. ndd Large TrueFlow™ (EasyOne) spirometer was used to assess pulmonary function. One-way ANOVA and Chi-square test were used using statistical software. Results: No significant difference was seen in various spirometry parameters studied. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed the pattern of the lung function in three groups. Conclusions: Nine years of occupation as petrol pump worker and auto-rickshaw drivers are not having any significant effect on lung function; however, large multicentric trials are recommended, whereby the role of various factors controlling pollution would be studied.

Background: Knowledge and skill about sedation of aggressive patients is necessary for each psychiatrist. The purpose of this study was comparing the velocity and durability of sedation induced by the haloperidol, trifluoperazine, promethazine, and chlorpromazine in aggressive patients. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was done on 76 aggressive patients referred to Psychiatry Emergency Service of Noor Hospital of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences that were randomly divided into four groups of haloperidol, promethazine, chlorpromazine, and trifluoperazine. Patients were evaluated at 30 min intervals for aggressive symptoms, and if they did not respond to intervention after the first 30 min or if they showed aggression again, a same dose of the injected drug was prescribed. The length of sedation time was recorded for each patient. Results: Seventy-six patients with the mean age of 31.89 ± 8.73 years were participated and 63.2% of them were male. Response to intervention after the first injection was seen in 40.8% and 59.2% needed the second injection. The mean time needed for obtaining sedation was 17.38 ± 8.23 and 19.66 ± 4.64 min after the first and second injection, respectively. The mean times of sedation induction were not significantly related to age, gender, type of substance used, type of aggression, and type of psychiatric disorder. Considering the type of drugs, there was no significant difference between velocity and durability effect of sedation after the first and second injection. Conclusion: Comparing the velocity and durability of sedative effect of the four studied drugs on acute aggressive patients, did not show any significant difference between them.

Background: Increased ankle movement variability has been reported in people with functional ankle instability (FAI). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of textured insole, lateral wedge, and textured lateral wedge insole on ankle movement variability during walking in athletes with FAI. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one athletes diagnosed with FAI participated in this before-after study. Kinematic data were collected during four conditions (5 repeated trials per condition): (1) flat ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) insole, (2) textured flat EVA insole, (3) prefabricated lateral heel and sole wedge insole, and (4) textured lateral heel and sole wedge. The analysis of ankle movement variability was conducted during stance phase and 200 ms before initial contact to 200 ms after initial contact. The coefficient of multiple correlations (CMC) was calculated to investigate pattern variability and intraclass correlation (ICC) was used to investigate variability at the points of interest. Results: In terms of pattern variability, wearing textured lateral wedge increased CMC compared to other insoles. However, statistically significant differences were observed only in the frontal plane during stance phase (P < 0.05). In terms of variability at the points of interest, in the frontal plane and in all points of interest, wearing textured lateral wedge increased ICC compared to other insoles. The effects of other insoles on ankle movement variability were inconsistent. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that textured insole has the potential to decrease variability and the use of texture with lateral wedge may more improve variability in athletes with FAI.

Background: Diabetic nephropathy is a complex and multifactorial adverse effect of diabetes mellitus (DM). Crab shell as a natural product is supposed to have antioxidant effect which is one of the important mechanisms to improve DM. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of crab shell extract (CSE) on the histopathology and antioxidant status of kidney in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Forty-two adult Wistar rats (210 ± 10 g) were divided into six groups (n = 7). Streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) was administered interaperitonealy (IP) for inducing diabetes. Rats were treated for 14 days by CSE with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg doses IP. Fasting blood glucose, body, and renal weight were evaluated. The antioxidant status of kidney's tissue was evaluated by determining the level of ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Furthermore, urine samples were used to determine nitric oxide (NO) levels. Microscopic slides were prepared to compare kidney histology between groups. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey's test, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: CSE induced a significant reduction in blood glucose (P = 0.01) and a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) (P = 0.004). Furthermore, urine NO was decreased significantly (P = 0.000). The extract improved renal tissue changes caused by diabetes. Conclusion: CSE improved antioxidant status and diabetic histological changes of rat kidney, and it could be an alternative complementary therapy in diabetic-associated disorders.

Background: The key point in the production procedure of inbred animals is checking the genetic purity. Skin grafting and coat color test are used traditionally to prove genetic purity, but they have some disadvantages. Recent advances in DNA profiling have enabled scientists to check easily the genetic purity of laboratory animals. In the current study, a set of microsatellite markers was designed to check the purity of inbred laboratory mice. Materials and Methods: Twenty microsatellites located on 20 chromosomes were employed to create a distinctive genetic profile for parentage analysis. Each individual primer was designed based on distinguishable colors and separable sizes. Results: Twenty specific microsatellite markers were used in the polymerase chain reaction mixture to identify inbred BALB/cJ strains. Our results confirmed that the designed microsatellites are excellent genetic markers for testing inbred BALB/cJ strain in laboratories. Conclusion: Our study showed that genetic profiling using microsatellite markers allows us to detect the genetic differences of laboratory mouse species in quality control tests and validation steps.

Background: Peripheral inflammation is effective in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Pentoxifylline (PTX) has an inhibitory effect on inflammatory cytokines; therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of PTX on passive avoidance learning and the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and caspase-3 in the rat hippocampus, following systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, LPS, and LPS + PTX, receiving doses of 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg of PTX, respectively. The animals received daily injections of PTX (i.p.) 1 week before and 2 weeks after the LPS injection (5 mg/kg; i.p.). Learning and memory were evaluated by passive avoidance learning. Then, the expression of the associated genes was measured in the hippocampus. Results: The results showed that the peripheral LPS injection had no significant effect on learning and memory. PTX only with a dose of 10 mg/kg shows an improvement (P < 0.05). Results from reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that LPS had no significant effect on the expression of caspase-3 and TNF-α. PTX with a dose of 10 mg/kg decreased the caspase-3 expression in the LPS + PTX group (P < 0.001), but the expression of both genes increased, using other concentrations. Conclusions: Findings showed that systemic application of LPS after 2 weeks had no effect on learning and memory and the expression of inflammatory genes in the hippocampus, but PTX led to an increase in the expression of these genes, which could be due to its direct effects or possible exacerbation of LPS effects.

Background: Dermatophytes are one of the most important etiologic agents of cutaneous infections in humans and animals. The present study aimed to study the frequency distribution of keratinophilic dermatophyte fungi using conventional and molecular methods in soil of Isfahan city. Materials and Methods: In this study, 200 soil samples were randomly selected in three northern, southern, and central parts of Isfahan using hair-baiting technique. The fungi were identified by morphology based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of fungi. Furthermore, the sequencing of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region of the ribosomal DNA of the 60 randomly isolated fungi was investigated. Results: The results of conventional method showed that from a total of 371 fungal colonies, the highest amount of detected colonies was in the central zone (151, 40.26%). Furthermore, in all three areas, the most common detected dermatophyte was Microsporum gypseum (38.3%). The results of the molecular analysis showed that M. gypseum identified by the morphology method was Nannizzia fulva, and also, Chrysosporium sp. with the frequency of 30% in morphology method was the second dominated fungus including Chrysosporium keratinophilum (42.6%) and Chrysosporium shanxiense (21.4%) which confirmed by sequencing method. Conclusion: The results showed that keratinophilic dermatophyte fungi including Nannizzia fulva, Chrysosporium sp., and Trichophyton mentagrophytes are found in the children playgrounds in Isfahan. Therefore, health-care officials should pay more attention to these hygienic issues. C. shanxiense, which is found here for the first time in Iran, has been reported only from China.

Background: Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is a relatively infrequent urologic condition in women, but can cause bothersome symptoms. In this article, transurethral incisions of the bladder neck (TUIBN) and urethra in the treatment of anatomical BOO were assessed. Materials and Methods: A total of 23 women who referred with chronic lower urinary tract symptoms, urinary retention, and difficulty in micturition were assessed. Diagnose was made on the basis of urethrocystoscopy, voiding cystourethrography, and urodynamic studies. All patients underwent transurethral incisions of bladder neck contracture or site of observed urethral stenosis at 3- and 9-o'clock positions. Clinical improvements and complications were assessed by follow-up examination and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life (QOL) scoring before and after intervention. Results: All patients were followed for at least 6 months after intervention. Follow-up data were available for 19 (90.5%), 13 (61.9%), and 7 (33.3%) of patients at 12, 24, and 48 months' follow-up, respectively. During the follow-up period, the mean IPSS and QOL significantly changed from 26.84 to 10.74 and 4.76 to 2.32, respectively (P < 0.001). Approximately 66.7% had satisfactory outcomes, 47.7% patients after first, and 19.1% after second TUI. About9.5% patients developed new onset of stress urinary incontinence, one of them had indications of surgical intervention, and thus, symptoms were relieved by mid-urethral sling. Conclusion: Transurethral incision of bladder neck and urethra seems to be effective in relieving urinary symptoms of anatomical BOO in women. Complications may rarely occur and can be fully managed.

Background: Although undescended testis (UDT) is the most prevalent malformation in male neonates, the best mode of UDT treatment remains controversial. This study aimed to compare trans-scrotal incision approach with traditional trans-scrotal incision orchiopexy in children suffering from cryptorchidism. Materials and Methods: This single-blind randomized clinical trial was done on 100 children with UDT who needed surgery. The participants were alternately undergoing trans-scrotal incision orchiopexy (Group I) and traditional inguinal incision orchiopexy (Group II). The success rate and incidence of postoperative complications were evaluated 1 week and 1 month and 6 months after the operation in the two groups. Results: Both the groups were similar in baseline characteristics including age and laterality (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the incidence of wound infection, testicular atrophy, testicular hypotrophy, and relapse (P > 0.05). In addition, the success rates were 98% in Group I and 94% in Group II (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Both surgical methods have a high success rate, and there is no significant difference in the incidence of complications; however, in terms of beauty, satisfaction, and shortening the duration of surgery and the duration of hospitalization, trans-scrotal approach was more successful than the traditional method.

Background: Tumor-targeting peptides are attracting subjects in cancer therapy. These peptides, which are widely studied, deliver therapeutic agents to the specific sites of tumors. In this study, we produced a new form of recombinant listeriolysin O (LLO) with genetically fused Anti-HER2/neu peptide (AHNP) sequence adding to its C-terminal end. The aim of the study was to engineer this pore-forming toxin to make it much more specific to tumor cells. Materials and Method and Results: Two forms of the toxin (with and without peptide) were subcloned into a bacterial expression plasmid. Subcloning was performed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product as a megaprimer in a quick-change PCR to introduce the whole insert gene into the expression plasmid. After expression of two recombinant forms of LLO in BL21 DE3 cells, purification was performed using Ni-NTA affinity column. MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines (as negative and positive controls, respectively) were treated with both LLO toxins to evaluate their cytotoxicity and specificity. The IC₅₀ of LLO on MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells was 21 and 5 ng/ml, respectively. In addition, IC₅₀ for the fusion AHNP-LLO toxin was 140 and 60 ng/ml, respectively. It was found that the cytotoxicity of the new engineered AHNP-LLO toxin has decreased by about 9x compared to the wild-type toxin and the specificity of the AHNP-LLO toxin has been also reduced. Conclusions: Results show that the C-terminal of the LLO should not be modified and it seems that N-terminal of the toxin should be preferred for engineering and adding peptide modules.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a rheumatic disease that could be disabling if not treated. The aim of RA therapy is to resolve tenderness and swelling in the joints. The present study was conducted to compare two methods of RA treatment with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and DMARDs with biologic drugs in two groups of patients. Materials and Methods: The present study was a nonrandomized clinical trial which was conducted from July to September 2017 on 110 patients who were selected based on the American College of Rheumatology (2010) criteria for RA. Patients were divided into two groups of 55: Groups A and B. For the treatment of Group A, prednisolone along with one or two drugs from the DMARDs combinations was used. Group B received one biologic drug besides with the drugs of the group A. T-test and covariance analysis was used to compare the outcomes of both groups. Results: Disease activity score (DAS-28) at the beginning of the study was 4.23 (0.81) in Group A and 4.51 (0.7) in Group B (P = 0.05). At the end of the study, DAS-28 was 3.52 (0.79) in Group A and 3.75 (0.85) in Group B (P = 0.1). DAS-28 activity index had a significant difference between both two groups at the beginning of the study (P = 0.05), but at the end of the study, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.1). Conclusions: Simultaneous use of DMARDs and biologic drugs in RA patients could lead to improvement the disease symptoms and decrease the severity and activity of the disease.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on pillar pain after carpal tunnel release. Materials and Methods: In this prospective randomized controlled trial, forty patients with pillar pain for at least 1 month after carpal tunnel release surgery were randomly assigned in two groups. ESWT group received four sessions of ESWT at weekly intervals, and patients in the control group received sham ESWT treatment at the same intervals, involved sound but no energy. At baseline, 1^st month, and 3^rd month, hand function (using Brief-Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire) and pain score were assessed and compared between groups. Results: At baseline, pain score and hand function score were similar in both groups. After 1^st month, pain score in ESWT and control groups was 3.7 versus 4.7, respectively (P = 0.066), and hand function score was 60.7 versus 52.2, respectively (P = 0.032). After 3 months, pain score in ESWT group was significantly lower than the control group (1.6 versus 3.6, respectively, P < 0.0001), hand function score in ESWT group was significantly better than the control group (75.4 vs. 63.7, respectively, P < 0.0001). Trend of decrease in pain score between groups was significantly different, but trend of increase in hand function score was not significantly different. Conclusion: After ESWT, hand function and pain score in patients with pillar pain improved faster compared to control patients. Hence, ESWT can be used as a safe and effective noninvasive technique in patients with pillar pain after carpal tunnel release.

Background: Malignancy in thyroid nodules is a common clinical problem, and epidemiological studies have shown that it is increasing. Since malignancy is a very important problem in treating patients and misdiagnosis leads to many physical and financial damages, the importance of diagnostic methods becomes more important. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of the two dimensional-shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) diagnostic method in comparison with fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in determining the malignant thyroid nodules. Materials and Methods: This study is cross-sectional which was performed on 57 thyroid nodules are proven by conventional ultrasound. Afterward, 2D-SWE images were taken with the help of a superSonic ultrasound machine. Then, FNA was performed from the thyroid nodules and the specimens were evaluated in a single specialized thyroid pathology center. The results of conventional sonography and 2D-SWE were compared with histopathologic results as a gold standard method. The elasticity quantity was recorded by measuring the amount of the appropriate quantities by a recording machine and analyzed using the SPSS and MedCalc software. Results: From 57 nodules studied, 50 nodules were evaluated with benign diagnosis and 7 nodules with the malignant diagnosis. Among all the parameters recorded by the machine, SWE. ratio provided the highest surface area under the curve and the highest sensitivity and specificity with 0.94, 100% and 84%, respectively, and a cut-off point of 1.7. Conclusion: The 2D-SWE method and the conventional ultrasound can be good references for decision making about with the thyroid nodules.

Background: Febrile seizure is the most common type of seizures among children, which is a terrible and frightening experience for parents who are concerned about its recurrence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diazepam on preventing the recurrence of febrile seizure following acellular pertussis vaccination. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial, 121 children with a history of febrile seizure that required the pertussis vaccination were enrolled and divided into two groups; the first group was treated with oral diazepam for 48 h after vaccine injection and the control group received antipyretics only if fever occurred after the vaccination and used rectal diazepam for controlling seizure if a seizure occurred. The incidence of fever and seizure after the injection of the vaccine and incidence of febrile seizure were compared. Results: Nearly, 85.7% in the oral diazepam group and 87.9% in the rectal diazepam group had fever after receiving the pertussis vaccine, but the incidence of fever was not significantly different between the groups. Seven children (12.06%) in the rectal diazepam group had a seizure after pertussis vaccination, and none of the children in the oral diazepam group had a seizure after receiving the vaccine at 18 months of age. This difference was significant. Conclusion: Prophylaxis with diazepam administration in children with a history of febrile seizure can prevent recurrence of febrile seizure after pertussis vaccination.

Background: Spathe of phoenix dactylifera is hard-covering envelope of date palm which is mentioned as a nerve relief in ancient medicine books. In this experiment, three extract doses used in sleeping time, sedative efficacy, and electroencephalography (EEG) protocol to show different aspects of extract effects on sleep. Materials and Methods: In three sleeping time, anesthesia time and EEG experiment protocols test group containing three extract doses (62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg) were compared with saline control group, and in sleeping time experiment control group contained intact, midazolam, and saline group to detail more in behavioral Angel method. Results: Three extract doses increased sleeping time when compared with saline control group (P < 0.05). In evaluated sedative efficacy, two 125 and 250 mg/kg doses increased anesthesia and showed sedative effect (P < 0.05). In EEG experiment, dose 125 mg/kg increased delta waves and decreased high-frequency waves of alpha and beta. In addition, there were significant decreases in alpha waves of 62.5 and 250 mg/kg doses. Conclusion: Although all three doses increased sleeping time, dose 125 mg/kg is more efficient for deep and relaxing sleep and suits more for related researches.

Background: Considering the increased rate of microbial resistance to antibiotics and chemical side effects of antibiotics and antiseptics used for the treatment of periodontal disease, there is a need for an alternative antimicrobial agent with fewer complications. Medicinal herbs have recently become popular as novel antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to assess the antibacterial effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Lawsonia inermis, Malva sylvestris, and Boswellia serrata on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Materials and Methods: Hydroalcoholic extracts of the three medicinal plants were obtained by the maceration technique and A. actinomycetemcomitans was cultured. Antimicrobial efficacy of the three medicinal plants was compared with that of 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute protocol using agar disc diffusion and broth microdilution techniques. All tests were repeated three times. Results: Hydroalcoholic extracts of all three plants had antimicrobial activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of L. inermis, M. sylvestris, and B. serrata was 78.1, 156.2, and 1666 μg/mL with no significant difference between them. The MIC of CHX was 3.33 μg/mL, which was significantly higher than that of B. serrata extract. Conclusion: Given that further in vivo studies confirm other properties of these extracts and their safety in terms of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity, hydroalcoholic extracts of L. inermis and M. sylvestris may be used in mouthwashes or local delivery systems to affect periodontal biofilm.

Background: Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common cancers among women in the world. This study aimed to compare the results of endometrial and endocervical cytology with the ultimate outcome of the uterus, ovary, and fallopian tube (derived from hysterectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy) in diagnosing endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial, and OC. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 30 women with endometrial hyperplasia, 90 cases of endometrial cancer, 30 cases of OC, and 30 normal controls undergoing hysterectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy referring to Al-Zahra and Shahid Beheshti Hospitals in 2015–2017. Their basic and clinical characteristics were recorded, and then, endometrial cytology was performed by a specialist and sent to a pathological center. Results: Diagnostic value of cytology showed that out of 90 individuals with endometrial cancer, 78 (86.7%) ones were positive and 12 (13.3%) were negative with sensitivity and specificity of 86.67% and 100%, respectively. Its positive predictive values (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) were 100% and 71.4% (AUC = 0.933; P < 0.0001). In diagnosing endometrial hyperplasia out of 30 individuals with endometrial hyperplasia, there were 24 (80.0%) positive and 6 (20.0%) negative with sensitivity and specificity of 80.00% and 100%, respectively. Its PPVs and NPVs were 100% and 83.3%, respectively (AUC = 0.9000; P < 0.0001). In diagnosing, OC cytology could not detect any one of the 30 individuals with OC, with sensitivity and specificity of 0% and 100.0%, respectively. Its PPVs and NPVs were 0% and 50%, respectively (AUC = 0.500; P = 1.00). Conclusion: Cytology has a good diagnostic value for detecting endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer compared to pathology; however, due to very low sensitivity in detection of OC, it could not be considered as a good diagnostic tool.

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant brain tumor with a poor prognosis that can be very difficult to cure, and the current treatment options have no optimal outcomes. Hence, it is essential to find new treatment modalities. Histologically, this tumor has high microvascular density that makes it desirable for vascular target agent drugs. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a novel antigen with unique features that expresses in the vascular endothelium of some malignant tumors. Materials and Methods: Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from sixty patients who underwent GBM tumor resection from 2012 to 2016 were evaluated for the expression of PSMA by immunohistochemistry. Sections were also assessed for the extent and intensity of endothelial staining in tumor microvessels and for clinicopathologic factor correlation. Results: A considerable PSMA expression level was detected in 66% of the cases, and the intensity was strong and moderate in 63%. There was no significant correlation neither between PSMA expression with tumor site, presence of necrosis, and endothelial proliferation nor with age and sex. Conclusion: The expression of PSMA in GBM, as observed in the current study, may suggest a new role of PSMA-targeted therapy and indicate more investigations focused on complementary treatment strategies that specifically target tumor vasculature.

Background: Constipation is an intestinal syndrome that can be created alone or in the context of another disease in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). Given the role of sennosides in increasing the transfer rate of materials from the large intestine, we aimed to compare the effect of senalin with bisacodyl on the treatment of constipation in patients admitted to ICUs. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, double-blind study, 70 patients admitted to the ICU were divided into two groups. The senalin recipient group received senalin with a dose of 500 mg daily for 3 days. The bisacodyl recipient group received bisacodyl with a dose of 10 mg daily for 3 days. Results: The mean of defecation frequency during the 2^nd day of treatment of constipation was significantly higher in the group receiving bisacodyl than in the senalin group (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of fecal consistency in any of the study days (P < 0.05). The prevalence of complications in the 3^rd day of treatment was significantly higher in bisacodyl group than in the senalin group (P = 0.04). Conclusion: Given the lack of difference in the efficacy of two drugs, fecal consistency, daily defecation frequency and fewer complications of senalin compared to bisacodyl, it s eems that this drug can be used as an appropriate treatment for constipation in patients admitted to ICUs.

Background: Resistin is peptides that signal the functional status of adipose tissue to the brain and other target organs. It causes insulin resistance and affects the vascular endothelial dysfunction. However, the function and relation between resistin in endothelin-1 (ET-1), which leads to the endothelial dysfunction in humans are enigmatic. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 76 participants (38 metabolic syndrome patients and 38 healthy participants), biochemical and clinical parameters, including lipid profile, fasting glucose, resistin, ET-1, C-reactive protein (CRP), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and hypertension were determined and compared between the two groups. Results: Multiple linear regression analysis was performed with age- and sex-adjusted plasma resistin levels, FMD, and ET-1 as the dependent variables. Analysis showed that weight, body mass index, triglycerides (TGs), and ET-1 were statistically significant correlated with serum resistin. FMD has negative significantly correlated with weight (r = −0.491, P = 0.001), waist circumference (r = −0.491, P = 0.001), waist-to-hip ratio (r = −0.0444, P = 0.001), and ET-1 (r = −0.075, P = 0.050), but it has significantly correlated with systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r = 0.290, P = 0.016), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (r = 0.275, P = 0.023), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (r = −0.266, P = 0.050), and ET-1, but it has significantly correlated with SBP, DBP, and HDL-C. ET-1 is significantly correlated with TGs (r = −0.436, P = 0.006), total cholesterol (r = 0.452, P = 0.004), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = 0.454, r = 0.004), and resistin (r = 0.282, P = 0.050), whereas it has negative significantly correlated with HDL-C (r = 0.346, P = 0.034), FMD (r = −0.075, P = 0.050. Conclusion: In this study, results shown plasma ET-1 and resistin are suggested as risk factors for the development of endothelial dysfunction and with further study, it is possible that can diagnose the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the early stages.

Background: To date, there is no standard approach to manage and to improve central sleep apnea (CSA). The most applicable therapeutic approaches are positive airway pressure therapy (PAP), bi-level PAP therapy (BIPAP), supplemental O₂ and servo ventilation, or a combination of two approaches. Given the high prevalence of heart disease (HF) and/or concomitants of other diseases and opioid use worldwide; it seemingly requires evaluation of patients' conditions in response to each abovementioned approach to select the most effective approach. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal cross-sectional study included 64 CSA patients who had undergone continuous PAP (CPAP), CPAP + O₂, and BiPAP. Hence, if a patient was nonresponsive to a treatment, the next was applied. If the patient was nonresponsive to all approaches, oxygen alone was administered. The collected data were analyzed with SPSS. Results: The study of 64 CSA patients showed that frequencies of response to CPAP, CPAP + O₂, and BiPAP were 42.2%, 20.3%, and 28.1%, respectively. While 9.4% of patients with histories of congestive heart failure (CHF) and ischemic heart disease (IHD) who were older than others and with the highest apnea-hypopnea index, were nonresponsive to all approaches. CPAP therapy showed more appropriate results in patients with CHF and IHD. Furthermore, patients with the history of opioid use showed the most positive results in response to CPAP and BIPAP. Conclusion: The results suggest that CPAP and BIPAP are, respectively, the most effective therapeutic approaches to CSA in patients with the histories of HF and opioid use, but CPAP + O₂ could be reliable in some conditions as well. Therefore, it may require further studies to be clarified.

Background: Different morbidity conditions are globally reported from different nations for premature infants. The aim of this study was to identify the relative frequency of some of the most important complications of prematurity in a population of about 1000 of very low birth weight (VLBW; i.e., infants with weight of <1500 g) premature infants in our city and publish the results of the project at the level of the urban community of Isfahan in order to use it for further decisions. Materials and Methods: Demographic characteristics and information of prematurity complications of 1000-registered VLBW premature infants were collected and analyzed. Results: The mean gestational age and birth weight were 30.19 ± 2.26 weeks and 1223.96 ± 227.77 g, respectively. Seven hundred and ninety-eight individuals (79.69%) had respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) which also had the most prevalence frequency, whereas the number of newborns who had chronic lung disease was 80, with the lowest prevalence of 8.01%. The prevalence of infantile mortality was 3.10%. Conclusion: Regarding advances in medical technologies and caring system, the mortality rate for premature neonates, even VLBW infants, has decreased significantly and survival rates are grown. Alongside the low death rates, managing complications related to prematurity period should be considered more, especially caring for respiratory management should be considered remarkably since RDS stands as the most prevalent disease among them. Efforts also should be made to reduce the number of diseases that worsen the prognosis, such as intraventricular hemorrhage.

Background: Duloxetine is used for treating depression and anxiety. The current study evaluated the effects of duloxetine against methamphetamine withdrawal-induced anxiety, depression, and motor disturbances and methamphetamine use-induced cognitive impairments. Materials and Methods: Ninety-six adult male rats were used for two independent experiments. Each experiment consisted of Groups 1 and 2 which received normal saline (0.2 ml/rat) and methamphetamine (10 mg/kg) respectively, Groups 3, 4, and 5 received both methamphetamine and duloxetine at doses of 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg, respectively. Groups 6, 7, and 8 received 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg of duloxetine, respectively. All administrations were performed for 21 days. In experiment 1, elevated plus maze (EPM), open-field test (OFT), forced swim test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST) were used to examine anxiety and depression in animals during withdrawal period. In experiment 2, Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to assess the effect of methamphetamine use followed by duloxetine treatment, on learning and memory. In the experiments, the expression of cyclic AMP response element binding (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) proteins were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: In the first experiment, duloxetine at all doses attenuated methamphetamine withdrawal induced-depression, anxiety, and motor disturbances in FST, OFT, EPM, and TST. In the second experiment, duloxetine at all doses attenuated methamphetamine use-induced cognitive impairment in MWM. In both experiments, duloxetine activated cAMP, CREB, and BDNF proteins' expression in methamphetamine-treated rats. Conclusions: Duloxetine can protect the brain against methamphetamine withdrawal-induced mood and motor disturbances and can also inhibit methamphetamine-induced cognitive impairment, possibly via cAMP/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway.