The biotoxic effects of heavy metals exposure in miners and non-miners

Since little is known about the comparison of the biotoxic effects of heavy metals exposure on biochemical and hematological parameters in miners and non-miners, the current study aimed to compare the effects of arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and copper (Cu) in both groups. Demographic information and blood samples were collected from all participants and measures of As, Pb and Cu were obtained using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. As and Pb mean concentrations in miners and Cu concentration were greater in non-miners. Miners also showed significantly higher level of RBC, HBG and HCT. In the adjusted model, cholesterol showed a positively association with Pb and Cu levels. Triglycerides, GGT, ALP, WBC and PLT positively and HDL-cholesterol negatively were associated with Cu. Creatinine was negatively associated with group variable. In conclusion, miners' high blood heavy metals concentrations can impact biochemical and hematological indices. These observations make monitoring of heavy metals necessary in miners.

The profile of Oral Health Branch of Rafsanjan Cohort Study (OHBRCS) in Rafsanjan City, southeast of Iran

Oral health status can be affected by some factors including drug abuse, systemic conditions and environmental pollutants. The present study was designed to investigate the most important and prevalent dental and oral conditions in adult population of Rafsanjan with the age of 35-70 years. Dental and oral health cohort center as part of the Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS) included in the prospective epidemiological research studies in IrAN was established in 2015. Of 9991 subjects enrolled in the RCS, 8682 people participated in the Oral Health Branch of Rafsanjan Cohort Study (OHBRCS). The OHBRCS included 4021 men and 4661 women with the mean age of 49.94 ± 9.51. The most prevalent of oral lesion in total population was candidiasis and the least was aphthous lesion. The prevalence of candidiasis, white and red lesions, periodontal pocket, dental calculus, CAL and the mean of DMFT were higher in the male group than that of female group (p < 0.05). Candidiasis, herpes, oral cancer, white and red lesions were more prevalent in the older age groups (p < 0.05). The mean of DMFT index in total population was 21.30 and was higher among opium users, men and older age (p < 0.05). Also, the opium users had a higher rate of CAL, periodontal pocket, red and white lesions, and candidiasis but a lower rate of BOP (p < 0.05). Younger people had more decayed and filling teeth compared to other age groups, whereas older people had more missing teeth and a higher DMFT index (p < 0.001).

Evaluation of the relationship between serum interleukin-1β levels and expression of inflammasome-related genes in patients with COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Inflammasomes are a group of molecules that are strongly involved in causing inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of NLR family pyrin domain containing 1 (NLRP1), NLRP3, and Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) as well as their association with serum level of interleukin (IL)-1β in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS

Thirty COVID-19 patients and 30 healthy subjects (HS) were recruited. Peripheral blood specimens were collected from subjects to assess NLRP1, NLRP3, and ASC gene expression by Real time-PCR technique. Serum levels of IL-1β were also measured via the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The findings showed no significant differences in serum IL-1β level between COVID-19 patients and the HS group. mRNA expression of ASC (P = 0.008) and NLRP1 (P = 0.03) gene had a significant increase in COVID-19 patients compared to HS, while there was no significant increase in the expression of NLRP3 between the studied group. There were significant correlations between patient's data and expression levels of NLRP1, NLRP3, IL-1β, and ACS.

CONCLUSIONS

NLRP1 and ASC may have a more critical role in the generation of the active form of IL-1β in COVID-19 patients compared to NLRP3. However, serum levels of IL-1β in patients did not show a significant increase, which may be due to the patient's condition and the application of virus escape mechanisms through impaired NLRP3 expression and its malfunction.

The prevalence and associated factors of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity in South-eastern of Iran: a cross-sectional study based on Rafsanjan cohort study

BACKGROUND

Obesity has become a major health issue in both high and middle-income countries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and all-cause mortality. Risk of obesity is related to both unchangeable factors such as genetics and gender, and modifiable lifestyle factors. Most importantly, finding the major modifiable lifestyle factors which contribute to obesity may provide valuable benefits to every society. This study aimed to determine the association of demographic and lifestyle parameters with overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity in a population of Iranian adults.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, adult participants of Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS) (as one of the district areas of the PERSIAN cohort (Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN) included the study population. RCS is a population-based prospective cohort of men and women aged 35-70 years, launched in August 2015. Individuals were recruited from four urban and suburban areas of Rafsanjan, south-eastern of Iran. Trained experts interviewed each participant and completed the related questionnaires about his/her socioeconomic status, demography, anthropometric features, personal habits, physical activity and medical history. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships between overweight/obesity/abdominal obesity and associated factors.

RESULTS

From 9980 participants, 1974 (42.42%) males and 2115 (39.70%) females were overweight, 784 (16.85%) males, 2223 (41.73%) females were obese and 1895 (40.73%) males and 989 (18.57%) females were normal weight. Also, 832 (17.9%) males and 4548 (85.4%) females had abdominal obesity and 3819 (82.1%) males and 778 (14.6%) females didn't have abdominal obesity. Based on the adjusted multiple logistic regression, overweight/obesity (BMI > 25) was associated with age > 45, female gender, education ≥ 13 years, heavy physical activity, wealth status index (WSI), alcohol consumption, current cigarette smoking and opium consumption compared to reference group. Also, odds of abdominal obesity displayed a significant association with age > 45, female gender, education > 5 years, physical activity, WSI, current cigarette smoking, alcohol and opium consumption compared to reference group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results recommend local public health strategies that promote training the society on the health benefits of avoiding alcohol, getting more physical exercise and gaining more personal education on the health-threatening lifestyle.

The Effect of Involuntary Tactile Stimulation on the Creativity and Rey Auditory-Verbal Memory of Young Adults

Introduction

Recent studies have revealed the possibility of learning skills through alternative methods and repetitive tactile stimulation without explicit training. This study aimed to examine the effect of involuntary tactile stimulation on the memory and creativity of healthy participants.

Methods

A group of 92 right-handed students participated in this study voluntarily. They were assigned to the experimental (n=45) and control (n=47) groups. The participants performed two creativity tests (divergent and convergent thinking) and a verbal memory task as the pretest. Then, the experimental group received 30-min involuntary tactile stimulation on the right index finger, and the control group did not. In the posttest, both groups were asked to perform the creativity and verbal memory tasks again.

Results

The learning score and speed of the Rey auditory-verbal learning test in the stimulation group significantly increased (P=0.02). Moreover, in the creativity-related tests, there was a significant effect of the intervention on convergent thinking, i.e., the remote association task (P=0.03), but not for the divergent thinking, i.e., the alternative uses test (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Using involuntary tactile stimulation on the index finger of the right hand of individuals could enhance their performance in verbal memory and creativity-convergent thinking.

Neuroprotective effect of Achillea millefolium aqueous extract against oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by chronic morphine in rat hippocampal CA1 neurons

Chronic opioid abuse can impair the hippocampal region of the brain. This study evaluates the neuroprotective effect of Achillea millefolium (Ach) on chronic morphine‑induced learning and memory impairment, oxidative stress, and neuronal apoptosis in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus. Thirty‑two male Wistar rat rats were classified into four treatment groups (n=8). Morphine sulfate was administered chronically. The treatment groups were given Ach aqueous extract (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg), orally, each day. After 28 days, the Morris water maze test was performed on all subjects. Caspase‑3, Bax, and Bcl‑2 proteins expression in the CA1 region of hippocampal tissue was analyzed using the western blot method. Also, malondialdehyde concentration, glutathione peroxidase activity, and superoxide dismutase activity were evaluated. The results indicated that Ach extract can improve spatial learning and memory defects in morphine‑treated rats. Ach administration also ameliorated apoptosis and oxidative stress indicator levels in hippocampal CA1 of morphine‑treated animals. Based on the present study, Ach improved spatial learning and memory defects, and reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the hippocampus CA1 region, in chronic morphine‑treated animals.

Effect of Short-time Exposure of Local Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields on Sleepiness in Male Rats

Introduction

Lack of high-quality sleep causes severe side effects like anxiety and changes in plasma concentration of oxalate. The current study investigated the impact of local extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) on inducing sleep (sleepiness) and anxiety in male rats.

Methods

In this experimental study, 40 male rats were divided into four groups (n=10 for each group). The ELF-MF exposure (0, 10, and 18 Hz) was applied with an intensity of 200μT for three days (10 min/d). The sham-treated animal did not receive ELF-MF. Serum levels of oxalic acid (OA) and sleepiness were measured before and after the last exposure to ELF-MF or sham. Anxiety, sleepiness, and OA were measured using the elevated plus maze, open-field test (OFT), and ELISA test.

Results

A comparison of oxalate levels before and after exposure to ELF-MF revealed that ELF-MF (10 Hz) decreased the serum level of oxalate (P<0.05). Comparing open/closed arm entry (in an elevated plus maze) between before and after exposure to ELFMF revealed significant differences. Also, frequency, velocity, and distance moved were decreased in the open-field test.

Conclusion

Results of the present study demonstrated that ELF-MF with short-time exposure may modulate the metabolism of OA and may modulate anxiety-like behavior or kind of induction of sleepiness in male rats.

Highlights

Oxalate acid concentration may reduce after short time ELF-MF exposure.Locomotor activity in male rats may decrease after the ELF-MF exposure.Short time ELF-MF exposure may induce sleepiness in male rats that may be used to treat sleep disorders.

Plain Language Summary

It is necessary for a person to have good sleep to feel happy during the day. The usual way to treat the patient's sleep disorders is drug therapy, but there are some non-pharmacological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and proper diet. In this study we decided to evaluate the effect of ELF-MFs on sleep induction (sleepiness) in male rats by assessing behavioral tests and measuring oxalate acid density. The results showed that the activity of rats and oxalate acid concentration reduced after ELF-MF exposure. This was consistent with results of the plus maze test and the reduction of velocity, frequency and in the open-field test can be attributed to sleepiness. The results of this research showed that ELF-MF with short time exposure may modulate the anxiety-like behavior or kind of induction of sleepiness in male rats. This effect may be used to treat sleep disorders and requires further human studies.

Ischemic post-conditioning is neuroprotective even at delayed tPA administration after embolic stroke in female rats

Objectives

Delayed tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) thrombolysis is accompanied by different complications in stroke patients. Studies reported sex differences in stroke therapy. Ischemic postconditioning (PC) unveils neuroprotection in stroke models. In this study, we investigate the combined effect of delayed tPA therapy and PC procedure during an embolic stroke experimental model in female rats.

Materials and Methods

Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into control (saline), tPA, PC, and tPA+PC groups after stroke induction via clot injection to the middle cerebral artery. tPA treatment was initiated 6 hr after stroke, and PC procedure was performed 6.5 hr post-ischemia induction (occlusion: 10 sec; reopening: 30 sec; 5 cycles). The cerebral blood flow (CBF) was recorded up to 60 min from IV tPA injection time. The parameters of brain edema, infarct volume, disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), behavioral tests, and matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) were evaluated.

Results

This study revealed that PC conduction prevents excessive CBF increase by tPA and played a protective role in infarct volume reduction (P<0.05). The combination of PC and tPA reduced the infarct volume, brain edema, and protected BBB. tPA+PC could alleviate neurobehavioral disorders compared with control or tPA. Moreover, PC had the capability of MMP-9 reduction when combined with delayed tPA (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Conduction of PC not only alleviated some stroke complications but also enhanced the therapeutic time window of tPA in female rats under embolic stroke.

Modulatory Effects of Memantine on Neuronal Response Properties in Rat Barrel Cortex

Introduction: Memantine as N-Methyl-D-Aspartic Acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist is used in some neurological disorders. Moreover, memantine presents modulatory effects on the somatosensory information processing in healthy subjects. This study investigated the effects of memantine on electrophysiological properties of barrel cortex neurons in male rats. Methods: Single unit recording was used to evaluate the electrophysiological properties of barrel cortex neurons. The neural responses to the Principal Whisker (PW), Adjacent Whisker (AW), and combined displacement of two whiskers [20 ms Inter-Stimulus Intervals (ISIs)] were recorded before and 2 hours after memantine gavage (10 mg/kg). A Condition Test Ratio (CTR) was calculated for assessing inhibitory interactions. Results: Two hours after memantine gavage, neuronal ON and OFF responses to PW deflection were decreased. Furthermore, CTR for both ON and OFF responses was decreased following memantine administration. Conclusion: The current study demonstrated that memantine modified neural response properties in the rat barrel cortex.

Correlation of Dietary Intake and Helicobacter pylori Infection with Multiple Sclerosis, a Case-Control Study in Rafsanjan, Iran, 2017-18

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. Some environmental factors, such as Helicobacter pylori infection (HPI), are likely to be considered a protective factor in MS. Dietary intake may provide exposure to or have protective effects for MS. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between serum anti-H. pylori IgG antibody (HPIA) level and dietary intake in patients with MS referred to the MS Clinic in Rafsanjan city, Iran.

Methods: The present case-control study was conducted on 97 patients with MS and 95 controls. The two groups had no significant difference in age and gender (p > 0.05). HPIA was checked, and the food frequency questionnaire was completed in both groups to measure nutritional intake. All data were analyzed by the SPSS 20 software using independent t-test, Chi-Square, Mann–Whitney U test, and correlation.

Results: The median serum HPIA level was significantly lower in MS cases than in controls. Furthermore, the median consumption of glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, alanine, proline, and caffeine was significantly lower in MS cases than in controls. A significant positive correlation was found between the levels of linoleic acid, lactose, Ca, molybdenum, galactose, leucine, and valine, and the level of HPIA in controls.

Conclusion: Our study results demonstrated that some dietary nutrients had correlations with MS and HPI. Therefore, professionals from multiple disciplines must find which foods contain these dietary nutrients in future studies.

The profile of Rafsanjan Cohort Study

Owning the largest human-made jungle of pistachio, the second largest copper mine, and being located on the trade route of opium transit, distinguish Rafsanjan from many other cities in Iran. The environmental exposures and lifestyle factors associated with these characteristics of Rafsanjan, have raised concern about possible health outcomes for individuals living in and around this city. Thus, local health authorities initiated the Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS), as part of the prospective epidemiological research studies in IrAN (PERSIAN). RCS is a population-based prospective cohort of men and women aged 35-70 years, launched in August 2015. Individuals from diverse socioeconomic levels and lifestyles were recruited from four urban and suburban areas of Rafsanjan (participation rate 67.42%). Questionnaire-based interviews regarding demographics, dietary and environmental exposures, medical and occupational history, as well as anthropometric measurements were completed for all participants. Additionally, bio-specimens (blood, urine, hair, and nail) were collected, and dental and eye examinations were performed. The enrollment phase ended in December 2017, and a 15-year follow-up is planned. A total of 9990 individuals were enrolled in RCS (53.41% females). About 26% of men are pistachio farmers. The baseline prevalence of major non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors such as cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption and opium use were 25.45%, 10.02%, and 23.81%, respectively. The mean ± SD of other common risk factors are as follows: body mass index (27.83 ± 4.89 mm Hg), systolic blood pressure (107.18 ± 17.56 mm Hg) diastolic blood pressure (71.13 ± 10.83), fasting blood sugar (113.27 ± 39.11 mg/dL) and plasma cholesterol (198.78 ± 41.89 mg/dL). These results indicate a concerning prevalence of NCD risk factors in Rafsanjan city, warranting further detailed investigations, particularly regarding the association of NDC with agricultural/industrial pollutants and drug abuse.

Physical exercise enhances vulnerability to migraine headache associated with CGRP up-expression in trigeminal nucleus caudalis of stressed rats

OBJECTIVES

There is conflicting evidence on the effect of physical exercise on migraine development. Present study investigated the impact of treadmill exercise on migraine - associated symptoms and changes in calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) expression in rats with and without maternal deprivation stress (MD).

METHODS

Two days after birth, the male Wistar pups were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6) as follows: intact, exercise, MD, and MD plus exercise. The animals in the MD groups were separated from their dams 4 h per day for 2 weeks. At 8 weeks of age, the rats were exercised on a motor-driven treadmill for 4 weeks. Then, nitroglycerin (NTG) (5 mg/kg/IP) was used to induce migraine and pain-related symptoms were recorded for 90 min. NTG-related thermal hyperalgesia was measured by tail flick and hot plate methods. Finally, immunofluorescence staining of CGRP in trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) was performed.

RESULTS

NTG - produced a significant headache symptoms and thermal hypersensitivity, which were aggravated following physical exercise in stressed or unstressed groups. Besides, NTG administration increased CGRP expression in the Vc of rats. Such effect was overpowered by treadmill running only in rats exposed to MD stress.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the worsening effects of treadmill exercise for migraine in rats with and without MD stress. However, inflammatory response can further exacerbate in stressed rats.

Iranian brown propolis possesses neuroprotective effect against ischemic neuronal damage in mice

Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Propolis, a polyphenol-rich resinous product processed by honeybees from a variety of plant sources, has a set of biological activities. We investigated the neuroprotective effect of Iranian brown propolis (IBP) in a mouse model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Methods: Experimentally, water extracts of propolis (WEPs) were obtained from Kerman (KeWEP) and Khorasan Razavi (KhWEP) provinces, Iran. The chemical characterization and total polyphenol content of WEPs were determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Animals were divided into eight experimental groups including: sham, control, and three groups each of which KeWEP- and KhWEP-treated mice. The drugs were administered at doses of 30, 100 and 200 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (IP), during four different time points. Infarct volume and brain edema were measured at 48 h. Behavioral tests were evaluated at 4, 24 and 48-hour post stroke. Results: The total polyphenol content was 1100 and 1400 mg/L in KhWEP and KeWEP respectively. Compared to the control group, the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg in both samples decreased infarct volume. Brain edema was also reduced in all treatment groups. The dose of 200 mg/kg in both samples and 100 mg/kg in the KeWEP-treated group significantly increased grasping ability. Sensory-motor function was improved in all groups, too. Conclusion: These results suggest that IBP may reduce ischemic brain injury by its neuroprotective effect on focal cerebral ischemia.

The effect of Wi-Fi electromagnetic waves on neuronal response properties in rat barrel cortex

There is a growing number of studies on the possible biological effects of Wi-Fi radiations on nervous system. In this study we investigated the effect of Wi-Fi exposure on single neuron responses to natural stimuli by using whisker to barrel pathway. This study was done on 29 male Wistar rats. Neuronal spontaneous activity and ON and OFF responses to displacement of principal whisker (PW), adjacent whisker (AW) and combination of PW-AW stimulation (as natural stimuli) were recorded in barrel cortex of anaesthetised rats. A D-link Wi-Fi device was used for 1 h exposure to 2.4 GHz microwaves in data mode (18.2 dBm and 44% for power and duty cycle). A condition test ratio (CTR) was calculated for assessing neuronal integrative properties. Wi-Fi radiations decreased CTR for ON responses. However, neuronal spontaneous activity and ON and OFF responses were not significantly changed following exposure to Wi-Fi signals. The results of this study demonstrated that exposure to Wi-Fi radiation could modulate integrative responses to natural stimuli in barrel cortex.

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1)-mediated toxicity: friend or foe?

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels have been widely studied during the last decade. New studies uncover new features and potential applications for these channels. TRPA1 has a huge distribution all over the human body and has been reported to be involved in different physiological and pathological conditions including cold, pain, and damage sensation. Considering its role, many studies have been devoted to evaluating the role of this channel in the initiation and progression of different toxicities. Accordingly, we reviewed the most recent studies and divided the role of TRPA1 in toxicology into the following sections: neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, dermatotoxicity, and pulmonary toxicity. Acetaminophen, heavy metals, tear gases, various chemotherapeutic agents, acrolein, wood smoke particulate materials, particulate air pollution materials, diesel exhaust particles, cigarette smoke extracts, air born irritants, sulfur mustard, and plasticizers are selected compounds and materials with toxic effects that are, at least in part, mediated by TRPA1. Considering the high safety of TRPA1 antagonists and their efficacy to resolve selected toxic or adverse drug reactions, the future of these drugs looks promising.

Impact of opium dependency on clinical and neuropsychological indices of multiple sclerosis patients

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of opium on clinical and neuropsychological parameters in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with substance dependency. A cross-sectional study was conducted on MS patients in Rafsanjan, Iran. Forty opium-addict MS patients (10 males and 30 females) aged between 18 and 50 years were compared with 40 MS patients with no addiction. Word-Pair Learning, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Wisconsin Card-Sorting Test (WCST), Depression, Anxiety, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Fatigue, and the Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC) were measured and compared in the two groups. The comparison of two groups showed a significant increase trait anxiety (P < 0.001), fatigue (P = 0.009) and significant decrease in the executive function (P = 0.003), MMSE (P = 0.003), and working memory (P < 0.001) in addicted MS. It indicates the better efficiency of processing in the non-addicted MS patients. The MSFC z-score also was significantly higher in the non-addicted group (P < 0.001). The opium addiction has a negative impact on the clinical and neuropsychological outcome in MS patients.

Achillea millefolium is beneficial as an add-on therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease for which to date there is no cure and the existing disease-modifying drugs just slow down the disease progression.

PURPOSE

In this clinical trial we evaluated the efficacy of Achillea millefolium (A. millefolium) aqueous extract in MS patients.

METHODS

A triple-blind randomized placebo-controlled parallel group trial was conducted on 75 MS patients. The patients were randomized into three groups including placebo and two groups receiving A. millefolium with two different doses, i.e. 250  mg/day and 500  mg/day, for 1 year. The primary outcome was the annualized relapse rate. Also, number and volume of lesions were obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Furthermore, we performed a comprehensive neurological and cognitive tests as follows: changes in the expanded disability status scale (EDSS), the multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFC), fatigue severity scale (FSS), Ashworth spasticity assessment, Beck depression test, State-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), mini-mental status examination (MMSE), Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST), tower of London test (TOL), word-pair learning, paced auditory serial addition task (PASAT) and standard laboratory tests.

RESULTS

This study showed one year administration of A. millefolium (both doses) decreased the annual relapse rate in MS patients. The mean volume change of lesions significantly decreased in the 500 mg A. millefolium group. The add-on therapy also increased time to first relapse and the MSFC z-score; it decreased the EDSS score and improved performance in word-pair learning, PASAT, and WCST.

CONCLUSION

We found beneficial effects of A. millefolium aqueous extract as an add-on therapy in MS patients.

The effect of the anti-diabetic drug metformin on behavioral manifestations associated with ovariectomy in mice

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-diabetic drug metformin (Met) effects on the anxiety and cognitive impairment in ovariectomized mice. Thirty-two female adult mice were distributed into four groups: control, sham ovariectomy, ovariectomy + Met 7 mg/kg and ovariectomy + Met 15 mg/kg. The vaginal cytology was used to confirm the ovariectomy surgery. Anxiety was monitored using elevated plus maze test and cognitive function was assessed by novel object recognition task. Animal's brains were analyzed for the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Our results demonstrated that ovariectomy caused cognitive impairments and anxiety, as well as decreased BDNF levels. Moreover, administration of Met improves ovariectomy-related disorders such as cognitive impairments and anxiety, as well as increased BDNF levels. The results of the present study suggest that Met could be used as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ovariectomy-related conditions.

The effect of intracerebroventricular administration of orexin receptor type 2 antagonist on pentylenetetrazol-induced kindled seizures and anxiety in rats

BACKGROUND

Current antiepileptic drugs are not able to prevent recurrent seizures in all patients. Orexins are excitatory hypothalamic neuropeptides that their receptors (Orx1R and Orx2R) are found almost in all major regions of the brain. Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced kindling is a known experimental model for epileptic seizures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Orx2 receptor antagonist (TCS OX2 29) on seizures and anxiety of PTZ-kindled rats.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that similar to valproate, administration of 7 µg/rat of TCS OX2 29 increased the latency period and decreased the duration time of 3rd and 4th stages of epileptiform seizures. Besides, it significantly decreased mean of seizure scores. However, TCS OX2 29 did not modulate anxiety induced by repeated PTZ administration.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that blockade of Orx2 receptor reduced seizure-related behaviors without any significant effect on PTZ-induced anxiety.

Protective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Pistacia vera against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Purpose:Pistacia vera is a plant of the family Anacardiaceae found in Central and West Asia. P. vera nut (Pistachio) possess multiple pharmacological effects such as antimicrobial, anti-hyperlipidemia, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This study is designed to evaluate the protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of pistachio on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Methods: Nephrotoxicity was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (100 mg/kg/day for 7 days). Hydroalcoholic extract of pistachio (10, 50 and 100 mg/kg/p.o) was administered for 7 days. The nephroprotective activity was evaluated by determining creatinine clearance, serum creatinine, urine volume, urine glucose and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. The kidneys were processed for histopathological examinations and all specimens were examined for morphologic parameters involving tubular degeneration, tubular necrosis and tubule interstitial nephritis.

Results: Results showed a significant increase in the levels of serum creatinine, urine volume, urine glucose and BUN and decrease of creatinine clearance by gentamicin (GA) administration. Co-administration with pistachio extract showed reduction in the levels of serum creatinine, urine volume, urine glucose and BUN and increase of creatinine clearance in all doses but the most significant alteration was observed in doses of 100 mg/kg. Also, the nephroprotective effect of the GA was confirmed by the histological examination of the kidneys.

Conclusion: The study revealed the nephroprotective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of pistachio. These findings suggest that pistachio treatment may attenuate renal dysfunction and structural damage through the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidney.

The effect of metformin on morphine analgesic tolerance and dependence in rats

Opiate tolerance and dependence is a worldwide public health problem and gives a significant burden to society. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of metformin (MET) on development and expression of morphine tolerance and dependence in rats. For induction of tolerance, morphine sulfate was injected (10 mg/kg, twice a day, s.c.) for 7 days. Animals received metformin (5 and 50 mg/kg, orally, daily) during the examination period for assessing the development of morphine tolerance and dependence. In order to evaluate the expression of morphine tolerance and dependence, single doses of MET (5 and 50 mg/kg, orally) were administered on day 7. Tail flick test was performed to assess the induction of morphine tolerance. For evaluation of morphine dependence, naloxone-induced jumping (5 mg/kg, s.c.) was monitored. Our results showed that 7 days coadministration of 50 mg/kg of MET significantly reduced the development of morphine analgesic tolerance versus morphine + saline treated rats (P < 0.001). Treatment with 50 mg/kg MET reduced the incidence and frequency of jumping in naloxone injected animals (P < 0.01). It is notable that single dose administration of MET, did not prevent the expression of analgesic tolerance and physical dependence to morphine. Based on these results, it can be concluded that MET attenuates the development of morphine analgesic tolerance and dependence in rats.

Orphan G protein-coupled receptors: The role in CNS disorders

There are various types of receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have the highest expression with a wide range of physiological functions. A newer sub group of these receptors namely orphan GPCRs have been discovered. GPR3, GPR6, GPR17, GPR26, GPR37, GPR39, GPR40, GPR50, GPR52, GPR54, GPR55, GPR85, GPR88, GPR103, and GPR139 are the selected orphan GPCRs for this article. Their roles in the central nervous system have not been understood well so far. However, recent studies show that they may have very important functions in the CNS. Hence, in the present study, we reviewed most recent findings regarding the physiological roles of the selected orphan GPCRs in the CNS. After a brief presentation of each receptor, considering the results from genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the receptors, their roles in the pathophysiology of different diseases and disorders including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and substance abuse will be discussed. At present, our knowledge regarding the role of GPCRs in the brain is very limited. However, previous limited studies show that orphan GPCRs have an important place in psychopharmacology and these receptors are potential new targets for the treatment of major CNS diseases.

Effects of naringin on physical fatigue and serum MMP-9 concentration in female rats

CONTEXT

Oxidative stress has a critical role in the development of physical fatigue and activation of matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9). Naringin (Nar) is a bioflavonoid that has antioxidant activity and suppresses MMP-9 expression.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluates the anti-fatigue activity of Nar on physical fatigue and serum MMP-9 concentration in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10); a control group, vehicle group and three Nar treatment groups. The Nar treated groups received different doses of Nar (40, 80 and 160 mg/kg/day) for 30 days. On the 30th day, rats were sacrificed immediately after exhaustive swimming test. Serum MMP-9 concentration and several biochemical parameters related to fatigue were measured.

RESULTS

Exhaustive swimming time in the Nar-80 group significantly increased 1.78-, 1.53-, 1.5- and 1.3-fold compared with the control, vehicle, Nar-40 and Nar-160 groups, respectively. In addition, exhaustive swimming time in the Nar-160 group significantly increased 1.36-fold compared with the control group. Nar-80 significantly decreased LDH activity by 60.45% and 57.47% compared with the vehicle and control groups, respectively. Furthermore, Nar-80 and Nar-160 increased blood glucose levels by 19.56% and 18.38% compared with the control group, respectively. Nar-80 and Nar-160 significantly decreased serum MMP-9 concentration by 61.57% and 83.39% compared with the control group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on our data, Nar has anti-fatigue effects which may be attributed to its property in modulating energy metabolism and reducing serum MMP-9 concentration. Thus, Nar may be a promising agent for the treatment of physical fatigue.

The effect of exercise preconditioning on stroke outcome in ovariectomized mice with permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion

Exercise preconditioning has been shown to be effective in improving behavioral and neuropathological indices after cerebral ischemia. We evaluated the effect of exercise preconditioning, 17β-estradiol, and their combination on stroke outcome using an experimental model of stroke in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. OVX mice were randomly assigned to 4 groups as follows: control (stroke), exercise (exercise and stroke), estradiol (17β-estradiol and stroke), and exercise+estradiol (exercise and 17β-estradiol and stroke). Exercise preconditioning was performed on a treadmill 5 days/week, 40 min/day, at a speed of 18 m/min for 4 weeks. 17β-estradiol was gavaged (40 μg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. Stroke was induced by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO), and neurological deficits were evaluated 1, 2, and 7 days after stroke. Then, the serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and infarct volumes were assessed. Exercise preconditioning and 17β-estradiol induced a better outcome compared with the control ischemic mice, which was manifested by decrease in MMP-9, increase in IL-10, diminished infarct volume, and improved neurological deficits. Concomitant administration of 17β-estradiol and exercise also significantly improved these parameters. Exercise preconditioning or administration of 17β-estradiol alone or in combination before pMCAO induced significant neuroprotection in OVX mice.

Protective effect of atorvastatin on d-galactose-induced aging model in mice

Atorvastatin (Ator), competitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxymethyl-3-glutaryl-coenzyme-A reductase, is a cholesterol lowering drug. Ator has been shown to have neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties making that a potential candidate for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Here we assessed the effect of Ator on the d-galactose (d-gal)-induced aging in mice. For this purpose, Ator (0.1 and 1mg/kg/p.o.), was administrated daily in d-gal-received (500mg/kg/p.o.) mice model of aging for six weeks. Anxiety-like behaviors and cognitive functions were evaluated by the elevated plus-maze and novel object recognition tasks, respectively. Physical power was assessed by forced swimming capacity test. Animals brains were analyzed for the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We found that Ator decreases the anxiety-like behaviors in d-gal-treated mice. Also, our behavioral tests showed that Ator reverses the d-gal induced learning and memory impairment. Furthermore, we found that Ator increases the physical power of d-gal-treated mice. Our results indicated that the neuroprotective effect of Ator on d-gal induced neurotoxicity is mediated, at least in part, by an increase in the SOD and BDNF levels. The results of present study suggest that Ator could be used as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of age-related conditions.

The effect of orexin-A on motor and cognitive functions in a rat model of Parkinson's disease

OBJECTIVE

 The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of orexin-A (OX-A) and the orexin-1 receptor antagonist SB-334867 (SB) on motor and cognitive functions in a rat model of Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

Parkinson was induced by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injection of 6- hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) (200 μg/rat). 72 h later, the treatment was initiated by i.c.v administration of SB (30 nmol/rat) and/or OX-A (0.3 nmol/rat) for 10 days. Motor functions were monitored using rotarod and hanging tests. Cognitive function was assessed by passive avoidance test (Shuttle box). Results: OX-A administration in 6-OHDA treated rats remarkably increased the time which animals run on rod (in rotarod test) and also the latency to fall (in hanging test) (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, administration of SB in 6-OHDA-treated rats decreased the mentioned indices (P < 0.05 for latency to fall). Administration of agonist and/or antagonist of orexin-1 receptors had no significant effect on 6-OHDA induced cognitive impairment in rats.

CONCLUSION

 Results of this study suggest that the orexinergic system might be involved in sensory-motor deficits of Parkinson's disease.

Inhibition of transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 confers neuroprotection, reduces tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and increases IL-10 in a rat stroke model

Stroke is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability in adults. Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) plays a crucial role in neuroinflammation. In this study, the effects of TRPV1 agonist (capsaicin) and antagonist (AMG9810) on cerebral ischemia were investigated. Forty male Wistar rats were assigned to the following experimental groups: sham, vehicle) ischemic), AMG9810 (selective TRPV1 antagonist, 0.5 mg/kg; 3 h after stroke), and capsaicin (1 mg/kg; 3 h after stroke). Stroke was induced by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion and neurological deficits were evaluated 1, 3, and 7 days after stroke. Then, infarct volume, brain edema, body temperature, mRNA expression of TRPV1, and serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and IL-10 were measured. Compared to the vehicle group, AMG9810 significantly decreased the infarct volume (P < 0.01). Latency for the removal of sticky labels from the forepaw and the hanging time were significantly decreased and increased, respectively, following administration of AMG9810 (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001 vs. vehicle) 3 and 7 days after stroke. Compared to the sham group, the mRNA expression of TRPV1 was significantly increased in vehicle group (P < 0.01). Administration of AMG9810 significantly increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and decreased the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α (P < 0.05). Moreover, our results indicate that AMG9810 might a promising candidate for the hypothermic treatment of stroke. The findings also suggest a key role for AMG9810 in reducing inflammation after stroke and imply that TRPV1 could be a potential target for the treatment of ischemic stroke.

Short-term effects of troxerutin (vitamin P4) on muscle fatigue and gene expression of Bcl-2 and Bax in the hepatic tissue of rats

In the current study, the effects of troxerutin (TRX) on muscle fatigue and gene expression of Bcl-2 and Bax in the hepatic tissue of rats was investigated. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups and designated as control and TRX treatment at 75 (TRX75), 150 (TRX150), and 300 mg/kg per day (TRX300). The treated groups and control group received TRX and water orally for 7 days. After an exhaustive swimming test on the 7th day, all animals were euthanized immediately and several biochemical parameters related to fatigue and gene expression of Bcl-2 and Bax in the hepatic tissue were measured. Our results showed that the exhaustion swimming time in the TRX300 groups significantly increased 1.2-fold compared with the control group (P < 0.001). TRX300 significantly reduced ALT (P < 0.05) activity and increased liver SOD activity compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Additionally, TRX significantly reduced the liver mRNA expressions of Bax (P < 0.001) and increased the Bcl-2/Bax ratio (P < 0.001) compared with the control group. Based on our data, TRX possesses anti-apoptotic and hepatoprotective action following exhaustive swimming exercise.

The role of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 in unimodal and multimodal object recognition task in rats

BACKGROUND

The role of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) channels in learning and memory processes has recently been recognized. In the present study, the role of this receptor in the multisensory integration process was investigated.

METHODS

This study was done using 96 male Wistar rats, which were kept in a reverse 12-12h dark/light cycle. Unimodal and multimodal object recognition task was performed by four variations of the spontaneous object recognition (SOR) test including standard SOR, tactile SOR, visual SOR, and cross-modal visual-tactile SOR (CMOR). AMG9810 (selective TRPV1 antagonist) was injected into the right lateral cerebral ventricle prior to sample and choice phases of SOR. A discrimination ratio was calculated to assess the preference of the animal for the novel object.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that administration of AMG9810 prior to the sample phase, as encoding phase, and prior to the choice phase, as retrieval phase, impaired discrimination between the novel and the familiar objects in all standard SOR, tactile SOR, visual SOR, and CMOR tasks (all p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that TRPV1 receptors might be implicated in both unimodal and cross-modal encoding of information in rats.

Ginger extract modulates the expression of IL-12 and TGF-β in the central nervous system and serum of mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

OBJECTIVE

The main function of IL-12 is differentiation of naive T cells intoTh1 cells and TGF-β is a powerful immunoregulatory cytokine. The immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger have also been reported in some studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ginger extract on the expression of IL-12 and TGF-β in a model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligodendroglial glycoprotein emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant. The mice were administered intra-peritoneally with ginger extracts or PBS, from day +3 to +30. On day 31, mice were scarified and the expression of IL-12 and TGF-β mRNA in the spinal cord were determined by using real time-PCR. The serum levels of cytokines were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

In PBS-treated EAE mice, the expression of IL-12 P35 and IL-12 P40 mRNA in the CNS and the mean serum levels of IL-12 were significantly higher than those of healthy group (p<0.001). In ginger-treated EAE mice, the expression of IL-12 mRNA and its serum levels were significantly lower as compared to PBS-treated EAE mice. No significant difference was observed between PBS-treated EAE mice and healthy group regarding the expression of TGF-β mRNA. In ginger (300 mg/kg)-treated EAE group, the expression of TGF-β mRNA and its serum levels were significantly higher in comparison to PBS-treated EAE mice (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that ginger extract modulates the expression of IL-12 and TGF-β in CNS and serum of EAE mice.

The expression of HoxB5 and SPC in neonatal rat lung after exposure to fluoxetine

Objective

Approximately 10% of pregnant women suffer from pregnancy-associated depression. Fluoxetine, as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is being employed as a therapy for depressive disorders. The present study aimed to determine the effects of fluoxetine on neonatal lung development.

Methods

Thirty pregnant Wistar rats (weighing 200–250 g) were treated daily with 7 mg/kg fluoxetine from gestation day 0 to gestation day 21, via gavage. The control group received a similar volume of distilled water only. Following delivery, the newborns and their lungs were immediately weighed in both of the groups. The right lung was fixed for histological assessments while the left lung was used for evaluation of the expression of SPC and HoxB5 by the real-time polymerase chain reaction method.

Results

Results have indicated that even though the body weight and the number of neonatal rats in both groups were the same, the lung weight of neonates exposed to fluoxetine was significantly different compared to the control group (P<0.05). Expression of both genes was increased, nonetheless, only elevation of HoxB5 was significant (P<0.05). Histological studies demonstrated that lung tissue in the fluoxetine treatment group morphologically appears to be similar to the pseudoglandular phase, whereas the control group lungs experienced more development.

Conclusion

According to the upregulated expression of HoxB5 concerning histological findings, results of the present study showed that fluoxetine can influence lung growth and may in turn lead to delay in lung development. So establishment of studies to identify the effects of antidepressant drugs during pregnancy is deserved.

Effects of Dimethyl Sulfoxide on Neuronal Response Characteristics in Deep Layers of Rat Barrel Cortex

Introduction:

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a chemical often used as a solvent for water-insoluble drugs. In this study, we evaluated the effect of intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of DMSO on neural response characteristics (in 1200–1500 μm depth) of the rat barrel cortex.

Methods:

DMSO solution was prepared in 10% v/v concentration and injected into the lateral ventricle of rats. Neuronal spontaneous activity and neuronal responses to deflection of the principal whisker (PW) and adjacent whisker (AW) were recorded in barrel cortex. A condition test ratio (CTR) was used to measure inhibitory receptive fields in barrel cortex.

Results:

The results showed that both PW and AW evoked ON and OFF responses, neuronal spontaneous activity and inhibitory receptive fields did not change following ICV administration of DMSO.

Conclusion:

Results of this study suggest that acute ICV administration of 10% DMSO did not modulate the electrophysiological characteristics of neurons in the l deep ayers of rat barrel cortex.

Administration of orexin receptor 1 antagonist into the rostral ventromedial medulla increased swim stress-induced antinociception in rat

OBJECTIVES

Intracerebroventricular injection of orexin-A (hypocretin-1) antagonist has been shown to inhibit stress-induced analgesia. However the locations of central sites that may mediate these effects have not been totally demonstrated. This study was performed to investigate the role of rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) orexin receptor 1 in stress-induced analgesia (SIA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forced swim stress in water was employed to adult male rats (200-250 g). Nociceptive responses were measured by formalin test (50 µl injection of formalin 2% subcutaneously into hind paw) and, pain related behaviors were monitored for 90 min following intra-microinjection of SB-334867 (orexin receptor 1 antagonist) into RVM.

RESULTS

Exposure to swimming stress test after administration of SB-334867 into RVM significantly reduces the formalin-induced nociceptive behaviors in phase1, interphase, and phase 2 in rats.

CONCLUSION

The result demonstrated the involvement of OXR1 in antinociceptive behaviors induced by swim stress in RVM.

Susceptibility pattern of Candida albicans isolated from Iranian patients to antifungal agents

Background and Purpose:

Candidiasis is a major fungal infection, and Candida albicans is the major cause of infections in humans. The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) developed new breakpoints for antifungal agents against C. albicans. In this multi-center study, we aimed to determine the drug susceptibility profile of C. albicans, isolated from Iranian population according to new species-specific CLSI.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical samples were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and were incubated at room temperature for seven days. The isolates were transferred to Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz, Iran. C. albicans were identified by using API 20C AUX system. Broth microdilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of amphotericin B, caspofungin, voriconazole, fluconazole, posaconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole, based on CLSI document M27-S4 and new breakpoints for some azoles and caspofungin.

Results:

Overall, 397 C. albicans were isolated from patients admitted to ten university hospitals in Iran. The MIC90 of the isolates to amphotericin B, caspofungin, voriconazole, fluconazole, posaconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole were 0.125, 0.125, 0.125, 1, 0.064, 0.5, and 0.125 µg/ml, and rates of resistance were 0.5%, 0.3%, 3.8%, 2.8%, and 2.5% for amphotericin B, caspofungin, voriconazole, fluconazole, and itraconazole, respectively.

Conclusion:

According to our data, fluconazole is the drug of choice for management of patients at risk for systemic candidiasis throughout the region, since it is cost-effective with low side effects.

The Association Between C424c/A Polymorphism Within the IL-25 Gene and Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common autoimmune system disease which affects the central nervous system. It has been documented that interleukin-25 (IL-25) plays key roles in suppressing Th1 responses, which is increased during MS.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the c424C/A polymorphism within the IL-25 gene in MS patients in comparison to healthy controls.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this case-control study, 74 patients with MS and 75 healthy controls were selected. Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was used in order to determine c424C/A polymorphism within the IL-25 gene.

RESULTS

The results showed that there was no statistical significant difference in distribution of genotype (AA, AC and CC) and allele (A and C) frequencies between MS patients and healthy controls (P = 0.901 and P = 0.728, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, it appears that the c424C/A polymorphism within the IL-25 gene has no significant relationship with MS, and this polymorphism is probably not associated with MS complications, its onset and gender distribution.

Increase in mRNA Level of Orexin1 and 2 Receptors Following Induction of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Mice

Orexin A and B are hypothalamic peptides with a wide variety of effects such as anti-inflammation and neuroprotection. Impaired function of orexin system has been reported in some neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson, Huntington and Alzheimer. In this study, the mRNA expression levels of some hypothalamic peptides were investigated in C57BL/6 female mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Animals were randomly divided into two control and EAE groups. EAE was induced by administration of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) with complete Ferund's adjuvant and pertussis toxin. Twenty-first days following immunization, mice were decapitated to remove the brains. Then, the expression profiles of prepro-orexin, orexin 1 receptors (OX1R) and orexin 2 receptors (OX2R) in hypothalamic region were assessed using real-time PCR method. In this study, we found a considerable increase in the mRNA expression of OX1R and OX2R following EAE induction in C57BL/6 mice. Elevation levels of OX1R and OX2R following EAE induction suggest that alteration in orexinergic system may involve in pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis.