LncRNA ANRIL Promotes Glucose Metabolism and Proliferation of Colon Cancer in a High-Glucose Environment and is Associated with Worse Outcome in Diabetic Colon Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

The potential involvement of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as a risk factor for colon cancer (CC) has been previously reported. Epigenetic changes, such as deregulation of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and microRNA (miR), have been linked to the advancement of CC; however, the effects of high glucose levels on their deregulation and, in turn, colon cancer remain unexplored.

METHODS

Fifty patients had a dual diagnosis of CC and T2DM, and 60 patients with CC without diabetes mellitus were included in the study. qRT-PCR was used to examine the expression of lncRNA ANRIL and miR-186-5p in tissue samples. ANRIL, miR-186-5p, and their downstream target genes HIF-1α, PFK, HK, Bcl-2, and Bax were also determined in CC cell lines under various glucose conditions. Glucose uptake, lactate production and cells proliferation were estimated in CC cell lines.

RESULTS

A significant upregulation of ANRIL expression levels (p<0.001) and a significant downregulation of miR-186-5p expression (p<0.001) in diabetic colon cancer specimens compared to those in non-diabetic colon cancer group were observed. MiR-186-5p expression levels were inversely correlated with ANRIL expression levels, blood glucose levels and HbA1c%. Concerning in vitro model, a significant upregulation of ANRIL, downregulation of miR-186-5p, upregulation of HIF-1α, glycolytic enzymes and activation of antiapoptotic pathway was detected in higher glucose concentrations than lower one. There was a significant increase of glucose uptake, lactate accumulation and proliferation of the Caco2 and SW620 cell lines in a dose dependent manner of glucose concentrations. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between glucose uptake and ANRIL expression was shown.

CONCLUSIONS

A high-glucose environment can increase the tumor-promoting effect of ANRIL. ANRIL can promote glucose metabolism and colon cancer proliferation by downregulating miR-186-5p with subsequent upregulation of glycolysis enzymes expression and inhibition of apoptosis.

Conjunctival vessel morphology in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: findings of a case-control study

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus that may lead to vision loss. Retinal problems are more likely to occur as the illness advances. Micro- and macro-vascular angiopathy is both linked to diabetes mellitus. Examining the impact of diabetes on blood vessels is one approach to understanding the disease's outward symptoms. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the morphology and breadth of conjunctival vessels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to establish a correlation between these alterations and clinical retinal changes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A case-control study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology, KIMS, Koppal, Karnataka. The study included diabetic patients who voluntarily participated and were assessed at the Ophthalmology Outpatient Department (OPD). The general and ophthalmic history was taken for both cases and control. The best corrected visual acuity was estimated. Each subject, including cases and controls, had a general and ophthalmic history recorded. The anterior segment was evaluated with a slit lamp. After completing the clinical examination, the subjects underwent a conjunctival vessel imaging study using the slit lamp. The imaging included the study of conjunctival vessel morphology using ImageNet.

RESULTS

Both the test and control groups are comparable in terms of age and gender. The severity of diabetic retinopathy was shown to correlate with the conjunctival width range. Mild diabetic retinopathy is characterized by a conjunctival width of 30-34 microns (mean: 34.9), moderate diabetic retinopathy by 35-39 microns (mean: 37.3), severe diabetic retinopathy by 40-44 microns (mean: 42.4), and proliferative diabetic retinopathy by 50-54 microns (mean: 45.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes mellitus patients have larger conjunctival arteries as the disease becomes more severe. Dilated and tortuous conjunctival arteries are visible indicators that correlate with worsening diabetic retinopathy. This could be used for screening to ensure timely referral.

Liraglutide ameliorates diabetic-induced testicular dysfunction in male rats: role of GLP-1/Kiss1/GnRH and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways

Introduction: Glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1) is released by intestinal cells to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin release from the pancreas. GLP-1 has been linked to ameliorating obesity and/or diabetic complications as well as controlling reproductive function. Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) with 97% homology with GLP-1. The main objective of this study was to investigate the ameliorative role of liraglutide in diabetic-induced reproductive dysfunction in male rats. Methods: Rats were randomly allocated into 3 groups; a control group, a diabetic group, and a liraglutide-treated diabetic group. Results: In the diabetic group, a significant increase in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, TC, TAG, LDL, IL6, TNFα, and MDA, as well as decreased serum insulin, HDL, GSH, total testosterone, LH, and FSH, were shown compared to the control group. Furthermore, A significant downregulation in relative hypothalamic gene expression of GLP-1R, PPAR-α, PGC-1α, kiss, kiss1R, leptin, leptin R, GnRH GLP-1R, testicular PGC-1α, PPARα, kiss1, kiss1R, STAR, CYP17A1, HSD17B3, CYP19A, CYP11A1, and Smad7, as well as upregulation in hypothalamic GnIH and testicular TGF- β and Smad2 expression, were noticed compared to the control group. Liraglutide treatment significantly improved such functional and structural reproductive disturbance in diabetic rats. Conclusion: GLP-1RAs ameliorated the deleterious effects of diabetes on reproductive function by targeting GLP-1/leptin/kiss1/GnRH, steroidogenesis, and TGF- β/Smad pathways.

Fabrication of Thermal Insulation Bricks Using Pleurotus florida Spent Mushroom

This study explores the potential for making lightweight bricks via the use of dry, pulverized spent mushroom materials (SMM) as a thermal insulator. There are five distinct replacement proportions of SMM that are used, and they range from 0% to 15% of the weight of the clay. The firing of the fabricated bricks at temperatures of 700, 800, and 900 °C led to the development of pores on the interior surface of the bricks as a consequence of the decomposition of SMM. The impact of SMM on the physicomechanical characteristics of fabricated bricks is assessed based on standard codes. Compressive strength, bulk density, and thermal conductivity decreased as the SMM content increased, reaching up to 8.7 MPa, 1420 kg/m³, and 0.29 W/mK at 900 °C and 15% substitution percentage. However, cold water absorption, boiling water absorption, linear drying shrinkage, linear firing shrinkage, and apparent porosity increased with the increase in SMM, reaching 23.6%, 25.3%, and 36.6% at 900 °C and 15% substitution percentage. In the study simulation model, there was a significant improvement in energy consumption, which reached an overall reduction of 29.23% and 21.49% in Cario and Jazan cities, respectively.

Impact of core stability exercises vs. interferential therapy on pelvic floor muscle strength in women with pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVE

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the descent of the pelvic organs into or through the vaginal walls. Females who have prolapse have symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, sexual function, and exercise. POP can have a negative effect on one's sexuality and body image. This study attempted to assess the significance of core stability exercises vs. interferential therapy on the power of the pelvic floor muscles in females with prolapsed pelvic organs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A randomized control trial was conducted on forty participants (aged between 40-60 years, diagnosed with mild degree pelvic organ prolapse participated in the research. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: (group A; n = 20) and (group B; n = 20). The participants were tested twice, before and after 12 weeks, during which group (A) performed core stability exercises while group (B) received interferential therapy. A modified Oxford grading scale and the perineometer were used to assess how the vaginal squeeze pressure changed.

RESULTS

The study's findings demonstrated that the modified Oxford grading scale values and vaginal squeeze pressure had a non-statistically significant difference (p-value ≥ 0.05) between both groups pre-treatment while had a statistically significant difference (p-value ≤ 0.05) between both groups post-treatment in favor of group A.

CONCLUSIONS

It was concluded that both training programs are efficient at strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, but the core stability exercises were more effective.

Emamectin Benzoate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats with Special Reference to Protective Potential of Nigella sativa Oil

This study was designed to explore the hepatotoxicity of emamectin in male rats and the possible effect of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) in ameliorating this. Twenty-eight male rats were used in this study. They were divided into four groups, Control group: rats orally administered distilled water; NSO group: rats administered NSO orally; EMB group: rats administered emamectin benzoate orally; and EMB+NSO group: rats orally co-administered NSO with EMB, with the administrations being performed every other day for 6 weeks. Body weight was measured, liver alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were determined, and total protein and albumin levels were recorded. Histopathological examination of the liver was also performed, along with caspase-3 and TNF-α immunostaining of liver tissue. EMB treatment resulted in decreased body weight, while the co-administration of NSO modulated the EMB-induced alterations in body weight. There were also increases in the activities of serum ALT, AST, and ALP and decreases in total protein and albumin levels in the EMB group. Co-treatment with NSO significantly reduced serum ALT, AST, and ALP and improved total protein and albumin levels. Histopathological examination of the liver in the EMB group revealed the presence of different histopathological alterations that were improved by the co-administration of NSO. Immunostaining of caspase-3 and TNF-α in the liver revealed strong expression in the EMB-treated group. Meanwhile, the EMB+NSO group showed weak positivity for immunoreactive cells.

Palliative Effect of Resveratrol against Nanosized Iron Oxide-Induced Oxidative Stress and Steroidogenesis-Related Genes Dysregulation in Testicular Tissue of Adult Male Rats

The nano-sized iron oxide (Fe₂O₃-NPs) is one of the most used engineered nanomaterials worldwide. This study investigated the efficacy of natural polyphenol resveratrol (RSV) (20 mg/kg b.wt, orally once daily) to alleviate the impaired sperm quality and testicular injury resulting from Fe₂O₃-NPs exposure (3.5 or 7 mg/kg b.wt, intraperitoneally once a week) for eight weeks. Spermiograms, sexual hormonal levels, oxidative stress indicators, and lipid peroxidation biomarker were assessed. Moreover, the steroidogenesis-related genes mRNA expressions were evaluated. The results showed that RSV substantially rescued Fe₂O₃-NPs-mediated sperm defects. Additionally, the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced depressing effects on sperm motility and viability were markedly counteracted by RSV. Moreover, RSV significantly restored Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced depletion of testosterone, follicle-stimulated hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testicular antioxidant enzymes but reduced malondialdehyde content. Furthermore, the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced downregulation of steroidogenesis-related genes (3 β-HSD, 17 β-HSD, and Nr5A1) was significantly counteracted in the testicular tissue of RSV-treated rats. These findings concluded that RSV could limit the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced reduced sperm quality and testicular injury most likely via their antioxidant activity and steroidogenesis-related gene expression modulation.

Quercetin-Ameliorated, Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-Induced Immunotoxic, Inflammatory, and Oxidative Effects in Mice

The expanding uses of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in industry and medicine have raised concerns about their toxicity on human and animal health. CNTs, including multi-walled nanotubes (MWCNTs), have been reported to induce immunotoxic, inflammatory, and oxidative effects. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid present in many vegetables and fruits and has immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Herein, we investigated the protective effects of quercetin on pristine MWCNTs-induced immunotoxicity in mice. In comparison with two doses of MWCNTs, high doses [0.5 mg/kg body weight (BW), once intraperitoneally (IP)] caused higher immunotoxic, inflammatory, and oxidative effects than low doses (0.25 mg/kg BW, once IP). Administration of quercetin (30 mg/kg BW, IP for 2 weeks) relieved these deleterious effects as evidenced by (1) reduced spleen weight, (2) increased number of total leukocytes, lymphocytes, and neutrophils, (3) elevated serum levels of IgM, IgG, and IgA, (4) decreased lipid peroxide malondialdehyde levels and increased levels of antioxidant markers reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in the spleen, (5) decreased concentrations and mRNA levels of inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), interleukin 1 beta (IL1ß), and IL6 in the spleen, (6) downregulated expression of immunomodulatory genes transforming growth factor-beta (TGFß), cyclooxygenase2 (COX2), and IL10, and (7) regenerative histological changes as indicated by decreased mononuclear cell infiltration, minimized degenerative changes and restored lymphocytes depletion in the spleen. These results infer that quercetin can ameliorate MWCNTs-induced immunotoxic, inflammatory, and oxidative effects.

Merkel Cell Polyomavirus: Oncogenesis in a Stable Genome

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is the causative agent for the majority of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cases. Polyomavirus-associated MCC (MCCP) is characterized by the integration of MCV DNA into the tumor genome and a low tumor mutational burden. In contrast, nonviral MCC (MCCN) is characterized by a high tumor mutational burden induced by UV damage. Since the discovery of MCV, much work in the field has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of oncogenesis driven by the MCV tumor (T) antigens. Here, we review our current understanding of how the activities of large T (LT) and small T (ST) promote MCC oncogenesis in the absence of genomic instability. We highlight how both LT and ST inhibit tumor suppressors to evade growth suppression, an important cancer hallmark. We discuss ST interactions with cellular proteins, with an emphasis on those that contribute to sustaining proliferative signaling. Finally, we examine active areas of research into open questions in the field, including the origin of MCC and mechanisms of viral integration.

Knowledge and awareness levels of diabetes mellitus risk factors among nondiabetic visitors of primary health care centers: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

People with a high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus are primarily due to lifestyle factors and can be reduced by implementing awareness programs. Therefore, this study evaluates the diabetic awareness level, risk factors, and lifestyle behaviors among nondiabetic participants.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 538 nondiabetic participants based on American Diabetic Association (ADA) parameters via face-to-face interview. The sample was collected from five different primary health care centers from November 2019 to February 2020. The target population was nondiabetic with age ≥18 years and participants with other serious chronic illnesses, pregnant women, or unable to communicate effectively were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 538 participants without diabetes data were analyzed, of which 363 (67.5%) were males. Good, moderate, and insufficient knowledge of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus awareness was 34.6%, 52.4%, and 13.0%, respectively. The knowledge level in females' participants was significantly less than the males (OR=2.4; p=0.0005). About 44% had diabetic risk, and the prevalence of diabetes risk was significantly high in males (OR=1.7), obesity (OR=2.9), overweight (OR=2.3), and high blood pressure (OR= 2.2) (all p < 0.05). The risk of diabetes was increased in those participants who consumed more bakery items (p < 0.05). The diabetes risk score was negatively associated with diabetes awareness levels (r= -0.29, p= 0.063).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of diabetes in the general population can be prevented by proactive public health awareness campaigns, particularly among elderly age group, with lower educational level, physically inactive, and obese.

Diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging in detecting depth of invasion of tongue cancers

The recent eighth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system has introduced depth of invasion (DOI) as one of its important components. DOI is also important for deciding neck management in superficial tongue cancers. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is mainly used to assess DOI, and in this study we have evaluated the efficacy of MRI to detect it. This is a retrospective study consisting of 60 treatment-naïve tongue cancer patients operated on between July 2017 and June 2019. Patients underwent MR imaging on an Optima MR450W 1.5T unit, and MRI was reported by two experienced ead and eck adiologistss. Postoperative histological DOI was considered the gold standard. The correlation coefficient was derived for postoperative DOI and MRI-detected DOI. A subgroup analysis of superficial tongue cancer was also done. The mean MRI DOI was 13.7 mm and the mean histological DOI 12.45 mm. The shrinkage factor was 0.6 mm. Pearson's correlation coefficient was 0.80 (p=<0.001) for Radiologist 1 and 0.85 (p=<0.001) for Radiologist 2. The interobserver variation was low, with a correlation coefficient between the two radiologists of 0.965 (p=<0.001). For superficial tongue cancers there was moderate correlation for MRI and histologically-detected DOI with a kappa value of 0.681 (p=0.03). As per the ROC curve, the cut-off value for MRI DOI to predict nodal metastasis was 4.6 mm. MRI has high reliability to predict the DOI of tongue cancers. The interobserver variation was low. The diagnostic accuracy in cases of superficial tongue cancer was moderate.

Study of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients in Gamal Abd El-Nasser Hospital in 2017

Background

COPD is characterized by non-remitting airflow limitation and persistent respiratory symptoms which is an enhanced inflammatory response to prolonged exposure to smoking or noxious gases or particles and manifested through chronic cough, effort dyspnea, expectoration and wheezing, symptoms that appears in context of airways hyper-responsiveness and may be partially reversible.

Objective

Assessment of COPD patients in Gamal Abd El Nasser Hospital during period from January 2017 to June 2017.

Subjects and Methods

This study was a cross sectional study that included 290 COPD patients recommended for spirometric assessment. The patients were classified into 2 groups: Outpatients and inpatients in the period from January 2017 to June 2017, they were subjected to full medical history, general and local examination, Pre and post bronchodilator spirometric study according to (GOLD,2017) and each patient will be subjected to the following questionnaire [Serial number, Name, Age, Sex, Occupation, Residence, Level of education, Smoking, Smoking index, Family history of COPD, Symptoms, Number and severity of exacerbation attacks in the last year, Number of Hospitalization during the last year, Vaccination status, Spirometry, Treatment prescribed by, Treatment, Inhalation therapy, Regulation of treatment, Non pharmacological therapy, Satisfaction of treatment, co morbidities, Complications, Outcome for inpatient]

Results

The study included 290 patients, 259 males and 31 females with age range of 29 _ 83 years, the majority of the studied cases were Current smoking but only 22.5% was ex-smoker. Mean FEV1% pred. Post-bronchodilator was 75.9± 16.9 in outpatients and mean FEV1% pred. Post – bronchodilator was 52.9 ± 13.4 in inpatient. The most common co morbidities in COPD patients were hypertension in 25% of cases. More than half of all studied cases had complications and the most frequent complication was Cor-pulmonale and respiratory Failure. In this study, Severity of COPD according to GOLD 2017 was 27.8% in mild stage, 34.2% in moderate stage, 35.8% in severe stage and 2.5% in very severe stage.

Conclusion

Spirometry had a great role in diagnosis of COPD and its differential diagnosis from asthma. Smoking is the major risk factors in developing COPD and this reflects on the disease occurrence and severity. Some of COPD patients refuse to use inhalers due to fear of addiction and incorrect method in using it. Inhaler steroids were preferred due to fear of systemic complications of steroids. There is great defect in vaccination and trials of quitting smoking as a non-pharmacological treatment for COPD patients.

Amelioration of titanium dioxide nanoparticle reprotoxicity by the antioxidants morin and rutin

The present study aimed to examine the ameliorative effects of morin and rutin on the reproductive toxicity induced by titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) in male rats. A total of seventy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into seven groups, each comprising ten rats. Nanoreprotoxicity was induced by treating rats with TiO₂NPs at a dosage of 300 mg/kg body weight for 30 days. Morin (30 mg/kg body weight) and rutin (100 mg/kg body weight) were co-administered with or without TiO₂NPs to rats either individually or combined. Only distilled water was administered to the control group. The results showed that TiO₂NPs enhanced oxidative stress, indicated by reduced levels of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) in testicular tissues, and increased levels of the lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde (MDA). TiO₂NPs significantly reduced the levels of sex hormones (testosterone, FSH, and LH), reduced sperm motility, viability, and sperm cell count, and increased sperm abnormalities, in addition to damaging the testicular histological architecture. TiO₂NPs resulted in the downregulation of 17β-HSD and the upregulation of proapoptotic gene (Bax) transcripts in the testicular tissues. Conversely, morin and/or rutin had a protective effect on testicular tissue. They effectively counteracted TiO₂NP-induced oxidative damage and morphological injury in the testis by conserving the endogenous antioxidant mechanisms and scavenging free radicals. Thus, we suggest that morin and rutin could be used to alleviate the toxicity and oxidative damage associated with TiO₂NP intake.

Morin ameliorates the testicular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and impact on blood-testis barrier induced by photo-extracellularly synthesized silver nanoparticles

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been widely produced for different industrial purposes. Recently, biogenic synthesis of AgNPs has emerged although the extent of effects from exposure, oral exposure in particular, to nanomaterials synthesized in such a manner remains elusive. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of oral administration of a dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight AgNPs biosynthesized in baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) over a period of eight weeks on the reproductive performance and the possibility of a protective effect through co-administration of morin. Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in four experimental groups (control, morin-treated group, AgNP-treated, and AgNP + morin co-treatment). AgNPs produced no significant alteration in daily food intake or body weight. Both the absolute and relative testicular weights were significantly reduced but not the epididymal weight. Also, serum levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, and liver enzymes were significantly elevated. Furthermore, AgNPs significantly downregulated the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This corresponds to lower motility and viability percent, reduced sperm concentration, and a higher abnormality ratio as well as a prominent alteration in the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and testicular histology and induction of testicular apoptosis and oxidative stress. The supplementation of morin evidently restored most of the reproductive characters to its physiological range. We can conclude that exposure to the biologically synthesized AgNPs for an extended period of time has proven to be a health risk that can be ameliorated via oral administration of some bioactive agents including morin.

Endosulfan toxicity in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and the use of lycopene as an ameliorative agent

OBJECTIVES

Endosulfan is a broad-spectrum organochlorine insecticide that has been commercially in use for decades to control insect pests and has been found to pollute the aquatic environment. The current study was carried out to investigate the toxic effects of endosulfan, an organochlorine pesticide, on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), a freshwater fish, and the alleviating effects of lycopene on the induced toxicity.

METHODS

Four treatment groups of fish were investigated (3 replicates of 15 fish for each group): (1) a control group, (2) a group exposed to endosulfan, (3) a group that was fed on a basal diet supplemented with lycopene, and (4) a group that was fed on a basal diet supplemented with lycopene and exposed to endosulfan. The experiment was carried out over a 4-week period.

RESULTS

Endosulfan negatively affected liver function, including liver enzymes and plasma proteins. Endosulfan affected blood parameters of fish and reduced the counts of red blood cells (RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs), as well as affected immunological parameters. Endosulfan caused oxidative stress, as it decreased the values of antioxidants catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and glutathione (GSH), and increased the level of lipid peroxide malondialdehyde (MDA). Additionally, endosulfan increased cytochrome P450 (CYP450) levels, while it decreased glutathione S-transferase (GST) mRNA transcript levels and distorted the normal histological structure of the liver, gills, and spleen of affected fish. Conversely, lycopene partially restored the aforementioned parameters when administered concomitantly with endosulfan.

CONCLUSION

The results showed the beneficial effects of supplementing fish diets with lycopene as a natural antioxidant for ameliorating the toxicity caused by endosulfan.

Evaluation of a human in vitro skin test for predicting drug hypersensitivity reactions

The occurrence of drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) following administration of low molecular weight (LMW) drugs is an important health concern. However, in vivo animal models which could be used as tools for the prediction of DHRs are lacking. As a result, research has focused on development of in vitro tools for predicting DHRs. In this study a novel human in vitro pre-clinical skin explant test was used to predict T cell-mediated hypersensitivity responses induced by LMW drugs. Responses in the skin explant test for 12 LMW drugs associated with T cell-mediated hypersensitivity in the clinic (abacavir, amoxicillin, carbamazepine, diclofenac, lamotrigine, lapatinib, lumiracoxib, nevirapine, ofloxacin, phenytoin, propranolol, sulfamethoxazole) were compared with responses for 5 drugs with few/no reports of T cell-mediated hypersensitivity reactions (acetaminophen, cimetidine, flecainide, metformin, verapamil). Changes in skin histology following in vitro exposure to the drugs as well as T cell proliferation and interferon gamma (IFNγ) production were studied. The results of the skin explant assays showed a good positive correlation (r = 0.77, p < .001) between the test outcome (prediction of positive or negative) and the clinical classification of the tested drugs. The T cell proliferation assay showed a correlation of r = 0.60 (p < .01) and the IFNγ assay r = 0.51 (p < .04). The data suggest that the skin explant model could be a useful tool to predict the potential of LMW drugs to induce DHRs.

Bone health consequence of adjuvant Anastrozole in monotherapy or associated with biochanin-A in ovariectomized rat model

AIMS

We investigate the consequence of adjuvant anastrozole (ANA) in monotherapy or associated with biochanin A (BCA) in ovariectomized (OVX) rat model and the degree of developing bone loss in both conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty female rats were assigned to six groups. Five groups were bilaterally OVX, and one was sham operated. The five groups were; ANA group (0.5 mg/kg b.wt orally), BCA (5 mg/kg b.wt intraperitoneally (I/P), co-treated group (BCA + ANA), two control groups receiving even distilled water orally or DMSO I/P for twenty weeks. Bone turnover biomarkers BALP, OC, PTH, TRAP and TNFα were determined in serum. Bone mineral content, histological and morphometric measurements on rat femurs were performed. BMD by X-ray technique on tibias of rats and CT analysis of lumbar vertebrae of all treated and sham groups were applied.

KEY FINDINGS

There was marked elevation in bone turnover biomarkers with high serum Ca and P content in the ANA-treated rats. Moreover marked elevation of TNFα, PTH, TC and TG, ANA caused severe changes in the BMD detected by X-ray in tibial bones and CT analysis of lumbar vertebrae of OVX rats. While I/P injection of BCA ameliorated the adverse bone health decrements caused by ANA.

SIGNIFICANCE

The study highlights the importance of the BCA supplementation in accordance with the ANA therapy in case of ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis which is clinically presented in Postmenopausal women with breast cancer during which considerable risk of developing osteoporosis is predicted during treatment.

Aging changes in the retina of male albino rat: a histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study

BACKGROUND

Degenerative changes caused by aging may affect the eye, especially the retina. Such changes occur as a part of normal physiological process and may be irreversible. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the influence of aging on the morphology of the retina to provide a basis to explain the pathogenesis of age-associated decline in visual acuity, scotopic and photopic sensitivity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty male albino rats were used and divided into four age groups (group I: age of cortical maturity, group II: middle-aged, group III: aged group and group IV: senile group). The rats were sacrificed, the eye balls were enucleated. Intra-vitreal injections of formalin for haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical sections, glutaraldehyde for toluidine blue semithin and E/M ultra-thin sections were performed. Measurements and quantitative histomorphometric estimation of the layers of the retina were done.

RESULTS

Light microscopic examination revealed age-dependent attenuation of photoreceptor striations. Aged and senile groups presented pyknotic, widely- -spaced nuclei of the outer nuclear layer. The inner nuclear layer was thinned out to 2 or 3 cellular rows. Retinal capillaries showed progressive dilatation and congestion. Statistical analysis proved significant thinning of the retina with variable degrees of thinning of the constituting layers. Decreased arborisation with age was confirmed with quantification of synaptophysin-immunostained sections. Glial fibrillary acidic protein immunostaining revealed the picture of reactive gliosis. On the ultrastructural level, the retinal pigment epithelium exhibited major alterations with aging. Numerous phagosomes, lipofuscin and melanolipofusin granules appeared within the cells, together with exaggerated basal infoldings. The pho- toreceptor nuclei became degenerated and the perinuclear space was widened.

CONCLUSIONS

Rat retinae clearly undergo age-related morphological changes. Such changes provide a cellular base for explanation of decreased vision in humans with aging other than reflection errors. Effect of aging was not only qualitative, but also quantitative.

Ameliorative effect of ginseng extract on phthalate and bisphenol A reprotoxicity during pregnancy in rats

Phthalates (such as DEHP) and bisphenol A (BPA) are widely used chemicals in plastics manufacturing and exert public health concerns as endocrine disrupters. This study was designed to investigate the deleterious effect of DEHP and BPA on endocrine profile of pregnant female rats and the combined treatment with ginseng extract (Panax ginseng). Seventy-two pregnant rats were divided into six groups (control, ginseng, DEHP, BPA, Gin + DEHP, and Gin + BPA), 12 females per each group. The drugs were supplemented from pregnancy day 0 until day 20. Determination of serum sex hormones (testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol) were determined on days 4, 10, and 20 of pregnancy. mRNA transcripts of STAR, HSD17B3, CYP17, AKT1, and PTEN were relatively quantified against ACTB in the ovary and placenta of days 10 and 20 pregnant females by relative quantitative polymerase-chain reaction (RQ-PCR). DEHP and BPA significantly decreased the endocrine profile of testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol of days 10 and 20 of pregnant females. Combined administration of these chemicals along with ginseng extracts has returned the hormones to normal levels when compared with the control group. The ovarian and placental CYP17 and HSD17B3 mRNA transcripts showed variable expression pattern in both tissues and they were significantly affected by DEHP and BPA administration, concomitantly correlating to STAR, AKT1, PTEN, progesterone, and testosterone levels on pregnancy days 10 and 20. The results confirm the reprotoxicity of DEHP and BPA as endocrine disruptors and indicate that ginseng could be used to alleviate the toxic effects of these chemicals.

Hyperthermic Potentiation of Cisplatin Cytotoxicity on Solid Ehrlich Carcinoma

Background

Hyperthermia produces marked effects on many biochemical parameters of tumor cells and has been reported to potentiate the effect of many drugs. We therefore evaluated the possible synergistic effect between hyperthermia and cisplatin against solid Ehrlich carcinoma. The study was based on the measurement of some biologic characteristics in tumor tissues, namely: DNA, RNA, and protein content and their rate of synthesis as parameters for nuclear damage; total lipids and cholesterol as parameters for membrane damage; acid-phosphatase and acid-ribonuclease as parameters for lysosomal damage; and tumor volume as a direct parameter for tumor growth.

Methods

Treatment of solid Ehrlich carcinoma by hyperthermia at 43 °C for 30 min for 3 successive days produced a 41.5 % decrease in tumor volume, as well as a significant decrease in nucleic acids, protein contents and their rate of synthesis, in total lipids and cholesterol, and in acid-phosphatase and acid-ribonuclease. Chemotherapeutic management of the tumor by 5 mg/kg × 3 of cisplatin alone showed a continuous increase in tumor volume but at a lower rate than that of the untreated control. However, when cisplatin was given 1 h prior to hyperthermia, the tumor volume was significantly decreased by 82.6 %.

Results

The effects observed on all the investigated parameters were intensified when cisplatin was combined with hyperthermia. The results obtained suggest that hyperthermia may enhance the penetration of cisplatin to its target site inside the tumor cells due to a membrane-damaging effect. The enhanced lethality of cisplatin on tumor cells may also be due to the inhibition of DNA repair processes by hyperthermia.

Do protons and X-rays induce cell-killing in human peripheral blood lymphocytes by different mechanisms?

Purpose

Significant progress has been made in the technological and physical aspects of dose delivery and distribution in proton therapy. However, mode of cell killing induced by protons is less understood in comparison with X-rays. The purpose of this study is to see if there is any difference in the mode of cell-killing, induced by protons and X-rays in an ex vivo human peripheral blood lymphocyte (HPBL) model.

Materials and methods

HPBL were irradiated with 60 MeV proton beam or 250-kVp X-rays in the dose range of 0.3–4.0 Gy. Frequency of apoptotic and necrotic cells was determined by the Fluorescein (FITC)-Annexin V labelling procedure, 1 and 4 h after irradiation. Chip-based DNA Ladder Assay was used to confirm radiation-induced apoptosis and necrosis. Chip-based DNA Ladder Assay was used to confirm radiation-induced apoptosis.

Results

Ex vivo irradiation of HPBL with proton beams of 60 MeV or 250 kVp X-rays resulted in apoptotic as well as necrotic modes of cell-killing, which were evident at both 1 and 4 h after irradiation in the whole dose and time range. Generally, our results indicated that protons cause relatively higher yields of cell death that appears to be necrosis compared to X-rays. The analysis also demonstrates that radiation type and dose play a critical role in mode of cell-killing.

Conclusion

Obtained results suggest that X-rays and protons induce cell-killing by different modes. Such differences in cell-killing modes may have implications on the potential of a given therapeutic modality to cause immune modulation via programmed cell death (X-rays) or necrotic cell death (proton therapy). These studies point towards exploring for gene expression biomarkers related necrosis or apoptosis to predict immune response after proton therapy.

Species-specific control of hepatocyte growth factor expression and production in adipocytes in a differentiation-dependent manner

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a mesenchymal cell-derived factor that regulates cell growth, cell motility, and morphogenesis. Since there are conflicting reports on HGF-producing cells, we herein examined HGF activity in conditioned medium (CM) of bovine and mouse preadipocytes before and after adipogenic differentiation. CM of bovine adipocytes and mouse preadipocytes induced the morphogenesis of mammary epithelial cells that was inhibited by an NK4 HGF antagonist, whereas CM of bovine preadipocytes and mouse adipocytes did not. HGF mRNA expression was increased by a treatment with dexamethasone and isobutylmethylxanthine in bovine as well as human cells, whereas it was decreased in rodent cells. It was unfortunate that HGF gene promoter activity failed to reflect HGF mRNA expression in these cells. After actinomycin D treatment, expression of HGF mRNA remained stable in pre- and differentiated bovine adipocytes and mouse preadipocytes, whereas rapidly decreased in mouse-differentiated adipocytes. These results indicate that expression and production of HGF are regulated in a species-specific adipogenic differentiation-dependent manner and suggest that the decrease in HGF mRNA in mouse differentiated adipocytes is, at least in part, mediated by differentiation-dependent loss of its stability.

Neurotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles and the protective role of rutin

The toxicological studies on silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have become a hot topic over the past few decades due to their unique properties on the nanoscale and widespread in many commercial products that launched into the market recently. This study was undertaken to shed light on Ag-NPs toxicity on neurotransmitters with special emphasis on the impact of concurrent administration of rutin with Ag-NPs in the experimental rats. The oral administration of Ag-NPs in rats induced brain oxidative stress, significant alterations in neurotransmitters and amino acids. Furthermore, transcriptional levels of glutamatergic N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, monoamino oxidases (MAO-A, MAO-B) and metallothionein-III (MT-III) showed a significant elevation in Ag-NPs intoxicated rats. Moreover, histological examinations revealed astrogliosis and demyelination of neurons concomitant with neuronal degeneration and vacuolation. Strikingly, oral administration of rutin counterbalanced the toxic effects triggered by Ag-NPs. Taken together, our findings suggested that oral administration of Ag-NPs induced neurotoxicity in rats and rutin mitigates these effects.

Neuroprotective effects of quercetin in diabetic rat retina

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a severe complication of diabetes and the leading cause of blindness among working adults worldwide. DR is being widely recognized as a neurodegenerative disease of the retina, since, retinal neurons are damaged soon after diabetes onset. Diabetes-induced oxidative stress is considered as central factor that dysregulates neurotrophic factors and activates apoptosis, thereby damages neurons in the diabetic retina. Flavonoids being a powerful antioxidant have been considered to protect neurons in diabetic retina. The purpose of this study was to analyze the beneficial effects of flavonoid, quercetin to protect neurons in the diabetic rat retina. We quantitated the expression levels of BDNF, NGF, TrkB, synaptophysin, Akt, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-3 using Western blotting techniques in the diabetic retina with and without quercetin treatments and compared with non-diabetic rats. In addition, we employed ELISA techniques to determine the level of BDNF. Caspase-3 activity and the level of glutathione were analyzed by biochemical methods. Our results indicate that quercetin treatment to diabetic rats caused a significant increase in the level of neurotrophic factors and inhibited the level of cytochrome c and caspase-3 activity in the diabetic retina. Furthermore, the level of an anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was augmented in quercetin treated diabetic retina. Thus, quercetin, may protect the neuronal damage in diabetic retina by ameliorating the levels of neurotrophic factors and also by inhibiting the apoptosis of neurons. Therefore, this study suggests that quercetin can be a suitable therapeutic agent to prevent neurodegeneration in diabetic retinopathy.

Verification of high efficient broad beam cold cathode ion source

An improved form of cold cathode ion source has been designed and constructed. It consists of stainless steel hollow cylinder anode and stainless steel cathode disc, which are separated by a Teflon flange. The electrical discharge and output characteristics have been measured at different pressures using argon, nitrogen, and oxygen gases. The ion exit aperture shape and optimum distance between ion collector plate and cathode disc are studied. The stable discharge current and maximum output ion beam current have been obtained using grid exit aperture. It was found that the optimum distance between ion collector plate and ion exit aperture is equal to 6.25 cm. The cold cathode ion source is used to deposit aluminum coating layer on AZ31 magnesium alloy using argon ion beam current which equals 600 μA. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction techniques used for characterizing samples before and after aluminum deposition.

The Th1/Th2 paradigm in lambda cyhalothrin-induced spleen toxicity: The role of thymoquinone

This study investigates the retrofitted role of thymoquinone (TQ) in the Th1/Th2 paradigm imbalance in lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) treated rats. Four groups of male Wistar rats were formed: Group I served as control. Group II received 5 mg TQ/(kg bw) daily. Group III received 0.6 mg LCT/(kg bw). Group IV was treated with TQ and LCT. All treatments were given orally for 10 weeks. The LCT-treated group elicited a significant increase in MDA and NO levels with up-regulation of NF-κB/p65 and pro-inflammatory genes expression and their levels. Meanwhile, GSH and immunoglobulins concentrations were markedly decreased concomitant with lessening the activities of antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory cytokine genes mRNA levels. The co-administration of TQ and LCT improved the altered antioxidant enzymes activities and concentration of cytokines with attenuation of NF-κB/p65 mRNA. These data support the antioxidant role of TQ in the Th1/Th2 imbalance paradigm during LCT toxicity.

Ameliorative effects of phycocyanin against gibberellic acid induced hepatotoxicity

Gibberellic acid (GA3) was used extensively unaware in agriculture in spite of its dangerous effects on human health. The current study was designed to investigate the ameliorative effects of the co-administration of phycocyanin with GA3 induced oxidative stress and histopathological changes in the liver. Forty male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I (control group) received normal saline for 6 weeks, Group II (GA3 treated group) received 3.85 mg/kg body weight GA3 once daily for 6 weeks, Group III (phycocyanin treated group) received Phycocyanin 200 mg/kg body weight/day for 6 weeks orally dissolved in distilled water and Group IV was treated with GA3 and phycocyanin at the same doses as groups 2 and 3. All treatments were given daily using intra-gastric intubation and continued for 6 weeks. Our results revealed significant downregulation of antioxidant enzyme activities and their mRNA levels (CAT, GPx and Cu-Zn, SOD) with marked elevation of liver enzymes and extensive fibrous connective tissue deposition with large biliary cells in hepatic tissue of GA3 treated rats, while treatment with phycocyanin improved the antioxidant defense system, liver enzymes and structural hepatocytes recovery in phycocyanin treated group with GA3. These data confirm the antioxidant potential of Phycocyanin and provide strong evidence to support the co-administration of Phycocyanin during using GA3.

Epidemiology of autistic disorder in Bahrain: prevalence and obstetric and familial characteristics

European and North American studies show that the prevalence of autistic disorder is inccreasing. This study was performed to identify the prevalence of autistic disorder in Bahrain, and determine some of the demographic and family characteristics. Using a case-control design, 100 children who received a diagnosis of autistic disorder according to DSM-IV-TR during the period 2000-2010 were selected. An equal numberofcontrols who had received a diagnosis of nocturnal enuresis and no psychopathology were selected, matched for sex and age group. The prevalence of autistic disorder was estimated as 4.3 per 10,000 population, with a male:female sex ratio of 4:1. Significantly more cases than controls were delivered by caesarean section and had mothers who suffered prenatal complications. The prevalence estimate in Bahrain is comparable to previous reports using similar methods. Obstetric complications and caesarean section delivery may be associated with autistic disorder.

Improvement of four anode rods ion source

In this work, an improved form of a saddle field ion source has been designed and constructed. It consists of four anode rods made from copper and two copper cathode discs. The two cathode discs are placed symmetrically on both sides of the four anode rods. The electrical discharge and output ion beam characteristics were measured at different pressures using argon gas. The optimum distance between each two anode rods was determined. Also the optimum distance between the four anode rods and any cathode disc was obtained. It was found that the optimum distance between each two anode rods equal to 6 mm, while the optimum distance between the four anode rods and any cathode disc equal to 16 mm, where a stable discharge current and maximum output ion beam current can be obtained. The effect of negative extraction voltage applied to both the extractor electrode and Faraday cup on the output ion beam current was studied. The sputter yield of copper and aluminum targets using argon ions of different energies was determined.

Short communication: Graph for calculating maximum local analgesic dose in millilitres for the paediatric population

AIM

Determination of the maximum local analgesic dosage in millilitres can be confusing. This article presents a new graph that easily allows the dental practitioner to determine a child's maximum local analgesic dosage in millilitres based on their weight.

BACKGROUND

Local analgesia is used daily in dentistry to manage pain, and different kinds of agents are available in the market that may be selected depending on the strength and duration of analgesia required. Each analgesic agent has a maximum recommended dose, and it is very important to calculate that dose, especially in children, to avoid the risk of toxicity that could lead to death. Currently a series of calculations are used to calculate the maximum recommended dose for local analgesic agents that could be taxing. This paper presents a newly-developed graph that makes it easier for dental practitioners to quickly identify the maximum recommended dose of the different local analgesic agents used in dentistry based on a patient's weight.

CONCLUSION

Dentists can utilize this graph to obtain the maximum local analgesic dose in millilitres based on the child's weight. This will save time and encourage dentists to routinely identify the maximum allowed dose and most importantly, decrease or eliminate the risks of toxicity and overdose especially when treating small children.

Quantitative assessment of posture stability using computerised dynamic posturography in type 2 diabetic patients with neuropathy and its relation to glycaemic control

INTRODUCTION

Patients with diabetic neuropathy have an imbalance, which comes with a higher risk of falls. The aim of this study was to assess posture stability using computerised dynamic posturography in type 2 diabetics mellitus patients with neuropathy as well as its relation to glycaemic control.

METHODS

54 type 2 diabetics mellitus patients with peripheral neuropathy were recruited, together with 18 type 2 diabetics mellitus patients without peripheral neuropathy acting as the control group. The first group was divided into two subgroups according to glycaemic control assessed by HbA1c (A1c), the first subgroup comprising 24 patients had good glycaemic control with A1c less than or equal to seven percent and the second subgroup with 30 patients had poor glycaemic control with A1c more than 7 percent. The postural stability was evaluated using dynamic posturography.

RESULTS

The composite equilibrium score, sensory organisation test 1, 2 and 3 conditions were significantly lower in the neuropathic group as compared to the non-neuropathic group (p-value is less than 0.001). A1c was significantly correlated with the composite equilibrium score in the neuropathic group with poor glycaemic control (r-value equal to -0.395) but not correlated in the neuropathic group with good glycaemic control (r-value equal to 0.151).

CONCLUSION

Posture instability in type 2 diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy reflects an impairment of the somatosensory system; also, poor glycaemic control resulted in more posture instability. The early detection of imbalance using dynamic posturography and achieving good glycaemic control may be of great help in the prevention of falls in such patients.

Sickle cell-haemoglobin E (HbSE) compound heterozygosity: a clinical and haematological study

The paucity of clinical reports in the world literature suggests that, as a disease entity, haemoglobin SE compound heterozygosity is of negligible importance. In view of the significant community prevalence of this haemoglobinopathy in the Sultanate of Oman where it is the second most prevalent sickling disorder, a hospital study of 12 SE compound heterozygotes from six unrelated Arab families was undertaken to determine their clinico-haematological features. Our findings were compared with those reviewed in the literature. Clinical and haematological evaluation was carried out by conventional methods including chromatographic haemoglobin analysis. At least 50% of those studied were asymptomatic throughout the study period but sickling-related complications occurred in the rest and included the acute chest syndrome (1/12), severe vaso-occlusive skeletal pain (2/12), frontal bossing (1/12) possibly indicative of significant chronic haemolysis and recurrent infections of the urinary tract (1/12). Steady-state haemoglobin levels fell within the reference range while MCV and MCH values were, as expected, reduced in most cases; nevertheless, concomitant inheritance of alpha-thalassaemia trait was also likely. Red cell morphology was striking by the absence or rarity of pseudo-sickled cells in the blood films of many patients during the steady state and in crises. Bearing in mind the prevalence of 0.05% of SE compound heterozygosity in Oman, the findings in this single study of the largest number of SE patients and their relatives confirm the predominantly asymptomatic nature of this sickling disorder in individuals in the community at large. HbF levels do not appear to explain the heterogeneous nature of this haemoglobinopathy. Correlation of the variable clinical and haematological features of SE cases with their alpha-globin gene status and beta-cluster haplotypes (linked to the beta(s)- and beta(e)-genes) merits a separate investigation, which is being currently organized.