Evaluation of elevated serum apelin-13 and D-dimer concentrations in individuals diagnosed with pulmonary embolism

BACKGROUND

Given the limited specificity of D-dimer, there is a perceived need to discover a more precise marker for diagnosing individuals who are suspected of having pulmonary embolism (PE). In this study, by evaluating the increase in the serum level of Apelin-13 and D-dimer, we found valuable findings about Apelin-13, which can be suggested as an auxiliary and non-invasive diagnostic biomarker in individuals with suspected PE, based on the obtained results.

METHODS

In this case-control study, 52 Iranian individuals were included, all of whom were suspected to have PE. These individuals were then divided into two groups based on the results of CT angiography, which is considered the gold standard imaging method for diagnosing PE. The two groups were patients with PE and patients without PE. Finally, the levels of certain markers in the serum were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The mean serum D-dimer levels in patients with PE were significantly elevated (p < 0.001) in comparison to those without PE (1102.47 to 456.2 ng/ml). Furthermore, the mean level of Apelin-13 was significantly higher in patients with PE (49.8 to 73.11 ng/L) (p < 0.001). The cutoff point of Apelin-13 has been calculated at 58.50 ng/ml, with 90.9% sensitivity and 90% specificity. The D-dimer cutoff point was 500 ng/ml, with 95.5% sensitivity and 43.3% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results of this study, the serum level of Apelin-13 can be used as a novel diagnostic and screening biomarker in patients with pulmonary thromboembolism.

MicroRNAs and Periodontal Disease: Helpful Therapeutic Targets?

Periodontal disease is the most common oral disease. This disease can be considered as an inflammatory disease. The immune response to bacteria accumulated in the gum line plays a key role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. In addition to immune cells, periodontal ligament cells and gingival epithelial cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. miRNAs which are small RNA molecules with around 22 nucleotides have a considerable relationship with the immune system affecting a wide range of immunological events. These small molecules are also in relation with periodontium tissues especially periodontal ligament cells. Extensive studies have been performed in recent years on the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. In this review paper, we have reviewed the results of these studies and discussed the role of miRNAs in the immunopathogenesis of periodontal disease comprehensively. miRNAs play an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and maybe helpful therapeutic targets for the treatment of periodontal disease.

Determination of plasma transcobalamin-II and zinc levels in newly-diagnosed and long-standing grand mal epileptic patients

Background

The changes of plasma transcobalamin-II (TCII) and Zinc (Zn) Levels in epileptic patients are not clearly understood. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the plasma contents of TCII and Zn levels in newly-diagnosed epileptic seizure patients, long-standing grand mal epileptic patients following treatment with sodium valproate and healthy control group.

Methods

Thirty patients aged 36.76±12.91 years with newly-diagnosed and thirty long-standing grand mal epileptic patients aged 35.56 ±12.77 years were diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms. The control subjects were picked out from healthy individuals and matched to the patients, aged 36.30 ±12.80 years. Plasma Zn and TCN-2 was evaluated via spectrophotometry at 546 nm and 450 nm, respectively, using chimerical kits.

Results

Plasma level of TCII in the newly-diagnosed epileptic seizures patients and long-standing grand mal epileptic patients were significantly increased, compared to the healthy controls [14.89 ±3.24 and 21.84± 2.73 vs. 9.55±1.24, (n=30)], respectively. Plasma level of Zn was decreased in the newly-diagnosed epileptic seizure patients, while it was increased in long-standing grand mal epileptic patients compared to the control group [69.28± 6.41 and 80.56 ±6.12 and vs.75.80±1.59, (n=30)], respectively.

Conclusion

This study suggests that sodium valproate may disrupt the homeostatic balance of TCII and Zn, and cause abnormality of their serum level in newly-diagnosed epileptic seizure patients and long-standing grand mal epileptic patients. Further research is recommended to identify the underpinning for these changes.

Evaluation of the Salivary Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 in Women With Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome and Gingival Inflammation: A Case-Control Study

Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease of women of reproductive age that impacts their oral and systemic well-being. This study aimed to compare the gingival inflammation indices and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) of non-obese women with PCOS. Materials and methods This is a case-control study in which 78 women were referred to the Babol Clinic Hospital in Northern Iran between 2018 and 2019. They were divided into three groups: 26 women with PCOS and gingivitis, 26 women with PCOS with no gingivitis, and 26 women with no PCOS and no gingivitis as a control group. After recording the anthropometric and demographic variables, fasting saliva samples were taken from all participants before any periodontal intervention. These samples were transferred to Babol Molecular Cell Research Center under highly guaranteed cold-chain conditions to measure the serum levels of MMP-9. Periodontal status was evaluated for Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), and Bleeding on Probing (BOP). Analysis of variance was used to compare the mean results for these indices. The significance level was considered when p ≤ 0.05. Results All the gingival indices were significantly higher for women with PCOS with gingivitis compared to the results for women from the other two groups. Similarly, women with PCOS showed high salivary MMP-9 levels but were within the normal reference ranges. Conclusion The gingival indices (GI, PI, and BOP) and salivary MMP-9 are higher in women with PCOS, regardless of the gingival status.

Melatonin and inflammatory bowel disease: From basic mechanisms to clinical application

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic inflammatory disease and has periods of recurrence and remission. Improper immune responses to gut flora bacteria, along with genetic susceptibility, appear to be involved in causing this complex disease. It seems dysbiosis and oxidative stress may also be involved in IBD pathogenesis. A significant number of clinical studies have shown an interesting association between sleep disturbances and IBD. Studies in animal models have also shown that sleep deprivation has a significant effect on the pathogenesis of IBD and can aggravate inflammation. These interesting findings have drawn attention to melatonin, a sleep-related hormone. Melatonin is mainly produced by the pineal gland, but many tissues in the body, including the intestines, can produce it. Melatonin can have an interesting effect on the pathogenesis of IBD. Melatonin can enhance the intestinal mucosal barrier, alter the composition of intestinal bacteria in favor of bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties, regulate the immune response, alleviate inflammation and attenuate oxidative stress. It seems that, melatonin supplementation is effective in relieving inflammation and healing intestinal ulcers in IBD animal models. Some clinical studies have also shown that melatonin supplementation as an adjuvant therapy may be helpful in reducing disease activity in IBD patients. In this review article, in addition to reviewing the effects of sleep disturbances and melatonin on key mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of IBD, we will review the findings of clinical studies regarding the effects of melatonin supplementation on IBD treatment.

Polyphenols and inflammatory bowel disease: Natural products with therapeutic effects?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a long-life disease with periods of recurrence and relief. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Recent years' studies in the field of IBD treatment mostly have focused on targeting cytokines and immune cell trafficking using antibodies and inhibitors, altering the composition of intestinal bacteria in the line of attenuation of inflammation using probiotics and prebiotics, and attenuating oxidative stress through antioxidant supplementation. Studies in animal models of IBD have shown that some polyphenolic compounds including curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, naringenin, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate can affect almost all of the above aspects and are useful compounds in the treatment of IBD. Clinical studies performed on IBD patients have also confirmed the findings of animal model studies and have shown that supplementation with some of the above-mentioned polyphenolic compounds has positive effects in reducing disease clinical and endoscopic activity, inducing and maintaining remission, and improving quality of life. In this review article, in addition to a detailed reviewing the effects of the above-mentioned polyphenolic compounds on the events involved in the pathogenesis of IBD, the results of these clinical studies will also be reviewed.

Effect of lullaby on volume, fat, total protein and albumin concentration of breast milk in premature infants' mothers admitted to NICU: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Listening to music can reduce or manage stress, fatigue, and accompanying symptoms in mothers. Music increases oxytocin secretion which affects breast milk. This study aimed to examine the effect of lullaby on volume, fat, total protein and albumin concentration of breast milk in mothers of premature infants admitted to the NICU.

Methods

This clinical trial was performed on 100 primiparous mothers whose premature infants were hospitalized in the NICU of Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital from January 2020 to December 2020. Using block randomization method, the participants were divided into three groups: control (A), playing lullaby for mother (B) and playing lullaby for a mother while holding a photo of her own baby (C). The mothers of the intervention groups listened to lullabies through headphones for 30 minutes every morning for 6 days. On the first and the sixth day of birth, the volume of breast milk (ml) and two milliliters of breast milk samples of all three groups were measured and compared in terms of fat, albumin concentration and total protein (mg/DL). ANOVA, Paired T-Test and ANCOVA model (the included variables were: basic value of dependent variable, group type, Maternal age, Birth weight, Gestational age and Maternal weight) was used for analytical statistics.

Results

The difference between the mean compositions of breast milk before and after the intervention in three groups of A, B and C: in terms of the breast milk volume were 66.33 ± 4.80, 71.30 ± 4.18 and 75.91 ± 6.80 ml; in terms of triglyceride level was 177.84 ± 50.57, 210.72 ± 34.55 and 224.17 ± 12.97 mg/DL, cholesterol level was 14.57 ± 3.70, 21.96 ± 3.82 and 26.26 ± 5.16 mg/DL, albumin concentration was 0.90 ± 0.30, 1.22 ± 0.19 and 1.46 ± 0.28 mg/DL and total protein level was 1.61 ± 0.61, 2.20 ± 0.57 and 2.72 ± 0.30 mg/DL. Finally, the results of ANCOVA analysis for the effects of the intervention, taking into account the baseline values, showed that the intervention was effective and had the greatest effect on cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

In this small trial, there was a statistically significant association between trial arm and biochemical composition of breastmilk though further studies are needed to see if these changes result in meaningful clinical outcomes to the infant.

Trial registration

IRCT, IRCT20191114045439N1. Registered 14 January 2020- prospective, https://en.irct.ir/trial/43671

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13006-022-00511-7.

The Interaction Network of MicroRNAs with Cytokines and Signaling Pathways in Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is a complicated disease that is affected by many factors. Numerous cytokines and signaling pathways are attributed to the cause of asthma symptoms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules that are involved in gene silencing and posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression by targeting mRNAs. In pathological conditions, altered expression of microRNAs differentially regulates cytokines and signaling pathways and therefore, can be the underlying reason for the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. Indeed, microRNAs participate in airway inflammation via inducing airway structural cells and activating immune responses by targeting cytokines and signaling pathways. Thus, to make a complete understanding of allergic asthma, it is necessary to investigate the communication network of microRNAs with cytokines and signaling pathways which is contributed to the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. Here, we shed light on this aspect of asthma pathology by Summarizing our current knowledge of this topic.

CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing: a new approach for overcoming drug resistance in cancer

The CRISPR/Cas9 system is an RNA-based adaptive immune system in bacteria and archaea. Various studies have shown that it is possible to target a wide range of human genes and treat some human diseases, including cancers, by the CRISPR/Cas9 system. In fact, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing is one of the most efficient genome manipulation techniques. Studies have shown that CRISPR/Cas9 technology, in addition to having the potential to be used as a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancers, can also be used to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. Undoubtedly, the issue of drug resistance is one of the main obstacles in the treatment of cancers. Cancer cells resist anticancer drugs by a variety of mechanisms, such as enhancing anticancer drugs efflux, enhancing DNA repair, enhancing stemness, and attenuating apoptosis. Mutations in some proteins of different cellular signaling pathways are associated with these events and drug resistance. Recent studies have shown that the CRISPR/Cas9 technique can be used to target important genes involved in these mechanisms, thereby increasing the effectiveness of anticancer drugs. In this review article, studies related to the applications of this technique in overcoming drug resistance in cancer cells will be reviewed. In addition, we will give a brief overview of the limitations of the CRISP/Cas9 gene-editing technique.

Zinc and Respiratory Viral Infections: Important Trace Element in Anti-viral Response and Immune Regulation

Influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-COV2 are among the most dangerous respiratory viruses. Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients and is very important in the immune system. The aim of this narrative review is to review the most interesting findings about the importance of zinc in the anti-viral immune response in the respiratory tract and defense against influenza, RSV, and SARS-COV2 infections. The most interesting findings on the role of zinc in regulating immunity in the respiratory tract and the relationship between zinc and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are reviewed, as well. Besides, current findings regarding the relationship between zinc and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines are reviewed. The results of reviewed studies have shown that zinc and some zinc-dependent proteins are involved in anti-viral defense and immune regulation in the respiratory tract. It seems that zinc can reduce the viral titer following influenza infection. Zinc may reduce RSV burden in the lungs. Zinc can be effective in reducing the duration of viral pneumonia symptoms. Zinc may enhance the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in reducing mortality rate in COVID-19 patients. Besides, zinc has a positive effect in preventing ARDS and ventilator-induced lung damage. The relationship between zinc levels and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines, especially influenza vaccines, is still unclear, and the findings are somewhat contradictory. In conclusion, zinc has anti-viral properties and is important in defending against respiratory viral infections and regulating the immune response in the respiratory tract.

Quercetin: an effective polyphenol in alleviating diabetes and diabetic complications

Various studies, especially in recent years, have shown that quercetin has beneficial therapeutic effects in various human diseases, including diabetes. Quercetin has significant anti-diabetic effects and may be helpful in lowering blood sugar and increasing insulin sensitivity. Quercetin appears to affect many factors and signaling pathways involved in insulin resistance and the pathogenesis of type 2 of diabetes. TNFα, NFKB, AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 are among the factors that are affected by quercetin. In addition, quercetin can be effective in preventing and ameliorating the diabetic complications, including diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular complications, neuropathy, delayed wound healing, and retinopathy, and affects the key mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of these complications. These positive effects of quercetin may be related to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. In this article, after a brief review of the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, we will review the latest findings on the anti-diabetic effects of quercetin with a molecular perspective. Then we will review the effects of quercetin on the key mechanisms of pathogenesis of diabetes complications including nephropathy, cardiovascular complications, neuropathy, delayed wound healing, and retinopathy. Finally, clinical trials investigating the effect of quercetin on diabetes and diabetes complications will be reviewed.

From inflammatory bowel disease to colorectal cancer: what's the role of miRNAs?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease with relapse and remission periods. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are two major forms of the disease. IBD imposes a lot of sufferings on the patient and has many consequences; however, the most important is the increased risk of colorectal cancer, especially in patients with Ulcerative colitis. This risk is increased with increasing the duration of disease, thus preventing the progression of IBD to cancer is very important. Therefore, it is necessary to know the details of events contributed to the progression of IBD to cancer. In recent years, the importance of miRNAs as small molecules with 20-22 nucleotides has been recognized in pathophysiology of many diseases, in which IBD and colorectal cancer have not been excluded. As a result, the effectiveness of these small molecules as therapeutic target is hopefully confirmed. This paper has reviewed the related studies and findings about the role of miRNAs in the course of events that promote the progression of IBD to colorectal carcinoma, as well as a review about the effectiveness of some of these miRNAs as therapeutic targets.

Biochemical Aspects of Scaffolds for Cartilage Tissue Engineering; from Basic Science to Regenerative Medicine

Chondral defects are frequent and important causes of pain and disability. Cartilage has limited self-repair and regeneration capacity. The ideal approach for articular cartilage defects is the regeneration of hyaline cartilage with sustainable symptom-free constructs. Tissue engineering provides new strategies for the regeneration of functional cartilage tissue through optimized scaffolds with architectural, mechanical, and biochemical properties similar to the native cartilage tissue. In this review, the basic science of cartilage structure, interactions between proteins, stem cells, as well as biomaterials, scaffold characteristics and fabrication methods, as well as current and potential therapies in regenerative medicine will be discussed mostly from a biochemical point of view. Furthermore, the recent trends in scaffold-based therapies and supplementary factors in cartilage tissue engineering will be considered.

Influence of Bilirubin, Hemin, Zinc Protoporphyrin, Glutathione, Curcumin, and Their Combinations as a Supplement to Support the Viability and Functionality of Pancreas and Liver Cells

Background: Previous experiments have shown different responses of pancreas and liver cells to the culture medium. It has been revealed that the most important step in preserving primary pancreas and liver cells is selecting the appropriate supplements to support the viability and functionality of these cells. Materials and Methods: Cultivation supplements were prepared by adding bilirubin, hemin, zinc protoporphyrin, glutathione, curcumin, and their combination in the pancreas and liver cell culture at a concentration of 1, 3, and 5 μM. Then, the survival rate and function of the pancreas and liver cells were evaluated. The function of pancreas cells was evaluated based on producing insulin and the function of liver cells was based on liver enzymes, including transaminases. Results: We found that bilirubin, hemin, zinc protoporphyrin, curcumin, glutathione, and their combination as supplements can dose-dependently maintain pancreas and liver cells viability and functionality proven by increasing insulin secretion levels and transaminase enzyme activity. The strength of effects is displayed in the following order: bilirubin > combination of all compounds > hemin > zinc protoporphyrin > curcumin > glutathione. Conclusion: This study shows that these compounds are suitable supplements with special biochemical properties. They provide optimal supplements for the culture media of pancreas and liver cells. They may fulfill a function in the antioxidant protection of pancreas and liver cells.

Nitric oxide and inducible nitric oxide synthase levels in EE and NERD patients

Aim

This article aimed to evaluate nitric oxide (NO) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) markers in patients with erosive esophagitis (EE) and those with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) and compare them with the control group.

Background

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common disturbances of the upper digestive tract. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is expressed in esophageal adenocarcinoma. NO, the product of this enzyme, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of this condition. Nevertheless, the data on whether iNOS and NO are expressed in the early stages of GERD is conflicting.

Methods

In this study, tissue samples were obtained from fifty-four patients (27 with erosive esophagitis and 27 with non-erosive reflux disease) and 27 controls. Tissue concentrations of nitrite, nitrate, and iNOS were measured using Enzyme-Linked Immune-sorbent Assay (ELISA). The Bradford method was used to determine the protein concentration of samples. The results were analyzed by SPSS software (version 22.0). In multiple comparisons, the Tukey test was performed, and p < 0.05 was considered as the level of significance.

Results

Tissue amounts of iNOS were significantly higher (p= 0.001) in EE patients compared with the control group. There was a significant difference (p= 0.01) in this factor between EE patients and patients with NERD. Moreover, tissue levels of nitrite and nitrate were significantly higher (p = 0.001) in patient groups compared with the control group.

Conclusion

It was observed that NO and iNOS protein were increased in human esophagitis tissue. The results indicated that nitric oxide and iNOS levels are useful and effective markers in the pathogenesis of GERD. While the results are not certain, it is thought that a link exists between the expressions of iNOS and disease progression.

Melatonin: A smart molecule in the DNA repair system

DNA repair is an important pathway for the protection of DNA molecules from destruction. DNA damage can be produced by oxidative reactive nitrogen or oxygen species, irritation, alkylating agents, depurination and depyrimidination; in this regard, DNA repair pathways can neutralize the negative effects of these factors. Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland with an antioxidant effect by binding to oxidative factors. In addition, the effect of melatonin on DNA repair pathways has been proven by the literature. DNA repair is carried out by several mechanisms, of which homologous recombination repair (HRR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) are of great importance. Because of the importance of DNA repair in DNA integrity and the anticancer effect of this pathway, we presented the effect of melatonin on DNA repair factors regarding previous studies conducted in this area.

Oxidized LDL-regulated microRNAs for evaluating vascular endothelial function: molecular mechanisms and potential biomarker roles in atherosclerosis

As a simple monolayer, vascular endothelial cells can respond to physicochemical stimuli. In addition to promoting the formation of foam cells, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) contributes to the atherosclerotic process through different mechanisms, including endothelial cell dysfunction. As conserved noncoding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) naturally lie in different genomic positions and post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of many genes. They participate in integrated networks formed under stress to maintain cellular homeostasis, vascular inflammation, and metabolism. These small RNAs constitute therapeutic targets in different diseases, including atherosclerosis, and their role as biomarkers is crucial given their detectability even years before the emergence of diseases. This review was performed to investigate the role of ox-LDL-regulated miRNAs in atherosclerosis, their molecular mechanisms, and their application as biomarkers of vascular endothelial cell dysfunction.

Vitamin D in respiratory viral infections: a key immune modulator?

Respiratory viral infections are common respiratory diseases. Influenza viruses, RSV and SARS-COV2 have the potential to cause severe respiratory infections. Numerous studies have shown that unregulated immune response to these viruses can cause excessive inflammation and tissue damage. Therefore, regulating the antiviral immune response in the respiratory tract is of importance. In this regard, recent years studies have emphasized the importance of vitamin D in respiratory viral infections. Although, the most well-known role of vitamin D is to regulate the metabolism of phosphorus and calcium, it has been shown that this vitamin has other important functions. One of these functions is immune regulation. Vitamin D can regulate the antiviral immune response in the respiratory tract in order to provide an effective defense against respiratory viral infections and prevention from excessive inflammatory response and tissue damage. In addition, this vitamin has preventive effects against respiratory viral infections. Some studies during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with a higher risk of mortality and sever disease in patients with COVID-19. Since, more attention has recently been focused on vitamin D. In this article, after a brief overview of the antiviral immune response in the respiratory system, we will review the role of vitamin D in regulating the antiviral immune response comprehensively. Then we will discuss the importance of this vitamin in influenza, RSV, and COVID-19.

Zinc and Selenium in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Trace Elements with Key Roles?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition that may emerge at a young age and often lasts for life. It often goes through phases of recurrence and remission and has a devastating effect on quality of life. The exact etiology of the disease is still unclear, but it appears that an inappropriate immune response to intestinal flora bacteria in people with a genetic predisposition may cause the disease. Managing inflammatory bowel disease is still a serious challenge. Oxidative stress and free radicals appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of this disease, and a number of studies have suggested the use of antioxidants as a therapeutic approach. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of some trace elements have led some of the research to focus on studying these trace elements in inflammatory bowel disease. Zinc and selenium are among the most important trace elements that have significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies have shown the importance of these trace elements in inflammatory bowel disease. In this review, we have attempted to provide a comprehensive overview of the findings of these studies and to gather current knowledge about the association of these trace elements with the inflammatory process and inflammatory bowel disease.

Signaling, metabolism, and cancer: An important relationship for therapeutic intervention

In cancerous cells, significant changes occur in the activity of signaling pathways affecting a wide range of cellular activities ranging from growth and proliferation to apoptosis, invasiveness, and metastasis. Extensive changes also happen with respect to the metabolism of a cancerous cell encompassing a wide range of functions that include: nutrient acquisition, biosynthesis of macromolecules, and energy generation. These changes are important and some therapeutic approaches for treating cancers have focused on targeting the metabolism of cancerous cells. Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have a significant effect on the metabolism of cells. There appears to be a close interaction between metabolism and the signaling pathways in a cancerous cell, in which the interaction provides the metabolic needs of a cancerous cell for uncontrolled proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and metastasis. In this review, we have reviewed the latest findings in this regard and briefly review the most recent research findings regarding targeting the metabolism of cancer cells as a therapeutic approach for treatment of cancer.

Low-Fibre Diet as an Option for Bowel Preparation Prior to Colonoscopy: ARandomised Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction: Bowel preparation for colonoscopy plays an important role in the evaluation of the colon. Many methods for preparing the colon for colonoscopy do not work well. Aim: To use a low-fibre diet as a standard and applicable method for bowel preparation in performing colonoscopy and increasing patients’ adherence to colonoscopy. Materials and Methods: Clinical control trial design was used to compare bowel preparation in people receiving a low-fibre diet with those who did not receive food {Nil Per Os (NPO)} for bowel preparation. The participants included 477 patients who were randomly divided into two groups including 223 patients having a low-fibre diet (for dinner) and 254 patients having nothing for dinner (NPO). Data were recorded including age, sex, weight, height, level of education, bowel preparation score, colonoscopy diagnosis and sedative dose. Both groups were given a solution of 3 L of ethylene glycol and 60 mg of bisacodyl at three occasions: 3 pm and 7 pm the day before colonoscopy and 6 am on the colonoscopy day. Scoring criteria for colonoscopy preparation included excellent (clean and free of any liquids), very good (clean with clear fluid, underlying mucus visible in clear fluid), good (clean with dirty liquid), poor (with particles including stools, but can be assessed at 80% mucus), and very poor (containing stool particles, and mucosal evaluation below 80%, colonoscopy was cancelled in this group). The data were analysed by SPSS version 21.0 using Chi-square and Independent Samples Test. Results: About 82% of patients who consumed a low-fibre diet for bowel preparation the night before colonoscopy had an excellent and very good quality of bowel preparation compared with 74.9% of patients not receiving any diet. The number of patients who cancelled the colonoscopy were more in the group not receiving any diet (4.7% versus 2.6%). The data indicated that the quality of colon preparation decreased by age (p=0.0001), whereas Body Mass Index (BMI) did not differ on colon cleansing. When having dinner, patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) had significantly more secretion of air bubble and foam formation than patients not eating dinner (p=0.002). The results showed that the difference in bowel preparation quality between the two groups was not significant (p=0.169), and increased patient adherence to colonoscopy in the first group. Conclusion: Implementing a proper bowel preparation method is very important in improving the quality of colonoscopy and increasing the patient’s adherence to colonoscopy. Using a low-fibre diet on the day before colonoscopy can help achieve this goal.

Sensitivity and specificity of mean platelet volume as a laboratory marker for irritable bowel syndrome: Can it be added to Rome criteria?

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and mean platelet volume (MPV) as laboratory markers to discriminate IBS patients from both healthy controls and patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

This case-control study enrolled patients referred to Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital, Endoscopy Department, Babol, Iran, for colonoscopy examination from 2015 to 2017. Fifty IBS patients were selected from among patients who had undergone a normal colonoscopy and showed symptoms matching the Rome III criteria. Fifty healthy participants and 50 IBD patients, matched for sex and age, were also enrolled in this study. Both RDW and MPV were measured and analysed by independent sample t-test and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

While RDW was higher and MPV was lower among IBS patients compared to healthy controls (p = 0.047 and p = 0.001), there were no significant differences in RDW or MPV levels between IBS and IBD patients. The area under the curve of RDW in the discrimination between IBS and IBD was 0.620 (p = 0.039), and the area under the curve of MPV in the discrimination between healthy controls and IBS patients was 0.801 (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Mean platelet volume is potentially a useful laboratory marker for distinguishing between IBS patients and healthy individuals. Red blood cell distribution width should be considered as a potential marker to distinguish among IBS and IBD patients.

Assessment of mucin and alpha-amylase levels in gingival crevicular fluid of chronic periodontitis patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of periodontitis. Several immune and inflammatory factors responsible for periodontal destruction have been found in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). The current study was conducted to determine the correlation between mucin and alpha-amylase protein values in GCF with chronic periodontitis.

METHOD

Forty-five patients with moderate-to-severe chronic periodontitis were selected. Samples of GCF were taken from a specific part of a single root tooth and placed in a closed test tube containing phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (pH = 7). Sampling was done again after one month. Pre- and post-treatment samples were analyzed for measuring the levels of mucin and alpha-amylase proteins.

RESULTS

Paired t test results for these two variables showed that the difference between mucin and alpha-amylase levels before and after treatment is significant.

CONCLUSION

The level of both mucin and alpha-amylase in GCF in patients with chronic periodontitis was higher than that of patients who have recovered successfully; and evaluating the values of these two markers could be used to determine the activity of the periodontal disease.

Evaluation of MASP1, CMPF and U.A serum levels in pre-diabetic subjects in comparison to Normal individuals for early diagnosis of subjects with pre-diabetes, a case-control study

Background

The present study designed to evaluate the Serum levels of CMPF, MASP1 and UA in pre-diabetic subjects was compared to normal subjects.

Methods

This research is a case-control study. We studied 44 pre-diabetics with 44 normal subjects and were evaluated serum concentration of CMPF, Masp1 and U.Ain both groups andfurthermore serum concentration FPG, BUN, Cr, Cho, TG, HDLc, LDLc, AST, ALT, ALP, HbA1c was examined and correlation between of CMPF, Masp1 and U.Aand other parameters was statistically analyzed.

Results

Serum levels of MASP1, CMPF, fasting plasma glucose (P < 0.001)and uric acid (P < 0.002) were significantly increased in pre-diabetic subjects. In this study, a significant difference was found between MASP1 and CMPF in pre-diabetic subjects compared to normal subjects (P=0.005, r=0.291). There was also a significant difference between serum levels of MASP1 with HbA1C (P=0.01, r=0.269).

Conclusion

Serum levels of CMPF, MASP1 and uric acid were increased in pre-diabetic subjects. These parameters can be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of pre-diabetes.

Association between serum folate with inflammatory markers, disease clinical activity and serum homocysteine in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Does folate level have an effect on maintaining clinical remission?

Background:

Folate is an important vitamin with protective effect against some human diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum folate levels, inflammatory markers and disease clinical activity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods:

The participants were classified into two groups in which 38 IBD patients and 38 healthy controls were studied. Disease clinical activities were evaluated by means of established score systems. Serum folate, homocysteine and C-reactive protein and ESR were measured. Obtained data were analyzed with proper statistical methods and P- value less than 0.05 was considered as statistical significant.

Results:

The level of serum folate was significantly reduced in IBD patients with active disease compared to patients with clinical remission (p=0.043) and also healthy controls (p=0.008). Moreover, there was a significant inverse correlation between serum folate levels and C-reactive protein in IBD patients (r=-0.563 p=0.001). Conclusion: Serum folate levels is associated with inflammatory markers and disease clinical activity in IBD patients, therefore there is a possibility that disease clinical activity is reduced with adequate folate level. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Calprotectin in inflammatory bowel disease

The term IBD is usually used for referring to a group of inflammatory gastro-intestinal diseases (mainly Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). Accordingly, IBD arises as a result of inappropriate immune response to intestinal commensal organisms among genetically susceptible individuals. Performing colonoscopy and histopathologic evaluation on an inflamed bowel biopsy specimen are currently considered as gold standards for diagnosis and management of IBD. Correspondingly, these techniques are known to be invasive and costly. In recent decades, fecal calprotectin, as a biomarker, has received much attention for the diagnosis and non-invasive management of IBD. Up to now, many studies have investigated the efficacy of fecal calprotectin in the areas of IBD differentiation from IBS, prediction of endoscopic and histologic activities of IBD and prediction of disease recurrence. Although some of these studies have reported promising results, some others have shown significant limitations. Therefore, in this paper, we reviewed the most interesting ones of these studies after a brief discussion of the laboratory measurement of fecal calprotectin. Moreover, we attempted to provide an answer for the question of whether fecal-calprotectin could be considered as a potential surrogate marker for colonoscopy.

NORAD, a critical long non-coding RNA in human cancers

The ^incidence of cancer is growing worldwide, and it is becoming the most common cause of death. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of RNA transcripts with a length larger than 200 nucleotides that cannot encode proteins or peptides. LncRNAs regulate different biological functions by controlling gene expressions at transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. Non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) is a highly conserved lncRNA necessary for genome stability. LncRNA NORAD is dysregulated in various types of cancers. This biomarker has been involved in numerous processes associated with carcinogeneses, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. In this paper, we reviewed the role of lncRNA NORAD and its biological functions in various human cancers to provide future research insights.

Melatonin and doxorubicin co-delivered via a functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system enhances apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells

A functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system was designed via Fe₃O₄ nanoparticle (NP) as a magnetic nanocarrier for co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and melatonin (MLT). Accordingly, β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) was modified by creating amine functional groups. The modified β-CD was grafted with Graphene oxide (GO), and the resulting platform gain many functional groups, including the hydroxyl (-OH), carboxylic acid (-COOH), and amine functional groups (-NH2). Finally, magnetic NPs were synthesized on the prepared platform to efficiently controlling and targeting drugs to tumor sites. The human osteosarcoma cell lines including Saos-2 and MG-63, as well as Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hBM-MSC) line, were used to determine the in vitro biological effects of the functionalized graphene-dendrimeric system. The magnetic nanocarrier has encapsulation efficiency (EE) values of 99.92% for DOX and 21.5% for MLT. The biocompatibility tests of the nanocarrier revealed that the magnetic nanocarrier was appropriate as a drug carrier. Co-delivery of DOX and MLT with an efficiently anticancer performance was also was confirmed by cellular uptake, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and apoptosis analysis in comparison with free DOX and MLT. Moreover, there was a synergy in the antitumor effect when MLT was combined with DOX, especially in the nano-formulation form, which may be due to the down-regulation of X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP), survivin, and human telomerase catalytic subunit (hTERT) (p < 0.0001). Overall, the result of our study suggests that the designed carrier is a promising nanocarrier for targeted co-delivery of DOX and MLT with improved anticancer efficacy in cancer cells and thus reduced toxicity in normal cells.

MicroRNAs and colorectal cancer chemoresistance: New solution for old problem

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies with a significant mortality rate. Despite the great advances in cancer treatment in the last few decades, effective treatment of CRC is still under challenge. One of the main problems associated with CRC treatment is the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy drugs.

METHODS

Many studies have been carried out to identify CRC chemoresistance mechanisms, and shed light on the role of ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters), enzymes as thymidylate synthase, some signaling pathways, and cancer stem cells (CSC) in chemoresistance and failed CRC chemotherapies. Other studies have also been recently carried out to find solutions to overcome chemoresistance. Some of these studies have identified the role of miRNAs in chemoresistance of the CRC cells and the effective use of these micro-molecules to CRC treatment.

RESULTS

Considering the results of these studies, more focus on miRNAs likely leads to a proper solution to overcome CRC chemoresistance.

CONCLUSION

The current study has reviewed the related literature while discussing the efficacy of miRNAs as potential clinical tools for overcoming CRC chemoresistance and reviewing the most important chemoresistance mechanisms in CRC cells.

Effects of atrovastatin on concentrations of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A- reductase (HMG-CoA-R), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and sortilin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetics

Introduction: Atorvastatin hinders cardiovascular disease by reducing cholesterol levels. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) enhances the secretion of insulin by binding to LDL receptor. Sortilin is committed in the transfer of intracellular proteins through the plasma membrane. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of atorvastatin consumption on alterations in the levels of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA-R), PCSK9 and sortilin in diabetic patients and pre-diabetics. Patients and Methods: This study was carried out on 80 individuals including normal subjects, diabetic patients and pre-diabetics. The participated individuals were divided as control group (i) (healthy individuals without diabetes mellitus), diabetic group receiving statin (ii), diabetic group not receiving statin (iii), pre-diabetic group receiving statin (iv) and pre-diabetic group not receiving statin (v). Levels of HMG-COA-R, PCSK9 and sortilin were determined by ELISA method. Results: In diabetics and pre-diabetics taking atorvastatin, the level of HMG-COA-R was not altered significantly compared to diabetics and pre-diabetics not taking atorvastatin, respectively (P> 0.05). The serum PCSK9 level in diabetics and pre-diabetics was significantly higher than the healthy individuals (P= 0.001). Additionally, the serum PCSK9 level in diabetics and pre-diabetics receiving atorvastatin was significantly higher than diabetics and pre-diabetics not receiving atorvastatin, respectively (P=0.001). The serum sortilin level in diabetics and pre-diabetics was significantly higher than the healthy individuals (P=0.001). In addition, the serum sortilin level in pre-diabetics receiving atorvastatin was significantly higher than pre-diabetics not receiving atorvastatin (P=0.001). Conclusion: Atorvastatin improved insulin secretion and sensitivity by increasing serum sortilin and PCSK9 levels. Thereby, it prevented the development of diabetes in diabetics and the progression of pre-diabetes to diabetes in pre-diabetics.

Evaluation of L-fucose and Sialic Acid Levels in Patients With Colorectal Cancer and Control Subject

Background: Currently, glycans, which are known as functional molecules in the biological system, are being under study as potential cancer markers. This study aimed to determine the level of serum L-fucose and sialic acid as the biomarkers in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Materials and Methods: The patients with CRC (n=40, 20 men and 20 women) participated in the present study. The spectrophotometric method was used to measure the levels of L-fucose and sialic acid in the serum of the patients. SPSS (version 21) was used to analyze the obtained data. The results were expressed as mean ± SD. Results: The mean ± SD L-fucose level in patients with CRC was 27.46 ± 4.8 ng/mL, which was more than this level in the healthy control group (18.64±3.1 ng/mL). Also, the mean ± SD serum concentration of sialic acid in patients with CRC was 2.1 ± 0.41 ng/mL, which was more than the mean ± SD sialic acid level of 1.23±0.21 ng/mL in the healthy controls. Conclusion: Serum concentration of L-fucose and sialic acid increased significantly (P < 0.05) in patients with CRC compared with the healthy controls. We believe that determining serum L-fucose and sialic acid levels could be useful for the detection of CRC patients in the early stage.

The Sensitization of Melatonin in Osteosarcoma Cells by Suppression of Anti-Apoptotic Proteins

Background: Investigation of anti-cancer agents with desirable selective toxicity is critical for cancer therapy. The use of natural adjuvants can be a promising option in reducing the toxicity of the anti-cancer agent. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential application of melatonin (MLT) as a natural adjuvant molecule along with doxorubicin (DOX) to induce cytotoxicity in osteosarcoma (OS) cells. Methods: Human OS cell lines included Saos-2, MG-63, and Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hBM-MSCs) were treated with free DOX, free MLT, DOX-loaded NPs (DOX-NPs), MLT-loaded NPs (MLT-NPs), combination of DOX and MLT (DOX-MLT) and combination of DOX and MLT-loaded NPs (DOX-MLT-NPs) in separated cell culture. Cell proliferation of experiments were evaluated by MTT assay after 24 h. Total protein levels were determined by enzyme immunoassay ELISA. Results: Herein, we found the combination of MLT with DOX, especially formulated in nano-form, is resulted in a significant reduction in the protein levels of both X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP) and Survivin (p<0.0001). Indeed, there was a significant decrease in the expression of XIAP and Survivin when MLT is combined with DOX compared to the individual treatments. Conclusion: Our findings indicated the synergism of the antitumor effect could be due to the down-regulation of XIAP and Survivin in the levels of protein.

Shelterin Complex at Telomeres: Implications in Ageing

Different factors influence the development‎ and control of ageing. It is well known that progressive telomere shorting is one of the molecular mechanisms underlying ageing. The shelterin complex consists of six telomere-specific proteins which are involved in the protection of chromosome ends. More particularly, this vital complex protects the telomeres from degradation, prevents from activation of unwanted repair systems, regulates the activity of telomerase, and has a crucial role in cellular senescent and ageing-related pathologies. This review explores the organization and function of telomeric DNA along with the mechanism of telomeres during ageing, followed by a discussion of the critical role of shelterin components and their changes during ageing.

CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing: A new therapeutic approach in the treatment of infection and autoimmunity

CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein9) may be viewed as an adaptive bacterial immune system. When a virus infects a bacterium, a fragment of the virus genome is inserted into the CRISPR sequence of the bacterial genome as a memory. When the bacterium becomes infected again with the same virus, an RNA molecule that is a transcript of the memory sequence, directs Cas9, an endonuclease, to the complementary region of the virus genome, and Cas9 disables the virus by a double-strand break. In recent years, studies have shown that by designing synthetic RNA molecules and delivering them along with Cas9 into eukaryotic cells, different regions of the cell's genome can be targeted and manipulated. These findings have drawn much attention to this new technology and it has been shown that CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing can be used to treat some human diseases. These include infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases. In this review article, in addition to a brief overview of the biology of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we collected the most recent findings on the applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology for better investigation of the pathogenesis and treatment of viral infections (human immunodeficiency virus infection, hepatitis virus infections, and onco-virus infections), non-viral infections (parasitic, fungal, and bacterial infections), and autoimmune diseases.

The anticancer effects of curcumin via targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a protein kinase that has been considered as a key regulator of a large number of cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, survival, and motility. Overactivation of mTOR (especially mTORC1) signaling is related to oncogenic cellular processes. Therefore targeting mTORC1 signaling is a new promising strategy in cancer therapy. In this regard, various studies have shown that curcumin, a polyphenol produced from the turmeric rhizome, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. Curcumin may exert its anticancer function, at least in part, by suppressing mTOR-mediated signaling pathway in tumor cells. However, the exact underlying mechanisms by which curcumin blocks the mTORC1 signaling remain unclear. According to literature, curcumin inhibits insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTORC1 pathway which leads to apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via suppression of erythroblastosis virus transcription factor 2 and murine double minute 2 oncoprotein. In addition, activation of unc-51-like kinase 1 by curcumin, as a downstream target of IGF-1/PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 axis, enhances autophagy. Curcumin induces AMP-activated protein kinase, a negative regulator of mTORC1, via inhibition of F0F1-ATPase. Interestingly, curcumin suppresses IκB kinase β, the upstream kinase in mTORC1 pathway. Moreover, evidence revealed that curcumin downregulates the E3-ubiquitin ligases NEDD4, neural precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated 4. NEDD4 is frequently overexpressed in a wide range of cancers and degrades the phosphatase and tensin homolog, which is a negative regulator of mTORC1. Finally another suggested mechanism is suppression of MAOA/mTORC1/hypoxia-inducible factor 1α signaling pathway by curcumin.

Association of serum 25-OH vitamin D₃ with serum IgE and the Pediatric Asthma Severity Score in patients with pediatric asthma

Background: Pediatric asthma is a prevalent disease and has a significant immunologic and inflammatory nature. In recent years, the role of vitamin D₃ in immunologic processes has been studied, and many aspects of this role have been clarified in some human diseases. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship among the vitamin D₃ status, Pediatric Asthma Severity Score (PASS), and inflammatory indicators of pediatric asthma. Methods: Among all of the pediatric patients with asthma and with asthma exacerbation, 100 patients were randomly enrolled in the study and subdivided into three groups according to serum levels of 25-OH vitamin D₃. The control group consisted of 100 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects. Asthma exacerbation severity was evaluated based on the PASS before starting the medical care. The count of the white blood cells, eosinophil count, and serum levels of total immunoglobulin E (IgE) plus 25-OH vitamin D₃ were measured in all the subjects. The obtained data were then compared via proper statistical tests. A p value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The median level of serum IgE was increased in patients with vitamin D₃ deficiency compared with other groups. There was a significant inverse correlation between serum levels of 25-OH vitamin D₃ and IgE in pediatric patients with asthma (r = -0.483, p = 0.001). Furthermore, the serum levels of 25-OH vitamin D₃ also significantly inversely correlated with the PASS (r = -0.285, p = 0.004). Conclusion: Vitamin D₃ deficiency is associated with exacerbation severity and serum IgE levels in patients with pediatric asthma; hence, it can have an important role in pediatric asthma pathogenesis, possibly through IgE.

Effect of Rubus anatolicus Leaf Extract on Glucose Metabolism in HepG2, CRI-D2 and C2C12 Cell Lines

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of Rubus anatolicus on glucose metabolism in HepG2, CRI-D2 and C2C12 cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

R. anatolicus was collected in Golestan province, Iran. Three different cell lines HepG2 (human liver cell), CRI-D2 (mice pancreatic cell) and C2C12 (rat myoblast) were used for cell culture experiments. Cell viability was measured using MTT assay. Cells were treated with various concentrations of the extract (6.25-400 μg/mL) and then the extracellular glucose level and intracellular glycogen content were measured using colorimetric methods. The insulin level of the culture medium was measured using the ELISA method.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that R. anatolicus extract enhances glucose uptake and consumption by all three cell lines. The R. anatolicus extract exposure also elevated cellular glycogen content in HepG2 and C2C12 cells (for 200 and 100 μg/mL) significantly. We found a significant increase in glucose uptake and consequently higher stimulation of insulin secretion in CRI-D2 cell pancreatic cells treated with R. anatolicus extract.

CONCLUSION

The R. anatolicus appears to activate glucose uptake and cellular glycogen synthesis probably by activating the glycogenesis or inhibition of glycogenolysis pathways. The extract enhances insulin secretion in the pancreatic cells by increased glucose uptake.

The role of microRNAs in the healing of diabetic ulcers

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small protected molecules with a length of 18 to 25 nucleotides. Many studies have recently been conducted on miRNAs, illustrating their role in regulating many biological, physiological, and pathological activities, such as maintaining cellular signalling and regulating cellular pathways. The main role of miRNAs is to regulate the expression of genes after translation, which can lead to the destruction or suppression of translation by binding to mRNAs. As any change in the regulation of miRNAs is associated with several physiological abnormalities, such as type 2 diabetes and its complications, these molecules can be used for therapeutic purposes or as biomarkers for the diagnosis of diseases such as diabetes and its complications. In this review article, we will discuss important findings about the miRNAs and the role of these molecules in different phases of the wound-healing process of chronic wounds, especially diabetic ulcer.

The crosstalk between trace elements with DNA damage response, repair, and oxidative stress in cancer

DNA damage response (DDR) is a regulatory system responsible for maintaining genome integrity and stability, which can sense and transduce DNA damage signals. The severity of damage appears to determine DDRs, which can include damage repair, cell-cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Furthermore, defective components in DNA damage and repair machinery are an underlying cause for the development and progression of various types of cancers. Increasing evidence indicates that there is an association between trace elements and DDR/repair mechanisms. In fact, trace elements seem to affect mediators of DDR. Besides, it has been revealed that oxidative stress (OS) and trace elements are associated with cancer development. In this review, we discuss the role of some critical trace elements in the risk of cancer. In addition, we provide a brief introduction on DDR and OS in cancer. Finally, we will further review the interactions between some important trace elements including selenium, zinc, chromium, cadmium, and arsenic, and DDR, and OS in cancer.

Paraoxonase-2 variants potentially influence insulin resistance, beta-cell function, and their interrelationships with alanine aminotransferase in type 2 diabetes

Background:

The aim of this study was to determine whether insulin resistance, beta-cell function, and their associations with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) are affected by the functional variants of paraoxonase-2 (PON2) as an intracellular antioxidant in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods:

Quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and homeostasis model assessment for beta-cell function (HOMA-BCF) were assessed in T2D patients. Insulin levels were determined using ELISA. The variants PON2-A148G and PON2-S311C were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-based restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results:

According to the PON2-G148A variant, ALT was found to be significantly correlated with QUICKI (r = −0.616, P = 0.005) and HOMA-BCF (r = 0.573, P = 0.01) in the GA + GG group; however, the correlations were not statistically significant in the AA genotypes. Based on the genotypes of PON2-S311C, there was a significant correlation between ALT with QUICKI (r = −0.540, P = 0.031) and HOMA-BCF (r = 0.567, P = 0.022) in the SC + CC group. In the multiple adjusted logistic regression analyses, considering the variants PON2-G148A and PON2-C311S as independent variables and QUICKI and HOMA-BCF as the dependent variables, both variants were significantly associated with the QUICKI (P = 0.019 for PON2-G148A and P = 0.041 for PON2-C311S). Furthermore, PON2-C311S remained significantly associated with HOMA-BCF (P = 0.03).

Conclusion:

These data implicate a role for the functional variants of PON2 in insulin resistance and beta-cell function as well as underscore the effective role of these variants in the associations between them and ALT. Our data contribute to our understanding of the important physiologic functions of PON2 in glucose metabolism and its related metabolic diseases.

MiRNAs and inflammatory bowel disease: An interesting new story

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disorder, is caused by a dysregulated and aberrant immune response to exposed environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite huge efforts in determining the molecular pathogenesis of IBD, an increasing worldwide incidence of IBD has been reported. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a set of noncoding RNA molecules that are about 22 nucleotides long, and these molecules are involved in the regulation of the gene expression. By clarifying the important role of miRNAs in a number of diseases, their role was also considered in IBD; numerous studies have been performed on this topic. In this review, we attempt to summarize a number of studies and discuss some of the recent developments in the roles of miRNAs in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of IBD.

Direct correlation between serum homocysteine level and insulin resistance index in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism: Does subclinical hypothyroidism increase the risk of diabetes and cardio vascular disease together?

BACKGROUND

Subclinical hypothyroidism known as mild thyroid disorder without significant sign and symptoms. The correlation between subclinical hypothyroidism and some of cardiovascular disease risk factors such as serum lipids, homocysteine levels and also insulin resistance index is not well established and the current study was conducted to clarify this issue.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Seventy four patients with mild elevation in levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) along with normal levels of T3 and T4 were selected as patients group and 74 age and sex matched individuals were selected as healthy control group. Serum insulin, triglyceride, glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and homocysteine levels were measured. Obtained data compared between groups with independent sample t-test. For evaluation of the correlation between mentioned parameters Pearson correlation coefficient method was used.

RESULTS

Serum levels of LDL-C and total cholesterol significantly increased in SCH group compared to healthy control group. Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOM-IR) and serum homocysteine level significantly elevated in patients with SCH compared to control group. There was a significant direct correlation between HOM-IR and serum homocysteine levels in SCH patients.

CONCLUSION

Subclinical hypothyroidism likely have significant effect on insulin resistance as major diabetes risk factors and also cardiovascular disease risk factors such as homocysteine. The direct correlation between HOM-IR with serum homocysteine level indicate the possible role of insulin resistance in elevation of serum homocysteine in SCH patient group.

Some of the effective factors in the pathogenesis of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma is one of the most fatal tumours to affect the digestive tract and is the eighth most common malignancy worldwide. Gastro‐oesophageal reflux has an important role in the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus. Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a multifactorial, acid‐peptic disorder that results from the reflux of noxious material from the stomach into the oesophagus. The refluxed material causes the occurrence of oesophageal inflammation which creates a condition that is called reflux oesophagitis. The prevalence of this disease has increased dramatically in recent decades, mostly in the western world, where it affects about 10% to 30% of the population. The aetiology of oesophageal mucosal damage is complicated. Many inflammatory mediators are produced within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, but their contributions in pathophysiology and disease pathogenesis have not been well investigated. Despite the protective barrier provided by the oesophageal mucosa, refluxed materials can cause oxidative injury and in?ammatory responses that involve the epithelium and immune cells. The analysing cellular events in gastro‐ oesophageal reflux disease and physiological responses to such conditions are important and necessary for a better grasp of the pathogenesis of GERD and the expansion of new treatments. Therefore, we want to discuss some of the important and key factors of GERD disease in this article.

An investigation of the effects of curcumin on iron overload, hepcidin level, and liver function in β-thalassemia major patients: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

This study investigated the effects of curcumin, the active polyphenol in turmeric, on iron overload, hepcidin level, and liver function in β-thalassemia major patients. This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 68 β-thalassemia major patients. The subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive either 500 mg curcumin capsules (total: 1,000 mg) twice daily or placebo for 12 weeks. Dietary intakes and biochemical variables including hemoglobin, transferrin saturation, total iron binding capacity, nontransferrin bound iron (NTBI), ferritin, hepcidin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were assessed at the beginning and end of the trial. Curcumin significantly reduced serum levels of NTBI (2.83 ± 1.08 compared with 2.22 ± 0.97 μmol/L, p = .001), ALT (42.86 ± 11.15 compared with 40.60 ± 9.89 U/L, p = .018), and AST (49.45 ± 12.39 compared with 46.30 ± 10.85 U/L, p = .002) at the end of the study. Based on analysis of covariance, a significant decrease was also observed in levels of NTBI (2.22 ± 0.97 vs. 2.55 ± 0.94 μmol/L, p = .026), ALT (40.60 ± 9.89 vs. 45.01 ± 10.42 U/L, p = .004), and AST (46.30 ± 10.85 vs. 50.99 ± 9.36 U/L, p = .009) in curcumin group in comparison with placebo group. There were no significant changes in hepcidin and other variables in any of the 2 groups. Curcumin administration alleviated iron burden and liver dysfunction by reducing NTBI, ALT, and AST levels in patients with β-thalassemia major.

Assessing the Levels of L-Carnitine and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Adults With Newly Diagnosed and Long-Standing Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVES

This study is essentially a correlative study that examines the potential of reduced levels of L-carnitine (LC) when combined with the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes. The aim of the study was to assess the levels of LC, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglycerides and cholesterol in people with newly diagnosed and long-standing type 2 diabetes and in healthy controls.

METHODS

The study was done in 90 adult subjects, including 30 with newly diagnosed diabetes, 30 with long-standing type 2 diabetes and 30 healthy controls. Plasma samples were used to assay the biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

In this study, both groups (newly diagnosed and long-standing type 2 diabetes) were significantly different in baseline characteristics, such as age, height, weight, body mass index, FBS, cholesterol and triglycerides, compared to the healthy controls. Plasma LC levels in patients with newly diagnosed and long-standing type 2 diabetes were significantly lower than in healthy controls (p<0.001). Also, the mean plasma TAOC level in the patients with newly diagnosed and long-standing type 2 diabetes was slightly lower than in the healthy controls. Nevertheless, TAOC levels were not significantly different across all the groups (p=0.87). The plasma LC levels were significantly positive when compared to the plasma TAOC levels (r=0.516), which means that an increase in LC levels is associated with an increase in TAOC levels. However, a negative correlation was observed between LC levels and FBS (r=-0.387), triglycerides (-0.159) and body mass indexes (r=-0.068). This means that a decrease in LC levels is associated with increases in FBS, triglyceride and body mass index levels.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the effects of reduced LC levels on the metabolic profiles of patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes, setting the LC content value to prevent diabetes through the use of effective drugs or nutrition containing LC can be useful in managing diabetes.

Effect of Popping Chocolate and Candy on Enamel Microhardness of Primary and Permanent Teeth

Aims and Objectives

Dental erosion is a common disease in children. Food diets, due to high amounts of juice, soft drinks, chewing gum, and acidic chocolate, are one of the most important risk factors in erosive processes among children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of candy and chocolate on the microhardness of tooth enamel.

Materials and Methods

Two types of popping candy and one type of popping chocolate were used in this study. Thirty-three healthy permanent premolar teeth and 33 primary incisor teeth (A or B) were selected. Five grams of each popping chocolate or candy was dissolved with 2 ml of artificial saliva. Subsequently, their pH and titrable acidity (TA) as well as microhardness and surface roughness of enamel were examined in the laboratory. Data were analyzed and evaluated Released 2011. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0. Armonk, NY through independent t-test, paired t-test, Tukey test, and ANOVA.

Results

The results of this study showed that only the pH of the candies was below the critical pH of the enamel (5.5) and their TA was B = 0.20 and C = 0.21. The most significant effect on the enamel microhardness of the permanent and primary teeth was by the following types of candy: orange flavor (C), strawberry flavor (B), and chocolate (A), respectively. This difference was significant (P < 0.001) and the surface roughness increased after exposure.

Conclusions

This study showed that popping chocolate and candy reduces microhardness of enamel.