Hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of corn silk extract in nicotine-administered male mice

Aim

This study is done to investigate the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of corn silk extract in nicotine-administered male mice.

Background

Nicotine can induce pathophysiological effects in the liver tissue through oxidative stress and damage cells. Corn silk can improve liver function with its antioxidant effects.

Methods

In this experimental study, 30 male NMRI mice (25-30 gr) were divided into 5 groups: controls, sham, nicotine 2.5 mg/kg, nicotine+aqueous extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg, and nicotine+methanolic extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg for 1 month. One day after the last nicotine and extracts consumption, the serum samples were performed for biochemical measurement, and the supernatant of the homogenized liver was administered for antioxidant variables assessment.

Results

There was no significant difference in the body weight of different groups. Liver weight and GSH decreased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, liver enzymes, and MDA increased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Also, the expansion of sinusoids, the presence of inflammatory cells, and necrosis of liver cells were observed in the nicotine group compared to the control group. Using aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk in mice receiving nicotine led to the improvement of the mentioned variables (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that the use of nicotine can lead to the induction of hepatotoxicity. The use of aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk improved them through its antioxidant activity.

Fresh embryo transfer in the cleavage and blastocyst stages and pregnancy outcomes: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Background

Advances in cell culture media have led to a trend of embryo transfer from the early cleavage stages to blastocyst stage.

Objective

The study aims to compare the effects of fresh embryo transfer in cleavage and blastocyst stage on pregnancy outcomes.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1422 cases referred to the Umm-al-Banin Infertility Clinic Center, Dezful, Iran, between July 2013 and December 2020 who were candidates for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection for fresh embryo transfer. A total of 1246 cases were divided into 4 categories on days 2-5 or 6. Chemical and clinical pregnancy, abortion, multifetal pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth rates were analyzed.

Results

Fresh embryo transfer was performed in 28.5% of the cases on the 2nd day, 45.8% on the 3rd, 15.3% on the 4th day, and 10.4% on days 5 or 6. The overall clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were estimated at 20.6% and 17.6% in the cleavage, and 17% and 14% in the blastocyst stages, respectively. However, no significant difference was observed in either group. In addition, there was no significant difference between groups in terms of the abortion, multifetal pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy rate (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

According to the results, the consequences of pregnancy in fresh embryo transfer at the blastocyst stage were not superior to embryo transfer at different stages of the cleavage process.

Anesthesia and analgesia for common research models of adult mice

Anesthesia and analgesia are major components of many interventional studies on laboratory animals. However, various studies have shown improper reporting or use of anesthetics/analgesics in research proposals and published articles. In many cases, it seems "anesthesia" and "analgesia" are used interchangeably, while they are referring to two different concepts. Not only this is an unethical practice, but also it may be one of the reasons for the proven suboptimal quality of many animal researches. This is a widespread problem among investigations on various species of animals. However, it could be imagined that it may be more prevalent for the most common species of laboratory animals, such as the laboratory mice. In this review, proper anesthetic/analgesic methods for routine procedures on laboratory mice are discussed. We considered the available literature and critically reviewed their anesthetic/analgesic methods. Detailed dosing and pharmacological information for the relevant drugs are provided and some of the drugs' side effects are discussed. This paper provides the necessary data for an informed choice of anesthetic/analgesic methods in some routine procedures on laboratory mice.

Comparison of Follicular Fluid Paraoxonase 3 Level, Ovarian Hormones and Oocyte Quality between Fertile and Infertile Women

Background: The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the possible effect of follicular fluid paraoxonase 3 (PON  3) on oocyte quality and sex hormones. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on totally 90 enrolled women including fifty infertile women presenting with polycystic ovaries and unilateral tubal factor and forty fertile women with male factor infertility referring to Umm-al-Banin Infertility Clinic in Dezful, Iran for in vitro fertilization during October 2018 to November 2019. Oocyte removal was carried out under transvaginal ultrasound guidance, and follicular fluid (FF) was removed and preserved to detect PON3, estrogen, and progesterone levels. In addition, oocyte number and quality were assessed and its association with PON3 activity in the FF was evaluated. One-way ANOVA and Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) were used for data analysis and p≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: A significant increase was observed in the total number of the oocytes and mature metaphase II oocytes with ≥20 pg/ml of PON3 concentration in the FF (p≤0.05). Moreover, a positive relationship was shown between the increased estradiol level in follicular fluid and PON3, so that the highest estradiol level was observed in the amount of 31-40 pg/ml of PON3 (p≤0.05). Conclusion: According to the results, as the number of the mature oocytes increased, the amount of PON3 as well as estradiol levels in the FF increased. This research displays an increase in the level of PON3 with mature oocytes, thus supporting the indirect evidence for the function of PON3 in follicle development.

Changes of Serum Level of Homocysteine and Oxidative Stress Markers by Metformin and Inositol in Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Double Blind Randomized Clinical Trial Study

Background

Hyperhomocysteinemia plays an important role in the anovulation in infertile women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, long-term metformin therapy elevated homocysteine (Hcy) concentration in these individuals. Inositol increases serum insulin levels and improves ovulation. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of metformin and inofolic on the level of serum Hcy and oxidative markers in the infertile patients with PCOS.

Materials and Methods

Eighty PCOS infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization in the Umm-al-Banin clinical center, Dezful, Iran from December 2018 to September 2019 were invited to participate in this double blind randomized clinical trial. They were divided into two groups; group A who received metformin (1000 mg twice/day) and folic acid (400 μg /day) and group B who used inofolic (inositol+ olic acid 200 μg twice/day) for 3 months.

Results

The mean Hcy levels increased significantly by metformin (P=0.02), but not by inofolic. There was a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) after metformin administration (P=0.01). In both groups, a significant increase in folic acid levels was observed after treatment (P=0.04). Also, no significant change in vitamin B12 and malondialdehyde levels was observed in both groups (P=0.08).

Conclusion

These findings indicate an increase in the serum Hcy levels as well as a remarkable decrease in TAC following metformin treatment. Given the rise in blood Hcy in PCOS patients, inofolic and other medications containing inositol can be prescribed instead of metformin (registration number: IRCT20190508043516N1).

The effect of follicular fluid selenium concentration on oocyte maturation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing in vitro fertilization/Intracytoplasmic sperm injection: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

A high level of free radicals and oxidative substances in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect the ovaries through oxidative stress. Antioxidants such as selenium, a vital trace element in human health, can improve the prognosis of PCOS by reducing oxidative stress.

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed due to the lack of comprehensive information about selenium concentration in follicular fluid and its effect on the oocyte count and quality in infertile women with PCOS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 78 women with PCOS referred to Umm-al-Banin Infertility Clinic Center, Ganjavian Hospital, Dezful, Iran for in-vitro fertilization from March to November 2019 were enrolled. After ovarian stimulation with the antagonist protocol, the oocytes were retrieved under transvaginal ultrasound in in-vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles, and selenium concentrations were measured in the follicular fluid using an atomic absorption method by spectrophotometer device. Oocyte count and morphology were evaluated using inverted optical microscopy.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between follicular fluid selenium concentrations in terms of the total number of oocytes and immature oocytes in the metaphase I and germinal vesicle stages. However, a significantly reduced number of metaphase II oocytes was observed at selenium levels < 40 μg/dL (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, low levels of follicular selenium concentration in infertile women with PCOS can reduce the quality and potency of oocyte maturation.

Follicular Fluid Zinc Level and Oocyte Maturity and Embryo Quality in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Background:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered to be one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. Zinc, a vital trace element in the body, plays a key role in maintaining health, especially due to its antioxidant role. On the other hand, lack of antioxidants and oxidative stress can adversely affect oocytes quality and consequently fertility rate. The available studies that report the effect of follicular fluid (FF) zinc in terms of the number and quality of the oocytes in infertile women with PCOS, are few and not consistent. We decided to investigate this issue.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, from the women with PCOS referring to Omolbanin Hospital, Dezful, Iran (February to December 2019), a total of 90 samples (follicular fluid, oocytes, and embryos) were collected from those who had undergone in vitro fertilization (IVF). To measure zinc level in follicular fluid, high performance liquid chromatograpy (HPLC) was utilized. Also, oocytes maturity and embryos quality evaluation was performed using inverted optical microscopy. One-way ANOVA and Fisher’s least significant difference (LSD) were used for data analysis.

Results:

The amount of FF zinc was not associated with any significant differences in the number of oocytes and metaphase I (MI) and germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes, but a significant decrease was observed in the number of metaphase II (MII) oocytes at zinc values less than 35 µg/dL. The FF zinc levels less than 35 µg/dL were also significantly associated with decreased embryo quality

Conclusion:

A significant relationship was found between the level of FF zinc and the quality and the number of oocytes taken from the ovaries of infertile patients with PCOS history who were candidates for IVF treatment as well as the number of high quality embryos.

Evaluation of the Effect of Captopril and Losartan on Tacrolimus-induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive drug. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and associated inflammations may exacerbate the toxic effects of tacrolimus. Given the significant role of the kidney in RAS this study aimed to evaluate the effect of captopril as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) blocker and losartan as an angiotensin II receptor blocker on tacrolimus-induced nephrotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 36 adult male rats weighing 200-250 gr were completely randomized and divided into six groups (control, tacrolimus, tacrolimus and losartan, tacrolimus and captopril, losartan, and captopril) for 30 days. Afterwards, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) and ACE2 enzyme were measured. Also, both kidneys were collected for histological examinations.

RESULTS

The level of BUN and Cr significantly increased in tacrolimus group. The level of BUN and Cr were lower in the groups treated with a combination of tacrolimus and losartan or captopril. While ACE2 level increased in the groups receiving a combination of tacrolimus and losartan or captopril, the level of increase was insignificant, compared to the group treated with tacrolimus alone. The glomerulus diameter and the thickness of the renal proximal tubular epithelium significantly decreased in the group treated with tacrolimus alone. the mentioned variables increased in the group treated with a combination of tacrolimus and losartan or captopril, compared to the tacrolimus group.

CONCLUSION

According to this study, tacrolimus increased the BUN and Cr levels while decreasing the ACE2 levels. However, tacrolimus in combination with losartan or captopril seemed to decrease the nephrotoxicity of the drug.

Pistacia atlantica's effect on ovary damage and oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Objective:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with numerous complications, including gonadal dysfunction. There are specific traditional medicine remedies for DM, including medicinal herbs. Our study aimed to evaluate the role of Pistacia atlantica’s extract in the protection against ovary damage by streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM in rats.

Methods:

We ran this experimental study on 40 adult female Wistar rats. We divided the animals into five groups, control (A); DM (STZ by 60 mg/kg- intraperitoneally) (B); DM + hexane extract of P. atlantica (200 mg/kg -orally) (C); P. atlantica extract (D) and DM + glibenclamide (200 mg/kg -orally) (F). The experiment continued for four weeks, and we administered the extract daily. After slaughtering the rats, we removed the ovaries. We assessed parameters, such as blood glucose and levels of oxidative stress markers as well as histological ovary structure.

Results:

Blood glucose, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and the number of atretic follicles were elevated; catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and the number of corpora lutea were significantly decreased in the untreated diabetic rats. These changes returned to normal or diminished with P. atlantica extract and glibenclamide in the treated rats.

Conclusions:

The extract of P. atlantica has antihyperglycemic and antioxidative properties, and it decreased ovarian complications in experimental diabetes mellitus.

Effect of embryo transfer depth on IVF/ICSI outcomes: A randomized clinical trial

Background

Although there has been remarkable advancement in the field of assisted reproductive technology, implantation failure remains a significant issue in most infertile couples receiving these treatments. Embryo transfer is important in assisted reproductive technology and directly affects the implantation rates and pregnancy outcomes.

Objective

To assess the effect of two different distance embryo transfer sites from fundal endometrial surface on the outcomes of in-vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles.

Materials and Methods

A total of 180 women who were candidate for IVF/ ICSI/ embryo transfer in Yazd Research and Clinical Center for Infertility were equally assigned to two groups based on the distance between the fundal endometrial surface and catheter tip to investigate implantation, chemical and clinical pregnancy (group A: 15 ± 5 mm and group B: 25 ± 5 mm, respectively).

Results

The subjects in the group B showed significantly higher implantation rate, chemical and clinical pregnancy rate compared to the group A (p = 0.03, 0.01, 0.04, respectively). The rate of ongoing pregnancy and miscarriage indicated no significant differences between groups (p = 0.21, 0.27, respectively).

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study showed that the depth of embryo replacement inside the uterine cavity at a distance of 25 ± 5 mm beneath fundal endometrial surface have better effects on the pregnancy outcomes of IVF/ICSI cycles and can be considered as an important factor to improve the success of IVF cycles.

Level of Bisphenol A in Follicular Fluid and Serum and Oocyte Morphology in Patients Undergoing IVF Treatment

Objective: To assess the correlation between the levels of BPA in the serum and follicular fluid (FF) using oocyte morphology. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional research, oocyte, FF, and serum samples were obtained from a sample population consisting of 90 women undergone in vitro fertilization in Ganjavian Hospital in Dezful, Iran during October 2017-March 2018. The ELISA kit was utilized for the measurement of the BPA levels. In addition, oocyte morphology simultaneous with inverted optical microscopy. Results: Follicular fluid BPA levels had no significant effect on MII oocytes (p ≥ 0.05). However, the mean levels of degenerated oocytes and germinal vesicle (GV) were significantly higher in the women with high BPA levels in the FF (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the mean counts of MII oocytes and oocytes were significantly higher in the women with serum BPA levels of ≤ 50 ng/ml (p ≤ 0.05), while the mean count of GV oocytes was significantly higher in the women with serum BPA levels of ≥ 150 ng/ml (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results, higher FF BPA levels were associated with the higher counts of GVs and oocytes, while oocytes with higher maturity can be achieved in lower levels of BPA in the serum of patients.

Risky Behaviors and Health-Promoting Behaviors in Young Adults: An Epidemiological Study

Objective: Health behaviors are defined as activities that affect either health status or disease risk. They can be divided into 2 categories: risky behaviors and health promoting behaviors. The growing body of evidence indicates that unhealthy behaviors often cluster in young individuals. Patterns of health-related behaviors are significantly different among countries and even among various regions of a certain country. Method : The present study was conducted to assess the youths' patterns of health attitude, health-related behaviors, and their mental and physical wellbeing. In this cross-sectional study, 800 university undergraduate students were selected using multistage cluster sampling method. Standard questionnaires were filled by students. Results: About 13.3% of students smoked regularly and 14.3% reported at least one occasion of drinking, and heavy drinking was quite prevalent. Of the students, 95% reported regular physical activity and exercise. Eating habits were not healthy among the majority of students, as there was a high consumption of fast food and salt, and only 23.9% had normal body weight. Self-care behaviors were not prevalent among the students (3.2% breast self-exam and 8.5% testicular self-examination). Conclusion: Many factors may affect positive and negative heath behaviors, including knowledge, beliefs and attitudes, legal constrains, social context, and economic status. However, lower health literacy leads to more negative health behaviors.

Protective Effect of Aloe vera Extract against Bisphenol A Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Objective

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical, has been considered as a possible risk factor for fertility because it induces testicular toxicity. Thus, we sought to analyze the effect of Aloe vera as plant with antioxidant properties on tissues and oxidative stress parameters in male rats.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, 50 adult male Wistar rats (200 ± 20 g) have been used in this 56 day study. Animals were completely randomized and divided into five groups: A₁(control), A₂(vehicle control), A3 (Aloe vera gel 300 mg/kg), B₁(BPA 20 µg/kg bw) and B₂(Aloe vera gel+ BPA). At the end of the study, the rats were anesthetized and 2 ml blood samples were obtained for evaluation of oxidative stress markers. Also, both testes were collected for histological examinations.

Results

BPA significantly decreased (P<0.05) body and testis weights. Seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) and height of seminiferous epithelium (HSE), were significantly decreased (P<0.05) in the groups receiving BPA as compared to the control. There was also a reduction in the quantity of spermatocyte and spermatids. Moreover, malondialdehyde (MDA) increased and thiol protein (G-SH) decreased. But, co-administration of Aloe vera with BPA accelerated the total antioxidant capacity and testicular tissue structure healing.

Conclusion

According to our findings, Aloe vera gel extract can overcome the damaging effects of BPA on the reproductive system of rats and protects rats’ testes against BPA-induced toxicity.

Protective effects of Asparagus officinalis extract against Bisphenol A- induced toxicity in Wistar rats

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1 Bisphenol A treatment lead to histopathologic changes in liver and kidney tissues.

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2- Bisphenol A decreased the antioxidant capacities in rats.

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3- Asparagus officinalis alleviate the extent of oxidative status induced by BPA.

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3- Asparagus officinalis decreases the pathological change of liver and kidney caused by BPA.

Asparagus officinalis is an herbal medicine with remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihepatotoxic properties. The present study aimed to investigate whether Bisphenol A (BPA) could induce histopathological changes and oxidative stress in the liver and kidney tissues of male rats. In addition, we evaluated whether the co-administration of the Asparagus officinalis extract (AOE) could prevent the possible damages. In total, 40 adult male Wistar rats with the mean weight of 200 ± 20 grams were divided into five groups. Control subjects were placed in the first group, while group two was the vehicle (5 ml/kg bwt/day). Subjects in group three were administered with 400 mg/kg of AOE (bwt/day), group four received 10 mg/kg of BPA (bwt/day) dissolved in 5 ml/kg of olive oil, and group five received oral BPA and AOE daily for eight weeks. After the experiments, the blood, liver, and kidneys of the animals were collected and examined. Biochemical results showed a significant elevation in the levels of liver and kidney biomarkers in the BPA group (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, malondialdehyde was observed to increase, while thiol protein and total antioxidant capacity decreased. Histopathological results of the BPA group indicated dilated and congested central and portal veins and inflammatory areas in the liver. In addition, renal test results showed casts in the urinary tubules and acute tubular necrosis. According to the results, the co-administration of AOE and BPA could increase the total antioxidative capability, thereby improving the function and structure of the liver and kidney tissues. Therefore, AOE is a potential protective agent against oxidative stress, liver, and kidney damage.