Evaluation of the efficacy of silymarin and dexmedetomidine on kidney and lung tissue in the treatment of sepsis in rats with cecal perforation

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome that develops in the host against microorganisms. This response develops away from the primary infection site and results in end-organ damage. The present study aimed to investigate the protective and therapeutic effects on lung and kidney tissue of silymarin (S) and dexmedetomidine (DEX) applied 1 h before and after sepsis induced by the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) method in rats. A total of 62 rats was randomly divided into eight groups: i) Control (n=6); ii) cecal perforation (CLP; n=8); iii) S + CLP (n=8; S + CLP; S administered 1 h before CPL); iv) CLP + S (n=8; S administered 1 h after CLP); v) DEX + CLP (n=8; D + CLP; DEX administered 1 h before CLP); vi) CLP + D (n=8; DEX administered 1 h after CLP); vii) SD + CLP (n=8; S and DEX administered 1 h before CLP) and viii) CLP + SD (n=8; S and DEX administered 1 h after CLP). After the cecum filled with stool, it was tied with 3/0 silk under the ileocecal valve and the anterior surface of the cecum was punctured twice with an 18-gauge needle. A total of 100 mg/kg silymarin and 100 µg/kg DEX were administered intraperitoneally to the treatment groups. Lung and kidney tissue samples were collected to evaluate biochemical and histopathological parameters. In the histopathological examination, all parameters indicating kidney injury; interstitial edema, peritubular capillary dilatation, vacuolization, ablation of tubular epithelium from the basement membrane, loss of brush border in the proximal tubule epithelium, cell swelling and nuclear defragmentation; were increased in the CLP compared with the control group. Silymarin administration increased kidney damage, including ablation of tubular epithelium from the basement membrane, compared with that in the CLP group. DEX significantly reduced kidney damage compared with the CLP and silymarin groups. The co-administration of DEX + silymarin decreased kidney damage, although it was not as effective as DEX-alone. To conclude, intraperitoneal DEX ameliorated injury in CLP rats. DEX + silymarin partially ameliorated injury but silymarin administration increased damage. As a result, silymarin has a negative effects with this dosage and DEX has a protective effect. In the present study, it was determined that using the two drugs together had a greater therapeutic effect than silymarin and no differences in the effects were not observed any when the application times of the agents were changed.

Bovine carbonic anhydrase (bCA) inhibitors: Synthesis, molecular docking and theoretical studies of bisoxadiazole-substituted sulfonamide derivatives

This paper describes the in vitro inhibition potential of bisoxadiazole-substituted sulfonamide derivatives (6a-t) against bovine carbonic anhydrase (bCA) after they were designed through computational analyses and evaluated the predicted interaction via molecular docking. First, in silico ADMET predictions and physicochemical property analysis of the compounds provided insights into solubility and permeability, then density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to analyse their ionization energies, nucleophilicity, in vitro electron affinity, dipole moments and molecular interactions under vacuum and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) conditions. After calculating the theoretical inhibition constants, IC50 values determined from enzymatic inhibition were found between 12.93 and 45.77 μM. Molecular docking evaluation revealed favorable hydrogen bonding and π-interactions of the compounds within the bCA active site. The experimentally most active compound, 6p, exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity with a theoretical inhibition constant value of 9.41 nM and H-bonds with Gln91, Thr198, and Trp4 residues and His63 Pi-cation interactions with His63 residues. Overall, the study reveals promising bCA blocking potential for the synthesized derivatives, similar to acetazolamide.

Effectiveness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle contraction asymmetry and filter: cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the precautions that can be taken to increase the reliability of the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials test without being affected by the asymmetry of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the issues that should be considered in the interpretation of vestibular evoked myogenic potential results if these precautions are not taken.

METHOD

Individuals with sternocleidomastoid muscle activity of less than 30 μV in cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing and an asymmetry ratio of more than 0.35 were excluded. In our study, individuals were divided into different groups according to sternocleidomastoid muscle asymetry.

RESULTS

A total of 53 individuals were included in the study. Intergroup comparisons were made to determine the effect of electromyogram scaling and filter use on amplitude asymmetry ratio according to sternocleidomastoid muscle asymmetry.

CONCLUSION

Keeping the sternocleidomastoid muscle asymmetry not exceeding 10 μV maximises the reliability of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials. As a result of our study, it can be concluded that in clinical applications the asymmetry should not exceed 20 μV.

Novel spiroindoline derivatives targeting aldose reductase against diabetic complications: Bioactivity, cytotoxicity, and molecular modeling studies

Despite significant developments in therapeutic strategies, Diabetes Mellitus remains an increasing concern, leading to various complications, e.g., cataracts, neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and several cardiovascular diseases. The polyol pathway, which involves Aldose reductase (AR) as a critical enzyme, has been focused on by many researchers as a target for intervention. On the other hand, spiroindoline-based compounds possess remarkable biological properties. This guided us to synthesize novel spiroindoline oxadiazolyl-based acetate derivatives and investigate their biological activities. The synthesized molecules' structures were confirmed herein, using IR, NMR (1H and 13C), and Mass spectroscopy. All compounds were potent inhibitors with KI constants spanning from 0.186 ± 0.020 μM to 0.662 ± 0.042 μM versus AR and appeared as better inhibitors than the clinically used drug, Epalrestat (EPR, KI: 0.841 ± 0.051 μM). Besides its remarkable inhibitory profile compared to EPR, compound 6k (KI: 0.186 ± 0.020 μM) was also determined to have an unusual pharmacokinetic profile. The results showed that 6k had less cytotoxic effect on normal mouse fibroblast (L929) cells (IC50 of 569.58 ± 0.80 μM) and reduced the viability of human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells (IC50 of 110.87 ± 0.42 μM) more than the reference drug Doxorubicin (IC50s of 98.26 ± 0.45 μM and 158.49 ± 2.73 μM, respectively), thus exhibiting more potent anticancer activity. Moreover, molecular dynamic simulations for 200 ns were conducted to predict the docked complex's stability and reveal significant amino acid residues that 6k interacts with throughout the simulation.

Effects of sevoflurane and fullerenol C60 on lower limb ischemia-reperfusion injury in streptozocin-induced diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) poses a significant challenge for physicians, necessitating the management of cell damage and the preservation of organ functions. Various surgical procedures, such as vascular surgery on extremities, temporary cross-clamping of the abdominal aorta in aortic surgery, and the use of a tourniquet in extremity surgeries, may induce lower limb IRI. The susceptibility to IRI is heightened in individuals with diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of fullerenol C60 and sevoflurane on mouse muscle tissue in a lower limb IRI model and to assess their potential in preventing complications arising from ischemia-reperfusion in mice with streptozocin-induced diabetes.

METHODS

A total of 36 adult Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into six groups, each consisting of six mice: control group (group C), diabetes group (group D), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion group (group DIR), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-fullerenol C60 group (group DIR-FC60), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-sevoflurane group (group DIR-S), and diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-sevoflurane-fullerenol C60 group (DIR-S-FC60). Streptozocin (55 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered to induce diabetes in the relevant groups, with mice displaying blood glucose levels of 250 mg/dL or higher at 72 h were considered diabetic. After 4 weeks, all groups underwent laparotomy under anesthesia. In DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups, fullerenol C60 (100 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administrated 30 min before the ischemia period. Sevoflurane, delivered in 100% oxygen at a rate of 2.3% and 4 L/min, was administered during the ischemia period in DIR-S and DIR-S-FC60 groups. In the IR groups, a microvascular clamp was placed on the infrarenal abdominal aorta for 120 min during the ischemia period, followed by the removal of the clamp and a 120-min reperfusion period. At the end of the reperfusion, gastrocnemius muscle tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical parameter examinations.

RESULTS

Histopathological examination revealed a significant reduction in the disorganization and degeneration of muscle cells in the DIR-S-FC60 group compared to the DIR group (p = 0.041). Inflammatory cell infiltration was notably lower in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups than in the DIR group (p = 0.031, p = 0.011, and p = 0.013, respectively). The total damage scores in the DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups were significantly lower than in the DIR group (p = 0.018 and p = 0.008, respectively). Furthermore, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups were significantly lower than in the DIR group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Catalase (CAT) enzyme activity in the DIR-S, DIR-FC60, and DIR-S-FC60 groups was higher than in the DIR group (p = 0.001, p = 0.014, and p < 0.001, respectively). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity in the DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60 groups was also higher than in the DIR group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that administering fullerenol C60 30 min prior to ischemia in diabetic mice, in combination with sevoflurane, led to a reduction in oxidative stress and the correction of IR-related damage in muscle tissue histopathology. We believe that the administration of fullerenol C60 before IR, coupled with sevoflurane administration during IR, exerts a protective effect in mice.

Effect of fullerenol C60 on lung and renal tissue in lower extremity ischemia‑reperfusion injury in sevoflurane‑treated rats

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of fullerenol C60 on lung and kidney tissue in sevoflurane‑treated rats with lower extremity ischemia‑reperfusion (IR) injury. A total of 30 Wistar albino rats weighing 225‑275 g were used and were equally divided into five groups (n=6/group): i) Sham; ii) IR; iii) IR‑fullerenol C60 (IR‑FUL); iv) IR‑sevoflurane; and v) IR‑fullerenol C60‑sevoflurane (IR‑FUL‑SEVO). Fullerenol C60 was administered intraperitoneally prior to lower extremity IR induction and sevoflurane was administered during the IR injury. Subsequently, lung and kidney histopathological examinations, and serum biochemical analyses were performed. Lung tissue showed markedly increased congestion and neutrophil infiltration in the IR group compared with in the sham group, and notable decreases in congestion and neutrophil infiltration were observed in the treatment groups compared with in the IR group. In the histopathological evaluation of the kidney samples, vacuolization, loss of brush border in tubular epithelial cells, tubular epithelial loss and varying degrees of tubular damage were observed in all groups that underwent IR. There was a significant increase in the mean renal tubule injury score in all IR groups compared with that in the sham group. In addition, the mean kidney injury score was significantly lower in the IR‑FUL and IR‑FUL‑SEVO groups than that in the IR group. It was observed that the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor‑α, interleukin 1β and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 in the lung and kidney tissues were increased following IR, and were decreased in the groups treated with fullerenol C60 and sevoflurane. Notably, it was determined that the reduction in cytokine expression was greatest in the IR‑FUL group. When the oxidant status parameters in the lungs and kidneys were examined, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels, and catalase and glutathione S‑transferase enzyme activities were significantly different in the groups receiving sevoflurane or fullerenol C60 treatment compared with those in the IR group. The present study demonstrated the protective effects of fullerenol C60 on the lung and kidney tissues of rats under sevoflurane anesthesia after establishment of lower extremity IR. The results of the present study showed that fullerenol C60 can reduce oxidative and histopathological damage in the lungs and kidneys following IR of the lower extremities.

The role of pomegranate seed oil on kidney and lung tissues in the treatment of sepsis: animal pre-clinical research

OBJECTIVES

Sepsis is a common disease with a high mortality. Decreasing the speed is possible with early and intensive therapy. However, most medicines have been tested, but none has proven effective. Therefore, the study aimed to discover the protective and therapeutic effects of pomegranate seed oil (PSO).

METHODS

The cecal ligation puncture (CLP) method was used to induce sepsis. The experimental procedure was started with the animals divided haphazardly into four groups: control (C), sepsis (CLP), CLP + low dose PSO (CLP + LD), and CLP + high dose PSO (CLP + HD). First, the cecum was filled with feces. The full cecum was tied under the ileocecal valve for ligation and punctured. At 1 hour after CLP, 0.32 mg/kg and 0.64 mg/kg of PSO were administered. 24 hours after, lung and kidney specimens were collected.

RESULTS

Neutrophil infiltration/aggregation and alveolar wall thickness decreased in lung with PSO groups compared with the CLP. The findings for overall lung injury were similar. In renal, all parameters were increased in the CLP compared with C, except for vascular vacuolization and hypertrophy. According to the CLP, all parameters were significantly lower in CLP + HD. Furthermore, glomerular vacuolization, degeneration, and necrosis of tubular cell, dilatation of bowman space, and tubular hyaline cylinders reduced CLP + LD versus CLP. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances decreased in lung, with the PSO groups. In addition, superoxide dismutase increased in PSO groups versus CLP.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the high-dose PSO is especially effective in treating sepsis.

The Effect of Sevoflurane and Fullerenol C 60 on the Liver and Kidney in Lower Extremity Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice with Streptozocin-Induced Diabetes

Objective

This study aimed to demonstrate whether fullerenol C60, sevoflurane anesthesia, or a combination of both had protective effects on the liver and kidneys in lower extremity ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in mice with streptozocin-induced diabetes.

Methods

A total of 46 Swiss albino mice were divided into six groups as follows: control group (group C, n=7), diabetes group (group D, n=7), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion (group DIR, n=8), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-fullerenol C60 (group DIR-FC60, n=8), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-sevoflurane (group DIR-S, n=8), and the diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-fullerenol C60-sevoflurane (group DIR-S-FC60, n=8). Fullerenol C60 (100mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally 30 min before the ischemia-reperfusion procedure to the fullerenol groups (DIR-FC60 and DIR-S-FC60). In the DIR groups, 2 hours (h) ischemia-2h reperfusion periods were performed. In the sevoflurane groups, sevoflurane was applied during the ischemia-reperfusion period with 100% O2. Liver and kidney tissues were removed at the end of the reperfusion procedure for biochemical and histopathological examinations.

Results

In liver tissue, hydropic degeneration, sinusoidal dilatation, pycnotic nuclei, prenecrotic cells, and mononuclear cell infiltration in parenchyma were significantly more frequent in group DIR than in groups D and group C. In terms of the histopathologic criteria examined, more positive results were seen in group DIR-FC60, and when group DIR-FC60 was compared with group DIR, the difference was significant. The best results in AST, ALT, glucose, TBARS levels, and SOD enzyme activities in liver tissue were in group DIR-FC60 compared with group DIR, followed by groups DIR-S-FC60 and DIR-S, respectively. Regarding TBARS levels and SOD enzyme activities in kidney tissue, the best results were in groups DIR-FC60, DIR-S-FC60, and DIR-S, respectively.

Conclusion

According to our findings, it is clear that fullerenol C60 administered intraperitoneally 30 min before ischemia, alone or together with sevoflurane, reduces oxidative stress in distant organ damage caused by lower extremity IRI, and reduces liver and kidney tissue damage in histopathologic examinations.

Effects of fullerene C60 on liver tissue in liver ischemia reperfusion injury in rats undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia

This study aimed to investigate the effects of fullerene C60 on rat liver tissue in a liver ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) model under sevoflurane anesthesia to evaluate the ability of nanoparticles to prevent hepatic complications. A total of 36 adult female Wistar Albino rats were divided into six groups, each containing six groups as follows: sham group (Group S), fullerene C60 group (Group FC60), ischemia-reperfusion group (Group IR), ischemia-reperfusion-sevoflurane group (Group IR-Sevo), ischemia-reperfusion-fullerene C60 group (Group IR-FC60), and ischemia-reperfusion-fullerene C60-sevoflurane group (Group IR-FC60-Sevo). Fullerene C60 100 mg/kg was administered to IR-FC60 and IR-FC60-Sevo groups. In the IR group, 2 h of ischemia and 2 h of reperfusion were performed. At the end of reperfusion, liver tissues were removed for biochemical assays and histopathological examinations. Hepatocyte degeneration, sinusoidal dilatation, prenecrotic cells, and mononuclear cell infiltration in the parenchyma were significantly higher in Group IR than in all other groups. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels were significantly higher in Group IR than in the other groups, and the lowest thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level was in Group IR-FC60 than in the other groups, except for Groups S and FC60. Catalase and Glutathione-S-transferase activities were reduced in the IR group compared to all other groups. Fullerene C60 had protective effects against liver IR injury in rats under sevoflurane anesthesia. The use of fullerene C60 could reduce the adverse effects of IRI and the associated costs of liver transplantation surgery.

Organoleptic characteristics and compositional profile of meat of growing Japanese quail fed different levels of poultry byproducts compost

The poultry industry generates a lot of waste, including dead birds, manure, and poultry litter. Poultry waste should never be disposed of improperly because it can seriously harm the environment. The waste can be recycled as a feedstock for use in poultry feed by composting the litter and deceased birds. The compositional profile and organoleptic properties of the meat of growing Japanese quail were examined over the course of a 4-week trial to ascertain the effect of adding compost to the diet. In a completely randomized design (CRD), 1200 newly hatched quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were divided into five treatment groups (diets with 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% compost), each consisting of 40 birds with six replicates. The addition of compost to the diet had no noticeable effects on the organoleptic qualities of appearance, color, aroma, taste, texture, juiciness, tenderness, and acceptability (P>0.05). The compositional profile characteristics for chicks given compost at any level compared to chicks fed the control diet showed no differences (P>0.05). These findings suggest that the sensory characteristics and compositional profile of growing meat quails can be maintained when fed diets including up to 10% compost.

Assessing effect of feeding poultry byproducts compost on organoleptic characteristics and compositional profile of meat of broiler chickens

Large amounts of waste, including dead birds, manure, and poultry litter, are produced by the poultry industry. Poultry waste should be disposed of properly to avoid major pollution and health risks. Composting litter and dead birds could be an option to recycle the waste and use in poultry feed. A study was conducted to investigate the effects of feeding composted poultry waste on the organoleptic qualities and compositional profile of the meat of broiler chickens. A total of 300 day-old broiler chicks (500-Cobb) were randomly allocated to five treatment groups replicated six times with 10 birds each, under a completely randomized design (CRD). Five iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous diets including composted poultry byproducts at concentrations of 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% were fed ad libitum to the birds from day 0 to day 35. The sensory grading and meat composition profile of 500 Cobb broiler chickens were tested at 35 days of age. The findings showed that there were no variations in the sensory profiles of the meat from birds given various diets (P>0.05). Although the results were somewhat lower for the chicks fed compost-containing diets than for the control group, this difference was deemed to be insignificant (P>0.05). Similarly, there were no variations in the compositional profile values of the meat between meat from birds fed various diets (P>0.05). These findings imply that broiler chickens may be raised on diets containing up to 10% poultry byproduct compost without any negative impacts on the meat's sensory quality or composition. Additionally, using compost into broiler diets may help to lower the cost of feed.

Novel beta-lactam substituted benzenesulfonamides: in vitro enzyme inhibition, cytotoxic activity and in silico interactions

In this study, a library of twelve beta-lactam-substituted benzenesulfonamides (5a-l) was synthesized using the tail-approach method. The compounds were characterized using IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis techniques. These newly synthesized compounds were tested for their ability to inhibit the activity of two carbonic anhydrases (hCA) isoforms, I and II, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in vitro. The results showed that the synthesized compounds were potent inhibitors of hCA I, with KIs in the low nanomolar range (66.60-278.40 nM) than the reference drug acetazolamide (AAZ), which had a KI of 439.17 nM. The hCA II was potently inhibited by compounds 5a, 5d-g and 5l, with KIs of 69.56, 39.64, 79.63, 74.76, 78.93 and 74.94 nM, respectively (AAZ, KI of 98.28 nM). Notably, compound 5a selectively inhibited hCA II with a selectivity of > 4-fold over hCA I. In terms of inhibition of AChE, the synthesized compounds had KIs ranging from 30.95 to 154.50 nM, compared to the reference drug tacrine, which had a KI of 159.61 nM. Compounds 5f, 5h and 5l were also evaluated for their ability to inhibit the MCF-7 cancer cell line proliferation and were found to have promising anticancer activity, more potent than 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin. Molecular docking studies suggested that the sulfonamide moiety of these compounds fits snugly into the active sites of hCAs and interacts with the Zn2+ ion. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations were performed for 200 ns to assess the stability and dynamics of each enzyme-ligand complex. The acceptability of the compounds based on Lipinski's and Jorgensen's rules was also estimated from the ADME/T results. These results indicate that the synthesized molecules have the potential to be developed into effective and safe inhibitors of hCAs and AChE and could be lead agents.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Artemisinin reduces acute ovarian ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Artemisinin (ARS) is well known as an effective agent in the treatment of malaria through the rapid elimination of Plasmodium falciparum parasites. This study aims to investigate the effect of ARS in treating adnexal torsion, one of the most common gynecological surgical emergencies. ARS was administered intraperitoneally once 30 min before unilateral ovarian torsion in two different doses (10 mg/kg vs. 50 mg/kg). Torsion was maintained for 3 h and then held in the detorted state for 3 h. Bilateral adnexectomy was performed to measure antioxidant enzyme activities and oxidant levels on the ipsilateral ovary and to make histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses on the contralateral ovary. Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury dramatically upregulated the activities of CAT, GST, and MDA levels in the ipsilateral ovary, which were all downregulated by ARS treatment. A significant increase in follicular cell degeneration, congestion, and edema in the contralateral ovary was seen in the I/R group, which was significantly reduced with ARS treatment. Furthermore, I/R injury resulted in a significant increase in apoptosis as shown by the increased levels of BAX and CASP-3, and decreased levels of BCL-2 whereas ARS significantly reduced the impact of the injury. Our data, based on a rat I/R injury model, show that both ipsilateral and contralateral ovaries are protected with ARS pretreatment, and 50 mg/kg ARS treatment demonstrates to be more effective than the 10 mg/kg ARS.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Boric Acid Treatment on Brain Tissue and Cognitive Functions in Rats with Experimental Alzheimer's Disease

Introduction

Oxidative stress has an important role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common type of dementia. Boric acid (BA) contributes significantly to the protection of the brain by reducing lipid peroxidation and supporting antioxidant defense. We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of BA treatment in AD rats.

Materials and Methods

Four groups were formed as Control (C), Alzheimer's (A), Alzheimer's + Boric acid (ABA), Boric acid (BA). Intracerebroventricular injection of Streptozotocin (STZ) was preferred to create an AD. After 4 weeks, BA was applied 3 times every other day. The Radial Arm Maze Test (RAMT) was used to evaluate memory and learning abilities. Biochemical and histopathological evaluations were made in the hippocampus.

Results

Initial RAMT inlet/outlet (I/O) numbers were similar. Two weeks after STZ injection, I/O numbers decreased in group A and ABA compared to group C and BA (p<0.05). After the second BA application, I/O numbers increased in the ABA group compared to the A group (p<0.05). In group A, PON-1, TOS and OSI levels were higher and TAS levels were lower than in groups BA and C. After BA treatment, PON-1 and OSI levels were lower in the ABA group than in the A group (p<0.05). Although there was an increase in TAS value and a decrease in TOS, this did not make a statistical difference. The thickness of the pyramidal cell in CA1 and the granular cell layers in the dentate gyrus, and the number of intact and degenerated neurons in the pyramidal cell layer were similar between the groups.

Discussion

Significant improvement in learning and memory abilities after BA application is promising for AD.

Conclusion

These results show that BA application positively affects learning and memory abilities, and reduces oxidative stress. More extensive studies are required to evaluate histopathological efficacy.

Effects of cerium oxide on liver tissue in liver ischemia‑reperfusion injury in rats undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia

During liver surgery and transplantation, periods of partial or total vascular occlusion are inevitable and result in ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Nanomedicine uses the latest technological advancement, which has emerged from interdisciplinary efforts involving biomedical sciences, physics and engineering to protect and improve human health. Antioxidant nanoparticles are potential therapeutic agents. The present study investigated the effects of cerium oxide (Co) administration and sevoflurane anesthesia on liver tissue with IR injury. A total of 36 rats were randomly divided into control, Co, IR, IR-Sevoflurane (IRS), Co + IR and Co + IRS groups. In the IR, IRS and Co + IRS groups, hepatic IR was induced. Intraperitoneal Co was administered to the Co groups 30 min before ischemia. Sevoflurane was administered to the IRS and Co + IRS groups during IR injury. Liver tissue samples were examined under the light microscope by staining with hematoxylin and eosin. Thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) levels as well as catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) enzyme activity were evaluated in liver tissue samples. The IR group had considerably more hydropic degeneration, sinusoidal dilatation and parenchymal neutrophil infiltration than the Co, IRS, Co + IR and Co + IRS groups. CAT and GST enzyme activity were significantly higher in Co and Co + IR groups compared with the IR group. TBARS levels were significantly lower in Co, IRS, Co + IR and Co + IRS groups compared whit those in the IR group. Intraperitoneal injection of Co with sevoflurane decreased oxidative stress and damage to the liver.

Discovery of novel benzenesulfonamides incorporating 1,2,3-triazole scaffold as carbonic anhydrase I, II, IX, and XII inhibitors

Sulfonamides are among the most promising potential inhibitors for carbonic anhydrases (CAs), which are pharmaceutically relevant targets for treating several disease conditions. Herein, a series of benzenesulfonamides bearing 1,2,3-triazole moiety as inhibitors of human (h) α-CAs (hCAs) were designed using the tail approach. The design method combines a benzenesulfonamide moiety with a tail of oxime and a zinc-binding group on a 1,2,3-triazole scaffold. Among the synthesized derivatives, the naphthyl (6m, K_I of 68.6 nM, S_I of 10.3), and methyl (6a, K_I of 56.3 nM, S_I of 11.7) derivatives (over hCA IX) and propyl (6c, K_I of 95.6 nM, S_I of 2.7), and pentyl (6d, K_I of 51.1 nM, S_I of 6.6) derivatives (over hCA XII) displayed a noticeable selectivity for isoforms hCA I and II, respectively. Meanwhile, derivative 6e displayed a potent inhibitory effect versus the cytosolic isoform hCA I (K_I of 47.8 nM) and tumor-associated isoforms hCA IX and XII (K_Is of 195.9 and 116.9 nM, respectively) compared with the reference drug acetazolamide (AAZ, K_Is of 451.8, 437.2, and 338.9 nM, respectively). Derivative 6b showed higher potency (K_I of 33.2 nM) than AAZ (K_I of 327.3 nM) towards another cytosolic isoform hCA II. Nevertheless, substituting the lipophilic large naphthyl tail to the 1,2,3-triazole linked benzenesulfonamides (6a-n) raised inhibitory effect versus hCA I and XII and selectivity towards hCA I and II isoforms over hCA IX. Evaluation of the cytotoxic potential of the synthesized derivatives was conducted in L929, MCF-7, and Hep-3B cell lines. Several compounds in the series demonstrated significant antiproliferative activity and minimal cytotoxicity. In the molecular docking study, the sulfonamide moiety interacted with the zinc-ion and neatly fit into the hCAs active sites. The extension of the tail was found to participate in diverse hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions with adjacent amino acids, ultimately influencing the effectiveness and specificity of the derivatives.

Effects of cerium oxide (CeO2) on liver tissue in liver ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats undergoing desflurane anesthesia

INTRODUCTION

During liver surgery and transplantation, periods of partial or total vascular occlusion are inevitable and result in ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Nanomedicine uses the latest technology, which has emerged with interdisciplinary effects, such as biomedical sciences, physics, and engineering, to protect and improve human health. Interdisciplinary research has brought along the introduction of antioxidant nanoparticles as potential therapeutics. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of cerium oxide (CeO₂) administration and desflurane anesthesia on liver tissue in liver IR injury.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty rats were randomly divided into five groups: control (C), ischemia-reperfusion (IR), IR-desflurane (IRD), cerium oxide-ischemia reperfusion (CeO₂-IR), and cerium oxide-ischemia reperfusion-desflurane (CeO₂-IRD). In the IR, IRD, and CeO₂-IRD groups, hepatic ischemia was induced after the porta hepatis was clamped for 120 min, followed by 120 min of reperfusion. Intraperitoneal 0.5 mg/kg CeO₂ was administered to the CeO₂ groups 30 min before ischemia. Desflurane (6%) was administered to the IRD and CeO₂-IRD groups during IR. All groups were sacrificed under anesthesia. Liver tissue samples were examined under a light microscope by staining with hematoxylin-eosin (H&E). Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, catalase (CAT), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and arylesterase (ARE) enzyme activities were measured in the tissue samples.

RESULTS

The IR group had considerably more hydropic degeneration, sinusoidal dilatation, and parenchymal mononuclear cell infiltration than the IRD, CeO₂-IR, and CeO₂-IRD groups. Catalase and GST enzyme activity were significantly higher in the CeO₂-IR group than in the IR group. The MDA levels were found to be significantly lower in the IRD, CeO₂-IR, and CeO₂-IRD groups than in the IR group.

CONCLUSION

Intraperitoneal CeO₂ with desflurane reduced oxidative stress and corrected liver damage.

Impact of the seventh day nucleated red blood cell count on mortality in COVID-19 intensive care unit patients: A retrospective case-control study

Background

COVID-19 covers a broad clinical spectrum, threatening global health. Although several studies have investigated various prognostic biochemical and hematological parameters, they generally lack specificity and are insufficient for decision-making. Beyond the neonatal period, NRBCs (nucleated red blood cells) in peripheral blood is rare and often associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other severe disorders such as sepsis and hypoxia. Therefore, we investigated if NRBCs can predict mortality in hypoxic ICU (Intensive Care Unit) patients of COVID-19.

Methods

Seventy-one unvaccinated RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 ICU patients was divided into those who survived (n=35, mean age=58) and died (n=36, mean age=75). Venous blood samples were collected in K3 EDTA tubes and analyzed on a Sysmex XN-1000 hematology analyzer with semiconductor laser flow cytometry and nucleic acid fluorescence staining method for NRBC analysis. NRBC numbers and percentages of the patients were compared on the first and seventh days of admission to the ICU. Results are reported as a proportion of NRBCs per 100 WBCs NRBCs/100 WBC (NRBC% and as absolute NRBC count (NRBC #, × 109/L).

Results

NRBC 7th-day count and % values were statistically higher in non-survival ones. The sensitivity for 7th day NRBC value <0.01 (negative) was 86.11%, the specificity was 48.57%, for <0.02; 75.00%, and 77.14%, for <0.03; 61.11%, and 94.60%.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our results indicate that NRBC elevation (>0.01) significantly predicts mortality in ICU hospitalized patients due to COVID-19. Worse, a high mortality rate is expected, especially with NRBC values of >0.03.

Exploration of 1,2,3-triazole linked benzenesulfonamide derivatives as isoform selective inhibitors of human carbonic anhydrase

A novel series of 1,2,3-triazole benzenesulfonamide substituted 1,3-dioxoisoindolin-5-carboxylate (7a-l) inhibitors of human α-carbonic anhydrase (hCA) was designed using a tail approach. The design method relies on the hybridization of a benzenesulfonamide moiety with a tail of 1,3-dioxoisoindoline-5-carboxylate and a zinc-binding group on a 1,2,3-triazole scaffold. Among the synthesized analogues, 2‑iodophenyl (7f, K_I of 105.00 nM and S_I of 2.98) and 2‑naphthyl (7h, K_I of 32.11 nM and S_I of 3.48) analogues (over off-target hCA I) and phenyl (7a, K_I of 50.13 nM and S_I of 2.74) and 2,6‑dimethylphenyl (7d, K_I of 50.60 nM and S_I of 3.35) analogues (over off-target hCA II) exhibited a remarkable selectivity for tumor isoforms hCA IX and XII, respectively. Meanwhile, analogue 7a displayed a potent inhibitory effect against the tumor-associated isoform hCA IX (K_I of 18.29 nM) compared with the reference drug acetazolamide (AAZ, K_I of 437.20 nM), and analogue 7h showed higher potency (K_I of 9.22 nM) than AAZ (K_I of 338.90 nM) against another tumor-associated isoform hCA XII. However, adding the lipophilic large naphthyl tail to the 1,3-dioxoisoindolin-5-carboxylate analogues increased both the hCA inhibitory and selective activities against the target isoform, hCA XII. Additionally, these analogues (7a-l) showed IC₅₀ values against the human lung (A549) adenocarcinoma cancer cell line ranging from 129.71 to 352.26 μM. The results of the molecular docking study suggested that the sulfonamide moiety fits snugly into the hCAs active sites and interacts with the Zn²⁺ ion. At the same time, the tail extension engages in various hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions with the nearby amino acids, which affects the potency and selectivity of the hybrids.

Evaluation of cholinergic enzymes and selected biochemical parameters in the serum of patients with a diagnosis of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage

Background

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is the most severe form of hemorrhagic stroke and accounts for 5-7% of all strokes. Several chemical enzymes and cytokines are thought to cause reactions that may affect the mortality and morbidity of SAH patients. This study aimed to examine the possible relationships between these parameters and the occurrence of SAH and the clinical-radiological parameters in patients with acute SAH.

Methods

This study evaluated 44 patients, including 20 with SAH and 24 controls. We obtained blood from the patients and control groups, which was stored in heparinized tubes and used in determining tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), caspase-3, and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes.

Results

TNF-α, BDNF, AChE, and BChE enzyme levels were not related to the Glasgow Coma scale (GCS) score in the patient group (p > 0.05), whereas higher enzyme levels of caspase-3 were associated with lower GCS scores (p < 0.05). The difference between the control and patient groups in terms of mean TNF-α levels was statistically significant (p < 0.01). The BDNF levels were statistically insignificant in the patient groups (p > 0.05). Caspase-3, AChE, and BChE levels were significantly different between the control and patient groups (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results may be valuable for predicting the prognosis, diagnosis, and follow-up of patients with SAH. However, further studies are required to elucidate the relationship between the clinical and radiological results in patients with SAH and certain enzymes, cytokines, and growth factors.

N-substituted phthalazine sulfonamide derivatives as non-classical aldose reductase inhibitors

Aldose reductase (AR, AKR1B1; EC 1.1.1.21) is an aldo-keto reductase that has been widely investigated as an enzyme crucially involved in the pathogenesis of several chronic complications, including nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and cataracts associated with diabetes mellitus. Although sulfonamides have been reported to possess many other biological activities, in continuation of our interest in designing and discovering potent inhibitors of AR, herein, we have evaluated the AR inhibitory potential of N-substituted phthalazine sulfonamide derivatives 5a-l. The biological studies revealed that all the derivatives show excellent activity against AR, with K_I constants ranging from 67.73 to 495.20 nM. Among these agents, 4-(6-nitro-1,4-dioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrophthalazine-2-carbonyl)benzenesulfonamide (5e) and 1,4-dioxo-3-(4-sulfamoylbenzoyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrophthalazine-6-carboxylic acid (5f) showed prominent inhibitory activity with K_I values of 67.73 and 148.20 nM, respectively, vs AR and were found to be more potent than epalrestat (K_I  = 852.50 nM), the only AR inhibitor currently used in the therapy. Moreover, molecular docking studies were also performed to rationalize binding site interactions of these sulfonamides (5a-l) with the target enzyme AR. According to ADME-Tox, predicts were also determined that these derivatives be ARIs displaying suitable drug-like properties. The sulfonamides identified in this study may be used to develop lead therapeutic agents inhibiting diabetic complications.

Protective effect of cerium oxide on testicular function and oxidative stress after torsion/detorsion in adult male rats

Testicular torsion (T)/detorsion (D) can cause testicular injury due to the rotation of the spermatic cord and its vessels, therefore it represents an urological emergency that is surgically treated. Oxidative damage occurs in the testis and distant organs because of the overproduction of free radicals and overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines by reperfusion after surgery. Cerium oxide (CeO₂) nanoparticles, a material also known as nanoceria, have regenerative antioxidant properties on oxidative stress. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of nanoceria on testis tissues in testicular T/D in rats. A total of 24 rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups: Control, CeO₂, T/D and CeO2-T/D groups. Left inguinoscrotal incision was performed in the control group. In the CeO₂ group, 0.5 mg/kg CeO₂ was given intraperitoneally 30 min before inguinoscrotal incision. In the T/D group, unilateral testicular T/D was performed through an inguinoscrotal incision and rotating the left testis 720˚ clockwise, which was then left ischemic for 120 min, followed by 120 min of reperfusion. In the CeO₂-T/D group, 0.5 mg/kg CeO₂ was given intraperitoneally 30 min before testicular T/D. At the end of the experiment, testis tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical examinations. The samples were histologically examined, Glutathione-s transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), paraoxonase (PON) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured via biochemical analysis methods, while the expression levels of p53, Bax and Bcl-2 were detected using immunohistochemistry. The present results revealed statistically significant inter-group differences in PON, CAT and GST activities and MDA levels. GST, CAT and PON activities were significantly higher, whereas MDA levels in the CeO₂-T/D group were significantly lower compared with those in the T/D group. The T/D group had increased Bax and decreased Bcl-2 expression levels in their seminiferous tubules compared with the control and CeO₂ groups. CeO₂ treatment led to downregulation of Bax and upregulation of Bcl-2. The expression of p53 was high in the T/D group compared with that in the control and CeO2 groups, and was upregulated in all germinal cells. However, compared with that in the T/D group, p53 expression was significantly decreased in the CeO₂-T/D group. The testicular injury score significantly increased in the CeO₂-T/D group compared with the control and CeO₂ groups. Rats in the CeO₂-T/D group demonstrated significantly milder tissue lesions compared with those in T/D group. The present findings indicated that nanoceria may protect testis in rats against the harmful effects of T/D. Further studies are required to evaluate how CeO₂ reduces oxidative stress and cell death in testis tissue that underwent T/D-related injury.

The Relationship Between COVID-19 Disease Severity and Zonulin Levels

Introduction

Zonulin is a protein that plays a role in the reversible regulation of epithelial permeability. As zonulin is released in large amounts into the intestinal lumen, it disrupts the integrity of the tight junctions and causes continuous migration of antigens to the submucosa. Consequently, it can trigger inflammatory processes and severe immune reactions. In severe cases, SARS-CoV-2 may have a major impact on the clinical manifestations of the disease by directly or indirectly affecting intestinal cells and triggering systemic inflammation. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the role of one of the possible mediators, zonulin, in the severity of the COVID-19 infection.

Methods 

Thirty COVID-19 patients and 35 healthy controls were included in the study. Blood samples were taken from the patients on the 1st, 4th, and 8th days of hospitalization. Serum zonulin levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Complete blood count (white blood cell [WBC], neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet), biochemical parameters (serum lactic acid dehydrogenase [LDH], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR], C-reactive protein [CRP], D-dimer, ferritin, fibrinogen levels) were determined and chronic systemic disease states of the patients were assessed.

Results 

Serum zonulin levels were notably higher in the healthy control group compared to the patient group (p=0.003). Although there was an increase in the zonulin values by time in hospitalization, this rising was not significant. Conversely, ESR and CRP levels were significantly higher in the patient group (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding gender, age, and WBC counts.

Conclusion 

The serum zonulin levels of COVID-19 patients with the mild clinical course were lower than the healthy control group. Moreover, serum zonulin levels were not correlated with ESR, CRP, and other inflammation markers. Our results suggest that low serum zonulin levels in COVID-19 patients might represent a mild disease course.

Effects of Dexmedetomidine Administered Through Different Routes on Kidney Tissue in Rats with Spinal Cord Ischaemia–Reperfusion Injury

Background

Ischaemia–reperfusion (IR) injury, which can be encountered during surgical procedures involving the abdominal aorta, is a complex process that affects distant organs, such as the heart, liver, kidney, and lungs, as well as the lower extremities. In this study, we aimed to contribute to the limited literature by investigating the protective effect of dexmedetomidine, which was administered through different routes, on kidney tissue in rats with spinal cord IR injury.

Methods

A total of 30 rats were randomly divided into five groups: control (C group), IR (IR group), IR-intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine (IRIPD group), IR-intrathecal dexmedetomidine (IRITD group), and IR-intravenous dexmedetomidine (IRIVD group). The spinal cord IR model was established. Dexmedetomidine was administered at doses of 100 µg/kg intraperitoneally, 3 µg/kg intrathecally, and 9 µg/kg intravenously. Histopathologic parameters in kidney tissue samples taken at the end of the reperfusion period and biochemical parameters in serum were evaluated.

Results

When examined histopathologically, tubular dilatation was found to be significantly reduced in the IRIVD, IRITD, and IRIPD groups compared with the IR group (p = 0.012, all). Vascular vacuolization and hypertrophy were significantly decreased in the IRIVD, IRITD, and IRIPD groups compared with the IR group (p = 0.006, all). Tubular cell degeneration and necrosis were significantly reduced in the IRIVD, IRITD, and IRIPD groups compared with the IR group (p = 0.008, p = 0.08, and p = 0.030, respectively). Lymphocyte infiltration was significantly decreased in the IRIVD and IRITD groups compared with the IR group (p = 0.006 and p = 0.06, respectively).

Conclusion

It was observed that dexmedetomidine administered by different routes improved the damage caused by IR in kidney histopathology. We think that the renoprotective effects of dexmedetomidine administered intravenously and intrathecally before IR in rats are greater.

Cytotoxic effect, enzyme inhibition, and in silico studies of some novel N-substituted sulfonyl amides incorporating 1,3,4-oxadiazol structural motif

Abstract

The acetylcholinesterase and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (AChEIs and hCAIs) remain key therapeutic agents for many bioactivities such as anti-Alzheimer and antiobesity antiepileptic, anticancer, antiinfective, antiglaucoma, and diuretic effects. Here, it has been attempted to discover novel multi-target AChEIs and hCAIs that are highly potent, orally bioavailable, may be brain penetrant, and have higher effectiveness at lower doses than tacrine and acetazolamide. After detailed investigations both in vitro and in silico, novel N-substituted sulfonyl amide derivatives (6a–j) were determined to be highly potent inhibitors for AChE and hCAs (K_Is are in the range of 23.11–52.49 nM, 18.66–59.62 nM, and 9.33–120.80 nM for AChE, hCA I, and hCA II, respectively). Moreover, according to the cytotoxic effect studies, such as the ADME-Tox, cortex neuron cells, and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line, compounds 6a, 6d, and 6h, which are the most potent representative versus the target enzymes, were identified as orally bioavailable, highly selective, and brain preferentially distributed AChEIs and hCAIs. The docking studies revealed precise binding modes between 6a, 6d, and 6h and hCA II, hCA I, and AChE, respectively. The results presented here might provide a solid basis for further investigation into more potent AChEIs and hCAIs.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11030-022-10422-8.

Assessing growth performance, morphometric traits, meat chemical composition and cholesterol content in four phenotypes of naked neck chicken

The present study was conducted to assess the growth performance, morphometric traits, muscle chemical composition and cholesterol content in four phenotypes of naked neck chicken (black, white-black, light brown and dark brown). A total of 320-day-old chicks, 80 from each phenotype, were randomly stratified into 20 replicates (16/replicate), according to a completely randomized design. The results showed higher final body weight, weight gain, and better FCR in both light brown and dark brown phenotypes whereas time of gains was found to be greater in dark brown phenotype. Keel length and shank circumference were greater in dark brown whereas wing spread was found to be higher in light brown phenotype. Drumstick circumference and body length did not show any significant differences (P > 0.05) across the phenotypes. Dry matter was found to be higher in white black, crude protein in black, white black and dark brown, moisture in light brown, and cholesterol content in black whereas ether extract and ash content were found to be greater in black and white black phenotypes. In conclusion, both light brown and dark brown phenotypes showed superior growth performance and morphometric traits. Similarly, from a health point of view, the dark brown and light brown phenotypes seem superior because their cholesterol content was low. Thus, it is strongly recommended that there should be a conscious effort to improve economically important traits of the light and dark brown birds to be used as dual-purpose slow growing chicken, especially in developing countries.

Association between common cardiovascular risk factors and clinical phenotype in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) EurObservational Research Programme (EORP) Cardiomyopathy/Myocarditis registry

AIMS

The interaction between common cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is poorly studied. We sought to explore the relation between CVRF and the clinical characteristics of patients with HCM enrolled in the EURObservational Research Programme (EORP) Cardiomyopathy registry.

METHODS AND RESULTS

1739 patients with HCM were studied. The relation between hypertension (HT), diabetes (DM), body mass index (BMI), and clinical traits was analysed. Analyses were stratified according to the presence or absence of a pathogenic variant in a sarcomere gene. The prevalence of HT, DM, and obesity (Ob) was 37, 10, and 21%, respectively. HT, DM, and Ob were associated with older age (P<0.001), less family history of HCM (HT and DM P<0.001), higher New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (P<0.001), atrial fibrillation (HT and DM P<0.001; Ob p = 0.03) and LV (left ventricular) diastolic dysfunction (HT and Ob P<0.001; DM P = 0.003). Stroke was more frequent in HT (P<0.001) and mutation-positive patients with DM (P = 0.02). HT and Ob were associated with higher provocable LV outflow tract gradients (HT P<0.001, Ob P = 0.036). LV hypertrophy was more severe in Ob (P = 0.018). HT and Ob were independently associated with NYHA class (OR 1.419, P = 0.017 and OR 1.584, P = 0.004, respectively). Other associations, including a higher proportion of females in HT and of systolic dysfunction in HT and Ob, were observed only in mutation-positive patients.

CONCLUSION

Common CVRF are associated with a more severe HCM phenotype, suggesting a proactive management of CVRF should be promoted. An interaction between genotype and CVRF was observed for some traits.

The Role of CO-RADS Scoring System in the Diagnosis of COVID-19 Infection and its Correlation with Clinical Signs

BACKGROUND

Computed tomography (CT) evaluation systematics has become necessary to eliminate the difference of opinion among radiologists in evaluating COVID-19 CT findings.

INTRODUCTION

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficiency of CO-RADS scoring system in our patients with COVID-19 as well as to examine its correlation with clinical and laboratory findings.

METHODS

The CO-RADS category of all patients included in the study was determined by a radiologist who did not know the rtRT-PCR test result of the patients, according to the Covid-19 reporting and data system of Mathias Prokop et al. Results: A total of 1338 patients were included. CT findings were positive in 66.3%, with a mean CO-RADS score of 3,4 ± 1,7. 444 (33.1%) of the patients were in the CO-RADS 1-2, 894 (66.9%) were in the CO-RADS 3-5 group. There were positive correlations between CO-RADS score and age, CMI, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic pulmonary diseases presence of symptoms, symptom duration, presence of cough, shortness of breath, malaise, CRP, and LDH, while CORADS score was negatively correlated with lymphocyte count. The results of the ROC analysis suggested that those with age ≥40 years, symptom duration >2 days, CMI score >1 and/or comorbid conditions were more likely to have a CO-RADS score of 3-5.

CONCLUSION

The CO-RADS classification system is a CT findings assessment system that can be used to diagnose COVID-19 in patients with symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, myalgia and fatigue for more than two days.

Assessment of knowledge and anxiety level of forensic science experts and technicians on SARS–CoV2 Pandemic

This prospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study was performed to assess the knowledge and anxiety levels of forensic science experts and technicians working at the Ministry of Justice Council of Forensic Medicine regarding the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – Corona Virus2 (SARS–CoV2) pandemic. Research data was obtained by a questionnaire, including personal information questions, a Coronavirus 19 Phobia (C19P–S) scale, and knowledge level questions, conducted on 295 participants between 01/10/2020–30/11/2020. Knowledge scores of the participants having bachelor's degrees (16.57±7.51) were found to be lower than those of the associate degree (23.74±6.52) and postgraduate degree (23.29±6.63) groups. The professional group with the lowest knowledge score was the engineer (12.00±4.95). The knowledge score of forensic medicine specialists (24.78±5.98), forensic medicine residents (24.78±5.53), and technicians (23.84±6.61) were higher than other professional groups. The psychological sub-dimension score was 18.69±5.73, while psychosomatic 8.93±3.72, social 14.65±4.47, economic 8.54±3.39, and the total C19P–S scale was 50.80±14.56. The psychological and total C19P – S scale scores of the female participants were higher than the scores of the men. Total C19P–S scores of the participants working in the specialized departments were higher than the participants working on the specialized boards. The highest C19P–S scale total score was determined in the technician's group. In general, the knowledge and anxiety levels were determined as "moderate". The findings of this study indicate that, in addition to the stress of working with a high risk of transmission, also postponed schedules, accumulated workload, etc. may affect the psychological state of forensic science experts and technicians. However, the coping rates are strong enough to keep the stress level at “moderate”. Moderate level knowledge scores may reveal the need to do more reading on health topics and perform more studies on SARS-CoV2 while it may also be seen due to the significant information pollution.

The effect of cerium oxide on lung injury following lower extremity ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats under desflurane anesthesia

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effects of desflurane and cerium oxide (CO) on lung tissue following ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI).

METHODS

Experiments were conducted in Gazi University Animal Laboratory, Ankara, Turkey. Thirty rats were divided into 5 groups: control (C), IRI, IRI-CO, IRI-desflurane (IRID), IRI-CO-desflurane (IRICOD). Cerium oxide was given intraperitoneally. Lower extremity IRI was induced. Desflurane was applied during IRI. Lung histopathological examinations and serum biochemical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Serum nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were higher in group IRI (p=0.006) than in group C (p=0.001). Serum MDA and NO levels were significantly lower in groups IRICO and IRICOD than in group IRI. Significantly greater alveolar wall thickening and neutrophil infiltration were recorded in group IRI than in group C. Co-administration of desflurane and CO significantly decreased alveolar wall thickening and neutrophil infiltration compared to group IRI. Total lung injury scores were significantly lower in groups IRID, IRICO, and IRICOD than in group IRI.

CONCLUSION

Intraperitoneal CO with desflurane, reduced oxidative stress and corrected the damage in lung. Cerium oxide given before and desflurane given during IRI have been shown to have protective effects on lung damage in rats.

Coronary CT angiography for suspected acute coronary syndrome: sex-associated differences

Aim

The optimal diagnostic test in the work-up of suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) may differ between men and women. The aim of this study was to compare sex-associated differences between using a diagnostic strategy including early coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and standard of care (SOC).

Methods

In total, 500 patients who presented with symptoms suggestive of ACS at the emergency department were randomised between a diagnostic strategy supplemented with early CCTA and SOC.

Results

Women were generally older than men (mean ± standard deviation 56 ± 10 vs 53 ± 10 years, p < 0.01) and were less often admitted to hospital (33% vs 44%, p = 0.02). Obstructive coronary artery disease on CCTA (> 50% luminal narrowing) was less frequently seen in women (14% vs 26%, p = 0.02), and ACS was diagnosed less often in women (5% vs 10%, p = 0.03). Women underwent less outpatient testing when early CCTA was used in the emergency department evaluation of suspected ACS (p = 0.008).

Conclusion

Women had a lower incidence of obstructive CAD on CCTA and were less often admitted to hospital than men. They were subjected to less outpatient testing when early CCTA was used in the emergency department evaluation of suspected ACS.

Supplementary Information

The online version of this article (10.1007/s12471-021-01607-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Comparison of two pandemics: H1N1 and SARS-CoV-2

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to compare the clinical, epidemiological, and prognostic features of the H1N1 pandemic in 2009 and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic in 2020.

METHODS

This retrospective study involved subjects from seven centers that were admitted and found to be positive for H1N1 or COVID-19 real-time polymerase chain reaction test.

RESULTS

A total of 143 patients with H1N1 and 309 patients with COVID-19 were involved in the study. H1N1 patients were younger than COVID-19 ones. While 58.7% of H1N1 patients were female, 57.9% of COVID-19 patients were male. Complaints of fever, cough, sputum, sore throat, myalgia, weakness, headache, and shortness of breath in H1N1 patients were statistically higher than in COVID-19 ones. The duration of symptoms until H1N1 patients were admitted to the hospital was shorter than that for COVID-19 patients. Leukopenia was more common in COVID-19 patients. C-reactive protein levels were higher in COVID-19 patients, while lactate dehydrogenase levels were higher in H1N1 ones. The mortality rate was also higher in H1N1 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic is a major public health problem that continues to affect the world with its high rate of contagion. In addition, no vaccines or a specific drug for the benefit of millions of people have been found yet. The H1N1 pandemic is an epidemic that affected the whole world about ten years ago and was prevented by the development of vaccines at a short period. Experience in the H1N1 pandemic may be the guide to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic from a worse end.

Repeated Doses of Ketamine Affect the Infant Rat Urogenital System

Aim

Long-term ketamine use is known to create an interstitial cystitis-like problem in the bladder. It is known that long-term intermittent ketamine is applied to the children receiving radiotherapy for sedation. This study was planned to investigate whether this effect seen in the bladder causes similar changes in the kidneys, testicles, epididymis and ductus deferens.

Materials and Methods

A total of 12 male Wistar Albino rats for 3 weeks were used in the study. Rats were divided equally into 2 groups as, ketamine and saline. 50 mg/kg ketamine was administered intraperitoneally during 21 days to ketamine (K) groups. 1mL/kg saline was administered intraperitoneally during 21 days to saline (S) groups. At the end of 21 days kidney and testicular tissues were taken for biochemical and histopathological evaluations.

Results

Histological assessment of kidney tissue showed that tubule epithelial congestion increased significantly in the ketamine group. Epididymis congestion and distortion in the epididymal gland were found to be different in the ketamine group when testicular tissue was examined. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level in testicular and kidney tissue was found to be significantly higher in the ketamine group according to the saline group. Catalase (CAT) enzyme activity was significantly lower in the ketamine group compared to the saline group in both tissues. Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) enzyme activity was significantly higher in the ketamine group compared to the saline group.

Conclusion

We think that the results we have achieved in this study will provide guidance on ketamine, which is repeated in daily anesthesia applications, especially in radiation oncology. But these findings should be supported by clinical and experimental studies that will be conducted in a more detailed and broad series.

Evaluation of Diarrhea in Patients with COVID-19

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The COVID-19 disease, which was declared epidemic by the WHO, is a global emergency public health problem. Patients with extrapulmonary symptoms are the group of patients who should be considered for person-to-person transmission in the community. In our study, it was aimed to investigate the characteristics of patients with COVID-19-related diarrhea symptoms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted retrospectively in CO-VID-19 rtRT-PCR-positive patients in 5 medical centers. Three or more loose/liquid stools per day or increased number of defecations compared to normal defecation were defined as diarrhea. The patients were analyzed in 2 groups as those with and without diarrhea.

RESULTS

One thousand eighty-six patients were included in the study. Seventy-eight (7.2%) of the patients had diarrhea. Diarrhea was watery in 54 (69.2%) patients while with blood and mucus in 18 (23.1%) patients. Diarrhea continued for an average of 5.2 ± 1.6 (2-11) days. The clinical and laboratory findings of patients with diarrhea were more serious than those without diarrhea. Diarrhea is more common in the elderly and people with comorbid disease, and patients with diarrhea had higher CMI score and CRP and higher complaints of fever, cough, shortness of breath, myalgia, and fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of diarrhea should indicate a suspected COVID-19 infection and suggest testing for early diagnosis of the disease. It should be kept in mind that the course of the disease may be more severe in these patients, and precautions should also be taken in terms of fecal transmission during discharge.

Irisin Protects Against Hind Limb Ischemia Reperfusion Injury

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of irisin in a murine model of hind limb ischemia reperfusion (I/R).

Methods

The mice were divided into four groups (n = 6 in each group): control, irisin, ischemia reperfusion (I/R), and irisin-ischemia reperfusion (I-I/R). Irisin (0.5 µg.g^-1, intraperitoneally [i.p.]) was administered 30 min before the I/R procedure. After 2 h of ischemia and 2.5 h of reperfusion, blood and tissue samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological analysis. The results were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-tests.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in the total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) levels in all the groups. The TAS level in the I/R group was significantly lower than that in the control, irisin, and I-I/R groups, whereas the TOS level was significantly higher in the I/R group as compared with that in the other groups. Caspase-3 activity and caspase-8 activity, indicators of inflammation, were significantly higher in the I/R and I-I/R groups as compared with those in the control and irisin groups.

Conclusion

Irisin may have protective effects in skeletal muscle ischemia reperfusion injury.

Synthesis of new series of thiazol-(2(3H)-ylideneamino)benzenesulfonamide derivatives as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Human carbonic anhydrase I and II isoenzymes (hCA I and II) are important metabolic enzymes. In this study, a new series of thiazol-(2(3H)-ylideneamino)benzenesulfonamide derivatives were synthesized and also some inhibition parameters including IC50 (hydratese) and inhibition constant values (Ki , esterase) were determined. All studied compounds exhibited potent inhibition against these enzymes. They inhibited carbonic anhydrases (CAs) with the IC50 values of 113 to 395.8 nM (Ki  = 77.38-319.59 nM) for hCA I and 91.9 to 516 nM (Ki  = 62.79-425.89 nM) for hCA II. Among the compounds, 5c was found to be the most active one (Ki : 77.38 nM) for hCA I and 5g was found for hCA II with the value of 62.79 nM.

Novel benzoic acid derivatives: Synthesis and biological evaluation as multitarget acetylcholinesterase and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dementia, memory impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and speech impairment. The utility of cholinergic replacement by acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors in AD treatment has been well documented so far. Recently, studies have also evidenced that human carbonic anhydrases (hCAs) serve as an important target for AD treatment. In this direction, the improvement of new multitarget drugs, which can simultaneously modulate several mechanisms or targets included in the AD pathway, may be a potent strategy to treat AD. In light of these data for understanding and developing AD-related multitarget AChE and hCAs inhibitors, in this study, novel methylene-aminobenzoic acid and tetrahydroisoquinolynyl-benzoic acid derivatives (4a-g and 6a-g) were designed. The synthesized analogs were experimentally validated for their effects by in vitro and direct enzymatic tests. Also, the compounds were subjected to in silico monitoring with Schrödinger Suite software to assign binding affinities of potential derivatives based on Glide XP scoring, molecular mechanics-generalized Born surface area computing, and validation by molecular docking. The results revealed that 6c (1,3-dimethyldihydropyrimidine-2,4-(1H,3H)-dione-substituted, K_I  value of 33.00 ± 0.29 nM), 6e (cyclohexanone-substituted, K_I  value of 18.78 ± 0.09 nM), and 6f (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxan-4-one-substituted, K_I  value of 13.62 ± 0.21 nM) from the benzoic acid derivatives in this series were the most promising derivatives, as they exhibited a good multifunctional inhibition at all experimental levels and in the in silico validation against hCA I, hCA II, and AChE, respectively, for the treatment of AD.

The Effect of Cerium Oxide on Lung Tissue in Lower Extremity Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Sevoflurane Administered Rats

Introduction

We aimed to investigate the effects of cerium oxide, applied before the sevoflurane anesthesia, on lung tissue in rats with lower extremity ischemia-reperfusion (IR).

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 rats were randomly divided into five groups as; control (C), IR, cerium oxide-IR (CO-IR), IR-sevoflurane (IRS), and cerium oxide-IR-sevoflurane (CO-IRS). In the CO-IR group, 30 minutes after the injection of cerium oxide (0.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p)), an atraumatic microvascular clamp was placed on the infrarenal abdominal aorta for 120 minutes. Then, the clamp was removed and reperfused for 120 minutes. Sevoflurane was applied in 100% oxygen at a rate of 2.3% at 4 L/min during IR. The blood samples were taken for biochemical analysis and the lung tissue samples were taken for histological analysis.

Results

Neutrophil infiltration/aggregation was significantly higher in the IR group than in the C and CO-IRS groups. The alveolar wall thickness and total lung injury scores were significantly higher in the IR group than in the C, IRS, CO-IR and CO-IRS groups.

Discussion

We determined that the administration of 0.5 mg/kg dose of cerium oxide with sevoflurane reduces the oxidative stress and corrects IR-related damage in lung tissue. Our results show that the administration of cerium oxide before IR and the administration of sevoflurane during IR have a protective effect in rats.

Calretinin-Positive Mucosal Innervation (C-mi) as a Potential Biomarker to Predict Fibrosis in Crohn’s Disease (CD): A Pilot Study

Introduction/Objective

There is no reliable biomarker to predict the degree of fibrosis in CD. Quantification of C-mi has been used as a surrogate for enteric neural structures in Hirschsprung disease. The quantity of C-mi at the proximal margin may correlate with the degree of fibrosis in resected CD.

Methods

Ileocolonic resection cases for 20 CD and 3 trauma (control) were retrieved. Cases with severe mucosal inflammation at the margins were excluded. The proximal and distal margin sections were subjected to calretinin immunohistochemistry. Random mucosal images were captured from scanned slides (x200, JPEG), submucosa was edited out, and C-mi was calculated by image processing and analysis. rC-mi was defined as the mean C-mi of proximal margin normalized by that of distal margin. Cases with rC-mi less than the mean rC-mi + 2 SD of the controls were excluded. The maximum thicknesses of submucosa and muscularis propria were measured at the most stenotic site, microscopically. Pearson’s correlation test and Student’s t-test were performed to correlate the parameters and compare the means, respectively.

Results

A total of 216 images were captured (mean 9.3 images per case; range 7 to 10). The mean rC-mi of CD (1.26) was greater than the controls (mean 0.43) (p&lt;0.05). The mean rC-mi + 2 SD of the control group was 0.91, thus 2 CD cases were excluded from final analysis. The rC-mi of CD showed an inverse relationship with maximum submucosal thickness (mean 3.4 mm, range 0.2 to 5.9) at the site of stenosis (r=-0.47; p&lt;0.05), but not with muscularis propria.

Conclusion

The rC-mi of CD was inversely correlated with submucosal fibrosis. Altered stromal integrity, impaired intercellular signaling, progressive reduction and loss of telocytes induced by submucosal fibrosis may reduce the regenerative capacity of enteric neural structures in CD. Therefore, a decreasing trend in rC-mi may predict fibrosis progression in CD.

Family History of Crohn’s Disease (CD) May Be a Risk Factor for Developing de novo CD following Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis (IPAA) for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

Introduction/Objective

A subset of patients with an established diagnosis of UC develops signs of CD (de novo CD) following IPAA. While the etiology and risk factors of de novo CD remain largely unknown, preliminary studies have shown controversial results regarding family history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and smoking history.

Methods

Patients that underwent IPAA for UC, with at least 1 year of follow-up, were identified (n=161; 1996 to 2018). We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records. Patients that were diagnosed with de novo CD during the follow-up period were further identified. Smoking history and family history of IBD were evaluated. Chi square test was performed to compare the frequencies. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by logistic regression model. P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

29 de novo CD were identified. At the time of proctocolectomy, the family history of IBD and smoking history was documented in 152 UC patients including 27 that subsequently developed de novo CD. 23 of 152 had a family history of IBD (12 UC, 9 CD and 2 IBD, NOS). 19/129 (14.7%) UC patients without a family history of any type of IBD, 4/9 (44.4%) with a family history of CD, and 4/12 (33.3%) with a family history of UC developed de novo CD. Patients with a family history of CD were more likely to develop de novo CD post IPAA than those without a family history of any type of IBD (OR 4.63, 95% CI 1.14-18.82, p=0.03). Family history of UC did not correlate with development of de novo CD (OR 2.90; 95% CI 0.79-10.57, p=0.108). At the time of proctocoletomy, 11 were current smokers, 25 were former smokers, and 116 never smoked. In de novo CD group, there were 4/27 (14.8 %) former smokers and 23/27 (85.2 %) never smokers. No de novo CD patient was current smoker. In the UC group that remained as UC following IPAA, 11/125 (8.8%) were current smokers, 21/125 (16.8 %) former smokers, and 93/125 (74.4 %) were never smokers. Current smoking status was not associated with development of de novo CD (p = 0.214).

Conclusion

Family history of CD may be a risk factor for developing de novo CD following IPAA for UC. Current smoking status was not associated with development of de novo CD following IPAA for UC.

The Effects of Dexmedetomidine and Ketamine on Oxidative Injuries and Histological Changes Following Blunt Chest Trauma

BACKGROUND

The objective of this research was to evaluate the oxidative and histopathological effects of dexmedetomidine and ketamine on the pulmonary contusion model resulting from blunt chest trauma.

METHODS

Rats were randomly assigned to 5 equal groups (n=6): control group (Group C), pulmonary contusion group (Group PC), PC-dexmedetomidine group (Group PC-D), PC-ketamine group (Group PC-K), and PC-dexmedetomidine + ketamine (Group PC-D+K). The PC was performed by dropping a weight of 500 g (2.45 Joules) from a height of 50 cm. In Group PC-D, after chest trauma, dexmedetomidine (100 µg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally. In Group PC-K, after chest trauma, ketamine (100 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally. In Group PC-D+K, dexmedetomidine and ketamine were administered together. At the end of the 6th hour, rats were sacrificed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activities, neutrophil infiltration/aggregation, and thickness of the alveolar wall were evaluated.

RESULTS

MDA levels were significantly higher in Group PC than Groups C, PC-D, and PC-D+K. SOD enzyme activity was significantly higher in Group PC than Groups C, PC-D, and PC-D+K. In addition, neutrophil infiltration/aggregation and total pulmonary injury scores were significantly higher in Group PC than in other groups, and the thickness of the alveolar wall was significantly higher in Group PC compared to Groups C, PC-D, and PC-D+K. MDA level, SOD enzyme activities, neutrophil infiltration/aggregation, and thickness of alveolar wall were similar in PC-D and PC-D+K groups.

CONCLUSION

Dexmedetomidine and dexmedetomidine+ketamine have protective effects on blunt chest trauma but no protective effect was observed when ketamine was administered alone. We concluded that the administration of dexmedetomidine and ketamine after contusion is beneficial against pulmonary injury in rats.

Effects of fullerenol nanoparticles on kidney tissue in sevoflurane‑treated rats

AIM

The aim of this study is to demonstrate whether fullerenol C60 protects renal injury in sevoflurane‑administered rats.

METHOD

Rats (n: 24) were randomly divided into four groups: Control (Group C), Fullerenol C60 (Group F), Sevoflurane (Group S), Fullerenol C60-Sevoflurane (Group FS). Thirty minutes before the procedure, Fullerenol C60, 100 mg/kg, was administered intraperitoneally. Sevoflurane (2.3 %) was applied for 3 hours to rats in S and FS groups. Biochemical and histopathological parameters were analyzed in renal tissue samples. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were used in statistical analyzes.

RESULTS

Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and catalase (CAT) enzyme activity in Group S were significantly higher than that in all other groups. Paraoxanase (PON) enzyme activity in Group S was significantly lower than in Groups C and FS. The histopathological examination showed that vascular vacuolization and hypertrophy (VVH) and lymphocyte infiltration (LI) were significantly higher in the Group S compared to the Group C.

CONCLUSION

Renal histopathology revealed that the administration of Fullerenol C60 prior to sevoflurane inhalation reduced oxidative stress and partially corrected the damage caused by anesthesia. We concluded that Fullerenol C60 has a renal protective effect in rats when administered before sevoflurane anesthesia (Tab. 2, Fig. 4, Ref. 40).