The effect of curcumin supplementation on circulating adiponectin and leptin concentration in adults: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Curcumin is a phytocompound found in the root of turmeric, a common herbal ingredient in many Asian cuisines. The compound contains anti-inflammatory activity, which is mediated through an upregulation of adiponectin and reduction of leptin. Results of randomised controlled trials (RCT) have shown that the effects of curcumin on adipokines are conflicting. Therefore, the current systematic review and meta-analysis of RCT were conducted with the aim of elucidating the role of curcumin supplementation on serum adiponectin and leptin. The search included PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar from inception to August 2023. For net changes in adipokines, standardised mean differences (SMD) were calculated using random effects models. Thirteen RCT with fourteen treatment arms were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Curcumin supplementation was effective in increasing serum adiponectin (SMD = 0·86, 95 % CI (0·33, 1·39), P < 0·001; I2 = 93·1 %, P < 0·001) and reducing serum leptin (SMD = -1·42, 95 % CI (-2·29, -0·54), P < 0·001; I2 = 94·7 %, P < 0·001). In conclusion, curcumin supplementation significantly increased circulating adiponectin and decreased leptin levels in adults.

Development of Curcumin and Turmerone Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticle for Topical Delivery: Optimization, Characterization and Skin Irritation Evaluation with 3D Tissue Model

Background

Curcuma longa L., commonly known as turmeric, is renowned for its therapeutic benefits attributed to bioactive compounds, namely curcumin (Cur) and aromatic turmerone (Tur), present in its rhizome. These compounds exhibit diverse therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor effects. However, the topical application of these compounds has a significant potential for inducing skin irritation. This study focuses on formulating solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) carriers encapsulating both Cur and Tur for reduced irritation and enhanced stability.

Methods

SLN formulations were prepared by a method using homogenization followed by ultrasonication procedures and optimized by applying response surface methodology (RSM).

Results

The optimized SLN formulation demonstrated entrapment efficiencies, with 77.21 ± 4.28% for Cur and 75.12 ± 2.51% for Tur. A size distribution of 292.11 ± 9.43 nm was obtained, which was confirmed to be a spherical and uniform shape via environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) images. The in vitro release study indicated cumulative releases of 71.32 ± 3.73% for Cur and 67.23 ± 1.64% for Tur after 24 hours under sink conditions. Physical stability tests confirmed the stability of formulation, allowing storage at 4°C for a minimum of 60 days. Notably, in vitro skin irritation studies, utilizing the reconstructed human epidermal model (EPI-200-SIT), revealed a significant reduction in irritation with the SLN containing Cur and Tur compared to nonencapsulated Cur and Tur.

Conclusion

These findings collectively endorse the optimized SLN formulation as a favorable delivery system for Cur and Tur in diverse topical uses, offering enhanced stability, controlled release and reduced irritation.

Optimization of PLGA-DSPE hybrid nano-micelles with enhanced hydrophobic capacity for curcumin delivery

Poly (D, L Lactic-co-Glycolic acid) (PLGA) is an FDA-approved polymer. It is distinguished from other biocompatible polymers by its feasibility of production and safety for intravenous cancer tumor targeting. Curcumin (CUR) is a natural molecule with versatile bioactivities including inhibiting the nuclear Factor kappa B (Nf-kB) levels in cancer cells, increased by chemotherapy agents. Our group previously reported a successful decrease in the p65 (RelA) subunit of Nf-kB using 125 µg/ml CUR loaded into PLGA nano-micelles. However, this amount was insufficient to reduce all Nf-kB subunits. This study aimed to increase the hydrophobic capacity of PLGA toward CUR using 1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE), an FDA-approved phospholipid. PLGA-DSPE hybrid nano-micelles (HNM) were prepared using two different methods, oil-in-water (OiWa) and film preparation-rehydration (FiRe). The encapsulated CUR was successfully increased to 250 µg/ml using the FiRe method. Physicochemical characterization of CUR-loaded HNM was performed using DLS FT-IR, DSC, and HPLC. In HNM with a size of 156.6 nm, DSPE, incorporated with all functional groups of PLGA, and CUR was trapped in the core of this structure. The release profile of CUR was suitable for targeted cancer therapy and the Encapsulation Efficacy was 92%.

Simulation and multi-objective optimization of the dimethyl carbonate production process

Greenhouse gases such as CO2 are considered effective materials in global warming due to their high absorptivity. So, lowering atmospheric CO2 is one of the most practical strategies. Utilizing carbon dioxide in chemical processes is an applicable method. In this study, Aspen HYSYS 10 was used to investigate how carbon dioxide can be added to the process of dimethyl carbonate production, and the affective parameters of the process, including temperature, residence time, feed ratio, and recycle ratio, were evaluated. It was observed that the production of DMC grew as temperature rose. The simulation results also revealed that a maximum conversion of roughly 8% was attained in the MeOH/EC. Additionally, boosting the recycle ratio is detrimental, and the impact of temperature and MeOH/EC has been enhanced by increasing the residence time. The interactions of the above parameters have been studied by Design Expert 12. The optimum value of effective parameters for the production of dimethyl carbonate has been obtained as follows: temperature of 164.7° C, recycle ratio of 0.2, residence time of 139.45 min, and feed ratio of 5.9%, leading to the conversion of 70%.

Investigation of optimal operating conditions in dimethyl ether carbonylation to methyl acetate production process

Ethanol production methods are expanding due to the importance of ethanol as a fuel or additive to fuels. One of these methods is converting methanol to ethanol in a three-step process. All of these steps need to deeply study and investigate to develop the process. In this research, the carbonylation of dimethyl ether to produce methyl acetate, which is the intermediate reaction of the three-step process of methanol to ethanol, has been simulated and optimized. The parameters of temperature, pressure, residence time, and feed ratio have been investigated as effective operational parameters of the process. It has been shown that the temperature and pressure of the process are more effective in the ranges of 220-280 °C and 30-50 bar, respectively. The simulation results showed a maximum point in dimethyl ether conversion in the feed ratio of 0.4-0.6, i.e., in temperature of 260 °C, residence time of 5 h, pressure of 45 bar, DME/CO/Ar = 30/67/3, and DME conversion about 22%. Also, it has been shown that increasing the residence time increases the effect of each of the above parameters. Optimization of the dimethyl ether carbonylation process has demonstrated that the combination of different ranges of the above parameters achieves the desired conversion, i.e., in pressure of 48.23 bar, temperature of 259.06 °C, residence time of 3.68 h, and dimethyl ether/feed of 0.461 vol%; conversion of dimethyl ether will be equal to 85.50%.

BuOH fraction of Salix Babylonica L. extract increases pancreatic beta-cell tumor death at lower doses without harming their function

Salix babylonica L. is a species of the willow tree. Insulinoma is a tumor originating from pancreatic beta cells. This study aims to research the effect of different fractions of Salix babylonica L. leaf extract on INS-1 cells for treating pancreatic tumors. Cell death occurred at lower doses in the EtOAc fraction. The cells are functional in the BuOH fraction but not in EtOAc and H₂O fractions. The EtOAc fraction has a higher percentage of necrosis and ROS. INS1, INS2, and AKT gene expressions in the H₂O fraction, GLUT2, IR, HSP70 gene expressions, and WNT4 protein levels increased in the BuOH fraction. HSP90 gene expression, Beta-actin, GAPDH, insulin, HSP70, HSP90, HSF1, Beta-Catenin, and WNT7A protein levels were decreased, while IR immunolabelling intensity increased in both fractions. Ca⁺², K⁺, Na⁺, and CA-19-9 in the cell, Ca⁺² and K⁺ in secretion increased. The secondary metabolites in the EtOAc fraction cause more damage in INS-1 cells. Since the water fraction also causes the cells to die in high doses, cell function is damaged. The secondary metabolites in the BuOH fraction kill INS-1 cells with less damage. This makes the BuOH fraction of Salix babylonica L. more valuable.

Coating with cationic inulin enhances the drug release profile and in vitro anticancer activity of lecithin-based nano drug delivery systems

Core-shell structured lipidic nanoparticles (LNPs) were developed using lecithin sodium acetate (Lec-OAc) ionic complex as a core unit and quaternized inulin (QIn) as the shell part. Inulin (In) was modified using glycidyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (GTMAC) as a positively charged shell part and used for coating the negatively surface charged Lec-OAc. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the core was determined as 1.047 × 10^-4 M, which is expected to provide high stability in blood circulation as a drug-carrying compartment. The amounts of curcumin (Cur) and paclitaxel (Ptx) loaded to LNPs (CurPtx-LNPs), and quaternized inulin-coated LNPs (Cur-Ptx-QIn-LNPs) were optimized to obtain mono-dispersed particles with maximum payload. The total amount of 2.0 mg of the drug mixture (1 mg Cur and 1 mg Ptx) was the optimized quantity for QIn-LNPs and CurPtx-QIn-LNPs due to the favorable physicochemical properties determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies. This inference was confirmed by differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR). SEM and TEM images clearly revealed the spherical shapes of LNPs and QIn-LNPs, and QIn covered the LNPs completely. The cumulative release measurements of Cur and Ptx from CurPtx-QIn-LNPs, along with the kinetic studies, showed a significant decrease in the release period of drug molecules with the effect of the coating. At the same time, Korsmeyer-Peppas was the best diffusion-controlled release model. Coating of the LNPs with QIn increased the cell-internalization of NPs to the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines, resulting in a better toxicity profile than the empty LNPs.

Sexuality and psychological well-being in different polycystic ovary syndrome phenotypes compared with healthy controls: a cross-sectional study

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. The present study aimed to compare the women with different PCOS phenotypes with the healty group in terms of sexual function, depression, anxiety and quality of life scale.

Materials and methods

The present cross-sectional study was carried out on 192 women with PCOS (classified on the basis of Rotterdam criteria into four categories) and 50 healthy controls. All participants were asked to fill out the valid and reliable questionnaires of FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index), HADS (Hospital Depression and Anxiety Scale) and SF-12.

Results

In the HADS questionnaire, phenotype B achieved the highest mean score in anxiety and depression domains, whereas, phenotype B had the lowest mean score in the FSFI and SF-12 quassionnaires. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between the women with PCOS phenotypes and the control grroup in arousal, lubrication, pain, and mean total score of FSFI (P < 0.05). In regression logistic analysis, age, infertility and depression were predictors of sexual dysfunction (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results indicated significant differences in terms of sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety and quality of life in the women suffering from different phenotypes of PCOS compared with the healthy group. These results provide evidence that care and recommendations for improving women’s QoL and sexual function should be considered according to the relevant PCOS phenotypes.

Quantifying water stress of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) cultivars by crop water stress index under different irrigation regimes

Infrared thermometry allows evaluating water status of the crop by measuring crop water stress index (CWSI), without the need of physical contact to leaves. In order to quantify water stress by CWSI and finding the best irrigation regime a two-year field experiment was conducted in safflower during 2017 and 2018 growing seasons at Darab, Fars province, Iran. Two safflower cultivars (Goldasht and Local Isfahan) and four irrigation regimes consisted of well-watered [Irrigation based on 100% field capacity (FC)], mild (75% FC), severe (50% FC), and most severe (25% FC) water stress were arranged as split plot according to randomized completely block design with four replicates. The relationship between vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and canopy-air temperature differences (Tc-Ta) was plotted under upper (fully stressed) and lower baselines (non-stressed) equations. In two cultivars, by VPD increment, the distance between upper and lower base lines increased. In Goldasht, the upper baseline (Tc-Ta)ul, was 7.8 °C in 2017 and 8.9 °C in 2018. From April to July when air warmed, Tc-Ta differential was increased up to July and the highest seasonal CWSI (0.72–0.77) were obtained in Local Isfahan under most severe water stress. In 2017, under water stress, the highest relative water content (RWC; 55%), color quality (6–7) and water use efficiency (WUE; 2.69 g m⁻² mm⁻¹) was observed in Goldasht under mild water stress which was more than 2018 and Local Isfahan. It might be attributed the more tolerance of Goldasht to water stress and lower air temperature and evaporation in the first year. CWSI with total water consumed (R² = 0.88∗∗), RWC (R² = 0.87∗∗), color quality (R² = 0.75∗) and seed yield (R² = 0.83∗∗) related, negatively. Overall, a mild water stress (75% FC) with 0.28–0.33 seasonal CWSI had higher RWC, color quality, WUE, with an acceptable yield, which could be the best irrigation regime under water deficit conditions for safflower.

Enhancing the Kinetic Stability of Polymeric Nanomicelles (PLGA) Using Nano-Montmorillonite for Effective Targeting of Cancer Tumors

The toxic profile of chemical cross-linkers used in enhancing the stability of self-assembled nanomicelles made of amphiphilic polymeric materials hinders their use in clinical applications. This study was aimed to use the layered structure of Na-montmorillonite (MMT) as a stabilizer for nanomicelles made of poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) amphiphilic polymer. The size of Na-MMT was reduced below 40 nm (nano-MMT) by processing in an attritor prior to its incorporation with PLGA. Hybrid PLGA nano-MMT (PM) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared using dialysis nanoprecipitation. The size distribution was measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS). Loading 1250 μg of the model drug molecule curcumin to PM (PMC) resulted in obtaining 88 nm-sized particles, suitable for passive targeting of cancer tumors. The structure of nano-MMT and its position in PMC were investigated using FT-IR, differential scanning chalorimetry (DSC), XRF, XRD, ESEM, and EDAX assays, all of which showed the exfoliated structure of nano-MMT incorporated with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic blocks of PLGA. Curcumin was mutually loaded to PLGA and nano-MMT. This firm incorporation caused a serious extension in the release of curcumin from PMC compared to PLGA (PC). Fitting the release profile to different mathematical models showed the remarkable role of nano-MMT in surface modification of PLGA NPs. The ex vivo dynamic model showed the enhanced stability of PMC in simulated blood flow, while cytotoxicity assays showed that nano-MMT does not aggravate the good toxic profile of PLGA but improves the anticancer effect of payload. Nano-MMT could be used as an effective nontoxic stabilizer agent for self-assembled NPs.

Targeted Nanomedicines for Cancer Therapy, From Basics to Clinical Trials

Traditional systemic chemotherapy involves the wide distribution of drug molecules in the body, causing toxic side effects in the healthy tissues and limiting the therapeutic dose required at the site of drug action. In order to decrease side effects and increase the drug efficacy, recent research on chemotherapy focuses on drug targeting. Targeted therapy can be achieved by several mechanisms including; 1) using an antibody as a drug that is specific to a disease biomarker, 2) using an antibody (or peptide) as a targeting agent conjugated to the drug molecule, 3) delivering the drug molecules to the target tissue in a nano-carrier with or without the targeting agent attached on its surface. The third approach involves the nanomedicines that can be targeted to diseased tissues by both passive (extravasating at diseased sites due to leaky vasculature) and active (specific interaction of the targeting agent with disease biomarker) targeting mechanisms. In this review we will cover the passively targeted nanomedicines prepared using nano drug carriers. Ideally the carrier particle should be in the right size (1-100nm), stable enough to prevent drug leakage during circulation, and safe not to cause any damage to healthy tissues. Competition for all these properties generated many different types of materials to be used as nanodrug delivery systems. After a brief review of most commonly used drug carriers, we discuss the clinical use of the targeted nanomedicines with regard to their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties, and how these properties vary from conventional formulations providing free drugs in the circulation after administration.

Targeting breast cancer using pirarubicin-loaded vasoactive intestinal peptide grafted sterically stabilized micelles

In this study the chemotherapeutic agent Pirarubicin (PRB) which is known for its serious side effects was actively targeted to the breast cancer cells by uploading it to the biocompatible and biodegradable Sterically Stabilized Micelles (SSMs) made of 1,2- Distearoyl- sn- glycero‑3- phosphoethanolamine- N- methoxy‑ polyethylene glycol 2000 (DSPE-PEG₂₀₀₀) to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), the receptors of which are overexpressed on the breast cancer cells, was grafted on the surface of the micelles. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report on active targeting of PRB to tumor site. For this purpose, PRB loaded VIP grafted SSMs (PRB-SSM-VIP) were synthesized and characterized. The in vitro efficiency of PRB-SSM-VIP along with SSM and free PRB was investigated on the MCF-7 breast cancer cells and the in vivo effects were studied on the 4T1 breast cancer bearing nude mice. Solubilizing 300 µg of PRB using 2.81 mg of DSPE-PEG₂₀₀₀ resulted in obtaining monodispersed particles of 12.16 ± 2.7 nm with slow drug release profile. Incorporation of PRB within the hydrophobic DSPE core of SSM was confirmed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and the spherical shape of the synthesized particles was demonstrated using atomic force microscope (AFM). Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed significantly higher activity of PRB-SSM-VIP compared to free PRB. In vivo imaging showed successful accumulation of PRB-SSM-VIP at the tumor site and 98.8% tumor eradication was obtained with no signs of side effects. Current study suggests that SSM-VIP could be used as new drug delivery system for targeting PRB to the breast cancer cells.

Inhibition of Amyloid β Aggregation Using Optimized Nano-Encapsulated Formulations of Plant Extracts with High Metal Chelator Activities

Background:

The role of Fe+2, Cu+2 and Zn+2 in facilitating aggregation of Amyloid β (Aβ) and consequently, the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is well established.

Objective:

Development of non-toxic metal chelators is an emerging era in the treatment of AD, in which complete success has not been fully achieved. The purpose of this study was to determine plant extracts with high metal chelator and to encapsulate them in nano-micellar systems with the ability to pass through the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB).

Method:

Extracts of 36 different Anatolian plants were prepared, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined, and the extracts with high content were examined for their Fe+2, Cu+2 and Zn+2 chelating activities. Apolipoprotein E4 (Apo E) decorated nano-formulations of active extracts were prepared using Poly (Lactide-co-Glycolide) (PLGA) (final product ApoEPLGA) to provide BBB penetrating property.

Results:

Verbascum flavidum aqueous extract was found as the most active sample, incubation of which, with Aβ before and after metal-induced aggregation, resulted in successful inhibition of aggregate formation, while re-solubilization of pre-formed aggregates was not effectively achieved. The same results were obtained using ApoEPLGA.

Conclusion:

An optimized metal chelator nano-formulation with BBB penetrating ability was prepared and presented for further in-vivo studies.

Anticholinesterase and Antioxidant Activities of Natural Abietane Diterpenoids with Molecular Docking Studies

Background:

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent causes of dementia in the world, and no drugs available that can provide a complete cure. Cholinergic neurons of the cerebral cortex of AD patients are lost due to increased activity of cholinesterase enzymes.

Objectives:

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) are the two major classes of cholinesterases in the mammalian brain. The involvement of oxidative stress in the progression of AD is known. Thus, the objective of this study is to determine strong ChE inhibitors with anti-oxidant activity.

Methods:

In this study, 41 abietane diterpenoids have been assayed for antioxidant and anticholinesterase (both for AChE and BuChE) properties in vitro, which were previously isolated from Salvia species, and structurally determined by spectroscopic methods, particularly intensive 1D- and 2DNMR and mass experiments. Molecular modeling studies were performed to rationalize the in vitro ChE inhibitory activity of several abietane diterpenoids compared with galantamine.

Results:

Thirteen out of the tested 41 abietane diterpenoids exhibited at least 50% inhibition on either AChE or BuChE. The strongest inhibitory activity was obtained for Bractealine against BuChE (3.43 μM) and AChE (33.21 μM) while the most selective ligand was found to be Hypargenin E against BuChE enzyme (6.93 μM). A full correlation was not found between anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities. The results obtained from molecular modelling studies of Hypargenin E and Bractealine on AChE and BuChE were found to be in accordance with the in vitro anti-cholinesterase activity tests.

Conclusion:

Abietane diterpenoids are promising molecules for the treatment of mild-moderate AD.

Engineering of siRNA loaded PLGA Nano-Particles for highly efficient silencing of GPR87 gene as a target for pancreatic cancer treatment

G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) 87, is overexpressed in various cancer cells especially pancreatic cancer and plays a critical role in tumor cell survival. Nano-particles (NP) have become the essential vehicles for nucleotide internalization to the cell, due to the negative charge of nucleotides and their poor stability in blood circulation. In this study, the HEK293T cell linewas transfected with GPR87-plasmid after which the double-stranded RNA molecules targeting the GPR87 gene were prepared and purified. 1.1B4 cancer cell lines were used as model pancreatic cancer cells. Produced siRNA molecules were encapsulated in Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA) nano-micelles using three different methods, two of which were according to literature with (siR-PLGA-S) or without (siR-PLGA-V) sonication. However, a new method was suggested to overcome problems such as poly-dispersity and large sizes of siR-PLGA-S and siR-PLGA-V. The new method consists of encapsulating siRNA using mild agitation to the pre-made PLGA NPs. The latter method provided mono-dispersed particles (siR-P-PLGA) with 92 nm size and desired Encapsulation Efficiency (EE%). siR-P-PLGA was able to silence the GPR-87 gene in a ratio of 83.9%, almost 41 times more effective than siR-PLGA-S and siR-PLGA-V in HEK 293 T cells. siR-P-PLGA was able to show a mild cytotoxic effect on 1.1B4 pancreatic cancer cells within 48 h.

Investigation of cell death mechanism and activity of esculetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles on insulinoma cells in vitro

AIM

The purpose of this study was to prepare targeted cancer therapy formulation against insulinoma INS-1 cells and to study its effect on cell death with related mechanisms in vitro.

METHODS

Polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nano-micelles were used for preparation of esculetin nano-formulation (nano-esculetin). The cells were treated with nano-esculetin and free esculetin. Apoptotic and necrotic cell death percentages, cell proliferation, ATP and GTP reductions and insulin levels were investigated on insulinoma INS-1 cells for both free and nano-esculetin formulations.

RESULTS

About 50 mg of PLGA was able to carry 20 mg esculetin in 20 ml of formulation. The obtained optimized formulation was 150 nm, with 92% encapsulation efficiency and a slow-release behaviour was observed during release studies. Nano-esculetin bearing 25, 50 and 100 μg esculetin and free esculetin in equivalent doses successfully decreased cell viability. The prevailing cell death mechanism was necrosis. Along with cell proliferation, intracellular insulin and the ratio of ATP and GTP were decreased even with 12.5, 25 and 50 μg esculetin bearing nano-formulation and its equivalent free esculetin.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed that esculetin is able to show its anti-tumor afficacy after loading to PLGA nano-micelles and nano-encapsulation intensifies its cytotoxic activity in vitro. Current study shows that esculetin and its nano formulations are promising agents in treatment of insulinoma.

Association between quality and quantity of dietary carbohydrate and pregnancy-induced hypertension: A case-control study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a pregnancy-specific disorder that increases maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. The quantity and quality of consumed carbohydrates are probably the main dietary factors affecting blood pressure. The present study aimed to evaluate the association of carbohydrate quality and quantity with PIH.

METHODS

This case-control study was performed on 202 pregnant women with or without PIH. The dietary data were collected using 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires. Daily glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL), ratio of whole grains to total grains, ratio of solid carbohydrates to total carbohydrates, dietary fiber and carbohydrate intake, and carbohydrate quality index (CQI) were calculated and their associations with PIH were evaluated using logistic regression. We eliminated collinearity within independent variables using factor analysis and then with evaluating the relationship between extracted factors and PIH.

RESULTS

In pregnant women in whom the daily carbohydrate intake and GL were higher than median increased frequency of PIH compared to whom had lower than median ones (OR = 3.23, 95% CI 1.46-7.17, and P = 0.004; OR = 2.60, 95% CI 1.21-5.56; and P = 0.035, respectively). Furthermore, we showed a significant inverse association between extracted factor that was mostly related to total fiber intake frequency of PIH (OR = 0.45; 95% CI 0.20-0.97, and P = 0.049 when higher than median values compared to lower than ones). The GI, ratio of whole grains to total grains, ratio of solid carbohydrates to total carbohydrates, and CQI did not associate with PIH.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that carbohydrate intake and GL are related to higher and daily fiber intake to lower frequency of PIH.

EFFECTIVENESS OF ANETHUM GRAVEOLENS L. ON ANTIOXIDANT STATUS, THYROID FUNCTION AND HISTOPATHOLOGY

CONTEXT

Anethum graveolens L. is used in the treatment of numerous diseases. But there is limited data about the Anethum graveolens efficiency in thyroid tissue.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the functional and histopathological changes in thyroid tissues from rats treated with Anethum graveolens L. extract.

DESIGN

This is an experimental animal study and duration of the study was 30 days.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight female Wistar Albino rats were divided into four equal groups. A gavage of Anethum graveolens L. extract at 0, 50, 150 and 300 mg/kg/day doses were given to the rats with 1 mL 0.9% NaCl, respectively, for 30 days. Blood was taken at day 0, 15 and 30. fT3, fT4, TSH values and antioxidant efficiency were observed. Also the thyroidectomy tissue was assessed histopathologically.

RESULTS

There is no difference observed in the fT3, fT4 and TSH values of groups 1, 2 and 3 at day 1, 15 and 30 (p>0.05); however, in group 4, TSH value decreased on days 15 and 30 when compared to day 1 and the other groups (p<0.05). Also the hypertrophy and thyroid follicular cell hyperplasia were significantly increased in group 4 (p<0.05). There is no difference in antioxidant efficiency in any of the groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Anethum graveolens L. extract is effective on both the function and the histology of thyroid tissue but it has no effect on antioxidant status.

Cytotoxic, Apoptotic and Genotoxic Effects of Lipid-Based and Polymeric Nano Micelles, an In Vitro Evaluation

Self-assembly systems (SAS) mainly consist of micelles, and liposomes are the classes of Nano Drug Delivery Systems with superior properties compared to traditional therapeutics in targeting cancer tumors. All commercially available nano-formulations of chemotherapeutics currently consist of SAS. According to our knowledge, a specific toxicity comparison based on material differences has not yet been performed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the toxicity of two SAS consisting of Sterically Stabilized Micelles (SSM) made of a lipid-based amphiphilic distearoyl-sn-glycero-phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-2000 and a polymeric micelle (PM) consisting of Y-shape amphiphilic block copolymer, synthesized using poly ε-caprolactone and PEG. The mechanism of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of micelles on L-929 healthy mouse fibroblast cells was assessed using Sulforhodamine-B, WST-1, Acridine Orange/Ethidium Bromide and alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis assays. Results showed that SSM in conc. of 40 mg/mL shows very low cytotoxicity at the end of 24, 48 and 72 h. The DNA damage caused by SSM was much lower than PM while the latter one showed significant toxicity by causing apoptosis with the ED50 value of 3 mg/mL. While the DNA damage caused by SSM was ignorable, some DNA chain breaks were detected on cells treated with PM.

Vitamin D Receptor Gene Haplotype and Late-Onset Obesity in Iranian Azeri Turkish Women

INTRODUCTION

A large body of literature has revealed the association between vitamin D3-VDR complex and obesity. The aim of the present study was to survey the rate of the VDR polymorphisms in obese women and to determine whether there may be an association between VDR BsmI and Tru9I haplotypes and obesity in Iranian Azeri Turkish women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

65 Iranian Azeri Turkish women were enrolled in the study and PCR amplification and direct sequencing of PCR products were used for genotypings.

RESULTS

The findings of this study showed that VDR BsmIG allele, VDR BsmI G/G genotype, VDR BsmI A/A genotype, Tru9IA allele and Tru9I A/A genotype were more frequent in obese women compared to controls. The frequency of VDR BsmIG/Tru9IA (GA), VDR BsmIG/Tru9IG (GG), VDR BsmIA/Tru9IG (AG), and VDR BsmIA/Tru9IA (AA) haplotypes were 19.74%, 42.11%, 38.16% and 0% in cases, and 11.11%, 40.74%, 42.59 and 5.56% in controls. Statistically significant differences were found between cases and controls regarding the VDR AA haplotype (P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that the VDR AA haplotype frequency was significantly lower in subjects with obesity compared with normal controls. This study shows that the VDR AA haplotype is significantly associated with a decreased risk of obesity in the tested group. This report is the first of its kind in the West Azerbaijani population.

Interaction of curcumin in a drug delivery system including a composite with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and montmorillonite: a density functional theory and molecular dynamics study

Curcumin as an anticancer agent can be delivered with a composite including poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and montmorillonite.

Antigenotoxic and antioxidant potentials of newly derivatized compound naringenin-oxime relative to naringenin on human mononuclear cells

We investigated antigenotoxic and antioxidative effects of newly derivatized compound naringenin-oxime (NG-Ox) compared to its mother compound naringenin (NG) against oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (HP) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Antigenotoxic activity was assessed using alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis assay (comet assay). Oxidative status was evaluated by measurement of total antioxidant status, total oxidant status and lipid hydroperoxide levels in the cells. Oxidative stress index was also calculated. Both NG and NG-Ox show a protective effect against HP-induced oxidative damage on PBMC and are able to reduce oxidative stress. The percentage of antigenotoxic and antioxidant potential progressively increased in a dose-dependent manner. However, these activities were found to be more significant in NG-Ox-treated cells than in NG-treated cells. Taken together, these observations provide evidences indicating that both NG and NG-Ox are able to protect cells against oxidative damage and apparently NG-Ox is more effective than NG.

A new lipid-based nano formulation of vinorelbine

Vinorelbine (VLB) is a semi-synthetic Vinca alkaloid which is currently used in treatment of different cancer types mainly advanced breast cancer (ABC) and advanced/metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, its marketed formulation has been reported to have serious side effects, such as granulocytopenia, which is the major dose-limiting toxicity. Other unwanted effects include venous discoloration and phlebitis proximal to the site of injection, as well as localized rashes and urticaria, blistering, and skin sloughing. Our long-term aim in synthesizing a novel nanomicellar vinorelbine formulation is to reduce or even eliminate these side effects and increase drug activity by formulating the drug in a lipid-based system as a nanomedicine targeted to the site of action. To this end, the purpose of this study was to prepare, characterize, and determine the in vitro efficacy of vinorelbine-loaded sterically stabilized, biocompatible, and biodegradable phospholipid nanomicelles (SSM; size, ∼15 nm). Our results indicated that vinorelbine incorporate at high quantities and within the interface between the core and palisade sections of the micelles. Incorporation ratio of drug within sterically stabilized micelles increased as the total amount of drug in the system increased, and no drug particles were formed at the highest drug concentrations tested. The nanomicellar formulation of vinorelbine was ∼6.7-fold more potent than vinorelbine dissolved in DMSO on MCF-7 cell line. Collectively, these data indicate that vinorelbine-loaded SSM can be developed as a new, safe, stable, and effective nanomedicine for the treatment of breast and lung cancers.

The trend of caesarean delivery in the Islamic Republic of Iran

The Islamic Republic of Iran has witnessed a sharp increase in the number of caesarean sections in the past two decades. This study shows the trend of caesarean sections in the country, focusing on the probable causes of the increase during the past 30 years. The caesarean section rate was 35% in 2000 and increased to 48% in 2009. The study shows that there is a very wide range of prevalence of caesarean section rates in the country. This would indicate that most caesarean sections in our country are not medically indicated, although perhaps in some areas there are not enough caesarean sections. There is a need for research on health outcomes for mothers and infants associated with caesarean delivery without a medical or obstetrical indication. A more detailed examination is needed of mother, insurer, hospital and provider attitudes toward elective caesareans.

Predicting factors on cervical ripening and response to induction in women pregnant over 37 weeks

Induction of labor is conducted in special fetal or maternal conditions. Labor is induced in about 20% of women. The AIM of this study was realizing the relationship between some factors including cervical ripening and also response to induction so we could predict the induction outcome better.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The present prospective study was based on 101 pregnancy cases admitted to the labor ward in Urmia from March 2010 until December 2010. Maternal age ranged from 17 to 41 years and the gestational age between 37 to 42 weeks according to an ultrasound or reliable last menstrual period, as criteria of study inclusion. After admission, patients had a vaginal speculum for Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM), Abdominal ultrasonography for biometry and Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI), transperineal ultrasonography for measuring fetal head distance to maternal perineum, and vaginal ultrasonography for measuring cervical length and posterior angle of fetal head with cervix were undergone. Bishop score was assigned to another person. Labor was induced by administering either intravaginal misoprostol (25 microgram every six hours for a Bishop score lower than 7) or intravenous oxytocin (low dose regimen for a Bishop score equal to or more than 7).

RESULTS

Misoprostol was used for 75 patients and 26 patients had induction of labor with low dose oxytocin. Eighty one patients had Normal Vaginal Delivery (NVD) while 20 were delivered via Cesarean Section. For cervical ripening, Bishop Score (p<0.001), cervical length (p=0.04) and parity (p=0.06) were predicting factors. The cervical posterior angle p=0.02 had a predicting role in natural delivery.

CONCLUSION

The cervical posterior angle was a predicting factor for natural delivery. Although cervical length, Body Mass Index (BMI), and parity were not predicting factors for natural delivery; these factors were good predictors for cervical ripening.

Indole alkaloids from Vinca major and V. minor growing in Turkey

A new indole alkaloid, 11-hydroxypolyneuridine, was isolated from Vinca major subsp. major L. and the known indole alkaloids vallesiachotamine and isovallesiachotamine from Vinca minor L. This is the first report on the alkaloids of both Vinca species growing in Turkey; vallesiachotamine and isovallesiachotamine were isolated from a Vinca species for the first time. V. minor may be considered as a new source for these two alkaloids due to their occurrence in high amount in the aerial parts of the plant. The alkaloid extracts of the two Vinca species were found to have high lipid peroxidation inhibitory and DPPH radical scavenging activities. Anticholinesterase activity of the extracts was also very strong.

The role of Doppler indices in predicting intra ventricular hemorrhage and perinatal mortality in fetal growth restriction

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to determine whether Doppler indices predict intra-ventricular hemorrhage and perinatal mortality in fetal growth restricted pregnancies (FGR).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this cohort study, 43 FGR fetuses underwent multi-vessel Doppler ultrasounds weekly or twice weekly after admission. Blood gases of the umbilical cord were analyzed immediately after delivery. Ultrasonography of the neonatal brain was performed after birth. Intra ventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and perinatal mortality were studied as outcomes.

RESULTS

The median gestational age at the diagnosis of fetal growth restriction was 31 weeks, and the median age at delivery was 33.4 weeks. Seven cases had IVH. The chance of IVH was about five times greater in cases of absent/reversed umbilical diastolic flow (AREDF). The predicting factors for IVH were gestational age at delivery, birth weight, and acidosis. Nine neonates died in the neonatal period. AREDF, the Resistance Index of middle cranial artery (MCA/RI) and umbilical artery (UA), and absent/reversed "a" waves in ductus venosus (DV) were the Doppler indices predicting perinatal mortality. The other prognostic factors for perinatal mortality were gestational age at diagnosis and delivery, final amniotic fluid, Apgar score, and acidosis.

CONCLUSION

Doppler indices, such as AREDF, can be predictors of IVH or perinatal death, and an absent or reversed "a" wave in the ductus venosus and the hypoxic index can be significant predictors of death in fetuses with fetal growth restriction. However, other important factors for IVH were gestational age at delivery and birth weight. The most important factors predicting perinatal mortality were gestational age, birth weight, acidosis, low AF, and low Apgar score.

Indole Alkaloids from Vinca major and V. minor Growing in Turkey

A new indole alkaloid, 11-hydroxypolyneuridine, was isolated from Vinca major subsp. major L. and the known indole alkaloids vallesiachotamine and isovallesiachotamine from Vinca minor L. This is the first report on the alkaloids of both Vinca species growing in Turkey; vallesiachotamine and isovallesiachotamine were isolated from a Vinca species for the first time. V. minor may be considered as a new source for these two alkaloids due to their occurrence in high amount in the aerial parts of the plant. The alkaloid extracts of the two Vinca species were found to have high lipid peroxidation inhibitory and DPPH radical scavenging activities. Anticholinesterase activity of the extracts was also very strong.

Viable extreme preterm birth and some neonatal outcomes in double cerclage versus traditional cerclage: a randomized clinical trial

The pregnant women at higher risk of preterm labor, referred to the perinatal clinic of Kosar University Hospital in Urmia district of Iran, were enrolled into a parallel randomized clinical trial. In the investigational arm of the clinical trial, a double cervical cerclage procedure was performed addition to McDonald cerclage. In the control group however, only McDonald cerclage was performed. Extreme preterm labor (GA < 33 weeks) was the primary endpoint of this clinical trial. Age, gestational age at cerclage time, and gravidity were not found to be statistically different between the groups. Means of gestational age were 37.4 and 36.2 weeks, respectively, for the investigational and control groups. The gestational age was 1.2 weeks longer for double cerclage group but the difference was not found to be statistically significant. Preterm birth before 33 weeks of gestation was not experienced by any of the patients who received double cerclage, but five women in control group developed such an extreme preterm labor (P < 0.05). The absolute risk reduction in using double cerclage over traditional method was 18 percent (95% confidence interval, 4%-32%). Double cerclage appeared to have higher efficacy than traditional cerclage in preventing preterm labor <33 weeks of gestation.

Antioxidant phenolic compounds from the leaves of Erica Arborea (Ericaceae)

Reversed-phase HPLC analyses of the methanol extract of the leaves of Erica arborea afforded a novel phenylpropanoid glucoside, named ericarborin, together with five flavonoids, dihydromyricetin 3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside, quercetin 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, quercetin 3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside, apigenin 7-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside and apigenin 7-O-beta-D-(6-O-acetyl-glucopyranoside). While the structure of ericarborin was determined by extensive 1D and 2D NMR analyses, the structures of all known flavonoids were determined by direct comparison of their spectroscopic data with respective literature data. The antioxidant properties of these compounds were assessed by the DPPH assay. The chemotaxonomic significance of these phenolic compounds has been discussed.

Antioxidant activity of Erica arborea

The antioxidant properties of the methanol extract of leaves and flowers of Erica arborea and the ethyl acetate, butanol and water soluble fractions were investigated. The ethyl acetate extract was found to be the richest for phenolic and flavonoid content which showed the highest antioxidant activity.