Showing papers by "Yunes Panahi published in 2017"

The impact of stress on body function: A review.

Abstract: Any intrinsic or extrinsic stimulus that evokes a biological response is known as stress. The compensatory responses to these stresses are known as stress responses. Based on the type, timing and severity of the applied stimulus, stress can exert various actions on the body ranging from alterations in homeostasis to life-threatening effects and death. In many cases, the pathophysiological complications of disease arise from stress and the subjects exposed to stress, e.g. those that work or live in stressful environments, have a higher likelihood of many disorders. Stress can be either a triggering or aggravating factor for many diseases and pathological conditions. In this study, we have reviewed some of the major effects of stress on the primary physiological systems of humans.

Efficacy and Safety of Phytosomal Curcumin in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disease characterized by excess lipid deposition in the hepatic tissue and subsequent oxidative and inflammatory damage. Curcumin is a dietary polyphenol with lipid-modifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of supplementation with phytosomal curcumin in subjects with NAFLD. Patients diagnosed with NAFLD (grades 1–3 according to liver ultrasonography) were randomly assigned to the curcumin (phytosomal form; 1 000 mg/day in 2 divided doses) (n=50) or placebo group (n=52) for a period of 8 weeks. All patients received dietary and lifestyle advises before the start of trial. Anthropometric measurements, hepatic enzymes, and liver ultrasonography were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of follow-up. 87 subjects (n=44 and 43 in the curcumin and control group, respectively) completed the trial. Supplementation with curcumin was associated with a reduction in body mass index (−0.99±1.25 vs. − 0.15±1.31 in the curcumin and placebo groups, respectively; p=0.003) and waist circumference (−1.74±2.58 vs. −0.23±3.49 in the curcumin and placebo groups, respectively; p=0.024). Ultrasonographic findings were improved in 75.0% of subjects in the curcumin group, while the rate of improvement in the control group was 4.7% (p Short-term supplementation with curcumin improves liver fat and transaminase levels in patients with NAFLD.

Recent advances on liposomal nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and biomedical applications.

Abstract: Liposome is a new nanostructure for the encapsulation and delivery of bioactive agents. There are a lot of bioactive materials that could be incorporated into liposomes including cosmetics, food ingredients, and pharmaceuticals. Liposomes possess particular properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability; accompanied by their nanosize they have potential applications in nanomedicine, cosmetics, and food industry. Nanoliposome technology offers thrilling chances for food technologists in fields including encapsulation and controlled release of food ingredients, also improved bioavailability and stability of sensitive materials. Amid numerous brilliant new drug and gene delivery systems, liposomes provide an advanced technology to carry active molecules to the specific site of action, and now days, various formulations are in clinical use. In this paper, we provide review of the main physicochemical properties of liposomes, current methods of the manufacturing and introduce some of their usage in food nanotechnology as carrier vehicles of nutrients, enzymes, and food antimicrobials and their applications as drug carriers and gene delivery agents in biomedicine.

Antioxidant effects of curcuminoids in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial.

Abstract: Oxidative stress has a key role in the pathogenesis of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its vascular complications. Antioxidant therapy has been suggested as a potential approach to blunt T2DM development and progression. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of supplementation with curcuminoids, which are natural polyphenolics from turmeric, on oxidative indices in diabetic individuals. In this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 118 subjects with T2DM were randomized to curcuminoids (1000 mg/day co-administered with piperine 10 mg/day) or matching placebo for a period of 8 weeks. Serum total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were measured at baseline and after the supplementation period. Curcuminoids supplementation caused a significant elevation in serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (p < 0.001) and SOD activities (p < 0.001), while serum MDA levels were significantly reduced compared with the placebo group (p < 0.001). These results remained statistically significant after adjustment for potential confounders (baseline differences in body mass index and fasting serum insulin). The present results support an antioxidant effect of curcuminoids supplementation in patients with T2DM, and call for future studies to assess the impact of these antioxidant effects on the occurrence of diabetic complications and cardiovascular endpoints.

Magnetic nanoparticles in cancer diagnosis and treatment: a review

Abstract: Diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer have been characterized with a variety of challenges. However, with the advancement in magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) technology, many challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer are on the decline. The MNPs have led to many break-through in cancer therapy. This paper seeks to establish the role of MNPs in diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. It proposes that the existing challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be addressed through application of MNPs in the process.

An update on applications of nanostructured drug delivery systems in cancer therapy: a review.

Abstract: Cancer is a main public health problem that is known as a malignant tumor and out-of-control cell growth, with the potential to assault or spread to other parts of the body. Recently, remarkable efforts have been devoted to develop nanotechnology to improve the delivery of anticancer drug to tumor tissue as minimizing its distribution and toxicity in healthy tissue. Nanotechnology has been extensively used in the advance of new strategies for drug delivery and cancer therapy. Compared to customary drug delivery systems, nano-based drug delivery method has greater potential in different areas, like multiple targeting functionalization, in vivo imaging, extended circulation time, systemic control release, and combined drug delivery. Nanofibers are used for different medical applications such as drug delivery systems.

Ocular Effects of Sulfur Mustard and Therapeutic Approaches

Abstract: Sulfur mustard (SM) is a strong blistering, highly reactive, lipophilic chemical war agent that causes injury in different organs including the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. The Eyes are especially susceptible to the consequences of SM poisoning because of the aqueous and mucosal nature of conjunctiva and cornea. DNA alkylation and depletion of glutathione, are the most important mechanisms of SM action in the eye injuries. Acute clinical symptoms are including decrease in visual acuity, dryness, photophobia, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis, and complaints of foreign body sensation and soreness that gradually progress to severe ocular pain. Corneal abrasions, ulcerations, vesication, and perforations are common corneal consequences in SM injured victims. Appearance of chronic symptoms has been reported as chronic inflammation of the corneal and conjunctival vasculature, ischemia, lipid and cholesterol deposition, scarring in cornea, corneal thinning, opacification and perforation of the cornea, limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), and neovascularization. Different medical and surgical protocols have been documented in the management of SM-induced ocular injuries, including preservative-free artificial tears, topical steroids and antibiotic, mydriatic, antiglaucoma drops, therapeutic contact lenses, dark glasses and punctal plugs/cauterization, N-acetylcysteine, tarsorrhaphy, amniotic membrane transplantation, stem cell transplantation, and corneal transplantation. New drugs such as resolvin E1, topical form of essential fatty acids, thymosin β4, 43 amino-acid polypeptides, topical form of curcumin, newly formulated artificial tears, diquafosol, rebamipide, tretinoin, and oral uridineseems to be beneficial in the management of ocular lesion associated with sulfur mustard poisoning. Further studies are needed to approve these drugs in SM victims. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3549-3560, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Preparation and characterization of PLGA-β-CD polymeric nanoparticles containing methotrexate and evaluation of their effects on T47D cell line

Abstract: Among all cancers that affect women, breast cancer has most mortality rate. It is essential to attain more safe and efficient anticancer drugs. Recent advances in medical nanotechnology and biotechnology have caused in novel improvements in breast and other cancer drug delivery. Methotrexate is an anticancer drug that prevents the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, which inhibits in the formation of DNA, RNA and proteins which have poor water-solubility. For enhancing the solubility and stability of drugs in delivery systems, we used methotrexate-loaded PLGA- beta-cyclodextrin nanoparticles. The PLGA- beta-cyclodextrin nanoparticles were synthesized by a double emulsion method and characterized with FT-IR and SEM. T47D breast cancer cell lines were treated with equal concentrations of methotrexate-loaded PLGA- beta-cyclodextrin nanoparticles and free methotrexate. MTT assay confirmed that methotrexate-loaded PLGA- beta-cyclodextrin nanoparticles enhanced cytotoxicity and drug delivery in T47D breast cancer cells. These results indicate that encapsulated drugs could be effective in controlled drug release for a sustained period would serve the purpose for long-term treatment of many diseases such as breast cancer.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Flibanserin's Effects and Adverse Events in Women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

Abstract: Objective: The efficacy and safety of flibanserin in the treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) is controversial We reviewed existing evidence on the efficacy and safety of flibanserin in treating HSDD, and performed a meta-analysis of reported effects Method: Literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane library to find all trials on the efficacy of flibanserin in HSDD Meta-analysis was performed using fixed- and random-effects models Egger’s test and "trim and fill" methods were used for the assessment of publication bias and imputation of potentially missing studies, respectively Results: Among 105 studies that were initially found, only ten related documents (six published and four nonpublished studies) were included in the final analysis, comprising 8345 subjects (6113 and 2232 subjects in the flibanserin and placebo groups, respectively) Incomplete outcome data bias was probable in the included studies Most studies had an acceptable validity and quality There was no significant difference between flibanserin and placebo groups in most of the HSDD-assessed indices Our results showed that although SSE, DSDS, FSFID and FSFI are significantly improved with flibanserin, this change did not reach statistical significance compared with placebo For FSDSR-item 13 score and FSDSR total score, no significant difference was observed between flibanserin and placebo The most common side effect of flibanserin was somnolence The most common causes of heterogeneity were black ethnicity, duration of therapy, age of participants and duration of marital relationship Conclusion: the efficacy of flibanserin in women with HSDD was not found to be significantly different compared with placebo Additional trials are required to clarify the efficacy of flibanserin for the treatment of HSDD

Relationship of serum levels of interleukin 6, interleukin 8, and C-reactive protein with forced expiratory volume in first second in patients with mustard lung and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: Introduction The chronic systemic inflammation is a result of releasing inflammatory cytokines from the cells relating to the body immunity system and chronic activation of the innate immunity system. Aim To evaluate the relationship among serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), C-reactive protein (CRP) with forced expiratory volume in 1st s (FEV1) in patients with mustard lung (ML) and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Material and methods A published literature search was performed through SID, web of science, ISI, Science Direct, Scopus, Medline, and PubMed databases for articles published in English. The correlation coefficient (r) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using random or fixed effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using χ2 and I2 statistics. Results In total, 4 published studies were included in the final analysis. Using the random-effect model, meta-analysis showed that the r was -0.052 (95% CI: -0.14-0.049, p = 0.28) at serum level of IL-8, serum levels of CRP and FEV1 in these results were r = -0.13, p = 0.012, serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and FEV1 levels were r = -0.39, p = 0.03 in the conducted studies on mustard lung patients. The IL-6 serum level was explored in COPD patients. The results of the given studies in these patients are r = -0.006, 95% CI: -0.37-0.15, and p = 0.44. Conclusions In this meta-analysis, there was evidence that serum levels of CRP and TNF have been significantly increased in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases compared to the healthy control group, which signifies the presence of systemic inflammation in ML and COPD patients.

The role of magnesium sulfate in the intensive care unit

Abstract: Magnesium (Mg) has been developed as a drug with various clinical uses. Mg is a key cation in physiological processes, and the homeostasis of this cation is crucial for the normal function of body organs. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is a mineral pharmaceutical preparation of magnesium that is used as a neuroprotective agent. One rationale for the frequent use of MgSO4 in critical care is the high incidence of hypomagnesaemia in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Correction of hypomagnesaemia along with the neuroprotective properties of MgSO4 has generated a wide application for MgSO4 in ICU.

Application of nanostructured drug delivery systems in immunotherapy of cancer: a review

Abstract: The cancer immunotherapy method uses the specificity of the immune system to provide a more effective than more conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Immunotherapy has two main strategies (passive or active) to organize the immune system. Passive strategies use advantage of tumor-hyperpermeable cells, which have enhanced permeability and retention effects. Nanoparticles due to their better accumulation within tissues and cells of the immune system are well suitable for delivery of immune therapies such as vaccines or adjuvants. In this review, we explained application of nanotechnology in immunotherapy of cancer.

Sulfur Mustard-Induced Ocular Injuries: Update on Mechanisms and Management.

Abstract: Sulfur mustard (SM; mustard gas) is a classic chemical warfare agent that has been used in several wars and is still a potential threat especially in the Middle-East region Victims experience acute symptoms in airexposed organs including skin, respiratory tract and the eyes Survivors of the acute stage might develop chronic or delayed-onset complications in the exposed organs The exact mechanism(s) of SM-induced tissue damage is still unknown, however DNA alkylation and oxidative damage are the most relevant mechanisms Eye is the most sensitive organ to the SM vapor and ocular symptoms usually precede other manifestations Ocular findings including blepharitis, dry eye disease, corneal vascularization, persistent epithelial defects, limbal ischemia, limbal stem cell deficiency, corneal thinning, corneal opacity and corneal innervation abnormalities have been reported several years after SM exposure In this review, mechanisms of acute and chronic/delayed ocular manifestations of SM and their current management and potential future therapies have been discussed We have also included recent advances in amniotic membrane transplantation, cultivated stem cell transplantation and anti-angiogenic therapies which might be considered as therapeutic options in SM-induced ocular damage in the future

Cells, Scaffolds and Their Interactions in Myocardial Tissue Regeneration.

Abstract: Cardiac regenerative therapy includes several techniques to repair and replace damaged tissues and organs using cells, biomaterials, molecules, or a combination of these factors. Generation of heart muscle is the most important challenge in this field, although it is well known that new advances in stem cell isolation and culture techniques in bioreactors and synthesis of bioactive materials contribute to the creation of cardiac tissue regeneration in vitro. Some investigations in stem cell biology shows that stem cells are an important source for regeneration of heart muscle cells and blood vessels and can thus clinically contribute to the regeneration of damaged heart tissue. The aim of this review was to explain the principles and challenges of myocardial tissue regeneration with an emphasis on stem cells and scaffolds. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2454-2462, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Systems Biology Approach to Bioremediation of Nitroaromatics: Constraint-Based Analysis of 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene Biotransformation by Escherichia coli.

Abstract: Microbial remediation of nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) is a promising environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach to the removal of these life-threating agents. Escherichia coli (E. coli) has shown remarkable capability for the biotransformation of 2,4,6-trinitro-toluene (TNT). Efforts to develop E. coli as an efficient TNT degrading biocatalyst will benefit from holistic flux-level description of interactions between multiple TNT transforming pathways operating in the strain. To gain such an insight, we extended the genome-scale constraint-based model of E. coli to account for a curated version of major TNT transformation pathways known or evidently hypothesized to be active in E. coli in present of TNT. Using constraint-based analysis (CBA) methods, we then performed several series of in silico experiments to elucidate the contribution of these pathways individually or in combination to the E. coli TNT transformation capacity. Results of our analyses were validated by replicating several experimentally observed TNT degradation phenotypes in E. coli cultures. We further used the extended model to explore the influence of process parameters, including aeration regime, TNT concentration, cell density, and carbon source on TNT degradation efficiency. We also conducted an in silico metabolic engineering study to design a series of E. coli mutants capable of degrading TNT at higher yield compared with the wild-type strain. Our study, therefore, extends the application of CBA to bioremediation of nitroaromatics and demonstrates the usefulness of this approach to inform bioremediation research.

A two-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Viola odorata, Echium amoenum and Physalis alkekengi mixture in symptomatic benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) men.

Abstract: CONTEXT As an alternative approach, administration of phytotherapeutic agents in management of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), is rapidly growing each day Different authors have indicated effectiveness of Viola odorata L (Violaceae), Echium amoenum Fisch & CAMey (Boraginaceae) and Physalis alkekengi L (Solanaceae) in treatment of BPH However, none have reported the beneficial outcomes of the mixture yet OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the therapeutical effects of V odorata, E amoenum and P alkekengi mixture on symptomatic BPH patients MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty six symptomatic BPH patients with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of more than 13 and prostate volume of more than 30 cm3 were randomly allocated to receive a two-week course of placebo (control group) or 1 mL of mixed hydro-alcoholic solution of P alkekengi, E amoenum and V odorata extracts (15, 1 and 15% respectively) (treatment group) RESULTS IPSS score of incomplete urination (423 ± 204%), frequency of urination (2008 ± 102%), intermittency (4078 ± 216%), urgency (6091 ± 314%), weak stream (5058 ± 214%), straining (5567 ± 253%) and nocturia (4014 ± 189%) in treatment group were significantly decreased after treatment compare to placebo receiving group Furthermore, the prostate volume (1692 ± 089%) and extant urine volume (2812 ± 136%) also significantly decreased in treatment group compared to control group No significant side effects or abnormalities in biochemical tests and urinalysis were observed throughout the study DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Based on results, mentioned mixture is safe and effective in improving life quality of patients suffering from BPH

Efficacy of probiotic supplementation on quality of life and pulmonary symptoms due to sulfur mustard exposure: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

Abstract: Objective: This study investigated the efficacy and safety of supplementation with probiotics in improving chronic pulmonary symptoms due to sulfur mustard (SM) exposure. Methods: In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, 65 subjects suffering from chronic pulmonary complications of SM were assigned to one probiotic capsule (1 × 109 CFU containing seven strains of lactic acid-producing bacteria) every 12 h or an identical placebo for six weeks. Serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations, pulmonary function tests (FEV1, FEV1/FVC and MMEF 25–75%) and COPD assessment test (CAT) were assessed at baseline and at the end of trial. Results: The groups were comparable in baseline characteristics. There were significant improvements in FEV1/FVC in the probiotic but not in placebo group. CAT scores were decreased in both study groups. However, between-group comparison of changes in the assessed parameters reached statistical significance only for CAT score (p < 0.001). There...

Potential Utility of N-acetylcysteine for Treating Mustard Lung.

Abstract: More than a century after the introduction of sulfur mustard (SM), as a chemical warfare agent, it has affected thousands of military and civilians on several occasions The most notable toxic effects of this easily produced chemical, are lung damage ranges from necrotic, hemorrhagic, and infectious acute-lung injury to chronic conditions (ie, mustard lung) While there is no definite treatment for individuals exposed to sulfur mustard, corticosteroids, mucolytics, bronchodilators, antibiotics, immunosuppressive medicines, and magnesium are being used to help victims In the pathophysiology of SM-induced lung conditions, oxidative stress and inflammation play undeniable roles; thus, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) has been used as a treatment In this narrative review article, we discuss the mechanisms involved in SM-induced lung damage along with the properties of NAC that can help patients recover from these deleterious effects

Effects of Chitosan-Zinc Oxide Nanocomposite Conduit on Transected Sciatic Nerve: An Animal Model Study

Abstract: Objective: To determine the effects of chitosan-zinc oxide nanocomposite conduit on transected sciatic nerve in animal model of rat Methods: Sixty male White Wistar rats were used in this study A 10-mm sciatic nerve defect was bridged using a chitosan-zinc oxide nanocomposite conduit (CZON) filled with phosphate buffered saline In chitosan group (CHIT) the chitosan conduit was filled with phosphate buffered saline solution In sham-operated group (SHAM), sciatic nerve was exposed and manipulated In transected group (TC), left sciatic nerve was transected and nerve cut ends were fixed in the adjacent muscle The regenerated fibers were studied within 12 weeks after surgery Results: The behavioral and functional tests confirmed faster recovery of the regenerated axons in CZON group compared to Chitosan group ( p< 005) The mean ratios of gastrocnemius muscles weight were measured There was statistically significant difference between the muscle weight ratios of CZON and Chitosan groups ( p< 005) Morphometric indices of regenerated fibers showed number and diameter of the myelinated fibers were significantly higher in CZON than in Chitosan In immuohistochemistry, the location of reactions to S-100 in CZON was clearly more positive than Chitosan group Conclusion: Chitosan-zinc oxide nanocomposite conduit resulted in acceleration of functional recovery and quantitative morphometric indices of sciatic nerve

Nocturnal serum melatonin levels in sulfur mustard exposed patients with sleep disorders.

Abstract: Background Sulfur mustard (SM) exposure causes respiratory disorders, progressive deterioration in lung function and mortality in injured victims and poor sleep quality is one of the most common problems among SM-exposed patients. Since melatonin has a critical role in regulation of sleep and awareness, this study aimed to evaluate the serum melatonin levels in SM-injured subjects. Methods A total of 30 SM-exposed male patients and 10 controls was evaluated. Sleep quality was evaluated by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI); daytime sleepiness was measured by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the risk of obstructive sleep apnoea was determined by the STOP-Bang questionnaire. Polysomnography (PSG) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were also available. Nocturnal serum melatonin levels were measured using an ELISA kit. Results The mean of PSQI, ESS and STOP-Bang scores in patients (11.76±3.56, 12.6±3.03 and 5.03±1.09, respectively) were significantly (p Conclusions Reduced nocturnal serum melatonin and respiratory disorders can be the reasons for poor sleep quality among these patients. Trial registration number IRCT2015092924267N1, Pre-results.

Investigating Prevalence and Pattern of Long‐term Cardiovascular Disorders in Sulphur Mustard‐exposed Victims and Determining Proper Biomarkers for Early Defining, Monitoring and Analysis of Patients’ Feedback on Therapy

Abstract: Among the most readily existing chemical warfare agents, sulfur mustard (SM), also known as Mustard Gas, is the most commonly used agent owing to its ease of synthesis and stockpiling. Unprotected exposure mostly results in debilitation rather than lethal injuries, leaving an exposed victim incapacitated for days to even months. Although acute toxicity of sulfur mustard has been fairly established, the long-term post-exposure effects either chronic or short-term but significant are still evolving. 30,000 Iranian victims of the Iran-Iraq imposed war, have now – after 30 years - formed the key population demonstrating long-term effects from sulfur mustard exposure. Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of several long-term cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) has significantly increased among SM-exposed victims including Coronary Artery Disorders (CAD), Coronary Artery Ectasia (CAE), Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), myocardium abnormalities and so on. The more important point is the lack of a determinant biomarker for early screening, recognizing, treating, monitoring and estimating exposed victims’ response to applied therapy. Additionally, unidentified risk factors significantly decrease the chance of a successful therapy and result in undesired failure of a comprehensive therapeutic strategy. In this MiniReview, we examined the literature in detail to evaluate relevant reports considering long-term cardiovascular complications of SM, detecting possible risk factors and determining possible preventing events. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Two Lung Cancer Development-Related Genes, Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) and Apolipoprotein E (APOE), are overexpressed in Bronchial of Patients after Long-Term Exposure to Sulfur Mustard.

Abstract: Sulfur mustard (SM) is a strong alkylating and mutagenic compound that targets human airway system. We considered the expression of Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genes, which are responsible for cell proliferation, differentiation, tumorigenesis, and increased risk of lung cancer, in the lung bronchial tissue of patients exposed to SM. After performing pulmonary functional tests (PFTs), 11 human subjects (five controls and six SM-exposed patients) were entered in this study. Total RNA were extracted from all biopsy samples and then cDNA was synthesised for each specimen using RT-PCR. Changes in gene expression were measured using a RT2 Profiler ™PCR Array. PFTs have demonstrated more obstructive and restrictive spirometric patterns among patients compared to the controls. A higher expression was recorded for both examined genes in bronchial of SM-exposed patients. Expression of FOXM1 and APOE genes in bronchial of the patients was significantly (p < 0.001) overexpressed by 14.8316 and 3.9504-folds, respectively. Mustard lungs were associated with increased expression of FOXM1 and APOE genes, which suggests an increased risk of lung cancer among these patients. Since FOXM1 and APOE are considered as oxidative stress responsive genes, we speculate that increased expression of these genes is more likely linked to overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (OS) in mustard lungs. Further studies are required at protein level among SM-exposed patients with lung cancer to use these genes as lung cancer biomarkers among these patients.

Study of The Effects of N-Acetylcysteine on Oxidative Stress Status of Patients on Maintenance-Hemodialysis Undergoing Cadaveric Kidney Transplantation.

Abstract: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a potent antioxidant that acts through regenerating glutathione stores and scavenging oxygen-free radicals. This study assesses the short-term effects of NAC in cadaveric kidney transplant (KT) recipients. A double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial was designed and patients were randomly assigned to receive either NAC or placebo. Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity in erythrocytes and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured and serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) determined in the early phase after transplantation, were also compared between two study groups. Thirty-seven males and 20 females, with mean ± SD age of 44.6 ± 12.4 years completed the study. Significant difference (P = 0.02) was seen between GPX activity reduction in the placebo group, and that of the NAC group and on the levels of MDA there was no significant difference between two study groups (P = 0.53). Significant improvement in immediate graft function (IGF), (68% versus 40%, P = 0.05) and the first week eGFR were observed in the NAC group compared to the placebo group (52.46 ± 2.77 versus 38.75 ± 19.67 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.02). It seems that the protective mechanisms of NAC, other than its antioxidant properties, can be favorable in KT patients.

Effect of Amphotericin B on Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis; A Double-blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract: Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is the inflammation of paranasal sinusmucousmembranes. Considering the influence of fungi on chronic rhinosinusitis and different results concerning the effect of Amphotericin B on improvement of this condition; this study aimed to determine the effect of topical Amphotericin B on improvement of the symptoms in patients with CRS. Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 80 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who visited the allergy clinic of BaqiyatallahHospital fromJune toOctober 2014were randomly allocated to two groups; the first group received 10 cc topical lavage of Amphotericin B (5 cc each nostril for every 12 hours) and the second group received placebo for threemonths. Symptoms, nasal mucusa smear, serumlevel of inflammatory cytokines, CT scan and rhinoscopy score changes were evaluated in both groups after threemonths. Results: Fifty-five male and 25 female patients were evaluated in two groups. The mean age was 26.1  2.36 and 27.9  1.59 years in intervention and control groups respectively (P = 0.08). There were no significant differences in demographic data between the groups (P > 0.05). Nasal obstruction, post nasal drip (PND), reduced sense of smell, quality of life, CT scan and rhinoscopy scores were not significantly different between the two groups after intervention (P > 0.05). Facial pain severity score was significantly more reduced in intervention group in comparison with control group (P < 0.01). Conclusions: We concluded that application of Amphotericin B as an adjunctive medication to other common treatments, does not seemto be an efficientmethod for improvement of CRS symptoms.