Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences

Background It is necessary to investigate the targets and pathways on which soy isoflavones act as radiosensitizers for their future use and their potential therapeutic effects. Objectives This systematic review aims to discuss and highlight future perspectives on the radiosensitizing effects of soy isoflavones against cancer cells. Methods We thoroughly searched multiple databases, such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus. We aimed to find studies investigating the effectiveness of soy isoflavones in increasing the sensitivity of different types of cancer to radiation treatment. We extracted data according to the study's aim, and the studies' outcomes were reviewed. Results The radiosensitizing effects of soy isoflavones are related to the accumulation of intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), reducing Glutathione (GSH), Nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1). They also induce cancer cell apoptosis through inhibited Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/Ref-1) and HIF-1α, upregulation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP) and improve cytochrome c, upregulation Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), inhibited B-cell lymphoma-extra-large (Bcl-xL) and activation of caspase-3 and -8. Moreover, by inhibiting p21, increased phosphorylation of p53 and PARP-1-dependent ATP depletion caused DNA damage and impaired DNA repair. Soy isoflavones also arrest the cell cycle by interfering with the G2/M checkpoint. Conclusion In vivo and in vitro studies indicated that soy isoflavones enhanced radiotherapy effects on cancer cells with protective effects on healthy cells. Also, clinical studies reported safe and satisfactory properties of soy isoflavones along with radiotherapy in cancer treatment.

Glutamatergic neurotransmission and oxidative stress are involved in the pathophysiology of seizures. Some anticonvulsants exert their effects through modulation of these pathways. Trigonelline (TRG) has been shown to possess various pharmacological effects like neuroprotection. Therefore, this study was performed to determine TRG’s anticonvulsant effects, focusing on its potential effects on N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, a type of glutamate receptor, and oxidative stress state in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in PTZ-induced seizure in mice. Seventy-two male mice were randomly divided into nine groups. The groups included mice that received normal saline, TRG at doses of 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg, diazepam, NMDA (an agonist), ketamine (an antagonist), the effective dose of TRG with NMDA, as well as sub-effective dose of TRG with ketamine, respectively. All agents were administrated intraperitoneally 60 min before induction of seizures by PTZ. Latency to seizure, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum and PFC were measured. Furthermore, the gene expression of NR2A and NR2B, subunits of NMDA receptors, was measured in the PFC. TRG administration increased the latency to seizure onset and enhanced TAC while reducing MDA levels in both the PFC and serum. TRG also decreased the gene expression of NR2B in the PFC. Unexpectedly, the findings revealed that the concurrent administration of ketamine amplified, whereas NMDA mitigated, the impact of TRG on latency to seizure. Furthermore, NMDA diminished the positive effects of TRG on antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress, while ketamine amplified these beneficial effects, indicating a complex interaction between TRG and NMDA receptor modulation. In the gene expression of NMDA receptors, results showed that ketamine significantly decreased the gene expression of NR2B when co-administrated with a sub-effective dose of TRG. It was found that, at least partially, the anticonvulsant effect of TRG in PTZ-induced seizures in male mice was mediated by the attenuation of glutamatergic neurotransmission as well as the reduction of oxidative stress.

Background and aim Social isolation stress (SIS) is a stressor known to trigger depressive behaviors. Psychiatric disorders are associated with neurobiological changes, such as neuroinflammation and an increase in nitric oxide (NO) signaling. Despite the well‐established detrimental effects of SIS and the involvement of neuroinflammation and NO in depression, potential management strategies, especially resocialization, remain insufficiently explored. Our aim was to elucidate the effects of resocialization on depressive behaviors in socially isolated mice, with a focus on the possible involvement of neuroinflammation and nitrite in the hippocampus (HIP). Methods We utilized 24 Naval Medical Research Institute male mice, maintained under both social and isolation conditions (SC and IC). After the isolation period, the mice were divided into two groups of eight, including the SIS group and a resocialized group. The SC group was kept without exposure to isolation stress. We conducted the open‐field test, forced swimming test, and splash test to evaluate depressive behaviors. Additionally, nitrite levels, as well as the gene expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the HIP, were measured. Results The study found that resocialization significantly reduces depressive behaviors in SIS mice. The results suggest that the antidepressive effects of resocialization may be partially due to the modulation of the neuroinflammatory response and nitrite levels in the HIP. This is supported by the observed decrease in hippocampal gene expression of IL‐1β, TLR4, and TNF, along with a reduction in nitrite levels following resocialization. Conclusion These insights could pave the way for new management strategies for depression, emphasizing the potential benefits of social interactions.

The skin, serving as the body's outermost layer, boasts a vast area and intricate structure, functioning as the primary barrier against external threats. Disruptions; in the composition and functionality of...

Background It has been reported that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can play important roles in a variety of biological processes and cancer regulatory networks, including breast cancer. Aims This study aimed to identify a novel upregulated lncRNA in breast cancer and its associated gene using bioinformatics analysis, and then evaluate their potential roles in breast cancer. Methods and Results Extensive in silico studies were performed using various bioinformatics databases and tools to identify a potential upregulated breast cancer‐associated lncRNA and its co‐expressed gene, and to predict their potential roles, functions, and interactions. The expression level of MRPS30‐DT lncRNA and MRPS30 was assessed in both BC tissues and cell lines using qRT‐PCR technology. MRPS30‐DT lncRNA and MRPS30 were selected as target genes using bioinformatics analysis. We found that MRPS30‐DT and MRPS30 were significantly overexpressed in BC tissues compared with normal tissues. Also, MRPS30 showed upregulation in all three BC cell lines compared with HDF. On the other hand, MRPS30‐DT significantly increased in MDA‐MB‐231 compared with HDF. While the expression of MRPS30‐DT was significantly dropped in the resistance cell line MCF/MX compared to HDF and MCF7. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis suggested that MRPS30‐DT and MRPS30 may play a potential role in BC through their involvement in some cancer signaling pathways and processes, as well as through their interaction with TFs, genes, miRNAs, and proteins related to carcinogenesis. Conclusions Overall, our findings showed the dysregulation of MRPS30‐DT lncRNA and MRPS30 may provide clues for exploring new therapeutic targets or molecular biomarkers in BC.

Background and Aim The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most common causes of liver cancer in the world. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of HBV‐associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by identifying hub genes and the pathways related to their functions. Methods GSE83148 and GSE94660 were selected from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with an adjusted p‐value < 0.05 and a |logFC| ≥1 were identified. Common DEGs of two data sets were identified using the GEO2R tool. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) databases were used to identify pathways. Protein−protein interactions (PPIs) analysis was performed by using the Cytoscap and Gephi. A Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) analysis was carried out to confirm the target genes. Results One hundred and ninety‐eight common DEGs and 49 hub genes have been identified through the use of GEO and PPI, respectively. The GO and KEGG pathways analysis showed DEGs were enriched in the G1/S transition of cell cycle mitotic, cell cycle, spindle, and extracellular matrix structural constituent. The expression of four genes (TOP2A, CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB2) with high scores in module 1 were more in tumor samples and have been identified by GEPIA analysis. Conclusion In this study, the hub genes and their related pathways involved in the development of HBV‐associated HCC were identified. These genes, as potential diagnostic biomarkers, may provide a potent opportunity to detect HBV‐associated HCC at the earliest stages, resulting in a more effective treatment.

The vagina hosts a community of microorganisms known as the vaginal microbiota. This community is relatively stable and straightforward, with Lactobacillus species being the most dominant members. The vaginal microbiota has various functions that are essential for maintaining human health and balance. For example, it can metabolise dietary nutrients, produce growth factors, communicate with other bacteria, modulate the immune system, and prevent the invasion of harmful pathogens. When the vaginal microbiota is disrupted, it can lead to diseases and infections. The observed disturbance is distinguished by a reduction in the prevalence of Lactobacillus and a concurrent rise in the number of other bacterial species that exhibit a higher tolerance to low oxygen levels. Gynecologic cancers are a group of cancers that affect the female reproductive organs and tissues, such as the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, vulva, and endometrium. These cancers are a major global health problem for women. Understanding the complex interactions between the host and the vaginal microorganisms may provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of gynecologic cancers. This could improve the quality of life and health outcomes for women.

Background Gallstone disease (GD) is increasing in the world and has various complications. Objective This study aims to examine the relationship between GD and the risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. Methods A comprehensive and systematic search was done in various databases, such as Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase. The search included studies published from 1980 to December 2023. Heterogeneity was assessed using Chi-square, I2, and forest plots, while publication bias was evaluated through Begg's and Egger's tests. All analyses were performed using Stata 15, with statistical significance set at p <0.05. Results A pooled analysis of five studies involving 161,671 participants demonstrated that individuals with GD had a significantly higher risk of mortality from CVD (RR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.11-1.50, p <0.001). Importantly, no evidence of publication bias was found based on the results of Begg's test (p =0.806) and Egger's test (p =0.138). Furthermore, the pooled analysis of seven studies, encompassing a total of 562,625 participants, indicated an increased risk of cancer mortality among individuals with GD (RR 1.45, 95% CI: 1.16-1.82, p <0.001). Similarly, no publication bias was detected through Begg's test (p =0.133) and Egger's test (p =0.089). Conclusion In this study, the evidence of a significant association between GD and an elevated risk of mortality from CVD and cancer is provided. These findings suggest that implementing targeted interventions for individuals with gallstone disease could reduce mortality rates among these patients.

Introduction: The Virtual Clinic Mobile Application (VCMA) is a valuable tool for managing and remotely monitoring patients with various medical conditions. It can alleviate the strain on outpatient services and offer follow-up options for patients who do not require a physical examination. A thorough understanding of recent literature can assist in identifying suitable functionalities for new development and future improvement of current applications (apps). This review study is aimed at identifying functional and nonfunctional requirements for VCMA. Methods: This study conducted a systematic search using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, Science Direct, ProQuest, and IEEE to gather requirements of VCMA articles published in English from the inception of the databases up to April 2022. Out of a total of 1223 articles, 76 met the inclusion criteria. These articles were then analyzed using conventional content analysis to extract and categorize their requirements. Results: Two main themes and 8 subthemes in terms of VCMA requirements were extracted as follows: (1) functional requirements with 3 subthemes (demographic data documentation, health record, general features of the user interface (UI)); (2) nonfunctional requirements with 5 subthemes (usability, accessibility, compatibility, efficiency, and security). Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of mHealth solutions for virtual care and the need for the development of apps based on the extracted functional and nonfunctional requirements for VCMA; however, controlled trials are necessary. It is recommended that transparent reporting of mHealth interventions be prioritized to enable effective interpretation of the extracted data.

Among the primary objectives of contemporary assisted reproductive technology research are achieving the births of healthy singletons and improving overall fertility outcomes. Substantial advances have been made in refining the selection of single embryos for transfer, with the aim of maximizing the likelihood of successful implantation. The principal criterion for this selection is embryo morphology. Morphological evaluation systems are based on traditional parameters, including cell count and fragmentation, pronuclear morphology, cleavage rate, blastocyst formation, and various sequential embryonic assessments. To reduce the incidence of multiple pregnancies and to identify the single embryo with the highest potential for growth, invasive techniques such as preimplantation genetic screening are employed in in vitro fertilization clinics. However, new approaches have been suggested for clinical application that do not harm the embryo and that provide consistent, accurate results. Noninvasive technologies, such as time-lapse imaging and omics, leverage morphokinetic parameters and the byproducts of embryo metabolism, respectively, to identify noninvasive prognostic markers for competent single embryo selection. While these technologies have garnered considerable interest in the research community, they are not incorporated into routine clinical practice and still have substantial room for improvement. Currently, the most promising strategies involve integrating multiple methodologies, which together are anticipated to increase the likelihood of successful pregnancy.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, making for one-third of all malignancies in females. Between 40 and 45 percent of instances of hereditary breast cancer are caused by mutations in the breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1). Breast cancer risk is raised by mutations in its Really Interesting New Gene (RING) and BRCA1 C-Terminal (BRCT) domains. Thus, the goal of this study was to identify new mutations in the BRCA1 gene's RING and BRCT domains. To examine BRCA1 mutation spectra, 107 patients were chosen who had a documented family history of ovarian or breast cancer. Direct DNA sequencing and single-stranded conformational polymorphism (PCR-SSCP), both based on the polymerase chain reaction, were used to screen for mutations in the RING and BRCT domains of the BRCA1 gene. In-silico analysis was used for the in-vitro research outcome. The study's findings indicated that the population carries several BRCA1 sequence variations, including C.55C > A, C.36A > T, C.60A > T, C.199G > C, C.164A > T, C.251A > G, C.4996T > G, C.5032A > T, C.5041A > G, and C.5291T > A. The Breast Cancer Information Core (BIC) searched and examined the mutations. Every mutation was a new mutation. Additionally, a bioinformatics investigation revealed that several variations had an impact on the pathogenicity and stability of the protein. After calculating the relative risk (RR) of research linked to danger, it was found that there was a strong correlation (RR = 1) between the newly discovered genetic mutations and an elevated risk of breast cancer. Our research emphasizes the value of mutation screening in cases of familial ovarian or breast cancer, as well as the possible ramifications of these results for genetic counseling and cancer prevention.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a significant consequence of diabetes, is associated with adverse cardiovascular and renal disease as well as mortality. Although microalbuminuria is considered the best non-invasive marker for DN, better predictive markers are needed of sufficient sensitivity and specificity to detect disease in general and in early disease specifically. Even prior to appearance of microalbuminuria, urinary biomarkers increase in diabetics and can serve as accurate nephropathy biomarkers even in normoalbuminuria. In this review, a number of novel urine biomarkers including those reflecting kidney damage caused by glomerular/podocyte damage, tubular damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, and intrarenal renin-angiotensin system activation are discussed. Our review also includes emerging biomarkers such as urinary microRNAs. These short noncoding miRNAs regulate gene expression and could be utilized to identify potential novel biomarkers in DN development and progression.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent form of cancer that impacts individuals around the world. It is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a type of regulatory RNA that can impact gene expression. EVADR and LUESCC are tow novel lncRNA specifically expressed in tumors of glandular origin, such as colon.in this study we aimed to investigate the expression of EVADR and LUESCC in Colorectal tumor tissues in Iranian patients. We selected 50 cases of colorectal tumor tissues (FFPE) from individuals with sporadic CRC who were referred from the Pathology Department of Imam Hossein hospital in Tehran, Iran. The study results offer valuable insights into the expression patterns of LUESCC and EVADR lncRNAs in CRC patients. The findings show a significant upregulation of both LUESCC and EVADR lncRNAs in CRC patients compared to normal tissues, with notable fold-change values and statistical significance. The ROC curve analysis further emphasizes the potential diagnostic value of these lncRNAs. Additionally, the differential expression of LUESCC and EVADR lncRNAs in different differentiation groups suggests a potential association between these lncRNAs and CRC tumor grade. The significant increase in expression observed in well, poor, and intermediate differentiation groups compared to normal tissues underscores the potential role of these lncRNAs in CRC progression and aggressiveness. The present study also revealed distinct expression patterns of LUESCC and EVADR lncRNAs in relation to metastasis and fecal occult blood. Overall, these findings shed light on the diagnostic and prognostic potential of LUESCC and EVADR lncRNAs in CRC.

Abstract Entamoeba histolytica is an intestinal protozoan disease that causes amoebiasis, which is a health problem in several developing countries that can lead to 100 000 deaths annually. This parasite is the third cause of death in tropical regions with poor sanitary conditions. An essential part of the treatment of patients is the detection of the pathogenic E. histolytica and its differentiation from non-pathogenic Entamoeba spp. Because microscopy and antigen detection techniques are inexpensive and readily available, these techniques are commonly used to diagnose amoebiasis. Rapid tests and different ELISAs for antigen detection are some of the more modern and sensitive methods, and some diagnostic methods are not able to distinguish different species of Entamoeba. Techniques for molecular detection are highly specific and sensitive. However, utilizing molecular methods as the usual diagnostic method becomes difficult due to their high cost in most endemic areas. For the diagnosis of intestinal amoebiasis, there is still a need for highly sensitive and specific tests that are quick and affordable to use, especially in developing countries where this disease is common. Keywords: Evaluation, Techniques, Laboratory diagnosis, Intestinal amoebiasis

Wound healing is a complex process that can be facilitated through the development of wound dressings satisfying its primary requirements. The present study aims to investigate the wound healing and antibacterial properties of alginate-chitosan nanocomposite carrying eugenol-loaded silver nanoparticles. Alginate-chitosan nanocomposite contains an antibacterial structure, has wound healing properties, and is biocompatible, biodegradable, and cost-convenient. Adding biosynthesized silver nanoparticles coated with eugenol is known to enhance the antimicrobial properties of biofilm and add anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to it. Silver nanoparticles were coated with eugenol, and alginate-chitosan nanocomposite-loaded eugenol-silver nanoparticle was prepared. The resulting nanocomposites were assessed with DSC and SEM tests. The antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles eugenol loaded, and nanocomposite were investigated against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and nanocomposite’s wound healing capability was examined in mouse models. Silver nanoparticles were described by UV, XRD, and TEM for an average size of 30 nm. Zeta potential results (− 36 convert to − 25) suggested that the nanoparticles were thoroughly covered with eugenol and had better antibacterial properties against gram-negative bacteria. The nanocomposite with eugenol loader silver nanoparticles showed maximum antibacterial activity against human pathogenic bacteria; and the measured inhibition zones ranged from 2.5 to 5.5 mm. Results of testing the nanocomposite’s antioxidant and antibacterial properties indicated significantly better properties compared to alone composite, which was significantly evident in wound healing (81% in 7 day). The alginate-chitosan nanocomposite containing silver nanoparticles that were loaded with eugenol and biosynthesized with quercetin revealed the opportunity to develop a biocompatible antibacterial wound dressings that could prove a suitable tool to exert antioxidant effects and increase silver nanoparticle activity while reducing its cellular toxicity by preventing the rapid release and dispersion of eugenol-loaded silver nanoparticles.