bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking ground-satellite observations with HYSPLIT Back trajectory modeling to identify dust sources affecting Western Iran: A case study in Lorestan province
Authors: Borna Elham , Kiani Sadr Maryam , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Background: This study combined ground and satellite observations with the results of HYSPLIT model to identify the origin, transport, and deposition of sand and dust storms (SDSs) affecting Western Iran. Methods: Field-measured dust exposure data were obtained during 2000-2014 to analyze variability of dust concentration and dust intensity at annual, monthly, and daily scales. Remote sensing measurements in this research include the analysis of a total of eight (Level 1B Calibrated Radiances 1 km (MOD021KM)) MODIS tiles selected based on interpreting the results of ground observations to capture the major SDS events occurred between 2000 and 2014. Results: The results, indicating a sharp rise in the number of dusty days from 2008 onwards, were used as a basis to identify the spatial coverage and intensity of SDSs over the central part of the Middle East and the study province using a number of eight MODIS images. According to the back trajectory analysis of Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model (HYSPLIT), the MODIS-derived SDSs were found to have both national and international sources. The most prevalent and powerful source was likely to initiate from deserts of Syria and Iraq by air masses coming from the Mediterranean Sea and terminate in Western Iran where the Zagros Mountains Chain blocks easterly winds. Conclusion: Despite the evident link between timing of regional SDSs and in situ observations, the contribution of local dust sources in the west of the province should be also investigated to provide insights into the development and spread of SDS events affecting Western Iran, especially Lorestan Province.
Evaluation of direct reading photoionization detector performance under various operational parameters
Authors: Khoshakhlagh Amir Hossein , Golbabaei Farideh , Beygzadeh Mojtaba , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Shahtaheri Seyed Jamaleddin
Published: September 2021

Background: A hand-held portable direct-reading monitor, including photoionization detector (PID) is renowned for its good sensitivity, considerable dynamic range, and nondestructive vapor detection ability in comparison to the tardy response of the PID in gas chromatography (GC), which its application has been restricted. In this study, the performance of a PID system (MultiRAE Lite) was evaluated as a replacement of GC in the measurement of toluene in a dynamic adsorption system. Methods: The test was done at different relative humidity levels (30%, 50%, and 80%), temperatures (21, 30, 40° C), and toluene concentrations (20, 100, 200, and 400 ppm). Results: The PID achieved 48% of all measurements meeting the comparison criterion. The results showed that the performance of the PID could be altered by the variables. The best performance of the PID was at temperature of 21° C, the relative humidity of 50%, and concentration of 200 ppm with the percentage of readings achieving the criterion of comparison to 58%, 54%, and 52%, respectively. The averages of the PID readings (mean ± SD at 200 ppm= 207.9 ± 8.7) were higher than the reference method measurements averages (mean ± SD at 200 ppm= 203.5 ± 5.8). The regression analysis of the toluene results from the PID and the reference method results indicated that the measurements were significantly correlated (r2 = 0.93). Conclusion: According to the results, the device response is linear. Therefore, the findings are acceptable in adsorption studies. In this way, the measurement of the sample concentration should be performed using the same instrument before and after the reactor in order to calculate the adsorption efficiency.
Evaluation of groundwater vulnerability to pollution using DRASTIC, composite DRASTIC, and nitrate vulnerability models
Authors: Pourkhosravani Mohsen , Jamshidi Fatemeh , Sayari Nasrin
Published: September 2021

Background: Groundwater protection against pollution is a very important issue. Groundwater vulnerability maps are useful tools for protecting aquifers and assessing the potential for contamination. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to prepare vulnerability maps and perform sensitivity analysis to identify the most influential factors in the vulnerability of the studied aquifer. Methods: In this study, groundwater vulnerability to pollution was evaluated using DRASTIC, composite DRASTIC, and nitrate vulnerability (NV) models. Drastic is an index for the systematic assessment of potential groundwater pollution. In this method, the drastic index was calculated from the total weight and rank of the factors. For this purpose, first the factors affecting the pollution transfer, were weighted, ranked, and merged using GIS software. Then, using the overlapping techniques and after applying the necessary weight coefficients on each layer, a map of the vulnerability area of the study aquifer was prepared. Results: It was revealed that there is a significant linear relationship between all three models with the distribution of nitrate concentration. Accordingly, it was the most efficient NV model, followed by the composite DRASTIC (CD) and DRASTIC models, respectively. Also, in the studied aquifer, the DRASTIC index was between 147 and 136, the combined DRASTIC index was between 70 and 190, and the nitrate index was between 13 and 132. Conclusion: Vulnerability assessment of the studied aquifer using DRASTIC, and combined DRASTIC, and NV indices shows that, according to the DRASTIC index, 69.7% of the studied aquifer was in the medium vulnerability class. Also, according to the combined DRASTIC index, the largest area (53.62%) has low vulnerability and 31.56% has moderate vulnerability. But according to the nitrate index, 77.16% of the aquifers had very low vulnerability.
COVID-19 and its threat to refugees in Africa
Authors: Manirambona Emery , Wilkins Laura , Lucero-Prisno III Don Eliseo
Published: September 2021

Although it is widely accepted that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has adversely affected the Global South’s most vulnerable refugee communities, they have received little attention. There have been gaps in testing, which is fundamental to treat and isolate patients and make data-driven decisions to protect the refugee community. Therefore, it is imperative to holistically implement policies to curtail COVID-19 in refugee camps to ensure that refugees are safe and protected from the pandemic. Processes for timely diagnosis and treatment, quick isolation and contact tracing are essential to keep refugees safe. Furthermore, it is crucial to encourage protective behaviours and raise awareness about hygiene and social prevention to dampen disease transmission. Refugees in the Global South have been disproportionately affected by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing financial hardship and social injustice throughout. Refugees in Africa have also faced threats to their security, being subjected to torture, disappearance, or even killings in their host countries. The pandemic has exposed gender inequalities, with females being the most affected, and health inequities in the refugee community in Africa. There is a need for international organizations like the African Union, United Nations (UN) agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to take serious action regarding the refugee situation in Africa. Food aid for refugees in Africa should be increased as quickly as possible and refugees’ security must be guaranteed. Of equal importance, there must be justice for the death or disappearance of refugees. It is imperative to end discrimination against refugees and support the promotion of gender equity.
Dietary free sugar and dental caries in children: A systematic review on longitudinal studies
Authors: Mahboubi Zeinab , Pakdaman Afsaneh , Yazdani Reza , Azadbakht Leila , Montazeri Ali
Published: September 2021

Background: Dental caries, as a multi-factorial problem, is prevalent among children. The aim of this review was to assess the association between dietary free sugars (DFS) consumption and dental caries in 6- to 12-year-old children in the recent longitudinal evidence. Methods: In this systematic review, database search was performed in PubMed, Embase, ISI Web of Science and Scopus using the keywords "diet", "dental caries" and "school children".We considered the articles published in English from 2004 to 2019. After duplicate removal,title, abstract data basell text of all included papers were assessed by two independent reviewers. The quality of included papers was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results: From 2122 papers, ten longitudinal studies were included. In the included studies, the consumption of 100% juice (daily), candy (more than once a week), and soft drink and sweet drinks (at bedtime) were highly associated with caries in children. In few studies, daily consumption of water and dairy products was reported to be protective. However, some studies reported non-significant association between consumption of different sugary items and dental caries. The quality of included studies was moderate. Heterogeneity was observed in the measurement of caries outcome, and data collection tool for diet assessment, and statistical measure, which impeded the meta-analysis of data. Conclusion: The methodology and results in the longitudinal studies on the association of dietary free sugar consumption and dental caries in schoolchildren were heterogeneous, which urge the need for further standard research protocols in this area.
Comparing Bender-Gestalt Test and Quantitative Electroencephalography for Brain Trauma Diagnosis in Depressive and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders
Authors: Shakeri Samaneh , Bidaki Reza , Mirhosseini Hamid , Kiani Mina
Published: September 2021

Background: Some experts assert there is an association between traumatic brain injury and cognitive impairments such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depressive disorder. Furthermore, children and adults with ADHD struggle with focusing, organizing tasks, and feeling restless. They might experience sadness, guilt, irritability, low self-confidence and helplessness. In this regard, ADHD and depressive disorder occasionally occur together. We aimed to compare the clinical application of the Bender-Gestalt test (BGT) and electroencephalography in screening brain damage in the patients with the mentioned disorders. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study to assess diagnostic accuracy. Eighty patients with depression (n=35) and ADHD (n=45) resulting from brain damage aged 10-35 years who had been referred by the psychologist or psychiatrist to Imam Hossein Clinic in Yazd. Both the BGT and quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) results existed in their files. Patients with any serious medical, other psychiatric disorders or history of drug dependency were excluded. Paired t test was used to analyze the differences. Results: The brain damage score was different in the two tests. Based on the paired t test, the BGT was a more valid screening test. Also, the score of the two tests were different in the depression and ADHD mean scores (P<0.05). Conclusion: BGT was a more reliable tool compared to QEEG for diagnosing brain damage within the patients with the mentioned disorders.
The Spread of Carbapenemase Genes in Klebsiellapneumoniae in Iran: a Systematic Review
Authors: Sadeghi Dousari Amin , Satarzadeh Naghmeh
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The emergence and global spread of carbapenemases produced by Klebsiella pneumoniae is a serious problem to health services worldwide. K. pneumoniae, belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family, is commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract and environment, especially in the hospital environment. Carbapenem is administered as the first treatment for severe infections created by multi-drug resistant K. pneumoniae. Despite the fact that the carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae has become more prevalent in Iran, few investigations have probed into the prevalence of different carbapenemase genes in Iran. Method: The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of carbapenemase genes in K. pneumoniae from 2010 to 2018 in Iran. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for the articles published between 2010 and 2018 in Iran. Results: A total of 25 papers published between 2012 and 2018 were selected. The highest frequency of blaNDM, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaKPC and, blaOXA48 genes were related to cities of Shiraz in 2017 [23 (26.14%)], Hamedan in 2017 [2 (50%)], Babol in 2015 [15 (41.66%)], Isfahan in 2013 [65 (44.83%)] and, and Isfahan in 2018 [90 (76.27%)], respectively. The results showed that the frequency of blaNDM, blaOXA48, and blaIMP genes increased in 2017 and 2018, and there was an increase in the frequency of the blaVIM gene in 2014 and 2015, and the blaKPC gene in 2013. The highest percentage of carbapenemases genes isolated in Iran were related to blaKPC [145 (37.08%)], blaOXA48 [118 (30.18%)], and blaNDM [88 (22.51%)], and the lowest percentages were reported in blaIMP [4 (1.02%)], and blaVIM [36 (9.21%)], respectively. Conclusion: The results of our review showed that blaNDM and blaOXA48 carbapenemase genes have been increasing in Iran, and it seems that traveling is one of the most important factors in the transmission of carbapenemase genes.
Central Injection of Ghrelin Improves Motor Balance in the Rotarod Test in the Rats: Altering the Expression of Drd1 Gene
Authors: Sahraiian Vahideh , Khazali Homayoun
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Motor learning consolidates in adulthood, and its defects begin to appear with aging. Ghrelin, an endogenous peptide, improves memory and learning, targeting dopaminergic circuits. While cytidine diphosphate choline (citicoline) is known as a common drug for enhancing memory and learning in aging, it is not recommended for adults due to its side effects. The current study aimed at investigating if ghrelin treatment would improve motor learning via the expression of a relevant gene. Methods: For this experimental study, adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: control group, three groups of ghrelin treatment (0.3, 1.5, and 3 nmol/μL), and one group with citicoline treatment. The injections were done intra-hippocampally. The motor learning rate was determined using the rotarod performance test by measuring the resistance to falling. Then the expression of dopamine receptor type D1 (Drd1) gene in the hippocampus was measured by a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Ghrelin (3 nmol/μL) and citicoline had similar and significant effects on motor learning improvement (P<0.01). Both drugs significantly increased Drd1 gene expression (P <0.001). Conclusion: Ghrelin, like citicoline, improves motor learning by altering the expression of Drd1 gene in the hippocampus.
Serological Features of Children Vertically Infected With Hepatitis B Virus: A Study in Amir Al-Momenin Ali Hospital of Zabol
Authors: Shahramian Iraj , Moradi Abdolvahab , Ostadrahimi Pouya , Mirzaei Hadi , Sheikh Mahboobeh , Khosravi Bonjar Ali , Abdollahi Samira , Bazi Ali
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Hepatitis B is a common viral infection worldwide and the main cause of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cell carcinoma. hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) is one of the markers indicating chronic hepatitis B infection. In this cross-sectional study, we investigate serological markers and HBeAg positivity in in children with maternally transmitted hepatitis B virus (HBV).Materials and Methods: Overall, 26 children with congenital HBV referred to Amir Al-Mo’menin Ali hospital in Zabol in 2019 and 2020 were enrolled. After gathering demographic characteristics, blood samples were taken from the patients. Serological tests were performed by routine ELISA tests. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22.Results: Twenty-six children were included in the study;18 of them (69.2%) were males. The mean age of the participants was 13.98±11 years (minimum of 1 and maximum of 18 years old). The mean age of mothers was 40.45±10 years (minimum of 27 and maximum of 63 years old). Four (15.4%) of the children were HBeAg positive, and 18 (69.2%) were HBeAb positive with no significant differences between genders (P > 0.05). HBeAg positivity was not associated with the birth rank (P = 0.71) or HBV vaccination (P = 0.17). Liver enzymes, serum albumin and children’s age and duration of maternal infection were not significantly different between HBeAg positive and HBeAg negative groups (P > 0.05). Mean serum alanine transaminase (ALT) was significantly higher in HBeAb positive than HBeAb negative children (P = 0.018), and HBeAb positivity was significantly associated with HBV vaccination history (P = 0.02). Other liver enzymes as well as age of mother and child and the duration of maternal infection were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.99). Conclusion: The prevalence of chronic HBV infection based on HBeAg positivity was relatively high in children vertically infected with the virus. HBeAb seroconversion seems to be associated with HBV vaccination.
Investigation of the Resistance and Sensitivity of Infectious Bacteria to Dendrostellera lessertii and Chemical Composition Analysis
Authors: Alamholo Mostafa
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Herbal plants are important sources for finding new and rare products of medicinal value for drug development. The present research aimed to investigate the antibacterial properties of Dendrostellera lessertii against infectious bacteria and analyze its chemical composition. Methods: The different organs comprising root, stem, and leaf of D. lessertii from Lorestan province, Iran, were tested. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar well-diffusion assay. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were assessed by the Folin Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were tested by the serial dilution method, and chemical compositions were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Results: The chemical composition analysis showed the dominance of bergamotol (10.62%) and bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (7.49%) in the stem extract. However, phytol (12.64%) and E-11-hexadecenal (12.53%) were major constituents in the root extract. Furthermore, major constituents in the leaf extract were phytol (19.658%) and hexadecanoic acid (7.151%). The methanolic extract of root exhibited the highest TPC as 109.1±2.2 mgGA/g and TFC as 2.1±0.33 mgQ/g. The root methanolic extract demonstrated a MIC of 3.125 mg/mL against Enterococcus faecalis. Accordingly, the highest sensitivity and resistance were observed on E. faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Conclusion: Dendrostellera lessertii extract is suggested as a source for antimicrobial drugs, especially to treat bacterial infections.
Apoptotic Genes’ Expression in an Ovarian Cancer Cell Line (A2780) Exposed to Green Synthesized Cerium Oxide Nanoemulsion
Authors: Ashna Mohammad , Es-haghi Ali , Soltani Mojgan
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Cancer can be defined as an illness of reformed gene expression. There are numerous agents affecting gene expression and altering cellular activities. Nanotechnology has offered the possibility of modulating tumor suppressor genes’ expression, improving kinetics of gene-targeted therapeutics, and simplifying drug delivery to tumors and across bio-complexes.Methods: Gene expressions of caspase3, 8 and 9, Bax and Bcl2 were assessed after RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in an ovarian cancerous cell line (A2780). Real-time PCR was employed to determine the change fold of apoptotic genes in the cells exposed to the biosynthesized CeO2-NPs (cerium oxide nanoparticles) at the dose of 0, 7, 9, and 11 μg/mL after 24 hours of incubation. Results: Our findings displayed a significant increase in the antioxidant genes’ expression in the A2870 cells. The results exhibited that the biosynthesized CeO2-NPs could enhance the Bax/Bcl2 ratio in a dose-dependent way. Also, the expression of caspase3, 8, and 9 up-regulated significantly under the dose of 11 μg/mL.Conclusion: Considering the effects of the bio-fabricated CeO2-NPs on the expression of apoptotic genes in ovarian cancerous cell lines, these nanoparticles (NPs) may be employed in pharmacology to develop new anti-cancer medications.
Serum Interleukin-17 Alterations in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Eight Weeks of Aerobic Training
Authors: Jalili Arman , Ravasi Ali Asghar , Choobineh Sirous , Alidadi Ali , Suri Rahman , Khazaei Hosseinali
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Regular physical activities may have effect on the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Here, we aimed to ascertain the changes of serum interleukin-17 (IL-17) following eight weeks of aerobic training in CKD patients. Methods: The CKD patients referred to Zahedan Edalat Clinic and Ali-Ibn Abi Talib hospital in Zahedan city (Iran) were enrolled. Sixty patients aged between 30 and 50 years old were chosen by a random method and assigned into the control and intervention groups (each group constituted 30 people). In this study, aerobic exercises were performed at 50%–80% of the maximal heart rate. Peripheral blood was obtained one day before the beginning of exercise and one day after the end of the intervention. Serum IL-17 level was quantified using a commercial specific ELISA kit. Results: The mean values of IL-17 in CKD patients before and after 8 weeks of aerobic exercise were 1.67 ± 0.403 pg/mL and 1.58 ± 0.170 pg/mL in the intervention group (P value= 0.039) whereas the mean values of IL-17 in the control group before and after the intervention were 1.31 ± 0.529 pg/mL and 1.35 ± 0.505 pg/mL (P value= 0.794).Conclusion: Eight weeks of aerobic training can significantly reduce serum IL-17, an inflammatory marker, in CKD patients.
Mapping the Multiple Health System Responsiveness Mechanisms in One Local Health System: A Scoping Review of the Western Cape Provincial Health System of South Africa
Authors: Sutherns Tammy , Olivier Jill
Published: September 2021

Background: Despite governments striving for responsive health systems and the implementation of mechanisms to foster better citizen feedback and strengthen accountability and stewardship, these mechanisms do not always function in effective, equitable, or efficient ways. There is also limited evidence that maps the diverse array of responsiveness mechanisms coherently across a particular health system, especially in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) contexts. Methods: This scoping review presents a cross-sectional ‘map’ of types of health system responsiveness mechanisms; the regulatory environment; and evidence available about these; and assesses what is known about their functionality in a particular local South African health system; the Western Cape (WC) province. Multiple forms of indexed and grey literature were synthesized to provide a contextualized understanding of current ‘formal’ responsiveness mechanisms mandated in national and provincial policies and guidelines (n = 379). Various forms of secondary analysis were applied across quantitative and qualitative data, including thematic and time-series analyses. An expert checking process was conducted, with three local field experts, as a final step to check the veracity of the analytics and conclusions made. Results: National, provincial and district policies make provision for health system responsiveness, including varied mechanisms intended to foster public feedback. However, while some are shown to be functioning and effective, there are major barriers faced by all, such as resource and capacity constraints, and a lack of clarity about roles and responsibilities. Most mechanisms exist in isolation, failing to feed into an overarching strategy for improved responsiveness. Conclusion: The lack of synergy between mechanisms or analysis of varied forms of feedback is a missed opportunity. Decision-makers are unable to see trends or gaps in the flow of feedback, check whether all voices are heard or fully understand whether/how systemic response occurs. Urgent health system work lies in the research of macro ‘whole’ systems responsiveness (levels, development, trends).
Inclinometer: A new device for measuring intermolar torque and angle
Authors: Behroozian Ahmad , Kalman Les , Hemmatiyan Milad
Published: September 2021

The torque of posterior teeth is of great importance in esthetics and occlusion. In the present article, we introduce a simple but useful device to measure intermolar torque. The device consists of two movable and adjustable arms that lie on the selected molar teeth bilaterally; the graduated plane at the body of the appliance then shows the intermolar torque. This device can measure intermolar torque easily and rapidly, with high validity and at a low cost.
Care Process in Iranian Nursing Homes: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Fadayevatan Reza , Rahimi Majid , Abedi Heidarali
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The need and use of long-term care services for older people has increased with their rising population and there is little information about the state of serving in nursing homes. This study aimed to identify the caring process in Iranian nursing homes. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in three Iranian nursing homes using grounded theory approach. The participants included 28 individuals (14 older people and 14 caregivers). The data were collected using unstructured interviews up to data saturation, and analyzed by constant comparative method. Results: Fragmented care emerged as the core variable. The main factor for developing the core variable was ‘experience-based caring’. Other factors included ‘inappropriate structure for care’ as contextual factors in the nursing homes environment and ‘keeping instead of caring’, ‘dismal life’, and ‘up and down of the path’ as strategies and consequences. Conclusions: The most common type of care was the routine and unplanned one with focusing on physical aspects. To improve a delivery care system for older people in nursing homes, proposing a care plan with focus on an integrated model of care in nursing homes, provision of instructions for treatment, as well as supervision and training caregivers to provide better care are necessary
Effect of Aromatherapy on Dental Anxiety and Pain in Children Undergoing Local Anesthetic Administrations: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nirmala Kamalapuram , Kamatham Rekhalakshmi
Published: September 2021

Introduction: In dentistry, local anesthetic (LA) administration in children is often associated with behavioral problems. Hence, the present study evaluated the efficacy of aromatherapy in reducing the dental anxiety and pain during LA procedure. Methods: This clinical trial was conducted upon 150 children in the age range of 8-12 years. Subjects were randomly divided into five groups; Group 1: Lavender essential oil using nebulizer; Group 2: Lavender essential oil using inhaler; Group 3: Orange essential oil using nebulizer; Group 4: Orange essential oil using inhaler; Group 5: Control (without aromatherapy). For all the children, baseline anxiety was recorded followed by aromatherapy (except for children in the control group). Following the standard protocol, LA was administered. The procedural pain was assessed using Faces, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability scale (FLACC) and Faces Pain Scale-Revised (FPS-R). Finally, anxiety was again recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 17.0. Results: A significant difference in ANOVA test was observed among anxiety scores after LA in aromatherapy groups 1, 3, and 4 compared to control. When the FLACC scores were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, there were significantly lower values in aromatherapy groups compared to the control group. The pain scores, as reported in FPS-R, were also lower in aroma groups 1, 3, and 4. Conclusion: Aromatherapy with lavender or sweet orange, using either nebulizer or inhaler, decreased the dental anxiety of children, whereas, only sweet orange could reduce the pain as self-reported by children.
Herbal extracts and essential oils microencapsulation studies for different applications
Authors: Mejía-Argueta Euridice Ladisu , Santillán-Benítez Jonnathan Guadalupe , Flores-Merino Miriam V. , Cervantes-Rebolledo Claudia
Published: September 2021

Studies on bioactivities of numerous essential oils (EOs) and herbal extracts compounds against diseases are crucial. Microencapsulation methods development might be an alternative to obtain bioactive compounds for cosmetics and pharmaceutical uses. In this study, we carried out a literature review of 219 503 data articles using ScienceDirect, Redalyc, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases in English and Spanish, after with inclusion (original articles, book chapters, and theoretical references) and exclusion criteria (frameworks description), we found 1854 restricting the publication years between 2004 and August 2020 and 35 relevant articles with our scope research. References found contained a collection of methods that could be utilized to create microcapsules, including coacervation, extrusion, polymerization, and spray drying. This article analyzed the most recent and advanced microencapsulation techniques and their applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Herbal extracts and EOs have many applications, depending on the wall materials and microencapsulation methods that could help know about selective release and efficacy to ensure optimal dosing and other advantages; thus, improving the profitability of these product manufacturers.
Macrostachyols A-D, oligostilbenes from Gnetum macrostachyum inhibited in vitro human platelet aggregation
Authors: Surapinit Serm , Baisaeng Nuttakorn
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Gnetum macrostachyum is a known Thai medicinal plant as a source of bioactive oligostilbenes, which possess platelet inhibitory activities. The study aimed to evaluate the in vitro human platelet aggregation inhibitory activities of macrostachyols A-D (compounds 1-4) isolated from the roots of G. macrostachyum. Methods: The in vitro human platelet aggregation assay was assayed with a 96-well microtiter plate format. The well-known aggregating agents were used to investigate the possible mechanism of inhibition, including adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid (AA), thromboxane A2 analog (U-46619), collagen, thrombin, and thrombin receptor-activating peptide-6 (TRAP-6). Results: Compound 1 was more potent than ibuprofen (positive control) on the adenosine diphosphate- induced platelet aggregation assay (P < 0.05). Compound 3 was more potent than 1, 2, and 4 (P < 0.05), but all active oligostilbenes were less potent than the positive control (P < 0.05) on the arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation assay. The oligostilbenes 1, 2, 3, and 4 also displayed the inhibitory effects on the U-46619-induced platelet aggregation. The tetrameric stilbenes 1 was the only compound that exhibited inhibitory effects on thrombin-induced platelet aggregation without TRAP-6 mediated platelet aggregation. Conclusion: The findings revealed the inhibitory effects of oligostilbenes on human platelet aggregation through a target-specific experimental design. It suggests that oligostilbenes from this plant might be applied as antiplatelet aggregation agents in platelet hyperreactivity- related diseases.
Optogenetic Stimulation of Primary Cardiomyocytes Expressing ChR2
Authors: Keshmiri Neghab Hoda , Soheilifar Mohammad Hasan , Saboury Ali Akbar , Goliaei Bahram , Hong Jun , Esmaeeli Djavid Gholamreza
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Non-clinical cardiovascular drug safety assessment is the main step in the progress of new pharmaceutical products. Cardiac drug safety testing focuses on a delayed rectifier potassium channel block and QT interval prolongation, whereas optogenetics is a powerful technology for modulating the electrophysiological properties of excitable cells. Methods: For this purpose, the blue light-gated ion channel, channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), has been introduced into isolated primary neonatal cardiomyocytes via a lentiviral vector. After being subjected to optical stimulation, transmembrane potential and intracellular calcium were assessed. Results: Here, we generated cardiomyocytes expressing ChR2 (light-sensitive protein), that upon optical stimulation, the cardiomyocytes depolarized result from alterations of membrane voltage and intracellular calcium. Conclusion: This cell model was easily adapted to a cell culture system in a laboratory, making this method very attractive for therapeutic research on cardiac optogenetics.
The Effect of Laser Therapy Along With Mediterranean Diet Versus Mediterranean Diet Only on Older Adults With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nagy Ebtesam Nabil , Ibrahim Faten Mohamed , Jouda Amal Abdelfattah , Elsayed Marwa Mahmoud
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Obesity is the major pathogenesis of the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The combination of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and Mediterranean diet (MD) is a new approach for improving liver function. Methods: 60 obese older adults (65-75 years old) with NAFLD were randomly assigned equally to two groups: a study group and a control group. The study group received LLLT and MD, while the control group followed MD only. These findings evaluated the changes in the level of liver enzymes, serum lipid profile, and anthropometric measurements (body mass index [BMI] and waist circumference [WC]) after 12 weeks of intervention. Results: Both study and control groups showed a significant reduction in the levels of liver enzymes, serum lipid profile, BMI, and WC (P<0.001 and P <0.01 respectively); however, the study group showed more significant results compared to the control group (P<0.01). Conclusion: LLLT and MD may be considered as a treatment approach for NAFLD in older adults to improve their liver function, control dyslipidemia, and help in losing weight.
Low-Level Laser Therapy: Potential and Complications
Authors: Arjmand Babak , Khodadost Mahmood , Jahani Sherafat Somayeh , Rezaei Tavirani Mostafa , Ahmadi Nayebali , Hamzeloo Moghadam Maryam , Okhovatian Farshad , Rezaei Tavirani Sina , Rostami-Nejad Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Laser therapy has attracted experts’ attention in medical sciences. Many benefits of laser therapy are presented besides some complications. In the present study, it is tried to present a new perspective of laser therapy in the various fields of medicine. Methods: Laser therapy-related articles which are combined with regenerative medicine, cosmetic, dentistry, neurodegenerative diseases, kidney, bone fracture, and vaginal function in the English language were searched through the google scholar search engine in the range of 2000-2021. After title screening, the abstracts were evaluated to access the full texts. Results: Basic concepts and various kinds of lasers which are applied in medicine were explained. Applications of laser therapy in various fields of medicine such as pain reduction, wound healing, regenerative medicine, dentistry, and several other body organs were highlighted and some complications were pointed. Conclusion: High potential of laser therapy for application in medicine implies a reconsideration of the laser properties and also styles of laser applications to improve the treatment and prevention of its side effects.
Morphological Assessment of the Effect of Nanosecond Diode Laser Radiation With a Wavelength of 1265 nm on Periodontal Tissue in the Treatment of Apical Periodontitis: An Experimental Study
Authors: Chunikhin Nikita Andreevich , Bazikyan Ernest Aramovich , Chunikhin Andrey Anatolievich , Klinovskaya Anna Sergeevna
Published: September 2021

Introduction: There is a morphological assessment of the damaged area and the inflammatory response of periodontal tissues after therapy. It seems relevant to evaluate the reaction of the periapical tissues of the teeth of experimental animals after the treatment of simulated apical periodontitis using laser photodynamic therapy (PDT) and non-pigment laser transcanal microablation using morphological research. Methods: The lower incisors of 15 rabbits were used to simulate acute apical periodontitis of pulpal origin. Subsequently, the traditional treatment of teeth canals using mechanical cleaning and irrigation with antiseptic solution started. Then, three groups underwent different therapies - using PDT (n = 5; photosensitizer chlorin e6, [l = 660 nm, 60 mW/cm2 ] for 2 minutes), using a new technology of transcanal laser ablation (n = 5; diode laser [l = 1265 nm, 180 mW/cm2 ] for 3 minutes), and without additional treatment (n = 5). Laser therapy in two groups was carried out for 10 days once in 2 days. The animals were euthanized 10 days after the treatment started, decapitation was performed, and morphological specimens were studied under a microscope. Descriptive analysis (study of inflammatory apical infiltrate, bone regeneration of the alveoli and periodontal ligament) and quantitative analysis were performed. The data were statistically processed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The group treated with the new laser technology showed the best results with moderate lymph-macrophage infiltration and congested vessels, moderate neoangiogenesis and fibrogenesis. The size of the lesion was 506.4 mm2 , compared with the PDT group - 872.0 mm2 (P≤0.05). Conclusion: A decrease in the focus of inflammation, moderate neoangiogenesis and fibrogenesis in the periapical region when using transcanal laser microablation indicate the prospects of using the new technology in clinical practice in the complex therapy of apical periodontitis.
A Comparison Between Low-Level Laser Therapy and Intra-articular Ozone Injection in Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fakhari Solmaz , Pishghahi Alireza , Pourfathi Hojjat , Farzin Haleh , Bilehjani Eissa
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative joint disease, causing deformity, pain and a limited joint range of motion. Modification of the lifestyle and an exercise training program are the cornerstone of treatment. Alternative therapies such as laser or ozone are commonly used, but there is not any comparative study of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) versus ozone therapy. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of the LLLT versus ozone in patients with KOA. Methods: In this single-blinded randomized clinical trial, 60 patients with KOA were assigned to LLLT or ozone groups (n=30). The First basic pain severity, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score and physical function were determined. Then in the LLLT group, the patients were provided with 12 sessions of LLLT. In the ozone group, 6 sessions of intra-articular injection of ozone were organized (in each session a mixture of 10 mL of bupivacaine 0.25% with 15 mL of ozone 30 μg/mL). In the middle and at the end of the intervention period, we reassessed the joint pain and physical function and the degree of improvement compared between the two groups. Results: In the middle and at the end of the treatment period in both groups, the joint pain decreased significantly. The same as pain, the self-administrated WOMAC score and the range of joint motion improved significantly in both groups. All of these variables exposed more improvement in the ozone group patients. Conclusion: The study showed that both LLLT and ozone are acceptable non-invasive methods in the non-surgical treatment of KOA. Compared to LLLT, the ozone was more effective. These methods must be considered in any patient who is not suitable for surgical interventions or does not experience enough improvement in symptoms following long periods of common exercise training programs.
Effect of Radiotherapy and Low-Level Laser Therapy on Circulating Blood Cells of Rats
Authors: de Oliveira Milene Castilhos , Krueger Gabriel Francisco , Sganzerla Juliana Tomaz , Gassen Humberto Thomazi , Hernández Pedro Antonio González , Allgayer Mariangela da Costa , Miguens-Jr Sergio Augusto Quevedo
Published: September 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the blood cell count when applied to parotid glands of rats irradiated by volumetric modular arc therapy (VMAT). Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. Samples were randomly assigned to three groups: control group (CG, n = 8), immediate laser group (24 hours) (ILG, n=12), and late laser group (120 hours) (LLG, n=12). The two laser groups were previously subjected to VMAT radiotherapy in a single dose of 12 Gy. LLLT with an AsGaAl laser (660 nm, 100 mW) was applied at three points in the region of the parotid glands, right side, with the energy of 2 J per point (20s, 70 J/cm2 ) and a spot size of 0.0028 cm2 for 10 consecutive days. In the euthanasia, blood samples were obtained by cardiac puncture. The samples from each group were processed by an automatic method and analyzed for erythrogram, leukogram and platelet count values. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and each LLLT time point was analyzed in relation to the control group, with a significance level less than 0.05. Results: Groups using LLLT had higher red blood cell counts, being higher in the LLG (p = 0.000). The hematimetric indices MCV (P=0.002) and MCH (P=0.009) were lower than the control group, especially when compared to the group using LLLT 120h after radiotherapy (LLG). White blood cell counts were lower in the groups with radiotherapy and immediate use of LLLT (ILG) (P=0.011), mainly at the expense of lymphocytes (P=0.002). Conclusion: The results suggest a potential systemic effect of LLLT, especially on circulating red blood cell counts, regardless of their time of immediate or late use of radiotherapy.
Effect of Methadone and Tramadol Opioids on Stem Cells Based on Integrated Plasmonic-Ellipsometry Technique
Authors: Asadishad Tannaz , Sohrabi Foozieh , Hakimi Maryam , Ghazimoradi Mohammad Hossein , Mahinroosta Tayebeh , Hamidi Seyedeh Mehri , Farivar Shirin
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Plasmonic biosensors provide high sensitivity in detecting the low amount of biomarkers and pharmaceutical drugs. We studied the mesenchyme cell activity under the treatment of common sedative drugs of methadone and tramadol using the integrated plasmonic-ellipsometry technique. Methods: Mesenchymal stem cells were cultured on patterned plasmonic chips under the treatment of methadone and tramadol drugs. Three cultured chips were kept non-treated as the control ones. The plasmonic-ellipsometry technique was applied to study the signaling characteristic of the cells affected by these two drugs. In this technique, optical information regarding the amplitude ratio and phase change between p- and s-polarized light was recorded. Results: This drug treatment could affect the spectral plasmonic resonance and subsequently the phase shift (Δ) and the amplitude ratio (Ψ) values under p- and s-polarized impinging light. A more significant Δ value for tramadol treatment meant that the phase split was larger between p- and s-polarized light. Tramadol also had more prominent absolute Δeff and Ψeff values in comparison with methadone. Conclusion: We showed that tramadol caused more contrast in phase shift (Δ) and amplitude ratio (Ψ) between p- and s-polarized impinging light for cultured stem cells in comparison with methadone. It means that tramadol differentiated more the optical responses for p- and s-polarized lights compared to methadone. Our proposed technique possesses the potential of quantitative and qualitative analysis of drugs on humans even on a cell scale.
Comparative Evaluation of the Effects of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy With an LED and a Laser on the Proliferation of Human Gingival Fibroblasts on the Root Surface: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Koochaki Mahsa , Hendi Amirreza , Ghasemi Mahmood , Seyedjafari Ehsan , Hamidain Mehdi , Chiniforush Nasim
Published: September 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the effects of root biomodification by citric acid and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with LED and laser on the proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Methods: This in vitro experimental study evaluated 60 single-rooted teeth extracted due to periodontal disease. The teeth underwent scaling and root planing (SRP), and then 5 × 5 mm blocks were prepared from the cervical area of the teeth 1 mm apical to the cementoenamel junction. The blocks were divided into 4 groups (n=15 blocks): SRP alone (control), SRP + citric acid, SRP + toluidine blue (TBO) + LED light, and SRP + TBO + laser. HGFs were seeded on the surface of the samples, and the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay was performed after 24, 48 and 72 hours. Group comparisons were performed using repeated measures ANOVA, while pairwise comparisons of the time points were performed by an LSD test. Results: Cell proliferation was higher in all experimental groups at 48 and 72 hours, compared with 24 hours (P<0.05). Cell proliferation was significantly different in the citric acid group at 24 hours (P=0.016) and 48 hours (P=0.015), compared with other groups. However, cell proliferation was not significantly different in the aPDT group with LED Photosan and a diode laser at 24 and 48 hours (P>0.05). Conclusion: aPDT and citric acid can enhance the proliferation of HGFs on dentin blocks. Further studies can pave the way for their future use in the clinical setting.
Blood component therapy, demographic and outcome feature of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Noroozi Mehran , Ghazizadeh Farid , Fani Saba
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood malignancy, with an annual incidence rate of three to four cases per 100000 children. Most children with ALL frequently receive blood products including packed cells, platelets, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and whole blood in the course of chemotherapy and these transfusions may affect ALL outcomes. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate blood component therapy together with demographic and outcome features of pediatric ALL patients. Patients and Methods: Demographic information of 208 patients with pediatric ALL from February 2011 to August 2019 enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Data is gathered and rechecked from archive files and e-files of Motahari hospital. Results: The mean age of patients at diagnosis was 5.48±3.38 years and Pre-B ALL was the most common phenotype (94.3%). 130 Out of 208 patients were treated with the new protocol and 78 patients were treated with the BFM98 protocol. The majority of relapses were in the bone marrow. The average of received packed cell, platelet and FFP were 4.32±2.93, 5.97±7.09 and 5.29±6.6 units, respectively. The mean overall survival of patients was 3.42±2.58 years in 10 years. Conclusion: According to this study, most of the patients were 5 to 15 years old. Dominant subtype of disease was B-cell type. Most of the deaths were one to 6 years after diagnosis. The relapse rate was about 31% and most of them were in the bone marrow.