Chemical Compositions and Experimental and Computational Modeling of the Anticancer Effects of Cnidocyte Venoms of Jellyfish Cassiopea andromeda and Catostylus mosaicus on Human Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells.

Nowadays, major attention is being paid to curing different types of cancers and is focused on natural resources, including oceans and marine environments. Jellyfish are marine animals with the ability to utilize their venom in order to both feed and defend. Prior studies have displayed the anticancer capabilities of various jellyfish. Hence, we examined the anticancer features of the venom of Cassiopea andromeda and Catostylus mosaicus in an in vitro situation against the human pulmonary adenocarcinoma (A549) cancer cell line. The MTT assay demonstrated that both mentioned venoms have anti-tumoral ability in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot analysis proved that both venoms can increase some pro-apoptotic factors and reduce some anti-apoptotic molecules that lead to the inducing of apoptosis in A549 cells. GC/MS analysis demonstrated some compounds with biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer activities. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic showed the best position of each biologically active component on the different death receptors, which are involved in the process of apoptosis in A549 cells. Ultimately, this study has proven that both venoms of C. andromeda and C. mosaicus have the capability to suppress A549 cells in an in vitro condition and they might be utilized in order to design and develop brand new anticancer agents in the near future.

A Bibliometric and In Silico-Based Analysis of Anti-Lung Cancer Compounds from Sea Cucumber.

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies in the world. However, current curative approaches for treating this type of cancer have some weaknesses. Therefore, scientists are attempting to discover new anti-lung cancer agents. Sea cucumber is a marine-derived source for discovering biologically active compounds with anti-lung cancer properties. To explore the anti-lung cancer properties of sea cucumber, we analyzed surveys using VOSviewer software and identified the most frequently used keywords. We then searched the Google Scholar database for compounds with anti-lung cancer properties within that keyword family. Finally, we used AutoDock 4 to identify the compounds with the highest affinity for apoptotic receptors in lung cancer cells. The results showed that triterpene glucosides were the most frequently identified compounds in studies examining the anti-cancer properties of sea cucumbers. Intercedenside C, Scabraside A, and Scabraside B were the three triterpene glycosides with the highest affinity for apoptotic receptors in lung cancer cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that anti-lung cancer properties of sea cucumber-derived compounds have been examined in in silico conditions. Ultimately, these three components displayed anti-lung cancer properties in in silico conditions and may be used for the manufacture of anti-lung cancer agents in the near future.

An update for various applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for detection and identification of marine environmental pollutions: A bibliometric analysis and systematic review.

Marine environmental pollution is one of the growing concerns of humans all over the world. Therefore, managing these marine pollutants has been a crucial matter for scientists in recent decades. Thus, researchers have tried to implement artificial intelligence (AI) to handle marine environmental pollutants. Therefore, in this manuscript, we performed a bibliometric analysis to understand the main applications of AI for managing marine environments. Therefore, we examined both PubMed online database and Google Scholar to find any research articles that discuss the applications of AI in managing marine environmental pollution. Ultimately, we found that AI can detect, locate, and even predict aquatic contaminants like oil fingerprinting, oil spills, oil spill damage, oil slicks, forecasting marine water quality, water quality development, harmful algal blooms, benthic sediment toxicity, as well as detection of marine debris with high accuracy.

Tissue clearing and three-dimensional imaging of intact tissues: a review on FACT protocol.

FACT is a developed technique for clearing tissues that does not use acrylamide. Since the removal of lipids is crucial for transparency and efficient antibody staining throughout the tissue, especially for microscopy and imaging, it is a harmful process that can cause the loss of important biological molecules such as proteins. The FACT technique overcomes this by chemically bonding the membrane and intracellular proteins with the extracellular matrix, creating a massive 3D hydrogel matrix and providing structural support to fortify the tissue during processing. Compared to other acrylamide-based techniques, the FACT technique requires less labor and harmful chemicals and is therefore considered a more suitable option. In this study, we describe the complete FACT protocol for antibody staining and imaging of whole-cleared tissues while preserving structure and improving image quality. The protocol includes tissue perfusion, fixation, clearing, antibody staining, refractive index matching (RIM) (), microscopy, and imaging. The timing for each step varies depending on the size, weight, and type of tissue, as well as the type of immunostaining. We provide an example of the FACT protocol using mouse brain tissue, which demonstrates its suitability for molecular interrogation analysis of large tissues. The FACT technique has been successfully performed on different types of tissues, making it a favorable choice for a variety of applications.

Photodynamic therapy of cervical cancer: a scoping review on the efficacy of various molecules.

Background: Cervical cancer poses a considerable worldwide health issue, where infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a vital role as a risk factor. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment for HPV-related cervical lesions, which uses photosensitizers and light to selectively destroy abnormal cells. Objectives: Our objective is to present a comprehensive overview of the different types of molecules employed in PDT to reduce the occurrence and fatality rates associated with cervical cancer. Design: Scoping review and bibliometric analysis. Methods: The article explores clinical trials investigating the efficacy of PDT in treating low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, as well as preclinical approaches utilizing various molecules for PDT in cervical cancer. Furthermore, the article sheds light on potential molecules for PDT enhancement, examining their properties through computer modeling simulations, molecular docking, and assessing their advantages and disadvantages. Results: Our findings demonstrate that PDT holds promise as a therapeutic approach for treating cervical lesions associated with HPV and cervical cancer. Additionally, we observe that the utilization of diverse dye classes enhances the anticancer effects of PDT. Conclusion: Among the various molecules employed in PDT, functionalized fullerene exhibits a notable inclination toward overexpressed receptors in cervical cancer cells, making it a potential candidate for intensified use in PDT. However, further research is needed to evaluate its long-term effectiveness and safety.

Using light to treat cervical cancer: what you need to know Cervical cancer is a significant global health concern, often linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). There is a less invasive treatment called photodynamic therapy (PDT), which employs light and special substances to target and destroy abnormal cells related to HPV. In this review, we aim to give you a comprehensive look at the different substances used in PDT to reduce the occurrence and severity of cervical cancer. We have examined clinical trials focusing on treating specific types of cervical lesions and explored preclinical approaches using various substances. We have also delved into computer simulations and molecular docking to understand the strengths and weaknesses of these substances. Our findings show that PDT has potential as a treatment for HPV-related cervical lesions and cancer. Different dye classes used in this therapy enhance its effectiveness against cancer. Notably, a substance called functionalized fullerene stands out for its tendency to target receptors overexpressed in cervical cancer cells. It looks promising, but more research is necessary to ensure its long-term effectiveness and safety.

Histological evaluation of renal progenitor/stem cells, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease, and molecular docking analysis of drug-receptor interactions.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are prevalent and debilitating conditions with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation into the histological characteristics of renal progenitor/stem cells (RPCs), renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in CKD and ESRD patients. Additionally, we performed a molecular docking analysis to explore potential drug-receptor interactions involving common medications prescribed to CKD patients. Our histological examination revealed a noteworthy increase in the number of CD24- and CD133-positive cells in CKD and ESRD patients, representing RPCs. These cells are implicated in kidney repair and regeneration, underscoring their potential role in CKD management. Moreover, we observed an elevation in the number of EPCs within the kidneys of CKD and ESRD patients, suggesting a protective role of EPCs in kidney preservation. The molecular docking analysis unveiled intriguing insights into potential drug interventions. Notably, digoxin exhibited the highest in-silico binding affinity to numerous receptors associated with the functions of RPCs, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and EPCs, emphasizing the potential multifaceted effects of this cardiac glycoside in CKD patients. Other drugs, including apixaban, glimepiride, and glibenclamide, also displayed strong in-silico affinities to specific receptors, indicating their potential influence on various renal cell functions. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the histological alterations in renal cell populations in CKD and ESRD patients and underscores the potential roles of RPCs and EPCs in kidney repair and preservation. The molecular docking analysis reveals the complex interactions between common drugs and renal cells, suggesting the need for further in-vitro and in-vivo research to fully understand these relationships. These findings contribute to our understanding of CKD and offer new avenues for research into potential therapeutic interventions.

Proliferating and migrating effects of regenerating sea anemone Aulactinia stella cells-derived exosomes on human skin fibroblasts.

Regenerative effects of sea anemone-derived exosomes on human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) were investigated. Water-based extracts from regenerating Aulactinia stella tissue were collected at various time points, and exosomes were extracted after inducing wounds. Both the extract and exosomes were tested on HFF for proliferation and in vitro wound healing. In silico analysis explored protein-protein docking between regenerative exosome proteins and HFF receptors. The MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide proliferation assay and in vitro wound healing test of aquatic extract showed proliferative effects on HFF cell lines, with the 60 µg/mL concentration significantly enhancing cell migration. Exosomes were characterised. Exosomes showed a significantly positive effect on cell proliferation and migration at the 50 µg/mL concentration 48 h post-wound induction. In silico analysis revealed potential binding affinities between exosome proteins and HFF receptors. In conclusion, optimised concentrations of A. stella-derived exosomes exhibited positive effects on HFF regeneration and migration, suggesting their potential in accelerating wound healing.

Comprehensive Overview of Innovative Strategies in Preventing Renal Ischemia-reperfusion Injury: Insights from Bibliometric and In silico Analyses.

BACKGROUND: Ischemia-reperfusion Injury (IRI) is a complex pathophysiological process with severe consequences, including irreversible loss of renal function. Various intraoperative prevention methods have been proposed to mitigate the harmful effects of warm ischemia and kidney reperfusion. AIM: This comprehensive analysis provides an overview of pharmacological agents and intraoperative methods for preventing and treating renal IRI. METHODS: Our analysis revealed that eplerenone exhibited the highest binding affinity to crucial targets, including Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (AD), Estrogen Receptor (ER), Klotho protein, Mineralocorticoid Receptor (MR), and Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4). This finding indicates eplerenone's potential as a potent preventive agent against IRI, surpassing other available therapeutics like Benzodioxole, Hydrocortisone, Indoles, Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, and Niacinamide. In preventing kidney IRI, our comprehensive analysis emphasizes the significance of eplerenone due to its strong binding affinity to key targets involved in the pathogenesis of IRI. RESULTS: This finding positions eplerenone as a promising candidate for further clinical investigation and consideration for future clinical practice. CONCLUSION: The insights provided in this analysis will assist clinicians and researchers in selecting effective preventive approaches for renal IRI in surgical settings, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Improving Fertility in Non-obstructive Azoospermia: Results from an Autologous Bone Mar-row-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cell Phase I Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: In this phase I clinical trial, our primary objective was to develop an innovative therapeutic approach utilizing autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (BM-MSCs) for the treatment of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Additionally, we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of this approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We recruited 80 participants in this non-randomized, open-label clinical trial, including patients undergoing NOA treatment using autologous BM-MSCs (n=40) and those receiving hormone therapy as a control group (n=40). Detailed participant characteristics, such as age, baseline hormonal profiles, etiology of NOA, and medical history, were thoroughly documented. Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network was achieved using microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (microTESE). Semen analysis and hormonal assessments were performed both before and six months after treatment. Additionally, we conducted an in-silico analysis to explore potential protein-protein interactions between exosomes secreted from BM-MSCs and receptors present in human seminiferous tubule cells. RESULTS: Our results revealed significant improvements following treatment, including increased testosterone and inhibin B levels, elevated sperm concentration, and reduced levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin. Notably, in nine patients (22.5%) previously diagnosed with secondary infertility and exhibiting azoospermia before treatment, the proposed approach yielded successful outcomes, as indicated by hormonal profile changes over six months. Importantly, these improvements were achieved without complications. Additionally, our in-silico analysis identified potential binding interactions between the protein content of BM-MSC-derived exosomes and receptors integral to spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION: Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network using microTESE in NOA patients led to the regeneration of seminiferous tubules and the regulation of hormonal profiles governing spermatogenesis. Our findings support the safety and effectiveness of autologous BM-MSCs as a promising treatment modality for NOA, with a particular focus on the achieved outcomes in patients with secondary infertility (registration number: IRCT20190519043634N1).

Epigenetic Modification Factors and microRNAs Network Associated with Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells toward Cardiomyocytes: A Review.

More research is being conducted on myocardial cell treatments utilizing stem cell lines that can develop into cardiomyocytes. All of the forms of cardiac illnesses have shown to be quite amenable to treatments using embryonic (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In the present study, we reviewed the differentiation of these cell types into cardiomyocytes from an epigenetic standpoint. We also provided a miRNA network that is devoted to the epigenetic commitment of stem cells toward cardiomyocyte cells and related diseases, such as congenital heart defects, comprehensively. Histone acetylation, methylation, DNA alterations, N6-methyladenosine (m6a) RNA methylation, and cardiac mitochondrial mutations are explored as potential tools for precise stem cell differentiation.

Microbial Landscape and Antibiotic-Susceptibility Profiles of Microorganisms in Patients with Bacterial Pneumonia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study of COVID-19 and Non-COVID-19 Cases in Aktobe, Kazakhstan.

This cross-sectional study investigated the microbial landscape and antibiotic-resistance patterns in patients with bacterial pneumonia, with a focus on the impact of COVID-19. Sputum samples from individuals with bacterial pneumonia, including coronavirus disease 2019-positive polymerase chain reaction (COVID-19-PCR+), COVID-19-PCR- and non-COVID-19 patients, were analyzed. Surprisingly, the classic etiological factor of bacterial pneumonia, Streptococcus pneumoniae, was rarely isolated from the sputum samples. Furthermore, the frequency of multidrug-resistant pathogens was found to be higher in non-COVID-19 patients, highlighting the potential impact of the pandemic on antimicrobial resistance. Strains obtained from COVID-19-PCR+ patients exhibited significant resistance to commonly used antibiotics, including fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins. Notably, the ESKAPE pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Enterobacter aerogenes, were identified among the isolated microorganisms. Our findings underscore the urgent need for infection control measures and responsible antibiotic use in healthcare settings, as well as the importance of enhancing pneumonia diagnostics and implementing standardized laboratory protocols.

Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Output on Antimicrobial Resistance among Pneumonia Pathogens (2013-2023).

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global concern, posing significant challenges to the effective treatment of infections, including pneumonia. This bibliometric analysis aims to investigate the research output on AMR among pneumonia pathogens from 2013 to 2023. Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOS-CC) using an inclusive search strategy. The analysis included 152 relevant studies published in 99 different sources, involving 988 authors and yielding an average of 16.33 citations per document over the past decade. The findings reveal a notable increase in research on AMR among pneumonia pathogens, indicating a growing awareness of this critical issue. Collaborative studies were prevalent, with the majority of authors engaging in joint research efforts. Bradford's Law identified twelve core journals that were instrumental in disseminating research in this field, with "Medicine" emerging as the most prolific journal. The USA and China emerged as the leading contributors, while Germany displayed a strong inclination towards collaborative research. Intermountain Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, and Udice-French Research Universities were the most productive institutions, and Yayan J. and Rasche K. were the top authors. Furthermore, the analysis identified commonly encountered microorganisms such as Acinetobacter baumanii and Klebsiella pneumoniae in the context of AMR. Time-based analysis of keywords highlighted the significance of terms like "community-acquired pneumonia" and "ventilator-associated pneumonia". Overall, this comprehensive study sheds light on the global research landscape of AMR among pneumonia pathogens. The insights gained from this analysis are essential for guiding future research priorities and collaborative efforts to combat AMR effectively and improve treatment outcomes for pneumonia and related infections. As the frequency of reports concerning resistance among pneumonia pathogens, notably A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae, continues to rise, there is an immediate requirement for pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare providers to respond proactively and ready themselves for the forthcoming implications of this matter. It also underscores the importance of knowledge dissemination and evidence-based interventions to address this growing public health challenge. However, the study acknowledges the limitations associated with using a single publication database and encourages the inclusion of data from other sources in future research.

Genetic and epigenetic factors of arterial hypertension: a bibliometric- and in-silico-based analyses.

Introduction: Arterial hypertension (AH) is a pervasive global health concern with multifaceted origins encompassing both genetic and environmental components. Previous research has firmly established the association between AH and diverse genetic factors. Consequently, scientists have conducted extensive genetic investigations in recent years to unravel the intricate pathophysiology of AH. Methods: In this study, we conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis employing VOSviewer software to identify the most noteworthy genetic factors that have been the focal point of numerous investigations within the AH field in recent years. Our analysis revealed genes and microRNAs intricately linked to AH, underscoring their pivotal roles in this condition. Additionally, we performed molecular docking analyses to ascertain microRNAs with the highest binding affinity to these identified genes. Furthermore, we constructed a network to elucidate the in-silico-based functional interactions between the identified microRNAs and genes, shedding light on their potential roles in AH pathogenesis. Results: Notably, this pioneering in silico examination of genetic factors associated with AH promises novel insights into our understanding of this complex condition. Our findings prominently highlight miR-7110-5p, miR-7110-3p, miR-663, miR-328-3p, and miR-140-5p as microRNAs exhibiting a remarkable affinity for target genes. These microRNAs hold promise as valuable diagnostic and therapeutic factors, offering new avenues for the diagnosis and treatment of AH in the foreseeable future. Conclusion: In summary, this research underscores the critical importance of genetic factors in AH and, through in silico analyses, identifies specific microRNAs with significant potential for further investigation and clinical applications in AH management.

Enhancing differentiation of menstrual blood-derived stem cells into female germ cells using a bilayer amniotic membrane and nano-fibrous fibroin scaffold.

Three-dimensional nanofiber scaffolds offer a promising method for simulating in vivo conditions within the laboratory. This study aims to investigate the influence of a bilayer amniochorionic membrane/nanofibrous fibroin scaffold on the differentiation of human menstrual blood mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MenSCs) into female germ cells. MenSCs were isolated and assigned to four culture groups: (i) MenSCs co-cultured with granulosa cells (GCs) using the scaffold (3D-T group), (ii) MenSCs using the scaffold alone (3D-C group), (iii) MenSCs co-cultured only with GCs (2D-T group), and (iv) MenSCs without co-culture or scaffold (2D-C group). Both MenSCs and GCs were independently cultured for two weeks before co-culturing was initiated. Flow cytometry was employed to characterize MenSCs based on positive markers (CD73, CD90, and CD105) and negative markers (CD45 and CD133). Additionally, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry were used to characterize the GCs. Differentiated MenSCs were analyzed using real-time PCR and immunostaining. The real-time PCR results demonstrated significantly higher levels of VASA expression in the 3D-T group compared to the 3D-C, 2D-T, and 2D-C groups. Similarly, the SCP3 mRNA level in the 3D-T group was notably elevated compared to the 3D-C, 2D-T, and 2D-C groups. Moreover, the expression of GDF9 was significantly higher in the 3D-T group when compared to the 3D-C, 2D-T, and 2D-C groups. Immunostaining results revealed a lack of signal for VASA, SCP3, or GDF9 markers in the 2D-T group, while some cells in the 3D-T group exhibited positive staining for all these proteins. These findings suggest that the combination of a bilayer amniochorionic membrane/nanofibrous fibroin scaffold with co-culturing GCs facilitates the differentiation of MenSCs into female germ cells.

Anti-lung Cancer Marine Compounds: A Review.

Lung cancer is one of the most common and lethal cancers in human beings. Lung cancer has been divided into two major types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Current drugs suffer from various side effects, and the insufficient efficacy of present treatments creates a desire for better more efficient new drugs. This review compares the diversity of marine-derived bioactive compounds from different marine species. Some of the natural products from marine resources are in different stages of clinical trials. By the way, most of them have been studied in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, in this review, the mechanisms of action of marine-derived anti-lung cancer components on lung cancer cell lines have been reviewed. In addition, considering growing rate and the high costs of cancer research, attention must be paid to some aspects of targeting and developing anti-lung cancer drug. In better words, like the other therapeutic strategies that have their particular challenges and weak points, several challenges about marine-derived anti-lung cancer components which exist for scientists for doing research are explained. Moreover, as the attentions in the field of cancer therapy are focused on designing and developing new anticancer strategies for the treatment of cancer in the future, the application of marine-derived anti-lung cancer components in the field of future cancer therapy and their role in future anticancer strategies are briefly discussed.

Effect of continuous intra-incisional bupivacaine on postoperative pain in non-traumatic spinal fixation surgeries: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Continuous injection of local anesthetics by using surgical wound catheters for postoperative pain relief has gained acceptance in recent years. However, whether this method can be alternatively used instead of systemic opioids in different surgical procedures has not yet been elucidated. OBJECTIVES: The aim was to investigate the effect of continuous injection of bupivacaine through a catheter inside the surgical wound on reducing the postoperative pain of lumbar spine fusion surgeries. METHODS: In this clinical trial, 31 patients undergoing non-traumatic lumbar spine stabilization surgery were randomly assigned to receive (n = 15) or do not receive (n = 16) bupivacaine through a catheter inside the surgical wound, postoperatively. Pain intensity (NRS), dose of required morphine, and drug-related complications within 24 hours of intervention were assessed and compared by the Mann-Whitney and independent t-test. RESULTS: Mean pain intensity was significantly lower in the case group over the first postoperative hour in the recovery room (p < 0.001), which continued for the first 2 hours after entering the ward. The mean morphine intake was lower in the bupivacaine group during the first postoperative 24 hours (16 ± 0.88 vs. 7.33 ± 0.93 mg, p < 0.001). The two groups were not significantly different regarding drug-related complications. CONCLUSION: Continuous intra-incisional infusion of bupivacaine helped better pain reduction during the early postoperative hours while sparing morphine consumption in the first postoperative day.

Laparoscopic One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass in a Patient with Morbid Obesity and Situs Inversus Totalis: a Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic one-anastomosis gastric bypass is a new bariatric surgery technique for weight loss in morbid obesity. This technique has come to be associated with suitable weight loss results, low technical complications, short surgery time, low cost, short post-operational period, and low chances of injury comparisons with other bariatric surgical approaches to weight loss in morbid obesity such as sleeve and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no report of such surgery in the case of situs inversus totalis concurrent with morbid obesity. CASE PRESENTATION: The patient was a 36-year-old male suffering from morbid obesity (BMI, 56.8) along with situs inversus totalis. In spite of operational complexities due to the reversed location of abdominal and thoracic organs, the operation was performed similarly to routine subjects considering the diverse site of organs. CONCLUSION: Given the considerable superiorities of one anastomosis gastric bypass over other bariatric surgical techniques, particularly concerning the simpler procedure, low surgical complication and short surgery time, this approach may guarantee positive outcomes in subjects with concurrent situs inversus totalis and morbid obesity.

A Pregnant Lady Undergoing Bariatric Surgery.

The patient was a 34-year-old morbidly obese woman, a proper candidate for bariatric surgery, with a BMI of 49.5 (135 kg weight, and 165 cm height). All the routine blood tests, done prior to the surgery, were within the normal range, and her blood ß-hCG was particularly negative before the surgery.Sleeve gastrectomy was performed successfully and she was discharged three days later under acceptable medical conditions. Due to the lack of menstruation three months after the operation, Blood ß-hCG level was checked and turned out to be positive. Ultrasound examination confirmed a pregnancy at 14 weeks of gestational age, implying that the patient had been pregnant during the bariatric surgery.

Analgesic Effect of Valerian Root and Turnip Extracts.

BACKGROUND: Medicinal plants are considered as one of the important sources of chemical substances with therapeutic effects. This study aimed to compare the analgesic effects of alcoholic extract of valerian root and turnip in rats. METHODS: Fifty female Wistar rats weighing 190 g were divided into 5 equal groups of control (subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin in the right foot), sham (subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin+distilled water), experimental 1 (subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin+200 mg/kg turnip extract), experimental 2 (subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin 2+200 mg/kg valerian root extract) and experimental 3 (subcutaneous injection of 2.5% formalin+200 mg/kg turnip extract+200 mg/kg valerian root extract). The time duration of 0-5 and 16-60 minutes after injection of formalin were respectively considered as acute and chronic phases. Injection of distilled water and the extracts was conducted 30 minutes before assessing the analgesic effects. RESULTS: A significant decrease in pain score in the acute phase was observed in the group received valerian root extract compared to the control group. Also, a significant reduction in pain score was noted in the acute and chronic phases of the group receiving simultaneous administration of valerian root and turnip extracts when compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous use of valerian root and turnip extracts is recommended for analgesic effects in both acute and chronic phases of the pain.

Effect of continuous intra-incisional bupivacaine on postoperative pain in non-traumatic spinal fixation surgeries: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Continuous injection of local anesthetics by using surgical wound catheters for postoperative pain relief has gained acceptance in recent years. However, whether this method can be alternatively used instead of systemic opioids in different surgical procedures has not yet been elucidated. Objectives The aim was to investigate the effect of continuous injection of bupivacaine through a catheter inside the surgical wound on reducing the postoperative pain of lumbar spine fusion surgeries. Methods In this clinical trial, 31 patients undergoing non-traumatic lumbar spine stabilization surgery were randomly assigned to receive (n = 15) or do not receive (n = 16) bupivacaine through a catheter inside the surgical wound, postoperatively. Pain intensity (NRS), dose of required morphine, and drug-related complications within 24 hours of intervention were assessed and compared by the Mann-Whitney and independent t-test. Results Mean pain intensity was significantly lower in the case group over the first postoperative hour in the recovery room (p < 0.001), which continued for the first 2 hours after entering the ward. The mean morphine intake was lower in the bupivacaine group during the first postoperative 24 hours (16 ± 0.88 vs. 7.33 ± 0.93 mg, p < 0.001). The two groups were not significantly different regarding drug-related complications. Conclusion Continuous intra-incisional infusion of bupivacaine helped better pain reduction during the early postoperative hours while sparing morphine consumption in the first postoperative day.