ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Hepatic fibrosis is a major health problem all over the world, and there is no effective treatment to cure it. Hence, the current study sought to assess the anti-fibrotic efficacy of apigenin against CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. METHODS: Forty-eight mice were put into six groups. G1: Normal Control, G2: CCl4 Control, G3: Silymarin (100 mg/kg), G4 and G5: Apigenin (2 &20 mg/Kg), G6: Apigenin alone (20 mg/Kg). Groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 were given CCl4 (0.5 mL/kg. i.p.) twice/week for six weeks. The level of AST, ALT, TC, TG, and TB in serum and IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α in tissue homogenates were assessed. Histological studies by H&E staining and Immunostaining of liver tissues were also performed. RESULTS: The CCl4-challenged group showed increased serum AST (4-fold), ALT (6-fold), and TB (5-fold). Both silymarin and apigenin treatments significantly improved these hepatic biomarkers. The CCl4-challenged group showed reduced levels of CAT (89%), GSH (53%), and increased MDA (3-fold). Both silymarin and apigenin treatments significantly altered these oxidative markers in tissue homogenates. The CCl4-treated group showed a two-fold increase in IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. Silymarin and apigenin treatment considerably decreased the IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. Apigenin treatment inhibited angiogenic activity, as evidenced by a decrease in VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) expression in liver tissues, and a decline in vascular endothelial cell antigen expression (CD34). CONCLUSIONS: Finally, these data collectively imply that apigenin may have antifibrotic properties, which may be explained by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiangiogenic activities.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The relationship between cancers and thromboembolic events is well established. In our study, we aim to determine the burden of thromboembolic events in patients with solid tumors and identify the risk factors related to their development. MATERIALS & METHODS: Data on patients with solid tumors and thromboembolism between January 2013 and September 2014 were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: During the study period 174 patients were identified. Of which, 172 (98.9%) had venous thrombus embolism, 137 (79%) were diagnosed with deep vein thromboses, 67 (38.5%) with pulmonary embolism, 84 (48.3%) were symptomatic and 90 (51.7) were incidental at diagnosis. The most common patients and disease characteristics were female sex, high body mass index (BMI), metastatic stage, colorectal and breast primaries, and anti-neoplastic therapy. CONCLUSION: Our study confirmed the high burden of thromboembolic events in cancer patients and the relevant factors associated with its development.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: There is an elevated rate of hereditary hemoglobinopathies in Arab populations. To address this, the Saudi government has implemented a mandatory premarital screening (PMS) program. Nevertheless, reports have shown that 48% of genetically incompatible partners have decided to marry. To address this, more information is needed on people's beliefs on these issues. AIM: To investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Taif University students towards the national PMS program. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a questionnaire, a cross-sectional study was conducted during April-May 2016 on a random sample of university students in Taif City. It was administered electronically and primarily distributed through social media. RESULTS: Most participants (97.4%) were aware that genes may transmit hereditary diseases and had heard about the PMS program. Most participants who partook in the PMS justified it based on preventing disease transmission to their offspring and ensuring their partner's health. A fair number (82.9%) were willing to change their decision to marry in the case of receiving incompatible results. Moreover, the majority of the participants (91.8%) demanded the implementation of a law that prohibits incompatible marriages. CONCLUSION: Most Taif University students have a generally positive attitude and good intended practices toward PMS. However, targeted educational programs about the importance of PMS are strongly recommended to eliminate all factors that may affect the success of the PMS program.
