Practical photocatalytic and sonophotocatalytic reduction of nitroarenes in water under blue LED irradiation using ß-CD modified TiO2 as a green nest photocatalyst.

Photocatalysis using natural photosynthesis is a green technology that is gaining popularity in a number of industries due to its potential for environmental applications and the use of solar energy. Focus is being placed on using inexpensive materials and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of various wavelengths in photocatalytic reactions in order to improve the performance of solar-driven photocatalysts at a lower cost. In this study, a scalable, highly efficient photocatalytic and sonophotocatalytic method was investigated for the reduction of nitro-compounds by a water/titania/ß-cyclodextrin system under sunlight and blue LED irradiation, using sodium sulfide as a sacrificial electron donor. ß-Cyclodextrin, chemically bound to TiO2 nanoparticles as an encapsulating agent, hosted nitro compounds in aqueous media and formed an inclusion complex. In addition, this method was used to successfully carry out one-pot reduction-amidation of nitroarene compounds in the presence of acetic anhydride. Interestingly, it was found that ultrasound has a synergistic effect on photocatalytic reduction and considerably reduces the duration time. In this regard, a fast, practical sonophotocatalytic reduction of nitroarenes was carried out in an ultrasound bath.

Effect of 810 nm Diode Laser Irradiation on the Time of Initiation and Depth of Anesthesia for Endodontic Treatment of Mandibular First Molars with Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis: A Clinical Trial.

Objective: In endodontic treatments, performing appropriate anesthesia in patients with irreversible pulpitis in mandibular molars may result in pain and severe problems. The irradiation of low-level lasers could be effective in this regard due to its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. This study aimed to assess the effect of 810 nm diode laser on the time of initiation and depth of anesthesia for endodontic treatment of mandibular first molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Materials and methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial evaluated 60 patients requiring endodontic treatment of mandibular first molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and pain score ≥114 according to the Heft-Parker visual analog scale (HP-VAS). The teeth were randomized into two groups of diode laser and control. In the diode laser group, 810 nm diode laser with 300 mW power and 15 J/cm2 energy density was irradiated to the buccal surface of tooth crowns for 20 sec at 2 mm distance immediately before anesthesia administration. Laser in off mode was used in the control group. Inferior alveolar nerve block was then performed using 2% lidocaine with 1:80,000 epinephrine. After anesthetic injection, the mandibular first molar and canine teeth (control) were tested by an electric pulp tester every 2 min. Two consecutive negative responses to 80 mA indicated the initiation of anesthesia. HP-VAS forms were filled out by patients to assess their level of pain during the procedure. Data were analyzed by the Student's t and Chi-square tests, and analysis of variance (α = 0.05). Results: No remarkable difference was noted between the laser group and control groups in pain severity or anesthesia onset (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Low-level (810 nm) diode laser did not affect the time of initiation or depth of anesthesia in endodontic treatment of mandibular first molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Clinical trials registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20181222042076N1).

Immunodeficiency due to a novel variant in PIK3CD: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Primary immunodeficiencies are immunological disorders caused by gene mutations involved in immune system development and activation. Recently, activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase delta syndrome (APDS) due to mutations in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), phosphatidylinositol-4, 5-bisphosphate 3-kinase, catalytic subunit delta gene (PIK3CD), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1) genes have been reported to induce a combined immunodeficiency syndrome leading to senescent T cells, lymphadenopathy, and immunodeficiency. The exact diagnosis of these deficiencies is essential for treatment and prognosis. In recent years, targeted treatment with selective PI3Kd inhibitors has had a significant effect on controlling the symptoms of these patients. CASE PRESENTATION: In this case report, we represent a 27-month-old girl with recurrent fever, an increased level of inflammatory markers, and erythema nodosum, who was referred to the rheumatology clinic. In the course of evaluations, because of the lack of clinical improvement with usual treatments, and a history of frequent respiratory infections, combined immunodeficiency was diagnosed in the immunological investigations. Moreover, whole-exome sequencing was performed for her. CONCLUSION: The genetic analysis found a novel variant of PIK3CD (c.1429 G > A) in the patient. Following daily antibiotic prophylaxis and monthly IV therapy, the patient's frequent infections and fevers were controlled.

A novel and ultrasensitive electrochemical DNA biosensor for pralatrexate detection.

An attempt was made to develop a new sensitive biosensor for pralatrexate, as an anticancer drug, based on its interaction with the guanine of fish sperm DNA anchored on a screen-printed electrode (SPE) modified with polypyrrole (PP)/octahedral Pd-doped Co3O4 composite (Oh-Pd-doped Co3O4 C). Electrochemical techniques like differential pulse voltammetry verified the mechanism of such an interaction on the dsDNA/PP/Oh-Pd-doped Co3O4 C/SPE surface. A reduction in the peak current of guanine oxidation elucidated the interaction in acetate buffer with pH = 4.8. The optimization of response was performed for the interaction method according to potential, accumulation time, reproducibility and drug content. The linear dynamic range was estimated at 1.0 nM to 150.0 µM as well as a limit of detection as low as 0.61 nM for the DNA and pralatrexate concentrations. The practical potential of the proposed sensor was verified by determining pralatrexate in its pharmaceutical matrices.

Administration of stem cells against cardiovascular diseases with a focus on molecular mechanisms: Current knowledge and prospects.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a serious global concern for public and human health. Despite the emergence of significant therapeutic advances, it is still the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. As a result, extensive efforts are underway to develop practical therapeutic approaches. Stem cell-based therapies could be considered a promising strategy for the treatment of CVDs. The efficacy of stem cell-based therapeutic approaches is demonstrated through recent laboratory and clinical studies due to their inherent regenerative properties, proliferative nature, and their capacity to differentiate into different cells such as cardiomyocytes. These properties could improve cardiovascular functioning leading to heart regeneration. The two most common types of stem cells with the potential to cure heart diseases are induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Several studies have demonstrated the use, efficacy, and safety of MSC and iPSCs-based therapies for the treatment of CVDs. In this study, we explain the application of stem cells, especially iPSCs and MSCs, in the treatment of CVDs with a focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms and then discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and perspectives of using this technology in the treatment of these diseases.

Effects of CEM cement and emdogain on proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells from the apical papilla: a comparative in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: This study compared the effects of calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement, Emdogain (EMD), and their combination (CEM/Emdogain) on the differentiation and proliferation of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs). METHODS: In this in vitro, experimental study, SCAPs were isolated from two sound immature impacted third molars and cultured. After ensuring their stemness by detecting cell surface markers they were exposed to CEM cement, Emdogain, and CEM cement coated with Emdogain for 24 and 72 h. The control cells did not undergo any intervention. Cell viability [by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay], expression of odontogenic differentiation genes [by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)], and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (by ALP staining kit) were evaluated. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, t-test, and Mann-Whitney test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Cell viability in the CEM cement and CEM/Emdogain groups decreased compared with the control group at 72 h (P < 0.05). Expression of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP) genes, and ALP activity significantly increased in all three experimental groups compared with the control group at both 24 and 72 h. This increase was substantially more significant in CEM/Emdogain group (P > 0.05). The number of mineralized nodules significantly increased in all groups at 72 h, with a higher rate in the CEM/Emdogain group. CONCLUSION: All biomaterials increased the differentiation of SCAPs, expression of odontogenic differentiation genes, and ALP activity, but CEM/Emdogain was considerably more effective for this purpose.

Evaluating the Effect of an Experimental Sesame Gel on Human Enamel: Atomic Force Microscopy Study.

Statement of the Problem: Every effort for increasing the calcium concentration in the saliva would be beneficial for prevention of dental caries. Regarding this issue, the natural products could be considered safer and more cost effective. Sesame is rich in calcium but the data about the effect of sesame on enamel roughness is inadequate. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the effect of an experimental sesame gel on the surface roughness of human enamel by using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Materials and Method: In the current experimental study, fifteen enamel slices with 1mm thickness were prepared. They were polished and acid etched to produce a substantial rough surface prior to the first AFM analysis. The enamel blocks were randomly divided into three groups treated with distilled water, fluoride gel, and an experimental prepared sesame gel correspondingly. The treating agent was applied for 3minutes at 0, 8, 24, and 48h intervals and washed by distilled water after each cycles. Ultimately, the final AFM micrographs were prepared. The statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey Post Hoc tests (α=0.05). Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the surface roughness was significantly reduced in both sesame and fluoride groups (p= 0.017 and 0.018, respectively) while the control group (distilled water) were not noticeably changed (p= 0.12). The control group had statistically significant difference with both the sesame and the fluoride groups (p= 0.007 and 0.007, respectively) while the there was no significance difference between sesame and fluoride groups (p= 0.997). Conclusion: Following demineralization by acid etched process, the sesame gel significantly reduced surface roughness of enamel and its effect was similar to fluoride gel.

Benfotiamine reduced collagen IV contents of sciatic nerve in hyperglycemic rats.

BACKGROUND: Neuropathy as a common complication of hyperglycemia in diabetic patients is probably caused by metabolic and structural changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) of peripheral nerves. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of benfotiamine (BT) on the structural, biological and mechanical characteristics of rat sciatic nerve in hyperglycemic condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty eight adult male Wistar rats were assigned to 6 groups (n = 8): control (healthy rats with no treatment; C), positive control (healthy rats received BT treatment; B), negative control groups 1&2 (hyperglycemic rats kept for 4 and/or 8 weeks; 4WD and 8WD, respectively) and experimental groups 1&2 (hyperglycemic rats treated by daily oral gavage of 100 mg kg- 1 body weight BT for 4 and/or 8 weeks; 4WD + BT and 8WD + BT, respectively). Hyperglycemia was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of of streptozotocin (55 mg kg- 1 body weight). After a period of experimental period (4 and/or 8 weeks) rats were sacrificed and from each two segments (1 cm length) of left sciatic nerve were sampled. These samples were prepared for histological examinations (light and electron microscopy), collagen IV immunohistochemistry and strength tensile test. RESULTS: In comparison to control groups, in 4WD and 8WD groups the amount of type IV collagen was increased, the structure of myelin sheath and nerve fibers were extensively altered and the tensile strength was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) while in 4WD + BT and 8WD + BT groups these abnormalities were attenuated. CONCLUSIONS: It seems that BT treatment may rescue the sciatic nerve from the hyperglycemic-induced ECM structural abnormality. This beneficial advantage of BT is likely exerted through the modification of glucose metabolism pathways.

Evaluation of the in vivo antihypertensive effect and antioxidant activity of HL-7 and HL-10 peptide in mice.

BACKGROUND: The tendency to use bioactive peptides has increased in recent decades, and research would be essential for recognizing the therapeutic effects of peptides present in animals or food resource. In this study, the in vivo antioxidant and antihypertensive properties of peptides HL-7 with the sequence of YLYELR and HL-10 with the sequence of AFPYYGHHLG were identified from scorpion venom of H. lepturus were evaluated. METHODS AND RESULTS: To study the in vivo effects of peptides, D-galactose-induced and DOCA salt-induced mice models were used. The results of the antioxidant assay for both peptides showed that the activity of serum and liver catalase (CAT), as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes, was significantly decreased in the D-galactose-induced group (NC), while MDA levels were increased in serum and the liver tissue samples (p < 0.01). Compared with the D-galactose-induced mice, the peptide treated mice group had a higher activity of antioxidant enzymes namely CAT and SOD, as well as a lower lipid peroxidation level. Also, the results of antihypertensive activity for both peptides showed that systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of the mice treated with the HL-7 and HL-10 peptides were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.01). The administration of the HL-7 peptide at doses of 2 mg/kg BW (LP1), 5 mg/kg BW (-IP1) and 15 mg/kg BW (HP1) significantly diminished the mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) by 11 mmHg, 31 mmHg and 40.47 mmHg, respectively. Accordingly, treatment of mice with the HL-10 peptide at doses of 2 mg/kg BW (LP2), 5 mg/kg BW (IP2) and 15 mg/kg BW (HP2) considerably lowered the MAP by 8 mmHg, 18.3 mmHg and 21.93 mmHg, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that both the HL-7 and HL-10 peptides could be potentially utilized as antihypertensive and antioxidant components.

Recurrent angioedema, Guillain-Barré, and myelitis in a girl with systemic lupus erythematosus and CD59 deficiency syndrome.

BACKGROUND: CD59 deficiency is a congenital mutation disorder in complement pathway which can present with various manifestations. CASE PRESENTATION: Herein, we presented an adolescent 16-years-old girl with recurrent attacks of Guillain-Barre in early childhood and then recurrent attacks of angioedema, paresthesia, and myelitis. Finally, she presented with quadriplegia, malar rash, proteinuria, lymphopenia, and high titer of antinuclear antibody. So, the patient developed systemic lupus erythematosus. Furthermore, we performed whole exome sequencing which revealed homozygote mutations in CD59 for the patient and heterozygote one for her parents. CD flow cytometry showed less than 1 percent expression of CD59 on the surface of the patient's peripheral blood cells confirming the disorder. So, she had CD59 deficiency. The patient's episodes were managed with plasma exchanges, corticosteroids, Cyclophosphamide, and Mycophenolate Mofetil which induced and maintained remission. CONCLUSION: CD59 deficiency can be presented with various clinical features such as neurologic, hematologic, dermatologic, and rheumatologic problems including systemic lupus erythematosus.

Evaluate the types and amount of genotoxic waste in Tehran University of Medical Science's hospitals.

PURPOSE: Genotoxic wastes are one type of hospital wastes that are extremely dangerous and may cause cell mutation or cancer and their disposal should be taken seriously. Cytotoxic drugs are main component of these wastes. The purpose of this study was to determine the types and quantities of genotoxic wastes in hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences and evaluation of genotoxic waste management index. METHODS: For this purpose, a questionnaire was used to collect data. Each question was scored according to compliance or non-compliance with the law, and genotoxic hospital waste management index was calculated for each hospital. RESULTS: Various parameters including waste generation rate, segregation, collection, transportation, storage, disposal and the hygiene of personnel were evaluated. The results showed that 60% of hospitals ranked medium, 27% ranked poor and 13% ranked as very poor according to this index. CONCLUSIONS: Since the condition of genotoxic waste management in this study was ranked as medium, therefore some steps of hospital waste management system require improvement.

Quality Assessment of Information About Pit and Fissure Sealants in Persian Websites in 2012.

OBJECTIVES: Despite the increasing use of Internet, there is no supervision over the accuracy and quality of the information provided in the web. To deal with this problem, health specialists should take part in planning, publishing and supervision of online health-related information. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of information related to pit and fissure sealants in Persian websites. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, Persian websites providing information about fissure sealants were found using Google search engine. The searched keywords according to the MeSH database were "patient education" and "fissure sealant". After applying the exclusion criteria, 37 websites out of 500 initial links remained in the study. These websites were evaluated based on a researcher-made checklist. The validity and reliability of the checklist were evaluated and confirmed. Descriptive analysis was applied to report the results of our study using SPSS version 11.5. RESULTS: The average score for the quality of information was 22.46 out of 38. The minimum scores were 16 and 30 and belonged to Pezeshkanemrooz.com and Asa85.blogfa.com , respectively. The results showed that 62.2% of the answers were scored 2-4 and 37.8% were scored 1; therefore, the overall quality of the published content was rated to be moderate for 62.2% and low for 37.8% of the websites. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the quality of information related to fissure sealant provided in Persian websites was good; however, the information given was mostly incomplete and could be improved. The main problems were doubtful credibility and outdated information.

Thyroid function and anti-thyroid antibodies in Iranian patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: influences of age and sex.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is frequently associated with autoimmune thyroid disease (ATD).Genetic susceptibility for autoantibody formation in association with ATD and type 1 diabetes mellitus has been described with varying frequencies, but there is still debate about its prevailing situation in Iran. We have therefore investigated the prevalence of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti thyroglubolin (Anti TG) antibodies in type 1 diabetic patients, and compared the effect of age and sex on the thyroid autoimmunity in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Iran.Ninety one subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus and one hundred and sixty three unrelated normal controls under the age of thirty years were recruited for the detection of anti-TPO and anti-TG. Radio Immuno Assay and chemiluminescence methods were used for anti-TPO and anti-TG detection respectively.Among 91 type 1 diabetic patients, 36 (39.6%) were positive for anti-TPO and 27(30%) were positive for antiTG. Anti-TPO antibodies were detected only in 6.7% of control group. Comparing with those without thyroid autoimmunity, there was a female preponderance for the type 1 diabetic patients with thyroid autoimmunity (female: male, 28:14 vs. 28:20 respectively). Among the type 1 diabetic patients those with thyroid autoimmunity, tended to be older (p: 0.04) and to have higher TSH concentration (p: 0.03). Patients with high anti-TPO levels had longer duration of diabetes (P: 0.02).The presence of anti-TPO in 39.6% of our type 1 diabetic patients comparing with 8.5% of normal subjects confirmed the strong association of ATD and type 1 diabetes mellitus.