DORSAL Plication Technique for the Treatment of Congenital Ventral Penile Curvature: Long-Term Outcomes of 72 Cases.

BACKGROUND: A total of 78 patients aged 11 to 17 years were diagnosed with congenital ventral penile curvature and underwent surgery with the dorsal plication technique between 2005 and 2014. AIM: To investigate the long-term outcomes of 72 patients who underwent dorsal penile plication for the treatment of congenital ventral penile curvature without hypospadias. METHODS: In all cases, the intervascular space between the deep dorsal vein and dorsal artery was dissected, and tunical plication was carried out with non-absorbable 3-0 polyamide sutures and the complication and satisfaction rates of the patients were determined in the postoperative seventh year. OUTCOMES: At the final postoperative follow-up, the patients' satisfaction with the operation was found to be 95.8%. RESULTS: Shortening of the penis (0.5-1 cm) in five cases, recurrence with less than a 20-degree curvature in two cases, palpable sutures in two cases was observed and no patients reported erectile dysfunction. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS: The limitations of our study can be considered as the absence of pharmacological erection in the preoperative evaluation, failure to evaluate penile length at the last postoperative follow-up due to the continued development of the penis, inability to evaluate erectile function at the beginning, postoperative erectile capacity being assessed in only some of the operated cases, all operations being performed by a single surgeon in the same center, and the absence of standardized questionnaires for postoperative satisfaction or adverse events. CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, dorsal plication is a relatively simple method with a low risk and high success rate for the treatment of congenital ventral penile curvatures. Akdemir F, Kayigil Ö, Okulu E. DORSAL Plication Technique for the Treatment of Congenital Ventral Penile Curvature: Long-Term Outcomes of 72 Cases. J Sex Med 2021;18:1715-1720.

Lutein and zeaxanthin isomers may attenuate photo-oxidative retinal damage via modulation of G protein-coupled receptors and growth factors in rats.

BACKGROUND: Retina photoreceptor cells are specially adapted for functioning over comprehensive ambient light conditions. Lutein and Zeaxanthin isomers (L/Zi) can protect photoreceptor cells against excessive light degeneration. Efficacy of L/Zi has been assessed on some G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), transcription and neurotrophic factors in the retina of rats exposed to incremental intense light emitting diode (LED) illumination conditions. METHODS: Forty-two male rats (age: 8 weeks) were randomly assigned to six treatment groups, 7 rats each. The rats with a 3x2 factorial design were kept under 3 intense light conditions (12hL/12hD, 16hL/8hD, 24hL/0hD) and received two levels of L/Zi (0 or 100 mg/kg BW) for two months. Increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), and decreased Rhodopsin (Rho), Rod arrestin (Sag), G Protein Subunit Alpha Transducin1 (Gnat1), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), growth-associated protein-43 (GAP43), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) were observed in 24 h light intensity adaptation followed by 16 h IL and 8 h D. RESULTS: L/Zi administration significantly improved antioxidant capacity and retinal Rho, Rod-arrestin (Sag), Gnat1, NCAM, GAP43, BDNF, NGF, IGF1, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels. However, the levels of NF-κB and GFAP levels were decreased by administration of L/Zi. CONCLUSIONS: According to these results, L/Zi may be assumed as an adjunct therapy to prevent early photoreceptor cell degeneration and neutralize free radicals derived from oxidative stress.

(3R, 3'R)-zeaxanthin protects the retina from photo-oxidative damage via modulating the inflammation and visual health molecular markers.

PURPOSE: Zeaxanthin protects the macula from ocular damage due to light or radiation by scavenging harmful reactive oxygen species. In the present study, zeaxanthin product (OmniXan®; OMX), derived from paprika pods (Capsicum annum; Family-Solanaceae), was tested for its efficacy in the rat retina against photooxidation. METHODS: Forty-two male 8-week-old Wistar rats exposed to 12L/12D, 16L/8D and 24L/0D hours of intense light conditions were orally administrated either 0 or 100 mg/kg BW of zeaxanthin concentration. Retinal morphology was analyzed by histopathology, and target gene expressions were detected with real-time polymerase chain reaction methods. RESULTS: OMX treatment significantly increased the serum zeaxanthin concentration (p < 0.001) and ameliorated oxidative damage by increasing the antioxidant enzyme activities in the retina induced by light (p < 0.001). OMX administration significantly upregulated the expression of genes, including Rhodopsin (Rho), Rod arrestin (SAG), Gα Transducin 1 (GNAT-1), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), nuclear factor-(erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase (HO-1) and decreased the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF- κB) and GFAP by OMX treatment rats. The histologic findings confirmed the antioxidant and gene expression data. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that OMX is a potent substance that can be used to protect photoreceptor cell degeneration in the retina exposed to intense light.

Comparative evaluation of the sexual functions and NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways of some aphrodisiac herbal extracts in male rats.

BACKGROUND: Mucuna pruriens, Tribulus terrestris and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are widely known as antioxidant effective herbals and have been reported to possess aphrodisiac activities in traditional usages. In this study, we determined the effects of these herbals on sexual functions, serum biochemical parameters, oxidative stress and levels of NF-κB, Nrf2, and HO-1 in reproductive tissues. METHODS: Thirty-five male rats were divided into five groups: the control group, sildenafil-treated group (5 mg/kg/d), Mucuna, Tribulus and Ashwagandha groups. The extract groups were treated orally either with Mucuna, Tribulus or Ashwagandha (300 mg/kg b.w.) for 8 weeks. RESULTS: All of the extracts were found to be significantly effective in sexual functioning and antioxidant capacity and Tribulus showed the highest effectiveness. Serum testosterone levels significantly increased in Tribulus and Ashwagandha groups in comparison to control group. Tribulus was able to reduce the levels of NF-κB and increase the levels of Nrf2 and HO-1 to a much greater extent than Mucuna and Ashwagandha. CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate for the first time that Mucuna, Tribulus and Ashwagandha supplementation improves sexual function in male rats via activating Nrf2/ HO-1 pathway while inhibiting the NF-κB levels. Moreover, Tribulus terrestris extract was found to be more bioavailable from Ashwagandha extract followed by Mucuna extract. Schematic representation of the mode of action of some aphrodisiac herbal extracts to improve sexual functions.

Effects of glyphosate on juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): transcriptional and enzymatic analyses of antioxidant defence system, histopathological liver damage and swimming performance.

This study aims to determine the effect of glyphosate on the transcriptional and enzymatic activity of antioxidant metabolism enzymes of juvenile rainbow trout with short term (6, 12, 24, 48 and 96 h) and long term (21 days) exposures followed by a recovery treatment. This study also aims to determine the effects of glyphosate exposure on liver tissue damage and swimming performance due to short term (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/L) and long term (2.5 and 5 mg/L) exposures. Following pesticide administration, ten fish, each as a sample, were caught at 6th, 12th, 24th, 48th and 96th -h for the short term, and at 21st day for the long term exposure study. GPx activity was found to be significantly induced 12 h after the exposure to 2.5 mg/L of glyphosate as compared with the control group. A similar degree of induction was also observed for CAT activity but not for SOD. For long term exposure, except for the GPx activity after exposure to 5 mg/L of glyphosate, the activities of all other enzymes remained on a par with the control group. It was also observed that the levels of gene expression of these enzymes were not comparable with each other. It is assumed that these differences might result from the effect of glyphosate before translation and the possible reasons for this scenario are also discussed. The results of swimming performance are found to be consistent with responses of the antioxidant system, and they are attributed to the energy metabolism. The data are also supported with liver histopathology analysis.

A novel insertion mutation identified in exon 10 of the MEFV gene associated with Familial Mediterranean Fever.

BACKGROUND: Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), characterized by recurrent fever and inflammation of serous membranes, is an autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the Mediterranean fever (MEFV) gene. Around 296 mutations have been reported to date. METHODS: Two two-generation Turkish families with a total of four members diagnosed with FMF clinically were screened with DNA sequencing performed on exon 2 and exon 10 of the MEFV genes. Then, complete exome sequencing analysis of MEFV gene was done for four patients in whom novel mutation was detected. RESULTS: A novel single base Guanine (G) insertion mutation in the coding region of MEFV gene, named c.2330dupG (p.Gln778Serfs*4 or Q778SfsX4) resulting in a mutated Pyrin/Marenostrin protein was identified. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of a new mutation in exon 10 of the MEFV gene in two Turkish families. This novel pattern of insertion mutation may provide important information for further studies on FMF pathogenesis.

Evaluation of the protective effects of CoQ10 on ovarian I/R injury: an experimental study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on ovarian ischemia/reperfusion injury in an experimental rat adnexal torsion model. METHODS: 48 female adult Wistar albino rats, weighing 220-250 g, were randomly equally divided into six groups (n = 8): sham, torsion, detorsion, sham+CoQ10, torsion+CoQ10, and detorsion+CoQ10 groups. Bilateral adnexal torsion was performed for 3 h in all groups, except the sham and sham+CoQ10 groups. Bilateral adnexal detorsion was performed on the detorsion and detorsion+CoQ10 groups. CoQ10 was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before the sham operation, torsion, and detorsion. RESULTS: The torsion and detorsion groups had significantly higher histologic evaluation scores, as well as higher MDA levels, TOS values, and oxidative stress index values than the sham group. A strong correlation between total histologic evaluation scores for ischemia/reperfusion injury and the oxidative stress index was found. The mean oxidant marker levels and histopathologic scores for the ovarian tissue significantly decreased after using CoQ10, which is a potent antioxidant. CONCLUSIONS: Conservative surgery (detorsion) was found to provide inadequate protection to ovarian tissue. The results of this study suggest that CoQ10 could be useful for the protection of ovarian tissue before conservative surgery.

Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on intra-abdominal adhesion in rats.

BACKGROUND: To determine the impact of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on abdominal adhesion formation after laparotomy. METHODS: Forty female rats were allocated into four distinct groups on which laparotomy alone; laparotomy with traumatization of the uterine horns; laparotomy, traumatization of the uterine horns and intraperitoneal irrigation with saline, and laparotomy, traumatization of the uterine horns and intraperitoneal irrigation with CAPE were performed. After sacrifying the animals on the 14th postoperative day, histopathological examination and biochemical analysis were conducted to evaluate the formation of abdominal adhesions and antioxidant status. RESULTS: In the CAPE group, total adhesion scores were significantly lower than in the control and saline groups. The CAPE group displayed less inflammation, giant cell formation, fibrosis and fibroblastic activity than the control group. On the other hand, the control group displayed higher total adhesion scores. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that the administration of CAPE may have beneficial effects for the prevention of abdominal adhesion formation after laparotomy. Further clinical studies are mandatory to explore the actual therapeutic potential of CAPE.

A novel nutritional supplement containing chromium picolinate, phosphatidylserine, docosahexaenoic acid, and boron activates the antioxidant pathway Nrf2/HO-1 and protects the brain against oxidative stress in high-fat-fed rats.

AIMS: A novel nutritional supplement complex (N21 #125) composed of four well-known compounds (chromium picolinate, phosphatidylserine, docosahexaenoic acid, and boron) was designed to improve memory function and maintain brain health. The present study evaluated the complex's potential mechanism of action and its role in reducing oxidative stress in the brain of obese rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD). METHODS: Male Wistar rats (n = 40, 8-week-old) were divided into four groups. Group I was fed a standard diet; Group II was fed a standard diet and supplemented with N21 } Group III was fed an HFD; and Group IV was fed an HFD and supplemented with N21 #125 for 12 weeks. RESULTS: Rats fed HFD had greater serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and brain malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations than rats fed the control diet. Supplementation of N21 #125 decreased CRP, TNF-α, and MDA concentration in rats fed HFD. The levels of brain nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase, extracellular signal-regulated kinases and protein kinase B were lower in rats fed the control diet than for rats fed the HFD. These parameters were increased by supplementation of N21 #125. DISCUSSION: The data indicate that N21 #125 protected the brain from oxidative damage and inflammation induced by the HFD. This effect may be through up-regulation of the transcription factor Nrf2 expression.

Lycopene counteracts the hepatic response to 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene by altering the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, caspases, and oxidative stress biomarkers.

CONTEXT: Lycopene is a carotenoid found in tomato, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and guava in high concentration. Dietary intake of lycopene has been proposed to inversely correlate with the risk of cancer. It has also been reported to provide protection against cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species, which makes it worthwhile to study the effect of lycopene on liver damage in rat model. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we report the effect of lycopene on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]-anthracene (DMBA)-induced expression of Bax, Bcl-2, caspases, and oxidative stres biomarkers in the liver. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Lycopene was administered orally at 20 mg/kg body weight for 20 weeks followed by the intraperitoneal injection of DMBA (50 mg/kg body weight) on day 1 and day 30 of the experiment. Control rats received vehicle (olive oil) or DMBA alone. Rats were sacrificed after completion of the treatment. RESULTS: We observed that the levels of Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 decreased to 44, 67, and 43%, respectively, and Bcl-2 increased by 80% in DMBA-treated rats. Lycopene reversed the changes in the respective groups, and decreased the level of Bcl-2 to 25%, while increasing the Bax to 42% when compared to DMBA control. Lycopene increased the expression of caspase-3 (82.09%) and caspase-9 (58.96%), and attenuated the level of hepatic malondialdehyde (41%) and 8-isoprostane (40%) when compared to the respective controls. Glutathione (GSH) decreased significantly in DMBA group (15.89%), but reached the normal level in lycopene-treated animals. Hepatic lycopene concentration in treated rats was 8.2 nmol/g tissue. CONCLUSION: The study reports that lycopene counteracts the hepatic response to DMBA by altering the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, caspases, and oxidative stress biomarkers in animal model.

Inhibitory effects of combination of lycopene and genistein on 7,12- dimethyl benz(a)anthracene-induced breast cancer in rats.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. Carotenoids and soy isoflavones have been postulated to have breast cancer preventive effects. We investigated the potential preventive effects of lycopene and genistein, alone and in combination, on breast cancer development in female Wistar rats treated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), a carcinogen known to induce breast tumors. Mammary carcinogenesis was initiated by a single, oral gavage of DMBA (80 mg/kg body weight) at 55 days of animal age. Fifty female Wistar rats were divided into 5 experimental groups having 10 animals per group: Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (DMBA control), Group 3 (DMBA + lycopene), Group 4 (DMBA + genistein), and Group 5 (DMBA + lycopene and genistein). Rats were fed either lycopene (20 mg /kg bw) or genistein (2 mg /kg bw) by oral gavage (3 times per week) starting 2 wk prior to DMBA injection. Treatment was continued for 20 wk. Rats treated with DMBA developed mammary tumors with 100% tumor incidence during the 20-wk study. Inhibition of mammary cancer incidence by lycopene (70%), genistein (60%) and their combination (40%) was observed. Tumor weight decreased by 48%, 61%, and 67%, and mean tumor volume decreased by 18%, 35%, and 65% with lycopene, genistein, and lycopene + genistein, respectively (P < 0.01 for the combination). The proportions of adenocarcinoma masses decreased with lycopene and genistein combination (P < 0.05). Administration of lycopene and genistein combination suppressed breast cancer development and was associated with a decrease in MDA, 8-isoprostane, and 8-OhdG levels and with an increase in serum lycopene and genistein levels. Animals administered DMBA developed breast cancer, which was associated with increased expression of Bcl-2 and decreased expression of Bax, caspase 3, and caspase 9 in mammary tissues. Administration of genistein and lycopene in combination was more effective in inhibiting DMBA-induced breast tumors and modulating the expression of apoptosis associated proteins than the administration of each agent alone. Our results suggest that lycopene and genistein are potent antioxidants and, when given in combination, offer maximum protection against DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis.

The apical caspase dronc governs programmed and unprogrammed cell death in Drosophila.

Among the seven caspases encoded in the fly genome, only dronc contains a caspase recruitment domain. To assess the function of this gene in development, we produced a null mutation in dronc. Animals lacking zygotic dronc are defective for programmed cell death (PCD) and arrest as early pupae. These mutants present a range of defects, including extensive hyperplasia of hematopoietic tissues, supernumerary neuronal cells, and head involution failure. dronc genetically interacts with the Ced4/Apaf1 counterpart, Dark, and adult structures lacking dronc are disrupted for fine patterning. Furthermore, in diverse models of metabolic injury, dronc- cells are completely insensitive to induction of cell killing. These findings establish dronc as an essential regulator of cell number in development and illustrate broad requirements for this apical caspase in adaptive responses during stress-induced apoptosis.

Genistein suppresses spontaneous oviduct tumorigenesis in quail.

Spontaneous leiomyomas of the oviduct are common tumors of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) and laying hens. This makes it a good animal model for screening potential agents for testing in the prevention and treatment of human myoma uteri. Genistein has been shown to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells. We investigated the effects of genistein supplementation on the development of fibroid tumors in the oviduct, serum oxidative stress markers [malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-isoprostane, 4-hydroxyalkenal (HAE), 8-hydroxy-2' -deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels], soy isoflavone levels, and tissue biomarkers [Connexin 43 (Cx43), Bcl-2, and Bax and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) expression] in Japanese quail. One hundred and fifty quail (12 mo old) were assigned to 3 experimental groups as 5 replicates of pens containing 10 birds in each. Birds were fed either a basal diet or the basal diet supplemented with 400 mg or 800 mg of genistein/kg of diet. The animals were sacrificed after 315 days, and the tumors were identified. Genistein supplementation significantly decreased the incidence of fibroid tumors as compared to control birds (P = 0.04). The tumors in genistein-fed birds were smaller than those found in control birds (P = 0.02). Serum MDA, 8-isoprostane, and HAE levels were lower in treatment groups than in control group (MDA: 2.01 vs. 0.82; 8-isoprostane: 135 vs. 101; HAE: 1.45 vs. 0.73; P

Effect of inositol -stabilized arginine silicate on arthritis in a rat model.

The purpose of this study was to test the effects of arginine-silicate-inositol complex (ASI), compared to a combination of the individual ingredients (A+S+I) of the ASI, on inflammatory markers and joint health in a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model. A total of 28 Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (i) Control; (ii) Arthritic group, rats subjected to CIA induction by injection of bovine collagen type II (A); (iii) Arthritic group treated with equivalent doses of the separate components of the ASI complex (arginine hydrochloride, silicon, and inositol) (A+S+I); (iv) Arthritic group treated with the ASI complex. The ASI complex treatment showed improved inflammation scores and markers over the arthritic control and the A+S+I group. ASI group had also greater levels of serum and joint-tissue arginine and silicon than the A+S+I group. Joint tissue IL-6, NF-κB, COX-2, TNF-α, p38 MAPK, WISP-1, and ß-Catenin levels were lower in the ASI group compared to the other groups (P < 0.05 for all). In conclusion, these results demonstrate that the ASI complex may be effective in reducing markers of inflammation associated with joint health and that the ASI complex is more effective than a combination of the individual ingredients.

The combination of penile revascularization surgery with penile corrective techniques as an alternative to prosthesis implantation in patients with peyronie's disease accompanied by erectile dysfunction: Long-term results.

This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes of the surgical combination of revascularization and penile corrective techniques after having obtained promising preliminary results from a previous study. Between 2008 and 2015, the combined treatment was undertaken for 60 patients with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction. A preoperative urological evaluation was performed with penile color Doppler ultrasonography, electromyography of the corpus cavernosum and cavernosometry. All the patients completed 15-item and 5-item IIEFs preoperatively and at postoperative follow-up. The mean age of the patients was 53.78 ± 6.48 years ranging from 47 to 63. The mean follow-up period was 48 (14-68) months. The degree of penile angulation was >40 in all the patients. Urethra dissection was required in five patients. Penile disassembly was performed on one patient due to distal complex corporeal deformity. None of the patients reported complications after surgery. The mean total IIEF score was reported to be 25.4 ± 2.8 before the operation and 52.23 ± 1.2 at the end of the follow-up (p < 0.05). The mean IIEF-5 score was 7.3 ± 1.3 preoperatively and 20.9 ± 1.9 at the end of follow-up (p < 0.05). The results of IIEF-15 for erectile function demonstrated that 32 patients had a cutoff value of >26, indicating no ED. Although all patients had complete penile straightening, 7 (11.66%) reported shortening of the penis but was not dissatisfied with the treatment. The number of patients satisfied with the outcomes of the operation was 53. The statistically significant improvement and satisfactory results achieved with the IIEF questionnaires suggest that the proposed combined treatment could be an alternative to penile prosthesis in highly selected patients with Peyronie's disease, particularly those with erectile dysfunction; however, more studies are needed to confirm these results.

Circulating glucose levels inversely correlate with Drosophila larval feeding through insulin signaling and SLC5A11.

In mammals, blood glucose levels likely play a role in appetite regulation yet the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain opaque. Mechanisms can often be explored from Drosophila genetic approaches. To determine if circulating sugars might be involved in Drosophila feeding behaviors, we scored hemolymph glucose and trehalose, and food ingestion in larvae subjected to various diets, genetic mutations, or RNAi. We found that larvae with glucose elevations, hyperglycemia, have an aversion to feeding; however, trehalose levels do not track with feeding behavior. We further discovered that insulins and SLC5A11 may participate in glucose-regulated feeding. To see if food aversion might be an appropriate screening method for hyperglycemia candidates, we developed a food aversion screen to score larvae with abnormal feeding for glucose. We found that many feeding defective larvae have glucose elevations. These findings highlight intriguing roles for glucose in fly biology as a potential cue and regulator of appetite.

MAT, a Novel Polyherbal Aphrodisiac Formulation, Enhances Sexual Function and Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway While Reducing Oxidative Damage in Male Rats.

Mucuna pruriens, Ashwagandha, and Tribulus terrestris are known as the enhancers for sexual health, functional activities, vitality, and longevity. These herbs had been widely used in the Ayurveda medicine as aphrodisiacs through the ages, and their efficacy was also verified separately in our previous publication. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of Mucuna, Ashwagandha, and Tribulus complexes on sexual function in rats. Twenty-eight male rats allocated to four groups as follows: (i) negative control (C); (ii) positive control or sildenafil citrate treated group (5 mg/kg) (S); (iii) MAT1 (combination of 10 mg Mucuna (M) + 10 mg Ashwagandha (A) + 10 mg Tribulus (T)/kg BW); (iv) MAT 2 (20 mg Mucuna + 20 mg Ashwagandha + 20 mg Tribulus/kg BW). There was no significant difference found between the MAT1 and MAT2 groups while they showed significantly increased testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels when compared to the negative control. Significant increases in Nrf2/HO1 levels and decreases in NF-κB were detected in MAT groups similar to the decrease in serum and testis malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as compared to both controls. The sperm motility, count, and rate also significantly improved in both MAT groups, while ALT, AST, creatinine, ALP, and urea levels did not change in any of the groups. Oral consumption of MATs combination in male rats resulted in inhibition of NF-κB and MDA and also increased sex hormones with Nrf2-mediated HO-1 induction. MAT combinations may improve sexual functions by increasing levels of sexual hormones and regulation of NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.

Protective role of genistein in acute liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride.

AIM: In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of genistein in experimental acute liver damage induced by CCl4. METHOD: Forty rats were equally allocated to 5 groups. The first group was designated as the control group (group 1). The second group was injected with intraperitoneal CCl4 for 3 days (group 2). The third group was injected with subcutaneous 1 mg/kg genistein for 4 days starting one day before CCl4 injection. The fourth group was injected with intraperitoneal CCl4 for 7 days. The fifth group was injected with subcutaneous 1 mg/kg genistein for 8 days starting one day before CCl4 injection. Plasma and liver tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver glutathione levels, as well as AST and ALT levels were studied. A histopathological examination was conducted. RESULTS: Liver tissue MDA levels were found significantly lower in group 3, in comparison to group 2 (P < .05). Liver tissue MDA level in group 5 was significantly lower than that in group 4 (P < .001). Liver tissue glutathione levels were higher in group 5 and 3, relative to groups 4 and 2, respectively (P > .05 for each). Inflammation and focal necrosis decreased in group 3, in comparison to group 2 (P < .001 for each). Inflammation and focal necrosis in group 5 was lower than that in group 4 (P < .001). Actin expression decreased significantly in group 5, relative to group 4 (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Genistein has anti-inflammatory and antinecrotic effects on experimental liver damage caused by CCl4. Genistein reduces liver damage by preventing lipid peroxidation and strengthening antioxidant systems.

Intratesticular calcified nodule.

Since calcified nodule of the testis is seen very rarely, its etiology and diagnostic approach are not fully known. There have been a few cases reported in the literature. The objective of this study was to review the literature and report the case of a 30-year-old patient, who applied to our clinic due to a suspicious stiffness in his testis and underwent partial orchiectomy.

ß-Cryptoxanthin ameliorates metabolic risk factors by regulating NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways in insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet in rodents.

The aim of this experiment was to determine the effects of ß-cryptoxanthin (BCX) on the cardiometabolic health risk factors and NF-κB and Nrf2 pathway in insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in rodents. Twenty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated into four groups: (1) Control, rats fed a standard diet for 12 weeks; (2) BCX, rats fed a standard diet and supplemented with BCX (2.5 mg/kg BW) for 12 weeks; (3) HFD, rats fed a HFD for 12 weeks, (4) HFD + BCX, rats fed a HFD and supplemented with BCX for 12 weeks. BCX reduced cardio-metabolic health markers and decreased inflammatory markers (P < 0.001). Rats fed a HFD had the lower total antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymes activities and higher MDA concentration than control rats (P < 0.001 for all). Comparing with the HFD group, BCX in combination with HFD inhibited liver NF-κB and TNF-α expression by 22% and 14% and enhanced liver Nrf2, HO-1, PPAR-α, and p-IRS-1 by 1.43, 1.41, 3.53, and 1.33 fold, respectively (P < 0.001). Furthermore, in adipose tissue, BCX up-regulated Nrf2, HO-1, PPAR-α, and p-IRS-1 expression, whereas, down-regulated NF-κB and TNF-α expression. In conclusion, BCX decreased visceral fat and cardiometabolic health risk factors through modulating expressions of nuclear transcription factors.