Calcium ions lead to the release of acetylcholine in the neuro-muscular junction and cause a kind... more Calcium ions lead to the release of acetylcholine in the neuro-muscular junction and cause a kind of spastic paralysis in all animal species. On the other hand, insulin may also produce an immobility associated with hypoglycemic shock. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible interaction between these two chemicals in an experimental fish model. Materials & Methods: Thirty three adult Guppy fish of either sex were divided into the following groups: insulin-treated, insulin + CaCl2 1%, insulin + CaCl2 5%, insulin + CaCl2 10%, CaCl2 1%, CaCl2 5%, and CaCl2 10%. The time needed to show immobility by a fish was measured as minutes. They were kept under controlled conditions with de-chlorinated tap water, commercial feed, and sufficient oxygenation. Results: Insulin cause immobility in 25.13±1.47 min and calcium alone at concentrations 1%, 5%, and 10% led to similar effect in 11.73±0.88 min, 6.67±1.47 min, and 2.53±0.39 min, respectively. Together with insulin, the time needed...
Folia neuropathologica / Association of Polish Neuropathologists and Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 2012
Prion diseases are a group of infectious diseases that cause lethal neurodegenerative disorders i... more Prion diseases are a group of infectious diseases that cause lethal neurodegenerative disorders in both humans and animals. Affected patients usually die within one year from the appearance of the first clinical abnormalities. Unfortunately, no viable treatment options are available for prion diseases. The aim of this review is to describe the underlying prion disease pathology and discuss the therapeutic targets that have emerged from this.
American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, 2015
Hypothyroidism may reduce, whereas hyperthyroidism may aggravate, asthma symptoms. The mechanisms... more Hypothyroidism may reduce, whereas hyperthyroidism may aggravate, asthma symptoms. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are largely unknown. Since thyroid hormones have central roles in cell growth and differentiation, we hypothesized that airway remodeling, in particular increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass, may be involved. To address this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of triiodothyronine (T3) and l-thyroxine (T4) in the absence and presence of the profibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 on human ASM cell phenotype switching. T3 (1–100 nM) and T4 (1–100 nM) did not affect basal ASM proliferation. However, when combined with TGF-β1 (2 ng/ml), T4 synergistically increased the proliferative response, whereas only a minor effect was observed for T3. In line with a switch from a contractile to a proliferative ASM phenotype, T4 reduced the TGF-β1-induced contractile protein expression by ∼50%. Cotreatment with T3 reduced TGF-β1-induced contractile protein e...
Cardiovascular & Hematological Disorders-Drug Targets, 2013
This study was aimed to examine the effect of lead acetate on inflammatory biomarkers in blood of... more This study was aimed to examine the effect of lead acetate on inflammatory biomarkers in blood of guinea pigs in comparison with sensitized animals. Thirty guinea pigs were randomly allocated into control (group C), sensitized (group S), and three Pb-exposed (groups 0.1M Pb, 0.2M Pb and 0.4M Pb). Animal sensitized after aerosolized-ovalbumin (OA) challenge. Pb-exposed groups inhaled 0.1M, 0.2M and 0.4M lead acetate for 1 h, three times a week for two weeks. Total and differential WBC counts, PLA 2 activity and total protein levels were evaluated in blood of all animal groups. Serum PLA 2 activity, total protein and total WBC number in sensitized and animal exposed to lead were significantly higher as compared to control group (p<0.05). When compared to control group, the percentages of eosinophil, nuetrophil and basophiles were also increased in sensitized guinea pigs (p<0.01). The percentage of eosinophil and basophile in animals exposed to high level of lead and that of basophile in animals exposed to middle lead concentration versus to control group significantly increased (p<0.05). In addition, the significant difference between the lymphocyte percentages of Pb-exposed groups and control group were decreased in concentration dependent manner. The findings of the present study indicated that exposure to inhaled lead acetate may lead to asthma-like disease.
The lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence generation by guinea-pig isolated tracheal two rings pr... more The lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence generation by guinea-pig isolated tracheal two rings preparations was studied. Tracheal preparations stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) or opsonized zymosan generated chemiluminescence. The total amount of chemiluminescence generated in 120 min was 754 ± 63 mV × min for PMA and 4832 ±396 mV × min for zymosan. Generation of chemiluminescence was decreased by more than 50% when the tissues were co-incubated with superoxide dismutase (100 U/ml). Also, addition of direct donors of nitric oxide diminished chemiluminescence generation by zymosan-activated tracheal rings significantly by about 50%. However, the presence of the precursor or of inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase did not influence zymosan-induced chemiluminescence. Removal of the epithelial layer from tracheal rings caused an approximately 90% decrease in chemiluminescence response. However, isolated epithelial cell suspensions did not generate chemiluminescence. Histolo...
Background: Serum inflammatory mediators and white blood cells (WBC) counts in the blood of sensi... more Background: Serum inflammatory mediators and white blood cells (WBC) counts in the blood of sensitized and lead exposed guinea pigs were evaluated. Methods: Guinea pigs were randomly allocated into control (C), sensitized (S) and sensitized groups exposed to three lead concentrations (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 M) during (DS) and after sensitization (PS), (n ¼ 6 for each group). Animals were sensitized by intra-peritoneal injection and aerosol inhalation of ovalbumin (OA). Serum total protein, PLA2, IgE, histamine, total and differential WBC counts of blood were evaluated. Results: Serum PLA2, total protein, IgE, histamine, total and differential WBC counts in all three sensitized groups were significantly increased, but the percentage of lymphocyte was decreased compared to control group (p50.05 to p50.001). Serum total protein and total WBC number in all animals exposed to lead as well as the eosinophil and histamine in animals exposed to highest lead concentration and IgE in sensitized groups exposed to lead after sensitization were significantly higher, but the lymphocyte in animals exposed to two higher lead concentrations was lower than non exposed sensitized group (p50.05 to p50.001). The changes in all parameters in lead exposed animals after sensitization were higher than those during sensitization which was statistically significant for total WBC count in the animals exposed to low lead concentration (p50.05). Conclusion: Inhaled lead can increase serum total protein, PLA2, IgE and histamine levels, total and most differential WBC counts in sensitized animal which was more pronounced in animals exposed to lead after compared to those during sensitization.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, affecting over 300 million people... more Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, affecting over 300 million people. It is an inflammatory disorder characterized by bronchoconstriction and airway hyperresponsiveness, followed by inflammatory manifestations in the respiratory system. The prevalence of asthma is rising and there is a clinical need to develop more effective treatments. While corticosteroids (glucocorticosteroids) remain the mainstay of asthma therapy, they have limitations because of their potentially severe side-effects and the presence of corticosteroid resistance in some patients. This review discusses current strategies in the treatment of asthma and considers new therapeutic regimens of asthma in the drug development pipeline.
I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : Relevant aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be model... more I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : Relevant aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be modeled by aluminium-maltolate injection into specific regions of the brain. The possible role of berberine chloride (BC) as an anti-inflammatory agent in the brain has been previously addressed. M Ma at te er ri ia al l a an nd d m me et th ho od ds s: : Rabbits were divided into control (C), untreated lesion (L) and BC-treated + lesion (L + BC) groups. Animals in L + BC received BC (50 mg/ kg) orally 1 day after surgery and daily for 2 weeks. The lesion was induced by injection of 100 µl of either vehicle or water containing 25 mM aluminium-maltol into intraventricular fissure. Weight loss, ataxia, paralysis and tremor were monitored. For histopathology, Bielschowsky silver and H&E staining were employed. β-Secretase activity in hippocampus was finally assessed. R Re es su ul lt ts s: : All L animals died on days 12-15 after lesion. Seven to 10 days after lesion, abnormal symptoms as well as cachexia were seen in over 90% of cases. L rabbits lost an average of 0.5 kg which was significant on days 10 and 12 (p < 0.05); this was not completely prevented by BC. Up to day 15, all L animals had lost their lives (p < 0.001). BC treatment protected the hippocampus from degeneration, altered the behavior and decreased the activity of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE-1). C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s: : Considering the findings in regard to physiological abilities, histological changes and BACE-1 activity in hippocampus changes, it is concluded that BC treatment could be an effective therapy in restoring Al maltol-induced behavioral derangements in the rabbit model of AD.
I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : The cholinergic nervous system and acetylcholine esterase... more I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : The cholinergic nervous system and acetylcholine esterase are involved in chronic intoxication with organophosphorous insecticides. The present study aims to investigate the influence of the chronic toxicity of these chemicals on behaviors related to anxiety, using the elevated plus maze (EPM), in the male adult mouse. M Ma at te er ri ia al l a an nd d m me et th ho od ds s: : Either water or 1% concentration of malathion was applied dermally to the male adult mice (10 s, once daily for 28 days) and, on day 29, the EPM test was done. R Re es su ul lt ts s: : Time spent in the open arms (TSOA) in intoxicated animals was decreased by over 50% compared to the controls (p = 0.047). In contrast, time spent in closed arms was significantly higher in the malathion-exposed mice (p = 0.025). Percentage of open arm entries (OAE) was slightly smaller in the malathion-treated group in comparison to the control animals. Percentage of closed arm entries (CAE) in the treated group was slightly higher than the value in the control animals. C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s: : The results showed that chronic toxicity of malathion may lead to an anxiety-like behavior in the animal model used in this study. It is difficult to extend these findings to clinical situations. However, more experimental work in different animal species as well as epidemiological studies in human subjects in this regard are highly recommended. K Ke ey y w wo or rd ds s: : anxiety, elevated plus maze, malathion, mouse, organophosphates. C Co or rr re es sp po on nd di in ng g a au ut th ho or r: :
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 1996
Peroxynitrite (ONOO-) is a cytotoxic product of the rapid reaction between nitric oxide and super... more Peroxynitrite (ONOO-) is a cytotoxic product of the rapid reaction between nitric oxide and superoxide that may initiate inflammation. Isolated perfused tracheas from guinea pigs were incubated from the mucosal side for 15 min with peroxynitrite (1 to 100 muM). Thereafter, concentration-response curves to histamine and methacholine were constructed on the preparations. Peroxynitrite (10 muM) caused a significant hyperresponsiveness; the maximal contractions in response to histamine and methacholine were enhanced by 30% and 40%, respectively. In the peroxynitrite-treated group, clear epithelial damage as well as eosinophil destruction were detected. Moreover, 3, 5, and 10 days after intratracheal instillation of peroxynitrite (100 nmol), a significant rise in pulmonary resistance to histamine of anesthetized animals was observed. It is suggested that the generation of peroxynitrite from nitric oxide superoxide radicals during inflammatory processes induces epithelial damage, mediator release, and hence airway hyperresponsiveness. These findings may have clinical implications, because airway inflammation, epithelial damage, and hyperresponsiveness are characteristic features in patients suffering from asthma.
Morphine withdrawal usually results in unsuccessful outcomes. Despite partial benefits from alter... more Morphine withdrawal usually results in unsuccessful outcomes. Despite partial benefits from alternative substances such as methadone, its use may not lead to the desired result due to the lack of mental tranquility during the withdrawal period. In this study, by means of an animal model, morphine itself was used to manage morphine dependence. Forty mice were divided into 5 groups, in which 4 groups became dependent by increasing daily doses of morphine for 7 days (15-45 mg/kg). Afterwards, the animals received morphine for 14 days by either of the following regimens: Once daily 45 mg/kg (positive controls)Increasing the interval (each time 6 hours longer than the previous interval)Irregular interval in every 36, 12 and 24 hours until the 21(th) day12, 24, 36 hours decreasing doses (each time 2.5 mg/kg less than the former dosage). Negative controls received saline solution only. On day 22, total withdrawal index (TWI) was determined by injecting 3 mg/kg of naloxone. Thereafter, bloo...
3 Abstract: New applications and products initiated by nanotechnology may cause harmful effects o... more 3 Abstract: New applications and products initiated by nanotechnology may cause harmful effects on public and environmental health. There is no much data on the harmful effects caused by application of some nano materials and the current knowledge in this field is limited solely to the nano particles but not the final products. As common materials produced in industrial scale, nano cupper particles are extensively added to engine oil to reduce friction and improve lubrication. On the other hand, the difference between the effects of virgin and used conventional engine oil (CEO) and the engine oil containing cupper nano particles (NEO) on the environment is not known. Earthworm, as a one of the species which could live and survive in different sorts of earth and has a certain role in protecting the soil structure and fertility, was used in this experiment. Filter Paper test in 24h and 48h based on eight concentrations in the range of 0.003-0.024 ml/cm and Artificial Soil 2 test in 1 ...
Journal of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, 2020
Background and aims: Several pharmacological and biological activities have been attributed to Cu... more Background and aims: Several pharmacological and biological activities have been attributed to Cuminum cyminum L. (CC), including analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-epileptic effects. In this regard, the present study evaluated the antidepressant-like effects of the CC essential oil (EO) on the forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) in male mice. Materials and Methods: The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) apparatus was used for detecting the chemical compounds of CC EO. In the present study, 72 male NMRI mice were randomly allocated to 12 groups (each containing 6 animals) including control or vehicle (10 mL/kg, i.p.), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, i.p.), imipramine (30 mg/kg, i.p), and the CC EO (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg, i.p.). Then, several parameters were measured and recorded, including immobility time, swimming time, and climbing time in FST, along with immobility time in TST, respectively. Results: Cuminaldehyde followed by cymene, γ-terpine...
Journal de Mycologie Médicale / Journal of Medical Mycology, 2016
Objective.-Dermatophytosis is the most frequent fungal infection all over the world and its frequ... more Objective.-Dermatophytosis is the most frequent fungal infection all over the world and its frequency is constantly increasing. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical features and epidemiological trends of dermatophytosis over the years 2010 to 2014 in Tehran, Iran. Patients and methods.-A total of 13,312 patients clinically suspected of cutaneous fungal infections were examined. Skin scales, plucked hairs, nail clippings and sub-ungual debris were examined by direct microscopy and culture. Dermatophyte species were identified at the species level by a combination of morphological and physiological criteria. Results.-Direct microscopy confirmed a contamination rate of 19.7% (2622/13,312 cases) of which 1535 cases (58.5%) were culture positive distributed in male (1022 cases) and female (513 cases). The most commonly infected age group was the 30-39 years old. Tinea pedis (30.4%) was the most prevalent type of dermatophytosis followed by tinea cruris (29.8%) and tinea corporis (15.8%). Epidermophyton floccosum (31%) was the most prevalent causative agent, followed by Trichophyton rubrum (26.2%) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (20.3%).
Clinical asthma and airway responsiveness appear to be less severe when diabetes is superimposed.... more Clinical asthma and airway responsiveness appear to be less severe when diabetes is superimposed. The aim of the present study was to determine the possible role of Nitric Oxide (NO) in the airway reactivity under diabetic and diabetic-allergic conditions. Twenty-five male guinea-pigs were divided into five groups of five each as follows: diabetic, antigen sensitized, diabetic- antigen sensitized, insulin-treated diabetic- antigen ovalbumin sensitized and control animals. Tracheal rings of all groups were mounted in an organ bath system for isometric contraction measurements. Tissues were pre-incubated with either of the following chemicals: L-NAME, L-arginine or methylene blue. Cumulative concentration response curve was made with histamine. Decrease in the airway reactivity in diabetic and diabetic- antigen sensitized animals were shown compared to the antigen sensitized animals. pEC(50) values of histamine in the presence of L-Arg showed increase in diabetic and diabetic- antigen...
Thyroid disease and asthma, both being common conditions, occasionally occur simultaneously. The ... more Thyroid disease and asthma, both being common conditions, occasionally occur simultaneously. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of experimental thyroid dysfunction on the reactivity of isolated trachea. Male, adult guinea pigs were placed into three groups of euthyroid (EUT), hyperthyroid (HRT) and hypothyroid animals (HOT). HOT was induced by methimazole in drinking water (50 mg/kg b.w. daily for 7 weeks). HRT was induced by i.p. injections of L-thyroxine (100 µg/kg once daily for 10 days). Animals were anesthetized with CO , blood samples were taken for T , T and TSH measurements. Thereafter, they were 2 34 sacrificed with an overdose of CO , tracheal rings from all groups were removed and mounted in an organ bath 2 system for isometric measurement of smooth muscle contractions. Cumulative concentration/ response curves (CRCs) were made with acetylcholine (ACh) and histamine. An increased airway reactivity to histamine was observed in HRT animals, shifting t...
BACKGROUND: Normal bacterial flora of the conjunctiva, which inhibits growth of opportunistic org... more BACKGROUND: Normal bacterial flora of the conjunctiva, which inhibits growth of opportunistic organisms, has an important role in the prevention of ocular infections. If resident flora is inhibited by disease or long-term application of antibiotics, opportunistic pathogens overgrow, leading to disease. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ophthalmic chloramphenicol and ciprofloxacin on bacterial conjunctival flora in healthy dogs. METHODS: A total of 16 animals were divided into 2 equal groups which received either chloramphenicol (CHL) (0.5%) or ciprofloxacin (CIP) (0.3%). In both groups, the right eye of each animal was treated with 2 drops of antibiotics every 8 and 6 hours, respectively, for 1 week and the left eye received artificial tear solution and served as control. Bacterial and fungal cultures were performed 8 hours before and after the treatment. Fisher’s Exact test and SPSS software were used for statistical analyses (p<0.05). RESULTS: ...
Calcium ions lead to the release of acetylcholine in the neuro-muscular junction and cause a kind... more Calcium ions lead to the release of acetylcholine in the neuro-muscular junction and cause a kind of spastic paralysis in all animal species. On the other hand, insulin may also produce an immobility associated with hypoglycemic shock. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible interaction between these two chemicals in an experimental fish model. Materials & Methods: Thirty three adult Guppy fish of either sex were divided into the following groups: insulin-treated, insulin + CaCl2 1%, insulin + CaCl2 5%, insulin + CaCl2 10%, CaCl2 1%, CaCl2 5%, and CaCl2 10%. The time needed to show immobility by a fish was measured as minutes. They were kept under controlled conditions with de-chlorinated tap water, commercial feed, and sufficient oxygenation. Results: Insulin cause immobility in 25.13±1.47 min and calcium alone at concentrations 1%, 5%, and 10% led to similar effect in 11.73±0.88 min, 6.67±1.47 min, and 2.53±0.39 min, respectively. Together with insulin, the time needed...
Folia neuropathologica / Association of Polish Neuropathologists and Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 2012
Prion diseases are a group of infectious diseases that cause lethal neurodegenerative disorders i... more Prion diseases are a group of infectious diseases that cause lethal neurodegenerative disorders in both humans and animals. Affected patients usually die within one year from the appearance of the first clinical abnormalities. Unfortunately, no viable treatment options are available for prion diseases. The aim of this review is to describe the underlying prion disease pathology and discuss the therapeutic targets that have emerged from this.
American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, 2015
Hypothyroidism may reduce, whereas hyperthyroidism may aggravate, asthma symptoms. The mechanisms... more Hypothyroidism may reduce, whereas hyperthyroidism may aggravate, asthma symptoms. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are largely unknown. Since thyroid hormones have central roles in cell growth and differentiation, we hypothesized that airway remodeling, in particular increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass, may be involved. To address this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of triiodothyronine (T3) and l-thyroxine (T4) in the absence and presence of the profibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 on human ASM cell phenotype switching. T3 (1–100 nM) and T4 (1–100 nM) did not affect basal ASM proliferation. However, when combined with TGF-β1 (2 ng/ml), T4 synergistically increased the proliferative response, whereas only a minor effect was observed for T3. In line with a switch from a contractile to a proliferative ASM phenotype, T4 reduced the TGF-β1-induced contractile protein expression by ∼50%. Cotreatment with T3 reduced TGF-β1-induced contractile protein e...
Cardiovascular & Hematological Disorders-Drug Targets, 2013
This study was aimed to examine the effect of lead acetate on inflammatory biomarkers in blood of... more This study was aimed to examine the effect of lead acetate on inflammatory biomarkers in blood of guinea pigs in comparison with sensitized animals. Thirty guinea pigs were randomly allocated into control (group C), sensitized (group S), and three Pb-exposed (groups 0.1M Pb, 0.2M Pb and 0.4M Pb). Animal sensitized after aerosolized-ovalbumin (OA) challenge. Pb-exposed groups inhaled 0.1M, 0.2M and 0.4M lead acetate for 1 h, three times a week for two weeks. Total and differential WBC counts, PLA 2 activity and total protein levels were evaluated in blood of all animal groups. Serum PLA 2 activity, total protein and total WBC number in sensitized and animal exposed to lead were significantly higher as compared to control group (p<0.05). When compared to control group, the percentages of eosinophil, nuetrophil and basophiles were also increased in sensitized guinea pigs (p<0.01). The percentage of eosinophil and basophile in animals exposed to high level of lead and that of basophile in animals exposed to middle lead concentration versus to control group significantly increased (p<0.05). In addition, the significant difference between the lymphocyte percentages of Pb-exposed groups and control group were decreased in concentration dependent manner. The findings of the present study indicated that exposure to inhaled lead acetate may lead to asthma-like disease.
The lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence generation by guinea-pig isolated tracheal two rings pr... more The lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence generation by guinea-pig isolated tracheal two rings preparations was studied. Tracheal preparations stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) or opsonized zymosan generated chemiluminescence. The total amount of chemiluminescence generated in 120 min was 754 ± 63 mV × min for PMA and 4832 ±396 mV × min for zymosan. Generation of chemiluminescence was decreased by more than 50% when the tissues were co-incubated with superoxide dismutase (100 U/ml). Also, addition of direct donors of nitric oxide diminished chemiluminescence generation by zymosan-activated tracheal rings significantly by about 50%. However, the presence of the precursor or of inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase did not influence zymosan-induced chemiluminescence. Removal of the epithelial layer from tracheal rings caused an approximately 90% decrease in chemiluminescence response. However, isolated epithelial cell suspensions did not generate chemiluminescence. Histolo...
Background: Serum inflammatory mediators and white blood cells (WBC) counts in the blood of sensi... more Background: Serum inflammatory mediators and white blood cells (WBC) counts in the blood of sensitized and lead exposed guinea pigs were evaluated. Methods: Guinea pigs were randomly allocated into control (C), sensitized (S) and sensitized groups exposed to three lead concentrations (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 M) during (DS) and after sensitization (PS), (n ¼ 6 for each group). Animals were sensitized by intra-peritoneal injection and aerosol inhalation of ovalbumin (OA). Serum total protein, PLA2, IgE, histamine, total and differential WBC counts of blood were evaluated. Results: Serum PLA2, total protein, IgE, histamine, total and differential WBC counts in all three sensitized groups were significantly increased, but the percentage of lymphocyte was decreased compared to control group (p50.05 to p50.001). Serum total protein and total WBC number in all animals exposed to lead as well as the eosinophil and histamine in animals exposed to highest lead concentration and IgE in sensitized groups exposed to lead after sensitization were significantly higher, but the lymphocyte in animals exposed to two higher lead concentrations was lower than non exposed sensitized group (p50.05 to p50.001). The changes in all parameters in lead exposed animals after sensitization were higher than those during sensitization which was statistically significant for total WBC count in the animals exposed to low lead concentration (p50.05). Conclusion: Inhaled lead can increase serum total protein, PLA2, IgE and histamine levels, total and most differential WBC counts in sensitized animal which was more pronounced in animals exposed to lead after compared to those during sensitization.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, affecting over 300 million people... more Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, affecting over 300 million people. It is an inflammatory disorder characterized by bronchoconstriction and airway hyperresponsiveness, followed by inflammatory manifestations in the respiratory system. The prevalence of asthma is rising and there is a clinical need to develop more effective treatments. While corticosteroids (glucocorticosteroids) remain the mainstay of asthma therapy, they have limitations because of their potentially severe side-effects and the presence of corticosteroid resistance in some patients. This review discusses current strategies in the treatment of asthma and considers new therapeutic regimens of asthma in the drug development pipeline.
I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : Relevant aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be model... more I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : Relevant aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be modeled by aluminium-maltolate injection into specific regions of the brain. The possible role of berberine chloride (BC) as an anti-inflammatory agent in the brain has been previously addressed. M Ma at te er ri ia al l a an nd d m me et th ho od ds s: : Rabbits were divided into control (C), untreated lesion (L) and BC-treated + lesion (L + BC) groups. Animals in L + BC received BC (50 mg/ kg) orally 1 day after surgery and daily for 2 weeks. The lesion was induced by injection of 100 µl of either vehicle or water containing 25 mM aluminium-maltol into intraventricular fissure. Weight loss, ataxia, paralysis and tremor were monitored. For histopathology, Bielschowsky silver and H&E staining were employed. β-Secretase activity in hippocampus was finally assessed. R Re es su ul lt ts s: : All L animals died on days 12-15 after lesion. Seven to 10 days after lesion, abnormal symptoms as well as cachexia were seen in over 90% of cases. L rabbits lost an average of 0.5 kg which was significant on days 10 and 12 (p < 0.05); this was not completely prevented by BC. Up to day 15, all L animals had lost their lives (p < 0.001). BC treatment protected the hippocampus from degeneration, altered the behavior and decreased the activity of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE-1). C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s: : Considering the findings in regard to physiological abilities, histological changes and BACE-1 activity in hippocampus changes, it is concluded that BC treatment could be an effective therapy in restoring Al maltol-induced behavioral derangements in the rabbit model of AD.
I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : The cholinergic nervous system and acetylcholine esterase... more I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n: : The cholinergic nervous system and acetylcholine esterase are involved in chronic intoxication with organophosphorous insecticides. The present study aims to investigate the influence of the chronic toxicity of these chemicals on behaviors related to anxiety, using the elevated plus maze (EPM), in the male adult mouse. M Ma at te er ri ia al l a an nd d m me et th ho od ds s: : Either water or 1% concentration of malathion was applied dermally to the male adult mice (10 s, once daily for 28 days) and, on day 29, the EPM test was done. R Re es su ul lt ts s: : Time spent in the open arms (TSOA) in intoxicated animals was decreased by over 50% compared to the controls (p = 0.047). In contrast, time spent in closed arms was significantly higher in the malathion-exposed mice (p = 0.025). Percentage of open arm entries (OAE) was slightly smaller in the malathion-treated group in comparison to the control animals. Percentage of closed arm entries (CAE) in the treated group was slightly higher than the value in the control animals. C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s: : The results showed that chronic toxicity of malathion may lead to an anxiety-like behavior in the animal model used in this study. It is difficult to extend these findings to clinical situations. However, more experimental work in different animal species as well as epidemiological studies in human subjects in this regard are highly recommended. K Ke ey y w wo or rd ds s: : anxiety, elevated plus maze, malathion, mouse, organophosphates. C Co or rr re es sp po on nd di in ng g a au ut th ho or r: :
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 1996
Peroxynitrite (ONOO-) is a cytotoxic product of the rapid reaction between nitric oxide and super... more Peroxynitrite (ONOO-) is a cytotoxic product of the rapid reaction between nitric oxide and superoxide that may initiate inflammation. Isolated perfused tracheas from guinea pigs were incubated from the mucosal side for 15 min with peroxynitrite (1 to 100 muM). Thereafter, concentration-response curves to histamine and methacholine were constructed on the preparations. Peroxynitrite (10 muM) caused a significant hyperresponsiveness; the maximal contractions in response to histamine and methacholine were enhanced by 30% and 40%, respectively. In the peroxynitrite-treated group, clear epithelial damage as well as eosinophil destruction were detected. Moreover, 3, 5, and 10 days after intratracheal instillation of peroxynitrite (100 nmol), a significant rise in pulmonary resistance to histamine of anesthetized animals was observed. It is suggested that the generation of peroxynitrite from nitric oxide superoxide radicals during inflammatory processes induces epithelial damage, mediator release, and hence airway hyperresponsiveness. These findings may have clinical implications, because airway inflammation, epithelial damage, and hyperresponsiveness are characteristic features in patients suffering from asthma.
Morphine withdrawal usually results in unsuccessful outcomes. Despite partial benefits from alter... more Morphine withdrawal usually results in unsuccessful outcomes. Despite partial benefits from alternative substances such as methadone, its use may not lead to the desired result due to the lack of mental tranquility during the withdrawal period. In this study, by means of an animal model, morphine itself was used to manage morphine dependence. Forty mice were divided into 5 groups, in which 4 groups became dependent by increasing daily doses of morphine for 7 days (15-45 mg/kg). Afterwards, the animals received morphine for 14 days by either of the following regimens: Once daily 45 mg/kg (positive controls)Increasing the interval (each time 6 hours longer than the previous interval)Irregular interval in every 36, 12 and 24 hours until the 21(th) day12, 24, 36 hours decreasing doses (each time 2.5 mg/kg less than the former dosage). Negative controls received saline solution only. On day 22, total withdrawal index (TWI) was determined by injecting 3 mg/kg of naloxone. Thereafter, bloo...
3 Abstract: New applications and products initiated by nanotechnology may cause harmful effects o... more 3 Abstract: New applications and products initiated by nanotechnology may cause harmful effects on public and environmental health. There is no much data on the harmful effects caused by application of some nano materials and the current knowledge in this field is limited solely to the nano particles but not the final products. As common materials produced in industrial scale, nano cupper particles are extensively added to engine oil to reduce friction and improve lubrication. On the other hand, the difference between the effects of virgin and used conventional engine oil (CEO) and the engine oil containing cupper nano particles (NEO) on the environment is not known. Earthworm, as a one of the species which could live and survive in different sorts of earth and has a certain role in protecting the soil structure and fertility, was used in this experiment. Filter Paper test in 24h and 48h based on eight concentrations in the range of 0.003-0.024 ml/cm and Artificial Soil 2 test in 1 ...
Journal of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, 2020
Background and aims: Several pharmacological and biological activities have been attributed to Cu... more Background and aims: Several pharmacological and biological activities have been attributed to Cuminum cyminum L. (CC), including analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-epileptic effects. In this regard, the present study evaluated the antidepressant-like effects of the CC essential oil (EO) on the forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) in male mice. Materials and Methods: The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) apparatus was used for detecting the chemical compounds of CC EO. In the present study, 72 male NMRI mice were randomly allocated to 12 groups (each containing 6 animals) including control or vehicle (10 mL/kg, i.p.), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, i.p.), imipramine (30 mg/kg, i.p), and the CC EO (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg, i.p.). Then, several parameters were measured and recorded, including immobility time, swimming time, and climbing time in FST, along with immobility time in TST, respectively. Results: Cuminaldehyde followed by cymene, γ-terpine...
Journal de Mycologie Médicale / Journal of Medical Mycology, 2016
Objective.-Dermatophytosis is the most frequent fungal infection all over the world and its frequ... more Objective.-Dermatophytosis is the most frequent fungal infection all over the world and its frequency is constantly increasing. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical features and epidemiological trends of dermatophytosis over the years 2010 to 2014 in Tehran, Iran. Patients and methods.-A total of 13,312 patients clinically suspected of cutaneous fungal infections were examined. Skin scales, plucked hairs, nail clippings and sub-ungual debris were examined by direct microscopy and culture. Dermatophyte species were identified at the species level by a combination of morphological and physiological criteria. Results.-Direct microscopy confirmed a contamination rate of 19.7% (2622/13,312 cases) of which 1535 cases (58.5%) were culture positive distributed in male (1022 cases) and female (513 cases). The most commonly infected age group was the 30-39 years old. Tinea pedis (30.4%) was the most prevalent type of dermatophytosis followed by tinea cruris (29.8%) and tinea corporis (15.8%). Epidermophyton floccosum (31%) was the most prevalent causative agent, followed by Trichophyton rubrum (26.2%) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (20.3%).
Clinical asthma and airway responsiveness appear to be less severe when diabetes is superimposed.... more Clinical asthma and airway responsiveness appear to be less severe when diabetes is superimposed. The aim of the present study was to determine the possible role of Nitric Oxide (NO) in the airway reactivity under diabetic and diabetic-allergic conditions. Twenty-five male guinea-pigs were divided into five groups of five each as follows: diabetic, antigen sensitized, diabetic- antigen sensitized, insulin-treated diabetic- antigen ovalbumin sensitized and control animals. Tracheal rings of all groups were mounted in an organ bath system for isometric contraction measurements. Tissues were pre-incubated with either of the following chemicals: L-NAME, L-arginine or methylene blue. Cumulative concentration response curve was made with histamine. Decrease in the airway reactivity in diabetic and diabetic- antigen sensitized animals were shown compared to the antigen sensitized animals. pEC(50) values of histamine in the presence of L-Arg showed increase in diabetic and diabetic- antigen...
Thyroid disease and asthma, both being common conditions, occasionally occur simultaneously. The ... more Thyroid disease and asthma, both being common conditions, occasionally occur simultaneously. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of experimental thyroid dysfunction on the reactivity of isolated trachea. Male, adult guinea pigs were placed into three groups of euthyroid (EUT), hyperthyroid (HRT) and hypothyroid animals (HOT). HOT was induced by methimazole in drinking water (50 mg/kg b.w. daily for 7 weeks). HRT was induced by i.p. injections of L-thyroxine (100 µg/kg once daily for 10 days). Animals were anesthetized with CO , blood samples were taken for T , T and TSH measurements. Thereafter, they were 2 34 sacrificed with an overdose of CO , tracheal rings from all groups were removed and mounted in an organ bath 2 system for isometric measurement of smooth muscle contractions. Cumulative concentration/ response curves (CRCs) were made with acetylcholine (ACh) and histamine. An increased airway reactivity to histamine was observed in HRT animals, shifting t...
BACKGROUND: Normal bacterial flora of the conjunctiva, which inhibits growth of opportunistic org... more BACKGROUND: Normal bacterial flora of the conjunctiva, which inhibits growth of opportunistic organisms, has an important role in the prevention of ocular infections. If resident flora is inhibited by disease or long-term application of antibiotics, opportunistic pathogens overgrow, leading to disease. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ophthalmic chloramphenicol and ciprofloxacin on bacterial conjunctival flora in healthy dogs. METHODS: A total of 16 animals were divided into 2 equal groups which received either chloramphenicol (CHL) (0.5%) or ciprofloxacin (CIP) (0.3%). In both groups, the right eye of each animal was treated with 2 drops of antibiotics every 8 and 6 hours, respectively, for 1 week and the left eye received artificial tear solution and served as control. Bacterial and fungal cultures were performed 8 hours before and after the treatment. Fisher’s Exact test and SPSS software were used for statistical analyses (p<0.05). RESULTS: ...
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Papers by G. Sadeghi