Light Microscopic Examination Research Articles

The possible protective effect of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 agonist (Alda-1) on doxorubicin induced toxicity of the left ventricular cardiomyocytes of adult male mice.

ABSTRACTBackground: Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective antineoplastic drug. However, its cardiotoxicity is a major obstacle that limit its use. Therefore, a novel protective agent is urgently needed. Enzyme activation recently gained much interest as a new therapeutic strategy. In this context, Alda-1 is a newly emerged molecule in the field of cardioprotection through its activation of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 enzyme.Aim of the study: To evaluate the possible protective effect of aldehyde dehydrogenase agonist Alda-1 on doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity. Material and methods: Twenty-four adult male C57BL/6 mice were divided equally into 4 groups. Group I received intraperitoneal injection of saline. Group II received intraperitoneal injection of Alda-1 (10 mg/kg) daily for 5 days. Group III received a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (20 mg/kg). Group IV received both DOX and Alda-1 in the same regimen as in groups II and III, Alda-1 was administered 1 day before DOX. All mice were euthanized on the 5th day following DOX administration. Blood samples were collected, hearts were excised and further processed for anatomical, histological and biochemical analysis.Results: DOX administration caused extensive cardiotoxicity as evident by the marked decrease in the heart weight and the extensive myocardial lesions shown by the light and electron microscopic examination. Moreover, biochemical serum markers of cardiac injury (CK-MB &LDH) was markedly elevated. Increased oxidative stress was also encountered as shown by the decreased serum TAC and increased tissue MDA. Furthermore, mitochondrial morphometry showed increased mitochondrial size. However, concomitant administration of Alda-1 with DOX have markedly alleviated the heart injury as shown by the restoration of the heart weight and cardiac architecture together with preservation of the mitochondrial structure. Moreover, Alda-1 has ameliorated the biochemical markers of cardiac injury and the oxidative stress.Conclusion: Alda-1 provides a valuable protective effect against doxorubicin triggered cardiotoxicity.

Comparative Study on the Effect of Injectable Platelet Rich Plasma versus its Topical Application in the Treatment of Thermal Burn in Adult Male Albino Rat: Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

Background: Burn is one of the major health problems and several reports have focused on platelet rich plasma role in treatment of soft tissue lesions.Aim:This work aimed to study the histological effect of injectable platelet rich plasma versus its topical application on skin layers (epidermis and dermis) after thermal burn induction in adult male albino rats.Material and Methods: 60 adult male albino rats were divided into three groups; blood donors group, control and experimental group. The latter was subdivided into subgroups I and II. Subgroup II was subdivided into 3 subgroups. Subgroup IIA: animals were exposed to contact thermal burn without treatment. Subgroup IIB: animals were injected subcutaneously with 0.3 ml of autologous PRP. Subgroup IIC: autologous topical PRP was applied. Skin specimens were obtained at days 7, 14 and 28 post burn and involved in histological and immunohistochemical studies. Results: The results of this study revealed that, treatment with PRP resulted in early and enhanced regeneration of skin burn injury. This was evidenced by light microscopic examination and morphometric studies. The PRP treated subgroups were manifested with early re-epithelialization, collagen fibers regeneration and enhanced neovascularization with restoration of normal histological features of skin tissue. Injectable PRP provides slightly better results regarding collagen deposition, fibroblasts infiltration with significant increase in angiogenesis when compared with topical PRP causing high vascular density in wounds.Conclusion: Early interference by PRP injection or topical application enhances wound healing in second degree burn rat model. More future researches are recommended to assess the efficacy of combined injectable and topical PRP in treating burns.

Effect of Tadalafil on Apoptosis and Proliferation in Urinary Bladder Mucosa after Chemically Induced Haemorrhagic Cystitis; A Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

Introduction: Haemorrhagic cystitis (HC) can be chemically induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP) injection; it is mainly used as an immunosuppressive and antineoplastic drug. Tadalafil (TAD) a phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor has vasodilator, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. It is mainly used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.Aim of the work: This work aimed to verify the effect of tadalafil on apoptosis and proliferation on the injured bladder mucosa after chemically induced HC. Material and Methods: Thirty-six adult male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups; group I was the control group, group II was TAD-treated group, group III was CYP-treated group and group IV was TAD-CYP treated group. Groups III and IV were subdivided into two subgroups (a and b), subgroups IIIa and IVa were euthanized after one day while subgroups IIIb and IVb were euthanized after 10 days. Urinary bladder specimens were processed for light and electron microscopic examination and immunohistochemical analysis of caspase-3 and Ki-67. Results: Subgroup IIIa revealed haemorrhage and decrease of urothelium thickness with presence of denuded areas. Subgroup IIIb showed restoration of urothelium with focal denuded areas. Both subgroups showed a significant increase in apoptotic index while subgroup IIIb showed a significant increase in proliferative index. Subgroup IVa revealed a significant decrease in apoptosis associated with a significant increase in proliferation, thereby limiting cellular loss. Subgroup IVb; showed a significant decrease in both apoptosis and proliferation indicated prevention of the developed hyperplasia of the urothelium. By transmission electron microscopy, the terminal differentiation of superficial cells of group IV was expressed by presence of an angular contour.Conclusion: TAD-CYP co-treatment provides a positive impact on the apoptosis, proliferation, and the histological changes of HC on urinary bladder mucosa. Therefore, further studies are required to elucidate the protective effect of TAD on CYP-induced HC.

Molecular Characterization of Hemoparasites and Hemoplasmas Infecting Domestic Cats of Southern India.

In the present study, 111 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy cats belonging to four districts of Kerala, southern India, and they were investigated for the presence of hemoparasites and hemoplasmas by light microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The microscopic examination of the Giemsa-stained blood smears did not reveal any parasites/organisms. However, PCR followed by nucleotide sequencing could detect 10 (9.01%) out of 111 samples infected with Hepatozoon felis, 3 (2.70%) with Cytauxzoon spp., and 10 (9.01%) with Mycoplasma spp. None of the samples revealed amplicons specific for the Babesia spp. and Trypanosoma evansi. The phylogenetic analysis of 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequences of H. felis revealed the existence of two different populations of H. felis circulating in the blood of infected cats. The phylogenetic tree was constructed based on 18S rRNA gene sequences of Cytauxzoon spp. and revealed that these isolates formed a distinct clade and do not cluster with any of the isolates from other countries. Among the 10 samples positive for Mycoplasma spp. infections, 7 were detected positive for Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum, two for Mycoplasma haemofelis, and one for Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences of Mycoplasma spp. showed no distinct geographical grouping of the sequences. The sequences of M. haemofelis, Candidatus M. haemominutum, and Candidatus M. turicensis identified in the study clustered along with their respective isolates from around the world. To the best of our knowledge, this study forms the first report of molecular detection of Cytauxzoon spp. and Candidatus M. turicensis in cats from India.

Therapeutic Effects of Ascorbic Acid on Hormonal and Histological Alteration Produced in The Reproductive System of Albino Rats Intoxicated by Herbicide Atrazine

The aim of this study was to examine the cytotoxicity of the herbicide atrazine on the reproductive system. 48 male and 48 female albino rats were treated with atrazine daily for two different durations (15 and 30 days). Reproductive system toxicity was monitored by quantitative analysis of the serum Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Prolactin (PRL), Estrogen (E2), Progesterone (Prog) and Testosterone (Testo). On the other hand, the reproductive organs were collected for histopathology study. The study showed a significant elevation of estrogen, progesterone hormones with a significant decrease in testosterone hormone in male groups while in female groups there was a significant decrease in estrogen, progesterone & hormones with a significant increase in testosterone hormone. But there was no effect on PRL and LH hormones in both male and female groups toxified by ATZ, in comparison to the control groups. In addition to that, the Light microscopic examination of the seminiferous tubule cells (st) showed vacuolations within seminiferous tubules (V), degeneration of spermatozoa formation and hemorrhage (hg) in the interstitial tissue. These effects were increased by increasing the dose or the time of exposure. By using ascorbic acid in the treatment of those effects, we find a significant improvement and detoxification of the atrazine effects on both hormonal tests and histological sections. From our study results, we concluded that there is a potential contribution of herbicide mixtures in the etiology of somebody's diseases, while ascorbic acid has beneficial effects as it tends to dampen atrazine toxicity, in albino rats.

Metallurgical and Mechanical Failure Analysis of an Aftermarket Flywheel

A failure analysis investigation was performed on the remnants of an aftermarket gray cast iron flywheel that catastrophically fractured during operation in a vehicle after 24 miles of operation. Light microscopy, 3D X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), metallography, and hardness/tensile testing techniques were utilized to characterize manufacturing quality, mode(s) of failure, microstructural variation, fracture surfaces, and mechanical properties of the failed component. Light microscopy examination of the remnant surfaces showed that the flywheel shattered with signs of radial heat checking fissure cracks. A metallurgical examination of the flywheel showed that it was manufactured from cast gray iron, with evidence of microstructural changes near heat-affected zones from graphite flakes in a ferrite/pearlite matrix to needle and lath formations similar to bainite or martensitic phases. The CT scan slices and fracture surface examination in the SEM showed signs of porosity and dendritic formations along a fracture surface believed to be the crack initiation location. The analysis suggests manufacturing flaws found within the flywheel were a likely contributing factor leading to premature failure during service.

First case report of dermatitis associated with Leporacarus gibbus in cat

BackgroundLeporacarus gibbus is a highly specific acarian parasitizing in rabbits, with a proven zoonotic potential. While the majority of cases of L. gibbus infestation are asymptomatic, several cases of pruritic cutaneous condition in both laboratory and pet rabbits were reported. Up to date, L. gibbus has not been linked with clinical signs in any other species than rabbits and humans.Case presentationThis case report described the clinical case of a 14-month-old cat with a dermatitis linked to L. gibbus. Mites specimens were collected by brushing, followed by light microscopy examination and species identification. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of L. gibbus-related dermatitis in cat.ConclusionsL. gibbus infestation should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis of pruritic skin conditions in cat.

The effects of the anti-Müllerian hormone on folliculogenesis in rats: light and electron microscopic evaluation

ABSTRACT In this study, we evaluated the effects of anti-Müllerian hormone on follicle development and oocyte quality with light and electron microscopy. Twenty-four adult female rats were divided into four groups. After estrous cycle synchronization, on the first day, control group rats were injected with 0.5 ml saline, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th groups were injected 1 µgr, 2 µgr, and 5 µgr anti-Müllerian hormone, respectively. On the third day, intracardiac blood samples were taken for follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, and progesterone serum level measurements. Ovaries were obtained for light and electron microscopic examinations. Secondary (antral) follicles were decreased while atretic follicles were increased in number parallel with an increased dose of anti-Müllerian hormone injection. Atresia of the follicles was demonstrated with apoptosis of granulosa cells characterized by apoptotic bodies and with paraptosis characterized by the vacuole formation in the cytoplasm, enlargement of granular endoplasmic reticulum cisternae and perinuclear cisternae in granulosa cells. Premature luteinization characterized by increased lipid droplets, mitochondria with tubular cristae, and smooth-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum in the cytoplasm of granulosa cells were detected in some growing follicles. In the anti-Müllerian hormone injected experimental groups, cystic follicles characterized by a large antrum, attenuated granulosa cell layer, and flattened granulosa cells that face the antrum were observed. Corpus luteum and stroma were similar in all groups. It was concluded that increasing doses of anti-Müllerian hormone caused increased atresia in developing follicles, premature luteinization of granulosa cells in some follicles, and cystic follicle formation in the further developing follicles.

Histopathological changes of kidney tissue during aging

Kidney aging is a normal physiological process associates with various molecular, morphologic and functional changes in the kidney tissues. This work was designed to study microscopically the structural changes in the kidney tissue of aged rats compared to young rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were used 10 young rats (4 months) and 10 aged rats (24 months). Rats were transcardially perfused with 4% paraformaldehyde. The kidneys were post fixed for 24 hours in 4 % PFA then proceeded for normal histopathology and light microscopic examination. Kidney tissue of aged rats showed serious morphological changes such as; segmental glomerulosclerosis, pericapsular fibrosis, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, perivascular fibrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, tubular dilatation, intra-tubular cast formation and tubular atrophy. These changes were compared to the normal histological appearance of glomeruli, tubules, interstitium, blood vessels of young rat kidneys. In addition, the kidney tissue of the aged rats showed compensatory glomerular hypertrophy, tubular hyperplasia and endothelial proliferation. Renal aging involves several degenerative changes in kidney structure and these alterations interfere with the physiologic functions and end with chronic renal failure.

Comparison of surface microtopography and mechanodegradation characteristics of platelet-rich fibrin membranes using two different centrifugation protocols

Aim: To compare the surface microtopography and in vitro mechanodegradation characteristics of two different platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) preparation protocols, that is, leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) and advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF). Materials and Methods: For the present ex vivo study, blood samples were obtained from 20 healthy volunteers, who were divided into two groups: group I (L-PRF) and group II (A-PRF). For each experiment, five samples each were used for obtaining L-PRF and A-PRF membranes. Surface microtopography was demonstrated by using light microscopic studies and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. Mechanical characteristics were evaluated by using Universal Testing Machine and nano Triboindentor. Membrane degradation properties were studied by using the Bradford method. The data were expressed in mean and standard deviation (SPSS 20.0 version, USA). Intergroup statistical significance was assessed by using an unpaired t-test and defined significant as P < 0.05. Results: Light microscopic examinations and SEM analysis have demonstrated that the L-PRF membrane contained thick densely arranged fibers than the A-PRF membrane. Mechanical characteristics have revealed that the tensile strength was higher, and the breaking strain was lower in the L-PRF membranes as compared with A-PRF membranes. The degradation profile demonstrated that the A-PRF membrane takes a prolonged time for degradation as compared with L-PRF. Conclusion: The present study justifies that differences in the centrifugation protocol have an influence on the surface microtopography and mechanodegradation characteristics of the PRF membrane.

Morphology of the lips, cheeks, and the hard palate of the Egyptian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): a focus on histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural aspects.

The available data is scanty about Egyptian water buffalo lips, cheeks, and palate. The current investigation was focused on describing the morphology of the lip, cheek, and palate. Our study included the gross, light, and electron microscopic examinations of ten heads of the Egyptian water buffalos. The nasolabial plate surface carried numerous scales of keratinized epithelium. Internal labial surface and labial mucocutaneous junctions were covered with stratified squamous keratinized epithelium. Two types of hair follicles in the dermis included ordinary and cavernous types characterized by cavernous space. The conical papillae on the internal aspect of the oral commissure were projected from the mucous membrane. Seromucous glands were occasionally observed under the oral mucous membrane of the commissure and gave positive PAS and AB. Conical papillae density on the inner cheek surface had some variations: the rostral part had large papillae, while the dorsal part had numerous papillae than the ventral part, the caudal part had a smaller number of papillae, while the middle part was devoid of papillae. Parotid duct opening in the buccal vestibule was without papillae. Conical papillae had two surfaces; the rostral surface was highly keratinized than the caudal one. The buccal gland was a compound tubuloacinar mixed (mucoserous) gland and mucus acini only reacted to PAS and AB. The oral surface of palatine rugae was covered with highly keratinized epithelium than the aboral surface. Palatine glands showed PAS and AB positive. The result describes the relationship between the available food particles, environmental conditions and the lip, cheek, and palate appearance, and structure.

Effect of high fat diet on structure of liver and gallbladder of adult male mice – an experimental study

Introduction. High fat diet (HFD) intake induces obesity and adversely affects different body organs including liver and gallbladder. Aim. It was to clarify the effects of HFD on the liver and gallbladder structure using light microscopic (LM) examination. Material and methods. 16 healthy adult male mice were equally divided into 2 groups. Control group mice were fed normal diet. HFD group was fed using HFD. At the end of the 8-week experiment, mice were anesthetized. Liver and gallbladder were removed and prepared to histological processing. Sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&amp;E) and immunostaining for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) cellular localization. Oil Red O (ORO)-stained frozen liver sections were prepared. Results. H&amp;E-stained sections of HFD group revealed rounded swollen hepatic cells with pale cytoplasm suggesting cellular ballooning. Dilated congested sinusoids and portal vein, cellular degeneration and collection of inflammatory cells were observed between hepatic cells and in portal region. Gallbladder sections showed epithelial stratification and cellular vacuolation. Strong immunoexpression of COX-2 was observed in Kupffer and hepatic cells of the liver and gallbladder mucosal epithelial cells. Conclusion. HFD is suggested to alter the normal histological features of liver and gallbladder represented by fatty liver and gallbladder epithelial hyperplasia and inflammatory reaction.

Neuropathological analysis of the brains of fifty-two patients with COVID-19.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses aglobal challenge to healthcare and society in the early 21st century. We report neuropathological changes in 52 patients aged between 22 years and 88 years (median 58 years) who were infected with the CoV-2 coronavirus. Patients died under various circumstances and had various pre-existing diseases. The inclusion criteria for this study were: positive result for the nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, diagnosis of pneumonia of SARS-CoV-2 or nucleoproteins of SARS-CoV-2 in pulmonary tissue confirmed by immunohistochemical methods (IHC). Samples from all brain structures and lung specimens were taken for histopathological examinations. Brain and pulmonary samples were stained typically with histological and immunohistochemical methods and small tissue fragments were examined with the transmission electron microscope (TEM). The light and electron microscopy examination confirmed the numerous neuropathological changes in the brains of the patients infected with the CoV-2. Many of these changes were caused by pre-existing diseases of patients and/or by necessary treatment. However, vascular lesions and the inflammatory process seem to be characteristic of the CoV-2 infection. In all of the structures of 52 brains of patients, damage of the vessel walls and morphological feature of the damage to the blood-brain barrier were observed. Lymphocytic and microglial infiltrates, both perivascular and diffuse, were also observed. Hence, the brain changes due to COVID-19 infection, could be called COVID-19 cerebral angiopathy with diffuse inflammation.

Histopathological Spectrum of Neoplastic and Non Neoplastic Lesions of Urinary Bladder- A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Urinary bladder encompasses a wide variety of lesions, both neoplastic and non neoplastic responsible for significant morbidity and mortality throughout the world. All bladder lesions require biopsy because of their lack of distinctive features. Urinary bladder cancer is the 9th most common cancer worldwide accounting for 6% and 2% of the cancer incidence in men and women, respectively. Aim: To analyse the histopathological spectrum of bladder specimens with neoplastic and non neoplastic lesions, and categorising them according to recent 2016 World Health Organisation (WHO) classification. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted from January to June 2020 at Subharti Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India. Retrospective data was retrieved from a period of 10 years from January 2010-December 2019. Histopathological analysis of all the urinary bladder biopsies and radical cystectomy/cystoprostectomy specimens received during this period was done on basis of light microscopic examination of Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E) stained slides. Lesions were categorised into non neoplastic and neoplastic. The neoplastic lesions were classified based on WHO classification 2016 and staging as per 8th edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). Descriptive data analysis was done. Results: Total 252 cases were evaluated. A total of 200 (79%) cases were neoplastic and 52 (21%) cases were diagnosed as non neoplastic with majority of cases being cystitis. Male to female ratio was 7:1. The most common age group was 4th to 7th decade. In neoplastic category, urothelial tumours constituted 194 (97%) cases with Infiltrating Urothelial Carcinoma (IUC) being 118 (60.8%) cases. In non invasive lesions majority 27 (35.6%) cases were Papillary Urothelial Neoplasm of Low Malignant Potential (PUNLMP) followed by urothelial carcinoma in situ and papillary urothelial neoplasm of low grade. Entities other than urothelial tumours encountered in the present study were primary adenocarcinoma, small cell carcinoma, melanosis and metastasis from prostate. TNM staging showed lamina propria invasion (pT1) in 59 (37%) cases, followed by pT2 tumours invading muscle in 56 (35%) cases. Conclusion: Proper knowledge of histologic characteristics of various bladder lesions is of utmost importance as few benign conditions mimic neoplastic and few serve as preneoplastic conditions, misdiagnosis may cause further any unnecessary treatment procedure. With a multidisciplinary approach, early diagnosis and immediate intervention can have a better survival and provide a more comfortable life to the patient.

Study of the Possible Alleviated Role of Atorvastatin on Irinotecan-Induced Lingual Mucosal Damage: Histological and Molecular Study.

Background Oral mucositis is the most debilitating and troublesome adverse effect of irinotecan (CPT-11) treatment. It adversely affects the patient quality of life. The aim of this work was to study the histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular changes in the oral mucosa by CPT-11 and the possible alleviated role of atorvastatin. Methods Rats were randomly divided into control, CPT-11-treated group, and CPT-11+ atorvastatin-treated group. At the end of the experiment, the anterior two-thirds of the tongue was dissected out and divided into two parts: one part for light microscopic examination and the second for molecular study. Results CPT-11-treated group revealed loss of normal mucosal organization, areas of ulceration and inflammation, and loss of architecture of lingual papillae. A significant decrease in immunohistochemical and molecular gene expression of Ki-67 and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 levels was observed. A significant increase in NF-κB immunohistochemical and mRNA gene expression level and a nonsignificant increase in Nrf2 gene expression were detected. Coadministration of atorvastatin showed remarkable improvement in the histopathological picture with a significant increase in Ki-67 and Bcl-2, a significant decrease in NF-κB protein and gene expression, and a significant increase in Nrf2 gene expression. Conclusion Atorvastatin substantially attenuates CPT-11-induced oral mucositis through the initiation of the antiapoptotic gene, modulation of the inflammatory, and antioxidant gene expression.

Amelioration of renal cortex histological alterations by aqueous garlic extract in gentamicin induced renal toxicity in albino rats: a histological and immunohistochemical study

ABSTRACT Background: Aminoglycosides, particularly gentamicin, endure crucial antibiotics in the armamentarium for severe Gram-negative bacterial infections through their significant risk for nephrotoxicity. Co-administration of several applicant nephroprotective agents has been investigated at the preclinical level. Garlic was proved to be an oxidative stress combatant with unique antioxidant potential. Aim of the work: To assess renal cortex structural changes due to gentamicin treatment and the role of the aqueous garlic extract (AGE) in ameliorating these changes. Material and methods: Thirty-two male albino rats were assigned into four equal groups. Group I (Control group) received 0.9% NaCl solution through oral gavage in the same volume as in AGE-treated group. Group II (AGE treated group) received AGE by oral gavage at 250 mg/kg/day. Group III (Gentamicin treated group) received Gentamicin at 80 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally. Group IV (Gentamicin and AGE cotreated group) received both gentamicin and AGE. The duration of the treatment was 21 days. Specimens of renal cortex of all groups were processed for light microscopic examination. Specimens were additionally prepared for electron microscopic examination. Morphometric study and statistical analysis were performed. Results: Examination of the renal cortex in the gentamicin treated rats showed both proximal and distal tubular necrosis, vacuolation, desquamation and interstitial mononuclear cell infiltration. Masson’s trichrome staining revealed intense deposition of collagen fibers. Strong positive immunoreaction for caspase-3 was observed. Ultrastructurally, the glomerulus showed thickened basement membrane, destructed endothelium. Proximal and distal convoluted tubular cells exhibited vacuolations, distorted mitochondria and nuclear chromatin condensation with loss of microvilli. AGE ameliorated these changes. Conclusion: Aqueous garlic extract ameliorates the histological changes caused by gentamicin in the rat renal cortex.

Prevalence of Toxocara Species Eggs in the Soil of Public Parks in Hamedan City, Western Iran

Background: Toxocariasis is one of the most commonly reported zoonotic helminth infections in the world which is caused by the parasitic roundworms of dogs or cats. This survey aimed to provide data on the contamination of the soil of public parks by Toxocara spp. eggs in Hamedan city, capital of Hamedan Province in the west of Iran. Methods: During April and May 2019, a total of 120 soil samples were collected from 20 public parks (4 to 10 soil samples from each park) from all geographical areas of the city. For detection of eggs, soil samples were dried overnight at room temperature and passed through a 150 μm mesh sieve. After performing Sheather’s flotation technique using 2 g of powdery soil, light microscopic examinations were carried out. Results: Microscopic evaluation of specimens revealed that 14 samples out of 120 (11.67%) collected from 10 public parks out of 20 in Hamedan (50.0%) were contaminated with Toxocara spp. eggs. Various developmental stages of Toxocara spp. eggs including (1) non-developed, (2) 2-cell to tadpole stage, and (3) larvated eggs were observed. Furthermore, in two public parks, Trichuris spp. eggs were found in the soils. Conclusions: This study provides the first information about the contamination of public areas in Hamedan 0rovince and suggests that public awareness about this fact is needed. Education of citizens especially parents with children, who have commonly mouthing behavior, is recommended. Further molecular-based studies for the identification of parasite species in the province are suggested. All of the published literature about contamination of the soils of public areas in Iran with Toxocara eggs until July 2020 were also reviewed.

Comparative Morphometric Analysis of Nucleus Size in Endometrial Hyperplasia and Carcinoma

Objective: Endometrial hyperplasias are the preliminary lesions of endometrial carcinomas. Although the histopathologic features are well-defined, the criteria are not objective and the immunohistochemical techniques are limited, resulting in inconsistency between the observers in cases of hyperplasia. Our study aimed to measure and compare the shortest nuclear diameter (SND) of gland epithelial cells; to find differences and ratios that may help to minimize variations among observers. Materials and Methods: Our study included 100 cases diagnosed as proliferative endometrium (PE), endometrial hyperplasia, and endometrioid carcinoma from their curettage and hysterectomy materials. For each case, the shortest diameter of 50 gland epithelial cell nuclei was manually measured with an image analysis program (BAB Bs200 Pro Image Analysis Software). Results: Comparison of binary groups revealed that except the comparisons between glandular epithelial SNDM of EIN (endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia) and glandular epithelial SNDM of AH (atypical hyperplasia), and glandular epithelial SNDM of AH and glandular epithelial SNDM of PE all comparisons were statistically significantly different (p&amp;lt;0.01). Conclusion: We think that the ratios and comparisons related to nucleus diameters obtained in our study may be useful in practical applications because predictions can be made with routine light microscopy and histopathological examination.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF STRONTIUM CITRATE ON BONE CONSOLIDATION DURING MANDIBULAR DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS IN RABBITS (EXPERIMENTAL STUDY)

Introduction: Distraction osteogenesis is defined as an operation that can lengthen bone gradually. Many complications may occur during this time, including refractures, local infections and loosening of the distractor device or pin. The most important disadvantage applies to the extended period of consolidation stage. Several methods have been tested for their ability to enhance new bone development, including the use of different adjuvant therapies, in order to minimize the time needed to complete the MDO phases Strontium is a medication used for treatment of osteoporosis. It's been shown that bone formation is promoted while bone resorption is reduced and in osteoporotic patients. Aim of this study: This study aimed to determine whether strontium citrate can be used in a rabbit model to enhance bone healing during MDO. Materials and Methods: Fourteen rabbits weighing 3.0-3.5kg were divided into 2 groups: group I; (control group), group II; (received strontium citrate). Surgical procedures to place the distractor system were performed in both groups. After 5 days of latency period, the distractor was activated. After 4 weeks all rabbits were euthanized and the distracted mandibles were surgically removed and prepared for light microscopic examination and histomorphometry. Results: Comparing to the control group, histological results revealed thicker bone trabeculae in the study group with narrower bone marrow. The histomorphometric analysis also showed significantly higher percentage of new bone per field in the study group. Conclusions: Strontium citrate supplementation could enhance bone consolidation during distraction osteogenesis.

Cellular, Molecular and Biochemical Impacts of Silver Nanoparticles on Rat Cerebellar Cortex.

Background: The excessive exposure to silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) has raised concerns about their possible risks to the human health. The brain is a highly vulnerable organ to nano-silver harmfulness. The aim of this work was to evaluate the impacts of Ag-NPs exposure on the cerebellar cortex of rats. Methods: Rats were assigned to: Control, vehicle control and Ag-NP-exposed groups (at doses of 10 mg and 30 mg/kg/day). Samples were processed for light and electron microscopy examinations. Immunohistochemical localization of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) and calbindin D28k (CB) proteins was performed. Analyses of expression of DNA damage inducible transcript 4 (Ddit4), flavin containing monooxygenase 2 (FMO2) and thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip) genes were done. Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were also measured. Results: Ag-NPs enhanced apoptosis as evident by upregulation of Ddit4 gene expressions and JNK protein immune expressions. Alterations of redox homeostasis were verified by enhancement of Txnip and FMO2 gene expressions, favoring the activation of inflammatory responses by increasing NF-κB protein immune expressions and serum inflammatory mediator levels. Another cytotoxic effect was the reduction of immune expressions of the calcium regulator CB. Conclusion: Ag-NPs exposure provoked biochemical, cellular and molecular changes of rat cerebellar cortex in a dose-dependent manner.