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Jalin Herbal Mannex Liquid (JHML) is a polyherbal formulation from honey, Panax ginseng, Liriosma ovate, and Lepidium mehenil, intended for enhanced sexual performance and improve sperm count in men. JHML was studied via its effect on body weight, biochemical indices and histopathology of the testes. Twenty healthy Wistar rats of 120 -150 g weight were allotted into groups A and B., of ten rats each, group A (control), were given 2 mL/kg B.W of tap water, group B were dosed with 2 mL/kg B.W of JHML for four weeks with the animals allowed access to feed and water ad-libitum. Blood were obtained through heart perforation, kidney and testes were excised, washed with normal buffered saline. Results from the investigation indicated that JHML had androgenic properties with marked significant increase (p?0.05) in body weight of rats administered with JHML. Significant increase (p?0.05) was observed in LH, FSH, testosterone and with a concomitant significant decrease (p?0.05) in PRL. The JHML caused non-significant decrease (p>0.05) on triglycerides and cholesterol but with positive significant effect (p?0.05) on LDL and HDL. No significant changes (p>0.05) on creatinine, urea, uric acid and serum electrolytes. Testicular sections of rats treated with JHML exhibited normal features, seminiferous epithelium and interstitial tissues with active spermatogenesis. The significant increase (p?0.05) in testosterone, LH, FSH with a concomitant significant decrease (p?0.05) in PRL may account for its sex invigorating potential, the non-significant changes observed in some biochemical indices of the rats showed that JHML is relatively safe at the studied dose.   Key words: Jalin Herbal Mannex Liquid, sex hormone, renal function, lipid profile, serum electrolyte.

Применение техники аутологичного индуцированного матрицей хондрогенеза в лечении пациентов с остеоартритом первого плюснефалангового сустава

(OA of the first MTP joint). On the other hand, it is known that the technique of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis has been successfully used for osteochondral defects in the hip, knee and ankle joints. Therefore, we have proposed to use this technique in the treatment of patients with OA of the first MTP joint. Purpose To study the possibility of surgical treatment of patients with OA of the first MTP joint with the use of chondroplasty utilizing the technique of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis, to demonstrate the immediate and mid-term results of such operations. Materials and methods Chondroplasty was performed in 15 patients (16 feet) with OA of the first MTP joint. The examination determined the range of motion in of the first MTP joint; the condition was assessed according to such scales as VAS for pain, AOFAS, FFI. Chondroplasty in of the first MTP joint was performed with the technique of induced chondrogenesis using a collagen matrix. The results of the operations were evaluated after 3, 6 and 12 months. Results As early as 3 months after the operation, there was a marked significant increase in the range of motion and a decrease in pain of the first MTP joint. Moderate positive dynamics were observed after 6 and 12 months. Conclusion The results of the operations showed that chondroplasty of the first MTP joint is an effective method of surgical treatment that provides pain relief and significantly improves the quality of life of patients with OA of the first MTP joint. However, it is necessary to study long-term results.

EFFECT OF MINERAL NITROGEN AND BIOFERTILIZER APPLICATION ON NODULATION EFFICIENCY AND GROWTH OF PEANUT PLANTS GROWN ON A SANDY SOIL TREATED WITH ORGANIC FERTILIZERS

A field experiment was carried out on a sandy soil of Experimental Farm, Ismailia Research Station, Soils, Water and Environment Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Egypt, during two successive growth summer seasons, i.e. 2016 and 2017 on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Giza 5 cv., to study the individual and combined effect of applications of mineral N fertilization levels (25 and 40 kg N / fed., ammonium sulphate, 20.3 % N).Four resources of organic fertilizers (farmyard manure “FYM” , solid plant compost “SPC” , enriched compost tea “ECT” and FYM+ECT) and two different mixtures of biofertilizers (B1 and B2) on nodulation efficiency and growth of peanut plants. B1 consists of Azospirillum braselinse (local strain) +Bacillus megatherium (local strain) +Azotobacter chroococcum (local strain); while B2 consists of Bradyrhizobium.sp ( strain (USDA 3456)) + Serratia marcescens ( strain MH6) +Psuedomonas fluorescens (strain IFO 2034). Application rate of SPC, FYM were 5 ton / fed., while ECT was 75 L/fed (fed is 0.42 ha). The treatment of FYM+ECT was carried out at a rate of 2.5 ton FYM / fed. + 37.5 L ECT/ fed. The layout of the experiment was a split-split-plot design, with the main plots arranged in a randomized complete blocks design, with three replicates. The results showed that, a marked significant increases in both nodules (number and dry matter) formed on the roots of peanut plants as well as the dry matter of shoots of peanut plants owing to the used fertilization treatments as compared to the control. The highest values of nodulation (number and weight) and shoots dry weights were found in the plants fertilized by triple combinations of mineral N, organic and biofertilizers followed by those found duo to the dual combinations. Data also showed a superior increase of applied B2 and addition of ECT than that obtained for B1 and either of than other organic fertilizers on nodules number as shoots dry weight of peanut plants at growth period of 45 days. Generally, data showed an importance role of mineral N and bio-fertilizers application on sandy soil fertility of sandy soil treated with organic fertilizers and its productivity of peanut plants.

The effective antagonistic potential of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria against Alternaria solani-causing early blight disease in tomato plant

Tomato plants can be infected by several diseases, among them, the early blight disease, caused by the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria solani is very dangerous. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are enhanced the plant growth and suppress plant diseases. The current study was conducted in a pot experiment to investigate the bio-efficacy antagonistic bacterial isolates as either individual or combination against tomato early blight disease. Disease severity and protection percent, morphological indicators as well as yield characters were recorded. In vitro antagonistic activity assay of PGPR against A. solani was estimated. Metabolic indicators of resistance in plant as response to induction of systemic resistance (ISR) were recorded. Our results indicated that, PGPR isolates were reduced the percent disease severity by 13.0 % and recorded highly protection percent by 84.3 %. The beneficial effects of the used elicitors were extended to increase not only the morphological characters (shoot lengths, root lengths and leaflet number/plant) but also the yield characters. All tested elicitors caused the marked significant increases in the photosynthetic pigments. PGPR isolates were exhibited the most potent effect in terms of the contents of chlorophyll a, b and the total chlorophyll (a + b) followed by plants treated with A. xylosoxidans (A3), B. subtilis (B1) and L. fusiformis (L2) in the infected plants, compared to the non-treated infected control. PGPR isolates were increased total phenol (56.15 mg/100 g dry wt.), free proline (1.435 mg/g dry wt.), total protein (1.198 mg/g dry wt.) and the activities of peroxidase (0.705 μg/100 g fresh wt.) and polyphenol oxidase (1.281 μg/100 g fresh wt.). All the tested treatments resulted in increasing the contents of indole acetic acid (IAA), Abscisic Acid (ABA), Salicylic Acid (SA), and Jasmonic acid (JA) compared with those of the infected plants. PGPR isolates’ antifungal activity may be attributed to cell wall disruption of A. solani and the normal conidial development inhibition. Therefore, due to these outstanding properties of PGPR isolates as plant growth promoters and antifungal activity, this study could give insights for solving serious agricultural challenges and particularly in the treatment of A. solani invasion across the tomato plants.

Enhanced Thermometric Sensor for Arsenate Analysis Based on Dual Temperature Readout Signaling Strategy.

New methods for portable detection of arsenate are still in urgent need. Herein, we explored a simple but sensitive thermometric strategy for arsenate determination without complex instruments and skilled technicians. Cobalt oxyhydroxide (CoOOH) nanoflakes, can ingeniously decompose hydrogen peroxide into oxygen in a sealed reaction vessel, accompanied by marked pressure and significant temperature increase due to the exothermic reaction effect (ΔH = -98.2 kJ/mol). The increased pressure then compelled a certain amount of H2O overflowing from the drainage device into another vessel, leading to a significant temperature decrease due to the preloaded ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) and its good dissolution endothermic effect (ΔH = 25.4 kJ/mol). In the presence of arsenate, the catalytic activity of CoOOH nanoflakes for H2O2 decomposition was inhibited dramatically, resulting in an obvious decrease of the pressure, weighting water and temperature response. The two temperature responses with increasing and decreasing feature were easily measured through a common thermometer, and exhibited an effective signaling amplification via coupling both "signal-on" and "signal-off" temperature readout elements. The obtained dual superimposing temperature readout exhibits a good linear with the concentration of arsenate with a lower detection limit (51 nM, 3.8 ppb). Compared to the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, this enhanced thermometric strategy provides a simple, rapid, convenient, low cost, and portable platform for sensing arsenate in real environmental water.

Evaluation of the uterine hormonal control of the bat Artibeus lituratus during the different phases of its reproductive cycle.

Artibeus lituratus is a frugivorous bat that directly assists in the restoration of degraded habitats through the effective dispersion of seeds and fruits. Given its great importance, this work aimed to evaluate the uterine hormonal control of A. lituratus during its different reproductive phases. The uteri of 30 sexually mature adult females, five specimens for each of the six sample groups (NON, nonreproductive; P1, initial pregnancy; P2, intermediate pregnancy; P3, advanced pregnancy; LAC, lactating; P + LAC, pregnant-lactating), were submitted to analyses of serum estradiol and progesterone concentrations, in addition to immunohistochemical analyses. Both estradiol and progesterone, gradually increased during pregnancy, with a marked significant increase in P3 females. Both returned to low levels in LAC-females; however, estradiol levels decreased further in P + LAC-females, while progesterone increased in the same group. In general, signs indicative of aromatase expression were observed in the endometrium of all analyzed groups and in the placenta of bats in the gestation groups. Similarly, ERα and PR were expressed in the myometrium, endometrium and placenta at varying levels of intensity. The results indicate that the uterine microenvironment of A. lituratus is directly regulated by serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone, and fluctuations in these concentrations control morphological and physiological changes of this organ during different phases of the reproductive cycle. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Increases in serum concentrations of estradiol and progesterone coordinate the gestational period of A. lituratus. Estradiol activates ERα, stimulating cell proliferation in the uterus, in addition to activating the expression of PR, which trigger the quiescence of the myometrium and stimulation of the secretion and differentiation of the endometrium. Results showed several similarities to humans, indicating the use of A. lituratus as an animal model in reproductive studies.

Dietary supplementation of guanidinoacetic acid improves growth, biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity and cytokine responses in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

A total of 180 unsexed Nile Tilapia fish (initial weight, 21 g) fed isonitrogenous (32%), isocaloric (3000 kcal/kg) diets containing different levels of guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) at levels of (GAA1, 0.06%, GAA2, 0.12%, GAA3, 0.18%); for 60 days. Results showed higher final body weight (FBW) and body weight gain (BWG) in groups supplemented with different levels of GAA. Specific growth rate (SGR) was the highest in groups supplemented with 0.12% and 0.18% GAA. Lipid % of whole-body composition was higher in all groups excluding GAA3 group. Serum creatine kinase (CK) activity, cholesterol, and creatinine levels showed a marked significant (P < 0.05) increase in all GAA supplemented groups compared to the control one. Triglycerides level demonstrated a higher elevation (P < 0.05) in both GAA2 and GAA3 supplemented groups. No significant observed in total protein, albumin, globulin, and A/G ratio. Lipid peroxidation marker (malondialdehyde/MDA) is markedly decreased along with a significant increase of superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO) levels in both GAA2 and GAA3 compared to other groups. Similarly, interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) gene expression levels were downregulated along with upregulation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) at higher GAA levels, particularly at 0.18%. Our findings give important insights for the growth promoting, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects of GAA supplemented diet particularly at level of 0.18%.

Altered proportions of circulating CXCR5+ helper T cells do not dampen influenza vaccine responses in children with rheumatic disease

Biological therapy options for the treatment of rheumatic disease target molecules that can affect the cross-talk between innate and adaptive immune responses upon vaccination. Influenza vaccination in children with rheumatic disease has been recommended, but there are only sparse data on the quality of vaccine responses from pediatric patients treated with biological therapy.We conducted an influenza vaccine study over 3 consecutive seasons where the antibody response to TIV was evaluated in children with PRD (n = 78), including both non-treated (n = 17) and treated (with methotrexate, TNF-inhibitors with or without methotrexate, or IL-inhibitors, n = 61) children as well as healthy age-matched controls (n = 24). Peripheral B cells, T and NK cell populations, as well as CXCR5+ (follicular) helper T cells (TFH) and chemokines involved in antibody responses were assessed prior to immunization in the same cohort. Data on disease duration, therapy and data on previous influenza vaccinations were retrieved.The proportion of circulating TFH cells were significantly lower in non-treated children with PRD compared to treated patients and healthy controls. The significantly lower proportion of TFH cells was mirrored by a marked significant increase in CXCL13 serum level, the ligand for CXCR5, with higher levels in non-treated children with PRD compared to treated patients and healthy controls. However, the proportion of TFH cells or CXCL13 level at the time of vaccination was not a predictor of the antibody response to TIV in this cohort of children. Children with PRD had an overall similar response to TIV as healthy children. Although not significant, children treated with TNF-inhibitors differed as a few children remained seronegative towards H3N2- and influenza B viruses after immunization.Our data show that children with PRD respond to TIV as healthy children. Furthermore, plasma CXCL13 levels did not correlate to the proportion of TFH cells in blood prior to immunisation, or to antibody responses following immunization.

Reporting the toxicological profile of methanolic leaf extract of &lt;i&gt;Anthocleista vogelii&lt;/i&gt; Planch on Wistar rats

The study was aimed at explaining the toxicological profile of crude methanolic leaf extract of Anthocleista vogelii on animal models. In a time-dependent study, the oral acute and subacute toxicity of 70 % methanolic leaf extract of the plant in Wistar rats was investigated through examination of mortality rate, body and organ weight changes, and biomarkers of hepatic and renal functions in all treatment groups. No significant change (p &gt; 0.05) was observed for body and organ weights in both studies. The acute toxicity studies demonstrated no death of animals and the LD50 was considered higher than 3200 mg/kg (p.o). In the subacute toxicity studies, the plant extract indicated no significant effect (p &gt; 0.05) on serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, but with marked significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) on hepatic and renal AST, ALT and ALP activities among treatment groups relative to control. There was no marked significant effect (p &gt; 0.05) on serum total protein (TP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), albumin (ALB) and creatinine (CREA) levels for all treatment groups except for group I rats, where the oral administration of 800 mg/kg leaf extract caused a marked significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) in BUN levels relative to control. Therefore, it was inferred from the study that A. vogelii leaves exhibited protective and hyper-stimulating properties as well as being innocuous and safe for therapeutic applications.Keywords: Acute toxicity, Anthocleista vogelii, subacute toxicity, LD50

Protective effect of Urtica dioica leaf hydro alcoholic extract against experimentally-induced atherosclerosis in rats.

Finding compounds that could be used for prevention of atherosclerosis (AS) is highly desired. The present study evaluated the protective effects of Urtica dioica (UD, commonly known as stinging nettle) leaf ethanolic extract against high-fat diet-induced AS in rats. In this study, 40 male adult Sprauge-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to 4 equal groups and treated as follows for 9 consecutive weeks: (1) Normal control (NC; normal rats that were fed with a basic diet); (2) Atherosclerotic rats (AT; which received no particular treatment); (3) Atherosclerotic rats that received 100 mg/kg/day ethanolic extract of UD orally and (4) Atherosclerotic rats that received simvastatin 4 mg/kg/day orally. Atherosclerosis was induced by a high-fat diet accompanied by propylthiouracil and vitamin D3. Marked hypercholesterolemia and significant increase in LDL-C/HDL-C ratio were observed in rats of AT group. Administration of UD significantly reduced these parameters as compared to AT group (p<0.05 for all cases). In histopathological evaluations of the aortic arch, AT rats showed atherosclerotic lesions, which were markedly ameliorated in rats treated with UD or simvastatin. Simvastatin and UD significantly reduced medial (p<0.05) but not intimal thickness. Increased level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were observed in the aortic arch of AT rats (p<0.05 for all cases). In contrast with simvastatin, UD extract had no significant effect on these parameters. Ethanolic extract of UD prevents establishment of atherosclerotic lesions in rat aorta, which is associated with positive effects on serum lipid profile without significantly affecting antioxidant status.

Transplantation of cardiac stem cells overexpressing integrin-linked kinase improves cardiac function in a rat model of acute myocardial infarction

Objective: To investigate the effect of cardiac stem cells (CSC) overexpressing integrin-linked kinase (ILK-CSC) transplantation on cardiac function after myocardial infarction (MI) and related mechanism. Methods: CSCs were isolated from the hearts of neonatal Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and ILK-CSC were established by transfecting recombinant adenoviral vector harboring human wild-type ILK cDNA. Forty 8-week-old rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10 each group): sham group, MI plus saline injection group(saline group), MI plus CSC transfected with null vector injection group (Ad-null-CSC group), and MI plus ILK-CSC injection group(ILK-CSC group). MI was induced through coronary artery ligation, and after 15 minutes, 30 μl saline, Ad-null-CSC (1×10(5) cells/30 μl) or ILK-CSC (1×10(5) cells/30 μl) were injected into the hearts of MI rats at 3 different points in infracted zone and infarct border zone. After 4 weeks, left ventricular (LV) function was examined by echocardiography, LV fibrosis was detected by HE and Masson staining, and myocardial protein expression of Ki-67 and p-H3 was evaluated by immuohistochemistry and mRNA expression of cyclinD1 and PCNA was detected by real-time RT-PCR. Results: (1) Thirty-seven rats (sham group=10, saline group=8, Ad-null-CSC group=9 and ILK-CSC group=10) survived at 4 weeks after operation. Left ventricular end-systolic dimension (LVESD, P=0.009) and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD, P=0.002) were significantly increased, and left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF, P=0.006) was decreased in saline group compared with those of sham group.In Ad-null-CSC group LVESD (P=0.005) and LVEDD (P=0.003) were decreased, but LVEF remained unchanged (P=0.113) compared with those of saline group. LVESD (P=0.004) and LVEDD (P=0.000 1) of ILK-CSC group were significantly decreased, and LVEF (P=0.004) was significantly increased compared with those of Ad-null-CSC group. (2) LV histology and myocardial fibrosis: there were marked myocyte loss and significant increase of myocardial fibrosis in the saline group((70.6±5.1) %, P=0.002) and Ad-null-CSC group((57.7±3.4) %, P=0.001) compared with sham group ((8.2±2.2) %), while the fibrosis was significantly attenuated post injection of ILK-CSC ((30.6±7.0)%, P=0.005 vs. Ad-null-CSC). (3) Protein levels of mitotic genes: the results of immuohistochemistry showed that the brown positive particles were presented in the nuclei of cardiac myocytes in saline, Ad-null-CSC and ILK-CSC groups, but they were negative in sham group. The protein expression of Ki-67 (P=0.007) and phosphohistone-H3 (p-H3) (P=0.003) in ILK-CSC group was significantly higher than in Ad-null-CSC group. (4) mRNA levels of mitotic genes: the results of real-time RT-PCR showed that the mRNA levels of cyclinD1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in saline and Ad-null-CSC groups were similar as in sham group (all P>0.05). However, in ILK-CSC group they were significantly increased compared with those in Ad-null-CSC group (cyclinD1, P=0.003; PCNA, P=0.004). Conclusion: Our results suggest that myocardial transplantation of CSC overexpressing ILK improves cardiac function in the post-MI rats, and this beneficial effect may be related to the enhanced proliferation of cardiac myocytes and attenuated myocardial fibrosis.

The Effect of Nigella Sativa Linn (Kalajira) Extract on Gentamicin- Induced Nephrotoxicity in Experimental Rats

The pathogenesis of gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity has shown to generate oxygen free radicals. Several free radical scavengers are well recognized to ameliorate the nephrotoxicity. The seeds and oil of nigella sativa were reported to possess strong antioxidant properties and was effective against disease and chemically-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.The experiments were carried out in two parts, Experiment I and Experiment II, on a total of 35 rats of 8-12 weeks old and weighing between 200 and 230g. Nephrotoxicity and amelioration of nephrotoxicity was evaluated by measurement of concentrations of serum creatinine. The rats were induced nephrotoxicity by subcutaneous injection of gentamicin 100mg/kg/day for 9 days and were sacrificed on 10th day. The results indicated that gentamicin treatment caused marked renal tubular damage significant increase (P&lt;0.001) of serum creatinine concentrations when compared to those of control.When n-hexane extract of N.sativa was administered as low and high dose with gentamicin and compared with the gentamicin treated groups, it was found that in these two groups there was significant decrease (P&lt;0.001) of serum creatinine levels. When these two groups were compared with each other, it was observed that more amelioration occurred significantly in high dose treatment group than in the low dose treatment group. This study established that oral administration of n-hexane extract of N. sativa was able to produce considerable improvement from the nephrotoxic action of gentamicin in rats. The best amelioration was obtained in high dose treatment. Low dose treatment brought out the least amelioration of them all. Future works could better be directed towards obtaining the specific ingredient and the specific mechanism responsible for nephroprotection. We are hopeful that complete amelioration might not be impossible if given in proper doses or more effectively if we could extract the actual ingredients responsible for nephroprotection and can use them eventually.J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 25, No.2, October, 2016, Page 119-123

Disruption of redox homeostasis in liver function and activation of apoptosis on consumption of aspartame in folate deficient rat model

This study assesses the effect of long-term intake of aspartame on liver function and apoptosis signaling pathway in the Wistar albino rats. Several reports have suggested that methanol is one of the major metabolites of Aspartame. Non-primate animals are usually resistant to methanol-induced metabolic acidosis due to high levels of hepatic folate content; hence a folate deficiency model was induced by treating animals with methotrexate (MTX) prior to aspartame exposure. The aspartame treated MTX animals exhibited a marked significant increase in hepatic alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) activity compared to controls. Aspartame treated MTX animals additionally exhibited down-regulation of genes namely B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) expression and up-regulation of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Fas-associated protein with death domain (FADD) and Caspase 3, 9 genes and apoptotic protein expression, indicating the augmentation of hepatic apoptosis. Nuclear condensation, micro vacuole formation in the cytoplasm and necrosis were observed in the liver of the aspartame treated animals on histopathology evaluation. Additionally, Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in positive cells expressing Fas, FADD, Bax and Caspase 9 protein, indicating an increase in apoptotic protein expression in the liver. Thus, Aspartame may act as a chemical stressor which alters the functional status of liver, leading to hepatotoxicity.

Optical characterization of Si‐doped metamorphic InGaAs with high indium content

The optical properties of Si‐doped metamorphic InGaAs layers with electron concentration in the range of 3 × 1016 to 6 × 1018 cm−3 are investigated in detail. The 10 K photoluminescence spectrum of lightly doped metamorphic In0.81Ga0.19As showed a narrow sharp peak at 546 meV with a full width at half maximum of 17.1 meV, comparable to that of InP‐lattice‐matched In0.53Ga0.47As, which is an evidence of the good crystalline quality. In the temperature range of 10–300 K, only band‐to‐band transition was observed in both lightly Si‐doped In0.53Ga0.47As and In0.81Ga0.19As, while the band‐to‐band emission was overlapped by multiple transitions in heavily Si‐doped In0.81Ga0.19As. A marked blueshift and significant increase in the linewidth of photoluminescence at high doping level were observed due to the enhanced band filling as well as many body effects in the heavily Si‐doped high indium content material. The alloy disorder, caused by heavy Si doping, seriously degrades the crystalline quality and immensely reduces the possibilities of radiative recombination in In0.81Ga0.19As.

Genistein Alleviates Neuroinflammation and Restores Cognitive Function in Rat Model of Hepatic Encephalopathy: Underlying Mechanisms.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome resulting from acute liver failure. Previously, we demonstrated hepatoprotective effects of genistein in D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). In this study, we evaluated behavioural and neuroprotective effects of genistein in rat model of HE. HE was induced by intraperitonial administration of D-GalN (250mg/kg BW) twice a week for 30days Genistein was given as co-treatment through oral gavage daily at dose of 5mg/kg BW. D-GalN administration significantly resulted in acute liver failure which was further associated with hyperammonemia, neurological dysfunction, as evident from behavioural and functional impairment and reduced learning ability in Morris water maze. Genistein significantly alleviated behavioural and functional impairment and restored learning ability in Morris water maze. Considerable histopathological changes, including portal inflammation, sinusoidal dilation, necrotic lesions and swelled astrocytes with pale nuclei, were seen in the liver and brain sections of D-GalN-challenged rats while genistein co-treated rats revealed normal cellular and morphological architecture as no pathological features were seen. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory markers (interleukin (IL)-10, IL-4, IL-1β and TNF-α) and membrane expression of subunits α1 of GABAA receptor and GluR2 of AMPA marked significant increase, while subunits GluR1 of AMPA receptors showed reduced expression in D-GalN-challenged rats leading to neuroinflammation and dysregulated neurotransmission. Genistein significantly normalized altered expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and membrane receptor of GABA and GluR. Our study suggests strong therapeutic potential of genistein in animal model of HE. Genistein can be used a strong anti-oxidant to attenuate neurotoxic effects of xenobiotics.

Effect of anti-sca-1+ on diabetic rat histological, immunohistochemical and biochemical evaluation.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease of metabolic dysregulation most notable glucose metabolism accompanied by long term complications. The present study was carried out to investigate the potential effect of Anti-Sca-1+ stem cells on type 1 diabetes induced in albino rats. The study was carried on 7 male and 24 female Albino rats (150 ± 5g). The female albino rats were divided into three main groups: normal control, diabetic group and diabetic rats treated by Anti-Sca-1+. Induction of diabetic rats was carried out by single dose injection of fasting rats for 48 h with a diluted solution of 40 mg/kg of alloxan monohydrate (2%) in freshly prepared saline solution. Diabetic rats treated group was slaughtered into two phases; the first phase after 15 days of treatment, and the second phase after 30 days of treatment. Tissue samples were separated and kept in absolute 10% formalin solution for histological and immunohistochemical studies. SRY gene expression and biochemical study of glucose tolerance, c-peptide, insulin, glycated hemoglobin and glucose transporter 2 was evaluated. The results showed that, treatment of diabetic rats, with derivative bone marrow (Anti-Sca-1+) could greatly ameliorate glucose, insulin, c-peptide, HbA1c and glut2, Hafter 15 and 30 days of treatment, as compared to normal control group and these were confirmed by histological and immunological investigations, which indicate significant progress in the pancreas tissue, by marked significant increase of pancreatic islets size and improvement in the acinar cells after 30 days of treatment by Anti-Sca-1+.

The Potential Protective Effect of Stem Cell Enhancer on Chronic Bisphenol-A Treated Female Albino Rats

Background: The xenoestrogen, bisphenol-A (BPA), is a worldwide food contaminant with endocrine disruptor activity that is incorporated in many plastic industries. The exposure of humans to such substances starts early during the fetal life, postnatal life and extends throughout the life of the individual. Many agencies raised warnings against the excessive use of these substances. Aim of the work: The present study was designed to determine if the usage of stem cell enhancer (SE) moderates the physiological changes occasioned by exposure to BPA in the female albino rats. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on thirty female albino rats with an average 100-120 g body weight. The animals were divided into three groups; Group I (Control untreated-group), Group II (bisphenol–A treated group) and Group III (treated group orally supplied with bisphenol –A then treated with stem cell Enhancer (SE)). Serum was separated and used for estimation of hormonal levels [estradiol, progesterone, prolactin (PRL), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)], some biochemical parameters (liver enzymes, kidney function, glucose and lipid profile) and CA-125 and CA 15-3 tumor markers. Results: The biochemical results showed marked significant increase (P<0.01) in the enzyme activities [aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)],urea and creatinine in bisphenol–A treated group when compared to the control group. These parameters were significantly reduced in the group treated with stem cell enhancer as compared to bisphenol –A treated group . Decline in the concentration of lipid profile with increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL- C) levels in the stem cell treated group as compared to bisphenol-A group were observed. There was a significant elevation in prolactin, FSH and tumor marker levels concomitant with a significant reduction in LH levels in bisphenol-A treated group compared to the control group. These results were changed to values very close to control by using the stem cell enhancer. Conclusion: It could be concluded that bisphenol-A has dangerous effects on liver and kidney functions as well as on lipid profile, female hormones and tumor markers level. So, we recommended minimizing the utililizing of this compound and the use of some protective materials as stem cell enhancer to protect people from its hazardous effects.

Acute oral administration of the novel, competitive and selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist ORG 34517 reduces the severity of ethanol withdrawal and related hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activation

BackgroundThe development of ethanol dependence is associated with alterations in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and activation of type II glucocorticoid receptors (GR). These effects may contribute to withdrawal-associated anxiety, craving and relapse to drinking. The present studies examined acute and oral administration of the novel, selective and competitive GR antagonist ORG 34517 on the severity of ethanol withdrawal. MethodsAdult, male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered ethanol (4g/kg/i.g.) twice daily for 5 days followed by 2 days of withdrawal for 1, 2 or 3 consecutive cycles. Blood ethanol levels (BELs) were determined at 0930 on Day 4 of each week, while blood corticosterone levels (BCLs) were obtained at 11:00hours on the first day of each ethanol withdrawal. During early withdrawal, subjects received oral administration of ORG 345617 (60mg/kg/i.g.) or a placebo and withdrawal was monitored. ResultsPeak BELs of 225.52mg/dl were observed during the third week. Withdrawal from three cycles of the regimen produced marked behavioral abnormalities (e.g., aggression, rigidity, and hypoactivity) and significant increases in BCLs of ethanol-dependent subjects. Acute, oral administration of ORG 34517 during early withdrawal significantly reduced both the severity of ethanol withdrawal, as reflected in reduced rigidity, aggression, and hypoactivity, and elevations in BCL without producing any sedative-like effects. ConclusionsThe present findings demonstrate that repeated ethanol exposure and withdrawal is associated with significant behavioral abnormalities and dysregulation of HPA axis activation. Further these data suggest that selective GR antagonists should be further considered as putative pharmacotherapies for treatment of ethanol dependence.

Oxidant stress evoked damage in rat hepatocyte leading to triggered nitric oxide synthase (NOS) levels on long term consumption of aspartame

This study investigates how long-term (40 mg/kg b.wt) consumption of aspartame can alter the antioxidant status, stress pathway genes, and apoptotic changes in the liver of Wistar albino rats. Numerous controversial reports are available on the use of aspartame as it releases methanol as one of its metabolites during metabolism. To mimic the human methanol metabolism the methotrexate treated rats were included to study the aspartame effects. The aspartame treated methotrexate (MTX animals showed a marked significant increase in the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the liver from control and MTX control animals, and showed a significant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) and protein thiol in aspartame treated animals. The aspartame treated MTX animals showed a marked significant decrease in the body weight, brain, and liver weight. The aspartame treated MTX animals showed a marked increase in the inducible nitric oxide (iNOS), neuronal nitric oxide (nNOS), c-fos, Heat shock protein (Hsp) 70 Tumour necrosis Factor (TNF)α, caspase 8, c-jun N terminal kinases (JNK) 3 and Nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) gene expression in the liver from control and MTX control animals. The aspartame treated MTX animals showed a marked increase in the c-fos, Hsp 70, iNOS Caspase 8, and JNK 3 protein expression in the liver from control and MTX control animals indicating the enhancement of stress and apoptosis. The aspartame treated MTX animals showed a streak of marked DNA fragmentation in the liver. On immunohistochemical analysis aspartame treated animals showed brown colored positive hepatocytes indicating the stress specific and apoptotic protein expression. Since aspartame consumption is on the rise among people, it is essential to create awareness regarding the usage of this artificial sweetener.

Oxidative stress and biochemical responses in the tissues of African catfish Clarias gariepinus juvenile following exposure to primextra herbicide

Primextra is a commercial herbicide formulation generally used in agriculture for weed control. The present study was designed to investigate the oxidative stress biomarkers and biochemical responses in the tissues of Clarias gariepinus juvenile exposed to primextra. Fish were exposed to 0.24 and 0.47 mgL−1 corresponding to 1/20 and 1/10th of 96 h LC50 of the herbicide. The liver and muscle tissues were sampled on day 1, 5, 10 and 15 and results showed concentration and time dependent significant increase (p < 0.05) in the values of lipid peroxidation, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and alkaline phosphatase in both tissues. A marked significant increase (p < 0.05) was observed in the values of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and glucose in the liver while a mixed trend in their values were observed in the muscle. The values of superoxide dismutase and protein in both tissues were comparable to the control except on day 15 in the liver where the values significantly declined. The condition factor was not directly affected but values of hepatosomatic index were significantly reduced. The present findings revealed that primextra induced toxic stress even at sublethal concentrations resulting in alterations of the studied parameters which were more evident in the fish liver than in the muscle tissue.