Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101A Review on Angiogenesis and Its Assays11101126492910.22038/ijbms.2012.4929ENZoya TahergorabiDepartment of Physiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.Majid KhazaeiDepartment of Physiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.0000-0002-3150-5883Journal Article20150919Angiogenesis or formation of new blood vessels from preexisting vasculature is a key process in some physiological conditions such as wound healing, growth, and action of female reproductive organs. Moreover, disturbance of the mechanisms of physiological angiogenesis has a role in pathogenesis of some diseases in the form of overproliferation of blood vessels such as cancers, psoriasis, arthritis, retinopathies, obesity, asthma, and atherosclerosis or impaired angiogenesis participates in diseases such as heart and brain ischemia, neurodegeneration, hypertension, osteoporosis, respiratory distress, preeclampsia, endometriosis, postpartum cardiomyopathy, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Research and study in angiogenesis provide a potential to cure a variety of diseases such as cancers or cardiovascular diseases. Thus, in recent years, several methods for evaluation of angiogenesis have been introduced and selecting the most appropriate cure is very important. In this article, first, we briefly reviewed appropriate assays to evaluate therapeutic angiogenesis (clinical manipulation of angiogenesis) and its importance during some clinical diseases and then introduced in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo assays of angiogenesis besides their benefits and disadvantages. Next, some quantitative techniques for assessing angiogenesis have been discussed.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Evaluation of a Genetic Test for Diagnose of Primary Hypolactasia in Northeast of Iran (Khorasan)11271130493010.22038/ijbms.2012.4930ENMaryam AlizadehDepartmant of Human Genetic, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAriane Sadr-NabaviDepartmant of Human Genetic, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranIranian Academic Centres for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR)0000-0003-3162-8792Journal Article20150919Objective(s) Primary or adult type hypolactasia, the most common enzyme deficiency in the world, is due to reduced lactase activity in the intestinal cell after weaning. Lactase non-persistence is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. A DNA variant, single nucleotide polymorphism C/T−13910 which is located on 13910 base pairs (bp) upstream of the lactase gene (LCT) at chromosome 2 has been show to associate with the lactase persistence/non-persistence. The prevalence of the C/T-13910 variant is different for hypolactasia in European, Asian, African-American and Northern African populations. In this study, we investigated, for the first time the allele frequent of the single nucleotide polymorphism C/T−13910 in the Iranian population in khorasan province with hypolactasia. Materials and Methods Peripheral blood was collected from 100 subjecs with primary hypolactasia and 100 healthy individuals as a control group. Genomic DNA was extracted. The genotype was analyzed with the PCR-RFLP method. A statistical analysis was performed by chi-square test using SPSS software. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br/>Results<br/>In case group allelic frequency for SNP T-13910C (C, T) was respectively 95%, 5% vs. control group 86% and 14%. Genotype frequency (CC, CT, TT) in patient group was 90%, 10%, 0% vs. control group 74%, 24% and 2%. So according to our findings, there were significant differences between allelic frequencies (P=0.03), and in genotype frequency between case and control groups (P=0.006).<br/>Conclusion<br/>Based on our results, analysis of C\T-13910 polymorphism can be used as a simple genetic test for diagnosis of primary type hypolactasia in the Iranian population.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Para-Nonylphenol Impairs Osteogenic Differentiation of Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Influencing the Osteoblasts Mineralization11311139493110.22038/ijbms.2012.4931ENMohammad Husein AbnosiBiology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Arak, Arak, Iran0000-0002-1485-8847Malek Soleimani MehranjaniBiology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Arak, Arak, IranMohammad Ali ShariatzadehBiology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Arak, Arak, IranLeila DehdehiBiology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Arak, Arak, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Para-Nonylphenol (p-NP) is used in many industries and our previous study showed that p-NP causes a reduction in rats bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) viability. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of p-NP on osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>MSCs were isolated and expanded to 3rd passage, then cultured in DMEM supplemented with osteogenic media as well as 0.5 or 2.5 μM of p-NP. After 5, 10, 15, and 21 days, the viability and the level of mineralization was determined using MTT assay and alizarin red, respectively. In addition, morphology and nuclear diameter of the cells were studied with the help of fluorescent dye. Furthermore, calcium content and alkalinphosphatase activity were also estimated using commercial kits. Data were statistically analyzed and the P<0.05 was taken as the level of significance.<br/>Results<br/>The viability and mineralization of the cells treated with 2.5 μM of p-NP reduced significantly after day 10 in comparison with the control group and administration of 0.5 μM. Moreover, chromatin condensation, reduction of nuclei diameter, and cytoplasm shrinkage was observed in the cell treated with 2.5 μM. The calcium concentration and alkalinphosphatase activity of the cells decreased significantly with 2.5 μM of p-NP when compared with 0.5 μM and control group.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Adverse effect of p-NP was observed on osteogenic differentiation of MSCs at 2.5 μM due to disruption of mineralization. We strongly suggest more investigations on this chemical with respect to other stem cells, especially skin stem cells as p-NP is used in the formulation of cosmetics.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Diagnostic Value of Lectins in Differentiation of Molar Placentas11401147493210.22038/ijbms.2012.4932ENFatemeh Atabaki PasdarDepartment of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, IranAlireza KhooeiDepartment of Pathology, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAlireza FazelDepartment of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMahmoud MahmoudiImmunology Research Centre, BuAli Research Institue, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMohammad Reza NikraveshDepartment of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-5500-4610Mohammad Khaje DeluiDepartment of Medical Ethics, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Distinction of hydatidiform moles from non-molar specimens and subclassification of hydatidiform moles as complete and partial are important for clinical practice, but diagnosis based solely on histomorphology suffers from poor interobserver reproducibility. Nowadays, pathologists rely on molecular techniques, however these methods are technically difficult, relatively expensive, and time consuming, and cannot be applied in all laboratories. Therefore, a relatively easy, time- and cost-effective ancillary tool, would be helpful. This study aimed to assess the role of lectins in differential diagnosis of molar placentas.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Lectin histochemistry with a panel of HRP-conjugated lectins comprising SBA, DBA, MPA, PNA, VVA, UEA-1, LTA, GS-І (B4), and WGA were performed in 20 non-molar (hydropic and non-hydropic spontaneous abortions) and 20 molar (partial and complete moles), formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples. On the basis of staining intensity, sections were graded and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric statistical test was used to compare differences between samples.<br/>Results<br/>There was a significant difference between the reactivities of LTA and UEA-І with syncytiotrophoblasts of molar and non-molar specimens (P<0.001). These lectins generally showed a moderate reactivity with syncytiotrophoblasts of molar group but did not react with this cell population in non-molar group. Furthermore, WGA showed relatively increased reaction with syncytiotrophoblasts of molar tissues compared with abortions, however, this did not reach to statistical significance (P=0.07). No major differences were seen in other lectins reactivities between the studied groups.<br/>Conclusion<br/>The present study showed that UEA-1 and LTA lectins may be used as cytochemical probes in differentiating molar from non-molar placentas, but did not differentiate partial moles from complete moles.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Consequences of Ischemic Preconditioning of Kidney: Comparing between Male and Female Rats11481153493310.22038/ijbms.2012.4933ENSeyyed Meisam EbrahimiAbhar School of Nursing, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Abhar, Zanjan, IranNahid AboutalebPhysioloy Research Centre and Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-7514-5939Maliheh NobakhtAnatomy and Neuroscience Department, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a leading cause of kidney transplantation failure, and ischemic-preconditioning (IPC) is a protective method against the IRI. In the present study, the defensive effect of IPC on rats’ kidney was investigated and more importantly the differences between two genders were appraised.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Thirty two Wistar rats were randomly allocated to four groups: group A (8 male IR), B (8 female IR), C (8 male IPC) and D (8 female IPC). Ischemia was induced by clamping of left renal arteries for 45 min in groups A and B. Rats in groups C and D experienced four cycles of 4 min arterial clamping followed by 11 min of de-clamping prior to the final 45 min of ischemia. 24 hr later, serum was provided to assess the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine values. Also, renal tissues were obtained for histological measurements.<br/>Results<br/>Induction of IPC in both male and female rats led to significant decrease in creatinine levels in comparison with sham groups (P<0.01). The same results were seen in BUN levels (P<0.01). However, there were no significant difference between two genders. Besides, histological protective effects of IPC was proved especially in female rats (P<0.01).<br/>Conclusion<br/>Findings of our study confirmed that renal IPC reduces the damages in both genders especially females. Thus, the IPC procedure seems to be a useful method mainly in females.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Evaluating the Expression of Oct4 as a Prognostic Tumor Marker in Bladder Cancer11541161493410.22038/ijbms.2012.4934ENNasim HatefiDepartment of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IranDepartment of Pathology, Labbafi-Nejad Medical Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranNazila NouraeeDepartment of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IranMahmoud ParvinDepartment of Pathology, Labbafi-Nejad Medical Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranSeyed-Amir Mohsen ZiaeeUrology and Nephrology Research Centre, Labbafi-Nejad Medical Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranSeyed Javad MowlaDepartment of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-3300-6332Journal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>The key transcriptional regulator Oct4 is one of the self-renewal and differentiation-related factors in cancer stem cells, where it maintains "stemness" state. Cancer stem cells have been identified in a variety of solid malignancies. They are a small population of tumor cells with stem cell characteristics, which are a likely cause of relapse in cancer patients. Due to high incidence, mortality, and recurrence rates of bladder cancer and the necessity of accurate prediction of malignant behavior of the tumors, we evaluated the prognostic value of Oct4 expression in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues of bladder cancer.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>In this study, Oct4 expression was evaluated in 52 (FFPE) tissues of bladder cancer. RNA extraction from samples of 30 patients from the archive of Labbafi-Nejad Medical Centre in Tehran was performed and Oct4 expression levels were examined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. The intracellular distribution of Oct4 protein was also determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).<br/>Results<br/>The results revealed a significant correlation between the expression level of Oct4 and the tumors’ grade and stage. A mostly cytoplasmic distribution of Oct4 protein was also confirmed by IHC.<br/>Conclusion<br/>All together, our data indicate that the expression level of Oct4 gene is correlated with the clinical and histopathological prognostic indexes of tumors and thus can be considered as a potential prognostic tumor marker.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Evaluation of Curcumin Effects on Post-Operative Peritoneal Adhesion in Rats11621167493510.22038/ijbms.2012.4935ENVahid JomezadehDepartment of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAmir Hooshang MohammadpourPharmaceutical Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, IranDepartment of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-6000-3276Omid RajabiDepartment of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAlireza TavassoliDepartment of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranEndoscopic &Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Centre, Ghaem hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranGhodratolah MaddahDepartment of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>The purpose of this study holds, for the first time, an evaluation of the intraperitoneal curcumin lavage on the development of post-operative intra-abdominal adhesions.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Thirty male Wistar rats were randomized into five groups. The rats were administered anesthesia and underwent surgery in order to create intra-abdominal adhesions. Before the abdomen was closed, five lavage solutions of normal saline (control group), curcumin 1, 3, and 5% and hydrocortisone 1% were used for 1 min. After five days, the rats underwent laparatomy. Based on a histopathology evaluation and serum levels of hs-CRP, TNFα and Isoprostane, peritoneal adhesion severity were compared in different groups.<br/>Results<br/>The groups that received curcumin 3% and 5% showed a significant decrease in TNFα, hs-CRP and Isoprostane serum concentrations compared to the normal saline group, however, these differences were not significant, between the other groups. The intensity of adhesions in the different groups of curcumin 1, 3 and 5% concentrations and hydrocortisone 1% were compared to the normal saline control group and no significant statistical difference was recorded.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Curcumin was not effective in post-operative peritoneal adhesion; however, further studies on curcumin lavage in higher concentrations are recommended.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Experimentally-Induced Metabolic Acidosis Does not Alter Aortic Fatty Streak Formation in High-Cholesterol Fed Rabbits11681172493610.22038/ijbms.2012.4936ENMajid KhazaeiDepartment of Physiology; Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran0000-0002-3150-5883Mehdi NematbakhshWater and Electrolytes Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Cardiovascular disease causes a major clinical problem in patients with end stage renal disease. Since metabolic acidosis is very common in patients with end stage renal disease, we aimed to investigate the effect of experimentally-induced metabolic acidosis on serum lipid profile and aortic fatty streak (FS) formation in normal and high-cholesterol fed rabbits.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Twenty-four male rabbits were divided into four groups (n=6 each): (1) normal diet (ND): (2) hypercholesterolemic diet (HCD) (1%): (3) ND plus acidemic diet: (4) HCD plus acidemic diet. Metabolic acidosis was induced by adding 0.75% NH4Cl in drinking water. After 4 weeks, blood samples were taken and thoracic aortae were dissected for histological examinations.<br/>Results<br/>Results showed that in the animals who received NH4Cl, metabolic acidosis was successfully induced. Serum total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations in HCD groups were significantly higher than ND groups (P<0.05) and acidosis did not significantly change serum lipid levels neither in ND nor in HCD animals (P>0.05). Histological examination of aortae showed higher mean average grades of pathological evaluation in HCD than ND groups (2.1±0.16 vs. 0±0; P<0.05). Acidosis did not further increase FS formation in HCD groups (P >0.05).<br/>Conclusion<br/>In this model of experimentally-induced metabolic acidosis, acidosis could not increase FS formation in HCD animals and it seems that it does not interfere in progression of atherosclerosis process.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Memory and Motor Coordination Improvement by Folic Acid Supplementation in Healthy Adult Male Rats11731179493710.22038/ijbms.2012.4937ENMaryam Khombi ShooshtariDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, IranAhmad Ali MoazediDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, IranGholam Ali ParhamDepartment of Statistics, Faculty of Mathematic, Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Previous studies have shown that vitamin B as well as folate supplementation has been implicated in cognitive and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's diseases. The aim of present study was to evaluate the effects of folic acid on passive avoidance task and motor coordination in healthy adult male rats.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Animals were randomly divided into five groups with 10 in each. 1) Sham treated (Veh); received same volume of normal saline as folate vehicle, 2-5) Test groups; each received a single dose of folate (5, 10 and 15 mg/ml/kg, IP daily for one week). At the end of the treatment with folic acid or vehicle, motor coordination in rotarod (after 24 hr) and passive avoidance memory in shuttle box (after 2 and 30 days) were evaluated, respectively.<br/>Results<br/>The results showed that folic acid (5, 10, and 15 mg/kg) increased short-term (P<0.05, P<0.001) memory while, long term memory affected significantly with doses 10 and 15 mg/kg (P<0.01, P<0.001). On the other hand, folic acid (5 and 10 mg/kg) had significant improving effect on motor coordination (P<0.001, P<0.01) but with 15 mg/kg dose didn't have any effect on motor coordination.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Our results suggest that folic acid may improve both short- and long-term memories, dose dependently, although it affects motor balance at lower dose. The mechanism of folic acid effects on cognition and motor coordination is unknown and needs more investigations.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Phase Angle Measurement in Healthy Human Subjects through Bio-Impedance Analysis11801184493810.22038/ijbms.2012.4938ENSatish KumarDepartment of Physiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte, Mangalore-575018. Karnataka, IndiaAswini DuttDepartment of Physiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte, Mangalore-575018. Karnataka, IndiaSandhya HemrajDepartment of Radiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte, Mangalore-575018. Karnataka, IndiaShankar BhatDepartment of Physiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte, Mangalore-575018. Karnataka, IndiaBhat ManipadybhimaDepartment of Physiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte, Mangalore-575018. Karnataka, IndiaJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Bioelectrical impedance is the measure of impedance of the body. Impedance consists of electric resistance and reactance. Phase angle (PA) is the tan value of the ratio of reactance versus electric resistance. PA depends on cell membrane integrity and on body cell mass. There exists a correlation between PA values and body cell mass.<br/>The objective of this study was to compare the PA values of normal individuals and their anthropometric measurements.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Anthropometric measurements, Bioelectrical impedance analysis and PA measurements were done using Bodystat Quadscan 4000 machine on 42 healthy subjects between the age group of 18 to 50 yrs at a private hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India for eight months. Kolmogrov-Smirnov and Pearson’s correlation tests were used for data analysis.<br/>Results<br/>The PA values were 7.321.17º in healthy subjects. PA values were significantly positively correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r= 0.011, P<0.001). The phase angle values for males and females were 7.43±0.98º and 7.05±1.1.58º, respectively.<br/>Conclusion<br/>PA values positively correlated with BMI indicating the nutritional status of the study group. PA values were similar to the values to found in other studies.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101In vitro Assay of Human Gingival Scaffold in Differentiation of Rat’s Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Keratinocystes11851190493910.22038/ijbms.2012.4939ENNasser MahdavishahriDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranMaryam Moghatam MatinDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.Masoud FereidoniDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.0000-0001-5250-898XZahra YarjanliDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.Seyed Ali Banihashem RadDental Research Centre, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranSaeedeh Khajeh AhmadiOral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Centre, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-8820-9460Journal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Tissue engineering is an attractive science because it promises new therapeutic strategies for repairing organs that have lost functions due to damage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate induction effect of human gingival scaffold in tissue engineering for skin regeneration.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Tissue samples were obtained from crown-lengthening procedures and wisdom teeth removal. The samples were decellularized and used as a scaffold for loading of rat BM-MSCs. The human gingival scaffolds loaded by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were derived from Wistar rat. Finally, it was evaluated via electron micrographs, as well as immunohistochemical techniques at day 7, 14, and 28 after initial seeding.<br/>Results<br/>The histologic sections of human gingival scaffold –loaded rat BM-MSCs demonstrated formation of epithelial like layers at days 7, 14 and 28 after initial seeding. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) of the scaffolds indicated formed desmosomal adhesions, which revealed a degree of differentiation toward keratinocytes. The results of immunohistochemical staining were strongly positive for multi cytokeratin (CK) 14 days after initial seeding in epithelial differentiation. Rat BM-MSCs which loaded on human gingival scaffold is capable of differentiating toward keratinocytes.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Gingival tissues were presented as a natural scaffold for attachment and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells towards keratinocytes, and might be used as suitable scaffold for reconstruction of the skin.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Urine Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1(UMCP-1) as a Biomarker of Renal Involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus11911195494410.22038/ijbms.2012.4944ENZahra MirfeiziRheumatic Diseases Research Centre (RDRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMahmoud MahmoudiImmunology Research Centre (IRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMasih NaghibiImam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMohammmadreza HatefRheumatic Diseases Research Centre (RDRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranFarzaneh SharifipourImam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0003-1536-5451Mohammadhassan JokarRheumatic Diseases Research Centre (RDRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAbbasali ZeraatiImam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranZhaleh Shariati SarabiRheumatic Diseases Research Centre (RDRC), Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-9804-4559AmirAbbas AzarianVice Chancellor for Research Office, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Lupus nephritis (LN) is frequently associated with a poor long-term prognosis. Renal biopsy is the diagnostic method of choice in this condition. Urine biomarkers have been mentioned in the diagnosis of LN. The study,s purpose was to evaluate the performance of urinary monocyte chemoattractant protein 1(UMCP-1) as a biomarker of renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Forty-one recently diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus patients (8 male and 33 female) without renal involvement (group 1) and twenty six patients (8 male and 18 female) with LN (group 2), proven by biopsy, were recruited to this study. UMCP-1 sensitivity and specificity for identifying biopsy-proven nephritis were calculated, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed to quantify how definitely UMCP-1 distinguishes between patients with and without LN.<br/>Results<br/>The mean value of UMCP-1 levels were 733.07 pg/ml ± 1282.54 and 144.16 pg/ml ± 137.90 in patients with and without LN respectively. The UMCP-1 level was significantly higher in group 2 than group 1. There was no significant correlation between UMCP-1 and 24-hour urine protein (r = 0.031, P= 0.874). The area under the ROC curve was 0.727 with a CI 95% of 0.597 to 0.857 (P=0.002). Using a cut-off value of 82 pg/ml,UMCP-1 had a sensitivity of 88.5% and a specificity of 46.3% for identifying LN.<br/>Conclusion<br/>UMCP-1 can serve as a biomarker of LN although further longitudinal studies of these biomarkers are required in LN.<br/>Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Anti-angiogenic Effects of Metformin, an AMPK Activator, on Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells and on Granulation Tissue in Rat12021209494110.22038/ijbms.2012.4941ENHamid SorayaDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran0000-0003-0602-230XNilufar EsfahanianDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IranYadollah ShakibaDepartment of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMahmood Ghazi-KhansariDepartment of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranBehroz NikbinDepartment of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranHasan HafezzadehDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IranNasrin Maleki DizajiDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IranAlireza GarjaniDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Metformin is well known for activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK activation inhibits mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) as a key signaling process in cell proliferation. Recent epidemiological studies demonstrate that metformin lowers the risk for several types of cancer in diabetic patients. Concerning the critical role of angiogenesis in the incidence and progression of tumors, we investigated the effect of metformin on human umbilical vein endothelial cells migration, as well as on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressions in the cells and also on angiogenesis in air pouch model in rats.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>A "wound" repair method was used to assess the cell migration (n=6). Real-time PCR was performed to quantify the mRNA expression of VEGF (n=5). In air pouch model, carrageenan was injected into the air pouches on the back of rats (n=6) and following an IV injection of carmine red dye granulomatous tissue was processed for the assessment of the dye content. An ordinary ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls post hoc test was used to compare groups.<br/>Results<br/>Metformin (orally, 50mg/kg) significantly (P<0.01) decreased angiogenesis in granulomatous tissue by 34% in pouch-bearing rats. Metformin at concentrations of 0.5-3 mM significantly (P<0.001) inhibited VEGF mRNA expression and endothelial cell migration. The inhibitory effects of metformin on the endothelial cell migration were reversed partially by compound C (P<0.01), an inhibitor of AMPK.<br/>Conclusion<br/>The present study reported that metformin inhibited endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, and the effect was partially AMPK dependent.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Antileishmanial Activity of Liposomal Clarithromycin against Leishmania Major Promastigotes12101214494210.22038/ijbms.2012.4942ENAmeneh SazgarniaDepartment and Research Centre of Medical Physics, Avicenna Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences.Naghmeh ZabolinejadDermatology, Research Centre for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Qaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranPouran LayeghDermatology, Research Centre for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Qaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-8286-0922Omid RajabiDepartment of Medicinal Chemistry. Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranFariba BerenjiParasitology, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranZari JavidiDermatology, Research Centre for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranRoshanak SalariDepartment and of Pharmaceutical Control, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a common parasitic disease which is endemic in some parts of the world. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown azithromycin efficacy on some Leishmania species. Because of structural similarity between clarithromycin and azithromycin and efficacy of clarithromycin against intracellular organisms and due to the absence of previous studies in this respect, we decided to evaluate the efficacy of clarithromycin against promastigotes of L. major in vitro.<br/>Materials and Method<br/>First, liposomal and non- liposomal clarithromycin were prepared, then both forms of the drug were incubated with promastigotes for 24 hr in NNN culture media without red phenol in the presence of 5% FCS with different concentrations as follows: 20, 40, 80, 100, 200 and 500 μg/ml.<br/>Results<br/>According to the results, clarithromycin in both liposomal and non- liposomal forms has in vitro activity against the promastigotes of L. major. The concentration of drug that killed 50% of parasites (ED 50) was 169 and 253.6 μg/ml for liposomal and non- liposomal forms, respectively which shows that lower concentrations of liposomal drug are required to have the same effect as non- liposomal drug and the liposomal form of the drug is more effective than non- liposomal form.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Clarithromycin in both liposomal and non- liposomal forms has in vitro activity against the promastigotes of L. major.<br/> Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101The Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Biochemical and Performance Parameters in Collegiate Wrestlers12151220494310.22038/ijbms.2012.4943ENBahman MirzaeiFaculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, IranFarhad Rahmani-NiaFaculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, IranMahdi Ghahremani MoghadamFaculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, IranSeyed Javad ZiyaolhaghDepartment of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Shahrood Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood, IranAbolfazl RezaeiFaculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Tehran University, Tehran, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>This study was designed to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on body composition, aerobic and anaerobic power, strength, plasma lipids profile and serum glucose among collegiate wrestlers.<br/>Materials and Methods Fourteen male collegiate wrestlers (age, 20.12±2.5 yrs) volunteered as subjects for the study. Subjects were tested one week before the beginning of Ramadan, the last two days of Ramadan and the last two days of the 4th week after the end of Ramadan. The paired sample t-test was used to assess the differences in pre and post-performance tests and repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test to determine differences between three blood samplings.<br/>Results<br/>The results showed that except for anaerobic power and strength, body weight, body fat percentage and aerobic power at 4th week of Ramadan were significantly lower than pre-Ramadan values (P=0.05). Total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein levels decreased after Ramadan compared to pre-Ramadan (P= 0.011, P=0.001), however, a month after Ramadan, it reached to higher levels compared to pre-Ramadan period, which were not statistically significant. Similarly, significant decrease and increase were consequently observed in glucose and high density lipoprotein (P=0.001, P=0.045). Triacylglycerol and VLDL increased at the end of Ramadan compared to the period of time before Ramadan, and after Ramadan, it reached the lower levels compared to concentrations before Ramadan (P=0.133, P=0.133).<br/>Conclusion<br/>This study also indicated that Ramadan fasting appears to have significant effect on body composition, aerobic power and lipid profile.<br/>Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386615620121101Retracted: Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Serum Concentration of Apelin, TNFα and Insulin in Obese Women11961201494010.22038/ijbms.2012.4940ENShahin SheibaniDepartmen of Exercise Physiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Fars, IranParichehr HanachiFaculty of Sciences, Biology Department, Biochemistry Unit, Alzahra University, Tehran, IranMohammad Ali RefahiatDepartmen of Exercise Physiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Fars, IranJournal Article20150919Objective(s)<br/>Apelin is novel adipokine acting on APJ receptor, regulated by insulin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Plasma apelin levels are increased in obese subjects. The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not the aerobic exercise modifies the elevated plasma apelin levels in obese women.<br/>Materials and Methods<br/>Twenty obese women (BMI 32.2 ± 6.4 kg/m2) were selected by random sampling method among obese women. Twelve healthy women with a BMI of 31.7 ± 0.6 kg/m2 served as control group. The aerobic exercise was performed during 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week. The intensity of the training program proceeded form 50% to 70% in 8 weeks.<br/>Results<br/>Results showed that plasma levels of apelin and TNFα were higher in obese individuals compared with the control group. The exercise resulted in significant decrease (P<0.05) of BMI to 29.8± 6.3 kg/m2 , plasma insulin (8.16 ± 0.73 to 6.58 ± 0.66 μmol/l), apelin (369 ± 25 pg/ml vs 257 ± 12 pg/ml) and TNFα levels (0.66 ± 0.04 pg/ml vs 0.56 ± 0.04 pg/ml). P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.<br/>Conclusion<br/>Exercise can decrease plasma apelin, insulin and TNFα levels in obese women. Regular physical activity causes a decrease in plasma levels of apelin if body mass index and body fat mass simultaneously decreased.<br/>