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Background: Infertility is one of the most common problems in the world; there is a growing demand for herbal medicines to treat infertility-related problems. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial with three groups was conducted, each with 30 participants. The first group was administered 1.5 grams of Carob daily, the second group was administered 1.5 grams of Ginseng daily, and the third group received a placebo. The treatment was administered for 12 weeks, and before and after the intervention, semen parameters, testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid hormones, and sexual function were evaluated. Sexual function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire. Results: The mean (SD) age of participants was 34.83 (6.22), 34.60 (5.78), and 33.67 (5.82) years in Carob, Ginseng, and Placebo groups, respectively. The results showed that in the Carob group, the normal volume of semen (Z 133 = 3.05, p = 0.02) and the normal shape of sperm (Z 134 = 2.97, p = 0.01) increased significantly compared to the control group. In the Ginseng group, the normal volume (Z 133 = 3.90, p = 0.001) and the normal viscosity of semen (Z 133 = 2.36, p = 0.01) increased significantly compared to the control group.The Carob group showed a significant increase in normal sperm counts and testosterone hormone levels (Z 131 = 2.81, p = 0.05). The Ginseng group demonstrated a significant improvement in orgasm function (H2 = 6.14, p = 0.04) and the total score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) (H2 = 5.8, p = 0.05). Conclusions: Carob supplements are suggested to enhance some semen parameters and male sex hormones. For infertile men, Ginseng can be beneficial in improving sexual function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a frequent challenge following the injection of contrast media and its subsequent oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the preventive effects of coenzyme Q10 (Q10), as a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant in CI-AKI in diabetic patients, who account for a large proportion of angiographic cases. A total of 118 diabetic patients were randomly assigned to receive 120 mg of oral coenzyme Q10 (Q10 group) or placebo (Placebo group) for four days, starting 24 hours before contrast media injection. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum and urinary creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary malondialdehyde (UMDA), urinary total antioxidant capacity (UTAC), and urinary mitochondrial to nuclearDNA ratios (mtDNA/nDNA ratio) were evaluated before and after the treatment period. Urine sediments were also evaluated to report the urine microscopy score (UMS). The levels of BUN, serum and urine creatinine, and UMS were similar in the Q10 and placebo groups. EGFR was lower in the Q10 group before the treatment (p=0.013) but not after. The urinary mtDNA/nDNA ratio was 3.05±1.68 and 3.69±2.58 in placebo and Q10 groups, but UTAC was found to be lower in Q10 both before (p=0.006) and after the treatment (p<0.001). The incidence of CI-AKI was 14.40% and the mtDNA/nNDA ratio was similar between CI-AKI and non-CI-AKI patients. In conclusion, Q10 treatment shows no favorable effect on prevention of CI-AKI or a urinary mtDNA/nDNA ratio among diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is a common human neoplasia in women. Species of the Lamiaceae plant have been found to exert in vitro anti-proliferative activity on breast cancer cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of the extracts of ten species from the Lamiaceae family on a breast cancer cell line. We also examined the selective indices of the fractions and essential oil of the most effective extract. Methods: The plant species were harvested, dried and authenticated. The hydro-alcoholic extract of each plant was examined for its cytotoxicity on the breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) using MTT assay. The n-Hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were prepared from Nepeta crispa extract. Hydro-distillation method was used to isolate the Nepeta crispa's essential oil. The essential oil and the fractions were examined in vitro for the cytotoxic effects against both HEK293 and MCF-7 cell lines. Results: The Nepeta crispa extract exhibited significant cytotoxic activity on MCF-7 (IC50 = 59 ±3.4μg/mL) compared to other extracts. The n-hexane fraction of Nepeta crispa demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity (IC50 = 65.47 ±4.3μg/mL) among other fractions. The essential oil exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition against the growth of cancer cells, and showed the most inhibitory effect against MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 18.15 ±2.7μg/mL) with a selectivity index of 9.69. Conclusions: Based on the results, the n-hexane fraction and essential oil of Nepeta crispa may be the potential sources of biologically active components to develop novel drugs for breast cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Artemisia absinthium L. (AA) is a large, diverse genus of the family Asteraceae. AAhas long been used as customary herbal medicine in world for the treatment of gastric pain, cardiacstimulation, improvement of memory and for the restoration of declined mental function. The aimof present study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of AA on some factors ref lecting thedevelopment of oxidative toxic stress in plasma.Methods: Twenty male rats were equally divided in to 4 groups (5 rats each). Group I actedas control (received normal salin). Treatment groups were II, III and IV which were givenArtemisia 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day respectively only by gavage for 24 hours. After treatment,blood specimens were collected. Liver enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) andalanine aminotransferase (ALT) with total antioxidant power (TAP) and total thiol groups (TTG)concentrations were measured.Results: Levels of ALT, AST and TTG were decreased in the group II compared to the control(group I). ALT and AST in 50 mg/kg group was observed compared with control group. Also, TTGincreased in Artemisia 50 mg/kg group compared to control group.Conclusion: Results suggests that alcoholic extract of Artemisia can ameliorate liver toxicity inrats through reducing the serum levels of ALT, AST, and oxidative damage.

Silymarin, a mixture of antihepatotoxic flavonolignans used in the treatment of liver diseases, and lactulose, a nonabsorbable synthetic disaccharide, were investigated to analyze their probable synergic and healing effects in a hepatic cirrhotic rat model. Liver damage was induced by the administration and subsequent withdrawal of thioacetamide. The significant decrease in liver enzymes and malondialdehyde levels confirmed the curative effects of silymarin and lactulose. In the silymarin + lactulose group, liver enzyme and malondialdehyde levels were significantly reduced compared with those in the thioacetamide group. All treatments led to liver regeneration and triggered enhanced regeneration. Silymarin and lactulose alone or in combination have potent curative effects and reduce thioacetamide-induced liver damage. Key words: liver cirrhosis, rat, silymarin, thioacetamide. La silymarine, un melange de flavonoides anti-hepatotoxiques utilise dans le traitement de maladies hepatiques, et le lactulose, un disaccharide synthetique non-absorbable, ont ete examines afin d'analyser leur effet synergique et curatif probable dans un modele de cirrhose hepatique chez le rat. Le dommage hepatique a ete induit par l'administration et le retrait subsequent de thioacetamide. La diminution significative des niveaux d'enzymes hepatiques et de malonaldehyde a confirme les effets curatifs de la silymarine et du lactulose. Chez le groupe silymarine + lactulose, les niveaux d'enzymes hepatiques et de malonaldehyde etaient significativement abaisses comparativement ceux du groupe traite au thioacetamide. Tous les traitements menaient la regeneration du foie et provoquaient une regeneration accrue. La silymarine et le lactulose seuls ou combines exercaient des effets curatifs puissants et reduisaient le dommage hepatique induit par le thioacetamide. [Traduit par la Redaction] Mots-cles : cirrhose hepatique, rat, silymarine, thioacetamide., Introduction Cirrhosis is a result of chronic liver injury defined by the development of regenerative nodules bordered by fibrous bands that leads to portal hypertension and end-stage liver disease (Schuppan [...]

Objective: The purpose of this study is comparison of carob with placebo in the treatment of male infertility. Materials and methods: This study was performed as a clinical trial with two-group pretest-posttest design. Each group consisted of 30 members. The first group received 1.5 grams of carob per day, and the second group received placebo treatments. Treatment lasted for 12 weeks. Semen analysis as well as testosterone, prolactin, (LH), (FSH) and (TSH) were performed before and after drug treatment in two groups. Sexual function was assessed in the groups in two stages before and after the intervention using the standard International Index of Erectile Function. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Statistical analysis of data was performed using SPSS 16. Results: The participants' mean age was 34.83 ±6.22 in the placebo and 33.67 ±5.82 years in the Carob group. The results showed in the carob group compared to the placebo group, the rate of normal sperm counts increased by 17% and also the normal level of testosterone was 40% higher than the abnormal levels of the placebo group and these differences were statistically significant (P <0.05). And in most areas of sexual function, the mean scores after the intervention were higher than before (P> 0.05). Conclusion: It is recommended to use carob supplements to improve spermogram parameters and male sex hormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effect of a mixture of fennel and valerian extracts on hot flashes and sleep disorders of postmenopausal women in Iran. A randomized trial was conducted. Methods: A total of 76 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to either of the two groups: fennel-valerian extract or control. One 500 mg fennel-valerian extract capsule was given twice, daily for 8 weeks. The 500 mg oral placebo capsule (starch) was given the same way. Results: The mean duration of hot flashes increased in both the groups over time (P < 0.001). The mean frequency and severity of hot flashes in the intervention group were significantly lower than in the control group, in the first and second months after intervention (P < 0.050). Women in the fennel-valerian extract group had a significantly lower Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score than the control group 2 months after intervention (P = 0.030). Conclusions: This study found that fennel-valerian extract was effective for relieving sleep disorders as well as the severity and frequency of hot flashes compared with a placebo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the antioxidant supplement of CoQ10 and placebo in the male infertility treatment. Materials and Methods: The randomized controlled trial study was designed as a clinical trial. Samples in each group consisted of 30 members. The first group received 1 daily dose of 100 mg coenzyme Q10 capsules and the second group received a placebo treatment. Treatment in both groups lasted 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention of semen analysis, hormonal measurement of testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were done. Sexual function was assessed before and after the intervention by using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction questionnare. Results: The mean age of participants was 34.07 (5.26) years in the CoQ10 group and 34.83 (6.22) in the placebo one. Normal volume of semen (P=0.10), viscosity (P=0.55), sperm count (P=0.28), and sperm motility (P=0.33) in the CoQ10 group increased without statistically significant differences. But the normal sperm morphology increased with statistically significant differences in the CoQ10 group (P=0.01). There was an increase in normal FSH levels and testosterone levels in the CoQ10 group compared with the placebo patients, but these differences were not statistically significant (respectively P=0.58, P=0.61). The results also revealed that the scores of erectile function (P=0.95), orgasm (P=0.86), satisfaction with sexual intercourse (P=0.61), overall satisfaction (P=0.69) and the score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF, P=0.82) were greater after the intervention in the CoQ10 group than in the placebo group although the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The use of CoQ10 supplement can improve sperm morphology; however, in other sperm parameters and also in some hormones increased after the intervention, this was not statistically significant and therefore the result is not conclusive (registration number: IRCT20120215009014N322). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights a study aimed to assess the effects of inhalation aromatherapy with Rosa damascena on stress, anxiety, and hemodynamic parameters of patients undergoing coronary angiography. It discusses that Coronary arteries angiography is used commonly for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases and could lead to stress, anxiety and consequently hemodynamic changes in patients.

Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) has been reported to be involved in different biological processes such as degradation of extracellular matrix proteins, activating or degrading some significant regulatory proteins, wound healing, tissue remodeling, cartilage degradation, bone development, bone mineralization, ossification, cell migration, and tumor cell invasion. Further, MMP-13 participates in many oral diseases such as tooth decay, gingivitis, and degradation of enamel and tissue around the implant. In addition, inhibition of MMP-13 has shown therapeutic properties for Alzheimer's disease (AD). We performed molecular docking to assess the binding affinity of 29 flavonoid compounds with the MMP-13. Additionally, pharmacokinetic and toxicity characteristics of the top-ranked flavonoids were studied. The current study also intended to identify the most important amino acids involved in the inhibition of MMP-13 based on topological feature (degree) in the ligand-amino acid network for MMP-13. Molecular docking and network analysis were studied using AutoDock and Cytoscape software, respectively. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity characteristics of compounds were predicted using bioinformatics web tools. The results revealed that nine of the studied flavonoids had considerable estimated free energy of binding and inhibition constant: Rutin, nicotiflorin, orientin, vitexin, apigenin-7-glucoside, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, quercitrin-3-rhamnoside, and vicenin-2. Proline-242 was found to be the most important amino acid inhibiting the enzyme. The results of the current study may be helpful in the prevention and therapeutic procedures of many disorders such as cancer, tooth caries, and AD. Nevertheless, validation tests are required in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel coronavirus, known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2), enters into the host cells through an interaction between its surface spike protein (S-protein) and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, leading to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Using effective S-protein inhibitors may reduce the virulence of the virus. Molecular docking was performed to evaluate the binding affinity of 97 phenolic compounds (phenolics) with the SARS-CoV-2 S-protein receptor-binding domain (RBD). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was carried out to assess the stability of interactions between top-ranked compounds and S-protein RBD. Pharmacokinetics and toxicity of top-ranked inhibitors were also studied. Furthermore, the essential residues involved in ligand binding, based on the degree of each amino acid in the ligand-amino acid interaction (LAI) network for S-protein, were identified. Molecular docking and MD simulations were performed utilizing the AutoDock and Discovery Studio Client version, respectively. The LAI network was analyzed using the Cytoscape software. Pharmacokinetics and toxicity of top-ranked compounds were studied using bioinformatics webservers. It was estimated that nine of the studied phenolics can bind to the SARS-CoV-2 S-protein at the nanomolar scale with a considerable estimated energy of binding (ΔG binding < -10 kcal/mol). Eight of them revealed stable docked pose after MD simulation. The results of the present study may be useful in the prevention and therapeutic perspectives of COVID-19. However, further in vitro and in vivo validation tests are required in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chemoprevention of cancer by application of natural phytochemical compounds has been used to prevent, delay or suppress cancer progression. Cuscuta chinensis a traditional Iranian medicinal herb, has biological properties including anticancer, antiaging, immuno-stimulatory and antioxidant effects. In this study, anti-proliferative effects of hydroalcoholic extract of C. chinensis on prostate (PC3) and breast (MCF7) cancer cell lines were investigated. Materials and Methods: In the current study, we investigated treatment of PC3 cells with different concentrations of C. chinensis (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 µg/ml) for 24 and 48 hr; also, MCF7 cells were treated with various concentrations (0-600 µg/ml) of C. chinensis for 48 and 72 hr and cell viability was assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. mRNA expression of BCL2 Associated X (Bax), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), Cysteine-aspartic proteases (Caspase3) and Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Annexin V/PI staining and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assay were used to detect apoptosis. Results: C. chinensis decreased PC3 and MCF7 cells viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner (p<0.01 to p<0.001). The gene expression of BAX/Bcl2 ratio, Caspase3 and PTEN increased in C. chinensis-treated cells compared to the control group. C. chinensis induced apoptosis (p<0.001) and LDH activity (p<0.01 to p<0.001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that C. chinensis extract is able to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in PC3 and MCF7 cell lines. Therefore, C. chinensis extract exerts antitumor activity against cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nipple fissure is one of the most common diseases in breastfeeding which leads to maternal pain and disruption of the mother-infant relationship. Since the most important consequence of nipple fissure is the deprivation of the infant from breast milk, it is very important to prevent and treat this condition. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the topical form of Achillea millefoliumon on nipple fissure in breastfeeding women referring to the comprehensive health centers of Hamadan, Iran. Methods: This study was a randomized double-blind clinical trial that was conducted in Hamadan comprehensive health centers in 2018. Treatment methods were taught by the researcher to 80 eligible breastfeeding women who were randomly divided into two groups of 40 subjects. After breastfeeding, the intervention group covered their own nipples with a tea bag of Achillea millefolium, while the control group applied some of their own hindmilk on their nipple. These interventions were performed at least 4 times a day for 14 days. Checklists of store fissure scale, visual analog scale, and midwifery and demographic characteristic questionnaire were completed in both groups before the treatment and 4, 8, and 14 days after starting the treatment. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 16). Results: The results showed that the intensity of fissure and the mean pain score in the two groups were not statistically significant in the pre-intervention phase. However, the scores of the intensity of fissure and pain in the Achillea millefolium group were lower than those in the breast milk group on days 4, 8, and 14 after the intervention, and these differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the topical form of Achillea millefolium was more effective than breast milk in treating nipple pain and fissure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The cardiac angiogenesis is one of the complications of diabetes. The oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and antioxidant defense of the body. In diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia induces increased oxidative stress through biological processes. Diabetes is also associated with reduced antioxidant defense by reducing glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. Rosa damascena Mill has antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of R. damascena Mill on cardiac angiogenesis in diabetic rats. Methods: In this experimental study carried out in 2016, a total of 48 adult male Wistar rats (190-200 g) were randomly divided into 8 groups (n = 6) including control, extracts (200, 400, and 1000 mg/kg), diabetic, and diabetic plus extracts (200, 400, and 1000 mg/kg). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (50 mg/kg) and the rats were gavaged with different doses of extract for 30 days. At the end of the treatment, serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay and the rat hearts were removed for immunohistochemistry study. Results: The treatment with hydroalcoholic extract of R. damascene Mill had no significant effect on cardiac capillary density [F (7, 40) = 0.5, P > 0.05] and the serum levels of VEGF [F (7, 40) = 0.406, P > 0.05]. However, there was no significant difference in blood glucose level in extract groups compared to control rats as well as diabetic plus extract groups compared to diabetic rats [F (7,40) = 0.787, P > 0.05]. Conclusion: According to our results, the hydroalcoholic extract of R. damascene Mill had no effect on cardiac angiogenesis in the normal and diabetic subjects. These findings were probably due to the insufficient amounts of effective ingredients, especially flavonoids, in this plant, or the duration of extract administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Some anorexic agents are used to fraudulent augmentation herbal weight loss formulations. This study was designed to evaluate the potential existence of illicit substances in 63 herbal weight loss formulations collected from local apothecaries in Hamadan, Iran. Methods. The thin-layer chromatography method was applied for the primary screening of potential illicit substances in the samples. The positive samples were analyzed using an isocratic high-performance liquid chromatography method. Results. The results showed that 26.98% of the samples contained 17.76 ± 6.02 mg/cap of sibutramine. Daily therapeutic dose intake of sibutramine is in the range of 5 to 15 mg daily. Conclusion. Since apothecaries have advised consumers to take at least two capsules a day, it seems that the blood concentration of sibutramine will likely rise beyond the therapeutic concentration and become toxic. Therefore, the usage of such products could pose serious risks to consumers' health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The effects of kiwifruit on the histology and cell size of adipose tissue in hyperlipidemic models have not yet been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of kiwifruit on the adipose tissue cell size and activity as well as the gene expression of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) in high-fat diet (HFD) fed hamsters. Materials and Methods: Forty-two male Syrian hamsters were divided into six groups. Control normal (CN) hamsters received normal diet, control HFD (CHF) were fed with a HFD plus a normal diet (15% butter fat + 0.05% cholesterol + a normal diet). Two groups were fed with normal diet including kiwifruit (1.86; Nd.1 or 3.73 g/kg; Nd.2) and two groups were fed with HFD including kiwifruit (1.86;HFd.1or 3.73 g/kg; HFd.2), for 8 weeks. Results: Histological examination of adipose tissue showed that the cell size was significantly reduced in the kiwifruit-treated groups (low and high dose) in comparison to their control groups (p<0.05). Kiwifruit supplementation (low and high dose) in normal and HFD groups significantly increased gene expression of CETP in adipose tissue. Kiwifruit had no significant effect on serum concentration of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride. Although, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration increased in HFD-fed hamsters supplemented with 3.73 g/kg of kiwifruit (p<0.05). Conclusion: Kiwifruit consumption reduces the size of adipocytes and increases the expression of CETP gene in adipose tissue cells. Despite the increases in CETP expression in adipose tissue, its activity in serum was not changed following kiwifruit supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgery is oneof themostcommonstrategies to treat hydatidosis reserved as a complementary treatment with chemical agents. Due to low efficacy and the adverse effects of these chemical agents, it is necessary to develop a new and effective scolicidal agent to prevent the recurrence of hydatidosis after surgery. Objectives: The current study aimed at investigating the scolicidal effects of Berberis vulgaris, Peganom harmala, and Zataria multiflora methanolic extracts on protoscolices of hydatid cyst. Methods: Protoscolices were aseptically obtained from sheep livers infected with hydatid cyst in Hamadan slaughterhouse (Hamadan, Iran). After methanol extraction of herbs, different concentrations of extracts were used in various exposure time for mortality rate assay of protoscolices in laboratory. Results: The obtained results showed that various concentrations of B. vulgaris and Z. multiflora extracts could kill 100% of protoscolices after five minutes of exposure and the mean of mortality rate of protoscolices was remarkably higher in the experiment group comparison with that of the control group (P < 0.05). However, the current study findings showed that P. harmala extract at a higher concentration (100 mg/mL) killed 14%, 12%, 12.67%, 15.67%, and 17% of the protoscolices after 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 minutes of exposure, respectively. There was no significant difference between the experiment and control groups in terms of the mean of mortality rate (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The current study findings showed that B. vulgaris and Z. multiflora extracts can be natural sources to develop new scolicidal agents used in hydatid cyst surgery to prevent recurrence of the disease. However, the in vitro examination revealed that the P. harmala extract had no strong scolicidal activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The results of the previous studies on the effects of mint on cracked nipple are contradictory. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of mint tea bag, mint cream and breast milk on the healing of cracked nipple during lactation. Methods: This study was a clinical trial with a control group , pre and post-test design conducted in health centers of Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran from 2016 to 2017.Samples were divided into three groups (n=72 subjects in each group). Interventions were performed at least 4 times a day for 14 days after the start of treatment. Data were collected through the cracked nipple measuring checklist, the amount of wound and demographic questionnaire before the intervention and on 4, 8, and 14 days after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS software (version 21). Results: There was a decreasing trend in the mean score of crack pain on days 0-14 in the groups of mint cream, mint tea, and breast milk after the intervention; however, there was a statistically significant difference in the breast milk group (P<0.001). Moreover, with regard to within group comparison, there was a decreasing trend with a significant difference in the mean score of wound in three groups before the intervention (P<0.001) and on the fourth day after the intervention (P= 0.003). Conclusion: The results of the present study indicated that breast milk was more effective than mint cream and mint tea in the treatment of cracked nipple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:High-fat diet (HFD) can cause deficits in learning and memory through oxidative stress and increase Alzheimer disease risk.Rosa damascenaMill. (Rosaceae) extract possesses potent antioxidant properties. Objective:This study investigated the effects of the hydroalcoholic extracts of petals ofR. damascenaon learning and memory in male rats consuming an HFD. Materials and methods:Forty male Wistar rats (200–250 g) were randomly assigned to four groups: control,R. damascenaextract, HFD and HFD + extract. The extract (1 g/kg bw daily) was administered by oral gavage for 1 month. Animals were allowed free access to high-fat chow for 3 months. The Morris water maze and the passive avoidance learning tests were used to assess learning and memory. Results:In the passive avoidance learning test, the step-through latencies in the retention test (STLr) of the extract (147.4 ± 23.3) and HFD (150.3 ± 25.2) groups were significantly lower than those of the control group (270.4 ± 10.5) (respectively,p < 0.001 andp < 0.01). STLr was significantly higher in the HFD + extract group (265.3 ± 10.6) than in the HFD group (150.3 ± 25.2) (p < 0.01). Time spent in the dark compartment (TDC) in the HFD + extract group (5.3 ± 2.6) was significantly lower than that in the HFD group (85.8 ± 19.1) (p < 0.05). Discussion and conclusion:Our results indicate that, while HFD orR. damascenaextract alone leads to memory deficits,R. damascenaextract exerted a positive effect on HFD-induced memory deficits. We hypothesize that the observed effects ofR. damascenaextract are likely due to its strong antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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Background: Pain is one of the common problems encountered by patients with burns, which increases after each dressing. This study aimed to investigate the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose essence on the pain of patients with burns that is caused after dressing. Materials and Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 50 patients with second‑ and third‑degree burn wounds. The baseline pain of the patients was assessed 30 min before they entered into the dressing room on the first and second days of intervention. The patients in the experimental group inhaled five drops of damask rose essence 40% in distilled water, while those in the control group inhaled five drops of distilled water as placebo. The pain intensity was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale at 15 and 30 min after the patients exited from the dressing room. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 18) using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: There was significant difference between the mean of pain intensity before and after intervention at 15 and 30 min after dressing (P < 0.001). Moreover, there was significant difference in reduction of pain intensity before and after aromatherapy in the experimental group (P < 0.05). Also, there was a significant reduction in severity of pain after dressing in the experimental group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose could be effective for relieving the pain caused after dressing in patients with burns. Therefore, it could be suggested as a complementary therapy in burn patients for pain relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medicinal plants, owing to their different mechanisms such as antioxidants effects, may improve learning and memory impairments in diabetic rats. Calendula officinalis (CO), has a significant antioxidant activity. Aims: To examine the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of CO on passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. Settings and Design: A total of 32 adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to four groups: Control, diabetic, control + extract of CO and diabetic control + extract of CO groups with free access to regular rat diet. Subjects and Methods: Diabetes in diabetic rats was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg STZ. After confirmation of diabetes, oral administration of 300 mg/kg CO extract to extract-treated groups have been done. PAL was tested 8 weeks after onset of treatment, and blood glucose and body weight were measured in all groups at the beginning and end of the experiment. Statistical Analysis Used: The statistical analysis of data was performed by ANOVA followed by least significant difference post-hoc analysis. Results: Diabetes decreased learning and memory. Effect of CO extract in retention test (after 24 and 48 h) has been shown a significant decrease in step-through latency and increase in time spent in the dark compartment part. Also the extract partially improved hyperglycemia and reduced body weight. Conclusion: Taken together, CO extract can improve PAL and memory impairments in STZ-diabetic rats. This improvement may be due to its antioxidant, anticholinergic activities or its power to reduce hyperglycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achillea tenuifolia Lam (Asteraceae) afforded a methanolic extract from which after fractionation in solvents with different polarities two known flavones 3', 5- dihydroxy- 4', 6, 7- trimethoxy flavone (eupatorine, compound 3), 5- hydroxy- 3', 4', 6, 7- tetramethoxyflavone (compound 4), besides stearic acid (compound 1 ), lupeol (compound 2), daucosterol (β- sitosterol 3-O- β- D- glucopyranoside, compound 5), 2, 4- dihydroxy methyl benzoate (compound 6) were isolated for the first time. The structure of isolated compounds was elucidated by means of different spectroscopic methods such as UV, IR, Mass and ¹H- NMR (1D and 2D) and 13C-NMR. For further confirming of structures of isolated compounds, comparison of the spectral data of them with those reported in the litratures have been done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achillea tenuifolia Lam. (Asteraceae) afforded a dichloromethane fraction from which three known compounds β-sitosterol (compound1), 5-hydroxy, 4',6,7-- trimethoxy flavone (salvigenin compound 2), and methyl-gallate (compound 3) were isolated for the first time. The structure of isolated compounds was elucidated by different spectroscopic methods. Applying the molar-ratio method, the complexation of salvigenin with Fe (III), Cu(II) and Zn(II), the most abundant type of metal ions in the body, were then evaluated. It was determined that stoichiometric ratio of salvigenin with these cations were as Fe(Salvigenin)2 (H2O)2 and Cu(Salvigenin)2(H2O)2 in methanolic solution without pH control, while zinc ions didn't form significant complexes. The results were confirmed more, by computational molecular modeling of the structure of proposed ligand-complexes by semi-imperical PM3 calculations, which determined negative heat of formation for the complexes Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions as -689.7 and -573.5, respectively and proposed chelating affinity of salvigenin in the following order: Fe(III) > Cu(II) >> Zn(II). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain alleviation and improvement of functional status are the main objectives in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Artemisia absinthium (AA) was used traditionally in reducing pain and inflammation. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of topical formulations of AA and piroxicam gel (PG) among patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: In total, 90 outpatients aged 30-70 years with the diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis in at least one knee were enrolled in a randomized double-blind clinical trial. The patients referred to the Rheumatology Clinic at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Hamadan province during 2012-2013. The patients were randomly assigned into three groups, 30 patients per group, and respectively received AA ointment (AAO) 3%, AA liniment (AAL) 3%, and PG; three times daily (TID) for 4 weeks. The patients were visited at baseline, week 4, and week 6. The effectiveness criteria were pain severity which was assessed with a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) for total pain score (WTPS), total physical function score (WTPFS), and total stiffness score (WTSS). Repeated measure ANOVA, paired t test and post hoc were used to compare variables. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software, version 13.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois). Results: All groups had similar patient demographics. The administration of PG significantly improved all tested criteria with no recurrence after discontinuing the treatment protocol. AAO alleviated all tested factors except for WTSS. Alleviation was comparable to PG. AAL only reduced pain factors (VAS, WTPS) in week 4 with recurrence in week 6. Conclusion: Administration of Artemisia ointment may have beneficial effects in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Trial Registration Number: IRCT201202123109N3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory process of the oral cavity that is caused by different reasons. Streptococcus mutans bacteria is the main cause of the disease. Scrophularia striata in Iranian traditional medicine is used to heal inflammation of gum and mouth. Also, In vitro anti-bacterial effect of S. striata in S. mutans have been demonstrated. Clinical, in vitro and chemical constituent studies of S. striata on chronic periodontitis disease. This study is a randomized clinical trial that was performed in Dental College, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Fifty patients with chronic periodontitis (20–50 years old) were selected and the study was approved and registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials as number IRCT2015081323468N1 prior to the experiment. The 50 patients were divided into two groups. One group used herbal mouthwash that was made from hydro alcoholic extract of S. striata and another group used Irsha mouthwash (Iranian form of Listerine mouthwash). Patients were followed up after two weeks and four weeks of using mouthwash for assessment of plaque index (PI), pocket depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP) and counting Streptococcus mutans. The mouthwash was standardized according to gallic acid, quercetin and apigenin reference using the RP-HPLC method. The total phenolic and flavonoids contents were also determined spectrophotometerically. S. striata in the short term, improve plaque index, pocket depth and bleeding on probing but the number of Streptococcus mutans changed significantly in the long term and is more potent in comparison to Irsha mouthwash. The mouthwash was standardized according to gallic acid, quercetin and apigenin standard (3, 24, 11 μg, respectively). The total phenolic and flavonoid content of mouthwash were 120.7 μg GAE/100 cc and 78.6 μg QE/100 cc respectively. S. striata mouthwash is effective in the treatment of chronic periodontitis disease and is more potent comparing the Iranian Irsha mouthwash. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the three leading causes of maternal mortality. Herbal medicine is one of the well-known methods of treatment in the world., Objective: This study was conducted to determine and compare the effect of dates, grape seed and dill seed extracts on the PPH rate in women in the fourth stage of labor., Methods: Two hundred eligible multiparous women visiting the maternity ward in Hamadan for normal delivery participated in this double-blind parallel-group clinical trial. They were randomly divided into four 50-member groups of experiment (3 groups) and control (1 group). The data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. In the experimental groups, in addition to routine care and oxytocin administration, the mothers received a capsule containing 15 mg of dill seeds extract or 20 mg of grape seed extract or 5 g of dates extract immediately after the delivery, and then their hemorrhage rates were measured one and two hours after delivery. The control group received routine care, oxytocin, and placebo. Data were analyzed in SPSS 21., Results: The hemorrhage changes in the placebo group were much less than the intervention groups at 1 and 2 hours after delivery, and the four groups had a significant difference in terms of hemorrhage in both hours (p <0.001). The overall difference between the dates extract group and the placebo and grape seed groups was also statistically significant (p <0.05)., Conclusion: All three extracts of dates, grape seed and dill seeds, especially dates, can be effective in PPH reduction., Clinical Trial Registration Number: IRCT20120215009014N300., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the antioxidant supplement of CoQ10 and placebo in the male infertility treatment., Materials and Methods: The randomized controlled trial study was designed as a clinical trial. Samples in each group consisted of 30 members. The first group received 1 daily dose of 100 mg coenzyme Q10 capsules and the second group received a placebo treatment. Treatment in both groups lasted 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention of semen analysis, hormonal measurement of testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were done. Sexual function was assessed before and after the intervention by using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction questionnare., Results: The mean age of participants was 34.07 (5.26) years in the CoQ10 group and 34.83 (6.22) in the placebo one. Normal volume of semen (P=0.10), viscosity (P=0.55), sperm count (P=0.28), and sperm motility (P=0.33) in the CoQ10 group increased without statistically significant differences. But the normal sperm morphology increased with statistically significant differences in the CoQ10 group (P=0.01). There was an increase in normal FSH levels and testosterone levels in the CoQ10 group compared with the placebo patients, but these differences were not statistically significant (respectively P=0.58, P=0.61). The results also revealed that the scores of erectile function (P=0.95), orgasm (P=0.86), satisfaction with sexual intercourse (P=0.61), overall satisfaction (P=0.69) and the score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF, P=0.82) were greater after the intervention in the CoQ10 group than in the placebo group although the difference was not statistically significant., Conclusion: The use of CoQ10 supplement can improve sperm morphology; however, in other sperm parameters and also in some hormones increased after the intervention, this was not statistically significant and therefore the result is not conclusive (registration number: IRCT20120215009014N322).

Objectives: In this study, natural substances were introduced as primary dental pulp caps for use in pulp therapy, and the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of these substances were investigated., Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, the antimicrobial properties of calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement, propolis, and propolis individually combined with the extracts of several medicinal plants were investigated against Enterococcus faecalis , Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Staphylococcus aureus . Then, the cytotoxicity of each substance or mixture against pulp stem cells extracted from 30 primary healthy teeth was evaluated at 4 concentrations. Data were gathered via observation, and optical density values were obtained using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) test and recorded. SPSS software version 23 was used to analyze the data. Data were evaluated using 2-way analysis of variance and the Tukey test., Results: Regarding antimicrobial properties, thyme alone and thyme + propolis had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against the growth of S. aureus , E. coli , and P. aeruginosa bacteria. For E. faecalis , thyme + propolis had the lowest MIC, followed by thyme alone. At 24 and 72 hours, thyme + propolis, CEM cement, and propolis had the greatest bioviability in the primary dental pulp stem cells, and lavender + propolis had the lowest bioviability., Conclusions: Of the studied materials, thyme + propolis showed the best results in the measures of practical performance as a dental pulp cap., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported., (Copyright © 2023. The Korean Academy of Conservative Dentistry.)

Objectives: Coronary arteries angiography is used commonly for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases. In spite of the low risk of coronary artery angiography method, it could lead to stress, anxiety and consequently hemodynamic changes in patients. This study aimed to assess the effects of inhalation aromatherapy with Rosa damascena on stress, anxiety, and hemodynamic parameters of patients undergoing coronary angiography., Methods: A single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 98 patients in Besat Educational Hospital, Hamadan, Iran. Before coronary angiography, patients at aromatherapy group inhaled five drops of 40% Rosa damascena for 20 min and in the control group, patients inhaled distilled water. Stress, anxiety, and hemodynamic parameters were measured before and after the intervention using DASS-21 questionnaire and checklist., Results: Data were analysed by SPSS 16 software using descriptive and inferential statistics such as paired t-test and non-parametric tests. There were significant differences in terms of stress and anxiety severity in patients at aromatherapy group (p=0.005) and control group (p=0.001). There were significant differences in terms of hemodynamic parameters such as heart rate (p=0.001), mean arterial pressure (p=0.001), systolic (p=0.003) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.001) and SpO 2 (p=0.02)., Conclusions: Inhalation aromatherapy with Rosa damascena can significantly decrease stress and anxiety severity and improve hemodynamic parameters of patients undergoing coronary angiography., Registry Number: This study has registered with the number IRCT201702019759N8 at Iranian Registry Clinical Trial., (© 2021 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)