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Despite the significant contribution of A. seyal to the exports portfolio of Sudan, farmers have slightly poor knowledge regarding post-harvest cultural practices in terms of proper methods of gum drying, storage conditions and gum stacking which might significantly be resulted in colour deterioration and inferior quality. Nevertheless, the current preliminary investigation is intended to study colour identification and physiochemical properties of A. seyal gums from samples obtained viafour exporting companies in Sudan and produced in three different geographical areas namely Buram, Hejleij and Deain. Each sample was graded visually into three colours: light, pale and dark and based on further chemical analysis to the colour within the samples and across the production areas significant variation was obtained as the colour is ranging from 16.73 to 44.53 within the different graded samples and across the production areas. The results show that each sample is graded into three different colour scale refereed to light, pale and dark. The physiochemical properties within the tested samples and across the production areas showed no significant differences between all parameters including moisture content, ash content and pH. The specific optical rotation varies from + 40 to + 60 within the samples and across the different production areas. However, both minimum and maximum values of specific optical rotation were obtained from Hejleij production area and representing light and dark colour, respectively.

Bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on surfaces are typically mediated by the deposition of exopolysaccharides and conditioning protein layers. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a nosocomial opportunistic pathogen that utilizes strain-specific exopolysaccharides such as Psl, Pel or alginate for both initial surface attachment and biofilm formation. To generate surfaces that resist P. aeruginosa colonization, we covalently bound a Psl-specific glycoside hydrolase (PslGh) to several, chemically-distinct surfaces using amine functionalization (APTMS) and glutaraldehyde (GDA) linking. In situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) experiments and fluorescence microscopy demonstrated a complete lack of Psl adsorption on the PslGh-bound surfaces. Covalently-bound PslGh was also found to significantly reduce P. aeruginosa surface attachment and biofilm formation over extended growth periods (8 days). The PslGh surfaces showed a ∼99.9% (∼3-log) reduction in surface associated bacteria compared to control (untreated) surfaces, or those treated with inactive enzyme. This work demonstrates a non-eluting ‘bioactive’ surface that specifically targets a mechanism of cell adhesion, and that surface-bound glycoside hydrolase can significantly reduce surface colonization of bacteria through local, continuous enzymatic degradation of exopolysaccharide (Psl). These results have significant implications for the surface design of medical devices to keep bacteria in a planktonic state, and therefore susceptible to antibiotics and antimicrobials.

Aims This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of both zafirlukast and vincamine and their possible role in the treatment of tamoxifen-induced liver injury in rats. Materials and methods Female Wistar rats were divided into five groups (10 rats each). Groups I and II received 1% Tween 80 and served as normal and tamoxifen controls, respectively. Groups III, IV and V were treated with zafirlukast (80 mg/kg), vincamine (10 mg/kg) and a combination of zafirlukast (80 mg/kg) and vincamine (10 mg/kg), respectively for 10 successive days. Tamoxifen was given orally to all groups, except for 1st group, in the dose of 45 mg/kg for 10 days to induce liver injury. Subsequently, rats were sacrificed for biochemical, histopathological, Immunohistochemistry, PCR and western blot assessment. Key findings Tamoxifen-induced liver injury was reflected by alterations in estimated biochemical parameters, activation of JNK/ERK pathway, increased expression of NF-κB, liver oxidative stress and inflammatory markers parallel to histopathological changes in liver tissue. Treatment of rats with zafirlukast and vincamine ameliorated tamoxifen induced hepatic cell injury via suppressing oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, caspases-3, p-JNK/p-ERK and NF-κB pathways. Significance Zafirlukast and vincamine may be regarded as potential therapeutic strategies with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities against tamoxifen-induced oxidative damage in rat liver.

Halo nevus (HN) is a rare dermatologic disorder characterized by typical whitish rim surrounding an existing melanocytic nevus resembling halo. It is a cosmetic problem that may be linked to vitiligo, and it is advised to remove these nevi in order to avoid development of vitiligo.The aim of the present study is to evaluate the cosmetic outcome after nevus removal and leukoderma dermabrasion with epithelial graft followed by narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy as management of resistant halo nevi and avoidance of development of vitiligo.Ten patients with persisting halo nevi were selected as candidates in this study. Superficial dermabrasion was carried out using proper diamond fraises on depigmented rim and then punch biopsy probes with suitable size were used to harvest the nevus. Thiersch graft was prepared and applied on the dermabraded depigmented area. After 1 week of the procedure, patients were exposed to NB-UVB twice weekly and were followed up for 3 months.Repigmentation was noticed in 2 weeks and was nearly fully accomplished in all 10 patients within the 3-month period. No other vitiligo lesions developed during this period in all patients except for one case.Excision of Sutton's nevus with combined dermabrasion and Thiersch grafting followed by phototherapy is a good aesthetic maneuver in treating halo nevi and helps in avoiding further vitiligo depigmentation.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: هدفت هذه الدراسة إلى التحقق من دقة علامات الخطورة في التصوير الاشعاعي البانورامي من خلال الكشف عن وجود أو عدم وجود التكون القشري بين ضرس الرحى السفلي الثالث المدفون والقناة السنخية السفلية في الأشعة المقطعية المخروطية. طرق البحث: دَرست هذه الدراسة الاسترجاعية ٢١٠ ضرسا فكيا سفليا ثالثا منغرسا من ١٣٥ مريضا (بأعمار من ١٧ -٥١ سنة) والذين أظهروا واحدا أو أكثر من علامات الخطر البانورامية السبع المقترحة للتعرض العصبي السنخي السفلي. أُحيل هؤلاء المرضى للفحص بالأشعة المقطعية المخروطية. واستُخدمت الصور ثلاثية الأبعاد لتقييم موقع القناة بالنسبة للضرس الثالث، وقرب القناة من الضرس الثالث وزاوية ميول الضرس الثالث. وقورنت نتائج الأشعة البانورامية والأشعة المقطعية المخروطية. النتائج: كانت نتائج الأشعة البانورامية عندما بينت انقطاع جدار القناة السنخية السفلية، سواء كان ذلك مقترنا أو غير مقترن بإحدى هذه العلامات؛ سواد جذور الضروس الثالثة، وضيق القناة، وانحراف القناة، وبخاصة سواد الجذور، وضيق القناة كان مرتبطا ارتباطا ذا قيمة إحصائية بالاتصال المباشر بين قناة الفك السفلي والأضراس الثالثة المنغرسة في الأشعة المقطعية المخروطية. الاستنتاجات: يُوصى بعمل الأشعة المقطعية المخروطية قبل العملية في الحالات التي تبين سواد الجذور، أو ضيق القناة، أو التي تبين الانقطاع والضيق معا، أو انحراف أو سواد الجذور معا في الأشعة البانورامية. وقد قيمت هذه الدراسة علاقة الخطورة بين العصب السنخي السفلي والأضراس الثالثة في الفك السفلي المنغرسة وآلية الحد من حدوث إصابة ما بعد الجراحة في العصب السنخي السفلي. Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to validate the accuracy of panoramic radiographic risk signs through detection of presence or absence of corticalization between an impacted mandibular third molar and the inferior alveolar canal on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 210 impacted mandibular third molars from 135 patients (aged 17–51 years) who showed one or more of the seven previously established panoramic radiographic risk signs of inferior alveolar nerve exposure. These patients were referred for CBCT examination. Three-dimensional images were used to assess the canal position relative to the third molar, the proximity between the canal and third molar, and third molar angulation. The correlation of panoramic findings and CBCT was evaluated using a Chi-square test. Results: Panoramic findings of interruption of inferior alveolar canal wall, isolated or combined with one of these signs (darkening of third molar roots, narrowing of canal, and diversion of canal); darkening of the roots; and narrowing of canal were significantly correlated with direct contact between the inferior alveolar canal and impacted third molars on CBCT (P

Optimizing the macroscopic properties, shelf-life and stability of emulsion products requires a better understanding of the microstructural characteristics such as the type (nano, micro and macro) and the relative distribution of components (i.e., oil and surfactant) within the emulsion droplets. We used Diffusion-Ordered NMR Spectroscopy (DOSY NMR) to evaluate these characteristics in model oil-in-water emulsion containing Tween 80 and medium chain triglycerides (MCT). At low MCT concentrations, the solutions were transparent but from 1 to 5 wt% MCT, they became translucent then opaque. 1 wt% MCT was the upper boundary for the appearance of nanoemulsion phase. From the decays of the chemical shift signals of MCT and Tween 80, the DOSY results clearly demonstrate that the self-diffusion coefficients (D) are dependent on oil concentration. Small microemulsion droplets of almost uniform size (d = 12–22 nm) coexist with two sets of large nanoemulsion (d 200 nm) droplets. The large droplets increase significantly in size with increasing MCT. The most striking result is the clear evidence for the presence of microemulsion droplets of nearly uniform size in the aqueous phase from below to above the nanoemulsion transition concentration at 1 wt% MCT.

Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable natural resource available. Materials for solar photothermal energy conversion are highly sought after for their cost savings, clean environment, and broad utility in providing water heating and/or steam for many applications including domestic water heating and solar-driven desalination. Water desalination via solar steam generation is considered one of the most important technologies to address the increasing pressing global water scarcity. The current solar thermal systems rely on the use of copper or aluminum for absorbers which have limited utility because of their inflexibility for tailored applications, high cost, and limited availability. These bulk metals are not very efficient in absorbing the solar spectrum. Therefore, the current solar thermal desalination devices have low efficiency and low water productivity due to the ineffectiveness of solar collectors to convert most of the sun energy into heat. Herein, we report the development of ...

Water desalination and wastewater treatment via solar photothermal energy conversion are among the most important technologies to address the increasing pressing global water scarcity. Solar energy is the cleanest, most abundant, renewable natural resource available. Herein, we report the development of highly efficient, flexible, low weight, and cost effective Plasmonic Functionalized Cotton (PFC) nanocomposite materials for solar steam generation through the efficient evaporation of surface water pools. The PFC nanocomposites contain metallic nanoparticles that exhibit strong solar absorption followed by non-radiative relaxation causing the absorbed energy to be converted into heat for efficient water evaporation. The chemically modified cotton leads to a partial hydrophobic surface that allows the material to float on the water's surface and provide excellent thermal insulation properties in addition to facile and scalable synthesis. The PFC nanocomposites containing Au and Ag nanoparticles are demonstrated to be among the most efficient solar thermal converters reported to date for solar water desalination. The Au/Ag-PFC fibers exhibit average water evaporation rates of 1.4 and 11.3 kg m-2 h-1 with superb solar thermal efficiencies of up to 86.3% and 94.3% under 1 and 8 sun illumination, respectively. Furthermore, the Au/Ag-PFC fibers display stable evaporation rates over more than 10 repeated evaporation cycles without any performance decline under acidic solution at pH 2 or basic solution at pH 10. The successful application of the Au/Ag-PFC fibers for the removal of organic dyes from contaminated water through the solar steam generation is also demonstrated. The high solar thermal evaporation efficiency, excellent stability and long-time durability make the PFC nanocomposites excellent candidates for applications in seawater desalination and wastewater treatment by solar-steam generation.

Item does not contain fulltext BACKGROUND: Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are the most prevalent cause of kidney disease in the first three decades of life. Previous gene panel studies showed monogenic causation in up to 12% of patients with CAKUT. METHODS: We applied whole-exome sequencing to analyze the genotypes of individuals from 232 families with CAKUT, evaluating for mutations in single genes known to cause human CAKUT and genes known to cause CAKUT in mice. In consanguineous or multiplex families, we additionally performed a search for novel monogenic causes of CAKUT. RESULTS: In 29 families (13%), we detected a causative mutation in a known gene for isolated or syndromic CAKUT that sufficiently explained the patient's CAKUT phenotype. In three families (1%), we detected a mutation in a gene reported to cause a phenocopy of CAKUT. In 15 of 155 families with isolated CAKUT, we detected deleterious mutations in syndromic CAKUT genes. Our additional search for novel monogenic causes of CAKUT in consanguineous and multiplex families revealed a potential single, novel monogenic CAKUT gene in 19 of 232 families (8%). CONCLUSIONS: We identified monogenic mutations in a known human CAKUT gene or CAKUT phenocopy gene as the cause of disease in 14% of the CAKUT families in this study. Whole-exome sequencing provides an etiologic diagnosis in a high fraction of patients with CAKUT and will provide a new basis for the mechanistic understanding of CAKUT. 01 september 2018

Quantum dots (QDs) are a promising tool to detect and monitor tumors. However, their small size allows them to accumulate in large quantities inside the healthy cells (in addition to the tumor cells), which increases their toxicity. In this study, we synthesized stealth liposomes encapsulating hydrophilic graphene quantum dots and triggered their release with ultrasound with the goal of developing a safer and well-controlled modality to deliver fluorescent markers to tumors. Our results confirmed the successful encapsulation of the QDs inside the core of the liposomes and showed no effect on the size or stability of the prepared liposomes. Our results also showed that low-frequency ultrasound is an effective method to release QDs encapsulated inside the liposomes in a spatially and temporally controlled manner to ensure the effective delivery of QDs to tumors while reducing their systemic toxicity.

The molecular diagnostic tools became the gold standard of mastitis diagnosis in the last few years. They enable rapid, qualitative, quantitative and large scale diagnosis. In addition to their role in diagnosis, they can identify pathogens at the subspecies level which is necessary for the epidemiological studies. They are increasingly used in mastitis control programs through identification of suitable candidates for vaccine production and through the selection of mastitis resistant cattle breeds. The present molecular techniques are continuously improved and new techniques are developed in order to provide higher sensitivity and specificity and to minimize the costs. The present work aims to provide an overview of the modern molecular tools, discuss why they replaced the traditional tools and became the new gold standard in mastitis diagnosis through comparing both traditional and molecular tools, explore the prospective of the molecular diagnostic techniques in mastitis diagnosis and control and to explore new horizons of using molecular assays in near future. Keywords: Culture, Genotyping, Mastitis, Molecular tools, PCR, RT-PCR, Udder pathogens

This work presents an energy/exergy analysis to investige performance of thermal storage unit which loaded with a commercial phase change material (Plus ICE H190). The influence of fluid parameters on the energy/exergy effectiveness was examined. The temporal changes of the energy and exergy rate and performace of the storage unit are obtained in the results. Latent heat principle is considered an efficient method to gain a higher effectiveness of system from an energy and exergy aspects. The fluid mass flow rate during charging and discharging periods were 2.50 kg/min and 1.26 kg/min, respectively. The results showed a significant increase of thermal resistance on the thermal storage unit performance. Fluid and phase change material show significant temperature difference on the rate of energy/exergy quantites and the time of melting or soldification. Ther results indicated that the average rate of energy and exergy were 1.3 kW and 0.54 kW, respectively. Wheras, energy and exergy average rate during discarging periods were 1.1 kW and 0.31 kW, respectively. Also, the global rate during the experimetal periods were about 84% and 54%, respectively. Article History : Received July 6 th 2017; Received in revised form September 15 th 2017; Accepted 25 th Sept 2017; Available online How to Cite This Article : Olimat, A.N., Awad, A.S., Al-Gathain, F.M., and Shaban, N.A.. (2017) Performance of Loaded Thermal Storage Unit With A Commercial Phase Change Materials Based on Energy and Exergy Analysis. International Journal of Renewable Energy Develeopment, 6(3),283-290. https://doi.org/10.14710/ijred.6.3.283-290

Objectives The preparation of 131I-trazodone hydrochloride and its biological evaluation as a promising brain imaging radiopharmaceutical using two routes of administration. Material and methods Trazodone (TZ) was radiolabelled with 131I using direct electrophilic substitution, and different factors affecting labelling yield were studied. Quality control of 131I-TZ was carried out using ascending paper chromatography, paper electrophoresis, and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). In vivo biodistribution of 131I-TZ was evaluated in Swiss albino mice using 3 methods: intravenous 131I-TZ solution (IVS), intranasal 131I-TZ solution (INS), and intranasal 131I-TZ microemulsion (INME). Results Optimum labelling yield of 91.23 ± 2.12% was obtained with in vitro stability of 131I-TZ up to 6 h at room temperature. The biodistribution results showed a notably higher and sustained brain uptake for INME compared to IVS and INS at all time intervals. In addition, heart and blood uptake levels for INME were lower than those for IV solution which, in turn, could decrease the systemic side effects of trazodone. Also, the 131I-trazodone INME brain uptake of 6.7 ± 0.5%ID/g was higher than that of 99mTc-ECD and 99mTc-HMPAO (radiopharmaceuticals currently used for brain imaging). Conclusion 131/123I-trazodone formulated as INME could be used as a promising radiopharmaceutical for brain imaging.

As incorporating silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) into zirconium metal-organic frameworks (UiO-66) offer an extensive potential in numerous applications such as wastewater treatment and catalysis, we herein synthesized UiO-66, followed by incorporating different contents of Ag NPs into UiO-66. The prepared UiO-66 composites were identified by means of various techniques like X-ray-diffraction patterns (XRD), nitrogen adsorption desorption (BET), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. Besides, acidic properties of composites were examined using FTIR of chemisorbed pyridine and non-aqueous potentiometric titration. The results displayed that UiO-66 crystals exhibited sizes of 180 and 240 nm. Their surface area and total pore volume respectively reached 1593 m2 g−1 and 0.834 m3 g−1, and decreased by incorporating Ag NPs to 863 m2 g−1 and 0.432 m3 g−1 at 5.0 wt% Ag/UiO-66. TGA data manifested that adding Ag NPs could improve the thermal stability of the primitive UiO-66. The as-synthesized composites were tested towards indigo carmine (IC) adsorption from aqueous media and in synthesis of 3,4-dihydro-pirimidin-2(1H)-ones (3,4-DHPs). The adsorption data showed that silver nanoparticles incorporation enhanced IC removal performance of UiO-66 and adsorption capacity was augmented from 87.2 mg g−1 (UiO-66) to 312.8 mg g−1 at 2.0 wt% Ag/UiO-66. This performance was efficient relying on adsorption isotherm measurements, indicating that incorporating Ag NPs augmented the number of adsorption sites and π–π interactions between adsorbate and adsorbent were enhanced, resulting in improved adsorption capacity towards anionic dyes. Also, incorporated Ag NPs show better catalytic activity in the preparation of DHPs and the yield reached 88% using 2.0 wt% Ag/UiO-66, imparting excellent recyclability for four cycles.

The beneficial role of prasugrel, a P2Y12 receptor blocker, in several neurointerventional procedures has been reviewed clinically. Beyond its antiplatelet capacity, the potential neuroprotective mechanisms of prasugrel are poorly addressed experimentally. Relevant to the imbalance between neuro-inflammation and neuroprotective pathways in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), our study evaluated the anti-ischemic potential of prasugrel treatment through tackling novel targets. Male Wistar rats were allocated into 2 sets; set 1 (I/R 60 min/3 days) to assess the neurological deficits/biochemical impact of prasugrel and set 2 (I/R 60 min/5 days) for evaluating short memory/morphological/immunoreactive changes. Each set comprised 4 groups designated as sham, sham + prasugrel, I/R, and I/R + prasugrel. Post-administration of prasugrel for 3 and 5 days reduced neurological deficit scores and improved the spontaneous activity/short term spatial memory using the Y-maze paradigm. On the molecular level, prasugrel turned off SUMO2/3-inhibitory kappa (Iκ)Bα, Ubc9 and nuclear factor kappa (NF-κ)B. Besides, it inhibited malondialdehyde (MDA) and inactivated astrocytes by downregulating the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) hippocampal immune-expression. Conversely, it activated its target molecule cAMP, protein kinase (PK)A, and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) to enhance the brain-derived nuclear factor (BDNF) hippocampal content. Additionally, cAMP/PKA axis increased the hippocampal content of deacetylator silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and the micro RNA (miR)-22 gene expression. The crosstalk between these paths partakes in preserving hippocampal cellularity. Accordingly, prasugrel, regardless inhibiting platelets activity, modulated other cellular components; viz., SUMO2/3-IκBα/Ubc9/NF-κB, cAMP/PKA related trajectories, CREB/BDNF and SIRT1/miR-22 signaling, besides inhibiting GFAP and MDA to signify its anti-ischemic potential.

This study investigates the preparation of a novel chelating adsorbent (AT-MAC), based on the chemical modification of activated carbon (AC) derived from water hyacinth (WH) via functionalization with 2-aminothiazole chelating legend (AT), and then utilizing it for the effective removal of Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions from polluted water. FTIR and XPS spectroscopy confirm the successful incorporation of amine and thiol groups within the porous activated carbon through the amidation reaction between the carboxylic groups of porous activated carbon and 2-aminothiazole legend in presence of DCC as cross coupling agent. The AT-MAC adsorbent exhibited high sorption capacities for the removal of Pb(II) (310.9 mg/g) and Hg(II) (252.5 mg/g) at pH 5.5 and contact time 60 min, which are higher than most previously reported carbon based materials. AT-MAC displayed 100.0% removal for Hg(II) and Pb(II) ions at concentrations up to 50 ppm, thus demonstrating excellent selectivity for Pb(II), and Hg(II) ions. The FTIR before and after adsorption suggested the mechanism of removal based on the complexation between the nitrogen and sulfur atoms on the surface of AT-MAC and Pb(II) forming (C-S-Pb and C-N-Pb). The chemisorption mechanism via the thiol and amine groups grafted onto the surface of AT-MAC was also suggested based on the excellent agreement of the experimental data with a pseudo-second order kinetic model. The AT-MAC also showed high stability over three adsorption–desorption cycles. The results also revealed that AT-MAC is a promising remediation adsorbent for the solid phase extraction of Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions from contaminated water.

Despite the renal expression of P2Y12, the purinergic receptor for adenosine diphosphate, few data are available to discuss the renotherapeutic potential of ticagrelor, one of its reversible blockers. Indeed, the tonic inhibitory effect of this receptor has been linked to the activation of exchange protein activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate-1 (Epac-1) protein through the cyclic adenosine monophosphate cascade. Epac-1 is considered a crossroad protein, where its activation has been documented to manage renal injury models. Hence, the current study aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic effectiveness of ticagrelor, against renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) model with emphasis on the involvement of Epac-1 signaling pathway using R-CE3F4, a selective Epac-1 blocker. Accordingly, rats were randomized into four groups; viz., sham-operated, renal I/R, I/R post-treated with ticagrelor for 3 days, and ticagrelor + R-CE3F4. Treatment with ticagrelor ameliorated the I/R-mediated structural alterations and improved renal function manifested by the reduction in serum BUN and creatinine. On the molecular level, ticagrelor enhanced renal Epac-1 mRNA expression, Rap-1 activation (Rap-1-GTP) and SOCS-3 level. On the contrary, it inhibited the protein expression of JAK-2/STAT-3 hub, TNF-α and MDA contents, as well as caspase-3 activity. Additionally, ticagrelor enhanced the protein expression/content of AKT/Nrf-2/HO-1 axis. All these beneficial effects were obviously antagonized upon using R-CE3F4. In conclusion, ticagrelor reno-therapeutic effect is partly mediated through modulating the Epac-1/Rap-1-GTP, AKT/Nrf-2/HO-1 and JAK-2/STAT-3/SOCS-3 trajectories, pathways that integrate to afford novel explanations to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic potentials.

Although the central role of Nurr-1/GDNF has been reviewed amply, scarce data are available on their peripheral impact. Carvedilol and morin hydrate have previously conferred their hepatic anti-fibrotic action. Aim Thus, our aim was to unveil the potential hepatoprotective role of carvedilol (CR) and/or morin hydrate (MH) using a hepatic 70% partial warm ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) rat model. Main method Rats were allocated into sham-operated, hepatic I/R, and I/R preceded by oral administration of CR (10 and 30 mg/kg; CR10/CR30), MH (30 mg/kg), or CR10 + MH for one week. Key findings On the molecular level, pretreatment with CR and/or MH increased the hepatic contents of Nurr-1, GDNF, and the protein expression of active/p-AKT. On the other hand, they inactivated GSK3β and NF-κB to increase the antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD, CAT). All regimens also enhanced the autophagy/lysosomal function and boosted the protein expression of beclin-1, LC3II, and TFEB. Moreover, their antiapoptotic effect was signified by increasing the anti-apoptotic molecule Bcl2 and inhibiting Bax, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and caspase-3, effects that were confirmed by the TUNEL assay. These improvements were reflected on liver function, as they decreased serum aminotransferases and liver structural alterations induced by I/R. Despite its mild impact, CR10 showed marked improvements when combined with MH; this synergistic interaction overrides the effect of either regimen alone. Significance In conclusion, CR, MH, and especially the combination regimen, conferred hepatoprotection against I/R via activating the Nurr-1/GDNF/AKT trajectory to induce autophagy/lysosomal biogenesis, inhibit GSK3β/NF-кB hub and apoptosis, and amend redox balance.

The present study was initiated with the objective of simulating and predicting the effect of future development on the groundwater flow and levels. This supports applications for future planning and wise management of water resources. The study area extends south of El Nubariya canal including Sadat City area and its vicinities in the western Nile delta region. A numerical groundwater flow model (MODFLOW) has been employed to simulate flow and get the budget of groundwater in the study area. The model showed that about 28,101,041 m3/day of surface water is infiltrated to groundwater dominantly from canals and excess irrigation water. About the same quantity (28,101,052 m3/day), is discharged from groundwater through production wells, open drains and through some reaches of canals. Three development scenarios were simulated to give predictions of the impact of future increasing recharge, construction of new canal and new open drains, and also increased pumping on the groundwater levels in the study area.

Diabetes is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease, resulting in a significant health care burden and loss of economic productivity by affected individuals. Because current therapies for progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) are only moderately successful, identification of underlying mechanisms of disease is essential to develop more effective therapies. We showed previously that inhibition of arginase using S-(2-boronoethyl)-l-cysteine (BEC) or genetic deficiency of the arginase-2 isozyme was protective against key features of nephropathy in diabetic mouse models. However, those studies did not determine whether all markers of DN were dependent only on arginase-2 expression. The objective of this study was to identify features of DN that are associated specifically with expression of arginase-1 or −2. Elevated urinary albumin excretion rate and plasma urea levels, increases in renal fibronectin mRNA levels, and decreased renal medullary blood flow were associated almost completely and specifically with arginase-2 expression, indicating that arginase-2 selectively mediates major aspects of diabetic renal injury. However, increases in renal macrophage infiltration and renal TNF-α mRNA levels occurred independent of arginase-2 expression but were almost entirely abolished by treatment with BEC, indicating a distinct role for arginase-1. We therefore generated mice with a macrophage-specific deletion of arginase-1 ( CD11bCre/ Arg1fl/fl). CD11bCre/ Arg1fl/fl mice had significantly reduced macrophage infiltration but had no effect on albuminuria compared with Arg1fl/fl mice after 12 wk of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. These results indicate that selective inhibition of arginase-2 would be effective in preventing or ameliorating major features of diabetic renal injury.

A micromechanical model is applied to examine the tensile properties of composite materials filled with multi-wall CNT oriented in in-plane and out-of-plane direction and a quantitative micromechanical model for the mechanical behavior of CNT-composites has been developed. Digimat-MF is used to generate a realistic three-dimensional microstructure for the current carbon nanotube/ epoxy composite. The Digimat model simulates a system of aligned carbon nanotubes arranged in-plane and another one having out of plane arrangement of reinforcements. A second model shows a representative volume element for the current nano-composite, in which the carbon nanotubes were simulated as a randomly (fully) dispersed, where all particles have been separated from each other. The predicted mechanical properties are compared with experimental tensile properties of composite materials reinforced with multi-wall CNTs arranged in in-plane and out-of-plane direction. A good agreement between the micromechanical modeling and the experimental part is observed. Results show that the elastic energy stored in -the-through thickness direction reinforced composites is about two times higher than that in the pure polymer.

Novel therapeutic interventions for preventing or attenuating kidney injury following ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) remain a focus of significant interest. Currently, there are no definitive therapeutic or preventive approaches available for ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI). Our objective is to determine 1) whether renal arginase activity or expression is increased in renal IRI, and 2) whether arginase plays a role in development of renal IRI. The impact of arginase activity and expression on renal damage was evaluated in male C57BL/6J (wild type) and arginase-2 (ARG2)-deficient ( Arg2−/−) mice subjected to bilateral renal ischemia for 28 min, followed by reperfusion for 24 h. ARG2 expression and arginase activity significantly increased following renal IRI, paralleling the increase in kidney injury. Pharmacological blockade or genetic deficiency of Arg2 conferred kidney protection in renal IRI. Arg2−/−mice had significantly attenuated kidney injury and lower plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels after renal IRI. Blocking arginases using S-(2-boronoethyl)-l-cysteine (BEC) 18 h before ischemia mimicked arginase deficiency by reducing kidney injury, histopathological changes and kidney injury marker-1 expression, renal apoptosis, kidney inflammatory cell recruitment and inflammatory cytokines, and kidney oxidative stress; increasing kidney nitric oxide (NO) production and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation, kidney peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α expression, and mitochondrial ATP; and preserving kidney mitochondrial ultrastructure compared with vehicle-treated IRI mice. Importantly, BEC-treated eNOS-knockout mice failed to reduce blood urea nitrogen and creatinine following renal IRI. These findings indicate that ARG2 plays a major role in renal IRI, via an eNOS-dependent mechanism, and that blocking ARG2 activity or expression could be a novel therapeutic approach for prevention of AKI.

Aim Mangiferin (MF), a xanthonoid from Mangifera indica, possesses anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and potent antioxidant effects; however, its protective effect against mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced liver injury has not been fully clarified. The study was designed to assess the possible mechanism of action of MF against mesenteric I/R model. Main methods Male Wister rats were treated with MF (20 mg/kg, i.p) or the vehicle for 3 days before I/R, which was induced by clamping the superior mesenteric artery for 30 min followed by declamping for 60 min. Key findings The mechanistic studies revealed that MF protected the 2 organs studied, viz., liver and intestine partly via increasing the content of β-catenin and PPAR-γ along with decreasing that of GSK-3β and the phosphorylated NF-қB-p65. MF antioxidant effect was evidenced by increasing contents of total antioxidant capacity and GST, besides normalizing that of MDA. Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect, MF reduced IL-1β and IL-6, effects that were mirrored on the tissue content of MPO. Moreover, MF possessed anti-apoptotic character evidenced by elevating Bcl-2 content and reducing that of caspase-3. In the serum, intestinal I/R increased the activity of ALT, AST, and creatine kinase. Significance The intimated protective mechanisms of MF against mesenteric I/R are mediated, partially, by modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis possibly via the involvement of Wnt/β-catenin/NF-қβ/ PPAR-γ signaling pathways.

Objective:To examine the extent to which multiple, sequential complications impacts variation in institutional postoperative mortality rates.Background:Failure to rescue (FTR) has been proposed as an underlying factor in hospital variation in surgical mortality. However, little is currently known ab

Inflammation is a central pathophysiologic mechanism that contributes to diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy. Recently, we showed that macrophages directly contribute to diabetic renal injury and that pharmacological blockade or genetic deficiency of chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) confers kidney protection in diabetic nephropathy. However, the direct role of CCR2 in kidney-derived cells such as podocytes in diabetic nephropathy remains unclear. To study this, we developed a transgenic mouse model expressing CCR2 specifically in podocytes (Tg[ NPHS2-Ccr2 ]) on a nephropathy-prone (DBA/2J) and CCR2-deficient ( Ccr2 -/- ) background with heterozygous Ccr2 +/- littermate controls. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin. As expected, absence of CCR2 conferred kidney protection after nine weeks of diabetes. In contrast, transgenic CCR2 overexpression in the podocytes of Ccr2 -/- mice resulted in significantly increased albuminuria, blood urea nitrogen, histopathologic changes, kidney fibronectin and type 1 collagen expression, podocyte loss, and glomerular apoptosis after nine weeks of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Interestingly, there was no concurrent increase in kidney macrophage recruitment or inflammatory cytokine levels in the mice. These findings support a direct role for CCR2 expression in podocytes to mediate diabetic renal injury, independent of monocyte/macrophage recruitment. Thus, targeting the CCR2 signaling cascade in podocytes could be a novel therapeutic approach for treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

The impact of silica-nano-particles (SNP) on the hydration characteristics of composite cement containing flyash (FA) and/or fine granulated slag (FGS) was investigated. The physico-chemical characteristics of different composite-pastes are studied in the presence of 4mass% SNP and 40% FA and/or FGS with the existence of 1mass% polycarboxylate superplasticizer (SP). The physicomechanical characteristics are studied by determination of the consistency, setting times (STs), compressive strength (CS), total porosity, (TP), bulk density (BD), chemically combined water (Wn), free lime (FL) contents and gel/space ratio (X). The phase composition of the formed hydrates is investigated using XRD, DTA∕TGA, and SEM techniques. The represented data shown that 4% SNP improve the hydration process of the composite cement pastes and exhibit superior-compressive strength than neat-cement without SNP, this is due to nano-sized-particles and higher-efficiency of good pozzolanic-action of SNP in the comparison with FA and FGS. The composite cement containing OPC–40%FGS–4%NS in presence of 1%SP possess the highest improvement of mechanical-properties, hydration-kinetics, and microstructure of hardened cement pastes.

l‐homoarginine is an endogenous, non‐proteinogenic amino acid that has emerged as a new player in health and disease. Specifically, low l‐homoarginine levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and reduced kidney function. However, the role of l‐homoarginine in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is not known. Experiments were conducted in 6‐week‐old Ins2Akita mice supplemented with l‐homoarginine via drinking water or mini osmotic pump for 12 weeks. Both plasma and kidney l‐homoarginine levels were significantly reduced in diabetic mice compared to nondiabetic controls. Untreated Ins2Akita mice showed significant increases in urinary albumin excretion, histological changes, glomerular macrophage recruitment, the inflammatory cytokine KC‐GRO/CXCL1, and urinary thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) excretion as an indicator of oxidative stress, along with a significant reduction in kidney nitrate + nitrite levels compared to control mice at 18 weeks of age. In contrast, l‐homoarginine supplementation for 12 weeks in Ins2Akita mice, via either drinking water or mini osmotic pump, significantly reduced albuminuria, renal histological changes, glomerular macrophage recruitment, KC‐GRO/CXCL1 levels, urinary TBARS excretion, and largely restored kidney nitrate + nitrite levels. These data demonstrate that l‐homoarginine supplementation attenuates specific features of DN in mice and could be a potential new therapeutic tool for treating diabetic patients.

Background: Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a common pediatric disease. Minimal change disease (MCD) is the most common histopathological subtype and usually has good prognosis. However, in less common presentations, INS may have an unusual course that makes renal biopsy a necessity to identify its etiology. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) occasionally deposits in the mesangium and can be seen under immunofluorescence (IF). The role of IgM is controversial in MCD. It is likely associated with less favorable outcomes for MCD. This study aims to investigate the clinical significance of mesangial IgM deposits on the outcome of MCD in a pediatric population. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we obtained native kidney biopsy samples from 192 children who were diagnosed with MCD from 2003 to 2014. The samples were divided into groups according to the histopathological deposition of IgM in biopsies under IF. The group for which biopsies showed IgM was labeled as IgM + IF (n = 77), and the group for which biopsies were without IgM was labeled as IgM-IF (n = 115). We reviewed hypertension, hematuria, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the time of presentation to our institute; response to steroid therapy (remission, dependence, frequent relapses, and resistance) and response after adjuvant immunosuppressive therapy (complete remission, partial remission, frequent relapses, and no response) when indicated; development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease during the course of the disease (ESRD). Results: Our results showed that mesangial IgM deposition in MCD showed significant statistical association with hypertension at the time of presentation (P = .05). There was statistically significant association between the presence of IgM deposition and the development of steroid dependence (P = .05) and CKD during the course of the disease (P = .05). Conclusions: Our study showed that IgM deposition in MCD showed statistical association with hypertension by the time the patient presented to our institute, development of steroid dependence, and CKD. IgM may play a role in MCD. However, we recommend a prospective study to verify the role of IgM in MCD outcomes. Keywords: Nephrotic syndrome, Minimal change disease, IgM, IgM nephropathy

Several abiotic stresses including salinity impact plant growth and reduce the productivity of many plants and field crops. Plantlets produced in vitro by tissue culture technique offer a direct and fast approach to investigate the mechanism of stress adaptation. The present study estimated the survival percentage of two potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars (Spunta and Valor) under salt stress as abiotic stresses. Some biochemical alterations and ultrastructural responses of plantlets were examined. Moreover, genetic diversity was also studied using RAPD technique. The results showed that, with the increase of external stress there was a significant decrease in the survival percentage, significant accumulation of osmoprotectants (proline) and induction of DNA damages. Furthermore, there were closing of stomatal apertures, changesin chloroplast ultrastructure and cell intercellular spaces markedly decreased. Additionally,high salt stress (150 and 200mM NaCl) caused complete inhibition of plantlet growth. Thepresent work provides insight view for the adaptation of potato plantlets to salt stress throughaccumulating of osmoprotectants and change in molecular and ultrastructure traits.

Exposure to repetitive brain trauma has gained attention for its similarity to sport-related trauma. The traumatic brain injury (TBI) is strongly associated with neurodegenerative pathology that affects cognition, memory and behavior. The current study developed a novel mild repetitive traumatic brain injury (mRTBI) model to highlight some of the possible molecular pathological mechanisms compared to those of single trauma. Additionally, the study investigated the potential post-traumatic neuroprotective effect of Morin and/or MK-801. mRTBI was induced by weight drop model once daily for 5 days using Sprague-Dawley male rats. Animals were classified into control, mild TBI, mRTBI-5, mRTBI-7, mRTBI-5+DMSOMK, mRTBI-5+DMSOMO, mRTBI-5+Morin, mRTBI-5+MK801, and mRTBI-5+Morin+MK801. All treatments, especially the combination regimen, abated the cortical contents/protein expression of dementia markers (APO-E, Aβ42, p(thr231)Tau, and p(Ser33)β-catenin), inflammatory markers (p(Ser536)NF-κBp65, and TNF-α, IL-6), and caspase-3 activity. Moreover, treatments enhanced the protein expression of Wnt-1 and autophagy-related markers (LC3BII/I and Beclin-1), besides the tissue content of the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2. These results entailed an improvement in the behavioral outcome, histological structure, and neuronal survival. In conclusion, the study proved that mRTBI impairs memory and alters APO-E/Aβ42/p(thr231)Tau via the modulation of Wnt/β-catenin trajectory, autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation. Additionally, post-treatment with Morin and/or MK-801 ameliorated these alterations, especially the combined regimen. It is also worth mentioning that Morin alone showed the finest behavioral improvements relative to the normal group. These results are summarized in Fig. 1 .

Introduction ― Our previous study cleared that both immunization with Egyptian Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula and therapy with praziquantel were able to induce significant levels of protection against re-infection as compared with immunization or treatment only. Aim ― The current study aimed to evaluate the immunostimulatory activity of schistosomula in naïve mice post injection with schistosomula either alone or with praziquantel to answer the question: can schistosomula be used as immunoadjuvant? Material and Methods ― Ten naïve mice were administered 3 doses of phosphate buffered saline. Ten mice injected with 500 schistosomula at day 0 and at 14th day. Ten mice were administered praziquantel (PZQ) (250 mg/kg body weight).Ten mice injected with schistosomula at day 0 and at 14th day and received PZQ. The levels of IgM and IgG against soluble egg antigen (SEA) and soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP) were detected by ELISA. Immunophenotyping of mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) lymphocytes and thymocytes were carried out. Results ― IgM and IgG levels were significantly elevated in sera from mice injected with schistosomula alone or with PZQ or PZQ only. The mean percentage of MLN CD4+, CD8+ T and B lymphocytes were increased but considered not significant. The MLN CD4+/CD8+ T ratios were >1. The mean % of CD4+ and CD8+ thymocytes were increased and the CD4+/CD8+ thymocytes ratios were >1. Conclusion ― Immunostimulatory activity schistosomula was detected by enhancing Igs titers, stimulating the mean % of CD4+, CD8+ T, B-MLN cells and thymocytes CD4+, CD8+ T. CD4+/CD8+ T cells ratios were >1 in MLN and thymus gland.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS CoV-2) infection causes the disease known as coronavirus disease that started in Wuhan (China) in December 2019, leading to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The common presenting symptoms include fever, dry cough, shortness-of-breath, while sore throat, diarrhea, and abdominal and chest pain are the least. The atypical presentation of SARS CoV-2 infection poses a challenge for family physicians to screen and manage such patients for COVID-19 and specifically those at high risk with underlying disease such a sickle cell disease. Herein, we report a case of SARS CoV-2 infection in a known patient of sickle cell disease (SCD) with an atypical presentation, in whom the course of the disease was mild to moderate, uncomplicated, and the patient had an uneventful recovery. Primary care physicians should be vigilant to screen and manage such patients with established protocols, especially in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of burnout on the academic achievement of female students in the colleges of health sciences and to explore on their educational levels of study regarding burnout.Methods: Purposive sampling technique was used in this study and a sample size of 540 Saudi female students was chosen to participate in this study. The tools used were Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey for Students MBI–GS (S) to measure the level of burnout and a socio-demographic questionnaire were administered on participants. The MBI–GS (S) proved internal consistency reliability at 0.86 across many samples.Results: The level of burnout among participants was 51.9%. Some 27.2% of the participants experienced mild burnout, while 14.4% showed moderate levels of burnout. Only 6.5% of participants displayed a high level of burnout, and they were among the Colleges of Pharmacy (25.0%) and Dentistry (10.1%).Conclusions: The study findings showed no association between burnout and academic achievement and no relationship between burnout and the academic level of study. Only the students of the College of Pharmacy suffered from high levels of burnout.

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a degenerative cerebrovascular disorder that leads to progressive decline in cognitive abilities and memory. Several reports demonstrated that oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are principal pathogenic factors in VaD. The present study was constructed to determine the possible neuroprotective effects of simvastatin in comparison with cilostazol in VaD induced by L-methionine in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group I (control group), group II received L-methionine (1.7 g/kg, p.o.) for 32 days. The remaining two groups received simvastatin (50 mg/kg, p.o.) and cilostazol (100 mg/kg, p.o.), respectively, for 32 days after induction of VaD by L-methionine. Subsequently, rats were tested for cognitive performance using Morris water maze test then sacrificed for biochemical and histopathological assays. L-methionine induced VaD reflected by alterations in rats' behavior as well as the estimated neurotransmitters, acetylcholinesterase activity as well as increased brain oxidative stress and inflammation parallel to histopathological changes in brain tissue. Treatment of rats with simvastatin ameliorated L-methionine-induced behavioral, neurochemical, and histological changes in a manner comparable to cilostazol. Simvastatin may be regarded as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of VaD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal the neuroprotective effects of simvastatin or cilostazol in L-methionine-induced VaD. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is thought to be associated with immune dysfunction. We hypothesized that HCV status would be associated with increased infectious complications in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU). Methods All patients admitted to our SICU between 2008 and 2012 were included. We evaluated 90-day mortality and infectious complications in the SICU. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of infectious complications and 90-day mortality. Results A total of 1,941 patients were included. The HCV-positive group had a higher overall incidence of infectious complications (25% vs 18%), particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and bacteremia. The increased incidences of VAP and bacteremia persisted when cirrhotic patients were excluded. Prolonged intubation (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.1), abdominal surgery (OR = 1.6), and model for end-stage liver disease ≥ 15 (OR = 1.4) were independent predictors of SICU infectious complications. Conclusions The HCV-positive group had an increased incidence of infectious complications in the SICU, particularly VAP and bacteremia. This effect persisted when cirrhotic patients were excluded.

This research paper highlights the adverse effects of climate change on the agricultural sector in Saudi Arabia and the actions taken to adapt to these adverse effects. Special focus was given to the potential to optimise the reallocation of scarce water resources among the competitive advantage date palm cropping regions in Saudi Arabia using a mathematical sector modelling approach. The results showed great potential for Saudi Arabia to adapt to the adverse effects of climate change by optimising the date palm cropping pattern in accordance with its scarce water resources and limited cultivated lands. The optimised scenario would result in a high net annual return, equivalent to about 881.76 million US$ year−1, and an increase on the water use return from about 0.97 US$ cm−1 in the base year to approximately 1.31 US$ cm−1. The optimised scenario would also provide the opportunity to reduce the allocated date palm cropping area by approximately 4% (from approximately 118,250 hectares to approximately 113,446 hectares) and to reduce the water demand by approximately 1% (from 681.06 million cubic metres (MCM) per year to approximately 674.28 MCM per year).

Background: Stevioside has been used as a medication for reducing glucose levels in diabetic patients. The exact mode of action is still unclear. Therefore, the current study outlined the molecular and biological roles of stevioside in treatment of diabetes.Materials and Methods: Diabetic male Wistar rats were treated with stevioside and metformin as a medication for diabetes rats for 4 weeks. Biochemical, molecular and histopathological studies have been done to evaluate the therapeutic effect of stevioside on minimizing levels of glucose and its related gene expression in diabetic rats.Results: Stevioside administration normalized kidney and liver biomarkers, restored alterations in antioxidants activity and lipid profiles. Moreover, stevioside increased insulin and leptin secretion that are decreased in diabetic rats to the normal levels. For mRNA expression, stevioside up-regulated the expressions of PK and IRS-1 genes, which are down-regulated in diabetic rats, and was very effective in the down-regulation of CPT-1 mRNA expression. At the cellular levels; stevioside normalized the histopathological changes induced in pancreas.Conclusion: Stevioside has insulin like effects and is useful for diabetic patient’s therapy.Key words: Stevioside; Molecular effects; Insulin like activity, Diabetes.

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NAFLD) is a progressive form of liver disease that leads to advanced fibrosis. The present study was designed to assess the hepatoprotective effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on liver functions, insulin resistance, and PPAR-γ expression in NAFLD. Rats were divided into two main groups: one fed with normal rat chow diet and the other with high-fat high-cholesterol diet group for 6 weeks. Every group was subdivided into three subgroups (n = 8): treated with saline, low dose TQ (10 mg/kg), high dose TQ (20 mg/kg). High fat high cholesterol diet caused marked liver damage as noted in histopathology and significant increase in liver index, liver enzymes. There was significant increase in the insulin resistance, serum cholesterol, triglyceride, PPAR-γ gene overexpression with significant decrease in HDL. Additionally, oxidative stress increased by measuring MDA associated with significant decrease in serum total antioxidant capacity. As markers of inflammation, hepatic TNF-α was significantly increased with decrease in IL10. Further, there was increase in BAX protein with decrease in Bcl as compared to control group. This model of 6 weeks high-fat high-cholesterol diet showed minimal fibrosis as noticed by increase MMP2 and Masson trichrome satin. Co-treatment with TQ improved all previous parameters. High dose was more effective, although mostly non-statistically significant. TQ may have a promising agent to improve hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress; inflammatory, apoptotic status, fibrosis and so prevent liver damage in patients with NAFLD. Although PPAR-γ was significantly under-expressed by TQ, insulin resistance was improved significantly suggesting a role of liver damage.

Background: Hyperprolactinemia may reflect neuroendocrine stress reaction against acute coronary syndromes. Aim: The aim of the present study was evaluation of the serum prolactin level in the acute myocardial infarction (MI) regarding the current pharmacotherapy in management of MI. Setting and Design: Cross-sectional clinical based study. Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional clinical study involved all patients with acute MI in a coronary care unit, a total number of 44 patients (45% males and 55% females) with age ranged from 40 to 75 years. A full history for modifiable risk factors and current therapy with aspirin, clopidogrel and or metformin, all patients are nonsmokers. The anthropometric measurements; for estimations of body mass index (kg/m2), electrocardiography was obtained. Fasting blood samples were taken in the morning from all patients and the sera used for estimations of routine investigation and determination of ischemic cardiac biomarkers like cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and serum prolactin level. Results: This study shows a significant increase in the serum prolactin in acute MI as compared with the control. In acute MI serum cTnI elevation was correlated with serum prolactin increments. In metformin-treated group, there was a lowest prolactin serum level. Conclusions: Serum prolactin level increased in acute MI, and positively correlated with cardiac troponin level and reflects underlying cardiovascular complications.