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Soil contamination by lead, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper is a widespread environmental issue associated with the mining industry. Primary sources include mining activities, production and processing operations, waste disposal and management practices, and atmospheric sediments. Soil contamination and degradation, water pollution impacting aquatic ecosystems, plant absorption leading to agricultural product contamination, health risks associated with exposure to lead, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper, along with effects on fauna and biodiversity, constitute the primary environmental and health impacts of contamination.In this study, diverse sampling and analysis methods, geographic information systems, and remote sensing techniques are investigated for monitoring and assessing soil contamination with these metals. Soil modification techniques, phytoremediation, and other strategies for reduction and modification are considered among the most crucial, alongside health protection and risk management strategies. Finally, the article explores innovative methods and solutions for mineral waste management and remediation, the application of green chemistry and sustainable practices in the mining industry, and the utilization of artificial intelligence for controlling heavy metal ion pollution.

Abstract Background Lisdexamfetamine (LDX) and Methylphenidate (MPH) are stimulant agents that have been shown to provide significant benefits in the management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients. Aim This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness and the budget impact of LDX compared to MPH as the first-line treatment for ADHD. Methods A one-year cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was conducted to compare the effects of LDX and MPH in reducing disease symptoms and patient costs and improving quality of life (QoL) from a social perspective. Clinical data were obtained using the EQ-5D questionnaire. In contrast, economic data were sourced from the official website of the Iranian Food and Drug Association (FDA), the national book of tariffs, and specific questionnaires designed to evaluate patients' direct and indirect costs. 197 patients were included in the study, including individuals who sought psychiatric evaluation at a hospital in Mashhad and those who obtained ADHD medications from governmental pharmacies. The cost-effectiveness of the study medicine was assessed using the decision tree method, and the results were presented as the Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER). Deterministic Sensitivity Analysis (DSA) and Probabilistic Sensitivity Analysis (PSA) were performed to assess the robustness of the findings. Additionally, a Budget Impact Analysis (BIA) was conducted over five years, considering three different scenarios, to evaluate the financial implications of incorporating LDX into the national pharmaceutical system. Results The ICER for LDX therapy compared to MPH was estimated at USD 264.28 (with an incremental cost of USD 54.9, incremental effectiveness of 0.208, and Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) gained of 0.765). The PSA indicated a 0.994% probability of LDX being cost-effective, considering a threshold of USD 2450 per QALY. Furthermore, the DSA revealed that the acquisition cost of LDX influenced the model's sensitivity. The BIA demonstrated that incorporating LDX into Iran's healthcare system would result in a financial burden of approximately $368,566 in the first year, representing an additional cost of $11,154 compared to the non-availability of this medicine and the use of previous medications. It is projected that by 2027, the financial burden of treating ADHD with LDX will reach approximately USD 443,879 over five years, amounting to an increase of $71,154 compared to the absence of this medicine. Conclusion From a social perspective, the inclusion of LDX in the treatment regimen for ADHD is associated with higher costs and an increased financial burden. However, based on our analysis, LDX appears to be a cost-effective choice for managing ADHD in Iran when compared to MPH.

CLA is an economically and zoonotically important disease in the world. The lack of a therapeutic procedure limits the treatment mainly to surgical intervention. Therapeutic efficacies of the intra-abscess instillation of O3-oil and H2O2-gly in CLA in small ruminants were tested. One hundred eighty affected sheep and goats were allocated to five groups as follows: 1) NC (no intervention), 2) PC1 (injection of olive oil), 3) PC2 (injection of glycerin), 4) injection of O3-oil, 5) injection of H2O2-gly. Samples of abscess contents were collected for microbiological examination prior to injection. The VAs were measured on T0, then with two-week intervals on T1 and T2. On T0 and T2, VAs were as NC (2.9 ± 0.5; 3.5 ± 0.5), PC1 (3.4 ± 0.7; 6.6 ± 1), PC2 (3.1 ± 0.7; 3.3 ± 0.9), O3-oil (3.3 ± 0.4; 0.4 ± 0.4), and H2O2-gly (4.6 ± 0.4, 1.5 ± 0.4). Statistical analysis showed a significant decrease in VAs, merely in treatment groups. CP was recovered in 48.3% of bacteriological samples. The results of this study suggested that O3-oil and H2O2-gly would be reliable therapeutic agents for treating and controlling CLA. Ozone showed apparently a higher efficacy and caused more rapid shrinkage/recession of the abscesses, compared to hydrogen peroxide..

Objective(s): A new binary mixture containing mometasone furoate (MF) and calcipotriol (CP) is suggested to manage psoriasis; since the combined stability profile of these drugs is poorly understood.Materials and Methods: Herein MF, CP, and their mixtures were subjected to various stress conditions. Also, stability-indicating HPLC was developed and validated according to ICH guidelines with Box-Behnken design. The degradation products (DPs) were predicted in silico and identified using LC-MS. The bioactivity and toxicity of DPs were studied using molecular docking and alamarBlue assay, respectively. Spectroscopic techniques of the first derivative, first-derivative ratio, and the mean-centering of ratio spectra were also used to determine MF and CP in the mixture because of spectra overlapping. Results: The major degradants for MF in alkaline conditions were DP1, DP2, and DP3, while in thermal and UV conditions, only DP1 was generated. CP gave one degradant in all conditions. No new impurity was observed in the MF and CP mixtures. The results of spectrophotometry showed good linearity in the range of 4-50 and 2-20 µg/ml, while linearity for HPLC was in the range of 4–50 and 0.5–2.5 µg/ml for MF and CP, respectively. Recovery was 99.61–100.38% for UV and 100.4% for HPLC methods of MF and 100.6–101.4% for UV and 99.5% for HPLC methods of CP.Conclusion: The developed methods can be used as simple, accurate, precise, and rapid techniques for routine quality control of MF and CP mixtures.

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effect of liposomal and emulsion forms of topical anesthesia on pain reduction during dental anesthesia. Methods: The study was a randomized clinical trial with a split-mouth design conducted on 15 patients who were referred to a private dental clinic and needed injectable anesthesia for flap surgery in the posterior maxillary area. First, one of the four concentrations (2%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) of the emulsion form of Lidocaine-Prilocaine topical anesthesia was applied on one side of the maxilla, and two weeks later, four concentrations of the liposomal form were applied on the other side. These areas were randomly selected for topical anesthesia before injecting anesthesia into the vestibular area. The amount of pain caused by needle insertion was measured by the Visual Analogue Scale. Results: The comparison of the emulsion and liposomal forms of Lidocaine-Prilocaine topical anesthesia indicated that 5% of the emulsion form and 7.5% of the liposomal form demonstrated the lowest VAS scores; however, the comparison of different concentrations of the emulsion (P=0.46) and liposomal forms (P=0.64) did not indicate any significant difference. There was not any statistically significant difference between liposomal and emulsion forms regarding the same concentrations (P=0.75). Conclusion: Despite the longer substantivity of the liposomal form of Lidocaine-Prilocaine topical anesthesia on the oral mucosa, compared to that of the emulsion form, the findings of the present study revealed that different concentrations of topical anesthesia did not significantly differ in terms of pain reduction efficacy.

Introduction: Oxidative stress and inflammation could occur after major gastrointestinal surgeries. Selenium is a micronutrient with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could improve the inflammatory markers in the children admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after gastrointestinal surgeries. Due to the lack of evidence on the potential effects of high-dose selenium on post-surgical critically ill children, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-dose selenium supplementation on the levels of inflammatory markers and oxidative stress status in pediatric patients after gastrointestinal surgery. Methods and analysis: We will conduct a single-blinded, randomized, parallel group superiority trial at Akbar Pediatrics Hospital in Mashhad, Iran. The sample population will consist of 70 patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, who will admit to the ICU at the selected hospital. The control group will receive the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) doses of selenium, and the intervention group will receive 20 µg/kg/d of selenium. The primary outcomes, (the pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) status, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)) will be measured before surgery and upon discharge time. The secondary outcomes, (serum glutathione peroxidase (GPX) level and serum and urine selenium levels), will be measured before surgery, after surgery, and upon ICU discharge time. We will perform the intra-group and inter-group data analysis in SPSS software, and we will consider the intention-to-treat approach, statistical significance level of

Background: Leishmaniasis is endemic in Iran, and Mashhad is one of the most involved cities. Glucantime, prescribed as intralesional or systemic injection, is the most common treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis. We investigated the additive effect of topical ciprofloxacin on the intralesional injection of glucantime in treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was performed on patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis diagnosed by direct smear or biopsy, who referred to Imam Reza and Ghaem teaching hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either topical liposomal ciprofloxacin 2% twice daily plus weekly intralesional glucantime or intralesional glucantime alone, for eight weeks. The size of induration and the rate of healing was assessed every week. Findings: There were no significant differences between the groups in cure rate (decrease in induration size equal or more than 75%) (P = 0.410) and the time of healing (P = 0.050) 45 days after the end of treatment. Conclusion: Using topical ciprofloxacin does not have any additive effect on the conventional treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

A method of determination of concentration of solute depended to its chemical properties, degree of dilution and matrix that takes it. Formulation of liposomal hydroquinone, a drug delivery system, is developed to increase efficacy treatment. Challenge of determination of low concentrations of hydroquinone in liposomal complex matrix by simple method was done successfully. In this study, a colorimetric method—based on the method of diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) reduction—was used to measure the concentration of hydroquinone in the liposomal matrix. Hydroquinone is an ingredient with antioxidant activity that is able to reduce DPPH molecules. the samples were dissolved in methanol for testing and, after an hour of mixing with DPPH, the absorption intensity of each sample was measured at a wavelength of 516 nm then validation parameters such as linearity and range, precision, accuracy, specificity, LOQ and LOD were measured. This method can be used to determine the concentration of hydroquinone liposomal samples in the concentration range 0.5–2 µg/ml, with a regression rate of 0.999, precision 2.1% for intraday and 2.8% for inter-day, recovery 96.2% and 100.8% for 80% and 120% main concentration respectably, LOQ 0.149 µg/ml and LOD 0.04 µg/ml were obtained. This method is precision, accuracy, specificity and linear to determination hydroquinone in liposomal matrix.

Introduction: The incidence of vaginal candidiasis and the number of treatment resistant cases are high; moreover, chemical medications are associated with serious adverse effects. Therefore, the use of herbal medicines is taken into consideration because they do not affect the normal vaginal flora and have low side effects. In vitro studies confirmed the favorable antifungal effects of coconut oil on various species of Candida, especially on the resistant species such as Candida glabrata and Candida tropicalis. This study was conducted to compare the effect of vaginally administered coconut oil and clotrimazole on Candida species. Materials and Methods: This triple-blind clinical trial was conducted on 71 patients, who were assigned into two groups of coconut oil (35 individuals) and clotrimazole (36 individuals) in Mashhad, Iran, 2017. Data were collected using demographic data form and observation record sheets. The patients received the medicines by applicator for a week. Thereafter, physical examination and re-cultivation were carried out; and the success in the treatment included a negative culture and symptom relief. Data analysis was performed using independent samples t-test, Fisher’s exact and Chi-squared tests with the help of SPSS software, version 19. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: In this study, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the frequency of Candida albicans, glabrata, and tropicalis at the pre- and post-intervention phases (P=0.98, P=0.34, P=0.73, respectively). Regarding the success in the treatment, no significant difference was observed between the effects of vaginally administered coconut oil and clotrimazole on various species of Candida (P>0.05). Conclusion: Considering the beneficial effects of vaginally administered coconut oil on candidiasis, it is recommended to use it to treat this disorder.

Today, the US healthcare industry alone can save $300 B per year by using machine intelligence to analyze a rich set of existing medical data; results from these analyses can lead to breakthroughs such as more accurate medical diagnoses, discovery of new cures for diseases, and cost savings in the patient admission process at healthcare organizations. Because healthcare applications intrinsically imply a vast amount of data, the execution of any algorithm on medical data is computationally intensive. Significant advancements made in computational power in the past decade have provided the opportunity for many researchers to successfully implement various machine intelligence-based healthcare applications, which didn't run efficiently on earlier computational platforms. In this paper, we provide a survey of machine intelligence algorithms within the context of healthcare applications; our survey includes a comprehensive list of the most commonly used computational models and algorithms. We view the application of these algorithms in multiple steps, namely, data acquisition, feature extraction, and aggregation, modeling, algorithm training, and algorithm execution and provide details-as well as representative case studies-for each step. We provide a set of metrics that are used to evaluate modeling and algorithmic performance, which facilitate the comparison of the presented models and algorithms. Medical cyber-physical systems are presented as an emerging application case study of machine intelligence in healthcare. We conclude our paper by providing a list of opportunities and challenges for incorporating machine intelligence in healthcare applications and provide an extensive list of tools and databases to help other researchers.

Objective(s): Low penetration depth of light is the main defect of photodynamic therapy (PDT), which could be improved by sonodynamic therapy (SDT). In this study, a combination of PDT and SDT known as sonophotodynamic therapy (SPDT) was investigated using two reverse arrangements in CT26 tumor model. Materials and Methods: The liposomal zinc phthalocyanine was synthesized and characterized. It was then administered to CT26 tumor models as a sensitizer. The animal models were subjected to PDT, SDT, and the combined treatment in different groups. The doubling time for the survival of tumors and animals was considered as a measure to evaluate treatments efficacy. Results: In all treatment groups there was a significant decline in tumor volume 15 days after treatment compared to the main control group, but the optimum response was observed in the group receiving a combined treatment with the priority of PDT. 120 days after treatment, in the groups treated by PDT and SDT, the tumor shrank by 20%, while in the group receiving SPDT with PDT priority, 80% of tumors was recovered. No case of complete tumor progression was observed in SPDT group with SDT priority.This could be due to the pores created in cell membranes during ultrasound irradiation of the tumor, which removed the sensitizer molecules from the cells and reduced PDT efficacy in SPDT group with SDT priority. Conclusion: It seems that SPDT with PDT priority offers a more efficient alternative than each of PDT, SDT individually or SPDT with the reverse arrangement.

Candidiasis is the second most common vaginal infection. Given the frequent recurrence of the disease, many women tend to use herbal remedies. Thus, the present study aimed to review the association between vaginal candidiasis and herbal medicines in Iran. In this review, we retrieved articles published from 2001 to 2016. Then, the results were expressed both quantitatively and qualitatively. In this study, nine articles were reviewed, which had investigated thyme, garlic, garlic-thyme, olive oil, propolis, myrtus, Nigella sativa (black cumin), and Bunium perscicum boiss (black zira). Subsequently, each of these plants was thoroughly dealt with. The studies on black cumin, garlic, and thyme reported positive effects for these herbs, and they were widely produced for therapeutic purposes. In addition, myrtus was found to have a salutary impact on vaginal candidiasis.

Objective: Metabolic syndrome is a set of cardiac risk factors with increased risk of chronic diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of crocin of saffron on metabolic syndrome. Methods: This double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted on metabolic syndrome patients who were randomly assigned to crocin of saffron or control (placebo) groups. The intervention group received 100 mg/day crocin tablets (a constituent of saffron) for 6 weeks. Then, the changes in metabolic syndrome component were compared between two groups. The trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. Data were entered to SPSS 15. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, paired t-test, and independent t-test were used to analyze data. P < 0.05 was defined as statistical significant level. Findings: Totally, 48 patients included in the trial (24 intervention and 24 placebo participants). There were significant reductions from baseline measurements in the levels of total cholesterol (P < 0.001) and triglyceride (P = 0.003) after the 6-week crocin administration. However, this decrease in lipid profile was not significant when compared with placebo group. There was no significant change in other laboratory values, blood pressure, and anthropometric measures. Conclusion: The present study indicated that the dose of about 100 mg crocin of saffron was well tolerated and has no complication for 6 weeks of oral administration. However, the dosage used in our study had no effect on metabolic syndrome. Further studies are required to assess this effect with the higher dosages of crocin as well as long time effects of its administration on metabolic syndrome patients.

Introduction: Nowadays in the field of dentistry, there is a trend to encourage the use of herbal and natural products. The high level of clinical research in terms of considering green tea and aloe vera, with various functionality for individual use is a typical example. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, and double-blind study was to evaluate comparative evaluation of green tea-aloe vera mouthwash and chlorhexidine 0.2% on gingival indices. Methods: A total of 60 patients (26 women and 34 men) with periodontal disease were randomly allocated into one of the three double blind groups, 20 in each, to receive the following treatments :(1) 0.2% chlorhexidine, (2) green tea-aloe vera and (3) distilled water. Plaque and gingival indices were evaluated on the day of the beginning of the experiment and 14 days postoperative. Subjects were asked to rinse their mouth with the mouth rinse, twice a day, during a 14-day period. Paired t-test was used to test the mean difference on 0 and 14 days, respectively. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the mean difference between the groups while Tukey test was used for multiple comparisons. Results: Chlorhexidine 0.2%, green tea - aloe vera and placebo reduced the plaque index by 0.17±0.14, 0.10±0/08 and 0.02±0.18, respectively, with a statistical significance of p=0.008. This difference was related to Chlorhexidine 0.2% and green tea - aloe vera with Placebo. There exist a significant difference of p=0.001 in the bleeding index between the three groups, and this difference was related to Chlorhexidine 0.2% and green tea - aloe vera with placebo. Conclusion: Green tea –aloe vera mouthwash improves periodontal health status. Therefore, it can be used to improve oral and dental health status.

Introduction: Nowadays in the field of dentistry, there is a trend to encourage the use of herbal and natural products. The high level of clinical research in terms of considering green tea and aloe vera, with various functionality for individual use is a typical example. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, and double-blind study was to evaluate comparative evaluation of green tea-aloe vera mouthwash and chlorhexidine 0.2% on gingival indices. Methods: A total of 60 patients (26 women and 34 men) with periodontal disease were randomly allocated into one of the three double blind groups, 20 in each, to receive the following treatments :(1) 0.2% chlorhexidine, (2) green tea-aloe vera and (3) distilled water. Plaque and gingival indices were evaluated on the day of the beginning of the experiment and 14 days postoperative. Subjects were asked to rinse their mouth with the mouth rinse, twice a day, during a 14-day period. Paired t-test was used to test the mean difference on 0 and 14 days, respectively. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the mean difference between the groups while Tukey test was used for multiple comparisons. Results: Chlorhexidine 0.2%, green tea - aloe vera and placebo reduced the plaque index by 0.17±0.14, 0.10±0/08 and 0.02±0.18, respectively, with a statistical significance of p=0.008. This difference was related to Chlorhexidine 0.2% and green tea - aloe vera with Placebo. There exist a significant difference of p=0.001 in the bleeding index between the three groups, and this difference was related to Chlorhexidine 0.2% and green tea - aloe vera with placebo. Conclusion: Green tea –aloe vera mouthwash improves periodontal health status. Therefore, it can be used to improve oral and dental health status.

Objective(s):Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a common and endemic disease in Khorasan province in North-East of Iran. The pentavalant antimony (Sb V) is the mainstay of treatment that has many side effects and resistance to the drug has been reported. The microbicidal effect of ozone was proven in different microorganisms. Since there is no study in this respect and to achieve a low cost and effective treatment, we decided to evaluate the efficacy of ozone against promastigotes of Leishmania major,in vitro. Materials and Methods: Ozonated olive oil was prepared after production of ozone by bubbling ozone-oxygen gas produced by ozone generator through olive oil until it solidified. Promastigotes of L. major were cultivated in two phasic media. After calculation of the number of promastigotes, they were incubated with ozonated olive oil (0, 0.626, 0.938, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 mcg/ml) at 28 °c for 24 hr. Parasites survival percentage was evaluated using MTS and microscopic assay, and then compared with Glucantime and non-ozonated olive oil. Results:According to the results, there were significant differences in parasites survival percentage between ozonated olive oil and non-ozonated olive oil, at similar concentrations (P

Objective(s):Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic disease caused by various species of the flagellated protozoan, Leishmania. Regardless of the numerous studies, there are still serious challenges in the treatment of CL. This study aimed at evaluating the influence of a low dose ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation along with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on a mouse model of CL induced by Leishmania major[m1] . Materials and Methods: L. major promastigotes (MRHO/IR/75/ER) were extracted from infected mice spleens. Two months after subcutaneous injection of 2×106 promastigotes into the footpad of BALB/c mice, when the lesions were developed, the animals were divided into 4 groups including one control group and three study groups: AgNPs, UVB and UVB plus AgNPs. Spleen parasite burden was assessed on day 40 after the first treatment. The data were analyzed by Instat, Elidaand SPSS16 software programs. Results: The results showed the highest pronounced inhibitory effect in the group receiving AgNPs plus UVB. In addition, a significant difference was obtained between the group receiving AgNPs alone and the one with combinational therapy. The findings on parasite burden showed a significant difference between the control group and other treatment groups. Conclusion:It could be suggested that UVB in the presence of AgNPs, by inhibiting the spread of CL lesions and reducing the rate of visceral progression of the disease, provides a serious anti-leishmanial effect.

Objective(s): Nowadays hydrogels are one of the upcoming classes of polymer-based controlled-release drug delivery systems. Temperature and pH-responsive delivery systems have drawn much attention because some diseases reveal themselves by a change in temperature and/or pH. The objective of this work is to prepare and characterize composite membrane using responsive nanoparticles into a polymer matrix. Materials and Methods: These nanoparticles were made of the copolymer poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-co-methaçrylic acid) by an aqueous dispersion polymerization process and are responsible for dual sensitivity to temperature and pH. Morphology study with SEM, swelling behavior with Dynamic Light Scattering Technique, in vitro drug release behavior with side-by-side Diffusion Cells were also investigated in this paper. Doxorubicin hydrochloride was used as a model solute. Results:The study on the release of doxorubicin hydrochloride showed that the release rate was higher at pH 5 than pH 7.4, increased with the increase of temperature. Nevertheless, ionic strength only poses a minor direct effect at higher pH. Conclusion:Such system may be potentially used as a tumor-targeting doxorubicin hydrochloride delivery in the body.

Background: Metal nanoparticles have been recently applied in dentistry because of their antibacterial properties. This study aimed to evaluate antibacterial effects of colloidal solutions containing zinc oxide (ZnO), copper oxide (CuO), titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sangius and compare the results with those of chlorhexidine and sodium fluoride mouthrinses. Materials and Methods: After adding nanoparticles to a water-based solution, six groups were prepared. Groups I to IV included colloidal solutions containing nanoZnO, nanoCuO, nanoTiO 2 and nanoAg, respectively. Groups V and VI consisted of 2.0% sodium fluoride and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwashes, respectively as controls. We used serial dilution method to find minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and with subcultures obtained minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the solutions against S. mutans and S. sangius. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Duncan test and P < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The sodium fluoride mouthrinse did not show any antibacterial effect. The nanoTiO 2 -containing solution had the lowest MIC against both microorganisms and also displayed the lowest MBC against S. mutans (P < 0.05). The colloidal solutions containing nanoTiO 2 and nanoZnO showed the lowest MBC against S. sangius (P < 0.05). On the other hand, chlorhexidine showed the highest MIC and MBC against both streptococci (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The nanoTiO 2 -containing mouthwash proved to be an effective antimicrobial agent and thus it can be considered as an alternative to chlorhexidine or sodium fluoride mouthrinses in the oral cavity provided the lack of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on biologic tissues.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of different whitening toothpastes, focusing on the experimental ozonated toothpaste. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This laboratory study included a sample of 48 sound human molar teeth. Teeth were randomly assigned into four groups according to toothpaste treatment to be evaluated objectively (colorimetric method) and subjectively (visual assessment) (n = 12). Group I: Ozonated toothpaste (experimental); Group II: Non-ozonated toothpaste (experimental); Group III: Aqua fresh whitening triple protection; and Group IV: Nasim (toothpaste without a chemical whitening agent). After tea staining and color assessment, the teeth were subjected to a tooth brushing regime as for 6 weeks, done twice a day, 2 min each time (total: 168 min). Next, color changes were determined after brushing by instrumental and visual methods. RESULTS: Analysis of variance and the Tukey tests were used for evaluating statistical data (α = 0.05). Color change by instrumental index showed that ozonated and aquafresh toothpastes increased teeth whitening; however, the amount color change was not significant (P > 0.050). With visual assessment there was a significant difference between mean color change among the four groups (P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: Ozonated toothpaste caused significant whitening changes in discolored teeth from a clinical point of view by visual assessment.

Introduction During the process photodynamic therapy (PDT), bleaching of photosensitizer induced by irradiation and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can provide some information concerning the efficiency of treatment. Since gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have been highlighted as efficient drug delivery systems, in this study, by utilizing GNPs conjugated with 5 aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA-GNPs), the photobleaching of ALA-induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) was estimated on a colon carcinoma tumor model. Materials and Methods CT26 tumor models were prepared by subcutaneous injection of 5×105 cells into the right flank of Balb/c inbred mice. To estimate the time required to reach maximum concentration of PpIX in the tumors, the fluorescence signal of PpIX was monitored and PDT was performed by intratumoral injection of 5-ALA-GNPs, GNPs, and 5-ALA in separated groups for 15 min with a cycle of 5 min irradiation and 1 min darkness. The photobleaching rate was calculated from recorded fluorescence signals at the darkness intervals. Results The maximum fluorescence of PpIX was recorded 3 and 5 hr after injection of 5-ALA and 5-ALA-GNPs, respectively. Despite the low PpIX accumulation in tumors receiving conjugate, the photobleaching rate of PpIX was determined to be higher than 5-ALA. The reduction of the fluorescence signal due to 5-ALA-GNPs clearance was higher than that of 5-ALA. Conclusion Administration of 5-ALA-GNPs, intensification of ROS generating and the subsequent elevation of photobleaching results in higher treatment efficiency. Also, more rapid clearance of PpIX has an important implication in clinical application of 5-ALA-GNPs that decreases the undesirable effects on healthy tissues.

Introduction: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a widespread disease that is epidemic in Iran, too. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an attractive modality to treat cancer and hyper proliferative diseases based on the use of a photosensitizer in the presence of oxygen and proper wavelength of light. In consideration of lesion location, lack of systemic involvement and inefficiency of current treatments, nowadays this modality is purposed for treating Leishmaniasis. In this paper, efficacy of PDT using a natural dye (chlorophyll a) on Leishmania major promastigotes is reported. Material and Methods: The experiments was done on Leishmania major parasites (MRHO/IR/75/ER) in the presence of Chlorophyll a /Hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin(chl a/CD) complex as a photosensitizer. At first, dye uptake by promastigotes was evaluated via fluorimetric assessments after different incubation periods. Then dye cytotoxicity was evaluated at different concentration after 24 h incubation. Finally PDT experiments were designed with two doses of light and 10 µM of photosensitizer. Considering all possible controls, the percentage of the parasite survival at 24 hours post treatment was assessed by MTS method. All experiments were repeated at least three times. Results: On the basis of the dye uptake data, 24h was considered for incubating of photosensitizer with promastigotes. IC50 of chl a/CD complex was about 42.6 µM. After parasites irradiation by light at 248 j/cm2, more than 50% of cell death was recorded that is significant in comparing with similar groups without dye, without light, and lower dose of light. In these conditions, ED50 of PDT on promastigotes is determined nearly 246 J/cm2. Discussion and Conclusion: Considering low cytotoxicity in darkness and adequate phototoxicity of chl a/CD complex in comparison with other photosensitizers such as AlPhtalocyanine chloride, it can be introduced as a promising candidate for futher use in PDT experiments on amastigotes and Leishmaniasis animal models.

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy is a noninvasive therapeutic method for tumors with a maximum depth of 5 mm. On the other hand, most photosensitizers are also susceptible to ultrasound waves (the basis of sonodynamic therapy). Therefore, it is expected that a combination of the two therapeutic methods will increase effectiveness of photodynamic therapies for lower doses of sensitizer and curing deeper tumors. This study evaluates the synergistic effects of photodynamic and sonodynamic therapies. Materials and methods: The study was conducted on a colon carcinoma tumor model in Balb/c mice. The colon carcinoma tumors were induced in the mice by subcutaneous injection. Twenty four hours after intraperitoneal injection of Zinc Phthalocyanine liposome as a sensitizer, at first ultrasound irradiation with a known frequency and intensity was performed followed by illumination of the tumor area. Evaluation of the treatment efficacy was done using daily measurement of the tumors and calculation of their relative volumes. Also, all control groups were considered to confirm the effect of each therapeutic option in the study. Results: In the first ten days post treatment, the relative volumes of all groups decreased significantly in comparison with the main control group, but the best response was observed in the photodynamic or sonodynamic therapy groups. The longest doubling time of tumor size was related to groups under photodynamic, sonodynamic and main therapies, and the shortest belonged to the control group. Discussion and conclusion: Zinc phthalocyanine liposome is both a photosensitizer and sonsensitizer. Photodynamic and sonodynamic therapies can be efficient in retarding tumor growth rate. In this study, combination of the two methods did not cause improved therapeutic outcomes. It is predicted that this result is related to the choice of therapeutic agents and could be optimized in future.

AbstractObjective(s)Although photodynamic therapy is considered as a noninvasive method, most photosensitizers are susceptible to ultrasound. Therefore, it is expected that the combination of two activation methods might have a synergistic effect. This probable effect has been investigated in this study.Materials and MethodsThis study was conducted on colon carcinoma tumor in Balb/c mice. The tumors were induced by subcutaneous injection of CT26 cells. Ultrasound and light irradiations were performed on tumors 24 hr after injection of liposomal Zn (II)-phthalocyanine. The treatment efficacy was evaluated using daily measurement of the tumor dimensions. ResultsTen days post treatment, relative tumor volumes of all groups were significantly reduced in comparison with the main control group. The best response was observed when one of the two treatment methods had been applied. The longest doubling time of tumor was related to the treatment group namely photodynamic, sonodynamic and combination technique, while the shortest belonged to the control group.ConclusionThis study showed that liposomal Zn phthalocyanine is both photosensitizer and sonosensitizer. Photodynamic and sonodynamic therapies can be efficient in retarding tumor growth rate. In this study, the combination of two methods didn’t show any improvement in therapeutic outcomes. It is predicted that latest results are related to the treatments sequence and could be optimized in the future.

Background. Topical treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis is an attractive alternative avoiding toxicities of parenteral therapy while being administered through a simple painless route. Recently liposomal formulations of amphotericin B have been increasingly used in the treatment of several types of leishmaniasis. Aims. The efficacy of a topical liposomal amphotericin B formulation was compared with intralesional glucantime in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Methods. From 110 patients, the randomly selected 50 received a topical liposomal formulation of amphotericin B into each lesion, 3–7 drops twice daily, according to the lesion's size and for 8 weeks. The other group of 60 patients received intralesional glucantime injection of 1-2 mL once a week for the same period. The clinical responses and side effects of both groups were evaluated weekly during the treatment course. Results. Per-protocol analysis showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups (𝑃=0.317, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.610 (0.632–4.101)). Moreover, after intention-to-treat analysis, the same results were seen (𝑃=0.650, 95% CI=0.1.91 (0.560–2.530)). Serious post treatment side effects were not observed in either group. Conclusions. Topical liposomal amphotericin B has the same efficacy as intralesional glucantime in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Objective(s)Physiological changes in the body may be utilized as potential triggers for controlled drug delivery. Based on these mechanisms, stimulus–responsive drug delivery has been developed.Materials and MethodsIn this study, a kind of poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-acrylamide) membrane was prepared by radical copolymerization. Changes in swelling ratios and diameters of the membrane were investigated in terms of temperature. On-off regulation of drug permeation through the membrane was then studied at temperatures below and above the phase transition temperature of the membrane. Two drugs, vitamin B12 and acetaminophen were chosen as models of high and low molecular weights here, respectively. ResultsIt was indicated that at temperatures below the phase transition temperature of the membrane, copolymer was in a swollen state. Above the phase transition temperature, water was partially expelled from the functional groups of the copolymer. Permeation of high molecular weight drug models such as vitamin B12 was shown to be much more distinct at temperatures below the phase transition temperature when the copolymer was in a swollen state. At higher temperatures when the copolymer was shrunken, drug permeation through the membrane was substantially decreased. However for acetaminophen, such a big change in drug permeation around the phase transition temperature of the membrane was not observed. ConclusionAccording to the pore mechanism of drug transport through hydrogels, permeability of solutes decreased with increasing molecular size. As a result, the relative permeability, around the phase transition temperature of the copolymer, was higher for solutes of high molecular weight.

BACKGROUND:An easy-to-operate ECG recorder should be useful for newborn screening for heart conditions, by health care workers - or parents. We developed a one-piece electrode strip and a compact, 12‑lead ECG recorder for newborns. METHOD:We enrolled 2582 newborns in a trial to assess abilities of parents to record a 12‑lead ECG on their infants (2-4 weeks-old). Newborns were randomized to recordings by parents (1290) or our staff (1292 controls). Educational backgrounds of parents varied, including 64% with no more than a high school diploma. RESULTS:For newborns randomized to parent recorded ECGs, 94% of parents completed a 10-minute recording. However, 42.6% asked for verbal help, and 12.7% needed physical help. ECG quality was the same for recordings by parents versus staff. CONCLUSIONS:By use of a one-piece electrode strip and a compact recorder, 87% of parents recorded diagnostic quality ECGs on their newborn infants, with minimal assistance.

Introduction: In patients using dental prosthesis, growth of various microorganisms under the prosthesis base which leads to inflammation and infections such as candidiasis is common. The aim of this study was to assess the antifungal effects of acrylic resins containing silver nanoparticles on candida Albicans.Materials & Methods: To accomplish this in vitro study inorder to prepare acrylic samples, metallic cylindricals with a diameter of 10mm and thickness of 4mm were used. Forty samples as standard control group and 40 samples containing silver nanoparticles in four different concentrations were used. Immersion of samples in fungal suspension (standard and hospitally isolated) were carried out to accomplish antifungal tests. After 0,1,6 and 24 hours the fungal colonies were counted. To describe the data and to compare groups, student-t test was used.Results: In the silver nanoparticles with 2.5% concentration, the highest mean difference for standard candida Albicans after 24 hours of exposure time was 501.0±23.1 and for 5% concentration after 6 hours of exposure time was 953±87 and for 10% concentration after 6 hours of exposure time was 1000±24.9.Conclusion: In acrylic resins, increasing both the silver nanoparticles concentration and the exposure time will increase the antifungal effect.