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Quercetin: A natural compound for ovarian cancer treatment
Get PDFOvarian cancer is the main cause of death among all reproductive cancers in females. In 2018, ovarian cancer was the seventh most common cancer of women entire the world. A wide variety of molecular and genetic alterations as well as different response to therapies in the different types of ovarian cancer lead to problems in design a common therapeutic strategy. Besides, ovarian cancer cells have tendency to acquire resistance to common cancer treatments through multiple mechanisms. Various factors, including cytokines, growth factors, proteases, adhesion molecules, coagulation factors, hormones and apoptotic agents have been examined to find effective cancer treatment. Phytochemicals have been indicated to have great potential anti-cancer properties against various types of cancers. Quercetin is one of the phytochemicals that exists extensively in daily foods. Wide evidences revealed that quercetin is able to inhibit various types of cancers including breast, lung, nasopharyngeal, kidney, colorectal, prostate, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer. Several in vitro and in vivo studied conducted to evaluate cytotoxic effects of quercetin on ovarian cancer. Since quercetin does not harm healthy cells and it is cytotoxic to cancer cells via various mechanisms, researchers suggest that it could be an ideal agent for ovarian cancer treatment or an adjuvant agent in combination with other anti-cancer drugs. Thus, in this review, we focused on chemo-preventive and curative attitude of quercetin for ovarian cancer and summarize some of the most recent findings which regard the possible molecular mechanisms by which this natural compound inhibits this cancer. © 2019 The Author(s)
Comparison of original and revised reinforcement sensitivity theory in clinically-stable schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients
Get PDFABSTRACT
Introduction:
The study of personality can help explicate the pathology of psychological disorders. To this end,our study compared the profile of factors from the original (o) and revised (r) reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) of personality in schizophrenia (SC), bipolar disorder (BD) patients, both compared with healthy controls(HC).
Method:
34 SC patients, 52 BD patients, and 72 matched HC completed: Yang Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), BAS/BIS scale, and the Jackson-5 scale. Data were analyzed by chi square, independent t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA).
Results:
SC patients had lower o-BIS, r-BIS and o-BAS, and r-BAS scores than the BD and HC groups. Compared to HC, SC and BD patients had higher Freeze and Fight scores. Depression in SC was significantly higher than other two groups; and in BD it was higher than HC.
Conclusion:
SC, BD, and HC differ on both o-RST and r-RST; however, the more nuanced knowledge from r-RST may be helpful in the diagnosis, etiology and psychotherapy.
Keywords:
Original reinforcement sensitivity theory Revised reinforcement sensitivity theory Behavioral brain systems
Schizophrenia Bipolar disorde
Effect of computed tomography number-relative electron density conversion curve on the calculation of radiotherapy dose and evaluation of Monaco radiotherapy treatment planning system
No full textThe accuracy of a computed tomography (CT)-relative electron density (RED) curve may have an indirect impact on the accuracy of dose calculation by a treatment planning system (TPS). This effect has not been previously quantified for input of different CT-RED curves from different CT-scan units in the Monaco TPS. This study aims to evaluate the effect of CT-RED curve on the dose calculation by the Monaco radiotherapy TPS. Four CT images of the CIRS phantom were obtained by different CT scanners. The accuracy of the dose calculation in the three algorithms of the Monaco TPS (Monte Carlo, collapse cone, and pencil beam) is also evaluated based on TECDOC 1583. The CT-RED curves from the CT scanners were transferred to the Monaco TPS to audit the different algorithms of the TPS. The dose values were measured with an ionization chamber in the CIRS phantom. Then, the dose values were calculated by the Monaco algorithms in the corresponding points. For the Monaco TPS and based on TECDOC 1583, the accuracy of the dose calculation in all the three algorithms is within the agreement criteria for most of the points evaluated. For low dose regions, the differences between the calculated and measured dose values are higher than the agreement criteria in a number of points. For the majority of the points, the algorithms underestimate the calculated dose values. It was also found that the use of different CT-RED curves can lead to minor discrepancies in the dose calculation by the Monaco TPS, especially in low dose regions. However, it appears that these differences are not clinically significant in most of the cases. © 2019, Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine
Genetic and epigenetic contribution to astrocytic gliomas pathogenesis
Get PDFAstrocytic gliomas are the most common and lethal form of intracranial tumors. These tumors are characterized by a significant heterogeneity in terms of cytopathological, transcriptional, and (epi)genomic features. This heterogeneity has made these cancers one of the most challenging types of cancers to study and treat. To uncover these complexities and to have better understanding of the disease initiation and progression, identification, and characterization of underlying cellular and molecular pathways related to (epi)genetics of astrocytic gliomas is crucial. Here, we discuss and summarize molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms that provide clues as to the pathogenesis of astrocytic gliomas. (Figure presented.). © 2018 International Society for Neurochemistr
Glioblastoma cancer stem cell biology: Potential theranostic targets
Get PDFGlioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most incurable cancers. GBMs survival rate has not markedly improved, despite new radical surgery protocols, the introduction of new anticancer drugs, new treatment protocols, and advances in radiation techniques. The low efficacy of therapy, and short interval between remission and recurrence, could be attributed to the resistance of a small fraction of tumorigenic cells to treatment. The existence and importance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is perceived by some as controversial. Experimental evidences suggest that the presence of therapy-resistant glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) could explain tumor recurrence and metastasis. Some scientists, including most of the authors of this review, believe that GSCs are the driving force behind GBM relapses, whereas others however, question the existence of GSCs. Evidence has accumulated indicating that non-tumorigenic cancer cells with high heterogeneity, could undergo reprogramming and become GSCs. Hence, targeting GSCs as the �root cells� initiating malignancy has been proposed to eradicate this devastating disease. Most standard treatments fail to completely eradicate GSCs, which can then cause the recurrence of the disease. To effectively target GSCs, a comprehensive understanding of the biology of GSCs as well as the mechanisms by which these cells survive during treatment and develop into new tumor, is urgently needed. Herein, we provide an overview of the molecular features of GSCs, and elaborate how to facilitate their detection and efficient targeting for therapeutic interventions. We also discuss GBM classifications based on the molecular stem cell subtypes with a focus on potential therapeutic approaches. © 201
Extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and degradation as cancer drivers
No full textAlteration in the density and composition of extracellular matrix (ECM) occurs in tumors. The alterations toward both stiffness and degradation are contributed to tumor growth and progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the main contributors to ECM stiffness and degradation. The cells interact with almost all cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that could enable them to modulate ECM components for tumorigenic purposes. Cross-talks between CAFs with cancer cells and macrophage type 2 (M2) cells are pivotal for ECM stiffness and degradation. CAFs induce hypoxia within the TME, which is one of the key inducers of both stiffness and degradation. Cancer cell modulatory roles in integrin receptors are key for adjusting ECM constituents to either fates. Cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion as well as angiogenesis are consequences of ECM stiffness and degradation. ECM stiffness in a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) related pathway could make a bridge in the basement membrane, and ECM degradation in a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-related pathway could make a path in the TME, both of which contribute to cancer cell invasion. ECM stiffness is also obstructive for drug penetration to the tumor site. Therefore, it would be a promising strategy to make a homeostasis in ECM for easy penetration of chemotherapeutic drugs and increasing the efficacy of antitumor approaches. MMP and TGF-β inhibitors, CAF and M2 reprogramming toward their normal counterparts, reduction of TME hypoxia and hampering integrin signaling are among the promising approaches for the modulation of ECM in favor of tumor regression. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
The effects of melatonin supplementation on blood pressure in patients with metabolic disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Get PDFThe current systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to evaluate the potential effect of melatonin supplementation on blood pressure in patients with metabolic disorders. The following databases were searched until June 2018: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of retrieved studies, extracted data from included trials, and evaluated the risk of bias of included studies. Statistical heterogeneity was tested using Cochran�s Q test and I-square (I 2 ) statistic. Data were pooled using random-effect models and standardized mean difference (SMD) was considered as the effect size. Eight RCTs, out of 743 potential citations, were eligible to be included in the current meta-analysis. The pooled findings indicated a significant reduction in systolic (SBP) (SMD = �0.87; 95 CI, �1.36, �0.38; P = 0.001; I 2 : 84.3) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (SMD = �0.85; 95 CI, �1.20, �0.51; P = 0.001; I 2 : 68.7) following melatonin supplementation in individuals with metabolic disorders. In summary, the current meta-analysis demonstrated that melatonin supplementation significantly decreased SBP and DBP in patients with metabolic disorders. Additional prospective studies are recommended using higher supplementation doses and longer intervention periods to confirm our findings. © 2019, Springer Nature Limited
Assessing and comparing mental skills of men players' positions in volleyball premier league team of Iran
Get PDFMental skills are important aspects of successful sport performance in all sport competitions. This study was designed to assess and compare the mental skills of men players' positions in premier league volleyball team in year 2015. This cross sectional research includes 69 Iran men's premier league volleyball team players in year 2015 who participated in the premier league competitions in year 2015. Mental skills as well as demographic data of the players was assessed by OMSAT-3 questioner and a personal data form. One-way ANOVA was employed to analyze the data. The result of analysis indicated that there was no significant differences between the main components of fundamental (p=0.21), psychosomatic (p=0.12), and cognitive skills (p=0.584) of different positions of the volleyball players. However, there was a significant difference between the sub skills of reaction to stress (0.002) and fear control (0.020) of different positions of volleyball players. Outside hitters and opposite hitter were significantly weaker than the setters, libero and middle blocker in fear control (p<0.05) and reaction to stress (p<0.05). Given the importance of mental skills in the achievement of volleyball players, focusing on improving the mental skills of the mentioned positions in volleyball especially in outside hitters and opposite hitter is highly recommended. © 2019 Kure Iletisim Grubu A.S.. All Rights Reserved
Photodegradation of lignin from pulp and paper mill effluent using TiO2/PS composite under UV-LED radiation: Optimization, toxicity assessment and reusability study
No full textIn the present study, the photodegradation of lignin was studied using TiO2/Polystyrene composite under UV-LED irradiation in a batch-recirculated photoreactor as a supplementary treatment for pulp and paper industries. TiO2/PS composite was synthesized by the solvent-casting method and was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDX analysis. The 3-level, 3-factor Box-Behnken design was applied to study the effects of main operating parameters and optimization of process circumstances. Besides, COD reduction efficiency, toxicity assays, and reusability were also investigated. The predicted model had R2 and R2 adj correlation coefficients of 0.97 and 0.99 respectively, which showed experimental results were very close to the predicted values. Furthermore, under the optimal conditions (reaction time = 72.5, volumetric flow rate = 230 mL/min and lignin = 51.8 mg/L) the lignin degradation efficiency was 93.98. The maximum COD removal (89) obtained by 250 mL/min volumetric flow rate and lignin concentration of 50 mg/L after 120 min reaction time. Bioassay using D. Magna exhibited that at the beginning of the process, the toxicity of solution increased but continuously decreasing after then to very low values achieved within 120 min of photodegradation. In addition, the reusability tests demonstrated that the TiO2/PS composite after 5 cycles has a good stability and photocatalytic activity. © 2018 Institution of Chemical Engineer
Vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation affects mental health, hormonal, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Get PDFObjective: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D and probiotic co-administration on mental health, hormonal, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out on 60 subjects, aged 18-40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 50,000 IU vitamin D every 2 weeks plus 8 � 10 9 CFU/day probiotic (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Results: Vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation, compared with the placebo, significantly improved beck depression inventory β (difference in the mean of outcomes measures between treatment groups) - 0.58; 95% CI, - 1.15, - 0.02; P = 0.04, general health questionnaire scores (β - 0.93; 95% CI, - 1.78, - 0.08; P = 0.03) and depression, anxiety and stress scale scores (β - 0.90; 95% CI, - 1.67, - 0.13; P = 0.02). Vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in total testosterone (β - 0.19 ng/mL; 95% CI, - 0.28, - 0.10; P < 0.001), hirsutism (β - 0.95; 95% CI, - 1.39, - 0.51; P < 0.001), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.67 mg/L; 95% CI, - 0.97, - 0.38; P < 0.001) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β - 0.25 μmol/L; 95% CI, - 0.40, - 0.10; P = 0.001), and a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β 82.81 mmol/L; 95% CI, 42.86, 122.75; P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (β 40.42 μmol/L; 95% CI, 4.69, 76.19; P = 0.02), compared with the placebo. Conclusions: Overall, the co-administration of vitamin D and probiotic for 12 weeks to women with PCOS had beneficial effects on mental health parameters, serum total testosterone, hirsutism, hs-CRP, plasma TAC, GSH and MDA levels. Trial Registration: This study was retrospectively registered in the Iranian website (www.irct.ir) for registration of clinical trials (IRCT20170513033941N37). © 2019 The Author(s)