Introduction: Sodium benzoate (SB), as a chemical preservative, is used in many kinds of foodstuff. Some studies reported toxicity effects of SB in food products and suggested to limit its usage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of oral administration of SB on antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in the liver and kidney of mice. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 animals were divided into four groups: Control group and three treated groups that received 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg/day of SB, respectively, in drinking water for 4 weeks. The malondialdehyde level, glutathione (GSH) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities of the liver and kidney were measured and the results of the treated groups were compared with those of the control group (one-way analysis of variance). Results: Results showed that SB caused histological alterations in the liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, SB significantly increased lipid peroxidation and GSH content in the kidney tissues (P < 0.05). Also, CAT activity significantly declined in the kidney (P < 0.05), without changing the SOD activity, but SB did not have any effect on the biochemical parameter of the liver tissue. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that SB caused kidney injury more than liver injury, but as a food preservative, which is consumed for a long period of life, it may cause liver damage additionally. For that reason, the excessive SB intake in the food is disturbing.

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One of the most important parameters in pharmacy is drug solubility. Solubility affects the efficacy of a drug. Drug solubility has an important role in determining the concentration of a drug to achieve the necessary pharmacological response, as all drugs absorbed by the body must be in the form of a solution. Drug solubility is quite a common issue and affects the bioavailability of a drug in the body. Drugs with low solubility are poorly absorbed, resulting in poor bioavailability. Many methods have been developed for increasing the solubility of a drug. In this review, we will describe possible efforts for improving the solubility of a drug, e.g., reducing particle size, surfactants, the use of nanosuspension technology, solid dispersion, salt formation, pH adjustment, hydrotropy, cocrystal, amorphous compound formation, and inclusion complexes. The main objective of this review was to focus on efforts that can increase the solubility of a drug to obtain good drug efficacy.

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Background: Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease, many causes are involved in its pathogenesis and development. Myrtus communis (M. communis) contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients that are useful for the treatment of inflammatory disease. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of M. communis hydroalcoholic extract (MCHE) and essential oil (MCEO) on acetic acid–induced colitis model. Materials and Methods: MCHE (50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and MCEO (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 µL/kg) were given orally to rats, 2h before induction of colitis and continued for further 4 days. Prednisolone (4 mg/kg) and mesalazine (100 mg/kg) were used as reference drugs. After 5 days, colitis markers and indices were investigated on isolated colons. Biochemical evaluation of inflamed colon was performed using assay of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Results: Acetic acid caused significant inflammatory reactions as indicated by macroscopic and microscopic changes in control groups. Extracts with three doses and volatile oil with two lower doses were effective to reduce weight of distal colon (8cm) as a marker of inflammation and tissue edema. Similarly, MCHE (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) and MCEO (62.5 and 125 µL/kg) were statistically effective in dip of ulcer index, total colitis index, and MPO activity compared to control groups. Conclusion: The beneficial effect of M. communis was comparable with that of prednisolone and mesalazine; however, by its dose escalation, this activity tends to be diminished. This research showed the anti-inflammatory activity of MCHE and MCEO on experimentally induced acute colitis.

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Background: People with diabetes mellitus in Indonesia are predicted to increase until 2035. High glucose in body (hyperglycemia) leads to increased fibronectin synthesis. Fibronectin that gets accumulated in glomerulus (mesangial cells), at the end, will lead to diabetic glomerulosclerosis. Jati belanda (Guazuma ulmifolia L.) leaf is well known as an Indonesian traditional medicine to have effects as antidiabetic by the presence of its secondary metabolites such as alkaloid, tannin, saponin, flavonoid, and terpenoid, which are very important in health recovery. Objectives: To evaluate the activity of ethanol extract of jati belanda (EEJB) as a protection agent on induced-glucose mesangial cells of SV40 MES 13 cell line (glomerular mesangial kidney, Mus musculus). Materials and Methods: EEJB (3.125 and 6.25 µg/mL) was extracted based on maceration method using ethanol (70%) as the solvent. Proliferation and viability were performed based on (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) (MTS) method. The level of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and fibronectin in glucose-induced mesangial cells was assayed and determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was measured using flow cytometer. Results: EEJB (3.125 and 6.25 µg/mL) increased cell proliferation and viability in glucose-induced mesangial cells and significantly reduced the level of TGF-β1, fibronectin, and ROS compared to that in positive control (glucose-induced cells). Conclusion: Our study suggests that EEJB is able to reduce TGF-β1, fibronectin, and ROS levels in glucose-induced mesangial cells, which correlate to diabetic glomerulosclerosis condition and increase the mesangial cell proliferation and viability.

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Cuphea ignea A. DC. is an ornamental plant belonging to family Lythraceae distributed in the tropics and temperate zones. Some Cuphea members are traditionally used in treatment of hypertension. The aim of this research was to study the antihypertensive activity of the plant by applying a bio-guided fractionation scheme of the leaves, stems, and flowers using in vitro angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and renin inhibition assays to identify the active organ and its respective active fractions. The aqueous extract and the n-butanol fraction of the leaves showed the highest ACE inhibition activity with IC₅₀ values 0.491 and 0.084 mg/mL, respectively. The renin inhibition activity showed that the alcoholic extract of the leaves had the highest percentage of inhibition (94.82%). Meanwhile, the methylene chloride fraction of the stems showed the highest renin inhibition activity (98.14%) followed by the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves (93.09%). The antioxidant activity was tested using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and oxygen radical absorbance activity assays. Correlation studies of the antioxidant activity showed moderate correlation with the phenolic content and strong correlation with the flavonoid content. The renin inhibition activity showed significant positive correlation with the phenolic and flavonoid contents with r values (0.777 and 0.629, respectively).

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This paper reviewed the beneficial effects of the major phenolic acid compounds of Sorghum bicolor seeds. Different studies were reviewed to determine the major phenolic acid components of sorghum seeds. Several kinds of literature were then analyzed to discuss the different beneficial effects of these molecules. S. bicolor is an important source for food and feed. It is among the top five crops regarding its production and consumption throughout the world. Till date, many studies highlighted different aspects of the biochemical and physiological properties of sorghum grain. However, studies concerning the pharmacological properties of sorghum grain are scarce. The predominant phenolic acids of sorghum seeds are ferulic, p-coumaric, and protocatechuic acids. The bioactive effects of these phenolic acids are mainly related to their antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal activities. The data collected from recent studies indicate that these molecules have a promising future as natural agents for the treatment of various diseases, and this is particularly due to their strong antioxidant properties. This review provides evidence for the importance of sorghum seeds and their phenolic compounds in the prevention and treatment of several diseases. This work showed that sorghum grains are a good source of beneficial and therapeutic molecules. It also recommended the addition of sorghum grains to human diet as other cereals because of its high nutritional value.

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Context: Both endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and oxidative stress are involved in pathophysiology of many diseases. Recently, a cross talk between ER stress and oxidative stress has been identified. Amygdalin is an active ingredient in the seeds of apricots, bitter almonds, peaches, and other rosaceous plants. Aim: This study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant effects of amygdalin on the liver-induced ER stress. Materials and Methods: C57/BL6 inbred male mice were placed in five groups comprising saline, vehicle, and amygdalin as control groups. ER stress was induced by tunicamycin (TM) injection (ER stress group). Amygdalin was administered 1h before TM challenge (ER stress + amygdalin group). Liver tissue supernatants were prepared and malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) were measured. Results: The findings showed that ER stress increased MDA level and decreased SOD and CAT activity and GSH level (P < 0.05). Pretreatment with amygdalin decreased MDA concentration, whereas it increased SOD and CAT levels (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that amygdalin attenuated TM-induced ER stress and has a considerable antioxidant activity in the liver tissue.

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Background: Mercuric chloride (MC) is the chemical composition of mercury and chlorine with many side effects such as oxidative stress referring to mercury toxicity. Royal jelly (RJ) as a honey bee secretion has antioxidant activities. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of RJ against the parameters of hepatic damage in male rats induced by MC toxicity. Materials and Methods: In this study, 48 male rats were randomly assigned into six groups: sham (saline) and MC control (50 mg/kg) groups; RJ groups (200 mg/kg RJ for 1 day and 200 mg/kg RJ for 7 days, orally) and MC + RJ groups (200 mg/kg RJ orally + 50 mg/kg MC intraperitoneally for 1 day, and 200 mg/kg RJ orally and 50 mg/kg MC intraperitoneally for 7 days). Griess technique was used for the determination of serum nitric oxide (NO) level. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentrations were determined for liver functional disturbances value. In addition, thiobarbituric acid reactive species, antioxidant capacity, the diameter of hepatocytes, and the central hepatic vein (CHV) were investigated. Results: MC administration significantly increased the liver malondialdehyde (MDA) and NO levels, the mean diameter of CHV and hepatocyte, hepatic enzymes, and decreased tissue Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) level compared to the sham group (P < 0.01). The RJ and RJ + MC in all treatments significantly reduced the mean diameter of hepatocyte and CHV, hepatic enzymes, renal MDA and NO levels, and increased tissue FRAP level compared to the MC control group (P < 0.01). It seems that RJ administration recovers the hepatic injury induced by MC in rats.

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Background & Purpose: This research focused on the composition for the essential oils, which was obtained by solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) from the aerial parts of Scorzonera calyculata, and hydrodistilled oils from the aerial parts and roots of Centaurea irritans, from Astraceae family, were investigated by gas chromatography (GC) and GC/mass spectrometry (MS). In addition, the biological activities of the methanolic extracts from the aerial parts of S. calyculata and C. irritans were determined. Methods: Total phenolic content was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu procedure. Antibacterial activity of the methanolic extracts was carried out by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Cytotoxicity of the methanolic extract of S. calyculata against human lung cancer cells (A549) and the methanolic extract of C. irritans against breast lung cancer cells (MCF-7) were measured using 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. Results: The obtained results of GC/MS technique showed that the SFME oil of S. calyculata, was rich in regard to nonterpenoid and sesquiterpene components. Both oils from the aerial parts and roots of C. irritans were rich in regard to oxygenated monoterpenes. The S. calyculata and C. irritans extracts showed moderate antioxidant activities with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 1.48 and 1.99 mg/mL, using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and 73.51 and 44.48 μmol Fe (II)/g dry mass using ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, respectively. The extracts showed high toxicity against gram-positive bacteria and the IC50 value of extracts cytotoxicity was found to be 9.8 and 10.3 mg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: It appeared that the investigated samples could be as a promising drug for pharmaceutical industry.

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Majority of drugs are usually introduced through oral or intra-venous route for fast action, better patient compliance and ease of drug administration. However, the low bioavailability and limited brain exposure of orally administered drugs pose a huge challenge to treat neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. So, the situation demands for targeting the drug to brain. For brain targeting, a number of factors are considered viz. molecular weight, route of administration, lipophilic character of drug and blood brain barrier (BBB). These factors limit the movement of drug into brain tissue through BBB. To overcome these problems, intranasal drug administration is one of the promising routes that bypasses BBB and cuts down the dose to be administered with better brain exposure to drug. Nasal route has been used for the administration of antihistamines, local analgesics and corticosteroids intended for local drug delivery in nasal allergy, nasal congestion and nasal infection. However, systemic drug delivery through this route has also been explored in recent times. For nose to brain drug delivery, olfactory and respiratory region are utilized which also enable delivery of larger molecules to reach brain tissues. Such delivery systems are generally pH or temperature dependent. Certain diseases of nervous system like migraine, dementia, parkinsonism, epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease can be successfully treated through this route. This review attempts to highlight the anatomy of nose, mechanisms of drug delivery from nose to brain, critical factors in the formulation of delivery systems, nasal formulations and applications of nasal route for delivery of various drugs.

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Introduction: Biopharmaceutics classification system class II drugs show unpredictable bioavailability based on their solubility. Unfortunately, very few products were manufactured by this technique owing to their poor flowability and stability. The objective of the current investigation was used to improve the flowability by surface solid dispersion (SSD; SD with surface adsorption technology) and improve the absorption of racecadotril (RT) under low pH conditions (i.e., in stomach) to show anti-diarrheal effect by reducing water and electrolyte secretion into the intestine. Materials and Methods: SSDs and physical mixtures (PMs) were prepared using various ratios of hydrophilic carriers (polyethylene glycol 4000, polyethylene glycol 6000, and Gelucire 50/13) and an adsorbent (lactose monohydrate). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffractometry , and dissolution studies (in vitro) were conducted to characterize SSDs and PMs. Results: Phase solubility curves represent A_L type, indicating that the solubility of drug linearly increased with an increase in the concentration of carrier. Characterization studies indicated that no interactions between carrier and drug. Solid-state characterization showed a reduction in crystallinity that further supports increment in solubility and dissolution. The optimized formulation (SDG4) showed 99.84 ± 1.5% drug release in 15 min compared to RT plain drug (11.95 ± 1.72%). In vivo bioavailability studies of SDG4 revealed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in C_max 65.38 ± 1.34 µg/mL (1.75-fold) with increased relative bioavailability (180.22-fold) against the RT plain drug. Conclusion: Formulation of SD with surface adsorption method could enhance solubility, dissolution, and bioavailability of RT.

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Context: People all over the world are suffering from cancer. Liver cancer is considered the second most common malignancy among Egyptian men and the sixth most common malignancy among Egyptian women. Plant-derived antioxidants are believed to prevent or delay the occurrence of many chronic diseases such as cancer. Ailanthus altissima has been used in many traditional prescriptions. Aims: The current study aimed at investigating the phytochemical profile of A. altissima leaves’ extract and its derived fractions, determining their content of phenolics and flavonoids as well as assessing their antioxidant and cytotoxic potential. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical screening was carried out using standard methods. The total phenolic, flavonoid, and flavonol contents were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride, and aluminum chloride/ sodium acetate assays, respectively. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using different in vitro methods: DPPH^•, total antioxidant capacity, hydroxyl (^•OH), nitric oxide (NO^•) radical scavenging activities, and permanganate-reducing antioxidant capacity (PRAC). The antiproliferative potential against HepG2 cells was evaluated using sulforhodamine-B assay (SRB). Results: The results showed that the ethyl acetate fraction had the highest content of phenolics, flavonoids, and flavonols (551.72 ± 1.81 mg GAE/g ext., 371.24 ± 4.36 mg RE/g ext., and 100.47 ± 1.30 mg QE/g ext., respectively). It also had the most potent reducing power (DPPH^• SC₅₀ = 7.19 ± 0.05 µg/mL, TAC= 369.88 ± 1.51 mg AAE/g ext., ^•OH SA = 95.46 ± 0.14%, NO^• SA = 40.65 ± 0.91%, and PRAC = 77.19 ± 0.27%). The n-butanol fraction exhibited the most potent cytotoxic potential against HepG2 cells (IC₅₀ = 16.70 µg/mL). Conclusion: A. altissima leaves could be considered potent antioxidant and cytotoxic alternatives.

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Background: Over the years, management of human pathogenic microorganisms has primarily relied on the use of synthetic antibiotics. In the recent past, Tagetes patula essential oils (EOs) and their phytochemistry and bioactivities have received great attention in research. Purpose and Methods: In this study, the component, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant capacity (ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay) of EOs from five plant parts (shoot at vegetative growth stage [TPSV], shoot at flowering growth stage [TPSF], flower [TPF], fruit [TPS], and root [TPR]) of T. patula were investigated. The antibacterial activity against five gram-negative bacterial isolates (including Serratia fonticola, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Proteus mirabilis, and Escherichia coli) and five gram-positive bacterial isolates (including Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, S. saprophyticus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus oralis) was studied using broth microdilution method. FRAP assay was also used to evaluate their antioxidant activity. Results: One hundred and twenty-five compounds of the total EOs were identified, constituting a mixture of oxygenated monoterpenes (33%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (25%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (19%), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (12%), and furanocoumarins (8%). In this paper, for the first time, more than 60 new compounds were isolated from T. patula such as bergapten, sylvestrene, (E)-β-farnesene, (E)-epoxy-ocimene, (Z)-jasmone, γ-gurjunene, and γ-himachalene. The EOs of T. patula showed potent antibacterial activity against the studied bacteria with the highest growth inhibition observed in E. coli after 24 h of incubation (MIC value 0.08 and MBC value 0.32 µL/mL). The TPS-EO had the highest mean value for ferric-reducing ability at the three test times, whereas TPR-EO had no activity. Conclusion: It was concluded that the potential biocidal activity of T. patula EOs could be substantially associated with their oxygenated constituents or the synergistic activity of their major and minor chemical components.

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Objective: The objective of this study was to design, evaluate and optimize effervescent tablets containing bismuth sub-citrate with sufficient hardness and friability in treatment of peptic ulcer. Materials and Methods: Effervescent tablets were prepared by direct compression method and were optimized using irregular factorial design. Amount of citric acid, sodium bicarbonate to citric acid molar ratio, polyvinyl pyrrolidone K 30 (PVP k30), polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) were selected as independent variables, whereas disintegration time, amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂), friability, pH, and hardness were selected as dependent variables. All the batches were assessed for various pre and post compression characteristics such as flowability, hardness, friability, effervescent time, pH, and content uniformity. For the enhancement of tablets’ palatability, the components of optimized formulation were mixed with same amounts of different flavoring agents. Results: The best results obtained from effervescent tablets prepared by 500 mg citric acid, 5% PEG 6000 and 3% PVP k30 while the molar ratio of the sodium bicarbonate to citric acid was 3. The disintegration time, amount of CO₂, friability, pH, and hardness of optimized formulation were confirmed to be 95.33 ± 1.15sec, 398.73 ± 1.46 mg, 0.73%, 6.0 ± 0.06 and 72.3 ± 5.5 N, respectively. The most pleasant taste according to volunteers’ acceptability was the taste of cherry. Conclusion: These results suggest that developed effervescent tablets may be promising for delivery of bismuth sub-citrate in peptic ulcers therapy.

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Background: Conventional route, the most common route of administration, has drawbacks such as hepatic first-pass metabolism, poor bioavailability, and ability to alter drug concentrations in the blood. These problems can be overcome by a controlled-release drug delivery system, which can be accomplished with the development of transdermal drug delivery system. Objective: The objective of this study was to design and develop a lornoxicam-loaded matrix-type transdermal films with different permeation enhancers and determine their physicochemical characteristics. Materials and Methods: Lornoxicam-loaded transdermal films were prepared by the solvent evaporation technique. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies were performed to determine the drug–excipient interactions. Six formulations were prepared with different permeation enhancers such as propylene glycol, dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), sodium lauryl sulfate, Span 20, and TWEEN 80 by using 500 mg of sodium alginate as the polymer and 60% w/w glycerin as the plasticizer. The prepared formulations were evaluated for thickness, uniformity of weight, moisture loss, moisture uptake, drug content, and tensile strength. The effect of different permeation enhancers on diffusion was determined through a shed snakeskin by using Franz diffusion cells. Results: The preformulation studies conducted were fulfilled to design a matrix-type transdermal film. In vitro diffusion 24 h indicated that the steady state flux were in the order of F3 > F2 > F1 > F6 > F5 > F4. It was observed that the film prepared with DMSO showed higher diffusion than the formulations with other permeation enhancers. Conclusion: It was concluded that permeation enhancer to prepare lornoxicam-loaded matrix-type transdermal film to improve patient compliance.

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Context: Ficus benghalensis (Moraceae) is an evergreen tree found in south and southeast of Iran as wild and cultivated plants. Different parts of this plant have different effects such as antitumor, antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Aims: The aim of this study was investigated the phytochemical screening and antioxidant activities of different fractions of plant roots. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical investigation was done by different methods in references. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH and FRAP assay. All chemical materials and solvents were prepared from Sigma-Aldrich, Scharlau and Merk. Statistical Analysis: All measurements were carried out in triplicate and the data were expressed as mean ± SD. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and tukey test. Results: Phytochemical screening showed steroids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, and anthraquinone glycoside are F. benghalensis constituents. This plant had antioxidant activity, but it was lower than the Indian kinds. Conclusion: This study elucidated Ficus benghalensis could be useful plant with antioxidant activity. Further investigation needs for details.

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Context: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to terminal kidney failure. Previous study has shown that protein hydrolysate in yellow peas (Pisum sativum L.) can be used as a natural remedy for CKD. Aims: To obtain hydrolysate protein that is most effective in improving kidney function of cisplatin (CP)-induced Wistar rats, based on urea, creatinine, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), and renin levels of CP-induced nephrotoxicity Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Methods of Kjeldahl, Bradford, Kunitz, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were used to determine the content of the eight types of protein hydrolysates. In in vivo experiment, the samples were administered to CP-induced nephrotoxicity Wistar rats, with urea, creatinine, ANP, COX-1, and renin as parameters. Results: Total neutrase activity was 40.65 U/mg, and bromelain was 35.77 U/mg. Total specific activities of both enzymes were almost identical. Protein hydrolyzed using bromelain had small fractions (<14.4 kDa). On the 30^th day of treatment, urea and creatinine levels of all groups of treatment were significantly different from CP control (P < 0.01). The lowest level was shown by the group which was treated with bromelain-hydrolyzed green pea protein. Among ANP, COX-1, and renin measurements, only the result of COX-1 showed the promising result. Conclusions: Green peas protein hydrolysate hydrolyzed by bromelain are suggested as the most effective in improving kidney function based on urea, creatinine, and COX-1 levels of CP-induced nephrotoxicity Wistar rats.

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Background: Tinospora crispa is used in folk medicines for the treatment of gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and internal inflammation. The presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, glycosides, and alkaloids in T. crispa stem is supposed to contribute to these therapeutic effects. This study aimed to analyze qualitative and quantitative phytochemical of purified extract of T. crispa stem (PETS) and to evaluate the in vivo antihyperuricemic effect. Materials and Methods: First, total flavonoid and total alkaloid contents of PETS were determined by colorimetric and gravimetric methods. After that, potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemic mice were treated with three doses of PETS at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, and hydroalcoholic extract at 500 mg/kg. Moreover, allopurinol at 10 mg/kg and sodium carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% were orally administered as positive and negative controls, respectively. Serum uric acid levels were measured by ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry. Results: The high flavonoids content (31.08% ± 1.77% rutin equivalent) in T. crispa stem possesses a potential as uricostatic in the treatment of gout. The purified extract of T. crispa stem at a dose of 100 mg/kg revealed a significant uric acid–lowering effect compared with negative control (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study indicates the potential of T. crispa purified extracts in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout.

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Purpose: In the previous studies, we designed an anticancer immunotoxin containing the catalytic and translocation domains of diphtheria toxin fused to BR2, a buforin II-derived antimicrobial peptide as a cancer-specific cell penetrating peptide, in order to target various cancer cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of DT386–BR2 against K-562 cells as the most famous cell line for leukemia. Materials and Methods: MTT and flow-cytometry assays were used for determining the cytotoxic effects and cell death mechanism of DT386–BR2, respectively, against K-562 cell line. The recombinant DT386 and synthetic BR2 were used as the negative control in cytotoxicity assay. Results: The results of this study showed a significant reduction in survival of K-562 cells caused by DT386–BR2 as compared with BR2 and DT386 fragments. On the contrary, the flow-cytometry results showed apoptosis induction by DT386–BR2 after 12h in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Conclusion: DT386–BR2 fusion protein can be used for further preclinical studies for determining its pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profiles and evaluating its anticancer efficacy in suitable animal models.

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Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as a complex reproductive and endocrinological disorder, affects up to one in five women. Treatment for obesity in women with this syndrome is necessary due to the occurrence of various complications, especially infertility. Recently, green tea with many health benefits, as a natural herbal medicine, has been widely considered in treating various diseases. Objective: This clinical study was planned to compare the effect of green tea and metformin treatment on the anthropometric indices of women with PCOS. Materials and Methods: In this double-blind, randomized clinical trial, 45 women among 18–35 years of age with PCOS referring to the endometriosis center of Fatemieh Hospital of Hamadan, Iran, who had the eligibility criteria for entering the study, were randomized into three study groups: the green tea, the metformin group, and the control group. Weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio, before, 1 month later, and 3 months after intervention in each group were measured. Data were statistically analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software, version 23.0. Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the three groups during the study period. A significant reduction of anthropometric indices, such as weight, BMI, waist, and hip circumference, was observed in the green tea group. Conclusion: The use of green tea for patients with PCOS is recommended as a complementary therapy that can have potential effects on obesity.

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Introduction: Despite the numerous therapeutic effects of the Ziziphus jujuba (ZJ), its effect on biochemical and hematological parameters are unknown. Therefore, in this study, the effect of ethyl acetate (EA) and aqueous (AQ) fractions of the ZJ fruit extract on biochemical and hematological parameters were explored. Material and Methods: Thirty-six male Wistar rats randomly were divided into six groups as follows: (1) Control, (2) ZJ extract (200mg/kg), (3, 4) EA fraction of ZJ (EA150 and EA300mg/kg), and (5, 6) AQ fraction of ZJ (AQ150 and AQ300mg/kg). Saline, ZJ extract, and its fractions were gavage once a day for 4 weeks. At the day of the experiment (28^th day), one blood sample was collected in citrated tube for the counting of the complete blood cell count calculation. The serum was used for biochemical parameters (cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose concentrations) evaluation. Results: The results showed that the blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in all treated groups, especially in AQ groups, significantly decreased compared to the control (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001) group. Furthermore, the number of red blood cell and white blood cell in treating rats with ZJ extract and its AQ fraction significantly increased (P < 0.05), whereas the number of platelets significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared to the control. Conclusion: In conclusion, both AQ and EA fractions of ZJ have beneficial effects on biochemical and hematological parameters. Since the effect of AQ fraction is higher than EA, it is suggested that these effects of ZJ mostly mediated by compounds of ZJ that soluble in the polar solvent.

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Context: Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug that non-selectively blocks cyclooxygenases-1/2 (COX-1/2) enzymes and thus reduces the risk tumorigenesis. This study was designed to detect microRNAs (miRNAs) that target Cox-1/2 mRNA and to investigate the effect of ibuprofen on the expression of the miRNAs in MKN-45-derived gastric cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs). We were also aimed to find signaling pathways modulated by the miRNAs. Subjects and Methods: The miRWalk database was used to recognize miRNAs that targeted Cox-1/2 genes. CSLCs were derived from MKN-45 cell line and were then treated with ibuprofen. Consequently, the effect of ibuprofen was evaluated on the expression of the miRNAs by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Finally, DIANA tools were used to identify signaling pathways that modulated by the miRNAs. Results: Our bioinformatic investigation showed that hsa-mir-16-5p, hsa-mir-483-5p, and hsa-mir-4669 targeted both Cox-1 and Cox-2 mRNAs. The qRT-PCR results indicated that hsa-mir-16-5p and hsa-mir-4669 were overexpressed 2.34 and 9.47 folds, respectively, while hsa-mir-483-5p under-expressed (2.08 folds) in ibuprofen-treated CSLCs relative to untreated cells. Moreover, it found that these miRNAs are involved in PI3K-Akt, P53, transforming growth factor-beta, phosphatidylinositol and insulin signaling pathways, cell cycle, extracellular matrix receptor interaction, gap junction, small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, and chronic myeloid leukemia. Conclusions: We suggest that ibuprofen may reduce the risk of gastric cancer by affecting the expression of miRNAs that target Cox-1/2. however, further research is necessary to unravel its exact effects.

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Introduction: Measuring of natural antioxidants power is important in the food industry. Ferula gummosa Boiss. plant, locally called Barijeh, is a member of genus Ferula belonging to the Apiaceae family. To introduce endemic natural antioxidants, antioxidant capacity of alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts of aerial parts of F. gummosa Boiss. was investigated. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to compare the antioxidant levels and activities between flower and leaf extracts of Ferula gummosa Boiss. plant by different assay methods. Method: The antioxidant activity of flower and leaf extracts of F. gummosa Boiss. was assessed usingferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. In addition, phenolic content of the extracts was measured byFolin-Ciocalteu (FC) method. Results: Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay showed that leaf extract has more antioxidant activity compared to flower extract. DPPH assay had similar results. A slow kinetic behavior was found for methanol extracts of both tissues (EC₅₀ of 0.21 mg/mL and 0.25 mg/mL for leaf and flower methanol extracts, respectively) which was estimated by kinetic mode of DPPH assay. The ORAC assay showed higher values for methanolic extracts compared to ethanolic extracts. Except for ORAC assay, a significant positive correlation was found between antioxidant data of ferric-reducing antioxidant power, DPPH and Folin-Ciocalteu assays. Conclusion: These findings suggest that high antiradical potential and reducing power of the alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts of the aerial parts of F. gummosa Boiss. correspond to a high phenolic content in these plant parts. The high antioxidant activity of the F. gummosa Boiss. could propound the hydroalcoholic extracts of this plant as a therapeutic agent to prevent and treat diseases due to free radical imbalance in the body.

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Purpose: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a degenerative brain disorder and the major cause of dementia and cognitive deficits in the elderly. Riluzole modulates glutamate concentration and improves memory performance in aged rats and may be of benefit in AD. Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that is used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate AD. In this study, we compared their effects on attenuation of learning and memory deficits in a rat model of AD. Materials and Methods: Scopolamine injection for 14 consecutive days induced memory impairment. Effect of riluzole on this impaired memory was evaluated by Morris water maze protocols: accusation phase and probe trial test. Adult male Wistar rats (250–300g) were trained for 4 consecutive days, 24 hours after last scopolamine injection. Spatial memory and learning index (%) were measured depending on the time taken to find the platform and the time utilized in the target quadrant (Q₂). The time/distance was measured by the computer. Results were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc. Results: Riluzole was effective in the treatment of memory impairment of scopolamine-injected group. The riluzole-treated group, on test day, showed better spatial memory rather than scopolamine-treated group. Besides, learning index (%) improvement was significantly higher in the riluzole-treated group, rather than scopolamine-injected group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that riluzole administration at the same time with scopolamine injection or after it causes marked improvements in learning index during training days and the spatial memory on the test day. Therefore, this study strengthens the hypothesis that acute riluzole treatment is capable of treatment of diseases related to memory impairment such as AD.

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