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Showing 188 results for HM
Mohammad Shokrzadeh , Mahboube Rahmati Kukandeh , Mohammad Karami , Samane Sadat Besharat ,
Volume 27, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Docetaxel is an effective chemotherapy drug for treating lung cancer, but its side effects and cytotoxicity limit its use. Natural compounds like carvacrol and thymol, known for their anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, have gained attention as adjunct agents to reduce toxicity and enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. This study aimed to investigate the impact of carvacrol and thymol on cell viability and function in A549 cancer cells exposed to docetaxel.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted on the epithelial cell line derived from lung cancer tissue (A549), obtained from the Pasteur Institute of Iran at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences in the year 1042. In this research, A549 cells were pre-treated with various concentrations of carvacrol and thymol (5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 100, and 200 µg/mL) along with a cytotoxic dose of docetaxel (8.92 µg/mL) over a period of 48 hours. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay. Additionally, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells were measured using the DA-DCFH reagent, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined using the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reagent.
Results: Carvacrol and thymol significantly reduced the cytotoxic effects of docetaxel at concentrations ranging from 5 to 200 µg/mL (P<0.05). The evaluation of cytotoxicity indicated that at a concentration of 200 µg/mL, carvacrol and thymol exhibited a more pronounced enhancing effect (98.11±1.64%) compared to the concentration of 5 µg/mL (54.64±2.03%). Furthermore, these compounds significantly mitigated the oxidative stress induced by docetaxel by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (P<0.05). Specifically, at the concentration of 200 µg/mL, the levels of ROS and MDA were (13.57±0.09%) and (0.55±0.003%), respectively, in contrast to the levels at 5 µg/mL, which were (20.50±0.59%) and (0.98±0.01%). This demonstrates a notable inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer cells by carvacrol and thymol.
Conclusion: Carvacrol and thymol demonstrate high potential as compounds to improve cell function and reduce the cytotoxicity induced by docetaxel in A549 cancer cells. These findings suggest the potential enhancement of chemotherapy regimens for cancer treatment.
Nikki Maleki, Erfan Teymuri, Maryam Mahmoudi , Fatemeh Hajialiasgari , Ardalan Shariat , Negar Hassanzadeh ,
Volume 27, Issue 3 (10-2025)
Abstract
Excessive weight gain during pregnancy is recognized as a global epidemic and is associated with complications, such as gestational diabetes. While a healthy diet and regular physical activity positively influence weight control and overall well-being, in-person consultations can be costly and time-consuming. The use of digital technologies, particularly smartphones, has increased for delivering lifestyle interventions and improving well-being. These technologies provide affordable access to health services for pregnant women, especially those in remote areas. This narrative review was conducted to evaluate the effect of telehealth on weight control and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle among pregnant women. A search was performed in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases. Of the 631 initial articles published during 2020-2024,
15 were selected and evaluated after excluding irrelevant articles, review articles, and those without full texts. The selected articles showed that mobile health (mHealth) could improve indicators, such as weight, body mass index (BMI), maternal and infant health, and lifestyle. However, certain limitations, including access issues, cultural barriers, and fluctuations in service quality, impacted their effectiveness. Based on the findings of these articles, it is suggested that personalized interventions be designed with continuous consultations and daily reminders. Forming virtual groups and providing timely feedback can strengthen the sense of belonging and promote adherence. These strategies are valuable for telehealth clinics and online counseling programs.
Behina Banifatemi , Azizeh Karimian , Amir Reza Ahmadinia ,
Volume 27, Issue 3 (10-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: One of the prominent challenges in the dental profession is patient complaints, many of which lead to legal and criminal prosecution. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and causes of patient complaints against dentists in Golestan Province.
Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on 96 complaint files against dentists in Golestan Province, Iran, using a census method during 2012-2022. The necessary information was extracted from the files and recorded in an information form.
Results: The most frequent complaints were related to prosthodontics (29.2%), surgeries (26%), and endodontics (18.8%). The dentists who received complaints were predominantly male (75%) and had a general dentistry degree (90.6%). In 33% of the complaints, the dentist was found liable. None of the complaints against specialists resulted in the practitioner being found at fault.
Conclusion: The most common complaints were in the fields of prosthodontics, surgeries, and endodontics. The dentists involved were mostly male general dentists. Moreover, 33% of the complaints led to a conviction. Complaints related to prosthodontics and surgeries primarily concerned cosmetic treatments and implant surgeries, highlighting the need to review the educational curriculum for general dentists.
Bahman Aghcheli , Hila Moazzez , Alijan Tabarraei , Alireza Tahamtan ,
Volume 27, Issue 3 (10-2025)
Abstract
Influenza is an acute viral respiratory disease with diverse clinical manifestations. Despite extensive research, ambiguities remain regarding its prognostic factors. In this cross-sectional retrospective study, conducted during 2021 on 993 samples (546 males 447 females) from patients with suspected acute viral respiratory infections who were hospitalized in hospitals of Golestan Province, we evaluated the clinical and laboratory findings of patients with influenza. The samples were sent to the provincial molecular diagnostics laboratory for real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) molecular testing. All samples were also tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Test results, along with demographic, clinical, and laboratory data, were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Of the 993 samples tested for influenza, 174 were reported as positive. All, but one, of these positive cases were influenza A. From 993 tests for SARS-CoV-2, 271 cases were also reported as positive. Additionally, 11 patients had influenza and SARS-CoV-2 co-infection. The mean age of influenza patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) was determined to be 55.60±15.11 years, while in other wards, it was 37.51±12.1 years (P<0.05). Regarding gender, the ICU-hospitalized male-to-female ratio was 3 times and 1.35 times in other wards (P<0.05). In ICU-hospitalized patients, the highest percentage of clinical symptoms belonged to fever, cough, chills, and anorexia, and in patients hospitalized in other wards, the highest percentage belonged to fever, followed by cough, chest pain, and chills. There was a statistically significant difference between ICU-hospitalized patients and those hospitalized in other wards for symptoms, such as anorexia, arthralgia, myalgia, sore throat, cough, nausea, headache, and chills (P<0.05). Blood factors, such as white blood cell (WBC) count, neutrophil and lymphocyte percentages, hemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and platelets, were evaluated, and no statistically significant difference was observed between the two patient groups. Biochemical factors, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, sodium, potassium, liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), and direct and indirect bilirubin, were also examined, and no significant difference was found between the two patient groups. Additionally, other factors, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide saturation percentages, bicarbonate, and blood pH were assessed, and a statistically significant difference was found between the two groups for oxygen and carbon dioxide saturation percentages (P<0.05). Based on the findings of this study, age and gender are effective factors in the severity of influenza. Men and older adults are at particular risk for ICU hospitalization. The high prevalence of influenza A and cases of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection also highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Given the increased risk of infection and disease severity among the elderly, implementing preventive programs, such as annual influenza and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations, is essential for this group. Additionally, attention to laboratory findings like blood oxygen levels can be effective in the early identification of high-risk patients.
Elahe Gharehkhani , Marzieh Megharad, Mahboube Rahmati Kukandeh , Mohammad Shokrzadeh ,
Volume 27, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Due to high metabolic activity and rich blood supply, the kidneys are exposed to high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under pathological conditions, making them highly vulnerable to oxidative stress. Nephrotoxic agents, such as cisplatin, aminoglycosides, and radiocontrast agents induce the production of ROS in renal tubular cells, leading to lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study was conducted to determine the protective effect of L-arginine against amikacin-induced nephrotoxicity in normal African green monkey kidney epithelial cells (Vero) by evaluating oxidative stress parameters.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical in vitro study was conducted on Vero cell lines purchased from the National Genetic Resources Cell Bank. For all assays, the amount of cultured calls was 105. Prior to the induction of nephrotoxicity with amikacin (653.2 µg/mL), the cells were pre-treated for 24 hours with various concentrations of L-arginine (108, 216, 430, and 860 µM). Subsequently, to evaluate the effect of L-arginine on oxidative stress status, the variables of malondialdehyde (MDA), cell viability, and ROS were measured.
Results: In the assays for ROS levels and cell viability, all tested concentrations of L-arginine (108, 216, 430, and 860 µM) resulted in a significant reduction in ROS levels (30±1.5, 28±1.4, 25±1.2, and 21±1.0, respectively) and a significant increase in cell viability (55±5.2, 64±3.8, 72±2.9, and 84±4.7, respectively) (P<0.05). Regarding measurement tests of lipid peroxidation, L-arginine at 108 µM did not significantly reduce MDA levels; however, other concentrations (216, 430, and 860 µM) significantly decreased MDA levels to 0.80±0.02, 0.74±0.03, and 0.66±0.01, respectively (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate the ability of L-arginine to improve kidney cell viability parameters and increase glutathione (GSH) levels at all tested concentrations (108, 216, 430, and 860 µM). Furthermore, L-arginine at concentrations of 216, 430, and 860 µM significantly reduced lipid peroxidation.
Elahe Gharehkhani , Sajedeh Zibayi, Mahboube Rahmati Kukandeh , Ramin Ataee , Mohammad Shokrzadeh ,
Volume 27, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent for colorectal cancer treatment; however, its genotoxicity can lead to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage in healthy cells. Lycopene and Coenzyme Q10 are natural antioxidants capable of exerting protective effects against oxidative damage. This study was conducted to determine the protective effect of lycopene combined with Q10 against 5-FU-induced genotoxicity in colorectal cancer (SW480) and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cell lines using the Comet assay.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on SW480 and MSCs cell lines obtained from the Iranian Genetic Resources Cell Bank at the Cell Culture Laboratory of the Faculty of Pharmacy in 2023. The SW480 and MSCs cell lines were cultured at a density of 104 and exposed to a single dose of 5-FU (1 µM) along with various concentrations of lycopene and Q10 (0, 10, 20, and 30 µM). For each cell line, seven groups were defined: A control group (without treatment); a 5-FU group at optimum concentration (1 µM); groups receiving Q10 at 10, 20, and 30 µM plus lycopene at 10, 20, and 30 µM, respectively, comined with receiving 5-FU at optimum concentration (1 µM); a group receiving Q10 alone (30 µM); and a group receiving lycopene alone (30 µM). Cytotoxicity was evaluated using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and DNA damage was assessed via the Comet assay.
Results: 5-FU caused a significant decrease in cell viability and a significant increase in DNA damage (P<0.05). Lycopene and Q10 alone did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity. The combination of lycopene and Q10 with 5-FU culminated in increased cell viability and decreased DNA damage compared to the group treated with 5-FU alone.
Conclusion: Lycopene and Q10 demonstrated significant protective effects against 5-FU-induced genotoxicity in both SW480 and MSCs cell lines.
Seyed Mohammad Aria , Maryam Zahedi , Fatemeh Mohmmadzade , Alireza Seyedi Niaki , Somayeh Ghorbai ,
Volume 27, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Hypothyroidism is a clinical syndrome resulting from a deficiency in thyroid hormone production. Despite achieving normalized thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels through levothyroxine (LT4) therapy, many patients continue to experience residual symptoms. This persistence raises questions regarding the adequacy of standard monotherapy and suggests that alternative treatments, such as combination therapy (LT4 and liothyronine [LT3]), may be more effective for certain individuals. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of residual symptoms after TSH normalization in patients with hypothyroidism in Gorgan, Iran.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 200 patients (193 females, 7 males; mean age = 41.81±12.25 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of hypothyroidism who were under regular treatment and had normalized TSH. Subjects were recruited from those referring to an endocrinology subspecialty clinic in 2022 in Gorgan. Eligible participants were asked to complete a checklist assessing common symptoms of hypothyroidism, including fatigue, dry skin, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, muscle cramps, facial puffiness, and hair loss. Paraclinical data, including TSH and thyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPO) levels, were also collected.
Results: The most prevalent residual symptoms of hypothyroidism were fatigue (74.2%), cold intolerance (73.7%), and dry skin (73.2%). A statistically significant correlation was found between body mass index (BMI) and dry skin (P<0.05). However, no significant correlation was observed between TSH levels and the persistence of symptoms.
Conclusion: Despite TSH normalization, symptoms of hypothyroidism-including fatigue, cold intolerance, and dry skin-persist in more than 70% of cases.
Bahman Aghcheli , Seyed Amirreza Hejazian , Ghazaleh Alizad , Sadeghali Azimi , Alireza Tahamtan ,
Volume 27, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has revealed significant variability in clinical outcomes driven by demographic, geographic, and underlying factors, highlighting the need for a better understanding of disease progression. This study was conducted to determine the clinical characteristics, outcomes, and predictors of disease severity among hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Gorgan, Iran.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted on the data of 736 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (58.6% male; mean age = 55 years; age range = 1–94 years) at the Fifth Azar Educational-Therapeutic Center in Gorgan during 2021. A convenience sampling method was employed, and patients were selected based on the completeness of their electronic medical records. Patients were categorized based on disease outcome (recovery/death) and disease severity (intensive care unit [ICU] admission/general ward admission). Demographic data, symptoms, and comorbidities were extracted from electronic health records. Inclusion criteria consisted of a confirmed diagnosis via reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), while exclusion criterion included incomplete data or transfer to other medical centers.
Results: The mortality rate was 31.3%, occurring predominantly in the older adult age group (P<0.05). Due to disease severity, 21.2% of cases required ICU admission. Dyspnea was significantly associated with both mortality and disease severity (P<0.05). The prevalence of dyspnea was 62.6% among deceased patients compared to 37.4% in recovered patients. Comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), were significantly associated with increased mortality (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Old age and specific comorbidities were identified as key predictors of severe outcomes. Early identification of symptoms, particularly dyspnea, and targeted interventions are essential for high-risk groups.
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