@article { author = {Hassan, Asmaa and Ahmed, Omyma and Ahmed, Marwa and Hamed, Hosam}, title = {The Relationship of Insulin Resistance and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Effects of Metformin Therapy and ovarian Drilling}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {1-14}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36348}, abstract = {Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex reproductiveendocrine-metabolic disorder and insulin resistance (IR) is a common feature of it.Objective: To clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms of POCS, highlight its basicrelationship with IR and to investigate the efficacy of metformin therapy and ovariandrilling in these cases. Patients and Methods: Thirty two PCOS patients (sixteenreceived metformin 850 mg twice daily for four months[group 1] and sixteenunderwent laparoscopic ovarian drilling [group 2]) and fifteen healthy controls wereincluded in this study. Body mass index (BMI) evaluation followed by ultrasoundexamination for measurement of antral follicles count (AFC) in both ovaries, oralglucose tolerance curve, fasting blood glucose, insulin and glucose / insulin ratio(G/I) were measured in addition to serum total testosterone (T), leutinizing hormone(LH) and insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) for all subjects. These parameters werereevaluated again 4 months after either types of treatment. Results: PCOS patientshad significant increase BMI, T, LH, IGF-1, fasting blood glucose, insulin level andAFC but G/I ratio was significantly lower. Significant negative correlations betweenfasting G/I ratio and either of BMI, T, and AFC respectively were evident. Impairedfasting glucose level at baseline was observed in PCOS patients while after metforminand laparoscopic drilling it was significantly improved. Metformin significantlydecreased BMI, serum T, LH levels, IGF-1 and AFC and increased the G/I ratioversus pretreatment values. Also, ovarian drilling has similar but less obvious effects.Conclusion: IR plays a vital pathophysiological role in PCOS patients as manifestedby causal relationship between insulin resistance and metabolic and reproductivechanges of PCOS. Metformin and ovarian drilling potentially improve these changes.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36348.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36348_fc4ae24568a139273f6009027148cb5b.pdf} } @article { author = {Rateb, Moshira and Hassouna, Amira and Obaia, Eman and Marzouk, Samar}, title = {Evaluation of the Differential Effect of Female Sex Hormones on Hepatic Inflammatory and Apoptotic Markers in a Model of Acute Systemic Inflammation in the Female Rats}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {15-32}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36349}, abstract = {The present study was conducted to investigat the differential effect of estradiol benzoate and progesterone on systemic as well as the liver response to experimentally induced inflammatory states. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 48 female albino rats divided into six groups. Groups I and II consisted of non-ovariectomized animals. Ovariectomy was performed for the remaining 4 groups which were allocated randomly to receive one form of the following daily hormonal supplementation: Subcutaneous (SC) Estradiol benzoate 4μg/100g body weight (BW) , or SC progesterone 5mg/kg BW or; combined daily estradiol and progesterone supplementation or no hormonal supplement at all. At the end of three weeks period, acute systemic inflammation was induced by caecal ligation and puncture in all the groups except group I and the animals were sacrificed 24 hours later and both serum and liver tissue were isolated to evaluate inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Results: Ovariectomized animals subjected to systemic inflammation had significantly higher levels of serum Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), C reactive protein and Alanine Aminotransferease (ALT). They also had higher levels of expression of the enzyme inducible nitric oxide sysnthetase (iNOS) in the liver, and of the activity of both cycloxygenase II (COXII) and Caspase 3 enzymes when compared to non- ovariectomized animals subjected to systemic inflammation. Daily supplementation of ovariectomized animals with estradiol resulted in a significant reduction of all serum and liver tissue parameters of inflammation and apoptosis when compared to ovariectomized animals with systemic inflammation receiving no supplementary treatment. In contrast, daily supplementation of ovariectomized animals with progesterone resulted in a significant rise of all measured parameters of serum and liver tissue inflammation and apoptosis when compared to their corresponding values in ovariectomized animals with systemic inflammation and receiving no supplementary treatment. Conclusion: Estradiol supplementation that achieves physiological pro-estrus to diestrus levels in ovariectomized animals can reduce the excessive harmful effects of inflammation and apoptois on the systemic and liver tissue level while progesterone supplementation that achieves estrus physiological levels increases the release of inflammatory mediators and liver tissue apoptosis.}, keywords = {systemic inflammation,Liver,Estrogen,progesterone,apoptosis}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36349.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36349_711c3519f891822327dc620a7a70239a.pdf} } @article { author = {Abd El-Mottaleb, Nashwa and Ali, Hosam and Hamed, Hosny and Abd-Elsayed, Alaa}, title = {Serum Adiponectin and Leptin as Predictors of the Presence and Degree of Coronary Atherosclerosis}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {33-50}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36351}, abstract = {Background: Recently, the adipocyte derived proteins; adiponectin and leptin, havebeen found to be associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance,hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia and the presence of coronary artery disease.However, the association of these proteins with the degree of coronaryatherosclerosis has not been not been well elucidated. Objectives: To determine therelationship between serum adiponectin and leptin levels and the presence anddegree of coronary atherosclerosis. Methods: Seventy patients performing diagnosticcoronary angiography in our catheterization laboratory for the investigation ofcoronary artery disease (CAD) were recruited. The control group included (20subjects) who were non-diabetics, non-hypertensives, with no history of previousacute coronary syndrome, having normal ECG, of matched age, sex, body mass index(BMI), and waist/hip ratio, performing coronary angiography for stable angina withinadequate exercise test results, and proved to have a completely normal coronaryangiography. All cases and control were subjected to complete history and clinicalexamination including 12 lead ECG, measurement of BMI, and hip/waist ratio.Fasting blood glucose, full lipogram, serum adiponectin, and serum leptin weremeasured. Angiographic evaluation of coronary atherosclerosis was performed byassessing three atherosclerotic indices; severity (transverse disease), extent(longitudinal disease), and pattern (lesion complexity). Results: The independentpredictors of the atherosclerosis lesion severity were larger waist/hip ratio (beta,0.34), followed by higher LDL-cholesterol (beta, 0.32), low serum adiponectin level(beta, -0.23), older age (beta, 0.19), higher leptin level (beta, 0.17), current unstableangina (beta, 0.17), and finally previous myocardial infarction (MI) (beta, 0.14). Thismodel is a good one as indicated from the model adjusted r2 (50%). For the extent ofatherosclerosis index lower serum adiponectin level was by far the most importantindependent predictor (beta, -0.45), followed by higher LDL-cholesterol (beta, 0.23),older age and previous MI (beta, 0.21 for both), while higher serum leptin level wasonly a univariate predictor. The model adjusted r2 was 65%. For the atherosclerosispattern index, the independent predictors were previous MI (beta, 0.31), lower serumadiponectin level (beta, -0.29), larger waist/hip ratio (beta, 0.26), higher serum leptinlevel (beta, 0.24), older age (beta, 0.22), and higher fasting blood glucose level (beta,20). The model adjusted r2 was 62%. Conclusion: Both serum adiponectin and leptin  might play an important pathogenic role not only in the occurrence but also in the severity, extent and lesion complexity in CAD patients.}, keywords = {adiponectin,leptin,severity,extent,pattern,coronary atherosclerosis}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36351.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36351_92b3032a8671b66d9879280d43603770.pdf} } @article { author = {Rateb, Moshira and Ismaiel, Maie}, title = {Evaluation of the Cyto-protective Effects of Erythropoietin on Contrast Induced Nephropathy in Rats}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {51-64}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36352}, abstract = {Erythropoietin has long been used in renal failure patients for its hematopoeiticproperties. It has recently been claimed to possess cytoprotective effects on manyother cell lines including renal tubular cells .The aim of the present study was toassess the possible effects of erythropoietin on prevention of contrast induced renalfailure in male rats. Methods: Thirty-two male albino rats were divided into fourgroups (n=8 each): control (C), contrast media (CM), erythropoietin (E) and ratstreated with one single dose erythropoietin (4000 IU/Kg) IP 30 minutes before IVinjection of the high osmolar contrast media diatrizoate (6 ml/kg) (E+CM). All thegroups were subjected to dehydration for 72 hours before any injections were done.Hematological indices, kidney function parameters, oxidative stress markers, tumornecrosis factor alpha as a marker for inflammation and caspase 3 activity as amarker for apoptosis were measured after 72 hours of injections. Results: Injection ofdiatrizoate in dehydrated animals resulted in reduction of GFR, increased blood ureanitrogen and serum creatinine. It was associated with increased TNFα release andincreased activation of caspase 3 as well as increased oxidative stress in kidneyhomogenates. Erythropoietin injection prior to the injection of the contrast mediumsignificantly improved renal function parameters and was associated with a reductionin TNF alpha production, a reduction of caspase 3 activity and an increase insuperoxide dismutase activity in the kidneys. Conclusion: Erythropoietin can inferprotective effects to the kidneys against contrast induced nephropathy throughmechanisms that are independent of its effect on the red cell mass.}, keywords = {erythropoietin,contrast medium,renal failure,Oxidative Stress,apoptosis}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36352.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36352_06b5701dabfdd92687150c56f8eef74c.pdf} } @article { author = {Tork, Ola}, title = {The Contractility of the Diaphragm under Hypoxic Conditions in Aged Rats}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {65-82}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36353}, abstract = {known to impair force generation and increases fatigability of respiratory andperipheral skeletal muscles. The precise mechanisms involved in hypoxia-inducedimpairment in contractile performance are incompletely understood, but oxidativeand nitrosative stress could be at play. Little is known about the effects of hypoxia onthe contractility of aged muscles. Aim: To investigate the effect of aging on thecontractility of unfatigued diaphragm under hypoxic conditions. And to ask whetherthere is an age-specific difference in oxidative damage that could partially account forthe differential response of the contractility of the diaphragm to hypoxia with age.Materials and Methods: This experimental work was conducted on 2 groups ofalbino rats. Group I was the young adult rats (aged 8mo n=10). Group II was the oldone (aged 24mo,n=10). Rat diaphragm muscle strips from each group were studied invitro while aerated with 95% O2-5% CO2 (hyperoxia ,n=10) or 95% N2-5% CO2(hypoxia,n=10). Results: The contractility was significantly decreased in old ratswhen compared with young rats specially under hypoxic conditions. On the otherhand the markers of oxidative stress; MDA and nitrotyrosine were significantlyhigher in old rats than adults. Conclusion: There is an age-specific difference inoxidative damage that could partially account for the differential response of thecontractility of the unfatigued diaphragm to hypoxia with age.}, keywords = {aging,hypoxia,Oxidative Stress,diaphragm contractility,nitrotyrosin}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36353.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36353_cbf52852c3891f83f22272940cfce848.pdf} } @article { author = {Abdel.Zaher, Ahmed}, title = {Short Communication Notes on the role of Echis coloratus and Naja nigricollis Snake venoms on neuronal cell death}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {83-94}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36354}, abstract = {In the present study murine hippocampal HT22 cells were employed to investigate therole of Echis coloratus and Naja nigricollis snake venom on cell death. Monitoring ofthe release of the cytoplasmic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the culturemedium after treatment of the cells with different concentrations (50ug/ml, 100 μg/ml)from four fractions (F1, F2, F3 and F4) that obtained from each venom afterpurification. The time variation (6, 12, 18 and 24 hours) of the LDH concentration inthe medium was used to indicate the total amount of lysed and, hence, the specificrates of cell death. In the first 6h from treatment of cells with F2( 50 μg/ml ) fromNaja nigricollis venom( which is the most effective fraction in both venoms), LDHreleased into cell culture media more than treatment of cells with F3 and crudevenom. Treatment of cells with a concentration of 50ug/ml and 100 μg/ml F3 Najanigricollis (after 12h and 24h) snake venom, LDH elevated more than F2 and crudevenom. Otherwise, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was released into cell culture mediaby treatment of the cell by 50 μg/ml F3 more than treatment of cells by F4 and crudevenom from Echis coloratus.}, keywords = {Echis coloratus,Naja nigricollis,HT22 cells- LDH}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36354.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36354_08e9ffa5e75821900ab3999f64ab7179.pdf} } @article { author = {Tosona, El-Shahat and Gad, Kadry}, title = {Effects of Praziquantel Treatment on the Levels of Total Bile Acids and the Basement Membrane Formation in Schistosomiasis: Correlations with the Severity of the Disease}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {95-108}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36355}, abstract = {The pathological effects of schistosomiasis are due to immune responses of the host tothe eggs of the parasite leading to intestinal and hepatic granulomatous disease andhepatic fibrosis. Therefore, biochemical serum analyses concomitant withhaematological, microscopical, ultrasonographical and clinical examinations wereperformed on 45 Schistosoma infested patients and on 15 matched healthy controls.According to the development of the liver damage, as was reflected by Child Pugh’sscore, the patients were classified into 3 groups, containing 15 patients’ each. Thepatients of group I were suffering from simple intestinal bilharzial infestation andthose of the group II and group III were bilharzially infested patients with Child Aand Child B, respectively. The patients were treated with triple doses of praziquantel(PZQ) and the levels of total bile acids, laminin P1 (LP1), liver function tests (LFTs)and blood picture were evaluated before and after 6 months of the treatment. Also,the presence of schistosomal antibodies, its ova in stool or positivity of rectal snip forsuch ova, before treatment, were used as diagnostic tools of bilharzial infestation. Atthe same time, the clinical and ultrasonographical parameters were evaluated andtheir correlations with the previous parameters were calculated. It was found that,Schistosoma infestation caused damage to the liver with subsequent elevations in themean values of total bile acids (TBA), the basement membrane component (LP1) andthe parameters of LFTs due to presence of periporal fibrosis. After PZQ’s treatment,the levels of the previous parameters were retuned back into levels reaching those ofthe control group. In conclusion, PZQ treatment can cause spontaneous resolution ofliver fibrosis. In addition, the levels of total bile acids and LP1 can reflect the severityof liver damage and the susceptibility to PZQ’s treatment. Moreover, one can notneglect the role of LP1 in the regulation of inflammation in schistosomiasis.}, keywords = {Schistosomiasis,praziquantel,laminin P1 and rectal snip}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36355.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36355_a7d7ef81650d5cfc46ba2fbabcb99b28.pdf} } @article { author = {Ibrahim, Mohamed and Mohamed, Uomna and Ibrahim, Atta}, title = {Responses of Ventilatory Functions to Breathing Exercise versus Breathing Exercise with Chest Mobilizing Exercise in Elderly}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {109-118}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36683}, abstract = {Ageing is a complex process involving many variables (e.g. genetics, lifestyle factors, chronic diseases) that interact with one another, greatly influencing the manner in which we age. The lungs of elderly persons are subjected to a life time of exposure to known and unknown harmful agents. The aim of this study was to investigate the responses of ventilatory functions to breathing exercise versus breathing exercise with chest mobilizing exercise in elderly. In this study, 30 elderly subjects were clinically examined & subjected to laboratory investigations, and then randomly divided into 2groups (A & B), where group “A” received diaphragmatic breathing exercise & incentive spirometer while group “B” received diaphragmatic breathing exercise, incentive spirometer & chest mobilizing exercise. The variables related to ventilatory functions Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume at the 1stsecond (FEV1) & Maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) had been measured twice; 1stat the beginning of the program (pre-exercise) & 2ndafter 8 weeks (post-exercise). The results showed that the ventilatory functions reported statistical significant (p<0.0001) improvement at post-exercise within each group when compared with pre-exercise mean values.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36683.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36683_9a859ba026549cb86b5412b39bdb9bd7.pdf} } @article { author = {Al-Tahhan, Magdy and El-Gendi, Selem and Diab, Abdallah}, title = {Anti-Mullerian Hormone Serum Concentrationsin Women with Polycystic Ovaries and Normoovulatory Women of Reproductive Age}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {119-130}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36688}, abstract = {Background: Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a member of the transforming growth factor-βsuperfamily. It may play an important role in the ovarian folliculogenesis.Objective:To study the relationship of AMH and some clinical, endocrinal and ultrasound parameters in anovulatory infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in women with normal menstrual cycles. Methods:Sera were collected from 30 PCOS anovulatory women and from 15 normal women during the early follicular phase "day 3" of the menstrual cycle, stored frozen until assayed. Results:Serum AMH concentrations were significantly (P<0.001) elevated in PCOS women (9.55±3.39 μg/liter) compared with controls (2.33±1.8 μg/liter). In PCOS patients, serum levels of AMH were correlated with features characteristics of PCOS such as LH concentrations (r=0.76, P<0.001), testosterone level (r=0.67, P<0.001), mean number of follicles (r=0.68, P<0.001)and ovarian volume (r=0.54, P<0.001). Also, AMH levels were correlated withage (r=-0.51, P<0.001) and with cycle duration (r=0.46, P<0.001). The correlation between AMH levels and FSH, estradiol or BMI were found statistically non significant. Conclusion:The present study provides evidence that serum levels of AMH is elevated in PCOS patients. This may have a role in the disordered folliculogenesis characteristics of that disease.}, keywords = {Anti-Mullerian hormone,polycystic ovary syndrome}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36688.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36688_2eb59a6ff0514b7a6403a2dbe3ab767f.pdf} } @article { author = {Abdel-Aleem, Ghada and N, Abu El-Hana and A, Zoair and T, Abd El-Hamid}, title = {Importance of Evaluation of Urinary Iron and Transferrin in the Common Histopathological Types of Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {131-150}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36694}, abstract = {Nephrosis with minimal glomerular changes, minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) and focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are by far the predominant causes of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). Recently there is an increasing interest in the role of iron in the causation of renal injury and deterioration of renal function in adults and children with nephrotic syndrome. Urinary excretion of N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase (NAG) may be useful as a marker of tubular dysfunction and damage in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) which often characterizes steroid-resistant children. The present studywas carried out to estimate the level of serum and urinary iron and transferrin to evaluate the effect of their excretion in the development of anemia in nephrotic children,also to clarify the prognostic value of urinary iron according to the histopathological type of the disease. The present work was also devoted to assess the role of immune system in the pathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome by determination of serum 2-microglobulin and serum and urinary neopterin. The degree of tubular damage in the most common histopathological types of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome was assessed by estimation of urinary N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase enzyme (NAG). The study was conducted on 45 children who were grouped as control group and nephrotic children group which was subdivided into two subgroups: minimal-change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) group and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) group. The study included fifteen in each group with no significant difference inthe mean age and sex between the three studied groups. All children in the study were subjected to thorough history taking, complete physical examination and laboratory investigations which included serum and urinary iron excretion per 24 hours, serum and urinary transferrin excretion per 24 hours, serum ferritin, total iron binding capacity, serum and urinary neopterin excretion per 24 hours, serum 2-microglobulin, urinary N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase enzyme (NAG) excretion per 24 hours, stool analysis for occult blood to exclude gastrointestinal bleeding and finally renalbiopsy was done for all nephrotic children enrolled in the study for histopathological examination. The results of our study showed that idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is associated with normocytic normochromic anemia despite the increased urinary losses of iron and transferrin. Also, the results of this study showed that both serum neopterin and 2-microglobulin were significantly higher inboth nephrotic groups than the control subjects. Serum neopterin level was significantly higher in FSGS group than MCNS group with no significant difference of serum 2-microglobulin between MCNS and FSGS groups. It could be concluded that estimation of urinary proteins, urinary iron and urinary NAG could be important for follow up and prediction of the prognosis in children with INS.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36694.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36694_1a81b30d29326fa5beddac351dd24d3e.pdf} } @article { author = {Al Tahhan, Magdy and El-Toukhy, Mervat and Salem, Ehab}, title = {Serum Nerve Growth Factor, Interleukin-13 and Tumor Necrosis Factor - Αin patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {151-164}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36701}, abstract = {systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by B-cell hyperactivity, production of autoantibodyand abnormal immunoregulation. At present, both interleukin-13(IL-13) and nerve growth factor(NGF) have been proved to play a role in stimulating the proliferation and differentiation of human B-cells and inducing immunoglobulin(Ig) synthesis.Tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a) is both a proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokine. It was suggested to affect NGF expression. Therefore, the present study was designed to determine serum NFG, IL-13 and TNF-αin 31 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to assess their relationship with the disease activity as measured by SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). The results showed that the levels of serum NGF (308±85 pg/ml), IL-13(92.69±9.87 pg/ml) and TNF-a (50.6±11.3 pg/ml) in active SLE patients were significantly higher than those in inactive SLE patients (NGF, 244±76 pg/ml;IL-13, 54.22±9.31 pg/ml;TNF-a,29.4±9.8 pg/ml)(p<0.01. The inactive patients also had significantly increased serum levels of NGF, IL-13 and TNF-a as compared with normal controls( NGF,72.29±23.6 pg/ml;IL-13, 35.20±12.70 pg/ml; TNF-a,8.7±3.0 pg/ml)(p<0.001). Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the serum levels of NGF,IL-13 and TNF-a were correlated with disease activity index of SLE(SLEDAI),ESR and serum levels of C3 and C4( NGF, r=0.442 , - 0.41, - 0.38 ; IL-13, r=0.813 , -0.504 , -0.605 ;TNF-a, r=0.69,-0.43,-0.52 respectively).The serum levels of NGF, IL-13 and TNF-a had a positive correlation ( r=0.506, p<0.01). Significant positive correlations were observed between NGF, TNF-a and SLEDAI. Also, a significant positive correlation was present between TNF-a and NGF suggesting that elevated TNF-a levels may lead to a continued increase of NGF production. In conclusion, the present results suggest that NGF, IL-13 and TNF-αmay play a role in the pathogenesis of SLE and closely correlated with the disease activity, therefore they could be used as sensitive markers for evaluating the disease activity.}, keywords = {NGF,IL-13 and,TNF-,Systemic lupus erythematosus}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36701.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36701_6126245c70ff995c350ef9aa9bf48567.pdf} } @article { author = {Safan, Manal and El Shafie, Maathir and Soliman, Samer}, title = {Serum Levels of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP). Predictors of Disease Progression in Rheumatoid Arthritis}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {165-178}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36707}, abstract = {Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease characterized by destruction of joint structures such as articular cartilage and bone. The pathogenic mechanisms responsible for tissue destruction are not well understood. The aim of the present study was to measure the serum concentrations of specific cartilage and bone molecules reflecting tissue turnover to investigate disease activity. The study included 30 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with age range 42 – 66 years, sixteen patients were rapid erosive patients and fourteen were slow erosive, compared with 20 matched normal population with age range 40 – 63 years. All studied individuals were subjected to full history taking clinical examination and laboratory investigations including measurement of serum levels of cartilageoligomeric matrix protein (COMP), hyaluronic acid (HA), high sensitive C- reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and RF concentration, measurement of activity of RA by disease activity score ( DAS) 28 joint counts. The study showed a significantly higher values of COMP, HA, CRP and ESR in slow erosive (P < 0.001) and rapid erosive (P <0.0001) RA patients when compared to controls. There were significantly higher values of COMP, HA, CRP and ESR in rapid erosive RA patients compared to slow erosive RA patients. A significant positive correlation between serum levels of COMP and HA and age, disease duration, Larsen score, DAS and CRP and ESR was found. Also, there was a significant positive correlation between serum levels of COMP and HA (r = 0.674, P <0.01). It could beconcluded that the measurement of some serological biomarkers that reflect bone and cartilage destruction in RA patients, could be used to investigate disease activity and increase the knowledge of the basic pathophysiology of joint disease.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36707.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36707_04fe7f180b36526e8a2200cb063a056f.pdf} } @article { author = {Heibashy, Mohamed and El-Nahrawy, Walaa and Zaki, Nashwa}, title = {Cyclosporine-Induced Oxidative Stress and renal Dysfunction in Rat kidneys: A Possible Ameliorated Effect by Curcumin as an Antioxidant}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {179-194}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36716}, abstract = {Curcumin (CMN) has been well studied due to its economic and medical importance. Traditional Egyptian Medicine claims the use of its powder against biliary disorders, anorexia, coryza, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorder, rheumatism and sinusitis. The current study was designed to examine the possible beneficial effect of CMN in preventing the acute renal failure and related oxidative stress caused by chronic administration of cyclosporine (CsA) in rats. The study included two experiments, the first one was carried out to follow up the changes that could occur in kidney function as a result of cyclosporine (CsA) administration. Cyclosporine administration exerted significant (P< 0.01) elevation of serum urea, creatinine, potassium (K), parathormone (PTH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA). Meanwhile, cyclosporine treatment exerted significant (P< 0.01) decline in the level of serum sodium (Na) and total nitric oxide (NO), the content of kidney reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activities of glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as compared with their corresponding normal rats. In the second experiment, the nephritic rats were treated with curcumin and remarkable corrections were occurred in all previous parameters. Thus, the current investigation was designed to examine the possible beneficial effect of CMN in preventing the renal failure and related oxidative stress caused by administration of CsA in rats.}, keywords = {Cyclosporine,Curcumin,Kidney function tests,Rats}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36716.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36716_eed2c9e83a615c166cb0027a22a2c9a8.pdf} } @article { author = {El-Sekelly, Saad and Mahmoud, Mohamed and Matar, Morsy}, title = {The Production of hydrogen Sulphide and the Effects of Nitric Oxide (NO) and Low Oxygen Conditions in Intrauterine Tissues in Rats}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {195-206}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36719}, abstract = {Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is a gas signaling molecule which is produced endogenously from L-cysteine via the enzymes cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE). H2S may mediate hypoxic responses in vascular smooth muscle. H2S also appears to be a signaling molecule in mammalian non-vascular smooth muscle. Hypoxia is associated with pre-eclampsia where poor placental function can reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus resulting in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and other placental dysfunctions. Hypoxia can also bring about other pre-eclamptic features such as the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress.Hypoxic conditions can also reduce the uteroplacental perfusion, which may lead to inflammatory conditions i.e. oxidative stress. However, there are no reports to date on the production of H2S in reproductive tissues and the possible role of hydrogen sulphide in reproduction has not yet been fully investigated. It has been previously demonstrated that hydrogen sulphide relaxes uterine smooth muscle in vitro. We investigated the endogenous production of H2S in rat intrauterine tissues and the effectof NO and low oxygen condition on H2S production in intrauterine tissues. The production of H2S in rat intrauterine tissues was measured in vitro using a standard technique. The expression of CBS and CSE was also investigated in rat intrauterine tissues via western blotting. Furthermore, the effects of nitric oxide (NO) and low oxygen conditions on the production rates of hydrogen sulphide were investigated. The order of H2S production rates for rat tissues were: liver (488±28.9 nM/min/g) > uterus (310±36.7 nM/min/g) > fetal membranes (88.2±3.8 nM/min/g)> placenta (42.7± 6.8 nM/min/g). Under the effect of NO donor, NO significantly increased H2S production in rat fetal membranes only (from 88.2±3.8 nM/min/g to 103.2±7.4 nM/min/g). Under low oxygen conditions, production of H2S was significantly increased compared to room air oxygen conditions for rat liver (from 422±31.6 nM/min/g to 583±38.7 nM/min/g), uterus (from 328±11.8 nM/min/g to 5913±21.8 nM/min/g) and fetal membranes (from 78.2±9.1 to 189±17.1) , but not rat placenta. Western blotting detected the expression of CBS and CSE in all rat intrauterine tissues. Rat intrauterine tissues produce H2S in vitro possibly via CBS and CSE enzymes.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36719.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36719_ddecd5166a7e14551eed4ebcd9c3c4b3.pdf} } @article { author = {El-Sekelly, Saad and Hasan, Mohamed and Abd Allah, Ibrahem}, title = {Oral vitamin C administration Decreases Training Efficiency and Muscle Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Rats}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {207-218}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36720}, abstract = {Exercise practitioners often take vitamin C supplements because intense muscular contractile activity can result in oxidative stress, as indicated by altered muscle and blood glutathione concentrations and increases in protein, DNA, and lipid peroxidation. There is, however, considerable debate regarding the beneficial health effects of vitamin C supplementation. The present study was designed to study the effect of vitamin C on training efficiency in rats. Thirty male Albino rats were exercised under protocol for 6 weeks. Ten of the rats were treated with a daily dose of 500 mg/kg body weight of vitamin C (0.24 mg/cm2 body surface area). The administration of vitamin C hampered endurance capacity. The adverse effects of vitamin C may result from its capacity toreduce the exercise-induced expression of key transcription factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. These factors are nuclear respiratory factor 1and mitochondrial transcription factor A. Vitamin C also prevented the exercise-induced expression ofthe antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. The study showed that Vitamin C supplementation decreases training efficiency because it prevents some cellular adaptations to exercise.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36720.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36720_a25153a0d2702752b22759a78ed0f614.pdf} } @article { author = {El-Masry, Samir and Khalil, Mahmoud and Al-Badrawey, Mohamed and Shokhba, Mohamed}, title = {Determination of Matrix Metalloproteinases-9 in Egyptian Patients with Pulmonary Mycobacterium Tuberculosis}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {219-228}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36724}, abstract = {Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a large family of enzymes that degrade extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). MMPs are implicated in tissue remodeling processes such as wound healing, and pregnancies. MMPs also participate in some pathological conditions such as cancer. Recent studies have shown that MMPs are induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) during pulmonary infection. The aim of the present study was to determine the Matrix Metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) levels in Egyptian patients with MTB compared to their levels in healthy control individuals. Forty six patients with MTB (group I) and forty three healthy volunteers (Group II) were included in the study. The concentrations of MMP-9 in the serum samples of the two groups were determined quantitatively by human MMP-9 enzyme–link ed immunoassay (ELISA) k it. The result showed that MMP-9 levels were significantly higher in MTB patients (p<0.0001), compared to their levels in healthy control group. MMP-9 levels were increased with increasing the severity of the disease, since, their concentrations were significantly increased in complicated cases compared with uncomplicated cases (p<0. 0001). In conclusion, our study suggests that, the higher levels of MMP-9 in patients with tuberculosis may be due to overexpression by a variety of cells including mononuclear phagocytes and stimulated neutrophils. Also, MMP-9 levels were directly proportional with the severity of the disease. Their rising levels may be used as indicator of MTB activity.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36724.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36724_3dd009512631c51db38047c1e459064b.pdf} } @article { author = {Abdel-Aleem, Ghada and Wagih, Ayman and Abousaif, Sabry and Abdel-Azem, Mona}, title = {Diagnostic and Predictive Value of Some Tumor Markers in the Diagnosis and Follow Up of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma}, journal = {Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, volume = {29}, number = {2}, pages = {229-246}, year = {2009}, publisher = {Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences}, issn = {1110-0842}, eissn = {2356-9514}, doi = {10.21608/besps.2009.36729}, abstract = {Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is essential for successful treatment. Although the role of alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in the diagnosis of advanced HCC is well recognized, at least one third of small HCCs and 15–20% of advanced HCC will be missed unless another diagnostic tool is used. Thus, new serologic markers with sufficient sensitivity and specificity are required. In the present study, we aimed at evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic role of AFP, protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist(P1VKA-II), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), sialic acid, alpha-L-fucosidase (AFU) and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) in the diagnosis and follow up of Egyptian patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in an attempt to find a tumor marker with a reasonable sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of HCC and monitoring patients after therapy. The study was conducted on 4 selected groups of patients and a control group. Group I included 10 patients with liver cirrhosis. Group II consisted of 10 patients with benign hepatic focal lesions. Group III included 10 HCC patients without distant metastasis and group IV included 10 HCC patients presenting with metastasis. Ten apparently healthy age and sex matched subjects were also included and served as control group. AFP, sialic acid, alpha-L-fucosidase (AFU), VEGF, PIVKA-II and TGF- β1 were determined in the blood of five studied groups. The sensitivity and specificity of the tumor markers were calculated and compared. Significant differences in the median blood levels of AFP, PIVKA-II, VEGF, sialic acid, TGF- β1 and alpha-L-fucosidase activity (AFU) were found on comparing the HCC groups (with and without metastasis) with the other groups. The median blood levels of PIVKA- II, α-fetoprotein level, sialic acid and AFU activity were lower in the HCC group without metastasis compared to that with metastasis (p<0.001). On the other hand, the median serum VEGF level was higher in the HCC group without metastasis compared to that of the HCC group with distant metastasis(p<0.001). Serum TGF- β1 level did not vary significantly between both groups (with and without metastasis) (p>0.05). There were significant lower median blood levels of all parameters in HCC patients without metastasis after ablation therapy compared to pretreatment levels. Combined determination of serological markers could be used as a highly valuable tool for screening and diagnosis of HCC as combination of these markers improved their sensitivity and specificity. They could also be used as prognostic markers decreasing the need for more invasive procedures.}, keywords = {}, url = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36729.html}, eprint = {https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36729_831030b2fbde3cf5f2fd2f88ad2319bf.pdf} }