The association of ideal cardiovascular health metrics and incident hypertension among an urban population of Iran: a decade follow-up in Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

We aimed to determine the association between ideal cardiovascular health metrics (ICVHM) and the incidence of hypertension among Iranian adults. The study population included 5409 Iranian adults aged ≥20 years (2088 men) without hypertension (applying the 2017 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) guideline) at baseline. The ICVHM was defined according to the AHA's 2020 impact goals, excluding total cholesterol was replaced by non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDL-C). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was done to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) for ICVHM both as continuous and categorical variables. During a median 8.5-year follow-up, 2972 new cases of hypertension were identified (men: 1,287). Non-HDL-C < 130 mg/dL in men [HR (95% CI): 0.75(0.65-0.86)] and fasting plasma glucose(FPG) < 100 mg/dL in women[HR (95% CI): 0.79(0.64-0.97)], and among both genders, being normal/overweigth status (compared to obese) and blood pressure <120/80 mmHg were associated with a lower risk for hypertension. Additionally, in both gender, a 1-point increase in the number of global ICVHM decreased the risk of hypertension by more than 10%, and having ≥5 vs. <2 ICVHM, were associated with a lower risk of hypertension by 30% (all p values < 0.05). Applying the JNC 7 guideline, the association between ICVHM, with incident hypertension, were generally similar. Having a higher number of ICVHM was associated with a lower risk of incident hypertension, using both 2017 ACC/AHA and JNC 7 guidelines, mostly attributable to keeping the ideal status of body mass index, non-HDL-C, and FPG.

24-Epibrassinolide alleviates diazinon oxidative damage by escalating activities of antioxidant defense systems in maize plants

Excessive use of pesticides against pests has contaminated agricultural crops and raised global concerns about food safety. This research investigates the alleviation effects of 24-epibrassinolide (EBL) seed priming on diazinon (DZ) pesticide toxicity. The experiment was conducted with eight groups including control, DZ, EBL (10 µM), EBL (0.1 µM), EBL (0.01 µM), EBL (10 µM) + DZ, EBL (0.1 µM) + DZ, and EBL (0.01 µM) + DZ. Plants grown with the lowest concentration of EBL (0.01 µM) exhibited an upward increase in the activity of SOD, CAT, POD, APX, GR, and GST enzymes under DZ toxicity stress. In contrast, higher concentrations of EBL showed some inhibitory effects on the activity of antioxidant enzymes. In addition, low concentrations of EBL elevated the free radical scavenging capacity (DPPH), iron-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), photosynthesis rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and proline, and protein contents. EBL also reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA levels) in the DZ-exposed plants, leading to membrane integrity. The favorable effects of EBL were more evident when plants were exposed to pesticides than normal growth conditions. The results indicated that EBL seed priming intensifies the antioxidant enzymes system activity, and helps maize plants against toxic effects of DZ under proper concentration.

Neutron spectroscopy with TENIS using an artificial neural network

In this research, a ThErmal Neutron Imaging System (TENIS) consisting of two perpendicular sets of plastic scintillator arrays for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) application has been investigated in a completely different approach for neutron energy spectrum unfolding. TENIS provides a thermal neutron map based on the detection of 2.22 MeV gamma-rays resulting from 1H(nth, γ)2D reactions, but in the present study, the 70-pixel thermal neutron images have been used as input data for unfolding the energy spectrum of incident neutrons. Having generated the thermal neutron images for 109 incident mono-energetic neutrons, a 70 × 109 response matrix has been generated using the MCNPX2.6 code for feeding into the artificial neural network tools of MATLAB. The errors of the final results for mono-energetic neutron sources are less than 10% and the root mean square error (RMSE) for the unfolded neutron spectrum of 252Cf is about 0.01. The agreement of the unfolding results for mono-energetic and 252Cf neutron sources confirms the performance of the TENIS system as a neutron spectrometer.

Expression patterns of T cells-specific long noncoding RNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus patients carrying HLA risk/nonrisk alleles

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) play key roles in the regulation of gene expression and subsequently in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to explore the peripheral expression levels of T-cells-specific LncRNAs and transcription factors in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients carrying either human leukocyte antigens (HLA) risk or non-risk alleles.

METHODS

Genotypes of HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 loci for 106 SLE patients were determined by PCR-SSP. In the next step, patients were stratified based on the presence of HLA-DRB1*03 and/or DRB1*16 allele groups (HLA risk alleles positive or HLA-RPos) or carrying other DRB1 allele groups (HLA-RNeg). Then, transcript levels of LncRNAs (IFNG-AS1, RMRP, Th2LCR, and DQ786243) and mRNAs for transcription factors (Foxp3, Gata3, and Tbx21) were measured using qRT-PCR and compared between two subgroups of patients.

RESULTS

Totally, 47 cases were classified as HLA-RPos and 59 cases as HLA-RNeg patients. The HLA-RPos patients showed decreased transcript levels of DQ786243 (p = .001) and elevated expression of IFNG-AS1 (p = .06) and T-bet mRNA (p = .03) compared to the HLA-RNeg group. We observed significantly lower expression of Th2LCR (p < .0001) and DQ786243 (p = .001) and higher expression of Tbx21 (p = .009) and Foxp3 (p = .02) in DR3-positive versus DR3-negative patients. Likewise, decreased transcript levels of DQ786243 (p = .02) and RMRP (p = .003) were observed in DR16-positive versus DR16-negative patients. ROC curve analysis revealed the potential of DQ786243 and RMRP as biomarkers in SLE disease based on the carriage of HLA risk alleles.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the contribution of multiple T cell subsets in SLE disease progression as judged by expression analysis of LncRNAs and transcription factors can be inspired by the inheritance of HLA risk/nonrisk alleles is SLE patients.

Diagnostic dilemma in a patient with history of medullary thyroid carcinoma and abnormal serum liver enzymes; a case report with six years follow up

BACKGROUND

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a neuroendocrine tumor that originates from parafollicular C-cells. Calcitonin (Ctn) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) are useful biomarkers for monitoring MTC cases.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we describe a 48-year-old woman, who presented in 2014 with bilateral thyroid nodules. Report of fine needle aspiration was suspicious for MTC; initial laboratory evaluation showed serum Ctn level of 1567 pg/mL. After excluding type 2 multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome clinically, total thyroidectomy and neck lymph node dissection were performed. The final histopathological diagnosis was right lobe MTC with neither vascular invasion nor lymph node involvement. On regular follow-up visits, Ctn and CEA levels have been undetectable, and repeated cervical ultrasonographic exams were unremarkable from 2014 to 2021. As liver enzymes became elevated in 2016, the patient was further evaluated by a gastroenterologist. Abdominopelvic ultrasonography revealed a coarse echo pattern of the liver parenchyma with normal bile ducts. A liver fibroscan showed a low fibrosis score (7kPa). The patient was recommended to use ursodeoxycholic acid. According to the progressive rise of liver enzymes with a cholestatic pattern in October 2020, a liver biopsy was performed that showed tiny nests of neuroendocrine-like cells with a background of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Immunohistochemical stainings were positive for chromogranin A (CgA), and synaptophysin and negative for Ctn, CEA, and thyroglobulin. Further imaging investigations did not reveal any site of a neuroendocrine tumor in the body. Considering normal physical exam, imaging findings, as well as normal serum levels of Ctn, CEA, CgA, and procalcitonin, the patient was managed as a PBC.

CONCLUSION

In follow-up of a patient with MTC, we reported progressively increased liver enzymes with a cholestatic pattern. Liver biopsy revealed nests of neuroendocrine-like cells with a background of PBC, the findings that might suggest acquiring neuroendocrine phenotype by proliferating cholangiocytes.

Validity Assessment of an Automated Brain Morphometry Tool for Patients with De Novo Memory Symptoms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Automated volumetric analysis of structural MR imaging allows quantitative assessment of brain atrophy in neurodegenerative disorders. We compared the brain segmentation performance of the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging software against an in-house FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T1-weighted images of 45 participants with de novo memory symptoms were selected from the OASIS-4 database and analyzed through the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool and the FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline. Correlation, agreement, and consistency between the 2 tools were compared among the absolute, normalized, and standardized volumes. Final reports generated by each tool were used to compare the rates of detection of abnormality and the compatibility of radiologic impressions made using each tool, compared with the clinical diagnoses.

RESULTS

We observed strong correlation, moderate consistency, and poor agreement between absolute volumes of the main cortical lobes and subcortical structures measured by the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool compared with FreeSurfer. The strength of the correlations increased after normalizing the measurements to the total intracranial volume. Standardized measurements differed significantly between the 2 tools, likely owing to differences in the normative data sets used to calibrate each tool. When considering the FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline as a reference standard, the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool had a specificity of 90.6%-100% and a sensitivity of 64.3%-100% in detecting volumetric abnormalities. There was no difference between the rate of compatibility of radiologic and clinical impressions when using the 2 tools.

CONCLUSIONS

The AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool reliably detects atrophy in cortical and subcortical regions implicated in the differential diagnosis of dementia.

Diagnostic accuracy of bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling using desmopressin or corticotropic- releasing hormone in ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The current gold standard diagnostic method for Cushing disease (CD) is bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS) after corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulation. Due to shortages of CRH, BIPSS has been performed with desmopressin (DDAVP) instead. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of BIPSS using DDAVP or CRH for the differential diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome (CS). A literature review was done in PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and google scholar databases to derive summary estimates of the overall diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy of BIPSS using DDAVP or CRH in Cushing's syndrome. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio and summary receiver operating characteristic curves (SROC) for differential diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in the random-effects models, were computed. Overall, 11 different studies with a total of 612 participants, were eligible for the analysis. Five articles with data on BIPSS using DDAVP, 5 papers on BIPSS using CRH, and another one evaluated the results of stimulation using DDAVP, with or without CRH, for differential diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome. The pooled (95% CI) sensitivity and specificity of BIPSS using DDAVP, were 96% (91-98%) and 1.00 (0.00-1.00), respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.95. The pooled (95% CI) sensitivity and specificity of BIPSS using CRH, were 98% (92-99%) and 1.00 (0.00-1.00), respectively, and the area under the SROC curve was 0.98. The I² index (95% CI) was 0% (0-100%) for both BIPSS using DDAVP and using CRH. As a result, DDAVP stimulation is a safe, effective, less expensive, valuable and available alternative to CRH in the setting of BIPSS for all age groups of patients with CS. Registration code in PROSPERO: CRD42021292531.

In Situ Formation of Copper Phosphate on Hydroxyapatite for Wastewater Treatment

Here, we control the surface activity of hydroxyapatite (HAp) in wastewater treatment which undergoes peroxodisulfate (PDS) activation. Loading the catalytically active Cu species on HAp forms a copper phosphate in the outer layer of HAp. This modification turns a low active HAp into a high catalytically active catalyst in the dye degradation process. The optimal operational conditions were established to be [Cu–THAp]₀ = 1 g/L, [RhB]₀ = 20 mg/L, [PDS]₀ = 7.5 mmol/L, and pH = 3. The experiments indicate that the simultaneous presence of Cu-THAp and PDS synergistically affect the degradation process. Additionally, chemical and structural characterizations proved the stability and effectiveness of Cu-THAp. Therefore, this work introduces a simple approach to water purification through green and sustainable HAp-based materials.

Game theory and evolutionary optimization approaches applied to resource allocation problems in computing environments: A survey

Today's intelligent computing environments, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud Computing (CC), Fog Computing (FC), and Edge Computing (EC), allow many organizations worldwide to optimize their resource allocation regarding the quality of service and energy consumption. Due to the acute conditions of utilizing resources by users and the real-time nature of the data, a comprehensive and integrated computing environment has not yet provided a robust and reliable capability for proper resource allocation. Although traditional resource allocation approaches in a low-capacity hardware resource system are efficient for small-scale resource providers, for a complex system in the conditions of dynamic computing resources and fierce competition in obtaining resources, they cannot develop and adaptively manage the conditions optimally. To optimize the resource allocation with minimal delay, low energy consumption, minimum computational complexity, high scalability, and better resource utilization efficiency, CC/FC/EC/IoT-based computing architectures should be designed intelligently. Therefore, the objective of this research is a comprehensive survey on resource allocation problems using computational intelligence-based evolutionary optimization and mathematical game theory approaches in different computing environments according to the latest scientific research achievements.

Study of Genetic Diversity Among Crataegus Species (Hawthorn) Using ISSR Markers in Northwestern of Iran

Background: Crataegus spp. (Hawthorn) are used for horticultural and medicinal purposes. Objectives: In the present study, the genetic relationships among the five Iranian Crataegus species were evaluated by Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) molecular marker Methods: PCR reactions were performed using six primers (811, 827, 834, 845, 856, and 868) and genetic similarity was calculated based on Jacquard’s similarity coefficient. Results: Six primers generated 79 products in total, of which 71 were polymorphic (89.9%), with an average of 13.1 bands per primer. The percentage of polymorphic bands ranged from 77 to 100. Primer 856 produced the highest number of bands, while the lowest was generated by primer 845. The Jacquard’s similarity coefficient, derived from ISSR marker analysis, ranged from 0.164 to 0.337, indicating high genetic variation among Crataegus species in Iran. Conclusion: This study provides important data for identifying species relationships and helps develop plant breeding strategies to improve the medicinal properties of this genus in the future.  

Microbial, physiochemical and functional properties of probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum enriched by green tea aqueous extract

In this study, the effect of aqueous extract of green tea on the viability of probiotic bacteria including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum and the sensory and physicochemical and functional properties of synbiotic yogurt was investigated during 4 weeks of storage. L. acidophilus and B. bifidum counts did not significantly change in yogurt containing 0.5% and 1% of the extract during storage. Also, the addition of the extract to yogurt highly increased the phenolic compounds, since the amount of phenolic compounds in yogurt containing 0.5% and 1% extract was 660 and 1,123 mg gallic acid/kg, respectively. In addition, a significant increase in the antioxidant activity of yogurt containing green tea extract was observed in comparison with the control. The amount of antioxidant activity increased during 4 weeks of storage, which reached to 4,193 and 7,337 mg BHT eq./kg in probiotic yogurt containing 0.5% and 1% extract, respectively. The acidity increased during 4 weeks of storage, while the pH decreased. Addition of the extract significantly increased the acidity of probiotic yogurt compared with the control (p < .05). In addition, in all studied groups, an increase in syneresis was observed during the study, and the syneresis was greater in yogurt containing aqueous extract of green tea, compared with the control group. Although adding the green tea extract to probiotic yogurt impaired taste, texture, and appearance compared with the plain yogurt, the overall acceptability of these samples was yet above the acceptable level. In conclusion, the results of the study showed that the addition of aqueous extract of green tea increased the antioxidant properties and the amount of phenolic compounds in yogurt, while the viability of probiotic bacteria was not changed. Therefore, the simultaneous use of green tea extract and probiotics in yogurt is recommended as an effective functional food formulation.

A case series of bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling with desmopressin in evaluation of ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome in Iran

BACKGROUND

Differentiating the etiology of ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome (CS) has remained challenging due to the limited accuracy of noninvasive assays. Nowadays, bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS) with corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is the gold standard method in the diagnostic work-up of complex CS. However, this method is as yet far from being widespread. The limited utility of this method could be due to many factors such as limited availability of an experienced interventionist, limited availability of CRH, and cost of the procedure. So far, very few studies have been conducted using desmopressin instead of CRH. In this study, we report the use of BIPSS with desmopressin as a diagnostic tool in a series of patients with suspected Cushing's disease (CD) and equivocal imaging in a tertiary referral center in Iran.

METHODS

A total of 13 patients with ACTH-dependent CS and no significant lesions in their pituitary MRI participated in this retrospective case series. All patients underwent BIPSS with desmopressin, and, following centralization of CS, transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) was carried out and diagnosis of CD was confirmed using standard methods.

RESULTS

Of the 13 patients with confirmed CD (by pathology or biochemical response after surgery), eight (61.5%) were female, with a median age of 32 years (IQR: 26-41). The median duration of disease was 24 months (IQR: 11-48). During BIPSS, all patients had a central-to-peripheral gradient greater than 2 under basal conditions. This central-to-peripheral gradient did not increase to > 3 after desmopressin administration in two of these patients. Based on the gradient after BIPSS, the sensitivity of this modality in the diagnosis of CD was 100%. Eight of the 13 patients had right lateralization in both BIPSS and TSS; therefore, the accuracy rate of lateralization by BIPSS was 61.5%. No complications occurred after BIPSS, the exception being the development of groin hematoma in one patient.

CONCLUSION

No significant benefits of adding desmopressin to BIPSS were observed. The sensitivity of BIPSS in the diagnosis of CD was high, whereas it has moderate accuracy in tumor lateralization.

Nurses' experience of caring for people living with HIV: a focused ethnography

BACKGROUND

Healthcare providers have been found to have limited knowledge and skills in interacting with people living with HIV. These factors can adversely affect providers' practice, jeopardize their safety and compromise the care of the patients.

AIMS

This study aimed to explore the experiences of Iranian nurses who were caring for patients with HIV.

METHODS

A focused ethnography approach was used. Participants consisted of 12 nurses working in teaching hospitals affiliated to Urmia University of Medical Sciences and recruited by purposeful sampling. Semi-structured interviews, field observations and field notes were used for data collection. Data were analysed employing content analysis.

FINDINGS

Three main themes emerged from the analysis of the participants' experiences of providing care to patients with HIV: 'excessive fear of being infected', 'concerns about the possible consequences' and 'lack of self-confidence in care provision'.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Nurses have experienced a great deal of fear of self and cross-contamination when providing care to people living with HIV. Social stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV amplified the nurses' experience of fear. Providing appropriate education and training for nurses can improve their attitudes, emotions and self-confidence while providing care to such people and increasing the quality of care provided.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY

Planning more educational programmes focusing on improving their misunderstandings about HIV could result in positive outcomes: for nurses to provide high-quality care and for people living with HIV who receive this care. The healthcare system should consider the culture of care provided by nurses to these people.

Adaptogenic potential of royal jelly in reproductive system of heat stress-exposed male rats

Testicular heat stress (HS) can lead to testicular tissue destruction and spermatogenesis disturbances. Royal Jelly (RJ) has been introduced as a potent antioxidant. We investigated the effects of RJ on testicular tissue, oxidative stress and sperm apoptosis in HS-exposed rats. Compared to HS-exposed groups, RJ co-treatment could improve testosterone reduction and histopathological damages. The RJ co-administration decreased MDA level in testicular tissue, while TAC and CAT levels were remarkably increased compared to HS-exposed groups. Moreover, significant higher expression level of Bcl-2 and lower expression levels of P53 and Caspase-3 were seen following RJ co-administration compared to HS-exposed groups. Our data suggest that RJ can effectively ameliorate experimental HS-induced testiculopathies in rats through testicular antioxidant defense system restoration and germ cells apoptosis regulation.

Recurrence of a neuroendocrine tumor of adrenal origin: a case report with more than a decade follow-up

BACKGROUND

Neuroendocrine tumor (NET) with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion are very rare. To our knowledge, no follow-up study is published for ACTH-secreting NET, regardless of the primary site, to show second occurrence of tumor after a long follow-up, following resection of primary tumor.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we describe a 49-year-old-man with cushingoid feature, drowsiness and quadriparesis came to emergency department at December 2005. Laboratory tests revealed hyperglycemia, metabolic alkalosis, severe hypokalemia, and chemical evidence of an ACTH-dependent hypercortisolism as morning serum cortisol of 57 μg /dL without suppression after 8 mg dexamethasone suppression test, serum ACTH level of 256 pg/mL, and urine free cortisol of > 1000 μg /24 h. Imaging showed only bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, without evidence of pituitary adenoma or ectopic ACTH producing tumors. Importantly, other diagnostic tests for differentiating Cushing disease (CD) from ectopic ACTH producing tumor, such as inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS), corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) stimulation test, octreotide scan or fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) scan were not available in our country at that time. Therefore, bilateral adrenalectomy was performed that led to clinical and biochemical remission of hypercortisolism and decreased ACTH level to < 50 pg/mL, findings suggestive of a primary focus of NET in adrenal glands. After 11 years uncomplicated follow up, the ACTH level elevated up to 341 pg/mL and re-evaluation showed a 2 cm nodule in the middle lobe of the right lung. Surgical excision of the pulmonary nodule yielded a carcinoid tumor with positive immunostaining for ACTH; leading to decrease in serum ACTH level to 98 pg/mL. Subsequently after 7 months, serum ACHT levels rose again. More investigation showed multiple lung nodules with metastatic bone lesions accompanied by high serum chromogranin level (2062 ng/mL), and the patient managed as a metastatic NET, with bisphosphonate and somatostatin receptor analogues.

CONCLUSION

This case of surgically-treated NET showing a secondary focus of carcinoid tumor after one decade of disease-free follow-up emphasizes on the importance of long-term follow-up of ACTH-secreting adrenal NET.

Shedding light on thyroid hormone disorders and Parkinson disease pathology: mechanisms and risk factors

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons. Dopaminergic system is interconnected with the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. Dopamine (DA) upregulates thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) while downregulating thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones. Moreover, TRH stimulates DA release. PD is associated with impaired regulation of TSH and thyroid hormones (TH) levels, which in turn associate with severity and different subtypes of PD, while levodopa and bromocriptine treatment can interfere with hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. Thyroid disturbances, including hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease (GD) not only increase the risk of PD but also share some clinical signs with PD. Also, several genes including RASD2, WSB1, MAPT, GIRK2, LRRK2 and gene products like neurotensin and NOX/DUOX affect the risk for both PD and thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism is associated with obesity, hypercholesterolemia, anemia and altered cerebral blood flow which are associated with PD pathology. Herein we provide a comprehensive view on the association between PD and thyroid hormones regulation and dysregulations, hoping to provide new avenues towards targeted treatment of PD. We performed a comprehensive search in literature using Pubmed and Scopus, yielding to a total number of 36 original articles that had addressed the association between thyroid hormone disorders and PD.

Pre- sowing seed treatment with salicylic acid and sodium hydrosulfide confers Pb toxicity tolerance in maize (Zea mays L.)

In the present study, impact of salicylic acid (SA), sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) and concomitant application of SA and NaHs seed priming was investigated in alleviation of the lead stress adverse effects on growth parameters, total chlorophyll content, dicarbonyl stress, and lead-induced iron deficiency in maize. Maize seeds were soaked in 0.5 mM SA and 0.5 mM NaHS individually and in 0.25 mM SA and 0.25 mM NaHS concomitantly for 12 h. The 6 day old plants were subjected to 2.5 mM Pb(NO₃)₂ for 9 days. Lead stress caused a significant decrease in growth parameters and total chlorophyll and shoot iron contents, whereas increased lead and methylglyoxal accumulation significantly. The cysteine and methionine contents elevated in shoots of lead stressed plants; probably due to redirection of sulfur assimilation requirement for lead detoxification. The SA, NaHS and SA+NaHS applications modulated glyoxalase I activity and resulted in remarkable reduction in methylglyoxal accumulation during lead stress. Lead induced iron deficiency was reverted under SA, NaHS and SA+NaHS seed priming in shoots, probably through reduction in lead uptake and increase in nitric oxide content. Lead imposition activated iron starvation pathway via elevation in methionine content and expression of iron uptake and hemostasis-related genes including Yellow Stripe1 (ZmYS 1), S-adenosylmethionine synthase (ZmSAMS) and 2'-deoxymugineic acid synthase (ZmDMAS1) in roots. However, the ZmSAMS and ZmDMAS1 transcript levels did not change under lead exposure in shoots. The SA, NaHS and SA+NaHS seed primed plants displayed downregulation of ZmSAMS and ZmDMAS1 in shoots and roots under lead stress. In conclusion, seed priming with SA and NaHS could improve lead tolerance in maize via reduction in the Pb uptake, consequently lowering lead toxicity in the food chain.

Protective Effects of Anethum graveolens Seed's Oil Nanoemulsion Against Cadmium-Induced Oxidative Stress in Mice

The cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that induces oxidative stress in both humans and animals. The plant phenolic compounds are capable of alleviating the toxicity of heavy metals. The encapsulation of plant bioactive compounds using nanoemulsion technology could enhance their bioefficacy. In this study, the protective effects of Anethum graveolens seed's oil nanoemulsion (AGN) against cadmium-induced oxidative stress in mice were studied. The results showed that the major bioactive compounds of essential oil were carvone and limonene. The result of particle size analysis revealed the pseudo-spherical droplets with nanometer size (148.8 ± 9.48 nm), homogenous dispersion, and physical colloidal stability. The Cd intoxication in mice (5 mg/kg BW for 30 days) reduced the body weight gain; however, treatment of the mice with different concentration of AGN (0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 mg/L, 30 days) through drinking water improved the body weight loss, liver Cd deposition, lipid peroxidation, cellular antioxidant redox potential, and inflammation in the liver, kidney, and brain of the mice challenged by cadmium-induced oxidative stress. The results of the present study revealed that drinking the essential oil of Anethum graveolens nanoemulsion containing carvone and limonene could be a promising strategy to protect the tissues against cadmium-induced oxidative damage.

Bacteriophages as antibiotic resistance genes carriers in agro-food systems

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are a global health concern. Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process of antibiotic resistance emergency, which has been aggravated by exposure to molecules of antibiotics present in clinical and agricultural settings and the engagement of many countries in water reuse especially in Middle East and North Africa region. Bacteriophages have the potential to be significant actors in ARGs transmission through the transduction process. These viruses have been detected along with ARGs in non impacted habitats and in anthropogenic impacted environments like wastewater, reclaimed water and manure amended soil as well as minimally processed food and ready to eat vegetables. The ubiquity of bacteriophages and their persistence in the environment raises concern about their involvement in ARGs transmission among different biomes and the generation of pathogenic-resistant bacteria that pose a great threat to human health. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the potential role of bacteriophages in the dissemination and the transfer of ARGs to pathogens in food production and processing and the consequent contribution to antibiotic resistance transmission through faecal oral route carrying ARGs to our dishes.

Indentation and Transverse Diameter of the Meckel Cave: Imaging Markers to Diagnose Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Clinical and imaging manifestations of idiopathic intracranial hypertension should prompt early diagnosis and treatment to avoid complications. Multiple diagnostic imaging criteria are reported to suggest the diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension with questionable sensitivity and/or specificity. Increased intracranial pressure results in dilation of the perineural cisternal spaces such as the optic nerve sheaths and the Meckel cave. It may also cause protrusion of cisternal structures of the Meckel cave through the skull base foramina, which could result in indentation or a bilobed appearance of the Meckel cave. We investigated the changes in the Meckel cave in patients with proved idiopathic intracranial hypertension versus healthy controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied 75 patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and 75 age-and sex-matched healthy controls. The transverse diameter of Meckel cave was measured in the axial and coronal planes of T2-weighted MR imaging sequences, and comparison was made between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The mean diameters of the Meckel cave on the coronal T2 plane in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension were 5.21  ± 1.22 mm on the right side and 5.16  ± 0.90 mm on the left side, while in the control group, they measured 3.89  ± 0.62 mm and 4.09  ± 0.68 mm, respectively (P value < .001). Of 75 patients with an approved diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, 57 (76%) showed an indented Meckel cave as opposed to 21 (28%) in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm for the first time that the shape and size of the Meckel cave can be used as sensitive and specific diagnostic imaging markers for the diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Exogenous application of 24-epibrassinosteroid mitigates NaCl toxicity in flax by modifying free amino acids profile and antioxidant defence system

In the present study, we investigated the ameliorative effects of 24-epibrassinosteroid (24-epiBL) on antioxidant response and ion homeostasis in two NaCl-stressed Linum usitatissimum L. (flax) cultivars differing in salt tolerance. The content and profile of amino acids were also studied in the tolerant cultivar. Salt stress differently altered the activity of antioxidant enzymes, phenol and flavonoid contents, total antioxidant capacity and ion homeostasis in both cultivars, whereas H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were induced only in the TN-97-95 cultivar. Free amino acid concentrations showed variable patterns under salinity conditions compared with the control plants. 24-epiBL decreased the soluble protein content in NaCl-treated plants and also decreased stimulatory effects of salinity on the production and accumulation of phenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant capacity with altered ion (Na+, K+, and Cl-) contents. The 24-epiBL reduced the chlorophylls (a, b) and carotenoid contents in salt-treated TN-97-95 cultivar while enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes and declined the H2O2 content and lipid peroxidation in both NaCl-stressed cultivars. The profile and content of amino acids were significantly changed by 24-epiBL application under salinity treatment. In summary, our findings demonstrate that 24-epiBL seed priming mitigates the deleterious effects of salt stress in flax plants.

Current Status of M1 and M2 Macrophages Pathway as Drug Targets for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal system is mediated by both the immune system activity and homeostasis, mainly through releasing of various cytokines and chemokines, as well as the transmigration of the inflammatory cells to the affected site. In between, macrophages are key mediators of the immune system, nearly located all over the gastrointestinal tract. Macrophages have vital influence on the inflammatory condition with both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions. Their polarization status has been linked to numerous metabolic disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The equilibrium between the phenotypes and functions of inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 cells is regulated by both extracellular and intracellular stimuli, determining how the disease progresses. Thereby, factors that interchange such balance in the direction of increasing M2 macrophages offer unique approaches for future management of IBD. This study reflects the novel IBD treatment targets via the immune system's pathway, reporting the latest treatments that regulate the M1/M2 macrophages distribution in a way to favor IBD.

Microstructural Changes in Patients with Parkinson's Diseases and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Depressive Symptoms Versus Non-Depressed

Introduction

REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) is associated with psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. RBD is characterized by loss of normal skeletal muscle atonia during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep with prominent motor activity and dreaming and is a usual symptom of the early stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). Diffusion MRI connectometry was used to carry out group analysis between age and gender matched PD patients with RBD in with and without depression to characterize possible depression-related white matter microstructural changes in the Parkinson patients with RBD.

Method

DWI images were obtained for 15 PD-RBD with depression and 27 PD-RBD without depression. This dataset was acquired on a 3 Tesla Siemens scanner, producing 64 DWI at b = 1000 s/mm2 and one b0 image. Diffusion MRI data were corrected for subject motion, eddy current distortions, and susceptibility artefacts due to the magnetic field inhomogeneity. Diffusion MRI connectometry was conducted in a total of 27 subjects using percentage measurement.

Results

PD-RBD Patients with depressive symptoms showed decreased anisotropy (FDR < 0.05) in the fornix bilaterally, right cingulum, inferior longitudinal fasciculus bilaterally, right corticospinal tract and Genu of corpus callosum compared to PD-RBD patients without depression.

Conclusion

Since RBD is considered to be an early symptom of PD and also a marker of progression to PD, these results might PD-RBD patients with depression may progress dementing processes and visuospatial dysfunction earlier since fornix, cingulum and ILF have proven to be associated with these cognitive dysfunctions respectively.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Synthesis and characterisation of chitosan-encapsulated genistein: its anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic activities

Aims: The study was carried out to synthesise and characterise the chitosan-encapsulated genistein (CHI-En/Gen) and determine its anti-cancer and anti-angiogenic properties.Methods: The cytotoxic and anti-angiogenic activity of CHI-En/Gen was performed using MTT and chorioallantoic membrane assay. The molecular action was determined using flow cytometry and gene expression.Results: The synthesised CHI-En/Gen was in submicron size, spherical in shape and with entrapment efficiency and loading efficiency of 76.8% (w/w) and 32.6% (w/w), respectively. The CHI-En/Gen notably inhibited the growth and proliferation of human colorectal cancer cells (HT-29) while did not affect the viability of human dermal fibroblast as normal cell. The flow cytometry and the caspase-3 gene expression analyses revealed the apoptotic cells death in the HT-29 cells. Moreover, the encapsulated genistein showed anti-angiogenic activity.Conclusion: The CHI-En/Gen appeared as a promising carrier for the colon delivery of genistein to be used in complementary health approaches for the cancer prevention.

Effect of Auricularia auricula aqueous extract on survival of Lactobacillus acidophilus La-5 and Bifidobacterium bifidum Bb-12 and on sensorial and functional properties of synbiotic yogurt

The effect of Auricularia auricula aqueous extract (AAE) on the survival of Lactobacillus acidophilus La-5 and Bifidobacterium bifidum Bb-12, and on chemical and sensory properties of yogurt was investigated during 28 days of storage at 4°C. The use of 0.05% of AAE improved the survival of L. acidophilus La-5 and B. bifidum Bb-12 about 0.35 and 0.58 log CFU/g, respectively. However, AAE in 0.1% concentration enhanced the survival of L. acidophilus La-5 and B. bifidum Bb-12 about 0.43 and 0.51 log CFU/g, respectively. Moreover, 0.1% concentration of AAE drastically increased antioxidant activity and total phenolic content to 115.30 mg BHT eq./kg and 1,057.6 mg Gallic acid/kg after 28 days, respectively. Addition of AAE to the yogurt significantly decreased sensorial acceptance while increased syneresis compared to the control group (p < .05). In conclusion, the results of this study showed that addition of AAE improved probiotic protection and functional properties of the yogurt recommending its application in symbiotic yogurt.

Correction: Ultrasound-assisted leaching of vanadium from fly ash using lemon juice organic acids

Correction for ‘Ultrasound-assisted leaching of vanadium from fly ash using lemon juice organic acids’ by G. Rahimi et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 1685–1696, DOI: 10.1039/C9RA09352G.

24-Epibrassinolide alters DNA cytosine methylation of Linum usitatissimum L. under salinity stress

Salinity is a common environmental challenge limiting worldwide agricultural crop yield. Plants employ epigenetic regulatory strategies, such as DNA methylation which relatively allows rapid adaptation to new conditions in response to environmental stresses. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a novel group of phytohormones recognized as transcription and translation regulators which are able to mitigate the impact of environmental stresses on the plants. In the current investigation, the influence of salinity and 24-epibrassinolide (24-epiBL) was investigated on the extent and pattern of cytosine DNA methylation using methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphisms (MSAP) technique in flax. Upon NaCl (150 mM) exposure, total methylation of CCGG sequences was decreased in comparison to control plants, while 24-epiBL (10^-8 M) induced total methylation under salinity stress. Sequencing and analysis of six randomly selected MSAP fragments detected genes involved in various biological and molecular processes such as vitamine B1 biosynthesis, protein targeting and localization, post-translational modification and gene regulation. In conclusion, 24-epiBL seed priming could play critical role in regulation of cellular and biological processes in response to salt stress by epigenetic modification and induction of methylation.

Antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of royal jelly against nicotine-induced testicular injury in mice

This study describes the effects of royal jelly (RJ) on testicular injury induced by nicotine (NIC) in mice. Thirty-six male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Group 1 received normal saline, group 2 received 100 mg/kgBW/day RJ, groups 3 and 4 received NIC at doses of 0.50 and 1.00 mg/kgBW/day, respectively, and groups 5 and 6 received NIC at doses of 0.50 and 1.00 mg/kg BW/day, respectively, plus RJ. Following 35 days, the serum level of testosterone, histopathological changes, germ cell apoptosis, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and antioxidant indexes including total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and catalase (CAT) activity were determined. In addition, the mitochondria-dependent apoptosis was investigated by assessing the Bcl-2, p53, and Caspase-3 mRNA levels expression by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). Compared to NIC receiving groups, the concomitant administration of RJ could protect the testosterone reduction and histological damages. After RJ treatment, the level of tissue MDA content decreased, while tissue TAC and CAT levels were remarkably increased compared to NIC-exposed groups. Remarkable higher TUNEL-positive germ cells and low PCNA index were observed in NIC receiving groups. Besides, the expression level of Bcl-2 was significantly higher and the p53 and Caspase-3 levels were significantly lower in the RJ co-administration groups than NIC-only receiving groups. Our results confirmed that RJ effectively protects the testis against NIC evoked damages by antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects involving the up regulation of the antioxidant status, mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway prevention, and the proliferating activity improvement.

Royal jelly protects male rats from heat stress-induced reproductive failure

Royal jelly (RJ) as an antioxidant has been shown to have attenuated oxidative stress damages in reproductive organs. The objective was carried out the effects of RJ on sperm characteristics, sperm malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) outcome in heat stress (HS) exposed male rats. Forty-eight male rats were randomly divided into eight groups; group 1 received normal saline, group 2 received RJ (100 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ; PO), groups 3, 4 and 5 were heat-stressed (43, 39 and 37°C for 20 min per day respectively) and groups 6, 7 and 8 were heat-stressed along with RJ (43, 39 and 37°C for 20 min per day, respectively, plus RJ at a dose of 100 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ; PO). The HS was induced through immersion of experimental rat scrotums in a water bath. After 48 days, the HS induced remarkable diminish in sperm motility, viability and fertilising potential along with reduced blastulation rate and enhanced sperm chromatin abnormality, MDA levels and DNA damage. Nevertheless, RJ co-administration improved sperm characteristics and early embryo development as well as sperm lipid peroxidation level. Our data suggest that RJ can effectively ameliorate the experimental HS-induced infertility in rats through MDA concentration restoration and sperm characteristics and pre-implantation embryo development improvement.

IRAP and REMAP based genetic diversity among varieties of Lallemantia iberica

This study describes the genetic relationships among 34 varieties of Lallemantia iberica using inter-retrotransposon amplified polymorphism (IRAP) and retrotransposon-microsatellite amplified polymorphism (REMAP). Samples were collected from Agriculture Research Center of Urmia city (northwest Iran). Ten IRAP and REMAP primers generated 76 scorable electrophoretic bands with 78.94% polymorphism. The pair-wise Jacquard genetic similarity varied from 0.48 to 0.94 for IRAP and REMAP data combined. Average PIC values for IRAP and REMAP markers were 0.38. The retro-elements marker system produced 76 alleles in range of 100- 3000 bp. The cophenetic correlation coefficient between Jaccard's similarity matrix and the plotted dendrogram was 0.66. A dendrogram constructed based on COMPLETE LINKAGE. Cluster analysis of IRAP and REMAP data using the NTSYSpc 2.02 resulted in five clusters. The present study represents high genetic distance at genotype level suggesting that IRAP and REMAP markers are useful for Lallemantia iberica genetic diversity analysis.

Royal jelly protects male mice against nicotine-induced reproductive failure

This study evaluated the possible protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) on sperm parameters and sperm malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and in vitro fertilizing potential in nicotine (NIC) exposed male mice. Thrtiy-six male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Group 1 received normal saline, group 2 received 100 mg kg-1 per day RJ, groups 3 and 4 received NIC at doses of 0.50 and 1.00 mg kg-1 per day, respectively and groups 5 and 6 received NIC at doses of 0.50 and 1.00 mg kg-1 per day, respectively plus RJ. Caudal epididymal sperm characteristics, lipid peroxidation and in vitro fertilizing capacity and embryo development were evaluated after 35 days. The NIC treatment caused a significant decrease in sperm motility and viability and fertilization rate along with poor blastocyst formation and increased sperm DNA damage and MDA levels. Moreover, the incidences of chromatin abnormality in spermatozoa were significantly higher in NIC-exposed mice than those of control. Nevertheless, RJ treatment improved sperm parameters and in vitro fertilization outcome as well as sperm lipid peroxidation level. Data from the current study suggest that RJ has a potential repro-protective action against NIC-induced sperm abnormalities and embryotoxicity in mice.

Effect of 0.5% Chitosan mouthwash on recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a randomized double-blind crossover clinical trial

Background

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is one of the most common painful oral lesions of which there is no certain treatment.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Chitosan mouthwash 0.5% on RAS.

Methods

This randomized double-blind crossover clinical trial was conducted at a dental school in Babol, Iran, from 2015 to 2016. Twenty patients with a history of minor aphthous stomatitis were entered into this study. All patients were initially monitored in the first episode without treatment, and then were randomly treated in three other episodes with Chitosan, Triamcinolone or Biogel mouthwashes. The ulcer size and pain intensity by using visual analogous score (VAS) were recorded in each episode. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey test. We used SPSS version 20 to analyze data.

Results

The mean ulcer size on the fifth day (p=0.026, p=0.042, respectively) and VAS on the third and fifth days (p=0.011, p=0.013, respectively) were significantly less in Triamcinolone and Chitosan groups than Biogel and the no treatment episode. There were no significant differences between Chitosan and Triamcinolone groups in the average ulcer size and pain intensity in all the examination days.

Conclusions

Chitosan mouthwash is effective on pain relief and reducing ulcer size of minor aphthous stomatitis and this effect is almost the same as Triamcinolone mouthwash.

Clinical trial registration

The study was registered and approved by Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (http://www.irct.ir) with IRCT ID: IRCT2015030718753N2.

Funding

The study was funded by Deputy of Research and Technology of Babol University of Medical Sciences (ref. no.: 9133625).

Gene expression and levels of IL-6 and TNFα in PBMCs correlate with severity and functional class in patients with chronic heart failure

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows that proinflammatory cytokines are important determinants of assessment of severity and prognosis of chronic heart failure (CHF).

AIMS

We investigated whether peripheral expression of the proinflammmatory factors, TNF-α and IL-6 can predict variable of clinical assessment of patients with CHF.

METHODS

In this report, we used real-time PCR assay to compare relative gene expression of TNFα and IL-6 in PBMC from CHF patients with various heart diseases (n = 42, EF < 45%, NYHA I to IV) and matched healthy control subjects (n = 42).We also determined the TNFα and IL-6 concentrations of cell culture supernatant of PBMCs with ELISA.

RESULTS

There was a significant negative correlation between gene expression of TNFα and LVEF(r = 0.4, p < 0.05). Patients with CHF had increased gene expression of TNFα and IL-6 in PBMCs (p < 0.05). They also had elevated the supernatant levels of these cytokines in cultured PBMCs (p < 0.001). Levels of TNFα and IL-6 were increased in ischemic heart disease compared to non-ischemic heart disease. There was a positive correlation between TNFα and IL-6 levels in CHF patients and severity of CHF in patients. Levels of these cytokines were higher in patients with NYHA III-IV than in NYHA I-II and normal subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study indicate that peripheral expression of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-6, is important indicators of severity and prognosis in patients with chronic heart disease.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of IL-2, but not IL-12 and IFN-γ, are associated with increased susceptibility to chronic spontaneous urticaria

BACKGROUND

A clear picture of interaction of Th1/Th2 cytokines in pathogenesis of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), remains elusive. Impaired IFN-γ production and decreased levels of IL-2 have been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of Th1 cytokines; IL-2, IL-12 and IFN-γ polymorphisms with CSU.

METHODS

90 patients with CSU and 140 age-sex matched subjects were included in this study. DNA samples were evaluated through PCR-SSP assay in order to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms of IL-12 (A/C -1188) or (rs3212227), IFN-γ (A/T UTR5644) or (rs2069717) and IL-2 (G/T -330 and G/T +166) or (rs2069762 and rs2069763).

RESULTS

G allele at -330 at promoter region of IL-2 gene was overrepresented in CSU. Heterozygotes (GT) at this locus and heterozygotes at +166 of IL-2 gene (GT) were more prevalent in CSU group. Additionally, the haplotype GT for loci -330 and +166 of IL-2 gene was powerfully associated with CSU (OR (95%CI)=57.29 (8.43-112.7)).

CONCLUSIONS

SNP at position -330 and +166 of IL-2 gene are differently expressed in CSU. The haplotype GT of IL-2 at -330 and +166 might confer vulnerability to a number of immunological disorders in Iranian region.

Comparison between the effects of potassium phosphite and chitosan on changes in the concentration of Cucurbitacin E and on antibacterial property of Cucumis sativus

BACKGROUND

Cucurbitacins are mostly found in the members of the family Cucurbitaceae and are responsible for the bitter taste of cucumber. Pharmacological activities such as anti-bacterial and anti-tumor effects have been attributed to these structurally divers triterpens. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of potassium phosphite (KPhi) and chitosan on Cucurbitacin E (CuE) concentration in different tissues of Cucumis sativus. The antibacterial effect of plant ethanolic extracts was also examined against E.coli PTCC 1399 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PTCC 1430 bacterial strains.

METHODS

After emergence of secondary leaves, cucumber plants were divided into 4 groups (each group consisted of 6 pots and each pot contained one plant) and different treatments performed as follows: group1. Leaves were sprayed with distilled water (Control), group 2. The leaves were solely treated with potassium phosphite (KPhi), group 3. Leaves were solely sprayed with chitosan (Chitosan), group 4. Leaves were treated with KPhi and chitosan (KPhi + chitosan). The KPhi (2 g L-1) and chitosan (0.2 g L-1) were applied twice every 12 h for one day. Fruits, roots and leaves were harvested 24 h later. The ethanolic extract of plant organs was used for determination of CuE concentration using HPLC approach. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the agar well diffusion method. The experiments were arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) and performed in six biological replications for each treatment. Analysis of variance was performed by one-way ANOVA and Dunnette multiple comparison using SPSS.

RESULTS

The highest level of CuE was recorded in fruit (2.2 g L-1) of plants under concomitant applications of KPhi and chitosan. Result of antibacterial activity evaluation showed that under concomitant treatments of KPhi and chitosan, fruit extract exhibited the highest potential for activity against E. coli PTCC 1399 (with mean zone of inhibition equal to 36 mm) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PTCC 1430 (with mean zone of inhibition equal to 33 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

KPhi and chitosan can induce production of CuE compound and increase antibacterial potential of cucumber plant extract. The application of KPhi and chitosan may be considered as promising prospect in the biotechnological production of CuE.

Assessment of Salient Beliefs Affecting Mothers' Intention to Adherence to Dietary Diversity in their Children's Complementary Feeding

BACKGROUND

Providing a variety of foods has been emphasized as one of the most important features of optimal complementary feeding. This study investigated key beliefs that guide mothers' intention to adherence to dietary diversity in their 1-2-year-old children's complementary feeding.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving 290 mothers (mean age = 27, standard deviation = 5.32) with child 1-2-year-old attending maternal and child health section of health centers in Rasht, Iran. To represent the socioeconomic status of the participants, 6 centers out of 15 were selected from three different socioeconomic areas (low-, middle-, and high-income areas). Mothers completed a questionnaire assessing intention and belief-based items of theory of planned behavior. Correlations and multiple regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The mean age of mothers was 27 ± 5.33 (27-43 years). Regression analyses revealed that among behavioral beliefs, the perception that adherence to dietary diversity would lead to improve children's growth was the significant predictor of intention (β = 0.13, P = 0.04). Regarding normative beliefs, perceived social pressure from health-care professionals to adherence to dietary diversity significantly predicted intention (β = 0.15, P = 0.01). Among control beliefs, the perception that daily pressures made difficult adherence to dietary diversity was the key determinant (β = 0.19, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings of this study represent the important beliefs that can be addressed in development planning aimed at modifying mothers' child complementary feeding practices.

Vitamin E induces regular structure and stability of human insulin, more intense than vitamin D3

Changes in human environment and lifestyle over the last century have caused a dramatic increase in the occurrence of diabetes. Research of past decades illustrated that vitamin D and E have a key role in the improvement of diabetes by reducing oxidative stress, protein glycosylation, insulin resistance and also improving beta cell function. Binding properties and conformational changes of human insulin upon interaction with vitamins D₃ and E (α-tocopherol) were investigated by spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and molecular dynamic simulation. Tyrosine fluorescence quenching studies indicates changes in the human insulin conformation in the presence of vitamins. Binding constants of vitamins D₃ and E for human insulin were determined to be 2.7 and 1.5 (×10^-5M^-1) and the corresponding average numbers of binding sites were determined to be 1.3 and 1.2, respectively. Far- and near-UV circular dichroism studies showed that vitamin E can significantly change the secondary and tertiary structures of human insulin via an increase in the content of α-helix structure. Results of DSC showed that both vitamins D₃ and E stabilize the structure of human insulin. Molecular dynamic simulation results indicated that vitamin D₃ decreases the helical and strand structural contents of human insulin, but vitamin E stabilizes more regular secondary structures such as helical and strand structural contents as shown by experimental results.

Apta-nanosensor preparation and in vitro assay for rapid Diazinon detection using a computational molecular approach

Aptamers (ss-DNA or ss-RNA), also known as artificial antibodies, have been selected in vitro median to bind target molecules with high affinity and selectivity. Diazinon is one of the most widely used organophosphorus insecticides in developing and underdeveloped countries as insecticide and acaricide. Diazinon is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal system and rapidly distributed throughout the body. Thus, the design of clinical and laboratory diagnostics using nanobiosensors is necessary. A computational approach allows us to screen or rank receptor structure and predict interaction outcomes with a deeper understanding, and it is much more cost effective than laboratory attempts. In this research, the best sequence (high affinity bind Diazinon-ssDNA) was ranked among 12 aptamers isolated from SELEX experimentation. Docking results, as the first virtual screening stage and static technique, selected frequent conformation of each aptamer. Then, the quantity and quality of aptamer-Diazinon interaction were simulated using molecular dynamics as a mobility technique. RMSD, RMSF, radius of gyration, and the number of hydrogen bonds formed between Diazinon-aptamer were monitored to assess the quantity and quality of interactions. G-quadruplex DNA aptamer (DF20) showed to be a reliable candidate for Diazinon biosensing. The apta-nanosensor designed using simulation results allowed with linearity detection in the range of .141-.65 nM and a LOD of 17.903 nM, and it was validated using a computational molecular approach.

Design and evaluation of an apta-nano-sensor to detect Acetamiprid in vitro and in silico

Pesticide detection is a main concern of food safety experts. Therefore, it is urgent to design an accurate, rapid, and cheap test. Biosensors that detect pesticide residues could replace current methods, such as HPLC or GC-MC. This research designs a biosensor based on aptamer (Oligonucleotide ss-DNA) in the receptor role, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as optical sensors and salt (NaCl) as the aggregative inducer of AgNPs to detect the presence of Acetamiprid. After optimization, .6 μM aptamer and 100 mM salt were employed. The selectivity and sensitivity of the complex were examined by different pesticides and different Acetamiprid concentrations. To simulate in vitro experimental conditions, bioinformatics software was used as in silico analysis. The results showed the detection of Acetamiprid at the .02 ppm (89.8 nM) level in addition to selectivity. Docking outputs introduced two loops as active sites in aptamer and confirmed aptamer-Acetamiprid bonding. Circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD) confirmed upon Acetamiprid binding, aptamer was folded due to stem-loop formation. Stability of the Apt-Acetamiprid complex in a simulated aqueous media was examined by molecular dynamic studies.