Relationship Between Human FCγRIIA rs1801274 G Allele and Risk of Death Among Different SARS-CoV-2 Variants

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in late 2019 and spread very quickly across the world. Different responses to infections have been related to fragment crystallizable gamma-receptor II alpha (FcγRIIA) polymorphisms. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if FCγRIIA rs1801274 polymorphism was related to COVID-19 mortality among different variants of SARS-CoV-2. The FCγRIIA rs1801274 polymorphism was genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique in 1,734 recovered and 1,450 deceased patients. Deceased patients had significantly higher minor allele frequency of the FCγRIIA rs1801274 G allele than in the recovered cases. The COVID-19 mortality was associated with FCγRIIA rs1801274 GG and AG genotypes in the Delta variant and with FCγRIIA rs1801274 GG genotypes in the Alpha and Omicron BA.5 variants. The reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction Ct values revealed statistically significant differences between individuals with a G allele and those with an A allele. In conclusion, among the several SARS-CoV-2 variants, there may be a correlation between the mortality rate of COVID-19 and the G allele of FCγRIIA rs1801274. To confirm our findings, thorough research is still required.

The impact of ACE2 polymorphisms (rs1978124, rs2285666, and rs2074192) and ACE1 rs1799752 in the mortality rate of COVID-19 in different SARS-CoV-2 variants

BACKGROUND

Clinical severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outcomes could be influenced by genetic polymorphisms in angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE1) and ACE2. This study aims to examine three polymorphisms (rs1978124, rs2285666, and rs2074192) on the ACE2 gene and ACE1 rs1799752 (I/D) in patients who have coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with various SARS-CoV-2 variants.

METHODS

Based on polymerase chain reaction-based genotyping, four polymorphisms in the ACE1 and ACE2 genes have been identified in 2023 deceased patients and 2307 recovered patients.

RESULTS

The ACE2 rs2074192 TT genotype was associated with the COVID-19 mortality in all three variants, whereas the CT genotype was associated with the Omicron BA.5 and Delta variants. ACE2 rs1978124 TC genotypes were related to COVID-19 mortality in the Omicron BA.5 and Alpha variants, but TT genotypes were related to COVID-19 mortality in the Delta variant. It was found that ACE2 rs2285666 CC genotypes were associated with COVID-19 mortality in Delta and Alpha variants, and CT genotypes in Delta variants. There was an association between ACE1 rs1799752 DD and ID genotypes in the Delta variant and COVID-19 mortality, whereas there was no association in the Alpha or Omicron BA.5 variants. In all variants of SARS-CoV-2, CDCT and TDCT haplotypes were more common. In Omicron BA.5 and Delta, CDCC and TDCC haplotypes were linked with COVID-19 mortality. In addition to COVID-19 mortality, the CICT, TICT, and TICC were significantly correlated.

CONCLUSION

The ACE1/ACE2 polymorphisms had an impact on COVID-19 infection, and these polymorphisms had different effects in various SARS-CoV-2 variants. To confirm these results, however, more research needs to be conducted.

Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 3 rs34481144 C/T Genotype and Clinical Parameters Related to Progression of COVID-19

Recent research has associated the interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 gene (IFITM3) with the outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), although the findings are contradictory. This study aimed to determine the relationship between IFITM3 gene rs34481144 polymorphism and clinical parameters with COVID-19 mortality. The tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction assay was used to analyze IFITM3 rs34481144 polymorphism in 1,149 deceased and 1,342 recovered patients. The clinical parameters were extracted from the patients' medical records. In this study, the frequency of IFITM3 rs34481144 CT genotypes (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.23-1.76, P < 0.0001) in both sexes was significantly higher in deceased patients than in recovered patients. Moreover, IFITM3 rs34481144 TT genotypes (OR 3.38, 95% CI 1.05-10.87, P < 0.0001) in women were significantly associated with COVID-19 mortality. The multivariable logistic regression model results indicated that mean age (P < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.005), alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein (P < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein (P < 0.001), fasting blood glucose (P = 0.010), creatinine (P < 0.001), uric acid (P < 0.001), C-reactive protein (P = 0.004), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (P < 0.001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P < 0.001), and real-time PCR Ct values (P < 0.001) were linked with increased COVID-19 death rates. In conclusion, IFITM3 rs34481144 gene polymorphism was linked to the mortality of COVID-19, with the rs34481144-T allele being especially important for mortality. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this study.

Expression of TRIM56 gene in SARS-CoV-2 variants and its relationship with progression of COVID-19

Aim

The present study aimed to determine a correlation between differential TRIM56 expression levels and severe infections of COVID-19 between the Alpha, Delta and Omicron BA.5 variants.

Materials & methods

This study was performed on 330 COVID-19 patients, including 142 with severe and 188 with mild infections, as well as 160 healthy controls. The levels of TRIM56 gene expression were determined using a qPCR.

Results

TRIM56 gene showed significantly lower mRNA expression in the severe and mild groups compared with healthy individuals. Our finding indicated the high and low reduction of TRIM56 mRNA expression in Delta and Omicron BA.5 variant, respectively.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to characterize the impact of TRIM proteins on the severity of COVID-19.

rs12329760 Polymorphism in Transmembrane Serine Protease 2 Gene and Risk of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Mortality

The protease produced by the transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) gene enhances viral infections and has been linked to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pathogenesis. Therefore, this study evaluated the association between TMPRSS2 and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality. TMPRSS2 rs12329760 polymorphism was genotyped using the tetraprimer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction method in 592 dead and 693 improved patients. In the current study, the frequency of TMPRSS2 rs12329760 CC than TT genotypes was significantly lower in improved patients than in dead patients. According to the findings of the multivariate logistic regression test, higher levels of mean age, creatinine, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, aspartate aminotransferase, lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, uric acid, and real-time PCR Ct values and TMPRSS2 rs12329760 CC genotype were observed to be associated with increased COVID-19 mortality rates. In conclusion, the TMPRSS2 rs12329760 CC genotype was a polymorphism linked to a significantly higher incidence of severe COVID-19. Further studies are required to corroborate the obtained findings.

Increased risk of COVID-19 mortality rate in IFITM3 rs6598045 G allele carriers infected by SARS-CoV-2 delta variant

BACKGROUND

The interferon-induced transmembrane-protein 3 (IFITM3) is a vital component of the immune system's defense against viral infection. Variants in the IFITM3 gene have been linked to changes in expression and the risk of severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to investigate whether IFITM3 rs6598045, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) cycle threshold (Ct) values, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants are associated with an increased mortality rate of COVID-19.

METHODS

The genotyping of IFITM3 rs6598045 polymorphism was analyzed using the amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction in 1342 recovered and 1149 deceased patients positive for SARS-CoV-2.

RESULTS

In this study, IFITM3 rs6598045 G allele as minor allele frequency was significantly more common in the deceased patients than in the recovered ones. Furthermore, the highest mortality rates were observed in Delta variant and lowest qPCR Ct values. COVID-19 mortality was associated with IFITM3 rs6598045 GG and AG in Delta variant and IFITM3 rs6598045 AG in Alpha variant. A statistically significant difference was observed in the qPCR Ct values between individuals with GG and AG genotypes and those with an AA genotype.

CONCLUSION

A possible correlation was observed between the mortality rate of COVID-19, the G allele of IFITM3 rs6598045, and SARS-CoV-2 variants. However, large-scale research is still required to validate our results.

Comparing the expression levels of tripartite motif containing 28 in mild and severe COVID-19 infection

Background

Tripartite motif-containing 28 (TRIM28) is an impressive regulator of the epigenetic control of the antiviral immune response. This study evaluated if the differential expression of TRIM28 correlates with the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.

Methods

A total of 330 COVID-19 patients, including 188 mild and 142 severe infections, and 160 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to determine the expression levels of TRIM28 in the studied patients.

Results

TRIM28 mRNA levels were significantly lower in both groups of patients versus the control group and in the severe group indicated further reduction in comparison to mild infection. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed the mean age, lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), cholesterol, lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and PCR cycle threshold (Ct) value and higher levels of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and differential expression of TRIM28 were linked to the severity of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion

The results of this study proved that the downregulation of TRIM28 might be associated with the severity of COVID-19 infection. Further studies are required to determine the association between the COVID-19 infection severity and TRIM family proteins.

Comparison of the Antibody Responses Following Vaccination with AstraZeneca and Sinopharm

BACKGROUND

Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent Coronavirus 2 severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2).

OBJECTIVES

To compare the antibody response of healthy individuals vaccinated with either the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) or the Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) vaccine, in those who had no prior infection with SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS

Thirty seven participants were included, of which 17 were administered the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) vaccine, while 20 were given the Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) vaccine. SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody and anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) IgG levels were checked 4 weeks after giving the first and the second dose of either vaccine using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.

RESULTS

The AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) vaccine exhibited a higher levels of anti-(RBD) IgG compared with the Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) in both the first (14.51 μg/ml vs. 1.160 μg/ml) and the second (46.68 μg/ml vs. 11.43 μg/ml) doses. About neutralizing Abs, the titer of the antibody was higher in the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) recipients than in the Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) subjects after the first (7.77 μg/ml vs. 1.79 μg/ml, p < 0.0001) and the second dose (10. 36 μg/ml vs. 4.88 μg/ml, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Recipients vaccinated with two doses of the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) had superior quantitative antibody levels than Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV)-vaccinated subjects. These data suggest that a booster dose may be needed for the Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) recipients, to control the COVID-19 pandemic.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 rs2285666 polymorphism and clinical parameters as the determinants of COVID-19 severity in Iranian population

Host genetic factors may be correlated with the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) plays a vital role in viral cell entrance. The current study aimed to evaluate the association of ACE2 rs2285666 polymorphism and clinical parameters with COVID-19 mortality. The ACE2 rs2285666 polymorphism was genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 556 recovered and 522 dead patients. In this study, the frequency of ACE2 rs2285666 CC was significantly higher than TT genotype in dead patients. The multivariate logistic regression analysis results showed that the higher levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein and the low levels of uric acid, cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, real-time PCR Ct values, and ACE2 rs2285666 CC genotype were associated with increased mortality rates after COVID-19. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated a possible link between COVID-19 mortality, clinical parameters, and ACE2 rs2285666 CC. Further research is required to confirm these results.

Hypo- and Hyperphosphatemia at Admission as Independent Factors of Mortality of COVID-19 Patients: Findings from a Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Electrolyte imbalances are common in COVID-19 infection and are associated with poor outcomes in hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study examined whether serum phosphate imbalances at admission are associated with mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

In this registry-based single-center retrospective cohort study, 1349 inpatients with COVID-19 were included from March 2020 to March 2021 in an academic hospital in Ilam (southwest Iran). The Cox proportional hazard (PH) regression model was applied to the data set of COVID-19.

RESULTS

The in-hospital median survival time for patients with low, normal, and high serum phosphate levels was 14, 25, and 8 days, respectively. In a multivariate model, adjusted for the other variables, patients with hypophosphatemia (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.53; 95% CI, 1.15 - 5.58; P = 0.02) and hyperphosphatemia (adjusted HR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.00 - 3.14; P = 0.05) had an increased mortality hazard compared with those who had normal levels of serum phosphate.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate associations of hypophosphatemia and hyperphosphatemia with increased in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients. Intensive medical care and more attention must be paid to COVID-19 patients with serum phosphate imbalances at admission.

Clinical Manifestations, Imaging Procedures and Laboratory Parameters among Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 in Ilam Province, Western Iran

Background

COVID-19 is the last global threat which WHO confirmed it as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. In the Middle East, Iran was the first country where the SARS-Cov-2 was detected. The epidemiological and economic challenges of Iran make this country a particularly relevant subject of study. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical, radiological and laboratory findings in hospitalized COVID-19 confirmed cases in Ilam province, western of Iran.

Methods

Overall, 2204 hospitalized RT-PCR confirmed patients with COVID-19 were considered in this study. Electronic medical records, including clinical symptoms, radiological images, laboratory findings, and the comorbidities of patients with COVID-19 were collected and analyzed. In addition, the medication regimens used in these patients were evaluated. The patients were classified in discharged and died groups according to their outcomes. Then, clinical, radiological and laboratory findings as well as treatment regimens and underlying diseases were compared in these two groups.

Results

Among the patients, 1209 (54.85%) were male and 995 (45.14%) were female. Pneumonia, dyspnea and cough, were the most common clinical data in both discharged and died groups. Among the comorbidities, COPD, and cancer were significantly more common in the dead patients than in the living. The results of laboratory tests showed that blood creatinine, BUN, ESR, Na+, WBC, and neutrophil count have increased in deceased group compared to the survivors. However, the lymphocyte count decreased in deceased patients. The evaluation of radiographs demonstrated that there were significant correlations between bilateral pneumonia, ground glass opacity, bilateral patchy shadowing, and pleural effusion with death.

Conclusion

The current investigation indicated the special profile of COVID-19 in west of Iran. Discharged and dead patients with COVID-19 had distinct clinical, radiological and laboratory features, which were separated by principal component analysis. Identifying these characteristics of the disease would translate into the implementation of practical measures to improve results.

The Effectiveness of Laboratory Parameters in Predicting the in-Hospital Mortality of Iranian Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

BACKGROUND

The novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV (now SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally and affected healthcare systems worldwide. Due to lack of long-term immunization and effective specific treatments for the COVID-19 disease, there is a need of identifying the patients who are at the risk of a fatal outcome, according to the available epidemiological data and laboratory parameters.

OBJECTIVE

Thus, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of epidemiological data and laboratory para-meters for in-hospital case fatality in patients with COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients with COVID-19 admitted to the Shahid Mostafa Khomeini Hospital of Ilam University of Medical Sciences from February 29 until March 29, 2020 was performed. Epidemiologic data and laboratory results were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the prognostic value of the laboratory parameters for in-hospital death.

RESULTS

A total of 256 Iranian COVID-19 patients were included in the evaluation; 38 of them died, resulting in a in-hospital case-fatality rate of 14.8%. The univariate analysis showed that advanced age [OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.06, P=0.001], smoking [OR=4.041, 95% CI: 1.546-10.563, P=0.004], white blood cells [OR=0.941, 95% CI: 0.904-0.980, P =0.003] and hematocrit [OR=1.060, 95% CI: 1.009-1.113, P=0.020] were positively associated with the risk of a fatal outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that COVID-19 patients with an elevated white blood cell count and elevated hemoglobin level had 1% and 9% greater risk of an in-hospital death for each elevated unit [OR=1.07; 95 %CI: 1.024-1.088, P =0.002 and OR=1.379; 95% CI 0.064-1.788, P =0.015, respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in white blood cell count and an increase in hemoglobin level might be indepen-dent risk factors for in-hospital death in Iranian patients with COVID-19. Further studies are necessary in order to conferm the prognostic value of the variables discussed.

Changes in Physiological Levels of Cortisol and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone upon Hospitalization Can Predict SARS-CoV-2 Mortality: A Cohort Study

There is some indication that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis insufficiency. However, being on glucocorticoids makes it difficult to fully investigate this axis, especially in patients with severe COVID-19. We aimed to discover if there was a connection between blood total cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels and mortality in patients with COVID-19. In Iran, 154 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 were studied in a prospective cohort study. ACTH and cortisol levels in the blood were measured on the first or second day of hospitalization. Most patients (52.6 vs. 47.4%) were men over 50 years old (55.8%), and 44.4% had an underlying illness. Serum cortisol and plasma ACTH medians were 15.6 (μg/dl) and 11.4 (pg/ml), respectively. 9.09% of the patients died. Cortisol levels were substantially lower in those who died (11.3 μg/dl) than in patients who were discharged (16.7 μg/dl, P < 0.01), while ACTH levels were unaffected. The most important factors determining mortality, according to the logistic model, were blood cortisol levels, the existence of an underlying disease, and the use of a mechanical ventilator. Cortisol levels that rose by one-unit correlated with a 26% lower risk of mortality. Comorbidities and mechanical ventilation increased the risk of death by 260 and 92 times, respectively. It can be concluded that in patients with COVID-19, a low cortisol level is linked to a high risk of mortality. Patients may sometimes have relative primary adrenal insufficiency. To judge and decide on therapeutic interventions, more reliable and long-term follow-up studies are required.

Tannic acid protects aged brain against cerebral hypoperfusion via modulation of Nrf2 and inflammatory pathways

Current study purposed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of Tannic Acid (TA) on mild chronic cerebral hypoperfusion model in rats. Male Wistar rats were subjected to permanent Unilateral Common Carotid Artery Occlusion (UCCAO), followed by TA treatment (0.05% w/v) in drinking water for one month. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, blood triglyceride, blood glucose, and liver enzymes' activity were detected after the experimental period. Also, behavioral tests, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and PET scan were performed after treatment. Post-treatment of TA improved locomotion and memory function (P < 0.001), and reduced neural cell death (P < 0.001) in the treatment group compared to UCCAO rats. Furthermore, long-term TA treatment significantly increased the levels of Nrf2 (P < 0.001), NQO-1 (P < 0.001), and HO-1 (P < 0.001) in the hippocampus of the treatment group compared to the UCCAO group. TA consumption in the treatment group applied its anti-inflammatory effects via reducing the activity of NF-κB and TNF-α in comparison with the UCCAO group (P < 0.001 for both). Blood triglyceride, blood glucose, and liver enzymes did not change considerably in the groups (P > 0.05). The current results indicate that long-term post-treatment of TA exhibits protective effects against memory deficit and motor dysfunction. The cellular mechanism of TA in hypoperfused rats might be associated with the activation of antioxidant pathways, especially the Nrf2 pathway, and suppressing inflammatory factors like NF-κB and TNF-α.

The association between interferon lambda 3 and 4 gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms and the recovery of COVID-19 patients

BACKGROUND

The recent pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has elevated several clinical and scientific questions. These include how host genetic factors influence the pathogenesis and disease susceptibility. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of interferon lambda 3 and 4 (IFNL3/4) gene polymorphisms and clinical parameters on the resistance and susceptibility to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.

METHODS

A total of 750 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients (375 survivors and 375 nonsurvivors) were included in this study. All single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on IFNL3 (rs12979860, rs8099917, and rs12980275) and IFNL4 rs368234815 were genotyped by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.

RESULTS

In this study, a higher viral load (low PCR Ct value) was shown in nonsurvivor patients. In survivor patients, the frequency of the favorable genotypes of IFNL3/4 SNPs (rs12979860 CC, rs12980275 AA, rs8099917 TT, and rs368234815 TT/TT) was significantly higher than in nonsurvivor patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis has shown that a higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and PCR Ct value, and lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and also IFNL3 rs12979860 TT, IFNL3 rs8099917 GG, IFNL3 rs12980275 GG, and IFNL4 rs368234815 ∆G/∆G genotypes were associated with the severity of COVID-19 infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study proved that the severity of COVID-19 infection was associated with clinical parameters and unfavorable genotypes of IFNL3/IFNL4 SNPs. Further studies in different parts of the world are needed to show the relationship between severity of COVID-19 infection and host genetic factors.

The effect of motivational interview based on WhatsApp on the psychological domains of quality of life in infertile women with pcos: A randomized clinical trial

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome(Pcos) disease significantly decreased quality of life for women. Mental health is one of the components affecting the quality of life of these patients that attention to it is necessary to improve their quality of life.

Objectives

The present study was conducted to determine The effect of Motivational Interview Based on WhatsApp on the Psychological Domains of Quality of Life in Infertile Women with PCOS.

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial enrolled 60 Infertile Women with PCOS from the city of Sari-Iran in 2020. Participants were assigned to MI and control groups using block randomization. The intervention group received 5 weekly of MI online via WhatsApp. While the control group received only routine care. The psychological Domains score of quality of life in these individuals was measured using the quality of life questionnaire of polycystic ovary syndrome(MPCOSQ) before and after the intervention. Then, the data were entered into the SPSS software, version 25 and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, t-test, and repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

No significant difference was observed between the two groups before the intervention mean The Psychological Domains scores (p>0.05). After the intervention, mean (SD) of The Psychological Domains score was 34.8 (11.8) in the intervention group and 30.7 (11.6) in the control.No significant Increasing in the mean between the two groups. The effect size(0.35) was calculated.

Conclusions

The results of the study showed that motivational interviewing is effective in improving the quality of life of women with pcos.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

The effect of online motivational interviewing on stress management in infertile women with PCOS: A randomized clinical trial

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, which in addition to medical aspects also affects the dimensions of women’s mental health such as stress.

Objectives

The present study was conducted to determine The effect of online motivational interviewing on stress management in infertile women with PCOS

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial enrolled 60 Infertile Women with PCOS from the city of Sari-Iran in 2020. Participants were assigned to MI and control groups using block randomization. The intervention group received 5 weekly of MI online via WhatsApp. While the control group received only routine care. Stress management scores in these individuals were measured using health-promoting lifestyle profile II questionnaire (HPLP II) before and after the intervention. Then, the data were entered into the SPSS software, version 25 and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, t-test, and repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

No significant difference was observed between the two groups before the intervention mean The Stress management scores (p>0.05). After the intervention, mean (SD) of The Psychological Domains score was 22.5 (3.8) in the intervention group and 17.9 (4.1) in the control. The Stress management score was significantly upper in the intervention group compared to the control. (p<0.000). The effect size (1.1) was calculated. NNT (1.6) was calculated.

Conclusions

According to the results and the effect of motivational interviewing is one of the effective methods to manage stress in infertile women with PCOS.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

High-protein and low-calorie diets improved the anti-aging Klotho protein in the rats' brain: the toxic role of high-fat diet

BACKGROUND

In the current study, our specific aim was to characterize the Klotho protein and expression levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of old rats treated with different diets (high-fat, high-protein, low-calorie, high-protein and low-calorie).

METHODS

Rats were treated with high-fat, high-protein, low-calorie, low-calorie high-protein diets for 10 weeks and then behavioral and molecular assessments were evaluated.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis showed the percentage of open arm time was increased in the high-protein, low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein groups compared with old control (old-C) rats. The percentage of open arm entries was increased in the low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein group compared with old-C rats. The body weight and serum triglyceride were decreased in the low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein groups in comparison to control old rats. Low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein treatments statistically enhanced caspase-3 level compared with old-C rats in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Treatment of old rats with high-protein, low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein could increase Klotho-α level compared with control old rats. The levels of Klotho-α, c-fos and brain-derived neurotrophic factors were decreased in the low-calorie high-protein group in Klotho inhibitor's presence compared with the low-calorie high-protein group.

CONCLUSION

According to our findings, Klotho-α level was reduced in old rats. Low-calorie, high-protein and particularly low-calorie high-protein diets increased this protein level and consequently increased neuronal plasticity and improved memory function.

GRAPHIC ABSTRACT

Haloperidol's Effect on the Expressions of TGFB, NT-3, and BDNF genes in Cultured Rat Microglia

Introduction:

Microglia, small glial cells, i.e. mesodermal in origin and found in the brain and spinal cord, play a key role in the maintenance of neurons and immune defense. Haloperidol, an antipsychotic drug, is used to treat numerous neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. Its mechanism is not understood; however, haloperidol may result in Wnt signaling pathway activation. This study aimed to activate the Wnt signaling pathway using haloperidol and determining the effect of GSK3 inhibition on the expression of TGFB, NT-3, and BDNF genes in cultured rat microglia.

Methods:

Microglia isolation was conducted, and the immunohistochemistry technique was performed to confirm microglia purity. The RNA extraction was followed by cDNA synthesis. Real-time RT-PCR was used to evaluate any significant changes in the expression level of these genes.

Results:

The three gene expressions in microglia were proportional to the different concentrations of the drug. More concentration of drugs resulted in higher levels of expression of these genes. Besides, the haloperidol did not affect the expression of the beta-actin gene as the reference gene.

Conclusion:

The obtained results supported the beneficial use of haloperidol in targeted microglia therapy. This study can be a breakthrough in neurology research.

Fructose Feeding and Hyperuricemia: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

High fructose feeding has been suggested to involve in several features of metabolic syndrome including hyperuricemia (HP). We designed and implemented a study to determine the effect size of fructose intake and the relative risk of HP based on the type of fructose feeding (diet or solution), duration of treatment (2–6, 7–10, and > 10 weeks), and animal race. The required information was accepted from international databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus, and etc., from 2009 until 2019 on the basis of predetermined eligibility criteria. The data selection and extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two researchers. Results were pooled as random effects weighting and reported as standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. Thirty-five studies including 244 rats with fructose consumption were included in the final analysis. The heterogeneity rate of parameters was high (I2 = 81.3%, p < 0.001) and estimated based on; 1) type of fructose feeding (diet; I2 = 79.3%, solution 10%; I2 = 83.4%, solution 20%; I2 = 81.3%), 2) duration of treatment (2–6 weeks; I2 = 86.8%, 7–10 weeks; I2 = 76.3%, and > 10 weeks; I2 = 82.8%), 3) the animal race (Wistar; I2 = 78.6%, Sprague-Dawley; I2 = 83.9%). Overall, the pooled estimate for the all parameters was significant (p < 0.001). The results of this study indicated that a significant relationship between HP and fructose intake regardless of the treatment duration, animal race, fructose concentration and route of consumption.

Virtual surgical planning in fibula free flap head and neck reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The traditional approach to head and neck reconstruction is considered challenging, requiring a subjective assessment of an often-complex defect followed by careful modelling of a bony flap to match this. The introduction of Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) has provided the surgeon with a means to increase efficiency, precision and overall patient outcomes. This study aims to compare VSP and traditional head and neck reconstructions utilising fibula free flaps with regards surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic search of the PubMed and Medline databases was performed from the date of their inception through to August 2018 to evaluate and compare VSP and non-VSP cohorts in the context of fibula free flap head and neck reconstruction. Primary comparative outcomes included operative and ischaemic time, with secondary outcomes including complications rates, measures of accuracy and financial benefits.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-three articles were identified. Twenty-three articles were included in the review, comprising a total of 713 patients. VSP was associated with significantly decreased intraoperative time (Standardised Mean Difference -1.01; 95% CI -1.23 to 0.80; p = 0.000) and ischaemic time (Standardised Mean Difference -1.55; 95% CI -1.87 to -1.23, p = 0.002). VSP was also associated with reduced orthognathic deviation from an ideal outcome when compared to conventional techniques. No statistically significant differences in complication rates between conventional and VSP techniques were identified.

CONCLUSION

The results of this meta-analysis suggests that VSP confers significant benefits with respect to improved orthognathic accuracy, ischaemic times and intraoperative times without any significant increase in complications. Recommendations for ongoing research are suggested.

End-to-End versus End-to-Side Microvascular Anastomosis: A Meta-analysis of Free Flap Outcomes

Background Optimal outcomes in microsurgery have been attributed to a range of factors, with performing of end-to-end (ETE) versus end-to-side (ETS) influencing anastomotic complications and flap outcomes.

Methods A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis was undertaken to evaluate the relative risks of anastomotic complications with ETE versus ETS approaches, for arterial and venous anastomoses looking at risk ratios (RRs) for thrombosis and overall flap failure.

Results RRs of thrombosis and flap failure in ETS versus ETE venous anastomosis groups were 1.30 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53–3.21) and 1.50 (95% CI: 0.85–2.67), respectively. The RRs of thrombosis and flap failure in ETS versus ETE arterial anastomosis groups were 1.04 (95% CI: 0.32–3.35) and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.72–1.48), respectively.

Conclusion Differences in rates of thrombosis and flap failure between ETE and ETS venous and arterial anastomoses are marginal and nonsignificant. As such, the type of anastomotic technique is best decided on a case-by-case basis, dependent on anatomical, surgical, and patient factors.

Delayed gastric emptying in diabetic rats caused by decreased expression of cystathionine gamma lyase and H2 S synthesis: in vitro and in vivo studies

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the role of H₂ S on gastric emptying rate (GER) and also to determine the effect of gastric distention on mRNA and protein expression of cystathionine β-lyase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-synthase (CSE) in diabetic-gastroparetic and normal rats.

METHODS

Adult normal rats intraperitoneally received either propargylglycine (PAG), L-cysteine or NaHS 30 min prior to GER marker (acetaminophen) to investigate H₂ S involvement in GER and the same protocols were performed in diabetes-induced gastroparesis rats. The role of calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) neurons in the prokinetic effect of endogenous H₂ S on GER was determined. The level of CBS and CSE expressions in response to gastric distention were also determined. The effect of H₂ S on frequency and tension of spontaneous contractions of gastric smooth muscle strips was investigated.

KEY RESULTS

Our results showed that: (i) H₂ S and L-cysteine increased GER in gastroparetic and normal rats. (ii) The increased levels of CSE expression in response to gastric distention in diabetic rats were lower than in normal rats. (iii) PAG inhibited the excitatory effect of capsaicin on GER and on tension of spontaneous contractions of strips. (iv) Hydrogen sulphide increased the frequency and tension of spontaneous contractions of gastric strip muscles in normal and diabetic rats.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The results showed that delayed GER in diabetic rats can be due to down-regulation of H₂ S biosynthesis enzyme, CSE and suggested that a potential prokinetic role for H₂ S to treat the delayed gastric emptying in diabetic patients.

Effect of Boswellia serrata supplementation on blood lipid, hepatic enzymes and fructosamine levels in type2 diabetic patients

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes is an endocrine disorder that affects a large percentage of patients. High blood glucose causes fatty deposits in the liver which is likely to increase in SGOT and SGPT activities. Significant increase in SGOT/SGPT and low HDL levels is observed in patients with diabetes. Serum fructosamine concentration reflects the degree of blood glucose control in diabetic patients. This study was aimed to investigate the antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of supplementation of Boswellia serrata in type2 diabetic patients.

METHODS

60 type 2 diabetic patients from both sexes (30 males and 30 females) were dedicated to the control and intervention groups (30 subjects per group). Boswellia serrata gum resin in amount of 900 mg daily for 6 weeks were orally administered (as three 300 mg doses) in intervention group and the control group did not receive anything. Blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and after 6 weeks. Blood levels of fructosamine, lipid profiles as well as hepatic enzyme in type 2 diabetic patients were measured.

RESULTS

Treatment of diabetic patient with Boswellia serrata was caused to significant increase in blood HDL levels as well as a remarkable decrease in cholesterol, LDL, fructosamine (p < 0.05) SGPT and SGOT levels after 6 weeks (p < 0.01). In spite of reduction of serum triglyceride, VLDL levels in intervention group, we did not detect a significant difference after 6 weeks.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that Boswellia serrata supplementation can be beneficial in controlling blood parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, its use can be useful in patients with medicines.