Risk factors and long-term outcomes of oropharyngeal dysphagia in persons with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) can be functionally debilitating in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). OPD induces alterations in safety and efficiency of food and/or liquid ingestion and may incur negative sequalae such as aspiration pneumonia or malnutrition/dehydration. Early detection and timely management of OPD in pwMS could prevent such complications and reduce mortality rates. Identifying risk factors of OPD relative to its onset or repeat manifestation will enable the development of care pathways that target early assessment and sustained management. The aims of this systematic review are to compile, evaluate, and summarize the existing literature reporting potential risk factors and associated long-term outcomes (e.g., aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, dehydration, and/or death) of OPD in pwMS.

METHODS

We will undertake a systematic review to identify studies that describe patterns and complications of OPD in pwMS. Variables of interest include predictors of OPD along with long-term outcomes. We will search MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus. We will consider studies for inclusion if they involve at least 30 adult participants with MS and report risk factors for OPD and/or its long-term outcomes. Studies will be excluded if they refer to esophageal or oropharyngeal dysphagia induced by causes other than multiple sclerosis. Study selection and data extraction will be performed by two independent assessors for abstract and full article review. We will present study characteristics in tables and document research findings for dysphagia-related risk factors or its complications via a narrative format or meta-analysis if warranted (e.g., mean difference and/or risk ratio measurements). All included studies will undergo risk-of-bias assessment conducted independently by two authors with consensus on quality ratings.

DISCUSSION

There is a lacune for systematic reviews involving risk factors and long-term outcomes of dysphagia in pwMS to date. Our systematic review will provide the means to develop accurate and efficient management protocols for careful monitoring and evaluation of dysphagia in pwMS. The results of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022340625.

Iranian psoriasis registry: Research protocol and preliminary results of a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis as a common cutaneous inflammatory disease affect many aspects of patients' life. Disease registries render it possible to collect valuable data regarding a disease prevalence and burden as well as long-term observations concerning possible therapeutic regimens.

METHODS

This registry was designed for the ongoing systematic data collection on patients with psoriasis at two referral dermatology centers in Iran. The pilot phase of the registry was used to identify possible obstacles in the application and execution of systematic registration.

RESULTS

A total of 281 patients were registered with the mean age of 42.02 years. The disease duration was 12.06 ± 10.90 years with the variety of clinical presentations. There was no significant difference between males and females in the age of disease onset (p = 0.53). Notably, 167 patients had children. Among them, 13 had children with psoriasis. The gender of the affected parent did not affect the possibility of psoriasis transmission to the child, and no significant difference was seen between the two sexes (P = 0.569). Regarding treatment, 99.4% of patients (n = 280) had used topical agents, 52.3% (n = 147) biologics, and 60.9% (n = 171) nonbiologic medications.

CONCLUSION

Clinical trials report the efficacy and safety data regarding limited study populations in a restricted time window, and the results may differ from the general population. This highlights the importance of registry-based studies for collecting and analyzing longitudinal information. In terms of long-term disease complications such as malignancies, cardiovascular events, and serious adverse events, registry-based studies will help clinicians better recognize and manage each disease.

Long non-coding RNA SOX2-OT enhances cancer biological traits via sponging to tumor suppressor miR-122-3p and miR-194-5p in non-small cell lung carcinoma

The oncogenic role of long non-coding RNA SOX2 overlapping transcript (SOX2-OT) has been demonstrated as a miRNA decay system that sponges tumor suppressor miRNA, including miR-122-3p in glioblastoma and miR-194-5p in glioblastoma, gastric, and colorectal cancers. However, the molecular function of SOX2-OT remains unknown in most cancers, including lung cancer. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the downstream regulatory function of SOX2-OT in A549 and Calu-3 lung cancer cell lines. We knocked down SOX2-OT expression using an RNA interference system, which significantly decreased expression in A549 and Calu-3 cells. The expression of down-regulating miRNAs (miR-122-3p and miR-194-5p) was evaluated, revealing increased expression of miR-122-3p and miR-194-5p. Additionally, the expression of miRNAs downstream mRNA, including FOXO1 (Forkhead Box O1) and FOXA1 (Forkhead Box O1), changed. Recently, critical roles of FOXO1 and FOXA1 proteins in pathways involved in proliferation, metastasis and apoptosis have been demonstrated. Downstream changes in cellular traits were assessed using MTT, flow cytometry, metastasis and apoptosis assays. These assessments confirmed that the biological behaviors of lung cancer cells were influenced after SOX2-OT knockdown. In summary, the present study highlights the oncogenic role of SOX2-OT through the regulation of miR-122-3p/FOXO1 and miR-194-5p/FOXA1 pathways.

Anti-inflammatory Activity of Tanshinone-Related Diterpenes from Perovskia artemisioides Roots

Perovskia artemisioides is a perennial and aromatic plant widely distributed in the Baluchestan region of Iran. Phytochemical analysis of a n-hexane extract of P. artemisioides roots, guided by an analytical approach based on LC-ESI/LTQOrbitrap/MS/MS, yielded six previously undescribed diterpenoid compounds (2, 9-11, 16, and 20), and 19 known diterpenoids, for which the structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Some of the isolated compounds showed significant anti-inflammatory activity using J774A.1 macrophage cells stimulated with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide. In particular, compounds 6, 8, 17, 18, 20, and 22 significantly inhibited the release of nitric oxide and the expression of related pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase and cycloxygenase-2. Moreover, two compounds that showed the highest activity in reducing nitric oxide release (6 and 18) were tested to evaluate their effects on nitrotyrosine formation and reactive oxygen species release. Both compounds inhibited ROS release and, in particular, compound 6 also inhibited nitrotyrosine formation at all tested concentrations, thus indicating a significant antioxidant potential.

Ethnopharmacological study of medicinal plants in Sarvabad, Kurdistan province, Iran

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicine has a long history and plays an important role in the Kurdish community in Sarvabad county, Kurdistan province, Iran. Despite the great diversity of medicinal plants, cultural history, and variety of herbal medicine uses among Kurdish tribes, very few cohesive ethnopharmacological studies of this unique region are available in the scientific literature. Our study tried to gather medicinal plant species and document the associated indigenous knowledge of the ethnic groups in the Sarvabad district for the first time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical data were collected from 92 local informants through semi-structured questionnaires, open interviews, and field surveys during a period of two years (2018-2020). The statistical analysis included use reports (UR) for each species, and informant consensus factor (FIC) to evaluate the data.

RESULTS

In the present study a total of 156 plant species belonging to 58 botanical families, were recorded for the treatment of 16 diseases categories. The most represented families were Lamiaceae, followed by Asteraceae, and Apiaceae. The most frequently cited plant species with the highest use report (UR) were Pistacia atlantica (161), Hymenocrater longiflorus (128), Melissa officinalis (124), Cyperus rotundus (114), Thymus transcaspicus (112), and Quercus brantii (109). Psychological (ICF = 0.96), musculoskeletal (ICF = 0.94), and digestive (ICF = 0.93), followed by respiratory problems (ICF = 0.92) showed the highest informant consensus factors among all ailment categories. Most herbal remedies were consumed as decoction. Leaves (28.5%) were the most widely used plant parts, followed by flowers (18.7%), aerial parts (14.5%), seeds (13.2%), and terrestrial parts (8.41%). Some interesting new medicinal uses for native and common species were reported. Species such as Cyperus rotundus, Hymenocrater longiflorus, Anthriscus nemorosa, Pistacia atlantica and Quercus brantii would be interesting targets for drug discovery and are suggested for further investigations.

CONCLUSION

The plant use reports, and quantitative data analyzed demonstrate that the relative importance of plant species and shared knowledge of herbal therapies among Kurdish communities of the Sarvabad county is still rich. A systematic study and evaluation of the biological activity of highly consumed plants, could identify the possible mechanism of action.

A review of the phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology and biological activities of Teucrium genus (Germander)

Teucrium L (Lamiaceae) is mainly distributed in the Mediterranean area. A comprehensive survey in the electronic databases (during 2000-2020 years) with keywords of 'Teucrium' and 'Germander' showed that chemical analyses are available for 27 species, with sesquiterpenoids, iridoids, di and triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds as identified structures. The neo-clerodane diterpenoids as potential chemotaxonomic markers were the main compounds of this genus. As a result, Italy and Turkey have good attempts at phytochemical analysis. The pharmacological activities of different species including antioxidant, cytotoxic activity, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-insect have been summarized. Teucrium polium and Teucrium chamaedrys mainly have been used in digestive problems and diabetes in traditional medicine. Evidence-based clinical trials are needed to confirm the therapeutic properties of this genus. As well to the popularity of Asian and Anatolian species as ingredients in contemporary medicines and products, further research is required in comparison to European species.

MTT assay dataset of polyethylenimine coated graphenoxide nanosheets on breast cancer cell lines (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468)

Graphen oxide has emerged as a promising tool in medical biotechnology due to its outstanding properties applicable in several fields as well as cell imaging, drug and gene delivery. Monolayer structure and high surface area of Graphen benefits elevated loading capacity of drugs rather than other nanomaterials. However Graphen oxide in physiological solutions has unfavourable reactions which confine it's application in biomedical field without additional surface functionalization. Coating of graphenoxide by polyethylenimine is an approach to enhance biocompatibility of graphen oxide and also provides desirable physicochemical features for oligonucleotides delivery. The data presented here is related to graphenoxide-PEI characterisation and it's cytotoxicity assay on variouse breast cancer cell lines including MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 by MTT assay.

Surface modification of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION) and comparison of cytotoxicity effect of mPEG2000-PEI-SPION and mPEG750-PEI-SPION on the human embryonic carcinoma stem cell, NTERA2 cell line

Non-viral carriers based on nanoparticles are promising vectors for drug and gene delivery into the target cells. The data provided in this article are related to research entitled "Efficiency of surface modified SPION". In this article the surface of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION) (core) coated with poly (ethylene glycol)-grafted polyethylenimine (mPEG-co-PEI) shell. PEI was used to increase gene transfection efficiency and poly (ethylene glycol) methyl ether was applied to reduce cytotoxicity of nanoparticles, because our goal is that two sets of mPEG-co-PEI coated SPIONs (mPEG-750 and 2000) were prepared as carrier for the purpose of gene delivery. Structure of the mPEG-co-PEI product was elucidate by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Physicochemical features of the modified-SPIONs were evaluated by zeta-potential analysis. Cytotoxic effect of Nano carries were then assayed by MTT in NT2 cell line. Data analyzed by excel and p< 0.05 was considered significant. Finally siRNA absorption Ability of mPEG750-PEI-SPION and mPEG2000-PEI-SPION was tested by N/P ratio test (gel retardation assay). Our data shown that mPEG750-G-Pei-Spion and mPEG2000-G-Pei-Spion were non-toxic up to 100 μg/ml in vitro for NT2 cell line.

Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Relative to Swallowing Impairment in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis

Dysphagia and symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress are common in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). We posited a relationship between dysphagia and increased frequency of psychological symptoms. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine associations between symptoms of psychological difficulties, use of emotional suppression and cognitive reappraisal strategies, and dysphagia status in persons with MS. One hundred persons with MS were prospectively assessed in multiple domains of functioning: cognitive, psychological, and dysphagia-related. Participants underwent cognitive screening with the Mini Mental State Examination and completed two psychological inventories: The depression, anxiety and stress scale (DASS)-21 and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Further, they completed the dysphagia in Multiple Sclerosis questionnaire. A speech-language pathologist evaluated persons suspected of having dysphagia with the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability. Dysphagia was present in 29 persons with MS, and the sample was split accordingly. The two groups differed at baseline with respect to Expanded Disability Status Scale scores. There were significant between-group differences for mental health symptoms and for use of emotional regulation strategies. Accordingly, multivariate logistic regressions showed that increased symptoms of psychological stress, decreased use of cognitive reappraisal strategies, and increased indicators of emotional suppression independently predicted the presence of dysphagia. There was a clear pattern towards poorer psychological well-being in persons with dysphagia compared to those without. Psychological difficulties may contribute to the manifestation or worsening of dysphagia and should be addressed in treatment planning and future investigations. Therapeutic interventions that promote improvement in mental state alongside swallowing function may be highly beneficial.

Terpenoid Constituents of Perovskia artemisioides Aerial Parts with Inhibitory Effects on Bacterial Biofilm Growth

Perovskia artemisioides is a perennial and aromatic plant distributed in the Baluchestan region of Iran. In the present work, an n-hexane extract of P. artemisioides aerial parts showed excellent capabilities to both inhibit the formation of biofilms by different Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens and block the cell metabolism within microbial biofilms. To correlate the activity of the extract with the biologically active compounds present, first an analytical approach based on LC-HRMS/MSⁿ was carried out. The metabolite profile obtained guided the isolation of 21 compounds, among which two sesquiterpenes (8 and 9) and one diterpene (10) were found to be new. The antimicrobial activity of the isolated compounds was evaluated by determining how they were able not only to reduce the growth of different Gram-positive and Gram-negative human bacteria and phytopathogens but also to inhibit the formation of biofilms by these bacteria and affect the metabolism of microbial cells present within the biofilms. With the aim of correlating the activity exhibited by the extract with the concentration levels of the constituent compounds, a quantitative determination was carried out by an analytical approach based on LC-ESI/QTrap/MS.

A Rare Mutation in the MARVELD2 Gene Can Cause Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss

The MARVELD2 gene which is located on the 5q13.2 may cause nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) with autosomal recessive inherited pattern. So far c.1331+1G>A (IVS4+1G>A); NM_001038603.3, variant in deafness, has only reported previously in one Pakistani family in 2008 and it is reported for the first time in Iran and second time in the world. The case is a 21-year-old Iranian woman who has NSHL referred for genetic consultation, and her parents had a consanguineous marriage. To study the responsible genes for the mentioned disorder, whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed for the case. The result of WES analysis revealed a transition at the splice donor variant site of the MARVELD2 gene. The NGS result was confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Insecticidal activity of the essential oil of Perovskia artemisioides Boiss

This work reports the phytochemical profile and insecticidal properties of Perovskia artemisioides Boiss essential oil (PAEO) collected in Baluchestan, Iran. Totally, twenty-six substances were identified with 1,8-cineole (25.81%), geranyl acetate (13.00%) and linalool (10.21%) as dominant chemical metabolites by GC-MS analysis. PAEO possessed fumigant toxicity against various growth stages of Phthorimaea operculella. P. operculella adults showed considerable sensitivity (LC₅₀ = 0.58 µL/L air) in comparison to eggs (LC₅₀ = 5.87 µL/L air) and neonate larvae (LC₅₀ = 1.23 µL/L air). Finally, molecular docking of major components of PAEO was performed against detoxification enzymes, including cytochrome P450 and glutathione S-transferase activities. Humulene, β-caryophyllene, and α-cadinol exhibited the most interactions with the P450 and GST. It can be concluded that PAEO has the potential for development into natural insecticides for the control of storage pests.

Evaluating the effect of siRNA on SOX2OT expression in the human neuron-committed teratocarcinoma NT2 cell line

Non-coding RNA elongated (lncRNAs) have recently attracted as molecules that regulate gene expression of the pluripotent properties (pluripotency) of stem cells. Recently our colleagues examined the role of one of these RNAs called SOX2OT in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and found a concomitant increase in its expression with some regulatory genes of cell proliferation. In the present study, using the design of suitable primers from SOX2OT gene, we investigated the effect of siRNA on expression of SOX2OT.

Determination and Evaluation of Natural and Synthetic Dyes in Traditional Rock Candies (Nabat) Distributed in Tehran

Background:

The color of food products is one of the most important factors proposed by the consumer. Therefore, incorporation of coloring agents into food dates back to ancient times. Nowadays, various types of synthetic dyes are produced and widely used as part of formulations of food products to increase customer’s interest As the safety of this material is questionable, many of them are banned, or the level of their use is limited by the authorities. Among them, saffron is the only food color permitted for use in Nabat as a traditional rock candy which is mostly consumed in Iran. Therefore, the current investigation was aimed to determine the levels of artificial colors in traditional hard candy (Nabat) manufactured by organized and unorganized sectors distributed in Tehran.

Methods:

In this regard, 137 samples, (68 samples from unorganized sector and 69 samples from the organized sector), were collected in summer 2016. Analysis of samples was done according to the Iranian national standard through thin layer chromatography method. Also, the High-performance thin layer chromatography was used for reanalyzing five samples.

Results:

Findings showed that 64.7% of unorganized rock candy contained artificial food colors that 26.53% of these dyes are banned. About 5.8% of samples from the organized sector contained synthetic dyes that 25% of them are forbidden. The most commonly used color in both groups was defined as quinoline yellow.

Conclusion:

The high percentage of synthetic food color usage in unorganized sectors urges the necessity to control them, especially the incorporation of synthetic food dyes in Nabat. Therefore, the training providers and consumers and the monitoring of the production, have encouraged the manufacturers to develop and deploy health professionals and health license.

Swallowing Disorder in Multiple Sclerosis: Modified Version of the Screening Tool

Objective: Dysphagia is commonly encountered in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It can consequently cause severe complications such as the increased risk of dehydration, malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia that associated with an increased risk of death in the late stages of the disease. These complications can be prevented with an effective screening protocol. The Dysphagia in Multiple Sclerosis (DYMUS) is the only questionnaire developed specifically for patients with MS. The aim of the present study was translation and cross-culturally adaptation of DYMUS for the Persian population and estimation of the questionnairechr('39')s reliability and validity. Also, we investigated the frequency and severity of dysphagia in the patients referring to the Tehran MS Society and its association with the course of MS, disease duration, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Materials & Methods: This is a methodological and descriptive-analytic study. The statistical populations consist of the patients with MS referring to the Tehran Multiple Sclerosis Society in 2018. The study sample consisted of 108 patients who were selected through a convenient sampling method. The research instruments consisted of 10-items DYMUS questionnaire (in the first part of the study, translated and its psychometric properties examined), Dysphagia Handicap Index and a demographic information questionnaire. In methodological section, translation and cross-cultural adaptation were fulfilled and the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to assess the construct validity and to test the goodness-of-fit of the presented model. The association between the DYMUS and Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI) scores investigated to convergent validity. ‏ The inter-item correlation matrix was calculated to assess the homogeneity of the questionnaire items. Kuder - Richardson (KR-20) was measured to assess the internal consistency of the questionnaire. Also, the test-retest procedure was conducted on the 19 subjects understudy to assess the reliability. Finally, the frequency and severity of dysphagia and its association with the course of MS, disease duration, and EDSS was investigated. KR-20 reliability coefficient, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), inter-item correlation matrix, Mann-Whitney U test and rank correlation coefficient or Spearmanchr('39')s were used to inferential statistical analysis. Results: Analysis of the inter-item correlations matrix indicated a positive correlation between all items, exception item 10. Based on the results of the inter-item correlation, item 10 had the lowest correlation coefficient that was deleted from the questionnaire. CFA results confirmed the two-factor model of DYMUS, “dysphagia for solids” and “dysphagia for liquids”, and revealed that the item 10 was minimally contributing to the measurement of "dysphagia of solids" and internal consistency increased after the deletion of this item. Also, the solution of the 9-item Model was the best goodness-of-fit indicator for the sample. The obtained results from the convergent validity indicated a positive significant correlation between the DYMUS and DHI (rs=0.693, P<0.001). A KR-20 reliability coefficient of the DYMUS was 0.856, indicating high internal consistency of the Persian translation of the questionnaire items. Test-retest reliability was excellent with 0.965 value. The results also showed that 65.7% of multiple sclerosis patients had a swallowing disorder. In terms of the dysphagia severity, 25.9% of participants had mild dysphagia, and 39.8% of participants had alarming dysphagia. DYMUS values were significantly correlated with disease duration (rs=0.198, P= 0.040), and EDSS (rs=0.235, P= 0.014) and significantly higher mean scores were observed in the patients with secondary progressive than the other subgroups of multiple sclerosis. Conclusion: The Persian adjusted 9-item questionnaire was demonstrated to be a simple, consistent, valid and reliable tool for the detection of patients who need more specific instrumental evaluations of swallowing. Also, about the dysphagia is very frequent in these patients, it is important that clinicians monitor these patients carefully even in early stages of the disease‏ for early detection and planning a rehabilitation program to the prevention of serious subsequence complications.

Chaperones Promote Remarkable Solubilization of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis Flagellin Expressed in Escherichia coli

BACKGROUND

Flagellin of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (SEF) stimulates immune responses to both itself and coapplied antigens. It is therefore used in vaccine development and immunotherapy. Removal of pathogenic S. enterica ser. Enteritidis from SEF production process is advantageous due to the process safety improvement. The protein solubility analysis using SDS-PAGE indicated that 53.49% of SEF expressed in Escherichia coli formed inclusion bodies. However, the protein recovery from inclusion bodies requires a complex process with a low yield.

OBJECTIVE

We thus aim to study possibility of enhancing SEF expression in E. coli in soluble form using chemical and molecular chaperones.

METHODS

Chemical chaperones including arginine, sorbitol, trehalose, sodium chloride and benzyl alcohol were used as cultivation medium additives during SEF expression. SEF solubilization by coexpression of molecular chaperones DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE was also investigated.

RESULTS

All of the chemical chaperones were effective in improving SEF solubility. However, sorbitol showed the most profound effect. SEF solubilization by molecular chaperones was slightly better than that using sorbitol and this approach enhanced noticeably SEF soluble concentration and SEF solubility percentage to almost two folds and 96.37% respectively. Results of limited proteolysis assay and native PAGE indicated similar conformational states and proper folding for SEF obtained without using chaperones and for those obtained using sorbitol and the molecular chaperones. However, the molecular chaperones based system was less costly than the sorbitol based system.

CONCLUSION

The coexpression of molecular chaperones was then considered as the most appropriate approach for soluble SEF production. Therefore, SEF production for medical purposes is expected to be facilitated.

Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy and newborn liver function

Exposure to air pollution has been associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. However, the available evidence on the impact of air pollution exposures on liver enzymes is still scarce. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between exposure to ambient PM₁, PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ during pregnancy and serum level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in cord blood samples of newborns. Moreover, the association between total street length in different buffers and distance to major roads at the maternal residential address and liver enzymes were investigated. This cross-sectional study was based on data from a sample of 150 newborns, from Sabzevar, Iran. Land use regression models were used to estimate concentrations of air pollutants at home during pregnancy. Multiple linear regression was developed to estimate association of AST, ALT, ALP and GGT with air pollution controlled for relevant covariates. In fully adjusted models, increase in PM₁ and PM_2.5 as well as PM₁₀ were associated with higher levels of AST, ALT and GGT. Moreover, there was a significant association between total street length in a 100 m buffer at residential address with AST, ALT and GGT. Each meter increase in distance to major roads was associated with -0.017 (95% confidence interval (CI): -0.028, -0.006) decrease in AST. Overall, our findings were supportive for association between PMs exposure during pregnancy and increase in liver enzymes in newborns. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in other settings and populations.

Deep Learning and Developmental Learning: Emergence of Fine-to-Coarse Conceptual Categories at Layers of Deep Belief Network

In this paper, I investigate conceptual categories derived from developmental processing in a deep neural network. The similarity matrices of deep representation at each layer of neural network are computed and compared with their raw representation. While the clusters generated by raw representation stand at the basic level of abstraction, conceptual categories obtained from deep representation shows a bottom-up transition procedure. Results demonstrate a developmental course of learning from specific to general level of abstraction through learned layers of representations in a deep belief network.

Gabapentin induces edema, hyperesthesia and scaling in a depressed patient; a diagnostic challenge

Gabapentin is a common drug used as analgesic and anticonvulsant and also is prescribed for insomnia, depression, obsessive – compulsive disorder and panic attack. We report a case of a 48-year-old man who is prescribed gabapentin because of insomnia, headache, and depressed mood. In the first period of using the drug no complication has been seen. However in the next period, side-effects such as hyperesthesia, scaling and severe localized edema has been observed. After several laboratory tests and imaging, no reason was found for his edema. And after discontinuing gabapentin the pain and edema was quite relieved. We found out the brand of the drug has been switched in the second stage. The point which makes our study special is the incidence of side-effects such as severe edema, scaling and hyperesthesia for the first time because of using gabapentin and changing the drug combination.

You shall know an object by the company it keeps: An investigation of semantic representations derived from object co-occurrence in visual scenes

An influential position in lexical semantics holds that semantic representations for words can be derived through analysis of patterns of lexical co-occurrence in large language corpora. Firth (1957) famously summarised this principle as "you shall know a word by the company it keeps". We explored whether the same principle could be applied to non-verbal patterns of object co-occurrence in natural scenes. We performed latent semantic analysis (LSA) on a set of photographed scenes in which all of the objects present had been manually labelled. This resulted in a representation of objects in a high-dimensional space in which similarity between two objects indicated the degree to which they appeared in similar scenes. These representations revealed similarities among objects belonging to the same taxonomic category (e.g., items of clothing) as well as cross-category associations (e.g., between fruits and kitchen utensils). We also compared representations generated from this scene dataset with two established methods for elucidating semantic representations: (a) a published database of semantic features generated verbally by participants and (b) LSA applied to a linguistic corpus in the usual fashion. Statistical comparisons of the three methods indicated significant association between the structures revealed by each method, with the scene dataset displaying greater convergence with feature-based representations than did LSA applied to linguistic data. The results indicate that information about the conceptual significance of objects can be extracted from their patterns of co-occurrence in natural environments, opening the possibility for such data to be incorporated into existing models of conceptual representation.

Report: Bioconversion of agriculture waste to lysine with UV mutated strain of brevibacterium flavum and its biological evaluation in broiler chicks

Lysine executes imperative structural and functional roles in body and its supplementation in diet beneficial to prevent the escalating threat of protein deficiency. The physical mutagenesis offers new fascinating avenues of research for overproduction of lysine through surplus carbohydrate containing agriculture waste especially in developing countries. The current study was aimed to investigate the potential of UV mutated strain of Brevibacterium flavum at 254 nm for lysine production. The physical and nutritional parameters were optimized and maximum lysine production was observed with molasses (4% substrate water ratio). Moreover, supplementation of culture medium with metal cations (i.e. 0.4% CaSO₄, 0.3% NaCl, 0.3% KH₂PO₄, 0.4% MgSO₄, and 0.2% (NH₄) ₂SO₄w/v) together with 0.75% v/v corn steep liquor significantly enhanced the lysine production up to 26.71 ± 0.31 g/L. Though, concentrations of urea, ammonium nitrate and yeast sludge did not exhibit any profound effect on lysine production. Biological evaluation of lysine enriched biomass in terms of weight gain and feed conversion ratio reflected non-significant difference for experimental and control (+ve) groups. Conclusively, lysine produced in the form of biomass was compatible to market lysine in its effectiveness and have potential to utilize at commercial scale.

Ethnopharmacological importance of medicinal flora from the district of Vehari, Punjab province, Pakistan

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethnopharmacological studies are important for the discovery of new drugs from reported indigenous flora. The current study was aimed to document medicinal flora and its therapeutic actions along with the relative importance in local health care system of the district of Vehari, Punjab province, Pakistan.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Rapid appraisal approach (RAA) and semi structured interviews were used along with the group meetings with herbalists, local inhabitants and landowners to collect the relevant data.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

A total 77 medicinal plants belonging to 41 families disseminated among 71 genera were reported. Fabaceae was the predominant family over others with 9 reported medicinal plant species. Use frequency of leaves was at peak with 30.12% followed by stem 24.62%, fruit 14.22%, flower 12.97%, seeds 12.13%, bark 4.6% and pod 1.25%, in herbal preparations. Allium cepa exhibited the highest use value (0.90) while lowest use value (UV) was reflected by Aerva javanica (0.10). Documentation of various medicinal plants for the treatment of cancer, hepatitis and cardiac disorders is evidence in favor to highlight the value of medicinal flora.

CONCLUSIONS

Unfortunately, no attention has been paid to this treasure in term of conservation and utilization in modern healthcare system, where these plants can be a best replacement of chemically synthesized drugs. It is also recommended that plants exhibiting high UV should be screened for detailed bio-active phytochemicals.

Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of Boerhavia elegans (choisy) grown in Baluchestan, Iran

OBJECTIVE

Boerhaavia elegans L. (Nyctaginaceae) is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of kidney disorders, urinary tract disorders and blood purification in Baluch tribe. The aim of present study is to evaluate the antioxidant property of B. elegans species for the first time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Different parts (leaf, stem and fruit) of the plant were extracted by using various solvents (water, methanol, chloroform and ethyl acetate) and evaluated for their antioxidant activity using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1 picryl hydrazyl) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) methods. In addition, total phenolic content was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent.

RESULTS

Antioxidant results were expressed as IC50. The antioxidant power in DPPH and FRAP assay were evaluated as shown in decreasing order: Methanolic extract > Aqueous extract > Ethyl acetate extract > Chloroform extract, for all parts of the plant. In both methods of antioxidant assay and Folin-Ciocalteu method, methanolic extract of leaf exhibited the highest activity and the most phenolic content IC50= 6.85 ppm and 16.41 mg GA/g d w respectively. Total phenolic content had a positive relationship with antioxidant capacity in extracts and there was a high correlation (r=1.00, p<0.01) between antioxidant activities as determined by both antioxidant assays for various parts.

CONCLUSION

The results of the experiments showed that B. elegans extract had significant antioxidant effects. This high antioxidant activity may be linked to phenolic contents of the plant but complementary investigations are suggested in order to determine active elements.

Ethnopharmacological studies of indigenous medicinal plants of Saravan region, Baluchistan, Iran

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This study was aimed to explore the indigenous knowledge of medicinal plant species of Baluch tribes in Saravan region, Baluchistan province, Iran.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Rapid appraisal approach along with the semi-structured open ended questionnaire, interviews and personal observations were used to collect the indigenous medicinal information. Quantitative analysis including the informant consensus factor (ICF) and use value (UV) was performed to evaluate the valued medicinal plants.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total 64 medicinal plants belonging to 30 families were reported from the study area. Among families, Lamiaceae dominated over other families and leaves dominated with 31% over other plant parts used as herbal remedies. Rhazya stricta and Datura stamonium (0.35) attributed the higher UV, followed by Otostegia persica (0.33) and Teucrium polium (0.32). Results of the ICF showed that cold/flu/fever (0.71) and blood disorders (0.57) were the most common diseases of the study area.

CONCLUSION

The use value and informant consensus factor substantiated that the relative importance of plant species and sharing knowledge of herbal therapies between different tribal communities of this area is still rich.

The effect of three ergonomics training programs on the prevalence of low-back pain among workers of an Iranian automobile factory: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Many workers suffer from low-back pain. Type and severity of spinal complaints have relationship with work load. Lack of adherence to ergonomics recommendations among the important causes of low-back pain.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of 3 ergonomics training programs on the prevalence of lowback pain among workers of an Iranian automobile factory.

METHODS

In a parallel-design 4-arm randomized clinical trial, 760 active workers of an automobile factory were studied. 503 workers were found eligible and randomized into 3 intervention groups (n=252), and a control group (n=251). The intervention groups consisted of 3 arms: 84 workers were educated by pamphlet, 84 by lectures, and 84 by workshop. Nordic questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of spinal complaint before and 1-year after the interventions. The trial is registered with the Iranian Randomized Clinical Trial Registry, number IRCT2013061213182N2.

RESULTS

Out of 503 workers, 52 lost to follow-up leaving 451 workers for analyses. The prevalence of low-back pain at the baseline was not significantly different among the studied arms. 1-year after the interventions, the prevalence did not change significantly from the baseline values for the lecture and pamphlet group. However, the prevalence of LBP experienced during the last year significantly (p=0.036) decreased from 42% to 23% in participant took part in the workshop.

CONCLUSION

Training of automobile factory workers in ergonomics is more effective by running workshop than giving lecture or disseminating pamphlet.

Otostegia persica (Lamiaceae): A review on its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology

OBJECTIVE

The current study summarizes the updated information concerning the ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Otostegia persica Boiss. (Lamiaceae), an endemic medicinal plant in south and southeast of Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information was collected through bibliographic investigation from scientific journals, books, theses, reports, and electronic search (databases SCOPUS, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct). Moreover, documentation from unpublished resources and ethnobotanical surveys has been used. The present review covers the literature available from 2003 to 2013.

RESULTS

In traditional systems of medicine, this plant is reputed for treating diabetes, arthritis, gastric discomfort, headache, rheumatism, sedative activities, regulating blood pressure, and hyperlipidemia. Phytochemical screening of active components and mineral element evaluation of this species have been reported. Several types of diterpenoids and flavonols including morin, kaempferol, and quercetin are identified from the plant. Most of the pharmacological activity of this plant resides in its flavonoid fraction which causes antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Various pharmacological studies on O. persica show antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-aphid, and hepatoprotective activities.

CONCLUSION

Being an endemic plant of Iran, this species is an important medicinal herb which can be used for various purposes. This review might be helpful for scientists and researchers to find new chemical entities responsible for its claimed traditional uses and discover new lead compounds for diseases mentioned.

Human short-term exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones decreases computer-assisted visual reaction time

The worldwide dramatic increase in mobile phone use has generated great concerns about the detrimental effects of microwave radiations emitted by these communication devices. Reaction time plays a critical role in performing tasks necessary to avoid hazards. As far as we know, this study is the first survey that reports decreased reaction time after exposure to electromagnetic fields generated by a high specific absorption rate mobile phone. It is also the first study in which previous history of mobile phone use is taken into account. The aim of this study was to assess both the acute and chronic effects of electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones on reaction time in university students. Visual reaction time (VRT) of young university students was recorded with a simple blind computer-assisted-VRT test, before and after a 10 min real/sham exposure to electromagnetic fields of mobile phones. Participants were 160 right-handed university students aged 18-31. To assess the effect of chronic exposures, the reaction time in sham-exposed phases were compared among low level, moderate and frequent users of mobile phones. The mean ± SD reaction time after real exposure and sham exposure were 286.78 ± 31.35 ms and 295.86 ± 32.17 ms (P < 0.001), respectively. The age of students did not significantly alter the reaction time either in talk or in standby mode. The reaction time either in talk or in standby mode was shorter in male students. The students' VRT was significantly affected by exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by a mobile phone. It can be concluded that these exposures cause decreased reaction time, which may lead to a better response to different hazards. In this light, this phenomenon might decrease the chances of human errors and fatal accidents.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Iranian Steel Workers

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal disorders in developing countries are considered as main cause of occupational disorders and disability and highly associated with socioeconomic burden to individual, organization and society in general view. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and associated risk factors among Iranian steel workers.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, 1439 questionnaires were provided from 1984 randomly selected workers of four Iranian steel industries. Data of musculoskeletal disorders was gathered by means of standardized Nordic self-reporting questionnaire. Demographic and work related data were collected into the check list.

RESULTS

Out of 1984 individuals, 1439 questionnaires returned and mean age of study workers was 37.23±8.74 years old. Among workers, 46.3% in the past week and 61% in the last year claimed one of musculoskeletal disorders in their bodies. Lumbar, knee(s) and neck areas had the most common musculoskeletal disorders. Musculoskeletal disorders had significant association with the job time of work and BMI.

CONCLUSION

Musculoskeletal disorders in Iranian steel industries happened in high rate. Ergonomic interventions strategies into the workplaces must be focused to eliminate environmental hazards such as apposition on the time of work and manual handling of heavy loads.

Salicylate poly(vinyl chloride) membrane electrode based on (2-[(E)-2-(4-nitrophenyl) hydrazono]-1-phenyl-2-(2-quinolyl)-1-ethanone) Cu(II)

A new salicylate-selective electrode based on the complex of (2-[(E)-2-(4-nitrophenyl)hydrazono]-1-phenyl-2-(2-quinolyl)-1-ethanone) Cu(II) as the membrane carrier was developed. The electrode exhibited a good Nernstian slope of -59.6+/-1.0 mV/decade and a linear range of 1.0 x 10(-6) to 1.0M for salicylate. The limit of detection was 5.0 x 10(-7) M. The electrode had a fast response time of 10 s and can be used for more than 3 months. The selective coefficients were determined by the fixed interference method and could be used in the pH range of 4.0 to 10.5. The electrode was employed as an indicator electrode for direct determination of salicylate in pharmaceutical and biological samples.