Abatement of the binding of human hexokinase II enzyme monomers by in-silico method with the design of inhibitory peptides

The hexokinase II enzyme is bound to the (VDAC1) channel in the form of a dimer and prevents the release of cell death factors from mitochondria to the cytoplasm. Studies have shown that blocking the binding of hexokinase II enzyme to (VDAC1) led to the initiation of apoptosis in cancer cells. No peptide has been designed so far to inhibit hexokinase II. The aim of this study was to inhibit the dimerization of enzyme subunits in order to inhibition the formation of (VDAC1) and the hexokinase II complex. In this study, the molecular dynamics simulation of the enzyme in monomer and dimer states was investigated in terms of RMSF, RMSD and radius of gyration. The following process involves extracting and designing variable-length peptides from the interacting segments of enzyme monomers. Using molecular dynamics simulation, the stability of the peptide was determined in terms of RMSD. Molecular docking was used to investigate the interaction between the designed peptides. Finally, the inhibitory effect of peptides on subunit association was measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. Our results showed that the designed peptides, which mimic common amino acids in dimerization, interrupt the bona fide form of the enzyme subunits. The result of this study provides a new way to disrupt the assembly process and thereby decreased the function of the hexokinase II.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40203-024-00201-8.

A crossover randomized controlled trial examining the effects of black seed (Nigella sativa) supplementation on IL-1β, IL-6 and leptin, and insulin parameters in overweight and obese women

BACKGROUND

Nigella sativa (NS) oil has been found to have advantageous benefits in the management of inflammation and obesity. This study investigated the effect of NS supplementation on blood mRNA expressions and serum levels of IL-1β, IL-6, leptin, and insulin concentrations in overweight/obese women.

METHODS

In a crossover design, participants were randomized to receive either NS supplements(2000 mg/day) or placebo for 2 durations(8 weeks). With between-subject and within-subject components and interactions, a repeated-measure ANOVA model was used considering the treatment, time, and the carryover effects. Cohen's d(d) was used to measure the magnitude of the effects.

RESULTS

Forty-six eligible participants were included. NS supplementation significantly reduced the mRNA expressions(d=-0.68, P = 0.03) and serum levels of IL-1β with medium-high effect sizes(d=-1.6, P < 0.001). Significant reductions with large effect sizes were observed in the gene expression and serum levels of IL-6(d=-1.8, d=-0.78, respectively; P < 0.01) and Leptin(d=-1.9, d=-0.89, respectively; P < 0.01, serum leptin P carryover < 0.001). Despite the meaningful carryover effect for serum leptin, results remained significant following the first intervention period analysis(P < 0.001). A significant but low effect size decrease in serum insulin was observed(d=-0.3, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical significance of present findings regarding improvements in obesity-related pro-inflammatory markers must be interpreted with caution due to some observed medium-low effect sizes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT20180430039475N1 (Date:25/6/2018).

Crucial role of corticotropin-releasing hormone, corticotropin-releasing hormone -binding protein, mir-200c, and mir-181a in preterm delivery: A case-control study

Background

Preterm birth before 37th wk of gestation is called premature birth. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and CRH-binding protein (BP) act on various maternal and fetal tissues during pregnancy, such as the myometrium, which regulates the transition from the dormant phase of the uterus to the active phase. Studies have shown that mir-200c and mir-181a interact with CRH and CRH-BP.

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the expression of mir-200c, mir-181a, CRH, and CRH-BP in women with a history of preterm birth.

Materials and Methods

In this case-control study, the gene expression level of mir-200c, mir-181a, CRH, and CRH-BP in placental tissue samples obtained from 48 women with a history of preterm labor was assessed in the Mojibian hospital of Yazd, Iran, from January to March 2023. Differences between mir-200c, mir-181a CRH, and CRH-BP gene expressions among cases and controls were assessed.

Results

The outcomes indicated that the expression of CRH increased with going on to the regular parturition time (p < 0.001). While outcomes indicated, CRH-BP decreased with going on to the regular parturition time (p < 0.001). In addition, the results showed that the expression of mir-181a increased and mir-200c decreased with approaching the normal delivery time (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the expressions of mir-200c, mir-181a, CRH, and CRH-BP were dissimilar in different weeks of gestation. It could be proposed to use mir-200c, mir-181a, CRH, and CRH-BP as biomarkers to weigh the exact delivery time, which could minimize the side effects of preterm labor for the mother and fetus.

A heterozygous missense variant in DLX3 leads to uterine leiomyomas and pregnancy losses in a consanguineous Iranian family

Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are benign solid tumors arising from the uterine myometrium. They are the most common pelvic tumors among females of reproductive age. Despite the universal prevalence of ULs and its huge impact on women's lives, the exact etiology and pathophysiologic mechanisms have not been fully understood. Numerous studies indicate that genetic factors play a crucial role in ULs development. This study aims to identify the probable genetic causes of ULs in a consanguineous Iranian family. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) on five family members with ULs revealed a likely pathogenic missense variant encoding for Y88C in the transactivation (TA) domain of DLX3 gene (c.263A > G; p.Y88C). Sanger sequencing of a total of 9 affected and non-affected family members indicated a segregation with disease with autosomal dominant inheritance. Moreover, targeted Sanger sequencing on 32 additional non-related patients with ULs showed none was heterozygous for this variant. MutPred2 predicted the pathogenicity of candidate variant by both phosphorylation and sulfation loss as actionable hypotheses. Project HOPE revealed that the identified variant residue is smaller and more hydrophobic comparing to the wild-type residue. I-TASSER and UCSF Chimera were also used for modeling and visualizing the predicted variant, respectively. This WES analysis is the first to report a variant in DLX3 variation associated with ULs pathogenicity in Iranian population highlighting the effectiveness of WES as a strong diagnostic method. However, further functional studies on this variant are needed to confirm the potential pathogenicity of this mutation.

Geometrical and physical effects of nanofillers on percolation and electrical conductivity of polymer carbon-based nanocomposites: a general micro-mechanical model

A micro-mechanical model was developed to describe the electrical percolation and effective electrical conductivity of nanocomposites containing fillers with different shapes such as graphene nanoplatelets, carbon black, and carbon nanotubes. The fillers are considered to be an oblate or short cylindrical shape for graphene nanoplatelets, a spherical or spheroidal shape for carbon blacks, and a prolate or long cylindrical shape for carbon nanotubes. The effects of the filler shape, filler size, filler aspect ratios, the thickness of the interphase layer, the conductivity of the filler, the conductivity of the interphase layer, the conductivity of the matrix, volume fractions, quantum tunneling distance, and tunneling barrier height have been examined. This modified mean field model well describes the electrical properties of nanocomposites in the whole range of volume fractions for a variety of experimental results with various reinforcements. Also, it reproduces the very sharp behavior of the percolation transition well around the percolation threshold. The results show that nanocomposites containing fillers with an aspect ratio of 10^-2 < M < 10² and a volume fraction of ϕ_f < 0.3 show an insulating behavior while exhibiting a metallic behavior in the ranges M < 10^-2 and M > 10². This model produces variations in the percolation threshold in terms of the aspect ratio as a parabolic curve that can be used to predict the percolation threshold of nanocomposites with various fillers. The present general model can provide a new insight to design conductive polymer nanocomposites with the desired features and specific applications.

Effects of Nigella sativa supplementation on blood concentration and mRNA expression of TNF-α, PPAR-γ and adiponectin, as major adipogenesis-related markers, in obese and overweight women: a crossover, randomised-controlled trial

Adipocyte expansion through adipogenesis can offset the adverse metabolic effects of obesity. Nigella sativa (NS) (black seed) oil is shown to have therapeutic features in the management of obesity. NS oil might have beneficial changes in obese populations through mediating serum levels of adipogenesis-related parameters and relative transcriptional gene-diet interactions (nutrigenomics), though no previous studies assessed this mechanism in overweight/obese participants. This study assessed the effects of NS oil supplements on blood concentration and mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, PPAR-γ and serum adiponectin and expression of AdipoR1, as major adipogenesis and obesity-related parameters, in overweight/obese women using a cross-over design. Eligible women were randomised to receive either NS oil supplements (2000 mg/d) or placebo. Two periods of interventions (8 weeks in each) were cross-changed by a 4-week washout period. An individualised diet plan without calorie deficits was given to participants to match their energy/macronutrient intakes. The Pkcross procedure and intention-to-treat analysis were performed using Stata. Cohen's d(d) was estimated to measure the magnitude of the effects. Forty-six participants were included. NS oil capsules reduced transcription levels ((d = -2·31), P < 0·001) and blood concentrations of TNF-α ((d = -0·29), P < 0·001). AdipoR1 expression (d = 2·24, P < 0·001) and serum adiponectin (d = 0·88, P < 0·001) showed a significant augmentation with a medium-high effect size, as did gene expression (d = 0·69, P < 0·001) and serum levels of PPAR-γ (d = 0·97, P < 0·001). There was a moderate but significant decrease in body weight (d = 0·6, P < 0·001). The present beneficial findings would provide strong information for future nutrigenomics/clinical trial studies assessing the role of NS in the management of obesity and other comorbidities.

Associations of MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and rs180113 (1298A>C) Polymorphisms with Susceptibility to Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The effects of the MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and rs180113 (1298A>C) polymorphisms on bladder cancer risk have been evaluated in some studies. However, the results were conflicting and ambiguous. Therefore, we aimed to perform a comprehensive meta-analysis to investigate the association of these polymorphisms with risk of bladder cancer from all eligible case-control studies. PubMed, Web of science, Scopus, SID, CNKI and SciELO databases were searched to identify all relevant studies published up to 1 January, 2021. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of associations. A total of 20 case-control studies including 11 studies with 3463 cases and 3927 controls on MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and 9 studies with 3177 cases and 3502 controls on rs180113 (1298A>C) polymorphism were selected. Pooled data revealed that the MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and rs180113 (1298A>C) polymorphisms were not associated with risk bladder cancer in overall. Stratified analysis by ethnicity revealed that the MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and rs180113 (1298A>C) polymorphisms were associated with bladder cancer risk in Asians, but not in Caucasians. There was no publication bias. The current meta-analysis revealed that the MTHFR rs1801133 (677C>T) and rs180113 (1298A>C) polymorphisms were not risk factor for development of bladder cancer globally. However, large sample size, well-designed, and population-based studies should be performed to verify the association of the MTHFR polymorphisms with bladder cancer risk.

Case Report: Mutation in AIMP2/P38, the Scaffold for the Multi-Trna Synthetase Complex, and Association With Progressive Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background: Leukodystrophies constitute a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders primarily affecting the white matter of the central nervous system. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARSs) catalyze the attachment of an amino acids to their cognate transfer RNAs (tRNAs). Pathogenic variants in both cytosolic and mitochondrial ARSs have been linked to a broad range of neurological disorders, including hypomyelinating leukodystrophies and pontocerebellar hypoplasias (PCH). Aminoacyl tRNA synthetase-interacting multifunctional protein 2 (AIMP2), one of the three non-catalytic components of multi ARS complex, harbors anti-proliferative activity and functions as a proapoptotic factor thus promoting cell death. We report a case of a 7-month-old infant with a complex clinical presentation, including weight loss, severe anemia, skeletal abnormalities, microcephaly and MR imaging features of leukodystrophy with a novel mutation in AIMP2.

Methods: Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on the proband. Parental samples were analyzed by PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing.

Results: Whole-exome sequencing revealed a novel variant c.A463T in the homozygous state in exon 3 (NM_001,326,607) of AIMP2 [p.(K155X)] in the proband. Parental carrier status was confirmed by target sequencing.

Conclusion: Here, we present an Iranian case with leukodystrophy with a novel AIMP2 mutation. This finding broadens the mutational and phenotypic spectra of AIMP2-related leukodystrophy and offers guidance for proper genetic counselling for pre- and post-natal screenings as well as for disease management.

Proportion and mortality of Iranian diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, hypertension and cardiovascular disease patients with COVID-19: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Currently, the number of patients with SARS-COV-2 infection has increased rapidly in Iran, but the risk and mortality of SARS-COV-2 infection in Iranian patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypertension and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still not clear. The aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the proportion and mortality of SARS-COV-2 in these patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed, Web of Sciences, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CNKI, SciELO, and other databases to identify all relevant studies published up to 10 January, 2020. The proportion and mortality in the patients were assessed by odd ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI).

RESULTS

A total of ten case-series including 11,755 cases with SARS-COV-2 infection and 942 deaths were selected. Among them, there were total of 791 DM patients with 186 deaths, 225 CKD patients with 45 deaths, 790 hypertension cases with 86 deaths, and 471 CVDs cases with 60 deaths. Pooled data revealed that the proportion of SARS-COV-2 infection in the patients with hypertension, DM, CVDs and CKD were 21.1 %, 16.3 %, 14.0 % and 5.0 %, respectively. Moreover, the SARS-COV-2 infection were associated with an increased risk of mortality in DM (OR = 0.549, CI 95 % 0.448-0.671, p ≤ 0.001) and CKD (OR = 0.552, 95 % CI 0.367-0.829, p = 0.004) patients, but not hypertension and CVDs. There was no publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled data showed that the proportion of SARS-COV-2 infection was the highest in the Iranian patients with hypertension (21.1 %) followed by DM (16.3 %), CVDs (14.0 %) and CKD (5.0 %). Moreover, DM and CKD in patients with SARS-COV-2 infection were associated with a 0.549 and 0.552-fold increase in mortality, respectively. Clinicians in Iran should be aware of these findings, to identifying patients at higher risk and inform interventions to reduce the risk of death. Moreover, well-designed, large-scale and multicenter studies are needed to improve and validate our findings.

Epidrug Modulated Expression of MiR--152 and MiR-148a Reverse Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells: An Experimental In-vitro Study

Cisplatin is a common agent which is used to treat Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC), but cisplatin resistance is a major obstacle in successful treatment of ovarian cancer. Aberration in epigenetic changes play an important role in disregulation of gene expression. MiR-152 and miR-148a are frequently down-regulated in EOC due to promoter hyper-methylation. DNA methyltransferase1 (DNMT1), the main enzyme in maintenance of the pattern of DNA methylation, is one of the targets of miR-152 and miR-148a. Aberrantly up-regulation of DNMT1 is responsible for silencing of tumor suppressor genes in carcinogenesis. We hypothesized that re-expression of miR-152 and miR-148a and consequently down-regulation of DNMT1 may resensitize cancerous cells to chemotherapeutics agents. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of 5-azacytidine (5-Aza) and Trichostatin A on miR-152 and miR-148a expression in A2780CP ovarian cancer cell line. Optimal doses of 5-Azacitidine and TSA were measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. A2780CP cell line was treated by each drugs, alone or in combination and the expression of miR-148a, miR-152 and DNMT1 was evaluated by Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). The results revealed that TSA and 5-Azacytidine are able to revive the expression of miR-148a and miR-152 genes and mediate growth inhibition of epithelial ovarian cancer cells. The present study suggests that re-expression of miR-148a and miR-152 by epigenetic therapy aiming to DNMT1 suppression might resensitize resistant ovarian tumors to conventional chemotherapy.

Expression of SCUBE2 and BCL2 Predicts Favorable Response in ERα Positive Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

The study aimed at evaluating steroid biomarker genes (ERα, PGR, ERβ) and determining the expression level of estrogen-regulated genes (SCUB2 and BCL2) and growth factors receptors (HER2 and IGFR1) in cancer tissue samples obtained from Iranian patients with breast cancer. Moreover, relationships with clinicopathologic aspects of tumor and response to treatment were studied.

METHODS

The current study was conducted on 246 breast tissue samples. The expression levels of these genes and their relationships with clinicopathologic aspects and treatment response were evaluated.

RESULTS

Based on immunohistochemistry (IHC) results, 12% of the ER negative patients expressed ERα. Comparing the effects of ERα and coexpression of BCL2 and SCUBE2 on the survival of the patients demonstrated remarkably poorer survival in ERα positive, SCUBE2, and BCL2 negative groups in comparison with other patients, which was statistically significant in the log-rank analysis (P = 0.01). Evaluation of the effects of coexpression of HER2 and IGFR1 on patients' survival demonstrated a worse survival rate in patients with positive expression of both receptors, which was insignificant.

CONCLUSION

Many studies suggest that PGR alone is not enough for the functional evaluation of ERα. Evaluation of the progesterone receptor expression as well as other genes such as BLC2, SCUBE2, and IGFR1, seems necessary to evaluate functionality.

The effect of Nigella sativa on appetite, anthropometric and body composition indices among overweight and obese women: A crossover, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

Obesity is a global concern which is associated with several complications and disease.

DESIGN

Present study is the first crossover, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of Nigella Sativa (N. sativa) intervention on anthropometric and body composition parameters as well as dietary intake and appetite in a crossover design.

METHOD

Forty-five healthy women with obesity or overweight were randomized into two groups of intervention and placebo, and the study conducted in two 8-week periods of intervention separated by a 4-week washout period. Anthropometric and body composition indices and dietary intake were measured. Also, appetite sensation was evaluated via a standard visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaire. Pkcross procedure was performed for statistical analysis using STATA. Cohen's d effect size was estimated for all outcomes to determine the magnitude of the effects.

RESULTS

Supplementation with 2000 mg of N. sativa oil found to have a considerable increment in the measures of body mass index (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.5), body weight (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.6) and waist circumference (P = 0.020, Cohen's d = 0.4) with a medium effect size measure, and a significant decrease in body fat mass (P = 0.019, Cohen's d = 0.2), body fat percent (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.2) and visceral fat area (P = 0.011, Cohen's d = 0.2) with a small effect size measure.

CONCLUSION

The overall improvements in anthropometric and body composition parameters and a significant decrease in appetite represents the beneficial effects of N. sativa supplements in the treatment of obesity. More studies with different dosages, a larger number of participants, and longer intervention duration are recommended to illustrate the exact effects of N. sativa as a complementary therapy for obesity.

Efficacy of Probiotic Prophylaxis After The First Febrile Urinary Tract Infection in Children With Normal Urinary Tracts

BACKGROUND

Growing antibiotic resistance and debates over their efficacy for urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrence warrants studying nonantibiotic prophylaxis for preventing UTI recurrences.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 181 children, aged 4 months to 5 years, with a normal urinary tract after recovery from their first febrile UTI in a 1:1 ratio to receive a probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium lactis (n = 91) or placebo (n = 90) for a total of 18 months of therapy. The primary objective was to show the superiority of probiotic prophylaxis to placebo. The primary end point was composite cure (UTI-free survival) at 18 months, and the secondary end point was the median time to first UTI recurrence.

RESULTS

The probiotics were superior to placebo with respect to the primary efficacy end point. At 18 months, composite cure was observed in 96.7% (3 of 91) of the patients in the probiotic group and 83.3% (15 of 90) of those in the placebo group (P = .02). The median time to the first incidence of UTI recurrence was 3.5 months (range, 1-4 months) and 6.5 months (range, 2-14 months) in the probiotic and placebo groups, respectively (P = .04). The main microorganism that caused recurrent UTI was Escherichia coli, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae, and these results were not significantly different between the 2 groups. We found no specific adverse events among the participants who received the probiotic mixture during the course of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The probiotics were more effective than placebo at reducing the risk of recurrent UTI in children with a normal urinary tract after their first episode of febrile UTI.

Key Regulatory miRNAs and their Interplay with Mechanosensing and Mechanotransduction Signaling Pathways in Breast Cancer Progression

According to the WHO, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Identification of underlying mechanisms in breast cancer progression is the main concerns of researches. The mechanical forces within the tumor microenvironment, in addition to biochemical stimuli such as different growth factors and cytokines, activate signaling cascades, resulting in various changes in cancer cell physiology. Cancer cell proliferation, invasiveness, migration, and, even, resistance to cancer therapeutic agents are changed due to activation of mechanotransduction signaling. The mechanotransduction signaling is frequently dysregulated in breast cancer, indicating its important role in cancer cell features. So far, a variety of experimental investigations have been conducted to determine the main regulators of the mechanotransduction signaling. Currently, the role of miRNAs has been well-defined in the cancer process through advances in molecular-based approaches. miRNAs are small groups of RNAs (∼22 nucleotides) that contribute to various biological events in cells. The central role of miRNAs in the regulation of various mediators involved in the mechanotransduction signaling has been well clarified over the last decade. Unbalanced expression of miRNAs is associated with different pathologic conditions. Overexpression and downregulation of certain miRNAs were found to be along with dysregulation of mechanotransduction signaling effectors. This study aimed to critically review the role of miRNAs in the regulation of mediators involved in the mechanosensing pathways and clarify how the cross-talk between miRNAs and their targets affect the cell behavior and physiology of breast cancer cells.

Deficient Expression of DGCR8 in Human Testis is Related to Spermatogenesis Dysfunction, Especially in Meiosis I

Introduction

DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8) contributes to miRNA biogenesis, and defects in its expression could lead to defects in spermatogenesis.

Methods

Here, we assess gene and protein expression levels of DGCR8 in the testicular biopsy specimens obtained from men with obstructive azoospermia (OA, n = 19) and various types of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) including maturation arrest (MA, n = 17), Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS, n = 20) and hypospermatogenesis (HYPO, 18). Also, samples of men with NOA were divided into two groups based on successful and unsuccessful sperm recovery, NOA+ in 21 patients and NOA− in 34 patients.

Results

Examinations disclosed a severe decrease in DGCR8 in samples with MA and SCOS in comparison to OA samples (P < 0.001). Also, the results showed DGCR8 has significantly lower expression in testis tissues of NOA− group in comparison to NOA+ group (p<0.05). Western blot analysis confirmed that the DGCR8 protein was not expressed in SCOS samples and had a very low expression in MA and HYPO samples.

Discussion

The results of this survey showed that DGCR8 is an important gene for the entire spermatogenesis pathway. Moreover, DGCR8 gene plays an important role in the diagnosis of NOA subgroups, and also the expression changes in it might contribute to SCOS or MA phenotypes. This gene with considering other related genes can also be a predictor of sperm retrieval.

Effect of ventilation strategies and air purifiers on the children's exposure to airborne particles and gaseous pollutants in school gyms

Indoor school gyms are environments characterized by high concentrations of different airborne particulate and gaseous pollutants. In particular, like other naturally-ventilated school environments, in addition to indoor pollutants children can be exposed to sub-micron particles and gaseous pollutants emitted by outdoor sources and penetrating the building envelope; moreover, high concentrations of super-micron particles can be reached due to the resuspension phenomena related to the physical activity performed therein. The present paper aims to evaluate the effect of different ventilation methods (natural ventilation, manual airing) and the use of air purifiers in reducing the indoor concentrations of different airborne particles and gaseous pollutants in school gyms. To this end, an experimental campaign was performed in two naturally-ventilated school gyms in Barcelona (Spain) of different volumes and different distance to major urban roads. Indoor and outdoor measurements of particle number, black carbon and PM_1-10 concentrations were performed as well as indoor measurements of CO₂ and NO₂ concentrations. The study revealed that the use of air purifiers with windows kept closed (natural ventilation) can lead to a significant reduction in terms of indoor-to-outdoor concentration ratios. In the smaller gym (air changes per hour of the purifiers, ACH, equal to 9.2 h^-1) the I/O ratios were reduced by 93% and 95% in terms of particle number and PM_1-10, respectively; whereas in the larger school gym (ACH = 1.7 h^-1) the corresponding reductions were 70% and 84%. For manual airing scenarios, the effect of the air purifiers on outdoor-generated sub-micron particles is reduced; in particular, for low ACH values (i.e. ACH = 1.7 h^-1), the reduction is quite negligible (6%).

Effects of oral Nigella sativa oil on the expression levels and serum concentrations of adiponectin, PPAR-γ, and TNF-α in overweight and obese women: a study protocol for a crossover-designed, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a major public health problem in recent decades. The accumulation of excessive fat promotes inflammatory status. Meanwhile, herbal products are marketed for their weight-loss properties, such as Nigella sativa (N. Sativa) which has been used for centuries to treat rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and asthma; recently, the anti-obesity characteristics of N. sativa have also been indicated. However, the exact mechanisms and cellular-related pathways are still unclear. Thus, we will aim to assess the effects of oral N. sativa on the gene expression of inflammatory and adipogenesis-related factors, including TNF-α, PPAR-γ, and adiponectin as well as assessing their serum concentrations among obese and overweight individuals.

METHODS

Obese and overweight women aged 25-55 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 25-35 kg/m² will be recruited from the Obesity Clinic in Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and will be assessed for eligibility against inclusion criteria. They will be randomly assigned into two groups to receive either two capsules of N. sativa or two capsules of placebo per day for eight weeks (each capsule contains 1000 mg of N. sativa or placebo). There will be a four-week wash-out period and then participants will receive the reverse supplements for another eight weeks. Biochemical assessments and gene expressions (using real-time polymerase chain reaction) will be conducted at the beginning and at the end of every intervention period.

DISCUSSION

The present study will investigate the probable cellular pathways for the anti-obesity effects of N. sativa in overweight/obese women.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, IRCT20180528039884N1 . Registered on 2nd of July, 2018.

ASSOCIATION OF PROMOTER REGION POLYMORPHISMS OF INTERLEUKIN-10 GENE WITH SUSCEPTIBILITY TO COLORECTAL CANCER: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

BACKGROUND

Several epidemiological studies have investigated the association of promoter region polymorphisms of Interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene with colorectal cancer (CRC), while the conclusion is still conflicting and inconclusive.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted this meta-analysis to evaluate the association of promoter region polymorphisms of IL-10 with CRC.

METHODS

Eligible articles were identified by a search of several bibliographic databases for the period up to March 15, 2018. The strength of the association was measured by odd ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

A total of 28 case-control studies with 5,647 CRC cases and 6,908 controls were selected, including 14 studies for IL-10 -1082A>G (rs1800896) polymorphism (2,702 cases and 3,649 controls), eleven studies for -592C>A (rs1800872) polymorphism (3,259 cases and 4,992 controls), and three studies for -819T>C (rs1800871) polymorphism (477 cases and 544 controls). By pooling all eligible studies, we found that the IL-10 -1082A>G and -592C>A polymorphisms were not associated with increased CRC risk in overall population. However, there was significant associations between the IL-10 -819T>C polymorphism and CRC susceptibility under the allele model (A vs G: OR=1.278, 95% CI 1.043-1.566, P=0.018) and the recessive model (AA vs AG+GG: OR=1.709, 95% CI 1.026-2.845, P=0.039).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis we found that IL-10 -819T>C polymorphism was associated with significantly increased risk of CRC; while the IL-10 -1082A>G and -592C>A polymorphisms were not associated with CRC risk. The IL-10 -819T>C polymorphism may be important as suspected predictive factor of CRC occurrence.

Association of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: a Meta-Analysis of 26 Case-Control Studies

Objective Previous studies investigating the association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) risk has provided inconsistent results. The aim of our study was to assess the association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and risk of RPL.

Methods All studies published up to January 30, 2018 on the association of ACE I/D polymorphism with RPL were identified by searching the PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Google scholar databases.

Results A total of 26 case-control studies with 3,140 RPL cases and 3,370 controls were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, there was a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and RPL risk under the allele model (I versus D: odds ratio [OR] = 0.538, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.451–0.643, p ≤ 0.001), the homozygote model (II versus DD: OR = 0.766, 95% CI = 0.598–0.981, p = 0.035) and the recessive model (II versus ID + DD: OR = 0.809, 95% CI = 0.658–0.994, p = 0.044). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed that there was a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and increased risk of RPL in Caucasian and West-Asian populations, but not in East-Asians. When stratified by number of recurrent miscarriages (RMs), a significant association between ACE I/D polymorphism and increased risk of RPL was detected in the group of studies with ≥ 2 RMs, but not in studies with ≥ 3 RMs.

Conclusion The meta-analysis suggests that ACE I/D polymorphism is associated with increased risk of RPL. The ACE I/D polymorphism may be a risk factor for RPL in Caucasian and West-Asian populations, but not in East-Asians.

Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) -308G>A and -238G>A Polymorphisms with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Risk: A Meta-Analysis

Background

Multiple studies have been carried out examining the association of tumor necrosis factor-α gene (TNF-α) promoter region polymorphisms with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) risk. However, the results remain controversial and incomplete. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the association of the TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms with RPL risk.

Materials and Methods

In this meta-analysis, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Knowledge and EMBASE was performed to identify relevant studies published until December 1, 2017. The associations were assessed by odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 29 case-control studies, comprising 20 studies on TNF-α -308G>A (3,461 cases and 3,895 controls) and nine studies on TNF-α -238G>A (2,589 cases and 2,664 controls), were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, we found TNF-α -308G>A to be associated with an increase in RPL risk under the homozygote (OR=1.716, 95% CI: 1.210-2.433, P=0.002) and the recessive (OR=1.554, 95% CI: 1.100-2.196, P=0.012) models. TNF-α -238G>A was also significantly associated with increased risk of RPL under the allele model (OR=1.554, 95% CI: 1.100-2.196, P=0.012). Stratified analysis revealed a more significant association between theTNF-α -308G>A polymorphism and increased RPL risk in Asians under the homozygote (OR=2.190, 95% CI: 1.465-3.274, P≤0.001), the dominant (OR=1.642, 95% CI: 1.269-2.125, P≤0.001) and the recessive (OR=1.456, 95% CI: 1.039-2.040, P=0.029) models, but not in Caucasians. A non-significant association was, however, identified between TNF-α -238G>A and RPL risk based on ethnicity. Moreover, TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms were significantly associated with increased risk of RPL in high quality studies and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) subgroups.

Conclusion

The present meta-analysis demonstrates that TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of RPL.

Candidate biomarkers for Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common diseases associated with neurodegenerative disorders. It affects 3% to 4% of the population over the age of 65 years. The neuropathological dominant symptoms of PD include the destruction of neurons in the substantia nigra, thus causing striatal dopamine deficiency and the presence of intracellular inclusions that contain aggregates of α‑synuclein. The premature form of PD is familial and is known as early onset PD (EOPD). It involves a small portion of patients with PD, displaying symptoms before the age of 60 years. Although individuals who are suffering from the EOPD may have genetic changes, the molecular mechanisms that differentiate between EOPD and late onset PD (LOPD) remain unclear. Owing to the complexity of discriminating between the different forms, treatment, and management of PD, the identification of biomarkers for early diagnosis seems necessary. For this purpose, many studies have been undertaken for the introduction of several biological molecules through various techniques as potential biomarkers. The main focus of these studies was on α-synuclein. However, there are other molecules that are potential biomarkers, such as microRNAs and peptoids. In this article, we tried to review some of these studies.

Relative Expression of PBMC MicroRNA-133a Analysis in Patients Receiving Warfarin After Mechanical Heart Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in various biological processes including anticoagulation. However, the modulation of miRNA by pharmacological intervention such as warfarin treatment in patients receiving warfarin has not been disclosed yet. The aim of this study work was to assess the effect of warfarin drug on expression level of mir-133a-3p in patients with mechanical heart valve replacement.

METHODS

In this research, the expression level of miRNA-133a-3p was analyzed in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) from mechanical valve replacement patients who had received warfarin for at least 3 months continuously. Quantitative RT-PCR method was used for this assay.

RESULTS

Our findings indicated a significant diffrence between the rate of miR-133a-3p expression in individuals receiving warfarin and the control group (p<0.01). There was also a statistically significant difference in miR-133a-3p expression in patients with different ages (p<0.05) suggesting that the rate of miR-133a-3p expression in persons receiving warfarin is related to age. However, other variables like warfarin dose, International Normalized Ratio (INR), gender, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were not significantly effective on the miR-133a-3p experssion rate in individuals receving warfarin.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, it can be concluded that miR-133a-3p is involved in the coagulation pathway. The recent result indicates that warfarin affects the expression of miR-133a. This expression may be potentially important for treatment by anticoagulants. Awareness of the time course of miRNA expression profile can improve efficiency of response to warfarin.

Association of vitamin D receptor BsmI, TaqI, FokI, and ApaI polymorphisms with susceptibility of chronic periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on 38 case -control studies

BACKGROUND

There has been increasing interest in the study of the association between Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and risk of chronic periodontitis. However, the results remain inconclusive. To better understand the roles of VDR polymorphisms (BsmI, TaqI, FokI, and ApaI) in chronic periodontitis susceptibility, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science database were systemically searched to determine all the eligible studies about VDR polymorphisms and risk of chronic periodontitis up to April 2017. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to evaluate the associations between VDR polymorphisms and chronic periodontitis risk. All the statistical analyses were performed by Comprehensive Meta-Analysis. All P values were two-tailed with a significant level at 0.05.

RESULTS

Finally, a total of 38 case-control studies in 19 publications were identified which met our inclusion criteria. There are ten studies with 866 chronic periodontitis cases and 786 controls for BsmI, 16 studies with 1570 chronic periodontitis cases and 1676 controls for TaqI, five studies with 374 chronic periodontitis cases and 382 controls for FokI, and seven studies with 632 chronic periodontitis cases and 604 controls for ApaI. Overall, no significant association was observed between VDR gene BsmI, TaqI, FokI, and ApaI polymorphisms and risk of chronic periodontitis in any genetic model. Subgroup analysis stratified by ethnicity suggested a significant association between BsmI polymorphism and chronic periodontitis risk in the Caucasian subgroup under allele model (A vs. G: OR = 1.747, 95% CI = 1.099-2.778, P = 0.018). Further, no significant associations were observed when stratified by Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium status for BsmI, TaqI, and ApaI.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that BsmI, TaqI, FokI, and ApaI polymorphisms in the VDR gene might not be associated with risk of chronic periodontitis in overall population.

Airborne ultrafine particles in a Pacific Island country: Characteristics, sources and implications for human exposure

The Pacific Islands carry a perception of having clean air, yet emissions from transport and burning activities are of concern in regard to air quality and health. Ultrafine particle number concentrations (PNCs), one of the best metrics to demonstrate combustion emissions, have not been measured either in Suva or elsewhere in the Islands. This work provides insight into PNC variation across Suva and its relationship with particle mass (PM) concentration and composition. Measurements over a short monitoring campaign provide a vignette of conditions in Suva. Ambient PNCs were monitored for 8 day at a fixed location, and mobile PNC sampling for two days. These were compared with PM concentration (TSP, PM₁₀, PM_2.5, PM₁) and are discussed in relation to black carbon (BC) content and PM_2.5 sources, determined from elemental concentrations; for the October 2015 period and longer-term data. Whilst Suva City PM levels remained fairly low, PM_2.5 = 10-12 μg m^-3, mean PNC (1.64 ± 0.02 × 10⁴ cm^-3) was high compared to global data. PNCs were greater during mobile sampling, with means of 10.3 ± 1.4 × 10⁴ cm^-3 and 3.51 ± 0.07 × 10⁴ cm^-3 when travelling by bus and taxi, respectively. Emissions from road vehicles, shipping, diesel and open burning were identified as PM sources for the October 2015 period. Transport related ultrafine particle emissions had a significant impact on microscale ambient concentrations, with PNCs near roads being 1.5 to 2 times higher than nearby outdoor locations and peak PNCs occurring during peak traffic times. Further data, particularly on transport and wet-season exposures, are required to confirm results. Understanding PNC in Suva will assist in formulating effective air emissions control strategies, potentially reducing population exposure across the Islands and in developing countries with similar emission characteristics. Suva's PNC was high in comparison to global data; high exposures were related to transport and combustion emissions, which were also identified as significant PM_2.5 sources.

Airborne particles in indoor environment of homes, schools, offices and aged care facilities: The main routes of exposure

It has been shown that the exposure to airborne particulate matter is one of the most significant environmental risks people face. Since indoor environment is where people spend the majority of time, in order to protect against this risk, the origin of the particles needs to be understood: do they come from indoor, outdoor sources or both? Further, this question needs to be answered separately for each of the PM mass/number size fractions, as they originate from different sources. Numerous studies have been conducted for specific indoor environments or under specific setting. Here our aim was to go beyond the specifics of individual studies, and to explore, based on pooled data from the literature, whether there are generalizable trends in routes of exposure at homes, schools and day cares, offices and aged care facilities. To do this, we quantified the overall 24h and occupancy weighted means of PM₁₀, PM_2.5 and PN - particle number concentration. Based on this, we developed a summary of the indoor versus outdoor origin of indoor particles and compared the means to the WHO guidelines (for PM₁₀ and PM_2.5) and to the typical levels reported for urban environments (PN). We showed that the main origins of particle metrics differ from one type of indoor environment to another. For homes, outdoor air is the main origin of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 but PN originate from indoor sources; for schools and day cares, outdoor air is the source of PN while PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 have indoor sources; and for offices, outdoor air is the source of all three particle size fractions. While each individual building is different, leading to differences in exposure and ideally necessitating its own assessment (which is very rarely done), our findings point to the existence of generalizable trends for the main types of indoor environments where people spend time, and therefore to the type of prevention measures which need to be considered in general for these environments.

Association of ESRα Gene Pvu II T>C, XbaI A>G and BtgI G>A Polymorphisms with Knee Osteoarthritis Susceptibility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Based on 22 Case-Control Studies

BACKGROUND

Many studies have reported the association of estrogen receptor α gene (ESRα) ESRα PvuII T>C, XbaI A>G and BtgI G>A polymorphisms with Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) risk, but the results remained controversial. In order to drive a more precise estimation, the present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the association between ESRα polymorphisms and KOA susceptibility.

METHODS

Eligible articles were identified by search of databases including PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge and Google scholar up to March 1, 2017. Data were extracted by two independent authors and pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 22 case-control studies in eleven publications with 6,575 KOA cases and 7,459 controls were included in the meta-analysis. By pooling all the studies, either ESRα PvuII T>C and XbaI A>G polymorphisms was not associated with KOA risk in the overall population. However, ESRα BtgI G>A was significantly associated with KOA risk under all five genetic models. In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, a significant association was observed between ESRα PvuII T>C polymorphism and KOA risk in Asians under heterozygote model. In addition, significant association was found between ESRα XbaI A>G polymorphism and KOA in Caucasians under allelic, homozygote, dominant and recessive models.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis suggests that ESRα BtgI G>A rather than ESRα PvuII T>C and XbaI A>G polymorphisms is associated with an increased KOA risk in overall population. Moreover, we have found that ESRα PvuII T>C and XbaI A>G polymorphisms associated with KOA susceptibility by ethnicity backgrounds.

Association between aspartic acid repeat polymorphism of the asporin gene and risk of knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Studies have assessed the association between aspartic acid (D)-repeat polymorphism in the gene encoding Asporin (ASPN) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA) risk, but the results were inconclusive and contradictory. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate the association between ASPN gene D-repeat polymorphism and KOA risk.

METHODS

Eligible studies were identified by searching several electronic databases for relevant reports published before September 2016. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the association between ASPN polymorphism and KOA and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using the random- or fixed-effect model.

RESULTS

A total of eleven case-control studies in ten publications with 4610 KOA cases and 3621 controls were included for the ASPN D-repeat polymorphism. Overall, no significant association was detected for D14 allele carrier (D14 vs. D13: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.90-1.36, p = 0.32). Meta-analysis of D14 vs. other alleles and D13 vs. other alleles showed the same pattern of KOA association as the D14 vs. D13 (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.00-1.70, p = 0.06; OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.82-1.06, p = 0.33, respectively). Also, in the stratified analysis by ethnicity, no significant association of this polymorphism with risk of KOA was found in the European and Asians populations (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.91-1.21, p = 0.49; OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.78-1.23, p = 0.88, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that the ASPN D-repeat polymorphism is not associated with an increased KOA risk. However, future large studies with gene-gene and gene-environment interactions are needed to validate these findings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III diagnostic study.

Association between the p53 codon 72 polymorphism and primary open-angle glaucoma risk: Meta-analysis based on 11 case-control studies

The TP53 is important in functions of cell cycle control, apoptosis, and maintenance of DNA integrity. Studies on the association between p53 codon 72 polymorphism and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) risk have yielded conflicting results. Published literature from PubMed and Web of Science databases was retrieved. All studies evaluating the association between p53 codon 72 polymorphisms and POAG were included. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Eleven separate studies including 2541 cases and 1844 controls were pooled in the meta-analysis. We did not detect a significant association between POAG risk and p53 codon 72 polymorphism overall population except allele genetic model (C vs. G: OR = 0.961, 95% CI = 0.961-0.820, P = 0.622). In the stratified analysis for Asians and Caucasians, there was an association between p53 codon 72 polymorphism and POAG. In the dominant model in the overall population and by ethnicity subgroups, the highest elevated POAG risk was presented. In summary, these results indicate that p53 codon 72 polymorphism is likely an important genetic factor contributing to susceptibility of POAG. However, more case-controls studies based on larger sample size and stratified by ethnicity are suggested to further clarify the relationship between p53 codon 72 polymorphism and POAG.

Association of XRCC2 rs3218536 Polymorphism with Susceptibility of Breast and Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Previous studies have investigated the association of X-Ray Repair Cross-Complementing Group 2 (XRCC2) rs3218536 polymorphism with breast and ovarian cancer. However, this association remains conflicting. Therefore, we have performed the current systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the association between XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism with risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Methods: We conducted a search in PubMed, Google Scholar and ISI Web of Science to select relevant studies on the association of XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism with breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility. We calculated the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for five genetic contrasts. In addition, a stratified analysis was conducted cancer type, ethnicity and HWE status. Results: A total of 17 studies with 5694 cases and 6450 controls for breast cancer and nine case-control studies with 4464 cases and 6353 controls for ovarian cancer were identified for the analysis of the association with XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism. The pooled ORs revealed that XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism was associated with breast cancer under the heterozygote contrast (AG vs. GG: OR = 0.929, 95% CI = 0.873-0.987, p=0.018) and ovarian cancer under dominant contrast (AA+AG vs. GG: OR = 0.725, 95% CI = 0.537-0.979, p=0.036) in the overall population. The stratified analysis indicated a significant association of XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism with breast and ovarian cancer risk among Caucasians. Conclusion: Inconsistent with previous meta-analysis, this meta-analysis shows that the XRCC2 rs3218536 polymorphism was associated with breast and ovarian cancer risk in overall population, especially among Caucasians.

Association between Thrombophilic Genes Polymorphisms and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Susceptibility in the Iranian Population: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Studies have indicated that thrombophilic genes polymorphisms are associated with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in the Iranian population. We aimed to evaluate the precise association between thrombophilic genes polymorphisms (MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, Prothrombin G20210A, FVLG1691A, and PAI-1 4G/5G) and RPL risk in the Iranian population. PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ISC were searched for eligible articles published up to April 1, 2017. In total, 37 case-control studies in 18 relevant publications were selected: 1,199, 1,194, 630, 830, and 955 RPL cases and 1,079, 1079, 594, 794, and 499 controls for MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C,Prothrombin G20210A, FVL G1691A, and PAI-1 4G/5G, respectively. The results indicated a significant increased risk of RPL in all genetic models in the population. Also, Prothrombin G20210A and FVL G1691A as well as PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphisms were associated with RPL risk in the Iranian population. Hence, thrombophilic genes polymorphisms are associated with an increased RPL risk in the Iranian population.

Association between Catechol-O-Methyltransferase Val158Met (158G/A) Polymorphism and Suicide Susceptibility: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Common functional Val158Met polymorphism in the Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene may have an impact on an individual's susceptibility to suicide, but individually published results are inconclusive. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to provide a more precise estimation of the association between COMT 158G/A (COMT Val158Met) polymorphism and suicide susceptibility.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis is a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases was conducted on case-control studies published up to Mar 2017. Crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

We identified 14 eligible case-control studies, including 2353 suicide attempters and 2593 controls. The pooled results indicated that COMT 158G/A (COMT Val158Met) polymorphism was not significantly associated with increased overall suicide risk. The same results were revealed based on ethnicity, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) status and genotyping technique. However, there was significant association between COMT Val158Met polymorphism and suicide risk among females under the homozygote (AA vs. GG: OR=1.829, 95% CI=1.158-2.889, P=0.010) and recessive (AA vs. AG +GG: OR = 1.787, 95% CI=1.195, 2.671, P=0.005) models, but not among males.

CONCLUSIONS

COMT 158G/A (COMT Val158Met) polymorphism was associated with suicide susceptibility only in females.

Association analysis of rs1049255 and rs4673 transitions in p22phox gene with coronary artery disease: A case-control study and a computational analysis

BACKGROUND

The p22phox gene encodes the main subunit of NADH/NADPH-oxidase. This enzyme is expressed in smooth muscle cells of arteries, and it produces the reactive oxygen species. On the other hand, oxidative stress plays a main role in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD).

AIM

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between rs4673 and rs1049255 polymorphisms of p22phox gene with CAD in an Iranian population which was followed with a computational analysis approach.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, we collected blood samples of 302 Iranian Caucasian including 143 patients and 159 healthy controls. Genotype of the polymorphisms was detected through PCR-RFLP method. A computational analysis was also performed using SNAP, Polyphen-2, Chou-Fasman, RNAsnp, and miRNA SNP databases.

RESULTS

Data of case control study demonstrated that CT genotype (R = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.13-3.00, p = 0.014) and T allele (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.09-2.15, p = 0.013) of rs4673 polymorphism, have a significant association with enhanced risk of CAD. But rs1049255 analysis demonstrated the absence of such an association with CAD. Indeed, in silico data analysis demonstrated that rs4673 transition could impact on function of p22phox protein (SNAP score 56, expected accuracy 75%; Polyphen-2 score 0.99, sensitivity 0.09, specificity 0.99). Data derived from miRNA SNP database demonstrated that rs1049255 polymorphism increases the affinity of attachment between has-miR-3689a-3b with 3'-UTR of p22phox gene.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrated that rs4673 transition may be involved in susceptibility to CAD and could be applied as a potential biomarker for this disease.

Genetic Association between ERCC2, NBN, RAD51 Gene Variants and Osteosarcoma Risk: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

To date, only a few studies have investigated associations between ERCC2, NBN, and RAD51 variants and risk of developing osteosarcoma. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we focused on clarifying links.

Materials and Methods:

We systematically searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and ISI web of knowledge databases to identify relevant studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to calculate the strength of associations with fixed effect models.

Results:

No statistical evidence of association was found between ERCC2 rs13181 (G vs. T: OR= 1.224, 95% CI: 0.970-1.545, p= 0.088; GT vs. TT OR= 1.135, 95% CI: 0.830-1.552, p= 0.428; GG vs. TT: OR= 1.247, 95% CI: 0.738-2.108, p= 0.409; GG+GT vs. TT: OR= 1.174, 95% CI: 0.929-1.484, p= 0.179; GG vs. GT+ TT: OR= 1.476, 95% CI: 0.886-2.460, p= 0.135), ERCC2 rs1799793 (GA+AA vs. GG: OR= 1.279, 95% CI: 0.912-1.793, p= 0.154), NBN rs709816 (OR= 1.047, 95% CI: 0.763-1.437, p= 0.775), NBN rs1805794 (OR= 1.126, 95% CI: 0.789-1.608, p= 0.513), RAD51 rs1801320 (OR= 0.977, 95% CI: 0.675-1.416, p= 0.904), RAD51 rs1801321 (TT+GT vs. GG OR= 1.167, 95% CI: 0.848-1.604, p= 0.343), RAD51 rs12593359 (GG+GT vs. TT OR= 0.761, 95% CI: 0.759-1.470, p= 0.744) polymorphisms and osteosarcomas. The lack of the original data limited our further evaluation of the adjusted ORs concerning age and gender; however, the previous individual studies results indicated the age-and gender-specific effects of two ERCC2 rs1799793 and NBN rs1805794 variants on osteosarcoma risk.

Conclusion:

The results suggested a lack of association between the ERCC2 (rs13181 and rs1799793), NBN (rs709816 and rs1805794), and RAD51 (rs1801320, rs1801321, and rs12593359) variants with osteosarcoma risk. Further comprehensive and well-designed studies are required to assess the role for ERCC2, NBN, RAD51 variants in osteosarcoma development more adequately.

Association between the DNA Repair Gene XRCC3 rs861539 Polymorphism and Risk of Osteosarcoma: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: Although there are a few studies investigating the relation between X-Ray Repair Cross Complementing 3 (XRCC3) gene rs861539 polymorphism and osteosarcoma (OSA), the results are inconsistent. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the associations between XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism and OSA risk. Methods: We have retrieved published literature from PubMed, Google scholar, and ISI Web of Knowledge up to 25 January 2017. Odds ratios were pooled using either fixed-effects or random effects models. Overall and subgroup analyses were performed. Statistical analysis was performed running comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) 2.0 software. Results: A total of four studies with 515 cases and 1,109 controls were identified in order to investigate the association between XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism and OSA risk. The results showed that XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism was associated with OSA in allelic (T vs. C: OR= 1.563, 95% CI: 1.244-1.963, p= <0.001), homozygote (TT vs. CC: OR= 2.574, 95% CI: 1.573-4.212, p= <0.001), dominant (TT+TC vs. CC: OR= 1.255, 95% CI: 1.011-1.558, p= 0.039), and recessive (TT vs. TC+CC: OR= 2.224, 95% CI: 1.393-3.552, p= 0.001), but not with heterozygote (TC vs. CC: OR= 1.361, 95% CI: 0.982-1.885, p= 0.064). The XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism conferred susceptibility to OSA in Asians, but not in Caucasians. Additionally, we observed no evidence of publication bias. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis investigating the association between XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism and OSA risk. Our results revealed a significant association between the XRCC3 rs861539 polymorphism and risk of OSA, especially in Asian populations. Future more comprehensive and well-designed case control studies with larger sample size are needed to warrant these findings.

A pilot study of traditional indoor biomass cooking and heating in rural Bhutan: gas and particle concentrations and emission rates

Although many studies have reported the health effects of biomass fuels in developing countries, relatively few have quantitatively characterized emissions from biomass stoves during cooking and heating. The aim of this pilot study was to characterize the emission characteristics of different biomass stoves in four rural houses in Bhutan during heating (metal chimney stove), rice cooking (traditional mud stove), fodder preparation (stone tripod stove), and liquor distillation (traditional mud stove). Three stage measurements (before, during, and after the activity had ceased) were conducted for PM_2.5 , particle number (PN), CO, and CO₂ . When stoves were operated, the pollutant concentrations were significantly elevated above background levels, by an average of 40 and 18 times for PM_2.5 and CO, respectively. Emission rates (mg/min) ranged from 1.07 × 10² (PM_2.5 ) and 3.50 × 10² (CO) for the stone tripod stove during fodder preparation to 6.20 × 10² (PM_2.5 ) and 2.22 × 10³ (CO) for the traditional mud stove during liquor distillation. Usable PN data were only available for one house, during heating using a metal chimney stove, which presented an emission rate of 3.24 × 10¹³ particles/min. Interventions to control household air pollution in Bhutan, in order to reduce the health risks associated with cooking and heating, are recommended.

Factors influencing the outdoor concentration of carbonaceous aerosols at urban schools in Brisbane, Australia: Implications for children's exposure

This comprehensive study aimed to determine the sources and driving factors of organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) concentrations in ambient PM2.5 in urban schools. Sampling was conducted outdoors at 25 schools in the Brisbane Metropolitan Area, Australia. Concentrations of primary and secondary OC were quantified using the EC tracer method, with secondary OC accounting for an average of 60%. Principal component analysis distinguished the contributing sources above the background and identified groups of schools with differing levels of primary and secondary carbonaceous aerosols. Overall, the results showed that vehicle emissions, local weather conditions and secondary organic aerosols (SOA) were the key factors influencing concentrations of carbonaceous component of PM2.5 at these schools. These results provide insights into children's exposure to vehicle emissions and SOA at such urban schools.

Molecullar and biochemical effect of alcohlic extract of Alpinia galanga on rat spermatogenesis process

BACKGROUND

Alpinia galanga (A. galanga) belongs to the Zingiberaceae family has anti-oxidant effects in animals and humans body and often is used as medicament or part of medicaments in Asian folk medicine for various applications.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular and biochemical influence of alcoholic extract from the rhizomes of A. galangal on the spermatogenesis process in male rat.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty five Wistar male rats were divided into three groups, control (n=15) and two tested groups (n=30). Alcoholic extract (5%) of plant was given by oral route at doses of 100 and 300 mg/day for 56 days and spermatogenesis parameters, hormone changes and expression level of the cAMP-responsive element modulator (CREM) gene were assessed.

RESULTS

Methanol extract of A. galanga increased serum testosterones level significantly in both treated groups in comparison with control group (p<0.05). Besides, the percentage of sperm viability and motility in both tested groups were significantly increased. Follicle stimulating hormone FSH hormone, morphology and weight were affected in both treated groups. With 300 mg/day an increase in sperm count was observed. Sperm motility was increased in two treated groups whereas testis weight was decreased in treated groups. Real time analysis of treated cells of testis showed increase level of mRNA related to CREM gene involved in spermatogenesis process after 56 days induction.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that application of ethanolic extract of A. galanga significantly increased sperm percentage, viability, motility and testosterone hormone. This suggested that this plant may be promising in enhancing sperm healthy parameters.

Epidermal growth factor receptor gene expression evaluation in colorectal cancer patients

Background: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the world and third and fourth most common cancer among men and women in Iran respectively. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that shows over expression in epithelial tumors and regulates important processes in tumorigenesis. Incidence and characteristics of colorectal cancer are based on the geographic region and race. Aim: In this research work, the over expression of EGFR in formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) colorectal cancer tumor tissue of patients was studied. Materials and Methods: Fifteen FFPE colorectal cancer tumor tissues (10 women and 5 men; 25-65 years old and stage IV) and 15 non-patients (nine women and six men; 25-65 years old) that were collected during 2006-2012. EGFR gene expression level was analyzed by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All PCR reactions were performed in triplicate for both target gene and internal control (18s ribosomal ribonucleic acid) with the 2-ΔΔCT method. Gene expression differences in patients and controls were evaluated with t-test. Results: The results were showed EGFR gene over expression in 12 (80%) of 15 patients. There was a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of EGFR expression between patients and control (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated EGFR gene over expression in colorectal cancer tumor tissue compared with controls.

Tamoxifen resistance and CYP2D6 copy numbers in breast cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer accounts about one million from total annual ten million new diagnosed cases of neoplasia worldwide and is the main cause of death due to cancer in women. Tamoxifen is the most popular selective estrogen receptor modulator used in anti estrogen treatments. Tamoxifen must be converted into its metabolite endoxifen for biologic effects; this conversion process is catalysed by highly polymorphic cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). This study surveyed copy number variation of the CYP2D6 gene and its possible correlation with Tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

This case control study was performed on samples taken from 79 patients with breast cancer who used tamoxifen in Yazd and Tehran Cities, Iran. Real time reactions were conducted for 10 healthy samples using the comparative Ct (Cycles threshold) method, each pair of genes being compared and samples with ratios around 1 were taken as control samples. Proliferation reactions were done by Real-Time PCR ABI Prism 7500. All registered data were transformed into SPSS 15 program and analyzed.

RESULTS

Efficiency of PCR for both CYP2D6 and ALB genes was 100%. From all 23 drug resistant patients 21.7% had one copy, 47.8% two copies and 30.4% had three copies. Also from all 56 drug sensitive patients, 26.8% had one copy, 51.8% two copies and 21.4% had three copies. The percentage of patients with one and two copies was similar between two groups but patients with three copies were more likely to belong to the drug resistant group more. Odd ratios for one and two copies were 0.759 and 0.853 respectively, indicating possible protective effects while that for three copies was 1.604.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our study there is no significant link between CYP2D6 gene copy numbers and tamoxifen resistance in women with breast cancer. But more studies considering other influencing factors appear warranted.

Ligands specify estrogen receptor alpha nuclear localization and degradation

BACKGROUND

The estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is found predominately in the nucleus, both in hormone stimulated and untreated cells. Intracellular distribution of the ERα changes in the presence of agonists but the impact of different antiestrogens on the fate of ERα is a matter of debate.

RESULTS

A MCF-7 cell line stably expressing GFP-tagged human ERα (SK19 cell line) was created to examine the localization of ligand-bound GFP-ERα. We combined digitonin-based cell fractionation analyses with fluorescence and immuno-electron microscopy to determine the intracellular distribution of ligand-bound ERα and/or GFP-ERα.Using fluorescence- and electron microscopy we demonstrate that both endogenous ERα and GFP-ERα form numerous nuclear focal accumulations upon addition of agonist, 17β-estradiol (E2), and pure antagonists (selective estrogen regulator disruptor; SERD), ICI 182,780 or RU58,668, while in the presence of partial antagonists (selective estrogen regulator modulator; SERM), 4-hydroxytamoxifen (OHT) or RU39,411, diffuse nuclear staining persisted.Digitonin based cell fractionation analyses confirmed that endogenous ERα and GFP-ERα predominantly reside in the nuclear fraction. Overall ERα protein levels were reduced after estradiol treatment. In the presence of SERMs ERα was stabilized in the nuclear soluble fraction, while in the presence of SERDs protein levels decreased drastically and the remaining ERα was largely found in a nuclear insoluble fraction. mRNA levels of ESR1 were reduced compared to untreated cells in the presence of all ligands tested, including E2. E2 and SERDs induced ERα degradation occurred in distinct nuclear foci composed of ERα and the proteasome providing a simple explanation for ERα sequestration in the nucleus.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that chemical structure of ligands directly affect the nuclear fate and protein turnover of the estrogen receptor alpha independently of their impact on transcription. These findings provide a molecular basis for the selection of antiestrogen compounds issue from pharmacological studies aimed at improving treatment of breast cancer.

Application of a novel method for optimization of bioemulsan production in a miniaturized bioreactor

A novel and economical method was used to optimize bacterial growth and bioemulsan production. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus PTCC 1641 was applied in an innovated synthetic medium comprised whey and mineral salt medium (MSM) in ratio of 1:1 in a shaken flask bioreactor. The optimum inoculum size, shaking frequency rate and filling volume (V(L)) using ventilation flasks were investigated that resulted in 5 vol.%, 300 rpm and 15 ml), respectively. The surface tension decreased around 48% during bioemulsan production. Due to determine bioemulsan properties, the reliability of blood agar method was confirmed as well.