Journal of Advanced Medical Sciences and Applied Technologies | Shiraz University Of Medical Sciences (original) (raw)
Papers by Journal of Advanced Medical Sciences and Applied Technologies
Objectives: To report an Iranian woman with a variety of retinal vascular manifestations secondar... more Objectives: To report an Iranian woman with a variety of retinal vascular manifestations secondary to Neurofibromatosis-1. Case Report: A 49 years old woman known case of Neurofibromatosis-1 (NF-1) presented with decreased vision in her right eye. We found peculiar retinal and choroidal findings. Mild vascular tortuosity and few hard exudates were the prominent finding in right eye fundus examination; however, left eye showed inferior hemi retinal artery macro aneurysm. Fluorescein angiography, revealed multiple bright choroidal nodules in both eyes. Left eye findings were in favor of branch retinal artery occlusion and branch retinal vein occlusion. Discussion: As vascular and microvascular manifestations of NF-1 are being reported recently, further investigational studies for retinal vascular associations in NF-1 patients appears reasonable. Complete ophthalmic examinations in each NF-1 patient seems essential to prevent potential threatening complications of vascular events in these patients.
Objectives: Dysregulated neuronal activity in Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) networks is... more Objectives: Dysregulated neuronal activity in Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) networks is primarily described as the pathophysiology of Tourette Syndrome (TS). New neuromodulation techniques including noninvasive transcranial Electrical Stimulation (tES) are increasingly considered among potential therapeutic options for TS. Materials and Methods: To test the therapy protocol with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) a 31 year-old male patient with TS was selected to be administered for 10 sessions over five days of bilateral cathodal tDCS (30 minutes, 2 mA) on C 3 and FC 5 , while the anode electrodes were placed on FP 2. Results: Tic severity and frequency were subjectively reported by the subject following the treatment on weekly basis and treatment response was objectively assessed by two experts. The patient noted that he was able to control his unwanted movement after over one year follow-up. Discussion: The current study results together with earlier reports support the therapeutic effects of cathodal tDCS on tics in patients with TS. Randomized sham-controlled studies are required to shed more light on such therapeutic impact and the optimized protocols.
Objectives: Saliva and semen stains may be found at crime scene (suicide, homicide, kidnapping, r... more Objectives: Saliva and semen stains may be found at crime scene (suicide, homicide, kidnapping, rape, sexual assault, poisoning, etc.). Through, which DNA can be isolated and individual can be identified. DNA can be of great importance in forensic science investigation to identify individuals. Currently, there are enormous methods to isolate DNA from biological fluids. The current study employed nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate method to isolate DNA. Materials & Methods: A nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate is a magnetic nanoparticle with biomolecules attached to its surface. Saliva and semen were collected using cotton swabs from different surfaces (tile, steel, aluminum, glass, iron, wood, etc.) on which saliva and semen were poured and allowed to dry earlier as to create simulated crime scene. Magnetic nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4) act as solid phase support to isolate DNA from saliva and semen stains. In the current study, cells and spermatozoa were extracted from saliva and semen swabs, respectively. Cell lysis was performed to extract epithelial cells from saliva and spermatozoa from semen and magnetic nanoparticles and biomolecule conjugate were added to the lysed cells to bind to DNA. Results: Application of external magnetic field helped to settle down nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate and thus separate DNA from other cell components. Spectrophotometer Nanodrop technology was employed to perform the readings, which confirmed the presence of DNA at 260/280 ratio and quality of DNA was compared with the DNA isolated using the two different methods. Conclusion: The current study aimed at developing all new methods to isolate DNA from dried saliva and semen samples using magnetic nanoparticles by reviewing the methods developed earlier to isolate DNA from blood and tissue using magnetic nanoparticles. With modifications in the method and chemical preparation, a new method was successfully developed. DNA was isolated successfully; and confirmation was made by analyzing DNA through Nanodrop spectrophotometer.
Objectives: The male infertility is on the increase worldwide; therefore, it is attracting more a... more Objectives: The male infertility is on the increase worldwide; therefore, it is attracting more attention in several studies in order to improve its treatment management. The current study aimed at contributing to set up epidemiological and biological data and draw a general profile of male infertility in Côte d'Ivoire. Materials & Methods: The current prospective and descriptive study was conducted on 401 males`males`sperm obtained through masturbation after three days of abstinence. The analysis of the information in the cards accompanying the samples and the spermogram and spermocytogram analyses were used to collect the related data. Results: The average age of the males in the study was 39.97 years and the average duration of infertility was 6.66 years; 35.16% of the subjects were in the private sector and mostly composed of traders. Primary infertility was the leading cause of consultation in 55.61% of the cases. A significant relationship (P=0.03) between stress and azoospermia was highlighted, showing that males with stress were twice as likely to develop azoospermia (Odds Ratio=2.24). Results of the current study showed that in the vast majority, semen had several abnormalities with a high rate of associated abnormalities, 37.41%. However, among the isolated abnormalities, asthenozoospermia was the most prominent abnormality with a rate of 20.70%.
Techniques to fabricate nanostructured materials are in constant development. These techniques in... more Techniques to fabricate nanostructured materials are in constant development. These techniques initiated with physical and chemical approaches and now are developed to biosynthesis and green synthesis techniques. Nowadays, bioactive compounds from microbial cells and plant extracts are hugely tested and employed for the green synthesis of nanoparticles. Similar to microbial cells that can produce intracellular nanostructures, some plants can synthesize and maintain nanostructures in their tissue. The evidence of these finding is the phytomining technology. Now it is known that various parameters such as soil pH, geographical area, and ionic precursor can influence the process of in situ fabrication of nanoparticles. Plant metabolites such as terpenoids, polyphenols, reducing sugars, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and proteins play a major role in the reduction of metal ions as well as stabilization of the produced nanoparticles. These in situ synthesized nanoparticles can be extracted and purified via ashing techniques.
Objectives: Dementia of Alzheimer Type (DAT) is associated with progressive cognitive impairments... more Objectives: Dementia of Alzheimer Type (DAT) is associated with progressive cognitive impairments. Such a clinically significant condition is known to affect approximately 9.5% of people over 70 years of age. However, it is accepted as a more challengeable medical entity because of its increasing atypical presentation, rarity of efficient treatments, and diagnostic and prevention challenges. Materials & Methods: we present a case who referred with 5 months history of cognitive decline following Medial Temporal Lobe (MTL) atrophy upon neuroimaging. Following cognitive and neurophysiological assessments, she underwent 21 consecutive sessions of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) 3 times per week. Concurrently, a media-rich computer platform was administered for cognitive and behavioral remediation. Results: Based on the evidence regarding the use of tDCS in dementia, we aimed at stabilizing the cognitive profile and halting or slowing down the process of progressive cognitive decline in the present case. The outcome of our neuromodulatory intervention using tDCS supported the beneficial impact of such an approach in not only stabilizing but also ameliorating cognitive functions. This is especially important when rapid progression of cognitive symptoms in DAT is of concern. Conclusion: The promising clinical course of this specific case supports the possible beneficial effects of tDCS in halting the progression of symptoms in DAT. Sham-controlled clinical trials would get momentum to highlight clinical impact of such an intervention in DAT.
Well-designed studies are essential to screen suspected cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome... more Well-designed studies are essential to screen suspected cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) using the widely-referenced questionnaires and then to confirm the diagnosis by means of full Polysomnography (PSG), and finally to assess various variables of treatment efficacy and safety. Defining the severity index of OSAS based on the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), sleep marco-and micro-structural features (i.e. hypnogram and cyclic alternating patterns or CAPs), and neurocognitive functions would help better explain the treatment outcome. Using the neural network models on sleep data in OSAS sufferers is potentially expected to help the above goals. Determination of neurocognitive impairments in OSAS subjects in relation with disease severity indices and subsequent changes in microstructural changes (i.e. CAPs) in sleep Electroencephalography (EEG), would therefore be useful in defining individualized care and cognitive rehabilitation plans. The present methodology paper has attempted to address the above hypothesis in a clinical population from a hospital-based sleep disorders laboratory.
Objectives: Heart Failure (HF) is a chronic condition with great impact on the lifestyle of the p... more Objectives: Heart Failure (HF) is a chronic condition with great impact on the lifestyle of the patients. As many as 80% of HF patients report experiencing sleep difficulties. Thus, we try to detect clinical predictors of sleep quality and define probable relationship between anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in HF patients. Materials & Methods: One hundred patients (male: 50 persons, female: 50 persons) with ejection fraction less than 45% who were hospitalized in CCU and post-CCU ward, were included in this study. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire were used to collect the related data. Results: The patients' mean (SD) total PSQI score was 9.07(4.43). The most problem was seen in sleep onset latency (1.85[1.15]) sub-score of PSQI and the sleep quality of 78% of patients was abnormal. This score was higher in patients with history of abnormal blood pressure (P=0.001). PSQI score have significant correlation with anxiety (r=0.216, P=0.035) as well as depression (r=0.351, P=0.000). Conclusion: Many HF patients suffer from sleep difficulties and PSQI score seems to have significant correlation with anxiety and depression.
Objectives: Increasing use of colored materials in various industries and their discharge into th... more Objectives: Increasing use of colored materials in various industries and their discharge into the environment through industrial wastewater, can create many problems for humans and other beings. In the present study, the effect of removing Reactive Blue 21 (RB 21) dye using Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) as adsorbent is studied. Materials & Methods: The research was carried out on a laboratory scale and in a discontinuous system. Factors affecting dye removal such as pH, adsorption dose, concentration of dye and contact time were investigated. Also two Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were studied in different concentrations of dye. UV-visible spectrophotometer was used to determine the dye removal. It should be noted that all experiments were carried out at 25°C. Results: Regarding the results in an environment with pH=3, in 30 minutes time, with 0.05 g/L of adsorbent (MWCNTs) to remove 50 mL of RB 21 dye with a concentration of 40 ppm, the best adsorption and maximum dye removal was obtained as 81%. Conclusion: According to the results of the experiments, it was found that MWCNTs are very suitable for comparison with other synthetic adsorbents used to remove RB 21 dye.
Objectives: Cerebral ischemic preconditioning lessens stroke-induced injuries, but it is clinical... more Objectives: Cerebral ischemic preconditioning lessens stroke-induced injuries, but it is clinically feasible only when the occurrence of stroke is predictable. Reperfusion plays a critical role against cerebral injury after stroke; we tested the hypothesis that interrupting ischemia during early reperfusion, i.e. Postconditioning (POCO) affects CXC chemokine expression and further reduce inflammation in rat model of ischemia/reperfusion. Materials & Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were used in this experiment. Using 4-vessel occlusion method, global cerebral ischemia was induced and POCO was performed by applying 3 cycles of 15-s/15-s reperfusion/reocclusion after a 45-s reperfusion (POCO-45-15/15). Western blotting analysis was used to investigate CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL12 expression 24 h, 48 h and one week after ischemic postconditioning (iPOCO). Results: Based on the results, iPOCO attenuates the expression of inflammatory chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL10 in hippocampus area of postconditioned rats, while the CXCL12 was not affected by iPOCO. Conclusion: Current findings may support chemokines role in iPOCO via reduction of inflammation. Also there could be a link between postconditioning, stress and inflammation through chemokines.
Individuals suffering from tinnitus frequently report sleep disturbances. The most common sleep-r... more Individuals suffering from tinnitus frequently report sleep disturbances. The most common sleep-related complaint among tinnitus patients, insomnia, may even remain unresolved despite adequate and specific treatments of tinnitus. The more severe the tinnitus, the more patients report impaired sleep. Given the fact that sleep disorders potentially affect physical and mental health, patients with tinnitus would require a special diagnostic and therapeutic care. Subjective (sleep questionnaires and self-rated psychometric evaluations) and objective (polysomnographic recording) assessments in Sleep-Disturbed Tinnitus Patients (SDTPs) have similar parameters compared to subjects with insomnia. However, as the elderly subjects have higher prevalence of organic sleep disorders, special care is needed regarding the differential diagnostic measures. Treatment of insomnia in SDTPs is commonly based on the use of hypnotics, with or without insomnia-specific psychotherapy. Similarly, cognitive behavior therapy for insomnia is shown to ameliorate both insomnia and tinnitus. This review article discusses sleep and insomnia based on a recently-proposed neurofunctional tinnitus model.
The neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized cholinergic synapse, essential for initiating ... more The neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized cholinergic synapse, essential for initiating nerve-evoked muscle contractions by means of neuromuscular transmission. Loss or dysfunction of any component of this junction might affect synaptic performance. Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMSs) are rare heterogeneous disorders of autosomal inheritance caused by genetic defects affecting neuromuscular transmission that results in skeletal muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability on exertion. The onset is usually from birth to childhood. CMSs are more uncommon than autoimmune myasthenia gravis. CMSs are classified based on their genetic and clinical presentations into presynaptic, synaptic basal lamina, and postsynaptic CMSs. To date, mutations in more than 25 genes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CMSs. In this review article, different CMSs diagnostic procedures are investigated, and the genetic, clinical, and molecular aspects of CMSs are outlined.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions with the characteristi... more Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions with the characteristics including impairments in social interaction and communication, and restricted patterns of behaviors or interests. Lack of Theory of Mind (TOM), which is considered as the core concept of social interaction, was suggested as the underlying deficit of social, behavioral, and communicative impairments of ASD. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), as a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, indicated promising results for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The present methodology report aimed at proposing a design to study the possible effects of tDCS on TOM and cognitive empathy in ASD.
Objectives: In spite of numerous studies on Fe(VI) capacity in treating wastewater, no equations ... more Objectives: In spite of numerous studies on Fe(VI) capacity in treating wastewater, no equations are presented yet for the design of a Fe(VI) treatment facility. In most studies, Fe(VI) has been mentioned as the most effective substance for wastewater treatment; however, none is currently available about the operation costs in treatment facilities. This paper aims to introduce the necessary equations for the design and development of facilities that use Fe(VI) through the electrolysis methods and conduct the necessary calculations regarding its navigation costs. Materials & Methods: As the first step, a pilot plant test was conducted to find the basic information for municipal wastewater treatment by Fe(VI). Then, all the costs pertaining to electricity, acid and sodium hydroxide used in the treatment process were calculated to evaluate the total navigation costs. Results: Our results indicate that treatment of every cubic meter of municipal wastewater would bear the following costs: US 1.17forFe(VI)production,US1.17 for Fe(VI) production, US1.17forFe(VI)production,US 2.52 for reducing the pH below 2 and US$ 146 for the production of 14 M sodium hydroxide solution. The overall costs for such facility would be equal to US$ 149.7. Conclusion: As it is demonstrated, the generation of 14 M sodium hydroxide solution is the most expensive element in the treatment process. It appears that the aforementioned cost is very high for the municipal treatment facilities; however, it might be appropriate for wastewaters that are resistant to biological methods. Nevertheless, more research is still needed to address this issue.
Objectives: The emerging neuroscience literature has provided some evidence that meditation may h... more Objectives: The emerging neuroscience literature has provided some evidence that meditation may have measurable effects on the electrophysiological parameters in the nervous system. We hypothesized that a novel geometric meditation approach comprising Geometric Somatic-Breathing Based (GSBB) and Geometric Introspective Based (GIB) meditation yield favorable electrophysiological changes at brain's cortical level and autonomic nervous system upon deep meditative experience. Materials & Methods: A multi-sensor digital sampling setup, including Electroencephalography (EEG), Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) was used to obtain data and compare meditation and baseline epochs from 3 long-term geometric meditators. Results: The analysis revealed a notable change in autonomic nervous response, including Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD) in Heart Rate Variability (HRV) as well as GSR and Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) correlates across 10 practiced techniques in training and post-training as compared to the baseline state. Conclusion: Such findings may serve as a pilot validation dataset to pursue further research on quantitative EEG-guided geometric meditation approach.
Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating testis parameters and spermatogenesis changes i... more Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating testis parameters and spermatogenesis changes in male rats administrated by different busulfan doses and time to construct a subfertile animal model by stereological methods. Materials & Methods: In the present study, 150 male Wistar rats randomly divided into 5 groups. All experimental groups were treated by different concentrations of busulfan (0.0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg). Rats were sacrificed 1, 15, and 30 days after busulfan treatment. The tissue processing was done for stereological study and the results were analyzed by the one-way ANOVA followed by the Duncan test. Results: The most stereological parameters such as testes weight and volume, tubules volume density, interstitial tissue (P<0.05), and germinal epithelium (P<0.01) were significantly reduced by busulfan treatment. Also, at different busulfan doses, the number of spermatogenic cells including spermatogonia (P<0.05), spermatocyte, round and elongated spermatid, and the Sertoli and Leydig cells (P<0.01) significantly decreased, compared with those of the control group. The decline was more obvious in higher busulfan doses and time (from the day 15 to 30) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Most of testicular stereological parameters reduced during 15 days onwards after busulfan treatment in a dose-dependent manner.
Objectives: Embryo development and pregnancy rates for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in continuous... more Objectives: Embryo development and pregnancy rates for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in continuous single medium culture or sequential media culture of sibling embryos were evaluated. Matrials & Methods: Patients who underwent retrieval of ≥8 oocytes from June 2013 to March 2014 were enrolled. All embryos were cultured for at least 5 days and the formation rate and quality of embryos were compared between the groups. Results: No significant differences were observed between 2 culture media systems regarding the formation rate and quality of early cleavage-stage embryos, although blastulation rate and quality were better with single medium. Clinical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate per blastocyst transfer did not differ between the groups. Conclusion: These results suggested that a single continuous medium was as good as or better than sequential media to achieve pregnancy in IVF and embryo transfer.
Objectives: The current study aimed at comparing the efficacy of Clomiphene Citrate (CC) for the ... more Objectives: The current study aimed at comparing the efficacy of Clomiphene Citrate (CC) for the expectant management of unexplained infertility in females over 3 successive cycles. Materials & Methods: The present randomized, controlled, clinical trial was carried out at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. Females with unexplained infertility for at least 12 months of unprotected regular marital life were enrolled. Eligible females were randomly assigned into one of the 2 following groups: group 1 received 100 mg CC once a day for 5 days, and group 2 was expectantly followed up without induction of ovulation. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. Results: A total of 113 females were enrolled in the current trial. The mean age of the subjects was 25.3±3.1 years; ranged 20 to 33. The clinical pregnancy rate was slightly, but significantly, higher in CC group compared with the controls; both per case (7/57 vs. 4/56, 12.3% vs. 7.1%, respectively; P=0.357; Relative Risk (RR)=1.72; 95% Confidence Interval (CI)=0.53, 5.55; Number Needed to Treat (NNT)=19) and per cycle (7/163 vs. 4/160, 4.3% vs. 2.5%, respectively; P=0.374; RR=1.72; 95% CI=0.51, 5.75; NNT=56). Conclusion: CC seems to be not effective in improving clinical pregnancy outcome compared with observation alone in females with unexplained infertility.
Objectives: Gestational Dabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-induced Impaired Glucose Tolerance ... more Objectives: Gestational Dabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-induced Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance occurs and diagnoses during pregnancy and gradually disappears after delivery. A mild to moderate physical activity is suggested as an adjuvant treatment for GDM; in addition, aerobic and resistance trainings might be effective in preventing or controlling GDM in the different manners. The current study aimed at comparing aerobic and resistance trainings plausible effects on insulin resistance and homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function in females with GDM. Materials & Methods: A total of 34 females with GDM at 24 th week of pregnancy undergoing insulin treatment were enrolled and randomly assigned into 3 groups; 12 subjects participated in an aerobic training program (3 day/week, 30 to 45 minute/day, 50% to 70% maximum Heart Rate (HR), 11 patients participated in a resistance training (3 day/week, 2 to 3 minutes set of 15 repetitions, 50% to 70% maximum HR), and 11 participants comprised the control group and not participated in any exercise program. Fasting blood samples were obtained from the subjects to assess clinical parameters. Results: The results of covariance analysis indicated a significant difference on insulin plasma levels (P=0.031) and insulin resistance index (the homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (P=0.008) among the groups. The resistance training program significantly reduced the level of fasting blood sugar (P=0.031) and increased HOMA-β (P=0.031). Conclusion: The exercise can offer a different method to patients with GDM, which benefit from several molecular pathways, and also can be proposed as a framework to design effective GDM treatment regimens and prevention programs. However, further consecutive studies are required in order to achieve the deeper and conclusive findings and obtain the mechanisms underlying the changes on the GDM acquired by exercise.
Objectives: Rate of infertility in overall is around 15-10%. Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) is ... more Objectives: Rate of infertility in overall is around 15-10%. Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) is one procedure for infertility treatment. Luteal phase support defect is a main factor in fail of pregnancy. Goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of luteal phase support with progesterone suppository in patients who undergoing IUI cycles. Materials & Methods: 100 infertile couples who were undergoing IUI treatment included in this study. Ovulation induction was done for all patients. When IUI was done, patients were distributed into two groups. The study group (n=50) received progesterone suppository and control group (n=50) doesn't received any medicine. Then biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate and abortion rate compared between two study groups. Results: There were no differences in basic characteristics between two groups. Biochemical and clinical pregnancy were parallel in the study and control groups. There were no statistically significant increases in abortion rate between the study groups (P=0.49). Conclusion: Luteal phase support by progesterone suppository does not improve the pregnancy rate of stimulated IUI cycles.
Objectives: To report an Iranian woman with a variety of retinal vascular manifestations secondar... more Objectives: To report an Iranian woman with a variety of retinal vascular manifestations secondary to Neurofibromatosis-1. Case Report: A 49 years old woman known case of Neurofibromatosis-1 (NF-1) presented with decreased vision in her right eye. We found peculiar retinal and choroidal findings. Mild vascular tortuosity and few hard exudates were the prominent finding in right eye fundus examination; however, left eye showed inferior hemi retinal artery macro aneurysm. Fluorescein angiography, revealed multiple bright choroidal nodules in both eyes. Left eye findings were in favor of branch retinal artery occlusion and branch retinal vein occlusion. Discussion: As vascular and microvascular manifestations of NF-1 are being reported recently, further investigational studies for retinal vascular associations in NF-1 patients appears reasonable. Complete ophthalmic examinations in each NF-1 patient seems essential to prevent potential threatening complications of vascular events in these patients.
Objectives: Dysregulated neuronal activity in Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) networks is... more Objectives: Dysregulated neuronal activity in Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) networks is primarily described as the pathophysiology of Tourette Syndrome (TS). New neuromodulation techniques including noninvasive transcranial Electrical Stimulation (tES) are increasingly considered among potential therapeutic options for TS. Materials and Methods: To test the therapy protocol with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) a 31 year-old male patient with TS was selected to be administered for 10 sessions over five days of bilateral cathodal tDCS (30 minutes, 2 mA) on C 3 and FC 5 , while the anode electrodes were placed on FP 2. Results: Tic severity and frequency were subjectively reported by the subject following the treatment on weekly basis and treatment response was objectively assessed by two experts. The patient noted that he was able to control his unwanted movement after over one year follow-up. Discussion: The current study results together with earlier reports support the therapeutic effects of cathodal tDCS on tics in patients with TS. Randomized sham-controlled studies are required to shed more light on such therapeutic impact and the optimized protocols.
Objectives: Saliva and semen stains may be found at crime scene (suicide, homicide, kidnapping, r... more Objectives: Saliva and semen stains may be found at crime scene (suicide, homicide, kidnapping, rape, sexual assault, poisoning, etc.). Through, which DNA can be isolated and individual can be identified. DNA can be of great importance in forensic science investigation to identify individuals. Currently, there are enormous methods to isolate DNA from biological fluids. The current study employed nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate method to isolate DNA. Materials & Methods: A nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate is a magnetic nanoparticle with biomolecules attached to its surface. Saliva and semen were collected using cotton swabs from different surfaces (tile, steel, aluminum, glass, iron, wood, etc.) on which saliva and semen were poured and allowed to dry earlier as to create simulated crime scene. Magnetic nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4) act as solid phase support to isolate DNA from saliva and semen stains. In the current study, cells and spermatozoa were extracted from saliva and semen swabs, respectively. Cell lysis was performed to extract epithelial cells from saliva and spermatozoa from semen and magnetic nanoparticles and biomolecule conjugate were added to the lysed cells to bind to DNA. Results: Application of external magnetic field helped to settle down nanoparticle-biomolecule conjugate and thus separate DNA from other cell components. Spectrophotometer Nanodrop technology was employed to perform the readings, which confirmed the presence of DNA at 260/280 ratio and quality of DNA was compared with the DNA isolated using the two different methods. Conclusion: The current study aimed at developing all new methods to isolate DNA from dried saliva and semen samples using magnetic nanoparticles by reviewing the methods developed earlier to isolate DNA from blood and tissue using magnetic nanoparticles. With modifications in the method and chemical preparation, a new method was successfully developed. DNA was isolated successfully; and confirmation was made by analyzing DNA through Nanodrop spectrophotometer.
Objectives: The male infertility is on the increase worldwide; therefore, it is attracting more a... more Objectives: The male infertility is on the increase worldwide; therefore, it is attracting more attention in several studies in order to improve its treatment management. The current study aimed at contributing to set up epidemiological and biological data and draw a general profile of male infertility in Côte d'Ivoire. Materials & Methods: The current prospective and descriptive study was conducted on 401 males`males`sperm obtained through masturbation after three days of abstinence. The analysis of the information in the cards accompanying the samples and the spermogram and spermocytogram analyses were used to collect the related data. Results: The average age of the males in the study was 39.97 years and the average duration of infertility was 6.66 years; 35.16% of the subjects were in the private sector and mostly composed of traders. Primary infertility was the leading cause of consultation in 55.61% of the cases. A significant relationship (P=0.03) between stress and azoospermia was highlighted, showing that males with stress were twice as likely to develop azoospermia (Odds Ratio=2.24). Results of the current study showed that in the vast majority, semen had several abnormalities with a high rate of associated abnormalities, 37.41%. However, among the isolated abnormalities, asthenozoospermia was the most prominent abnormality with a rate of 20.70%.
Techniques to fabricate nanostructured materials are in constant development. These techniques in... more Techniques to fabricate nanostructured materials are in constant development. These techniques initiated with physical and chemical approaches and now are developed to biosynthesis and green synthesis techniques. Nowadays, bioactive compounds from microbial cells and plant extracts are hugely tested and employed for the green synthesis of nanoparticles. Similar to microbial cells that can produce intracellular nanostructures, some plants can synthesize and maintain nanostructures in their tissue. The evidence of these finding is the phytomining technology. Now it is known that various parameters such as soil pH, geographical area, and ionic precursor can influence the process of in situ fabrication of nanoparticles. Plant metabolites such as terpenoids, polyphenols, reducing sugars, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and proteins play a major role in the reduction of metal ions as well as stabilization of the produced nanoparticles. These in situ synthesized nanoparticles can be extracted and purified via ashing techniques.
Objectives: Dementia of Alzheimer Type (DAT) is associated with progressive cognitive impairments... more Objectives: Dementia of Alzheimer Type (DAT) is associated with progressive cognitive impairments. Such a clinically significant condition is known to affect approximately 9.5% of people over 70 years of age. However, it is accepted as a more challengeable medical entity because of its increasing atypical presentation, rarity of efficient treatments, and diagnostic and prevention challenges. Materials & Methods: we present a case who referred with 5 months history of cognitive decline following Medial Temporal Lobe (MTL) atrophy upon neuroimaging. Following cognitive and neurophysiological assessments, she underwent 21 consecutive sessions of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) 3 times per week. Concurrently, a media-rich computer platform was administered for cognitive and behavioral remediation. Results: Based on the evidence regarding the use of tDCS in dementia, we aimed at stabilizing the cognitive profile and halting or slowing down the process of progressive cognitive decline in the present case. The outcome of our neuromodulatory intervention using tDCS supported the beneficial impact of such an approach in not only stabilizing but also ameliorating cognitive functions. This is especially important when rapid progression of cognitive symptoms in DAT is of concern. Conclusion: The promising clinical course of this specific case supports the possible beneficial effects of tDCS in halting the progression of symptoms in DAT. Sham-controlled clinical trials would get momentum to highlight clinical impact of such an intervention in DAT.
Well-designed studies are essential to screen suspected cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome... more Well-designed studies are essential to screen suspected cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) using the widely-referenced questionnaires and then to confirm the diagnosis by means of full Polysomnography (PSG), and finally to assess various variables of treatment efficacy and safety. Defining the severity index of OSAS based on the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), sleep marco-and micro-structural features (i.e. hypnogram and cyclic alternating patterns or CAPs), and neurocognitive functions would help better explain the treatment outcome. Using the neural network models on sleep data in OSAS sufferers is potentially expected to help the above goals. Determination of neurocognitive impairments in OSAS subjects in relation with disease severity indices and subsequent changes in microstructural changes (i.e. CAPs) in sleep Electroencephalography (EEG), would therefore be useful in defining individualized care and cognitive rehabilitation plans. The present methodology paper has attempted to address the above hypothesis in a clinical population from a hospital-based sleep disorders laboratory.
Objectives: Heart Failure (HF) is a chronic condition with great impact on the lifestyle of the p... more Objectives: Heart Failure (HF) is a chronic condition with great impact on the lifestyle of the patients. As many as 80% of HF patients report experiencing sleep difficulties. Thus, we try to detect clinical predictors of sleep quality and define probable relationship between anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in HF patients. Materials & Methods: One hundred patients (male: 50 persons, female: 50 persons) with ejection fraction less than 45% who were hospitalized in CCU and post-CCU ward, were included in this study. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire were used to collect the related data. Results: The patients' mean (SD) total PSQI score was 9.07(4.43). The most problem was seen in sleep onset latency (1.85[1.15]) sub-score of PSQI and the sleep quality of 78% of patients was abnormal. This score was higher in patients with history of abnormal blood pressure (P=0.001). PSQI score have significant correlation with anxiety (r=0.216, P=0.035) as well as depression (r=0.351, P=0.000). Conclusion: Many HF patients suffer from sleep difficulties and PSQI score seems to have significant correlation with anxiety and depression.
Objectives: Increasing use of colored materials in various industries and their discharge into th... more Objectives: Increasing use of colored materials in various industries and their discharge into the environment through industrial wastewater, can create many problems for humans and other beings. In the present study, the effect of removing Reactive Blue 21 (RB 21) dye using Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) as adsorbent is studied. Materials & Methods: The research was carried out on a laboratory scale and in a discontinuous system. Factors affecting dye removal such as pH, adsorption dose, concentration of dye and contact time were investigated. Also two Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were studied in different concentrations of dye. UV-visible spectrophotometer was used to determine the dye removal. It should be noted that all experiments were carried out at 25°C. Results: Regarding the results in an environment with pH=3, in 30 minutes time, with 0.05 g/L of adsorbent (MWCNTs) to remove 50 mL of RB 21 dye with a concentration of 40 ppm, the best adsorption and maximum dye removal was obtained as 81%. Conclusion: According to the results of the experiments, it was found that MWCNTs are very suitable for comparison with other synthetic adsorbents used to remove RB 21 dye.
Objectives: Cerebral ischemic preconditioning lessens stroke-induced injuries, but it is clinical... more Objectives: Cerebral ischemic preconditioning lessens stroke-induced injuries, but it is clinically feasible only when the occurrence of stroke is predictable. Reperfusion plays a critical role against cerebral injury after stroke; we tested the hypothesis that interrupting ischemia during early reperfusion, i.e. Postconditioning (POCO) affects CXC chemokine expression and further reduce inflammation in rat model of ischemia/reperfusion. Materials & Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were used in this experiment. Using 4-vessel occlusion method, global cerebral ischemia was induced and POCO was performed by applying 3 cycles of 15-s/15-s reperfusion/reocclusion after a 45-s reperfusion (POCO-45-15/15). Western blotting analysis was used to investigate CXCL1, CXCL10 and CXCL12 expression 24 h, 48 h and one week after ischemic postconditioning (iPOCO). Results: Based on the results, iPOCO attenuates the expression of inflammatory chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL10 in hippocampus area of postconditioned rats, while the CXCL12 was not affected by iPOCO. Conclusion: Current findings may support chemokines role in iPOCO via reduction of inflammation. Also there could be a link between postconditioning, stress and inflammation through chemokines.
Individuals suffering from tinnitus frequently report sleep disturbances. The most common sleep-r... more Individuals suffering from tinnitus frequently report sleep disturbances. The most common sleep-related complaint among tinnitus patients, insomnia, may even remain unresolved despite adequate and specific treatments of tinnitus. The more severe the tinnitus, the more patients report impaired sleep. Given the fact that sleep disorders potentially affect physical and mental health, patients with tinnitus would require a special diagnostic and therapeutic care. Subjective (sleep questionnaires and self-rated psychometric evaluations) and objective (polysomnographic recording) assessments in Sleep-Disturbed Tinnitus Patients (SDTPs) have similar parameters compared to subjects with insomnia. However, as the elderly subjects have higher prevalence of organic sleep disorders, special care is needed regarding the differential diagnostic measures. Treatment of insomnia in SDTPs is commonly based on the use of hypnotics, with or without insomnia-specific psychotherapy. Similarly, cognitive behavior therapy for insomnia is shown to ameliorate both insomnia and tinnitus. This review article discusses sleep and insomnia based on a recently-proposed neurofunctional tinnitus model.
The neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized cholinergic synapse, essential for initiating ... more The neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized cholinergic synapse, essential for initiating nerve-evoked muscle contractions by means of neuromuscular transmission. Loss or dysfunction of any component of this junction might affect synaptic performance. Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMSs) are rare heterogeneous disorders of autosomal inheritance caused by genetic defects affecting neuromuscular transmission that results in skeletal muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability on exertion. The onset is usually from birth to childhood. CMSs are more uncommon than autoimmune myasthenia gravis. CMSs are classified based on their genetic and clinical presentations into presynaptic, synaptic basal lamina, and postsynaptic CMSs. To date, mutations in more than 25 genes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CMSs. In this review article, different CMSs diagnostic procedures are investigated, and the genetic, clinical, and molecular aspects of CMSs are outlined.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions with the characteristi... more Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions with the characteristics including impairments in social interaction and communication, and restricted patterns of behaviors or interests. Lack of Theory of Mind (TOM), which is considered as the core concept of social interaction, was suggested as the underlying deficit of social, behavioral, and communicative impairments of ASD. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), as a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, indicated promising results for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The present methodology report aimed at proposing a design to study the possible effects of tDCS on TOM and cognitive empathy in ASD.
Objectives: In spite of numerous studies on Fe(VI) capacity in treating wastewater, no equations ... more Objectives: In spite of numerous studies on Fe(VI) capacity in treating wastewater, no equations are presented yet for the design of a Fe(VI) treatment facility. In most studies, Fe(VI) has been mentioned as the most effective substance for wastewater treatment; however, none is currently available about the operation costs in treatment facilities. This paper aims to introduce the necessary equations for the design and development of facilities that use Fe(VI) through the electrolysis methods and conduct the necessary calculations regarding its navigation costs. Materials & Methods: As the first step, a pilot plant test was conducted to find the basic information for municipal wastewater treatment by Fe(VI). Then, all the costs pertaining to electricity, acid and sodium hydroxide used in the treatment process were calculated to evaluate the total navigation costs. Results: Our results indicate that treatment of every cubic meter of municipal wastewater would bear the following costs: US 1.17forFe(VI)production,US1.17 for Fe(VI) production, US1.17forFe(VI)production,US 2.52 for reducing the pH below 2 and US$ 146 for the production of 14 M sodium hydroxide solution. The overall costs for such facility would be equal to US$ 149.7. Conclusion: As it is demonstrated, the generation of 14 M sodium hydroxide solution is the most expensive element in the treatment process. It appears that the aforementioned cost is very high for the municipal treatment facilities; however, it might be appropriate for wastewaters that are resistant to biological methods. Nevertheless, more research is still needed to address this issue.
Objectives: The emerging neuroscience literature has provided some evidence that meditation may h... more Objectives: The emerging neuroscience literature has provided some evidence that meditation may have measurable effects on the electrophysiological parameters in the nervous system. We hypothesized that a novel geometric meditation approach comprising Geometric Somatic-Breathing Based (GSBB) and Geometric Introspective Based (GIB) meditation yield favorable electrophysiological changes at brain's cortical level and autonomic nervous system upon deep meditative experience. Materials & Methods: A multi-sensor digital sampling setup, including Electroencephalography (EEG), Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) was used to obtain data and compare meditation and baseline epochs from 3 long-term geometric meditators. Results: The analysis revealed a notable change in autonomic nervous response, including Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD) in Heart Rate Variability (HRV) as well as GSR and Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) correlates across 10 practiced techniques in training and post-training as compared to the baseline state. Conclusion: Such findings may serve as a pilot validation dataset to pursue further research on quantitative EEG-guided geometric meditation approach.
Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating testis parameters and spermatogenesis changes i... more Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating testis parameters and spermatogenesis changes in male rats administrated by different busulfan doses and time to construct a subfertile animal model by stereological methods. Materials & Methods: In the present study, 150 male Wistar rats randomly divided into 5 groups. All experimental groups were treated by different concentrations of busulfan (0.0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg). Rats were sacrificed 1, 15, and 30 days after busulfan treatment. The tissue processing was done for stereological study and the results were analyzed by the one-way ANOVA followed by the Duncan test. Results: The most stereological parameters such as testes weight and volume, tubules volume density, interstitial tissue (P<0.05), and germinal epithelium (P<0.01) were significantly reduced by busulfan treatment. Also, at different busulfan doses, the number of spermatogenic cells including spermatogonia (P<0.05), spermatocyte, round and elongated spermatid, and the Sertoli and Leydig cells (P<0.01) significantly decreased, compared with those of the control group. The decline was more obvious in higher busulfan doses and time (from the day 15 to 30) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Most of testicular stereological parameters reduced during 15 days onwards after busulfan treatment in a dose-dependent manner.
Objectives: Embryo development and pregnancy rates for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in continuous... more Objectives: Embryo development and pregnancy rates for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in continuous single medium culture or sequential media culture of sibling embryos were evaluated. Matrials & Methods: Patients who underwent retrieval of ≥8 oocytes from June 2013 to March 2014 were enrolled. All embryos were cultured for at least 5 days and the formation rate and quality of embryos were compared between the groups. Results: No significant differences were observed between 2 culture media systems regarding the formation rate and quality of early cleavage-stage embryos, although blastulation rate and quality were better with single medium. Clinical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate per blastocyst transfer did not differ between the groups. Conclusion: These results suggested that a single continuous medium was as good as or better than sequential media to achieve pregnancy in IVF and embryo transfer.
Objectives: The current study aimed at comparing the efficacy of Clomiphene Citrate (CC) for the ... more Objectives: The current study aimed at comparing the efficacy of Clomiphene Citrate (CC) for the expectant management of unexplained infertility in females over 3 successive cycles. Materials & Methods: The present randomized, controlled, clinical trial was carried out at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. Females with unexplained infertility for at least 12 months of unprotected regular marital life were enrolled. Eligible females were randomly assigned into one of the 2 following groups: group 1 received 100 mg CC once a day for 5 days, and group 2 was expectantly followed up without induction of ovulation. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. Results: A total of 113 females were enrolled in the current trial. The mean age of the subjects was 25.3±3.1 years; ranged 20 to 33. The clinical pregnancy rate was slightly, but significantly, higher in CC group compared with the controls; both per case (7/57 vs. 4/56, 12.3% vs. 7.1%, respectively; P=0.357; Relative Risk (RR)=1.72; 95% Confidence Interval (CI)=0.53, 5.55; Number Needed to Treat (NNT)=19) and per cycle (7/163 vs. 4/160, 4.3% vs. 2.5%, respectively; P=0.374; RR=1.72; 95% CI=0.51, 5.75; NNT=56). Conclusion: CC seems to be not effective in improving clinical pregnancy outcome compared with observation alone in females with unexplained infertility.
Objectives: Gestational Dabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-induced Impaired Glucose Tolerance ... more Objectives: Gestational Dabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-induced Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance occurs and diagnoses during pregnancy and gradually disappears after delivery. A mild to moderate physical activity is suggested as an adjuvant treatment for GDM; in addition, aerobic and resistance trainings might be effective in preventing or controlling GDM in the different manners. The current study aimed at comparing aerobic and resistance trainings plausible effects on insulin resistance and homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function in females with GDM. Materials & Methods: A total of 34 females with GDM at 24 th week of pregnancy undergoing insulin treatment were enrolled and randomly assigned into 3 groups; 12 subjects participated in an aerobic training program (3 day/week, 30 to 45 minute/day, 50% to 70% maximum Heart Rate (HR), 11 patients participated in a resistance training (3 day/week, 2 to 3 minutes set of 15 repetitions, 50% to 70% maximum HR), and 11 participants comprised the control group and not participated in any exercise program. Fasting blood samples were obtained from the subjects to assess clinical parameters. Results: The results of covariance analysis indicated a significant difference on insulin plasma levels (P=0.031) and insulin resistance index (the homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (P=0.008) among the groups. The resistance training program significantly reduced the level of fasting blood sugar (P=0.031) and increased HOMA-β (P=0.031). Conclusion: The exercise can offer a different method to patients with GDM, which benefit from several molecular pathways, and also can be proposed as a framework to design effective GDM treatment regimens and prevention programs. However, further consecutive studies are required in order to achieve the deeper and conclusive findings and obtain the mechanisms underlying the changes on the GDM acquired by exercise.
Objectives: Rate of infertility in overall is around 15-10%. Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) is ... more Objectives: Rate of infertility in overall is around 15-10%. Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) is one procedure for infertility treatment. Luteal phase support defect is a main factor in fail of pregnancy. Goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of luteal phase support with progesterone suppository in patients who undergoing IUI cycles. Materials & Methods: 100 infertile couples who were undergoing IUI treatment included in this study. Ovulation induction was done for all patients. When IUI was done, patients were distributed into two groups. The study group (n=50) received progesterone suppository and control group (n=50) doesn't received any medicine. Then biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate and abortion rate compared between two study groups. Results: There were no differences in basic characteristics between two groups. Biochemical and clinical pregnancy were parallel in the study and control groups. There were no statistically significant increases in abortion rate between the study groups (P=0.49). Conclusion: Luteal phase support by progesterone suppository does not improve the pregnancy rate of stimulated IUI cycles.