Amirreza Azimi | Tehran University of Medical Sciences (original) (raw)

Papers by Amirreza Azimi

Research paper thumbnail of Emotional Intelligence (EI) of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Iranian journal of public health, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of p... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of patient's lives. The aim of this study was to evaluate Emotional Intelligence (EI) in cases with MS. One hundred sixty six clinically definite MS and 110 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All participants filled valid and reliable Persian version Emotional Quotient inventory (EQ-i) questionnaire, which had been developed due to Bar-On model. Mean EI total score and 12 out of 15 subscales were significantly different between patients and controls. Total EI score and most of its subscales were significantly higher in patients with RR (Relapsing Remitting) than Secondary Progressive (SP) ones. There was significant negative correlation between EDSS and total EI score (rho=-0.4, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the EI as a dependent variable and sex, type of disease, level of education, age and marital status as independent variables in patients showed ...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of serum vitamin D level in multiple sclerosis patients, their siblings, and healthy controls

Iranian journal of neurology, Jan 4, 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neuro-inflammatory disease of central nervous system af... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neuro-inflammatory disease of central nervous system affecting physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects of patients. Association of vitamin D deficiency and MS has been shown in previous studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum vitamin D level in MS cases and their sex-matched healthy siblings (who are genetically near similar) and non-relative sex-matched healthy controls. A total of 135 subjects enrolled in this case-control study. Group one (n = 45) consisted of patients with established MS. Group two (n = 45) included sex-matched healthy siblings of the group one and group three participants (n = 45) were non-relative sex-matched healthy controls. Demographic data (age, sex), level of education, daily sun exposure duration, and month of birth gathered for all. Serum sample of all participants was collected for 25-hydroxy vitamin D measurement. There was no significant difference between vitamin D level, sun exposure duratio...

Research paper thumbnail of Depression, poor sleep, and sexual dysfunction in migraineurs women

International journal of preventive medicine, 2014

Migraine is a chronic disorder affecting women more than men. Sexual dysfunction is one the compl... more Migraine is a chronic disorder affecting women more than men. Sexual dysfunction is one the complaints of women with migraine, which is not regarded as it should be. The goal of this study was to determine sexual dysfunction in women with migraine, and possible effects of depression and sleep quality on their sexual function. One hundred married migraineurs women were enrolled. All participants were asked to fill out valid and reliable Persian versions of Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire (PSQI), female sexual function index (FSFI) and beck depression inventory (BDI). Mean BDI, PSQI, and FSFI scores were 15.1 ± 9.1, 7.6 ± 4, and 21.6 ± 8.8 in all patients, respectively. Sexual dysfunction found in 68% and 79% were poor sleepers. Mean BDI and PSQI scores were significantly higher in women with sexual dysfunction (FSFI < 26.55). There was significant negative correlation between BDI score and FSFI (r = -0.1, P = 0.001) as well as significant positive correlation between BDI and PSQI (...

Research paper thumbnail of Sexual function in women with multiple sclerosis

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of central nervous system (CNS) and sexual dys... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of central nervous system (CNS) and sexual dysfunction (SD) is one of the most common disabilities of MS women. The aim of this study was to determine sexual function of women with MS (multiple sclerosis). One hundred definite MS patients MS patients and fifty age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Demographic data (sex, age), duration of the disease and disease pattern extracted from patient's files and Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) recorded for each patient by an expert neurologist. Participants were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of Beck depression inventory (BDI) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires. The total FSFI score and subscale scores differed significantly between the MS patients and the controls. There was a significant negative correlation between EDSS and FSFI scores (rho=-0.44, P<0.001) and significant positive correlation between EDSS and BDI (r...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of sleep quality in women with migraine moreover, multiple sclerosis

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine are two common neurological disorders affecting women more t... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine are two common neurological disorders affecting women more than men. Sleep quality impairment has been reported in both diseases. The goal of this study was to compare sleep quality and depression between women with MS and migraine. Seventy women with migraine and 75 women with MS were enrolled in this study. Participants were asked to fill-out valid and reliable Persian versions of Pittsburg Sleep Questionnaire (PSQI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Mean age and duration of disease for MS group was 31.1 ± 7.6, 4.8 ± 5 and for second group 31.4 ± 5.6, 5.2 ± 4 years, respectively. Mean BDI score and number of patients with poor sleep (PSQI ≥5) were significantly higher in patients with migraine. There was significant positive correlation between PSQI and BDI scores in all participants (r=0.32, P<0.001), while correlation coefficient was 0.39, P=0.001 in patients with migraine and 0.35, P=0.002 in MS cases. Multiple linear regression analys...

Research paper thumbnail of Emotional Intelligence (EI) of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional ... more Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of patient's lives. The aim of this study was to evaluate Emotional Intelligence (EI) in cases with MS. Methods: One hundred sixty six clinically definite MS and 110 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All participants filled valid and reliable Persian version Emotional Quotient inventory (EQ-i) questionnaire, which had been developed due to Bar-On model. Results: Mean EI total score and 12 out of 15 subscales were significantly different between patients and controls. Total EI score and most of its subscales were significantly higher in patients with RR (Relapsing Remitting) than Secondary Progressive (SP) ones. There was significant negative correlation between EDSS and total EI score (rho=-0.4, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the EI as a dependent variable and sex, type of disease, level of education, age and marital status as independent variables in patients showed that type of disease and level of education were independent predictors of EI. Conclusion: Emotional intelligence as the ability to behave better and communicate with others should be considered in MS cases as their physical and psychological health are affected by their illness.

Research paper thumbnail of ms sex

Research paper thumbnail of Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a 14-year-old boy

Neurology India, 2007

... Search result page. Title: Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a ... more ... Search result page. Title: Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a 14-year-old boy. Author: Sahraian Mohammad ; Motamedi Mahmood ; Paknejad SeyedMohammad ; Azimi Amir. Abstract: Journal: Neurology India. Issn: 00283886. EIssn: Year: 2007. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis

International Journal of Neuroscience, 2013

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of central nervous system i... more Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of central nervous system in which a higher oxidative stress may contribute to its pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with MS. Materials and methods: We performed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trail to determine the effect of CoQ10 supplement (500 mg/day, n = 24) versus placebo (controls, n = 24) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken before and after a 12-week intervention to analyze malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] activity. Results: Forty-five subjects with MS completed intervention study. After 12 weeks, CoQ10-treated patients had significant increase in SOD activity (p = 0.013); and decrease in MDA levels (P=0.003) compared with controls. Despite the significant effect of CoQ10 supplementation on plasma TAC (p = 0.010), no significant differences were found between the two groups. CoQ10 supplementation did not affect GPx activity. Conclusion: Present study suggests that CoQ10 supplements at a dose of 500 mg/day can decrease oxidative stress and increase antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with relapsing-remitting MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Does Lipoic Acid Consumption Affect the Cytokine Profile in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial

Neuroimmunomodulation, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis: association with disability, depression, disease type and sex

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

The aim of the current study was to evaluate anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and... more The aim of the current study was to evaluate anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and factors which are associated with this symptom. Eighty totals of 180 patients with MS were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. They were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of the Beck depression inventory (BDI) and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI) questionnaires. Demographic characteristics (sex and age), duration of the disease, disease course and Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were recorded for all participants. Mean BDI was 17.5 ± 11.4 in patients while mean BAI was17.7 ± 12.5 in all participants, respectively. Mean BDI and BAI were not statistically different between male and female participants. Patients with higher levels of disability (higher EDSS) had significant higher BDI and BAI scores and there was significant positive correlation between EDSS and BDI and BAI scores (rho=0.42, P<0.001, rho=0.35, P<0.001). Patients with SP (Secondary...

Research paper thumbnail of Coenzyme Q10 supplementation ameliorates inflammatory markers in patients with multiple sclerosis: a double blind, placebo, controlled randomized clinical trial

Nutritional Neuroscience, 2014

Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated neurodegenerative disease of central ne... more Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated neurodegenerative disease of central nervous system and recent studies show that inflammatory processes are highly associated with neurodegeneration in the brain. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers in patients with MS. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was performed among 48 patients with relapsing-remitting MS. Subjects were randomly assigned to a placebo group (n = 24) or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)-supplemented group (500 mg/day, n = 24). The intervention was administered for 12 weeks. Peripheral blood samples were collected at baseline and after 12-week intervention, to measure inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4 and TGF-β) markers. Results: Forty-five patients completed the study. After 12 weeks of intervention, the TNF-α levels (P = 0.003) decreased significantly in the CoQ10 group. Subjects in the CoQ10 group had significantly lower IL-6 levels (P = 0.037), compared to the placebo group. CoQ10 supplementation also resulted in decreased serum levels of MMP-9 as compared to the placebo group (P = 0.011). However, CoQ10 supplementation did not alter the IL-4 and TGF-β levels (P = 0.16 and P = 0.81, respectively). Discussion: CoQ10 supplementation at a dosage of 500 mg appears to decrease the inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, and MMP-9) in patients with MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparing efficacy and side effects of a weekly intramuscular biogeneric/biosimilar interferon beta-1a with Avonex in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis: A double blind randomized clinical trial

Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery, 2012

Objective: We compared the efficacy and safety of two biosimilar forms of interferon beta-1a in t... more Objective: We compared the efficacy and safety of two biosimilar forms of interferon beta-1a in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: Avonex (Biogen Idec, USA) and CinnoVex (CinnaGen, Iran). Methods: In a double blind randomized clinical trial study 84 patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 0-5.5 were randomly allocated to two groups of 42 subjects. Results: Twenty-four patients lost to follow-up. Finally, 31 patients (mean ± SD of age = 33.7 ± 7.0; 7 males and 24 females) in the Avonex and 29 patients (mean ± SD of age = 32.2 ± 9.2; 8 males and 21 females) in the CinnoVex group completed full 24 months of study period. Decrease in EDSS was 1.05 ± 0.24, p = 0.62 in the Avonex and 0.16 ± 0.88, p = 1.0 in the CinnoVex group after 12 months and 0.27 ± 1.05, p = 0.46 in the Avonex and 0.16 ± 1.06, p = 1.0 in the CinnoVex group after 24 months. There was no statistically significant difference in attack number between two groups (1.0 ± 1.2 in Avonex and 1.2 ± 1.3 in CinnoVex; p = 0.46). Volume of T2-weighted lesions on MRI showed a progressive significant increase in the 12th month (28056 ± 23693) in Avonex treated patients compared with first image (16353 ± 11172) (p = 0.01). But number of gadolinium-enhancing lesions in CinnoVex showed statistically significant decrease after 12 months (0.08 ± 0.28 vs. 1.00 ± 1.22; p = 0.03). However, there were no significant differences between groups after 24 months. There were no significant differences between 2 groups regarding frequency and duration of most considerable side effects, as well. Neutralizing antibodies were not positive in any patients. Conclusion: CinnoVex can be used as a safe and effective alternative to Avonex in treatment of RRMS.

Research paper thumbnail of Validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire 2

British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2010

Purpose: To determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Modified Fatigue... more Purpose: To determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) questionnaire for Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Method: One hundred and twenty patients with MS and 75 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Participants were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of the Beck depression inventory (BDI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and translated MFIS questionnaires. Twenty cases filed the questionnaire two weeks later to assess reliability. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), Cronbach's alpha and multiple regression analysis were used. Results: The total MFIS score and subscale scores differed significantly between the patients with MS and the healthy controls. The ICCs and Cronbach's alpha values were also outstandingly high. There was a significant correlation between the FSS and MFIS scores in patients (r ¼ 0.69, p50.001). Also, a significant correlation was investigated between the scores of the BDI and the MFIS (r ¼ 0.68, p50.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the MFIS as a dependent variable and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), BDI and disease duration as independent variables showed that the BDI and EDSS are dependent predictors of the MFIS. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the Persian version of MFIS can be regarded as a valid and reliable scale for assessing fatigue in Iranian patients with MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D and multiple sclerosis: a critical review and recommendations on treatment

Acta Neurologica Belgica, 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated and degenerative disease of nervous system, which a... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated and degenerative disease of nervous system, which affects mostly young adults. Vitamin D deficiency is a well-known environmental risk factor for MS and is considerable in terms of immediate clinical implications. In addition to its classical action on regulation of bone homeostasis, vitamin D may have a potent impact on cytokine profiles and neuro-inflammation. Given the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D and its high rate of deficiency in MS patients, prescribing vitamin D is a remarkable issue in MS. The results from several experimental and clinical studies indicate that vitamin D supplementation may ameliorate the inflammation during the relapse phase and attenuate disease progression. We present the experimental and clinical studies, which assessed the effects of vitamin D on the pathophysiology, prevalence and management of MS. The authors also discuss current recommendations on prescription of this vitamin to MS patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Fatigue in multiple sclerosis: relationship with disease duration, physical disability, disease pattern, age and sex

Acta Neurologica Belgica, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical and radiologic correlates of quality of life measures in patients with relapse-onset multiple sclersosis

Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 2014

Several studies have reported reduced quality of life (QOL) scores in patients with multiple scle... more Several studies have reported reduced quality of life (QOL) scores in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) even in absence of physical disability. Thus QOL measures could be served as an adjunct endpoints for clinical trials. In this study we assessed the relationship between QOL scores and brain structures&#39; volume and magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) in patients with MS. One hundred and twenty two patients with relapse-onset MS were recruited in the study. They underwent clinical examination and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). QOL was evaluated using SF-36 questionnaire. Brain structure segmentation on lesion-filled T1-weighted images was performed using a multi-atlas algorithm, MAGeT Brain. Correlation between SF-36 physical and mental scores and expanded disability status scale (EDSS), brain structures&#39; volumes (adjusted to intracranial volume) and MTR were assessed using general linear model (GLM) with age and gender as covariate. SF-36 physical score (PCS) was negatively correlated with EDSS (P&gt;0.001), cerebellar (P=0.020) and pyramidal (P=0.001) Kurtzke functional system scores and multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFC) score (P=0.006). Physical and mental Scores of SF-36 showed no significant correlation with total brain volume, volume of right and left thalamus, hippocampus, right and left hemispheres of cerebellum, corpus medullare of cerebellum and lesion load. The correlation between physical and mental subscores of SF-36 and MTR of corona radiate, internal capsule and corpus callosum were also non-significant. Clinical measures predicted physical components of QOL. Neither clinical nor radiological measures of MS severity contribute significantly to mental QOL.

Research paper thumbnail of Emotional Intelligence (EI) of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Iranian journal of public health, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of p... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of patient's lives. The aim of this study was to evaluate Emotional Intelligence (EI) in cases with MS. One hundred sixty six clinically definite MS and 110 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All participants filled valid and reliable Persian version Emotional Quotient inventory (EQ-i) questionnaire, which had been developed due to Bar-On model. Mean EI total score and 12 out of 15 subscales were significantly different between patients and controls. Total EI score and most of its subscales were significantly higher in patients with RR (Relapsing Remitting) than Secondary Progressive (SP) ones. There was significant negative correlation between EDSS and total EI score (rho=-0.4, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the EI as a dependent variable and sex, type of disease, level of education, age and marital status as independent variables in patients showed ...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of serum vitamin D level in multiple sclerosis patients, their siblings, and healthy controls

Iranian journal of neurology, Jan 4, 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neuro-inflammatory disease of central nervous system af... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neuro-inflammatory disease of central nervous system affecting physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects of patients. Association of vitamin D deficiency and MS has been shown in previous studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum vitamin D level in MS cases and their sex-matched healthy siblings (who are genetically near similar) and non-relative sex-matched healthy controls. A total of 135 subjects enrolled in this case-control study. Group one (n = 45) consisted of patients with established MS. Group two (n = 45) included sex-matched healthy siblings of the group one and group three participants (n = 45) were non-relative sex-matched healthy controls. Demographic data (age, sex), level of education, daily sun exposure duration, and month of birth gathered for all. Serum sample of all participants was collected for 25-hydroxy vitamin D measurement. There was no significant difference between vitamin D level, sun exposure duratio...

Research paper thumbnail of Depression, poor sleep, and sexual dysfunction in migraineurs women

International journal of preventive medicine, 2014

Migraine is a chronic disorder affecting women more than men. Sexual dysfunction is one the compl... more Migraine is a chronic disorder affecting women more than men. Sexual dysfunction is one the complaints of women with migraine, which is not regarded as it should be. The goal of this study was to determine sexual dysfunction in women with migraine, and possible effects of depression and sleep quality on their sexual function. One hundred married migraineurs women were enrolled. All participants were asked to fill out valid and reliable Persian versions of Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire (PSQI), female sexual function index (FSFI) and beck depression inventory (BDI). Mean BDI, PSQI, and FSFI scores were 15.1 ± 9.1, 7.6 ± 4, and 21.6 ± 8.8 in all patients, respectively. Sexual dysfunction found in 68% and 79% were poor sleepers. Mean BDI and PSQI scores were significantly higher in women with sexual dysfunction (FSFI < 26.55). There was significant negative correlation between BDI score and FSFI (r = -0.1, P = 0.001) as well as significant positive correlation between BDI and PSQI (...

Research paper thumbnail of Sexual function in women with multiple sclerosis

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of central nervous system (CNS) and sexual dys... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of central nervous system (CNS) and sexual dysfunction (SD) is one of the most common disabilities of MS women. The aim of this study was to determine sexual function of women with MS (multiple sclerosis). One hundred definite MS patients MS patients and fifty age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Demographic data (sex, age), duration of the disease and disease pattern extracted from patient's files and Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) recorded for each patient by an expert neurologist. Participants were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of Beck depression inventory (BDI) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires. The total FSFI score and subscale scores differed significantly between the MS patients and the controls. There was a significant negative correlation between EDSS and FSFI scores (rho=-0.44, P<0.001) and significant positive correlation between EDSS and BDI (r...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of sleep quality in women with migraine moreover, multiple sclerosis

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine are two common neurological disorders affecting women more t... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine are two common neurological disorders affecting women more than men. Sleep quality impairment has been reported in both diseases. The goal of this study was to compare sleep quality and depression between women with MS and migraine. Seventy women with migraine and 75 women with MS were enrolled in this study. Participants were asked to fill-out valid and reliable Persian versions of Pittsburg Sleep Questionnaire (PSQI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Mean age and duration of disease for MS group was 31.1 ± 7.6, 4.8 ± 5 and for second group 31.4 ± 5.6, 5.2 ± 4 years, respectively. Mean BDI score and number of patients with poor sleep (PSQI ≥5) were significantly higher in patients with migraine. There was significant positive correlation between PSQI and BDI scores in all participants (r=0.32, P<0.001), while correlation coefficient was 0.39, P=0.001 in patients with migraine and 0.35, P=0.002 in MS cases. Multiple linear regression analys...

Research paper thumbnail of Emotional Intelligence (EI) of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional ... more Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects physical and emotional aspects of patient's lives. The aim of this study was to evaluate Emotional Intelligence (EI) in cases with MS. Methods: One hundred sixty six clinically definite MS and 110 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All participants filled valid and reliable Persian version Emotional Quotient inventory (EQ-i) questionnaire, which had been developed due to Bar-On model. Results: Mean EI total score and 12 out of 15 subscales were significantly different between patients and controls. Total EI score and most of its subscales were significantly higher in patients with RR (Relapsing Remitting) than Secondary Progressive (SP) ones. There was significant negative correlation between EDSS and total EI score (rho=-0.4, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the EI as a dependent variable and sex, type of disease, level of education, age and marital status as independent variables in patients showed that type of disease and level of education were independent predictors of EI. Conclusion: Emotional intelligence as the ability to behave better and communicate with others should be considered in MS cases as their physical and psychological health are affected by their illness.

Research paper thumbnail of ms sex

Research paper thumbnail of Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a 14-year-old boy

Neurology India, 2007

... Search result page. Title: Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a ... more ... Search result page. Title: Coexistence of Wilson′s disease and neurofibromatosis type 1 in a 14-year-old boy. Author: Sahraian Mohammad ; Motamedi Mahmood ; Paknejad SeyedMohammad ; Azimi Amir. Abstract: Journal: Neurology India. Issn: 00283886. EIssn: Year: 2007. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis

International Journal of Neuroscience, 2013

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of central nervous system i... more Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of central nervous system in which a higher oxidative stress may contribute to its pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with MS. Materials and methods: We performed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trail to determine the effect of CoQ10 supplement (500 mg/day, n = 24) versus placebo (controls, n = 24) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken before and after a 12-week intervention to analyze malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] activity. Results: Forty-five subjects with MS completed intervention study. After 12 weeks, CoQ10-treated patients had significant increase in SOD activity (p = 0.013); and decrease in MDA levels (P=0.003) compared with controls. Despite the significant effect of CoQ10 supplementation on plasma TAC (p = 0.010), no significant differences were found between the two groups. CoQ10 supplementation did not affect GPx activity. Conclusion: Present study suggests that CoQ10 supplements at a dose of 500 mg/day can decrease oxidative stress and increase antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with relapsing-remitting MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Does Lipoic Acid Consumption Affect the Cytokine Profile in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial

Neuroimmunomodulation, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis: association with disability, depression, disease type and sex

Acta medica Iranica, 2014

The aim of the current study was to evaluate anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and... more The aim of the current study was to evaluate anxiety in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and factors which are associated with this symptom. Eighty totals of 180 patients with MS were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. They were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of the Beck depression inventory (BDI) and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI) questionnaires. Demographic characteristics (sex and age), duration of the disease, disease course and Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were recorded for all participants. Mean BDI was 17.5 ± 11.4 in patients while mean BAI was17.7 ± 12.5 in all participants, respectively. Mean BDI and BAI were not statistically different between male and female participants. Patients with higher levels of disability (higher EDSS) had significant higher BDI and BAI scores and there was significant positive correlation between EDSS and BDI and BAI scores (rho=0.42, P<0.001, rho=0.35, P<0.001). Patients with SP (Secondary...

Research paper thumbnail of Coenzyme Q10 supplementation ameliorates inflammatory markers in patients with multiple sclerosis: a double blind, placebo, controlled randomized clinical trial

Nutritional Neuroscience, 2014

Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated neurodegenerative disease of central ne... more Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated neurodegenerative disease of central nervous system and recent studies show that inflammatory processes are highly associated with neurodegeneration in the brain. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers in patients with MS. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was performed among 48 patients with relapsing-remitting MS. Subjects were randomly assigned to a placebo group (n = 24) or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)-supplemented group (500 mg/day, n = 24). The intervention was administered for 12 weeks. Peripheral blood samples were collected at baseline and after 12-week intervention, to measure inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4 and TGF-β) markers. Results: Forty-five patients completed the study. After 12 weeks of intervention, the TNF-α levels (P = 0.003) decreased significantly in the CoQ10 group. Subjects in the CoQ10 group had significantly lower IL-6 levels (P = 0.037), compared to the placebo group. CoQ10 supplementation also resulted in decreased serum levels of MMP-9 as compared to the placebo group (P = 0.011). However, CoQ10 supplementation did not alter the IL-4 and TGF-β levels (P = 0.16 and P = 0.81, respectively). Discussion: CoQ10 supplementation at a dosage of 500 mg appears to decrease the inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, and MMP-9) in patients with MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparing efficacy and side effects of a weekly intramuscular biogeneric/biosimilar interferon beta-1a with Avonex in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis: A double blind randomized clinical trial

Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery, 2012

Objective: We compared the efficacy and safety of two biosimilar forms of interferon beta-1a in t... more Objective: We compared the efficacy and safety of two biosimilar forms of interferon beta-1a in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: Avonex (Biogen Idec, USA) and CinnoVex (CinnaGen, Iran). Methods: In a double blind randomized clinical trial study 84 patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 0-5.5 were randomly allocated to two groups of 42 subjects. Results: Twenty-four patients lost to follow-up. Finally, 31 patients (mean ± SD of age = 33.7 ± 7.0; 7 males and 24 females) in the Avonex and 29 patients (mean ± SD of age = 32.2 ± 9.2; 8 males and 21 females) in the CinnoVex group completed full 24 months of study period. Decrease in EDSS was 1.05 ± 0.24, p = 0.62 in the Avonex and 0.16 ± 0.88, p = 1.0 in the CinnoVex group after 12 months and 0.27 ± 1.05, p = 0.46 in the Avonex and 0.16 ± 1.06, p = 1.0 in the CinnoVex group after 24 months. There was no statistically significant difference in attack number between two groups (1.0 ± 1.2 in Avonex and 1.2 ± 1.3 in CinnoVex; p = 0.46). Volume of T2-weighted lesions on MRI showed a progressive significant increase in the 12th month (28056 ± 23693) in Avonex treated patients compared with first image (16353 ± 11172) (p = 0.01). But number of gadolinium-enhancing lesions in CinnoVex showed statistically significant decrease after 12 months (0.08 ± 0.28 vs. 1.00 ± 1.22; p = 0.03). However, there were no significant differences between groups after 24 months. There were no significant differences between 2 groups regarding frequency and duration of most considerable side effects, as well. Neutralizing antibodies were not positive in any patients. Conclusion: CinnoVex can be used as a safe and effective alternative to Avonex in treatment of RRMS.

Research paper thumbnail of Validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire 2

British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2010

Purpose: To determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Modified Fatigue... more Purpose: To determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) questionnaire for Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Method: One hundred and twenty patients with MS and 75 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Participants were asked to answer the valid and reliable Persian version of the Beck depression inventory (BDI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and translated MFIS questionnaires. Twenty cases filed the questionnaire two weeks later to assess reliability. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), Cronbach's alpha and multiple regression analysis were used. Results: The total MFIS score and subscale scores differed significantly between the patients with MS and the healthy controls. The ICCs and Cronbach's alpha values were also outstandingly high. There was a significant correlation between the FSS and MFIS scores in patients (r ¼ 0.69, p50.001). Also, a significant correlation was investigated between the scores of the BDI and the MFIS (r ¼ 0.68, p50.001). Multiple linear regression analysis between the MFIS as a dependent variable and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), BDI and disease duration as independent variables showed that the BDI and EDSS are dependent predictors of the MFIS. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the Persian version of MFIS can be regarded as a valid and reliable scale for assessing fatigue in Iranian patients with MS.

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D and multiple sclerosis: a critical review and recommendations on treatment

Acta Neurologica Belgica, 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated and degenerative disease of nervous system, which a... more Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated and degenerative disease of nervous system, which affects mostly young adults. Vitamin D deficiency is a well-known environmental risk factor for MS and is considerable in terms of immediate clinical implications. In addition to its classical action on regulation of bone homeostasis, vitamin D may have a potent impact on cytokine profiles and neuro-inflammation. Given the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D and its high rate of deficiency in MS patients, prescribing vitamin D is a remarkable issue in MS. The results from several experimental and clinical studies indicate that vitamin D supplementation may ameliorate the inflammation during the relapse phase and attenuate disease progression. We present the experimental and clinical studies, which assessed the effects of vitamin D on the pathophysiology, prevalence and management of MS. The authors also discuss current recommendations on prescription of this vitamin to MS patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Fatigue in multiple sclerosis: relationship with disease duration, physical disability, disease pattern, age and sex

Acta Neurologica Belgica, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical and radiologic correlates of quality of life measures in patients with relapse-onset multiple sclersosis

Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 2014

Several studies have reported reduced quality of life (QOL) scores in patients with multiple scle... more Several studies have reported reduced quality of life (QOL) scores in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) even in absence of physical disability. Thus QOL measures could be served as an adjunct endpoints for clinical trials. In this study we assessed the relationship between QOL scores and brain structures&#39; volume and magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) in patients with MS. One hundred and twenty two patients with relapse-onset MS were recruited in the study. They underwent clinical examination and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). QOL was evaluated using SF-36 questionnaire. Brain structure segmentation on lesion-filled T1-weighted images was performed using a multi-atlas algorithm, MAGeT Brain. Correlation between SF-36 physical and mental scores and expanded disability status scale (EDSS), brain structures&#39; volumes (adjusted to intracranial volume) and MTR were assessed using general linear model (GLM) with age and gender as covariate. SF-36 physical score (PCS) was negatively correlated with EDSS (P&gt;0.001), cerebellar (P=0.020) and pyramidal (P=0.001) Kurtzke functional system scores and multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFC) score (P=0.006). Physical and mental Scores of SF-36 showed no significant correlation with total brain volume, volume of right and left thalamus, hippocampus, right and left hemispheres of cerebellum, corpus medullare of cerebellum and lesion load. The correlation between physical and mental subscores of SF-36 and MTR of corona radiate, internal capsule and corpus callosum were also non-significant. Clinical measures predicted physical components of QOL. Neither clinical nor radiological measures of MS severity contribute significantly to mental QOL.