Simultaneous Increase of Mean Susceptibility and Mean Kurtosis in the Substantia Nigra as an MRI Neuroimaging Biomarker for Early-Stage Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Early detection is crucial for treatment and slowing disease progression. HYPOTHESIS: Simultaneous alterations in mean susceptibility (MS) from quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) and mean kurtosis (MK) from diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) can serve as reliable neuroimaging biomarkers for early-stage PD (ESPD) in the basal ganglia nuclei, including the substantia nigra (SN), putamen (PUT), globus pallidus (GP), and caudate nucleus (CN). STUDY TYPE: Systematic review and meta-analysis. POPULATION: One hundred eleven patients diagnosed with ESPD and 81 healthy controls (HCs) were included from four studies that utilized both QSM and DKI in both subject groups. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE: Three-dimensional multi-echo gradient echo sequence for QSM and spin echo planar imaging sequence for DKI at 3 Tesla. ASSESSMENT: A systematic review and meta-analysis using PRISMA guidelines searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. STATISTICAL TESTS: Random-effects model, standardized mean difference (SMD) to compare MS and MK between ESPD patients and HCs, I2 statistic for heterogeneity, Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for risk of bias, and Egger's test for publication bias. A P-value <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: MS values were significantly higher in SN (SMD 0.72, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.12), PUT (SMD 0.68, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.07), and GP (SMD 0.53, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.87) in ESPD patients compared to HCs. CN did not show a significant difference in MS values (P = 0.15). MK values were significantly higher only in SN (SMD = 0.72, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.27). MK values were not significantly different in PUT (P = 1.00), GP (P = 0.97), and CN (P = 0.59). Studies had high quality (NOS 7-8) and no publication bias (P = 0.967). DATA CONCLUSION: Simultaneous use of MS and MK may be useful as an early neuroimaging biomarker for ESPD detection and its differentiation from HCs, with significant differences observed in the SN. EVIDENCE LEVEL: 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies pre- and post-COVID-19 vaccination in staff members of Bandar Abbas Children's Hospital.

BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have a higher risk of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to the general population due to their frontline role and direct contact with the infected patients. Accordingly, they were among the first groups to receive vaccination against COVID-19. A higher risk of COVID-19 infection may also exist among hospital staff members other than HCWs. In this study, we assessed the seroprevalence of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) IgG pre- and post-COVID-19 vaccination in hospital staff members. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 228 staff members of Bandar Abbas Children's Hospital, Bandar Abbas, Iran, who were recruited from 2020 to 2021. Staff members were vaccinated with vector and inactivated vaccines. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein IgG was measured in their blood samples pre- and post-COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS: Of the 228 hospital staff members evaluated in this study (mean age: 37.59 ± 8.70 years), 204 (89.5%) were female and 210 (92.1%) were HCWs. Only one staff member was not vaccinated, the rest received one dose (99.6%), and 224 (98.7%) two doses. Vector vaccines were administered to 71.4% of staff members and 72.9% of HCWs. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody was positive in 8.8% of staff members before vaccination, 9.3% after the first dose, and 50% after the second dose. The corresponding percentages were 9.5%, 9.5%, and 48.8% in HCWs. Being a HCW was not associated with the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG after the second dose; however, multivariable binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the interval between two vaccine doses (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.595, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.434; 0.816, P = 0.001) and age (aOR = 1.062, 95% CI 1.021; 1.105, P = 0.003) were associated with seroprevalence. CONCLUSIONS: After receiving a second dose of vector or inactive virus vaccines, our hospital's staff members and HCWs had a seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies of around 50%. Seroprevalence increased with increasing age and shorter intervals between doses.

The concentration of Potentially Toxic elements (PTEs) in the muscle of crabs: a global systematic review, meta-analysis, and health risk assessment.

The concentration of PTEs in the muscle of crabs, was meta-analyzed using a random-effects model based on countries' subgroups. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks related to the ingestion of PTEs via the consumption of crab fish were estimated. The meta-analysis included one hundred and eight papers with 109 data reports. The rank order of PTEs based on pooled (mean) concentration in the muscle of crabs was Ni (4.490 mg/kg-ww) > Pb (1.891 mg/kg-ww) >As (1.601 mg/kg-ww) > Cd (1.101 mg/kg-ww). The results showed that adults and children consumers in many countries are at risk of non-carcinogenicity due to ingestion of Ni, Pb, As, and Cd and carcinogenicity risk due to As. Therefore, the bioaccumulation of PTEs in the muscle of crabs can be considered a global health risk. Hence, to decrease the health risk of PTEs in the muscle of crabs, continuous monitoring and reducing the emission of PTEs in aquatic environments are recommended.

Relative importance and interactions of parameters of finite-element models of human middle ear.

In the last decades, finite-element models of the middle ear have been widely used to predict the middle-ear vibration outputs. Even with the simplest linear assumption for material properties of the structures in the middle ear, these models need tens of parameters. Due to the complexities of measurements of material properties of these structures, accurate estimations of the values of most of these parameters are not possible. In this study, we benefited from the stochastic finite-element model of the middle ear we had developed in the past, to perform global sensitivity analysis. For this aim, we implemented Sobol' sensitivity analysis which ranks the importance of all uncertain parameters and interactions among them at different frequencies. To decrease the computational costs, we found Sobol' indices from surrogate models that we created using stochastic finite-element results and the polynomial chaos expansion method. Based on the results, the Young's modulus and thickness of the tympanic membrane, Young's modulus and damping of the stapedial annular ligaments, and the Young's modulus of ossicles are among the parameters with the greatest impacts on vibrations of the umbo and stapes footplate. Furthermore, the most significant interactions happen between the Young's modulus and thickness of the tympanic membrane.

CVII: Enhancing Interpretability in Intelligent Sensor Systems via Computer Vision Interpretability Index.

In the realm of intelligent sensor systems, the dependence on Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications has heightened the importance of interpretability. This is particularly critical for opaque models such as Deep Neural Networks (DNN), as understanding their decisions is essential, not only for ethical and regulatory compliance, but also for fostering trust in AI-driven outcomes. This paper introduces the novel concept of a Computer Vision Interpretability Index (CVII). The CVII framework is designed to emulate human cognitive processes, specifically in tasks related to vision. It addresses the intricate challenge of quantifying interpretability, a task that is inherently subjective and varies across domains. The CVII is rigorously evaluated using a range of computer vision models applied to the COCO (Common Objects in Context) dataset, a widely recognized benchmark in the field. The findings established a robust correlation between image interpretability, model selection, and CVII scores. This research makes a substantial contribution to enhancing interpretability for human comprehension, as well as within intelligent sensor applications. By promoting transparency and reliability in AI-driven decision-making, the CVII framework empowers its stakeholders to effectively harness the full potential of AI technologies.

Effects of an Exercise Therapy Targeting Knee Kinetics on Pain, Function, and Gait Kinetics in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

In this study, the effects of an exercise therapy comprising yoga exercises and medial-thrust gait (YogaMT) on lower-extremity kinetics, pain, and function in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis were investigated. Fifty-nine patients were randomly allocated to three treatment groups: (a) the YogaMT group practiced yoga exercises and medial thrust gait, (b) the knee-strengthening group performed quadriceps- and hamstring-strengthening exercises, and (c) the treadmill walking group practiced normal treadmill walking in 12 supervised sessions. The adduction and flexion moments of the hip, knee, and ankle; pain intensity; and 2-min walking test were assessed before and after treatment and at 1-month follow-up. The YogaMT group experienced a significant reduction in knee adduction moment. All groups showed significant improvement in pain and function. The YogaMT may reduce medial knee load in patients with knee osteoarthritis in the short term. A larger clinical trial is required to investigate the long-term outcomes of this intervention.

Fluttering and divergence instability of functionally graded viscoelastic nanotubes conveying fluid based on nonlocal strain gradient theory.

In this paper, a size-dependent viscoelastic pipe model is developed to investigate the size effects on flutter and divergence instability of functionally graded viscoelastic nanotubes conveying fluid. The nonlocal strain gradient theory and the Kelvin-Voigt model are used to consider the significance of nonlocal field, strain gradient field, and viscoelastic damping effects. The dimensionless equation of transverse motion and related classical and non-classical boundary conditions are derived using the variational approach. The partial differential equations are discretized to a system of ordinary differential equations by the use of Galerkin's method. The frequency equation is obtained as a function of dimensionless flow velocity, small-scale parameters, damping coefficient, and power-law parameter. Numerical results are presented to study the dynamical behavior of the system and are compared with experimental and theoretical results reported by other researchers. Coupled and single mode fluttering related to higher vibration modes of fluid-conveying nanotubes supported at both ends are studied for the first time. It is found that coupled mode fluttering can be seen for different vibration modes by increasing the flow velocity in the absence of structural damping. Structural damping changes the dynamical behavior of the system, in which by increasing the flow velocity, single mode fluttering occurs instead of coupled mode fluttering. In addition, the presence of structural damping increases the critical flow velocity and, as a result, increases the stability of the system. The results also show that increasing the nonlocal parameter will have a stiffness-softening effect, while increasing the strain gradient length scale has an opposing effect.

Frequencies of Six (Five Novel) STR Markers Linked to TUSC3 (MRT7) or NSUN2 (MRT5) Genes Used for Homozygosity Mapping of Recessive Intellectual Disability.

BACKGROUND: Non-syndromic autosomal recessive intellectual disability (NS-ARID) is an extremely heterogeneous genetic disorder. Therefore, to investigate these genes, more research is required. One approach to investigate the NS-ARID loci is homozygosity mapping which requires appropriate STR markers within or flanking the gene/s of interest. In this research, we aimed to find novel STRs for two common NS-ARID genes (TUSC3 and NSUN2) and, in addition, to identify allele frequencies of those STR markers. METHODS: The study group included 119 unrelated healthy individuals. STR markers were investigated using the UCSC genome browser web site and SERV software. Genotyping was determined by multiplex PCR. Data were evaluated using Gene Mapper software. Allele frequencies and observed heterozygosity rates were calculated using PowerStatV12. Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and expected heterozygosity were assessed using the DNAView software. RESULTS: In total, 56 alleles were detected. According to our research, D8TUSC3SU8.3 and D5NSUN2SU0.5 were the most informative STR markers in MRT7 and MRT5 loci, respectively and showed a high percentage of heterozygosity in Iranian population. The observed range of allele frequencies was from 3.4% to 32.4% and 0.8% to 18.9% for MRT5 and MRT7 loci, respectively. Further, we have evaluated other statistical surveys of these STR markers and discovered that all of the six listed STRs were informative and five meet the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for the tester group. CONCLUSIONS: Finding novel STRs, with high allele heterozygosity, is one of the most significant current finding in the present study for the two common NSARID genes. The recognized heterozygosity of these markers make MRT flanking STR markers very efficient to be used in diagnostic medical genetics labs or homozygosity mapping on NS-ARID.

Different concentrations of cysteamine and ergothioneine improve microscopic and oxidative parameters in ram semen frozen with a soybean lecithin extender.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ergothioneine and cysteamine as antioxidant supplements in a soybean lecithin extender for freezing ram semen. Twenty-four ejaculates were collected from four rams and diluted with extenders (1.5% soybean lecithin, 7% glycerol) containing no supplements (control) and cysteamine or ergothioneine (2, 4, 6 or 8mM). Motility by CASA, viability, plasma membrane functionality (HOS test), total abnormality, lipid peroxidation, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and capacitation status (CTC staining) were assessed after thawing. Using 6mM of either antioxidant improved total motility. Cysteamine at 6mM and ergothioneine at 4 and 6mM improved viability and reduced lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde concentration). Both antioxidants improved membrane functionality significantly, except at 8mM. Progressive motility, kinematic parameters, GPx activity, capacitation status and sperm abnormalities were not influenced by the antioxidant supplements. In conclusion, cysteamine at 6mM and ergothioneine at 4 or 6mM seem to improve the post-thawing quality of ram semen cryopreserved in a soybean lecithin extender.

Caloric restriction prevents lead-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in rat liver.

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of caloric restriction on liver of lead-administered rat. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: Ad libitum fed group (AL, free access to normal rat chow) and caloric restriction group (CR, fed 65% of AL animals' food intake). After 6 weeks, half of the animals of each group were injected lead acetate and the other half were injected saline. Liver tissue samples were collected at the end of the experiments. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were measured in the tissue extracts. Histological studies were also performed. Our results showed that lead administrations (not saline injections) reduced liver SOD and GPx and increased MDA and TNF-α in AL animals, but in the CR animals lead injections did not significantly change the measured parameters. The histological studies supported the biochemical findings. We concluded that 65% CR may prevent lead-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in rat liver.

Experimental Study of Needle Insertion into Gerbil Tympanic Membrane.

The perforation characteristics and fracture-related mechanical properties of the tympanic membrane (TM) greatly affect surgical procedures like myringotomy and tympanostomy performed on the middle ear. We analyzed the most important features of the gerbil TM perforation using an experimental approach that was based on force measurement during a 2-cycle needle insertion/extraction process. Fracture energy, friction energy, strain energy, and hysteresis loss were taken into consideration for the analysis of the different stages of needle insertion and extraction. The results demonstrated that (1) although the TM shows viscoelastic behavior, the contribution of hysteresis loss was negligible compared to other irreversible dissipated energy components (i.e., fracture energy and friction energy). (2) The TM puncture force did not substantially change during the first hours after animal death, but interestingly, it increased after 1 week due to the drying effects of soft tissue. (3) The needle geometry affected the crack length and the most important features of the force-displacement plot for the needle insertion process (puncture force, puncture displacement, and jump-in force) increased with increasing needle diameter, whereas the insertion velocity only changed the puncture and jump-in forces (both increased with increasing insertion velocity) and did not have a noticeable effect on the puncture displacement. (4) The fracture toughness of the gerbil TM was almost independent of the needle geometry and was found to be around 0.33 ± 0.10 kJ/m2.

Finite-element modelling of interactions of needle with tympanic membrane and middle ear.

The tympanic membrane (TM) is one of the most common routes to access the middle ear and inner ear for the treatment of hearing and balance pathologies. Since the TM is a soft thin biological tissue with small dimensions, using needles seems to be among the most practical interventional approaches. In this study, we proposed a finite-element (FE) analysis of needle-TM interactions that combines a 3D model of the TM and other main middle-ear structures in gerbil, and a 2D model of needle insertion into the TM based on the cohesive zone method (CZM). The TM was modelled using a 1st-order Ogden hyperelastic material and its properties were obtained by fitting to the experimental force-displacement plots of large deformation in the TM under needle indentation. The cohesive parameters were also acquired by calibrating the puncture force against the experimental data of needle insertion into the TM. These FE models were then used to obtain the deformation behaviour of the TM and other middle-ear structures due to the insertion force applied at different locations on the TM. Moreover, we investigated the effect of the TM thickness, the geometry of the needle (i.e., diameter and tip angle), and needle material on the insertion of needles into the TM. We also studied the penetration success of deformable needles.

Mechanical Effects of Medical Device Attachment to Human Tympanic Membrane.

PURPOSE: Several treatment methods for hearing disorders rely on attaching medical devices to the tympanic membrane. This study aims to systematically analyze the effects of the material and geometrical properties and location of the medical devices attached to the tympanic membrane on middle-ear vibrations. METHODS: A finite-element model of the human middle ear was employed to simulate the effects of attachment of medical devices. Various types of material and geometrical properties, locations, and modeling scenarios were investigated for the medical device. RESULTS: The attachment of the device magnifies the effects of anti-resonances of the middle ear. Additionally, the variations of the material properties of the device significantly alter the middle-ear resonance frequency while changes in the umbo and stapes footplate motions are negligible at frequencies above 5 kHz. Furthermore, modeling the device as a point mass cannot accurately represent the implanted middle-ear behavior. The variations of the diameter and height of the medical device have negligible effects on the middle-ear vibrations at frequencies below 200 Hz but can have considerable impacts at higher frequencies. The effects of changing the device height were negligible at frequencies above 2 kHz. We also discuss the effects of medical device attachment on the vibration patterns of the tympanic membrane as well as the impacts of the variations of the location of the device on the stapes footplate responses. CONCLUSION: The findings of our study aid the development and optimization of new therapeutic devices, attached to the tympanic membrane, to have the least adverse effects on middle-ear vibrations.

Material characterization of human middle ear using machine-learning-based surrogate models.

This study aims to introduce a novel non-invasive method for rapid material characterization of middle-ear structures, taking into consideration the invaluable insights provided by the mechanical properties of ear tissues. Valuable insights into various ear pathologies can be gleaned from the mechanical properties of ear tissues, yet conventional techniques for assessing these properties often entail invasive procedures that preclude their use on living patients. In this study, in the first step, we developed machine-learning models of the middle ear to predict its responses with a significantly lower computational cost in comparison to finite-element models. Leveraging findings from prior research, we focused on the most influential model parameters: the Young's modulus and thickness of the tympanic membrane and the Young's modulus of the stapedial annular ligament. The eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) method was implemented for creating the machine-learning models. Subsequently, we combined the created machine-learning models with Bayesian optimization (BoTorch) for fast and efficient estimation of the Young's moduli of the tympanic membrane and the stapedial annular ligament. We demonstrate that the resultant surrogate models can fairly represent the vibrational responses of the umbo, stapes footplate, and vibration patterns of the tympanic membrane at most frequencies. Also, our proposed material characterization approach successfully estimated the Young's moduli of the tympanic membrane and stapedial annular ligament (separately and simultaneously) with values of mean absolute percentage error of less than 7%. The remarkable accuracy achieved through the proposed material characterization method underscores its potential for eventual clinical applications of estimating mechanical properties of the middle-ear structures for diagnostic purposes.

Gallic acid supplementation partially ameliorates reproductive aging in rooster breeders by improving semen quality, sperm kinetics, hormones, and antioxidant status.

Aging leads to decreased fertility in roosters, which is likely due to increased oxidative stress. This study evaluated the antioxidant effects of gallic acid (GA) supplementation on sperm quality and fertility of aged roosters. This study evaluated whether GA supplementation can mitigate age-related fertility decline. Roosters were randomly assigned to: control, 100 mg/kg GA, or 200 mg/kg GA. Semen parameters, sperm kinetics, hormone levels, fertility rate, and hatchability were assessed. GA increased semen concentration, membrane integrity and viability while decreasing defects versus control (P < 0.01). Testosterone was higher in GA groups (P<0.01) without affecting gonadotropins. Furthermore, 200 mg/kg GA optimized motility, velocity, linearity, and beat cross frequency versus control and 100 mg/kg GA (P < 0.01). Fertility and hatchability were higher in both GA groups. In conclusion, GA supplementation in aged roosters improves sperm quality, antioxidant status, testosterone, and fertility outcomes, likely by mitigating oxidative stress. The 200 mg/kg dose elicited optimal effects on motion parameters.

Apigenin supplementation substantially improves rooster sperm freezability and post-thaw function.

This pioneering research investigated apigenin potential to augment rooster sperm cryosurvival in an extender model. Apigenin is a natural antioxidant flavonoid showing promise for improved post-thaw sperm function. However, its effects on avian semen cryopreservation remain unexplored. This first study supplemented rooster sperm Lake extender with 0, 50, 100, 200, 400 µmol/L apigenin to determine the optimal concentrations for post-thaw quality. Supplementation with 100 µmol/L apigenin resulted in significant enhancements in total motility (from 41.5% up to 71.5%), progressive motility (18.1% to 29.1%) (p < 0.05), membrane integrity (40% to 68%), mitochondrial function (p < 0.001), viability (37% to 62%) and total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.001) compared to the control. It also substantially reduced percentages of abnormal morphology, reactive oxygen species and apoptosis (p < 0.001). Although 200 µmol/L apigenin significantly enhanced some attributes, effects were markedly lower than 100 µmol/L. Higher doses did not improve cryoprotective parameters. This indicates 100 µmol/L as the optimal apigenin concentration. This represents the first report of apigenin protecting rooster sperm from cryodamage. The natural antioxidant improved post-thaw sperm quality, likely by suppressing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Apigenin shows promise for enhancing rooster sperm cryosurvival.

Genome-wide association study for body weight and feed consumption traits in Japanese quail using Bayesian approaches.

The aim of this study was to perform a genome-wide association study (GWAS) based on Bayes A and Bayes B statistical methods to identify genomic loci and candidate genes associated with body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio in Japanese quail. For this purpose, genomic data obtained from Illumina iSelect 4K quail SNP chip were utilized. After implementing various quality control steps, genotype data from a total of 875 birds for 2,015 SNP markers were used for subsequent analyses. The Bayesian analyses were performed using hibayes package in R (version 4.3.1) and Gibbs sampling algorithm. The results of the analyses showed that Bayes A accounted for 11.43, 11.65, and 11.39% of the phenotypic variance for body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, respectively, while the variance explained by Bayes B was 7.02, 8.61, and 6.48%, respectively. Therefore, in the current study, results obtained from Bayes A were used for further analyses. In order to perform the gene enrichment analysis and to identify the functional pathways and classes of genes that are over-represented in a large set of genes associated with each trait, all markers that accounted for more than 0.1% of the phenotypic variance for each trait were used. The results of this analysis revealed a total of 23, 38, and 14 SNP markers associated with body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio in Japanese quail, respectively. The results of the gene enrichment analysis led to the identification of biological pathways (and candidate genes) related to lipid phosphorylation (TTC7A gene) and cell junction (FGFR4 and FLRT2 genes) associated with body weight gain, calcium signaling pathway (ADCY2 and CAMK1D genes) associated with feed intake, and glycerolipid metabolic process (LIPC gene), lipid metabolic process (ADGRF5 and ESR1 genes), and glutathione transferase (GSTK1 gene) associated with feed conversion ratio. Overall, the findings of this study can provide valuable insights into the genetic architecture of growth and feed consumption traits in Japanese quail.

Which neuroimaging and fluid biomarkers method is better in theranostic of Alzheimer's disease? An umbrella review.

Biomarkers are measured to evaluate physiological and pathological processes as well as responses to a therapeutic intervention. Biomarkers can be classified as diagnostic, prognostic, predictor, clinical, and therapeutic. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple biomarkers have been reported so far. Nevertheless, finding a specific biomarker in AD remains a major challenge. Three databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were selected with the keywords of Alzheimer's disease, neuroimaging, biomarker, and blood. The results were finalized with 49 potential CSF/blood and 35 neuroimaging biomarkers. To distinguish normal from AD patients, amyloid-beta42 (Aß42), plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light (NFL) as potential biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as well as the serum could be detected. Nevertheless, most of the biomarkers fairly change in the CSF during AD, listed as kallikrein 6, virus-like particles (VLP-1), galectin-3 (Gal-3), and synaptotagmin-1 (Syt-1). From the neuroimaging aspect, atrophy is an accepted biomarker for the neuropathologic progression of AD. In addition, Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), tractography (DTT), positron emission tomography (PET), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), can be used to detect AD. Using neuroimaging and CSF/blood biomarkers, in combination with artificial intelligence, it is possible to obtain information on prognosis and follow-up on the different stages of AD. Hence physicians could select the suitable therapy to attenuate disease symptoms and follow up on the efficiency of the prescribed drug.

Decreased expression of p53 is associated with down expression of zyxin in breast cancer.

Background and Aims: Breast cancer (BC) is considered one of the most common malignant tumors leading to death in women, and genetic factors have a crucial role in BC pathogenesis. Zyxin (ZYX) is one of these factors that may be important in p53 level and function. Thus, the present work aimed to investigate the ZYX gene and protein expression in tumor tissue and matched margin tissue and its correlation with the p53 expression. Methods: In a present case-control study, 30 tumors and 30 matched margin tissues were obtained from Iran Tumor Bank/Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis techniques were applied to evaluate the genes and protein expression, respectively. Results: The data showed that expression of the ZYX gene in tumor tissues significantly decreased (p = 0.0274) compared to matched margin tissues. In contrast, the p53 gene expression in tumor tissues had no significant difference with matched margin tissues. Additionally, we observed that ZYX and p53 genes expression in tumor tissues of estrogen receptor-positive patients had significant elevation than estrogen receptor-negative patients (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). The data of the western blot analysis technique showed that protein expression of ZYX (p = 0.0024) and P53 protein (p = 0.0218) in tumor tissues was significantly reduced compared to matched margin tissues. Additionally, our analysis showed a direct and significant correlation between the expression of ZYX and p53 proteins (r = 0.7797, p = 0.0126) and expression of ZYX and p53 genes (r = 0.3079, p = 0.0187). Conclusion: Based on our observation, ZYX might have a tumor suppressor role and is associated with p53.

Association of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 Promoter Variants, Their Serum Levels, and Activities with Aortic Valve Calcification (AVC) in a Population from Western Iran.

Background: Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzyme gene polymorphisms MMP-2-1575G/A and MMP-9-1562C/T promoter polymorphism, their serum levels, and activity are associated with aortic valve calcification (AVC). Materials and Methods: The synergistic link between the risk of AVC and the alleles T and A of MMP-9 and MMP-2 was investigated, respectively. Ninety-two cases with AVC and 92 healthy individuals from the west of Iran were included, and MMP- 2-1575G/A and MMP-9-1562C/T promoter polymorphisms were detected using PCR-RFLP. The serum levels and activity of MMP-2 and -9 were assessed using ELISA and gelatin zymography methods, respectively. In addition, serum biochemical markers, including FBS, urea and creatinine, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, calcium, phosphorus, and blood pressure: systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were measured. Results: Heart valve calcification disease was associated with a comparatively higher frequency of the A allele of the MMP2-1575 variation (p = 0.002). In addition, the frequency of T allele of the MMP9-1562 variant was higher than the control group (p = 0.007). Conclusion: MMP-2 and MMP-9 serum levels and activities were observed to be considerably higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.001). Patients are more susceptible to cardiovascular disease than the control group due to elevated serum levels and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9.