The effect of chronic exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields on sleep quality,stress, depression and anxiety

Exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) is inevitable in some industries. There are concerns about the possible effects of this exposure. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of chronic exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields on sleep quality, stress, depression and anxiety among power plant workers.

In this cross-sectional study, 132 power plant workers were included as the exposed group and 143 other workers were included as the unexposed group. The intensity of ELF-EMF at work stations was measured by using the IEEE Std C95.3.1 standard and then the time weighted average was calculated. Sleep quality, stress, depression and anxiety were measured by using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Questionnaire; and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale.

The workers in the exposed group experienced significantly poorer sleep quality than the unexposed group. Depression was also more severe in the exposed group than the unexposed group (P = 0.039). Increased exposure to ELF-EMF had a direct and significant relation with increased stress, depression, and anxiety. Sleep quality in technicians with the highest exposure was significantly lower than the other groups.

This study suggests that long-term occupational exposure to ELF-EMF may lead to depression, stress, anxiety and poor sleep quality.     

Distinct roles of Fgf8, Foxi1, Dlx3b and Pax8/2 during otic vesicle induction and maintenance in medaka

The development of the vertebrate inner ear is a complex process that has been investigated in several model organisms. In this work, we examined genetic interactions regulating early development of otic structures in medaka. We demonstrate that misexpression of Fgf8, Dlx3b and Foxi1 during early gastrulation is sufficient to produce ectopic otic vesicles. Combined misexpression strongly increases the appearance of this phenotype. By using a heat-inducible promoter we were furthermore able to separate the regulatory interactions among Fgf8, Foxi1, Dlx3b, Pax8 and Pax2 genes, which are active during different stages of early otic development. In the preplacodal stage we suggest a central position of Foxi1 within a regulatory network of early patterning genes including Dlx3b and Pax8. Different pathways are active after the placodal stage with Dlx3b playing a central role. There Dlx3b regulates members of the Pax-Six-Eya-Dach network and also strongly affects the early dorsoventral marker genes Otx1 and Gbx2.     

Cytogentic analysis of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) in early and late passages using both karyotyping and comet assay techniques

Human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) are a potential source of somatic cells for genetic manipulation and tissue engineering. Confirmation of cytogenetic stability of these cells is an essential step for cell nuclear transfer and generation of a suitable and functional induced pluripotent stem cells line. HDF cells were isolated and cultured from human foreskin samples. Cytogenetic stability of these cells was evaluated in early (3–4) and late (10–15) passages using karyotype test and alkaline comet assay techniques. HDF cells in early and late passages showed normal karyotype but by comet assay abnormality and DNA damages in late passages of HDFs were observed. Also, the parameters of alkaline comet assay in early passages of HDFs compared with late passages and positive control groups more significantly were different (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that single-strand breaks or DNA damage after many passages may have occurred in HDF cells. Our results demonstrate that only early passages of HDF cells maintain cytogenetic stability and are good candidates for gene reprogramming. In conclusion, karyotype testing alone can not be used for detection of all signs of cytogenetic abnormality and DNA damages of cells. So, for precise evaluation of DNA damage and cytogenetic instability of fibroblast cells comet assay and karyotype techniques could complement each other.     

Inherited genetic markers for thrombophilia in northeastern Iran (a clinical-based report)

Background:

Thrombophilia is a main predisposition to thrombosis due to a procoagulant state. Several point mutations play key roles in blood-clotting disorders, which are grouped under the term thrombophilia. These thrombophilic mutations are methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR, C677T, and A1298C), factor V Leiden (G1691A), prothrombin gene mutation (factor II, G20210A), and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI). In the present study, we assessed the prevalence of the above thrombophilia markers in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss or first and second trimester abortions, infertility, and failed in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Methods:

This study was conducted among 457 cases those were referred to detect the inherited genetic markers for thrombophilia. Markers for MTHFR, Factor II, and Factor V were assessed by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and PAI was assessed by Amplification Refractory Mutation System (ARMS-PCR).

Results:

Two hundred sixty cases (56.89%) were diagnosed as having at least one thrombophilia marker, whereas 197 cases (43.11%) had no thrombophilia markers and were normal.

Conclusion:

According to the current study, the pattern of abnormal genetic markers for thrombophilia in northeastern Iran demonstrates the importance of genetic evaluations in patients who show clinical abnormalities with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) or other serious obstetric complications.Key Words: Thrombophilia, Thrombophilic markers, MTHFR, Factor II, Factor V, PAI     

An electrochemical immunosensor for digoxin using core–shell gold coated magnetic nanoparticles as labels

A simple, sensitive, and low-cost immunosensor was designed for the detection of digoxin through core–shell gold coated magnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄-Au-NPs) as an electrochemical label. Having had such a large potential for a variety of applications, Fe₃O₄-Au-NPs have attracted a considerable attention and are actively investigated recently. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside which, at high level, can indicate an increased risk of toxicity. This new competitive electrochemical immunosensor was developed based on antigen–antibody reaction employing antigen (Ag) labeled Fe₃O₄-Au-NPs and PVA modified screen-printed carbon electrode surface in order to detect the serum digoxin. The structures of Fe₃O₄-Au-NPs were studied by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were employed to determine the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of immunosensor. DPV was employed for quantitative detection of digoxin in biological samples. The developed immunosensor was capable to detect digoxin in the range from 0.5 to 5 ng mL^?1, with a detection limit as low as 0.05 ng mL^?1. The proposed method represented acceptable reproducibility, stability, and reliability for the rapid detection of digoxin in serum samples.     

Induction of otic structures by canonical Wnt signalling in medaka

The Wnt family of signalling proteins is known to participate in multiple developmental decisions during embryogenesis. We misexpressed Wnt1 in medaka embryos and observed anterior truncations, similar to those described for ectopic activation of canonical Wnt signalling in other species. Interestingly, when we induced a heat-shock Wnt1 transgenic line exactly at 30% epiboly, we observed multiple ectopic otic vesicles in the truncated embryos. The vesicles then fused, forming a single large ear structure. These “cyclopic ears” filled the complete anterior region of the embryos. The ectopic induction of otic development can be explained by the juxtaposition of hindbrain tissue with anterior ectoderm. Fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) ligands are thought to mediate the otic-inducing properties of the hindbrain. However, signals different from Fgf3 and Fgf8 are necessary to explain the formation of the ectopic ear structures, suggesting that Wnt signalling is involved in the otic induction process in medaka.     

Application of mesenchymal stem cells in regenerative medicine: A new approach in modern medical science

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are non-hematopoietic and multipotent stem cells, which have been considered in regenerative medicine. These cells are easily separated from different sources, such as bone marrow (BM), umbilical cord (UC), adipose tissue (AT), and etc. MSCs have the differentiation capability into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and adipocytes; This differentiation potential along with the paracrine properties have made them a key choice for tissue repair. MSCs also have various advantages over other stem cells, which is why they have been extensively studied in recent years. The effectiveness of MSCs-based therapies depend on several factors, including differentiation status at the time of use, concentration per injection, delivery method, the used vehicle, and the nature and extent of the damage. Although, MSCs have emerged promising sources for regenerative medicine, there are potential risks regarding their safety in their clinical use, including tumorigenesis, lack of availability, aging, and sensitivity to toxic environments. In this study, we aimed to discuss how MSCs may be useful in treating defects and diseases. To this aim, we will review recent advances of MSCs action mechanisms in regenerative medicine, as well as the most recent clinical trials. We will also have a brief overview of MSCs resources, differences between their sources, culture conditions, extraction methods, and clinical application of MSCs in various fields of regenerative medicine.     

Immunomodulatory Effects of Four Leishmania infantum Potentially Excreted/Secreted Proteins on Human Dendritic Cells Differentiation and Maturation

Leishmania parasites and some molecules they secrete are known to modulate innate immune responses through effects on dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages. Here, we characterized four Leishmania infantum potentially excreted/secreted recombinant proteins (LipESP) identified in our laboratory: Elongation Factor 1 alpha (LiEF-1α), a proteasome regulatory ATPase (LiAAA-ATPase) and two novel proteins with unknown functions, which we termed LiP15 and LiP23, by investigating their effect on in vitro differentiation and maturation of human DCs and on cytokine production by DCs and monocytes. During DCs differentiation, LipESP led to a significant decrease in CD1a. LiP23 and LiEF-1α, induced a decrease of HLA-DR and an increase of CD86 surface expression, respectively. During maturation, an up-regulation of HLA-DR and CD80 was found in response to LiP15, LiP23 and LiAAA-ATPase, while an increase of CD40 expression was only observed in response to LiP15. All LipESP induced an over-expression of CD86 with significant differences between proteins. These proteins also induced significant IL-12p70 levels in immature DCs but not in monocytes. The LipESP-induced IL-12p70 production was significantly enhanced by a co-treatment with IFN-γ in both cell populations. TNF-α and IL-10 were induced in DCs and monocytes with higher levels observed for LiP15 and LiAAA-ATPase. However, LPS-induced cytokine production during DC maturation or in monocyte cultures was significantly down regulated by LipESP co-treatment. Our findings suggest that LipESP strongly interfere with DCs differentiation suggesting a possible involvement in mechanisms established by the parasite for its survival. These proteins also induce DCs maturation by up-regulating several costimulatory molecules and by inducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which is a prerequisite for T cell activation. However, the reduced ability of LipESP-stimulated DCs and monocytes to respond to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) that can be observed during human leishmaniasis, suggests that under certain circumstances LipESP may play a role in disease progression.     

Inhibitory Potential of a Designed Peptide Inhibitor Based on Zymogen Structure of Trypsin from Spodoptera frugiperda: In Silico Insights

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) is an invasive pest in agriculture. It can potentially damage yield resulting severe crop losses and subsequently significant economic damage each year. S. frugiperda is predominantly managed using traditional chemical pesticides. Accordingly, sustainable alternatives such as digestive enzymes inhibitors can be used as an efficient pest management that protects the environment. This contribution aims to examine the pro-region of S. frugiperda trypsin as specific inhibitor of the pest protease enzyme. Structural modeling in conjunction with molecular docking simulations were conducted to design a peptide sequence with the best docking scores and strong binding energy to the target enzyme. The structural models of six pro-peptides were produced based on modification of 7-amino acids of the pro-region of S. frugiperda trypsin. VERIFY_3D, ERRAT, PROCHECK, PROSA and WHAT-IF scores validated the reliability of the predicted model of S. frugiperda trypsin. Molecular docking studies between the six designed inhibitor peptides and the predicted model structure at three different pH conditions were carried out. Data revealed that VPSNPQR at pH 11.0 with the best docking score, the lowest binding energy (ΔG) and dissociation constant (K_d) indicated a potent binding affinity towards S. frugiperda trypsin’s active site. Moreover, the peptide showed a weak potential for interaction with the human trypsin. The results indicated the importance of computational studies in design and selection of inhibitor peptides against target enzymes. Such inhibitors can be used for S. frugiperda control, which can be further applied in other pest management programs.

Graphical Abstract

Docking simulations between the pro-peptide inhibitor and Spodoptera frugiperda midgut trypsin confirmed the capacity of the designed pro-region in inhibiting the insect trypsin.

     

The Relationship Between Maternal Serum Iron and Zinc Levels and Their Nutritional Intakes in Early Pregnancy with Gestational Diabetes

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal iron/zinc serum levels and their nutritional intake in early pregnancy with gestational diabetes. The maternal serum zinc/iron levels were measured in 1,033 healthy singleton pregnant women aged 20–35 between 14 and 20 weeks of gestation, within two groups: namely, normal and gestational diabetes, and participants were followed up to 24–28 weeks of gestation. Food frequency questionnaire was used to assess nutritional intakes of iron/zinc. The main outcome was gestational diabetes screened with the 50-g glucose challenge test and diagnosed with oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 weeks of gestation. Gestational diabetes occurred in 72 (6.96 %) of 1,033 women in study. There was a statistical relationship between early pregnancy maternal serum iron and gestational diabetes, mean (SD), 143.8 (48.7) vs. 112.5 (83.5)?μg/dl, P value of <0.0001. There was no statistical significant difference in zinc levels and iron/zinc nutritional intake between groups. The results remained unchanged after using regression model for adjustment of potential risk factors with an adjusted OR of 1.006 (95 % CI 1.002 to 1.009; P?=?0.001) for early pregnancy maternal serum iron to cause gestational diabetes. The receiver–operator characteristic curve identified that a maternal serum iron above 100 μg/dl in early pregnancy is the optimum cutoff value for predicting gestational diabetes, which showed a sensitivity and specificity of 80.6 and 50.7 %, respectively. In conclusion, high maternal serum iron in early pregnancy could increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Also, it could be used as a sensitive and specific predictor for gestational diabetes.