Evaluation of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin II (Ang II), miR-141-3p, and miR-421 levels in SARS-CoV-2 patients: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly contagious virus that uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a pivotal member of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), as its cell-entry receptor. Another member of the RAS, angiotensin II (Ang II), is the major biologically active component in this system. There is growing evidence suggesting that serum miRNAs could serve as prognostic biomarkers for SARS-CoV-2 infection and regulate ACE2 expression. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II, as well as the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects.

METHODS

In the present study, the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II were measured in 94 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients and 94 SARS-CoV-2 negative subjects with some symptoms similar to those of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients using the ELISA method. In addition, the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 as ACE2 regulators and biomarkers was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) method.

RESULTS

The mean serum sACE2 concentration in the SARS-CoV-2-positive group was 3.268 ± 0.410 ng/ml, whereas in the SARS-CoV-2 negative group, it was 3.564 ± 0.437 ng/ml. Additionally, the mean serum Ang II level in the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups were 60.67 ± 6.192 ng/L and 67.97 ± 6.837 ng/L, respectively. However, there was no significant difference in the serum levels of sACE2 (P value: 0.516) and Ang II (P value: 0.134) between the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups. Meanwhile, our findings indicated that the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive group were significantly lower and higher than SARS-CoV-2 negative group, respectively (P value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the results of this study showed that the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects were not significantly different, but the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 were altered in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients which need more investigation to be used as biomarkers for COVID-19 diagnosis.

Comparison of Circulating Variants during the Beginning, Middle and the End of the 4th Wave of COVID-19 in Tehran Province, Iran in 2021

Background

Whole viral genome sequencing with next generation sequencing (NGS) technique is useful tool for determining the diversity of variants and mutations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this study we have attempted to characterize the mutations and circulating variants of the SARSCoV-2 genome during the 4th wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Tehran, Iran in 2021.

Methods

We performed complete genome sequencing of 15 SARS-CoV-2 detected from 15 COVID-19 patients during the 4th wave of COVID-19 pandemic with NGS. Three groups of the patients at the beginning, middle and the end of the 4th wave were compared together.

Results

We detected alpha and delta variants during the 4th wave of the pandemic. The results illustrated a dominance of amino acid substitution D614G in spike, and the most frequent mutants were N-R203K, G204R, S235F, nsp12-P323L, nsp6-G106del, G107del and F108del.

Conclusion

The detection of the virus mutations is a useful procedure for identifying the virus behavior and its genetic evolution in order to improve the efficacy of the monitoring strategies and therapeutic measures.

SARS-CoV-2 in patient with protein C deficiency: A case report

In SARS-CoV-2 pandemic different disorders in coagulation pathways in COVID-19 patients were reported. We described a 44-year-old female with COVID-19 and protein C deficiency history. She did not show any coagulation disorder during her disease course. Complete genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 was performed and some mutations identified and compared with Wuhan strain. Besides hospitalized patients, in COVID-19 outpatients with low concentration of protein C, early prescription of an anticoagulant such as heparin could be helpful in prevention of venous thromboembolism or pulmonary embolism.

How to tackle single target gene positive results of SARS-CoV-2 real-time PCR: A cross-sectional study

Background and Aims

Real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) is the gold standard test for diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, when the test result is near the detection limit of the assay the possibility of getting false positive or negative results is high. In addition, it might result in single target gene positive (STGP) results which should be interpreted with caution.

Methods

This study was performed on 29,962 nasal swabs from July 1 to August 31, 2020. Ct values less than 40 for each or both of N and RdRp genes were recommended to be selected as positive. Positive samples for one gene with the Cts more than 35 were rechecked by adding more templates.

Results

The results showed that 1016 (3.39%) samples were positive just for one gene with high Ct values. The results of the second reactions showed that 325 (31.99%) samples were positive for both N and RdRp which were reported positive, 301 (29.65%) were positive only for one gene which were considered as suspicious cases and resampling was suggested for them. Finally, 390 (38.385%) samples were negative for both genes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tracking weak positive results of SARS-CoV-2 real-time RT-PCR revealed that most of the individuals who were STGP clean the infection completely in less than a week which showed they were in the convalescent phase of infection. However, some of them who were in the beginning of infection showed a decrease in Ct value during a week, so they could spread the virus in the society.

SARS-CoV-2 intrahost evolution in immunocompromised patients in comparison with immunocompetent populations after treatment

Many evidence suggests that long-lasting infection can develop with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This occurrence has been widely described in immunocompromised individuals. In these patients, ineffective clearance of virus infection provides an opportunity for developing immune escape mutants. This study aimed to characterize SARS-CoV-2 intrahost evolution in five immunocompromised in comparison with five immunocompetent COVID-19 patients during treatment. We performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) on collected two oropharyngeal samples from immunocompromised and immunocompetent COVID-19 patients before and after treatment. In this study, we detected alpha and delta variants of SARS-CoV-2. The most common substitutions in structural proteins in patients with alpha variant were S-ΔY143-144, A570D, D614G and D1118H, and N-R203K and G204R, and in delta variant S-T19R, G142D, E156G, 157-158del, L452R, T478K, D614G, D950N and N-D63G, R203M and D377Y were dominant. The common variations in nonstructural and accessory proteins including nsp3-A488S, P1228L, nsp6-T77A, nsp12-P323L, G671S, nsp13-P77L, NS3-S26L, and NS7a-T120I were detected. Also some infrequent substitutions were seen in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. After treatment, nsp12-V166A was emerged as a remdesivir resistance and S-L452M in a patient with common variable immunodeficiency. S-E484Q was detected in a patient with acute lymphoma leukemia. This study showed the possibility of the genetic diversity and development of some new mutations in immunocompromised patients. Therefore, surveillance of these patients to characterize any new variants is necessary.

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 strains circulating in Iran during six waves of the pandemic

Background

SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance is necessary for the detection, monitoring, and evaluation of virus variants, which can have increased transmissibility, disease severity, or other adverse effects. We sequenced 330 SARS-CoV-2 genomes during the sixth wave of the COVID pandemic in Iran and compared them with five previous waves, for identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants, the genomic behavior of the virus, and understanding its characteristics.

Methods

After viral RNA extraction from clinical samples collected during the COVID-19 pandemic, next generation sequencing was performed using the Nextseq and Nanopore platforms. The sequencing data were analyzed and compared with reference sequences.

Results

In Iran during the first wave, V and L clades were detected. The second wave was recognized by G, GH, and GR clades. Circulating clades during the third wave were GH and GR. In the fourth wave, GRY (alpha variant), GK (delta variant), and one GH clade (beta variant) were detected. All viruses in the fifth wave were in GK clade (delta variant). In the sixth wave, Omicron variant (GRA clade) was circulating.

Conclusions

Genome sequencing, a key strategy in genomic surveillance systems, helps to detect and monitor the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, monitor the viral evolution of SARS-CoV-2, identify new variants for disease prevention, control, and treatment, and also provide information for and conduct public health measures in this area. With this system, Iran could be ready for surveillance of other respiratory virus diseases besides influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

Surveillance of endemic coronaviruses during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Iran, 2021–2022

Background

Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) 229E, OC43, HKU1, and NL63 are common viruses that continuously circulate in the human population. Previous studies showed the circulation of HCoVs during the cold months in Iran. We studied the circulation of HCoVs during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic to find the impact of pandemic on the circulation of these viruses.

Methods

As a cross‐sectional survey conducted during 2021 to 2022, of all throat swabs sent to Iran National Influenza Center from patients with severe acute respiratory infection, 590 samples were selected to test for HCoVs using one‐step real‐time RT‐PCR.

Results

Overall, 28 out of 590 (4.7%) tested samples were found to be positive for at least one HCoVs. HCoV‐OC43 was the most common (14/590 or 2.4%), followed by HCoV‐HKU1 (12/590 or 2%) and HCoV‐229E (4/590 or 0.6%), while HCoV‐NL63 was not detected. HCoVs were detected in patients of all ages and throughout the study period with peaks in the cold months of the year.

Conclusions

Our multicenter survey provides insight into the low circulation of HCoVs during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Iran in 2021/2022. Hygiene habits and social distancing measures might have important role in decreasing of HCoVs transmission. We believe that surveillance studies are needed to track the pattern of HCoVs distributions and detect changes in the epidemiology of such viruses to set out strategies in order to timely control the future outbreaks of HCoVs throughout the nation.

Molecular epidemiology of human adenoviruses in children with and without respiratory symptoms: Preliminary findings from a case-control study

Background

Human adenovirus (HAdV) is an important viral agent in children which can lead to severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). Reports on molecular epidemiology of HAdVs in Iran are limited. This case-control study is conducted to compare the HAdV infection rate and molecular epidemiology among two groups of children with and without respiratory symptoms in Tehran, Iran during 2018–2019.

Methods

Nested PCR was performed on 120 oropharyngeal swabs taken from children aged five and younger with SARI who were hospitalized as the case group, and 120 oropharyngeal swabs were collected from children of the same age without respiratory symptoms as the control group. For positive samples Sanger sequencing was done and a phylogenetic tree was drawn afterward.

Results

Out of 120 cases, 8 (6.6%) tested positive for eachHAdV types including 6 (75%) HAdV-B7, 1 (12.5%) HAdV-C2, and 1 (12.5%) HAdV-C6. Among the control group, out of 120 samples, 8 (6.6%) were positive comprising 5 (62.5%) HAdV-C5, 2 (25%) HAdV-F41, and 1 (12.5%) HAdV-C6.

Conclusion

The present study indicated a different viewpoint of HAdV molecular epidemiology in which the genotypes were compared in children with and without respiratory symptoms. HAdV prevalence was equally common in cases and controls but different genotypes were detected in these two groups. HAdV-B7 was the main type among children with SARI, dissimilar to children with no respiratory symptoms where HAdV-C5 was the predominant type. Detecting HAdV-F in oropharyngeal swabs was a rare finding, which requires further investigation.

Sudden onset of decreased vision following Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 infection: a case report

We described a 52-year-old male patient with COVID-19 who had sudden decreased vision in his left eye in the second week of his illness. No occlusion thrombotic vein or hemorrhagic spots in retina have been identified in ophthalmoscopy procedures, clinical examination and optical coherence tomography. In one month his vision became normal without any treatment. We could not find the exact mechanisms of one-sided decreased vision in the COVID-19 patient, but this problem should be considered by physicians because of the importance of loss of vision.

The effects of Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma hominis, and Ureaplasma urealyticum loads on semen quality: Detection and quantitative analysis

BACKGROUND

The loads of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Mycoplasma hominis (MH), and Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) may impact infertility, as well as cause risk of transmission. The quality and quantity of semen demonstrate male reproductive health. This study aimed to investigate the semen quality affected by CT, MH, and UU loads.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

130 semen samples, including infertile and fertile cases, were collected and analyzed. The whole genomic DNA was extracted, and the desired genes' plasmids were constructed. The CT, MH, and UU loads were quantified by real-time PCR. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 24.

RESULTS

The average age of participants was 35.2 ± 6.8 years. CT, MH, and UU frequency were 9.2% vs. 3.1%, 15.4% vs. 3.1%, and 15.4 vs. 3.1% in infertile and fertile men, respectively. The mean loads of CT, MH, and UU in infertile men were 6.44 log₁₀ copies/ml (range 5.31-7), 4.24 log₁₀ copies/ml (range 3.37-4.7), and 6.94 log₁₀ copies/ml (range 5.08-8.69) respectively, which was significantly higher than fertile men. The findings revealed a significant correlation between CT and UU loads and semen parameters, whereas the load of MH displayed significant effects just on sperm motility, morphology, and the number of leukocytes.

CONCLUSION

The absence of clinical manifestations may not indicate the quality of semen. The pathogens' loads may significantly influence the quality and properties of male reproductive health.

Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 genome detection by real-time PCR assay using pooled specimens

Objective: To evaluate SARS-CoV-2 genome detection using pooled samples by RT-qPCR assay, compared to individual samples. Method: At first all samples were tested individually using two commercial methods targeting ORF1ab, NP and E genes. Then, four experimental groups of samples were pooled and evaluated using the same detection methods. Findings: Compared to the individual sample testing, the sample pooling conserved the sensitivity of the detection in all groups of pooled samples when the Ct value in single test was lower than 33. Conclusion: Specimen pooling may fail to detect positive samples with high Ct values. However, in scarcity of reagents or in population surveys, it could be considered as an alternative method in low prevalence settings.

Whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV2 strains circulating in Iran during five waves of pandemic

Purpose

Whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV2 is important to find useful information about the viral lineages, variants of interests and variants of concern. As there are not enough data about the circulating SARS-CoV2 variants in Iran, we sequenced 54 SARS-CoV2 genomes during the 5 waves of pandemic in Iran.

Methods

After viral RNA extraction from clinical samples collected during the COVID-19 pandemic, next generation sequencing was performed using the Nextseq platform. The sequencing data were analyzed and compared with reference sequences.

Results

During the 1st wave, V and L clades were detected. The second wave was recognized by G, GH and GR clades. Circulating clades during the 3rd wave were GH and GR. In the fourth wave GRY (alpha variant), GK (delta variant) and one GH clade (beta variant) were detected. All viruses in the fifth wave were in clade GK (delta variant). There were different mutations in all parts of the genomes but Spike-D614G, NSP12-P323L, N-R203K and N-G204R were the most frequent mutants in these studied viruses.

Conclusions

These findings display the significance of SARS-CoV2 monitoring to help on time detection of possible variants for pandemic control and vaccination plans.

First Cases of SARS-CoV-2 in Iran, 2020: Case Series Report

In Jan 2020, the outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in Wuhan, Hubei Province of China spread increasingly to other countries worldwide which WHO declared it as a public health emergency of international concern. Iran was included in the affected countries. Throat swab specimens were collected and tested by using real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) kit targeting the E region for screening and RNA dependent RNA polymerase for confirmation. Conventional RT-PCR was conducted for the N region and the PCR products were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. The first seven cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections were identified in Qom, Iran. This report describes the clinical and epidemiological features of the first cases of SARS-CoV-2 confirmed in Iran. Future research should focus on finding the routes of transmission for this virus, including the possibility of transmission from foreign tourists to identify the possible origin of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in Iran.

A field indoor air measurement of SARS-CoV-2 in the patient rooms of the largest hospital in Iran

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in Wuhan city, China, in late 2019 and has rapidly spread throughout the world. The major route of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is in contention, with the airborne route a likely transmission pathway for carrying the virus within indoor environments. Until now, there has been no evidence for detection of airborne severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and this may have implication for the potential spread of the COVID-19. We investigated the air of patient rooms with confirmed COVID-19 in the largest hospital in Iran, on March 17, 2020. To collect the SARS-CoV-2 particles, ten air samples were collected into the sterile standard midget impingers containing 20 mL DMEM with 100 μg/mL streptomycin, 100 U/mL penicillin and 1% antifoam reagent for 1 h. Besides, indoor particle number concentrations, CO2, relative humidity and temperature were recorded throughout the sampling duration. Viral RNA was extracted from samples taken from the impingers and Reverse-Transcription PCR (RT-PCR) was applied to confirm the positivity of collected samples based on the virus genome sequence. Fortunately, in this study all air samples which were collected 2 to 5 m from the patients' beds with confirmed COVID-19 were negative. Despite we indicated that all air samples were negative, however, we suggest further in vivo experiments should be conducted using actual patient cough, sneeze and breath aerosols in order to show the possibility of generation of the airborne size carrier aerosols and the viability fraction of the embedded virus in those carrier aerosols.

Potential of H1N1 influenza A virus as an air borne pathogen to induce infectivity in pancreas: a mouse model study

INTRODUCTION

H1N1 influenza virus, as an indoor/outdoor pathogen in air, can cause the flu-like illness and respiratory complication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the H1N1 influenza virus replication in pancreas and investigate the immune response against infected pancreas.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

First, mouse pancreas cell line was infected by H1N1 influenza A virus using intranasally and intravenously infection methods, and then the pancreas tissue was collected and pathology experiment was carried out. Next, the protein and genome of influenza virus were detected using immunocytochemistry and real-time PCR, respectively. In addition, serum cytokines and serum lipase were investigated using ELISA.

RESULT

The in-vitro results proved that the mouse pancreatic cell line can support influenza virus replication. The result also proved that influenza virus is capable to infect pancreas and induce pancreas damage. Further, the immune response in mice with infected pancreas exhibited a completely different pattern with that of mice infected through intranasal method.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that influenza virus can infect pancreas and change the influenza disease pathway, which might result in a pancreatic injury.

The clinical value of the delta finger to palm distance in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a collagen-vascular disorder characterized by fibrosis and vasculopathy. Delta finger to palm distance (delta FTP) is an index measuring the distance between the tip of the third finger to the distal palmar crease in the flexed and extended position. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical value of delta FTP and to assess the correlation of delta FTP with modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) and forced vital capacity (FVC) over the 12-month follow-up. This prospective longitudinal study began with 50 participants who were followed for twelve months. Lowess smoothing and linear regression were applied to detect and assess the relationship between delta FTP and mRSS. p-values were adjusted by the Benjamini-Hochberg method (BHM) as a control for false discovery rate. Delta FTP was lower among patients with higher disease duration (p-valueadj: 0.008), diffuse cutaneous SSc (p-valueadj: 0.006), digital ulcers (p-valueadj: 0.003), telangiectasia (p-valueadj: 0.006) and dysphagia (p-valueadj: 0.036). The mRSS has a significant negative linear effect on the delta FTP at the baseline and the end of the follow-up (r: -0.31 and -0.40, respectively). Moreover, changes of mRSS and delta FTP showed a negative linear association over time (r: -0.22). These linear effects remained significant after regrouping the patients based on their SSc subtype. Delta FTP and FVC were not correlated either at the baseline or at the end. It seems that the delta FTP can be a valuable clinical index, supported by its correlated changes with mRSS and other SSc clinical manifestations over the one-year follow-up.

Elevated serum levels of adiponectin and interlukin-28B after IFN/RIB therapy in hepatitis C virus-infected patients

INTRODUCTION

The interleukin 28B (IL28B) genotype is associated with changes of lipid metabolism in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The association of steatosis with serum levels of adiponectin in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients has also been documented. This study aimed for the evaluation of serum levels of IL28B and adiponectin as well as the association of IL28B SNPs with different clinicopathological parameters in HCV-infected patients.

METHODOLOGY

All 142 HCV-infected patients received peg-interferon plus ribavirin. Detection of rs8099917 and rs12979860 IL-28B genotypes was done with specific primers. Serum IL28 and adiponectin levels were measured using commercial ELISA kits.

RESULTS

Higher levels of both IL28 and adiponectin were found in patients. In Genotype 3a (G3a) -infected patients, IL28 and adiponectin serum levels were significantly higher than those infected with G1a. A correlation was found between increasing levels of AST and ALT in G3a-infected patients and the decrease in IL28 and adiponectin serum levels, respectively, in contrast to G1a-infected patients. Higher levels of both IL28 and adiponectin were associated with both CT allele of rs12979860 and TT allele of rs8099917 in patients in comparison with corresponding alleles in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to other studies, this study showed higher serum adiponectin levels in HCV-infected patients compared to that in healthy controls. This finding is possibly due to adiponectin resistance caused by down-regulation of adiponectin receptors or tumorigenic effects of adiponectin. Our genotype-based analyses revealed, at least in part, the involvement of the viral factors in the outcome of HCV infection.

Human lactoferrin attenuates the proinflammatory response of neonatal monocyte-derived macrophages

Bioactive components of human milk, such as human lactoferrin (hLF), play an essential role in gut microbiome homeostasis and protection against neonatal inflammatory diseases. Neonatal intestinal macrophages display a proinflammatory profile that might contribute to inflammatory mucosal injury. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of hLF on differentiation and activation of monocyte‐derived macrophages (moMϕ). Monocytes isolated from umbilical cord blood of term neonates and peripheral blood of healthy adults were differentiated in the absence or presence of hLF, and differentiation, apoptosis and phagocytosis were evaluated. Cytokine production, Toll‐like receptor (TLR) signalling and activation marker expression were investigated upon activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) challenge. We demonstrate that hLF‐differentiated moMϕ exhibit decreased TLR‐4 expression, TLR signalling, proinflammatory cytokine secretion and intracellular tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α production. Investigation of differentiation markers, morphology and induction of apoptosis showed no alteration in lactoferrin‐differentiated moMϕ. Taken together, hLF promote anergic/anti‐inflammatory effects by TLR expression and pathway interference, resulting in a diminished proinflammatory moMϕ phenotype. The anergic/anti‐inflammatory properties of hLF might contribute to the prevention of harmful TLR‐mediated inflammatory disorders in the developing gut of premature infants.

Design of a heterosubtypic epitope-based peptide vaccine fused with hemokinin-1 against influenza viruses

Influenza viruses continue to emerge and re-emerge, posing new threats for public health. Control and treatment of influenza depends mainly on vaccination and chemoprophylaxis with approved antiviral drugs. Identification of specific epitopes derived from influenza viruses has significantly advanced the development of epitope-based vaccines. Here, we explore the idea of using HLA binding data to design an epitope-based vaccine that can elicit heterosubtypic T-cell responses against circulating H7N9, H5N1, and H9N2 subtypes. The hemokinin-1 (HK-1) peptide sequence was used to induce immune responses against the influenza viruses. Five conserved high score cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes restricted to HLA-A*0201-binding peptides within the hemagglutinin (HA) protein of the viruses were chosen, and two HA CTL/HK-1 chimera protein models designed. Using in silico analysis, which involves interferon epitope scanning, protein structure prediction, antigenic epitope determination, and model quality evaluation, chimeric proteins were designed. The applicability of one of these proteins as a heterosubtypic epitopebased vaccine candidate was analyzed.

Necrotic Response to Low Pathogenic H9N2 Influenza Virus in Chicken Hepatoma Cells

Background:

Limited knowledge about the molecular mechanism of avian influenza H9N2 virus pathogenicity in birds as well as human hosts has limited the development of effective control against the disease. To overcome this issue detailed understanding of the infectious characteristics of the virus in host cells should be obtained.

Objectives:

In this study we examined the replication kinetics of H9N2 virus in a chicken hepatoma cell line to obtain insight into the pathogenesis of H9N2 viruses.

Materials and Methods:

The kinetic replication of H9N2 influenza virus in chicken hepatoma and fibroblastic cells was studied in the presence and absence of supplemental trypsin. High viral titers observed in liver cells in a short time correlated with the degree of cytopathic effects. To determine whether the ultimate outcome of infection results in programmed cell death, the infected cells were observed by the cell viability assay, DNA fragmentation, caspase cascade activation, and quantified lactate dehydrogenase release.

Results:

The degree of viability was significantly reduced in infected hepatoma cells. Observations of caspase activation and cell DNA laddering in infected cells were not indicative of apoptosis. The infected hepatoma cells released lactate dehydrogenase, which is consistent with cell death by necrosis.

Conclusions:

Taken together, these data reveal that cellular protease of chicken liver cells allows the replication of high yields of H9N2 virus in the absence of trypsin and also cell death in the infected cells is due to necrosis.

Distribution of IL-28B genotypes in patients with hepatitis C and healthy individuals in Jahrom city

AIM

The purpose of this study was to compare the distribution of interleukin (IL)-28B genotypes between Iranian healthy individuals and patients with chronic hepatitis C based on the genotype.

BACKGROUND

Polymorphisms in the region of IL-28B gene have been identified as the strongest genetic pretreatment predictor of sustained virological response (SVR) in hepatitis C infection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, 147 patients with chronic hepatitis C and 80 healthy individuals were included. The IL-28B rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP method and the frequency of IL-28B polymorphisms with respect to HCV genotypes was also determined.

RESULTS

The frequencies of rs12979860 TT, CC and CT genotypes in the chronic hepatitis C patients and healthy individuals were as follows: 10.8% vs. 11.3%, 38.7% vs. 46.2% and 50.3% vs. 42.5%. Also, the frequencies of rs8099917 TT, GG and GT genotypes in the chronic hepatitis C patients was 61.9%, 6.1% and 32% and in controls was 47.5%, 11.2% and 41.3%. The differences in the distribution of rs12979860 genotypes and alleles between HCV genotype 1 and HCV genotype 3a infected patients were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The rs12979860 C allele is the favorable allele for the spontaneous clearance of HCV. It seems that the impact of IL-28B polymorphism on the spontaneous clearance of HCV genotype 3 is more prominent than HCV genotype 1, which results in the observation of higher rs12979860 C allele frequency in chronic hepatitis C patients with HCV genotype 3 than HCV genotype 1.

Hepatitis E virus seroprevalence in haemodialysis patients in Zanjan Province, Islamic Republic of Iran

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is the most common form of acute hepatitis in adults in endemic regions of Asia. In a descriptive, cross-sectional study, anti-HEV antibody was measured in patients referred to the 2 haemodialysis centres in Zanjan city, Islamic Republic of Iran. Among 93 patients with chronic renal failure, mean age 57.0 (SD 18.5) years, antibodies against HEV were positive in 25 (26.9%) patients. HEV infection was not significantly associated with sex, age, educational level, residence or water source. The rate of HEV positivity was higher in patients with > 1 than < or = 1 year of haemodialysis (31.3% versus 15.4%) but this was not statistically significant. None of the patients had chronic hepatitis C or HIV infection, and only 2 were suffering from chronic hepatitis B infection. Given the high prevalence of HEV in haemodialysis patients in Zanjian, more attention is needed towards HEV epidemiology, control, prevention and training in the west of the Isalamic Republic of Iran and possibly neighbouring countries.

Preterm neonates display altered plasmacytoid dendritic cell function and morphology

Bacterial and viral infections cause high rates of morbidity and mortality in premature newborns. In the setting of viral infection, pDCs play a key role as strong producers of IFN-α upon TLR9 activation. We analyzed pDC frequency, phenotype, morphology, and function in CB of preterm and term newborns in comparison with adults. Whereas all age groups show similar pDC numbers, BDCA-2, CD123, and TLR9 levels, the expression of BDCA-4 and capacity to produce IFN-α upon TLR9 challenge were decreased significantly in preterm neonates. Furthermore, we show by means of electron microscopy that pDCs from preterm newborns exhibit a distinct, "immature" morphology. Taken together, these findings suggest decreased functionality of pDCs in the premature newborn. The reduced capacity to produce IFN-α is likely to render such infants more susceptible to viral infections.

Cytomegalovirus hyperimmunoglobulin: mechanisms in allo-immune response in vitro

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus hyperimmunoglobulin (CMVIg) containing drugs are routinely administered in cardiac transplantation for prophylaxis against CMV disease. Yet little is known about their influence on transplant relevant immune functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of CMVIg on cellular immunity in in vitro experiments and to define their role in tolerance inducing mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS/RESULTS

CMVIg reduces proliferation in mixed lymphocyte reactions and anti-CD3 blastogenesis assays and is related to decreased production of immune modulating cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, interferonr (IFNgamma), IL-10. This antiproliferative effect is associated with a cell-cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase and induction of apoptosis in CD8+ and natural killer cells. Co-incubation with CMVIg causes down-regulation of cell bound immunoglobulin and FcgammaRIII surface expression on natural killer cells and leads to attenuation of antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity effector functions.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that CMVIg induces immunological features on leukocytes in vitro that are known to be related to tolerance induction. Our observations extend the current concept of CMVIg as passive CMV prophylaxis to a therapeutic drug compound capable of reducing allogeneic immune response.

The accuracy of the Neosono Ultima EZ apex locator using files of different alloys: an in vitro study

The purpose of this study was to compare the precision of one of the new generation of root canal measuring devices, Neosono Ultima EZ, while using files manufactured of different alloys. Fifty-four root canals of extracted teeth were chosen. They were placed in special tubes with roots immersed in 2 percent agar with phosphate buffered saline. The device was used to locate the apex of each canal in wet conditions at the zero digital reading, first using a stainless steel file and then using a nickel-titanium file. These values were compared to the actual lengths obtained by measuring the distance of the coronal reference point to the apical opening with a size 10 file minus 0.5 mm. The accuracy of the device was 94 percent with nickel-titanium files and 91 percent with stainless steel. No significant difference was noted between the results for either file. The accuracy of the Neosono Ultima EZ in wet conditions exceeded 90 percent regardless of the alloy used.

Static tester for characterization of phase-change, dye-polymer, and magneto-optical media for optical data storage

We have designed and built a static tester around a commercially available polarized light microscope. This device employs two semiconductor laser diodes (at 643- and 680-nm wavelengths) for the purpose of recording small marks on various media for optical data storage and for the simultaneous monitoring of the recording process. We use one of the lasers in the single-pulse mode to write a mark on the sample and operate the other laser in the cw mode to monitor the recording process. The two laser beams are brought to coincident focus on the sample through the objective lens of the microscope. The reflected beams are sent through a polarizing beam splitter and thus divided into two branches, depending on whether they are p or s polarized. In each branch the beam is further divided into two according to the wavelength. The four beams thus produced are sent to four high-speed photodetectors, and the resulting signals are used to monitor the reflectance as well as the polarization state of the beam on reflection from the sample. We provide a comprehensive description of the tester's design and operating principles. We also report preliminary results of measurements of phase-change, dye-polymer, and magneto-optical samples, which are currently of interest in the areas of writable and rewritable optical data storage.

The neurohormone melatonin inhibits cytokine, mitogen and ionizing radiation induced NF-kappa B

Recently, the neurohormone melatonin was found to be a potent endogenous hydroxyl radical scavenger. Since the activation of an important transcriptional regulator, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) involves free radicals as second messengers, we investigated whether melatonin alters NF-kappa B expression if present during treatment of HeLa S3 cells with known activators. The results show that upon treatment of HeLa S3 cells with tumor necrosis factor-alpha or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, or with ionizing radiation, there is a profound induction of NF-kappa B binding activity. If present at the time of treatment, exogenously added melatonin, at a concentration as low as 10 microM, was found to inhibit the activation of NF-kappa B by these agents. This results leads to the hypothesis that melatonin can play a role in many physiological functions through its modulation of NF-kappa B (and possibly other) transcriptional regulators.

Relation of ethanol self-administration to feeding and drinking in a nonrestricted access situation in rats initiated to self-administer ethanol using the sucrose-fading technique

Free-feeding male Long-Evans rats (N = 8) were initiated to self-administer 10% ethanol using a sucrose-fading procedure. Following initiation, they were placed into chambers which allowed for the continuous monitoring of feeding, water drinking and ethanol self-administration. All rats continued to daily self-administer ethanol in the continuous access situation. Ethanol drinking at certain times during the day appeared to be related to feeding bouts (prandial drinking). However, at other times, nonprandial ethanol self-administration occurred. These nonprandial ethanol drinking episodes, while not at levels of excessive ethanol intakes, were at levels well above water intake when water was substituted for ethanol. These findings suggest that ethanol intake in continuous access conditions is not solely a function of feeding behavior and that following initiation, ethanol-seeking behavior was maintained in a continuous access situation.