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Several investigations are being done to increase the short lifetime of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). One of the crucial genes involved in the immortalization of MSCs, hTERT (human telomerase reverse transcriptase), is activated in most publications using viral-based techniques. In this work, we investigated the use of platelet-derived (PMPs) and B cell precursor leukemia-derived microparticles as a nonviral method to trigger and compare the expression of the hTERT gene in MSCs. MSCs were extracted from the umbilical cord for the current investigation and identified using a flow cytometry approach and an inverted microscope. The Nalm-6 cell line and platelet concentrate were used to isolate microparticles (MPs). MSCs and MPs were cocultured for 14 days at 25-, 50-, and 100 μg/ml concentrations. qRT-PCR was used to research the expression of the hTERT gene. SPSS 26.0's t test was used to compare the outcomes. After coculture with platelet MPs, MSCs had higher levels of hTERT gene expression than the control group. In contrast, this gene's expression was concurrently decreased in MSCs exposed to MPs generated from Nalm-6. We demonstrated that following 14-day treatment, PMP significantly boosted the hTERT gene expression in MSCs, while the Nalm-6 MPs lowered the gene expression. However, additional studies are necessary due to the stability of hTERT gene expression and the immortalization of MSCs following exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microparticles (MPs) are small vesicles released from the cell membrane. Accordingly, these contain active molecules to mediate biological processes, including cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. The fusion of myeloma cell lines with immunized B lymphocytes is a critical step of hybridoma technology. MPs modulate lymphoproliferation, thereby facilitating B cell expansion and successful immortalization. Human alloimmune B cells are considered valuable sources of monoclonal antibodies, and peripheral blood is a pool of B lymphocytes. The present study aimed to investigate the role of myeloma-derived MPs in the proliferation of alloimmune peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Materilas and Methods: In the current experimental study, ultracentrifugation isolated MPs from three different myeloma cell lines, including U266, P3x63Ag8, and SP2/0. PBMCs were extracted from the whole blood of a patient with thalassemia alloimmune exposed to MPs. Thereafter, both the proliferation and cell viability were evaluated using inverted microscopy and the trypan blue staining method. Results: MPs derived from the P3X63Ag8 myeloma cell line were shown to have the most effects on cell proliferation and viability (p=0.0005). MPs of the SP2/0 cell line initially increased the proliferation of PBMCs, but viable cells were drastically reduced in the following weeks. As well, U266 cell-derived MPs increased the proliferation of PBMCs (p=0.0001), but it was half of the group receiving P3x63Ag8 derived MPs. However, the viability of treated cells remained almost constant for 5-weeks. Conclusion: Altogether, the obtained data indicated that P3X63Ag8 and U266 derived MPs could increase the viability of PBMCs. If the complimentary examination is confirmed, these MPs could also be used as the potential agents in B lymphocyte proliferation, thereby helping in immortalization and antibody production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Family with sequence similarity 19 (chemokine (C-C motif)-like) member A5 (FAM19A5) is a newly identified adipokine. There is a limited number of studies linking FAM19A5 to metabolic disorders. In the current study, we aimed to explore if FAM19A5 is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We also sought to determine the possibility of FAM19A5 association with subclinical atherosclerosis in NAFLD patients. Methods: A total of 69 subjects including 37 NAFLD and 32 control subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. Plasma concentration of FAM19A5 was measured with the ELISA method. Carotid artery intima-media thickness (cIMT) was assessed by the ultrasonography. Results: Plasma concentration of FAM19A5 in patients with NAFLD was significantly lower in NAFLD patients than controls. Moreover, we observed significant negative correlations between plasma level of FAM19A5 and body mass index (BMI), visceral fat, alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), liver stiffness (LS), and cIMT. Following stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, ALT and cIMT were the only determinants of FAM19A5 level. Conclusions: This is the first report to describe association of circulating FAM19A5 levels with NAFLD. Our findings provide further evidence showing relation of FAM19A5 with the risk of atherosclerosis. However, more studies are necessary to unravel the contribution of lower FAM19A5 levels to the NAFLD pathogenesis and the higher risk of atherosclerosis in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Platelet (PLT) storage at 4°C has several benefits, however, it is accompanied by increased clearance of PLTs after transfusion. In this study, we evaluated the potential of sodium octanoate (SO) for reducing apoptosis and clearance rate of PLTs after long-term storage in cold. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, PLT concentrates (PCs) were stored for 5 days under the following three conditions: 20-24°C, 4°C, and 4°C in the presence of SO. To measure the viability of PLTs, the water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay was performed. Phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure was determined on PLTs using flow cytometry technique. The amount of human active caspase-3 was determined in PLTs using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, the amount of PLT ingestion or clearance was determined by using HepG2 cell line. Results: The viability was higher in the SO-treated PLTs compared to the other groups. The level of PS exposure on PLTs was lower in the SO-treated PLTs compared to the other groups. The amount of active caspase-3 increased in all groups during 5-day storage. The highest increase in the amount of caspase-3 levels was observed at cold temperature. However, PLTs kept at 4°C in the presence of SO had a lower amount of active caspase-3 compared to PLTs kept at 4°C. The amount of PLTs removal by HepG2 cells was increased for 4°C-kept PLTs but it was lower for PLTs kept at 4°C in the presence of SO but, the differences were not significant (P>0.05). Conclusion: SO could partially moderate the effects of cold temperature on apoptosis and viability of platelets. It also decreases the ingestion rate of long-time refrigerated PLTs in vitro. Further studies using higher numbers of samples are required to demonstrate the effect of SO on reducing the clearance rate of PLTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The origin and function of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules on platelets are still highly arguable. Given the differences in the results of the previous studies in this regard, the lack of research in recent years, and the clinical importance of HLA class I molecules, the absorption capacity of platelets for soluble HLA class I molecules was studied in this investigation. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, HLA-A2 antigen was purified from a B cell precursor leukemia cell line (Nalm-6) by cell membrane protein solubilization and usage of HLA-A2 affinity column. Platelet concentrates (PCs) were received from Tehran Blood Transfusion Center. Eighteen bags of HLA-A2- negative PCs were prepared randomly and treated with various concentrations of the purified HLA antigen (100, 500, and 1000 ng/ml) for 48 to 72 hours. Subsequently, the HLA-A2 levels were evaluated on platelets by flow cytometery technique. Data were evaluated using repeated measure ANOVA.P-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The results of this study showed that the purified protein was an HLA molecule (HLA-A2). After the treatment of platelets and HLA molecules, platelets inability was shown for the attracting of HLA molecules. This finding was true in both media of RPMI and plasma. The differences between the case (HLA-treated platelets) and control (untreated platelets) were not significant (p-values> 0.05). Conclusion: Platelets were unable to significantly adsorb exogenous HLA antigens from their environment. Further studies are needed to unravel the nature and origin of HLA molecules on platelets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Platelets can activate B cells and stimulate them for the production of antibodies. Since platelet microparticles (PMPs) originate from platelets, they may have the same virtue. In the present study, the effect of PMPs was investigated on the production of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-specific antibody from B cells in vitro. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, HLA-DR antigen was solubilized from the immortalized B lymphocytes (Daudi cell line) and purified using the affinity chromatography. Antigen properties were determined by the ELISA technique. PMPs were isolated from platelet concentrate bags by centrifugation. Fresh blood products were prepared from the Innovation Center of Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization (IBTO) and B lymphocytes were purified by the MACS method. B cells were exposed with PMPs and HLA-DR antigens in the culture medium. On the third day of culture, the culture supernatant was examined in terms of antibody production using the ELISA test. The results were analyzed using paired sample T-test and P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The specificity of the purified HLA-DR antigen was confirmed using the anti-HLA-DR antibody and ELISA technique in the presence of appropriate controls. The results showed that PMPs could stimulate the production of antibodies from B cells. The difference between the case and control was significant (Pvalue= 0.001). Although total immunoglobulin (IgG) was higher in HLA-DR-treated wells, HLA-DR-specific antibodies were not identified by ELISA technique. Conclusion: PMPs have the capability to induce IgG antibodies from B cells. In order to ensure the production of specific antibodies, further testing is required with high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Storage of platelet concentrates (PCs) at room temperature (20-24°C) limits its storage time to 5 days due to the destructive effects of platelet storage lesion (PSL) and bacterial contamination. Although prolonged storage of platelets (PLTs) at 4°C reduces the likelihood of bacterial contamination and PSL levels, it is accompanied by an increase in the clearance rate and changes in the surface markers of PLTs. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of sodium octanoate (SO) as a stabilizer on PLTs during storage at 4°C. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, PCs were divided into three portions and stored for 5 days at 3 different conditions, including 20-24°C, 4°C temperature, and 4°C in presence of SO. PLTs enumeration was performed using an automated hematology analyzer. To measure the metabolic activity and survival rate of PLTs, the water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay was performed. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme (LDH) was measured by a biochemical analyzer. Additionally, the levels of PLT glycoprotein Iba (GPIba) and CD62P (P-selectin) were measured on PLTs by flow cytometry technique. Results: PLTs count was higher in SO-treated (4°C) PLTs than two other studied samples. Additionally, the viability was higher in the SO-treated PLTs than that in other groups. LDH amount was lower in the SO-treated PLTs than that in other groups (P>0.05). GPIba expression was significantly higher in SO-treated PLTs than that other groups (P<0.05). On the other hand, the expression of CD62P was lower at 4°C in PLTs in the presence of SO (P>0.05). Conclusions: SO could modulate the effects of cold temperatures on PLTs. Furthermore, we found that the survival of platelets was better maintained in the presence of SO at 4°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Patients who were candidates for heart valve surgery with lower presurgical levels of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs) received more RBC transfusion within the first 24 hours. • The presurgical number of PMPs, hemoglobin level, and red blood cell (RBC) count were identified as risk factors for the need for RBC transfusion. • Preoperative assessment of MPs levels may be helpful in transfusion management. Cell-derived microparticles (MPs) are membrane vesicles that have emerged as a potential biomarker for various diseases and their clinical complications. This study investigates the role of MPs as a risk factor for blood transfusion in patients with valve heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery. Forty adult patients undergoing heart valve surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were enrolled, and venous blood samples were collected prior to surgical incision. Plasma rich in MPs was prepared by double centrifugation, and the concentration of MPs was determined using the Bradford method. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to determine MPs count and phenotype. Patients were divided into "with transfusion" (n = 18) and "without transfusion" (n = 22) groups based on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. There was no significant difference in MPs concentration between the "with transfusion" and "without transfusion" groups. Although the count of preoperative platelet-derived MPs (PMPs), monocyte-derived MPs (MMPs), and red cell-derived MPs (RMPs) was higher in "without transfusion" group, these differences were not statistically significant. The preoperative PMPs count was negatively correlated with RBC transfusion (P = 0.005, r = -0.65). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the count of CD41+ PMPs, Hemoglobin (Hb), and RBC count were risk factors for RBC transfusion. This study suggests that the presurgical levels of PMPs, Hb, and RBC count can serve as risk factors of RBC transfusion in patients with valve heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery. The findings provide insights into the potential use of MPs as biomarkers for blood transfusion prediction in cardiac surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The in vitro treatment of tumor cells with platelet (Plt) causes inhibition of tumor cell growth, although mechanism of this effect is not clear yet. Induction of apoptosis has been proposed as a mechanism of Plt effects on tumor cells. The purpose of this study was to clarify the role of Plts and Plt-derived components in the induction of apoptosis in the blood mononuclear cells of patients with leukemia. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from whole blood of five patients with childhood B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pre-B ALL) and encountered with Plts, Plt-derived microparticles (Plt-MPs) as well as purified soluble CD40L (sCD40L). After 48 hours of co-culture, the anti-cancer activity of the aforementioned factors was surveyed using examination of apoptosis markers of the cells including active caspase-3 and CD95 using ELISA and flow cytometer techniques, respectively. Additionally, staining of the cells with 7-Aminoactinomycin D (7-AAD) was evaluated by flow cytometer technique. Trypan blue exclusion test and WST-1 method were also used to compare the death/survival status of the cells. Results: Levels of CD95 and caspase-3 were significantly increased in the all treated groups (P<0.05). On the other hand, trypan blue, 7-AAD and WST-1 methods showed significantly lower number of the live cells in the treated groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study can show the ability of Plts, Plt-MPs and sCD40L for the induction of apoptosis in PBMCs of pre-B-ALL patients. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the different effects of platelets on cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most afflictive bacterial infections globally. In high burden TB countries, surveillance, diagnosis and treatment of drug resistant TB (RR and X/MDRTB) display a crucial public health challenge. Therefore, we need new TB vaccines; diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to briskly prevent disease promotion; reduce drug-resistant TB and protect everyone from disease. The study identified various potent membrane and cell wall M. tuberculosis glycolipoproteins that are relevant for diagnostics, drug and vaccine discovery. A M. tuberculosis Proskauer and Beck broth culture was extracted for total proteins by ammonium sulfate method. After ConA-Affinity Chromatography reputed glycoproteins were collected followed by 2DE gel electrophoresis and LC Mass spectrometry. A total of 293 glycoproteins were identified using GlycoPP and IEDB database. Probable conserved trans-membrane protein (Rv0954), LpqN (Rv0583), PPE68 (Rv3873), Phosphate-binding protein (Rv0932c), PPE61 (Rv3532) and LprA (Rv1270c), had the highest glycosylation percentage value with 13.86%, 11.84%, 11.68%, 11.1%, 10.59% and10.2%, respectively. Our study discloses several dominant glycoproteins that play roles in M. tuberculosis survival, and immunogenicity. These include glycoproteins involved in antigenicity, transport and biosynthesis of M. tuberculosis cell envelope, pathogen-host interaction and drug efflux pumps, which are considered as a feasible drug targets or TB new vaccine candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most afflictive bacterial infections globally. In high burden TB countries, surveillance, diagnosis and treatment of drug resistant TB (RR and X/MDRTB) display a crucial public health challenge. Therefore, we need new TB vaccines; diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to briskly prevent disease promotion; reduce drug-resistant TB and protect everyone from disease. The study identified various potent membrane and cell wall M. tuberculosis glycolipoproteins that are relevant for diagnostics, drug and vaccine discovery. A M. tuberculosis Proskauer and Beck broth culture was extracted for total proteins by ammonium sulfate method. After ConA-Affinity Chromatography reputed glycoproteins were collected followed by 2DE gel electrophoresis and LC Mass spectrometry. A total of 293 glycoproteins were identified using GlycoPP and IEDB database. Probable conserved trans-membrane protein (Rv0954), LpqN (Rv0583), PPE68 (Rv3873), Phosphate-binding protein (Rv0932c), PPE61 (Rv3532) and LprA (Rv1270c), had the highest glycosylation percentage value with 13.86%, 11.84%, 11.68%, 11.1%, 10.59% and10.2%, respectively. Our study discloses several dominant glycoproteins that play roles in M. tuberculosis survival, and immunogenicity. These include glycoproteins involved in antigenicity, transport and biosynthesis of M. tuberculosis cell envelope, pathogen-host interaction and drug efflux pumps, which are considered as a feasible drug targets or TB new vaccine candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are isolated from different sources like placenta. The placenta and its membranes like Amniotic Membrane (AM) are readily available and easy to work with. There is only limited knowledge on the immunomodulatory properties of human Amniotic Membrane-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hAM-MSCs). The aim of this study was to survey the suppressive activity of hAM-MSCs on T lymphocytes in vitro. Methods: Human AMs were obtained after caesarean section births from healthy women. After enzymatic digestion, cells were cultured and hAM-MSCs were obtained. In addition, human T lymphocytes were isolated and co-cultured with hAM-MSCs for 72 hr in the presence or absence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Subsequently, proliferation of T cells was analyzed using BrdU and subsequently flow cytometry technique. Besides, the production of IL-4 and IFN-γ was examined by ELISA method. Additionally, the expression of activation markers (CD38, HLA-DR) was studied on T lymphocytes by flow cytometry technique. Results: It was revealed that hAM-MSCs could significantly suppress the proliferation of T lymphocytes (p≤0.01) and significantly decrease the production of IFN-γ by T cells (p<0.05). hAM-MSCs also down regulated the expression of activation markers on the surface of T lymphocytes, CD38 and HLA-DR. The difference was significant between the case and control samples (p<0.05). All the comparisons were carried out between the case (Tcell+PHA+hAM-MSCs) and control (Tcell+PHA) groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, hAM-MSCs could inhibit the (mitogen-activated) T cells even in the absence of blood monocytes. Besides, hAM-MSCs-mediated inhibition of T lymphocytes was combined with down regulation of activation markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which causes emotional and physical symptoms, is a common problem in many women in their reproductive age. Many approaches to PMS with controversial results are available. The present study was performed to compare fluoxetine and buspirone in the treatment of PMS. Methods: One hundred female patients who met DSM-IV criteria for PMS were randomly divided into two groups in a single-blind study; one group was treated with fluoxetine 20 mg/day and the other group with buspirone 10 mg/day for two consecutive months. The subjects were evaluated in pretreatment, after 1 and 2 months of treatment with a valid and reliable questionnaire. Results: Both fluoxetine and buspirone showed significant efficacy in the treatment of PMS and this efficacy was significant along the treatment period. However, no significant differences were observed between fluoxetine and buspirone in the treatment of PMS. Conclusion: Considering efficacy and few side effects of buspirone, it can be a favorable drug in the treatment of patients with PMS. However, further studies (preferably double-blind, placebo controlled ones) with large sample sizes are recommended to investigate efficacy and side effects of buspirone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Labor induction is now one of the most common methods in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology for cervix preparedness and entering the active phase of labor. This study was conducted to compare the effects of misoprostol and oxytocin. Materials and methods: This study was a double-blind clinical trial by recruitments of 60 primiparous women who referred to BooAli Hospital in Tehran, 2011. The participants were divided into control and intervention groups by random allocation. Misoprostol and oxytocin by four hour intervals were prescribed for those in pregnancy termination stage in order to induce labor. Results: The mean age and standard deviation in intervention and control group was 24 ± 3.96 and 24.1 ± 3.97, respectively. The main reasons for admission were postdate pregnancy and lack of labor pain. A significant correlation was found between treatment variables, cause of hospitalization, hypertension history and increased or decreased time to achieve regular and suitable contractions for delivery (P<0.05). Results showed no significant difference in two groups until three hours after treatment. However, a better influence of misoprostol was observed among the intervention group (P=0.014). Conclusion: In order to reduce time to reach short and effective contractions using misoprostol in labor induction is more effective than oxytocin. However, the two drugs did not show any significant differences regarding pregnancy outcomes including meconium passage, fetal distress and premature rupture of membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monoclonal antibody production using the hybridoma technology is one of the attractive areas of research. The aim of this study was to investigate the production of monoclonal antibodies to human HLA-A3 antigen for use in microlymphocytotoxicity technique. HLA-A3 antigen was purified from human leukocytes and injected to several mice. The spleen-derived cells of immunized animal were fused with P3-X63-Ag8 myeloma cells. Obtained hybridoma cells were grown in HAT medium and the supernatant of the cells were screened for antibodies using ELISA and microlymphocytotoxicity technique. Produced monoclonal antibody from the hybridoma clone, B1F10 showed the specificity for human HLA-A3. Furthermore, in this study, we encountered with clones of immortal hybrid cells with completely different features, they were adherent and non-producers for antibodies. This observation could imply the possible role of the antigen (HLA) and its nature in the expansion of cell types other than B cells in the spleen of mouse during immunization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recognition of HLA alleles is useful in transplantation and in anthropological and disease studies. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common blood cancer. It is now generally agreed that both genetic and environmental factors play an interactive role in the development of ALL disease. It is unknown whether there exists a restriction to certain MHC genotypes in leukemia like ALL. Methods: Genetic construct of HLA DRB1 was studied in Iranian normal populations and in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia using PCR-SSP method. Results: It was shown that the most common allele in DRB1 locus in normal population was DRB1∗11 (20%), whereas DRB1∗09 was the least frequent allele (0.9%). Additionally, this study presented the results of HLA-DRB1 typing in 106 ALL patients and compared them with normal individuals. Comparison of the results between the normal population and the patient group revealed that there was allelic association between the DRB1∗13 and the disease. Results showed that the difference between the frequencies of DRB1∗13 in patients and normal individuals was significant (p = 0.04), but there was a moderate difference among the frequencies of DRB1∗04, ∗07, and ∗09 in childhood (0–15 years) ALL. The frequencies of DRB1∗13, ∗04, and ∗07 in patients were 2.5, 16, 4.5% and, in normal individuals, were 11.4, 10, and 8.3%, respectively. Conclusions: It should be concluded that DRB1∗13, which showed a decrease in patients, should be protective against acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), whereas DRB1∗04, which was moderately increased in patients, could be considered a susceptible allele for childhood ALL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: In the current study we have aimed to find the effects of Resveratrol treatment on platelet concentrates (PCs) at the dose dependent manner. We have also attempted to find the molecular mechanism of the effects. Methods: The PCs, have received from Iranian blood transfusion organization (IBTO). Totally 10 PCs were studied. The PCs divided into 4 groups including untreated (control) and treated by different dose of Resveratrol; 10, 30 and 50 µM. Platelet aggregation and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were evaluated at day 3 of PCs storage. In silico analysis was carried out to find out the potential involved mechanisms. Results: The aggregation against collagen has fallen dramatically in all studied groups but at the same time, aggregation was significantly higher in the control versus treated groups (p<0.05). The inhibitory effect was dose dependent. The aggregation against Ristocetin did not significantly affect by Resveratrol treatment. The mean of total ROS significantly increased in all studied groups except those PCs treated with 10 µM of Resveratrol (P=0.9). The ROS level significantly increased with increasing Resveratrol concentration even more than control group (slope=11.6, P=0.0034). Resveratrol could potently interact with more than 15 different genes which, 10 of them enrolled in cellular regulation of the oxidative stress. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that the Resveratrol affect the platelet aggregation at the dose dependent manner. Moreover, we have also found that the Resveratrol play as double-edged sword in the controlling oxidative state of the cells. Therefore, Using the optimal dose of Resveratrol is the great of importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to compare the changes in serum uric acid levels among preeclamptic pregnant women and healthy pregnant women. Two hundred and twenty-four (224) pregnant women were enrolled. Serum uric acid levels were analysed in the two groups at the time of referral and prior to the delivery. The mean uric acid in all pregnant women was 5.61 mg/dL. The mean uric acid in women with preeclampsia was 6.51 ± 1.53 and in normotensive women was 4.72 ± 1.58, which was seen significant. The mean age of the mother, gestational age and BMI were not significant with the levels of uric acid. The elevation in serum levels of uric acid increased the risk of preeclampsia by 1.98 folds. There is a significant increase in the serum levels of uric acid in pregnant women with preeclampsia as compared to normotensive women. This can be one of a significant indicator of preeclampsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cell-derived microparticles (MPs) as membrane vesicles are procoagulant. They play a role in surgical hemostasis. In this study, the correlations between the circulating level of cell-derived MPs and surgical variables in heart valve surgery were investigated. Methods: The present prospective case-series study was conducted in Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center from January through March 2021. Forty patients undergoing heart valve surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were enrolled. Before the induction of anesthesia and 30 minutes after the administration of protamine sulfate, venous blood samples were collected. After MP isolation, the concentration of MPs was determined via the Bradford method. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to determine the MP count and phenotype. Intraoperative variables and postoperative routine coagulation tests were defined as surgical variables. Postoperative coagulopathy was defined as an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) ≥48 seconds or an international normalized ratio (INR) >1.5. Results: The total concentration of MPs and the MP count increased significantly after surgery compared with before surgery. The postoperative concentration of MPs was positively correlated with the CPB time (P=0.030, ρ=0.40). The preoperative concentration of MPs was significantly lower in patients with higher postoperative aPTT and INR (P=0.003, P= -0.50 and P=0.020, P= -0.40, respectively). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the preoperative MP concentration (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.01; P=0.017) was considered a risk factor for postoperative coagulopathy. Conclusion: The levels of MPs, especially platelet-derived MPs, rose after surgery, in correlation with the CPB time. Given the role of MPs in the induction of coagulation and inflammation, they can be considered therapeutic goals for preventing postoperative complications. In addition, the preoperative levels of MPs are a risk factor for predicting the occurrence of postoperative coagulopathy in heart valve surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B is one of the most common infectious diseases worldwide that can be transmitted by blood transfusion. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) has eight different genotypes that show different geographical distributions and clinical manifestations. This study aims to investigate the sequence of the HBV polymerase gene and the frequency of HBV genotypes among Iranian blood donors. Methods: The sera of 223 blood donors who were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) as determined by the ELISA method were selected. HBV DNA was extracted from the sera of 134 blood donors by a commercial kit, and the entire polymerase gene was amplified by nested-PCR. HBV genotypes were determined by direct sequencing of the HBV polymerase gene. Phylogenetic trees were constructed by the neighbor-joining (NJ) method. Results: No known base mutations were found in the entire HBV polymerase gene of infected blood donors, and only genotype D was detected among HBV-infected blood donors. The sub-genotype D1 of HBV was dominant in the subjects. Conclusions: This study shows that antiviral-resistant mutations, such as lamivudine-resistant HBV strains, do not exist naturally among Iranian blood donors. More studies on the full-length HBV genomes are required to determine genome evolution of HBV among infected Iranian blood donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. HDL exerts various protective functions on the cardiovascular system including anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing adhesion molecules expression in inflammation-induced endothelial cells. This study was designed to search if the anti-inflammatory capacity of apolipoprotein B-depleted plasma (apoB-depleted plasma) is altered in NAFLD patients. Methods A total of 83 subjects including 42 NAFLD and 41 control subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. Anti-inflammatory function of HDL was determined as the ability of apoB-depleted plasma to inhibit tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a)-induced expression of adhesion molecules in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results Incubation of inflammation-stimulated HUVECs with the NAFLD patients' apo-B depleted plasma led to higher levels of expression of adhesion molecules compared to the control subjects' plasma samples, reflecting an impaired anti-inflammatory capacity of apoBdepleted plasma in the NAFLD patients. Impaired anti-inflammatory capacity of apoBdepleted plasma was correlated with fatty liver and obesity indices. After adjustment with obesity indices, the association of anti-inflammatory capacity of apoB-depleted plasma with NAFLD remained significant. Conclusion Impaired anti-inflammatory activity of apoB-depleted plasma was independently associated with NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although cold storage of platelets (PLTs) could decrease the risk of bacterial growth, it could affect on the PLTs viability and hemostatic function. At cold temperatures, trehalose can be used to substitute water, inhibit the solid-liquid transition phase of the PLT membrane, and stop Glycoprotein Ibα (GPIbα) polymerization. In this study, we evaluated the potential of trehalose for reducing the negative effects of cold storage on the apoptosis and the clearance rates of PLTs after long-term storage at cold. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, PLT concentrates (PCs) were maintained for five days in the different circumstances. PLTs were subsequently counted by using an automated hematology analyzer. Also water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay was performed to estimate the viability of PLTs. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme (LDH) was determined by a biochemical analyzer. And human active caspase-3 levels were measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Also, we applied flow cytometry technique. Results: PLTs count and viability were higher, while LDH amount was lower in trehalose-treated PLTs when compared with two other groups (P=0.03). The highest increase in the amount of caspase-3 levels in the PLTs was observed at 4°C. However, trehalose-treated and 4°C PLTs had a lower amount of active caspase-3 in comparison with 4°C PLTs. The level of PS expression on PLTs was lower in the trehalose-treated PLTs in compared with the two other groups (P=0.03). PLTs ingestion by HepG2 cells was enhanced in the 4°C-stored PLTs. However, the ingestion rate was significantly reduced in the trehalose-treated PLTs on day 5 of storage (P=0.03). Conclusion: Trehalose can moderate the effects of cold temperature on the apoptosis, viability, and the survival rate of PLTs. It also decreases the ingestion rate of refrigerated PLTs in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine myomas/fibroids are one of the most common benign tumors of the reproductive system in women. Given pleiotropic effects of statins, the aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic effects of atorvastatin on uterine fibroids in women of reproductive age. This randomized clinical study included 90 women aged 35–45 years with uterine fibroids. The patients were randomly allocated into the intervention group (received one tablet, 20 mg of atorvastatin every day for three months) and placebo. Ultrasound was performed every month, and the change in the size of fibroids was recorded for each patient. At the end of the study, the data obtained were analyzed using SPSSv22 and a p value <.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean age in the placebo and intervention group was 39.63 ± 36.3 and 40.35 ± 3.32 years, respectively. The number and location of the tumor was comparable for the two groups. We observed a statically significant reduction in fibroid size from the treatment initiation until completion of three months, (41.06 ± 6.68 mm3 vs 35.16 ± 6.67 mm3) p =.0001. However, the decrease in fibroid size from 1st month to the 3rd month was not statistically significant, p =.189 (36.71 ± 5.54 mm3 vs 35.16 ± 6.67 mm3). This study shows that treatment with atorvastatin might positively reduce the size of fibroids. The decrease was only statistically significant during the first month. Further studies with a detailed analysis of the intervention's clinical impact are required to consider statins as a therapeutic tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that play vital roles in gene regulation. It has been shown that storage has an effect on platelet miRNAs. MiR-16 is highly expressed in platelets and it appears to target the genes involved in cell death. It has been shown that platelets could be stored in Composol for a longer period of time. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare the expression pattern of miR-16 in platelet concentrates (PCs) in plasma and Composol media. Materials and Methods: In an experimental study, ten PC bags were collected and each bag was divided into two separate bags, one with the 70% Composol and the other with only plasma. Both bags were stored for 7 days at 22°C and tested on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 of storage. For each sample, we performed quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 (WST-1) test was used to assess platelet viability in all of the samples. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS and REST software. A P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: miR-16 was significantly elevated during the storage days, with fold changes of 3.47 (plasma) and 2.77 (Composol). The Composol group had significantly decreased miR-16 expression compared with the plasma group. Results of the WST-1 test showed less decrease in optical density (OD) in the Composol group (0.93 ± 0.4) during the storage days compared with the plasma group (0.75 ± 0.3). Conclusion: Our finding supported results from previous studies that reported an increase in miR-16 expression during platelet storage. In addition, miR-16 down-regulation in Composol medium implied that Composol might be a good solution for long-term platelet storage because it has the potential to elevate the shelf-life of platelets stored at 22°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the complication of Antihypertensive drug; in pregnant women with chronic hypertension.Method: This retrospective cohort study was performed on 300 pregnant women  with chronic hypertension. Results:  a relative risk of preeclampsia among methyldopa group was 3.45 times higher than the metoprolol, the relative risk of preterm labor was not significantly between methyldopa and metoprolol group, LBW, and IUGR in methyldopa and amlodipine groups .Conclusion: Methyldopa and amlodipine are associated with the least side effects in pregnant women treated for chronic hypertension.the incidence of preeclampsia was greater in methyldopa group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Genital warts are sexually transmitted diseases for which there is no definitive cure. This study aimed to determine the effect of the combination of olive leaf extract and curcumin on the number of lesions and the duration of recovery in patients with external anogenital warts. Methods. This study is a three-blind randomized controlled clinical trial conducted in 2020. In this study, women with external anogenital warts were enrolled by the consecutive nonprobability sampling method and then assigned by stratified block randomization to two groups: placebo (n = 28) and intervention (n = 26). In the intervention group, the combined olive leaf and curcumin extract was applied topically three times a day until recovery and up to 12 weeks. Routine treatment was administered to both groups in addition to the interventions. The number of warts, the duration of recovery, and the severity and duration of treatment side effects were assessed in all participants. Results. The results showed that the mean number of warts was significantly lower in the intervention group (5.65 ± 5.223) than in the placebo group (7.61 ± 5.245) from the fifth day of treatment onwards (p = 0.027). The mean duration of recovery in days in the intervention group (14.73 ± 9.735)) was significantly less than the placebo group (34.25 ± 18.863) (p = 0.001). In addition, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the frequency of drug side effects such as burning (p = 0.083), redness (p = 0.413), and itching (p = 0.706). The intervention group experienced side effects for a shorter duration of time (1.50 ± 1.924) compared to the placebo group (4.93 ± 8.366) (p = 0.043). Conclusion. The combined 10% olive leaf and curcumin extract can be effective in reducing the number of warts, duration of healing, and reducing the duration of complications in patients with external anogenital warts and is recommended as a complementary treatment for these patients. This trail is registered with IRCT20200509047350N1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extracellular vesicles are particles ranged from 30 nm to 5µm and subcategorized into three groups; exosomes, microvesicles and apoptotic bodies, each of which have different biological impact. Lack of a standard method for the detection and isolation of MVs has led to a challenging issue that is a worth considering. In this study, we isolated MVs from the conditioned medium of UC-MSCs by four different schemes of ultracentrifugation. Methods: We examined the efficacy of differential centrifugation ranging from 10,000×g to 60,000×g on UCMSCs- derived microvesicles yield and purity. The fractions were evaluated by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) method, total protein quantification and flow cytometry. Results: UC-MSCs were spindle cells that adhered to plastic culture flasks. These cells expressed MSC markers such as CD44 and CD73, whereas were negative for hematopoietic markers CD45 and CD34. UC-MSCparticles were successfully isolated. Particles were heterogeneous vesicles of approximately 50 to 1250 nm in diameter that bear the surface-expressed molecules UC-MSCs such as; CD90, CD106, CD166 and CD44, and negative for CD34, CD63, and CD9. According to the results of DLS method, centrifugation at 10,000, 20,000, 40,000 and 60,000 ×g, all gave MVs of less than 1000 nm. It is of notion that only at the centrifugation rates of 40,000 and 60,000×g, particles of less than 100 nm in diameter were also obtained. Conclusion: The choice of exact speed greatly influences the purity of MVs and their yield. Our findings indicate that centrifugation at 20,000×g is appropriate for the purification of UC-MSC-MVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postoperative pain are among the most common sideeffects of surgery. Many factors, such as a change in the level of sex hormones, are reported to affect these complications. This study aimed to evaluate the probable effects of the menopause on PONV and postoperative pain. Methods: Prospective study, in which a total number of 144 female patients undergoing cystocele or rectocele repair surgery under standardized spinal anesthesia were included. Patients were divided into two equally sized sample groups of pre- and postmenopausal women (n = 72). The occurrence of PONV, the severity of pain as assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and the quantity of morphine and metoclopramide required were recorded at 2, 4, 6, 12, 18 and 24 h after surgery. Results: The mean VAS pain score and the mean quantity of morphine required was higher among premenopausal women (P = 0.006). Moreover, these patients required more morphine for their pain management during the first 24 h after surgery compared to postmenopausal women (P < 0.0001). No difference was observed between the two groups regarding the incidence of PONV (P = 0.09 and P = 1.00 for nausea and vomiting, respectively) and the mean amount of metoclopramide required (P = 0.38). Conclusions: Premenopausal women are more likely to suffer from postoperative pain after cystocele and rectocele repair surgery. Further studies regarding the measurement of hormonal changes among surgical patients in both pre- and postmenopausal women are recommended to evaluate the effects on PONV and postoperative pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human platelets undergo structural and biochemical alternations during storage which are collectively called platelet storage lesion (PSL). PSL is characterized as metabolic and functionally changes. It causes decrease in platelet recovery and survival. Here, we evaluated the effect of L-carnitine (LC) on the metabolism, function, and mitochondrial metabolic activity of platelet during storage. Platelet-rich plasma was used to prepare platelet concentrate (PC) in Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization. For this purpose, ten PC bags from healthy donors were stored at 22 °C with gentle agitation in the presence or absence of LC. The effects of LC (15 mM) on the platelet quality were assessed by analyzing the levels of glucose, lactate, ATP, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. Platelet aggregations induced by arachidonate and ristocetin were analyzed by aggregometer. Platelet mitochondrial melablolic activity was measured by tetrazolium salt 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay; platelet count and mean platelet volume were also determined by a hematology analyzer during 5 days of PC storage. The results indicated that LC could significantly decrease lactate concentration and glucose consumption accompanied with the increased oxygen consumption in stored PC. LDH activity also less significantly increased in LC-treated PC on days 2 and 5 of storage. Platelet aggregation in response to the ristocetin and arachidonate was significantly higher in LC-treated PC than that in untreated PC on day 5 of storage. Finally, platelet mitochondrial metabolic activity less significantly decreased in LC-treated PC compared to the control group on days 2 and 5 of storage. It seems that LC would be a good additive to reduce PSL and improve the platelet metabolism and quality of the stored PC for platelet transfusion therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, consumption of whole-blood for the treatment of patients has decreased but use of biological plasma-derived medicines such as albumin, immunoglobulin and coagulation factors have increased instead. Paying attention to albumin molecular structure is important for its isolation from human plasma. Albumin is a single-chain protein consisting of about 585 amino acids and a molecular weight of 66500 Daltons. Albumin is a stable molecule and it is spherical in shape. There are different methods for human albumin preparation. Considering the large consumption of this biological drug in clinical settings, methods with fewer steps in production line are of big advantage in saving time and manufacturing more products. Methods: In this project, we prepared human albumin using hollow fiber cartridges in order to omit the rework on fraction V+VI. Human albumin is usually produced by the application of cold ethanol method, where albumin is obtained from fraction V by doing a rework on fraction V+VI to separate fraction V. Results: In the current work, human albumin was prepared from fraction V+VI by the help of hollow fiber cartridges. With a concentration of 20%, the obtained albumin had 96.5% of monomer and 3.5% of polymer and polymer aggregate. Conclusion: Comparing the obtained human albumin with a number of commercial human albumin samples by the use of SDS-page, the results were satisfactory regarding the 3.5 percent polymer and aggregate rate for the prepared albumin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients are at a substantial risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is well known to have protective effects against the development of atherosclerotic CVD. One of the major antiatherogenic effects of HDL is its anti-oxidative function. Objectives: This study investigated the association of anti-oxidative capacity of HDL with subclinical atherosclerosis in NAFLD and non-NAFLD subjects. Methods: A total of 143 subjects including 51 NAFLD and 92 control subjects were included in this case–control study. HDL oxidative index (HOI) was determined spectrophotometrically using a cell-free method in the presence of a fluorescent substrate dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA). Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) plasma levels were assessed in both groups. Results: The NAFLD patients with impaired HDL anti-oxidative function (HOI ≥ 1) had higher MDA levels, aspartate amino transferase (AST), liver stiffness (LS), and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) values compared to the controls. HDL oxidative index (HOI) was positively correlated with MDA levels and cIMT and negatively correlated with SOD activity. Conclusions: Higher circulating levels of MDA were associated with the impaired anti-oxidative function of HDL in NAFLD. The impaired anti-oxidative capacity of HDL might be related to NAFLD severity and subclinical atherosclerosis in NAFLD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of TB caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( M. tuberculosis) that do not respond to, at least, isoniazid and rifampicin, the two most powerful, first-line (or standard) anti-TB drugs. Novel intervention strategies for eliminating this disease were based on finding proteins that can be used for designing new drugs or new and reliable kits for diagnosis. The aim of this study was to compare the protein profiles of MDR-TB with sensitive isolates. Proteomic analysis of M. tuberculosis MDR-TB and sensitive isolates was obtained with ion exchange chromatography coupled with MALDI-TOF-TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization) in order to identify individual proteins that have different expression in MDR-TB to be used as a drug target or diagnostic marker for designing valuable TB vaccines or TB rapid tests. We identified eight proteins in MDR-TB isolates, and analyses showed that these proteins are absent in M. tuberculosis-sensitive isolates: (Rv2140c, Rv0009, Rv1932, Rv0251c, Rv2558, Rv1284, Rv3699 and MMP major membrane proteins). These data will provide valuable clues in further investigation for suitable TB rapid tests or drug targets against drug-resistant and sensitive M. tuberculosis isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is caused by bacteria that are resistant to the most effective anti TB drugs (Isoniazid and Rifampicin) with or without resistance to other drugs. Novel intervention strategies to eliminate this disease based on finding proteins can be used for designing new drugs or new and reliable kits for diagnosis. The aim of this study was to compare the protein profile of MDR-TB with sensitive isolates. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) along with mass spectrometry is a powerful and effective tool to identification and characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry was used for diagnosis and comparison of proteins. We identified 14 protein spots in MDR-TB isolates that 2DE analysis showed these spots absent in M. tuberculosis sensitive isolates (Rv1876, Rv0379, Rv0147, Rv2031c, Rv3597c, Rv1886c, MT0493, Rv0440, Rv3614c, Rv1626, Rv0443, Rv0475, Rv3057 and unknown protein. The results showed 22 protein spots which were up regulated (or expressed) by the MDR-TB isolates, (Rv1240, Rv3028c, Rv2971, Rv2114c, Rv3311, Rv3699, Rv1023, Rv1308, Rv3774, Rv0831c, Rv2890c, Rv1392, Rv0719, Rv0054, Rv3418c, Rv0462, Rv2215, Rv2986c, Rv3248c and Rv1908c)). Two up regulated protein spots were identified in sensitive isolate (Rv1133c and Rv0685). These data will provide valuable clues in further investigation for suitable TB rapid tests or drug targets against drug resistant and sensitive of M. tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis continues to be a challenge due to the low sensitivity of traditional diagnostic methods. Better and more rapid tests are needed for diagnosis of pleural TB. In this study, pleural fluids were tested with rapid test to determine Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( MTB antigen). Affinity chromatography was used to purify specific polyclonal antibodies against MTB antigen. Pleural samples after decontamination were treated with proteinase K. Rapid test for pleural fluids was prepared by specific antibody. Rapid test was performed on 85 pleural fluid patients. The patients had a mean age of 46.55 ± 15.96 years and 38 were men. The performance of rapid test, using proteinase K, was found to be the most impressive: sensitivity 93%, specificity 94%, PPV 90%, and NPV 96% compared with adenosine deaminase test ( ADA), PCR, smear, and culture. The present study did demonstrate that modified TB rapid test can substantially improve the diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) plays an important role in tumor cell escape from immune surveillance and HLA-G polymorphisms might service as a potential risk factor for clinical outcomes in GAC (gastric adenocarcinoma). We investigated the association between HLA-G polymorphisms as well as soluble HLA-G level and accordance of GAC. This case-control study included 100 GAC patients and 102 unrelated Iranian individual’s samples as control. The clinical stages ranged from I to IV. PCR-RFLP method was carried out in order to specify the genotypes of the HLA-G gene. Concentrations of sHLA-G in serum were determined with the sHLA-G-specific enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The G*01:04:01 and G*01:01:02:01 alleles were the predominant alleles in GAC patients and healthy controls. The G*01:01:03:01 and G*01:01:08 allele distributions are significantly higher among controls comparing to cases and seem to have protective effect ( P value = 0.026 and 0.007 respectively). There is a substantial differences in G*01:01:02:01/G*01:04:01 genotype frequencies between cases and controls (OR = 2.8, P value < 0.001). The G*01:01:03:01/G*01:04:01 and G*01:01:02:01/G*01:01:08 genotypes frequency are higher among controls in comparison to patients ( P value = 0.028 and 0.007 respectively). The polymorphisms in HLA-G could affect GAC induction and its outcome. Also, increased sHLA-G levels in serum might be a useful biomarker for diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis (TB) as a public health crisis is caused by the intracellular bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Detection of immunogenic proteins in TB is valuable for the development of diagnostic tests, vaccine formulations and monitoring treatment outcome. In this study, we differentiated the immune-reactivity of proteins in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) and drug-susceptible strains using purified anti-MDRTB antibodies isolated from inpatients. Our data showed that the anti- MDRTB antibody was well able to detect the MDR strain in the patient's sputum. The immunogenic proteins of MDRTB were purified by affinity chromatography and subjected to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. Analysis of the data revealed that seven MDRTB immunogenic proteins, including Rv2986c (HupB), Rv3699, Rv1133c (MetE), Rv0440 (GroEL), Rv3057c, Rv2558 and Rv2971 are involved in DNA stability, metabolism, cellular processes and some unknown functions. Similarities in the electrophoresis protein profiles were evident between the extracts of MDR and sensitive TB strains. However, the protein expression patterns of MDRTB isolates were distinguishable from that formed by susceptible TB strains. • Anti-MDR-TB antibody was effectively able to detect the MDR strain in the patient's sputa • Rv2986c, Rv3699, Rv1133c, Rv0440, Rv3057c, Rv2558 and Rv2971 as MDR-TB immunogenic proteins have been detected • The immunogenic markers can be applied in detection procedures and vaccine discovery [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigated the effects of Riboflavin (RB) combined with different doses of UV on Platelet Concentrate (PC) which was infected by three models of virus. Platelet quality after treatment was also assessed. Methods: Three models of virus used in this study were Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and Polio virus, which were added to PC. After photochemical treatment with RB and UV light, residual viral infectivity was titrated using 50% Tissue Culture Infective Dose (TCID50)/ml. This treatment was done with concentration of 50 μM of RB and different doses of UV light (0.24, 0.48, 0.97, 1.29 J/cm2). Platelet quality was assessed by measuring pH, Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), MTT assay and cell count after treatments and during 4 days of storage against control groups. Results: Concentration of 50 μMRB with combination of 1.29 J/cm2 dose of UV resulted in the highest titer reduction of VSV (4 log10) and HSV (4.26 log10) and lowest titer reduction of Polio virus (2.6 log10). No significant difference was observed between different doses in comparison with control groups. In all treatment groups, the storage stability of platelets in PC was in the acceptable range in comparison with control group. Conclusion: This study indicated that RB/UV treatment was a promising pathogen reduction technique in PC and had limited effects on platelet quality. However, further optimization of this method is necessary to deal with blood-borne viruses like non- enveloped viruses [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogen inactivation (PI) is necessary for the pooled components derived from a biological source. Recently, the use of human platelet lysate (hPL) has increased in the cell manufacturing process as a xeno-free substitute for Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS). Therefore, an effective PI process to produce a pathogen-free hPL with the optimal efficiency in the manufacturing of cell therapy products is a vital requirement. To evaluate the efficacy of gamma irradiation and riboflavin/ultraviolet light (RB/UV) as PI methods for hPL, the reduction factor (RF) of titer of model viruses and bacteria were examined. Furthermore, the effect of different PI methods on the hPL performance was evaluated by the in vitro expansion of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PLMSCs). To compare different study groups, the growth kinetic, immunophenotype, colony formation, and differentiation capacity (osteogenic and adipogenic) of PLMSCs were examined. In addition, the concentration of growth factors was assayed in each study group. Achievement to the RF more than 5 log 10 for all pathogens, showed the effectiveness of two PI methods. In comparison with the other study groups, the dose of 45 kGy gamma irradiation considerably decreased the growth factor level of the hPL. It also showed a significant adverse effect on PLMSCs growth kinetics. The dose of 30 KGy gamma irradiation and RB/UV demonstrated a favorable effect on different assays of the in vitro expanded PLMSCs. The 30 KGy gamma irradiation and RB/UV were effective in the RF of the viral and bacterial models of the contaminated hPL. The efficacy of these PI-hPLs for PLMSCs expansion was preserved. To increase the safety of cell therapy products, PI methods should be considered for the hPL preparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "The Relationship between Soluble Serum HLA-G and ICSI Success Rates," by Zahra Alinejad and colleagues is presented.