The court's judgment on the true identity of the author responsible for identity fraud and the consequent batch retraction of Iranian's papers in the journal of diagnostic pathology

This letter concerns retracted papers published in the Journal of Diagnostic Pathology, where my name was misused as the author or corresponding author without my permission or knowledge. Considering that all misconducts were directed by an author during initial manuscripts' submissions, I opened a case in Iran's Cyber Police (FATA) to unravel the true identity of the submitting author. After Cyber Police's report revealed the true identity of the submitting author, the court started a thorough investigation and finally convicted the submitting author for identity fraud and data forgery through creating and using fake email addresses.

Biomarkers for Assessment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and its Co-Infection with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Viruses: A Comprehensive Review

Recently, prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infection with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), has dramatically increased worldwide due to their shared routes of transmission. Compared to the sporadic infection with HIV, HBV, and HCV, concurrent infection with these agents increases the complications of these viruses. Furthermore, co-infection may also alter the therapeutic strategies against HIV. Accordingly, choosing appropriate biomarkers to detect these co-infections is one of the main concerns in the field of diagnostic pathology. Up to now, several markers have been introduced for the simultaneous diagnosis of HIV, HBV, and HCV. In this regard, serum adenosine deaminase activity (ADA), FibroTests, AST-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), Fibrosis-4, Hyaluronic acid, and micro ribonucleic acids (MiR) have been investigated as potential biomarkers for diagnosis of HIV-HCV/HBV co-infections. This review summarizes diagnostic values of the current and emerging biomarkers in HIV patients concurrently infected with HBV and HCV.

Designing a Strategy for pH Control to Improve CHO Cell Productivity in Bioreactor

BACKGROUND

Drastic pH drop is a common consequence of scaling up a mammalian cell culture process, where it may affect the final performance of cell culture. Although CO2 sparging and base addition are used as common approaches for pH control, these strategies are not necessarily successful in large scale bioreactors due to their effect on osmolality and cell viability. Accordingly, a series of experiments were conducted using an IgG1 producing Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO-S) cell culture in 30 L bioreactor to assess the efficiency of an alternative strategy in controlling culture pH.

METHODS

Factors inducing partial pressure of CO2 and lactate accumulation (as the main factors altering culture pH) were assessed by Plackett-Burman design to identify the significant ones. As culture pH directly influences process productivity, protein titer was measured as the response variable. Subsequently, Central Composite Design (CCD) was employed to obtain a model for product titer prediction as a function of individual and interaction effects of significant variables.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the major factor affecting pH is non-efficient CO2 removal. CO2 accumulation was found to be affected by an interaction between agitation speed and overlay air flow rate. Accordingly, after increasing the agitation speed and headspace aeration, the culture pH was successfully maintained in the range of 6.95-7.1, resulting in 51% increase in final product titer. Similar results were obtained during 250 L scale bioreactor culture, indicating the scalability of the approach.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results showed that pH fluctuations could be effectively controlled by optimizing CO2 stripping.

Association of vitamin D genetic pathway with asthma susceptibility in the Kurdish population

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D (Vit D) function in asthma progression has been studied well. The effects of genetic variations in Vit D pathway molecules have been also studied, although the results are contradicted. In the present study, for the first time we examined the Vit D pathway molecules included serum Vit D and vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) and also genetic variations in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and VDBP in a Kurdish population with asthma.

METHODS

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to measure the serum Vit D and VDBP. VDR rs1544410 and rs2228570 and VDBP rs7041 were assessed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

RESULTS

The serum level of Vit D significantly decreased in asthmatic patients versus controls (16.26 ± 6.76 vs 23.05 ± 10.57 ng/mL, P value = .001). We observed an indirect correlation between Vit D and clinical findings. We also found an increased level of serum VDBP in patients as compared to the controls (1044.6 ± 310.82 vs 545.95 ± 121.73 µg/mL, P value < .0001). Besides, the risk of asthma progression was increased in patients with the VDR rs2228570 CC and VDBP rs7041 GG genotypes (OR = 3.56, P = .0382 and OR = 2.58, P = .01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In summary, our results explain the influence of the genetic variations in VDR and VDBP in addition to Vit D and VDBP serum concentrations on asthma susceptibility in the Kurdish population.

A Simplified Protocol for the Purification of Schwann Cells and Exosome Isolation from C57BL/6 Mice

BACKGROUND

The purification of Schwann cells has proven to be a difficult process, with most methods requiring the use of special equipment. However, obtaining a sufficient number and high purity of Schwann cells is an integral aspect in their use for clinical application. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish a simple and effective protocol for the isolation and purification of Schwann cells from the sciatic nerve of C57BL/6 mice. Furthermore, we aimed to provide a protocol for the isolation of exosomes from these cells.

METHODS

To purify Schwann cells, we used a combination of in situ nerve pre-degeneration and fetal bovine serum. To determine the most effective method of cell purification, we treated the culture with varying concentrations of fetal bovine serum and examined which concentration provided the highest Schwann cell purity. Exosomes were then isolated from Schwann cells through a process of repeated centrifugation and filtration steps.

RESULTS

We were able to increase the purified population of Schwann cells from C57BL/6 mice by reducing the concentration of FBS. The purity of Schwann cells at FBS concentrations of 10%, 5%, and 2% were 93.42%, 91.25%, and 97.83%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

When using a concentration of 2% FBS, we obtained the highest purification yield of Schwann cells. Our protocol does not require special equipment or materials. We have created a protocol that is simple, fast, and safe while providing a high yield of purified Schwann cells. The exosome isolation method described in this paper is an appropriate approach with a high quality and yield.

Evaluation of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 pathway in patients with chronic urticaria

BACKGROUND

Previous studies showed the role of vitamin D (Vit D) on the progression of chronic urticaria. To the best of our knowledge, there are no other results regarding the contribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) genes in chronic urticaria (CU).

AIM

In the present study, we investigated the Vit pathway and the association between VDR and VDBP gene polymorphisms and CU risk in Iranian population.

METHODS

All participating individuals in the present study were evaluated for serum Vit D and VDBP concentration VDR rs1544410 and rs2228570 and VDBP rs7041using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis. The associations of studied analytes and three SNPs with clinical and laboratory outcomes were investigated in CU patients.

RESULTS

Patients with CU showed lower Vit D compared to controls (19.26 ± 1.26 vs. 31.72 ± 7.14 ng/ml, P-value = 0.006). There was a significant correlation between Vit D levels and urticaria activity score. Serum VDBP was significantly higher in CU patients than controls (1317.3 ± 183.71 vs. 395.77 ± 12.96 µg/ml, P-value <0.0001) and had a positive correlation to progression of CU. The A allele of this polymorphism might be a potential risk factor for progression of CU [odds ratio 4.3434, 95% confidence interval (1.7331-10.8852), Z-statistic = 3.133, P-value = 0.0017].

CONCLUSION

In summary, this study demonstrated that change in Vit D pathway in the level of gene or protein may be a risk factor for progression of CU.

Embryonic Stem Cell Conditioned Medium Supports In Vitro Maturation of Mouse Oocytes

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the maturation and fertilization rates of immature mouse oocytes using Embryonic Stem Cell Conditioned Medium (ESCM).

METHODS

Germinal Vesicle (GV) stage oocytes were observed in 120 NMRI mice, aged 4-6 weeks. GV oocytes with or without cumulus cells were subjected to IVM in either ESCM, Embryonic Stem Cell Growth Medium (ESGM), or α-minimum essential medium (α-MEM). After recording the Metaphase II (MII) oocyte maturation rate, the oocytes were fertilized in vitro. The fertilization success rate was recorded after 24 hr. The embryos were maintained in potassium Simplex Optimization Medium (KSOM) for 96 hr and allowed to grow until the blastocyst stage. After recording developmental competence, they were transferred into the uteri of pseudopregnant mice and their birth rates were recorded.

RESULTS

No significant difference existed between the maturation rates in α-MEM (68.18%) and ESCM (64.67%; p>0.05), whereas this rate was significantly higher for both α-MEM and ESCM compared to ESGM (32.22%; p<0.05). A significant difference in IVF success rate existed for oocytes grown in α-MEM (69.44%), ESCM (61.53%), and ESGM (0%). A significantly higher developmental competence was observed at the blastocyst stage for oocytes grown in α-MEM (51.2%) compared to ESCM (35%; p<0.05). 17 days after embryo transfer into the uteri of pseudopregnant mice, there was a nonsignficant (p>0.05), similar birth rate between α-MEM and ESCM (47 vs. 40%).

CONCLUSION

ESCM is an effective medium for preantral follicle growth, oocyte maturation, and subsequent embryo development.

Association of HaeIII single nucleotide polymorphisms in the SLC2A1 gene with risk of diabetic nephropathy; evidence from Kurdish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

Given the growing rate of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, uncovering the effects of gene polymorphism on diabetes pathogenesis has attracted a lot of attention. Because glucose transporter 1 is involved in glucose uptake, the polymorphism of this gene may be an important risk factor in type 2 diabetes mellitus or in the progression of diabetes complications such as diabetic nephropathy. As far as the authors are concerned, this study is the first one aiming at evaluating the probable effects of solute carrier family 2 facilitated glucose transporter member 1 (SLC2A1) HaeIII polymorphism on clinical and laboratory outcomes of Kurdish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

This study was conducted involving 126 diabetic nephropathy patients and 150 diabetic patients without renal involvement. Serum levels of Cystatin C, fasting blood glucose, creatinine and urinary albumin; levels of glycated hemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate were measured. Moreover, the Hae III polymorphism of SLC2A1 gene was determined by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

RESULTS

The rate of CC genotype was higher (37%) in patients with diabetic nephropathy compared with controls. There were a significant correlation between the CC genotype and risk of diabetic nephropathy. There were significant correlations between genotypes, serum Cystatin C and estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with diabetic nephropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated the high frequency of C allele of SLC2A1 HaeIII in Kurdish patients with diabetic nephropathy. It was also found that this polymorphism is a significant risk factor for diabetic nephropathy. The effect of this polymorphism on clinical and laboratory characteristics of diabetic nephropathy patients was significant.

A comprehensive review of pesticides and the immune dysregulation: mechanisms, evidence and consequences

Nowadays, in many communities, there is a growing concern about possible adverse effects of pesticides on human health. Reports indicate that during environmental or occupational exposure, pesticides can exert some intense adverse effects on human health through transient or permanent alteration of the immune system. There is evidence on the relation between pesticide-induced immune alteration and prevalence of diseases associated with alterations of the immune response. In the present study, direct immunotoxicity, endocrine disruption and antigenicity have been introduced as the main mechanisms working with pesticides-induced immune dysregulation. Moreover, the evidence on the relationship between pesticide exposure, dysregulation of the immune system and predisposition to different types of psychiatric disorders, cancers, allergies, autoimmune and infectious diseases are criticized.

Genetic modification of bone-marrow mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoietic cells with human coagulation factor IX-expressing plasmids

Ex-vivo gene therapy of hemophilias requires suitable bioreactors for secretion of hFIX into the circulation and stem cells hold great potentials in this regard. Viral vectors are widely manipulated and used to transfer hFIX gene into stem cells. However, little attention has been paid to the manipulation of hFIX transgene itself. Concurrently, the efficacy of such a therapeutic approach depends on determination of which vectors give maximal transgene expression. With this in mind, TF-1 (primary hematopoietic lineage) and rat-bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were transfected with five hFIX-expressing plasmids containing different combinations of two human β-globin (hBG) introns inside the hFIX-cDNA and Kozak element and hFIX expression was evaluated by different methods. In BMSCs and TF-1 cells, the highest hFIX level was obtained from the intron-less and hBG intron-I,II containing plasmids respectively. The highest hFIX activity was obtained from the cells that carrying the hBG intron-I,II containing plasmids. BMSCs were able to produce higher hFIX by 1.4 to 4.7-fold increase with activity by 2.4 to 4.4-fold increase compared to TF-1 cells transfected with the same constructs. BMSCs and TF-1 cells could be effectively bioengineered without the use of viral vectors and hFIX minigene containing hBG introns could represent a particular interest in stem cell-based gene therapy of hemophilias.

Local Polyethylene Glycol in Combination with Chitosan Based Hybrid Nanofiber Conduit Accelerates Transected Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

OBJECTIVE

The incapability to promptly improve behavioral function after discontinuation of peripheral nerves is a current problem in clinical practice. Effect of local polyethylene glycol in combination with chitosan-based hybrid nanofiber conduit was assessed.

STUDY DESIGN

A 10-mm sciatic nerve defect was bridged using a chitosan-based hybrid nanofiber conduit (Chitosan) filled with phosphate-buffered saline. In authograft group (AUTO), a segment of sciatic nerve was transected and reimplanted reversely. In polyethylene glycol-treated group (CHIT/PEG), the conduit was filled with polyethylene glycol solution. The regenerated fibers were studied within 12 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

The behavioral and functional tests confirmed faster recovery of the regenerated axons in PEG-treated group compared to Chitosan group (p < .05). The mean ratios of gastrocnemius muscles weight were measured. There was statistically significant difference between the muscle weight ratios of CHIT/PEG and Chitosan groups (p < .05). Morphometric indices of regenerated fibers showed number and diameter of the myelinated fibers were significantly higher in CHIT/PEG than in Chitosan. In immuohistochemistry, the location of reactions to S-100 in CHIT/PEG was clearly more positive than Chitosan group.

CONCLUSION

polyethylene glycol solution when loaded in a chitosan-based hybrid nanofiber conduit resulted in acceleration of functional recovery and quantitative morphometric indices of sciatic nerve.

Down-regulation of miR-133a and miR-539 are associated with unfavorable prognosis in patients suffering from osteosarcoma

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play key roles in cancer development and progression. The purpose of the present study was to determine the expression levels of miR-133a and miR-539 in osteosarcoma patients and to further investigate the clinicopathological, and prognostic value of these miRNAs.

Methods

The expression levels of miR-133a and miR-539 were determined by qRT-PCR. Associations between miRNAs expressions and various clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed. Survival rate was determined with Kaplan–Meier and statistically analyzed with the log-rank method between groups. Survival data were evaluated through multivariate Cox regression analysis

Results

Our findings revealed that the miR-133a expression was significantly decreased in clinical osteosarcoma tissues compared to adjacent normal bone tissues. The expression level of miR-539 was decreased in clinical osteosarcoma tissues as compared to those adjacent normal tissues. Low expressions of miR-133a and miR-539 were significantly association with advanced TNM stage (P = 0.002; P = 0.001), and metastasis or recurrence (P = 0.001; P = 0.01). Furthermore, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and log-rank test showed that the low expressions of miR-133a and miR-539 were correlated with the reduced overall survival of osteosarcoma patients. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that decreased expressions of miR-133a and miR-539 (P = 0.007; P = 0.02), TNM stage (P = 0.001; P = 0.002), and metastasis or recurrence (P = 0.005; P = 0.026) were independent prognostic markers of overall survival of patients.

Conclusion

These results suggest that decreased miR-133a and miR-539 expressions may participate in the progression of osteosarcoma. Together, these results showed that miR-133a and miR-539 may have their role in both progression and prognosis of osteosarcoma.

Decrease expression and clinicopathological significance of miR-148a with poor survival in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, mainly due to its high rates of postoperative recurrence and metastasis. Please remove, it currently ranks as the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths. MiRNAs are a set of small, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecules that negatively regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In this study, we demonstrated the down-regulation of miR-148a in HCC and non-cancerous tissues using qRT-PCR.

Methods

Ninety six HCC samples and their noncancerous normal liver tissues were collected. Total mRNA including miRNA was extracted, and miR-148a expression was determined using qRT-PCR. Furthermore, the correlation between the miR-148a expression and clinicopathological parameters was investigated.

Results

The result showed that reduction of miR-148a expression was associated with TNM stage, metastasis, and number of tumor nodes. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model analysis showed that low expression of miR-148a was independently associated with recurrence of HCC in the current study. Moreover, our result showed that lower expression in tumor tissues in comparison with corresponding normal control tissues.

Conclusion

Down-regulation of miR-148a is related to HCC carcinogenesis and deterioration of HCC. MicroRNA-148a may act as a suppressor miRNA of HCC, and it is therefore a potential prognostic biomarker for HCC patients.

Investigations of renal function using the level of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin associated with single-dose of cisplatin during chemotherapy

Background

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is known as a primary indicator of acute and chronic renal and can be effective in chronic kidney injury (CKI) with kidney tumors cisplatin (CP) chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum and urinary biomarker including NGAL (sNGAL and uNGAL) in canine with solid renal tumors who suffered from cisplatin after short and long-term chemotherapy.

Methods

In this study, in treatment and control groups, canine (n = 10 and n = 5) were administered cisplatin at 1.2 mg/kg/day (i.v.) for five consecutive days with CKI and without CKI, respectively. Serum and urine NGAL levels (ng/mL) were evaluated at 0, 1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25 and 29 days after drug injection versus baseline in treated and control groups.

Results

Canine in treatment group had shown symptoms of toxicity of cisplatin. The results indicated the higher concentrations of serum, sNGAL and uNGAL (P = 0.024; P = 0.011) compared with control group (P = 0.701, P = 0.612), (Table 2, Figs. 1 and 2). Indeed, our results showed that canine with CKI were associated with higher levels of sNGAL and uNGAL compared with control group without CKI. Moreover, the highest level of uNGAL was seen in comparison with sNGAL, after a high dose (1.2 mg/kg) administration of CP.

Conclusion

Our data suggested that U-NGAL may be useful for monitoring of renal injury in CKI patients that exposed with cisplatin. Furthermore, a primary elevate in urinary NGAL expulsion may help in identifying cases at danger of cisplatin-induced CKI that might profit from innovative remedies to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity.

A histopathological analysis of the epidemiology of coronary atherosclerosis: an autopsy study

Background

Atherosclerosis accounts for a large proportion of cardiovascular system associated morbidity and mortality. We studied the possible association between the histopathological changes of the coronary atherosclerotic lesions and the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) using autopsy cases.

Methods

We performed an autopsy analysis (n = 13, 4 women, 9 men mean age 67.5 years; age range 56–93 years) of SCD which occurred in patients aged over 50 years during March 2010 to December 2013. The following variables were considered: sex, age, medical history, autopsy findings to macroscopic and histological evaluation of the heart. The autopsies were performed according to standard techniques. In all subjects, the heart was dissected following standard autopsy protocol and a 5 cm section of the right coronary artery (RCA) in the atrio-ventricular groove from its origin, a 5 cm segment of the left anterior descending artery (LADA) distal to the origin of the circumflex artery, but including the region of origin of the circumflex branch and left coronary artery (LCA) from its origin till the circumflex branch were excised, dissected out, fixed in 10 % formalin, marked for identification and sent for histopathological analysis.

Results

Atherosclerotic plaques were identified in 6.5 % of specimens, 69.34 % of males and 30.66 % of female. Such plaques were typically concentric and more represented with necrosis, calcification, cholesterol crystals, and giant cells, as well as had a higher inflammatory cell count. Furthermore, intima and media thickness of coronary arteries were significantly higher in studied specimens with visualize the connective tissue layers of the adventitia and the fatty acid containing adipose cells in the periadventitial tissue. Furthermore, the degree of microscopic lesion of atherosclerosis increased proportionally with the increase in the intensity of lipid deposition and with the percentage of collagen in the atherosclerotic plaques.

Conclusion

In this study, age estimate to be a risk factor for coronary atherosclerosis in individuals more than 50 years old and may be used to predict SCD. Altogether, an enhanced understanding of the pathobiologic processes responsible for atherosclerotic changes might allow for early identification of a high-risk coronary plaque and thereby provide a rationale for innovative diagnostic and/or therapeutic strategies for the management of coronary patients and prevention of acute coronary syndromes.

Transdermal delivery of bovine milk vesicles in patients with multiple sclerosis: A novel strategy to induce MOG-specific tolerance

Recently, butyrophilin (BTN) - a protein which shares cross-reactive epitopes with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) - has been found in milk. A high amount of milk BTN has been reported in the outer membrane of vesicular structures known as exosome and milk fat globule membrane (MFGM). These vesicles can act as Trojan horses, passing their BTN content through epidermis or other biologic barriers of the body. By altering the dose schedule and route of administration, the BTN-bearing vesicles (exosomes and MFGMs) may acquire enough potential to be used in MOG-specific immunotherapy program. Regarding above evidence and considering immunological characteristics of skin-associated lymphoid tissue (SALT), transdermal delivery of bovine milk vesicles, whether through topical administration of bovine milk or by using epicutaneous administration techniques, could be considered as an intriguing approach to induce MOG-specific tolerance in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Clinicopathologic characterization of visceral gout of various internal organs--a study of 2 cases from a venom and toxin research center

BACKGROUND

Gout is a metabolic disorder that results in hyperuricemia and the deposition of positively birefringent monosodium urate crystals in various parts of the body. The purpose of this study was to characterize the incidence and diagnostic features of visceral gout found at necropsy in two patients.

CASE PRESENTATION

The authors present an unusual report of untreated gout leading to major structure destructions in visceral organs. Gross post-mortem examination revealed a white powdery substance and display needle-like crystalline symmetry under the macroscopic on the visceral surfaces. Microscopically, the presence of crystalline deposits (urate tophi) were detected in visceral organs, such as; kidney, liver, lung and mesentery. Irrespective of its location, gout was observed, by H&E, as intracellular and extracellular eosinophilic deposits that compressed surrounding tissues. Moreover, numerous necrotizing granulomas of multifarious sizes were observed that were compounded by large aggregations of eosinophilic material (gout), surrounded by epithelioid macrophages, lymphoplasmacytic cells, foreign body multinucleated giant cells, fibrosis, fibroplasia and few edema. On the other hand, our results revealed that granulomatous nodules in the mesentery and kidney contained large numbers of gout foci compared with lung and liver. Furthermore, the immediate cause of death in these cases were not identified, but appeared to result from multiple factors, including the visceral gout due to unsuitable environmental conditions.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we have identified a valid histopathologic damage index for use in laboratory studies of visceral gout. This system provides a feasible method of representing visceral damage in gout, and may allow for better understanding of the natural history, pathophysiology and the management of acute attacks of gouty visceral in this disease. Finally, to the best of our knowledge, understanding of the distribution of monosodium urate crystals within the body can aid clinical diagnosis and further understanding of the resulting pathology.

VIRTUAL SLIDES

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1293547351151638 .

Metformin attenuates myocardial remodeling and neutrophil recruitment after myocardial infarction in rat

Introduction: Acute treatment with metformin has a cardio-protective effects by suppression of inflammatory responses during myocardial infarction (MI) through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Neutrophils have a pivotal role during MI-induced inflammatory responses. Some anti-inflammatory treatments have decreased cardiac injury and infarct size in MI. Here we evaluated the effects of chronic pre-treatment with metformin on myocardial remodeling and neutrophil recruitment after isoproterenol-induced MI.

Methods: Male wistar rats were randomly assigned into 6 groups (n=6) of untreated control, sham, isoproterenol (Iso), and pre-treated orally with 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg of metformin, twice daily, for 14 days. Isoproterenol was injected subcutaneously (sc) at 13th and 14th days for induction of acute MI. Histopathological examinations were done on the harvested hearts. Number of neutrophils in peripheral blood and their infiltration to myocardium were evaluated by Gimsa staining and myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay, respectively.

Results: Histopathological analysis showed a significant attenuation of isoproterenol-induced cardiomyocyte necrosis and fibrosis by all three doses of metformin. The heart to body weight ratio was also decreased with all doses of metformin. Pre-treatment with metformin in comparison to Iso (MI) group reduced peripheral neutrophils (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001 at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg; respectively) as well as MPO activity (p<0.05 and p<0.01 at 50 and 100 mg/ kg, respectively).

Conclusion: Pre-treatment with metformin decreased post-MI myocardial injuries by reducing cardiac remodeling and myocardial neutrophil activity. The results could be explained as a new mechanism for cardio-protective effect of metformin.

Angiogenic effect of the aqueous extract of Cynodon dactylon on human umbilical vein endothelial cells and granulation tissue in rat

Background

Cynodon dactylon, a valuable medicinal plant, is widely used in Iranian folk medicine for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure and atherosclerosis. Moreover, its anti-diabetic, anti-cancer and anti-microbial properties have been also reported. Concerning the critical role of angiogenesis in the incidence and progression of tumors and also its protective role in cardiovascular diseases, we investigated the effects of the aqueous extract prepared from the rhizomes of C. dactylon on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressions in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) and also on angiogenesis in carrageenan induced air-pouch model in rats.

Methods

In the air-pouch model, carrageenan was injected into an air-pouch on the back of the rats and following an IV injection of carmine red dye on day 6, granulation tissue was processed for the assessment of the dye content. Furthermore, in an in vitro study, angiogenic property of the extract was assessed through its effect on VEGF expression in HUVECs.

Results

Oral administration of 400 mg/kg/day of the extract significantly increased angiogenesis (p < 0.05) and markedly decreased neutrophil (p < 0.05) and total leukocyte infiltration (p < 0.001) into the granulation tissues. Moreover, the extract increased the expression of total VEGF in HUVECs at a concentration of (100 μl/ml).

Conclusion

The present study showed that the aqueous extract of C. dactylon promotes angiogenesis probably through stimulating VEGF expression.

Cyto-histopathological and outcome features of the prepuce squamous cell carcinoma of a mixed breed dog

Abstract

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/5748771971272873

Clinico-histopathologic and outcome features of cutaneous infundibular keratinizing acanthoma: a case report and literature review

The infundibular keratinizing acanthoma (IKA) is a rare epithelial benign keratin-containing neoplasm of hair follicles. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the defining histopathologic architecture of IKA. A typical IKA consisted of a keratin-filled crypt in the dermis and subcutis that opened to the skin surface. Most of this tumor occurred on the back, neck, head, and the shoulders. Microscopically, the dermal nodules were focally contiguous in both the dermis and subcutis. Furthermore, most histological lesions are consistent with a simple or multiloculated cyst filled with keratin and lined by a wall of stratified squamous epithelium; keratin appears as a concentric lamellar mass, with a keratotic pearly aspect. Histological examination of the cutaneous lesions revealed that the growths were comprised of IKA. IKA of man and dog were compared, and it was concluded that although they are similar in many respects, they are not identical entities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the prevalence of IKAs among the population of owned dogs in Iran.

A study on the effects of the estrous cycle on uterine fluid and blood serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) content in the cow

To investigate the IgG content and its variations in uterine fluid (UF) during the estrous cycle of the cow and to compare them with those of the blood serum (S), six pairs of serum and UF samples for each phase of the cycle selected out of 240 bovine genital tracts and blood samples were collected from Urmia abattoir. The UF samples were collected by gentle scraping of the endometrium using a curette after uterine incision and their IgG content and those of the serum were measured by single radial immuno-diffusion (SRID) assay. Serum IgG values (Mean ± SEM) were generally higher than the UF values throughout the cycle except for di-estrus (S: 38.50 ± 0.90, UF: 51.60 ± 2.10 mg mL(-1)), in which the highest values were observed in UF samples. In met-estrus the difference was not significant (S: 34.80 ± 1.80 mg mL(-1), UF: 30.80 ± 5.20 mg mL(-1)), however, in estrus the mean UF IgG value (12.50 ± 1.10 mg mL(-1)) was lower than that of the serum (31.30 ± 1.20 mg mL(-1)). In pro-estrus, the lowest values (S: 27.80 ± 1.30 mg mL(-1), UF: 9.10 ± 1.50 mg mL(-1)) were obtained. The results showed a lower IgG values in the bovine UF than those of the serum in the follicular phase of the cycle, while in di-estrus the UF IgG content was the highest, suggesting some IgG production in the uterus at this phase.

Effect of Leptin on In Vitro Nuclear Maturation and Apoptosis of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Oocyte

BACKGROUND

Leptin, as a 16 kDa adipokine, is a pleiotropic cytokine-like hormone that primarily secreted from adipose tissue. It also involves in the regulation of energy homeostasis, neuroendocrine function, immunity, lipid and glucose homeostasis, fatty acid oxidation, angiogenesis, puberty and reproduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of in vitro addition of leptin to in vitro maturation (IVM) medium on buffalo oocyte maturation and apoptosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, Ovaries from apparently normal reproductive organs of slaughtered adult buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) with unknown breeding history were collected from Urmia Abattoir, Urmia, Iran, and were transported immediately to the laboratory in a thermos flask containing sterile normal saline with added antibiotics. Oocytes were aspirated from 2-8 mm visible follicles of the ovaries using an 18-G needle attached to a 10 ml syringe. IVM medium included tissue culture medium-199 (TCM-199), 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), 22 µg/ml sodium pyruvate, 0.5 IU/ml ovine follicle-stimulating hormone (oFSH), 0.5 IU/ml ovine luteinizing hormone (oLH), 1 μg/ml oestradiol, 50 μg/ml gentamycin, and leptin [0 (control), 10, 50, and 100 ng/ml]. The good quality buffalo oocytes (batches of 10 oocytes) were placed in a culture plate containing six 50 μl droplets of maturation medium, covered with sterilized mineral oil, and then incubated at 38.5˚C with 5% CO2 in air for 24 hours. The maturation of oocytes was evaluated under a stereomicroscope by detecting the first polar body extrusion of oocytes. FITC-Annexin V propidium iodide (PI) staining method was used to detect oocyte apoptosis.

RESULTS

From a total of 115 collected ovaries, 1100 oocytes were recovered among which 283 oocyte were suitable for IVM. In the groups of leptin treated with 0 (control), 10, 50 and 100 ng/ml, the percentage of oocytes maturation was 74.65, 83.81, 77.85, and 75.40%, while the percentage of oocytes apoptosis was 9.83, 9.54, 9.93, and 10.42%, respectively. Our results showed that addition of 10 ng/ml leptin to buffalo IVM medium increased oocyte maturation, significantly, as compared with that in control group. However, addition of leptin to IVM medium had no significant influence on buffalo oocyte apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that addition of 10 ng/ml leptin to IVM medium of buffalo oocyte can improve oocyte nuclear maturation. Furthermore, we showed that there is no relation between in vitro addition of leptin to buffalo oocyte IVM medium and oocyte apoptos.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that addition of 10 ng/ml leptin to IVM medium of buffalo oocyte can improve oocyte nuclear maturation. Furthermore, we showed that there is no relation between in vitro addition of leptin to buffalo oocyte IVM medium and oocyte apoptosis.

Effects of in vitro selenium addition to the semen extender on the spermatozoa characteristics before and after freezing in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of in vitro supplementation of selenium on fresh and frozen spermatozoa quality of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls. Five healthy buffalo bulls (5 ejaculates from each bull) were used. Each ejaculate was diluted at 37 ˚C with tris-based extender containing 0 (control), 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 µg mL(-1) sodium selenite and the sperm motility and viability were evaluated at 0 (T0) (immediately after dilution), 60 (T1) and 120 (T2) min after diluting semen. In the second step, semen samples were diluted with tris-egg yolk-glycerol extender containing the same amounts of sodium selenite, cooled to 4 ˚C, equilibrated and semen parameters (motility, viability, membrane integrity and DNA damage) were estimated. Then, the semen was packed in 0.5 mL French straws and frozen in liquid nitrogen. Later, the semen was thawed and analyzed for the same parameters, as well as total antioxidant capacity. Results showed that addition of 1 and 2 µgmL(-1) selenium to the semen extender significantly increased the sperm motility of fresh and equilibrated semen compared to the control without affecting other parameters. However, in frozen-thawed semen, extenders containing 1 and 2 µg mL(-1) selenium significantly improved sperm motility, viability, membrane integrity and semen total antioxidant capacity and also resulted in lower DNA damaged sperms. In this study selenium supplementation of semen extender of 4 and 8 µg mL(-1) had deleterious effects on sperm parameters as early as the samples were prepared for freezing.

Phenotypic modulation of auto-reactive cells by insertion of tolerogenic molecules via MSC-derived exosomes

Auto-reactive cells-mediated immune responses are responsible for the current tissue damages during autoimmunity. Accordingly, functional modulation of auto-reactive cells has been a pivotal aim in many of recent studies. In the current study, we investigated the possibility for insertion of regulatory molecules onto auto-reactive cells through exosomal nano-shuttles as a novel approach for phenotype modification of auto-reactive cells. The exosomes were isolated from supernatant of mesenchymal stem cells culture. Resultant exosomes co-cultured with lymphocytes were harvested from established EAE mice in the presence of antigenic MOG35-55 peptide. After 24 hr, insertion of exosomal tolerogenic molecules (PD-L1, TGF-β, galectin-1) onto auto-reactive cells were explored through flow cytometry. The potency of exosomal inserted membrane molecules to modulate phenotype of auto-reactive lymphocytes was assessed upon ELISA test for their-derived cytokines IFN-γ and IL-17. Incorporation of exosomal molecules into lymohocytes' membrane was confirmed by flow cytometric analyses for surface levels of mentioned molecules. Additionally, the decreased secretion of IFN-γ and IL-17 were detected in exosome pre-treated lymphocytes upon stimulation with MOG peptide. Mesenchymal stem cells -derived exosomes showed to be efficient organelles for insertion of bioactive tolerogenic molecules onto auto-reactive cells and modulation of their phenotypes.