Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis of The Cell Division Cycle and Ribosomal Pathways in The Rat Varicocele: Implications for Drug Discovery

OBJECTIVE

Varicocele is a common cause of male infertility, affecting a substantial proportion of infertile men. Recent studies have employed transcriptomic analysis to identify candidate genes that may be implicated in the pathogenesis of this condition. Accordingly, this study sought to leverage rat gene expression profiling, along with protein-protein interaction networks, to identify key regulatory genes, related pathways, and potentially effective drugs for the treatment of varicocele.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this in-silico study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the testicular tissue of 3 rats were screened using the edgeR package in R software and the results were compared to 3 rats in the control group. Data was obtained from GSE139447. Setting a -11 and P<0.05 as cutoff points for statistical significance, up and down-regulated genes were identified. Based on Cytoscape plugins, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were drawn, and hub genes were highlighted. ShinyGO was used for pathway enrichment. Finally, effective drugs were identified from the drug database.

RESULTS

Among the 1277 DEGs in this study, 677 genes were up-regulated while 600 genes were down-regulated in rats with varicocele compared to the control group. Using protein-protein interaction networks, we identified the top five up-regulated genes and the top five down-regulated genes. Enrichment analysis showed that the up-regulated genes were associated with the cell division cycle pathway, while the down-regulated genes were linked to the ribosome pathway. Notably, our findings suggested that dexamethasone may be a promising therapeutic option for individuals with varicocele.

CONCLUSION

The current investigation indicates that in varicocele the cell division cycle pathway is up-regulated while the ribosome pathway is down-regulated compared to controls. Based on these findings, dexamethasone could be considered a future candidate drug for the treatment of individuals with varicocele.

Subcutaneous Immunization with Recombinant Lactococcus lactis Expressing F1S1 Fusion Protein Induces Systemic and Mucosal Immune Responses in BALB/C Mice

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid bacteria such as Lactococcus (L.) lactis are powerful tools that can function as live delivery vectors and heterologous protein expression hosts in development of novel vaccines. Pertussis toxin (PT) and filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA) are important virulence factors of Bordetella (B.) pertussis and constitute the major components of commercially available acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines. The purpose of the present study was to express F1S1 fusion protein, consisted of the N-terminal region of S1 subunit from PT and FHA type 1 immunodominant domain by L. lactis and to evaluate its immunogenicity.

METHODS

The fusion gene composed of sequences encoding the F1S1 and the signal peptide of usp45 fragments (SECF1S1) was codon optimized for protein production in L. lactis and was synthesized and inserted in-frame inside pNZ8149 plasmid. The resulting pNZ8149-SECF1S1 construct was introduced by electroporation into L. lactis cells (LL-F1S1). BALB/c mice were subcutaneously immunized with LL-F1S1 or commercial DTaP vaccine. The immune responses were investigated.

RESULTS

The LL-F1S1-immunized mice produced significant levels of specific IFN-g compared to their respective controls and DTaP-immunized mice. The F1S1- specific IgG antibody response was lower in LL-F1S1-immunized mice while the IgG2a/IgG1 ratio was higher in this group compared to the DTaP-immunized mice. Moreover, anti-F1S1 IgA antibodies were only detected in the lung homogenates of the LL-F1S1-immunized mice, suggesting the induction of a mucosal immune response.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate the feasibility of expression of F1S1 fusion protein in L. lactis. This recombinant bacterium could induce mucosal and Th1-type systemic immune responses following subcutaneous administration.

Subcutaneous administration of a fusion protein composed of pertussis toxin and filamentous hemagglutinin from Bordetella pertussis induces mucosal and systemic immune responses

Objective(s):

After decades of containment, pertussis disease, caused by Bordetella pertussis seems to be re-emerging and still remains a major cause of reported vaccine-preventable deaths worldwide. The current licensed whole-cell vaccines display reactogenicity while acellular vaccines are expensive and do not induce Th1-type immune responses that are required for optimum protection against the disease. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new vaccines and the recombinant technology seems to be the method of choice for this purpose. The present study was an attempt to develop a new, simplified, cost-effective and well-defined vaccine against Bordetella pertussis, with capacity to induce a Th1 response.

Materials and Methods:

A fusion DNA fragment encoding the N-terminal region of pertussis toxin S1 subunit and filamentous hemagglutinin type 1 immunodominant domain was constructed and the corresponding fusion protein (F1S1) was produced in Escherichia coli. F1S1 in conjunction with imiquimod was administered by subcutaneous (SC) and intranasal (IN) routes to BALB/c mice.

Results:

This vaccine formulation could elicit high levels of IFN-γ, serum IgG (with higher IgG2a/IgG1 ratio) and lung IgA after the SC and, to a lesser extent, following the IN administration.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate that the above-mentioned important proteins of B. pertussis could be successfully produced in E. coli as a single fusion protein. Furthermore, this protein could induce proper systemic and mucosal immune responses after administration via SC or IN routes.

Mucosal and systemic immune responses elicited by recombinant Lactococcus lactis expressing a fusion protein composed of pertussis toxin and filamentous hemagglutinin from Bordetella pertussis

We constructed a food-grade expression system harboring a F1S1 fusion protein of Bordetella pertussis to be produced in Lactococcus lactis NZ3900 as a new oral vaccine model against whooping cough, caused by B. pertussis. F1S1 was composed of N-terminally truncated S1 subunit of pertussis toxin and type I immunodominant domain of filamentous hemagglutinin which are both known as protective immunogens against pertussis. The recombinant L. lactis was administered via oral or intranasal routes to BALB/c mice and the related specific systemic and mucosal immune responses were then evaluated. The results indicated significantly higher levels of specific IgA in the lung extracts and IgG in sera of mucosally-immunized mice, compared to their controls. It was revealed that higher levels of IgG2a, compared to IgG1, were produced in all mucosally-immunized mice. Moreover, immunized mice developed Th1 responses with high levels of IFN-γ production by the spleen cells. These findings provide evidence for L. lactis to be used as a suitable vehicle for expression and delivery of F1S1 fusion protein to mucosa and induction of appropriate systemic and mucosal immune responses against pertussis.

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Lactococcus lactis was used for expression of fusion protein from Bordetella pertussis.

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BALB/c mice were immunized via oral or intranasal routes with recombinant L. lactis.

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Strong mucosal and Th1 systemic immune responses were developed.

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L. lactis is a suitable vehicle for expression and delivery of B. pertussis fusion protein.

Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Is Dispensable for The Immunomodulatory Function of Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth

Objective

In this study, we sought to better understand the immunoregulatory function of stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED). We studied the role of the interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO)-axis in immunoregulation of SHED compared to bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) under the same conditions.

Materials and Methods

In this cross-sectional study, recently isolated human T cells were stimulated either by mitogen or inactivated allogeneic peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). These T cells were subsequently co-cultured with, either SHED or BMMSCs in the presence or absence of 1-methyl-tryptophan (1-MT) or neutralizing anti- human-IFN-γ antibodies. In all co-cultures we evaluated lymphocyte activation as well as IDO activity.

Results

SHED, similar to conventional BMMSCs, had anti-proliferative effects on stimulated T cells and reduced their cytokine production. This property of SHED and BMMSCs was changed by IFN-γ neutralization. We detected IDO in the immunosuppressive supernatant of all co-cultures. Removal of IDO decreased the immunosuppression of BMMSCs.

Conclusion

SHED, like BMMSCs, produced the IDO enzyme. Although IFN-γ is one of inducer of IDO production in SHED, these cells were not affected by IFN-γ in the same manner as BMMSCs. Unlike BMMSCs, the IDO enzyme did not contribute to their immunosuppression and might have other cell-type specific roles.

The effect of progesterone and 17-β estradiol on membrane-bound HLA-G in adipose derived stem cells

Membrane-bound HLA-G (mHLA-G) discovery on adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) as a tolerogenic and immunosuppressive molecule was very important. Many documents have shown that HLA-G expression can be controlled via some hormones such as progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2). Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate progesterone and estradiol effects on mHLA-G in ADSCs at restricted and combination concentrations. Three independent cell lines were cultured in complete free phenol red DMEM and subcultured to achieve suffi cient cells. These cells were treated with P4, E2 and P4 plus E2 at physiologic and pregnancy concentrations for 3 days in cell culture conditions. The HLA-G positive ADSCs was measured via monoclonal anti HLA-G-FITC/MEMG-09 by means of flow cytometry in nine groups. Data were analyzed by one way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests. There were no signifi cant values of the mean percentage of HLA-G positive cells in E₂-treated and the combination of P4 plus E2-treated ADSCs compared to control cells (p value>0.05) but P4 had a signifi cant increase on mHLA-G in ADSCs (p value<0.05). High P4 concentration increased mHLA-G but E2 and the combination of P4 plus E2 could not change mHLA-G on ADSCs.

Production of IFN-γ and IL-4 Against Intact Catalase and Constructed Catalase Epitopes of Helicobacter pylori From T-Cells

Background:

Helicobacter pylori infection is highly prevalent in the developing countries. It causes gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastrocarcinoma. Treatment with drugs and antibiotics is problematic due to the following reasons: cost, resistance to antibiotics, prolonged treatment and using multiple drugs. Catalase is highly conserved among the Helicobacter species and is important to the survival of the organism. It is expressed in high amounts and is exposed to the surface of this bacterium; therefore it represents a suitable candidate vaccine antigen.

Objectives:

A suitable approach in H. pylori vaccinology is the administration of epitope based vaccines. Therefore the responses of T-cells (IFN-γ and IL-4 production) against the catalase of H. pylori were determined. Then the quality of the immune responses against intact catalase and three epitopes of catalase were compared.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, a composition of three epitopes of the H. pylori catalase was selected based on Propred software. The effect of catalase epitopes on T-cells were assayed and immune responses identified.

Results:

The results of IFN-γ, IL-4 production against antigens, epitopes, and recombinant catalase by T-cells were compared for better understanding of epitope efficiency.

Conclusions:

The current research demonstrated that epitope sequence stimulates cellular immune responses effectively. In addition, increased safety and potency as well as a reduction in time and cost were advantages of this method. Authors are going to use this sequence as a suitable vaccine candidate for further research on animal models and humans in future.

2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin decrease expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor in peripheral lymphocyte of β-thalassemia major patients

Background:

β-thalassemia major is a hereditary disease with inefficient erythropoiesis. Level of inflammatory cytokine is elevated in these patients. In this study, we investigate the effect of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), on the expression of inflammatory mediators in β-thalassemia major patient's lymphocytes.

Materials and Methods:

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients and healthy participants was isolated and cultured in favor of lymphocytes increment. Based on the treatment, we divided the cell into four groups. The orders of group's treatments were no treatment, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) treatment, TNF-α and TCDD treatment, TCDD treatment in Group 1–4, respectively. After cell culture, we extracted the cells RNA and converted them to cDNA. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to assessment relative expression of caspase-1, NLRP3, and AhR. We compared all patient groups with equal healthy (control) groups.

Results:

Results showed that expression of caspase-1 in patients (Groups 1 and 2) was significantly lower than healthy individuals (P < 0.05). Although, no significant difference was found (Groups 1, 2, and control) in AhR gene expression (P > 0.05). Expression of AhR in other groups of patients (3 and 4) was significantly lower than control groups (P < 0.05). Expression of caspase-1 in Group 4 was significantly larger than the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

We show here that chronic inflammation decrease caspase-1 expression and exposure of human lymphocytes to TCDD promote caspase-1 expression. Furthermore, activation of AhR with TCDD decreases AhR expression in lymphocytes of β-thalassemia major disease.

Simulation study of accelerator based quasi-mono-energetic epithermal neutron beams for BNCT

Filtered neutron techniques were applied to produce quasi-mono-energetic neutron beams in the energy range of 1.5-7.5 keV at the accelerator port using the generated neutron spectrum from a Li (p, n) Be reaction. A simulation study was performed to characterize the filter components and transmitted beam lines. The feature of the filtered beams is detailed in terms of optimal thickness of the primary and additive components. A computer code named "QMNB-AS" was developed to carry out the required calculations. The filtered neutron beams had high purity and intensity with low contamination from the accompanying thermal, fast neutrons and γ-rays.

Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibits effects of aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands on cell death in human lymphocytes

Background:

Activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) leads to diverse outcome in various kinds of cells. AhR activation may induce apoptosis or prevent of apoptosis and cell death. Recent studies suggest that apoptosis effects of AhR can be modulated by inflammatory cytokine like tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). In this study, we try to investigate the possible interaction of TNF-α with the 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a ligand of AhR, on peripheral lymphocytes.

Materials and Methods:

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from peripheral blood by discontinuous density gradient centrifugation on ficoll. Isolated PBMCs were divided into four groups: Control group, TNF-α administered group, TCDD administered group, co-administered group with TCDD and TNF-α. Cells were maintained for a week in lymphocyte culture condition. Then, TNF-α was added to group 2 and 4. Finally, apoptosis and necrosis were analyzed in all samples using flowcytometry.

Result:

In group 4, the mean percent of necrosis and apoptosis in TCDD treatment groups was significantly larger than other groups; (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the mean percent of cell death in TNF-α administered group and TCDD administered group (P > 0.05). However, the mean percent of cell death in co-administered group with TCDD and TNF-α was significantly lower than other groups; (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

TNF-α could significantly inhibit effects of TCDD on lymphocytes apoptosis. Combination effects of TNF-α and TCDD on lymphocyte increase cell survival.

The effect of stem cell from human exfoliated deciduous teeth on T lymphocyte proliferation

Background:

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), a specific type of adult tissue stem cell; have the immunosuppressive effects that make them valuable targets for regenerative medicine and treatment of many human illnesses. Hence, MSC have been the subject of numerous studies. The classical source of MSC is adult bone marrow (BM). Due to many shortcomings of harvesting MSC from BM, finding the alternative sources for MSC is an urgent. Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are relative new MSC populations that fulfill these criteria but their potential immunosuppressive effect has not been studied enough yet. Thus, in this work the effect of SHED on the proliferation of in vitro activated T lymphocytes were explored.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, both mitogen and alloantigen activated T cells were cultured in the presence of different numbers of SHED. In some co-cultures, activated T cells were in direct contact to MSCs and in other co-cultures; they were separated from SHED by a permeable membrane. In all co-cultures, the proliferation of T cells was measured by ELISA Bromodeoxyuridine proliferation assay.

Results:

In general, our results showed that SHED significantly suppress the proliferation of activated T cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the suppression was slightly stronger when MSCs were in physical contact to activated T cells.

Conclusion:

This study showed that SHED likewise other MSC populations can suppress the activation of T lymphocytes, which can be used instead of BM derived MSCs in many investigational and clinical applications.

CD107a Expression and IFN-γ Production as Markers for Evaluation of Cytotoxic CD3+ CD8+ T Cell Response to CMV Antigen in Women with Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion

BACKGROUND

Some evidence has shown a relationship between primary human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and pregnancy loss. The impact of CMV infection reactivation during pregnancy on adverse pregnancy outcomes is not completely understood. It is proposed that altered immune response, and therefore, recurrence or reactivation of latent CMV infection may relate to recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA); however, few data are available in this regard. To find out about any cell mediated defect and reactivation of latent CMV infection in women with RPL, cellular immunity to the virus has been evaluated by specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response to CMV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a case control study, CTL CD107a expression and in- tercellular IFN-γ production in response to CMV pp65 antigen and staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB) in women with RSA were assessed by flow cytometric analysis. Forty-four cases with history of recurrent pregnancy and forty-four controls with history of successful pregnancies were included. The FACSCaliber flow cytometer were used for analysis.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed between CD107a expression and IFN-γ production in response to CMV PP65 antigen in RPL patients and control group. How- ever, the cytotoxic response to SEB antigen in patients with RPL was significantly lower than control group (p=0.042).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study show that impaired CD107a expression and IFN-γ production as CTL response to CMV does not appear to be a major contrib- uting and immune incompetence factor in patients with RPL, but cytotoxic T cell response defect to other antigens requires to be assessed further in these patients.

Comparing the immunoregulatory effects of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) have been introduced recently and possess characteristics similar to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Because of their convenient accessibility and safety of harvest, SHED can be a preferable source for the ever-increasing MSCs' applications  While they are new, their immunoproperties have not been adequately studied. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of SHED on T lymphocytes and compare it to conventional MSCs (BMMSCs).At first the isolated T lymphocytes were activated specifically/nonspecifically in vitro and cocultured with SHED or BMMSCs under the same conditions, subsequently their proliferation and cytokine secretion (IL-2 and IFN-γ) were measured.In our experiment, BMMSCs and SHED inhibit the proliferation and cytokine production of both PHA and alloantigen stimulated T lymphocytes in a dose-dependent manner. In direct and indirect contact to T lymphocytes, the inhibition of BMMSCs (but not of SHED) was significantly different The cytokine production from activated T cells was affected differently by two types of MSCs. The inhibition decreased by the separation of lymphocytes and MSCs by a semipermeable membrane, but it was not abolished.This study showed that SHED suppress the activation of human T lymphocytes in vitro like other MSCs. Compared to BMMSCs, this suppression was alleviated. In the equal conditions, the pattern of immune-modulation of BMMSCs and SHED was different, suggesting that SHED do not exert the exact mechanisms of BMMSCs' immunosuppression., This finding should be verified by further studies focused on the detailed mechanisms  of the immunomodulation of SHED and also BMMSCs.

Procalcitonin: a reliable marker for the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis

OBJECTIVES

In the last few years, serum procalcitonin has been proposed as an early marker of infections in neonates, with varying results. In this study, we aimed to investigate the value of procalcitonin, and C- reactive protein in establishing the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Blood samples were collected at admission from 69 neonates with suspected infection (admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Alzahra and Dr Beheshti Hospital in and Fatema-Zahra in Najafabad from May 2005 to April 2006). Patients were categorized in different groups according to clinical symptoms of sepsis, bacteriological and laboratory results. Group I consisted of 20 newborns with positive blood cultures and other biological tests which suggested infection. Group II consisted of 49 neonates with negative blood cultures but had two or three of clinical signs of sepsis. The control group included 18 healthy neonates with physiological hyperbilirubinemia and no clinical and biological data of infection, referred to the hospital for bilirubin determination. Procalcitonin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined by immunoluminometric assay and nephlometry method respectively.

RESULTS

Mean levels of procalcitonin and CRP in septic neonates (group I) were significantly higher than the other two groups (P< 0.005). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were determined for all markers and compared with each other.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that procalcitonin is a better marker than CRP in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.

Evaluation of Fas positive sperm and complement mediated lysis in subfertile individuals

PURPOSE

Evaluation of Fas receptor on surface of sperm, as an apoptotic marker, using flow cytometry and confirming the results using an antibody-antigen complex through the classic complement pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Semen samples were obtained from 10 fertile and 73 infertile individuals with diagnoses of male factor infertility. Expressions of Fas receptor and phosphatidyl serine on sperm were assessed by flow cytometry. Fas expression was further assessed by antibody-antigen complex through the complement pathway. Lysis was detected via PI (propidium iodide) staining.

RESULTS

The mean Fas expression was considerably lower than previously reported values. No significant differences in the percentage of PI were detected before and after activation of the classic complement pathway. Annexin V positive samples showed low Fas expression.

CONCLUSION

Our results have confirmed the presence of selected apoptotic markers such as Fas or phosphatidyl serine on ejaculate sperm, but suggest that Fas expression is low. Further studies are required to investigate the "abortive apoptosis" mechanism through Fas/Fas L.

Phenotypic characterizations and comparison of adult dental stem cells with adipose-derived stem cells

OBJECTIVES

Mesenchymal stem cells or "multipotent stromal cells" are heterogeneous cell population with self-renewal and multilinage differentiation. The aim of this study was to examine and compare the expression of important stem cell surface markers on two populations of mesenchymal stem cells, one derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth and the other derived from human adipose tissue. These new stem cells will offer a promising avenue for prevention and reversal of many human diseases such as type 1 diabetes and prevention of liver fibrotic process.

METHODS

Mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and cultured from human adipose tissue and dental pulp of human exfoliated deciduous teeth. The cultured cells then were harvested and stained by different fluorescent labeled monoclonal antibodies against surface markers and were analyzed using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Both different cell populations expressed CD44, CD90 and CD13 (stem cell markers) with similar intensity. They did not express hematopoietic markers (CD11b, CD19 and CD34), and lymphocyte or leukocyte antigens CD3, CD7, CD20, CD14, CD45, CCR5 (CD195), CD11b and CD10 on their surfaces. Two different cell types demonstrated different levels of expression in CD56 and CD146. Mesenchymal stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth were positive for CD105 and were negative for CCR3 and CCR4 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Both cell populations derived from adipose tissue and dental pulp showed common phenotypic markers of mesenchymal stem cells. In conclusion, mesenchymal stem cells could be isolated and cultured successfully from dental pulp of human exfoliated deciduous teeth, they are very good candidates for treatment and prevention of human diseases.

Distribution of HLA-B*27 alleles in patients with ankylosing spondylitis in Iran

BACKGROUND

HLA-B*27 is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). It represents a family of alleles that differ among ethnic groups.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of HLA-B*27 alleles in AS patients and healthy controls in Isfahan (Iran).

METHODS

Sixty AS patients and 430 healthy blood donors were selected. All subjects were HLA-B*27 positive by flow cytometry. HLA-B*27 subtypes were determined by PCR-SSP.

RESULTS

Forty patients (66.7%) and 17 controls (3.95%) were HLA-B*27 positive. Subtypes detected by PCR-SSP were B*2705, B*2702, B*2704 and B*2707. One patient was B*2702/B*2710. No significant difference was found in the distribution of these alleles between AS patients and controls.

CONCLUSION

Although Caucasian subtypes are predominant among Iranians, this population is characterized by a combination of both specific Caucasian and Oriental subtypes. However such results should be interpreted carefully because of the small sample size in our investigation and definitive conclusion awaits more ethnic-group studies.

Evaluation of CD11b expression on peripheral blood neutrophils for early detection of neonatal sepsis

Neonatal sepsis is a disease of infants who are less than 1 month of age. These infants are clinically ill, and their blood culture are positive for bacteria. The reported incidence of neonatal sepsis for all infants is 1 to 10 per 1000 live births. The mortality rate is 4.2-26%. The clinical signs are not specific and diagnosis of neonatal sepsis is one of the most difficult tasks in clinical medicine. The aim of this work was determination of CD11b sensitivity and specificity for early detection of neonatal sepsis. We studied 65 neonates with gestational age of 27 to 38 weeks who were suspected for sepsis within the 28 days of life. Whole blood was obtained from neonates to determine CD11b expression on peripheral blood neutrophils by flow cytometry. C-Reactive protein (CRP) was measured qualitatively. Neonates were divided into two groups. Classification was based on the result of the blood culture. In the sepsis group all of the neonates (n=8) showed positive blood culture and clinical symptoms. In the suspected group (n=57) the neonates showed clinical signs but blood cultures were negative. Sensitivity and specificity of CD11b were 75%, 100% respectively. Also positive and negative predictive values of CD11b were 100% and 86% respectively. Results of present study and previous studies showed that measurement of neutrophil surface markers can be useful for diagnosis of infection in the early phases. Also, the quantitative measurement of CRP in addition to CD11b further enhances the ability to diagnose infections and improves sensitivity and negative predictive value by 100%.

Immunoglobulin Class (IgG, IgM) Determination by Dithiothreitol in Sensitized Kidney Transplant Candidates

Immunoglobulin class plays an important role in the histocompatibility crossmatch test to predict hyperacute rejection in kidney transplantation. The existing data indicates that immunoglobulin (Ig) M antibodies, particularly when they are autoantibodies, are not deleterious to the renal allograft. We used the reducing agent dithiotreitol (DTT) to inactivate IgM but not IgG in the crossmatch assay to help sensitized patients have the chance for successful transplantation. In this descriptive study, 57 candidates for kidney transplantation with final positive crossmatches who had a history of panel-reactive antibody (PRA) greater than 30% were selected. Two of 57 patients had systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). The sera of patients were treated by DTT and then measured for cytotoxicity against donor lymphocytes and a panel of 12 cells using the complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) method. Autocrossmatch was also performed to differentiate autoantibodies and alloantibodies by the CDC method. Of the 57 patients, six subjects (10.53%) had IgM and 51 patients (89.47%) IgG in their serum against donor lymphocytes. Also against panel cells, 39 of 57 patients (68.43%) had IgG, three patients (5.26%) had IgM, and 15 patients (26.31%) had both IgG and IgM antibodies. Autolymphocytotoxic antibodies were detected in 1.75% patients (1 of 57) who had SLE. According to our results, 5.26% of the patients who were IgM-positive and IgG-negative for both crossmatch and PRA assays may experience successful kidney transplantation.

Application of 8-amino-N-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)naphthyl amine as a neutral ionophore in the construction of a lanthanum ion-selective sensor

In this work, a novel La(III) membrane sensor based on 8-amino-N-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)naphthylamine (AIP) is presented. This electrode reveals good selectivity for La(3+) over a wide variety of lanthanides metal ions. Theoretical calculations and conductance study of AIP to lanthanum and some other metal ions were carried out and confirmed selectivity toward La(III) ions. The electrode comprises 7% AIP, 30% PVC, 61% NPOE and 2% KTpClPB. The sensor displays a linear dynamic range between 1.0 x 10(-7) and 1.0 x 10(-1) M, with a nice Nernstian slope of 20.3+/-0.3 mV per decade and a detection limit of 8.0 x 10(-8) M. The potentiometric response is independent of pH in the range of 4.0-9.0. The proposed sensor posses the advantage of short response time, and especially, very good selectivity towards a large number of cations, such as Sm(III), Ce(III, Pr(III), Yb(III) and Hg(II), low detection limit and wide linear dynamic range in comparison with former ones. The electrode can be used for at least seven weeks without any considerable divergence in the potentials. It was used as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of La(III) ions with EDTA. The sensor was applied to the determination of La(III) ions concentration in binary mixtures. It was also applied for the determination of fluoride ions in mouth wash preparations.

Peripheral neuropathy in systemic lupus erythematosus in Southern Iran

The prevalence of clinically apparent peripheral neuropathy in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is reported to be between 2-27%. The purpose of this descriptive cross sectional study was to determine the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy (PN) using electrodiangostic criteria in SLE in southern Iran. Subgroup analysis was performed to determine whether PN correlated with disease activity, serum immune markers and duration of disease and clinical findings. The right median, ulnar, peroneal, tibial and sural sensory and motor nerve conduction studies were conducted in 64 SLE cases. PN in our study was defined as any abnormal values in sensory action potential, motor action potential, or conduction velocity affecting 2 or more nerves. Of 64 patients studied, PN was present in 12 patients (18.7%), of which 4 (6.6%) were symptomatic. There was no significant correlation between PN and serum immune markers, and there was a trend showing decreased motor and sensory action potential amplitude in our SLE group compared to the controls. This observation was also seen in active disease group where compared to inactive disease. The amplitude of the action potential and then NCV were more often affected than distal latency, and sensory nerves were more susceptible than motor nerves and regarding the results electrodiognostic study is more sensitive than clinical evidence in detecting PN in SLE.

Monte Carlo simulation of x-ray spectra in diagnostic radiology and mammography using MCNP4C

The general purpose Monte Carlo N-particle radiation transport computer code (MCNP4C) was used for the simulation of x-ray spectra in diagnostic radiology and mammography. The electrons were transported until they slow down and stop in the target. Both bremsstrahlung and characteristic x-ray production were considered in this work. We focus on the simulation of various target/filter combinations to investigate the effect of tube voltage, target material and filter thickness on x-ray spectra in the diagnostic radiology and mammography energy ranges. The simulated x-ray spectra were compared with experimental measurements and spectra calculated by IPEM report number 78. In addition, the anode heel effect and off-axis x-ray spectra were assessed for different anode angles and target materials and the results were compared with EGS4-based Monte Carlo simulations and measured data. Quantitative evaluation of the differences between our Monte Carlo simulated and comparison spectra was performed using student's t-test statistical analysis. Generally, there is a good agreement between the simulated x-ray and comparison spectra, although there are systematic differences between the simulated and reference spectra especially in the K-characteristic x-rays intensity. Nevertheless, no statistically significant differences have been observed between IPEM spectra and the simulated spectra. It has been shown that the difference between MCNP simulated spectra and IPEM spectra in the low energy range is the result of the overestimation of characteristic photons following the normalization procedure. The transmission curves produced by MCNP4C have good agreement with the IPEM report especially for tube voltages of 50 kV and 80 kV. The systematic discrepancy for higher tube voltages is the result of systematic differences between the corresponding spectra.

Leukemia markers expression of peripheral blood vs bone marrow blasts using flow cytometry

BACKGROUND

Flow cytometric techniques are widely used in clinical hematology. Characterization of leukemias by immunotyping is particularly helpful when the morphology is difficult to interpret. The major advantage of using immune markers by flow cytometry is the identification of particular leukemia subtype, not recognized by morphologic criteria, which may have prognostic significance. Current literature suggests when peripheral blood (PB) is consisted of 30% blasts or higher diagnosis of acute leukemia is most likely. However, bone marrow aspiration may also be performed as a confirmatory diagnosis. Immunotyping of PB and BM in leukemias not only determine the decision making for a specific therapeutic regimen, but also is a practical prognostic indicator.

MATERIAL/METHODS

We evaluated 18 patients with acute myeloid Leukemia (AML) and 13 patients with acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL). In all cases, the amount of blasts in PB was 30% or higher. Two ml PB and BM samples from each patient was collected. Following the preparation process, expression of markers was detected by using flow cytometry. The panel of monoclonal antibodies used in this study were consisted of CD3, CD7, CD5 (for T lymphocytes lineage); CD19, CD22, CD20, CD10 (for B lymphocytes lineage); CD13, CD14, CD33 (for myeloid subsets); and TDT, HLA-DR, CD45 (non lineage restricted). Expression levels of PB and BM markers were compared by using statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed apparent discrepancies for some markers in ALL group. However, in AML patients most of the selected markers have shown considerable correlation between PB and BM samples. Only four markers (CD13, CD14, CD45, and HLA-DR) showed positive correlation. In contrast, most markers (CD3, CD5, CD13, CD14, CD19, CD45, HLA-DR, and TdT) showed strong correlation between PB and BM samples in AML group.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggests that targeted gating strategy for blast population as well as selection of a suitable panel of monoclonal antibodies may be essential for diagnosis of leukemia resulting in similar immunotyping pattern in PB and BM. Although our results are preliminary, this can minimize the necessity of BM aspiration for leukemia patients.

IgG autoantibody activity in normal mouse serum is controlled by IgM

In the serum of normal BALB/c mice, IgG antibody reactivity to mouse actin and tubulin, DNA, and TNP groups was very low compared to that of the IgM. This activity was considerably increased when IgG was separated, by affinity chromatography on protein A-Sepharose, whereas no difference in the IgM activity was observed. Addition of IgM to IgG isolated from the same serum resulted in the inhibition of IgG binding to these Ag. Isolation of IgG antibodies on actin, TNP, and tubulin immunoadsorbents has indicated that at least part of the IgG antibodies is polyreactive. In order to understand this inhibition better, experiments with F(ab')2 fragments of IgG were performed. IgM inhibited the binding of F(ab')2 to the antigens in a dose-dependent manner and reacted with immobilized F(ab')2. IgM isolated on F(ab')2 immunoadsorbent, as compared to the initial IgM preparation, were less active toward the Ag but more inhibitory for IgG binding to the Ag. In some pathologic situations, IgM failed to inhibit some IgG antibody activities. The anti-DNA IgG activity from (NZB x NZW)F1 mice was not affected by autologous IgM. Similarly the anti-tubulin IgG from mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi were less inhibited by IgM from autologous serum than antitubulin IgG from normal mice. These results are compatible with the existence in normal mice of an idiotypic-like network, regulating via an IgM population in the serum, the binding of IgG autoantibodies to self Ag. Modifications of this idiotype-anti-idiotype system might lead to the expression and/or expansion of autoreactive IgG-producing clones.

IgG autoantibody activity in normal mouse serum is controlled by IgM

In the serum of normal BALB/c mice, IgG antibody reactivity to mouse actin and tubulin, DNA, and TNP groups was very low compared to that of the IgM. This activity was considerably increased when IgG was separated, by affinity chromatography on protein A-Sepharose, whereas no difference in the IgM activity was observed. Addition of IgM to IgG isolated from the same serum resulted in the inhibition of IgG binding to these Ag. Isolation of IgG antibodies on actin, TNP, and tubulin immunoadsorbents has indicated that at least part of the IgG antibodies is polyreactive. In order to understand this inhibition better, experiments with F(ab')2 fragments of IgG were performed. IgM inhibited the binding of F(ab')2 to the antigens in a dose-dependent manner and reacted with immobilized F(ab')2. IgM isolated on F(ab')2 immunoadsorbent, as compared to the initial IgM preparation, were less active toward the Ag but more inhibitory for IgG binding to the Ag. In some pathologic situations, IgM failed to inhibit some IgG antibody activities. The anti-DNA IgG activity from (NZB x NZW)F1 mice was not affected by autologous IgM. Similarly the anti-tubulin IgG from mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi were less inhibited by IgM from autologous serum than antitubulin IgG from normal mice. These results are compatible with the existence in normal mice of an idiotypic-like network, regulating via an IgM population in the serum, the binding of IgG autoantibodies to self Ag. Modifications of this idiotype-anti-idiotype system might lead to the expression and/or expansion of autoreactive IgG-producing clones.