Hematological parameters in patients with recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) known as recurrent aphthous ulcer is a common and painful ulcerations in oral cavity. It has been suggested that hematological parameters seems to be considered as an etiologic factor. So, this meta-analysis and systematic review was aimed to examine the relationship between RAS and hematological parameters.

METHODS

Relevant studies were found using online international databases including Scopus, Science direct, Web of science (ISI), PubMed, and Google Scholar search engine between 2000 and October 2023. The quality of all papers was determined by NOS checklist. Heterogeneity between the results of primary studies was evaluated with I-square index and publication bias was performed by Egger's test and funnel plots. Also, sensitivity analysis was done to check the effect of each of the primary studies on the overall estimate. Also, the statistical analyses were done using Stata software Ver. 11.

RESULTS

By combining the results of primary studies, the standardized mean difference (SMD) of vitamin B12, ferritin, folic acid, hemoglobin, iron and zinc indices with a 95% confidence interval (CI) between the case (patients with RAS) and control (Healthy) groups were estimated -0.52(-0.89, -0.14), -0.20(-0.51, 0.11), -0.42(-0.95, 0.11), -0.58(-0.90, -0.27), 0.01(-0.12, 0.15), -0.33(-0.81, 0.14) respectively. The patients with vitamin B12, ferritin, folic acid, and iron deficiencies and reduced hemoglobin (Hb) level reported 2.93(2.28, 3.78), 2.50(1.48, 4.22), 1.51(0.53, 4.29), 1.46(0.70, 3.03), and 2.14(1.38, 3.32), times more susceptible to develop RAS than healthy individuals.

CONCLUSION

The results of the meta-analysis indicated that the SMD of vitamin B12 serum and Hb levels in the case group was 52%. Our result have also showed that the odds ratio of vitamin B12, ferritin deficiencies, and decreased Hb level in case group was 2.93, 2.50, and 2.14 times more than healthy group.

Is human cytomegalovirus a potential risk factor for mood disorders? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Mood disorders are among the common mental disorders worldwide. Because of the persistence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the body and nervous system, this virus can be activated when the immune system is weakened and continues to exert its destructive effects throughout life. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence and association of human cytomegalovirus with mood disorders. Eligible articles were extracted using online international databases Science Direct, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar between 2000 and 2023. After quality assessment and specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of eight eligible articles were included in the meta-analysis. Our finding showed that the seropositivity of CMV in mood disorders was 51.6% (95% CI; 42.8-60.4). There were statistical differences between mood disorders and control groups regarding the seropositivity of CMV 1.327% (95% CI; 13.27-10.45). The results of the publication bias using the Egger test confirmed no publication bias in each sub-group. The results of this meta-analysis study demonstrated that CMV infection might have associations with the incidence of mood disorders. Furthermore, we found that there were statistical differences between mood disorders and control groups regarding the seropositivity of CMV.

A seromolecular study to determine the prevalence of cytomegalovirus in pregnant women referred to health centers in the north of Iran

Background and Objectives

Because of the controversial aspects of the CMV virus during pregnancy, it should be considered a serious health threat, especially in developing countries. The present seromolecular study aimed to determine cytomegalovirus prevalence in pregnant women referred to health centers in the north of Iran.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twenty-five pregnant women who were referred to health centers in Mazandaran province for regular health checks were randomly selected from Jan 2022 to Oct 2022. To detect the presence of the CMV genome and specific IgM and IgG antibodies against cytomegalovirus, the conventional PCR and ELISA tests were applied respectively.

Results

All 125 pregnant women that attended the study were from Mazandaran province with a mean age of 30 years ranging from 20 to 42 years. The result showed that 2 (1.6%), 92 (73.6%), and 2 (1.6%) of the cases were positive for IgM, IgG, and IgM/IgG, respectively. The PCR test results indicated that the CMV DNA was present in 10 (8%) pregnant women. Our study shows that all PCR-positive cases were negative for the IgM test. Of the 10 PCR-positive samples 3 were positive and 1 was suspicious for the IgG test.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that there is an urgent need for vaccination or other strategies to prevent and treat congenital CMV infection. Reducing the burden of congenital CMV infection requires global awareness. Further studies are recommended to obtain accurate estimates of the risk of congenital CMV infection.

Serosal membrane tuberculosis in Iran: A comprehensive review of evidences

Tuberculosis (TB) is among the most common cause of serositis. There are many uncertainties in diagnostic and therapeutic approach to serous membranes tuberculosis. Our aim in the present review is to discuss the regional facilities for timely diagnosis, rapid decision-making and appropriate treatment regarding to serous membranes tuberculosis; with emphasis on situation in Iran. A comprehensive literature searches about the status of serous membranes tuberculosis in Iran were performed in English databases including Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Pub Med, and Web of Sciences, Persian SID databases, between 2000 and 2021. The main findings of the present review are as follow: a) pleural tuberculosis is more common than pericardial or peritoneal tuberculosis. b) Clinical manifestations are non-specific and so non-diagnostic. c) Smear and culture, PCR and characteristic granulomatous reaction have been used for definitive TB diagnosis by physicians. d) With Adenosine Deaminase Assays and Interferon-Gamma Release Assays in mononuclear dominant fluid, a possible diagnosis of TB is proposed by experienced physicians in Iran. e) In area of endemic for tuberculosis including Iran, a possible diagnosis of TB is enough to begin empirical treatment. f) In patients with uncomplicated tuberculosis serositis, treatment is similar to pulmonary tuberculosis. First line drugs are prescribed unless evidence of MDR-TB is detected. g) The prevalence of drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Iran is between 1% and 6%, and are treated by empirical standardized treatment. h) It is not known whether adjuvant corticosteroids are effective in preventing long term complication. i) Surgery may be recommended for MDR-TB. Tamponade or constrictive pericarditis and intestinal obstruction. In conclusion, it is recommended to consider serosal tuberculosis in patients who have unknown mononuclear dominant effusion and prolonged constitutional symptoms. Experimental treatment with first line anti-TB drugs can be started based on possible diagnostic findings.

The preclinical study of 177Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY as a potential therapeutic agent against HER2 overexpressed cancer

BACKGROUND

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) has evolved in cancer therapy and diagnosis. LTVSPWY, as a peptide, can target HER2 receptor; on the other hand, ¹⁷⁷Lu emits β^- which is helpful for cancer therapy. The radiolabeling of LTVSPWY with ¹⁷⁷Lu results in a therapeutic agent (¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY) capable of cancer treatment.

METHODS

¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY was prepared with high radiochemical purity (RCP). The stability was investigated in saline and human serum. The radiotracer affinity toward the SKOV-3 cell line with overexpression of the HER2 receptor was evaluated. Then the impact of the radiotracer on the colony formation of the SKOV-3 cell line was investigated with colony assay. Moreover, the biodistribution of this radiotracer in SKOV-3 xenograft tumor-bearing nude mice were also studied to determine the radiotracer accumulation in the tumor site. The mice were treated with ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY and subjected to histopathological evaluation.

RESULTS

The RCP of ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY after radiolabeling and stability tests was more than 97.7%. The radiotracer displayed high affinity toward the SKOV-3 cell line (K_D = 6.6 ± 3.2 nM). Treatment of the SKOV-3 cell line with the radiotracer reduces the SKOV-3 colony survival to less than 3% for 5 MBq of the radiotracer. Tumor-to-muscle (T/M) ratio is the highest at 48 h and 1 h post-injection (2.3 and 4.75, respectively). The histopathological study also confirms the cellular damage to the tumor tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-LTVSPWY can recognize HER2 receptors in vivo and in vitro; hence, it can serve as a therapeutic agent.

Association of hospitalization rate, mortality and CD4 T cell count with comorbidity of COVID-19 and HIV: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Epidemiological results have shown that some factors such as co-infection of SARS-COV-2 and HIV is associated with COVID-19 severity, rates of hospitalization, and mortality. Thus, this meta-analysis aims to assess the odds ratio of hospitalization rate, mortality and average standardized difference of CD4 counts in COVID-19/ HIV co-infection patients vs control group.This meta-analysis was examined by PRISMA-P checklist. Studies were obtained from online databases such as Science direct, Pub med, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google scholar using Mesh و Non-Mesh keywords. NOS checklist was used to assess the quality of studies. According to the random effect models, the odds ratio of hospitalization, mortality, and average standardized difference of CD4 counts was estimated. Data analysis was performed using Stata ver.14 software. By the use of strict inclusion criteria, 8 initial studies entered into the meta-analysis. The odds ratio of hospitalization and mortality rates in COVID-19 patients with HIV was 1.67(95% CI: 0.76, 3.71) and 0.80 (95% CI: 0.57, 1.11) times higher than that of the control group. In this meta-analysis, there was no observed a statistically significant difference in the rate of hospitalization, mortality and CD4 counts in COVID-19 patients with HIV and the control group. However, the hospitalization rate in COVID-19/ HIV co-infection patients was 67% higher than the control group. The similarity results between two groups can probably be attributed to some factors, such as the low number of COVID-19/ HIV co-infection patients and the presence of random error, HIV patients receiving antiretroviral therapy, and early hospitalization in COVID-19/ HIV co-infection patients.

Seroprevalence and geographical distribution of parvovirus B19 antibodies in pregnant women: A-meta analysis

Parvovirus B19 has been identified to infect pregnant women and cause anemia, spontaneous abortion, and fetal death. Given the significance of parvovirus B19 complications, this study aims to determine the seroprevalence and geographical distribution of parvovirus B19 antibodies in pregnant women to improve health control policies in the community. Online international databases and national Persian databases were used to define appropriate studies published between 2000 and January 2021. The quality of all papers was determined by a Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) checklist. The statistical analyses were performed using the Stata version 11 package (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA) software. Heterogeneity among the primary studies was calculated using Cochran's Q-test and I2 index. The Egger test and the funnel plot chart with a significance level of less than 0.1 were used to evaluate the publishing bias. The seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 IgG antibodies among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Iran was assessed in 12 primary studies. Our finding showed that the seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 IgG antibodies among pregnant women varies from 21% to 76%. Combining the results of 5 primary studies based on the random effect model, the seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 IgG antibody among pregnant women in Iran was estimated to be 54% (95% CI:33-76). The seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies has been reported in 9 studies. By combining the results of these studies using a random effect model, the seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 IgM antibody among pregnant women was estimated to be 3% (95% CI: 1-6). Generally, it is suggested that appropriate screening programs should be performed for the treatment and prevention of diseases. According to this point, the prevalence of parvovirus B19 is low among pregnant women, but it can cause serious manifestations such as hydrops fetalis and severe anemia, therefore, antibody determination using ELISA can be recommended for all pregnant women.

Efficacy and Safety of Atezolizumab Monotherapy or Combined Therapy with Chemotherapy in Patients with Metastatic Triple-negative Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

INTRODUCTION

Several successful attempts have been recorded with PD-L1 blockade via atezolizumab monotherapy or combination therapy with chemotherapy in patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). Due to the lack of a large-scale study, we present a meta-analysis aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of this promising strategy in patients with mTNBC.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases to identify eligible RCTs. Twelve studies, including 2479 mTBNC patients treated with atezolizumab monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy, were included up to January 2022. The PRISMA checklist protocol and the I2 statistic were applied for quality assessment and heterogeneity tests of the selected trials, respectively. Fixed and random-effects models were estimated based on the heterogeneity tests, and statistical analysis was performed using CMA.

RESULTS

Our pooled findings demonstrated that the median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 16.526 and 5.814 months in mTNBC patients, respectively. Furthermore, when comparing efficacy indicators between PD-L1-positive and PD-L1-negative groups, mTNBC patients with PD-L1 had better OS, PFS, and ORR than PD-L1-negative patients. Also, the immune-related adverse event incident for alopecia was higher (51.9%) than other complications across atezolizumab therapy.

CONCLUSION

Moreover, the pooled analysis indicated that the overall rate of lung metastasis following atezolizumab therapy was 42.8%, which was higher than the rates of metastasis in bone (26.9%), brain (5.4%), and lymph node (6.5%). Atezolizumab showed a manageable safety profile and had promising and durable anti-tumor efficacy in TMBC patients. Higher PD-L1 expression may be closely correlated with better clinical efficacy.

Differential gene expression of SARS-CoV-2 transcriptome provides insight into the design of more sensitive diagnostic tests

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is being addressed through RT-PCR, a frontline diagnostic technique. We evaluated gene expression patterns to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of current diagnostic tests. We downloaded relevant next-generation sequencing (NGS) data from the Sequence Read Archive (SRA) database, checked for quality, and mapped them onto the target reference sequence. It was determined that ORF1ab, N, S, and ORF8 genes are mainly expressed based on the results of the quantitative evaluation after normalization by HPRT and elimination of insufficient expression data. ORF8, ORF3a, and M genes were found to have higher expression values than the E gene as a routine RT-PCR detector gene (p*0.05). M gene expression values are also close to ORF8 values. Taking into account the importance of differential expression of genes in the design of diagnostic kits as well as the findings of from this study, it is likely that the M gene is worth further investigation due to its high expression and low mutation rate.

Association between Human Papillomavirus and Oral Cancer in Iranian Clinical Samples: A Meta-Analysis Review

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignancies and is a serious problem worldwide. The role of HPV in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma has been studied in several researches. This present review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the relation between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oral cancer.

Methods

Relevant studies were found using online international databases including Science direct, Web of science (ISI), PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google scholar, to determine relevant studies published between 2000 and Jan 2020. Suitable studies were selected and assessed by two independent researchers. The quality of all papers were determined by a checklist. Heterogeneity assay among the primary studies was evaluated by Cochran's Q test and I2 index. The statistical analyses were done using Stata SE, V.11 software. Trim and Fill method was applied to confirm the validity of the results.

Results

This meta-analysis consists of 8 primary studies on the incidence of HPV infection in Iranian patients with oral diseases. The odds ratio between HPV infection and risk of oral cancer was 4.00 (95%CI: 2.31, 6.93).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis showed associations between prevalence of HPV infection and oral cancer among Iranian patients. The chance of developing oral cancer among HPV positive patients was higher than that in HPV negative patients.

Differential gene expression analysis of common target genes for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 using real time-PCR

COVID-19 currently is the main cause of the severe acute respiratory disease and fatal outcomes in human beings worldwide. Several genes are used as targets for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, including the RDRP, N, and E genes. The present study aimed to determine the RDRP, N, and E genes expressions of SARS-CoV- 2 in clinical samples. For this purpose, 100 SARS-CoV-2 positive samples were collected from diagnostic laboratories of Mazandaran province, Iran. After RNA extraction, the real-time reverse transcription PCR (real-time RT-PCR) assay was performed for differential gene expressions' analysis of N, E, and RDRP. The threshold cycle (Ct) values for N, RDRP, and E targets of 100 clinical samples for identifying SARS-CoV-2 were then evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). This result suggests N gene as a potential target for the detection of the SARS-CoV-2, since it was observed to be highly expressed in the nasopharyngeal or oropharynges of COVID-19 patients (P < 0.0001). Herein, we showed that SARS-CoV- 2 genes were differentially expressed in the host cells. Therefore, to reduce obtaining false negative results and to increase the sensitivity of the available diagnostic tests, the target genes should be carefully selected based on the most expressed genes in the cells.

Evaluation of the Presence of Bacterial and Viral Agents in the Semen of Infertile Men: A Systematic and Meta-Analysis Review Study

Objectives

Infections in the male genitourinary system with bacterial and viral agents may play a significant role in male infertility. These agents usually infect the urethra, seminal vesicles, prostate, epididymis, vas deferens, and testes retrograde through the reproductive system. A meta-analysis review study was performed to evaluate the presence of bacterial and viral agents in the semen of infertile men and its correlation with infertility.

Methods

Relevant cross-sectional and/or case-control studies were found by an online review of national and international databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google scholar), and suitable studies were selected. A checklist determined the qualities of all studies. Heterogeneity assay among the primary studies was evaluated by Cochran’s Q test and I² index (significance level 50%). A statistical analysis was conducted using the Comprehensive Stata ver. 14 package (StataCorp, College Station, TX, United States).

Results

Seventy-two studies were included in this meta-analysis. Publication bias was compared with Egger’s test, and the impact of each research on overall estimate was evaluated by sensitivity analysis. In 56 studies, the rate of bacterial infections in the semen of infertile men was 12% [95% confidence interval (CI): 10–13]. Also, in 26 case-control studies, the association of infertility in men with bacterial infections was evaluated. The results show that the odds ratio of infertility in men exposed to bacterial infections is 3.31 times higher than that in non-infected men (95% CI: 2.60–4.23). Besides, in 9 studies that examined the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1), herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2), and herpes simplex virus 1-2 (HSV1-2) in infertile men, the frequency of these viruses was 15% (95% CI: 9–21). In 6 case-control studies, the association between human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and HPV and male infertility was evaluated. The chance of male infertility due to exposure to these viruses was 2.24 times higher than those without exposure to these viruses (CI 95%: 1.9–4.52). The results show that the chance of infertility in men exposed to bacteria was significantly higher than that in the uninfected population.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis showed that viral and bacterial infections are a risk factor and could impair male fertility potential. Moreover, our study supports the hypothesis that bacterial and viral infections of the genital tract correlate positively with impairment of sperm quality in the male population.

Seroprevalence of SARS-COV-2 antibodies among health-care workers exposed to COVID-19 patients in a large reference hospital, Iran

Background and Objectives

Health care workers (HCWs) are a high-risk group for acquiring and transmitting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Aim of the study was the evaluation of seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in a random sample of HCWs at a large acute care hospital in Iran.

Materials and Methods

We collected blood samples of 180 medical staffs from September 22, 2020 to January 26, 2021. The enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) tests were used for evaluation of the presence of IgG antibodies. Participants completed a self-report questionnaire, comprising demographics, occupational, the work area, and personal protection data.

Results

Of the 180 HCWs who participated in this study, 44 (24.4%) were seropositive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. The percentage of IgG positivity was higher in males than females (P<0.05). Also, there was statistically significant difference between presence of the antibodies and the occupation, location, and infecting family members with Covid -1 (P<0.05). Other factors did not associate significantly to antibody presence against SARS-CoV-2 (P>0.05).

Conclusion

According to this point that the number of COVID-19 cases is still growing rapidly among HCWs. So, the epidemiological estimate of SARS-CoV-2 infection remains a major challenge that is needed to prevent the spread of infection in the hospitals.

Combination therapy of tocilizumab and steroid for COVID-19 patients: A meta-analysis

The coagulation markers, pro‐inflammatory cytokines (such as IL‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐a) and lymphopenia are associated with the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease. The use of anti‐inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids (CS) or tosilizumab (TCZ), has been suggested for the treatment of advanced stage of COVID‐19 and the reduction of mechanical ventilators and mortality. The aim of this meta‐analysis is to determine the role of combination therapy with tocilizumab and steroids in COVID‐19 patients. Relevant studies were found using online international databases, and suitable studies were selected and assessed by two independent researchers. The quality of all papers was determined by a checklist. Heterogeneity assay among the primary studies was evaluated by Cochran's Q‐test and I2 index. The statistical analyses were done using the Stata ver. 14 package (StataCorp) software. Publication bias was estimated through Egger's test, and the impact of each study on the overall estimate was assessed by sensitivity analysis. Five studies were entered into this meta‐analysis. The results of these studies showed that the risk of death for COVID‐19 patients treated with the combination of corticosteroids and tocilizumab compared to tocilizumab and the control group was 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–1.50) and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.31–0.74), respectively. This meta‐analysis showed that the risk of death in COVID‐19 patients who were treated with corticosteroids and tocilizumab was lower than the tocilizumab alone and control groups (26% and 52%, respectively).

The use of anti‐inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids (CS) and tosilizumab (TCZ), might be useful for the treatment of advanced stage of COVID‐19. The aim of our study was to determine the role of combination therapy with corticosteroids (CS) and tosilizumab (TCZ). This study showed that the risk of death in COVID‐19 patients who were treated with corticosteroids and tosilizumab was lower than the tosilizumab alone.

A novel recombinant protein vaccine containing the different E7 proteins of the HPV16, 18, 6, 11 E7 linked to the HIV-1 Tat (47-57) improve cytotoxic immune responses

OBJECTIVES

Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) is the most common viral infection which is causes of cervical, penal, vulvar, anal and, oropharyngeal cancer. E7 protein of HPV is a suitable target for induction of T cell responses and controlling HPV-related cancer. The aim of the current study was to designed and evaluated a novel fusion protein containing the different E7 proteins of the HPV 16, 18, 6 and 11, linked to the cell-penetrating peptide HIV-1 Tat 49-57, in order to improve cytotoxic immune responses in in-vitro and in-vivo.

RESULTS

In this study whole sequence of HPV16,18,6,11 E7-Tat (47-57) and HPV16,18,6,11 E7 cloned into the vector and expressed in E. coli (BL21). The purified protein was confirmed by SDS page and western blotting and then injected into the C57BL/6 mice. The efficiency of the fusion protein vaccine was assessed by antibody response assay, cytokine assay (IL-4 and IFN-γ), CD + 8 cytotoxicity assay and tumor challenge experiment. Result showed that fusion proteins containing Adjuvant (IFA,CFA) could express higher titer of antibody. Also, we showed that vaccination with E7-Tat and, E7-Tat-ADJ induced high frequencies of E7-specific CD8 + T cells and CD107a expression as well as IFN-γ level and enhanced long-term survival in the therapeutic animal models.

CONCLUSION

Our finding suggested that this novel fusion protein vaccine was able to induce therapeutic efficacy and immunogenicity by improving CD8 + T cell in TC-1 tumor bearing mice; so this vaccine may be appreciated for research against HPV and tumor immunotherapies.

Novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak: A comprehensive review of the current literature

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The spread of the virus was rapid and currently COVID-19 cases are present worldwide in 213 countries, area or territories. Researchers worldwide are working and sharing their contribution regarding epidemiology, prevention, treatment, clinical and diagnostic patterns of the COVID-19. Current review is another contribution to the current knowledge, presenting the data in organized and systematic format about the current pandemic of COVID-19. The epidemiological information presented in the paper is subject to change as new cases are diagnosed and status of active cases is updated on daily basis.

The effectiveness of Colchicine as an anti-inflammatory drug in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019: Meta-analysis

A recently discovered coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, caused a global respiratory disease pandemic called COVID-19. Many studies have shown the excessive activation of the innate immune response that leads to the adverse outcomes of COVID-19, and anti-inflammatory drugs are very useful in the treatment and management of this infection. The activities of Colchicine, one of the anti-inflammatory drugs, target several pathways related to excessive inflammation of COVID-19. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Colchicine in the treatment of COVID-19 using a meta-analysis approach. Scopus, Pubmed, Google scholars, Web of Science, and Science direct were used to search all the randomized controlled trials, case-control, and cross-sectional studies that have evaluated the efficacy of Colchicine as a treatment for COVID-19 (up to 28 May 2021). The overall effect of Colchicine versus the control group was determined using a random-effects model meta-analysis where we compared changes (i.e. mean differences-Colchicine group vs Control group) between the two conditions in test scores indicative of hospitalization time (day) and mortality rate. The results illustrated Colchicine therapy is associated with a decreased mortality rate in COVID-19 patients and associated with a decrease in hospitalization time (day) in COVID-19 patients. Present preliminary data shows that Colchicine has a beneficial effect on coronavirus disease care in 2019. Therefore, Colchicine can be a good suggestion in the management of COVID-19.

Novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak: A comprehensive review of the current literature

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The spread of the virus was rapid and currently COVID-19 cases are present worldwide in 213 countries, area or territories. Researchers worldwide are working and sharing their contribution regarding epidemiology, prevention, treatment, clinical and diagnostic patterns of the COVID-19. Current review is another contribution to the current knowledge, presenting the data in organized and systematic format about the current pandemic of COVID-19. The epidemiological information presented in the paper is subject to change as new cases are diagnosed and status of active cases is updated on daily basis.

Efficacy of Human Papillomavirus L1 Protein Vaccines (Cervarix and Gardasil) in Reducing the Risk of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Meta-analysis

Human papillomavirus (HPV) can induce cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Vaccination against HPV can play an important role in CIN prevention. This study aims to estimate the efficacy of L1 protein vaccines (Cervarix and Gardasil) in CIN 1, 2, 3 risk reduction using meta-analysis. Relevant articles were identified by two independent researchers searching international databanks. After application of inclusion/exclusion criteria and quality assessment, eligible articles were entered into the final meta-analysis. Inverse variance method and fixed effect model were used to combine the results of the primary studies. The heterogeneity between the results was assessed using Cochrane and I² indices. Of 11,530 evidence identified during the primary search, three papers were found eligible for meta-analysis, including 7213 participants in the intervention groups and 7170 healthy controls. The efficacy (95% confidence interval) of HPV 6, 11, 16, 18 monovalent and quadrivalent vaccines against CIN 1, CIN 2, and CIN 3 were estimated as of 95% (88–98), 97% (85–99), and 95% (78–99), respectively. This study showed that L1 protein vaccines Cervarix and Gardasil are highly protective vaccines playing an effective role in the prevention of HPV 6, 11, 16, 18 which are responsible for CIN 1, CIN 2, and CIN 3.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of seroprevalence of varicella zoster virus: A nationwide population-based study

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes chicken pox as a primary infection following which it becomes latent in neurons. It may then reactivate to cause shingles (herpes zoster). Severity of lesions and VZV pathogenicity are depended on the host's immune response and variant in VZV Dr Athina Myrto ChioniIdentification of VZV seroprevalance rate in general population may lead to develop new health strategic managements such as vaccination. Therefore, we aimed to provide a systematic review of the seroprevalence of VZV infection among Iranian population and estimate age- and gender- specific prevalence of VZV. Keywords "seroprevalence"; "varicella zoster virus" and "Iran"; were searched in international electronic databases and also in national Persian databases. Twenty two pooled studies among 262 total studies containing (240 published articles; 18 dissertations; and 4 proceedings abstracts) from 1992 to 2014 with total sample size of 7867 individuals were included in the final review. Data was analyzed using random effect method. The heterogeneity was calculated using I-square statistics The overall IgG seroprevalence rate of VZV infection in general population of Iran was 78.50% (95% CI; 77.74%-79.25%). There was significant heterogeneity among the studies (P<0.0001; I²=99.4%). Furthermore, the relative risk of VZV infection is high in females (80.47%, 95% CI; 79.40%-81.54%) and older adults (95.30%, 95% CI; 94.11% -96.48%). Our results may represent a true background and estimation of VZV infection in Iran and generate the cost-benefits immunization program. Moreover, the ensuing data suggests further attention on disease seroprevalence in order to obtain efficient data for therapeutic intervention targeted against VZV.

Human papillomavirus and breast cancer in Iran: a meta- analysis

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) and breast cancer using meta- analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant studies were identified reviewing the national and international databases. We also increased the search sensitivity by investigating the references as well as interview with research centers and experts. Finally, quality assessment and implementation of inclusion/exclusion criteria determined the eligible articles for meta-analysis. Based on the heterogeneity observed among the results of the primary studies, random effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of HPV infection and also pooled odds ratio between HPV and developing breast cancer using Stata SE V. 11 software.

RESULTS

This meta- analysis included 11 primary studies investigating the HPV infection prevalence among 1539 Iranian women. Pooled prevalence (95% confidence interval) of HPV infection among Iranian women with breast cancer was estimated as of 23.6% (6.7- 40.5), while, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) between HPV infection and developing breast cancer was estimated as of 5.7% (0.7- 46.8).

CONCLUSION

This meta- analysis showed a high prevalence of HPV infection among women with breast cancer. We also found that the odds of developing breast cancer among women with breast cancer was more than that of women without breast cancer.

Hepatitis B Virus Genotypes Distribution with HBsAg Positive in the North of Iran (Mazandaran) During 2011-2014

BACKGROUND

HBV infection is a major global health problem and ten genotypes (A to J) and multiples subtypes of HBV have been identified, and they show some distinct geographic distributions. The available data on HBV genotype in Iran are very heterogeneous and limited. Therefore in this study, we tried to identify the HBV genotypes by using polymerase chain reaction.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, HBV- positive serum samples of 122 patients with chronic hepatitis from 2011 to 2014 were studied. HBV-DNA was extracted from plasma samples using QIAamp(®) MiniElute(®) Virus Spin Kit (Qiagen). Plasma samples from HBsAg positive were confirmed the presence of HBV nucleic acid and determined the genotypes of HBV genome by PCR using the DNA PCR kit (Cinagene) with Taq-DNA polymerase enzyme and type of specific primers. All samples were examined in the virology laboratory of Sari Medical School.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients were 45 ± 25 (range, 20 to 70) year that 70 (57.37%) patients were male and 52 (42.62%) were female. The majority of HBV positive patients had a major surgery (44% patients) and then 32% patients followed by intra familial of hepatitis B virus infected and 11% of HBV positive patients had a history of blood transfusions. In this study, 91(74.59%) had genotype D, 7(5.73%) genotype B and 24(19.67%) genotype D and B.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that the genotype D is the most frequent followed by the mixed genotypes D and B and genotype B in our region. Prevalence and incidence of HBV genotypes are with distributed among of areas and different genotypes may show different responses with antiviral therapy.

Prevalence and genotypes of hepatitis B virus infection in patients underwent coronary angiography and coronary artery bypass grafting in mazandaran heart center, sari, iran

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global health problem in the worldwide that associated with significant morbidity and mortality in cardiac surgery. The available data on HBV distribution and genotyping of HBV are very heterogeneous. Therefore in this study, we tried to indicate the prevalence of HBV infections in cardiac catheterization patients referred to health centers in the north of Iran and identified the HBV genotypes using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we studied 2650 patients who underwent selective coronary artery angiography and coronary artery bypass grafting in Mazandaran heart center, Sari, Iran from 2011 to 2013. All serum samples were examined to detect HBsAg by ELISA test. HBV-DNA was extracted from HBsAg positive samples using Mini Elute Kit from Qiagen and determined the genotypes of HBV by PCR using the Master Mix kit with Taq-DNA polymerase enzyme and with type of specific primers. All samples were examined in the virology laboratory of Sari Medical School.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 59.7±10.9 (range, 20 to 81) year that 1590 (60%) patients were male and 1060 (40%) were female. Seventeen cases (0.08 %) were found with hepatitis B virus infection, and the highest rates of infection were reported among those aged 40-60 years old in this study. We found genotype D the predominant type in this study.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that the prevalence of HBV endemicity in the north of Iran is low and genotype D is the only genotype in patients infected with HBV.

Hepatitis B genotypes in iran

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a public health problem as a cause of liver diseases including hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. It is estimated that 350 million people live with chronic infection and about one million people die every year from complication of this chronic disease in the world. So far, ten HBV genotypes (A-J) has been identified which show a geographical distribution. Throughout the world, carrier variability rate for hepatitis B infection is estimated to be 0.1% to 20%, with regions classified as having low endemicity (<2%), intermediate endemicity (2-7%) and high endemicity (>8%). The prevalence of hepatitis B infection is estimated at 2 to 7 percent In Iran. After HBV vaccination program the prevalence of hepatitis B infection has been reported less than 2%, so Iran can be considered one of the countries with low HBV infection endemicity. In Iran several studies were shown that the only genotype of HBV(100%)was found genotype D as the prominent type in some provinces, but some studies reported genotype B(5%)as well as genotype D(95%).The distribution of HBV genotypes may guide us in determining disease burden, prognosis and antiviral responses. So, it is important to know the epidemiologically of HBV genotyping as well.

KIR3DL1+HLA-B Bw4Ile80 and KIR2DS1+HLA-C2 combinations are both associated with ankylosing spondylitis in the Iranian population

Contribution of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) and their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I ligands in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has been shown in several studies. In this study, the possible association of KIR genes, their known HLA ligands and compound KIR/HLA genotypes with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) was assessed. Combined KIR/HLA ligand genotyping was performed by a polymerase chain reaction-sequence-specific primers assay in 35 Iranian patients with AS, and genotypes were compared to those in 200 healthy individuals. The frequencies of telomeric cluster genes KIR2DL5A, KIR2DS1 and KIR3DS1 were significantly increased in AS patient group (P(c) = 0.0082, P(c) = 0.0195 and P(c) = 0.0328, respectively). Conversely, HLA-Bw4 ligand (the presence of one or more -B Bw4(Ile80) , -B Bw4(Thr80) and -A Bw4 epitopes) (P(c) = 0.0004) and HLA-B Bw4(Ile80) (P(c) = 0.053) were less frequent in these patients. Meanwhile, compound KIR/HLA genotype analyses revealed lower frequency of KIR3DL1+HLA-B Bw4(Ile80) (P(c)  = 0.0343) and higher frequency of KIR2DS1+HLA-C2 (P(c) = 0.0308) combinations in patients with AS than in controls. In addition, the genotypes iKIR+HLA > aKIR+HLA (P(c) = .0308) and iKIR+HLA > aKIR (P(c) = 0.0258) were statistically less common, and genotypes iKIR+HLA = aKIR+HLA (P(c) = 0.0081) and iKIR+HLA < aKIR (P(c) = 0.077) were more common in patient group. Our findings suggest a role for excessive or inappropriate NK cell activation through 'KIR/HLA' system in AS disease.

Effect of feed restriction early in life on humoral and cellular immunity of two commercial broiler strains under heat stress conditions

1. An experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of early feed restriction (FR) on immunocompetence of Ross and Arian chickens with separated sexes under heat stress (HS) conditions. 2. Chickens consumed feed ad libitum (AL) or were restricted on alternate days from 11 to 20 d of age. From 35 to 41 d of age, the HS groups were exposed to a high ambient temperature of 39 +/- 1 degreesC for 7 h each day, while the thermoneutral groups (TN) were at 33 degrees C. 3. At 21 and 42d of age, the percentage of CD4+ (helper T cells) and CD8+ (cytotoxic T cells) were determined by flow cytometry. Antibody response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio were determined on d 21 and 42. 4. On d 21, FR elevated the CD4+, antibody titre and H/L ratio, but it decreased the CD8+ T cells. On d 42, HS decreased CD4+, CD8+, and antibody titre, but it increased H/L ratio. Under TN conditions, FR chickens had higher CD4+ than AL chickens. On d 42, FR/HS chickens had higher CD4+ and antibody titre, but they had lower CD8+ and H/L ratio than AL/HS chickens. 5. On d 42, the TN-Ross strain had lower CD4+, but they had higher CD8+ and antibody titres than the TN-Arian strain. On d 42, the HS-Arian strain had higher antibody titres and a lower H/L ratio than the HS-Ross strain. 6. Male chickens had higher CD4+, CD8+, antibody titres and H/L ratios 25 in all treatment groups. 7. In conclusion, FR early in life reduced some of the negative effects of the heat stress on the immune system of broiler chickens when exposed to high environmental temperatures later in life.