Merkel cell polyomavirus infection in a patient with Merkel cell carcinoma: A case report

Introduction: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive malignancy of the skin which occurs mainly in old people and is very uncommon in young individuals. A new tumor virus belonging to the Polyomaviridae family; Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV) has recently been identified in more than 80 of MCCs. Case Presentation: We conducted a retrospective review on the archives of the Department of Pathology; Imam Khomeini Hospital Cancer Institute affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences to confirm the MCC samples and we found medical records and samples of a young case with MCC who developed leg skin and scalp tumor six and seven years after bone marrow transplantation, respectively. We analyzed patient formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples for the presence of MCPyV DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, and the PCR amplicons were subjected to DNA sequencing. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus DNA was detected in both tumors from patient and sequence analysis of the viral LT3 region showed a close homology to strains circulating worldwide. Conclusions: The findings of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that local, systemic, or tumor-induced immunosuppression may allow the MCPyV to initiate skin aggressive cancer. It is necessary to maintain regular check over patients taking immunosuppressive medications for MCPyV infection. Since there is not any information about detection and molecular biology analysis of MCPyV among Iranian patients with MCC, this study provides more information about MCC and MCPyV in Iran. © 2015, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences

Prevalence of GBV-C RNA in HIV infected individuals in Tehran, Iran

Background: GB virus C (GBV-C) is a flavivirus that was characterized in 1995. The prevalence of GBV-C RNA in HIVinfected subjects has not been previously studied in Iran and was therefore determined. Methods: We have investigated serum samples of 80 patients from Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran, whose HIV infection was confirmed in our laboratory by Western-blotting. We used nested-PCR to detect GBV-C/HGV RNA in their sera. Results: GBV-C/HGV RNA was detected in 15 (18.8) of 80 patients. There was no significant difference in GBV-C/HGV RNA prevalence between males and females, in different age groups and HIV viral loads groups. Conclusion: The prevalence of GBV-C RNA was high in HIV-infected patients. There was no association between GBV-C RNA prevalence and specific gender, age, and HIV viral loads groups

High resolution melting curve assay for detecting rs12979860 IL28B polymorphisms involved in response of iranian patients to chronic hepatitis C treatment

Background: A recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) on patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treated with peginterferon and ribavirin (pegIFN-α/RBV) identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on chromosome 19 (rs12979860) which was strongly associated with a sustained virological response (SVR). The aim of this study was twofold: to study the relationship between IL28B rs12979860 and sustained virological response (SVR) to pegIFN-α/RVB therapy among CHC patients and to detect the rs12979860 polymorphism by high resolution melting curve (HRM) assay as a simple, fast, sensitive, and inexpensive method. Materials and Methods: The study examined outcomes in 100 patients with chronic hepatitis C in 2 provinces of Iran from December 2011 to June 2013. Two methods were applied to detect IL28B polymorphisms: PCR-sequencing as a gold standard method and HRM as a simple, fast, sensitive, and inexpensive method. Results: The frequencies of IL28B rs12979860 CC, CT, and TT alleles in chronic hepatitis C genotype 1a patients were 10 (10/100), 35 (35/100), and 6 (6/100) and in genotype 3a were 13 (13/100), 31 (31/100), and 5 (5/100), respectively. In genotype 3a infected patients, rs12979860 (CC and CT alleles) and in genotype 1a infected patients (CC allele) were significantly associated with a sustained virological response (SVR). The SVR rates for CC, CT and TT (IL28B rs12979860) were 18, 34 and 4, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified two independent factors that were significantly associated with SVR: IL-28B genotype (rs 12979860 CC vs TT and CT; odds ratio ORs, 7.86 and 4.084, respectively), and HCV subtype 1a (OR, 7.46). In the present study, an association between SVR rates and IL28B polymorphisms was observed. Conclusions: The HRM assay described herein is rapid, inexpensive, sensitive and accurate for detecting rs12979860 alleles in CHC patients. This method can be readily adopted by any molecular diagnostic laboratory with HRM capability and will be clinically beneficial in predicting treatment response in HCV genotype 1 and 3 infected patients. In addition, it was demonstrated that CC and CT alleles in HCV-3a and the CC allele in HCV-1a were significantly associated with response to pegIFN-α/RBV treatment. The present results may help identify subjects for whom the therapy might be successful

The comparison of psychological and social adaptation below elbow amputation men using a mechanical and myoelectric prosthesis by using of TAPES questionnaire

Design and manufacturing of the Myoelecterical prosthesis in compared to Mechanical prosthesis must also effectively, smart, light, strong and permanence. It is time consuming and expensive that ultimately leads to significant increases in the price of Myoelecterical prosthesis. Therefore, considering the high cost of these prostheses, hence, assessment of psychological and social adaptation between two groups must be clear and explicit. In this regards, present study was conducted on this topic. In this descriptive cross-sectional analytical study, two groups compared to each other from quality of life, participants was two groups of 20 below elbow amputation veterans that use from Mechanical or Myoelectrical prosthesis that refer to central technical orthopedic Kosar. For gathering the data we use TPEAS questionnaire. This questionnaire evaluates participants from 3 items: psychosocial adaptation, functional limitation and satisfaction of life. For data analysis use to t independent and ANOVA test. This research showed that there are significant differentiations in psychosocial adaptation between two groups. The findings identified that Myoelecterical group higher psychosocial and social adaptation in compare to Mechanical group. So that the hypothesis of this research in terms of higher psychological and social adaptation in the Myoelecterical group was accepted. Keyvani Hafshejani mA, Javanshir M, Kamali M., Ghasemi MS, Emami M, Esmaeeli SA, Langari A., Sattari Naeini M. The comparison of psychological and social adaptation below elbow amputation men using a mechanical and myoelectric prosthesis by using of TAPES questionnaire. Life Sci J 2012;9(4):5583-5587] (ISSN: 1097-8135). http://www.lifesciencesite.com. 82

Drug-related mutational patterns in hepatitis B virus (HBV) reverse transcriptase proteins from Iranian treatment-Naïve chronic HBV patients

Background: Immunomodulators and Nucleotide analogues have been used globally for the dealing of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, the development of drug resistance is a major limitation to their long-term effectiveness. Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize the hepatitis B virus reverse transcriptase (RT) protein variations among Iranian chronic HBV carriers who did not receive any antiviral treatments. Materials and Methods: Hepatitis B virus partial RT genes from 325 chronic in active carrier patients were amplified and directly sequenced. Nucleotide/amino acid substitutions were identified compared to the sequences obtained from the database. Results: All strains belonging to genotype D.365 amino-acid substitutions were found. Mutations related to lamivudine, adefovir, telbivudine, and entecavir occurred in (YMDD) 4% (n = 13), (SVQ) 17.23% (n = 56), (M204I/V + L180M) 2.45% (n = 8) and (M204I) 2.76% (n = 9) of patients, respectively. Conclusions: RT mutants do occur naturally and could be found in HBV carriers who have never received antiviral therapy. However, mutations related to drug resistance in Iranian treatment-naïve chronic HBV patients were found to be higher than other studies published formerly. Chronic HBV patients should be monitored closely prior the commencement of therapy to achieve the best regimen option. © 2013, KOWSAR Corp

Frequency of OBI among patients with autoimmune hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is recognized as a serious disease in which the body's immune system attacks liver cells so untreated patients may consequently suffer from liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver failure. The role of viral infection may be involved in AIH. Presence of anti-HBc alone is a predictive signal of potential OBI. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the rate OBI among the patients with AIH. Methods: The sera of 20 consecutive patients with AIH were collected and tested for LFT (ALT, AST, ALP elevation), Immunoglobulin (IgG) level, bilirubin, anti-LKM-1, ASMA, ANA in titer, HBsAg, HBcIgG. The patients' sera were also tested for HBV DNA by nested PCR and Real-time PCR. Results: Out of 20 patients, 10 (50) were males and 10 (50) females. The patients' ages ranged from 25 to 71 years with the mean age of 44.5±13.4. All patients' had elevated abnormal ALT and AST but their level of alkaline phosphatase was normal among the patients. All patients had IgG level>1.5 times upper than the normal limit. The patients' sera were negative for HBsAg and HBV DNA (by nested PCR and real-time PCR). Only 2 (10) females with AHI type 1 (positive ANA, ASMA in titers >1:100 were positive for HBcIgG while no OBI detection was found among the males (p=0.005). All diagnosis of the AHI was confirmed by pathologist. The level of ALT, AST among the cases with positive and negative OBI were (p=0.000) and (p=0.003), respectively. Conclusion: In the present study, two OBI female patients with type 1 AIH were positive for anti-HBc but negative for HBsAg and HBV DNA. With regard to the consequences of OBI, prior to prophylactic treatment, it is recommended to screen HBV markers including anti-HBc in all diagnosed patients with AIH. © 2020 Asian Pacific Organization for Cancer Prevention

Assessment of indoor air pollution exposure in urban hospital microenvironments

Hospitals are microenvironments containing populations with potentially enhanced sensitivity to air pollution. The objectives of this study were to characterize the concentration of indoor and outdoor size-fractionated particulate matter (PM) at two urban hospital sites in Kashan, Iran, and to evaluate the relationship between indoor and outdoor PM levels. PM 1.0 , PM 2.5 , and PM 10 concentrations were measured over a 3-month period outside each hospital with parallel sampling at four indoor locations in patient wards. The results indicated that mean indoor concentrations at the sampling sites (PM 1.0 = 17.8 μg/m 3 , PM 2.5 = 45.5 μg/m 3 , and PM 10 = 162.7 μg/m 3 ) were found to be lower than outdoors levels (PM 1.0 = 20.6 μg/m 3 , PM 2.5 = 62.1 μg/m 3 , and PM 10 = 300.6 μg/m 3 ). Outdoor and indoor PM mass concentrations were associated with PM 1.0 , PM 2.5 , and PM 10.0 . Ambient wind speed also influenced the indoor/outdoor relationship for PM 1.0 and PM 2.5 but not for PM 10 . The average I/O ratios for PM 2.5 in the intensive care unit (ICU) and children�s ward at Shahid Beheshti Hospital were close to or above 1.00. Indoor PM 1.0 and PM 2.5 concentrations were found to be positively associated with outdoor PM 1.0 and PM 2.5 concentrations, but no relationship was observed with PM 10 . The present findings may inform policymakers in implementing evidence-based efforts for the aim of improving the indoor air quality in closed and confined spaces. © 2018, Springer Nature B.V

The molecular epidemiology of respiratory viruses in military trainees in Iran

Background: Military populations are more prone to respiratory infections worldwide. There is a dearth of research about the role of viral pathogens in the etiology of respiratory infections in military trainees in Iran. Hence, we aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology and clinical symptoms of respiratory viruses among this population. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 400 military trainees with symptoms of respiratory infection, referred to the military medical clinic center in the basic military training camp of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Nucleic acid extraction from the throat or nasopharyngeal swab samples was performed by an automated extraction system. The extracts were then analyzed by the CLART® PneumoVir array system for the detection of respiratory viruses. Results: All military trainees were male, aged between 18 and 57 years (mean: 21.69 years). Sore throat (75.5), rhinorrhea (63.2), cough (59.2), fever (59.2), and nasal congestion (50.5) were amongst the most common symptoms. Overall, viral pathogens were detected in a total count of 124 (31). The most commonly detected viruses were rhinovirus (7.2), respiratory syncytial virus A (7.2) and influenza B virus (6). Conclusion: This study was an important first step for understanding the etiological role of viral pathogens in respiratory infection among military trainees population in Iran. Our results indicated that rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus A and influenza B virus are important viral pathogens causing respiratory infection in military trainees, respectively. However, further multi-center studies with larger sample size are strongly recommended to confirm our findings. © Iran University of Medical Sciences

Distribution of different hepatitis C virus genotypes in patients with hepatitis C virus infection

Aim: To investigate the presence of mixed infection and discrepancy between hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes in plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and liver biopsy specimens. Methods: From September 2008 up to April 2009, 133 patients with chronic hepatitis C referred to Firouzgar hospital for initiation of an antiviral therapy were recruited in the study. Five milliliters of peripheral blood was collected from each patient and liver biopsy was performed in those who gave consent or had indications. HCV genotyping was done using INNO-LiPATM HCV II in serum, PBMCs, and liver biopsy specimens and then confirmed by sequencing of 5-UTR fragments. Results: The mean age of patients was 30.3 ± 17.1 years. Multiple transfusion was seen in 124 (93.2) of patients. Multiple HCV genotypes were found in 3 (2.3) of 133 plasma samples, 9 (6.8) of 133 PBMC samples, and 8 (18.2) of 44 liver biopsy specimens. It is notable that the different genotypes found in PBMCs were not the same as those found in plasma and liver biopsy specimens. Conclusion: Our study shows that a significant proportion of patients with chronic hepatitis C are affected by multiple HCV genotypes which may not be detectable only in serum of patients. © 2010 Baishideng

Oncolytic Newcastle disease virus reduces growth of cervical cancer cell by inducing apoptosis

Although Oncolytic viruses have been regarded as a promising tool for targeted therapy of cancer, accomplishing high efficacy and specificity with this strategy is challenging. Oncolytic virotherapy is one of the novel therapeutic methods recently used for the therapy of human malignancies. Cervical cancer is on the major public health problem and the second most common cause of cancer death among females in less developed countries. The aim of this study was mainly to determine the apoptosis effect of oncolytic Newcastle disease virus (NDV)in TC-1 cell line. In the current study, the oncolytic NDV, vaccine strain LaSota, was used to infect murine TC-1 cells of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated carcinoma which expressing human papillomavirus 16 (HPV-16)E6/E7 antigens in vitro. The effectiveness of NDV for cervical cancer cell line was investigated by evaluating the antitumor activity of oncolytic NDV and the involved mechanisms. Antitumor activities of oncolytic NDV were assessed by cell proliferation (MTT)and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)release analysis. In addition, molecular changes of early stage of apoptosis and the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS)were analyzed by flow cytometry and Western Blot in NDV-treated TC-1 cells. The results showed that NDV treatment significantly decreased the viability of a TC-1 cell line and suppressed the growth by inducing apoptotic cell death. In addition, we demonstrated that NDV-induced apoptosis of TC-1 cells is mediated by ROS production. In summary, our findings suggest that oncolytic NDV is a possible therapeutic candidate as a selective antitumor agent for the treatment of cervical cancer. © 201