Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 181 188 Hiba Sami Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Safiya Firoze Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Parvez Khan Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Nazish Fatima Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Haris Khan Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India 2022 11 17 2023 02 25 Background and Objectives: There are conflicting views regarding face mask guidelines amongst healthcare staff to prevent transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), influenza and other respiratory viral infections (RVIs). We conducted a thorough meta-analysis to statistically compare mask use versus no mask use efficacy for RVIs in healthcare settings. Materials and Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used for selecting researches published between 2003 and June 2022 from different databases, including Publisher Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, etc.; 6 studies qualified for inclusion. Data was pooled from in vivo randomized control, case-control and observational studies dealing with the relationship between face mask use and no use by patients or health personnel and RVI prevention in healthcare setups. Results: The fixed and random-effects model was carried out to determine pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95 percent confidence intervals (CIs). The results revealed that wearing a face mask significantly reduced the risk of contracting a respiratory viral illness in hospital settings, with pooled OR (95% CI) of 0.11 (0.04 to 0.33) (probability value (P) <0.08). Conclusion: Masks largely succeeded in stopping respiratory virus transmission, as evidenced by the meta-analysis of 6 studies (a total of 927 individuals). https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3995 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3995/1556

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 189 195 EN Davood Yadegarynia Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranInfectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shabnam Tehrani Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Fahimeh Hadavand Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shahnam Arshi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Abtahian Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amirreza Keyvanfar Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Azar Darvishi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Afshin Zarghi Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Latif Gachkar Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ilad Alavi Darazam Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranInfectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Farahbakhsh Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2022 11 20 2023 01 25 Background and Objectives: Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began, several vaccines have been manufactured to subside it. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of side effects after injecting common COVID-19 vaccines available in Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was accomplished on Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (Tehran, Iran) employees during January and September 2022. Eligible participants were selected based on the simple random method and interviewed about side effects after injecting COVID-19 vaccine. Results: The mean age of 656 participants was 38.03 ± 9.53 years, and 453 (69.1%) were female. The prevalence of post-vaccination side effects was higher after receiving the first dose (53.2%) than the second (35.9%) and third (49.4%) doses. Across all three vaccine doses, the overall proportion of side effects was higher following AstraZeneca than the others. The most common side effect after the first dose of the vaccine was myalgia (41.9%), followed by fever (36.6%), chills (31.6%), local reactions (27.0%), headache (25.5%), and sweating (21.6%). People experienced mainly myalgia (23.3%) and fever (20.3%) after injecting the second dose of the vaccine. Additionally, the participants had myalgia (37.2%), fever (30.8%), chills (29.2%), local reactions (26.0%), and headache (24.4%) after the third dose of the vaccine. Conclusion: AstraZeneca had a higher proportion of post-vaccination adverse effects than Sputnik V, Pastocovac, and Sinopharm. The most common side effects were flu-like syndrome and local reactions at the injection site. Furthermore, people rarely experienced life-threatening side effects. Thus, the available COVID-19 vaccines in Iran are safe. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4000 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4000/1557

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 196 200 Fatemeh Golshahi Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zeinab Siami Department of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elham Feizabad Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shahab Rajabzadeh Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shirin Zarinjooie Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Maryam Albaji Department of Pulmonary Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Avin Mabadi Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ayein Azarnoush Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Pershang Nazemi Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2023 01 26 2023 03 20 Background and Objectives: The most appropriate approach to control the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic is the widespread adoption of vaccination. Several vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been developed and authorized for use in various geographical regions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the vaccination agents presently utilized by healthcare workers (HCWs), and to investigate whether different COVID-19 vaccines would result in the alleviation of symptoms and the severity of clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: This multi-center survey was conducted on 329 vaccinated HCWs who were reinfected with COVID-19 between January 8, 2021 and April 8, 2021, in Tehran, Iran. Results: Overall, 92.1% and 70.8% of the participants had received 2 and 3 cumulative doses of COVID-19 vaccines, respectively. There were no differences between first/second and third-dose vaccines with the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Expectedly, vaccination resulted in a less severe clinical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection, as reported by the participants. Conclusion: The results suggest that the efficacy of the vaccination agents presently utilized by HCWs was acceptable with no significant difference in vaccine type. Participants receiving at least two doses of vaccines in this survey exceeded 90%, which is comparably higher than studies conducted in other countries. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4102 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4102/1558

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 201 207 Ho Tinh Tam Chau Department of Molecular Biology, Quy Hoa National Leprosy & Dermatology Hospital, Binh Dinh, Vietnam Phuc Nhu Ha Nguyen Department of Molecular Biology, Quy Hoa National Leprosy & Dermatology Hospital, Binh Dinh, Vietnam Hoang Bach Nguyen Department of Microbiology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue, Vietnam 2022 09 12 2023 02 25 Background and Objectives: Leprosy remains an important health problem worldwide. It is one of the oldest recorded diseases of humankind. In this study, we expanded the analysis of the geographic distribution of Mycobacterium leprae by investigating SNPs and rpoT genotypes in South Central Coast and Central Highlands clinical isolates, providing insights into the distribution and transmission of leprosy in Vietnam and in this geographic region. Materials and Methods: 27 clinical isolates from the patients, determined the genotypes of M. leprae by SNP and rpoT polymorphism. SNP genotyping was performed by PCR amplification and sequencing, rpoT genotyping by PCR amplification and electrophoresis. Results: All of 27 DNA samples (100%) were positive with RLEP TaqMan PCR (Ct value range is 18-32 on 3 replicates). SNP type 1 was identified in 15 isolates (56%), while SNP type 3 was detected in 12 samples (44%). SNP type 2 and type 4, were not detected. The 6-base repeat region of the rpoT gene was amplified by PCR and analyzed by 4% MetaPhor™ agarose gel electrophoresis. All isolates yielded amplification products of 91-bp, but not 97-bp. Conclusion: This study showed that 56% of isolates belonged to type 1, 44% to type 3. In addition, all samples have the 3-copy hexamer genotype in the rpoT gene. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3901 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3901/1559

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 208 218 Heba Hammad Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Ismail Mohamed Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Omnia El-Badawy Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Amira Zakaria Biotechnology Research Institute, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt Lamia Shabaan Department of Chest, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Sherine Aly Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt 2022 12 08 2023 02 09 Background and Objectives: Concomitant carriage of blaNDM-1 and plasmid mediated quinolone resistance determinants (PMQRs) by multi drug resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) has increased globally, often related to their presence on transmissible plasmids. In this study, we hypothesized the presence of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs on a single conjugative plasmid that circulates among K. pneumoniae strains isolated from Assiut University Hospital. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two clinical MDR K. pneumoniae strains harboring both blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were genotyped using pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Horizontal transfer of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs was evaluated by conjugation and trans-conjugants were screened for the presence of both genes and integron by PCR. Trans-conjugant’s plasmid DNA bands were purified using agarose gel electrophoresis and different DNA bands were screened for blaNDM-1 and PMQRs. Plasmids carrying blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were typed by PCR based replicon typing. Results: All MDR K. pneumoniae contained class 1 integron and belonged to 15 pulsotypes. BlaNDM-1 and PMQRs were co-transferred in each conjugation process. Multiple replicons (5-9 types) were detected in each trans-conjugant; with IncFIIK and IncFIB-KQ replicons being common among all trans-conjugants. Both blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were detected on a pKpQIL-like multi-replicon plasmid that was present in all K. pneumoniae strains. Conclusion: In view of these results, the presence of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs on pKpQIL-like plasmid that existed in multiple unrelated K. pneumoniae isolates is highly suggestive of the circulation of pKpQIL-like MDR plasmids in our hospitals. Moreover, carriage of integrons by the-circulating MDR plasmids increases the risk of dissemination of antimicrobial resistance among pathogens. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4033 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4033/1560

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 219 224 Susan Panahi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Mohammad Bagher Khalili Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Maryam Sadeh Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Mahmood Vakili Department of Public Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran 2021 09 14 2023 02 25 Background and Objectives: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the most important causes of neonatal diseases and postpartum fever. GBS infection can be transmitted from the infected mother to her baby during delivery. This bacterium is also involved in causing urinary tract infections and asymptomatic bacteriuria, pyelonephritis, cystitis and urethritis. In addition to capsule, Pilus is known as a virulence factor of GBS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of pilus islands and antibiotic resistance in GBS isolated from urine of pregnant women in Yazd, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 33 GBS samples isolated from the urine of pregnant women were studied by the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for the presence of pilus islands PI-1, PI-2a and PI-2b. Antibiotic resistance phenotype of tetracycline, penicillin, gentamicin, erythromycin, levofloxacin and clindamycin was determined by disk diffusion method. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 16. Results: PI-1+PI-2a was the most frequent pilus island in the GBS isolates 28 (84.8%) and the frequency of PI-2b was 5 (15.2%). The frequency of PI-1+PI-2a was 50% in serotype III and 25%, 14.3%, 7.1% and 3.6% in serotypes Ia, II, Ib and V respectively (P=0.492). The sensitivity of all GBS isolates to penicillin was 93.9% and highest resistance to tetracycline (97%), clindamycin (24.2%) and erythromycin (21.2%). Conclusion: Most of the GBS urine isolates examined carried the PI-1+PI-2a gene, which increases bacterial potency in colonization and resistance to the immune system. Penicillin was best choice for prevention. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3325 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3325/1561

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 225 235 Lipika Gaur Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shri Mahant Indersh Hospital, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Iva Chandola Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shri Mahant Indersh Hospital, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Nidhi Negi Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shri Mahant Indersh Hospital, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Pankaj Rawat Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shri Mahant Indersh Hospital, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India 2023 01 17 2023 02 06 Background and Objectives: In healthcare settings, hospital water and water-related devices can act as a reservoir for waterborne infections. Potable water, sinks, faucet aerators, showers, tub immersion, toilets, dialysis water, water baths, eyewash stations, and dental-unit water stations have all been linked to nosocomial outbreaks. This study aimed to determine the microbial profile and pattern of antibiotic resistance in the water supply of a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand. Materials and Methods: This is a 1-year prospective study which was carried out by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Sri Mahant Indersh Hospital (SMIH), Dehradun. A total of 154 water samples were collected from the AC outlets, ventilators in the Intensive care unit (ICUs), Operation theatre (OTs), and High dependency unit (HDUs), scrub stations, pantry, and blood bank, patient’s bathroom, private ward, septic ward, labour room, transplant unit, laboratory, scope rinse water, the dialysis unit and tank throughout the hospital, including tap water (pre and post flush [25%]), tap swabs (24%), drinking water (9%), AC outlets (13%), and other areas (3%). Results: 30 of the 154 (19.5%) water samples tested were culture-positive. The most contaminated water samples were tap swabs (27%, n = 8/30). A total of nine organisms were isolated, of which the most predominant was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (40%; 12/30), followed by Legionella pneumophila (13%; 4/30), Acinetobacter baumanii (10%; 3/30), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10%; 3/30), Escherichia coli (7%; 2/30), Enterococcus faecalis (7%; 2/30), Aspergillus flavus (7%; 2/30), Stenotrophomonas (3%; 1/30), and Fusarium spp. (3%; 1/30). Gram-negative bacilli and non-lactose fermenting (GNB and NLF) showed a high rate of contamination, 53.3% (n = 16/30). P. aeruginosa showed resistance to gentamicin and amikacin (42%), imipenem (50%), levofloxacin (58%), and colistin (25%), while Acinetobacter baumanii showed resistance to gentamicin and amikacin (67%), minocycline (63%), and levofloxacin, imipenem and colistin (33%). Conclusion: The study's findings show that a variety of microorganisms are contaminating hospital water supplies and can be a source of hospital-acquired infections. A suitable and robust surveillance program for hospital water supplies, as well as strict adherence to infection control practices, is strongly advised. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4087 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4087/1562

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 236 242 Arun Sachu Department of Microbiology, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India 2022 09 14 2023 02 27 Background and Objectives: Bacterial causes of gastroenteritis include Salmonella, Shigella spp, diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholera and Campylobacter spp. Although infections caused by NTS (Non Typhoidal Salmonella) and Shigella are usually self-limiting, antibiotic treatment is prefered in severely ill or immunocompromised individuals. The main objective of the study was to find out the prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella among the stool samples received in Believers Church Medical College hospital and the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. Materials and Methods: A total of 805 stool samples collected from cases of diarrhea from January 2018 to December 2021 were processed in the laboratory. Standard bacteriological methods were used to isolate, identify, and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Salmonella and Shigella isolates using the disc diffusion method and interpreted according to CLSI. Results: A total of 100 (12.4%) samples yielded bacterial pathogens. Salmonella was isolated from 97 (12%) samples and Shigella from 3 (0.4%) samples. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium was the predominant serotype, accounting for 53 (54.6%) isolates. Conclusion: This study showed Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium as the predominant isolate causing diarrheal illness. The emergence of multidrug resistant phenotypes warrants the continuous monitoring of susceptibility trend of NTS in India. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3909 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3909/1563

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 243 250 Shabnam Sadoogh Abbasian Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran Ehsanollah Ghaznavi-Rad Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran Samira Sadelaji Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran Hamid Abtahi Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran 2022 11 23 2023 02 09 Background and Objectives: Staphylococcus simulans secretes an antimicrobial compound called lysostaphin, which has bactericidal properties. It destroys staphylococci through the hydrolysis of peptidoglycan in the cell wall. Therefore, this unique property indicates the high ability of lysostaphin in the treatment of staphylococcal infections and is considered as an anti-staphylococcal agent. Materials and Methods: Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) competent cells were transformed with pET32a-lysostaphin clone and induced by isopropyl-β-D-thio-galactoside (IPTG). The recombinant protein was purified by affinity chromatography. Recombinant lysostaphin -A-based ointment was used for external wound healing in animal model. In vivo activity of ointment was evaluated by clinical evidences and cytological microscopic assessment. Results: Our results showed the recombinant protein was produced exactly. The results of checkerboard tests showed MIC, MBC and antibacterial activity test an acute reduction of cell viability during the use of lysostaphin, and SEM results approved the intense wrecking effects of lysostaphin in combination on bacterial cells. Macroscopic findings and microscopic data showed that the recombinant lysostaphin ointment was effective on excisional wound healing. Conclusion: Our findings proved that the recombinant lysostaphin ointment was effective on wound healing due to Staphylococcus aureus infection. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4012 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4012/1564

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 251 257 Aliasghsr Masihinejad Department of Health and Food Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran Mojtaba Bonyadian Department of Health and Food Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran Mohammad Motamedifar Department of Microbiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2022 04 08 2023 02 22 Background and Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for the majority of food poisoning all around the world. Nasal carriers of S. aureus and foodstuffs need for handling are important sources and vehicles to transmit this pathogen to ready-to-eat foods. According to hygienic standards, confectioners should not be contaminated with S. aureus. This study aimed to detect nasal carriers and creamy pastries contaminated with enterotoxigenic S. aureus in confectioneries of Shiraz, Iran. Materials and Methods: From the confectioneries of Shiraz city, 27 places in the north, south, center, west, and east areas were selected randomly then 100 creamy pastries samples and 117 nasal swabs were collected. Bacteriological and biochemical tests were performed to isolate S. aureus. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to identify the virulence and enterotoxins genes of the S. aureus isolates. Agar disk diffusion was performed to find out the antibiotic resistance of the isolates. Results: Results revealed that 16.24 and 33 percent of workers and creamy pastries were contaminated with S. aureus respectively. Also, 100%, 37%, 58%, and 6% of nasal samples harbored femA, mecA, sea, and sec genes respectively. According to the results 97%, 70%, 54.5%, and 6% of creamy pastries isolates harbored femA, mecA, sea, and sec genes respectively. No isolate carried seb and sed genes. The results also showed that 41.5% of nasals and 5.5% of creamy pastry isolates harbored both sea and sec genes. The sea was the most common enterotoxin gene observed in nasal and creamy pastries. The results of the antimicrobial resistance test showed that 68.42% of nasal and 48.48% of creamy pastry isolates were resistant to cefocxitn (FOX) respectively. Both nasal (89%) and creamy pastry (82%) isolates presented the highest resistance to penicillin (P) and the most sensitivity to trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (SXT) (94%). Most of the isolates were sensitive to erythromycin (E), aztreonam (AZM), tetracycline (TE), trimethoprim (TMP), and ciprofloxacin (CP). Isolates of S. aureus harboring multi-enterotoxin genes were resistant to more antibiotics than others. Conclusion: The presence of enterotoxigenic S. aureus in the workers’ nasal samples and creamy pastries of Shiraz confectioneries was high which is a potential public health hazard. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3642 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3642/1565

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 258 266 EN Leila Nourani Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Abbasali Raz Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Navid Dinparast Djadid Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2022 06 10 2023 02 09 Background and Objectives: Although the study on the bacteria residing in the mid-gut, salivary gland, and reproductive organs of insect vectors have drawn appeal to the host-pathogen interactions, we know comparatively less about microbiota that naturally exist in different mosquito organs within Iran. Materials and Methods: In the current investigation, PCR assay by using 16S rRNA gene amplification and DNA sequencing, in addition to the traditional culture-based approach utilized for the detection of cultivable bacterial assemblages in mid-gut and reproductive tracts of Culex quinquefasciatus. Results: The identified bacteria isolated from different tissues of 45 individuals were consisted of Achromobacter, Aeromonas, Arthrobacter, Asaia, Enterobacter, Gluconobacter, Klebsiella, Lysinibacillus, Micrococcus, Psuedomonas and Serratia. The results showed that Proteobacteria was the most prevalent phylum in both genders' mid-gut and reproductive tracts, and Asaia was the most common bacteria that originated in adult females and males’ tissues. Conclusion: These outcomes recommend that the discovered microbiome may span through Cx. quinquefasciatus populations. This data can be utilized to interfere with the transmission of pathogens and design new strategies for the control of mosquito-borne diseases. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3763 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3763/1566

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 267 277 Somaye Makzum Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran Parinaz Ghadam Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra UniversityDepartment of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran Mohaddaseh Ramezani Microorganisms Bank, Iranian Biological Resource Centre (IBRC), ACECR, Tehran, Iran 2023 01 23 2023 03 25 Background and Objectives: The use of probiotics as an alternative to antibiotics in poultry diets has attracted a lot of interest recently. In this context, the determination of probiotic characteristics was evaluated on several isolates obtained from Iranian poultry’s gut. Materials and Methods: Probiotic characteristics such as hemolysis activity, acid, bile, gastric juice tolerate, in vitro adhesion assay, cell surface properties (hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation and co-aggregation) and antibiotic susceptibility test were evaluated. Finally, selected isolates identified molecularly after temperature-salt tolerance and extracellular enzyme activity (amylase, protease and cellulose). Results: Out of 362 strains isolated from native poultry in three geographical regions of Iran, nine strains (belong to Bacillus sp., Enterococcus sp., Pediococcus sp., Lactobacillus sp., Kluyveromyces sp.) showed resistance against gastrointestinal physiological conditions, desirable surface properties, ability to adhere to epithelial intestine cell line and antibiotic susceptibility. Also, these strains were discovered to be temperature-salt tolerant but, only a small number of them were able to produce hydrolase enzymes. Conclusion: According to the results, the selected strains can be introduced as native probiotic candidates for utilization in novel poultry feeds. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4097 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4097/1567

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 Manoochehr Makvandi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2024 07 25 2026 05 27 Background and Objectives: Routine screening for occult hepatitis C virus (OHCV) is not a standard procedure in medical laboratories, which has resulted in an increased incidence of OHCV among high-risk groups and the general population. The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular epidemiology of (OHCV) in Iranian injecting drug users (IDUs). Materials and Methods: To determine chronic hepatitis C virus(HCV) and OHCV, plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) were collected from 103 (96 (93.2%) males, 7 (6.79%) females) IDUs. Their plasma was tested for Anti-HCV (ELISA). Following RNA extraction from plasma and PBMCs, RT-nested PCR was employed to amplify the 5′ untranslated region (5′UTR) and core regions of the HCV genome in plasma and PBMCs from IDUs. Sequencing of the 5′UTR and core regions, along with phylogenetic tree construction, was used to determine HCV genotypes. Results: Among the 103 individuals, 12/96 males (12.5%) were positive for both anti-HCV and HCV RNA in plasma, indicating chronic HCV infection. In addition, 18/96 males (18.75%) and 1/7 females (14.28%) were positive for anti-HCV but negative for HCV RNA, indicating evidence of past HCV infection (p = 0.1). Furthermore, 5 individuals, including 4/94 males (4.1%) and 1/7 females (14.28%), were found to be seropositive for HCV (p = 0.77). Meanwhile, 23/103 individuals (22.33%), including 20/96 males (20.8%) and 3/7 females (42.85%), were seronegative for HCV (p = 0.37). HCV genotype 1a was the dominant genotype among IDUs. Conclusion: In conclusion, a high prevalence of HCV infection was observed among IDUs, underscoring the pressing necessity for the implementation of an efficacious strategy to eradicate HCV transmission in this high-risk population. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4939 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4939/1898

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 393 402 EN Ahmad Enferadi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Amir Tukmechi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Katayoon Nofouzi Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Zahraalsadat Tavakolian Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran 2025 05 21 2026 05 11 Background and Objectives: Anaplasmosis, an ailment affecting both captive and free-ranging small ruminants, is instigated by Anaplasma spp., a tick-vectored, obligate intracellular rickettsial bacterium. Iran's ovine and caprine populations, numbering roughly 71 million, are vital to its financial structure. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma species in sheep and goats within West Azerbaijan province. Additionally, nucleic acid specimens were isolated from gathered ticks and examined for Anaplasma spp. Through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) utilizing the major surface protein gene (groEL). Results: Anaplasma was detected in 161 (69.0%) of 919 ovine and 82 (71.3%) of 243 caprine blood DNA extracts. Subsequently, genetic material from 426 ticks comprised of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (n=146), Rhipicephalus turanicus (n=63), Hyalomma asiaticum (n=56), Hyalomma anatolicum (n=74), and Hyalomma egebtiom (n=87) was screened for A. ovis utilizing the same methodology. Conclusion: This research not only confirmed the presence of A. ovis within Iranian sheep and goats but also implicated ticks as a possible vector for its transmission. The findings emphasize the importance of monitoring the health status of Iran's small ruminants to detect clinical manifestations of anaplasmosis and of implementing effective tick control strategies worldwide. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5518 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5518/1899

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 403 412 Jegan Charlies Department of Microbiology, Vinayaka Mission’s Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed-to–be-University), Karaikal, Puducherry, India Latha Ragunathan Department of Microbiology, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed-to–be-University), Kirumampakkam, Puducherry, India Kavitha Kanniyan Department of Microbiology, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed-to–be-University), Kirumampakkam, Puducherry, India Jeyakumari Duraipandian Department of Microbiology, JIPMER, Karaikal, Puducherry, India 2025 08 25 2026 05 05 Background and Objectives: Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection that affects the keratinised tissues. This study examines the antifungal resistance mechanisms and molecular detection of squalene epoxidase gene alterations in clinical isolates from patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted from January 2019 to December 2020 included 110 clinically suspected dermatophytosis specimens. Microscopy, culture, CLSI M38-A2 broth microdilution testing, and PCR-based ITS and SQLE (520 bp) amplification were performed. MIC50, MIC90, geometric mean, and ranges were analysed using SPSS version 19 with P < 0.05. Results: A total of 110 suspected cases were evaluated, with 78 (70.9%) males. KOH positivity reached 100%, while culture positivity was 47.3% (52/110). Trichophyton rubrum accounted for 38.5% isolates. Fluconazole MICs were ≥64 µg/mL. 39/52 isolates showed terbinafine resistance, with 23 expressing the 520 bp SQLE gene. Conclusion: Terbinafine and caspofungin showed consistent in vitro activity, while fluconazole showed limited activity. Routine susceptibility testing guides drug selection, improves treatment outcomes, and supports rational management of resistant dermatophytosis cases. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5732 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5732/1900

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 413 421 Sukanya Sudhaharan Department of Microbiology, ICMR-Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centre, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India Umabala Pamidimukkala Department of Microbiology, ICMR-Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centre, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India Shivani Bojja Department of Microbiology, ICMR-Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centre, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India Nikhil Gandi Department of Microbiology, ICMR-Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centre, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India Vamsi Yerramneni Department of Neurosurgery, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India Sireesha Yareeda Department of Neurology, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India 2025 09 24 2026 04 17 Background and Objectives: The frequency of central nervous system (CNS) fungal infections is rising, leading to increased mortality. These infections pose diagnostic challenges, and therapy depends on the specific fungal pathogen identified. Only a few studies from India have examined the spectrum of fungal pathogens causing CNS infections. The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical and microbiological diversity of fungal pathogens responsible for CNS infections. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care center in India from January 2023 to December 2024. The study included patients in whom fungi were isolated from cerebrospinal fluid, brain abscess pus, and paraspinal abscesses. Results: Nine fungal pathogens were identified during the study period. Three isolates were yeasts and six were molds. Brain abscess was the predominant clinical presentation. The yeast isolates included Cryptococcus neoformans (n = 1) in meningitis and Candida tropicalis (n = 1) and Candida parapsilosis (n = 1) in VP shunt infections. The molds isolated from brain abscesses included Cladophialophora bantiana (n = 1), Rhizopus arrhizus (n = 1), Aspergillus flavus (n = 2), Scedosporium apiospermum (n = 1), and Chaetomium lucknowensis (n = 1). Mortality was observed in 4 of 9 cases (44.4%). Conclusion: In the present study, nine fungal pathogens were isolated over a two‑year period from varied clinical presentations. This highlights the rarity of the condition, which should not be overlooked. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5805 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5805/1901

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 422 427 Abed Karimpour Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Maral Gharaghani Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran Amir Kamal Hardani Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Hadis Jafarian Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Ali Zarei Mahmoudabadi Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2025 07 01 2026 05 05 Background and Objectives: Candida albicans is a common opportunistic pathogen. Genotyping based on the 25S rDNA and mating type locus (MTL) allows for epidemiological and genetic profiling. This study aimed to characterize the genotypes and mating types of C. albicans isolates from various clinical sources in Iran. Materials and Methods: Ninety-four isolates from clinical samples (saliva, urine, vaginal swabs, and skin scrapings) were cultured on CHROMagar Candida and identified by standard phenotypic methods. Genotyping was performed using CA-INT primers, and mating type analysis was conducted using MTLa1 and MTLα1 primers. Results: In this study, 94 isolates of C. albicans from various sources were analyzed. Genotype A was the most frequent (65%), followed by genotypes C (24.5%), B (9.6%), and D (1.1%). Most isolates (97.9%) were heterozygous at the MTL locus, only two isolates homozygous (α/α). Conclusion: Genotype A and MTL-heterozygous strains were predominant among C. albicans isolates, suggesting a consistent molecular pattern across different clinical sources and regions. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5596 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5596/1902

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 428 438 Nasrin Ghafari Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran; Department of Microbiology, Qo.C, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Mohammad Reza Zolfaghari Department of Microbiology, Qo.C, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Jamshid Raheb Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran Ali Asghar Karkhane Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran Seyed Soheil Aghaei Department of Microbiology, Qo.C, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran Bijan Bambai Department of Systems Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran Amena Mohaghegh Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran 2025 07 13 2025 12 09 Background and Objectives: This study aimed to enhance glucose oxidase (GOX) production in Pichia pastoris GS115 using a novel dual-promoter system, combining the constitutive glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase promoter (pGAP) in pGAPZαA with the methanol-inducible Alcohol oxidase 1 promoter (pAOX1) in PIC9. Materials and Methods: The GOX gene from Aspergillus niger (ATCC 9029) and a transcription factor, general control nonderepressible 4 (GCN4) gene from P. pastoris were co-expressed to mitigate oxidative stress, thereby improving cell viability and enzyme yield. The recombinant construct pGAPZαA-GOX-GCN4 was transformed into P. pastoris GS115 and P. pastoris GS115-PIC9 via electroporation. Expression conditions under various temperatures and pH treatments were optimized. We examined glucose oxidase expression by inducing methanol at concentrations of 100% and 5% in BMMY (Buffered Methanol-complex-medium). The highest enzyme levels were observed at pH 6.0, 34°C, and 5% methanol induction. Enzyme validation was performed using SDS and Western blotting. Results: Co-expression of GCN4 significantly enhanced GOX production, achieving 16.65 µg/mL (333 U/mL) in P. pastoris GS115-PIC9-pGAPZαA-GOX-GCN4(2), a 377.4-fold increase over the control, and 11.03 µg/mL (220.6 U/mL) in P. pastoris GS115-PIC9-pGAPZαA-GOX-GCN4(3), a 249.65-fold increase. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that GCN4's stress mitigation amplifies the synergy between constitutive and inducible promoters. The dual-promoter strategy offers a robust platform for recombinant protein production. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5623 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5623/1903

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 439 447 EN Yenni Karlina Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, School of Pharmacy, Bandung Institute of Techn