Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 285 292 EN Akshit Budhiraja Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Tadepalli Karuna Department of Microbiology, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Farhan Khan Department of Community and Family Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Shweta Kumar Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Namitha Shaji Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Ehsaas Bajaj Department of General Medicine, Undergraduate Student, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Shashank Purwar Department of Microbiology, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Abhijit Pakhare Department of Community and Family Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Rajnish Joshi Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Saurabh Saigal Department of Critical Care, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India Sagar Khadanga Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, India 2023 04 20 2024 04 05 Background and Objectives: Bloodstream infection (BSI) is defined by the presence of viable microorganisms in the bloodstream. BSI is one of the major causes of sepsis and subsequent adverse clinical outcomes all across the globe. The present study was undertaken to identify clinico-epidemio-microbiological variables associated with 30-day mortality in patients having BSI with WHO priority pathogens. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at a public sector tertiary care institute in central India from April 2019 to March 2021. Blood samples collected from patients with clinical suspicion of sepsis, were processed by automated bacterial culture system and interpreted as per CLSI guidelines. Calculated sample size was 150. Data was analyzed by R software. Results: Respiratory tract infection was the most common source (43.3%) of BSI, followed by the gastrointestinal (20%) and urinary tract (18.7%). Among the patients, 33% required invasive mechanical ventilation, and 31% required inotropes. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was the most common co-morbidity (34%). The incidence of multi-drug resistant organisms (MDRO) was 59.3%. Escherichia coli was the most commonly (24%) isolated organism, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (17.3%) and Acinetobacter baumannii (16%). Conclusion: Higher age, higher qSOFA score / SIRS score / mean SOFA score at presentation had higher mortality. Use of mechanical ventilation and inotropes during treatment and isolation of critical category organisms of WPP and multi drug resistant organisms were independent 30-day mortality predictors. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4196 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4196/1667

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 428 433 EN Elahe Sasani Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Sadegh Khodavaisy Zoonoses Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammadreza Salehi Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship and Antimicrobial Resistance, Infectious Diseases Department, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sareh Bagheri-Josheghani Infectious Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Mahsa Abdorahimi Department of Microbiology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Seyed Ali Dehghan Manshadi Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Alireza Abdollahi Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amir Salami Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Marjan Sohrabi Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Arezoo Salami Khaneshan Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2023 11 26 2024 04 05 Coexisting pulmonary aspergillosis and tuberculosis in a post-COVID-19 patient is rare. Here, we are going to report a case of combined pulmonary aspergillosis and tuberculosis in a 51-year-old female who was previously diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia. The patient was treated with voriconazole and anti-tuberculosis agents. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4499 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4499/1685

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 293 298 Mohsen Meidani Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sepideh Zahak Miandoab Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amir Salami Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sajedeh Jadidi Department of Urology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Tehran, Iran Marjan Sohrabi Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Parvaneh Ebrahimi Alavijeh Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sara Ghaderkhani Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamid Emadi Koochak Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Arezoo Salami Khaneshan Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2023 12 24 2024 05 24 Background and Objectives: To explore the prevalence and characteristics of secondary bacterial infections among patients suffering from mucormycosis following COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis from March 2020 to April 2022 at Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex in Tehran. The study included patients with histopathologically confirmed mucormycosis and documented secondary bacterial infections. We extracted and analyzed data from hospital records using SPSS software, version 26. Results: The study comprised 27 patients, with a predominance of females (70.4%) and an average age of 56 years. The majority of these patients (63%) had pre-existing diabetes mellitus. The severity of their COVID-19 infections varied. Treatment regimens included immunosuppressive drugs and antibiotics. Rhinocerebral mucormycosis was the most common form observed. The predominant secondary infections involved the urinary tract, respiratory system, bloodstream (bacteremia), and soft tissues, with resistant strains of Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae being the most frequently identified microorganisms. Notably, cases of bacteremia and pneumonia exhibited a higher mortality rate. Ultimately, 55.6% of patients were discharged, while 44.4% succumbed to their infections. Conclusion: Patients recovering from COVID-19 with mucormycosis are significantly susceptible to secondary bacterial infections, particularly those with diabetes mellitus or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Such infections compound the morbidity and mortality risks in this vulnerable patient cohort. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4538 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4538/1668

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 299 305 Agus Evendi Doctoral Program in Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia; Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Health Polytechnic, Ministry of Health, East Kalimantan, Indonesia Anis Karuniawati Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia-Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia Fera Ibrahim Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia-Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia Asmarinah Asmarinah Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia 2024 02 13 2024 05 24 Background and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, drug-resistant, causes health infections. Resistance to the preferred therapy meropenem is a serious threat. This study aimed to analyze changes in meropenem minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), changes in ampC, mexA, and oprD gene expression, and the correlation between MIC and ampC, mexA, and oprD gene expression after meropenem exposure. Materials and Methods: Ten isolates of P. aeruginosa from the Clinical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia were used. After the bacteria were shown to be sensitive to meropenem phenotypically, intrinsic resistance genes were detected using PCR. After meropenem exposure on Days 5 and 12, sensitivity testing was carried out with the concentration gradient method and RNA was detected using real-time RT-PCR. Results: All P. aeruginosa isolates that were phenotypically sensitive to meropenem had the ampC, mexA, and oprD genes. An increase in MIC, an increase in ampC and mexA gene expression, and a decrease in oprD gene expression were observed after meropenem exposure. There was a very strong and significant correlation (p ≤ 0.05) between MIC and oprD gene expression after Day 12 of meropenem exposure. Conclusion: Although there were no significant differences in MIC and ampC, mexA, and oprD gene expression between Day 5 and Day 12, there was a very strong and significant correlation between MIC and oprD gene expression on Day 12 (p ≤ 0.05). This indicates that decreasing oprD gene expression has the potential to increase meropenem resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4607 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4607/1669

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 306 313 Ni Nengah Dwi Fatmawati Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Felicia Aviana Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Ronny Maharianto Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Gede Suwardana Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Ni Tarini Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia I Sujaya Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia 2024 01 24 2024 04 11 Background and Objectives: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a healthcare-associated infections agent and could be an extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producer. Understanding the transmission of this bacterium in a hospital setting needs accurate typing methods. An antibiogram is used to detect the resistance pattern of the isolates. Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC)-PCR are rapid, technically simple, and easy-to-interpret DNA typing methods. This study aimed to evaluate the use of antibiotyping, RAPD-, and ERIC-PCR to investigate the heterogeneity of K. pneumoniae isolated from clinical specimens. Materials and Methods: The antibiograms of 46 K. pneumoniae clinical isolates were determined by Vitek® 2 Compact. All isolates underwent RAPD-PCR using AP4 primer and ERIC-PCR using ERIC-2 primer. The dendrogram was generated using the GelJ software and analyzed to determine its similarity. The analysis of antibiogram and the molecular typing diversity index was calculated using the formula of the Simpson’s diversity index. Results: About 71.7% of the isolates were ESBL-producers, and more than 80% of isolates were susceptible to amikacin, ertapenem, and meropenem. The antibiotyping produced 32 diverse types with DI = 0.964. In Conclusion: Antibiotyping, RAPD- and ERIC-PCR showed powerful discrimination power among the isolates, supported the diversity of K. pneumoniae isolates in current study. These combination could be promising tools for clonal relationship determination, including in tracking the transmission of the outbreak’s agent in hospital setting. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4583 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4583/1670

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 3 2024 06 19 314 322 Golnar Rahimzadeh Pediatric Infectious Diseases Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Reza Valadan Department of Immunolotification and comprehensive analysis of a NOVC strain isolated from bile, including its antimicrobial resistance profile, virulence gene content, and molecular characteristics. Materials and Methods: A NOVC isolate was obtained from the bile of a patient with a hepatobiliary tumor. The isolate was identified and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Whole-genome sequencing was performed to characterize its molecular features, including antimicrobial resistance genes, virulence genes, and relevant genetic mutations. Results: The NOVC isolate presents a multi-drug resistance phenotype. Corresponding genomic analysis indicates that this strain belongs to a novel sequence type (ST1736), carrying various drug resistance genes and virulence factors. Moreover, the blaCTX-M-65 extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) gene was detected in its chromosomal genome. Conclusion: This study presents the first report of a multidrug-resistant NOVC strain isolated from bile in mainland China. Notably, the ESBL gene blaCTX-M-65 was identified chromosomally in NOVC for the first time. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5322 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5322/1861

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 55 66 EN Farzaneh Korani Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Nayeb Ali Rezvani Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Noorkhoda Sadeghifard Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Behrooz Sadeghi Kalani Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Reza Pakzad Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Parisa Asadollahi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran; Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran 2025 08 29 2025 12 07 Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading malignancy with multifactorial etiology, including genetic, environmental, and microbial factors. Bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, pks⁺ bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis, and Bifidobacterium bifidum have been linked to CRC, though their roles remain controversial. Some may promote inflammation and genotoxicity, while others may confer protective effects. This study assessed the presence and relative abundance of these bacteria in colorectal FFPE tissue samples. Materials and Methods: This case-control study included three groups of FFPE tissue samples: tumor tissues from CRC patients (Tumor, n=50), normal tissues adjacent to tumors (Adjacent, n=50), and normal tissues from non-CRC individuals (Normal, n=30). Sections were prepared with a microtome, and bacterial gene copy numbers were quantified using species-specific primers and quantitative real-time PCR, normalized to human GAPDH. Associations with age, sex, and neoplastic type were analyzed (p < 0.05). Results: B. bifidum was significantly higher in Adjacent tissues compared to Tumor and Normal (p < 0.0001). H. pylori detection increased progressively from Normal to Adjacent to Tumor tissues (p = 0.002). pks⁺ bacteria were detected only in individuals ≥60 years (p = 0.014). E. faecalis load was higher in Tumor tissues of females and older adults, though overall presence did not differ significantly among groups. Conclusion: Enrichment of B. bifidum and increased H. pylori detection near tumors suggest the tumor microenvironment favors bacterial persistence. Age- and sex-related patterns in pks⁺ and E. faecalis highlight host influences on microbial distribution in CRC, supporting further mechanistic studies. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5746 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5746/1862

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 67 73 Arun Sachu Department of Microbiology, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India Alice David Department of Biostatistics, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India 2025 11 15 2025 12 16 Background and Objectives: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are most frequently caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli, which accounts for approximately 80% of the cases. Other causative agents include Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., Enterobacter spp., Enterococcus spp., and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. The main objectives of the study were to estimate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of fosfomycin against multidrug-resistant uropathogens (MDR) isolated from patients with suspected UTI using CLSI and EUCAST criteria and to describe the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of uropathogens isolated during the study. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study in which a total of 900 urine samples were collected from patients presenting with physician-assessed signs and symptoms suggestive of a UTI. Only samples exhibiting significant bacteriuria that were also multidrug-resistant (MDR) were included. Although fosfomycin disk diffusion criteria, according to CLSI and EUCAST, are only validated for E. coli, susceptibility among other Gram-negative bacteria was also interpreted using the same criteria. This represents a major limitation of the study. Results: In the study, 251 samples grew multi drug resistant organisms. Only 57% of the Gram-negative isolates were sensitive according to EUCAST guidelines, while 87.6% of all isolates were sensitive by CLSI criteria. Among the 161 carbapenem-resistant isolates, 135 (83.9%) were fosfomycin-susceptible and 18 (11.2%) were resistant according to CLSI. In contrast, by EUCAST criteria, only 40 (24.9%) isolates were fosfomycin-susceptible, and the remaining 121 (75.1%) were resistant. Conclusion: Our study showed that using fosfomycin disc diffusion criteria of E. coli for other organisms is not ideal; therefore, performing an alternative form of susceptibility testing for non-E. coli isolates is recommended. Continuous monitoring of fosfomycin susceptibility is warranted to detect any emerging resistance and to guide its clinical application. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5931 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5931/1863

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 74 81 Akbar Hashemi Tayer Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran Gholamreza Shokoohi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran 2024 05 15 2026 02 07 Background and Objectives: Umbilical cord blood-derived platelet gel (CBPG) is rich in growth factors (GFs) and antimicrobial peptides. This study evaluated its in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity against dominant nosocomial pathogens. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, CB samples were taken from 12 healthy pregnant women post-cesarean at Motahari Hospital, Jahrom. Platelet -rich plasma (PRP) was isolated using a two-step centrifugation protocol (soft-spin: 200×g, 10 min; hard spin:1000×g, 15 min, 22°C) and activated with calcium and human thrombin to form PG. Antimicrobial effect of PG was determined against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp. using broth microdilution and time-kill assays per CLSI guidelines. Results: PG exhibited strong bacteriostatic activity against MRSA and K. pneumoniae (MIC 2.2–2.8 × 10⁸ platelets/mL; 1.7-1.8 log₁₀ reduction at 24 h, p < 0.001), while PRP was moderately active and PPP was ineffective. No significant activity was observed against P. aeruginosa or A. baumannii (p= 0.2). PG showed sustained fungistatic effects (MIC: 1.9-4.2× 10⁸ platelets/mL up to 72 h). Conclusion: CBPG exhibits potent bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects, particularly against MDR Gram-positive bacteria, offering a novel autologous antimicrobial. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4789 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4789/1864

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 82 90 Ali Abbas Hashemi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran Mostafa Nemati Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran Fazel Pourahmad Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran 2025 04 10 2026 01 29 Background and Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), poses a significant public health threat, exacerbated by antibiotic misuse in livestock and food production. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of MRSA in traditional dairy products from Ilam, Iran, and explore the role of prophages in enhancing bacterial virulence and resistance, assessing their implications for food safety. Materials and Methods: Between January and April 2021, 116 dairy samples (raw milk, traditional cheese, and toof) were collected from Ilam, Iran. Staphylococcus aureus was identified using bacteriological and molecular methods, including PCR targeting femA, mecA, and prophage markers (SGB, SGFa, SGFb). Antibiotic susceptibility was tested via the Kirby-Bauer method, and data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: S. aureus was detected in 25.9% of samples (30/116), with raw milk showing the highest contamination (57.9%). MRSA, identified by the mecA gene, was present in 6.7% of isolates, and 73.3% exhibited multidrug resistance. Prophages were found in 13.3% of isolates, with SGB linked to β-lactam resistance (p = 0.04). High resistance to doxycycline (87%) and tetracycline (67%) was observed. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant presence of MRSA and multidrug-resistant S. aureus in Ilam’s dairy products, with prophages contributing to the virulence of these bacteria. Enhanced hygiene and monitoring are crucial for mitigating food safety risks. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5418 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5418/1865

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 91 101 Basharat Wani Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Shayaib Ahmad Kamil Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Showkat Shah Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Masood Saleem Mir Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Mir Nadeem Hassan Depatment of Veterinary Microbiology & Immunology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Zahid Amin Kashoo Depatment of Veterinary Microbiology & Immunology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Mudasir Ali Rather Department of Veterinary Public Health, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Majid Shafi Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Zahoor Ahmad Wani Department of Veterinary Parasitology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Nadeem Shabir Department of Animal Biotechnology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Nazli Tizro Department of the Environment, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Akeel Bashir Department of Veterinary Pathology, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India Atif Wani Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, FVSc & AH, Shuhama, SKUAST-Kashmir, India 2025 02 02 2025 11 07 Background and Objectives: Present study was aimed at assessing protective efficacy of outer membrane protein (OMP) vaccine in comparison to inactivated whole cell antigen vaccine after challenge with homologous serogroup (O2) of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: The outer membrane proteins were extracted by sarcosyl method and protein concentration was determined by nanodrop spectrophotometer. The study comprised of 120 birds divided into 6 groups. The birds were subcutaneously immunized twice with primary vaccine in the first week followed by booster vaccine in second week. Results: The protection rate of 82% was found in whole cell inactivated antigen, 91% in OMP vaccine and 27% among the unvaccinated group. The antibody (IgG) response was found significantly higher in OMP vaccine group than whole cell antigen group. In unvaccinated groups chicks, the antibody titer never reached to the protective level till the termination of experiment. The bacteria were re-isolated from the infected broiler chickens for the confirmation of induced infection and were characterized using standard cultural and biochemical tests belonging to O2 serogroup. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the outer membrane protein (OMP) vaccine provided significantly higher protection (91%) and antibody response compared to the inactivated whole cell antigen vaccine (82%) against Escherichia coli O2 infection in broiler chickens. Birds vaccinated with OMP exhibited fewer pathological lesions and a stronger immune response. The findings underscore the potential of OMP-based vaccines as a safer, more immunogenic alternative for controlling colibacillosis. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5272 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5272/1866

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 102 111 Arti Agrawal Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India Anshika Chawla Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India Astha . Department of Microbiology, F.H. Medical College, Agra, India Jitendra Doneria Department of Medicine, SN Medical College, Agra, India Nitu Chauhan Department of Transfusion Medicine, SN Medical College, Agra, India Ayushi Gupta Department of Liberal Arts and Humanities, Jindal School, Sonipat, Haryana, Agra, India Gargi Tyagi Department of Administrative, SN Medical College, Agra, India Parul Garg Department of Microbiology, SN Medical College, Agra, India 2025 07 09 2025 11 06 Background and Objectives: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major global health challenge, with limited Indian data on factors influencing treatment outcomes. This study assessed immunological and virological responses and survival determinants among treatment-naïve HIV-1–positive adults. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre from May 2022 to April 2023. Adults (≥18 years) who initiated first-line ART (TDF + 3TC + DTG) between January 2019 and December 2020 with 24-month follow-up were included. Baseline demographics, CD4 count, viral load, and adherence were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: Of 452 screened patients, 355 were eligible. Mortality at 6, 12, and 24 months was 22%, 26.8%, and 29.9%, respectively, with overall survival of 70.1%. Baseline CD4 count, viral load, adherence, and ART initiation timing significantly influenced outcomes (p < 0.05). Patients with baseline between 200 to 350 had almost 7 times the odds of survival compared to those with <200 cells/µL. Early ART initiation (≤7 days) improved survival (3-fold) and viral suppression (2.4-fold), while adherence >95% was the strongest predictor of success. Older age and high viral load predicted poorer outcomes. Conclusion: Early ART initiation, strict adherence, and favourable baseline markers significantly improved survival and suppression, supporting the “test-and-treat” approach and the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5609 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5609/1867

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 14 112 121 Rabaa Alathamneh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa, University, Zarqa Jordan Manal Omar Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan Maher Obeidat Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Salt, Jordan Lo’ai Alanagreh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan Abdelrahim Alqudah Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan Muhannad Massadeh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan; Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan 2025 03 02 2026 01 08 Background and Objectives: Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a prevalent member of the herpesvirus family, poses significant risks to immunocompromised patients, particularly those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or solid organ transplantation (SOT). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and genotype distribution of CMV among transplant recipients in Jordan. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study conducted at the Jordan Royal Medical Service's Virology Department from January to October 2024, included all patients who underwent HSCT or SOT. Blood samples collected in EDTA tubes were analyzed for CMV detection and genotyping. Real-time PCR facilitated CMV amplification, while multiplex nested PCR identified gB and gN genotypes. Results: Among 80 transplant recipients with positive CMV DNA, 15 (18.8%) were from SOT kidney transplants (KT), and 65 (81.2%) were HSCT recipients. Genotype analysis of 44 samples revealed that 21 had the gN genotype and 27 had the gB genotype. Mixed genotypes gB and gN were present in 15 samples. The mixed genotype gN1+gN2 (42.86%) was most common in KT recipients, while gB2 (31%) was prevalent among HSCT recipients. Conclusion: CMV is a common opportunistic virus that often leads to severe, life-threatening illness and is associated with an increased risk of transplant rejection. Our study demonstrated that the most prevalent genotypes in Jordanian HSCT and SCT recipients with CMV infection were gB2 and gN1+gN2, respectively. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5327 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5327/1868

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 122 130 EN V Parvathy Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Pryanka Thakur Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India; Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Vikram Thakur Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas, United States Vikrant Sharma Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Ishani Bora Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Radha Ratho Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Suresh Angurana Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Mini Singh Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India 2025 09 04 2026 01 05 Background and Objectives: Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, accounting for approximately 18% of deaths in those <5 years of age. Viruses cause 50-90% of pediatric ARTI cases. Human rhinovirus (HRV) is increasingly associated with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). This study aimed to detect HRV in pediatric ARTI cases and characterize circulating genotypes. Materials and Methods: Nasopharyngeal swabs from 154 children (≤5 years) presenting with ARTI were screened for HRV using real-time PCR. Thirteen samples with a cycle threshold ≤30 were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using 41 global reference sequences representing different geographical regions and HRV types. Results: HRV was detected in 34.41% (53/154) of the samples. In children aged >1 month to 1 year, HRV positivity was significantly associated with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) compared with influenza-like illness (ILI). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a predominance of HRV-C strains (n = 7), followed by HRV-A (n = 5) and HRV-B (n = 1). Conclusion: HRV was detected in a significant proportion of pediatric ARTI cases, with HRV-C as the predominant strain. Infants aged >1 month to 1 year showed a higher association with severe illness, underscoring the need for closer clinical monitoring in this age group. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5758 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5758/1869

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 131 137 EN Golnaz Mokhtari Irani Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Azarakhsh Azaran Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Roya Pirmoradi Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Alireza Tabibzadeh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran; Applied Neuroscience Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran Mohamad Rashno Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Manoochehr Makvandi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2024 11 06 2026 02 04 Background and Objectives: The enteroviruses may lead to conditions such as aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, acute flaccid myelitis, epidemic pleurodynia (Bornholm disease), hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, and myopericarditis among pediatric populations. The present study was undertaken to identify the presence of enteroviruses within sewage treatment systems. Materials and Methods: 24 composite effluent sewage samples (500 ml each) were collected, centrifuged (1000 rpm for 30 minutes), and the first supernatant was saved. The precipitate was resuspended in 10 ml of supernatant, treated with 10% chloroform, and centrifuged again (1000 rpm for 5 minutes) to collect a second supernatant. The first and second supernatants were combined, treated with 2.2% sodium chloride and 7% polyethylene glycol 6000, and the mixture was agitated at 4°C overnight before being centrifuged for two hours at 2000 g. After discarding the supernatant, the pellet was resuspended at a 1:100 dilution. Each sample was then inoculated into RD and HeLa cells for virus isolation, followed by detection via RT-PCR. A phylogenetic tree was constructed to determine the genotypes of the isolated enteroviruses. Results: Enterovirus was detected in 10 of 24 (41.7%) sewage effluent samples. Phylogenetic analysis of five randomly chosen positive samples identified echovirus 7. Conclusion: The removal of enteroviruses during the sewage treatment process is of paramount importance, necessitating heightened attention to this critical phase of wastewater management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5121 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5121/1870

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 138 146 Ali Ahmadi Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ebrahim Hazrati Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care and Trauma Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahtab Noorifard Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zohreh Farahnejad Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Mycology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mojgan Mohammadimehr Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, AJA University of Medical Sciences,Tehran, Iran 2024 09 18 2026 01 08 Background and Objectives: Candiduria related to urinary catheters is frequently encountered in patients hospitalized in intensive care units. The diagnosis and management of catheter-associated candiduria in hospitalized patients is frequently a gray area for both physicians and microbiologists because of the paucity of clinical and microbiological data. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study aims to enhance the understanding of candiduria among adult ICU patients with urinary catheters across three hospitals in Tehran, Iran. Yeast identification was performed using a two-step multiplex PCR, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed following the CLSI M27, 4th edition, recommendations. Results: Among the 110 enrolled ICU patients, 38 (35%) had significant candiduria. A total of 45 yeast isolates were collected. The distribution was as follows: Candida glabrata (23/45; 51%), C. albicans (14/45; 31%), and C. tropicalis (4/45; 9%). These three species accounted for 91% of the isolates. Antifungal resistance was detected: six isolates (two C. glabrata, two C. albicans, one C. krusei, and one C. tropicalis) were fluconazole-resistant, and one C. glabrata isolate was resistant to itraconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin. All isolated species were susceptible to amphotericin B. Symptomatic candiduria occurred in 29% of cases (11/38); only 55% (6/11) were treated, and of those, 50% (3/6) experienced fluconazole treatment failure. One symptomatic patient developed candidemia shortly after acquiring candiduria. The mortality rate was 21% (8/38), with no apparent difference in death rates between symptomatic and asymptomatic candiduric patients. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that high fluconazole failure rates among patients with symptomatic candiduria are concerning. Furthermore, speciation and antifungal susceptibility testing are crucial, as they guide clinicians in selecting the most effective agent and improving case management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5045 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5045/1871

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 147 156 EN Pariya Kouhi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Seyed Alireza Mirhosseini Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Maryam Ranjbar Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammadreza Akbari Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Zeinab Mehrabi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Rojan Javaheri Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mahsa Moosavi Department of Education, Clinical Education Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammad Alishahi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Kamran Rasekh Department of Infectious Disease, Ali Asghar Hospital, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Nazanin Fathi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Yasaman Mansoori Department of Research, Health Policy Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2024 09 24 2025 12 15 Background and Objectives: Numerous cases of mucormycosis appeared among COVID-19 patients, predominantly in Asian countries. This study aimed to investigate the clinical profile, in-hospital outcome, and one-year prognosis of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). Materials and Methods: All patients who developed CAM in Shiraz, South Iran, between July and October 2021 were included in this study. We collected data on presentations, comorbidities, risk factors, and outcomes. Results: Sixty-two patients with CAM were analyzed; the mean age was 59.3 years, and 58.1% were male. Diabetes mellitus was present in 80.6% (11.2% uncontrolled), hypertension in 54.8%, and chronic kidney disease in 11.3%. All patients had sinonasal involvement; ophthalmic, cutaneous, cerebral, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and renal involvement occurred in 41.9%, 8.1%, 6.4%, 6.4%, 1.6%, and 1.6%, respectively. In-hospital and one-year mortality were 40.3% and 48.3%. Concurrent CAM and COVID-19, hypertension, older age, and radiologically severe COVID-19 lung involvement were associated with higher mortality. In multivariable analysis, age ≥60 years predicted in-hospital (OR: 5.47; 95% CI: 1.53-19.56) and one-year mortality (OR: 7.65; 95% CI: 1.90-30.84). Long-term mortality was also associated with ≥3 risk factors (OR: 4.12; 95% CI: 1.09-15.52) and lung severity index >30 (OR: 9.35; 95% CI: 1.01-86.63). Conclusion: These findings emphasize the critical role of age in immune responses to opportunistic infections and highlight the impact of multiple comorbidities and severe lung damage on long-term prognosis in CAM. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5049 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5049/1872

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 157 164 Zahra Mirhosseini Department of Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Jamshid Razmyar Department of Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Alireza Khosravi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 2025 06 10 2025 12 07 Background and Objectives: The prevalence of Candida infections, especially by non-albicans Candida species, has led to excessive use of antifungal drugs, resulting in the transfer of resistance and increased minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) among Candida isolates. This study aimed to investigate the susceptibility of clinical Candida isolates of ornamental birds to three antifungal drugs: amphotericin B, caspofungin, and itraconazole. Materials and Methods: Totally 126 samples were analyzed, from which 116 distinct colonies were cultured. Of these, 26 were identified as Candida spp., comprising 12 C. albicans (46.1%), 8 C. tropicalis (30%), 1 C. glabrata (3%), 1 C. krusei (3%), and 4 isolates (15%) of other Candida species. The present study aimed to determine the susceptibility and resistance levels of these Candida isolates to three antifungal drugs: amphotericin B, caspofungin, and itraconazole. Results: According to the CLSI M44 recommended method, by the disk diffusion method, itraconazole (100%) and amphotericin B (86.46%) showed the best susceptibility pattern, compared to caspofungin (0%). Conclusion: Given that the isolates showed the highest in vitro susceptibility to itraconazole and amphotericin B and the lowest to caspofungin, these findings suggest that itraconazole and amphotericin B could be considered potential first-line agents for treating avian candidiasis. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5551 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5551/1873

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 165 171 Suprina Sharma Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Nepal Dev Joshi Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Nepal Pramod Poude