Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 434 442 Parisa Abedi Elkhichi Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran Masoumeh Aslanimehr Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran Amir Javadi Department of Statistics, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran Abbas Yadegar Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 02 21 2024 07 08 Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease of the colon or rectum arising from adenoma precursors and serrated polyps. Recently, probiotics have been proposed as an effective and potential therapeutic approach for CRC prevention and treatment. Probiotics have been shown to alleviate inflammation by restoring the integrity of the mucosal barrier and impeding cancer progression. Materials and Methods: In this study, we aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of live and UV-killed Bacillus subtilis natto on the inflammatory response in CRC. Caco-2 cells were exposed to various concentrations of live and UV-killed B. subtilis natto, and cell viability was assessed using MTT assay. Gene expression analysis of IL-10, TGF-β, TLR2 and TLR4 was performed using RT-qPCR. Results: Our findings showed that both live and UV-killed B. subtilis natto caused significant reduction in inflammatory response by decreasing the gene expression of TLR2 and TLR4, and enhancing the gene expression of IL-10 and TGF-β in Caco-2 cells as compared to control group. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that live and UV-killed B. subtilis natto may hold potential as a therapeutic supplement for modulating inflammation in CRC. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4619 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4619/1686

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 443 449 Sharanya Krishnakumar Department of Microbiology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India Abdul Azeez Khalid Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research on Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India Jothipandian Sowndarya Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research on Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India Lakshmi Krishnasamy Department of Microbiology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India Paramasivam Nithyanand Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research on Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India 2024 04 22 2024 06 06 Background and Objectives: Staphylococcal infections are one of the major infectious diseases affecting globally in spite of advances in development of antimicrobial agents. Knowledge and awareness about the local pattern and prevalence of MRSA infections plays a key role in treatment. The aim of this study was to identify MRSA strains by phenotypic and genotypic methods and to analyze the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of MRSA strains from patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted over a period of 1 year, where 296 isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from various clinical specimens. The isolated strains were examined for antibiotic susceptibility by the modified Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Methicillin resistance was detected by cefoxitin disk diffusion test. Results: A total of 104 isolates were found to be MRSA and 192 were found to be MSSA. Among the 104 MRSA isolates, 10 strains that were multidrug resistant were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. All the 10 strains had a 99% match with S. aureus strains that were responsible for causing some serious biofilm mediated clinical manifestations like cystic fibrosis and device mediated infections. The biofilms were quantified using crystal violet staining and their ability to produce biofilms was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and matched with the Genbank. Conclusion: Hence these phylogenetic analysis aid in treating the patients and combating resistance to antibiotics. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4747 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4747/1687

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 450 458 Dima Owais Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt, Jordan Rania Al-Groom Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan; Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt, Jordan Tareq AlRamadneh Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan Laila Alsawalha Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan Mohd Sajjad Ahmad Khan Department of Basic Sciences, Deanship of Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia Omar Yousef Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt, Jordan Shereen Burjaq Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences , Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt, Jordan 2024 04 20 2024 06 19 Background and Objectives: Microbial biofilm is characterized by the irreversible attachment of planktonic cells to a surface and is usually associated with high antimicrobial resistance with worsening the wound healing. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) of diabetic patients and to investigate antibiotic susceptibility patterns of these isolates. In addition to screen biofilm forming ability of isolated S. aureus. Materials and Methods: A total of 112 non-healing wound swabs of diabetic foot patients were collected and cultured on different culture media to identify and characterize 98 isolates. The S. aureus isolates were examined for their antibiotic susceptibility to different antimicrobial agents. Furthermore, S. aureus isolates were evaluated for their biofilm production capability using the Tissue Culture Plate Method (TPC). The level of icaA gene expression was determined by RT-PCR. Results: The results of this study showed that these non-healing wounds yield positive cultures, with an average of 1.67 organisms per sample. The isolates showed highest resistance against oxacillin (95.2%) and lowest resistance against linezolid (3.7%). All isolates were biofilm producers and a significant association with the icaA gene expression level was recorded. Conclusion: This study showed that S. aureus isolates have a great ability to produce biofilms that are associated with the chronicity of wounds in diabetic patients. Routine screening for biofilm formers in chronic wounds and their antibiotic susceptibility testing will help in early treatment and prevent any other complications. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4738 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4738/1688

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 459 469 Monika Sultana Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh Mohammad Alam Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh Somen Mistri Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh S. M. Kamal National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NTRL), Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh Chowdhury Ahsan Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh Mahmuda Yasmin Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh 2022 08 28 2024 06 23 Background and Objectives: Rifampicin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH), two most potent antibiotics, are prescribed to cure tuberculosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), is resistant to these first-line drugs. Here, two molecular techniques were demonstrated such as PCR sequencing-based and GeneXpert assay for rapidly identifying MDR-TB. Materials and Methods: Pulmonary samples (sputum) were collected from 55 MDR-TB suspected patients from the National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NTRL), Dhaka where the research work was partially accomplished and continued in the department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. We strived for sequencing technique as well as GeneXpert assay to identify mutations in rpoB and katG genes in MTB strains and sputum directly. Culture-based drug susceptibility testing (DST) was performed to measure the efficacy of the molecular methods employed. Results: When analyzed, rpoB gene mutations at codons 531 (54.54%), 526 (14.54%), and 516 (10.91%) were found by sequencing in 80% of the samples. Nucleotide substitution at katG315 (AGC→ACC) was spotted in 16 (76.19%) out of 21 samples. When comparing the sequencing results with DST, sensitivity and specificity were investigated to determine drug-resistance (rifampicin-resistance were 98 and 100% whereas isoniazid-resistance were 94 and 100% respectively). Additionally, as a point of comparison with DST, only 85.45% of RIF mono-resistant TB cases were accurately evaluated by the GeneXpert assay. Conclusion: This research supports the adoption of PCR sequencing approach as an efficient tool in detecting MDR-TB, counting the higher sensitivity and specificity as well as the short period to produce the results. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3878 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3878/1689

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 470 476 Piyush Ranjan Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India Atul Rukadikar Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India Vivek Hada Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India Aroop Mohanty Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India Parul Singh Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India 2023 11 21 2024 07 11 Background and Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy of the TrueLab™ Real Time mini-PCR system in providing rapid and accurate diagnostic results for tuberculosis (TB) detection in India. The goal is to improve case detection and accelerate treatment in settings with limited resources. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted by the Department of Microbiology on 120 patients, age ranging from >=15 years with at least two clinical symptoms of pulmonary TB. Molbio and Universal Cartridge Based Sample Prep were the 2 methods used for processing sputum samples. The diagnosis was based on the MTB Real Time PCR test, which has a detection limit of 100 CFU/mL. Patients under 15 years, samples lacking clinical background, saliva specimens or extra-pulmonary TB cases were excluded from the study. Results: A total of 44.17% samples were positive for TB with maximum positivity in the age group 31-45 years. Positivity rate was found to be higher in females. In 4.17% of cases there was rifampicin resistance, which was significantly high in previously treated cases. Comparison of Truenat with Ziehl-Neelsen and fluorescent method revealed that it was more sensitive and less time consuming. Conclusion: Truenat MTB/RIF is a sensitive detection system for TB with rapid results, which serves as an important tool in the early management of tuberculosis patients and drug-resistant-TB cases. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4492 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4492/1690

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 477 483 Umme Farwa Department of Microbiology, Fazaia Medical College, Air University, Islamabad, Pakistan Samia Wazir Department of Microbiology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan Farhan Kursheed Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan Bisma Shoaib Department of Pathology, Shifa College of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan Sheza Batool Department of Pathology, Islamic International Medical College, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan Muhammad Shafiq Department of Microbiology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan 2024 04 20 2024 07 06 Background and Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs), one of the most prevalent bacterial infections, are facing limited treatment options due to escalating concern of antibiotic resistance. Urine cultures significantly help in identification of etiological agents responsible for these infections. Assessment of antibiotic susceptibility patterns of these bacteria aids in tackling the emerging concern of antibiotic resistance and establishment of empirical therapy guidelines. Our aim was to determine various agents responsible for urinary tract infections and to assess their antibiotic susceptibility patterns. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed over a period of six months from January 2023 to July 2023 in Department of Microbiology of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). Results: Out of 2957 positive samples, Gram negative bacteria were the most prevalent in 1939 (65.6%) samples followed by Gram positive bacteria in 418 (14.1%) and Candida spp. in 269 (9.1%) samples. In gram negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most prevalent bacteria isolated from 1070 samples (55.2%) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae in 397 samples (20.5%). In Gram positive bacteria, Enterococcus spp. was the most common bacteria in 213 samples (51%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus in 120 samples (28.7%). Amikacin was the most sensitive drug (91%) for Gram negative bacteria. Gram positive bacteria were most susceptible to linezolid (97%-100%). Conclusion: The generation of a hospital tailored antibiogram is essential for the effective management of infections and countering antibiotic resistance. By adopting antimicrobial stewardship strategies by deeper understanding of sensitivity patterns, we can effectively combat antibiotic resistance. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4736 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4736/1691

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 484 489 Mehmet Yildiz Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Merve Buyukkoruk Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Seyma Arslan Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Ulas Gokalp Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Hasan Bostanci Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Kursat Dikmen Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Cagri Buyukkasap Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Hasan Ozger Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye Murat Dizbay Department of Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye 2024 04 07 2024 06 27 Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in biliary samples, MDR-bacteria risk factors, and the relationship between MDR-bacteria positivity and some clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted between May 2018 and May 2023, including patients over the age of 18 who had positive culture results in biliary samples. The frequency of MDR-bacteria in biliary samples was evaluated. Risk factors for MDR bacteria were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. MDR and non-MDR groups were compared inappropriate empirical antibiotic treatment, total antibiotic treatment duration, length of stay, and in-hospital mortality. Results: 342 microorganisms were isolated from 202 patients. Escherichia coli was the most commonly (37.2%) isolated Gram-negative microorganism, and Enterococcus spp. was the most commonly (70.2%) isolated Gram-positive microorganism. The incidence of MDR microorganisms was 42.3%. Gastrointestinal malignancy (OR: 1.96; 95% CI, 1.03-3.71) and previous antibiotic use (OR: 2.26; 95% CI, 1.09-4.68) were independent risk factors for MDR-bacteria. In the MDR group, inappropriate empirical antibiotic treatment (56.6% vs. 41%, p = 0.091), total antibiotic treatment duration (13 vs. 8 days, p = 0.054), length of stay (24 vs. 15 days, p = 0.001), and in-hospital mortality (27.3% vs. 22.3%, p = 0.416) were higher compared to the non-MDR group. Conclusion: MDR-bacteria positivity is associated with inappropriate antibiotic treatment, prolonged hospitalization, and increased mortality. Screening, antibiotic prophylaxis, and empirical treatment approaches should be carefully performed in patients with malignancy and recent antibiotic use, which are significant risk factors for MDR-bacteria. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4697 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4697/1692

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 490 496 EN Pegah Ardi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Roshanak Daie Ghazvini Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Seyed Jamal Hashemi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Food Microbiology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammadreza Mobayen Burn and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Abolfazl Pourheidari Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical sciences, Rasht, Iran Sadegh Khodavaisy Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahdi Abastabar Invasive Fungi Research Center, Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Zahra Rafat Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran 2024 03 10 2024 05 18 Background and Objectives: Fungal burn wound infections (FBWIs) are one of the most disastrous complications in burn patients. The present study investigated the incidence and the species distribution of fungal agents isolated from burn lesions and reviewed the feautures, underlying conditions, and outcomes of patients. Materials and Methods: The wounds were swabbed and cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar with chloramphenicol medium. Fungal identification was performed using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and beta-tubulin sequencing. Results: A total of 380 swab specimens were obtained. Of these, 101 patients (26.75 %) were positive in culture. Among the 101 positive cases, most isolates were from males (n= 68, 67.33%) and most of them were over 30 years old. Flame (n=38, 37.63%) was the predominant cause of burns, and previous history of ICU admission (n=35, 34.66%), presence of central venous catheter (n=25, 24.75%), and diabetes mellitus (n=17, 16.83%) were the main underlying conditions. Candida parapsilosis complex (n=36, 35.64%), and Pichia kudriavzevii (C. krusei) (n=8, 7.92%) represent the most commonly isolated species Also, 2 out of 101 patients (2%) died. Conclusion: In the present study, non-albicans Candida species were much higher frequent than C. albicans with most cases associated with Candida parapsilosis complex. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4632 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4632/1693

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 497 508 Mahdi Asghari Ozma Student Research Committee, Baqiytallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamideh Mahmoodzadeh Hosseini Applied Microbiology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Hossein Ataee Applied Microbiology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Seyed Ali Mirhosseini Applied Microbiology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 04 19 2024 07 17 Background and Objectives: The most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea is Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), which causes severe and recurring symptoms. The increase of antibiotic-resistant C. difficile requires alternate treatments. Postbiotics, metabolites produced by probiotics, fight CDI owing to their antibacterial capabilities. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-toxigenic potential of postbiotics in combating CDI. Materials and Methods: GC-MS evaluated postbiotics from Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus plantarum. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution determined C. difficile antibacterial inhibition zones and MICs. Microtiter plates assessed antibiofilm activity. MTT assay evaluated postbiotics anti-viability on HEK293. ELISA testing postbiotic detoxification of toxins A and B. Postbiotics were examined for tcdA and tcdB genes expression using real-time PCR. Results: The most identified B. bifidum and L. plantarum postbiotic compounds were glycolic acid (7.2%) and butyric acid (13.57%). B. bifidum and L. plantarum displayed 13 and 10 mm inhibition zones and 2.5 and 5 mg/ml MICs against C. difficile. B. bifidum reduced biofilm at 1.25 mg/ml by 49% and L. plantarum by 31%. MTT assay showed both postbiotics had little influence on cell viability, which was over 80%. The detoxification power of postbiotics revealed that B. bifidum decreased toxin A and B production more effectively than L. plantarum, and also their related tcdA and tcdB genes expression reduction were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Postbiotics' ability to inhibit bacterial growth, biofilm disruption, and toxin reduction makes them a promising adjunctive for CDI treatment and a good solution to pathogens' antibiotic resistance. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4733 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4733/1694

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 509 514 EN Kiana Shirani Department of Infectious Diseases, Nosocomial Infection Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Milad Hajihashemi Department of Infectious Diseases, Immunodeficiency Diseases Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Ashkan Mortazavi Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Alireza Assadi Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Azar Baradaran Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Behrooz Ataei Department of Infectious Diseases, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Hossein Badei Department of Infectious Diseases, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2024 04 28 2024 05 24 Background and Objectives: SARS-CoV-2 is a newly discovered viral infection. It’s still unclear how antibodies react in infected individuals, and there is not enough evidence to support the clinical use of antibody examination. This study evaluates the diagnostic value of serologic tests for diagnosing COVID-19. Materials and Methods: 32 patients for whom serologic testing was performed within 7 to 21 days from symptom onset and whether they were diagnosed with COVID-19 by both PCR and lung HRCT as gold standard tests at the same time, were included in the study. Results: Serologic tests (IgM / IgG) compared to PCR and lung HRCT scan to diagnose COVID-19, were 89.3% specific and 59.6% sensitive. Positive predictive value (PPV) was 95% and negative predictive value (NPV) was 37%. The diagnostic accuracy index of the serologic test was 0.745 (CI 0.651-0.838) (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: Serologic testing can be a complementary alternative for SARA-CoV-2 nucleic acid RT-PCR, although it cannot replace it completely. IgG/IgM combo test kits and RT-PCR together can give more insight into the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4758 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4758/1695

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 16 4 2024 08 14 515 523 Ridhima Jasrotia Department of Microbiology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India Isha Kashyap Department of Pathology, Swastik Diagnostic Laboratory, Dogra Hall, Jammu, India Jyotsna Suri Department of Pathology, Govt.Medical College, Jammu, India Chirag Chopra Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India Atif Wani Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India Nazli Tizro Department of the Environment, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Science and ResearchBranch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Abhineet Goyal Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, Sanjeev Agrawal Global Educational University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India Reena Singh Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India 2024 04 21 2024 07 17 Background and Objectives: Cervical cancer global burden is highly skewed towards poor countries primarily due to lack of awareness, poor screening, and low uptake of prophylactic vaccines. The purpose of our study is to educate and raise awareness among young girls and women about the importance of cervical screening and HPV vaccination. Materials and Methods: The present study, conducted from January 2023 to December 2023, focused on students, teachers, housewives, and healthcare professionals in the Jammu region to assess their awareness of cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine. HPV DNA testing was carried out using the Truenat Real-Time PCR method at Swastik Diagnostic Laboratory, Jammu. Results: Knowledge of cervical cancer, awareness of the HPV virus, and the vaccination status of women were assessed in survey. In the HPV screening test, out of 2,400 women, 106 tested positive for HPV. Among these 106 women, 19% had a high viral load (Ct < 20), 11% had a low viral load (25 ≤ Ct < 30), indicating a low relative concentration of HPV viruses, 40% had a medium viral load (20 ≤ Ct < 25), and 30% had very low viral loads (Ct ≥ 30). Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of routine cervical screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, for the early detection of cervical cancer. There is an urgent need to implement cervical cancer screening and vaccination programs in the Jammu region. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4739 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4739/1696

Tehran University of Medical Sciences https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5170 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5170/1768

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 293 302 Masoumeh Sadat Hosseini Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran Masoumeh Navidinia Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sima Sadat Seyedjavadi Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Mehdi Goudarzi Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Helia Rasouli Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran Amir Mohsen Mahdavian Department Medical Laboratory Sciences, Students Research Committee, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elina Rahimi Zamani Department Medical Laboratory Sciences, Students Research Committee, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2023 10 16 2024 11 27 Background and Objectives: The azole antifungals are the most frequent class used to treat Candida infections. It is essential to elucidate the potential of natural compounds as an alternative in eliminating Candida albicans (C. albicans). Therefore, in the present study, the antagonistic effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa toxins on azole antifungal resistance in C. albicans species was investigated. Materials and Methods: In this study, 28 C. albicans species with azole antifungal resistance were obtained from patients at Shohadaye Tajrish Hospital. The effect of toxins, such as phenazine, pyocyanin, pyoverdine, and fluorescein, was examined on C. albicans species. The antifungal activity of these toxins against C. albicans spp. was determined using methods such as minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC90), radial diffusion assay (RDA), and detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results: The prevalence of C. albicans strains in urinary catheters, surgical wounds, respiratory tracts, blood, and standard strains was 46.3%, 21.4%, 25%, 7.14%, and 3.57%, respectively. The MIC values were reported as 32 µg/ml for phenazine, and 128 µg/ml for pyoverdine, pyocyanin, and fluorescein. The results showed that phenazine exhibited higher inhibitory effects against C. albicans isolated from clinical samples compared to the other toxins. After exposure to phenazines (20 µg/ml), 65-70% of yeast cells of C. albicans spp. showed rhodamine 123 fluorescence, indicating high intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Conclusion: The antifungal effect of different toxins in C. albicans spp. may be due to ROS-mediated apoptotic death. The results suggest that phenazine has high potential in controlling C. albicans. This natural compounds are a potential alternative for eliminating this yeast. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4447 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4447/1769

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 303 311 Mahnour Taghavi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Maryam Ahmadi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Davoud Dehghan-Nayeri Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Zahra Salehi Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Masoomeh Shams-Ghahfarokhi Departmentt of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Fatemehsadat Jamzivar Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Mehdi Razzaghi-Abyaneh Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2024 10 19 2025 02 14 Background and Objectives: The increasing prevalence of fungal infections due to antifungal resistance underscores the need for novel treatment strategies. The present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of soil-originated antagonistic bacteria against Aspergillus and Trichophyton species. Materials and Methods: Fifty soil samples collected from Isfahan and Khuzestan provinces by using the Zig-Zag method were cultured on glucose-yeast extract (GY) agar around fungal colonies to isolate antagonistic bacteria. Antifungal activity was assessed by measuring clear zones around the colonies of A. niger, A. fumigatus, T. rubrum, and T. mentagrophytes by co-culture linear method. Potent antagonistic bacteria were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing, and evaluated for antifungal activity using disk diffusion assays compared with amphotericin B and ketoconazole. Results: Among 50 samples, fifteen showed antifungal effects, yielding 55 bacterial strains. Four isolates with strong antifungal activity against all tested fungi were identified as Bacillus subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. axarquiensis, and Bacillus sp. These bacteria were distributed in distinct clusters phylogenitically and showed diverse antifungal activity. Conclusion: The results suggest the potential of soil-derived Bacillus species as promising antifungal agents. Further studies are recommended to identify their inhibitory metabolites, their ability as biocontrol agents against soil habitated fungi and to explore their mechanism of action and spectrum of activity. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5092 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5092/1770

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 312 320 Samira Karzani Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Aghil Sharifzadeh Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Bahar Nayeri-Fasaei Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Ali Reza Khosravi Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Jalal Hassan Department of Comparative Bioscience, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Aram Sharifi Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran Ali Pourshaban Shahrestani Department of Comparative Bioscience, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 2024 11 12 2025 03 08 Background and Objectives: The rising prevalence of antibiotic resistance and biofilm-associated infections poses significant challenges in clinical settings. This study investigates the antimicrobial and anti-adhesive properties of oleuropein, a compound derived from olive leaves, against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on Candida albicans (fluconazole-resistant/susceptible) and Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-resistant/susceptible). The antifungal, antibacterial, anti-adhesion, and cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) effects of oleuropein were evaluated. The impact of oleuropein on germ tube formation (GTF) in C. albicans was assessed. Finally, the toxicity of oleuropein was evaluated in zebrafish embryos. Results: Oleuropein exhibited MIC values of 10 mg/ml for C. albicans and 5 mg/ml for S. aureus. It significantly (P< 0.05) reduced the adhesion of both microorganisms in a dose-dependent manner, with inhibition percentages of 78.43% and 75.91% for C. albicans and S. aureus, respectively. Additionally, oleuropein reduced the CSH of C. albicans, indicating its potential to interfere with adhesion mechanisms. In addition, oleuropein exhibited inhibition of GTF in C. albicans. Conclusion: Oleuropein demonstrates significant antimicrobial and anti-adhesive properties against C. albicans and S. aureus, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing biofilm-related infections. However, careful dosage management is crucial due to its observed toxicity at higher concentrations. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5130 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5130/1771

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 321 327 Fatemeh Fathi Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Farhad Shahi Breast Disease Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Alireza Khosravi Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran Zahra Saffarian Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Nader Safarian Haemostasis and Thrombosis Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mir Saeed Yekaninejad Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Heath, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zoha Shaka Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 05 27 2024 12 25 Background and Objectives: Due to the persistence of residual fungal elements, onychomycosis tends to have a high recurrence rate. It is essential to determine the etiology and frequency of onychomycosis across various factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of onychomycosis and identify its fungal agents in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on cancer patients attending the Oncology Clinic and Cancer Institute of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Among the 165 patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 75 individuals with nail alterations were referred to a dermatologist. Each patient's information, including demographics, disease-related data, and details about nail involvement, was recorded. When onychomycosis was suspected, nail samples were collected from the deepest part and examined using a light microscope after clarifying with 15% potassium hydroxide (KOH) to detect fungal elements. Results: The prevalence of onychomycosis was 37.6% (n=62). Among the 75 patients with nail alterations and suspected onychomycosis, 17.3% (n=13) tested negative for pathogenic agents. The most common pathogen was Candida albicans, present in 21% (13/62) of patients with positive onychomycosis. The prevailing nail alteration was onycholysis, affecting 45.3% (34/75) of patients. Conclusion: Onychomycosis exhibits associations with variables such as gender, age, cancer and chemotherapy. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4820 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4820/1772

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 328 341 Alireza Haji Amiri Department of Food Science and Technology, Varamin-Pishva Branch, Islamic Azad University, Varamin, Iran Leila Nateghi Department of Food Science and Technology, Varamin-Pishva Branch, Islamic Azad University, Varamin, Iran Nazanin Zand Department of Food Science and Technology, Varamin-Pishva Branch, Islamic Azad University, Varamin, Iran 2024 09 06 2025 03 04 Background and Objectives: Wheat and its derived products are high-risk commodities for aflatoxin contamination. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Lactobacillus plantarum, and the dough fermentation and baking periods on reducing aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA), and zearalenone (ZEA) toxins. Materials and Methods: Toast bread flour contaminated with AFB1, OTA and ZEA (10,10 and 400 ng/g) were separately treated with S. cerevisiae and L. plantarum (at a concentration of 108 CFU/g). The reduction of mycotoxins was examined immediately after dough preparation, at the end of fermentation, and after baking. Results: The type of microorganism, fermentation and baking significantly affected the reduction of mycotoxins (AFB1, OTA, and ZEA). After baking, neither AFB1 nor OTA were detected in any of the toast bread samples, with a 100% reduction observed in all treatments. In contrast, the percentage reduction of ZEA after baking compared with immediately after dough preparation ranged from 98.90% to 100%, and the percentage reduction of ZEA at the end of fermentation compared with immediately after dough preparation ranged from 97.80% to 99.57%. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that L. plantarum and S. cerevisiae can be used as additives or processing agents to decrease mycotoxins in fermented wheat foods. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5030 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5030/1773

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 17 2 2025 04 05 342 347 Harmed Fakhim Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Bahar Mohamadi Department of Microbiology, Tehran North Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Shima Gharibi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Medhi Rahimmalek Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran Mahnaz Hosseini Rizi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Mahsa Shelerangkon Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Elahe Nasri Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Fariba Dorostkar Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Antoni Szumny Department of Food Chemistry and Biocatalysis, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland Afsane Vaezi Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 08 19 2025 01 26 Background and Objectives: The rapid emergence of resistant fungi is occurring worldwide, and this crisis has been attributed to the lack of new antifungal drug development. This issue emphasizes the need for innovation in finding novel antifungals. There is an increasing interest in using the natural products of plants with high biological activity as alternatives to synthetic drugs. This study aimed to evaluate the possible applicability of polyphenols as alternative antifungal drugs to treat resistant Candida infections. Materials and Methods: A panel of fluconazole-resistant (n=14) and fluconazole-susceptible (n=26) clinical Candida isolates was obtained from the reference culture collection. The determination of the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of fluconazole, tannic acid, rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic, ferulic, and p-coumaric was carried out following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: The MIC values of 40 Candida species isolates ranged from 0.25 to >64 µg/mL for polyphenolic compounds. The highest inhibitory effect against Candida species was observed with t