Rapid detection of major enterotoxin genes and antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from raw milk in the Yazd province, Iran

INTRODUCTION

Raw milk is a nutrient-rich food, but it may harbour harmful bacteria, such as enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), which can cause staphylococcal food poisoning. Antibiotic resistance of S. aureus in raw milk can increase the risk of such infections, particularly among susceptible individuals.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of enterotoxin genes a, d, g, i and j and the antibiotic resistance of S. aureus isolated from raw milk samples.

METHODS

During a 6-month sampling period, 60 raw milk specimens were obtained from diverse locations in Yazd province, Iran. Antibiogram profiling was conducted via the disc diffusion method. In addition, staphylococcal enterotoxin (SE) genes a, d, g, i, and j were detected through real-time PCR analysis.

RESULTS

Bacteriological assays confirmed the presence of S. aureus in 11 samples (18.3%). All isolates demonstrated 100% resistance to penicillin G but exhibited sensitivity to vancomycin, while resistance to other antibiotics ranged from 36.4% to 45.5%. The prevalence of enterotoxin genes in these strains showed variable distribution, with sea being the predominant SE (45.5%), followed by sed (36.4%), seg (18.2), sej and sei (9.1% each).

CONCLUSIONS

This study discovered the presence of multiple enterotoxins in S. aureus strains obtained from raw milk samples. These strains also demonstrated resistance to a variety of antibiotics. Since enterotoxigenic S. aureus is known to cause human food poisoning, monitoring food hygiene practices, especially during raw milk production, is critical.

Analyzing the expression pattern of the noncoding RNAs (HOTAIR, PVT-1, XIST, H19, and miRNA-34a) in PBMC samples of patients with COVID-19, according to the disease severity in Iran during 2022-2023: A cross-sectional study

Background and aims

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are well-known types of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), which have been known as the key regulators of gene expression. They can play critical roles in viral infection by regulating the host immune response and interacting with genes in the viral genome. In this regard, ncRNAs can be employed as biomarkers for viral diseases. The current study aimed to evaluate peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) ncRNAs (lncRNAs-homeobox C antisense intergenic RNA [HOTAIR], -H19, X-inactive-specific transcript [XIST], plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 [PVT-1], and miR-34a) as diagnostic biomarkers to differentiate severe COVID-19 cases from mild ones.

Methods

Candidate ncRNAs were selected according to previous studies and assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in the PBMC samples of patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (n = 40), healthy subjects (n = 40), and mild COVID-19 cases (n = 40). Furthermore, the diagnostic value of the selected ncRNAs was assessed by analyzing the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC).

Results

The results demonstrated that the expression pattern of the selected ncRNAs was significantly different between the studied groups. The levels of HOTAIR, XIST, and miR-34a were remarkably overexpressed in the severe COVID-19 group in comparison with the mild COVID-19 group, and in return, the PVT-1 levels were lower than in the mild COVID-19 group. Interestingly, the XIST expression level in men with severe COVID-19 was higher compared to women with mild COVID-19. ROC results suggested that HOTAIR and PVT-1 could serve as useful biomarkers for screening mild COVID-19 from severe COVID-19.

Conclusions

Overall, different expression patterns of the selected ncRNAs and ROC curve results revealed that these factors can contribute to COVID-19 pathogenicity and can be considered diagnostic markers of COVID-19 severe outcomes.

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 Drug Resistance Mutations in Iranian Treatment-experienced Individuals

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection still remains a global health threat. While antiretroviral therapy is the primary treatment option, concerns about the emergence of drug-resistance mutations and treatment failure in HIV-infected patients persist.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigated the development of drug resistance in HIV-1-infected individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy for 6-10 years.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 144 people living with HIV-1 who had received antiretroviral therapy for at least 6 years. Plasma specimens were collected, and HIV-1 viral load and drug-resistance mutations were assessed using molecular techniques.

RESULTS

The demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the participants were also analyzed: Twelve [8.3%) of the studied patients showed a viral load over 1000 copies per/mL, which indicates the suboptimal response to antiretroviral therapy. Significant correlations were found between viral load and CD4 count, as well as epidemiological factors, such as vertical transmission, history of imprisonment, and needle stick injuries. Drug resistance mutations were detected in 10 (83.3%) of patients who failed on antiretroviral therapy, with the most common mutations observed against nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (5 (41.7%)) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (9 (75%)). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 12 patients who failed treatment were infected with CRF35_AD.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides important insights into the characteristics and development of drug resistance in HIV-1-infected individuals receiving long-term antiretroviral therapy in Iran. The findings underline the need for regular viral load monitoring, individualized treatment selection, and targeted interventions to optimize treatment outcomes and prevent the further spread of drug-resistant strains.

Presentation of Epicardial and Intrapericardial Hydatid Cysts: A Case Series

Hydatid cyst mainly involves the liver and lung; however, it can rarely involve cardiac tissue. This study describes the presence of hydatid cysts in the heart with considerable disease points in Tehran, Iran. Two cases aged between 25 to 50 years with cardiac hydatid cyst involvement were identified in 2021 in Tehran, Iran. Epicardial hydatid cyst between a left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and left obtuse marginal artery (OM) on the left ventricle, and in the second case, intrapericardial cyst attached to the pulmonary trunk with a thin base were identified. The cardial cysts were resected, and the patients recovered without any complications. Cardiac hydatid cyst is a very rare disease. Rapid diagnosis and surgical and medical care are necessary for treatment.

Prevalence and Clinical Relevance of cagA and oipA Genotypes of Helicobacter pylori in Children and Adults with Gastrointestinal Diseases in Tehran, Iran

Background

Helicobacter pylori isa universal pathogen that causes gastric diseases and cancers in humans. In recent years, several virulence genes have been detected in this microorganism. Thus, we aimed to investigate the frequency of Helicobacterpylori strainswith cytotoxin-associated gene A(cagA) and outer membrane inflammatory protein A(oipA) genotypes among children and adult patients in Tehran, Iran, and evaluatetheir relation to themanifestations of different clinical symptoms.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, biopsy specimens were obtained from patients with gastrointestinal symptomsand evaluated for Helicobacter pylori infectionand its genotypes (cagA/oipA) througha polymerase chain reaction PCR assay. Clinical findings and demographic data of patients were documented and analyzed.

Results

A total of 80 patients with Helicobacter pylori infectionwere included in the study (34 children and 46 adults). The cagA and oipA genotypes of Helicobacter pylori wereidentified in 22 (64.7%) and 24 (70.5%) children and in 31 (67.3%) and 34 (73.9%) adults, respectively. These differences were not statistically significant between the 2 studied groups. In addition, the frequency of cagA-positive strains of Helicobacterpylori wasfound more among patients with gastric ulcers rather than other clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate a highfrequency of Helicobacter pylori strains with oipA and cagA genotypes among children and adults in this region. Although we could not find a significant relationship between virulence genes and clinical outcomes in the patients, further studies are suggested to evaluate these factors in patients and assess their potential roles in the presence of antibiotic-resistant strains.

Evaluation of MicroRNA Expression Pattern (miR-28, miR-181a, miR-34a, and miR-31) in Patients with COVID-19 Admitted to ICU and Diabetic COVID-19 Patients

INTRODUCTION

MicroRNAs, or miRNAs, with regulatory performance in inflammatory responses and infection are the prevalent manifestations of severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This study aimed to evaluate whether PBMC miRNAs are diagnostic biomarkers to screen the ICU COVID-19 and diabetic COVID-19 subjects.

METHODS

Candidate miRNAs were selected through previous studies, and then the PBMC levels of selected miRNAs (miR-28, miR-31, miR-34a, and miR-181a) were measured via quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The diagnostic value of miRNAs was determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The bioinformatics analysis was utilized to predict the DEM genes and relevant bio-functions.

RESULTS

The COVID-19 patients admitted to ICU had significantly greater levels of selected miRNAs compared to non-hospitalized COVID-19 and healthy people. Besides, the mean miR-28 and miR-34a expression levels in the diabetic COVID-19 group were significantly upregulated when compared with the non-diabetic COVID-19 group. ROC analyses demonstrated the role of miR-28, miR-34a, and miR-181a as new biomarkers to discriminate the non-hospitalized COVID-19 group from the COVID-19 patients admitted to ICU samples, and also miR-34a can probably act as a useful biomarker for screening diabetic COVID-19 patients. Using bioinformatics analyses, we found the performance of target transcripts in many bioprocesses and diverse metabolic routes such as the regulation of multiple inflammatory parameters.

DISCUSSION

The difference in miRNA expression patterns between the studied groups suggested that miR-28, miR-34a, and miR-181a could be helpful as potent biomarkers for diagnosing and controlling COVID-19.

Molecular Characterization of Streptococcus Pneumoniae from Patients Diagnosed with Pneumonia: Recommendation for Vaccination Program

Background: Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) have remained a significant public health concern worldwide. In developed countries, the highest prevalence of S. pneumonia has been reported among the elderly. The aim of this study was to evaluate the coverage of genotypes in the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-13) in the Iranian elderly population. Methods: A total of 41 isolates of S. pneumoniae were collected in the current retrospective cross-sectional study. The samples comprised 33 inpatients hospitalized for pneumococcal pneumonia and 8 outpatients. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay was performed to categorize the bacteria isolated into specific genotypes. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software, and the chi-square test was used to assess the statistical significance in percentages. Results: A total of 68 genotypes were identified in this study, in which 39 isolates (57.3%) were associated with invasive infections. The most common genotypes were 6A/B [8 (19.5%)], 1 [7 (17.5%)], 14 [5 (12.2%)], and 19A [4 (9.75%)], respectively. The coverage rates of PCV-7, PCV-10, and PCV-13 vaccines were 51.17%, 70.7%, and 99.9%, respectively. According to our results, the pneumococcal coverage rate of PCV-7, PCV-10, and PCV-13 vaccine types is estimated to be 51.2%, 70.7%, and 99.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the trend of pneumococcal serotypes included in the PCV-13 was steadily increasing during the study period. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the most circulating pneumococcal serotypes were in accordance with specific serotypes included in the PCV-13 vaccine types. Therefore, including PCV-13 vaccines in immunization programs against pneumococcus in the elderly can effectively reduce the rate of infections.

Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection and evaluation of its genotypes among pregnant women in Tehran, Iran

Background and Objectives

Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular pathogen. Infection with C. trachomatis in pregnant women can result in maternal and fetal death, due to pelvic inflammatory disease. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate this infection in pregnant women and identify circulating genotypes of C. trachomatis in Tehran, Iran.

Materials and Methods

Endocervical swabs were obtained from 101 pregnant women and tested by PCR assay to detect cryptic plasmid gene. Positive isolates were analyzed for C. trachomatis genotypes through amplification and sequencing of the omp1 gene and alignment with deposited sequences in Gene Bank.

Results

Infection with C. trachomatis was observed in 11 cases, yielding an overall prevalence of 10.8% in total. The majority of infected women were asymptomatic and the rate of infection was found more in women at the age of ≥30 years. However, no statistical association was found between C. trachomatis infection and risk factors in pregnant women. Analysis of isolated sequences revealed genotypes E (44.4%), D and F (both 22.2%), and K (11.2%) as main genotypes of C. trachomatis in this region.

Conclusion

Results of this study showed the prevalence of C. trachomatis infections among pregnant women is relatively high. Identifying the precise rate of infection and associated genotypes in other regions is suggested.

Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates born to mothers or relatives with COVID-19

BACKGROUND

In December 2019, in Wuhan, China, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was emerged due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). It seems that children and neonates, similar to adult and elderly individuals, are at risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, adequate data are not available about neonates infected with SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS

This study evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates born to mothers or relatives with COVID-19. This cross-sectional study was performed on 25,044 consecutive Iranian participants in Tehran, Iran, from January 2020 to August 2020. Viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) was extracted from 500 µl of the oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal specimens of the participants. The genomic RNA of SARS-CoV-2 was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay.

RESULTS

Out of all participants, 98 (0.40%) cases were neonates born to mothers or relatives with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, the current study was performed on these neonates. Out of 98 studied neonates, 6 (6.1%) cases had positive PCR results for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, among 98 studied neonates' mothers, 25 (25.5%) cases had positive PCR results for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study demonstrated that the rate of COVID-19 in neonates born to mothers or relatives with SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Iranian population is about 6.1%.

Molecular typing of the actin gene of Trichomonas vaginalis isolates in Tehran, Iran

Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan parasite that causes trichomoniasis with worldwide distribution. This study evaluated actin genotypes of T. vaginalis isolates using PCR-RFLP and sequence analysis in Tehran, Iran. Overall, 850 vaginal samples were collected from women admitted to hospitals affiliated with the Iran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran from 2020-to 2021. The samples were examined by wet mount and cultured. The parasites were harvested, and PCR-RFLP was performed using three endonuclease enzymes of HindII, MseI, and RsaI on all T. vaginalis isolates. Digestion patterns were then compared, and the genotype of these isolates was defined. The PCR products were sequenced. Overall, 12 (1.4%) isolates of T. vaginalis were identified from 850 vaginal samples collected. The most common genotypes were genotype E, seven (58.3%) and genotype G, three (25%), followed by genotype I, two (%16.7), using PCR-RFLP patterns and sequencing. No pattern indicative of mixed infection was found. PCR-RFLP is a proper technique to detect different T. vaginalis isolates, and noticeable polymorphism was found between isolates. Genotype E was the most common genotype in the studied group. The phylogenetic analysis indicated the T. vaginalis genotype E isolates in a distinct group compared to the genotypes G and I that evolved from a common ancestor.

Evaluation of CCR5-Δ32 mutation and HIV-1 surveillance drug-resistance mutations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of long-term non progressors of HIV-1-infected individuals

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate chemokine receptor 5 delta 32 (CCR5-Δ32) mutation and HIV-1 surveillance drug-resistance mutations (SDRMs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of long-term non progressors (LTNPs) of HIV-1-infected individuals. Materials and methods: This research was performed on 197 treatment-naive HIV-1-infected patients. After follow-up, it was determined that 15 (7.6%) of these people were LTNPs. The PCR assay was performed to identify the CCR5 genotype and HIV-1 SDRMs. Results: One (6.7%) of the LTNPs was heterozygous (wt/Δ32) for the CCR5 delta 32 (CCR5Δ32). However, none of the individuals was homozygous for this mutation (Δ32/Δ32). Moreover, none of the LTNPs showed HIV-1 SDRMs. The CRF35-AD subtype was the most dominant subtype, with a percentage of 93.3%. Conclusion: Iranian elite controllers are negative for CCR5-delta 32 homozygous genotype and drug resistance against antiretroviral drugs.

The expression patterns of MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p in the acute to the post-acute phase of COVID-19 disease

Introduction

One of the hallmarks of COVID-19 is overwhelming inflammation, which plays a very important role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Thus, identification of inflammatory factors that interact with the SARS-CoV-2 can be very important to control and diagnose the severity of COVID-19. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of inflammation-related non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p from the acute phase to the recovery phase of COVID-19.

Methods

Total RNA was extracted from Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (PBMC) samples of 20 patients with acute COVID-19 infection and 20 healthy individuals and the expression levels of MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p were evaluated by real-time PCR assay. Besides, in order to monitor the expression pattern of selected ncRNAs from the acute phase to the recovery phase of COVID-19 disease, the levels of ncRNAs were re-measured 6‒7 weeks after the acute phase.

Result

The mean expression levels of MALAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p were significantly increased in the acute phase of COVID-19 compared with a healthy control group. In addition, the expression levels of MALAT-1 and THRIL in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 were significantly lower than in the acute phase of COVID-19. According to the ROC curve analysis, these ncRNAs could be considered useful biomarkers for COVID-19 diagnosis and for discriminating between acute and post-acute phase of COVID-19.

Discussion

Inflammation-related ncRNAs (MALAT-1, THRIL, and miR-150-5p) can act as hopeful biomarkers for the monitoring and diagnosis of COVID-19 disease.

First Report of Nasal Myiasis Caused by Lucilia sericata in the Pediatric Age Group from Tehran, Iran

Myiasis is an infestation caused by dipterous larvae. Nosocomial myiasis usually occurs in bedridden patients. Herein, we report a nasal myiasis in a 12-year-old female with cerebral palsy (CP) from Tehran, Iran and provide morphological identification of Lucilia sericata as the causative agent. The infection was identified 10 days after the hospital admission. It can be categorized as a nosocomial infection. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of nasal myiasis in the pediatric age group from Tehran, Iran.

The frequency of HIV-1 infection and surveillance drug-resistant mutations determination among Iranians with high-risk behaviors, during 2014 to 2020

Background and Objectives:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has various transmission routes. Instant antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the recommended treatment for HIV infection. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) significantly decreases the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related co-morbidities. Notwithstanding the suitability of HAART, the antiretrovirals (ARVs) have adverse effects and antiretroviral drug resistance mutations are reported among those who receive ARVs. In this survey, the abundance of HIV-1 infection in Iranians with high-risk behaviors, and detection of the surveillance drug-resistant mutations (SDRMs) were evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 250 individuals with high-risk behaviors from September 2014 to February 2020. HIV-1 Ag/Ab in plasma samples was detected using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits. The conserved region of HIV-1 was detected in the plasma samples by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Furthermore, in individuals with positive HIV-1 RNA, HIV-1 viral load testing was performed. After amplification and sequencing of the HIV-1 protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase genes, surveillance drug resistance mutation (SDRM) and phylogenetic analysis were determined.

Results:

Out of the 250 participants with high-risk behaviors, six (2.4%) were infected with HIV-1. According to the phylogenetic analysis, the CRF35_AD (83.3% or 5/6) was the dominant subtype, followed by CRF01_AE (16.7% or 1/6). In this research, in none of the HIV-1 infected patients, SDRM for protease inhibitors (PIs), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), and integrase inhibitors (INs) were observed. Nevertheless, in one of the patients, V179L mutation was detected which is a rare non-polymorphic mutation and is listed as a rilpivirine (RPV) -associated resistance mutation.

Conclusion:

The results of the current survey revealed that 2.4% of people with high-risk behaviors are infected with HIV and the level of drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in these people is very low.

Comparison of real-time PCR and nested PCR for toxoplasmosis diagnosis in toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis patients

Backgrounds

PCR is a proper technique that significantly improves toxoplasmosis diagnosis. However, a more sensitive technique is required. This study compared real-time PCR with nested PCR using B1, SAG-4, and MAG-1 bradyzoite genes to diagnose toxoplasmosis in toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis patients.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 10 patients with active toxoplasmic chorioretinal lesions and 10 healthy individuals. Blood samples including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), serum and whole blood samples were used for DNA extraction. Serum was also used to detect anti-toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies. Nested PCR and real-time PCR were performed using B1, SAG-4, and MAG-1 target genes.

Results

Five (50%) out of the 10 patients were tested positive for toxoplasmosis with nested PCR using the PBMC samples. All the five patients tested positive with nested PCR were also tested positive for toxoplasmosis with real-time PCR using the PBMC samples. The real-time PCR results demonstrated that 9(90%) out of the 10 patients were positive based on B1 and the remaining one (10%) was positive only based on MAG-1. In general, of the patients, five (50%) were positive using SAG-4 and three (30%) were positive in term of MAG-1 using PBMCs with real-time PCR.

Conclusion

It appears that PBMC samples have the best performance as the PCR extraction method and are a good source for toxoplasmosis diagnosis. The use of B22 and B23 target genes due to their high sensitivity and specificity along with bradyzoite genes are recommended for toxoplasmosis diagnosis using PBMC samples with real-time PCR.

The In Vitro Study of Anti-leishmanial Effect of Naja naja oxiana Snake Venom on Leishmania major

BACKGROUND

Although a majority of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are healed with Glucantime chemotherapy, the increased drug resistance rate following its application is a concern. In this study, Naja naja oxiana crude venom of cobra snakes was used for the first time as an assembled combination of bioactive pharmaceutical components on Leishmania major (L. major) standard strain.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of the Naja naja oxiana crude venom of Iranian cobra snakes on Leishmania major standard strain in vitro.

METHODS

Five concentrations (1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20 μg/mL) of venom were added to Leishmania major cultures at 24, 48 and 72 h. The viability of the parasites and venom toxicity were assessed by MTT test. The apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry, while IC₅₀ was determined by counting parasites compared to that of glucantime. Each test was conducted in triplicate.

RESULTS

After the exposure of the venom for 72 h, IC₅₀ value was 0.36 μg/mL and 14.12 μg/mL for promastigotes and amastigotes, respectively. MTT valuation clarified 1.01% promastigotes viability. Furthermore, the results indicated that the venom of Naja naja oxiana induced early and late apoptosis in parasites.

CONCLUSIONS

The venom of Naja naja oxiana revealed remarkable anti-leishmanial effects as a novel anti-parasitic alternative. Thus, the bioactive and effective fractions of this venom may be considered as anti-leishmanial candidates in future studies.

Toxoplasmosis and Anxiety: A Review Study

Background: Toxoplasmosis, a significant zoonotic parasitic disease with serious health problems, is caused by apicomplexan protozoa, Toxoplasma gondii. Evidence has shown that Toxoplasma can also lead to psychological diseases. Objectives: The aim of this study was to collect information on the relationship between anxiety and toxoplasmosis. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, Noormags, and Magiran databases were searched for studies published from 2010 to October 2020. Studies that assessed the relationship between toxoplasmosis/toxoplasma and anxiety were included in the analysis. Synthesis of the results was the primary strategy for data analysis. Results: According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 articles were selected. They had been conducted in Iran, the USA, Turkey, the Czech Republic, Finland, Mexico, Austria, and Denmark. In general, the results of 8 out of 11 investigated human studies indicated that T. gondii infection was associated with anxiety. Moreover, five of them were non-human studies, and most of them showed that T. gondii caused anxiety-related symptoms. Conclusion: The results of most studies showed that toxoplasmosis could be associated with anxiety. However, more studies are needed to look closely at how anxiety relates to this parasite.

Possible role of HPV/EBV coinfection in anoikis resistance and development in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the possible role of human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) coinfection as an etiological factor for prostate cancer (PCa) development.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted on 67 patients with PCa and 40 control subjects. The expression levels of cellular and viral factors involved in inflammation, tumor progression, and metastasis were quantified, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay.

RESULTS

The EBV/HPV coinfection was reported in 14.9% of patients in the case group and 7.5% of the control subjects. The high-risk types of HPV, that is, HPV 16 and HPV 18, were responsible for 50 and 30% of HPV/EBV-coinfected PCa cases (n = 10), respectively. No significant relationship was observed between PCa and HPV/EBV coinfection (OR = 2.9, 95% CI: 0.18-45.2, P = 0.31). However, the highest percentage of HPV genome integration was found in the HPV/EBV-coinfected PCa group (8/10; 80%). Also, the mean expression levels of inflammatory factors (IL-17, IL-6, TNF-α, NF-κB, VEGF, ROS, and RNS), anti-apoptotic mediators (Bcl-2 and survivin), and anti-anoikis factors (Twist and N-cadherin) were significantly higher in the HPV/EBV-coinfected PCa group, compared to the non-coinfected PCa cases. Nevertheless, the tumor-suppressor proteins (p53 and pRb) and E-cadherin (inhibitor of anoikis resistance) showed significant downregulations in the HPV/EBV-coinfected PCa group, compared to the non-coinfected PCa cases.

CONCLUSION

The HPV/EBV coinfection may be an etiological factor for PCa through modulation of cellular behaviors.

Acute and post-acute phase of COVID-19: Analyzing expression patterns of miRNA-29a-3p, 146a-3p, 155-5p, and let-7b-3p in PBMC

BACKGROUND

When a new pathogen, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, appears all novel information can aid in the process of monitoring and in the diagnosis of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The aim of the current study is to elucidate the specific miRNA profile which can act as new biomarkers for distinguishing acute COVID-19 disease from the healthy group and those in the post-acute phase of the COVID-19 disease.

METHODS

The expression level of selected miRNAs including let-7b-3p, miR-29a-3p, miR-146a-3p and miR-155-5p were evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of COVID-19 patients, in both the acute and post-acute COVID-19 phase of the disease and healthy groups, by real-time PCR assays. Specificity and sensitivity of miRNAs was tested by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis in COVID-19 patients.

RESULTS

The expression level of all miRNAs in COVID-19 patients was significantly higher than in the healthy group. Therefore, the expression pattern of miR-29a-3p, miR-146a-3p and let-7b-3p in the post-acute COVID-19 phase was significantly different from the acute COVID-19 phase. ROC analyses demonstrated that miR-29a-3p, -155-5p and -146a-3p may serve as the novel biomarker for COVID-19 diagnosis with high specificity and sensitivity. In addition, miR-29a-3p, and -146a-3p can maybe act as novel biomarkers for distinguishing acute from post-acute phase of COVID-19 disease.

DISCUSSION

The difference in miRNA expression pattern between COVID-19 patients and those in the healthy group, and between acute COVID-19 with post-acute COVID-19, suggested that cellular miRNAs could be used as promising biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19.

Gastrointestinal Helminthic Parasites of Stray Cats (Felis catus) in Northwest Iran

BACKGROUND

Stray cats are considered an important source of various human and animal diseases, particularly diseases of parasitic helminths. We aimed to investigate the distribution of zoonotic species of gastrointestinal helminths in stray cats in Meshkin-Shahr district in Ardabil Province in the northwest of Iran.

METHODS

The gastrointestinal tract of 104 stray cats from villages of Meshkin-Shahr district were provided during 2014-2015. Each gastrointestinal tract was cut into distinct sections, including esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, and each section was examined separately for detection of helminths. Helminths were collected and then identified at the species level after clearing and staining.

RESULTS

Overall, 88 out of 104 cats (84.6%) were found to be infected with at least one gastrointestinal helminth. The rate of infection for each species was as follows: Toxocara mystax (syn. cati) (49%), Taenia taeniaeformis (44.2%), Joyexiella pasqualei (32.7%), Dipylidium caninum (23.1%), Rictularia cahirensis (4.8%), and Physaloptera praeputialis (4.8%). Among these parasites, only Ph. praeputialis was collected from the stomach, all other helminths were collected from the small intestine.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate a high infection rate of stray cats with zoonotic helminths. The presence of zoonotic species in stray cats, particularly T. mystax, has public health importance.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the global status of Trichomonas vaginalis virus in Trichomonas vaginalis

BACKGROUND

The small (4.5-5kbp), double-stranded Trichomonas vaginalis virus (TVV) that inhabits in the T. vaginalis parasite has been potentially associated to parasite virulence or its drug resistance. The aim of present study was to estimate the global and regional status of TVV in T. vaginalis.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted for published articles between January 1990 and December 2020 by using five major databases include PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science as well as Google scholar search engine. The random-effect model was applied for pooled prevalence of TVV, geographical distribution, and heterogeneity by comprehensive meta-analysis (V2.2, Bio stat) software.

FINDINGS

A total of 28 studies were included for final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of TVV was estimated at 47% (95% CI, 39.3-54.8%). With respect to WHO regions, the lowest and highest prevalence rates were reported from South-East Asia 23% (95% CI, 12-41%) and African 66% (95% CI, 25-92%), respectively. Considering the countries, the prevalence was highest in the Brazil 90% (95% CI, 73-97%) and lowest in the South Korea 14% (95% CI, 4-35%).

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of the parasitic virus emphasizes the need to pay attention to the behavior of the parasite, both in terms of clinical symptoms and drug resistance. Moreover, it is suggested that more studies (i.e. in vitro, in vivo, and case-control studies) should be conducted for deep understanding of this coexistence.

Evaluating the Effect of Cinnarizine on Promastigotes and Amastigotes forms of Leishmania major

As an important global disease, cutaneous leishmaniasis is associated with complications such as secondary infections and atrophic scars. The first line treatment with antimonials is expensive and reported to have serious side effects and enhance resistance development. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cinnarizine on standard strains of Leishmania major because of paucity of information on this subject.

METHODS

In this experimental study, four concentrations of the drug (5, 10, 15 and 20 μg/ml) were added to Leishmania major cultures at 24, 48 and 72 hours intervals. MTT assays were performed to determine parasite viability and drug toxicity. Leishmania major promastigotes were augmented to the in vitro cultured macrophages (J774 cells) and then incubated for 72 hours. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was ascertained by counting parasites. The inhibitory effect of the drug was compared with that of Glucantime. Flow-cytometry was performed to investigate apoptosis. Each test was repeated thrice.

RESULTS

The IC50 values of Cinnarizine after 72 hours were calculated to be 34.76 μg/ml and 23.73 μg/ml for promastigotes and amastigotes, respectively. The results of MTT assays showed 48 % promastigote viability after 72 hour-exposure to Cinnarizine at 20 μg/ml concentration. Programmed cell death in promastigote- and amastigote-infected macrophages was quantified to be 13.66 % and 98.7 %, respectively. Flow- cytometry analysis indicated that Cinnarizine induced early and late apoptosis in parasites. All treatments produced results which differed significantly from control group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Cinnarizine showed low toxicity with anti-leishmanial and apoptosis effects on both promastigote and intracellular amastigote forms. Therefore, we may suggest further assessment on animal models of this drug as candidates for cutaneous leishmaniasis therapy.

Detection of Toxoplasma gondii bradyzoite genes in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells among patients with toxoplasmic chorioretinitis

BACKGROUND

Toxoplasmic chorioretinitis may occur as a result of acquired toxoplasmosis or reactivated congenital toxoplasmosis. In this study, Toxoplasma gondii bradyzoite genes along with the B1 gene were evaluated to detect T. gondii DNA in serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with toxoplasmic chorioretinitis.

METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 10 patients (7 cases of active chorioretinal lesions and 3 cases of old chorioretinal scars). The genomic DNA was extracted from the patients' serum and PBMCs and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was performed using bradyzoite genes along with B1. The subjects were also evaluated in terms of the T. gondii antibodies.

RESULTS

The PCR results were positive in four of seven patients (57.1%) with active ocular toxoplasmosis lesions. In three patients (42.8%), the PCR results were positive for MAG-1 and SAG-4 and in one patient (14.3%) the PCR results were only positive for the B1 gene. The PCR results were positive only in the PBMCs, whereas they were negative in the serum samples. Two patients with positive PCR results showed high Toxoplasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody titres. However, none of the patients showed positive Toxoplasma IgM antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

The PBMCs are suitable for evaluating toxoplasmic chorioretinitis. The present results showed that PCR with bradyzoite genes is useful in the diagnosis of toxoplasmic chorioretinitis in PBMCs.

Global prevalence and genotype distribution of norovirus infection in children with gastroenteritis: A meta-analysis on 6 years of research from 2015 to 2020

In the post rotavirus vaccine era, norovirus (NoV) plays an increasingly important role in epidemic and sporadic gastroenteritis among children. This study was designed to provide an updated meta-analytic review of the prevalence of NoV among paediatric patients with gastroenteritis and to clarify the relationship between NoV infection and gastroenteritis. Systematic searches of the literature for potentially relevant studies were carried out from 1 January 2015 to 29 May 2020. The inverse variance method was chosen for weighting of the studies, and the random-effects model was used to analyse data. To determine the association between NoV infection and gastroenteritis in children, pooled odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed for case-control studies. The pooled prevalence of NoV infection among 12,0531 children with gastroenteritis from 45 countries across the world was 17.7% (95% CI: 16.3%-19.2%). There were 28 studies with a case-control design, and the pooled prevalence of NoV infection among 11,954 control subjects was 6.7% (95% CI: 5.1%-8.8%). The pooled OR of the association of NoV infection and gastroenteritis was 2.7 (95% CI: 2.2-3.4). The most common NoV genotypes were GII.4 (59.3%) and GII.3 (14.9%). The highest frequency of NoV was found in the age group below 1 year. Our findings indicated a substantial burden of gastroenteritis caused by NoV globally, with GII.4 and GII.3 the major genotypes responsible for the majority of NoV-associated gastroenteritis cases among children. Younger age and male sex can be considered risk factors for NoV-associated gastroenteritis among children.

A meta-analysis on association between viral infections and Kawasaki disease in children

Aim: To investigate the association between different viral infections and the development of Kawasaki disease (KD) in children. Materials & methods: Electronic databases were searched for relevant studies published from inception to May 2020. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) of the association of different viral pathogens with KD were estimated using a random-effects model weighted by the inverse variance method. Results: The strongest associations were found between KD and human parvovirus B19 viremia (OR = 41.05; 95% CI: 5.13–328.28; I-square = 0%), EBV IgM seropositivity (OR = 7.18; 95% CI: 3.65–14.12, I-square = 0%) and human herpesvirus-6 IgG seropositivity (OR = 5.83; 95% CI: 1.06–32.01). Conclusion: Human parvovirus B19, EBV and human herpesvirus-6 are highly suspected to be key contributors to the development of KD.

Occult HCV and occult HBV coinfection in Iranian human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals

The presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome in liver biopsy or peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) specimens in the absence of detectable HCV-RNA in plasma of the people with or without anti-HCV antibodies has defined as occult HCV infection (OCI), whereas occult hepatitis B virus infection (OBI) is detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome in the absence of traceable hepatitis B surface antigen in the plasma samples of patients. The purpose of this study is to determine the presence of OBI and OCI in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals. In this cross-sectional research, 190 Iranian HIV-infected individuals were enrolled from September 2015 to February 2019. All participants were tested regarding various serological markers for HCV and HBV infections. Viral RNA and DNA were extracted from plasma and PBMC specimens, and the presence of HCV-RNA in plasma and PBMC samples was tested using reverse transcriptase-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR), HBV viral load was determined in plasma samples using COBAS TaqMan 48 Kit, and also the presence of the HBV-DNA in PBMC samples was tested by real-time PCR. In this study, the prevalence of OBI and OCI in HIV-infected individuals was 3.1% and 11.4%, respectively. The genotypes of HCV in the patients with OCI were as follows: 57.1% were infected with subtype 3a, 35.7% were infected with subtype 1a, and 7.1% was infected with subtype 1b. It is noteworthy that in this study, two patients (1.1%) had OCI/OBI coinfections. The present study revealed that 1.1% of Iranian HIV-infected individuals had OBI and OCI at the same time. Therefore, it seems that designing prospective surveys to determine the presence of this coinfection in HIV-infected individuals is informative.

The First Detection of Co-Infection of Double-Stranded RNA Virus 1, 2 and 3 in Iranian Isolates of Trichomonas vaginalis

Background

The Totiviridae family includes a number of double-stranded RNA viruses that can infect Trichomonas vaginalis. Some T. vaginalis isolates are infected with one or more double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses. In this study, different strains of double-stranded RNA virus in Iranian isolates of T. vaginalis were evaluated for the first time in Iran.

Methods

Vaginal swabs were collected from 1550 participants who were referred to hospitals associated with Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran from June to November 2018. T. vaginalis isolates were cultured in Diamond's modified medium. After the extraction of nucleic acids using a DNA/RNA extraction kit, RT-PCR was performed and PCR products were purified and sequenced.

Results

In general 9 (0.6%) isolates were confirmed as T. vaginalis among 1550 collected vaginal samples. Among 9 isolates of T. vaginalis, three of them were infected with TVV1. One isolate has multiple infections with T. vaginalis virus (TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3) as coinfection. The nucleotide BLAST indicated that the T. vaginalis virus 1(TVV1) isolates were most closely related to TVV1-OC5, TVV1-UR1-1.The T. vaginalis virus 2 (TVV2) sequence had also a similarity with TVV2-UR1-1, TVV2-UR1 and TVV2-OC3. The sequence of T. vaginalis virus 3(TVV3) had similarity with TVV3-OC5, TVV3-UR1-1 and TVV3-UR1.

Conclusion

Three dsRNA viruses T. vaginalis virus (TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3) were detected using RT-PCR in T. vaginalis Iranian isolates. The coinfection of TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3 in one isolate of T.vaginalis was observed for the first time in Iran.

Comparison of serologic status of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pre- and post-heart transplantation in a pediatric population: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND

Toxoplasmosis is an important opportunistic infection in immunocompromised children, especially in heart transplant recipients. This study aimed to investigate pre- and post-transplant serology for toxoplasmosis along with post-transplant PCR in pediatric heart transplant patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 38 heart transplant recipients aged 1-17 years, by the end of 2018. Pre- and post-transplant IgM and IgG titrations were measured using ELISA method. Nested PCR of B1 gene was performed to identify Toxoplasma gondii (T gondii) infection after transplant.

RESULTS

Totally, 11.4% of patients had positive IgG and 91.4% had negative IgM for toxoplasmosis before heart transplantation. The mean of pre-transplant IgG titration for seropositive and seronegative patients was 22.32 ± 15.30 IU/mL and 1.49 ± 1.15 IU/mL, respectively (P < .001). All cases were on chemoprophylaxis with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX). The mean of post-transplant IgG titration was 1.62 ± 1.87 IU/mL, which was negative for all cases. Investigating pre-transplant, IgM titration, 5.7% were positive, 91.4% were negative, and 2.9% were borderline. All cases were post-transplant IgM negative. The mean of post-transplant IgG titrations was significantly higher in the first 6 months (3.26 ± 2.68 IU/mL) compared to 6-12 (1.30 ± 1.34 IU/mL; P = .039) and > 12 months (1.07 ± 1.27 IU/mL; P = .004) time periods. The result of PCR for B1 gene in all cases was negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Chemoprophylaxis with TMP/SMX seems to be effective in prevention of T gondii infection or reactivation among pediatric heart transplantation population. Anti-T. gondii-IgG level alone may not be sensitive enough for evaluation of the infection at least after 6 months post-transplantation.

HIV-1 reverse transcriptase and protease mutations for drug-resistance detection among treatment-experienced and naïve HIV-infected individuals

Background

The presence of drug resistance mutations (DRMs) against antiretroviral agents is one of the main concerns in the clinical management of individuals with human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection, especially in regions of the world where treatment options are limited. The current study aimed at assessing the prevalence of HIV-1 DRMs among naïve and treatment-experienced HIV-1-infected patients in Iran.

Methods

From April 2013 to September 2018, the HIV-1 protease and reverse transcriptase genes were amplified and sequenced in plasma specimens of 60 newly diagnosed antiretroviral-naive individuals and 46 participants receiving antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) for at least six months with an HIV viral load of more than 1000 IU/mL to determine the HIV-1 DRMs and subtypes.

Results

Among the 60 treatment-naïve HIV-1-infected participants, 8.3% were infected with HIV-1 variants with surveillance DRMs (SDRMs). The SDRMs, D67N and D67E, belonged to the NRTIs class in two patients and K103N and V106A belonged to the NNRTIs class in three patients. The phylogenetic analysis showed that 91.7% of the subjects were infected with subtype CRF35_AD, followed by subtype B (5.0%) and CRF01_AE (3.3%). Among the 46 ART-experienced participants, 33 (71.7%) carried HIV-1 variants with SDRMs (9.1% against PIs, 78.8% against NRTIs, and 100% against NNRTIs). M46I and I47V were the most common mutations for PIs, M184V was the most common mutation for the NRTIs, and K103N/S was the most common mutation for NNRTIs. Phylogenetic analysis of the polymerase region showed that all of the 46 HIV-1-infected patients who failed on ART carried CRF35_AD.

Conclusions

The moderate prevalence of SDRMs (8.3%) in treatment-naïve and ART-failed (77.1%) Iranian patients with HIV-1-infection emphasizes the need for systematic viral load monitoring, expanding drug resistance testing, carefully surveilling individuals on ART regimens, and facilitating access to new antiretrovirals by health authorities.

Prevalence of HCV and/or HBV coinfection in Iranian HIV-infected patients

Aim: HIV-infected patients risk coinfection with HBV and HCV. This study aimed to investigate molecular epidemiology of HBV and HCV coinfection in Iranian HIV-infected individuals. Materials & methods: In this cross-sectional study, serological markers of HBV and HCV infection (hepatitis B surface antigen [HBsAg], hepatitis B e-antigen [HBeAg], hepatitis B e-antibody [HBeAb] and hepatitis B core antibody [HBcAb]) and anti-HCV antibodies [anti-HCV Abs] were tested in 198 Iranian HIV-infected patients. From plasma, HBV viral load was determined using COBAS TaqMan 48, and HCV-RNA was detected by reverse transcriptase-nested PCR. Results: 85 out of 198 (42.9%) patients were anti-HCV Ab positive and 42/198 (21.2%) had detectable HCV-RNA. Eight (4.0%) had traceable HBV-DNA. All these patients were infected by HBV genotype D. 55 (27.8%) were HBcAb positive. Nine (4.4%) were HBsAg and anti-HCV Ab positive. Conclusion: None were HIV-RNA/HCV-RNA/HBV-DNA positive, 21.2% were HIV-RNA/HCV-RNA positive and 4.0% were HIV-RNA/HBV-DNA positive. Therefore, studies on diagnosing these infections in HIV-infected individuals may be valuable.

Evaluation of CCR5-Δ32 mutation among individuals with high risk behaviors, neonates born to HIV-1 infected mothers, HIV-1 infected individuals, and healthy people in an Iranian population

One of the important genetic factors related to resistance to HIV-1 infection is the presence of the C-C chemokine receptor type 5 delta 32 (CCR5-Δ32) homozygous genotype (Δ32/Δ32). The aim of this study was to evaluate the CCR5-Δ32 mutation among individuals with high-risk behaviors, neonates born to HIV-1-infected mothers in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) project, HIV-1-infected individuals, and healthy people. The frequency of the CCR5-Δ32 genotype was assessed in a cross-sectional survey carried out from March 2014 to March 2019 among four different groups of the Iranian population. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 140 Iranian healthy people, 84 neonates born to HIV-1-infected mothers in the PMTCT project, 71 people with high-risk behaviors, and 76 HIV-1-infected individuals. The polymerase chain reaction method was used for the amplification of the CCR5 gene. The CCR5-Δ32 heterozygous deletion was detected in five (6.6%) HIV-1-infected individuals, four (4.7%) neonates born to HIV-1 positive mothers, two (1.4%) healthy people, and also three (4.2%) people with high-risk behaviors whereas the CCR5-Δ32 homozygous deletion was absent in all the groups (Fisher's exact test, P = .0242). The allele of CCR5-Δ32 homozygous was not detected in the four study groups, and no significant difference was seen in the frequency of the CCR5Δ32 heterozygous allele between HIV seropositive and seronegative individuals. Therefore, it seems that this allele alone cannot explain the natural resistance to HIV-1 infection and probably several mechanisms are responsible for these processes and it should be further investigated.

Evaluation of a PCR assay for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cell among HIV/AIDS patients

Cerebral toxoplasmosis is one of the neurological infections with high morbidity and mortality in patients with AIDS, so the accurate method for diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis seems necessary. In this study, nested PCR assay using B1 gene was evaluated in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) among HIV/AIDS patients. One hundred eight blood samples from HIV/AIDS patients, including four patients with cerebral toxoplasmosis and 104 HIV/AIDS patients without cerebral toxoplasmosis were evaluated for the Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using Enzyme Linked immunosorbent Assay. DNA of serum and PBMC of these patients were extracted and nested-PCR was carried out. Of 108 participants, 95 cases (88%) were positive for Toxoplasma IgG antibodies and one patient was found positive for Toxoplasma IgM antibody. In general, four patients, including three patients with cerebral toxoplasmosis, who were positive for Toxoplasma IgG antibodies and one patient without cerebral toxoplasmosis who was positive for Toxoplasma IgM antibody were found to be PCR positive. DNA of T. gondii was detected in both serum and PBMC in two cerebral toxoplasmosis patients; however DNA was detected in only PBMC in other cerebral toxoplasmosis patient. All cases with cerebral toxoplasmosis were also diagnosed by clinical and radiological manifestations. The results of this study showed that the numbers of positive samples by PCR in PBMC were higher than serum specimens for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. If molecular method and immunological assay are complemented with magnetic resonance imaging, the results can be useful for diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection in Cancer, Organ Transplant and Primary Immunodeficiency Patients in Tehran, Iran

Background:

Intestinal parasitic infection in immunodeficient patients especially those with impaired cellular immunity, like neoplasia, renal or heart transplant needs careful consideration. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in different group of patients including cancer patients; organ transplants recipients, and primary immunodeficiency patients.

Methods:

Stool samples from 190 patients including 80 patients with Primary Immunodeficiency, 85 cancer patients and 25 organ transplant recipients were collected; a direct examination with Phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and formalin ether concentration was performed. The DNA was extracted from parasitologically confirmed patients and nested PCR and sequencing was performed and new obtained sequences of Cryptosporidium parvum and Enterocytozoon bieneusi were compared with deposited ones.

Results:

In general, the prevalence of parasites was 26/80 (32.5%) in primary immunodeficiency, 22/85(25.9%) in cancer group, and 7/25 (28%) in organ transplant. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in primary immunodeficiency patients were Blastocystis hominis 13 (16.2%), Giardia lamblia 10 (12.5%), Cryptosporidium 1(1.2%), Chilomastix mesnilii 1 (1.2%), Dientamoeba fragilis 1(1.2%). Of 25 organ transplants, 6 (24%) Cryptosporidium sp were found, all of which were confirmed as Cryptosporidium parvum and one case of Microspora in a heart transplant recipient was confirmed as Enterocytozoon bieneusi by PCR sequencing. The predominant intestinal parasitic infection in cancer patients was 19 (22.3%) Blastocystis hominis followed by two (2.3%) Giardia lamblia and one Dientamoeba fragilis 1 (1.1%).

Conclusion:

The high rate of infection with Blastocystis hominis was found in cancer patients especially colorectal cancer patients, so careful consideration should be given by physicians. Cryptosporidium sp was found to be the major cause of parasitic intestinal infection in patients with organ transplant compared to primary immunodeficiency patients; so transplant recipients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy should be considered as a risk group for acquiring microsporidiosis and Cryptosporidium infection.

Investigation of the effects of a prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission program among Iranian neonates

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is mostly spreading in developing countries. One of the most important pathways of HIV infection in these nations is the vertical route, from mother to infant. Therefore, this study evaluated the effectiveness of the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program for HIV among Iranian neonates born to HIV-positive mothers. A total of 54 neonates born to HIV-1 positive mothers, all of whom were in a PMTCT program for HIV, as per the Iranian guidelines, were enrolled in this descriptive cross sectional study from March 2014 to July 2017. After RNA extraction of a plasma specimen, HIV-1 viral load was tested by an Artus HIV-1 RG RT-PCR Kit. Out of 54 evaluated neonates, 32 (59.3%) were male. The mean age of the HIV-infected mothers was 30.1 ± 5.4 (range: 19-47) years, and 36 (66.7%) of the mothers were in the age group 26-34 years. In the present study, it was found that none of the neonates whose mothers had previously entered PMTCT programs had HIV. 15 children were found who were born to HIV-positive mothers who had not entered the PMTCT program. Three of these children were infected with HIV (CRF35_AD), and none of them carried HIV-1 variants with SDRMs. The results of this study indicate that if HIV-positive pregnant women enter the PMTCT program for HIV, they can realistically hope to give birth to a non-infected child.

Double-stranded RNA viral infection of Trichomonas vaginalis (TVV1) in Iranian isolates

The Totiviridae family includes a number of viruses that can infect protozoan parasites such as Leishmania and Giardia and fungi like Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Some isolates of Trichomonas vaginalis are also infected with one or more double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses. In this study, the frequency of Trichomonas vaginalis virus (TVV1) was evaluated in Iranian isolates of T. vaginalis in Tehran, Iran. One thousand five hundred vaginal samples were collected from patients attending obstetrics and gynaecology hospitals associated with Iran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran from October 2015 to September 2016. Trichomonas vaginalis isolates were cultured in Diamond's modified medium. Nucleic acids were extracted using a DNA/RNA extraction kit and RT-PCR was performed. Among 1500 collected vaginal samples, 8 (0.53%) cases of T. vaginalis infection were found. Half (4/8) of the T. vaginalis positive cases were infected with TVV1. Phylogenetic mapping indicated that the Iranian isolates were most closely related to TVV1-OC5, TVV1-UR1. Iranian isolates of T. vaginalis were infected with TVV1. The frequency of viral infection (TVV1) in T. vaginalis isolates found in this study is higher than previously reported in Iran.

Natural Intestinal Protozoa in Rodents (Rodentia: Gerbillinae, Murinae, Cricetinae) in Northwestern Iran

BACKGROUND

Majority of parasitic infections in rodents have zoonotic importance. This study aimed to determine the frequency and intensity of intestinal protozoa infections of rodents including Meriones persicus, Mus musculus and, Cricetulus migratorius.

METHODS

This survey was conducted in Meshkin Shahr district in northwestern Iran from Mar. to Dec. of 2014. Intestinal samples of 204 rodents including M. persicus (n=117), M. musculus (n=63) and C. migratorius (n=24) were parasitologically examined. Formalin-ether concentration method was done for all of rodents stool samples and observed with light microscope. All of suspected cases were stained with trichorome staining Method. Cultivation in dichromate potassium 2.5% was carried out for all of coccidian positive samples. Acid fast and aniline blue staining methods were used for detecting of coccidian oocysts and intestinal microsporidial spores, respectively.

RESULTS

About 121(59.3%) of the caught rodents were generally infected with intestinal protozoa. Entamoeba muris 14(6.9%), Trichomonas muris 55(27.0%), Chilomastix betencourtti 17 (8.3%), Giardia muris 19(9.3%), Eimeria spp. 46(22.5%), Isospora spp. 4(2%) and Cryptosporidium spp. 1(0.5%) were found from the collected rodents. Microsporidian spores were identified in 63 (31%) out of the 204 collected rodents using aniline blue staining method.

CONCLUSION

Since some of the infections are zoonotic importance thus, control of rodents can be decreased new cases of the parasitic zoonoses in humans.

Evaluation of Cryptosporidium oocyst and Giardia cyst removal efficiency from urban and slaughterhouse wastewater treatment plants and assessment of cyst viability in wastewater effluent samples from Tehran, Iran

Five municipal and domestic wastewater treatment plants, most of which had secondary treatment systems formed by activated sludge, were studied during 2013–2014 in Tehran. The study was done in order to evaluate their efficiency in terms of removal of Cryptosporidium and Giardia by (oo)cyst recovery in effluent samples using immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies. Results showed that mean concentrations of cysts in the influent samples always outnumbered mean concentrations of oocysts (883.3 ± 4,16.7–3,191.7 ± 1,067.2 versus 4.8 ± 6.2–83.8 ± 77.3 (oo)cysts/L), and that lower concentrations of (oo)cysts were recorded in summer, and higher levels in autumn, and that the difference was statistically significant (t-test, P &lt;0.05) only in wastewater from slaughterhouses. Results for removal percentages of all the plants ranged from 76.7 to 92.1% for cysts and from 48.9 to 90.8% for oocysts. There was more reduction of (oo)cysts at the urban treatment plant by activated sludge-A2O-sand filtration than at plants with conventional activated sludge and activated sludge-trickling filter, however, this difference was not statistically significant for cysts and oocysts (ANOVA, P &gt; 0.05). Infections in mice inoculated with cysts obtained from urban wastewater effluent demonstrated presence of infectious Giardia cysts. Results demonstrate limited efficiency of conventional wastewater treatment processes at physico-chemical removal of (oo)cysts.

Evaluation of recombinant SAG1, SAG2, and SAG3 antigens for serodiagnosis of toxoplasmosis

Serologic tests are widely accepted for diagnosing Toxoplasma gondii but purification and standardization of antigen needs to be improved. Recently, surface tachyzoite and bradyzoite antigens have become more attractive for this purpose. In this study, diagnostic usefulness of 3 recombinant antigens (SAG1, SAG2, and SAG3) were evaluated, and their efficacy was compared with the available commercial ELISA. The recombinant plasmids were transformed to JM109 strain of Escherichia coli, and the recombinants were expressed and purified. Recombinant SAG1, SAG2, and SAG3 antigens were evaluated using different groups of sera in an ELISA system, and the results were compared to those of a commercial IgG and IgM ELISA kit. The sensitivity and specificity of recombinant surface antigens for detection of anti-Toxoplasma IgG in comparison with commercially available ELISA were as follows: SAG1 (93.6% and 92.9%), SAG2 (100.0% and 89.4%), and SAG3 (95.4% and 91.2%), respectively. A high degree of agreement (96.9%) was observed between recombinant SAG2 and commercial ELISA in terms of detecting IgG anti-Toxoplasma antibodies. P22 had the best performance in detecting anti-Toxoplasma IgM in comparison with the other 2 recombinant antigens. Recombinant SAG1, SAG2, and SAG3 could all be used for diagnosis of IgG-specific antibodies against T. gondii.

Expression and Purification of P43 Toxoplasma gondii Surface Antigen

BACKGROUND

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, capable of infecting all species of mammals including man. Congenital toxoplasmosis is more important during pregnancy for the first time. In this study we expressed and purified P43 Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoite and bradyzoite specific surface antigen.

METHODS

The recombinant pGEMEX-1 contained Toxoplasma P43 coding sequence was transformed into E. coli and mass cultured in LB medium contained 100 μg/ml ampicillin at 37°C over night. The T7 promoter was induced by 1mM isopropyl-1-thio-ß-D-galactopyranoside (IPTG. Recombinant protein was purified by affinity chromatography and confirmed by gel diffusion dot blot and western blot,-using specific anti Toxoplasma antibodies.

RESULTS

Recombinant plasmid was induced by IPTG and analyzed by SDS-PAGE. Recombinant protein was confirmed by Western-blot and dot blot using anti human Toxoplasma antibody.

CONCLUSION

Recombinant Toxoplasma P43 was produced successfully.