@article{ author = {Heydari, Ali akbar}, title = {Acute Complicated Brucellosis Mimicking Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and Vice Versa}, abstract ={Brucellosis and Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) are both common zoonoses that may co-occur in similar epidemiological conditions, e.g., among young livestock breeders, veterinarians, and farmers in rural areas. Transmission of Brucella bacteria is through ingestion of contaminated dairy products, while CCHF virus infection occurs via infective tick bite or exposure of damaged skin and mucosa to the tissues and blood of viremic animals. Brucellosis occurs almost in all seasons, while CCHF is of lower incidence in the cold seasons due to decreased activity of tick vectors. CCHF mimics brucellosis and vice versa, mainly when the latter manifests severe thrombocytopenia and hemorrhage. Occasionally, the two illnesses present similar clinical features and laboratory results, e.g., fever, muscle aches, increased liver enzymes, and thrombocytopenia. This article discusses the similar clinical, epidemiological and laboratory aspects of the two diseases and warns physicians to avoid the inappropriate use of drugs such as ribavirin, which is dangerous in patients with kidney failure and pregnancy.}, Keywords = {Thrombocytopenia, Brucella, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, }, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {1-5}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.1}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-189-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-189-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {SoleimaniSasani, Mahboubeh and Eftekhar, Fereshteh and Hosseini, Masou}, title = {Isolation and Characterization of a Klebsiella pneumoniae Specific Lytic Bacteriophage from a Hospital Waste-water Treatment Plant}, abstract ={Introduction: Phage therapy has gained interest as a potential alternative for treatment of infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This study aimed to isolate a lytic bacteriophage with the potential to lyse clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Methods: Water samples were collected from a hospital waste-water treatment plant in Tehran. The samples were filtered and mixed with an overnight grown culture of K. pneumoniae. (ATCC 10031) followed by incubation at 37°C overnight. Phage titration, latent period, and burst size measurements were carried out by the double-layer agar method using the K. pneumoniae ATCC strain. The isolated phage w:as char:acterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermal, pH, and chloroform stability. Susceptibility of Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESBL producing K. pneumoniae and 51 MDR K. pneumoniae isolates was measured by placing 20 µl of the phage suspension (108 PFU) onto bacterial lawns followed by incubation at 37°C overnight. Formation of clear zones indicated susceptibility. Results: The isolated lytic bacteriophage formed small clear plaques with a latent period of 40 min and a burst time of 52 min, corresponding to 35-40 phage particles per infected cell. TEM results showed that the phage resembled the tailed Siphoviridae family and was designated vB_KpnS-Teh.1. The phage vB_KpnS-Teh.1 was most stable at 37°C, pH 7 and was resistant to chloroform. Conclusion: The isolated lytic phage showed specificity towards K. pneumoniae. Further research will determine its potential in the treatment of K. pneumoniae infections.}, Keywords = {Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacteriophage, Waste-water, Siphoviridae}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {6-11}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.6}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-192-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-192-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Pidaei, Farideh and Sharifan, Anoosheh and Masoud, Ramo}, title = {The effect of Cold Plasma (Combined Argon/Helium Gases) on Microbial Contamination and Physicochemical Properties of Minced Sheep Meat}, abstract ={Introduction: The demand for consuming healthy food has increased due to the developed techniques for assessing food safety and detection of microbial contamination. Among the non-thermal processing methods, using cold plasma along with atmospheric pressure, has received much attention. The present study aims to investigate the effect of cold plasma, the combination of argon and helium gases, on the reduction of microbial load and physicochemical changes in minced sheep meat. Methods: In this study, minced sheep meat was subjected to 36 cold atmospheric plasma treatments with different time intervals (3, 6, and 9 min) and argon/helium gas ratios (1:8 and 2:7). Microbial counts and physiochemical properties (moisture, color, free fatty acids, and pH) were measured according to the Iranian national standards. Results: Both ratios of argon/helium (1:8 and 2:7) were effective in reducing the microbial load of minced sheep meat via cold atmospheric plasma in all exposure intervals (3, 9 and 12 min). However, the argon/helium ratio of 2:7 and an exposure time of 12 min, was the most effective combination in decreasing microbial contamination. Conclusion: Our findings elucidated that the cold plasma processing method was effective in reducing the microbial load of minced sheep meat. Furthermore, we concluded that both parameters of time and gas composition affect microbial load reduction by cold plasma. }, Keywords = {Cold plasma, Microbial load, Physicochemical properties, Minced sheep meat.}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {12-18}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.12}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-177-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-177-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {SoltaniFard, Elahe and RoayaeiArdakani, Mohammad and Motamedi, Hossei}, title = {Molecular Diversity of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Originated from Patients in Ahvaz Hospitals, Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is among the primary cause of hospitals and community-acquired infections. The emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains has resulted in the treatment failure of the infections caused by these bacteria. Hence, regional data on antibiotic resistance of S. aureus strains is necessary to adopt appropriate treatment regimens. This study aims to identify the diversities and their frequencies among MRSA isolates by molecular analysis of four genes. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 100 S. aureus isolates from patients hospitalized in two hospitals of Ahvaz, Iran were collected and identified. The MRSA isolates were identified by phenotypic method and amplification of the mecA gene. The diversity of MRSA isolates was investigated by amplification of the coa, spa, aroA, and gap genes followed by RFLP analysis using the AluI, HindIII, TaqI and RsaI restriction enzymes. Results: In this study, we identified 50 MRSA isolates. Based on the analysis of coa gene, 8 types, spa gene 5 types and 17 subtypes, coa gene with AluI 13 types, and spa with HindIII 13 types were identified. Also, the RFLP analysis of gap gene with AluI revealed 3 types, and of aroA gene with TaqI and RsaI, 3 types and 2 subtypes, respectively.  Conclusion: Our PCR-RFLP analysis revealed that diversities are present among MRSA isolates originated from clinical samples and showed that this method is simple, reproducible, and cost-effective. }, Keywords = {Methicillin-resistant, Staphylococcus aureus, genetic diversity, Iran}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {19-28}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.19}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-181-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-181-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {BorhaniZarandi, Mehdi and NourollahiFard, Saeid Reza and Parastouei, Karim and Ahmadi, Ami}, title = {Causative Agents of Vaginitis in Women of Kerman Province, Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Trichomoniasis is a protozoan infection of women that is transmitted via sexual intercourse. The present study was carried out to detect the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis and other vaginitis agents in women referred to Kerman health care centers. Methods: The vaginal discharges of 3988 females were examined by microscopy for T. vaginalis infection as well as bacterial and fungal infections from April 2016 to March 2017. Results: The prevalence rates of T. vaginalis, bacteria, and yeast were 0.2%, 27.3%, and 9.2% respectively. The highest rate of T. vaginalis infection among women belonged to the age group 41-50 (P<0.05). Our results showed Escherichia coli and Klebsiella in women with bacterial infections. Conclusion: The results indicated that the prevalence of T. vaginalis in patients of this area was low, and other causes of vaginitis such as bacterial and fungal infections should be more considered. }, Keywords = {Trichomonas vaginalis, Kerman, Vaginitis}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {29-31}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.29}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-188-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-188-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Mazhari, Nahideh and Moosavi, Parisa and Mostafavi, Ehsan and Esfandiari, Behzad and Mobedi, Iraj and RahimiEsboei, Bahman and Mowlavi, Gholamrez}, title = {Intestinal Parasitic Helminths of Rattus spp. in Caspian Sea Littoral, Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Rodents are known as the reservoir of various zoonotic diseases and play a critical role in the transmission of pathogenic agents to humans. During an investigation on rodent reservoirs of leptospirosis in Caspian Sea littoral, northern Iran, we took advantage of the opportunity to examine the animals for intestinal helminth infections. Methods: We received gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) of 132 rodents belonged to the genus Rattus, from Mazandaran, Gilan and Golestan Provinces. The GIT of the animals had been preserved in 10% formalin and transferred to Helminthology Laboratory of School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. We examined the GITs contents for helminths under a binocular followed by a microscope with different magnifications and identified the specimens according to reliable morphological keys. Results: Out of the 132 rats, 83 (62.87%) harbored helminth parasites. We identified 11 helminth species among which the zoonotic cestodes, Hymenolepis diminuta (29.5%) and Hymenolepis nana (18.18%) exhibited the highest prevalence. The species Euparyphium murinum and Skerjabinotaenia abnormalis are reported here for the first time from Iran. Conclusion: The Caspian Sea littoral of Iran is a suitable area for the breeding of the commensal rodents. In this study, the rats from this area exhibited a high burden of helminth infections, with some species of public health importance.}, Keywords = {Rattus spp., Intestinal parasites, Caspian Sea, Iran.}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {32-36}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.32}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-169-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-169-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Davoodi, Saba and Bolhassani, Azam and Sadat, Seyed Mehdi and Irani, Shiv}, title = {Enhancing HIV-1 Nef Penetration into Mammalian Cells as an Antigen Candidate}, abstract ={Introduction: The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Nef regulatory protein is known as a candidate for the design of therapeutic HIV DNA and protein vaccines. One of the limitations of these vaccines is the inability of DNA and protein to pass through the cell membrane. Various delivery systems have been developed to transfer DNA and protein into cells. Cell penetrating systems such as MPG and Cylop-1 are among delivery systems, which can deliver DNA and protein cargoes into the cells, respectively. Methods: In this study, we produced the recombinant Nef protein in Escherichia coli expression system. Then, the formation of CPP/DNA and CPP/protein nanoparticles was confirmed by agarose gel retardation, scanning electron microscope (SEM), Zetasizer and SDS-PAGE, and their stability was evaluated against nucleases and proteases. Finally, the delivery of the nanoparticles into HEK-293T cells was assessed by fluorescent microscopy, flow cytometry, and western blotting. Results: Our data confirmed the formation of stable nanoparticles through non-covalent bonds with a diameter of less than 200 nm. Moreover, the results of fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and western blotting demonstrated that these CPPs could successfully deliver the Nef protein and DNA into HEK-293T cells. Conclusion: Our results indicated that the MPG and CyLoP-1 CPPs are suitable candidates for the delivery of DNA and protein cargoes into mammalian cells, respectively.}, Keywords = {HIV infections, Gene products nef, Cell penetrating peptides, Transfection}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {37-43}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.37}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-199-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-199-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Paknejadi, Mansoureh and Bayat, Mansour and Razavilar, Vadoo}, title = {Investigating the Frequency of Candida glabrata in Diabetic Women of Tehran with Recurrent and Non-recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Using PCR-RFLP Assay}, abstract ={Introduction: Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common genital tract infections among women, especially in diabetic patients. The increasing prevalence of recurrent infections caused by drug-resistant non-albicans species necessitates further studies on diabetic patients and the identification of causative agents by reliable molecular techniques. The obtained results can assist in adopting proper treatment procedures and prevention of recurrent vulvovaginitis (RVVC). Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 150 vaginal discharge samples were collected from diabetic women suspected of candidiasis referring to health centers in Tehran province. Following the culture of samples on SDA, CHROMagar Candida and PCR-RFLP were used for presumptive and definitive identification of Candida species, respectively. Results: Out of 115 positive patients, 105 showed infection with one species, and 10 had a mixed infection with two species. The frequency of Candida glabrata isolated from non-mixed and mixed infections in RVVC group was higher than Candida albicans (27.8% vs. 9.6%), which contradicted the results of the VVC group (6.1% vs. 24.3%). In the RVVC group, therefore, the patients were more infected with non-albicans species than C. albicans (47.8% vs. 9.6%), while in the VVC group the non-albicans were of lower frequency (18.3% vs. 24.3%). Conclusion: Our findings showed a statistically significant correlation (P<0.001) between the frequency of C. glabrata and the prevalence of RVVC. On the other hand, that blood sugar, duration of diabetes, and antibiotics usage had significant correlations (P<0.001) with the recurrence of severe symptoms. }, Keywords = {Candida glabrata, Diabetes Mellitus, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Vulvovaginal candidiasis, Iran}, volume = {7}, Number = {1}, pages = {44-51}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.1.2.44}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-206-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-206-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Sharifi, Iraj and Aflatoonian, Mohammad Reza and Babaei, Zahra and Sharifi, Fatemeh and Keyhani, Alireza and Salarkia, Ehsan and Khosravi, Ahmad and Khamesipour, Ali and Mohebali, Mehdi and Nadim, Abolhassan and Bamorovat, Mehdi}, title = {Emerging Epidemics of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Iran: Operational Aspects, Management and Implemented Control Approaches}, abstract ={Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Iran could be considered as an emerging disease that is rapidly increasing and expanding its traditional geographical range to new foci. Sixteen registered emerging epidemics have occurred since 1998 in different provinces. Various risk factors, including agricultural development, earthquake, movement to endemic areas, construction of buildings near colonies of rodents, sleeping outside, cross-border movements, and poor sanitation, play crucial roles in the expansion of the disease. The mentioned risk factors can lead to the gradual or sudden emergence of new CL epidemics, and long-lasting endemic foci can also erupt into epidemics. This paper reviews the emerging epidemics published between 1998 and 2019 in Iran with particular emphasis on the operational aspects of control and related risk factors caused by anthroponotic CL (ACL) and zoonotic CL (ZCL). The competent surveillance system should be extended to all high-risk areas to facilitate controlling the emerging epidemics of ACL and ZCL in the affected areas.}, Keywords = {Cutaneous leishmaniasis, Emerging epidemics, Risk factors, Management and control, Iran}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {52-60}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.52}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-196-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-196-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Seyed, Negar and Rafati, Sim}, title = {Resolution and pro-resolving lipid mediators in Leishmania infection}, abstract ={The acute inflammatory response is the body’s natural reaction to inciting stimuli including trauma and pathogens. Well-known pro-inflammatory metabolites take control of this reaction to recruit the leukocytes into the inflamed tissue. These cells professionally ingest and kill the invading pathogens and clear the debris of dead or injured cells. This further signals the tissue regeneration and gain of function, another active process mediated by newly uncovered metabolites. These newly identified metabolites are anti-inflammatory in nature and downregulate the active inflammation. These molecules and their cognate receptors are novel targets for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Although not very well understood, these mediators are suspected to support intracellular parasite survival (as Leishmania parasite) and are worth further investigation for innovative therapeutic interventions.}, Keywords = {Resolution, lipid mediators, Leishmania infection}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {61-65}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.61}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-195-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-195-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Eddaikra, Naouel and Boudjelal, Amel and AmineSbabdji, Mohamed and Eddaikra, Atika and Boudrissa, Abdelkrim and MounirBouhenna, Mustapha and Chemat, Smain and Harrat, Zoubir}, title = {Leishmanicidal and Cytotoxic Activity of Algerian Medicinal Plants on Leishmania major and Leishmania infantum}, abstract ={Introduction: Leishmaniasis is a severe disease that presents a real public health problem worldwide. Antileishmanial therapy remains expensive with intolerable side effects; therefore, it is essential to develop tolerable antileishmanial medications with a selective efficacy. Methods: In this study,  the leishmanicidal activities of seven Algerian plant extracts, selected based on either ethnobotanical or chemotaxonomical data, were screened for their antileishmanial activity against promastigotes and amastigotes of cutaneous leishmaniasis agent Leishmania major (MON 25), and visceral leishmaniasis agent Leishmania infantum (MON 1). The cytotoxic activity against human monocytes THP1 was also determined. Results: In both species, amastigotes showed more sensitivity to the extracts than promastigotes. Erica arborea flower (IC50=43,98 𝜇g/mL), Marrubium vulgare leaves (IC50=45,84 𝜇g/mL) and Artemisia herba-alba Asso aerial parts (IC50=55,21 𝜇g/mL) had an almost similar inhibitory effect on L. major promastigote. Marrubium vulgare leaves (IC50=35,63 𝜇g/mL) was most effective against L. infantum promastigotes. Besides, these extracts exhibited low selectivity indices. The best results were obtained with M. vulgare on both L. major and L. infantum promastigotes (IC50s of 45,84 µg/ml and 35,63 µg/ml), and amastigotes (IC50s of 32,15 µg/ml and 18,64 µg/ml). The selectivity index was above two (2.34 for L. major and 3.01 for L. infantum), calculated based on the acceptable cytotoxic effect of M. vulgare on human macrophage cell line (CC50=107,45 µg/ml). Conclusion: Out of the seven methanol extracts tested against promastigotes of L. major and L. infantum, three showed promising activity with potent leishmanicidal effect and acceptable selectivity indices on L. major and L. infantum. }, Keywords = {Leishmanicidal effect, Medicinal plant, Algeria, Leishmaniasis.}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {66-71}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.66}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-194-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-194-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Kazemirad, Elham and ReisiNafchi, Hossien and Latifi, Alireza and Raoofian, Reza and Mohebali, Mehdi and Hajjaran, Hom}, title = {Comparison of Cysteine Protease B Gene Expression between Clinical Isolates of Leishmania tropica, Leishmania major and Leishmania infantum}, abstract ={Introduction: Leishmania cysteine protease B (CPB) is a parasite virulence factor that plays a vital role in host-parasitic interactions. Regarding the importance of the CPB gene, we used a quantitative real-time RT-PCR to investigate the expression of CPB in the Iranian isolates of different Leishmania species. Methods: In this study, 36 clinical samples were collected, out of which 29 belonged to cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), 3 to viscerotropic leishmaniasis (VTL), and 5 to visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients. Among CL isolates, 8 were Leishmania major, and 21 were Leishmania tropica, including 3 isolates from the lupoid type. After RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, gene expression analysis was performed by qPCR. Results: Our results showed the highest expression of CPB in isolates of Leishmania infantum, followed by L. major and L. tropica. Among L. tropica isolates, in the lupoid forms, the mean expression of CPB was ≈6.4 times higher than that of non-lupoid isolates. In L. major isolates, a significant difference was observed between the level of gene expression and the duration of the infection. The expression level of CPB was associated with the severity of the infection in L. infantum isolates. Conclusion: The CPB gene expressed in all Leishmania species. The highest expression was in L. infantum species and the least expression in L. tropica. The transcript level of CPB increased in L. major isolates derived from patients with a higher number and duration of ulcers; however, further studies on more clinical samples are needed to explore our findings. }, Keywords = {Cysteine protease B (CPB), Real-time RT- PCR, Leishmania species, Iran}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {72-78}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.72}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-221-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-221-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Ghafari, Seyedeh Maryam and Ebadatgar, Vahoora and Mohammadi, Somayeh and Ebrahimi, Sahar and Bordbar, Ali and Parvizi, Parviz}, title = {Morphologic, Morphometric and Molecular Comparison of Two Sister Species of Rodents as Potential Reservoir Hosts of Zoonotic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the Southwest of Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Rodents are reservoir hosts of various infectious diseases. Many species and subspecies of genus Rattus play a significant role as potential reservoir hosts of different emerging and re-emerging diseases, including leishmaniasis. Methods: Rodents were captured using live wooden traps from different localities of Khuzestan Province, southwest of Iran. To precise identification of two sister species of rats, including Rattus rattus and Rattus norvegicus, morphological, molecular, and biosystematics characters were examined using amplification of mitochondrial Cytochrome b (Cytb) gene fragment. Results: Out of 119 captured rodents, 44 were R. rattus, 12 were R. norvegicus, and 63 belonged to other species (Tatera indica, Nesokia indica, Mus musculus). Partial Cyt b gene (≤624 bp) was amplified to characterize R. rattus and R. norvegicus, accurately. Three haplotypes of R. rattus (six samples) and a unique haplotype of R. norvegicus (three samples) were identified with some nucleotide variations. Conclusion: Mitochondrial results confirmed morphological disparity between the two Rattus species in Khuzestan Province. Therefore, we recommend applying an integrative approach to identify host reservoirs for infectious diseases, especially those suspected as reservoirs of cutaneous Leishmaniasis.}, Keywords = {Morphology, Cytochrome b, Rattus rattus, Rattus norvegicus.}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {79-84}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.79}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-209-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-209-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Bahrami, Fariborz and Rafati, Sim}, title = {The LeiSHield-MATI consortium: An international project to understand and combat cutaneous leishmaniasis through research and innovation staff exchange}, abstract ={Not required for a Letter to the Editor.}, Keywords = {Cutaneous leishmaniasis , Pasteur Institute International Network , Horizon 2020 , LeiSHield-MATI RISE,}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {85-86}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.85}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-193-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-193-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Handjani, Farhad and Taghipour, Kaveh and Miri, Amir}, title = {Cutaneous Leishmaniasis on the Glans Penis: A Case Report}, abstract ={A 79-year-old male presented with an ulcerated lesion on the glans penis. Histopathological evaluation of the biopsy from the lesion revealed the presence of Leishmania amastigotes and confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The patient was treated with several sessions of cryotherapy; the lesion healed and left no scar.}, Keywords = {Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Genital Leishmaniasis, Cryotherapy}, volume = {7}, Number = {3}, pages = {87-88}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.3.87}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-198-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-198-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {SadatLarijani, Mona and Sadat, Seyed Mehdi and Bolhassani, Azam and Ramezani, Amitis}, title = {A Shot at Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccine Strategy against HIV-1}, abstract ={Introduction: Despite considerable efforts to control AIDS pandemic, it is still one of the significant infectious concerns worldwide. The advance in medical research has led to the development of highly active antiretroviral therapy with a considerable effect to suppress the disease. However, an effective vaccine capable of eradication the HIV pandemic is not available yet. Failure to develop a prophylactic vaccine diverted the efforts to clinical trials of therapeutic vaccines. Methods: Here, we review different approaches to dendritic cell-based HIV therapeutic vaccines. We have summarized the dendritic cell-based trials as HIV therapeutic vaccination, registered in the United States clinical trial database. Results and Conclusion: The strategies applied in the clinical trials were mostly of low success rates; however, by using dendritic cell therapy, they could trigger the host immune response against HIV-1 infections.}, Keywords = {Antiretroviral Therapy, Dendritic Cells, HIV-1}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {89-92}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.89}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-212-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-212-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Sefid, Fateme and Baghban, Roghayyeh and Payandeh, Zahra and Khalesi, Bahman and MahmoudiGomari, Mohamm}, title = {Structure Evaluation of IroN for Designing a Vaccine against Escherichia Coli, an In Silico Approach}, abstract ={Introduction: Some strains of Escherichia Coli, including intestinal pathogenic strains, commensal strains, and extra intestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) have a significant impact on human health status. A standard vaccine designed based on conserved epitopes can stimulate a protective immune response against these pathogens. Additionally, enhanced expression at the infection site as a pathogenesis factor in disease is crucial for an ideal vaccine candidate. The IroN protein plays a role in severe infections of E. coli. Hence, this protein will assist in developing the novel and more efficient treatments for E. coli related infections. A better understanding of protein tertiary structure can help to percept their functions and also their interactions with other molecules. There is a growing interest in using bioinformatics tool to make accurate predictions about the functional, immunological, and biochemical features of target antigens. Method: Herein, we aimed to predict the structure of the IroN protein upon its folding and determine their immunological properties. Results: In the present study, using bioinformatics analyses, we identified the highly antigenic regions of IroN protein. Our designed vaccine candidate had the highest immunological properties and folded into a typical beta-barrel structure. Conclusion: The approach of assigning structural and immunological properties of the target antigen to design the vaccine candidate could be deployed as an efficient strategy to circumvent the challenges ahead of empirical methods without dealing with ethical concerns of animal usage and human participants. Although the obtained results are promising, further experimental studies could bring about more insights on the efficiency of the designed vaccine. }, Keywords = {Urinary Tract Infections, Vaccine, Iron Receptor, Bioinformatics, OMP}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {93-106}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.93}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-172-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-172-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Namazi, Fatemeh and Bolhassani, Azam and Sadat, Seyed Mehdi and Irani, Shiv}, title = {In vitro Delivery of HIV-1 Nef Antigen by Histidine-rich nona-arginine and Latarcin 1 peptide}, abstract ={Introduction: The Nef accessory protein is an attractive antigenic candidate in the development of HIV-1 DNA- or protein-based vaccines. The most crucial disadvantage of DNA and protein-based vaccines is their low immunogenicity, which can be improved by cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) as effective carrier molecules. Methods: In this study, the HIV-1 Nef protein was generated in the Escherichia coli expression system for in vitro delivery using a novel CPP, Latarcin 1 peptide, in a non-covalent manner. Also, the Histidine-rich nona-arginine peptide was utilized to transfer the HIV-1 Nef gene. The size, morphology, and zeta potential of the complexes were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Zetasizer. The efficiency of cell transfection was studied using a fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry for the DNA/CPP complexes and western blot analysis for the protein/CPP complexes. Results: The Nef protein generated in the BL21 strain migrated as a dominant band of ~30 kDa in SDS-PAGE. The SEM data confirmed the formation of stable complexes with a size below 200 nm. MTT assay demonstrated that the complexes did not represent any considerable cytotoxic effect compared to untreated HEK-293T cells. The results of fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and western blotting revealed that the Nef DNA and protein constructs could be significantly transfected into HEK-293T cell line using these CPPs. Conclusion: These data suggest that the Histidine-rich nona-arginine peptide and Latarcin 1 peptide as CPPs can be considered as a promising approach in the development of the HIV-1 vaccine for gene or protein delivery. }, Keywords = {Therapeutic vaccine, HIV-1 Nef, Cell-penetrating peptides, Transfection}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {107-115}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.107}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-210-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-210-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Khodabakhshi, Behnaz and Abbasi, Abdollah and TorabiRostami, Mobina and Joshaghani, Hamid Reza and Roshandel, Gholamrez}, title = {Comparison of Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and Agglutination Assays in Diagnosis of Brucellosis in Golestan Province, North of Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Brucellosis is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide. The clinical symptoms of brucellosis are similar to a wide range of diseases; hence, reliable diagnostic and laboratory methods are required to identify the causative agent. Iran is an endemic region of brucellosis, and many patients are misdiagnosed due to the nature of the infection. In this study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the use of the conventional Wright test and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for the diagnosis of brucellosis. Methods: Diagnosis of brucellosis was performed using serological tests and PCR amplification of a gene encoding 31-kDa immunogenic Brucella abortus protein (BCSP31). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: Brucellosis was diagnosed in 45 (69.23%) and 22 (38.8%) patients using the Wright test and qRT-PCR, respectively. The results of Wright and qRT-PCR assays were consistent in patients with negative results (90%). Moreover, qRT-PCR detected brucellosis in 25% of patients with Wright test titers <1/160, while 55.2% of the patients were positive with titers ≥1/160. No significant association was detected between positive PCR results and age, gender, and clinical symptoms. Conclusion: qRT-PCR showed a reliable diagnostic method capable of detecting the infection in suspected individuals with negative Wright results or with Wright test titers <1/160. Also, the positive qRT-PCR assays were in agreement with the Wright test titer. Regarding the financial and availability issues as well as technical problems, the agglutination test remains the preferred method in Iran.}, Keywords = {Brucellosis, qPCR, Serological tests, Humans}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {116-119}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.116}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-179-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-179-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Norouzian, Hossein and Shahrokhi, Nader and Sabeti, Shahram and Bouzari, Saeid and Pooya, Mohamm}, title = {Evaluation of Quinolone Resistance in Escherichia coli Isolates Recovered from Urine and Feces of Patients with Acute or Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection}, abstract ={Introduction: Antibiotic resistance, especially in Gram-negative uropathogens such as Escherichia coli, is the main barrier to treat urinary tract infection (UTI). In recent years, the dramatically increased resistance of E. coli to quinolones, a group of widely used antibiotics, has become a significant concern. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we collected 261 E. coli isolates from the urine and stool samples of patients, referred to or hospitalized at Loghman hospital in Tehran, Iran, with either acute or recurrent UTI. The susceptibility testing for quinolones was performed by the disk diffusion method according to the recent protocols. Results: The frequency of resistant E. coli isolates was higher against nalidixic acid than ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin (67.8% vs. 48.7% and 44.1% respectively). When comparing acute and recurrent phases of UTI, in the urine samples, no significant difference was seen in the frequency of resistant isolates against nalidixic acid and norfloxacin, while this frequency against ciprofloxacin was significantly higher in recurrent UTI (68% vs. 48.2%). However, in the stool samples, the frequency of resistant isolates against nalidixic acid was higher in recurrent UTI (77.1% vs. 55.7%), while no significant difference was seen against ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin in these phases. Conclusion: Regarding the antibiotic type and frequency of the administration, the resistance pattern of E. coli to quinolones seems to differ in acute and recurrent phases of UTI.}, Keywords = {Urinary Tract Infection, Uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Antimicrobial Susceptibility, Quinolones, Acute Disease}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {120-126}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.120}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-216-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-216-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Khalili-Samani, Maryam and Barati, Mahmood and Mirmohammadsadegh, Navid and Amin, Mohsen and Samadikuchaksaraei, Ali}, title = {Detection of Mutations of Antimutator Gene pfpI in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Species Isolated from Burn Patients in Tehran, Iran}, abstract ={Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen of clinical importance, particularly in immunocompromised and burn patients. This bacterium is becoming resistant to many antibiotics via intrinsic or acquired mechanisms. Mutations in anti-mutator genes, such as pfpI, can be a potential intrinsic mechanism of antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the possible effects of mutations of this gene on coding proteins of multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa isolates. Methods: The antibiotic resistance pattern of 50 P. aeruginosa isolates against 9 anti-pseudomonas antibiotics was determined by the disk diffusion method. PCR, followed by sequencing, detected the mutations in the pfpI gene. The retrieved sequences were translated to the corresponding amino acid sequences using an online protein database. The amino acid sequences in mutated isolates were compared with the reference sequence using a multiple alignment method. Results: Out of 50 isolates, 43 (86%) were resistant to all antibiotics. Sequencing and multiple alignment analyses showed that amino acids in positions 21, 24, and 57 of pfpI gene were changed in resistant isolates, and all these mutations were observed in each isolate. Homology modeling showed that these amino acids were part of a cleft on the protease. The other point mutations resulted in amino acid changes were in positions 67, 83, and 165. Conclusion: The data obtained in this study showed that the pfpI gene of P. aeruginosa might have a significant effect on response to antibiotics. Further epidemiologic and comprehensive studies are required to confirm these findings. }, Keywords = {Burns, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Drug Resistance, Amino Acid Sequence, Point Mutation}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {127-131}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.127}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-166-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-166-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} } @article{ author = {Ehsani, Gelareh and Fahmide, Foad and Norouzian, Dariush and Atyabi, Seyed Mohammad and Ehsani, Parastoo}, title = {Bioactivity Determination of Recombinant lysostaphin Immobilized on Glass Surfaces Modified by Cold Atmospheric Plasma on Staphylococcus aureus}, abstract ={Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is a source of nosocomial infections and one of the significant concerns in patients with indwelling devices. Lysostaphin is a bacterially produced endopeptidase with a unique activity on S. aureus. Plasma, the fourth state of the material, consists of charged ions, free electrons, and activated neutral species. Biomedical applications of cold plasma are rapidly growing due to its capacity to treat heat-sensitive objects such as polymeric materials and biological samples. It activates surfaces by etching them to stabilize proteins. The direct effect of cold atmospheric plasma on the eradication of microorganisms have been investigated. However, there is no report on immobilizing antibiotic agents. Methods: In this study, the lysostaphin protein was expressed and purified using Ni-NTA column, then the purified enzyme was immobilized on glass surfaces pretreated with cold atmospheric plasma for 150 s, 200 s, and 300 s. The antimicrobial activity of immobilized lysostaphin on S. aureus was approved by in vitro analysis. Results: The 300 s plasma treatment confirmed to be the best time arrangement for more lysostaphin immobilization, shown by Atomic Force Microscopy. Conclusion: Our results showed that passive adsorption to the treated surface does not affect the structure and subsequent antimicrobial function of the recombinant protein compared to the standard proteins.}, Keywords = {Recombinant Proteins, Lysostaphin, Cold Atmospheric Plasma}, volume = {7}, Number = {4}, pages = {132-137}, publisher = {Pasteur Institute of Iran}, title_fa = {}, abstract_fa ={}, keywords_fa = {}, doi = {10.29252/JoMMID.7.4.132}, url = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-225-en.html}, eprint = {http://jommid.pasteur.ac.ir/article-1-225-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases}, issn = {2345-5349}, eissn = {2345-5330}, year = {2019} }