Background: Pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine, while being effective against toxoplasmosis, are limited by significant adverse effects. On the other hand, 2-isopropyl-5-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone has been identified as a key bioactive compound. Moreover, studies on thymoquinone (TQ) have demonstrated its cytotoxic activity, inhibiting the growth of various cancer cell lines, including those of the ovary, prostate, colon, pancreas, osteosarcoma, and breast, as well as leukemia cells. This study sought to determine how TQ affected the tachyzoite type of Toxoplasma gondii. Materials and Methods: Different TQ concentrations (6.25–400 µM) were prepared in microtiter plates for this experiment. The tachyzoite test was used to assess parasite mortality. Flow cytometry was performed to determine whether T. gondii tachyzoites underwent apoptosis. Specifically, 2×10^5 tachyzoites were exposed to TQ at concentrations of 50 µM, 100 µM, and 200 µM, following the kit’s instructions. Results: Light microscopy revealed that TQ had lethal and damaging effects on T. gondii. Based on 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays, 400 µM of TQ exhibited the most toxic effects on macrophages. Furthermore, the MTT assay determined a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (CC50 ) for macrophages. Flow cytometric analysis indicated that the percentages of total apoptosis in parasites exposed to 50 µM, 100 µM, and 200 µM TQ were 51.3%, 64.9%, and 70.8%, respectively. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that TQ is toxic to T. gondii and induces apoptosis in this parasite. This work provides supporting evidence for the use of TQ in antiparasitic assays.
Campylobacter, a foodborne pathogen, is one of the most important bacterial agents causing human gastroenteritis. Although Guillain-Barré and other neuropathy syndromes have been observed after infection with microorganisms, most cases of these syndromes have occurred post-infection with Campylobacter bacteria. Campylobacter has several virulence factors, but those factors in the bacterial cell wall have the highest effect on causing neurological syndromes. Campylobacter mimics peripheral nerve gangliosides using virulence factors in its cell wall. For this reason, the immune system attacks bacteria and gangliosides as foreign agents and causes neurological diseases. Genetic and phenotype mechanisms are identified as the culprits behind these disorders, including lipooligosaccharide, capsular polysaccharides, phase variation, and protein glycosylation. Using these mechanisms, Campylobacter transforms into different phenotypes and genotypes, producing various virulence factors leading to neurological diseases.
Cryptosporidium spp. and Microsporidia spp., intracellular protozoan parasites, represent significant etiologic agents of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised pediatric cancer patients. These pathogens cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms including persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss which may be fatal in advanced stages. In developing countries with suboptimal sanitation, co-infections exacerbate morbidity among children with cancer. With the global incidence of childhood cancer increasing, immunosuppressive chemotherapy markedly heightens susceptibility to these infections. This review evaluates their epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methodologies, and the pivotal role of early detection. The severity of infections hinges on immune competence, nutritional status, and parasite species. Although self-limiting in immunocompetent hosts, these infections persist in immunocompromised children, precipitating dehydration, malnutrition, and delays in cancer therapy. Early diagnosis is imperative to mitigate complications and enhance outcomes through prompt supportive care and infection control measures. Diagnostic techniques, such as modified acid-fast staining for Cryptosporidium spp., modified trichrome staining for Microsporidia spp., and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), exhibit variable sensitivity; however, challenges in consistent detection and therapeutic resistance persist, particularly in resource-constrained settings. In such regions, low-cost diagnostics frequently fail to detect low burden infections, and treatment options beyond rehydration and nutritional support remain limited. Advances in molecular epidemiology have deepened insights into these infections, yet practical obstacles endure in pediatric oncology. Future investigations should prioritize the development of accessible high precision diagnostics such as next generation sequencing and targeted therapeutic strategies to reduce morbidity and improve survival and quality of life in this vulnerable cohort.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be a significant health concern worldwide, and recent research has highlighted an intriguing association with Fusobacterium nucleatum. The prevalence of F. nucleatum in CRC tissues varies significantly across studies, with estimates ranging from 13% to 80%, complicating efforts to define the bacterium’s precise role in CRC development. Although the involvement of F. nucleatum in the initiation of CRC is still debated, there is a broad consensus regarding its role in cancer progression and metastasis. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of F. nucleatum-mediated carcinogenesis could provide new avenues for managing CRC. F. nucleatum significantly facilitates the growth of CRC via its FadA adhesion. It attaches to E-cadherin (CDH1) and activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Consequently, inflammatory genes, Wnt-related genes, and oncogenes, such as c-Myc and Cyclin D1 (CCND1), are overexpressed. Various preventive and therapeutic strategies against F. nucleatum in CRC have been investigated, including the Fn-AhpC recombinant protein vaccine in mice and the use of metronidazole to reduce intratumoral bacterial load. Additionally, bacteriophages and nanoparticles are emerging as potential therapeutic tools. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of F. nucleatum in CRC and to explore its potential as a target for novel therapeutic strategies.
Background: The uncontrolled spread of antibiotic resistance and their low or no efficacy in treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms has made it urgent to pay more attention to plants, as they are more available and safer natural agents. Curcuma longa, a medical spice, also known as turmeric, has been shown to have high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the antimicrobial effect of the C. longa extract on six pathogenic bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Streptococcus mutans, and Clostridium difficile, and its positive impact on the growth of two selected probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus reuteri. Materials and Methods: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of the C. longa extract, the broth dilution method was used, and the minimum inhibitory concentrations of six pathogenic strains underwent evaluation. The prebiotic effect of the extract on two types of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was also investigated in this study. Results: The results revealed that the C. longa extract had prebiotic properties that could improve the growth of L. plantarum and L. reuteri, and it strongly inhibited the growth of enterohemorrhagic E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, C. difficile, and S. mutans. Conclusion: In summary, the C. longa extract has antibacterial properties and prebiotic effects that enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria, making C. longa a suitable candidate for the development of gastrointestinal health.
Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the malignant proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Generally, it is a malignancy of older people, and its presentation before the age of 40 is rare. In addition, the incidence of MM during pregnancy is very rare. This case study reports a 38-year-old woman with a 1.5-year history of bone pain and diagnosis of immunoglobulin G and a kappa light-chain myeloma (Durie-Salmon stage IIIA, International Staging System III) and poor cytogenetic prognosis (del 11p, 46XX). The treatment plan included four courses of bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone were planned as her treatment. At the end of the third course, it was revealed that she was in the 9th week of pregnancy, but her treatment continued as before because of refusing abortion and changing treatment modality. Despite continuing this treatment, a healthy boy was born without any malformations. Even in the next four-year follow-up, her son had normal growth and development. Regarding the contraindication of bortezomib during pregnancy, some data demonstrated that receiving bortezomib during pregnancy had no teratogenic effects on the fetus. This case study aimed to present this issue as well. Perhaps the declaration of bortezomib contraindication during pregnancy will become less in the future.
Background: Blastocystis sp. is among the most prevalent intestinal protozoan parasites in humans and animals, linked to a range of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms. Traditional treatments, such as metronidazole, face limitations, including drug resistance and diminished effectiveness, underscoring the need for new therapeutic strategies. Recently, nanoparticles (NPs) have gained interest as alternative treatments due to their distinctive properties, such as small size, large surface area, and inherent antimicrobial activity. Objectives: This study investigated the effects of copper oxide (CuO), iron oxide (Fe3 O4 ), and magnesium oxide (MgO) NPs on the growth and proliferation of Blastocystis sp. in vitro. Materials and Methods: In this laboratory study, Blastocystis sp. cultures were treated with CuO, Fe3 O4 , and MgO NPs at varying concentrations (400 µM, 200 µM, 100 µM, 50 µM, 25 µM, 12.5 µM, and 6.25 µM) to evaluate their impact on parasite proliferation and viability at 24 hours and 48 hours. Blastocystis sp. samples were identified through microscopic examination and staining tests, followed by calculating parasite inhibition rates and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay was also performed to assess the cytotoxicity of these NPs on HT-29 cells, followed by the analysis of the selectivity index (SI). Results: Based on the results, NPs significantly suppressed Blastocystis sp. growth and proliferation at all tested concentrations, with inhibition rates increasing alongside NP concentration. Among the NPs, Fe3 O4 displayed the highest inhibitory impact on parasite growth. Additionally, a 48-hour exposure period resulted in a more pronounced decrease in parasite counts compared to the 24-hour exposure. The IC50 values for parasite lethality were determined to be 3.71 µM and 0.06 µM for CuO, 2.87 µM and 5.68 µM for MgO, and 8.56 µM and 11.44 µM for Fe3 O4 at 24 hours and 48 hours, respectively. Half-maximal cytotoxic concentration values for CuO, MgO, and Fe3 O4 were 16.90 µM, 41.49 µM, and 8.01 µM, respectively. Based on the SI values (4.55, 14.45, and 0.93 for CuO, MgO, and Fe3 O4 , respectively), MgO emerged as the most favorable candidate due to its high selectivity and safety profile. Conclusion: The findings indicated that MgO NPs, based on their SI, present a promising alternative for inhibiting Blastocystis sp. This research underscores the potential of NPs as innovative therapeutic strategies for treating parasitic infections. However, to support these findings, further in vivo studies are necessary.
Background: Escherichia coli is a gram-negative bacterium found in the intestines of animals and humans. Some E. coli strains can cause diarrhea, urinary tract infection, and other diseases. Objectives: The current study deals with molecular pathotyping, phylogenetic grouping, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolates from children with diarrhea and healthy children in Babel province, Iraq. Methods: In total, stool samples were collected from 100 children under 5 years of age with diarrhea who were admitted to the Maternity Hospital and Children Hospital in Babel, Iraq, and 40 controls. The antimicrobial test was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) protocol. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to detect two types of genes, one for pathotypes (stx, elt, est, eaeA, aggR, and ipaH) and another for phylotypes (TspE4.C2, chuA, yjaA, and arpA). Results: Among the isolates examined, 4 distinct diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) pathotypes were identified based on their virulence genotypes: enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC), enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC), and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC). The prevalence rates of these pathotypes in the patient group were 35%, 6%, 3%, and 1%, respectively. In fact, the majority of DEC isolates (15% of healthy and 35% of patient groups) belonged to EAEC. Most isolates belonged to phylogroup E (21%), followed by phylogroup B1 (18%) and phylogroups A and F (11%). Antimicrobial sensitivity test results showed resistance to erythromycin, ceftazidime, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in 97%, 77%, and 63% of children with diarrhea, respectively. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was identified in 69% of DEC isolates. Conclusion: Our results underscore the significance of DEC isolates, particularly the EAEC pathotype, in causing diarrhea in children in Iraq. The notable level of antimicrobial resistance observed among DEC isolates highlights the need for implementing measures to control the dissemination of resistant bacteria.
Background: Nosocomial infections, or healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), occur in patients receiving medical services. These infections are a major global concern, resulting in significant morbidity, mortality, and lethal complications. The most common types include central line-associated bloodstream infections (BSIs), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), surgical site infections (SSIs), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Effective management requires the implementation of infection control programs. This review aimed to investigate various types of nosocomial infections and antibiotic-resistant pathogens, their sources, modes of transmission, and preventive measures against hospital-acquired infections. Methods: We conducted extensive searches in online databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar to identify published studies on nosocomial infections and bacterial resistance. The search terms included "nosocomial infections", "bacterial infections with antimicrobial resistance", and "treatment strategies". Out of a total of 520 retrieved studies, 109 were selected for further review. Results: Nosocomial infections and antibiotic resistance represent major challenges in many countries, leading to significant mortality and morbidity rates. In particular, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and other bacterial strains have been identified as the main causes of these infections. In addition, multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered a critical priority pathogen contributing to nosocomial infections. The results of this study indicated that the highest levels of antibiotic resistance are observed in penicillin, cephalosporins, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones. It is noteworthy that herbal compounds, including aloe vera and nanoparticles, may play an important role in the treatment and prevention of MDR strains. Conclusion: Nosocomial infections are increasing despite existing infection control measures, leading to higher mortality rates in critically ill patients. Furthermore, given the potential of plant compounds and nanoparticles, the results of this study could help advance new strategies for improving the monitoring and prevention of HAIs in hospitals and health centers.
Background: Although various factors play a role in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), infectious agents, such as Toxoplasma gondii, are suggested as a risk factor. Objectives: To further describe the relationship between T. gondii and SLE, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of case reports, cross-sectional studies, and case-control studies investigating the association between T. gondii and SLE. Materials and Methods: Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were searched for related articles published up to January 1, 2024. Moreover, a random effects meta-analysis model was utilized to determine the combined odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Nine case reports, six case-control studies (eight datasets), and four cross-sectional records were involved in the present meta-analysis. Considering the nine case reports, the cases were reported from seven countries (two cases in Malaysia, two cases in Japan, one case in Brazil, one case in Israel, one case in Denmark, one case in the USA, and one case in France). The prevalence of T. gondii in female SLE patients was higher (7/9, 77.8%) than in male SLE patients (2/9, 22.2%). However, all these cases were reported in adults. The reported cases were SLE patients who visited the doctor due to various disorders (i.e., visual loss, seizure, confused state, convulsive episode, transient unconsciousness, restlessness, general malaise, muscular pain, decreased appetite, weight loss, fever, dyspnea, psychosomatic reactions, and pulmonary hypertension). Considering cross-sectional studies (four studies) and case groups in case-control studies (six studies including eight datasets), the pooled seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody in SLE patients was calculated to be 31.7% (95% CI, 20.7–45.1%). The outcomes of the present (meta) analysis of case-control reports exhibited a pooled OR of 2.58 (95% CI, 1.52–4.39), signifying that either Toxoplasma infection/exposure could be linked with an increased risk of SLE or patients with SEL have an increased risk of T. gondii infection. Conclusion: Hence, we suggest that additional experimental research utilizing mouse models, along with longitudinal cohort studies in humans, would be helpful in providing further evidence for a potential link between T. gondii infection and SLE. Furthermore, these studies could help determine whether T. gondii infection acts as a co-factor in the onset/development of SLE.
Background: The potential of polyphenols to enhance the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria through direct co-utilization by bacteria and their ability to inhibit pathogenic species is a topic of significant interest. Recently, the term "Duplibiotic" has been proposed to describe a non-absorbable substance that regulates the gastrointestinal microbiome through both antimicrobial and prebiotic mechanisms. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prebiotic and antipathogenic effects of the aqueous extract of Cydonia oblonga Mill. Materials and Methods: This study examined the impact of an extract derived from C. oblonga Mill, a medicinal plant from the Rosaceae family, on the proliferation of Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus reuteri, as well as its antibacterial properties against six bacteria (enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Clostridium difficile, and Streptococcus mutans). Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the C. oblonga Mill extract against these six bacteria was determined. Results: In general, various extract concentrations of the C. oblonga Mill were found to inhibit the growth of enterohemorrhagic E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, C. difficile, and S. mutans, while significantly enhancing the growth of L. plantarum, L. reuteri, and L. acidophilus. Conclusion: The primary components of C. oblonga such as polyphenols may have a significant impact on biological properties. We suggest that the extract of C. oblonga Mill be considered a "Duplibiotic" compound, which refers to a non-absorbable substrate that modulates the gut microbiota through both antimicrobial and prebiotic mechanisms. The Duplibiotic effect of polyphenols is believed to contribute to reducing metabolic disorders and intestinal dysbiosis, positioning these compounds as nutritional interventions with medicinal capability.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the modern world’s most pressing challenges. Conjugation is a crucial method of AMR dissemination in bacteria caused by broad host range plasmids. Objectives: In the present study, we investigated the presence of IncA/C, IncP, and IncT replicon plasmids in uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) isolates and their associations with AMR. Materials and Methods: From March 2023 to September 2023, 150 UPEC isolates were collected from various public hospitals in Baghdad, Iraq. The AMR profiles of the isolates were investigated using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The presence of IncA/C, IncP, and IncT replicon plasmids was evaluated using the multiplex PCR method. The phylogenetic group of the positive UPEC isolates was determined using Clermont E. coli phylo-typing. Results: A multidrug resistance (MDR) profile was found in 98% of UPEC isolates. The highest resistance rates were against tetracycline (89.3%), nalidixic acid (85.3%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (85.3%). IncP, IncA/C, and IncT replicon plasmids were found in 4.7, 4.7, and 0% of UPEC isolates, respectively. The IncA/C-positive UPEC isolates belonged to the phylogroups B2 (5 isolates), A (1 isolate), and F (1 isolate). In comparison, the IncP-positive isolates belonged to the phylogroups E (3 isolates), A (2 isolates), and B2 (2 isolates). The statistical analysis showed associations between IncA/C and resistance to imipenem and between IncP and resistance to nalidixic acid and cefotaxime (P<0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate the spread of AMR in UPEC isolates. IncA/C and IncP broad host range plasmids can be a warning sign for spreading AMR among different bacteria. Additionally, the presence of these plasmids in pathogenic isolates (phylogroup B2) can lead to the formation of strains with high pathogenicity and broad AMR. Therefore, continuous monitoring of these plasmids in UPEC isolates is of crucial importance.
Background: Augmenting the care of pets can have a significant effect on the transmission of microorganisms between humans and animals. Having pets creates a suitable environment for harmful microorganisms, such as intestinal pathogens, to transmit to humans in various ways. Pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Arcobacter species are of significant importance as they are the main intestinal pathogens in humans and inhabit the digestive system of various animals. Objective: The purpose of this research was to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Arcobacter and to explore the probable risk factors associated with bacterial infections in dogs residing in Amol. Materials and Methods: In this study, 150 fresh stool samples were collected from the domestic dog population in Amol, northern Iran. To perform the test, DNA preparation and enrichment were first performed, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was then used to identify bacteria. Information about possible risk factors related to bacterial infection was collected using a questionnaire, and data analysis was done using SPSS version 21.0. Results: None of the samples tested in the study were infected with Arcobacter. A total of 35 samples were positive for Salmonella, and 43 samples were positive for Campylobacter. Conclusion: The study discovered the existence of harmful Campylobacter and Salmonella bacteria in the feces of dogs living with humans in Amol, northern Iran. Based on the results of the study, pet dogs can harbor harmful strains of Campylobacter and Salmonella that pose a risk to human health. Therefore, it can be stated that owning pet dogs poses a potential threat to humans and may present a health issue that requires control.
Among the signaling pathways that influence cell fate decisions and developmental processes is NOTCH. This pathway contains four main receptors (NOTCH1 , 2, 3, and 4) and five ligands, which include delta-like ligands (Dll1, Dll3, and Dll4) and Serrate (Jagged)-like ligands (Jagged1 and Jagged2) in mammals, one or more of which are involved in different diseases/infections. Many studies have addressed the importance of the NOTCH pathway in virus-mediated carcinogenesis, and the effect of the NOTCH pathway in regulating immune responses to viral infections is not negligible. The interaction of viral proteins belonging to high-prevalent viruses (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus [EBV], human papillomavirus, hepatitis B/C, and respiratory viral infections) with NOTCH pathway components has been the focus of attention. The present review attempts to provide a more comprehensive picture of the interaction of viruses with the principal NOTCH pathway that is associated with viral-mediated cancers and adaptive immune responses.
The introduction of the gut-skin axis as a new concept casts light on the complex relationship between dermatological maladies and the human intestinal microbiome. A wealth of evidence now substantiates the crucial involvement of the gut microbiota in the development of psoriasis, emphasizing the need for further exploration in this field. The development of psoriasis involves a combination of factors, making its pathogenesis multifactorial. In addition, psoriasis has been connected to several comorbid conditions. The intricate connection between gut health and skin homeostasis is established through the alteration of immune functions, highlighting the reciprocal nature of this association. This review delves into how an imbalanced gut microbiome can have detrimental effects on psoriasis. Furthermore, this review seeks to discuss potential and emerging therapeutic interventions, encompassing dietary approaches, probiotic supplementation, orally administered engineered bacteria, and phage therapy.
Background: Poultry by-products are a rich protein source that has the potential for recycling valuable products. Considering that poultry by-products are an important problem for the environment, it is necessary to find some ways to convert them into valuable products. Identifying and introducing microbial sources with the appropriate protease ability that can be used in the fermentation and conversion of non-useful waste into beneficial ones are highly important in medical and environmental terms. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of fermented poultry by-products using proteolytic isolates. Materials and Methods: The samples were collected from a poultry slaughterhouse in Karaj, and proteolytic microorganisms were screened. Finally, two isolates (R and D) with proteolytic activity were selected for fermentation. The fermentation was performed on poultry by-products with 12.5% inoculation, 150 rpm, 1% D-glucose, and 37° C. The antioxidant activity was assessed on fermented poultry protein hydrolysates (FPPH) by some methods, such as scavenging free radicals and the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Results: The results showed that after 24 hours of fermentation, FPPH by D with 37.7% degree of hydrolysis demonstrated 72.3% DPPH scavenging and 7.975 ± 0.36 µmol Fe (II)/L, and after 48 hours, fermented samples with 52.6% degree of hydrolysis represented 95.9% radical scavenging activity and 3.483 ± 0.28 µmol Fe (II)/L in the FRAP assay. In addition, after 24 hours of fermentation, FPPH by R with a 33.7% degree of hydrolysis illustrated 64% DPPH scavenging and 5.992 ± 0.28 µmol Fe (II)/L. After 48 hours, hydrolysates had a 54.4% degree of hydrolysis, and radical scavenging was calculated at 95.3% and 7.286 ± 0.39 µmol Fe (II)/L in the FRAP assay. Conclusion: Since poultry by-products are used for feeding, fermentation is a suitable way to improve the quality of feed.
Background: Oral mucositis is a painful and uncomfortable complication and affects the quality of life and tolerance of patients for continued treatment. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of this problem are important. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effect of nystatin cocktail with normal saline in the prevention of oral mucositis in children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: Overall, 50 children undergoing chemotherapy were randomly divided into an experimental nystatin cocktail group and a control normal saline mouthwash group, each containing 25 patients. The patients were evaluated for 3 weeks on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 21 for oral mucositis. In addition, to calculate the average oral health status, the debris score of each tooth was recorded separately according to the presence or absence of plaque and debris and its amount. Results: In total, 64%, 28%, and 8% of patients receiving normal saline had no mucositis, grade-I mucositis, and grade-II mucositis, respectively. In contrast, 60%, 32%, and 8% of patients in the nystatin group had no mucositis, grade-I mucositis, and grade-II mucositis, respectively (P=0.952). No statistically significant difference was detected in the hygiene status in terms of the plaque index (PI) among children in the two groups (P=0.896). In patients using normal saline, the mean severity of mucositis on the third and seventh days after chemotherapy was higher than children in the nystatin group (P=0.629). Conclusion: The findings showed that normal saline and nystatin cocktail were effective in preventing and reducing the oral mucositis severity in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Background: Despite the advancements in medical sciences, healthcare-associated infections continue to pose significant threats to human health. Objectives: This research was carried out to assess the prevalence of healthcare-associated intestinal protozoan parasites among admitted patients of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka. Materials and Methods: Two stool samples were collected from each of 159 patients and analyzed using saline wet mount test, formol ether concentration technique, and modified Ziehl Neelsen technique. Other data concerning demography and risk factors were obtained with the aid of a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test and a P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, 25 samples (15.7%) were positive for nosocomial intestinal protozoan infection. Females had the highest prevalence of this infection (18.3%). Additionally, the age group 10- 19 years had the highest prevalence (31.6%). Patients who were hospitalized for more than 30 days revealed the highest prevalence (87.5%), and patients admitted to the pediatric ward also had a high prevalence (23.5%). Moreover, patients who drank well water had a prevalence of 33.3%, and those who did not sanitize their hands revealed a prevalence of 22.2%. Nosocomial infection was strongly associated with duration of hospital stay and stool consistency (P ˂ 0.000). In this study, 5 parasites were isolated, among which Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent parasite (52.0%). Conclusion: Hence, improved patient and medical personnel hygiene, safer health practices, and hospital sanitation should be adopted to curtail the spread of infection.
Background: Enterococcus faecium is of great importance among Enterococcus species due to its antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. The ability to form a biofilm on living surfaces is considered one of the most important pathogenic factors in this bacterium. E. faecium is involved in endocarditis, urinary tract infection, dental root infections, and eye infections by forming biofilms. Various factors, including the antibiotic resistance of E. faecium and the expression of genes involved in pathogenicity and biofilm formation, are involved in the stability of this bacterium in different conditions and the spread of infection. Objectives: Considering the special importance of E. faecium in biofilm production, the aim of this study was to review the presence and role of genes effective in biofilm formation in E. faecium bacteria. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched using the keywords "genes", "biofilm formation", "Enterococcus", and "quorum sensing". Studies that investigated the role of genes in the occurrence of biofilm in E. faecium were also included in the study. Results: Biofilm formation in enterococci involves a complex interaction of genes and virulence factors, including gelatinase, cytolysin, secreted antigen A, pili, and MSCRAMMs (microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules). Polysaccharides also play a role in enterococcal biofilm formation. They are secreted in the form of capsules or exopolysaccharides. The genes involved in the production of polysaccharides include Sal, atn, epa, DltA, ebpABC, and bee. These genes increase the production of biofilm and attachment to the extracellular matrix. Quorum sensing, a process of intercellular communication, mediated by peptide pheromones such as Cob, Ccf, and Cpd, by targeting gene expression and regulation, plays an important role in biofilm development. The Fsr locus contains fsrA, fsrB, and fsrC genes. Furthermore, the regulation of extracellular DNA (eDNA) release has emerged as an essential component in biofilm formation. Conclusion: Biofilm formation in E. faecium is dependent on a large number of factors, including multiple genetic factors, a series of environmental conditions, and also a series of environmental signals, many of which need to be identified and researched. A complete understanding of the role of genetic and environmental factors involved in biofilm development may lead to the improvement and development of strategies for biofilm control in enterococci.
The close living of humans and animals is increasing in developing and developed societies in a new way. Along with the pet-keeping benefits, disadvantages such as the possibility of transmission of infections, especially parasitic infections, are also considered in this relationship. Giardiasis, as a worldwide health problem caused by different species of Giardia protozoa, accounts for significant morbidity and mortality annually. Considering the zoonotic potential of this intestinal parasite, there is a possibility of direct transmission from animals to humans or infection acquisition from the environment, which makes it a one-health-related issue. Some species or assemblages are specific to the host and are unable to cause disease; thus, they cause symptoms in other non-specific hosts, such as humans. There are several risk factors for the occurrence and prevalence rate of giardiasis from pet owners, the most important of which are the animal (infected or suspected) contact, the levels of hygiene and health awareness of people, contact with suspected or contaminated soil, and the like. Although effective preventive and control measures have been defined, they have been neglected in some populations. The present review attempts to provide a snapshot of the giardiasis situation among pet owners.
