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Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV), is one of the main causes of cervical cancer and also one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HPV is responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer and plays a principal role in causing other cancers including oropharynx, penis, larynx, oral cavity, anus, vulva, and vagina. The study aims to investigate the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes among patients referred to private laboratories in Mashhad, located in the northeast of Iran. Methods and materials: 428 samples including 382 females (89.3%) and 46 males (10.7%) between January 10, 2022, and February 11, 2023, in Mashhad, Iran were evaluated to detect HPV and determine its genotypes. Cervical swabs and urine samples were collected from females and males, respectively. Viral DNA was extracted by using a CedExtra purification kit (cedbio, Iran) and viral genotypes were identified with a High + Low Papillomastrip kit (Operon, Spain). Mann Whitney U test and Chi-square test were accomplished for statistical analysis. Result: From the total of 428 participants analyzed, the HPV test result was positive for 129 patients (30.1%) and negative for 299 people (69.9%). Among the participants, 115 female (30.1%) and 14 male (30.4%) were positive for HPV infection. The prevalence of HPV infection among the referring people was about 30%. The most common genotype identified was HPV-6 (10.3%), followed by HPV-16 (8.7%) and HPV-51 (7.7%), the second and third most common genotypes, respectively. Additionally, HPV-39 was detected at a frequency of 6.70%. HPV-11, HPV-61, HPV-91, and HPV-44 with a frequency of 1% were among the least genotypes identified among the patients. Conclusion: In line with the results of this study, the prevalence of HPV genotypes in both genders is 30%. The results likely reflect differences in the prevalence of high-risk HPV genotypes, that are less common. Also, HPV-6 and HPV-16 genotypes that are covered by the vaccine had a significant prevalence. On the other hand, with the prevalence of HPV-51 and HPV-39 genotypes in infected people who are not covered by the Gardasil (quadrivalent) vaccine, there is a risk of related cancers in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for the most common sexually transmitted infection, particularly among sexually active individuals. Understanding the geographical distribution and epidemiology of the most prevalent HPV genotypes is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. Consequently, this study aimed to examine the distribution of HPV genotypes among HPV-positive women and men in Sari, the capital city of Mazandaran province in northern Iran. Materials and methods: HPV DNA was extracted (PZP Company, Molecular IVD, Iran) from genital and cervical samples of the study participants. Genotyping was conducted for 90 cases utilizing the High + Low Papilloma Strip test (Operon Company, Spain). Demographic data were statistically analyzed in correlation with the virological data (STATA version 17). Results: Overall, 67.7% (61 out of 90) of the cases tested positive for HPV, with 75% of those being classified as high-risk. The participant group consisted of 92% females (83) and 8% males (7). The highest HPV prevalence, 75% (36), was observed in females and males aged under 31, with the majority of positive cases belonging to high-risk genotypes. The most frequently identified genotypes were HPV-11 (23%), HPV-6 (21%), HPV-56 (18%), HPV-39 (16%), HPV-16, HPV-91, and HPV-66 each comprising (14%). HPV-56 was the most common high-risk genotype, accounting for 11 cases (18%), followed by HPV-39, which was present in 10 cases (16%). Conclusion: The prevalence of HPV infection was particularly high among individuals under the age of 31 for both genders, with men exhibiting a 100% infection rate. These findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted education aimed at the younger population and the implementation of infection control measures. Specifically, widespread HPV vaccination targeting HPV-6, HPV-11, HPV-39, and HPV-56 should be prioritized for the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. HEV is classified into eight genotypes, labeled HEV-1 through HEV-8. Genotypes 1 and 2 exclusively infect humans, while genotypes 3, 4, and 7 can infect both humans and animals. In contrast, genotypes 5, 6, and 8 are restricted to infecting animals. While most individuals with a strong immune system experience a self-limiting infection, those who are immunosuppressed may develop chronic hepatitis. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to severe illness and mortality due to HEV infection. In addition to liver-related complications, HEV can also cause extrahepatic manifestations, including neurological disorders. The immune response is vital in determining the outcome of HEV infection. Deficiencies in T cells, NK cells, and antibody responses are linked to poor prognosis. Interestingly, HEV itself contains microRNAs that regulate its replication and modify the host's antiviral response. Diagnosis of HEV infection involves the detection of HEV RNA and anti-HEV IgM/IgG antibodies. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment for acute infection, while chronic HEV infection may be cleared with the use of ribavirin and pegylated interferon. Prevention remains the best approach against HEV, focusing on sanitation infrastructure improvements and vaccination, with one vaccine already licensed in China. This comprehensive review provides insights into the spread, genotypes, prevalence, and clinical effects of HEV. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for further research and attention to HEV, particularly in cases of acute hepatitis, especially among solid-organ transplant recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influenza virus (IFV) imposes a considerable health and economic burden globally, requiring a comprehensive understanding of its pathogenic mechanisms. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent lipid peroxidation cell death pathway, holds unique implications for the antioxidant defense system, with possible contributions to inflammation. This exploration focuses on the dynamic interplay between ferroptosis and the host defense against viruses, emphasizing the influence of IFV infections on the activation of the ferroptosis pathway. IFV causes different types of cell death, including apoptosis, necrosis, and ferroptosis. IFV-induced ferroptotic cell death is mediated by alterations in iron homeostasis, intensifying the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and promoting lipid peroxidation. A comprehensive investigation into the mechanism of ferroptosis in viral infections, specifically IFV, has great potential to identify therapeutic strategies. This understanding may pave the way for the development of drugs using ferroptosis inhibitors, presenting an effective approach to suppress viral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is among the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections, particularly prevalent among sexually active individuals. While many HPV infections clear up over time, some may progress to various cancers such as anal cancer, cervical cancer and, vaginal cancer. This study examines the prevalence of different HPV genotypes, classified as high-risk (HR) and low-risk (LR), among females of various age groups who visited the laboratory in Karaj. Material and methods: Genital specimens were gathered from the individuals involved in the study and subjected to DNA extraction (DNA/RNA extraction AmpliSense, Moscow, Russia) followed by amplification using Real-Time PCR. HR- and LR-HPV genotypes were identified using the GenoFlow HPV Array test kit (GenoFlow; DiagCor Bioscience, Hong Kong) and homemade HPV genotyping kit. Demographic information such as age, was examined alongside statistical virological data. Results: Overall, 367 (17%) out of the 2109 (100%) female cases tested positive for HPV. Among these, 219 (46.2%) were classified as low-risk, 44 (9.3%) as potentially high-risk, and 211 (44.5%) as high-risk. The highest percentage of positive test results was detected in individuals under 30 years old (35%) and those aged 40–50 (18%). Individuals in the < 30 age group were primarily infected with HR genotypes. The most commonly identified genotypes overall were HPV-16 (11.7%), HPV-54 (10.3%), HPV-56 (8.4%), HPV-40 (8.1%). The lowest frequency was observed for HPV-70, HPV-71, HPV-82, and HPV-90, each recorded in only a single case. Conclusion: Our results highlight the notable occurrence of HPV among females who visited the laboratory in Karaj, especially in the < 30 age group. Identifying HPV-16 as the most prevalent genotype in our examination highlights the necessity of tailored interventions for specific age ranges. While HPV-16 is covered by vaccination programs, HPV-54 and HPV-56 are not, emphasizing the need for effective screening and preventive plans to manage the consequences of HPV-related diseases in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of viral keratitis (VK) on individuals and society is notable. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing viral keratitis effectively. Timely intervention with antiviral medications and supportive care can help mitigate the severity of the infection and improve visual outcomes. We examined the prevalence of varicella-zoster virus (VZV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), adenovirus (AdV) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in patients suspected for ocular infections. Patients included in the study exhibited various clinical manifestations indicative of ocular pathology, such as infectious keratitis, corneal scar, endogenous endophthalmitis, panuveitis, endothelitis, stromal edema, and other relevant conditions. Four different types of tear fluid, corneal samples epithelium, aqueous humor and vitreous humor were taken. After genome extraction, multiplex real-time PCR was used for diagnosis of viruses. 48 (29.6%) out of the total of 162 (100%) eye specimen were positive. The dominant prevalence was VZV (12.3%) and HSV-1 (11.7%) followed by AdV (4.9%) and HSV-2 (0.6%). There were 4 (8.3%) coinfections within the samples (HSV-1 and VZV). Aqueous humor samples demonstrated superior virus detection ability and our only HSV-2 positive sample was from aqueous humor. The utilization of multiplex real-time PCR assays in differential diagnosis of VK holds promise for expeditious diagnoses while also preventing unwarranted antibiotic prescriptions. Moreover, the aqueous humor appears to be a more sensitive site for detecting viral keratitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has posed significant global health challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations. Objectives: This retrospective report from the Iranian Network for Research in Viral Diseases (INRVD) investigates the common clinical symptoms of COVID-19 in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Research suggests neurological complications can occur during SARS-CoV-2 infection, but there are limited studies on neurological symptoms in PD patients with COVID-19. Given the probable heightened vulnerability of PD patients, evaluating clinical symptoms, especially neurological manifestations, is crucial. Methods: Data from 54 patients were collected from the INRVD from March 2020 to May 2021. Nasal, oropharyngeal, and nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from patients presenting with respiratory symptoms, following Iranian CDC guidelines. Following sample collection, RT-PCR assays were performed for COVID-19 confirmation. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Results: Among the 54 PD patients included in the study, 27 tested positive for COVID-19. Of the 54 subjects analyzed, 38.9% were female and 61.1% were male. Comparison of COVID-19 symptoms revealed a higher rate of sore throat (74%) and shortness of breath (81%) in the COVID-19 positive group as common clinical symptoms of the disease. Interestingly, higher rates of dizziness (67%) and headache (74%) were observed in PD patients with COVID-19. Conclusions: This study enhances our understanding of the diverse clinical manifestations of COVID-19 and its impact on individuals with underlying health conditions such as PD. The increased prevalence of neurological symptoms among PD patients underscores the need for further investigation to clarify whether these symptoms directly result from COVID-19 infection or if they may also be influenced by PD itself or its treatment. It is important to consider that while neurological symptoms in Parkinson's patients can be attributed to the underlying disorder or linked to medication and medical interventions, respiratory symptoms are typically associated with COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is a virus in the coronaviridae , has caused a global pandemic with various symptoms and complications. Among the groups affected by this virus are individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the primary central nervous system (CNS). Understanding coronavirus disease 2019's (COVID-19) impact on MS patients is crucial for optimizing patient management and developing targeted therapies due to the challenges it presents. Objectives: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the respiratory and neurology symptoms of COVID-19 in patients with MS in comparison to the non-infected group. Furthermore, this study examined how age and gender might affect the symptoms of contracting COVID-19 and the mortality rate in patients with MS. Methods: The data were collected from six hospitals within the Iranian Network for Research in Viral Diseases (INRVD) between March 2020 and July 2021. A total of 63 individuals diagnosed with MS were examined, with 30 testing positive for both COVID-19 and MS; however, 33 individuals were positive only for MS. These individuals had presented at the hospital experiencing respiratory symptoms, including rhinorrhea, difficulty breathing, and cough. Various clinical aspects were evaluated, including age, gender, and the presence of COVID-19 symptoms. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney t-test, Fisher's exact test, and odds ratio calculations using SPSS-27 and R 4.2.3. Results: The study encompassed 63 MS patients, with 29 (46%) and 34 (54%) males and females, respectively. Of these patients, 30 individuals were positive for COVID-19. Most subjects were from Tehran province, Iran. Patients in the case group were significantly younger than those in the control group. Notably, dizziness, breath shortness, and vomiting were significantly more prevalent in MS patients following COVID-19. Conclusions: This study highlights the distinct clinical presentation of COVID-19 in individuals with MS. Dizziness, breath shortness, vomiting, and increased mortality were significantly associated with MS patients with COVID-19. The aforementioned findings underscore the importance of tailored management strategies for this unique patient population following the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viruses pose a constant threat to human well-being, necessitating the immune system to develop robust defenses. Natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system, have become recognized as vital participants in protecting the body against viral infections. These remarkable innate immune cells possess the unique ability to directly recognize and eliminate infected cells, thereby contributing to the early control and containment of viral pathogens. However, recent research has uncovered an intriguing phenomenon: the alteration of NK cells during viral infections. In addition to their well-established role in antiviral defense, NK cells undergo dynamic changes in their phenotype, function, and regulatory mechanisms upon encountering viral pathogens. These alterations can significantly impact the effectiveness of NK cell responses during viral infections. This review explores the multifaceted role of NK cells in antiviral immunity, highlighting their conventional effector functions as well as the emerging concept of NK cell alteration in the context of viral infections. Understanding the intricate interplay between NK cells and viral infections is crucial for advancing our knowledge of antiviral immune responses and could offer valuable information for the creation of innovative therapeutic approaches to combat viral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "From Discovery to Treatment: Tracing the Path of Hepatitis E Virus" published in the Virology Journal. The correction addresses an error in the affiliation of one of the authors, Arghavan Zebardast. The incorrect affiliation is listed as the Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran, while the correct affiliation is the Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. The correction is provided by multiple authors and the publisher, Springer Nature, emphasizes their neutrality regarding jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

The Zika virus (ZIKV) is classified within the Flavivirus genus of the Flaviviridae family and is categorized as an arbovirus. The virus was initially identified in a rhesus monkey in Uganda in 1947 and later in a human in Nigeria in 1952. Since 2007, the prevalence of the virus has been on the rise, culminating in a major outbreak in the United States (US) in 2015. During this outbreak, the adult population was severely impacted, experiencing a range of symptoms, including organ failure, microcephaly, fetal death, and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Additionally, skin rash, limb swelling, fever, headache, and heightened sensitivity are found in most adults with Zika syndrome. Although the virus can be transmitted through blood, vertical transmission from mother to child, and sexual contact, the primary way of transmission of the virus is through the Aedes mosquito. Cells such as neurons, macrophages, peripheral dendritic cells, and placental cells are among the target cells that the virus can infect. The TAM AXL receptor plays a crucial role in infection. After the virus enters the body through the bloodstream, it spreads in the body with a latent period of 3 to 12 days. Currently, there is no specific treatment or publicly available vaccine for the ZIKV. Limited laboratory testing has been conducted, and existing drugs originally designed for other pathogens have been repurposed for treatment. Given the Aedes mosquito's role as a vector and the wide geographical impact of the virus, this study aims to comprehensively investigate Zika's pathogenesis and clinical symptoms based on existing knowledge and research. By doing so, we seek to enhance our understanding of the virus and inform future prevention and treatment strategies., (© 2024. The Author(s).)