Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 292 301 EN Abdolali Malmasi Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Bijan Ziaie Ardestani Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Saeed Bayanolhagh Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDs (IRCHA), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Mehdi Mohebali Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Hamidreza Khorram Khorshid Genetic Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Parisa Sadrpour Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDs (IRCHA), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Negin Hosseini Rouzbahani Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDs (IRCHA), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Behnaz Akhoundi Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Soulmaz Naserli Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Shadi Ziaie Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid-Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Ehsan Mostafavi Department of Epidemiology, Pasteur institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Cytokines play a fundamental role in the regulation of immune responses in remission and/or relapsing of leishmaniasis. Therefore, immunotherapy for the treatment of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) has represented a principle approach in control of the infection. The present research aimed to evaluating the immunotherapeutic potential of a novel herbal immunomodulator drug (IMOD) on CVL. Methods: Twelve mongrel dogs were intravenously infected with Iranian strain of L. infantum and randomly divided into three groups; 1: negative control (non-infected), 2: immunotherapy with IMOD and 3: positive control (non-treated). Cell proliferation and Th1-/Th2-type cytokines were measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) by cell proliferation kit I (MTT) and enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISpot) assays, respectively. Results : At the 60 days follow-up assessment, no adverse effects were observed in treated interventional group. Cellular proliferation assay indicated that PBMCs of IMOD group had higher stimulation index (SI) than positive control group (p <0.05). Enhancement of CD4+ T cells such as IL-2, IL-4 & IL-10 were detected in negative control group due to in vitro IMOD stimulation 30 days post-treatment. In accordance to decreasing trends of Th1 & Th2 cytokines in positive control group, the mean number of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10 spot forming cells (SFCs) down regulated for IMOD group during the study. Conclusion: These data indicate that IMOD had immunomodulatory potential but is not sufficient for total parasitic cure due to balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines. This is a preliminary study and we propose to undertake a series of experiments to evaluate the CVL due to in vitro modulatory effects of IMOD. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/399 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/399/345

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 302 310 EN Ali Eslami Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Parviz Shayan Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Said Bokaei Dept. of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: No data is available on morphology and genetic characteristics of Echinococcus granulosus derived from donkeys of Iran, despite of its existence in donkeys.In the present study morphometric variations of the rostellar hooks of protoscoleces and genotype characteristics of hydatid cyst of donkey from Iran were determined. Methods: Protoscoleces prepared from hydatid cyst of donkey of Iran were morphometric and genetic analyzed. The genetic analysis was done using Cox 1 gene by comparative sequence analysis. Results: Our morphometric results showed that donkey of Iran shares 6 out of 7 determined parameters with donkeys of Jordan and 4 out of 7 with 4 available data with Switzerland donkeys. Morphological similarities and dissimilarities were observed with sheep-dog (G1) and camel-dog strains (G6) of Iran. The nucleotide sequence alignment showed that the partial sequence of Cox 1 from donkey had 91% homology with query coverage of 99% to the corresponding sequence of E.equinus, 90% homology to the E. felidis, 90% homology to E. ortleppi, 89% homology to the E. shiquinus, 89% homology to the E. vogeli, 89% homology to the E. oligarthrus, 88% homology to the E. canadensis and 83% homology to the Taenia solium.Additionally, the amino acid sequence of this gene has also some differences between this strain and all known strains of E. granulosus even with E. equinus (G4). Conclusion: Despite of common morphological characteristics of Iranian donkey hydatid cyst with those of donkeys of other parts of the world, genetically it has its. own entity. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/398 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/398/346

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 311 318 EN Habib Mohammadzadeh Hajipirloo Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. Arezoo Bozorgomd Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. Shahram Shahabi Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. Khosrow Hazrati Tappeh Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. Seyed Ahmad Karamati Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Naltrexone, an opioid receptor antagonist shifts the immune response toward a Th1 profile. In the current study, we evaluated the efficacy of the mixture of NTX and alum, as a new adjuvant, to enhance immune response and induce protection against Leishmania major in a mouse model. Methods: BALB/c mice were immunized three times either autoclaved L.major promastigotes’ antigens alone or in combination with the adjuvant alum, naltrexone or the alum–naltrexone mixture. Both humoral and cellular immune responses were assessed two weeks after the last immunization and compared with control mice. Results: The administration of alum- NTX in combination with the parasite antigen, significantly increased production of IFN-γ, IFN-γ /IL-5 ratio,lymphocyte proliferation and improved DTH response against L. major.There was no significant difference in survival following challenge among groups. Conclusion: Immunization with the alum– naltrexone mixture as an adjuvant,in combination with the autoclaved L. major promastigotes antigens,can enhance cellular immunity and shift the immune responses to a Th1 pattern. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/397 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/397/347

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 319 328 EN Xi Zhang Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. Jing Cui Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. Li Na Liu Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. Tong Wei Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. Peng Jiang Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. Zhong Quan Wang Dept. of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China. 2015 10 14 Background: The phylogenetic location of Chinese Spirometra sparganum isolates remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the phylogenetic location of the Spirometra sparganum isolates from China. Methods: The 28S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) D1 sequences of 14 Spirometra sparganum isolates collected from thirteen locations in China were analyzed by using Neighbor-Joining (NJ), maximum parsimony (MP) and Bayesian inference (BI),respectively. To investigate the deep variance of 28S rDNA D1 region among included species, the secondary structure of 28S rDNA D1 region was also calculated using the program RNA structure. Results: The genus Spirometra as a monophyletic group was evidenced by two inference methods (MP and BI). All sequences within the genus Spirometra had a bulge of a cytosine residue (Bulge C) in the stem 13 of the secondary structure model of 28S rRNA D1 region. Varietal sites in sequences from all thirteen Chinese isolates were appeared in loops. In loops, adenine was the most abundant base(averagely 41.9%) followed by guanine (averagely 30.0%), and cytosine (averagely 15.1%). In stems, the average percentage of G + C (58.3%) was higher than the percentage of A + T (41.7%). Conclusion: The „Bulge C‟ in the stem 13 of the 28S rDNA D1 secondary structure could be as a suitable mark to identify the Spirometra species https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/396 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/396/348

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 329 335 EN Mohammad Matini Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Sassan Rezaie Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Mahdi Mohebali Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Amir-Hossein Maghsood Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran. Soghra Rabiee Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fatemieh Women Hospital, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran. Mohammad Fallah Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran. Mostafa Rezaeian Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Trichomonas vaginalis is the agent of urogenital tract infection that causes human trichomoniasis with some serious health complications. More understanding about genetic features of the parasite can be helpful in the study of the pathogenesis, drug susceptibility and epidemiology of the infection. For this end,we conducted analysis of the actin gene of T. vaginalis by applying the PCR-SSCP(PCR-Single Stranded Conformational Polymorphism) and nucleotide sequencingmethod. Methods: Fifty T. vaginalis samples were collected from 950 women attending gynecology clinics in two cities of Iran, Hamadan and Tehran, from November 2010 to July 2011. After axenisation of isolates, all samples subjected to PCR-SSCP and nucleotide sequencing. Results: According to the SSCP banding patterns and nucleotide sequencing, seven sequence types were detected among the isolates. Alignment of the nucleotide sequences showed five polymorphic sites in the different strain types. Amino acid substitution was not observed in the nucleotide sequence translation of the all sequences. Conclusion: The actin gene analysis represents genetic diversity of T. vaginalis and it suggests that various strains can be responsible for clinically different trichomoniasis in infected individuals. It is expected that further studies will be conductedto increase our knowledge about relationship between the actin gene polymorphism and different biological behavior of the parasite. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/395 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/395/349

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 336 341 EN Nahid Zainodini Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. Mohammad Zare-Bidaki Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. Seyyed Hossein Abdollahi Molecular Medicine Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. Mohammadreza Afrooz Rafsanjan center of Iranian Blood transfusion Organization, Rafsanjan, Iran. Naser Ziaali Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Mohammad Ebrahimian Dept. of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Mohammad Kazemi Arababadi Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: The differentiation between acute and latent forms of the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection is still considered as a complicated issue. This study was aimed to elucidate the status of infection in the blood donors and the probable importance of blood transfusion in the transmission of the infection through detecting both immunological and genetic markers of acute and latent infection. Methods: Totally 235 blood samples from blood donors were collected. The levels of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were examined by specific ELISA kits. cDNA were synthesized from total extracted mRNA molecules from the serum samples and SAG1 gene, specific for tachyzoite form, were amplified using Real-Time PCR technique.Demographic information of study subjects including their gender, age, job,and habitat were recorded. Results: Out of 235 serum samples, 80 (34.04%) and 4 (1.71%) were positive regarding anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. Real-Time PCR results showed that 14 out of 200 (6.97%) of blood donor had mRNA molecules of SAG1 gene. The positive results of Real-Time PCR of SAG1 in female gender and housekeepers were significantly higher than those of male gender and other job categories. Conclusion: The prevalence of chronic and acute infection is high in Iranian blood donors. Additionally, evaluation of antibodies could not be reliable, because several donors negative for anti-T. gondii IgM antibodies had detectable SAG1 mRNA molecules.Hence, it seems that molecular diagnostic tests are essential to detect acute infections. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/394 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/394/350

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 342 349 EN Mehdi Bamorovat Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Iraj Sharifi Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Mohammad Ali Mohammadi Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Majid Fasihi Harandi Department of Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Mehdi Mohebali Dept. of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Publice Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Reza Malekpour Afshar Department of Pathology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Zahra Babaei Department of Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Nasser Ziaali Department of Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. Mohammad Reza Aflatoonian Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is a systemic disease with a high mortality rate, caused by a diphasic protozoan parasite, Leishmania infantum/chagasi in the world. The objective of the present study was to determine the presence of CVL in the city and suburbs of Kerman, using a range of serological, histopathological and molecular methods. Methods: Blood samples were taken from 80 clinically symptomatic stray dogs All the collected blood samples were tested by direct agglutination test (DAT) to detect the anti-Leishmania antibodies in dogs, using a cut-off value of ≥1:320. Pathological specimens including spleen, liver and lymph nodes were prepared for paraffin blocks, sectioning,staining and final microscopic examination in the pathology laboratory.PCR amplification of kDNA from 9 samples of DAT positive stray dogs was studied. Results: The anti-Leishmania antibody was detected in 9 dogs (11.25 %) of the total 80 studied dogs. No significant difference was found between VL infection and gender. In contrast, there was a significant difference between seropositivity and age (P<0.05). Pathological samples showed changes including hyperplasia of infected macrophages and inflammatory cells that occupied sinusoids and splenic cords. Among the samples which was characterized by PCR, only one specimen revealed to be mixed infection between L. infantum and L. tropica. Conclusion: The results revealed a high prevalence of L. infantum infection in stray dogs in Kerman. This kind of information is needed for implementation of future control programs. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/393 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/393/351

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 350 357 EN Reza Nabavi Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. Brendan Conneely School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland AND Teagasc, Animal Production Research Centre, Athenry, Co Galway, Ireland. Elaine McCarthy School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland. Barbara Good Teagasc, Animal Production Research Centre, Athenry, Co Galway, Ireland. Parviz Shayan Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Theo DE Waal School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland. 2015 10 14 Background: Accurate identification of sheep nematodes is a critical point in epidemiological studies and monitoring of drug resistance in flocks. However, due to a close morphological similarity between the eggs and larval stages of many of these nematodes,such identification is not a trivial task. There are a number of studies showing that molecular targets in ribosomal DNA (Internal transcribed spacer 1, 2 and Intergenic spacer) are suitable for accurate identification of sheep bursate nematodes. The objective of present study was to compare the ITS1, ITS2 and IGS regions of Iranian common bursate nematodes in order to choose best target for specific identification methods. Methods: The first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS1and ITS2) and intergenic spacer (IGS) of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) of 5 common Iranian bursate nematodes of sheep were sequenced. The sequences of some non–Iranian isolates were used for comparison in order to evaluate the variation in sequence homology between geographically different nematode populations. Results: Comparison of the ITS1 and ITS2 sequences of Iranian nematodes showed greatest similarity among Teladorsagia circumcincta and Marshallagia marshalli of 94% and 88%, respectively. While Trichostrongylus colubriformis and M. marshalli showed the highest homology (99%) in the IGS sequences. Comparison of the spacer sequences of Iranian with non-Iranian isolates showed significantly higher variation in Haemonchus contortus compared to the other species. Conclusion: Both the ITS1 and ITS2 sequences are convenient targets to have species-specific identification of Iranian bursate nematodes. On the other hand the IGS region may be a less suitable molecular target. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/392 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/392/352

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 358 364 EN Mohammad Yakhchali Dept. of Pathobiology, Parasitology division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran. Reza Malekzadeh-Viayeh Artemia and Aquatic Animals Research Institute, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran. Abass Imani-Baran Dept. of Pathobiology, Parasitology division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Fasciolosis in livestock is a crucial concern in the globe, mainly due to its impact on human health. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of infection with Fasciola gigantica (Cobbold, 1855) larvae in the field-collected snails of Lymnaea auricularia (Linnaeus, 1785) from northwestern Iran using a molecular approach. Methods: A total of 6,759 pond snails were collected from 28 freshwater bodies in West Azarbaijan. PCR was performed to amplify a 618-bp fragment of the nuclear 28 SrRNA gene of Fasciola. The PCR products were digested by AvaII restriction enzyme to create restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) patterns specific for the detection of F. gigantica. Results: Of the total collected snails 496 (7.34 %) were L. auricularia, among which 4.64% (23 out of 496) were infected with a Fasciola species according to the PCR analysis. Only 2.22% (11 out of 496) of the infected snails were from the mountainous areas. The highest Fasciola infection rate recorded in the snails of a single site was 1.81% (9 out of 496 snails). Based on the RFLP pattern, F. gigantica accounted for 2.42% of the infection rates in the study sites. Conclusion: Application of PCR-RFLP was proven to be a useful approach for valid and robust detection of the infection with F. gigantica in its intermediate host snails. These findings may therefore be applicable for establishment of the controlprograms against dissemination of the infection in different regions. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/391 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/391/353

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 365 373 EN Wajihullah Khan Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Haytham A Zakai Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 2015 10 14 Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an annoying and disfiguring disease affecting around 1,500,000 individuals globally. There are endemic pockets of this disease in Taif region. In some patients, lesion often weeps and leads to scar formation. The study was conducted to see the efficacy of fluconazole and itraconazole in the patients of cutaneous leishmaniasis and the effect of these drugs on liver enzymes and kidney markers. Methods: Positivity of Leishmania was recorded by microscopic examinations of smears. Specific diagnosis for Leishmania major and L. tropica was made with the help of nested polymerase chain reaction. Fluconazole was given at the rate of 200mg/day while itraconazole was given at 150mg/day for six weeks. AST, ALT, creatinine and urea were estimated during medication. Results: Leishmania major and L. tropica were the species responsible for cutaneous leishmaniasis in Taif region. 81% patients had single lesions, mostly on face followed by hands and legs. 15% of the lesions had bacterial contamination.In terms of efficacy, fluconazole gave slightly better results compared to itraconazole. After 6 weeks of medications, slightly elevated values were recorded for liver enzymes and creatinine. Conclusion: Transmission of leishmaniasis in Taif region is probably because of poor coverage of residual insecticides spraying at hiding places in pile-ups of rocks and abandoned houses from where sand flies visit nearby houses and cattle sheds during night. Fluconazole and itraconazole may be used for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis with good recovery rate and fewer side effects. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/390 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/390/354

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 374 381 EN Said Ibrahim Shalaby Department of Complementary Medicine, Medical Division, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. Mohammad El-Bahy Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. Samy Ibrahim Aboulella Shalaby Department of Reproduction, Veterinary Division, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. Hatem Shalaby Department of Parasitology, Veterinary Division, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. Neelima Gupta Department of Animal Science, MJP Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, UP, India. Dileep Kumar Gupta Department of Zoology, Bareilly College, Bareilly, UP, India. 2015 10 14 Background:The study was targeted to report the appearance of coproantigens in feces and circulating antibodies in the serum of Fasciola gigantica  experimentally infected rabbits. Methods: Copro Hyper Immune Serum (HIS) and Excretory-Secretory Hyper Immune Serum (ES HIS) antigens were used in a sandwich ELISA for the detection of F. gigantica antigens in feces of 12 rabbits experimentally infected with different doses of F. gigantica encysted metacercariae (EMC) (10, 25 and 30 EMC). The relation between time of appearance of coproantigens in feces and anti-Fasciola antibodies in serum was evaluated. Results: The earliest diagnostic coproantigen was recorded at 21st, 25th and 28th day post-infection (p.i.) in groups of rabbits infected with 30, 25 and 10 F. gigantica EMC respectively. Both HIS and ES HIS were able to detect coproantigens in feces of rabbits infected with 30 EMC at day 21 p.i. The appearance of F. gigantica coproantigens in feces of infected rabbits was concurrent to the appearance of anti-Fasciola antibodies in blood (3rd week p.i.).However, coproantigen has specific ability for direct assessment of active infection with minimal cross-reaction with other heterologous parasitic infections. Conclusion: The findings hold promise for a more accurate diagnostic technique in the near future for suspected Fasciola infection.   https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/389 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/389/355

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 382 393 EN Gholamreza Habibi Department of Parasite Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. Kasra Esmaeil-Nia Department of Parasite Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. Hasan Izadi Department of Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. Orang Ataie Amarloie Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. Asghar Afshari Department of Parasite Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. Nadia Bordbar Department of Quality Control of Biological Products, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: In this study, the pilot production of aerobic bioreactor tropical theileriosis vaccine was optimized with the aim of immunological assays for further mass production. Methods: We have shown earlier the delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) assay could be used for evaluating the immunity and memory cells against specific Theileria antigen in vaccinated animals. In addition, TNF-α is the principle cytokine in modulating the cytotoxic activity of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL). Immunological analysis of the vaccine was performed by using two cell mediated immunity(CMI) in vitro and in vivo DTH test (Theilerin) and TNF-α assay. Results: The results of immune responses of susceptible immunized cattle by bioreactor vaccine in comparison with conventional flask vaccine revealed a significant stimulation of immune cells by transcription of high level of TNF-α and positive reaction against Theileria antigen in Theilerin skin test (DTH). Conclusion: The equal immunological results achieved in both above mentioned vaccines verified the satisfactory immunity for aerobic bioreactor theileriosis vaccine for advance mass vaccination in the field on a large scale https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/388 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/388/356

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 394 401 EN Li-Jun Jia Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China. Shou-Fa Zhang Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China. Ming-Ming Liu Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China. Nian-Chao Qian Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China. Huan-Ping Guo Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China. 2015 10 14 Background: The aim of the study was to provide a point of reference to study the Neospora caninum infections in China. Methods: Genome DNA was extracted from the brains of aborted fetuses and specific PCR was performed with N. caninum Nc5-targeted specific primers. Fetal bovine brain tissues were homogenized and continuously cultured in Vero cells with double antibodies. The medium was replaced at 2-d intervals and the state of cells was observed. Results: A 608 bp Nc5 gene band was detected by PCR amplification. After sequencing,the sequence of the sample shared 99.5% homology with GenBank(AF061249). Brain homogenates were continuously cultured in Vero cells for 34 d and N. caninum was found. The results of IFAT and Nc5 gene-based PCR detection were N. caninum-positive, and the parasite was tentatively named N. caninum China Yanbian strain. BABL/c mice were inoculated with the separated parasites and showed clinical symptoms of ataxia and limb paralysis after 12 d. Only 3 mice survived.The blood of dying mice and the hearts, livers, spleens, lungs, kidneys, andbrains of dead mice were collected aseptically. The Nc5 gene-based PCR showed that N. caninum may exist in brains, livers, and spleen. Based on immunohistochemical observations, we showed that N. caninum tachyzoites existed in the brains and livers. Conclusion: We have successfully isolated bovine-specific N. caninum strain from brain tissues of aborted cattle in the China Yanbian region. This isolated strain has a strong infectious ability towards BABL/c mice. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/387 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/387/357

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 402 406 EN Mohammad Ebrahimipour Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Mehdi Nateghpour Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran AND National Institute of Health Research, TUMS, Tehran, Iran. Homa Hajjaran Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Gholamhosein Edrissian Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Mahmood Jalali Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, TUMS, Tehran, Iran. Ahmad Raeisi Center for Disease Control and Management, Ministry of Health& Medical Education, Tehran, Iran. Afsaneh Motevalli Haghi Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Leila Farivar Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Masomeh Khodadadi Department of Parasitology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran. Abas Rahimi-Froushani Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, TUMS, Tehran, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: One of the most important enzymatic disorders that interact with malaria is deficiency of G6PD (Gloucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase). This enzyme protects red blood cells from hydrogen peroxide and other oxidative damages. Distribution of this enzyme deficiency usually accompanies with low level distribution of malaria disease in most malarious areas. So this hypothesis may be considered that the G6PD deficiency could be protective against malaria. Methods: Totally 160 samples were taken from vivax malaria infected and non-infected individuals. Preparing blood smears and quantitative test for G6PD deficiency were employed for all of the samples. To ensure accuracy of the malaria in negative samples besides using microscopical examination,semi-nested multiplex PCR was also performed for the two groups. Results: In microscopical examination 36 and 124 samples were vivax malaria positive and negative respectively. Out of 36 P.vivax positive cases 3 (8.3%) cases were detected to be G6PD deficient versus 30 (24.2%) cases out of 124 P. vivax negative cases. The results showed a significant differentiation between P. vivax positive and P. vivax negative cases in the rate of G6PD deficiency (3/36 in positive cases versus 30/124 in negative cases) (P<0.05). Conclusion: vivax malaria positive individuals with G6PD deficiency showed too mild symptoms of Malaria or even asymptomatic. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/386 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/386/358

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 407 414 EN Mengistu Endris School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia. Yeshambel Belyhun School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia AND Institute of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. Feleke Moges School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia. Mulat Adefiris Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia. Zinaye Tekeste School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia. Andargachew Mulu School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia AND Institute of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. Afework Kassu School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia. 2015 10 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis is a major public health problem among immunocompromised individuals. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant women with and out HIV infections. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among consecutive 385 pregnant women attended Antenatal Clinic from May 2010 to October 2011 at the Gondar University Teaching Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Venous blood was collected from each pregnant woman for testing HIV-1/2 and anti- Toxoplasma antibodies using rapid test kits. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical package. Results: The overall magnitude of T. gondii and HIV was 88.6% (341/385) and 11.2% (43/385), respectively. The seroprevalence of T. gondii was not different among HIV infected and non-infected pregnant women (88.4%, 38/ 43 vs. 88.6%, 303/342). Keeping cats in house showed statistically significant association with seropositivity of toxoplasmosis (P<0.05). Conclusion: Irrespective of HIV infection, high rate of T. gondii was detected among pregnant women. These high prevalences indicate the need for an intensified public health awareness to reduce both infections. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/385 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/385/359

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 415 422 EN Bankole Henry Oladeinde Dept. of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria. Richard Omoregie School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, P.M.B 1111, Benin City, Nigeria. Eguagie Osareniro Osakue Dept. of Pathology, Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital, Okada, Nigeria. Tola Ohiengbomwan Onaiwu Luli Medical Laboratories, Benin City, Nigeria. 2015 10 14 Background: This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors for asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and anemia among blood donors in a private medical laboratory in Benin City, Nigeria. Methods: Venous blood was collected from a total of 247 blood donors. Malaria status, ABO, Rhesus blood groups and hemoglobin concentration of all participants were determined using standard methods. Results: The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria infection was higher among commercial blood donors than volunteer group (commercial vs. volunteer donor: 27.5 %vs. 13.8%; OR = 2.373, 95% CI = 0.793, 7.107, P = 0.174). Asymptomatic malaria was not significantly affected by gender (P = 0.733), age (P = 0.581), ABO(P= 0.433) and rhesus blood groups (P =0.806) of blood donors. Age was observed to significantly (P = 0.015) affect malaria parasite density with donors within the age group of 21-26 years having the highest risk. The prevalence of anemia was significantly higher among commercial donors (commercial vs. volunteer donors:23.4% vs. 3.4%: OR = 8.551, 95% CI = 1.135, 64.437, P = 0.013) and donors of blood group O type (P =< 0.0001). Conclusions: Asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and anemia was higher among commercial donors than voluntary donors. Mandatory screening of blood donors for malaria parasite is advocated to curb transfusion transmitted malaria and associated sequelae. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/384 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/384/360

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 423 428 EN Simindokht Soleimanifard Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Reza Arjmand Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran. Sedighe Saberi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Ali Khamesipour Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Mohammad Kazemi Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Mansoor Salehi Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Mojtaba Akbari Deputy of Research, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. SeyedHossein Hejazi Skin Disease and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by different species of Leishmania parasites with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Antimonial compounds such as meglumine antimoniate (glucantime) are the first line drugs for the treatment of leishmaniasis. However, according to reports of the drug resistance of parasites, the efficacy of antimonial compounds is low. The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins are present in all organisms and mediate the transport of vital elements through biological membranes. One of the important mechanisms of resistance in Leishmania parasites is the overexpression of ABC efflux pumps. P-glycoprotein A (pgpA) is a related gene for ABC transporter in Leishmania species. The aim of this study was to compare the pgpA expression in laboratory-induced resistant L. major (MRHO/IR/75/ER) and sensitive parasites. Methods: RNA extraction of promastigotes of sensitive and resistant clones was performed and total RNA was reverse transcribed. The real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to assess RNA expression profiles and the expression levels were calculated using 2-ΔCt method. Results: The mean expression level of pgpA mRNA was 2.70 ± 0.51 in in sensitive Leishmania clone and 6.08 ± 1.50 in resistant Leishmania clone (P = 0.021). Conclusion: The expression of pgpA gene in resistant strains of L. major was almost fivefold higher than those in susceptible strains. Therefore, this can be used in field isolates, i.e. overexpression of the gene can prove resistance in wild type field isolates. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/383 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/383/361

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 429 434 EN Hamidreza Azizi Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Behrouz Shiran Department of Biotechnology and Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Arash Borjian Boroujeni Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Milad Jafari Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide spread disease. The present study examined the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among animals of ediblemeat (cattle and sheep) in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province (Southwest of Iran) in 2012. Furthermore, we attempted for the first time to identify this parasite from the meat products in the province. Methods: The tongue, brain, femur muscle and liver of 50 sheep and 70 cattle as well as 50 samples of meat products were selected and collected to perform molecular survey using Nested-PCR method. Results: Of the studied sheep, 38% were infected. The infection rate in the age groups under 1 year, 1-2 years, and more than 2 years was 25%, 35.29% and 52.94%, respectively. The infection rate in femur muscle, brain, liver and tongue was 28%, 32%, 30% and 16%, respectively. Of the studied cattle, 8.57% were infected. The infection rate in the age groups 1-2 years, 2-4 years, and more than 4 years was 3.7%, 9.09% and 14.28%, respectively. Sheep was infected 6 times more than cattle (OR = 6.53 CI = 2.374-18.005).The infection rate among samples of meat products was 12% (6 samples out of 50 samples). Conclusion: Due to the high rate of this parasitic infection among the slaughtered animals as well as meat products in this region, the use of infected material can be one of the main risk factors of transmission of the parasite to humans. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/382 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/382/362

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 435 440 EN Mahmoud Mahami Oskouei Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. Esmaeil Fallah Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. Mahmoud Ahmadi International Branch of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (Aras), Tabriz, Iran. Abdolrasoul Safaiyan Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. Salar Bakhtiyari Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran. Razi Naserifar Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran AND Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran. Majid Dousti Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Cryptosporidiosis is one of the most important parasitic infections in human and animals. This study was designed for survey on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in farms of Ilam, west of Iran, using parasitology method and genotyping by Nested PCR-RFLP. Methods: Fecal samples of 217 cattle were collected fresh and directly from the rectum of cattle. All of the samples were examined by microscopic observation after staining with modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN). Genomic DNA extracted by using EURx DNA kit. A Nested PCR-RFLP protocol amplifying 825 bp fragment of 18s rRNA gene conducted to differentiate species and genotyping of the isolates using SspI and VspI as restriction enzymes. Results: The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle using both methods is 3.68%. Most of the positive cattle were calves under six months. Species diagnosis carried out by digesting the secondary PCR product with SspI that C. parvum generated 3 visible bands of 448, 247 and 106 bp and digested by VspI restriction enzyme generated 2 visible bands of 628 and 104bp. In this investigation all of the positive samples were Cryptosporidium parvum. Conclusion: C. parvum (bovine genotype) detected in all positive cattle samples in Ilam, west of Iran. The results of the present study can help for public health care systems to prevention and management of cryptosporidiosis in cattle and the assessment of cattle cryptosporidiosis as a reservoir for the human infection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/381 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/381/363

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 441 444 EN Hassan Borji Dept. of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. Zahra Moosavi Dept. of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. Fatemeh Ahmadi Dept. of Clinical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. 2015 10 14 Arteritis due to Strongylus vulgaris is a well-known cause of colic in horses and donkeys. The current report describes a fatal incidence of arterial obstruction in cranial mesenteric artery caused by S. vulgaris infection in an adult donkey in which anthelmintic treatment was not regularly administered. Necropsy findings of the abdominal cavity revealed a complete cranial mesenteric arterial obstruction due to larvae of S. vulgaris, causing severe colic. To the authors' knowledge, a complete cranial mesenteric arterial obstruction due to verminous arteritis has rarely been described in horses and donkeys. Based on recent reports of fatal arterial obstruction due to S. vulgaris infection in donkeys, it may be evident to consider acute colic caused by this pathogenic parasite a re-emerging disease in donkeys and horses. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/380 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/380/364